-- Closet Secrets

NYC foodie Adventures Part II

2011-07-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Le petite abeille (The little bee)

6th and 17th NYC

Rating: 5/5

I am a sucker for Liege waffles. I just love how dense, thick and rich they are. it is so hard to find a true belgian waffle. This waffle needs no toppings or anything. Just great by itself. I yelped for belgian waffles and this and another food truck came up, but I just love the name so I decided to give it a try.

The decor was tres chic and it was covered with TinTin comics all over the walls!!

AH-MAZING waffles. You can see the pearl sugar as soon as you break the waffles. That's when you know it's good.

Kati Roll

6th and 39th, NYC

Rating 3.5/5

We wanted a mid morning snack (like we need any more food right??) Well for the Indian part in me and my bff, we found this place called The Kati Roll. What it is, is that they roll wither parathas or roti's with potato curry filling. Kinda like an Indian taquito. It was DELISH. I couldn't even take pics because I totally devoured it before I could even.

Eataly

Union Square NYC

Rating: 3/5

This was again Pink's recommendation. This is Mario Batali's creations. It is basically a JUMBO gourmet italian food store with a bunch of kiosks on the inside to try desserts, cheese, meats etc.

This would be their bread section. I was in HEAVEN.

We tried the onion foccacia. I am not a huge fan of onions, but damn this was worth it :) There were other kiosks and I wanted to try them all but the crowd was just too full and we just wanted to get out of there without dying

The City Bakery

6th and 18th NYC

Rating 5/5

Now let me tell you. The Hot and cold chocolate is something UNBELIEVABLE. It was as if someone melted a chocolate bar and placed a straw in it. Perfect for us females during that time of the month ya know? Also the taste of the chocolate even lingered in the back of my throat for about an hour later. That was how rich it was

They also had a GREAT selection of baked goods. The chocolates drinks were already rich enough so we only decided to try the vegan choc chip cookie without it being too much of an overkill. That was delicious too

Did I make you hungry?

NYC foodie Adventures Part I

2011-07-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

One of my sole purposed to go NYC was for the food. I mean come on, how can you not? With the help of Pink from www.xppinkxx.com, she gave me some guidance on the joints and places to visit. Since she is the ultimate foodie I know, that girl can EAT! So I made my way through the list.

First stop,

Totto Ramen

366 West 52nd StreeT

Rating: 5/5

A literal Hole in the Wall.

Our waiter even wrote our order in Japanese... it was hard to tell if he wrote the right stuff down or not.

Spicy Vegetable ramen

Chicken Ramen. This broth was just so CREAMY and delicious!!

Laut

15 E 17th Street

Rating: 3.5/5

Comparable to my other post HERE. CLICK ME

This place was good, just unbelievably expensive for what it offers. Being a Malaysian, I love me my share of Malay/Singaporean/thai food. I was ecstatic to find this. I've tried Penang in Vegas before and that was just unbelievable.

Storefront

The roti canai was SHAMEFUL. No roti canai's are ever think and crispy. Unless we're talking about tosai or paratha. This was just AWFUL. However, I do give kudos to the curry. If the they used the same roti from Hawkers (link at the top ^) this would blow my mind

The curry puff was also sub-par. but good enough to curb a craving

The coconut rice was just to DIE FOR

The Chicken Rendang was very Nyona like, delicious, but HELLA EXPENSIVE for what it is.

East Japanese

366 3rd Ave, New York

Rating: 4/5

We had met up with a friend from NYC here. The wait was long, but it was worth it. We had went on a tuesday which happens to be salmon tuesday = my fav.

The conveyor belt sushi concept is my fave. I've already been to a couple in South East Asia, but none yet in the US. So this was exciting. Even more exciting to share it with friends who've never even heard of this concept ever before.

I always start with a wakame salad

Food is priced by the color of the plate. For example, white: $1.50, pink: $2.00 and so on. For example, a white plate u can usually find california roll, tuna rolls. And on the pink ones some Nigiri... and quality also goes up as u go up in price

A great ending with some red bean mochi ice cream =D

Will post part 2 soon.

Inglot

2011-07-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was in Vegas this past Feb and my silly self never thought anything when I walked past Inglot until the "rave" started going on around youtube. The color names and numbers were harder to remember and memorize from MAC but the quality is definitely comparable. I wasn't in the mood for experimenting so I stuck to something I knew best, foundations. I snagged a powder foundation and will do a review on it. However, so far, the signs are pointing upwards :)

Inglot AMC Pressed Powder - $16

NYC

2011-07-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

Be prepared for some future posts that are picture heavy. I just got back from a fun mini vacation and explored almost every bit of the city that I could. I ate about 5 meals a day and walked about >45 blocks/day. So it was more than justified

Girl Talk

2011-07-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

Herro.

So today I was just thinking (ruh roh...), I know have never been the girly girl. I am thankful to my mother who has taught me to be an independent person. To never rely on anyone for anything and to be able to always stand on my own. An example is that whenever I used to go on dates, I would always offer to pay, if not, to split the check. I never expect gifts or to be bought anything, and if I ever wanted something, I would get it.

However, from time to time I would enjoy being spoiled. I guess I have never had that luxury of being showered with pampering luxuries. It would be nice to have a surprise trip to somewhere, a little hideaway to a hotel and fun away from it all. Mainly because I'm always the one planning everything and the one who is making sure everyones desires are met. I would love to be the person on the other end one day. Just to hear the words "pack your bags, we're going on a surprise trip" Like if I ever wanted a nice massage/mani-pedi, I would go get it. A nice dinner date at a nice restaurant? I would plan it. I just don't want to think or make decisions for once. Just to sit back and enjoy the ride.

But one can only dream.

A little mini-cation

2011-07-01T09:44:00.001-07:00

I thought I'd give a little update since I've been so MIA recently. I've been swamped at work and with my whole moving thing I haven't even had time for my blog. You see, I work about 45 minutes away and with the driving and work, it takes a lot of energy out of me. Enough with the excuses already... what's going on????

Well, I'm excited to say that I am making a trip to NYC with one of my BFF's. We're taking a mini-vacation to try out all of the food, shopping and god knows what else! I am CRAZY excited! I have even made a pact with my bff that we wouldn't even shop for ourselves or anything until NY which is 25 days away! I will be taking lots of pics, videos and much more! So definitely expect a blog post about it!!

GIVEAWAY WINNERS!

2011-06-15T20:33:00.000-07:00

There were a total of 84 entries!!! Awesome!!

I placed it on Random.org, You can see from 1 to 84 entries

For giveaway set #1, Winner was no. 29

WINNER IS: SARAH!!!

For the third giveaway set, winner was number 6!!

WINNER IS: NADIA!!!

Congratulations winners!!! Please contact me via twitter and I will direct message you on twitter for you shipping info!!

Disclaimer: There were multiple entries in a day as some of you DID NOT FOLLOW THE RULES. I deleted the extra entries and only kept one entry. Remember: the rules were ONE ENTRY PER PERSON PER DAY. NOT MORE THAN ONE.

Also, there were no entries for giveaway set #2 therefore I am just omitting it. No one wanted it, therefore it will not be counted.

again, THANKS FOR ENTERING!!

GIVEAWAY!!! 2 more days!!

2011-06-12T17:32:00.001-07:00

My giveaway is open for 2 more days!!! it will end on the 14th of June at midnight EST. I have been looking on the comments section and some of you have been posting more one comment/day for the same giveaway item.

Reminder: only ONE comment per giveaway per day is ALLOWED. Any extras will be deleted and not be counted.

Thanks for entering!

Review: Clinique Face Cream SPF50 with SolarSmart

2011-06-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

I bought this item about a month and a half back... almost. I was super excited to try it out... reasons were because it was finally a face suncream that was higher than SPF15/20, it had UVA and UVB protection and it was oil-free and all that jazz.

I tried it out for a week, a new product of course and by the end of the week, I started BREAKING OUT. I had TONS of mini bumps all OVER my forehead. It reminded me of when I first hit puberty and my forehead looked like a very coarse sandpaper. I was furious. I had not broke out like that since I was 14 and had worked SO HARD on keeping my skin pristine.

Verdict: WILL NEVER BUY AGAIN. EVER. EVER.

Product details:

It promises Oil-free, Sweat-resistant, Non-acnegenic and Appropriate for sensitive skin

Excuse my french but what a bunch of BULL. However, it may just be my type of skin, but it was horrible. I felt so down on how the product made my skin look!!!

Cons:

Product did not deliver anything that it promised
it still felt very greasy
$20 for 1.7 fl oz/50 mL which is very little. I mean it is sunscreen, users will want to re-apply which can be hard with such little amount.
Just did not deliver

Pros:

Easy to find in stores
Great smelling product, especially for a sunscreen.

Overall I give this product a 0.5/5 and that 1/2 a point is given mainly for the product idea itself. It was a nice effort, but I am still on the look for a facial sunscreen that will deliver.

Review: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

2011-06-04T17:19:00.001-07:00

Again, with this item, I had to mull over and over about having to spend the money for it. I kept thinking I could never justify paying the amount for something that is a tinted moisturizer. I mean, I used to make it on my own by mixing my favorite facial sunscreen with a foundation. But after reading many reviews and looking at youtube raves, I decided to jump the gun.

In my opinion...... WORTH THE MONEY.

Why??? Here's a couple of reasons:

For a tinted moisturizer... it gave me flawless coverage. I don't need much to begin with but it made my skin look like butter!
It is easy for shade matching for many skin tones. I would love to have the Sonia Kashuk TM at Target, but none matched my shade. Then again, neither do any Revlon foundies.
When it says Oil-free, IT MEANS IT. My skin doesn't feel heavy or oily even after 8 hours of wearing it! With the humidity in Florida, this is a gem!
Because it is a TM, the texture of my skin has improved! I still use my Nars and MUFE foundies at night but this is slowly becoming my day staple.

Cons:

I wish more product came in it. I mean if you need more coverage you can always add on more, but I just wish there were more in it.
No more cons!! it's that GREAT!

Application:

I usually place it on the back of my hand to warm it up and either apply it on with a BeautyBlender or my Sigma F80 brush. Depends on my mood and what is clean I guess...
I always use my body shop mattifying day cream as a base
I finish it off with Amazing Cosmetics Velvet powder on top.
Voila!

Excuse my scaly and overly tanned skin... I have been out kayaking so many times this week and the sun and saltwater is making me look extra scale-y.

Glides smoothly

Blends perfectly!!

Definitely a 5/5 and worth every penny!

Update

2011-06-03T19:27:00.001-07:00

I frosted my tips a little more tonight :) I'll post pics up tomorrow :) stay tuned!

Will be back

2011-05-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,
I am deeply sorry for the lack of posts this past week. I am currently uber busy getting stuff together but I promise to be back soon with fun posts! I'm thankful for the support and visits from all the readers :) Please stay tuned! I have a haul post coming up on Hypes & Gripes!

yours truly,
ClosetSecrets

Beauty Tag: Get to know me better... 40 questions

2011-05-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

SKINCARE
-How many times do you wash your face daily?
Twice daily. And I use my Clarisonic at nighttime only.

-What skin type do you have? (dry,oily,combo)
I have oily-combination skin.

-What is your current facial wash?
Neutrogena Oil-free grapefruit cleanser for day and Philosophy's Purity Cleanser for night

-Do you exfoliate?
Yes, 2x a week with Lush's Dark Angel

-What brand do you use?
Lush's dark angel and if I run out it'll be the St. Ives apricot scrub

-What moisturizer do you use?
Body Shop's Mattifying day cream or Clinique's Moisturizing gel

-Do you have freckles?
nope.

-Do you use eye cream?
No, But I really should start using

-Do you or did you have acne prone skin?
Yes I did all throughout high school and the first two years of college and it slowly went away with more care and effort put on skincare.

-Did you ever have to use Pro-activ?
Yes, for 2 months. During my freshman year of college acne on my forehead got out of control and decided to try it. And it worked!

MAKE-UP
-What foundation do you use?
MUFE, NARS or Laura Mercier. I use them all and all for different occasions

-How about concealer?
Amazing Cosmetics or MAC

-Do you know your undertone color?
Very golden undertones, yellowish..

-What do you think of fake eyelashes?
I love them only for special occasions... they can be a bother if you don't wear them often

-Did you know that you are supposed to change your mascara every 3 months?
Yes- But I don't necessarily follow that rule. I see by how the product feels (texture, moisture.. etc)

-What brand of mascara do you use?
MUFE and Rimmel are my favorites

-Sephora or MAC?
I can't decide!!! If I had a gun to my face... I still wouldn't decide.

-Do you have a MAC Pro-card?
Nope I'm not really a Pro... just a girl sharing her thoughts and ideas on things.

-What makeup tools do you use in make up application?
Fingers, Sponges and Brushes!

-Do you use make-up base/primer for the eyes?
Yes, Urban Decay Primer Potion

-For the face?
Victoria's Secret Pro Primer

-What is your favorite eyeshadow (color or shade)?
Satin Taupe or Espresso by MAC. I know that it is always a favorite but if you've tried it before.. u know why...

-Do you use pencil or liquid eyeliner?
Definitely liquid eyeliner! Favorite is L'oreal lineur Intense

-How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?
Hardly ever, I used to when I first started with make-up in my early teens

-What do you think of pigment eyeshadows?
i like them only if u have a lot of time to get ready

-Do you use mineral makeup?
Yes in the summer months. In HOT summer months in FL, mineral make-up is definitely the way to go

-What is your favorite lipstick?
L'oreal's Fairest Nude

-How about lipgloss?
NYX Beige

-What is your favorite blush to use?
MAC lilicent topped with NARS orgasm

-Do you buy your makeup on ebay?
Nope. never

-Do you like drugstore makeup?
Yes! Not all but there are a lot of good things from drugstore make-up such as lipsticks, mascaras, eyeshadows. I've never been a fan of drugstore foundation though.

-Do you go to CCO's? (cosmetic company outlets)
Yes, there are 3 by where i live and sometimes you can find really good finds... but it's really rare

-Did you ever consider taking make-up classes?
I would but it would go against my college degree. LOL. Vanity is a hobby, not a lifestyle to me. And my Science degree would be sad if I took beauty classes. Mainly because I've put so much effort into my science degree that I don't want it to feel neglected if I looked into doing something else (That's what I think at least... no?)

-Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?
usually no

-Name a makeup crime that you hate?
NOT BLENDING, NOT PLACING FOUNDATION ON YOUR NECK AND ULTRA RACCOON EYES

-Do you like colorful shades of makeup (lipstick,eyeshadow) or neutral ones?
Neutral is my first pick but currently I am loving Fuchsia lips!

-Which celebrity always has great make up?
I think everyone agrees with me on this but definitely the Kardashians.

-If you could leave the house using just ONE make up item,what would you use?
Blush. makes anyone look awake!

-Could you ever leave the house without any makeup on?
Yes I do it a lot. I usually on wear full on make-up twice a week.

-Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?
Yeah I think so. Or at least I'd like to think so

-In your opinion, what is the BEST makeup line?
NARS... but everything is so damn expensive

-What do you think of Makeup?
It's FUN. I mean shopping for it is fun! Playing with colors and your face reminds you of being that little girl plays with your mom's make-up! I know I don't need it, but it's so much fun to me to be able to express art on my face. Make-up simply accentuates what you have and accents your beauty

Hope that wasn't too long to read!

Frosting my tips

2011-05-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted a change. Nothing too drastic to my hair so I thought going Ombré would be the perfect idea. Just frosting my tips to add a little definition to my mullet. I have had countless number of accidents with bleaching and at-home-coloring so I was a little hesitant. but after reading many reviews, tips & tricks.. especially from Jen(frmheadtotoe) I got me some cojones to do it on my own again.

Here's an image of me BEFORE I dyed it. Excuse the glasses and "SURPRISED" Bambi look

Materials

20 Creme and Kaleidocolors violet from Sally's beauty supply. A total of <$4 :D

Steps:

1. Make sure you're working with dry hair, the bleach will work much better.

2. Use gloves every time your handling bleach/hydrogen peroxide

3. Place dye on the tips of your hair up to 4 inches from the bottom.

4. Cover the bleached hair with foil in order to keep heat in.

5. Leave the dye in for at least 10 minutes (Maximun 15! remember your dying this area TWICE)

6. Rinse hair thoroughly and dry using the cool setting.

MAKE SURE HAIR IS COMPLETELY DRY BEFORE STARTING THE SECOND PROCESS.

7. Repeat step 3 and 4 except place the dye up to 6 inches from the ends. (This is the Ombre effect/process)

8. Leave dye on for another 10 minutes.

9. Rinse and condition (DO NOT SHAMPOO)

"After shots" of the Ombré effects

I had only left the dye on there for ONLY 10 minutes because I naturally have dark auburn hair... I didn't want the dye to be too drastic. I'm not going for the skunk look. But I think I am going to intensify my ends a little more (2 inches from the ends). Note that it is better to do it gradually than hitting it hard at first... as it is hard to erase what you did.

Hope that I had inspired someone else to do it too :)

Make-up Collection and storage

2011-05-26T11:13:00.001-07:00

This post is definitely in no way bragging or showing off. Personally, I love watching and seeing these types of posts/videos on YT and thought I'd do the same as others have done for me. So here is my storage unit/collection for my vanity items. Enjoy watching/reading!

My beauty vanity from Ethan Allen that is passed down to me :)

Top of the vanity:

Jewelry cases, fedoras, perfumes, palettes, brushes etc.

First Drawer: Hair

Hair clips, ties, headbands, comb, bobby pins

Second Drawer: Miscellaneous

Sunglasses, tripod, randoms

Third Drawer: Face Drawer

Foundations, powders, blushes, concealers and primers

Fourth Drawer: Eye drawer

Palettes, liners, pencils, curlers and mascaras

Fifth drawer: Lip drawer

Pencils, lipsticks, glosses, balms and nail file

Sixth Drawer: Nails

Nail polish, fake nails, nail polish removers

Last drawer: Miscellaneous

Extras of everything!

peace, love and cupcakes!

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 09 - Your favorite drink

2011-05-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

I definitely have to thank Rachel for this one. I follow her on twitter/YT and Check out her website here! (awesome blog and such a humorous and beautiful person) But ever since I read her tweet about tuxedo mochas years back, I was intrigued and then I was HOOKED. I will have this drink frozen, over ice and hot. I love it anyway you give me. Although my little body is lactose intolerant and allergic to soymilk, I will have this drink as a once-in-a-while TREAT. Some starbucks so carry Lactaid but I've slowly tried making in on my own but nothing can beat the ones from Sbux. It can also be a dessert. I mean... when u have it as a frap, and have chocolate sauce dribbled on the side, extra whip on top and chocolate chips.... MY OH MY.

My tummy is now Rumbling from just the thought of one. Ay-yay-yaaay!

A tribute

2011-05-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite blogs to read is Who What Wear. I check their blog regularly in the am to go with my roast. I love how innovative the blog is and shows you the different styles (along with street styles) and how to customize it to fit you. When I found out that they had released 2 books, I jumped the gun on Amazon and waited at my mailbox. A definite must read and broadens your view on what's good and not to just "follow" trends.

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 8 — Current fashion/style you like

2011-05-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

LACE DRESSES!

These are AH-MA-ZING!!!! Perfect for summer and light and airy. And with an easy day-to-night transition... add on a blush colored blazer and killer heels! Definitely my current fashion obsession!!

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 07- Fashion Pieces that's on your to-buy list

2011-05-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

I moved things around a little bit but here's one of my favorite things to talk about: Change in seasons. Which only means change in wardrobe!!!! Key pieces of my wardrobe this couple of months:

A hot pink dress - A solid dress with the main color of HOT ASS PINK. The dress is already a statement piece by itself. No extra accessories needed! A la Blake Lively here.
Bright cardigan - I see myself wearing a lot of whites and blushes this summer so a nice POP of color would liven the outfit completely!
LV Neverful - A basic all you can carry tote for the spring/summer is essential!! Something convertible from day to night without much effort! Beach and Drinks!
Nude Wedges - Now, this is important. By wedges i do not mean espadrille style. I think those are a little too beachy. I want something that can transform from day to night again. Here it is essential to look for wood or cork heels.
Rose Gold - This is the HIT color this spring. Rose gold accessories are slowly to be found everywhere! but a chunky watch is perfect and timeless and can be worn even after the trend ends!
Denim jackets - They're making a comeback! More fitted, better cut and don't be afraid to try one in white denim!!
Maxi skirts - I cannot simply explain enough in words on how obsessed i am with this piece. I have it all from dark to light colors, tight to flowy, stripes to solids. My favorite look has to be a flowy solid black maxi + tight white V-neck + chunky accessories + Tory Burch sandals/flats.
Feathers - I know a lot of you have seen the feather trend from earrings to hair extensions! I think this is an awesome idea. If your not an dangly earring person to sport a feather earrings, fear not! They are slowly coming into necklaces and hairbands! A little touch of the peacock feathers to liven up your look!

These items are definitely on my list this spring/summer! What's on yours?

REVIEW: Asian Contact Lenses - Do's & Dont's (Candylens.com)

2011-05-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

A lot of people don't know what contact lenses can do for a look. They are as easily worn as your mascara to transform a face. I actually do wear glasses and have horrible eyesight at night so sometimes, I do get these color lenses in my prescription... but usually I just get them plain.

What are they?

Color contacts are meant to intensify your eyes. I know that there are A LOT of skeptics out there on the dangers of wearing contacts if you don't need them, however, if you do your research, it can be a fun thing. You get to try out different eye colors, looks and styles.

Where to get them?

There are many different sites online that sell these color lenses but from a personal POV, I love www.candylens.com shipping is fast and they are so so nice!! I've bought a total of four lenses from them (separately) and they even add a cute little note in it :) (no, I am not paid to say this.. this is an honest review) They cost anywhere from $19-$30/pair

DO:

Research about them before buying them. It is NOT a perfect fit for everyone.
Especially look into how to clean them and keep them safe so dirt and dander do not enter your eyes.
If you wear glasses, do look into your prescription or even ask to get fit for contacts and get prescribed ones!
Read other reviews
Try fun colors! they have purples and pinks!
It will give you the Doll-face Doe-eyed look.

DON'T:

If you've always experienced problems with your eyes, it's better not to play with them
Guess your prescription by what you wear for glasses. Contacts and glasses both have different prescriptions.
If you know you have astigmatism, check with your optometrist first, some of these lenses may not be porous enough and causes extra blurry vision
Be lazy. These take a lot of care and proper use. Remember that your eyes are precious. Do not do anything that would harm them.

Personally,

I think they're a lot of fun. It adds that extra oomph to your make-up. I don't wear them for more than 6 hours and if i do, I make sure that I carry lubricating drops with me at all times. And the contact solution BioTrue (Pictured above) is the best solution I think so far HANDS DOWN!

Here's some pics of me wearing 2 different ones (I know my eyebrows need work..I've been procrastinating!)

Geo Super Size Angel Brown Contacts- $21.90

These are 14.8mm so it make your eyes appear MUCH larger and more doe-eyed... like Bambi. My Bf usually says "you look like Bambi who needs to be spanked"... uhm?!?!

Geo Angel Brown Circle Lens - $19.90

These are my fail-safe lenses. They're only 14mm diameter which is nothing too big, it just gives a really clear defined look.

note: I have REALLY dark eyes where sometimes it is hard to even see the pupil. So this is a nice touch. i'll post some of me wearing pinks and purples and blues soon.

Miami Poolside

2011-05-14T19:32:00.001-07:00

H&M cutout one piece - $20

I have pink to thank for this. She tweeted about it first so ALL credit goes to her. Follow her on twitter HERE! I went to my H&M last week and saw this and I immediately fell in love with it. However due to my shitty ass luck, no size mah!! Then I got discouraged and forgot about it. But then my awesome blogger Pink tweeted about it and I was like omg now I gotta go see if they have my size. I gave it another try... saw a 2 and that's a size too small... I tried it on anyway but my buttcheeks weren't co-operating. As I walked out of the changing room I perused the "tried-on" clothes rack and VOILA! found it. So damn happy.

Perfect outfit for a Miami/Vegas poolside. Though more so Miami for me since it's only a drive away :)

Hat - Eugenia Kim for Target

Sunnies - MNG by Mango

Shoes & Necklace - F21

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 06 — Anything Hello Kitty

2011-05-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

I own quite a good share of Hello Kitty items but nothing compares to these little earrings that I LOVE so much. I buy these in bulk because I lose them so easily but they're your basic plastic Hello Kitty stud earrings. So simple... adds a girly touch to any outfit. Probably the number reason why I get carded all the time.

Hello Kitty Studs - Claire's $3.50

GIVEAWAY!!! [CLOSED]

2011-05-14T18:20:00.000-07:00

This is a giveaway for the "GRAND OPENING" my new blog!

My blog is really new... almost a week old.. In an attempt to increase my readers and viewers... I am having a Giveaway! Well three to be exact! The giveaway is open for 30 days and 3 winners will be picked randomly for each of the giveaways.

Rules:

1. Subscribe to my blog using google or bloglovin'

2. Comment once/day on which you would like to win. if you comment everyday... higher chances of winning! Example: "I'd love set #1"

3. That's it!

Giveaway Set 1

Coastal scents 28 Neutral Palette. Never used (Just swatched, also added mac color dupes on the lid)

ELF Eyelid Primer

NYX Blush - Peach

EOS lip balm - Summer Fruit

NYX Round lipstick - Sky Pink

Giveaway Set 2

Nail Stamp Set

2 Sinful colors polish

Giveaway Set 3

Missha BB Cream - No. 31 (NC42)

NYX 10 Eyeshadow Palette - Champagne&Caviar (Neutral smoky eye)

Lorac Blush - Pink Paradise

Aquafina lip balm

NYX round lipstick - Georgia

This is open for 30 days from today! Don't forget to comment! I love sharing! Sharing is caring (^_^)

ES-FUCKING-TATIC

2011-05-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

I'm trying not to post on weekends but I am too FUCKING excited! 2 things... one is a little sneak peek of what I FINALLY (only had to wait for 1 1/2 years... momma helped) received!!! And the other I never knew existed.

I am in LOVE LOVE LOVE with www.whowhatwear.com and I check their blog as often as I change my undies (everyday, twice a day. ahem.) And I guess i'm not that good of a fan because I NEVER knew they had 2 books published!!! In the image below is the first one... and the other one is coming in the mail monday. Luckily I have the weekend to myself... so I can make that pot of green tea and get my reading on.

Now for the second surprise... I don't know if I even want to show it yet. But I'll keep that for another post. It has a lot of tips and tricks to it and how to get off the waitlist fast.

Adieu mes Béautes <3

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 05 — Your favorite thing to do

2011-05-13T14:11:00.000-07:00

I couldn't post anything yesterday or this morning due to Blogger going maintenance. Bummer. But anyway... I hat to think hard about my favorite thing to do that pertains to beauty and fashion... and I have to say the best thing is...

Cruising through TjMaxx and Marshalls for the best deals!!

Not everything found in these 2 stores are amazing, but if you actually take your time and peruse through things... they can be the best deals EVER. For instance... I have bought jeans ranging from True Religion, R&R, 7FAM, Joe's, Paige, Jbrand... all from there and all under $60. I have found shoes from BCBG, Chucks, Marc Jacobs etc. Countless number of accessories such as sunnies, watches, jewelry from Juicy, Marc Jacobs, Lucky Brand etc... SO MANY MANY THINGS.

My days off ritual is usually going to TjMaxx an hour after they open... this way I don't have to fight the crowds and get the best things before others get em! Mainly because U can never always find the two of everything either.

If I don't have to pay retail on certain things... I will always jump at the chance!

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 04 — Your favorite foundation

2011-05-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here are my three all time favorite foundations. Again... there are reasons why there are three on here. One for a different occasion. Now for those who are M.A.C. literate... I'm in between NC42 and NC45. I'm the cocoa butter shade hawaiian.

MUFE HD Foundation - Shade 173

Perfect for the nights out foundation. Doesn't give me a white cast at all when I take pics with my bitches and gives my complexion a satin perfect finish. Costs ~$40 but definitely worth it. I only use it when I'm going out at nights.

NARS Sheer Glow - Tahoe

Now I have crazy Oily skin... so why did I choose the sheer glow?? Well... it's the perfect winter foundation for me. My skin gets dry in some areas but the main reason is that I JUST LOVEEEEEEE the glowyness this foundation gives. I know people compare it to the Revlon Photoready... but I don't think it is even comparable. The revlon photoready makes me look like a drag Disco B-pall. The NARS makes me look dewy and healthy especially on the dry winter months!

MUFE DUO MAT - 214/209

This is my failsafe everyday foundation. It used to be the MAC studio fix powder... but when this baby came along... I put the studio fix on the back burner. I apply it using the basic sponge and only a little gives you a nice medium coverage. Keeps my oily face under control during the day as well. Again... just for a face powder for $32 is a lot of money... trust me I know... but man oh man... it is worth it!!

I'd like to note that I do NOT wear foundation everyday. Maybe once in 3 days or when I have meetings or just wanting to feel that extra pretty. Also would like to add that with ALL my liquid foundies I apply them all with the Sonia Kashuk Sponge. The BeautyBlender dupe. The first time I used the beauty sponge to apply my foundie... I fell in love and it is my holy grail applicator. Never goin' back!!!

Words can't even explain

2011-05-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

I moved out of my parents' house since I was 18, and that was 6 years ago. I see my family usually twice a year and that is when I gain the most poundage in my body. I'm part asian (but I look hawaiian) so I miss a lot of food from my mom's kitchen. I have passed several "possible" worthy areas. One in Vegas, one in LA, one in Boston but never one in FL. I thought I'd give it another try by perusing on Yelp and see if I could try my luck.

Low and behold.... (I thought I was gna pee my pants when I saw this finally opened in Orlando)

Hawkers Street Fare - N Mills Ave, Orlando

Everything on the menu was hawker style food. From Malaysian, Singaporean, Vietnamese, Hokkien and so many more. Everything on the menu was either $8 or lower. So I indulged! Trust me... after 6 years and finally finding something like this, I was AMAZED! Only thing missing is boba :(

Curry Laksa/Kari Mee -$6

Roti Canai - $3

Roast Duck Banh Mi - $6

Mee Goreng - $6

For my Florida visitors/readers and future visitors.... DEFINITELY give this place a try. Heck... even call me and I'd Happily give you directions for it.

great... now I'm hungry again.

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 03 — Your favorite brush

2011-05-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

Sigma Flat Top Kabuki Brush

On a usual day, I rarely wear eyeshadow. My go-to look is basically the cat eye, blush, highlighter and nude lips. I love blush as it really wakes my face, not to mention the chipmunk-esque cheeks that I have. So I love emphasizing it =D but this brush is so SO so soft!!!! Can be used for stippling liquid foundation, powder foundation, cream blush and powder/baked blush/bronzer. Definitely my go-to weapon. Cost- $16 (not bad for all that it does) Rating - 5/5

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge: Day 02 — Your favorite bag that you own

2011-05-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my fav topics. Bags!!! Now this is a toss up. My fav everyday bag is definitely my Speedy 30 because it fits everything in it! But my fav all time bag has to be this...

Chanel Classic Flap Medium - (inherited...thanks bageezus!!)

Soft Caviar Leather (fyi..the leather literally looks like little caviars)

Got the extra flap on the inside and red leather lining

Why am I in love with this purse...? well just look at it!!! Simple, chic and elegant. The best part is that u can incorporate both dressy and casual looks with it! and it will NEVER go out of style! Chanel re-issues these purses every year (2.55) and love love LOVE em!!

I do admit that I do not give it enough love as I should, but the bag is a little on the old side and I'm always afraid that I'll scuff it, spill something on it... knowing my luck. Someone did tell me to bring it to the store for a spa? is that true?

Asian Skin care and SPF

2011-05-08T16:50:00.000-07:00

After reading Saaammage's review of the glorious things she found in NY (click here) I was terribly jealous. Surprisingly I live in the city with the most tourists and all (thanks Disneyworld) but sadly i can barely find any stores that carry Asian beauty skincare/make-up lines.

What's so special about it you may ask? Well a lot of asians (I am half) have very sensitive skin. Some have very oily skin due to the weather and some burn too easily.

My favorite thing that asian skincare has to offer has to be their extensive lines of SPF skincare. We do not realize it but having sun protection is as important as drinking 8 glasses of water/day. Asians love taking care of their skin and keeping it fair and preventing sun damage. Being that I am living in Florida now, this is really my cup of tea. I am on the hunt... I understand that most of them are now available on-line but to be honest, I always prefer to see the product before buying and not have to pay for shipping.

I did find one grocery mart that had some beauty products but I only managed to like 1 item out of the line.

Kosé Moisture Mild White

Pretty Packaging...bottle is made of glass o_o

I've seen this product on many sites like sasa.com and was always intrigued. I haven't found any reviews online as yet so I thought I'd try it out and see if it's any good. But this one is one of the new formulas that contains Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which helps control acne and even out your skin tone. I'm excited to see how this product is going to work... or will it work at all? Will definitely add in the review in a week!

Aside that I was going through Saks the other day (mmm...shoes) and stumbled across the Clinique beauty bar and saw this. I was excited to see that it was at least SPF50 AND oil-free!! So we'll see how it goes but so far, so good... not as greasy as other facial sun-screen I've tried.

Clinique SPF50 Sun Face Cream - $18

Will be going back to this topic after a week with a full force review!

Blog Challenge: Day 01 — Your favorite eyeliner

2011-05-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the three make-up items that is a staple to me. The eyeliner. Why? A quick line around your lid and waterline can transform into a fresh new face. Now I know the challenge states favorite eyeliner but I'm cheating a little... All 3 are my favorite eyeliners of the different kinds.

1. M.A.C. Fluidline in Blacktrack : Perfect for nights out or an all-day wear as it lasts the longest. A little harder and more time required for application. But creates a flawless gel line for the lines. Great for dramatic looks. Cost: $15 Rating: 4/5

2. L'oreal Lineur Intense: A perfect everyday liner. Fast and easy to apply. Great consistency without smudging. My Holy Grail of all eyeliners. Cost: ~$8 Rating: 5/5

3. Make up For Ever Aqua Eyes: Great Kohl liner for lining tightline and waterline. Doesn't smudge, glides on beautifully. However quite comparable to Urban Decay's Zero liner. A little on the pricey side... but if every other kohl smudges on you, give this a try. Cost: $17 Rating: 4/5

All worth the price and worth the try :)

30-Day Beauty Blog Challenge

2011-05-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

Since I'm a born-again blogger. I think it will be a good start for this blog especially. I found this challenge on Google via Luuux.com. i think it's a good place to start and I get to slowly unravel my closet!! Here's the challenge:

30 DAY CHALLENGE
Day 01 — Your favorite eyeliner
Day 02 — Your favorite bag that you own
Day 03 — Your favorite brush
Day 04 — Your favorite foundation
Day 05 — Your favorite thing to do
Day 06 — Anything Hello Kitty
Day 07 — Your Favorite animal
Day 08 — A photo that makes you laugh
Day 09 — Your favorite pair of shoes
Day 10 — Current fashion/style you like
Day 11 — Bag you want to have
Day 12 — Your Favorite color
Day 13 — Photo of your fashion/style icon
Day 14 — Photo of a hairstyle/haircut you'd like to have
Day 15 — Photo of your favorite bracelet
Day 16 — Music you like
Day 17 — Fashion Pieces that's on your to-buy list
Day 18 — Your favorite beauty guru
Day 19 — Your favorite look from a beauty guru
Day 20 — Your favorite mascara
Day 21 — Your favorite lip stick
Day 22 — What makes you happy
Day 23 — Place where you want to live
Day 24 — Your favorite food
Day 25 — What do you want to get from luux
Day 26 — An Item from your wishlist
Day 27 — Your favorite skincare product
Day 28 — Your favorite drink
Day 29 — Photo of something that makes you go awww
Day 30 — Your favorite nail polish

Doesn't look too hard right? Well... let's begin.

What's in this Bitch's Purse??

2011-05-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

I swear I'm so damn addicted to these videos on YouTube. I am always so curious what a chick carries in her purse. Well here's a picture image of what I have in mine. Nothing out of the ordinary. I think...

Purse: LV Monogram Speedy 35 - Bought in my trip to Paris last summer at the flagship store on Champs-Elysees.

1. iPhone 3GS - If ain't broken I'm not gna upgrade.

2. Cash

3. HandBac - B&BW

4. Mints

5. Victoria's Secret Bombshell Perfume - Incase we make it to a strong smelling restaurant for dinner, i do not like smelling like what I eat.

6. V. bradley ID case

7. Zyrtec

8. NYX Matte lip cream - Fuchsia

9. Sharpies + Pens

10. Bow clip for bangs

11. Random bracelet

12. Purse pet - TIMMY!

13. LV Wallet - Bought from eBay, therefore not sure of authenticity (sorry?)

14. Memo pad

Fashion: Summery Whites

2011-05-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

When you live in a state like Florida... the weather doesn't give you much to explore with your style. Mainly because we only have to seasons... hot & hotter. So when I walked into H&M and saw their cotton "Conscious Collection" I was PSYCHED!! It's hard not to sweat here and finding a collection that is light & airy! I was all for it. Here are only some* of the items I picked out. This is my first fashion post so I'm still exploring on how to take pics of clothes... bear with me please (^_^)

Back zipper detail. Definitely cute on a simple crop top

LOVING: the crochet detail on the bottom

Pillowy peasant top

beautiful lace detail by the pits'

My BFF calls these "rich people pants"...idk why but it's a high waisted, ever so soft, polyester shorts. Ideal for summer!

A summer splurge... the Givenchy Nightingale. I'm always so scared to carry it incase it gets dirty :(

The leather is so damn soft. Definitely softer than my buttcheek.

Review: YSL Rouge Volupté (#2)

2011-05-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

The amount of times of which I have walked into a Sephora and lusted over this lipstick and the amount of times I've placed this in my online shopping bag is just unbelievable. I could have never justified paying $34 just for a damn lipstick... I swear my ass kept going back and forth having arguments with myself whether to splurge or not. It is not the money that I care about... it's more of the I-don't-wan't-to-regret-it-because-it-sucks.

I spent relentless hours reading reviews and help from my fav blogger Pink (www.xppinkxx.com) via twitter and now I am never going back.

YSL Rouge Volupté : $34

Beautiful Packaging

Great Formula

How can you resist?

It is simply smooth, silky, creamy and dreamy! It glides on perfect just like a condom over a kielbasa. I am a total convert and must say that the price is definitely justified. If there was ever an award for chapped lips... I'd win every time. I've been dehydrated my whole life and chapped lips is something I'm just so used to. But dare I say using this lipstick with a base of burt's bees??? Not chapped for a good 5 hours. That's a RECORD

rating 5/5 Easy.

Coming out of my closet

2011-05-08T09:28:00.000-07:00

My whole life I've always been the TomBoy... I'm the girl who had pixi cuts, loved getting dirty and got along with all the boys. As I got to college, I've slowly gotten more confortable at the idea of being "girly". Though my terms of "girly" is nothing compared to the girls on "The Hills".

I realized I had a problem when my boyfriend said to me one day

"You know you have a dresser filled with only make-up??"

Right then and there I realized that I had a problem. I actually DO have a dresser filled with make-up. So now I've come to the conclusion of sharing my guilty pleasure of Make-up, Beauty, shoes and purses with the world. Even though I would still choose my rainbows, shorts and ponytail over my Louboutins and a dress.

So bear with me everyone. Love my stuff, Hate my stuff, Envy my stuff... it's all good.