First Giveaway Winning, it's Avon Makeup + Swatches

So excited to show you my first ever blog giveaway winnings! I received an LBC package last Friday (Feb. 25) and it was my winnings from AskMeWhats for her 3 year old blog celebration.  You couldn't believe how big my smile was when the office security guard called me out to receive my package, I was smiling while walking towards the front desk! lol (I had the package sent to my workplace). Thanks again Nikki.

These are the new additions to my Loot:

1. Avon Ideal Shade Loose Powder (Php 499 now Php 449)
2. Avon Smooth Mineral Blush in Blushed (Php 399 now Php 299)
3. Avon Smooth Mineral Eyeshadow in Mocha Goddess (Php 399 now Php 199)
4. Avon Ultra Moisture Rich Lipsticks - 5 Shades (Php 299 now Php 225 each)

2 swipes applied for each shade

All the lipstick shades I got were pretty and very wearable. Out of the 5 shades, I love "Sheer Buff, M103" the most. You can check out Nikki's review of Avon Ultra Rich Moisture Lipsticks HERE.

These are moisture lipsticks so it is expected that they're not pigmented like Matte Lipsticks are. They remind me of the Maybelline Watershine lipsticks I have. The consistency is very similar and both are very moisturizing to my lips.  They feel like tinted lip balms. (that's why I love them)

I also love the mild scent these Avon lipsticks have, the packaging is very elegant (it's not made of cheap plastic and its black).  The only thing I didn't like about these lipsticks, is they break easily. I already broke 2 tubes out of the 5 shades I had. This is probably because they're so soft and creamy.

I'm hoping and crossing my fingers to win more Makeup Giveaways in the days to come.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

REVIEW: Wet N Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Trio in Knock on Wood

 Product Info from Wet n Wild

Coordinating trio shades takes the guesswork out of creating the perfect eye look. The "how to" palettes are created to highlight, define, and accentuate specific eye colors to create unique looks.

Available in 12 Shades

Retail Price: $2.99

I got this eyeshadow palette for free last Feb. 9, 2011 as a gift from a friend (Loien) who just got back from Florida and I simply love it.  You can check out all the goodies she gave me HERE.

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* very pigmented

* wide range of colors to choose from

* convenient, because it has labels 

  (browbone, crease, eyelid) which is also very helpful for newbies

* has two free applicators, sponge and angled brush (I don't use it)

* no weird smell

* no allergies experienced

* stays long even without an eye primer

What I don't like...

* the free angled brush is very stiff
* not locally available here in Cebu
  (but I think some SM dept. stores in Manila already have Wet n Wild stalls)

My rating: 4 / 5

This eyeshadow palette is simply great. The color payoff is awesome considering its price. I already created a look using this "Knock on Wood" palette, you can see it HERE. Since I'm impressed with this, I want to get their new 8-pan color icon palettes now! I'm still in the process of searching where to purchase them online within Philippines. I'll let you ladies know if I can find an online reseller for Wet n Wild eyeshadow palettes.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

REVIEW: Revlon Illuminance Creme Eyeshadow in Precious Metals

Product Info from Revlon

Discover an endless spectrum of luminosity. 

This weightless crème shadow simply glides on, 
leaving subtle shimmers and highlights. 

Wear an individual shade to match your outfit, or blend the colors together 

to create completely new hues and striking effects.

Available Shades: Khaki Suede, Twilight, Copper Canyon,
Seashells, Skinlights, Va Va Va Bloom, Moonlit Jewels, Precious Metals, 

Pink Petals, Not Just Nudes, Wild Orchids, Electric Pop, & Black Magic

Retail Price: around $5.00 - $7.00

I got this product as a gift (Pasalubong) from a friend who recently came home from Florida. You can check out what she gave me HERE.  I'm not sure how much this retails here in Phils. since I haven't seen this in our Revlon counters.

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* no scent

* very pigmented

* feels soft and smooth which makes it easier to blend

* glides on easily

* the consistency is very light 

   (doesn't feel like I'm wearing a cream eyeshadow when applied).

* I didn't experience any allergies

* works well if used as an eyeshadow base

* convenient packaging, it's definitely weightless.

   (I can see all the colors because of the transparent cover)

What I don't like...

* I have dry lids / skin, so it stays longer on me. But I needed to use an eye primer to make this cream shadow last the whole day. I wouldn't recommend this for people with oily lids because it will easily crease and fade on you.

  

My rating: 4 / 5

In my conclusion, this product really works best for people with dry lids like me. I've tried using this product alone and it really gives me that natural vibrant look. I also tried using this as an eyeshadow base, it still worked well for me.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

My new Clinique makeup bag and what's inside

I'm so excited to share with you this new cosmetic case set I bought online. It's pink and it's Clinique! I needed to replace my makeup bag since it's becoming too small and it was starting to tear.  I decided to look for a new makeup bag online because I knew I can find tons of imported cosmetics cases / makeup bags there. I didn't look for a makeup bag in the mall, because if I do, I'll end up buying more stuff than what I really came for. lol

Just in case you're wondering I got this Clinique Cosmetic Case set from ebay.ph for only PHP 137.75 (shipping cost not included). It's definitely a steal. 

Here are the details:

Large Bag

Outer Shell: Polyester with PVSC trim
top zip closure

Interior: Fully Lined (pink)

H: 6" x W: 9.5" x B: 3"

Small Bag

Outer Shell: Polyester with PVSC trim
top zip closure

Interior: Fully Lined (white)

H: 3" x W: 7.5" x B: 2.25"

 

This is how it looks inside. (I love the pink lining)

This is the small makeup bag which I bring with me everyday.

This is what's inside my Makeup bag

Here are the list of items inside my makeup bag.

- Maybelline Watershine Lipstick in B22

- Silver Retractable Blush brush (from Watson's)

- Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with pomegranate oil 
   (look how worn out it is. I use it everyday)

- Garnier Pressed Powder in Ivory

- Elf Contouring Blush and Bronzing Powder

- Elf Plumping Lip Glaze in Ruby

- Cover Girl Multiplying Mascara

- San San Eyeliner Pen in Black

- G-lish Definer Brush

- Generic Dual tip Eyeshadow brush (Blending and Angled)

- G-lish Color Pot in Caffeine Rush

- Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream (15g)

- Vaseline Healthy White Skin Lightening Lotion

- Biogenic Isopropyl Alcohol (I forgot to include it in the photo)

By the way, how do you like my new blog color theme and banner? 
Is this better than the last one?

Note: The lady in the banner is an Anime version of me but much more skiny...hahaha

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

REVIEW: Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Duo Eyeshadow in Terra Minerals

Product Info from Physicians Formula

Talc-Free, Safe for extra-sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers

100% Matte, Mineral formula for an ultra-smooth, natural-looking finish

Minimalist formula can help reduce eye irritation

Dual-compartment compact includes mirror and brush applicator

Hypoallergenic, Fragrance free, Dermatologist approved, Non-comedogenic.

Available Shades: Taupe Minerals, Berry Minerals,  

Terra Minerals, Natural Minerals & Nude Minerals

Retail Price: $6.99, bought mine for Php142.00 only at ebay.ph

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* it's hypoallergenic

* very pigmented

* it has a soft sheer matte finish (gives a very natural look)

* smooth which makes it easy to blend

* I love the fact that it's talc free

* Stays all day without creasing even without an eye primer

* it comes with a mirror and a soft synthetic eyeshadow brush

* can easily fit in my  makeup bag (so convenient to use)

What I don't like...

* it's not available locally

* chalky or powdery (I need to dip my eyeshadow brush carefully so that it won't get messy)

My rating: 4 / 5

In conclusion, this really is a very good everyday eyeshadow for a natural look. I would highly recommend this to you ladies especially if you are in to neutrals. This will definitely be a good addition to your makeup collection.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

Valentine's Dinner

Celebrating Valentine's day with your loved one doesn't have to be expensive.  As long you get to spend time together, that should be great.  To celebrate Valentine's day, my hubby and I had a simple dinner a local Dimsum Restaurant here in Cebu. We went to "Golden City" located at "The Walk" IT Park.

Here's our dinner in Pictures!

 Lemon Tea and Milk Tea with black jello

Humba Noodles (Pork Noodles)

Halo-Halo for Dessert

I apologize for posting this really late. My husband took all the pictures and I didn't have time to get the files from him, until now. hehe

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

I've hit the pan!

It feels so good to have hit the pan and emptied out some makeup. I've been buying a whole bunch of cosmetics recently and I know for a fact that I can't finish all of them. However, I make sure to show some love to all of them. My make-up collection is just enough for my personal use, so it is much easier for me to hit the pan. If you're curious you can check out my Make Up Loot. I've had a few additions to my makeup but it all still fits in my two make-up organizers.

Anyway, these empty makeup are the ones I carry everyday in my makeup bag.  So, they are the most used makeup products from my collection.

Items Finished:
Garnier Pressed Powder in Ivory
Sophie Martin Lipstick in Velvet Nude
Elf Wet Gloss Lash & Brow Clear Mascara
Elf Natural Radiance Blusher in Glow

I already repurchased the Garnier Pressed Powder and Elf Wet Gloss Lash & Brow Clear Mascara since I consider them the must-haves in my makeup bag.  Although I loved the Elf blush in Glow, I decided not to repurchase since I still have the Elf Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder which I currently use. As for the lipstick, I really liked the Velvet Nude shade so much that I actually finished the whole tube. I decided not to repurchase the lipstick because I still have several lipsticks to choose from.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

REVIEW: Beauty Treats Ultra Shine Lip Gloss in Misty Pink

Product Info from Beauty Treats

Available in 12 colors

Retail Price: bought it for Php 100.00 at a local thrifty store

I accidentally spotted this at a shop located in Gaisano Country Mall here in Cebu. It was on display together with their eyeshadow palettes, but I decided to give this a try.

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* nice packaging

* convenient applicator (similar to NYX lipgloss applicator)

* not sticky

* glides easily

* pigmented

What I don't like...

* weird smell (it smells like rubber)

* fades easily

* not widely available

* frosted finish

My rating: 2 /5

Although I was happy with the consistency and pigmentation, I'm not satisfied with this lip gloss at all. The smell was such a big turn off. Lip gloss scents really bother me, so I'm really big when in comes to how a lipstick, lip balm or lip gloss smells.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

RBBH Look: WnW Knock on Wood

I finally had time to do an FOTD using the Make up gifts I received last week from a friend (loien) who arrived from Florida. You can check out the gifts HERE . FOTD as requested by Sugar Sugar of whimsical whatnots and whatever.

 Eye Diagram

Step 1:  I used my Revlon Illuminance cream eyeshadow as base and applied it all over my lid.

Step 2: I applied the rosey plum shade on the inner half of my lid (labeled 2 on the palette)

Step 3: I applied the brown shade on the outer half of my lid, on the crease area and also on my lower lash line connecting it with my outer V.

Step 4: I then applied the light pink shade slightly above the crease color and blend it out to remove harsh edges.

Step 5: I Applied a sheer flesh toned eyeshadow on my brow bone area.

Step 6: I lined the upper lash line using my San San eyeliner pen in black

Step 7:  I curled my lashes and applied my Maybelline Falsies mascara in black.

EOTD using Wet n Wild coloricon trio Knock on Wood (dramatic)

Here is another look I created using the same palette. This is a much more soft version for a professional and polished look.

Eye Diagram

 

EOTD using Wet n Wild coloricon trio Knock on Wood (soft)

Left and Right Eyeshadow are different

Face: Wet n Wild Shade Adjusting Foundation Primer and San San Pressed Powder

Cheeks:  Elf Contouring Blush and Bronzing Powder

Lips: Revlon Super Lustrous in Almost Nude as base and topped with Maybelline Watershine in B22

REVIEW: San San Eyeliner Pen in Black

Product Info from HBC

Used to create a darkened frame around each eye and
accentuates the eye's beauty, creates an alluring and enchanting professional look.

Available Shade: Black and Brown

Retail Price: Php 80.00, around $2.10

I've been using this pen eyeliner ever since I bought it last Monday at the HBC store in SM City.  This is super unexpected. I just found a very affordable pen eyeliner that really works!

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* easy to use

* very pigmented

* it's waterproof

* it's smudge proof

* stays long. it still looks the same even after 8 hours.

* gives a clean matte finish
* didn't feel any stinging or irritation

What I don't like...

* cheap packaging but it doesn't really bother me.

* it's a bit hard to remove, even with an eye makeup remover.

My rating: 5 / 5

This truly is such a fabulous find!

It can easily make thick and thin lines

Still looks clean even after rubbing it very hard for several times.

I would highly recommend this eyeliner pen, especially to those with oily lids.  This will definitely solve your eyeliner dilema.  It doesn't fade and it stays intact. Say goodbye to racoon eyes! lol

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***

Mini HBC San-San Haul

I went to SM City last Monday to buy some stuff for my son. He needed a new pair of sleepers, pajamas and socks. After I bought what I came for, I passed by HBC (Home Beauty Center) and decided to take a quick peek on their items. I couldn't stop myself from buying since everything was so affordable.  I simply grabbed a few things that caught my eye. I was in a hurry since my husband was waiting (he hates to wait).

So here's what I bought, San-San Pressed Powder in 02 (Php 92.00), San-San Age Defense Concealer in 02 (Php126.00) and the San-San Eyeliner Pen in Black (Php 80.00).  I've already used their pressed powder before and I was using it for a long time before I switched to Myra, then Garnier.  I just missed using it because the shade is just perfect for my skin tone.  I only decided to stop using it because the scent was a bit strong and it bothered me.

Swatches and reviews for the eyeliner and concealer will follow. So stay tuned.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Makeup Gifts!

I was all giddy and happy when I received these gifts from a friend who recently arrived from Florida USA. (Thanks Loien! luv ya!). I also received a couple of chocolates but I forgot to take the photos, I already ate it...lol. She also wanted to give me an elf Beauty Encyclopedia, too bad it was out of stock at Targets and Walgreens when she looked for it. huhu... But oh well, I'm very grateful that she gave me "Pasalubong".

She gave me Maybelline Falsies Mascara, Wet n' Wild coloricon trio palette in Knock on Wood and a Revlon Illuminance Cream eyeshadow in Precious Metals.

I will definitely be using all of these so stay tunned for the swatches and reviews.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

Mom's Birthday

Mom's version of Green Salad

Contains Lettuce, big slices of red & green Tomatoes,

diced Ham, diced cheese, Italian vinegret and Ceasar's dressing.

I love this salad! It's so easy to make yet very tasty.

Mom's Spaghetti

I just love mom's spaghetti. I tried copying her spaghetti sauce recipe but I just can't get it to taste the same.  She adds a lot of spices and  herbs on to the sauce and she also uses canned tomatoes instead of your usual spaghetti sauce. It's just yummy!

Mom's Chicken Cordon Bleu

She puts in big chunks of cheese inside together with honey glazed ham! Absolutely delicious! I tried making this at home, it was an absolute fail! hahaha. It tasted great but I coudn't get the chicken to stay intact. I have to ask mom how she does it. hehe

We celebrated Mom's 52nd birthday last Jan. 30, 2011 and this was just few of the home cooked meals she prepared for her birthday.  It was nothing big, just a simple family gathering. There was Crispy Pata as well, but I failed to take a picture.  Lunch ended with Red Ribbon's Tiramisu and Magnolia Chocolate Marble ice cream. Yumyum...

This is it for now.

Cheerios!
***Hollie***

My Fave: Clinique Happy Heart!

Clinique Happy Heart is my absolute favorite perfume ever! I have been using Clinique Happy (original scent) since 2006 and started using Clinique Happy Heart in 2008. I absolutely love both variants. I can't remember how many times I've repurchased both Clinique Happy and Clinique Happy Heart over the years.

Its fragrance is just so mild, feminine and very elegant.  It stays long and actually lasts through out the day without having to add a few more spritz.  The 100 ml size bottle could last up to 6 months for me, depending on usage.

My brother gave me this Clinique Happy perfume as a gift last Christmas 2010.  It was perfect because I already ran out of perfumes to use. I thought he knew it was my favorite, but he didn't have a clue, it was his fiance who chose this for me.  I couldn't stop smiling when I opened it. (thanks kuya)

This has actually become my signature scent and I have no plans of switching.  On days that I don't wear Clinique Happy, I use local perfume from Scents and Blends specifically "White Ginger" love it!

How bout you ladies, do you have a signature scent?

 This is it for now.


Cheerios!
***Hollie***

REVIEW: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Almost Nude

Product Info from Revlon

Infused with silk and vitamins for smooth, conditioning color. 

In a dazzling array of fabulous, fashionable shades .

More than 40 Shades available.

Retails Price: PHP 400.00+ , around $6.00 in the US 

I bought this lipstick last December 2010 at ebay.ph and have used it several times.  I bought this for 190 pesos only and it was sealed! Too bad though this shade "Almost Nude" has already been discontinued.  I was just browsing through ebay.ph when I found this shade, then I just thought it will make a perfect base color and luck was on my side.  This works great.  I haven't tried any other lipstick from the Revlon Super Lustrous line so I thought of getting myself one.

What I like about it...

* inexpensive

* creamy

* no scent / fragrance-free

* nice packaging. It has a transparent top cover so I can easily see the lipstick inside without opening it.

* glides easily

* very pigmented

* does not make my lips dry

* did not experience itchiness or irritation

What I don't like...

* It's not as soft and smooth if compared to my Nyx and Rimmel lipsticks.

My rating: 4 / 5

I generally like this lipstick since it goes well with most of my lip gloss. This shade is simply an awesome base color and I have already created several nude lips with this. One is when I apply my Nyx lip gloss in sunrise on top of it.  I only apply a tiny amount of gloss since Nyx is very pigmented. 

 Revlon in Almost Nude

Nyx lip gloss in Sunrise

Revlon in Almost Nude topped with Nyx lip gloss in Sunrise

I've also tried, applying my Maybelline Watershine lipstick in B22 over this product as well as my Nyx lip gloss in Silver plum and my Elf plumping lip glaze in Ruby. It all came out as a soft, beautiful and nudey lip color.

This is it for now.

Cheerios!

***Hollie***