For sure, you ladies already know that Benefit Cosmetics is already in the Philippines, since its soft launch last December. I had the opportunity to take a sneak peek at them goodies.

I’ve been a fan of Benefit since I owned one of their best selling products the first time — Benefit Dandelion. I also love the cult favourite, Benetint. In fact, I bought a Pocketpal (Benetint + Transparent Gloss) during my first visit in Singapore. I’m so happy that they finally set their first ever flagship store in Greenbelt 5, since I don’t have to buy Benefit products elsewhere. I used to get mine abroad, either by going to Sephora or ordering online; both of which is quite expensive.

Back at the launch, I was able to taste one of these yummy cupcakes, featuring BeneBabes Simone, Gabby and Betty amongst others.

I couldn’t resist touching these scintillating thingies!

To my surprise, prices here in the Philippines are way cheaper than that of Singapore’s. As told by the brand manager, they keep the prices aligned with Hong Kong’s. By definition of cheap, I can’t say that they really are affordable. Prices range from Php 900 – 3000, which is a bit steep for someone who’s on budget. But, comparing to prices in other countries, I should say that I’d rather purchase Benefit in Manila anytime of the day.

I went to Singapore just recently, and didn’t mind shopping for Benefit since I got what I needed (and I’m more likely to shop in Manila). Thank you very much Benefit Philippines for these goodies.

Benefit Stationery, Brow bar gift cheque, b.right moisturiser, Benetint & Brows a-go-go.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t use my gift cheque since I’m currently out of the country. But, but, I brought with me two of the coolest loots I got: Benefit Benetint, a lip and cheek tint that I religiously use, and Brows A-go-go, a nifty brow colouring and fixing set.

I’d love to post separate reviews of each products in the future, as soon as I have more time to do so. xx

Sometime last October, Tony Moly Philippines held a makeup event, which I was fortunate to attend. I remember being sick at that time, but braced the under-the-weather feeling and went still.

Despite coming in very late, I was able to catch a glimpse on the event highlights:

Tony Moly’s Korean makeup artists, Yoon Eun Mi and  Cha Duhee, did a makeup demonstration using the brand’s latest products. Dubbed as Disco Diva, I’m sure you already have a clue on what type of look they did.

Korean Makeup Artists Yoon Eun Mi and Cha Du Hee with their models.

‘Twas really interesting to know how a nighttime, party-ready makeup can still look fresh and effortless. I guess, Koreans have a knack for keeping things simple, as evident on their TV Dramas where celebrities pull off a makeup-no makeup look.  Blame their genetically flawless, pore-less skins for it.

To add, the model on the left was just wearing BB cream as base, which fit her ‘coz she really has nice skin. Pardon for the bad lighting. I still have yet to invest on a good external flash.

Look closely.

*Frustration ensues*

Some of the newest products introduced were the Backstage Self Smoky Eye Collection (duo-eyeshadow palette with gel eyeliner), Floria Bloom Ball Busher, and IntenseRepair Live Snail BB Cream.

One of the hosts holding the Backstage Self Smoky Eye Collection

The latter piqued my interest. I’m not sure at first if the BB Cream had live snail extract in it, but the name took me by surprise. Apparently, it listed Filtered sail slime as one of the product ingredients. Now, that really made me afraid to try, but curiosity overcame me so I took a swatch on my hand. Luckily, it didn’t turn into “snail skin”. I found the grease-free, almost matte finish really nice, btw.

I wish I had something like this at home, but who am I kidding? I currently live in a tropical island (think of Boracay, just bigger) where thick makeup would turn into paste after a few hours of staying under the scorching heat.

Brigitte holding what appears to be akin to Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Block. Want.

Spotted another blogger, makeup artist Marj.

I tagged along Nika, ‘coz I know she’d enjoy this. Also took a snappie with one of my favourite beauty bloggers, Martha.

I just had to steal my former office M-W-F’s signature scent. I wasn’t really adventurous with CLEAN variants, as I already love the original one. But, hers also caught my heart’s, or rather, my nose’s desire.

CLEAN Eau de Parfum is a light, breezy concoction of various fruity-floral notes namely litsea cubeba, orange, sweet lime, pink grapefruit, passion lily, rose geranium, and white musk. What I love about it is that it stays and lingers for a while without being overpowering. To me it’s a perfect scent for the young and feminine, but that does not exclude the “young at heart”.

A friend of mine has been a fan of the Shower Fresh variant. One time, I asked for a spritz for some reason I couldn’t remember. She took a bottle from her purse, and handed over to me. To my surprise, it’s CLEAN, only tinged in a shade of blue (or cerulean). I took a whiff,  immediately loved it, and spritzed it onto my pulse points.

CLEAN Shower Fresh is a mixture of lemon, mandarin, orange, jasmine, lily of the valley, orange blossom, sheer woods and musk. It has a distinct floral-fruity scent with a hint of musk as base notes. The scent wears off easily, unlike the original variant. Nonetheless, I still love it, being the less feminine version of the former. Think of Davidoff’s Cool Water or D&G Light Blue.

I’m for fresh-from-the-shower scents, without being too musky, floral or woody. CLEAN has been one of my few favourites, along with Lanvin Eclat d’Arpege. I was happy to score a couple on sale; I got each for 50% off! Oh yes, I was in olfactory heaven.

Price: Php 1,800/ $38 for a 30 ml (1 oz) bottle, but I got them at Php 900 each.

I finally resolved into posting something in this blog, and prolly my home blog. Been almost two weeks since I moved out from the Philippines to another Asian country…mainly for work.

Anyway, here’s the story of something old.

A few years ago, I was excited to own a Smashbox Tokidoki palette. You know how I love cute packaging, non-realistic doodles and Japanese.

I got Celebrita, which has a berry, a plum and two neutral (b/w) shades.

Swatches

With flash

Without flash

The plum and white colours give off a subtle lustre, whilst the the berry and grey-black colours have a more defined shimmer (but not way too glittery). I often use the neutrals, of course, especially the white one for highlighting. The colour payoff is more of satiny, especially for the grey-black one.I remember using it during Levi’s Roadwear Party.

Given that it was just launched in the Philippines, the price was quite steep. I believe I got it for no less than Php 2,000.

…and now, for something new.

A few months ago, amidst defying boredom, I found myself browsing eBay listings and stumbled upon the other Smashbox Tokidoki palette in Modella up for bids. I didn’t think twice and bade on it. Eventually, I won it along with 2 other palettes from Milani. I was a happy camper indeed!

Modella’s cutesy packaging

The colours weren’t interesting at first sight, maybe because I’m biased to girly pink and plums . Having swiped them onto my skin (as swatches), I took that impression back and started to appreciate them.

Swatches

With flash

Without flash

The three colours (yellow, blue and orange) have sheer payoff with subtle shimmer, whilst the lone brown colour has a muted, matte finish.

Best thing of all, I only shelled out a measly Php 500 for the palette. eBay isn’t really your best bet when it comes to finding quality, original stuff, but I’m happy that the seller sold me an original one. Definitely, one must have a keen eye for spotting trusted sellers.

Most bloggers are usually invited as guests, and perhaps may be oblivious on whatever’s happening backstage. Little do we know is that behind the glitz and the glamour come these people who painstakingly toil before, during, and even after the event.

I was invited to attend the Swarovski Eyewear Launch not only as a guest, but also as a photographer pre-event.

Swarovski, in partnership with eyewear designer Marcolin, launches its Optical and Sunglasses Collection at the Makati Shangri-la Hotel a couple of weeks ago. I already posted about the two new collections here.

Since taking pictures is merely a pastime of mine, I asked a professional photographer’s help instead. Besides, I wasn’t too confident to pull everything off by simply clutching a humble DSLR kit for starters.

It does not mean that I wouldn’t dare to capture anything at all! Here are some snapshots prior to the event, where the rehearsals, makeup, fitting as well as the photo shoot took place. Call time was 9 am, and believe it or not, I was an early bird.

The stage. Everything’s peace and quiet.

Strutting the catwalk during the programme rehearsal.

A slew of makeup artists doing their thing.

One of the models getting a makeover.

After which, the photo shoot, which’s supposed to be my stint, finally transpired. I took some snapshots on the background. I’m still amid mulling whether should I use them in my nondescript, nonexistent portfolio — or not. So far, everything’s still crappy, but I’d be glad to spare you one (a less crappy version).

Twas clear to me that we’re behind schedule. So, the event finally started and we’re still taking and editing pictures. I resolved not to take my seat as a guest, and helped finish packing up the whole thing before the fashion show starts.

The event was hosted by Sam Oh. I’ve seen her in ETC, and she’s just as eloquent as her usual self.

Amber sang, and it was a shame that I missed her part. Finally, a few minutes before the fashion show, I already grabbed my lunch. I was extremely hungry that I didn’t care taking pictures of my food and devoured it like a warthog. I know, it doesn’t sound so classy.

Amid the course of eating, Shamcey Supsup arrived. So, I sneaked out of the table to take a peak and a snapshot [or two]. The Miss Universe 3rd Runner Up is the official model of Swarovski Eyewear, to be carried by EO-Executive Optical here in Manila. Transformed into “fangirl” mode, I took quite a lot of pictures. Here are some of them.

Shamcey with EO and Swarovski representatives

Shamcey looks like a capital Barbie! My new “thinspiration”. PS: she really has a nice set of teeth.

Culminating the event was the fashion show. Sitting next to the stage, I further took some piccies.

More Event Pictures

Warning: picture heavy.

The finale, of course, went to Shamcey who strutted like a true queen on the catwalk whilst donning an exquisite pair of Swarovski sunnies in Amazing.

Many thanks to Earl and Arnel for the cordial invite and the wonderful opportunity. Also, thanks to Art for taking the pre-event photos.

The collection is composed of two new eyewear lines – the Swarovski Sunglasses and Swarovski Optical Collections – which are both carried by EO-Executive Optical.

Sitting opulently within the junction of the arms and the frames on some of the pieces is the signature Swanflower® motif, a delicate design composed of repeated swan-shaped patterns forming a flower icon. 

Swarovski Sunglasses collection

The Swarovski Sunglasses collection offers a range of chic sunglasses – from minimalist to decadent styles – each evokes a unique of vibe sans losing its touch of womanly elegance. Each of these stylish sunnies is equipped with tinted lenses that offers maximum protection against UV rays, and comes in an opulent palette of colours.

Amazing

Characterized by its stunning frame and temples – made entire of prisms – that recreate the finely chiseled facets of crystal, and is designed for women who want to stand out for their style and personality

Acqua

Evokes the wings of a butterfly with its irregular geometry characterized by the sloping cut of the lens’ thickness

Alex

Aviator-type sunglasses infused with feminine slender frames and intricately worked arms with characteristic faceting

Archi

Aviator-inspired creation that showcases lenses faceted like crystal

Swarovski Optical collection

The Swarovski Optical collection, on the other hand, showcases the continuation of the brand’s move toward the theme of frames. Each spectacle is girded with constructive frames subtly embellished with crystals.  Available in hues of blacks, tortoiseshell, red and mauves.

Alchemy

The flagship model of the collection, featuring soft, easy to wear lines. Its personality shines through in the frame and arms, which are spectacularly carved into facets and feature a Swanflower® motif on a crystal background.

About

A delicate butterfly shape gives this piece a retro feel. Model is both elegant and playful in deep, vibrant red.

Abstract

A model with a truly eye-catching graphic frame

If steep price tags weren’t an issue, I’d love to a pair of spectacles in Abstract, which is also available in brown/gold.

PS: I’ll be posting another entry for the actual launch, where I “kinda” played the part of a photographer.  

As for girls, whilst he digs owning tons of pairs of sneakers like collecting battle cards, your man needs to own something leathery that he could use during business days at work.

Traffic Footwear has its stylish collection of streamlined leather boots that are perfect for almost any kind of outfit — whether it is casual, trendy and even formal. You can either match them with your distressed denims or with your gunmetal black slacks.

Here are my personal picks for Traffic Boots’ current line:

Cambie – Php 4,499

This pair of  oxford-style booties exudes a bit of a laidback vibe with its two-toned colour in brown-black. Perfect for street wear.

Richmond – Php 4,299

This polished pair of ankle-length boots suits any formal or corporate wear.

Cornell – Php 5,499

Bikers would love this sleeker pair for motorcycle boots, accentuated with buckle and zipper closure. It also comes in coffee brown.

Delano – Php 4,499

This statement-making dual-toned pair is perfect for dark wash jeans or even good ol’ khakis.

Traffic Footwear is available at the following malls: Shoppesville, Greenhills; Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center; Shang-ri La Plaza Mall; SM Mall of Asia; SM City North Edsa; Trinoma Mall; SM Cebu City; and, Ayala Center Cebu

Another cause for another day. I hope y’all have a glorious Sunday.

Freelance stylist-slash-photographer Eunice Alera recently told me of this wonderful project as part of an ongoing cause, supporting her friend who just underwent a heart surgery.

TO THE SAME BEAT was her and another friend’s brainchild — a small clothing collection composed of minimalist printed tops, each carrying a statement “The Beat Goes On”.

Surely, it may be easily mistaken as something to do with music. Yet, if we are on the same page, it rather depicts another meaning that has more depth.

It comes in tank top and unisex tees, and is available in black and white. Proceeds will all go to her friend to help.

Price:  each shirt is priced at  Php 550.00, whilst the tank top costs Php 350.00.

For orders and more info, you may visit this Facebook Page. Additionally, you may fill up this order form.

http://eunicena.blogspot.com/2011/09/to-same-beat.html

Hello lovelies, I’m alive once again!!!

Been very busy with my life for the past couple of weeks — y’know, duty calls (ha-ha)! But now, I’m back to blogging (finally, sigh).

First off, let me share to you this wonderful campaign from Estée Lauder Companies. Please take your time on reading this.

Estée Lauder’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign aims to connect and spread the message across the globe about this forbidding, chronic disease that is responsible for 15% of all cancer deaths among women.

In the United States alone:

• About 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women
• About 57,650 new cases of carcinoma in situ (CIS) will be found (CIS is non-invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer).
• About 39,520 deaths from breast cancer (women)

- based on 2011 statistics, cancer.org

This year, the BCA Campaign digitally connects with millions of audiences worldwide through its global launch of BCAcampaign.com  – the campaign’s first-ever dedicated website devoted to provide the latest news and campaign events, useful information, and health and healthy-living tips about this type of cancer. It also paves a way to make year-round donations to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

This year’s 2011 BCA Campaign initiatives support its Campaign’s concept “Together. Connect. Communicate. Conquer. For A Future Free Of Breast Cancer”, a compelling call-to-action that emphasises the power of millions joining together, with one voice, to communicate the life-saving message about the importance of breast health and early detection.

Moreover, the new website features “Shine a Light on Breast Cancer”, a social media programme through BCA Campaign’s Facebook page, where you can virtually share your messages of hope and inspiration about breast cancer with others worldwide. With this, you can also help light your corner of the world on The Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Illumination Map in pink.

I highly encourage you to take part of this campaign by simply sharing your thoughts and messages of hope, inspiration and awareness about the disease.

In order to share your message of hope or view the global illuminations, click on the “Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign” tab and then “Click To Share Your Message of Hope Today”. Enter in your message of hope to illuminate the Philippines in the global illuminations map. All local Facebook brand pages Estee Lauder Philippines, Bobbi Brown Philippines, Clinique Philippines and DKNY Philippines also have the link to this app to raise awareness of the importance of breast health and early detection among fans.

I just shared mine. I hope you can share yours today, and tinge our beautiful country in pink!

http://www.bcacampaign.com/

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/BCACampaign

Twitter: @BCAcampaign

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate – Martha (Comment)
L’Oreal Total Repair gift pack - Lany dela Cruz (Facebook)
Majolica Majorca Majoromantica Perfume - @michelleame (Twitter)
L’Oreal White Perfect Moisturising Day Cream - Agnes Dc (Comment)
Garnier Light Complete Multi-Action Whitening Cream gift pack – Maridel Terrado (Facebook)

In addition, each of you will get a 20g sampler jar of Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub for you to try.

Thanks for joining! To those who didn’t make it, I’ve lined up more giveaways in the future. So, stay tuned! x