Like A Kaleidoscope

Wine Tassel Bag - c/o Nowisstyle

Nowisstyle, a Japanese fashion company sent me this gorgeous wine bag which was pretty much the inspiration of my entire outfit. They came with shoulder straps but I took them off because to me they look nicer without. What do you think? I don't know about you, but I find it easier to plan an outfit based on one item. Regardless it's earrings or new shoes, it's still a lot easier than creating an outfit from nothing. The vibe I am going for today is 60's vintage, which is the period my mother grew up in!

Patterns And Flowers Shift Dress - c/o Dressabelle

Have you ever looked into a kaleidoscope? This might sound redundant to most people but hey, don't tell me there's a mobile app for that is there?! Nothing beats looking into the real thing. When I was young, I thought the swirling effect inside of a kaleidoscope was what drugged people would see. Ha, silly me! This extremely colorful dress makes me feel like a walking illusion. When you look closer, it's made up of countless 'gems'! How cute? Shoulder pads (gosh, how often do we get these nowadays) are sewn in and the dress comes in an oversized shift cut. It reminds me a lot of the mod dresses Twiggy used to wear, that also happens to be a come back trend as seen on Louis Vuitton runways.

Lolita socks - Hong Kong (similar here) | Tegan Mary-janes - Dr Martens

Revlon nail polish in Mischievous

Silk scarf (worn as turban) - Mom's vintage

I am wearing my #firstandforever pair of Mary-jane heels to match my bag. These shoes remind me of children from World War II and I love them so much, but it was a long and painful process of breaking into them but they eventually got really comfortable. Kind of surprising those were from Dr Martens right? I don't think you can find them anymore. My hair is growing at a rapid pace so a turban really helped control the untamable mess, which was even worse in humidity. If you want to wear a scarf as a turban, be sure to see this useful tutorial!

Photos by JJ

Psst, I am on Pinterest now! Follow me here: http://pinterest.com/ulimali/

Review: Rimmel Kate Matte Lipstick

The Kate Moss lipsticks have been such a rave among beauty bloggers and when my friend Sheryl recommended to me and described it as "damn good", that was when I decided to purchase from ASOS. Each tube costs only S$11.66, free shipping!

I am very picky about my lipsticks; I prefer them matte, opaque and as scentless as possible. I dislike wearing anything sticky or glittery. So far, my favourite lipsticks are from MAC and Revlon.

Swatches under sunlight

1. Color pay-off (5/5) - I will describe more in detail later, but in summary, you can definitely apply them straight from the tube and the color opacity is AMAZING! I also look for high coverage lipsticks because it is not worth it to apply over and over. One swipe of this is enough to wipe out your natural lip colour so concealer is unnecessary as base. However, I have to highlight that the shade 107 (worn by Kate Moss in promotional poster) comes off less dark than it seems in tube.
2. Texture (4/5) - Something I wasn't super impressed at first but grew to love; can you tell that it doesn't appear that matte?! When freshly applied, it appears more like a MAC creme sheen instead of an expected velvety texture. But the shine can be reduced by blotting with tissue or powdering. I also noticed that the initial shine does fade slowly after you've applied.  I do love how it feels on my lips because it is super smooth and more hydrating than the Revlon Matte lipsticks. But I just don't think that it is 100% matte. 
3. Staying power (5/5) - I have worn these lipsticks out for dinner and I am super impressed with how stubbornly long it stays on. You can drink and eat at ease without worrying about it fading. I only had to reapply once when I am out an entire day. Also, it does not appear blotchy or sink into lines. 
4. Scent (2.5/5) - Now, I dislike lip products that smell artificially sweetened. The Kate Moss ones smell like berry detergent to me, and you'd know what I mean if you have tried the older Rimmel lipsticks. It tastes like soap when I accidentally lick off my lipstick. Thankfully, the scent doesn't linger for long.

How do I apply my red lipsticks?

1. No matter how good your lipstick is, a red lipstick always looks better with definition. I like to outline my lips with a lip pencil similar to my lipstick. Some people like to fill in the entire lip, but outlining is just my preference.
2. If I am doing makeup makeup on someone, I use a brush. At home, I apply straight from the tube just because it gives off higher opacity faster.

If you make any mistakes, simply use a cotton bud to clean up and if you are on set, go around the entire lip with creamy concealer for ultimate definition. 

Rimmel Kate Matte Lipstick in 111

Shade 111 is an warm, orange-based red. It is a classic fire engine, London post box kind of red that is really vibrant. This color is my personal favourite because it brightens up my yellow complexion! You can compare for yourself with the other shade I am about to show you.

Rimmel Kate Matte lipstick in 107

Shade 107 is a cool, blue-based red which is slightly darker. It is a very good shade to go for if you like the dark, vampy lip trend. This shade also makes your teeth appear whiter! I prefer to go for this shade when I want to channel a more grungy rocker vibe, it looks great with smokey eyes.

It's true when they say a red lipstick which looks good on your friend may not look good on you. Keep experimenting to find the perfect red for yourself. In my case, it's probably a warm red.

Topped with Veronica Feelin' So Good lipgloss (MAC Archie's Girls Collection)

Just to show you how 'vampy' shade 107 can be, I applied a dark purple lipgloss on top. With the purple, shade 107 turns into a dark berry plum shade, dark yet wearable. This lip combo is super pretty with just mascara and contoured cheeks.

Bottom line: Will I repurchase? Yes! In fact, I intend to purchase the other three lipsticks in the Matte line. They are so affordable and super good quality. You can count on me that these lipsticks will not disappoint you. :-)

Would you like me to do more reviews like this? Leave your requests in the comments below!

Stripes

Striped shirt, Basic Skirt - c/o Dressabelle | Boyfriend blazer - Cotton On

If those stripes on my shirt were red and yellow, I'd look like the inside of a Macdonalds fries box. Right now I look kinda like Pugsley Addams or maybe the pair of fat twins from Alice In Wonderland. As usual, today is just another day of playing 'dress up like a fictional character' in my mind. Anyone else is like me? 

Revlon ColorBurst Lipstick in Soft Nude | NARS Blusher in Dolce Vita

Alright, that aside, I have to say I am really enjoying the sprouting of monochromatic styles even though it's supposedly spring, when the unwritten rule of wearing everything bright is plastered all over magazines. Have you gone into ZARA stores recently? And if you know what I'm talking about - there's this b&w striped collar shirt that has been particularly popular on the blogosphere. And here I am, wearing a somewhat similar shirt paired with basic skater skirt and a blazer. It takes so little effort to rock a monochromatic ensemble!

Perspex clutch - ZARA

Months ago when I came across pictures of models (was it Prada?) and bloggers carrying a transparent clutch, I knew from the very moment that I need to own one too. After an extensive search on the internet, I finally found one that was affordable and available in stores. This little plastic box cost me S$59 and it was the last piece then. Wow, didn't know Singaporean ladies grab gems this fast. (Oh yeah talk about how the MMM x HM candy wrapper clutch sold out in TWO days) This clutch is the most non-functional bag I ever owned, but you cannot deny it's not beautiful! Let's hope I don't break it any time soon. 

Just how cute is the striped pouch within the clutch which goes with my shirt perfectly?!

Bracelet - Charles & Keith

Jeffrey Campbell Soiree Silver heels

Photos by JJ

If you would really like to own a perspex clutch, I suggest visiting a lower traffic ZARA store before they get sold out. Trust me, Singaporeans shop like they're preparing for WWIII. And I am one of them.

Lucite Heels

Lucite heels by Charles & Keith (Image courtesy of Charles & Keith)

My love for transparent things goes beyond those acrylic Muji storage boxes. The craze might have been on for awhile now but somehow, I still find myself subconsciously looking out for them. Transparent things amaze me. Ice, glass, windows etc... Somehow, transparent things arose the curiosity in me to want to see if there is anything 'hidden' or 'frozen' within. (does that remind you of those stripper shoes?) You get what I mean right?

I am so happy that Charles & Keith finally took the cue from the lucite heels craze to make something similar! I also love that they remade the famous JC Soiree heels into a sleeker, sexier version. For Charles & Keith to finally adopt a minimalistic style, I think they deserve an applause. At least from me! Before I forget to mention: The Charles & Keith ones cost only S$53.90, which is one third of the original. I'd say that's an excellent alternative.

Since we are on the topic of clear heels, revisit some of my archives featuring my Soiree Silver heels by Jeffrey Campbell:

Sweet Drug

Toughen Up

Grey Scale

Lucite & Lace

Cut-Outs

Great Waves

Do you think the lucite heels trend is here to stay? Do you think lucite heels are overrated? Let me know your views!

Plaid & Maxi

Maxi dress - ASOS | Plaid shirt - Dressabelle

If you have been following me on my Instagram, you might have noticed that I've been on a maxi dress craze lately. I have always loved maxi dresses because they are effortless, comfortable, modest, universally flattering on all so why not? This one I'm wearing today looks plain but do not underestimate it. If you look closely, you'd notice the bottom quarter is made up of a separate piece of fabric, resulting in a very designer-esque look. The material is clingy overall but it surprised me with a flare bottom, which makes it almost mermaid like! Since I'm going for a slightly grunge look today, the plaid shirt layered nicely and my boots kept me dry from rain water.

Geometry of Square Necklace, Lilou Loop Necklace (worn together layered) - c/o O'ORO

I can bipolar when it comes to accessorizing; on some days it's dainty charm necklaces, on others you'll see me in chunky gems and chains. I'm rarely seen in-between or with none at all, I need my watch at least. Lately, I have been enjoying layering long necklaces together. While big, statement necklaces are great with collars, I personally find plain necklines look best with long v-shape necklaces. Simply cause those are more casual for everyday and elongate your neck at the same time! I really recommend the ones I'm wearing to anyone who wear necklaces but prefer minimalistic styles.

Pascal boots - Dr. Martens

Bag - Charles & Keith | Friesian Wrist Wrap - gifted by O'ORO | Watch - Casio

Thank you for reading! I hope this blog post will inspire you to rediscover your jewelry collection. Also, I hope to assure you that a maxi dress always makes you look leaner! Easy way to cheat height without heels. :-)

Wishlist: March

You all know just how much I love shopping as ASOS. Regardless of promotions, there is always a reason to browse a page or two...which usually turns into a hundred. Anyway, here are some things that are within my radar!

1. Vintage Wash Dungaree

2. Plain Dungarees

Overalls (some call them Dungarees) may not be everyone's cup of tea but personally, I find them practical and comfortable. I especially love pairing them with cute collared shirts beneath and sneakers. Funny how it has become a trend. Last year in Bangkok, I repeated my overalls almost every day and only had to change into a different shirt everyday!

3. Bathing Beauties Make Up Bag

Sometimes when I pack my hand bag, I cannot believe the amount of junk I find inside. Salonpas, hand cream, lip balm, receipts...you name it. It's time I get this adorable makeup bag to store everything neatly. Does the pouch remind you of those vintage Coca Cola ads?

4. Floral Maxi Dress

I recently saw a bohemian style maxi dress in ZARA that was way too expensive. That made me search for some alternatives in ASOS and this is my ideal!

5. Book Clutch
It's a book...it's a clutch...it's a book clutch! I.need.this.now.

6. Swirl Through Earrings
You know you're lazy when you avoid stud earrings because you don't know where the stopper is. I just love how swirly and stylish these broken hooks are.

Where To Buy: