27.5.13

Review: Topshop Makeup


It seems like half the girls I know own at least a Topshop nail polish, lipstick, or both. Those are the most popular items. I decided to give these adorably packaged goodies a try. The above are the only ones I own and I am going to tell you how I feel about them. 
 

  • Packaging - I love it! The clean, doodle style packaging runs consistent throughout all products. I have never seen a makeup line that looks as playful! White packaging often feels cheap and tacky, but Topshop managed to do the complete opposite. However, I have to warn you that as beautiful as white packaging looks, they tend to get dirty easily.
  • Price - I feel that most products were priced reasonably for its quality and volume. Except for their eyelash curlers and nail polishes which I find ridiculous. You can judge for yourself the next time you're in stores!

1. Topshop Waterproof Liner (~S$11)

Swatch for 'Earth'
Earth is a creamy eyeliner that is moss green with golden shimmer. It applies on very smoothly and blend-able, but sets waterproof once dry. However, it does not work well on hooded (like mine) and single eyelids. It's not oil resistant so it smudges when it gets in contact with oil.


I prefer applying along the lower lid with a winged eyeliner for that instant smokey effect. Great for days when you want eye makeup but don't have the time. Since there's no creases on the lower lid, the liner stays put all day. I feel like the green eyeliner really brings out the brown in my eyes! You can also use the liner as an eyeshadow base; simply apply into lid, blend out with finger then set it with an eyeshadow. 



Swatch for 'Sunbeam'

This has got to be my favourite highlighter of all time! Sunbeam is a gold pressed powder that is almost of a metallic finish. It's a 2-in-1 product which also doubles up as an eyeshadow. It's highly pigmented so I recommend using a fluffy brush or gently tap with your fingers. I find too many highlighters to be overly frosty which can appear greasy and artificial but this one is just right!



When applying highlight, less is more. If you have oily skin like me, make sure to use a semi-matte foundation first. That's because you only want certain parts of the face to appear dewy. Dewy skin gives a healthier and younger appearance due to the plumped effect! 
 

As you can already see, the highlighter is definitely visible. It catches a lot of light, giving a luminous effect to my complexion. I really love that it's gold because it looks better on warm undertones. This might now suit those who are extremely fair or has cool undertones. For those who own Soft And Gentle by MAC, how do you feel about it? Let me know!
 


Swatch for 'Infrared'
Infrared is a creamy fluorescent orange lipstick. Actually, I wouldn't be surprised if it's a semi-gloss finish because it applies on really moist. As much as I love the colour, its texture was not as impressive. It's comparable to the texture NYX Circle Lipsticks which tends to sink into lines and emphasizes flaky lips no matter how hard you've exfoliated. It's rather sheer which allows you to build the opacity you desire. You can use as a tint or a full colour lipstick as shown in the swatch above. There is a mild fruity scent but nothing bothering.


I have a love-hate relationship with orange lipsticks. On one hand, orange makes my skin colour look amazing but on the other hand, it makes my teeth look even more yellow. Yikes. Doesn't help when my teeth is already badly stained by coffee. 


Overall, I am enjoying the products so far but I don't think I will be repurchasing the eyeliner. The highlighter is my favourite in my entire makeup collection and I highly recommend to all my friends! As for the lipstick, I am neutral about them... Yes, Topshop carries some unique colours but I honestly think there are better lip products in the market.

Have you tried any Topshop makeup before and what do you think about them? I am open to try more so let me know your recommendations!



Black On Black

Credit: John Tan of Steetpeek

A quick post to share with you what I wore to Audi Fashion Festival and Blueprint 2013. For my overseas friends, AFF is deemed the official fashion week here in Singapore. Blueprint is somewhat like a trade show focused towards promoting local designers. I am pleased that Singapore is finally placing more emphasis on its budding fashion industry. I met my friend John, who is a renowned Singapore street fashion photographer and I have always admired his eye for details in photographs. His ability of making people look fantastic under any circumstances surprises me every time! For those who are wondering, I was actually busy chewing a Magnum ice-cream in this shot. 

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Outfit breakdown:
Maxi dress - ASOS
Mesh vest - m)Phosis (similar here)
Tribal necklace - ZARA
Creepers - Underground

I'm going to be completely honest with you. I am extremely intimidated by social events of any sort, not to mention a fashion festival where hundreds of industry professionals are expected to be present. The age-old question of 'what do I wear' is mind boggling. My solution - A plain maxi dress that is figure flattering yet understated. Always works, I swear! Maxi dresses are my must-haves because they can be dressed up or down easily. I layered a long mesh vest to give extra texture and 'presence'. And since my hair is short, I really love all the attention that was directed towards my accessories. My trusty creeper wedges provided height and comfort to walk around all day. In a social event like the fashion show, the worst thing you could do is to wear an unfamiliar piece of clothing or shoes that'll probably leave you uncomfortable. Imagine having to adjust your mini skirt every three seconds...how awful!

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Photos by Renee

Unfortunately, I couldn't find the link to the exact dress I'm wearing. Sorry guys :( I bought mine a year ago. However, I've found three maxi dresses under S$35 that comes in a body-con fit. A good thing to note is that ASOS dress tends to run long so let's say if you're a UK6 like me, a UK4 might fit you better.



25.5.13

Oasis

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Oasis Dress - c/o Dressabelle | Mesh vest - m)Phosis

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Grey metallic boots - Esprit

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Bug earrings - The Quiet Riot
 
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Photos by Yun Jing

I have officially graduated from Ngee Ann Poly! Three years have flew past in a flash, leaving me with so much nostalgic memories. It's such a surreal feeling to know that you're ready for the work force. I'd be continuing in my studies though. Anyway, isn't this dress gorgeous? Yes, I'm aware it's originally H&M - which BeyoncĂ© was seen in the recent campaign. I have always loved the idea of scenic graphics because it's like an art piece displayed on dress form. Same goes for my beloved Blackmilk pieces. This one reminds me of Jiu Zai Gou valley. Never been there before, but friends who have gone describe it as heaven on Earth. They say the water there is so clear you could see coral reefs beneath. I also heard that the the Pandora in movie Avatar was created based on the valley. Definitely one of my travel destinations in the future! 
 
More bug earrings:

20.5.13

Sailors For A Day: Navy Open House

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I'm typing out this post with aching muscles and T-shirt tan lines but mostly, charged with excitement to share with you our adventure at the Changi Naval Base last weekend. The pictures speak for themselves! As the girlfriend of a boy who's enlisting into National Service soon, of course I was keen to see what exactly NS men do in camp, what they battle with and it didn't hurt to spot cute Navy soldiers everywhere. Okay, I know this only the tip of the iceberg but still, I was amazed by the magnificent battle ships and technology our Navy adopts. There were SO MANY people. By that, I mean a human line which extends over six EXPO halls. Probably more. We queued for three hours just to board the Navy shuttle bus and needless to say, the queues at the open house itself (to experience/ board different ship crafts) were countless. Nonetheless, we had no regrets and explored everything to our best ability. I love that Nigel and I were curious about everything so waiting wasn't that bad after all. The Navy Open house was interactive, well equipped (there were mobile water basins!) and thorough. Good job Navy, a big thank you for fulfilling our dreams of being sailors for the day!


14.5.13

Sail Ahoy!

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Silk maxi dress - Mom's vintage (similar here)

Ahoy matey! (apparently that's how pirates and sailors greet each other) Who's going for the Navy Open House this coming weekend? I am definitely going and it's going to be so fun! Since young, I have been fascinated with the military. As a sucker for effective marketing, I have to say the Singapore military forces have done a superb job promoting just how cool being a soldier is. Does anybody remember how awesome Rihanna was in movie Battle Ship?! Now coming to fashion, I was inspired by the nautical trend as well as my excitement for the Navy. I associate nautical/ maritime style with very lightweight fabrics and an overall ethereal vibe. Of course, anchors are a must if you want to look extra badass. ;-)  

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Cora Sea Jewels Necklace - c/o O'ORO | Watch - Casio
 
It saddens me that my mom's dress from over two decades ago must have been worn so much that holes seem to magically expand every time I wear it. It's made of 100% silk which makes it so breathable. I dressed up this basic dress with a statement necklace. It's gems, chains and oversized knots contrasts perfectly against the soft fabric beneath. I really think this necklace is such a beautiful piece, and the best part is it costs so much less than it looks!

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Anchor wedges - c/o Charles & Keith
 
Thanks to Charles & Keith, I was able to complete my nautical look. I notice that C&K always make their bags and shoes in a combination of different materials. It's rare to find a a style that's of one texture. Not that I'm complaining, because they're my favourite local shoe brand after all! While the navy fabric reminds me of a boat sail, the brown straps remind me of wooden decks. Yes, that's right, I look at my wedges as if it's a boat. Blame it on Pirates of The Caribbean for planting such imagination in me.

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Photos by Nigel