Le Picnic

Hand drawn parcel

I hated picnics and I absolutely cannot cook. But months ago upon reading this post, (thank you Melody) I was inspired to plan a more-than-decent for Nigel who just turned nineteen this month. Planning a picnic isn't rocket science but neither it's easy. Our picnic turned out successful, and for that I really have to thank my mother for helping me with groceries and cooking.

How To Plan A Picnic

A customized menu makes a picnic more fun!

1. Decide on a theme

Vintage, Chinese style, pastries - take your pick. I chose a vintage Parisian theme for Nigel, though the food hardly matched up lol. You can even decide on a dress code to look extra good in pictures. When selecting mats, plates etc, make sure the colors compliment each other. Daiso is a fantastic place to go for picnic needs, saves your wallet too! Try to give personal touches as much as possible - a ribbon round your tupperware can make a huge difference.

Brown paper bags (pack of 15) - Daiso 

2. Plan your food

Will your food spill easily? Do they require to be kept cold? Is the food difficult to handle? Personally, I find finger food and uncut fruits work well because they are mess free. Sandwiches and salads are great alternatives for the mains, just make sure you have wet wipes if you are using your hand. For food items that requires keeping cold, store separately in vacuum bag with a chiller. For convenience, I try to use disposable ware so that there's less to carry on my way home. I love to keep liquid in my retro vacuum flask because that guy keeps everything chilled for hours!

Table cloth (used as mat) - Daiso | Disposable paper plate & paper handkerchief - IKEA

3. Pick a spot

Botanic Garden's Symphony Lake is a famous spot for picnics but there tend to ants around so make sure to examine the spot before settling down! I think Chinese Gardens and Gardens by The Bay are great alternatives too. It is also a good idea to lay down two mats for bigger sitting/snoozing area.

Disposable champange glasses - Giant
(I don't recommend getting this for picnic as they topple easily on uneven ground)

4. Don't forget your loved one

Don't get so caught up with your phone! Instead communicate with them, laugh, take lots of pictures and lie down together. I think the whole purpose of a picnic is more than eating on a patch of grass, it should be an opportunity to spend quality time while having fun. Bring a book, an ukulele even if you'd like. Remember to enjoy (and have a wet weather plan)!

Pictures taken with iPhone 4.

How To: Natural Looking Eyebrows

Eyebrows are often the most neglected part of the face. I used to do heavy eye makeup without filling in my brows because I didn't feel the need to. Why are eyebrows so important? You probably have heard a thousand times about how eyebrows 'frames' your face but trust me, it's true. Personally, a nice set of eyebrows make me look more focused because it visually draws my eyes closer together. It also gives me the illusion of a slimmer nose.

I guess the most important thing is to trim your brows. I go for threading at Little India for $6 every 6 months and maintain the shape by tweezing the excess hair every week. Once you have a basic shape to work on, it is a lot easier to fill them in. Also, do not over pluck! When in doubt, do not tweeze at all, leave it to the beautician instead.




How to you determine the colour of your brows? Simple use a shade that is slightly lighter than your current hair colour. For example:

Blonde/platinum - light gray/brown
Brunette - brown
Black - dark brown/gray
Redheads - reddish brown

You get the drift. This is merely a guide for natural looking brows. No one is stopping you to having pink hair with black brows!

Products used in this video:

Brow Pencil from Sasa (sorry I really cannot remember the brand)

Ardell clear brow gel

"You ain't working if you love what you're doing."

Day To Night Makeup

The long awaited makeup tutorials are finally ready!

Many readers have expressed your queries on the products I use. I don't state the specific products in the videos because I encourage you to work with what you have! For instance, I normally use Maybelline mascaras, but you can use a mascara you already own (and works well) to achieve a similar look. But since everyone has requested for the products list, I will name down everything.

Day Look (see outfit post)

The eye makeup is very subtle and neutral. Basically, this look should  brighten up the face. I used a pink eyeshadow all over my eyelid and a peach shadow to layer. A pencil eyeliner gives a softer effect; if black is too fierce for you, simple substitute it with a brown eyeliner for a natural look.

Products used:
Revlon photoready concealer
ZA two-way cake
Nivea lip balm
Urban Decay primer potion
Loreal color appeal eyeshadow quad in Pink Lust (overall color), Silky Beige (brow bone, inner corner), Caramel Charm (half lid)
MAC eye kohl in Smolder
NARS blush in Orgasm
Maybelline Stiletto mascara

Night Look (see outfit post)

Simply a transition from what I had on my face in the day. The key to this intense fierceness is to:

• Define: exaggerate your bone structure and eye shape
• Darken: intensify colours and shadows

Once you got that, it's simple! Remembering that balance is important - a washed out lip is beautiful in contrast to the smokey eyes.

Products used:
MAC mineralized skin finish powder in Medium Deep
MAC eyeshadow in Cork (crease), Carbon (outer-v, outer half of lower lid)
Loreal color appeal eyeshadow quad in Dark Chocolate (eye socket, lower lid)
Loreal super liner in Noir
NARS blush in Orgasm
Maybelline Stiletto mascara
MAC lipstick in Peach Stock

p.s. I apologize for certain parts that were out of focus, because I am still getting used to this camera! 

Tutorial: Everyday Makeup

Hello everyone!

I am very excited to share with you my first every makeup video with Dressabelle! (Expect more videos like this in the future.) This video will show you the basic steps I follow on an everyday basis, as well for most of the outfit shots you see on my blog. For those who are curious, I wore the exact makeup look here. It's real simple I promise!! This basic look is very flattering and will will bring you through most occasions. Also, just because you don't own the products I used, does not mean you're doomed. Work with what you have!

I hope you enjoy this tutorial :) Questions and feedback welcome!

Neutral Eyes

My first makeup tutorial showing you how to do your eye makeup with natural colours. I specially recorded this video to answer some of the questions I get often:

- What eyeshadow colour suits me?
- How do you apply eyeshadow?
- Can I apply my eyeshadow without a brush?
- I have single eyelid, what should I do?

I may not have gone into too much of details as it will take really long, so please excuse me! I truly hope you guys will find it useful and try dolling yourself up this Christmas okay? :)

Remember, there are always exceptions! You don't have to use the exact products I use. Use whatever you have. The most important thing you should grasp is the placement of eyeshadow.

However, if you're interested, here is what I have on:

Urban Decay Primer Potion
Maybelline eyeshadow in Gold (base colour)
MAC eyeshadow in Cork (eye socket), Satin Taupe (outer 'V')
Shades Beverly Hills eyeshadow in Nude (brow bones)
Loreal Super Liner in Black
Maybelline Lash Stilettos mascara
Daiso brow pencil
Maybelline Eye Studio brow powder in Dark Brown
MAC cremesheen Lipstick in Creme D Nude

Do comment if you would have any questions or requests (e.g foundation tutorial) and I will definitely get back to you. Anonymous comments allowed for this blog.

Thank you for watching :)

Tartan Tales + Layering Basics

Dressabelle is a local online boutique that carries stylish, comfortable pieces at really good prices. The first thing I noticed about Dressabelle's apparel was their quality and details. I am very fussy when shopping online because I know how deceiving pictures can be as compared to the real deal. What looks stunning on the model may not look as good on me.

I noticed that most Dressabelle dresses are of appropriate length for work. Did you know that the most flattering length of your skirt is about a inch above your knees? Dressabelle did it! I love how most of their dresses are perfect on their own, unlike other dresses that require a slip or exposed your undies so what's the point right?

Dressabelle got me to pick out two pieces from their collections, one of which is a tartan dress! To me, tartan usually comes in the form of mini skirts that I instantly associate with Scotland or Japanese school girl. But this one, don't you think it's so modern? The traditional tartan print now goes on a classic shift dress, giving that flattering, silhouette for all body types. This dress also comes with a matching belt to clinch my waist to create more curves.

A humble corner of my room just turned into a very UN-professional studio backdrop...

Close-up at its material - somewhere between cotton and thick flannel shirts.

I will be showing you my own way of wearing this tartan dress by...

Layering

How to layer? Singapore may seem too hot to layer almost anything but trust me, it's not when you layer on the right stuff! Especially during this rainy season, the more we girls should take full advantage. You know those few dresses in your wardrobe that doesn't look attractive anymore? They are perfect for this purpose!

I'm nowhere near pro to teach you but if you have the time, watch the video below by Chriselle, a fashion stylist teaching you how to wear the exact 7 pieces for 14 different looks simply by layering. Amazing?


Let me summarize some key points for you:

• When layering, always focus on proportion, contrast and material - to create visual interest and depth.
• Always layer from thin to thick materials as you proceed.
• Use a neutral piece of accessory (e.g. brown belt) to create curves or tone down (e.g. nude shoes) a colourful outfit.
• Neutral colours may be nude/ black/ ivory or even grey.
• Lastly, my own input - tie hair into a bun because I can't stand the heat!

1. I layered a super light weight chiffon blouse (mom's) above my dress. I chose a blue blouse because the shade matches with the navy blue blocks on my dress.

2. I love my studded leather jacket to death and wear it way too often in pictures. One of my favourite ways to wear leather is with chiffon because the texture compliments each other perfectly. 

3. Lastly, shoes and accessories! Put on my leather combat boots (which coincidentally has tartan printed inside) and studded cuff.

Done!

What do you think?

Hope you enjoyed reading. I urge you to start layering!

Shop dressabelle.livejournal.com

For weekly collections, good quality apparel and lots of giveaways every week! 

Dressabelle's FB page for more details on giveaways

(They're giving away a dress to a lucky lady 15 Dec noon, which is tomorrow so hurry!)

Making A Little Storage

I'm running out of face powder so I did a little shopping and... I decided to get Maybelline's Pure Mineral two-way Cake! Finally got my hands on this skin loving foundation.

Some of you would have known that I work part time for Loreal (and Maybelline). During my work, I would try out products after products and this has caught my attention since its launch early this year. Mineral makeup in pressed form? Incredible! Never will I experience 'powder-works' in the morning as I do my makeup.

I have not tried on the product on my face yet but the product seems to be extra fine when blended onto the back of my hand (as compared to my current - ZA). Shall do a review in the near future.

Anyway, for those who are interested in this two-way cake, get it now! You will find them in most drugstores along with a limited edition foundation case! Plus, it's retailing for $19.90 which means the foundation case comes free. Original packaging sells the case and refill separately.

Front

Back 

Refill. For those who are interested, I am an OC2 (slightly darker than my natural skin colour)

I really love the packaging. Call me a hoarder if you want, I guiltily admit finding difficulty in throwing away boxes (especially perfume boxes)... 

But guess what, I can make them useful instead, right? E.g. I use used tissue boxes as compartments in my drawer. Let's just say I'm doing my part for the environment!

How to make a lipstick holder:

From left to right:

1. Measure the centre of box and draw a continuing straight line on all sides.
2. Cut 3 sides of the box, leaving one side untouched.
3. Secure loose parts with clear tape.
4. Choose a wrapping paper. For my case, I tore out a page from Cath Kidston magazine.
5. Wrap your box like as if you would for a present.
6. For a finishing touch, I used green tape to conceal the exposing white part.

You're done!

My little lipstick holder fits all my M.A.C lippies and other favourites!

How-To: Cropped Tops

About a month ago, I promised myself to go on a shopping diet till end of April.

I failed.

But I am still trying! I'm a shopaholic and when it comes to clothes, I don't think I'll ever own enough. This is an issue that I fully aware of currently struggling with. With so many neighborhood malls around my school and home, it is difficult to look away from well dressed mannequins and sale racks. Plus, my daily dose of Lookbook+Bloglovin+fashionistas on campus makes it almost impossible to NOT know what I'm lusting for...

So far, I have been using an iPhone app (Piggie) to track all my expenses, not visited a single blogshop, and not walking into fashion boutiques.

I need to shop less for two reasons:
1. To save at least 20% of my allowance every week
2. To rediscover my existing wardrobe

To my surprise, there were so many old, preloved pieces I found in my wardrobe! One of which was is a t-shirt with a skull printed on it. I purchased it 5 years ago.

What you'll need:
- An old tee you're willing to destroy (preferably graphic/patterned shirts)
- Scissors
- Pencil/chalk

(Click to enlarge)

How to?

1. Lay shirt on a flat surface. Picture how you want your cropped top to look like. There are many types of a 'cropped top'. Some like the collars big, some prefer it short to show off their abs. 
2. Cut away the collar, sleeves and shirt rim. Snip with care and try to avoid rugged edges. Then, cut the collar, sleeves and shirt rim to however big/wide you want. (Tip: every time you finish cutting an area, try it on to make sure your top is wearable...you don't want a collar so wide that it drops off the shoulder!)
3. Now's the tricky part - the curve. I first marked the midpoint, then briefly drew out curves line towards the bottom. After making sure it looks somewhat symmetrical, snip away!
4. Finishing touch - trim the edges to smoothen the appearance. Use sandpaper against edges to remove loose thread. (Tip: simply stretch every opening to instantly minimize uneven edges.)

Try it on!

My brand new top!

More ideas for your cropped top:
- Cut an opening on a random part of the top and hold it together with safety pins
- Cut vertical slits along the bottom of the top to create fringe.

How to wear?
- Safest choice - with jeans and a nice belt
- With a flowly maxi skirt. Wear the top by itself, tucked in, or even with a knot to show off your abs
- Over something that's too revealing to be worn alone
- Whatever works for you

I wore it with a pair of skinny cargo pants. Here's the look:

See it HERE on Lookbook! Please support :)

My ever faithful Timberland booties

Grumpy because my fish tail braid is so messy (yep, just learnt it today)

Hope you enjoyed this entry! Looking forward to my weekend, I'm halfway there.

How-To: Pin-Up Girl Makeup inspired by Christina Aguilera

I watched Burlesque yesterday and have to say the movie is a definite must watch! Not much of a storyline but it promises to entertain you from start to end.

I love what Christina has on her face so decided to recreate her look on myself today (not that I look anything like her). This look is ever glamourous and ridiculously simple.

Here's two pictures for reference:

You will need:

I used only 2 colours from the palette. They're circled in red.

---

1. I've already done my foundation; keep it matte and flawless. Apply white high shine shimmer powder on cheek bones, brow bone, nose bridge, forehead and chin.

2. Fill in brows. Wear blue contacts if you have.

3. Apply creamy white pencil as base on eyelids and brow bone. Blend with fingers.

4. Pat on a light eyeshadow on lids, then carefully darken the crease.

5. Draw a long, winged eyeliner. Keep the line clean. Use the same black gel liner for upper water line, and white pencil for lower.

6. Put on fake lashes. Mascara on lower lashes optional.

7. Red blush on cheeks.

8. Line the lips and fill in with red lipstick. Keep the outline clean. Red gloss optional

Finished!

This look is also often seen on Dita Von Teese and Marilyn Monroe.