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A place for me to share all my make-up ramblings...enjoy!

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My name is Sophia!

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FAQ & DISCLAIMER

About Me

My name is Sophia, and I am in my early 30s. I am from Singapore and I am the sole writer of this blog.

About this Blog

I started this blog in 2006, I like to use a wide range of brands though I seem to have a growing preference for higher-end brands in recent years. I also like to share interesting things I have come across about makeup and beauty.

Currently The Makeup Blogette receives 39,000 unique views monthly or 2,238,932 views and counting.

My Makeup Style

I like classic looks (neutral tones on eyes, anything goes for lips & cheeks), though occasionally I try out dramatic/ statement looks.  I believe that a flawless base is the key to achieving great makeup looks.  I also believe that if you don't have great skin to start with, fake it with a good foundation routine, and even greater skincare.  I am currently loving Clarins & Lancome skincare products, and Vichy NormaDerm for tackling with breakouts.

What Cameras do I use?

Most of the pictures you see in post 2010 entries are taken with my Canon G-11.  Previously I was using Canon Ixus 80.  I do post some pictures which are taken with my iphone4 which I will state in that particular entry.  I have stopped watermarking my pictures as of 2011, because I think watermarks are ugly in general, and does not prevent people from stealing my pictures if they wish to.  I just take it as a compliment that my pictures are even worth stealing in the first place. I might look into getting a Canon EOS next year, not just for blogging purposes, but I also like photography in general.

My Favourite Makeup Brand(s)

It is hard to name just one, but I like NARS, Chanel, Illamasqua and the ocasional Guerlain, Dior & Urban Decay item.  I own quite a stash of MAC items, but recently I have stopped catching up with their collections, and I much prefer to splurge on a few really outstanding items.

Where to find me

Twitter (link button above!)  Email (stated above!)  Instagram (makeup_blogette)

I have no official Facebook fan page, and currently have no intention to start one at all.  The Makeup Blogette remains my personal hobby and property, so as such, I don't believe in having a Facebook fanpage for it.

Final Disclaimer

I bought/ paid for all of the products mentioned in this blog. I am not affliated to any company. If certain products are sent to me for review purposes, I will say so and express my honest opinions about them. In any case, I will only review and showcase the products which I have personally tried and tested, and enjoy using. I do not get paid to review anything.

No ads, no paid links etc please.  I am in charge of all content and pictures here.

I am not a makeup artist, nor do I have any professional training in makeup.

 

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    May 11, 2013

    Bobbi Brown's Skincare Luxuries [Quick Skincare Chat]

    This entry features 3 new Bobbi Brown EXTRA moisturising balms which I have been enjoying. 

    Just a quick update on my current skincare routine, I am actually at an in between stage right now.  I am using up the last couple of items of my Lancome skincare, and I am about to start on a brand new range in the next fornight.  So I decided to look through my stash, to look for something neutral and moisturising to fill in the gaps of my routine (specifically a new eye cream, a new face cream) and I am glad to have discovered this little gem of a set. 

    The Bobbi Brown skincare luxuries is a set which is available at all travel retail outlets, and it is no wonder why, because they are all little tubs of goodness which you can easily use while you are jet-setting.  

    Here are the 3 main products I am using, and the product information: 

    EXTRA Soothing Balm (deluxe travel size, 7ml) 
    A dense, concentrated balm with exotic plant extracts, such as Avocado, Geranium and Rosemary Oils, can be used anywhere extra hydration is needed--on lips, cuticles, even heels. EXTRA Soothing Balm can also be applied lightly over makeup to give cheeks that desired, healthy glow. A little goes a long way. 


    EXTRA Repair Moisturizing Balm SPF 25 (deluxe travel size, 15ml)
    Since sun damage is a key factor in skin aging, this is as an everyday essential for broad-spectrum sun protection. Formulated with the same powerful ingredients as Extra Repair Moisturizing Balm, this multi-tasker also offers anti-aging benefits. Argireline ® Peptide helps to increase skin firmness, while Clary Sage Ferment boosts skin's ability to hold in moisture over time.

    EXTRA Eye Repair Cream (full sized, 15ml)
    Packed with peptides, natural plant oils and humectants that target fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and dryness, this rich, concentrated cream visibly revives eyes. Use morning and night - warm between fingers, then pat gently around eye area. Once cream is absorbed, follow with Corrector and Creamy Concealer. Dermatologist tested. Ophthalmologist tested.

    As you can see, the products are very rich, and balmy.  In particular, I love the rich eye cream, and face cream.  The face cream has a very refreshing spa-like fragrance.  I like using both under my makeup, because they keep my skin moisturised and holds up the rest of my makeup very smoothly, and hydrated throughout the day. 

    I must say I am a little curious to try out more Bobbi Brown skincare.  After I am done with reviewing the upcoming 2 or 3 skincare ranges in my collection...
    If you have very oily complexions and/or prefer gel like, airy texture and formula, I don't think you will like this set of skincare products...but if you have dehydrated skin, and you like thick creams, I think you will love these.  

    'Swatches' - the eye cream on the LEFT, and face cream on the RIGHT.  Yummy!


    Hope you find this quick overview helpful. 
    I will definitely bring along this set of extra treats with me on my next vacation! 

    Thank you for reading!

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    March 07, 2013

    Bobbi Brown Soho Chic Palette


    Hi hi!

    This entry features the Bobbi Brown Soho Chic Eye Palette - which consists of 6 eyeshadows - this is a palette which is available at all travel retail locations, and it consists of 6 very wearable neutral shades, with different textures and finishes. 

    The shades - 

    Ivory - creamy warm white matte (this is seems to be available in almost all BB palettes)
    Cement - a matte brown 
    Rockstar metallic shimmer wash - shimmery taupey brown 
    Grey Pearl shimmer wash eye - shimmery dark brown
    Peeble metallic eyeshadow - pale shimmery gold 
    Caviar eyeshadow - matte black

    The matte black is a little chalky, and it is best applied with a base and pat on to build up to your desired intensity. 

    The shimmery shades are great for adding dimension to your eyelooks, this palette will easily take you from day to night looks. 

    I will try to do a LOTD featuring this palette soon. 

    * I am also giving away a BRAND NEW Soho Chic palette on my birthday giveway, make sure you follow me on my instagram to find out how to win! * 


    Swatches on my hand - 


    Hope you find this entry helpful, and thanks for reading!

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    February 07, 2013

    LOTD: Bobbi Brown Bold Look


    Hi hi!

    A couple of weeks ago, I had the chance to attend Bobbi Brown's Pretty & Powerful media presentation, and I was given this 'Bold' makeup kit (after completing a survey to ascertain my 'style' - it was a tie between classic and bold - so I went for the latter). 

    The kit contains the following items 

    1. Eyeshadow in Gunmetal 
    2. Blush in Apricot (LOVES)
    3. Matte Lip Color in Red Carpet (gorgeous RED)
    4. Long Wear Cream Shadow in Platinum
    5. Gel Liner in Black Ink
    6. Lip brush
    7. Liner brush 

    Of these items, I highly recommend the red lipstick and the black gel liner.  Oh, and the blush too!   :)  Heheh.

    Here are the swatches: 

    Gunmetal eyeshadow is a very soft and extremely pigmented charcoal grey eyeshadow.  I love the finish and the smooth texture of the eyeshadow.  

    Apricot (the name is quite misleading) is a fresh and bright pop of pink.  This is pretty pigmented, I would advise using a light hand.  It is beautiful. 



    This is the latest of Bobbi Brown lipsticks, the long wear matte lip colors - and this shade is both classic and elegant.  I love the true rich red, and I think it would suit everyone.   The texture is very creamy and rich and it is a more of semi-matte finish. 


    We have two pots here - the black in gel liner needs no introduction.  The platinum long wear cream shadow is quite metallic and shimmery, and I have used it on the centre of my lids over Gunmetal eyeshadow. 


    Lip swatches:


    Close up of Eyelook:


    All products used: 

    * everything Bobbi Brown unless stated otherwise

    Face - BB Cream (light), Long Wear Even finish foundation (Warm Porcelain 0.5), set with Lancome Dual Finish powder
    Concealer - cle de peau concealer 
    Eyes - NARS Primer, Gunmetal eyeshadow swept all over the lids, Platinum Long Wear Cream Shadow
    Liner - Gel Liner Black Ink 01 
    Lips - Creamy Matte Lip Color 01 Red Carpet 
    Cheeks - Apricot 06, Shimmerbrick Rose Gold 
    Lashes - two pairs of Ardel 120 layered

    The completed look -

    Evonnz also did a look featuring the same products - click to see her LOTD! 


    That's all, and hope you enjoyed this entry.  Thank you for reading!

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    October 06, 2012

    Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color Trio [Photos & Swatches]

    This entry features a trio of Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color lipsticks which you can purchase at travel retail locations (ie airport duty free shopping!) Not too sure how much exactly are these, but you will be sure to save a lot from buying them separately and with taxed in regular stores.  This trio contains a range of colors from nudes to a plummy shade, so you can either keep all for yourself to go with different looks, or keep the one you love the most and give away the rest as pressies for your girlfriends!

    These lipsticks are extremely rich and pigmented, and they can be a little drying, to be honest.  It is best to apply over a lip balm especially if your lips are prone to dryness.  I find the selection of colors in this trio the most impressive, and the nude is especially pretty. 

    Here's a quick breakdown of all the three shades:

    10 Plum Rose is a wearable plummy shade with a hint of pinky rose, it is the sort of plum which I would wear if I don't have anything else on the face. 

    06 Sweet Nectar is a bright coral shade, which looks and sounds pretty in theory, but on my lips, I didn't quite like how it turns out.  But I can see this as a very wearable everyday color for someone with darker skintone. 

    09 Bare Pink is prolly my fave among the trio, as I mentioned earlier.  Love the pinky dusty pale shade that didn't look wash out at all. 

    swatches on my hand

    Lip swatches & a quick overall LOTD to showcase the colors

    My lips aren't usually this dry, only realise when I post-edit the photographs.  

    Just woke up from a late night and some drinking, that might explain the 'dehydrated' texture. 

    Hope these swatches have been helpful, and thank you for reading! 

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    June 08, 2012

    Bobbi Brown Rose Gold Shimmer Brick [Photos, Swatches & LOTD]

    Hi!

    This entry will feature the Bobbi Brown Shimmerbrick in Rose Gold.  I have been using it for the past few days in a row - this is the first Shimmerbrick that I have actually used (I have another one in my stash which is still sitting brand new, I don't know why) - but if all Shimmerbricks are like this, wow, I want more. 

    I like the Rose Gold shimmerbrick because I am able to use it as a blush and highlight, without it looking too shimmery on my face. The shimmer is obvious, but not too obnoxious.  I would compare this to some of my MAC MSFs, and the overall shade is a really lovely golden pink.  Kind of like a more pigmented and darker Porcelain Pink msf. 

    In these pictures, you can see the shimmer bits, and how they sparkle and catch the natural daylight. 

    even more beautiful in this slightly blurred shot

    I swatched the stripes in order at the back of my hand - as you can see I would use the top two stripes which are the lightest as a cheek highlight, and the three darker shades as a blush shade, and then to give an overall blended seamless look, I swirl my brush all over the compact and dust over the whole cheek area lightly.   This combination works perfectly well on me.  So if you are about the same skintone as me, you can use this as a blush.. and if you are more tanned, this would be great as a face highlight too.  

    I just use an angled fluffy brush to apply this product. 

    my LOTD - as you can see, the cheeks is radiant, and glowy, but nothing very glittery...and there is some color too. 

    all products used

    face: Missha Cho Bo Yang bb cream (neglected goodie!), Guerlain Gold Papure foundation, Chanel loose powder

    concealer: Laura Mercier secret camouflage SC-03

    lips: YSL Rouge Volupte No1 

    cheeks: Bobbi Brown Rose Gold Shimmerbrick

    eyes: NARS eyeshadow primer, Burberry Trench on browbone, Midnight Brown on lids, and Rosewood on the crease for blending upwards, Hevay Rotation marker liner, Clinique Lower Lash Mascara

    a couple more swatch pictures 

    a slightly blurred picture to show the texture and finish

     

    bottomline?  I don't know about the other Shimmerbricks, and I know there are fans of this out there, but I definitely recommend you picking up this Rose Gold one.  It is pretty awesome. 

    Hope this has been helpful, and thank you for reading.

     

     

    featured Bobbi Brown product was given to me for consideration. 

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    June 02, 2012

    Bobbi Brown Rose Gold Shimmer Brick [Travel Retail Exclusive]

    TRAVEL RETAIL EXCLUSIVE Rose Gold Shimmer Brick

    Handmade by artisans in Italy, Bobbi Brown’s award-winning face shimmer in a limited edition rosy gold hue. Five bars of superfine pearl pigments blend together beautifully to give skin a lit-from-within glow. Individual colour bars can also be used as eye shadow.

    (Tip: When it comes to shimmer, moderation is key. Apply shimmer to just one or two features at a time). 

    Bobbi Brown Rose Gold Shimmer Brick is available exclusively from Travel Retailing worldwide from May 2012. 

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    October 14, 2011

    Bobbi Brown's Holiday Gift Guide 2011

     

    "These palettes embrace the holiday spirit of gift giving with fun and festive shades”  - Bobbi Brown

    So many people on your list, so little time. Not to worry: Bobbi’s holiday lineup of beautiful gift sets and perfect palettes has everyone covered from your best friend to your boss... and while you’re at it, why not treat yourself?

     

    Sharing with you what Bobbi Brown has to offer at travel exclusive counters worldwide from October 2011.

     

    Click on each image for details and color information.

     

    Information extracted from press file.

     

    For pricing information, please check with your city's travel retail locations.

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    September 28, 2011

    LOTD: Bobbi Brown Day to Night Palette [Night Look]

    Hi hi!

    A 'detailed' LOTD where I want to feature several products which I got to play with recently.   I had in mind to do some smokey, dark metallic look, but I wasn't quite sure which palette of eyeshadows to use.. and then I looked in my drawers, and decided on the Bobbi Brown day to night palette.  The end results is actually a purple-y taupey super shimmery eyelook --- and the finish of the eyeshadows reminded me of Chanel's Illusiore. Unfortunally, the purple-y tone i snot picking up in my pictures... it looks like a dark  brown instead.

    The Bobbi Brown palette is extremely great for travel, especiall on trips where you know you want to doll up for some fancy dinner.  I will try to create a 'day-time' look with this palette soon.

    What I did:

    I applied a colored base for this eyelook (Benefit's creaseless cream shadow in Skinny Jeans), followed by Dusty Plum as a wash all over the lids.  Then I used Eggplant at the outer corner for some definition.  After that I decided to give this look some sparkle and shimmer by dusting on Volcano nearer the lashline.

    The same is done to the lower lids, with Skinny Jeans as a liner base, and I used Eggplant to set the cream eyeshadow.

    Detailed list of products used will be listed at the end of this entry.


    Here is the completed look with the typical nude lip -- and I used MAC Viva Glam Gaga II on its own.

    I also tried to do something different with the lips, and I use Clinique's Almost Lipstick in 06 Black Honey, which is a gift from Joey when she went to Syndey recently.  Really love the moisturising formula of this lipstick.  It looks black in the tube, but really is just a natural color for my lips.

    Which look do you prefer, the nude lips, or this slightly reddish sheer tint?

    All products used:

    Base: Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Spot Control Base, NEW Maquillage Essence RIch White Liquid UV (Released end Sept --Current FAVE foundie, review up this weekend!!!) Ettusais Mineral Loose Powder

    Concealers: Shu Uemura Pro Gel Cealer, MAC Prep+Prime Highlighter Radiant Rose for undereyes

    Cheeks: Shiseido Bronzer 02, Dior Aurora 001

    Lips: MAC Viva Glam Gaga II lipglass, Clinique Almost Lipstick Black Honey

    Eyes: Benefit Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow Skinny Jeans, Bobbi Brown day to night palette, Clarins Instant Liner, Ardel 120 Lashes, Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells mascara

     

    Thanks for looking!!

     

    Products in blue were given to me for consideration, and I am loving them, that's why they are featured in my LOTDs. All opinions are my own honest ones.

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    September 24, 2011

    Travel Exclusives: Bobbi Brown Palettes & Clinique Chubby Sticks [Photos & Swatches]

     

     

    Bobbi Brown has introduced several new travel retail exclusive sets, within make-up and skin care.

    I have previously mentioned the Hydrating Set, which contains a 50ml Hydrating Face Cream and a 15ml Hydrating Eye Creme. Both are enriched with mineral water and algae extract and are said to leave skin looking refreshed and renewed. Started using the eye cream a couple of days ago and I am liking it so far.  If you are a regular user of Bobbi Brown skincare, this is definitely one great set to pick up the next time you take off for your holiday.

    Three colour palettes – two for eyes and one for lips – are also rolling out worldwide. The Day to Night Shadow Palette features both matte and shimmering shadows, offering a versatile selection of shades suitable for either day or night. Greys and mauves predominate. The set also contains an eyeliner and a double-ended brush. 

    As its name suggests, the Nude on Nude Eye Palette contains four neutral shades, plus a double-ended brush. This is complemented by the Nude Pink Lip Palette, which features a collection of lipsticks and lip glosses to flatter all skin tones. They can be worn alone or mixed and layered for a customised look.

     

    Following the successful launch of CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICK MOISTURIZING LIP COLOUR BALM, this year Clinique are launching a TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE CHUBBY STICK TRIO, containing three full size chubby sticks in these popular shades:

    • Mega Melon


    • Woppin’ Watermelon


    • Super Strawberry

     

    CHUBBY STICK MOISTURIZING LIP COLOUR BALM’S highly moisturising formula uses a special blend of decadent butters, oils and antioxidants to help protect and pamper lips with immediate and lasting moisturisation. Infused with Shea Butter, Mango Seed Butter and Jojoba Seed Oil, CHUBBY STICK MOISTURIZING LIP COLOUR BALM delivers a surge of moisture in a sleek stick leaving lips soft, supple and soothed.

    Packaged in a playful, shade-matched crayon-esque carrier, the balm-like formula provides stay-true colour and buildable coverage. To apply, simply twist the base to expose more balm and twist back down before replacing the cap. Available in eight mouthwatering shades, ranging from nudes to pretty pinks and deep purples, it’s the perfect addition for any occasion. Don’t leave home without one of these pout pleasers in your purse.

    I will not be swatching the Chubby Sticks, but I already own Whoppin Watermelon, and you might recall my swatches and LOTDs where I am wearing it.  The Chubby Sticks have a great moisturising formula and gives a juicy sheer touch of color on your lips.  It is great for travel, and this set is LE, so do grab it if you have been wanting to try them out!


     

    Meanwhile, enjoy the photos and swatches, and I will be featuring them in future LOTDs soon!

     

    p/s products were give to me for consideration/ feature, information extracted from press file.  Any opinions are my own honest ones.

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    August 20, 2011

    Sneak Peak: A Few Skincare Launches [Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Clarins & Biotherm]

    Hi!  Just a quick (I hope!) entry to give you an idea of what skincare entries will be coming next on the blog.  Just like the A/W makeup collections, a variety of skincare launches have been making their way to my 'desk' and I think I might not have enough time to blog about them in the coming week, so I shall go a quick overview and introudction to some new products.

    I will definitiely be dedicating a specific blog enty to each brand of products which you are about to see, so do stay tuned.

     

    First up, are a couple of travel exclusive sets from Clinique and Bobbi Brown.

    The Clinique set consists of everything you need, from makeup removal, to cleansing, face routine and an eye cream -- all in handy travel sizes.  I have not used Clinique skincare before, so I will be keen to see how this goes for me.  And I am going on a quick short trip in Sept, so you will be sure I am taking this set along with me to use!

    The Bobbi Brown set is a combination of two products, the Hydrating Eye Cream and the Hydrating Face Cream.  I have heard great stuff about the eye cream in particular, so I am quite excited to try it after my current eye cream runs out.

    Both sets are sold exclusively at Travel Retail locations. so the next time you are jet setting, do keep a lookout for these.  :)

     

     

    **************************

    NEW Launches on 26 August!

     

    BIOTHERM releases the Skin.ergetic, which is a fresh skincare formula with Brocoli, known for its antioxidant power, soy protein and botantical cells from apples.  Skin.ergetic also contains AHA from lemons and sugar cane to stimulate cell renewal and radiance.  The unique combination of these powderful elements repairs the signs of fatigue before they turn into signs of ageing.

    This product targets women of all ages who experience tired skin -- and signs include: Loss of radiance, uneven complexion, visible pores, unrefined skin texture and roughness.

    Skin.ergetic will retail for S$99 for 50ml.

    Fresh Skincare Techonology:

    Invented by Biotherm, and activated at the last minute, this technology makes it possible for Skin.ergetic to:

    use a higher concentration of active ingredients for maximum effectiveness

    keep volatile antioxidants fresh until application

    The Powder of Broccoli is activated in 3 simple steps:

    1. click to release contents of the activation capsule

    2. shake to mix the Skin.ergetic formula throughly

    3. remove the activation capsule and insert the dropper

    Upon activation, the product stays fresh and performs at optimal efficency for three months.

    **************************

     

    [September 2011] CLARINS relaunches their Hydra Quench Range - using the main ingredient, the Katafray - which is a tree found across Madagascar, and its elegant silhouette is a common sight in the arid forests of the south and west of the Grande Ile. Its light-coloured wood is as resistant as ebony and widely used in local building.

    In traditional Madagascan medicine, a drink prepared from the bark is reputed to have tonic and febrifuge benefits and its essential oil is known for its fortifying and soothing actions. It was recently discovered that katafray bark extract helps improve the quality of the corneal layer and encourages the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms.

    The extract used by Clarins Laboratories – developed exclusively for the brand and protected by its fair trade policy– is obtained through a process which preserves the biodiversity of tropical forests.

    I have been experiencing rather dry skin lately, and I am really looking forward to trying the products out in a couple of weeks' time.

    If you are already a user of the current Clarins HydraQuench Range, this new launch will replace the current one... and I am sure you will find this improved range equally good, if not better.  My sister is a huge fan of the Clarins Bi-Phase Serum, and she swears by it every night to keep her skin soft and hydrated.

    The HydraQuench Range consists of 3 main products:

    Bi-Phase Serum S$94

    Cream Melt: S$83

    Cream Gel: S$83

    Will definitely do an indepth feature of this collection in the coming week.

     

    **************************

    Hope this 'news bulletin' feature is useful!

     

     

    Thanks for looking!

     

    products mentioned in this entry are given to me for consideration.