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

About Me

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themakeupblogette@hotmail.com

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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    Posts for May 26th 2012

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    May 26, 2012

    Haul of Bags: Rebecca Minkoff, DVF, Balenciaga

    This week, I sort of randomly made these bag purchases. Well, one of them technically isn't a bag purchase, it's a perfume.. but the bag is the reason why I bought the perfume.

    Shopbop had a 3 day promotion where $50 is taken off every $250 purchase (with the code BIGEVENT).  I took the opportunity to order a couple of bags which I have been eyeing, and they added up to 195 + 65 which means the second bag is almost free due to the $50 off.

    So, the first bag is the Rebecca Minkoff Minimac in a hot neon pink - this is USD195, and the 'Mac' bags are Rebecaa Minkoff's trademark design. I love the detailing on this bag, the metalware, the color, and that it is versatile, you can carry the bag sling cross body, shorten the straps to make it a shoulder bag, or remove the straps to make it a clutch.

    I love the cute dust bag that it comes with - and the fabric matches the inside lining of the bag.

    I was a little worried that the bag might be too tiny on my taller and large frame.. but when I got the bag, i was relieved to see that it didn't look disportionately small on me.  It's a roomy small sling bag, which I think would be useful for my upcoming holiday, and will also brighten up any outfit I am wearing.

    It is quite a statement color - I wore this bag out last Friday... and everyone's eyes just went right at the brightly coloured bag.

    The neon bags are quite in this season...when my sister went to order the same bag the next day, all the neon minimacs are gone - she went for a burnt orange one instead of the neon orange which she had planned on buying.

    I ordered the next bag, a Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) makeup bag.  I like that it is roomy, sturdy, and the print is very classic, vintage almost. This is USD65, a little steep, but I like that it is very practical, and will fit all my makeup and skincare items if I were to go on a long-ish trip.

    Most of the bag is made of a thick nylon waterproof type of material. The straps, and the base is made of a harder leather like material.  The sides are buckles which you can use to make the bag more compact when it isn't so full.  So this is another versatile bag.  I like that it also has a wristlet strap which is detachable.

    inside of the bag - I wish it is a darker color instead of white though

    This gives you an idea of what can go inside the bag, with plenty of space to spare.

    and lastly is this Balenciaga bag which is actually a tiny (but spacious) makeup bag, this is a gift with purchase with the Balenciaga perfume.  My friend Pearl, alerted me to this promotion, and I promptly drop by town to make the purchase.

    The perfume itself costs $179 for 75ml, and currently, the Tangs beauty hall promo entitles you to $30 off minimum $150 spending.  So I paid $149 for the perfume... and the bag comes free with it, AND you also get a sleek cabin luggage bag. And on top of all that, you still get to earn your usual Tangs member card rebate.  Awesome deal.

    The fact that the Balenciaga perfume is one of my absolute fave scents means that I am stocking up on this scent anyway.

    The bag even comes with a little pocket in front - totally cute.

    It fits my handphone, a handcream and a couple of lipsticks comfortably.  I can still include a packet of tissue and my iphone battery pack and the bag would be able to close easily.

    Oh yes, before I forget, this is the perfume.. which you need to purchase to get the bag!

    and this is the cabin luggage

    My balenciaga perfumes!  My girlfriends bought the small one for my birthday this year, and now I can totally use it for travel, and leave the big bottle at home.

    Perfume description taken from the site:

    A pure bottle without engraving or adornments... The pale, amber color of the liquid within is like the nectar of a forest floor trapped in a bell jar. It reveals itself, quite clearly, behind the facets and edges. A bottle like no other, in blown glass, an arbitrary process making it unique and precious. A bottle that features both angles and curves. A soft bottle with corners... A bottle also imbued with humor, as the ivory cap appears like a surprise, rising from its velvet cape. It has the Balenciaga style...

    INTRODUCING EAU DE PARFUM


    Immediately, the demure violet note makes us think that BALENCIAGA PARIS is a light fragrance, as pleasant as sunshine. In BALENCIAGA PARIS, we find the first moments of April, floral breezes and blossoms from milder days. A spring-like feel: airy dresses and fleeting glances.  A bouquet of violets also has an old-fashioned tone, the antique charm of a few dried petals that we find between the pages of a book by Colette, traces of memories, the work of art so fine that is the past…  But soon, a peppery note reveals itself and swells over calm, mossy wood. Foliage that breathes in the secret hours of night.

    Then, another more nocturnal facet of nature expresses itself. A sensuality becomes clearer. The shadowy color of the liquid within already says something of its mystery. It is a fragrance full of light with a few dark apertures. BALENCIAGA PARIS is a lovely paradox. It is a fragrance that becomes life, that melds with living. BALENCIAGA PARIS offers itself and guards itself...

    Wear BALENCIAGA PARIS and become a close yet inaccessible woman who strolls under leafy arbors.

     

    In my own layman's terms - this is an intense powdery floral scent, that lasts the whole day, smells sleek and distinctive, and I am totally loving it.

     

    That's all, and thanks for reading.

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    May 26, 2012

    MUFE Aqua Shadows [Photos & Swatches]

    This entry will showcase the six new MUFE Aqua Shadows - I haven't used them yet, so any LOTD entries will be posted later on.

    What they are:

    Aqua Shadow is a waterproof eye shadow pencil with extra colored pigments and long-lasting hold, containing a generous jumbo tip. Its polished black body is finished off with a band colored with each shade and a matching cap. Aqua Shadow is so handy; it can be slipped into a purse, beach bag or makeup artist’s case. It is both waterproof and long-lasting, resists seawater, chlorinated water and rubbing. Aqua Shadow brightens and intensifies the eyes in 3 seconds flat. And for the pros, this is the promise of fast results that withstand the extreme conditions of the stage or the heat of fashion shows.


    For production information and lots of backstage pictures and usage tips, please click my previous entry:

    http://retailtherapy.onsugar.com/NEW-MUFE-Aqua-Shadows-Information-Step-Step-Application-Tips-22940009

     

    These remind me of Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Shadow pencils, and the Sephora Crayon Jumbo - both of which also promises long wearing and waterproof formula. However, some of the MUFE Aqua shadows come in smooth creamy matte hues - which is different from the two brands mentioned.  The MUFE Aqua range is noted for their water-proof quality and I personally have really enjoyed the original Aqua creams, you really could use those on their own, the color is vibrant, the lasting power is amazing, and you can't really go wrong with the aqua creams.

    The colors are intense - and smooth, creamy.  They do set quickly, so I suggest you apply and blend as you go, to avoid any patchiness or when the color sets it becomes pretty much budge proof.  I think I would use these as eyeshadow bases (esp the dark matte shades) and use the shimmery neutral ones as all over the lids color.

    As you can see here, when the colors are blended out (I only blended them out after a couple of minutes, to be fair)  you can see where the color has set, and I used a cotton stick to do the smudging.

    a quick comparison of similar shades

    and note: they all set budge proof, so it is really a matter of which color, and which brand you prefer


     

    I hope these swatches have been helpful.  Will post my LOTD and review entry later on.

     

    These will launch in Singapore mid-June.

     

    Thank you for reading.

     

     

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    May 26, 2012

    NEW Shiseido Perfect UV Protector [Information & Photos]

    Shiseido will launch a new sun protector this summer - the Perfect UV Protector SPF50 PA+++

     

    What it is:

    A very water resistant sun protection lotion that provides reliable defense aganist UV rays while offering skincare benefits.  Ideal for face and body, and espcially formulated for strong sunlight conditions.

    Features:

    • Protects skin from UVA/UVB rays and helps reduce signs of photo-aging with exclusive Super-Veil UV 360 technology
    • Formulated with Profense CEL, a complex of ingredients that inhibits enzyme activity and damage to cells and DNA factors linked to the formation of wrinkles and dark spots.
    • Contains Thiotaurine and Rose Apple Leaf Extract, proven to counteract oxidation.
    • Absorbs quickly and feels comfortable on the skin.
    • Promotes a smoother application of foundation and lasting makeup finish.
    • Perspiration Resistant.

     

    To use:

    • Shake well before use.
    • Before sun exposure, apply a generous amount of lotion evenly to face and body
    • When using on face, apply at the end of daily skincare process
    • To remove, rinse off thoroughly using regular cleanser

     

    Shiseido's existing Multi-Defense UV protector is meant for face usage, while this new one is for both face and body (it comes in a large size 50ml compared to 30ml)

    In the pic above:

    Urban Environment UV protection cream plus SPF50 UVA [for face and body]

    Urban Environment UV protection cream SPF30 UVA [for face and body]

    Multi Defense UV protector SPF50 PA+++ [for face]

    Perfect UV protector SPF50 PA+++ [for face and body]

     

    Did you know?

    • The first sunscreen in Japan was launched by Shiseido in 1923.

     

    • Shiseido launched the first product with SPF indication in Japan.

     

    • Shiseido contributed greatly to the development of international SPF standard by proposing the concept of SPF measurement system using artificial sunlight.

     

    • Shiseido was also the first in the world to launch sunscreen with UVA proection 'Intercept' in 1986.

     

    • PA protection levels were indicated on Shiseido products since 1996, but in Europe, they did not indicate UVA protection until 2008.

     

     

    Photos & swatches:

    the consistency is very light, and gives a smooth finish to the skin

    make it a great base for under your makeup too

     

    That's all, and thank you for reading.

     



     

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    May 26, 2012

    Nails Story: Three Summery Essies [Photos & Swatches]

    I purchased 3 new Essie nail polishes lately, it's really becoming one of my fave 'drugstore' nail polish brands to regularly make purchases from - I like their smoothy creamy colors, and the names always suck me in.

    My favourite place to get Essie nail polishes - in case you are wondering - because they aren't always readily available in person from the nail polish suppliers at Scape Park (Dyon), or PNC (Chinatown).

    Timtam blogspot - Sg seller - she is amazingly fast and effective, and you receive your order within 2 days after making payment. And she often stocks the latest collections very quickly.  She sells other brands like OPI, Orly, China Glaze too.

    The Essies are normally $11 each but I think I got mine at around $9.50 each because of some promo discount going on.

    http://timtam00.blogspot.com/

     

    Nail Vibe http://www.nailvibe.com/shop/

    Two of the colors,  A Crewed Interest & Navigate Her are from the Essie Spring 2012 collection

    Essie Action - the neon orange is from the Poppy Razzi collection (4 neons)

    [all swatches are taken with Nail Tek II base coat, and Seche Vite topcoat]

    Navigate Her

    A milky pastel green that leans quite warm.  Very cream, very opaque.  I don't have anything in the exact same tone in my stash.  Illamasqua MILF is more minty cool toned, and so are many of my other pastel greens that lean towards teal or blue.

    A Crewed Interest

    A little thin in terms of formula, I needed 3 coats for full color payoff.  It is a pale peachy beige, and super glossy.  I like this shade on my skintone.

    a comparison of Essie peachy & pinks in my collection

    Lastly, we have Action - a highlighter neon orange.  I painted this over a white base to give the color a truer payoff, and pop.

     

    What are your fave summer nail polishes?

     

    Hope this has been helpful, and thanks for looking!

     

     

     

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    May 26, 2012

    Ettusais 20th Anniversary Goodies

    Hi!

    Yesterday, I received the cutest package from Ettusais Singapore.  The highlight must be the ducky cupcake, which many of you have seen on my instagram feed.  I am not sure if it is edible yet...(the icing part smells vaguely like Play-Doh)... but anyway, it is so adorable, the little ducky which is Ettusais' signature cartoon figure.

    There is also a bag of Ettusais goodies in the package, and I will review and/or feature them when I eventually get to try out the products.

    The Ettusais story started in Tokyo in 1992, with the inspiration taken from poised and chic Parisian girls.   The brand is noted for many of their makeup and skincare products, including favourite bestsellers as shown below:

    1.  Gentle Make Off Deep Cleansing Oil

    Oil in water formula which effectively cleanses away makeup, no sticky after feel, and prevents acne

    2. Peeling Milk [Exfoliating Milk]

    Clay and plant-derived fiber help to exfoliate, unclog pores and remove impurities

    3. Pore Care Lotion [Moisturiser for Pores]

    Hydrate wiith a refreshing feeling, smoothen rough skin, prevent acnce

    4. Lip Essence [Lip treatment]

    Make lips a healthy pink by promoting blood circulation, moisturise with Jojoba oil, protect with SPF18 PA++

    5. BB Mineral Cream [Multi-purpose foundation]

    This is one of my all time fave bb cream!!

    my review - http://retailtherapy.onsugar.com/Review-Ettusais-BB-Mineral-Cream-Powder-19188095

    Makeup base, sunscreen, foundation and pore concealer all in one, Moisturise with Hyaluronic Acid

     

    In addition to all these, the gentle make off deep cleansing oil is packaged with a pretty ribbon in a limited edition packaging.

    Also from 04 May to 31 May 2012, your Ettusais purchase of $80nett will entitle you to a polka-dotted toiletry travel bag to fit all your beauty needs.

    There are many more special promotions in conjunction with this special occasion,  so do visit the following links

    www.ettusais.sg

    www.facebook.com.sg/ettusaissingapore

    to find out more!

     

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