reviews – Regina Chow

Fashion

Fashion: Song Hye Kyo’s Style in “Descendants of the Sun”

April 29, 2016 by Regina Chow No Comments

After hearing all the hype about Korean drama “Descendants of the Sun”, I finally decided to hop onto the bandwagon along with an army of addicts, purely out of curiosity. Did I like it? Well yes, being a military wife, I definitely found the storyline relatable, but what left an even deeper impression on me was Song Hye Kyo’s (or Kang Mo Yeon, as she is known in the series) simple yet elegant style, which brings me to the objective of writing today’s post.

So yes, without further ado, let me share some of my favourite style/beauty moments in the series and more importantly, where you can actually find these products.

Beauty products

It is no secret that Song Hye Kyo is the brand ambassador for Laneige, hence the beauty products used to achieve her flawless skin and rosy lips include:

Laneige BB Cushion

I’ve used this previously courtesy of Laneige and I was impressed by how buildable the coverage is, not to mention the dewy finish causes light to literally bounce off my skin, making my pigmentation look less obvious to the naked eye.

Laneige Two Tone Lip Bar

I have yet to try this myself but if I recall correctly, these were already flying off the shelves before the show became popular. I hope you can still find them in stores!

Shirts & Shirtdresses

Shirts are practically her wardrobe staple and it is not hard to see why. Song Hye Kyo transits from weekend casual chic to smart casual/semi-formal with absolute ease simply by changing from a pair of shorts to a feminine A-line skirt or putting on a shirt dress. These basic pieces will never go out of style and thus ensure that she is always on point.

Bottom – Washing Linen Blouse from Stylenanda (Shop HERE)

Printed Silk Crepe Mini Dress by Victoria Beckham (Shop HERE)

Bags

Song Hye Kyo generally goes for minimalist, functional bags in the series, such as this beautiful Symmetrical Bag from Celine and the Eco Shoulder Bag from J.Estina, a Korean jewelry and bag label that she was endorsing till January this year.

Celine Symmetrical Bag (Shop HERE)

J. Estina Savvy Helio Eco Shoulder Bag

J. Estina Savvy Helio Eco Shoulder Bag (Shop HERE)

Accessories

Accessories, especially earrings, play an important role in adding the finishing touches to her outfits. Simple, minimalist earrings are paired with casual outfits while a touch of gemstones are the perfect accompaniment to her work ensembles.

Earrings from J.Estina

J.Estina Oro Lia Helio Earring (Shop HERE)

DvF by H. Stern Collection (Shop HERE)

Shoes

Comfortable
footwear is a must in the fictitious country of Uruk, and although this
statement about comfortable footwear isn’t entirely true (didn’t you see
her running around the disaster zone in platform heels?!), I’m sure this beautiful pair of
perforated high-top sneakers struck a chord with you, just as it did
for me, because it’s now completely sold out!

Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons Perforated Leather Sneakers

I
have left my email address in the link below and asked to be notified
when the item is back in stock. Good things ought to be shared, so I’m
sharing the link with you too!

Junya Watanabe Commes Des Garcons Perforated Leather Sneakers (Shop HERE)

Now that the long weekend is here, it’s the best time to indulge in some retail therapy! Have you watched the series yet? If so, which of these products do you like best?

Image credits: KBS

Fashion

The Secret To Dressing Like The French & Rue Madame

April 14, 2016 by Regina Chow No Comments

Don’t we all dream to be that woman who wakes up with messy bed hair but somehow still ends up looking effortlessly chic and sexy even with a simple white t-shirt and a pair of well-fitted jeans. The whole “I woke up like this” look is characteristic of the French woman who never tries too hard and always appears put together at all times.

What is the secret to dressing like the French? Well, it’s actually very simple. The French woman loves basic pieces, and they have to be of good quality. She believes in investing in timeless pieces that she will get the most wear out of, which makes perfect sense.

As you would know by now, minimalism is my cup of tea. The minimalist style, a classic style that makes dressing up a breeze for anyone, probably best describes the French woman. T-shirt and jeans are great for summer, but when temperatures are cooler, a tailored shirt and black pants or overalls (like the one pictured here) are my go-to ensemble.

Some of my favourite brands that do great simple basics include American Vintage, Majestic Filatures and Toupy, to name a few, all of which can be found at Rue Madame.

This
French fashion boutique houses many brands and each collection has a
distinctive Parisian flair to it. Not only do they have quality basics
at affordable prices, you can also find playful, vibrant, feminine
pieces that add a quirky touch to your wardrobe staples. I’m currently obsessed with boxy silhouettes and I have my eye on this two-tone cut-out sleeveless dress from Tara Jarmon.

Tara Jarmon Two-tone Cut-out Sleeveless Dress

The cut-out details at the side add an element of surprise to the clean, minimalist look. I love how sophisticated the collection is and the amazing thing about Rue Madame is that it only carries exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces that maintain a sense of individuality.

Rue Madame has recently launched their online store, which is so exciting especially since summer is just around the corner (fine, for Singaporeans, it’s summer all-year-round)! But yes, whatever the season is, check them out to get some Parisian inspiration and lovely festival wear with several boho, gypsy style brands that are all the rage right now!

Beauty, Uncategorized

South Bridge Aesthetics Clinic Carbon Laser Peel Review

October 14, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Traveling always takes a toll on my skin, leaving it dull and dry, hence when I received an invitation to visit South Bridge Aesthetics Clinic to review their Carbon Laser Peel treatment, I arranged for my appointment to take place immediately after my recent trip to Europe.

South Bridge Aesthetics Clinic was established by Medical Director, Dr Winston Lee, a warm and friendly doctor who has 10 years of experience in the medical field. The clinic aims to provide quality non-invasive aesthetics treatments at competitive prices and carbon laser peel is one of their most popular treatments.

What are the benefits of Carbon Laser Peel?

It promotes radiant, glowing skin and helps to reduce imperfections such as enlarged pores by removing the outer layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production. It also improves your overall skin tone.

Effects can be seen immediately after just one treatment and you can see my before and after photos for comparison at the end of this post. This treatment serves as a quick pick-me-up before important events and can also be done regularly, just like a facial.

As the entire process takes only about 30-45 minutes and there isn’t any downtime, it is the perfect lunch-time quick fix for time-pressed working professionals.

What does the process entail?

A thin layer of carbon lotion is first applied to your face and allowed to dry before Dr Lee uses a laser machine to deliver short yet intense pulses of light. The light is absorbed by the carbon lotion, causing an explosion of carbon particles which exfoliates the outer layer of your skin and removes dirt from your pores.

I was initially very worried about the pain factor but I came to realise that my worries were unfounded. Dr Lee was also very reassuring and chatted with me throughout the process. His humorous and affable personality put me at ease. I was done within the blink of an eye and there was hardly any discomfort at all.

As you can see from my before an after photos below, I saw a significant improvement in my skin tone immediately after one session although Dr Lee recommends that this treatment should be done every 2-4 weeks for optimal results. I couldn’t be happier with my brighter, more radiant complexion. My pores were slightly smaller and my skin was much smoother. I know I would definitely need another carbon laser peel session when I get back to Singapore again!

South Bridge Aesthetics Clinic

Address
277 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058826

Contact No.
9730 8999

Opening Hours
Mon – Fri: 10am – 6pm
Sat: 10am – 3pm

Beauty, Uncategorized

Beauty: b.liv Off With Those Heads Review (For Blackheads & Whiteheads)

July 26, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Is your skin prone to whiteheads and blackheads? Mine is, and I try to get them professionally extracted at a beauty salon on a regular basis. The only issue is, I don’t always have the luxury of time to indulge in a facial.

What do I do then?

I usually try to extract blackheads on my own, but whiteheads can be a real headache as they are unbelievably stubborn. Thank goodness b.liv’s Off With Those Heads found its way into my skincare regime at a friend’s recommendation. I love how effective it is when it comes to softening my whiteheads for easy extraction, hence when I was asked to review this beauty product recently, I had to say yes. You’ll find out why as you read on.

What causes blackheads and whiteheads?

Did you know that blackheads and whiteheads form as a result of excessive oil secretion and dirt accumulated in open pores? I have naturally oily yet dehydrated skin, which is why these horrible comedones refuse to leave me alone. Controlling oil secretion is the key to preventing their formation.

How does b.liv Off With Those Heads Work?

b.liv’s Off With
Those Heads (30ml/45ml, S$69.95/S$94.95) softens the clog in your open pores and promises to help with easy
and painless blackheads and whiteheads extraction after just 14 days of
application.

Off With Those Heads is a beauty-salon formulation that incorporates tea tree oil (acne control + comedone control + soothing), witch hazel extract (oil control + comedone control + skin softening) and aloe vera extract (soothing + hydration). It uses a dual-action process to deeply penetrate within the skin to keep oil secretion at bay. Tea tree oil has antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties while witch hazel extract and aloe vera extract control oil secretion, soothe and soften the skin without drying it out. This way, achieving blackheads and whiteheads-free complexion is possible without compromising on hydration.

How do you apply the product?

I use this twice daily after cleansing. All you have to do is pump 2-3 pea-sized drops onto your hand and apply to areas that are prone to blackheads and whiteheads. I like to pat in the product gently on my nose and the sides of my face. I apply it on pimples too. Give it a night and the tiny ones usually subside by the next morning. The bigger ones generally take about 2-3 days to recover.

I love how the lightweight water-based texture leaves a cooling sensation on your skin upon application and feels like next to nothing as no residue is left behind. Its minty scent is very refreshing and never fails to perk me up every morning.

Does it really work?

I always check out online reviews before I decide to purchase skincare
products. If the
reviews are positive and they include convincing before and after photos, the deal is sealed.

I wish I could show you before and after photos of my full face for better comparison, but as I’ve been using this product for many months before this review even came up, most of my whiteheads have cleared up considerably.

However, I did have a small blackhead right above my eyebrow recently. I couldn’t extract it initially but after applying Off With Those Heads, I could extract it with ease the very next day.

Here’s a before and after shot for your reference. Seeing is believing, and you can tell from the comparison below that the blackhead above my eyebrow has flattened and the skin has almost completely healed.

This product definitely works for me and I would highly recommend that you try it too if you are a victim of stubborn whiteheads and blackheads.

After all, you have nothing to lose because b.liv’s Off With Those Heads comes with 100% money back guarantee, no questions asked, within 2 weeks of purchase!

For more information on b.liv Off With Those Heads and other complementary products, do check out their website here.

You can also follow b.liv on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates!

Beauty, Uncategorized

Beauty: mdd COSMECEUTICAL Skincare Review

June 10, 2015 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

In our relentless quest for beauty, we need to be mindful not to subject our skin, which also happens to be our body’s largest organ, to harsh chemicals that actually do more harm than good. This is the reason why scent-free and paraben-free skincare always tops my list of beauty must-haves.

mdd COSMECEUTICAL skincare falls right into this category. Established over 7 years ago, mdd COSMECEUTICAL aims to create skincare products that suit the ever-changing needs of consumers today through rigorous research and development. Its skincare line is formulated without fragrance and parabens, combining Japanese cutting-edge technology with breakthrough research to ensure that active ingredients penetrate into the deepest layer of our skin to deliver optimal results.

Did you know that Stella Leung, Hong Kong celebrity make-up artist for A-mei and Jacky Cheung, is also a huge fan of MDD products and claims that the brand saved her skin?

Well, it is not hard to understand why. I have been using some of their best-selling skincare products for close to a month now, and I am in love with the brand’s fuss-free approach to achieving good skin in just one step. Now, you can happily bid farewell to the multiple serums or essences and say hello to a simple, effective routine that not only saves you time, but actually works.

1. SKIN PERFECT BRIGHTENING NANO GEL (S$68.95, 60ml)

If you desire brighter skin that glows from within, the Skin Perfect Brightening Nano Gel would be your best friend.

This all-in-one multitasking product contains the following skin-loving ingredients:

1) Vitamin C and Pearl Essence to brighten your skin

2) Seaweed Extract to keep your skin thoroughly moisturized

3) Ceramides to calm down and prevent skin irritations

I have been using this product as a moisturizer twice daily. It repairs, tones, hydrates, primes and protects your skin all at once, and is a life-saver especially when I need to rush out of the house early in the morning.

Its lightweight, gel texture makes it perfect for our humid weather as it absorbs readily into your skin and keeps it plump, hydrated and glowing all day. You may not observe the brightening effects immediately upon usage, but give it about 2 weeks and you’ll notice a brighter, more luminous complexion.

If you are prone to oil seeds (like me!), this would work well with your skin as anything too rich and creamy would lead to an onslaught of oil seeds.

2) SKIN PERFECT CC CREAM (S$31.55, 20ml)

I have tried several CC creams but most pale in comparison to mdd COSMECEUTICAL’s Skin Perfect CC Cream.

Yet another multitasking product, this CC cream is formulated with Marine Collagen and Ceramide complex and acts as a sunscreen (SPF 30), make-up base, anti-aging cream and moisturizer all rolled into one to give you perfect skin without the hassle.

I use this every morning, after the Skin Perfect Brightening Nano Gel and I absolutely adore how it provides full coverage without clogging my pores. It also does a wonderful job of smoothing out fine lines and concealing imperfections such as pigmentation, giving you flawless, air-brushed skin instantly.

I typically dab on an additional layer of CC cream on my upper cheeks to conceal my pigmentation and was pleasantly surprised when some of my friends told me that it seemed like my dark spots had vanished miraculously!

Besides its excellent coverage, I am particularly impressed by its featherlight texture. Good coverage and light, weightless textures usually do not go hand in hand, hence this CC cream is definitely a gem.

Don’t be fooled by its seemingly thick consistency when you first squeeze it out of the tube. It glides on like a dream, gives you the coverage you need and imparts a healthy glow to your skin without any sticky after-feel. This is one product that I highly recommend and would personally purchase when it runs out.

3. HYDRA-INFUSION OKINAWA MASK (S$78.95, 50ml)

Hydrating masks are my favourite as my skin is perpetually dehydrated, all thanks to late nights, frequent traveling and constant exposure to air-conditioning.

The Hydra-infusion Okinawa Mask is the latest addition to my range of hydrating/sleeping masks and I find myself reaching for it at least twice or thrice a week because it hydrates, clarifies, brightens and boosts cell renewal simultaneously, leaving me with soft dewy skin every time. I also love its ultra light gel texture and how it energizes my dull, tired skin and restores radiance.

The active ingredients include nourishing Okinawa deep-sea water and Hyaluronic Acid to lock in moisture, as well as soybean extract to effectively brighten your skin.

You can either apply a thin layer to your skin for 30 minutes and wash it off thereafter or leave it on overnight as a sleeping mask, which is my preferred method. A little goes a long way, and I can foresee that this tub of goodness will last at least six months, even with regular usage.

OVERALL IMPRESSION OF mdd COSMECEUTICAL SKINCARE

I only recommend products that I have personally tested on my skin for an extended period of time, and this time was no exception. What are my overall thoughts on mdd COSMECEUTICAL’s skincare line? Would I recommend this brand?

It is hard to come by multitasking one-step skincare products that suit both our humid climate and our hectic lifestyle. More importantly, mdd COSMECEUTICAL products are scent-free, paraben-free and fuss-free, yet remarkably effective, hence I would highly recommend this skincare range for all the reasons that I have stated above.

After all, who doesn’t love hassle-free skincare that delivers optimal results?

All products are available at www.skinbalance.com.sg, the distributor of MDD Cosmeceutical products.

Enter the code “MDDC Social Launch 6” upon checkout for a special store-wide discount of S$7 valid till 31 July 2015!

For more information on my beauty routine with mdd COSMECUTICAL, watch the video that was filmed in collaboration with Karen below:

mdd COSMECEUTICAL

Website:

http://www.skinbalance.com.sg

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SkinBalanceSG

Beauty, Uncategorized

Svenson Trichology Hair Products Review

May 25, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

[This post was written by Isabelle, a permanent writer on Shopping Queen’s Haven.]

Isn’t it true that hair completes a look? Perhaps that’s why we always bemoan bad hair days, as we instinctively feel the difference that great hair makes us look and feel.

It was therefore a pleasure to learn more about hair care and hair health from Svenson, the leading expert in solutions in hair and scalp problems with over 40 years of trichological expertise and knowledge. The scalp is actually an extension of our skin, so just as we spend lots of time and effort on our facial care and body care, we should not neglect our scalp. And indeed we’ll be thankful for it later when we do not need to battle hair loss problems, but enjoy the benefits of luscious, healthy, shiny hair!

Debunking Hair Myths

During the Svenson expert talk, they did a careful analysis of my hair and scalp, and also shared many professional tips that debunk hair myths we might have believed in.

Did you know that it is recommended to use combs with wooden bristles, as plastic bristles cause greater static and frizz? When applying styling products, you should also avoid getting them onto the scalp. Also, always wash your hair daily, especially in our hot and humid weather.

I have to admit that many years of hair dye and perms have inevitably caused damage to my hair. More importantly, I also need to continue to take care of my scalp to ensure my hair follicles can grow healthily.

That explained why I was really excited to try the treatments and shampoos, and immediately tried the entire regime as soon as I got home after the Svenson event.

Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment

Firstly, I applied the Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment to unwashed scalp, section by section. Then I used my fingertips to gently massage it into my scalp, left it for 2 minutes, and rinsed it off. So simple!

During the 2 minutes, what did I do? I was reading the label (I really like reading up on products): Svenson products are a concentrated blend of carefully selected botanicals and protective herbs combined with advanced bio-chemical technology, designed to help you achieve healthy scalp and strong beautiful hair. Sounds promising.

Svenson Volumizing Shampoo

Next, I started my hair wash. All it took was a small amount (around 50 cent size) of the Volumizing Shampoo rubbed in palm to create a very nice lather that I massaged through from scalp to ends, then washed.

I loved how the rich lather thoroughly cleansed my hair and scalp without stripping my hair of its natural oils.

Svenson PLGA Total Solution

And finally, the crowning jewel : Svenson’s PLGA Total Solution!

It is one of Svenson’s best-selling hair care treatments, and is a breakthrough Do-It-Yourself home treatment that combines remarkable properties of the rare Loquat leaf and nanotechnology to produce noticeably thicker, fuller-looking hair for those suffering from thinning hair.

The key active compound extracted from the Loquat leaf is Corosolic acid, traditionally used as a herbal medicine. It encourages better blood circulation and manages testosterone level, often the primary cause of hair loss.

The PLGA Total Solution is to be applied daily after hair wash using a light head massage on problem areas, and a typical complete treatment process will take six months of consistent application. But the great news is, from as early as two months, a gradual increase in fine hair growth at alopecia neurotic areas might start to appear.

Do the products work?

Every time after I wash my hair, I experience a huge amount of hair fall. When I shared my concerns with the Svenson Expert, I was assured that hair fall after each hair wash is normal. We should not be afraid to wash our hair daily simply because we are worried about the amount of hair fall each time. After all, as they shared, the hair would fall, regardless of wash or not. Instead, washing daily and then applying the treatment is the proper way to treat and regain healthy scalp and hair. This was indeed reassuring to hear!

And the results speak for themselves. After I finished washing my hair and treating my scalp that night, I did my daily blow dry (remember not to sleep with a wet scalp), and I was so excited with the results that I immediately texted my friend to say it was amazing how my hair felt so light and bouncy. I could truly feel the difference. It was such a pity that night to sleep with my happy-looking hair (or rather, I was happy, haha!). I have been faithfully using the products these 3 weeks, and I can attest to the great results.

Besides using these products, I have been religiously following the Svenson 5-Step Massage to increase circulation, facilitate absorption and release tension.

Remember, do not hesitate to kick-start a good hair and scalp regime. You will certainly reap the benefits for a long time to come!

****

About the writer Isabelle:

An MBTI personality profile that believes in making the world a better place (one starfish at a time), Isabelle is a communications professional who enjoys creating good memories for others, and balances realism with a healthy dose of joie de vivre and can-do positivity.

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Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion: 5 Female Celebrity Styles with a Backpack

May 23, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Think
backpacks are only for students? Well, the memo is out: backpacks are back and
they are more chic than ever. You’d be surprised at how many ways you can wear
your backpack with style.

No
longer just meant to carry heavy textbooks, backpacks are now making a
statement as an accessory for the out-and-about girl on the street. With so
many textures, fabrics, prints and colour palettes available for
experimentation, designers are flexing their creative muscles to produce
stylish backpacks worthy of every occasion.

If
you’re aching to switch your handbags or clutches for something comfier, take
your pick from the array of backpacks for women online. But first, check out what the stars are wearing.
Here are 5 celebrities who are also feeling the trend:

1.
Olivia Wilde

Olivia
Wilde’s style has always been utilitarian chic. The brainy and beautiful
actress does not waste time on pointless accessories, and prefers pieces that
are practical yet stylish instead. Here, she carries a limited-edition army
canvas backpack she helped design with Alternative Apparel to fund the Academy
for Peace and Justice in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. At the launch event of the
collection, Olivia teamed her backpack with an A.L.C. printed maxi skirt, a
black racer-back tank top, and brown ankle-strap sandals.”

2.
Bella Thorne

I know,
what a crazy outfit, right? Especially for Bella Thorne, who is usually seen in
sweet dresses and heels. But somehow, this outfit is so outlandish it works.
From the checked sneakers to the bright green jeans to the pink-heart-shaped
sunglasses and bright red Boohoo Natalie backpack, Bella is doing quirky cute
right. Bonus accessory: an adorable puppy.

3.
Mary-Kate Olsen

One
half of the trend-setting Olsen twins, Mary-Kate Olsen flaunts her avant-garde
style here with an embroidered emerald jacket by Dries Van Noten, a loose black
top, dark wash skinnies and a Pendleton leather and fabric backpack. The
backpack lends a touch of laidback earthiness to the elaborate outfit and tames
down the eye-catching jacket for a more casual vibe.

4. Kate
Bosworth

As a
lover of all things pink and girly, I’m in love with Kate Bosworth’s ensemble
here. That furry Isabel Marent sweater is all kinds of cute when matched with
pastel pink shorts and a white backpack from Alexander Wang. To avoid going
overboard with the sweetness, she slipped into a pair of brown ankle boots and
a pair of Ray Ban aviator shades that look sleek with a high ponytail. The
effect is ladylike and smart-casual.

5.
Selena Gomez

Another
proponent of the boots and shorts trend, Selena Gomez goes for a boho-inspired
look with an oversized oatmeal-coloured Free People top and brown knit scarf,
cutoffs and brown ankle boots. The black backpack casually slung from her arm
adds a touch of edginess to the laidback outfit.

Which is your favourite style?

Thanks for reading and have a good weekend ahead!

Travel, Uncategorized

6 Beautiful & Underrated Places In Europe

May 11, 2015 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

Cities such as London, Rome, Venice and Paris immediately come to mind when we plan our holidays in Europe, but if you prefer to take the road less travelled, here are 6 other breathtakingly beautiful places that you could visit based on my personal experience.

1. HUESCA, SPAIN

The province of Huesca located in northeast Spain is home to beautiful mountains, verdant valleys and pristine rivers. All natural and virtually untainted by commercialism, this is a dream come true for adventure seekers and nature lovers. You can easily drive there from Barcelona Airport.

Check out the
Sierra de Guara region if you enjoy activities such as rockclimbing,
canyoning, caving, hiking or wildlife watching.

During our last visit, we stayed at Rodellar, a quaint village situated above the Muscan gorge in the Sierra de Guara National Park. Rodellar is also one of the most famous places for rockclimbing in Europe.

You can read more about JW’s rockclimbing experience in Rodellar below:

Climbing Natural Beyond Singapore

For a change of scenery, you can also head to a medieval city called Alquezar (30km from Rodellar by car). You can read more about our visit to Alquezar below:

A Day in Alquezar, Spain

2. BARCELONA, SPAIN

I hesitated about placing Barcelona on this list as it is after all the most popular tourist destination in Spain, but when I speak to people around me about their travel plans in Europe, this city hardly ever seems to be on their radar.

If you love beautiful yet distinctive architecture, Barcelona is the city to go. The fantastical buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi are exactly what fairy-tales are made of and you will never see architectural marvels of this nature anywhere else in Europe, or in the world for that matter.

Here are some of his signature works that you have to visit:

Park Guell

Casa Mila

Sagrada Familia

For more photos and information on the places to visit, read my previous posts below:

Palau Guell & Park Guell

Casa Mila

Casa Batllo

Sagrada Familia

If you are a history buff or if bullfighting is your cup of tea, you could also visit the Monumental Arena and Museo Taurino (bullfighting museum). Bullfighting may be banned in Barcelona (since 2012), but this slice of history serves a reminder of the arena’s past glory and provides great photo opportunities.

For more information, read my post below:

Bullfighting in Barcelona: Monumental Arena & Museo Taurino

3. CESKY KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC

Everyone
talks about Prague and how gorgeous it is as a city, but did you know
that there is an equally picturesque (if not more) by the name of Cesky
Krumlov in the South Bohemian Region of Czech Republic?

Both Prague’s Castle District and Cesky Krumlov are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Everything seems to come to a standstill at Cesky Krumlov as you are instantly transported back in time. The little town looks just a medieval town complete with locals dressed in medieval costumes. A day-trip to Cesky Krumlov is usually recommended but personally, I would recommend staying a day or two just to soak in the beauty and to take time to explore its breathtaking surroundings.

For more information on places to visit in Cesky Krumlov, do read my posts below:

Curious Sights in Cesky Krumlov

I Left My Heart in Cesky Krumlov

4. EAGLE’S NEST, BERCHTESGADEN (GERMANY)

Eagle’s
Nest, otherwise known as Kehlsteinhaus, was built by the Nazis on the
Kelstein mountain above Berchtesgaden (located at the German Bavarian
Alps) in celebration of Hitler’s 50th birthday. It was meant to be a
holiday home and Hitler even had his own private route leading up from
the city to the mountains.

While Hitler hardly visited Eagle’s Nest, it is now a tourist hotspot primarily due to its mesmerizing scenery, which only gets better as you move up the mountain. Perched atop a mountain, Eagle’s Nest is surrounded by a confluence of white fluffy clouds that lay atop the city. You can easily book a day trip there via Munich (Germany) or Salzburg (Austria).

For more photos and information, you can read my post below:

Eagle’s Nest

5. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA

Innsbruck is known for being a winter sports center and the city has hosted the Winter Olympics on several occasions. If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, this is the place to be in winter, but even if these activities are not the least enticing to you, the panoramic scenery is bound to set your heart aflutter. Here’s a short video clip that I took when I was there some years ago:

For more photos and information on places to visit, do read my posts below:

Innsbruck Mountains

Innsbruck Alpen Zoo

6. SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Salzburg’s Old Town (Altstadt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its baroque architecture, set against the backdrop of alpine surroundings.

Classical music lovers would also know that Salzburg was the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. I can still recall how I excited I was just before I stepped into Mozart’s home, also known as Mozart’s Geburthaus.

For more photos and information, you can read my post below:

Salzburg’s Old Town & Mozart’s Geburthaus

If you are a fan of popular movie musical The Sound of Music, you can also book a day trip to visit all the filming spots. It was also here where I discovered the very scenic Mondsee Lake, a beautifully serene lake overlooking lush rolling hills.

For more photos and information, read my post below:

The Sound of Music Tour

It has been a while since I last visited Europe and it is high time that I revisited this continent to explore other cities that I have yet to tick off my bucket list.

Meanwhile, I hope that my personal experiences detailed in this post would provide you with some useful tips and inspiration if you are planning a trip there.

Have a great week ahead!

Uncategorized

Aesthetics & Beauty Looking Fabulous & Gorgeous Party

March 12, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

We all want to look fabulous and gorgeous, don’t we? With this in mind, Aesthetics & Beauty Magazine organized a Looking Fabulous & Gorgeous Party at Lime House last month.

I don’t know about you, but I am always on the lookout for new skincare and beauty products as our skin transforms with age and environmental changes. In a nutshell,
this means that it is always useful to change up your beauty routine
every now and then to keep your skin in tip top condition.

I had a wonderful time at the party as it gave me the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with several brands, some of which were new to me. In today’s post, I will be sharing more about some of these beauty brands, so let’s start the ball rolling, shall we?

JANE IREDALE

My eyes lit up immediately when I saw a booth dedicated to Jane Iredale as Karen had recommended their Powder-Me SPF (essentially a powder sunblock with SPF 30) to me several years ago and I have been using it religiously since.

For the uninitiated, Jane Iredale is a mineral make-up pioneer from USA. And in case you were wondering, yes, Jane is a real person.

Jane Iredale’s inspiration stemmed from her career as a casting director and producer, where she got to work with actresses and models who depended on beautiful, healthy skin for successful careers. To further her passion to enhance the lives of women, Jane worked with dermatologists and plastic surgeons to develop her own cosmetics line. Today, there are over 400 products in Jane Iredale’s cosmetics line.

Plastic surgeons were the first to recognize the benefits of mineral foundations and how safe they were to use, even on patients who had just undergone laser resurfacing. The brand’s best-seller is the Glow Time BB cream, which includes antioxidants such as green tea and pomegranate to soothe skin.

How is Jane Iredale different from other cosmetic brands?

Jane Iredale’s key ingredient is micronised mineral particles. When applied, these particles create a protective layer against external pollutants without clogging pores, while giving you the coverage that you need. Their products are suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin, as harmful chemicals such as preservatives, dyes and perfumes, as well as alcohol, are omitted.

Aside from skin-loving ingredients, another interesting aspect about Jane Iredale’s make-up or mineral make-up in general, is that it does not dissolve in water or oil. The lovely people from Jane Iredale placed two containers of water, one for normal cosmetics and the other for Jane Iredale’s make-up, to prove this to us. Hence, there is no need for multiple touch-ups and your make-up wouldn’t slide off your face on a hot, humid day. Isn’t that great for our weather?

Jane Iredale has also recently launched its new make-up collection, Country Weekend, this month. The collection features a limited edition Getaway Eye Shadow Kit that offers 5 wearable neutral shades, Jelly Jar Gel Eyeliner in Espresso, and Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain in Forever Peach. I’ll be reviewing these products in a separate post, so do look out for it soon!

ENVIRON

Environ is a beauty brand that is entirely new to me, but I couldn’t be more impressed when I learnt more about the brand’s history. Environ was founded by Dr Des Fernandes, a prominent Cape Town plastic surgeon, who was also the first person in the world to introduce vitamin A in high effective doses.

“A face lift in a bottle” is what the Intensive Revival Masque, the brand’s latest product, aims to achieve with revolutionary ingredients such as Asiatic, Mandelic and Lactic Acid. I was told that not only can you look forward to younger looking skin after using it for about 4-6 months, the Mandelic acid in this product can also help lighten pigmentation over time.

I have pigmentation on my upper cheeks (hereditary, unfortunately) and am definitely hoping to see visible results in the longer term.

DR BENJAMIN YIM CLINICAL AESTHETICS & LASER CENTRE

Dr
Benjamin Yim specializes in aesthetics treatments like Botox, skin
fillers, peels and thermage. A key pioneer in the aesthetics industry
with highly valued opinions, Dr. Yim is a popular speaker at many
aesthetic conferences around Asia.

Other treatments
that are available at Dr Benjamin Yim’s clinic include fat
transfer, threadlifts and vaser liposelection as well as
fractional resurfacing.

I was very excited to see Latisse at the counter as I have heard so much about its effectiveness in promoting lash growth. Apart from Latisse, Dr Benjamin Yim also carries his own brand of skincare products at the clinic to cater to different skin types.

BENE PREMIUM BLURIA & BENE PREMIUM ROUGERIA

I try my very best to take good care of my hair especially since I subject it to chemical treatments and dyes ever so often. Fortunately, more non-silicone shampoo and hair treatment products are making their way to our shores these days. Moltobene’s Bene Premium Bluria and Bene Premium Rougeria ranges may be the new kids on the block where Singapore is concerned, but they have come a long way in Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Both ranges are 100% made in Japan and formulated with natural ingredients to transform hair to its original state of health by cleansing all the impurities on the scalp.

I have been using the Bene Premium Bluria range, which is meant for scalp care, for a couple of weeks now and my scalp does feel much cleaner and less irritable.

Unlike most scalp-care shampoos, it has a surprisingly refreshing yet feminine fragrance which boasts fresh and fruity top notes, a floral middle note and a musky base note. The delicate scent is what I like best about this range as fragrant scalp-care shampoos are relatively rare in the market.

TEALY

Beauty comes from within and tea, which is chock full of antioxidants, can help us to achieve inner beauty thanks to its health and skin benefits. I love tea, and if you’re like me, you will find Tealy’s tea varieties very unique.

With exclusive flavours such as Earl Grey Creme, Anjou Paradise, Mint Chocolate Truffle and Wonder Berry Chocolate Truffle, it is hard not to be impressed.

We had the opportunity to taste the Anjou Paradise Ceylon Tea blend, a fruit infusion with sweet pear, pineapple and passion fruit flavours topped with a citrus finish. Surprisingly, its fruity aroma and slight tinge of sweetness seemed to go well with desserts and was the perfect accompaniment to the strawberry cakes that were served.

Karen, Raphael and I had a lovely afternoon getting to know more about each of these brands. Thanks to their generosity, each of us walked away with 3 bags of goodies on top of lucky draw prizes.

It has been a while since I last met Joselyn as well, and it was such a pleasure catching up with her at the event too.

Thank you once again for organizing such a fabulous party!

*****

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Fashion: 2015 Oscars Best Dressed Trends

March 12, 2015 by Regina Chow 1 Comment

Oscars 2015 may be officially over, but there’s always a thing or two that we can pick up from the celebrities when it comes to getting ready for the red carpet (or perhaps gala dinners, dinner & dance and other formal events).

Red, red, red

When in doubt, wear red. It makes a statement effortlessly and you will definitely stand out from the crowd. With such an attention-grabbing colour like red, you can go easy on the accessories and simply bask in the limelight like a superstar.

Dakota Johnson in Saint Laurent

Rosamund Pike in Givenchy

Beads & Embellishments

You can always count on Elie Saab’s gowns to look every bit like a princess who has stepped right out of a fairy-tale. I am a huge fan of beads and embellishments as they add an instant touch of glamour and femininity to any ensemble. Thanks to the shimmering beads on these gorgeous gowns, accessories can be kept to a minimum too.

Emma Stone in Elie Saab Haute Couture

Jennifer Lopez in Elie Saab Haute Couture

If you prefer a less princess-y rendition of this trend, go for a classic form-fitting silhouette to accentuate those curves.

Jennifer Aniston in Versace

Lupita Nyong’o in Calvin Klein

Classic Sheath Silhouette

Slim, sleek and stylish, the classic sheath silhouette is high on glamour and low on fuss. It is especially flattering on both tall and skinny as well as hour-glass figures as it elongates your frame and adds definition to your waist. I love how Gwyneth Paltrow and Zoe Saldana rocked their sheath gowns in dainty shades of pastel and blush pink. And how could we forget Reese Witherspoon who cut such a stunning figure in an elegant black and white off-shoulder gown?

Gwyneth Paltrow in Ralph & Russo Couture

Reese Witherspoon in Tom Ford

Zoe Saldana in Atelier Versace

Which style do you prefer? Are there any other trends that you spotted on the Oscars 2015 red carpet too?

*****

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