Indigo Kir Royale

Palette Fétiche is a new, limited edition eye shadow palette released a part of the Yves Saint Laurent Cuirs Fétiches Collection for Fall 2014. The collection is inspired by leather—the ultra classic material in fashion.

Above: In line with the collection's theme, the palette has a full grain leather cover on the lid in black with finishes and YSL logo in gold. My only gripe with this is that it does tend to become grubby with finger prints if you happen to have product on your finger tips, etc.

Above: the product description label at the bottom of the palette. Below: the eye shadows, mirror and applicators.

Palette Fétiche contains five eye shadows:

- Medium to dark black (satin to matte)

- Medium to dark imperial blue or petrol blue (satin to matte)

- Deep violet brown (with sparse, warm gold shimmer),

- Bright copper (shimmery - almost metallic, mid-tone shade), and

- Light, warm gold (shimmery highlighter)

The eye shadows can be used with a dry brush for softer application, or damp brush for more intense colour and creating a dramatic evening look.

"Couture Palette. The intense color is long-wearing, crease-proof. Our formula includes a high concentration of pearls and pigments and a network of transparent powders that result in a long-lasting complex for optimal hold. This smooth even blend finish is crease resistant for up to 12-hour hold."

Below are two rather useable applicators provided with the palette. One is a dual-ended sponge tip applicator - one end is narrow and pointed for more precise, directional application (such as to highlight the inner corners of the eyes) or lining the eyes when dry. The other applicator is a narrow, pointed synthetic brush applicator which is perfect for lining the eyes wet or dry.

SWATCHES (DRY)

For reference I have medium, olive (~NC30) skin tone). The first two swatch photographs were taken indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe. I found the bottom black and petrol blue shades to have the least colour pay-off, but they still apply fairly well on the eyes when layered or applied with a damp brush as shown in the second set of swatches.

SWATCHES (WET)

As you can see, the shades transform and made much more intense when applied wet. In particular, the blue shade transforms to a lighter and slightly metallic shade. The black is more deep and intense - perfect for lining the eyes.

Below are the wet swatches photographed in low light (no strobe) in order to capture the shimmers.

OVERALL

I love the versatility and colour combinations of this palette. YSL often provide colour combinations and textures that are edgy, modern and dramatic. Palette Fétiche is no exception. The warm copper and blue are such pretty contrasting colours - amazing on brown eyes and blue eyed beauties. I know I will be reaching for this palette often especially for a night out. A must-have item this fall/autumn 2014.

Hope this was helpful.

Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

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I just picked up the last Beauty Loop Box of the year from Mecca. All beauty loop members (no matter what level you are) receive four sample boxes per year. This time, I thought I'd get it as soon as I got notified via email since last time, I came in a bit later (but still within the time limit) to collect it they had run out of Level 3 boxes and I ended up taking home a Level 1 box instead. So, I highly recommend you collect yours either online or in store as soon as you can!

This level 3 box contained four beauty products (along with a description card of each).

// The new Ren Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial (15 ml / 0.5 fl. oz) - the skin care expert at my local store swore by this product so I'm excited to try it.

It's described as a "transformative treatment that revitalises and refreshes the skin. With potent Vitamin C, it instantly reduces the signs of fatigue for a radiant complexion. Use every 3 days after cleansing, massage over the face and neck, and rinse off after 1 minute."

// Byredo Parfums | Mjoave Ghost Eau de Parfum (2ml / 0.06 fl. oz)

"In the xeric wilderness of the mojave desert trees and vegetation more ancient than many civilisations defy conditions that prey on human vulnerability. The ghost flower is a rare species that dares to blossom above this baked, hard ground. Despite its arid surroundings and inability to produce nectar, the ghost flower, or mohavea confertiflora, maintains its perfect, majestic beauty and thrives year after year. In an astonishing feat of ingenuity the flower uses mimicry to attract the pollinators of a neighbouring plant species by developing markings that resemble those of a female bee genus attracted to its subject and duping the male bee into following suit. This moving human-like behaviour and captivating tale of survival lies in the foundation that inspired ‘mojave ghost’, an homage to this most bewitching flower."

Top: ambrette, jamaican nesberry

Heart: violet, sandalwood, magnolia

Base: chantilly musk, crisp amber, cedarwood"

Note, the beauty loop description card says Thirdman (a brand I've not heard of before) - so not sure if I was given Byredo by mistake or they're card is incorrect. Nonetheless, I have previously owned and used up(!) one of my favourite scents in Bal d'Afrique so, I'm still happy to try this fragrance from the same brand.

// Mecca Cosmetica To Save Eyes SPF30 (Full size: 15 ml / 0.51 fl. oz).

The first eye cream I've come across with a decent SPF of 30 (I've been using Elizabeth Arden's Prevage one with SPF 15 PA++). So with summer coming up, this will be perfect I reckon. It claims to offer 24 hour moisturisation, so I'm looking forward to that and the high sun protection. This product also has a shot of caffeine to energise and combat dark circles and fine lines, plus a cooling rollerball applicator so it's reminiscent of the Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-on, which has been around for years.

// By Terry Baume de Rose (3 g / 0.1 oz). This is lip balm is well-loved by many. But, look at how cute the tiny version of the full-sized pot is! ^_^ I'm sure I will be reusing this pot when it's empty for travel.

Have you collected your Beauty Loop Box yet? Let me know what's in yours if different. :) Or if you've tried any of these products, do share your thoughts on them in a comment below. Would love to hear!

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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ABOUT

Camélia De Plumes Highlighting Powder is one of three items I picked up from this year's holiday collection entitled Plumes Précieuses De Chanel ("precious feathers of Chanel"). To find out more about the inspiration behind this collection and to see a sneak peek of my other selections, click here.

"CAMÉLIA DE PLUMES is an iridescent powder embossed with a feather motif in the shape of a camellia flower. It illuminates the face with a platinum shade blending silver and gold shimmers."

PACKAGING

Large black velvet pouch secured with an elastic band.

When you unfold the pouch, there's a little pocket on the front for the included applicator brush. And, of course, a large pocket for the compact itself.

Leightweight, black lacquer compact with white Chanel logo. There's also a mirror on the underside of the top compact lid for touch-ups. Below: the size of the compact relative to my slightly smaller than average hand.

The product description label at the bottom of the compact. Below are close-ups of the natural, haired angled applicator brush. The brush is flat and thin so it fits precisely in the areas you would apply the highlighter including the top of the cheeks, on the brow bone, and on the nose bridge.

Below are more photographs of the beautiful feather motif embossed on the powder itself.

SIZE

8 g / 0.28 oz.

SWATCHES

For reference, I have medium, olive (~NC30) skin tone. All photographs were taken indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe (unless stated otherwise).

Below is the highlighter swatched lightly and blended out. It's photographed in low light without a strobe to capture the iridescence.

COMPARISON SWATCHES

Below are a a couple of highlighters and the only white gold shimmery eye shadow pigment I own I compared with. I was really keen to include the only white with silver highlighter I have but it is in the liquid form. It is the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Pearl, but unfortunately, I have misplaced it since my move a year ago! :( If you wish to see swatches of that, I have posted about it previously here.

1 // Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Moonstone - slight yellow undertone.

2 // Poudre Signée de Chanel Illuminating Powder (limited edition from Spring 2013) - slight pink undertone.

3 // Becca Jewel Dust in Sebille (reviewed here and can still be purchased until sold out as it is being discontinued) - very shimmery white gold, so it's more yellow.

4 // Camélia De Plumes Highlighting Powder - definitely more white and silvery in comparison, is the most pigmented and has the strongest iridescent sheen of the lot.

Below: the same swatches photographed in low light (without a strobe) to capture the iridescence.

OVERALL

Initially, I thought this cool, silvery white highlighter would look too harsh and contrasting against my medium olive skin. However, after trying it in store, I was surprised to find it actually can be sheered out and look beautiful. So long as I don't apply too much, it works really well and the soft, blendable texture makes it apply and meld easily with the skin. I do like wearing it on the inner corners of the eyes, too - provided once again that I am light-handed and blend it out well. It is a must for fair, cool skin tones. For every day wear, I still prefer my long-time go-to highlighter powder in Poudre Signée de Chanel Illuminating Powder as it's softer and doesn't have the more visible iridescence that Camélia De Plumes Highlighting Powder has. I am more likely to wear the latter for evenings out. Overall, Chanel highlighter addicts like myself will once again find Camélia De Plumes Highlighting Powder hard to resist. Otherwise, I wouldn't say it is a must-have unless you have fair, cool-toned skin and prefer a little more oomph in your highlighter. Aka, a little bit of sparkle without being glittery or over the top. I would not recommend it for those with deeper skin tones.

AVAILABILITY

Limited edition and available now at Chanel Makeup Studio (Myer Sydney City), Chanel beauty counters and Chanel beauty boutiques around Australia.

Hope this was helpful.

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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PACKAGING

COLOUR, PIGMENTATION & FINISH

Caresse is a soft coral or apricot. I highly recommend trying this on the cheeks to see the real effect against your skin tone. When swatched it appears extremely light with a pastel lean or white undertone leading one to believe it may be too light. However, when I tried it on my medium, olive (~NC30) skin tone, it showed up very well and there was no visible white undertone to it. It's buildable and pretty much impossible to overdo, which is what I appreciate about Chanel powder blushes apart from how beautiful the shades are.

The finish of Caresse is consistent with other European baked powder blushes which have micro-shimmers in them and leave subtle, pretty sparkles on the cheeks. Don't worry you won't come out looking like a disco ball. It's only a tiny sparkle here and there and really only noticeable up close.

Below: the blush shot in low light (no strobe) to capture the micro-shimmers.

TEXTURE & APPLICATION

The texture of this blush that I purchased here in Australia has the dryer, harder texture with lots of shimmers consistent with Chanel's European baked powder blush formula. This formula makes it hard to overdo blush application, because it's harder to pick up too much product at a time, so it's great for newbies, or those like me who want quick makeup application on the go without worrying about leaving the house looking like a clown. Even though the texture seems dry, it actually blends really easily onto the skin. The thicker, natural-haired, coarser brush applicator provided is perfect with baked formulas as it can pick up more product as you swirl it into the pan.

LONGEVITY

Like most Chanel powder blushes (true for most other brands, too), I found this one to last me only a few hours before I feel the need to touch up. So, that's the only downside I experience with these blushes.

SWATCH

As you can see in the swatch below, Caresse looks almost too light for my medium, olive skin tone. However, trust me - it is beautiful and appears darker even and with no noticeable white undertone on the cheeks! :) (Note all swatches were photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe - unless stated otherwise).

COMPARISON SWATCHES

Below are comparison swatches to a few other peach or orange hued powder blushes in my collection - including:

// Chanel Joues Contraste in Espiègle - an old peach blush favourite, which is actually even paler than Caresse yet for some reason I can still pull it off on my skin tone! Espiègle also has a little less sparkle than Caresse.

// Chanel Joues Contraste in Frivole - obviously so much darker, brighter and almost matte with the subtlest shimmers.

// Mac Powder Blush in Ripe for Love - again much darker, redder and has a satin finish.

Below are the swatches again, but shot in low light without a strobe in order to depict the shimmers.

SIZE

4 g / 0.14 oz (compared to 6 g / 0.21 oz in U.S. pressed powder formulas)

SCENT

Like all Joues Contraste / powder blushes, it has that signature, rose-type scent, which isn't noticeable to me once applied on the cheeks.

RECENT MAKEUP SELECTIONS USING CARESSE

I've recently been loving paring Caresse with a bright, orange red lipstick like the Nars Audacious in 'Lana'. It also goes extremely well with the sparkly, sheer peach Chanel Illusion D’ombre Eyeshadow in 'Envol' (also from the same holiday collection. Full review to follow) and the finishing touch of a winged eye liner using Le Metier de Beaute's Precision Liquid Eyeliner in Noir. The rest of the products featured includes a mix of old favourites and new products:

// By Terry Cover Expert Foundation

// Institut Esthederm Photo Reverse Sun Protection Fluid

// Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder in No. 30

// Mecca Cosmetica To Save Eyes SPF30

// Chanel Contour Brush

// Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Powder in Candlelight

// Suqqu Liquid Brow Pen in Moss Green

VERDICT

Caresse was a pleasant surprise in this collection. I would not have purchased it on a swatch alone. Beautiful, understated, soft blush for fair to medium skin tones. I highly recommend Caresse if you love Chanel powder blushes, a little sparkle and appreciate their baked formulas!

AVAILABILITY

Available now in Australia. Limited edition.

Hope this was helpful. :)

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

Did/will you pick this blush up?

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"This intensely shimmering long-wear eyeshadow offers true versatility. An innovative gel texture that is both soft and cushiony allows it to be worn as eyeshadow or eyeliner. Includes a specially designed shadow/liner brush, developed specifically for this unique formula."

Envol is a very pretty, shimmering pale peach. It's definitely one of the more sparkly ones that Chanel has released in the Illusion D'Ombre range. Apply a single, thin layer to achieve a light, shimmering wash of colour on the eye lids or as a sparkling "top coat" or highlight over a more intense shade. Apply more layers for more intense colour and a more metallic/frosty finish. You could also apply it as a shimmering eye liner on top of a deeper eye liner for a subtle, yet unique effect.

TEXTURE

Although it's very shimmery - it's not glittery and it does feel ultra smooth.

APPLICATION

The most convenient way to apply is using clean finger tips and this works well enough for sheer application. However, the brush provided is actually the easiest and quickest to apply if you want more pigmentation. The brush is made perfectly for applying this uniquely textured product and also perfect for applying it as eye liner.

LONGEVITY

Excellent lasting power as it's name suggests. The product stayed on from 9am til midnight on me! I didn't really notice any colour loss during the day either, which was brilliant.

PACKAGING

Weighty glass pot packaging with typical Chanel black lacquer plastic screw on lid. Label of product description and colour on bottom. This type of packaging makes it a bit inconvenient to travel with, but nonetheless sits nicely on the dressing table. ;-)

SWATCHES

Swatches against my medium, olive skin tone (~NC30). Photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe.

Below: photographed in low light (without a strobe) to depict the micro-shimmers.

COMPARISON SWATCHES

I don't have a dupe for Envol in my collection, but below are comparison swatches of the much warmer, deeper Tom Ford Pink Haze and Chanel Abstraction, and Chanel's Émerveillé, which is a peach champagne. As you can see, Envol is the most shimmery of the lot.

Below: photographed in low light (without a strobe) to depict the micro-shimmers.

SIZE

4 g / 0.14 oz

AVAILABILITY

Available now in Australia as part of the Chanel Holiday 2014 collection, but it is a limited edition. (Click here to read more about the collection as well as my picks).

OVERALL

Another pleasant surprise from the Chanel Holiday 2014 collection. One look at the pot and it's a seemingly scary orange for the eyes, but when applied turns out to be more versatile, wearable, stunning, shimming peach. I know will be wearing this a lot as a sheer wash of colour and subtle sparkles for every day and as a top coat on the lids. It also pairs really well with the Chanel Joues Contraste Powder Blush in Caresse from the same collection (or other similar peach blush you might have). If you are a fan of Chanel Illusion D'Ombre then this is a must-have for you. I highly recommend this.

Hope this was helpful.

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

Will you be picking this up?

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So, a few weeks ago, I did a spot of shopping and picked up some non-makeup goodies. *Shock horror* hehe...

For the kitchen...

I picked up a couple of things from The Aromatherapy Co. - a New Zealand brand. Mr. and I happened to try a little bit of their Therapy Kitchen Hand Lotion in Lemongrass, Lime & Bergamot recently and loved the scent. We didn't think of it again, until that is, I spotted they were on sale (I want to say 25% off) at David Jones. ^_^ Of course, for some reason I picked up the Hand Wash and it's probably too late to exchange it now. Doh! I'll have to go back and get the lotion next time. It's much needed to keep my dry hands nourished straight after every wash. Whereas, I'm not entirely fussed about what hand wash liquid I use so long as it's not harsh and drying, and it smells alright. Nonetheless, I'm sure the Hand Wash in the same scent will pair with it nicely.

"The Aromatherapy Company’s Hand Wash is blended with the 100% pure and natural essential oils of Lemongrass, Lime & Bergamot and infused with honey to cleanse and rid your hands of unwanted cooking odour. Lemongrass is a natural deodorizer with antibacterial properties. The energizing pure essential oil of lime has a crisp aroma, which naturally cleanses. Bergamot is gentle and can restore your hands natural oils and leave them feeling soft and restored."

The other item I picked up was their Chef's Natural Candle - also in the same scent.

"The Aromatherapy Company’s Natural Chef’s Candle is a deodorizing natural plant wax candle made with the essential oil blend of Lemongrass, Lime & Bergamot to create a neutralizing and refreshing scent. This zesty, energizing fragrance will naturally eliminate and rid the air of unwanted cooking odours. Lemongrass is naturally deodorizing to cleanse your environment. The essential oil of lime is crisp, revitalizing and exhilarating. Bergamot has sharp citrus undertones; it is a sweet layered aroma that will enlighten your senses."

I also love their minimalist packaging - very much like Aesop's, but half the price.

For the bath...

...Or shower to be exact, I picked up my first product from the Swiss brand - Weleda. I've been after something fresh, light and tangy to help wake me up in the morning and this sounded like it might do the trick. This review by A Model Recommends helped, too. Ruth's recommendations are usually spot on.

Make your showering ritual a spa experience with Weleda’s new cleansing, nourishing and aroma therapeutic Body Washes.

Formulated with the gentlest cleansing agents derived from fermented coconut and sugar, all of our Body Washes are free of drying, synthetic emulsifiers and detergents.

Light, gently moisturising plant oils from organic sesame seeds and sweet almonds, organic and Biodynamic® plant extracts and natural essential oils blend to create the most luxurious body washes for everyday use.

For the home...

I spotted this rich looking beauty, sniffed it and sniffed it some more. Next thing I knew, I'd purchased it and took it home with me. It's the triple-scented candle by Glasshouse Fragrance in Le Cabaret - Violet & Patchouli.

Fragrance Description:

TOP: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Apple.

MIDDLE: Violet, Black Pepper, Lily of the Valley.

BASE: Cedarwood, Tonka Bean, Amber, Patchouli.

Fragrance Family:Oriental

It's a limited edition and appears to be sold out on their website, but Adore Beauty currently still have them. Otherwise, check your local stockists (such as boutique chemists and David Jones where I found mine).

For Halloween...

Again, from Glasshouse Fragrances! They're doin' alright, aren't they. I just had to get their limited editionHalloween Pumpkin Pie Candle.

Again, this one unfortunately has sold out on their website. I didn't find this at David Jones for some reason, so I'm not sure if they didn't have them at all, or they had sold out there, too. However, I did find it at my local boutique chemist.

Fragrance Description:

TOP: Coconut, Orange, Pumpkin.

MIDDLE: Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Maple.

BASE: Caramelised Sugar, Musk, Vanilla.

Fragrance Family: Gourmand

Here's some happy snaps of the box - I love it!

The candle also includes glow in the dark box and stickers to create your own Glasshouse Fragrances Jack-O'-Lantern. Kewl. ^_^

Looking forward to burning this candle today! (Check out the stickers in action here. Makes such a cute and fun Jack-o'-lantern!)

Happy Halloween!

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EVIL PUMPKIN

GOOD PUMPKIN

This is the Glasshouse Fragrance Candle in Pumpkin Pie (mentioned in this previous post) Had fun with these stickers! ^_^

Did you know...I am on Instagram? Follow me if you dare!!! ;-) x

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I can't believe we're in the last month of spring down-under and summer is just around the corner. However, I've been meaning to do this post for some time and wanted to share my top eight products can't believe we're in the last month of spring down-under and summer is just around the corner. However, I've been meaning to do this post for some time and wanted to share my top eight skin care products I enjoyed and used regularly throughout the entire autumn and winter this year. Here they are in no particular order...

// GlamGlow ThirstyMud Hydrating Treatment Mask //

I have tried a couple of other GlamGlow masks including the SuperMud Clearing Treatment and the Youthmud Tinglexfoliate, but I must say the ThirstyMud is really the only one that has made any significant (or even noticeable) difference to my skin. So you can imagine my increased scepticism for the ThirstyMud when it was released with rave reviews. However...do *not* disregard this one, because I was pleasantly surprised! This is amazing for getting rid of any flakiness in your skin. My skin definitely feels plumper after I use it and moist to the touch as if I've got naturally hydrated, youthful skin. It kind of what my skin feels like when I'm in the middle of the tropics and my skin is absorbing all that humidity in the air and just feels incredibly soft, smooth, supple and moist, but not greasy or oily looking. Smells like yummy coconut, too. You only need to use a little for a thin layer on your skin, so the tub will last you a while. You can leave this on for at least 10 minutes for a quick, instant hydration and getting rid of any flaky skin prior to makeup application, as a leave-on face mask overnight, or if you want to look positively glowing when you hop off a plane. A definite must-have for dry skin beauties out there.

// Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask //

I enjoy using this on special occasions as a really luxurious treat, or if I just want to really indulge and pamper myself over a glass of champagne after a hot bath (and a really long, hard week!). ;-) It has that lovely, botanical scent - a deep, dark rose fragrance. This is pure luxe. I wouldn't say it's a must-have though as I do find the GlamGlow one is more effective in terms of really hydrating and plumping up my skin. So if you're after a more affordable, more effective alternative definitely try GlamGlow's ThirstyMud.

// Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil //

I'm a little late to the party, seeing as this is my first try of rosehip oil. I decided to try it after reading so many positives about this oil and the one from Trilogy in particular. It's affordable and easily accessible at your local chemist. I had tried a sample of the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate before, and while I liked its lightweight and easily-absorbed oil texture, I didn't feel it did anything for my skin. Trilogy's Rosehip Oil on the other hand, instantly brightens my complexion and after applying in the evening and waking up in the morning, my skin is still noticeably brighter. The oil has has a thicker consistency and it does need the warmth of your hands and a good, long massage for it to sink well into the skin. But it is worth the effort. I also find that it helps to reduce or fade any existing scars or pigmentation on my skin - so a more even skin tone after I've been using it regularly for at least 3-4 weeks. Thumbs up.

// Sisley Hydra-Global Intense Anti-Aging Hydration //

There's not much to say about this one, except that it simply is a lovely moisturiser for daily use and underneath makeup. It has a little bit more richness to it without being too thick. Again, I love the botanical scent of it. I only need a couple of pumps (each pump dispenses a pea sized amount) for my face and neck, but I do think the price is a little too steep for daily moisturisation though. I got this when it was on sale and came in a Hydration Kit value-pack together with the Sisley Express Flower Gel from cosme-de.com.

// Sisley Nutritive Lip Balm //

I've had quite a few chapped, dry lips during the winter season, especially since moving to a much colder location. This beauty always does the job in healing them within 1-2 days. It is the most expensive lip balm I've tried, but I'd say it's the most effective of the lot, and I mostly use it as required as an overnight lip treatment. My lips always feel soft, smooth and supple the next morning. So, I think it's worth the splurge. Love it.

// Jurlique Rose Hand Cream //

An old favourite for years. Though I do feel like it has changed a bit since it was originally released. I do prefer the original as it did heal any cuticle tears (which I often get) pretty much over night. The new formula seems to not heal them as well, but none the less, it still hydrates my hands very well and doesn't feel greasy or sticky afterwards. Mostly though, I am addicted to its scent. It is like a delicious Turkish Delight from Haighs. Yum! I can't help but keep sniffing my hands afterwards like a weirdo.

// Antipodes Hosanna H2O Intensive Skin-Plumping Serum //

This thing is empty now, so I'll need to repurchase. It's addictive. It just easily absorbs into the skin and most of the time all I need to do is gently pat the serum onto my skin and that's it. My skin just soaks it up and loves it. It definitely feels a little more plumped.

// This Works In Transit Skin Defence //

Another empty bottle. :) I bought this last summer and at that time I had combination skin. It didn't suit me then, but found it works perfectly during the colder months when my skin turns dry. I highly recommend this sun protection if you have normal to dry skin and/or live in cold, dry climates. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps keep your skin feeling moisturised throughout the day while protecting your skin from the sun. A great 2-in-1 product.

Hope this was helpful.

Thanks for visiting! ^_^ xo

What are your winter skin saviours? Do share in a comment below. :)

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One of my favourite beauty brands, Burberry have just released their Gold Collection for holiday 2014. ^_^

I picked up a couple of items:

// Gold Glow Fragranced Luminising Powder in Gold No. 01 (Limited edition) - scented with notes of the brand's new My Burberry fragrance;

and

// Complete Eye Palette in Gold No. 25 (Limited edition)
[Note, the Burberry site has incorrectly listed the Gold palette as No. 02. No. 02 is actually the 'Mocha' palette which is not the same as the 'Gold' #25 palette. The palette and packaging for this Gold palette have it labeled correctly as No. 25]

Note, the Australian Burberry website currently have two other products in the collection - also in the gold packaging and are limited edition:

// Nail Polish in Gold No. 447, and

// Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance No. 01.

Makeup4All also lists other products here, so not sure which products will be made available in specific countries.

I will share some more photos, swatches and my thoughts on my two picks soon! ;-)

Meanwhile, I hope you're having a great week!

Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

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The Burberry Complete Eye Palette in Gold (No. 25) is a new, limited edition eye shadow palette released as part of Burberry's Gold Collection for Holiday 2014. Everything in this collection is encased in the festive gold packaging instead of their usual, gunmetal finish. It's a mix of new limited editions and re-promoted lip and nail products in 'Oxblood', but all in the gold packaging. For a sneak peek of my other pick from this fabulous collection, or information about other items in the collection - see my previous post.

"WINTER GLOW
Inspired by the soft light of winter, the festive make-up collection features glowing, luminescent skin with seasonal hues of oxblood and gold."

PACKAGING

The palette and brushes are housed in this black velvet folding pouch with the Burberry check on it.

Unfold the pouch and you will find a large pocket for the eye palette compact and three little pockets for the applicator brushes. The inside has a plastic lining so you can easily clean it up with a damp cloth.

As you can see below, the compact itself is in the limited edition, very festive, gold packaging - even the outer box packaging does too. :) The compact lid is covered in the iconic Burberry check as usual and underneath the lid is a handy mirror.

Below: the product description label on the bottom of the compact.

The product comes with three mini applicator brushes: a natural-hair blending brush, a sponge tip for dabbing on the eye shadows, and a synthetic eye liner brush. These are significantly longer than the usual applicators that are provided in other brands' compacts (e.g., about the Chanel eye shadow quads' applicators are about two thirds the size in comparison). All are decent quality and very usable whenever you're on-the-go.

SHADES

I'd say the palette contains a mix of cool, light shades and neutral to warm (but not overly warm) colours, so it would suit a lot of skin tones.

Left to right:
// Neutral to warm dark brown with a satin/sheen finish

// Medium, neutral to warm, gold with slight metallic/frosty finish. The "star" or standout shade in the palette that gives it that festive vibe. Love this shade! I think I would definitely even wear this on its own. :)

// Light to medium, cool-toned olive-toned beige with a shimmery/frosty finish. This one is quite an interesting and unique shade to me. Its olive undertone gives this base colour a certain 'je ne sais quoi' to your eye look. As this shade is quite light and frosty, it does look quite harsh against my medium to tan, olive skin tone so I wouldn't wear it on its own. However, it's perfect for layering with the other shades in this palette. The look is softened and a peek of it here and there is just so beautiful and 'very Burberry'.

// Cool-toned, beige, shimmery/frosty highlighter.

PIGMENTATION, TEXTURE & APPLICATION

Consistent with the rest of the Burberry eye shadows, all shades in this palette were beautifully pigmented and buttery soft in texture. I find it works really well with a clean finger tip to give more colour to the lids and prevent any fall-out. I did experience a bit of fall-out when using a natural-haired brush unless you press the pigment onto the brush by pressing it between your fingers prior to application. Then blend out the edges with a clean fluffy brush.

LONGEVITY

Brilliant. I found the eye shadows lasted 12 hours on my normal (neither oily or dry) eye lids without a primer and with barely any fading.

SWATCHES

Below are swatches applied on my current medium to tanned, olive skin tone (photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe).

Below: in low light (shot without a strobe) to capture the shimmers and sheen.

COMPARISON SWATCHES

Below are some comparison swatches to the Gold palette. After much searching around my stash looking for anything similar to the colours in the palette, I'm pleased to say I didn't find shades that I would really consider a dupe even though the shades are quite neutral. I would say the most unique of the shades in the palette appears to be the slightly olive-toned beige (third shade from the left).

The four shades from the left of Chanel's Charming Palette are kinda similar (especially the gold and dark brown), but varies a bit in depth, finish and notably, doesn't have the olive undertone that Burberry Gold has in one of its shades. The middle shade in Chanel's Charming Palette is the closest match I have to Burberry Gold's gold shade, but the latter is a shade lighter.

SIZE

5.4 g / 0.19 oz

Made in Italy

OVERALL

Gold (No. 25) is undoubtedly a must-have from all the recent holiday makeup releases. More so for Burberry beauty fans like me. The texture, pigmentation and wear time are excellent. All the colours work beautifully together and immediately gives that 'Burberry-esque' vibe - subtle, subdued, understated earthy colours that help to enhance your natural features effortlessly. The olive-toned beige eye shadow adds interest and uniqueness to the overall look. The gold eye shadow is stunning and the frosty finishes make the colours a little more special for the holiday season, and at the same time make them perfect for the autumn/winter as they really help to lift the colours under cloudy or gloomy lighting. I adore the limited edition gold packaging, too - ideal for gifting to a special someone...or yourself. ;)

Hope this was useful. :)

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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The Gold Glow Fragranced Luminising Powder in Gold No. 01 is a new, limited edition product released as part of Burberry's Gold Collection for Holiday 2014. Everything in this collection is encased in the festive gold packaging instead of their usual, gunmetal finish. It's a mix of new limited editions and re-promoted lip and nail products in 'Oxblood', but all in the gold packaging. For a full review of my other pick from this fabulous collection - the Complete Eye Palette in Gold (No. 25) - click here. For information about other items in the collection click here.

"WINTER GLOW

Inspired by the soft light of winter, the festive make-up collection features glowing, luminescent skin with seasonal hues of oxblood and gold."

PACKAGING

The palette and brush are housed in this black velvet pouch with the Burberry check on it.

Below: the product description label on the bottom of the compact.

The powder comes with a really good, flat brush with natural bristles. It's very dense and soft. While the thin shape would work great for precise application, I feel it's a bit too dense and picks up far too much product. I will still however, keep this brush for contouring or blending out products on the face.

Below the brush tip.

Below: the luminising powder itself which is embossed with the My Burberry fragrance logo on it.

COLOUR & INTENSITY

Despite the name, Gold is not entirely gold. It's a unique greige (grey-beige) highlighter with gold iridescence. When applied, it gives the skin a close to white illumination as if the light is being shone on your skin so it does look natural, but by no means is it a subtle highlighter due to the gold shimmers it also has. The shimmers can only be seen up close and at certain angles. So, this highlighter is not as refined as the Chanel highlighters or the Burberry Fresh Glow Powder in Nude Radiance (No. 01). The latter for instance offers luminescence without shimmers so it can be used not just on the high points of the face, but with a big, fluffy (not so dense) brush and applied all over the face very lightly as a finishing glowing touch. Gold, on the other hand, is best used on specific high points of the face only. It is versatile such that you can apply it very light-handedly for day-wear or build it up for the evening or a special festive occasion.

TEXTURE & APPLICATION

The texture is fine and smooth, but I found it a bit dry and hard to be used with a clean finger which I often do with highlighters (and a lot of other products actually - cream or powder!). It's best used with a highlighting brush, small tapered brush or a fluffy eye blending brush for precise application in the high points of the face. I find the Rae Morris Deluxe Pro Blender (#6) brush is perfect for this highlighter. As mentioned, I don't recommend you use the dense brush provided as it will apply too heavily. With the right tools, the powder is very easy to apply and blend.

SWATCHES

Below are swatches applied on my current medium to tanned, olive skin tone (photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe).

Below: photographed without a strobe.

Below: in low light (shot without a strobe) to capture the shimmers and sheen.

COMPARISON SWATCHES

Below: photographed in low light (without a strobe) to capture any iridescence/shimmer.

FRAGRANCE

This powder is specially scented with notes of the brand's new My Burberry fragrance.

"Inspired by the trench coat and its heritage of British design and craftsmanship, My Burberry captures the fragrance of a London garden after the rain. The scent is a contemporary British grand floral and features a delicate heart of rose woven with an unexpected touch of geranium leaf.
Notes: Sweet Pea, Bergamot, Geranium, Golden Quince, Freesia, Patchouli, Rain-Tipped Damask and Centifolia Roses.

Style: Effortless. Personal. Timeless."

I'm not too fussed about the fragrance - it's nice, but not one I would personally buy a bottle of for myself. It's a complete unnecessary indulgence for a highlighter. After all, I can't really enjoy the scent at all if it's applied sparingly on my face. I feel like it probably would have made more sense to integrate the scent with a face powder where you can experience the fragrance more. A lot of luxury brands like Guerlain do tend to have fragrances in their makeup products so it's not new. Still...while it's a way for Burberry to market their new fragrance, it does make the palette that extra bit special. ;)

SIZE

You get a lot of product at 10 g / 0.35 oz. Chanel's highlighter for holiday 2014 (reviewed here) by comparison has 8 g / 0.28 oz.

Made in Italy.

OVERALL

If you love the new My Burberry scent and a fan of highlighters then this is a must for you! If you prefer strong highlighters with a bit of sparkle/shimmer - you'll love this. Personally, I am a bit of a highlighter addict, so I couldn't resist this beauty especially since its unique in my collection, and I love that I can still wear it for every day or amp its intensity up for night. Burberry have done well to promote their new fragrance at the same time in such a pretty gold packaging and in time for Christmas. I think it would make a fantastic gift paired with the My Burberry fragrance for a special someone.

Hope this was useful. :)

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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"EXCLUSIVE TO NET-A-PORTER.COM. We have selected 14 of our favorite must-have skincare, makeup and hair products for this limited edition holiday kit. This luxurious set makes the perfect gift for beauty enthusiasts or the friend who has everything. Quantities are limited."

A while ago, I purchased and absolutely enjoyed one of Net-a-porter's Beauty Boxes, which contained so many beautiful, luxurious beauty products (a mix of full-sizes and travel sizes) and was such an amazing value (see unboxing post here). It's such a fantastic way to try products without investing in only full-sizes. It's also great for 'research purposes', being a beauty blogger. ;-) So, when their new 'The Holiday Kit' box was released, I just had to snatch it up as a gift for myself. ^_^ So here's an unboxing post with LOTS of pictures(!) and my first impressions of a few of the products I've tried and some swatches - in case you thought of getting one for yourself or a loved one.

It's packaged in the beautiful Net-a-porter black box with a gorgeous ribbon as usual. ^_^ When opened, most of the products (except for the very big bottle) are packaged neatly, safely and securely in little bubble-wrap bags.

Below is The Holiday Kit brochure that describes all of the products in the box.

Here they all are! Note, I had to transfer them into a smaller box in this shot so they all sit better. ;-)

All the items in their boxes...

Below are the list of products and descriptions taken from Net-a-porter.com:

// Tata Harper's Rejuvenating Serum is enriched with 29 active ingredients to combat wrinkles, improve elasticity and minimize pores (15ml/ 0.5oz.)

// Gently dissolve makeup with Erno Laszlo's soothing Phelityl Pre-Cleansing Oil, following with the cult-favorite Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar to remove impurities, blackheads and dead cells (15ml/ 0.5oz.)

// Plump and protect skin from premature aging gently yet effectively with Verso's Retinol 8-infused Day Cream (15ml/ 0.51oz.)

// Streamline your beauty regimen with Susanne Kaufmann's multi-tasking Shower/ Shampoo treatment (50ml/ 1.7oz.) This is four products in one - body cleanser, skin nourishment, shampoo and conditioner! I was very intrigued, but I was a bit skeptical of how well this would work for all four purposes, but I tried it today and my first impression is pretty good. :) It has a subtle, fresh and pleasant scent and feels very moisturising on the skin. It seemed to clean my hair really well, while keeping it feeling smooth at the same time like a conditioner would. I really like the idea of just having a single bottle in the shower and streamlining my beauty regime.

// Get bombshell volume, lightweight moisture and intense shine with SHOW Beauty's Divine Thickening Lotion (150ml/ 5.1oz.) This is the full-sized bottle - normally at AU$77.24! The gorgeous rose-gold metal bottle alone is divine!

// A spritz of This Works Sleep Plus Pillow Spray before bed is the secret to a full, relaxing night of beauty sleep (5ml/ 0.17oz.) Looking forward to trying this 'plus' version as I'm never without the original. I absolutely love that one.

// Renouve's No.1 collagen-boosting Anti-Aging Everyday Defense Hand-Sanitizer eliminates germs without drying out skin (30ml/ 1oz.) Full-size retailing for AU$32.

// Moisturize and brighten skin with De Mamiel's Rosehip and Coconut-enriched Salvation Body Oil (30ml/ 1oz.)

// Keep brows perfectly groomed while nourishing them with B the Eyebrow Experts' Clear Brow Gel (5ml/ 0.17oz.) This is the full-size - normally retailing for AU$32.14.

// Infused with Shea Butter and Honey, Malin & Goetz's oil-free Vitamin b5 Body Moisturizer provides dry skin with intense, long-lasting hydration (29ml/ 1oz.)

// Combat the winter chill, reduce redness and lock in moisture with Earth Tu Face's Face Balm (25ml/ 0.9oz.) Full-size and normally priced at AU$83.45!

// A sheer, universally flattering red, Ilia's nourishing Bang Bang Tint Lip Conditioner can be built up for a more intense color (3.5 g/ 0.12oz.) This is the full-size and normal RRP is AU$30.

// Chantecaille's Liquid Lumiere Anti-Aging Face illuminator in Sheen contains a powerful botanical blend to instantly smooth out imperfections and even out skin tone while boosting collagen over time (23ml/ 0.8oz.) I believe this is the full size and normally it's priced at AU$52 at Mecca Cosmetica for instance (this product does not seem to be sold individually at Net-a-porter for some reason).

[Note, all the ingredients for each product are also provided on the Net-a-porter website].

Let's take a look at the products without their individual packaging...

Up close...

I'm amazed at how beautiful this bottle is!!! *_* Oh my.

The Ilia Lip Conditioner in Bang Bang up close...the colour looks intense in the tube.

However, when swatched, it's more like a tinted lip balm...

Here's what it looks like on my blue-toned, pigmented lips and against my medium to tan, olive skin tone. For my first impression...I really like this! It shows up better on my lips than when swatched and the colour pay-off is much better than I thought for a lip tint. It has a delicious scent and it feels nourishing.

Chantecaille's Liquid Lumiere Anti-Aging Face illuminator in Sheen

It has a gel to fluid texture...

I dispensed quite a lot above, so below is how the heavy application looks like when blended out (not quite completely).

Below is the smallest amount of the product blended out. This is probably closer to how much I would apply for normal application (aka, a bit more subtly). ;-)

I have yet to try this on my face, so hopefully I will enjoy using this.

The box is AU$106.90, so the savings is huge given there are quite a few full-sized products included!

Can't wait to try everything in this box! :D If you're thinking of getting it, be quick as numbers are limited. >_< Shipping is super-fast, too (2-3 days to Australia)!

Hope this was helpful.

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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// Omorovicza Introductory Set: I've always wanted to try this much raved about luxury skin care brand, so I was stoked to find this introductory set. As soon as I opened the box, it already smelled incredible! The set contains their Cleansing Foam (30 ml), Queen of Hungary Mist (30 ml), Illuminating Moisturiser (20 ml), Thermal Cleansing Balm (50 ml) and Deep Cleansing Mask (50 ml). Judging from the scent alone, I have a feeling I'm gonna love this...*fingers crossed* ^_^

// Suqqu Eyeshadow Brush M: The Suqqu Eyeshadow Brush in L is one of my staple brushes for the eyes, but this M brush is hard to find and goes out of stock quickly. So, I'm pleased to have finally added this new addition to my little Suqqu brush collection (to see a comparative review of three of my other Suqqu brushes click here). It's superbly soft as expected. It's a small domed brush that's perfect for depositing colour in small areas and blending out the edges. I'm sure I will get a lot of use out of it.

// Pretty Honest by Sali Hughes: Can't wait to get my eyeballs into this book. Ruth Crilly from A Model Recommends raves about it here.

// Laura Mercier Lip Transformer Trio in Pink Spark: a cute little set of latest colour-coordinated trio of lip essentials. Being a sucker for pink makeup, I couldn't resist this set which is perfect for everyday. I contains a mini Lip Pencil in Potpourri, a mini Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Creme Coral, and a full size Lip Glacé in Pink Spark (limited edition).

// Laura Mercier Metallic Crème Eye Colour in Alloy: another one has been on my wish list for a while! It was hard to pick a shade, but I finally settled for Alloy, which is a shimmery taupe. If you have any colour recommendations in this range, I would love to hear them. :)

// Mac Mineralize Blush in Sweet Sentiment: If there's one thing I like about Mac, it's their blushes. So, I just had to go on the wait list for this limited edition blush from the Heirloom Mix holiday collection to make sure I didn't miss out. This blush had me at "lilac/lavender vibe" described by Christine at Temptalia. *sigh*

// Benefit Majorette Booster Blush: Who doesn't love a peachy-pink blush! This swatched very smoothly - a cream to velvety powder at the store, which I really like. :) To see it in action and in all its glory - see Ruth's video. It would seem Ruth is making me poor... ;-)

// Last but not least, is finding the convenient pump version (yay!) of one of my favourite/staple makeup-removers Bioderma at Priceline this weekend! This one is in 500 ml and is the Sébium H2O formula that is targeted for combination or oily skin. So, hopefully it'll suit me now that my skin is changing from dry to combination as the weather warms up. I hope the Sensibio (previously Créaline) formula (reviewed here) which is suitable for all skin types, will also be available in the pump at Priceline, too, but I haven't seen it yet.

A few of these goodies arrived today, which brightens any Monday! :D Now, hurry up Friday!!! >_<

Have you tried any of these beauties? If so, let me know your thoughts. x

Thanks for looking! ^_^ xo

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"A lust-worthy collection of Hourglass' award-winning Ambient Lighting Blushes, this palette features a spectrum of breathtakingly modern hues combined with the customised lighting effects of Ambient Lighting Powder. The result is a natural radiant finish with seamless, soft-focus and buildable colour, reinventing the way you view blush forever."

PACKAGING

Below: the gold outer box packaging.

The palette is in Hourglass' signature rose-gold packaging with the sleek, reflective finish. Below, the size of the palette with respect to my smaller than average hand.

The palette is conveniently fairly lightweight, so a great one to travel with. Underneath the lid is a handy, large mirror.

Below, the palette beside the individual Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush compact for size comparison.

There's a product description label on the bottom of the palette as well with the names of each blush, etc.

SHADES

The palette contains three ambient lighting blushes. One of which (the middle shade) is exclusive to this palette. The other two can be purchased individually in full sizes as part of the permanent range. The colours, texture (super fine, smooth and silky so it blends with ease) and finish (from satin to luminous) are simply beautiful and you can pick and choose or mix the blushes together to create a custom shade. I'd say it's versatile and complete with its choice of pink, peach and neutral. All the shades have decent pigmentation and you can very easily amp up the intensity with just another layer or two.

Here they are up close...

Luminous Flush
"A champagne rose blush fused with Luminous Light to evoke a candlelit glimmer day or night".

Incandescent Electra
"A cool peach blush blended with Incandescent Light for a celestial glow". This is the only shade that is exclusive to this blush palette.

Mood Exposure
"A soft plum blush fused with Mood Light to brighten the complexion".

SWATCHES

Below are swatches of the blush palette on my medium to tan, olive skin. Photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe.

COMPARISON SWATCHES

Below are the closest shades I could find to each of the Hourglass blushes. In person, they're not an exact match, but very close.

Chanel Joues Contraste in Jersey is slightly darker and more brown than Hourglass Mood Exposure. The latter is more mauve.

Chanel Joues Contraste in Espiègle is more peachy/orange and has more shimmers than Hourglass Incandescent Electra. The latter has more of a pinkish hue.

Chanel Joues Contraste in Rose Initiale is a little darker, more pink and cooler-toned than Hourglass Luminous Flush. The latter has more subtle shimmers to it as well.

LONGEVITY

I found the blush to last all day on my current normal to combination skin condition.

SIZE

Each blush in the palette contains 3.3 g / 0.116 oz of product compared to 4.2 g / 0.15 oz in the full sized blush.

INGREDIENTS

BOTTOM LINE

Rarely do I purchase a back up of anything, but I must say, this is definitely backup worthy. I love it so much I purchased another one as a gift. I feel my loved ones *must* have it, too! ^_^ Spread the joy it gives I say! ;-)

AVAILABILITY
Limited edition. Available now at Mecca in Australia and Net-A-Porter.

Hope this was helpful. :)

Thanks for stopping by! ^_^ xo

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Coming soon on the blog is this new eye shadow quad from Chanel - Rêve D'orient. It was created exclusively for the Chanel Cruise 2015 runway in Dubai. The eye shadows are beautifully embellished with stars. *_*

Below are a couple of images of the gorgeous makeup by Tom Pecheux courtesy of Chanel. The look is "inspired by the kohl-lined eyes traditionally worn by women in the United Arab Emirates". Check out this UK Vogue article for more deets on the makeup look.

I will post my thoughts and swatches on this eye shadow quad soon! ;-)

Meanwhile, I hope you've had a great week! TGIF! ^_^ x

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Chanel Rêve D'Orient is a new, limited edition eye shadow quad. It was created exclusively for the Chanel Cruise 2015 runway in Dubai (for a little more information and Chanel images of the makeup look created using this palette on the runway - click here). The eye shadows are beautifully embellished with stars. Here's a few happy snaps. ^_^

Packaging

As with all Chanel eye shadow quad palettes, they are housed in the black velvet pouch with the Chanel interlocked 'C's logo on it. The palette itself is the typical simple, sleek, lightweight, black lacquer compact with a mirror on the underside of the lid.

As usual, high-quality sponge applicators are provided (smooth, not too porous and won't fall apart easily). They're pretty decent for laying the product down on the lids, so handy for travel when you may not want to carry too many brushes or spend too much time cleaning the same brush when switching between colours. Each side of the sponge applicator can be used specifically for a shade every time.

Below is the product description label on the bottom of the compact.

Shades & Finishes

// Top left of the palette is a warm, medium to dark, plum-toned brown with a satin finish.

// Top right shade is a white, shimmering highlighter shade.

// Bottom left is a medium, cool gold with a shimmery finish (has the most shimmer in the palette).

// Bottom right is a matte black.

Pigmentation, Texture & Longevity
All the shades have decent colour pay-off that's appropriate for the type of finish the particular shade has and its purpose. As one would expect from Chanel, they all have very fine texture and apply smoothly. Although the black is a bit dry (but it is a matte after all), I am pleasantly surprised that it had good colour pay-off considering most of my matte black eye shadow I've tried before have been a little poor in that regard. I always like to test first by applying eye shadows using either the sponge applicator and/or a clean finger tip on my lids. These worked well using both techniques. I experienced no fall-out when applying or blending out edges with a fluffy blending brush. I found the eye shadows to be very long wearing (I didn't use a primer - just the thinest layer of foundation/concealer underneath to even out the skin tone) - I wore them for about twelve hours with only a bit of fading. For reference, my eye lids have normal skin condition (neither oily or dry). The only thing I did find was a little bit of creasing by the end of wear, which I don't normally experience!

Swatches

For reference, the swatches were applied on medium to tan, olive skin tone. Below are the swatches photographed indoors under artificial lighting and using a strobe.

Below, the swatches photographed in low lighting (without a strobe) to capture iridescence and sheen.

Comparison Swatches

Below, the comparisons swatches from left to right:

// Camélia De Plumes Highlighting Powder [reviewed here] (obviously not an eye shadow, but for reference, it was the closest shade I could find in my collection). The highlighter in comparison is obviously not as pigmented and is much finer in texture as it is intended to be highlighter rather than used for eye colour, but they are very similar in shade.

// Chanel Harmonie Du Soir Quadra Eye Shadow - the gold in the top left shade in that palette is similar to the gold in the Chanel Rêve D'Orient palette except the latter is brighter and a smidgen more yellow and has a subtle shimmer/frost finish.

// Burberry Complete Eye Palette in Gold (No. 25) [reviewed here] (the two bottom left eye shadows in the palette). The gold in Burberry's is more of a golden brown sheen. Burberry's brown shade is very similar, but just slightly cooler and darker. Chanel Rêve D'Orient's brown has a touch more red/plum in it and is a little lighter.

// Chanel Regard Signé de Chanel in Topkapi [reviewed here] (top left brown and bottom right gold shades in the palette). Topkapi's gold is very yellow and more sparkly, and its brown shade has a subtle metallic sheen and is cool in comparison to the Rêve D'Orient's, which has more red/plum undertones in it.

Ingredients

Size

2g / 0.07 oz.

Made in Italy.

My Current Favourite Lip & Cheek Pairings with Rêve D'Orient Eyes

To showcase the rather dramatic (F) Chanel Rêve D'Orient eyes, I like to balance the look with neutral cheeks using (E) Chanel Joues Contraste in Jersey #80 and nude lips, or a little bit of a plum-toned 'my lips but better' to brighten up my olive-toned complexion using (C) Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in L'Infidèle.

I have to mix a couple of shades to get the right "nude lip" look for me using (B) Burberry Lip Cover in Romantic Rose No. 24 and (A) Tom Ford Lip Color in Casablanca #03. And, line my blue-toned pigmented lips with my current favourite lip liner pencil - Charlotte Tilbury's Lip Cheat.

Note, I do like to apply a liquid eye liner for more definition as well (not pictured).

Brushes pictured are the (G) Hakuhodo G 5511 BkSL (perfect, tiny little brush for lining and highlighting inner corners of the eyes), and (H) The old/original Rae Morris #7 Deluxe Precision Shader.

Overall

I'm pleased I have this in my collection. I think this is a lovely eye shadow quad, but unless you are a Chanel makeup fanatic like me, I wouldn't say it is a must-have as you may have colours that are similar to the shades in the palette. My favourite shade is the plummy brown, which like wearing on its own on the lids for day and then I like to layer the other shades in the palette for the evening. The matte black is excellent as a soft eye liner (optionally intensified with a liquid/gel liner on top) and as a dramatic, evening look when applied all over the lids with just the gold highlighter in the inner corners and the bottom eye line ("hello? catwalk!" ;-) ).

Availability

Limited edition. Available now in Chanel Beauty Boutiques and soon at the Chanel Makeup Studio in Myer, Sydney City (I recommend calling them to find out exactly when). I purchased mine from boutique at Bondi Junction.

Hope this was helpful. :)

Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

Will you be getting this palette? Or if you have it already, what do you think of it? Do share in a comment below. ^_^

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Like many people, I find it hard to resist a good deal. So when Priceline are having there 40% off all cosmetics sale...I'm there! >_< Unlike the last few sales where I had some self-control, I went a bit nuts this time around. I guess it was only a matter of time! Hehe...

The sale is on for only two days only (yesterday and today), so be sure not to miss out if you're wanting anything makeup-wise.

Here's what I purchased (most of the items were influenced by rave reviews from lots of people, notably Essie Button and Amelia Liana):

// L'Oreal True Match Foundation

// Rimmel Provocalips 16 Hr Kiss Proof Lip Colour in I'll Call You (200), Kiss Fatal (230) and Kiss Me You Fool (500).

// Revlon ColorStay Moisture Stain in India Intrigue (001)

// Maybelline Super Stay Gel Nail Color in Forevermore Green (625)

// L'Oreal Color Riche Les Ombres Eye Shadow Palettes in Marron Glace (E4) and Beige Trench (E1)

// L'Oreal Color Riche L'Ombre Pure Single Eye Shadows in Die For Chocolate (302), Breaking Nude (106), Macaron Vanille (107), Cafe Saint Germain (201), Lumiere (502) and Macadam Princess (101)

All of these products I purchased are new to me, so I'm looking forward to trying them out! :)

Hope you're surviving the hump day! Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

What did/will you get from this sale? Also, if you have any thoughts about any of the products I purchased, do let me know in a comment below.

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One of my favourite fragrance brands from Stockholm, Sweden - Byredo have launched a new candle collection for the holiday season - The Amber Collection. (Note, they've also released the Mini Candle Collection containing mini sizes of the existing fragranced candles: Cotton Poplin, Bibliothèque, Fleur Fantôme, from which I picked up Bibliothèque - to be reviewed soon).

The Amber Collection candles are encapsulated in a new and unique shade of amber glass. The collection consists of three new and exclusive festive scents: Saffron, Ginger and Cardamom. They all smelled incredible - even without being lit yet at the store, but trying not to be too decadent, I had to choose one. There are so many wonderful candles released this year. I've probably tried and collected more than enough. :) It has been indeed, the year of the candle expedition for me. Needless to say, I am a convert! Anyway, I don't think I'd come across cardamom-scented candles before, and the hubby was also intrigued - so the decision was made.

ABOUT THE AMBER COLLECTION

"An elegant trio of fragrances designed to fill the home with the heavenly glow and comforting aroma of festive scents. Inspired by three of nature's finest seasonal spices, harvested and preserved in a unique shade of amber glass, childhood memories of sweet bakery treats and winters past will unfurl with the flicker of candlelight and the enveloping essence of these nostalgic fragrances."

PACKAGING

The box is beautifully wrapped in thick, sturdy translucent paper. The white packaging using varying textures and the labels with the black, edgy font - all looks very minimal and extremely modern. I love this. It's simple and doesn't conform to the usual, often louder festive packaging for the season. Though I guess white is reminiscent of white Christmas, too I suppose in other parts of the world. ;-)

One side of the wrapper is labelled with the brand, and the other side has the name of the fragranced candle. There are also candle care instructions on the side in very subtle, small white font. A little hard to read (aka impractical) being white on white, but stylish nonetheless!

Unwrapped, a sturdy box is revealed with the Byredo logo on top.

The candle is housed in a stylish amber-tinted glass, which is hand-blown, and wax is in beige.

THE FRAGRANCE

"This uniquely scented candle is designed to fill the home with the heavenly glow and comforting aroma of festive scents. The amber-based scent delivers a hint of cardamom whilst providing a warm ambiance."
Top: Cardamom, Black Pepper, Nutmeg.
Heart: Labdanum, leather accord, violet.
Base: Patchouli, Vanilla, Dark amber.

To me, Cardamom is indeed all those things described above - comforting and warming without being overpowering or heavy as a lot of Christmas or spicy candles can be. If like me, you are spending Christmas in hot, summer weather, this candle certainly won't be too much for you and you won't feel the need to save it for winter. Though I'm sure once you smell it, you won't want to anyway! ;) The scent is sweet, though not sickeningly sweet at all, and the presence of cardamom is really there - the earthy, smokey black cardamom as opposed to the sharper, fresher, minty scented green cardamom. Overall, there's just the perfect balance of sweetness, woodiness, earthiness, a slight smokiness and spice. I love and enjoy candles, but I'm far from being a candle/fragrance connoisseur, so I'm guessing the deeper fragrances of the leather and dark amber, and comforting vanilla tones it down back to cosy, warm central without having to make you wanna put your jumper on. ;) There's also a little bit of a powdery aroma, too from the vanilla and dark amber I suppose. I also find the spice fragrance of nutmeg a lovely, more subtle and nose-friendly alternative to cinnamon, which is commonly used for the holiday season.

Cardamome has an excellent throw even with just a single wick, and quickly emits fragrance. I'd say it's suitable to thoroughly enjoy its fragrance for an area of about 2-3 standard sized bedrooms. Provided you properly and consistently follow candle burning instructions, the candle wax also burns evenly, which is excellent (as not all candles do - even if you follow instructions!).

MORE HAPPY SNAPS

This is such a stylish candle...I couldn't help but take ~~too~~ many photos! >_< I really enjoyed it - such is the photography geek in me (not really) ;-) .

SIZE

240 g / 8.46 oz.

BURN TIME

60 Hours

BOTTOM LINE

Comforting, warming and delicious without being to overpowering and heavy making it perfect for any time of year. Definitely worth indulging yourself or a special someone with one. I am wishing Santa will drop a backup of it in my chimney this year. ;)

AVAILABILITY

Byredo, Neiman Marcus and for Aussies, at Mecca Cosmetica.

Hope this was useful! :)

Hope the week has been treating you well so far. Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

What is your favourite Byredo fragrance or fragranced candle? Which holiday candle will you be picking up? Do share, I want to hear all in a comment below. :)

DO NOT REPUBLISH CONTENT OR PHOTOS WITHOUT PERMISSION

Here's a sneak preview of a few of my latest picks from one of my favourite ultra luxury beauty brands - By Terry's new products - swatches and reviews to follow. From their autumn 2014 'Rose Infernale' collection, I picked up this stunning blush with rose clusters... *gasp* It's called the Terrybly Rose de Rose trio powder blush.

By Terry's latest new lip product range presents their own rendition of liquid or fluid lipsticks, called the Terrybly Velvet Rouge Liquid Velvet Lipstick. This range are packaged similarly to a gloss with a rather unique, (apparently) ergonomic applicator (to be shown in my upcoming review), but the product itself delivers the intense pigment of a lipstick on the lips. They have a matte velvet finish and are designed to be long-lasting. There are currently eight shades available, but the three I chose (from top to bottom below) are: Dream Bloom (3), Bankable Rose (7), and Gypsy Rose (6)

I shall post swatches and reviews of these products soon. Meanwhile, the lovely Beauty Professor has swatches of all the shades of the new lipsticks here.

Hope you're all having a terrific weekend!

Thanks for looking. ^_^ xo

Which new By Terry product takes your fancy?

DO NOT REPUBLISH CONTENT OR PHOTOS WITHOUT PERMISSION

Hi folks, here's another sneak preview of what else is to come here on Indigo Kir Royale. Yes, it's more lip products! >_< Oh, I love me some lipstick, I do. I picked up four of Tom Ford's new range of Lip Color Matte lipsticks (for Autumn 2014) recently from Harrods when they had a 10% off sale weekend:

// Pink Tease (03)

// Pussycat (04)

// Plum Lush (05), and

// First Time (09) [limited edition shade that sold out, but managed to snatch up as soon as it was re-stocked again, thankfully!]

I will post swatches and my thoughts on this new range and the colours soon!

Hope you come back again 'til then. :)

Thanks for looking. xo

Did / will you pick up any of the new TF matte lipsticks? Which ones and what are your thoughts? Do share in a comment below.

DO NOT REPUBLISH CONTENT OR PHOTOS WITHOUT PERMISSION

YSL FÉTICHE 5-COLOR READY-TO-WEAR PALETTE FOR FALL 2014

UNBOXING | MECCA BEAUTY LOOP L3 BOX

CAMÉLIA DE PLUMES HIGHLIGHTING POWDER FOR HOLIDAY 2014 COLLECTION PLUMES PRÉCIEUSES DE CHANEL

CHANEL JOUES CONTRASTE / POWDER BLUSH IN CARESSE (180) FOR HOLIDAY 2014 COLLECTION PLUMES PRÉCIEUSES DE CHANEL

CHANEL ILLUSION D'OMBRE LONG WEAR LUMINOUS EYESHADOW IN 'ENVOL' (847)

BATH, KITCHEN, HOME & HALLOWEEN HAUL

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

MY WINTER SKIN SAVIOURS

SNEAK PEEK! MY PICKS FROM THE NEW BURBERRY GOLD COLLECTION FOR HOLIDAY 2014

BURBERRY COMPLETE EYE PALETTE IN GOLD (NO. 25) FOR HOLIDAY 2014

BURBERRY GOLD GLOW FRAGRANCED LUMINISING POWDER IN GOLD (NO. 01) FOR HOLIDAY 2014

UNBOXING | NET-A-PORTER - THE HOLIDAY KIT

MY NEW BEAUTY ARRIVALS THIS WEEK...

HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING BLUSH PALETTE

COMING SOON | FROM DUBAI WITH LOVE - CHANEL RÊVE D'ORIENT QUADRA EYE SHADOW

CHANEL RÊVE D'ORIENT QUADRA EYE SHADOW PALETTE

LATEST BUDGET BUYS...

BYREDO PARFUMS | CARDAMOME FRAGRANCED CANDLE FROM THE AMBER COLLECTION

SNEAK PEEK! | MY LATEST PICKS FROM BY TERRY'S NEW LAUNCHES

MORE TO COME ON THE BLOG | MY PICKS FROM THE NEW TOM FORD LIP COLOR MATTE LIPSTICKS