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April 2015 My Envy Box Review, Indian Makeup and Beauty Blog

April 2015 My Envy Box Review

Avene, Beauty Box, Catrice, EDP, Kama Ayurveda, Lip Pencils, Makeup, My Envy Box, Night Creams, Reviews, Skin care, Sunscreens, ZA, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

April 2015 My Envy Box Review

Hey guys,

I am late in reviewing the April My Envy Box but here it is..

Read more about My Envy Box HERE and check out all the previous reviews HERE.

This time they have changed a few things in the box. Its a peach colored box, usually they have a pouch in which all the products are, this time there was no pouch and the products were all separate within the box. Also there was only one card this time with information of all 5 products unlike 5 different cards for each, which is good.

MRP: Rs.850/-

Lets take a look at what all I received in the April My Envy Box:

  • Za True White Exfoliating Clay– A deluxe sample of 30g which is quite good (Full Size Rs.399/- for 100g)
  • Catrice Longlasting Lip Pencil in Prince Cherry- Full size (Rs.300/-)
  • Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream 1.5ml small vial (Rs.5700/- for 100ml)
  • Kama Ayurveda Rejuvenating and Brightening Ayurvedic Night Cream– 2 small jars. I guess they are 5-6g each. (Full size Rs.1195/- for 50g)
  • Avene VHP Dry Touch Emulsion SPF50+ 5ml (Rs.1250/- for 50ml)

I love the products this time, a full sized makeup product is a perfect addition. The Catrice lip pencil is a very pretty red and would work with so many of my red lipsticks. I like Kama Ayurveda products and looking forward to trying out the night cream which I am glad comes in 2 jars and is a good quantity. The Za True White Exfoliating Clay is a new launch and is exclusively a part of My Envy Box, so again something new to try.

I am already using the Avene Dry Touch Emulsion and love it, so this would go into my travel bag, useful for a 1-2 day short trip. And the Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream smells like a dream indeed, fresh and floral but a bit light though for my taste.

Overall, I am quite happy with this month’s My Envy Box. I hope they continue with this, coz I see such good boxes only once in 3-4 months and not every month unfortunately 🙁

You can request an invite for My Envy Box HERE

Did you like April My Envy Box?

Za True White Liquid Foundation Review,Swatches

Foundations, Makeup, Reviews, Swatches, ZA, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Za True White Liquid Foundation Review,Swatches

What the Company claims: Spotless Brightening Powder and Poreless Powder create Pearly White Skin. Contains Vitamins C & E derivatives, minerals and hyaluronic acid for skincare. Its base formula leaves skin feeling satiny, smooth and bright.

SPF25 PA++

MRP: Rs.950/- for 30ml

Shades Available: 6 (OC00,OC0W,OC10,OC20,OC30 for yellow skin tones and PO10 for pink skin tones)

Ingredients:

I have the shade OC30 which is the lightest in the range and yet slightly lighter for me, still better since I have been at home since the past 3 months and not tanned at all. But I doubt these shades would work for majority Indian skin tones.

It comes in a sleek, curvy glass bottle and has a steel cap. It has a white pump inside which helps dispense the perfect quantity of product. I quite like the packaging.

The liquid foundation is very thin and runny..so don’t be surprised and also pump bit by bit when you dispense the product.

I love its water based texture and the super light consistency. I have never come across a foundation that is so light on the skin. It feels weightless and spreads  and blends easily.

Coverage wise, it offers medium coverage though buildable. You can layer for more better coverage. But if you expecting coverage of spots or acne scars with this, it won’t help. You will need to use a separate concealer for those. I like using it for daily use coz of its super light consistency and I do not like heavy coverage for daily use, so this fits the bill perfectly. Also it offers a nice,dewy finish which I love. But if you have oily skin, you will need to use a powder over this. In summers, one would need to use a powder with this,especially for T-zone. It stays on for 7-8 hours in winters and around 5-6 hours in the current,humid summers.

You do not need a lot of quantity of it and it will last you pretty long. So the price tag is kind of ok.

Here is it on me..with no concealer or powder but just the foundation.

Overall, I would say it is perfect for dry skin and skin which does not need too much coverage. If you like light texture and dewy finish, you will love this. Oily skin would need a powder alongwith. Only downside is number of shades offered and no dark shades at all.

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money : 4/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Have you tried the Za True White Liquid Foundation?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

The Nine to 9 April Fab Bag Review

Blush, Body Lotion, Body Wash, Fab Bag, Hair Tools, Lifestyle, Makeup, Reviews, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Nine to 9 April Fab Bag Review

Hey guys,

This month’s Fab Bag is a nice nine to 9 office from day to night look kind of concept. Something which you can keep in your office bag or drawer. Its a leopard print black and white bag.

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Offers on 6 months and 12 months subscription. Go HERE)

Read my previous March Fab Bag Review HERE.

What do we have in the bag:

  •  Malavara Shower Gel (Rs.300) and Body Lotion (Rs.390/-) in Lime Vetiver- 60ml each
  • City Color Blush Quad in the Shade Coral (Full size)- Rs.500/-
  • Denman Hair Brush – Rs.475/-
  • Chambor Body Mist in Tender Tuberose (10ml)- Rs.595/- for 200ml

My most favourite product out of all these was the Blush Quad in Coral which is a gorgeous mix of peach,pink and beige. How pretty does it look!

I also loved the Denman brush, I thought it might not be that good since it does not have cushion or padding at the base, but it is pretty decent. I would have loved it if it would have been foldable.

The Lime-Vetiver Shower Gel and Body Lotion Duo by Malvara smells really good and is perfect for carrying in your office bag or while you are travelling.

Coming to the Chambor Body Mist, it had all leaked when I got it, so I remain with just 2-3 ml of the product. It smells good and thankfully it was in bubble wrap, so has not leaked out in the bag or mixed with other products.

Overall I would say this month’s bag is totally worth it! The blush quad and hair brush are total value for money. Can’t wait for the May Fab Bag already 😀 These guys are getting better and better each day with the concepts, bags and kind of products. Its a pleasure to receive a bag and unveil it every month and then finding such useful and value for money products worth every penny of the bag!

Have you tried the Fab Bag yet? What did you get in your April Fab Bag?

Jewellery Haul from La Elegante’

Accessories, Fashion, Hauls, Jewellery, Shopping, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jewellery Haul from La Elegante’

La Elegante’ is the baby of Mumbai based Shalini who started this facebook store last March and now has avid buyers from all over India and also gets international requests time and again. Check out her page and jewellery HERE.

About La Elegante’ (In Shalini’s words): ‘La Elegante’ is an online store which deals with trendy fashion jewellery and Ethnic Temple Jewellery. La Elegante’ was launched on March 8 2014 on the one day celebrated across the world as Woman’s Day – after all our store is also about “Celebrating Womanhood” .

For a very long time fashion has been my passion and that’s exactly the basis of my store as well. La Elegante’ – the place where Fashion is a Passion!

We have pocket friendly prices (price range being from Rs.30 to Rs.1500) We offer bags and clutches, trendy fashion earrings , neckpieces , bracelets and cuffs , assorted accessories like watches, hairbands, Rings, temple jewellery etc. in this range.

A step taken little over a year and a month back with 20 FB likes on the first evening is now a family of 30000 + patrons. It is their constant support and feedback which continues to motivate La Elegante’ to move forward with more collections and ensures Fashion is available at pocket friendly prices.

Its run by me …my name is Shalini Girish …an avid reader, music buff and my stress busters are my kids and my guitar…helps me unwind.

Life is fashionable and bliss….touche’

I loved the simple pearl pieces and the beautiful temple jewellery she stocks. I love temple jewellery and I feel it looks amazing with a simple South Indian saree. Also the fact that her prices are pretty reasonable compared to other online facebook stores.

I bought these pretty pieces recently from her store recently. They were neatly packed in separate plastic covers with bubble wrap and all together in a bigger plastic box.

This beautiful red and black beaded tribal necklace is my most favourite! How pretty and statementy is it! Can’t wait to pair it with my simple tees and shirts as this is more than enough and a statement in itself.

A white and gold layered pearl statement bracelet, a pair of gold and white square earrings. Isn’t that design quite cute.

And this pearl and diamante ring..

How pretty is this ring!

Did you like the haul? What is your favourite?

Flat Shoe Trends 2015

Fashion, Shoes, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Flat Shoe Trends 2015

From Bottega Veneta to Michael Kors to Marc Jacobs, this year was all about flats at the runaway. Since now I am supposed to wear only flats for another 2-3 months, I am all for stylish flats 😀 If we have to do it, why not do it in style. Right?

Some flat shoes in trend currently are:

1. Ballerinas

Ballerinas or Bellies as we call it, is the oldest and the most common flat shoe trend. I guess its been there since forever and will continue to be so. There are so many different designs,colors and textures possible in ballets from glitter to prints to bright colors to bows. Even studded and spiked ones look cool, studded flats work with almost all of your outfits. They are casual,comfortable and yet look chic. Currently, we have those cute cat and dog design on right and left foot going on. Or the famous Chiara Ferragni glitter winked eye.

Chiara Ferragni

2. Flat Sandals

All your T-Strap sandals or strappy gladiators fall here. Casual and comfortable for daily wear and they look stylish at the same time.

3. Birkenstock

Birkenstock

Birkenstock is a German brand that makes one particular type of sandals that have contoured cork and rubber footbeds and conform to the shape of the wearer’s feet. These are not the most good looking sandals, also called the ‘ugly sandals’ like they call the Crocs 😀 But are very comfortable and the white Birkenstocks are all the rage.

4. Brogues

Clarks

Brogues work with your casual wear from denims to dresses to skirts and even your formal wear. Brogues were seen a lot this time, at the Lakme Fashion Week, one reason being they are stylish yet comfortable. When you can’t be in heels whole day, brogues are a perfect replacement.

5. Sliders

Bottega Veneta

Pool sliders or even casual sliders are quite IN right now. We saw these metallic sliders by Bottega Veneta on the runaway recently.

6. Slip Ons/Sneakers

The super comfortable slip ons or sneakers are your best bet. Every girl should atleast one. All your Vans,Converse fall here. For that matter, even Bata makes very good slip ons/sneakers. You do find a gem there at times 😀 Metallic, glitter and ombre are must haves!

What flat shoe trends do you like? Your favourite trend?

P.S: Images from Google.

Obagi Skin Care – What exactly are Obagi Skin Care Products

Skin care, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Obagi Skin Care – What exactly are Obagi Skin Care Products

Has your skin been troubling you of recent? You may want to try Obagi Skin Care products which are specially formulated to treat most skin problems. They have special products that benefit in aging as well as help revitalize the skin too.

They have mainly 2 systems of skin care products with therapeutic qualities:

First is the Obagi NU-Derm System and the second is Obagi- C Rx System. They are both made up of prescription as well as non prescription ingredients.

The line of products under the Obagi NU derm label are mostly a corrective system possessing transformative actions. They mostly act at cellular levels to give out only maximum benefits to the user. These come packed in numbered Obagi Skincare tubes. You must take special care of following the numbering since and also the labels which instruct whether the product should be used at night, morning or both. This will help you reap maximum benefits.

Though the products are composed of highly active ingredients, they are easy to use and hence the regimen in never burdening to the user. The ingredients however include strong and potential compounds like Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, Glycolic acid, Vitamin C, High SPF content and also certain moisturizing agents that together help to achieve desired results.

The Obagi C Rx system is mostly a maintenance associated product which is a preventive therapy used for enhancing the appearance of your skin.

It is mostly comprised of five parts including
1. Cleansing Gel
2. Exfoliating Day Lotion
3. Clarifying Serum
4. Sunguard- SPF 30 and 5
5. Therapy Night Cream

Each of these when used regularly according to the instruction are sure to show evident results over time. The most surprising part though is that these products are suitable for both male and female skin. The fragrance too has been formulated keeping male users in mind specially in NU Derm cleanser, toner as well as the cleansing gel of the C Rx range.

The Testimonials speaking positively of Obagi Skin Care Systems are evidence enough of the effectiveness they have to offer. Most people who have used the products testify that the results are drastic and remarkable and that they are almost always noticed in social gatherings. Run to buy your own set of Obagi skin Care system for all your skin related issues including irritation and pigmentation, sun burn and other skin problems. Prescription as well as non prescription systems have now gained popularity throughout the world and can be accessed easily.

If you have sensitive skin however, and have never used Obagi Skin Care products, it is majorly advisable that you consult with a doctor or dermatologist though since many people with sensitive skin can be allergic to one or more ingredients in the formulation. They may also recommend exactly how much of the product must you use and the specific pattern of use that will not trigger any further problems with your skin. However, you may also zero in on your choice of products on your own and use them without fear, as long as you perform a patch test before you use the products completely. Purchasing these products online is always a good option since not only do you lay your hands on better bargains but you can mostly be assured of being delivered only authentic products.

Rest assured, once you get to using Obagi, you are no longer going to worry anymore for your skin care regime. So go ahead and get your own Obagi skin care system and celebrate the glow.

P.S: Sponsored Post

Shampoo for Different Kinds of Hair

Conditioners, Hair Care, Hair Serums, Shampoos, Tips and Tricks, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shampoo for Different Kinds of Hair

This is the common type of question people ask when it comes to hair care, which shampoo and conditioner would suit my hair. Now there are different kinds of hair, some are oily,some dry, curly,wavy,straight.frizzy,etc

Now what kind of shampoo would suit which hair type..let’s get on to this..

1. Dry hair

Your hair needs moisture and at the same time if you are washing your hair daily,it is getting ripped off the moisture. So you need a shampoo that is creamy and moisturising and yet gentle enough for everyday use. Also dry hair is more susceptible to hairfall and breakage since they are more brittle. A good,rich conditioner is also required for dry hair. I absolutely love the L’Oreal Professionnel Absolute Repair Lipidium Shampoo and Mask. Or the Schwarzkopf Professional BC Repair Rescue Range. You can also follow with a good hair serum for the ends. Look for ingredients with naturals oils,shea butter,etc in the shampoos and conditioners. Oil based shampoos like L’Oreal Paris 6 Oil Nourish also work for dry hair. Oil your hair once a week for an hour before shampooing.

2. Oily hair

This type of hair is more sticky and limp due to excessive sebum production, Make sure you do not massage your scalp a lot,leading to stimulation of the glands and also wash hair with warm water and not hot. A gentle, clear gel based shampoo works for your hair type,something like Biotique Bio Green Apple Fresh Daily Purifying Shampoo or Omved Brahmi & Peppermint Shampoo. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week. Look out for ingredients like Panthenol and Wheat Protein in the shampoo. Also use the conditioner only towards the ends.

3. Coloured/Straightened Hair

Since the hair has gone through chemical treatments, it is best to use a SLS free shampoo so as to let the effect stay longer. The Body Shop Rainforest Range is SLS free and all natural. There are also a few natural brands like Omved and SoulTree which have SLS free shampoos.

4. Curly hair

Curly hair needs a right shampoo to maintain its curls and texture. You do not want straighter looking hair which actually leads to neither straight nor curls kind of hair. To maintain the natural form of the curls, a separate shampoo for curly hair is needed. I would recommend Curly Twirls, Kerastase Nutritive Bain OleoCurl Curl Definition Shampoo or TIGI Catwalk Curls Rock Shampoo.

If you have frizzy hair, a shampoo recommended for dry skin above would work. A good serum will help control frizz and also avoiding heating tools as much as possible, would keep frizz under control.

What kind of hair do you have? And what shampoo do you use?

P.S: Image from Google

Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks Review,Swatches

Lipsticks, Makeup, Maybelline, New Launches, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks Review,Swatches

Hey guys, I went to the Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Collection Launch on the 16th and we got a few samples to try out. As you know, I am most excited about the lipsticks always 😀 I have been trying these out since 2 days and here is the review.

They are called Rebel Bloom in the US and Rebel Bouquet in the UK same as here in India. The collection is more about pastels but not many shades would suit the Indian skintones, so Maybelline India has selected the shades that would suit the Indian skin tones and only launched those.

What the Company claims: Color Sensational presents the NEW Rebel Bouquet collection. A burst of rebellious colour!

Why You’ll Love It
Super-saturated pigments give fresh-picked pastels a bright kick. Sumptuous feel and enriched with honey nectar. 6 vivacious shades.

MRP: Rs.450/- for 3.9g

Shades Available: 6 (Sadly they are named REB01 to REB06, while the ones in US have pretty names. Maybelline why you no name lipsticks? :/)

I am reviewing the shades REB01 and REB05.

It comes in the normal ColorSensational square packaging with a transaparent red cap. The labels behind are red and coral according to the shades.

It is super creamy and soft in texture and melts in contact with the skin. It has a glossy,mirror finish which will give a bit of plumping effect to your lips.

I have turned into a matte lips fan recently, and these are into the glossy category. I wish they were matte :p They are quite pigmented but you do need to go over twice for a smooth and fully opaque coverage. Also since these are very creamy, they tend to bleed and you will have to be careful while applying. But once applied, they settle after some time and then stay put.

L- REB05, R- REB01

These are not transfer proof and you will need to reapply if you are eating or drinking,can survive tea and light snacks though. But otherwise, they stay for 4-5 hours (REB05 Peach stays for 3-4 hours) and also leave behind a pretty stain which stays for sometime.

T- REB01, B- REB05

You do not need any lip balm with these, since these are super moisturising. The honey nectar takes care of your lips.

REB05 is a peachy coral shade

REB01 is an apple red shade with some very fine shimmer

And here are these on moi..

L- REB05, R- REB01

These are reasonably priced at Rs.450, though the ColorSensational ones are priced at Rs.400 and the Bold Matte at Rs.425. A 5-6% price increase is still ok, unlike the brands these days who have increased prices 30-40% for their new launches.

Overall, I would say these are glossy and moisturising texture wise, but are not transfer proof. Also, these might bleed and need a bit of careful application, but once settled, they stay put well. I loved the peachy coral REB05 and can’t wait to check out the other 4 shades. Recommended!

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money : 3.75/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Are you excited about the New Maybelline Rebel Bouquet Lipsticks? Which shade did you like?

P.S: Gifted by Brand

Saree.com- For all your Ethnic Wear Needs

Fashion, Mumbai Bridal Diaries, Shopping, Site Reviews, Wishlist, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Saree.com- For all your Ethnic Wear Needs

About Saree.com: Saree.com is a one stop shop for women’s ethnic and lifestyle needs. They aim to offer you most genuine and adorable garments for all the occasions.

When I was searching for ethnic wear for my wedding trousseau a few months back, very few sites online interested me. I liked Triveni Sarees and 1-2 other, but not many options were availble. Recently I stumbled upon Saree.com and I am hooked on to the site!

They stock everything from anarkalis to designer sarees to lehengas and even evening gowns! Evening gowns was something I could not find anywhere and I was searching them desperately for my cocktail. I wish I would have known Saree.com before 🙁

Some of my favourites from the site are:

1. Pink And Dark Cream Net Lehenga Saree With Stone Work

This costs Rs.2995/-! Beat that. Looks so pretty, love the colour combination and the work.

2. Cream Net Gown

Love love the gold and red embroidery and the mesh at the waist and back. Of course the long layered tulle on the lower half too.

3. Pink Net Lehenga Choli With Zari Work

This costs just Rs.2395/-, unbelievable right! Also you can get it stitched the way you want, a shorter choli if you want to show your lehenga or like a longer salwar which is quite IN these days.

4. Yellow,Beige and Pink Bemberg Saree With Embroidery Work

Ok, I love yellow in ethnic wear and especially yellow and pink combination. I think it looks fabulous, and this saree is a perfect blend of colors and the embroidery work on it looks really pretty.

Aren’t these pieces amazing, and there are many many more. You will be spoilt for choice 😀 Absolutely loved the collection on saree.com and definitely shopping here the next time I need to buy ethnic wear. Highly recommended.

Also, I have a special coupon code for you guys which will let you avail INR 500 off on your cart value above 500. Its ‘SPCL500’ valid over next 30 days.

Have you checked out Saree.com yet? Which one is your favourite?

Lakme School of Style by Fame

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Lakme School of Style by Fame

Fame had started with Lakme School of Style in October 2014, India’s first fashion video magazine. Lakmé School of Style is a first of its kind show that will not only bring the newest trends and happenings from the fashion world but in the process will also create new age fashionistas and idols. A fashion brigade led by Editor-in-Chief, Karan Johar himself will bring the fashion news, views and events from all over the world to the internet screen.

It has been quite a hit since the time it launched. And Karan Johar has himself selected a few bloggers to be a part of his Fashion Brigade. Nilu, Riaan, Sukhneet, Sahibba and Sanjana to name a few.

One of my favourite videos from Lakme School of Style is ‘How To Incorporate Last Year’s Summer Trends In Your 2015 Wardobe’ where Nilu Thapa talks about styling your old 2014 Spring-Summer collections and give them an all new fashionable look this year. You are simply gonna love her ideas!

1. Black and White/Monochrome

While last year she paired her white shirts with skinny denims folded at the bottom, this year she intends to wear them with pencil skirts and high slit skirts

2. Midi skirts

Last year, Nilu wore midi skirts extensively and with structured tops mostly. This time, she would be wearing midi skirts again but with shirts and spaghetti tops and toning down the accessories.

3. Jumpsuits

Last year she wore jumpsuits with chunky neckpieces and this year she pairs them with blazers and kimonos

4. Peasant tops

Nilu wore peasant tops with faded denims and ankle boots last year, this time she will pair them with denim shorts

5. Chiffon Dress

Chiffon dresses are always in style and last year they were the trend was pairing them with chunky neckpieces and satchels. This year around, being low on accessories and just a mini cross body sling is perfect.

I think its a perfect list, and these things are definitely still in trend, so just mix and match and you have your spring summer 2015 wardrobe ready!

Every month #LakmeSchoolOfStyle comes up with a theme and uploads videos related to it..this month the theme is ‘Wedding’, so yes you would see Sabyasachi and all the jazz 🙂 Stay glued and subscribe to LakmeSchoolOfStyle HERE to stay updated with their videos.

Have you checked out Fame’s Lakme School of Style yet? Which video is your favourite?