Where do I begin. The Ellana Intensive Blend Mineral Foundation (P460) has been an old favorite of mine, way back when I was in college and couldn't afford high-end foundations. It's the foundation that made my acne and blemish-devastated skin glow, the one that make made it look even - against all odds. And, it was just 400 bucks then! 

With the relaunch of Ellana, I've had the chance to finally try this foundation again. Is it as good as I remember it? YES. Whenever I have it on, people always ask me what foundation I'm wearing! Even makeup artists ask about it. Seriously, the feedback has been amazing. 

Here's a rundown of what's awesome (and what's not) about this foundation!

What I love about the product

• It gives me medium to heavy coverage with a beautiful dewy finish. It doesn't look like makeup - it looks like healthy skin, which is how your base should be. It covers minor blemishes and redness by itself yet it never appears too heavy. This is ideal for troubled, acne-prone skin!
• Texture is very silky and smooth - unlike other mineral foundations, this doesn't require tons of blending to get an even finish. I recommend using something dense like a kabuki or flat top brush to apply it, but any ole powder brush will do the job too.

• I never break out from this. If you want to just chill from your normal heavy makeup, this is a good alternative. It'll let your skin breathe, and heal it over time since it actually has vitamin C, E, and allantoin.

Need to dash out to a meeting in like 30 minutes so this would be a very quick post! Haha. Anyway, you already saw the Laura Mercier Metallic Creme Eye Color (P995) in action, which makes it easier for me to describe. This is a cream eyeshadow that comes in pro-looking silver tubes. Now I know you're thinking: buuuut it's metallic! How wearable could it be? I assure you that they're very nice on the lids, alone or mixed with other eyeshadows.  

These cream eyeshadows last around 3-4 hours without creasing if I'm not using primer. If I have primer though (which is normally the case), they pretty much stay on all day, with no creasing. Fingers could be used to apply them quickly, but I prefer to use my MAC 217 for a finer finish. I suggest you watch my video to see how I worked the product onto my lids. ;)

Even when fecal matter hits some electric rotating blades, I have been able to update this blog as if everything is completely fine. It's what I do, it's what I'm good at. It's what keeps me on track.

Anyhoo, thought I'd show you what I wore yesterday! I just met a couple of people, which would normally call for a more subdued palette. However it was so gloomy yesterday that I could not pass up the red faux leather jacket I have hanging around. That and my pouffy rose skirt is my middle finger to the cloudy weather.

My birthday is in three weeks and I am feeling old. My skin is just not as supple as it used to be! I've also been having my legs lasered these past six months so they feel quite dry. Then, there's this freaky cold weather in Manila lately that just sucks out the moisture from my skin. Rant rant rant. Bottomline, I'm dry and I feel uncomfortable and old about it.

So I've brought out the big guns. My goal is to reclaim the smoothness of my skin, if for no other reason than to spit in the eye of my 26th birthday. Lol. I'm not yet that age conscious, okay, just very conscious of my changing skin. Anyway, here are three things that I've found most effective in battling the dryness on my arms, legs, and neck!

Whenever I get argan oil from brands, I usually give it away. Now I realize that's a huge mistake. It took me a while to open my eyes!

I love this Melchior & Balthazar Argan Oil, as it takes my legs back to their erstwhile youth! I'm not kidding! This stuff is crazy. It makes my legs super duper smooth and velvety again. I can't believe it. I never thought my legs can feel that way!

Buuut are you ready for the price tag?

Special occasions like weddings, debuts, corporate events, and what not might inspire us to be a little more creative when it comes to makeup. However, these are the worst occasions to mess around with something you haven't tried before. First, it can go horribly wrong and you might not have enough time to correct it. Second, it's possible that the look, while flawlessly executed, could become dated in two or five years. You don't want to check your pictures and think, damn what was I thinking at Sharon's wedding?

When in doubt, go classic and foolproof. If you're a manic cookie though, go ahead and wear something crazy. ;) Anyway! I thought I'd show you a gorgeous new lipstick from Laura Mercier, the Weightless Lip Colour in Play (P999). This will be out in Rustan's next month.

This lipstick feels super light on the lips, as the name suggests. It has no scent at all which makes it easy to forget as soon as you apply it. It's neither drying or moisturizing, so just wear a balm if you have to. Staying power is average at three hours. 

I love the sleek, classy tubes of Laura Mercier lipsticks

Play is a predominantly peach shade with lots of pink thrown in. Very pretty! The finish is frosty - usually a deal breaker for me - but it has a shiny yet delicate quality to it that just draws the eye. It's hard to describe, really, so I hope you can just watch the video tutorial where I featured the lipstick. 

There is only so much you can learn from YouTube and beauty blogs. It's better to stand in front of a true artist and see how he does his fabulous tricks up close! That's why I always try to attend events where brands bring their own international makeup artists. There's always a new technique to see, a new style to absorb. I may not have formal training but I'm fortunate enough to be invited to witness these masters at work.

Last Saturday, I did just that. Gregory Arlt, the Director of Makeup Artistry for MAC Cosmetics, came to visit the Philippines to demonstrate new techniques and products. Gregory does the makeup of Dita Von Teese, Gwen Stefani, and Katy Perry to name a few. He's done covers, campaigns, and shows. I loved watching him since he was so eloquent and entertaining!

He showed us a simple, everyday look and a more glamorous yet understated evening look. You may have heard much of the advice if you already know the basics of makeup, but he also imparted a few lesser-known gems that I think would help all of us improve our daily makeup routine. Here they are!

Tip #1: Moisturize, prime, and spritz. What you wear under your makeup is just as important as what’s on top. Remember to use a brightening moisturizer, a smoothing primer, and a lip conditioner before you put on anything else. Spritz something like the MAC Fix+ to liven up your skin and plump it up. Your moisturizer and primer will seal that water in for better hydration throughout the day.

Tip #2: Use a flat foundation brush to apply heavy coverage powder foundation. You think you can only use THAT for liquid foundation? Think again! If you use powder foundation like the MAC Studio Fix, apply it with a paddle brush to get a finer, more precise coverage. We tend to slather it on with sponges and dense powder brushes, I know, which gets us a mask-like finish. Build it up patiently with a synthetic flat brush, like what Gregory did here.

I tried this at home with a loose foundation and it works!

A couple of weeks back, Rustan's sent me a few items from Laura Mercier's Spring 2014 Collection. This will be out in February, but I thought it'd be great to give you guys a full preview. I've already done a video tutorial featuring the products - that should give you an idea of how gorgeous the makeup is! But now it's time to get down to the nitty gritty.

This 2014, the beauty trend is along the lines of dewy, fresh skin. Heavy-looking, super matte bases are a huuuge no-no, and really, why bother? If you can get away with just a little makeup then that is precisely ALL you need! Take advantage of amazing technologies, such as a brightening base. Something like the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer in Radiance (P1,550).

What it is and what's it isn't. I initially thought that it's a primer for extending the wear of my foundation, but that is not the case. This is, more than anything else, a brightening base. It helps foundation glide on better, smoother. It makes your skin look more radiant and hydrated in the process due to the high water-content.

This is not an oil-controlling primer. Just wanna make that clear. However, if you have dull, sallow-looking skin, you'll love this! It perks up my skin in no time, without making it look shiny. It can subtly reflect the light back, thus blurring imperfections. I think this is a must-have if you're enjoying good skin and want to cut down on foundations and concealers. 

This is a more affordable dupe of the Becca Skin Perfector and the Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base which can easily cost over P2,500 here. ;)

Finish and texture. The product looks like tinted moisturizer off the tube, but don't be fooled. It's completely sheer! It does leave a gorgeous champagne glow though.

Hi Liz! The moment I got the invitation for my cousin's wedding, I have instantly told myself that I should ask you for advice re make up :) I have a few make up pieces for special occasions but my eye shadows are not very colorful , I have preferred to keep them in conservative hues. Also, [please] include tips on how to make them last longer for the duration of the event esp lipstick.

P.S. I am coming just as a guest. - Kris

Hi Kris! Attending a wedding, even just as a guest, is a fun opportunity to dress up and make up. Of course you'd want to look your best among friends and relatives! Now, a few pieces of makeup (when used correctly) can really take you a long way. I decided to do a video tutorial of this look with only minimal products to show you how it could be done.

I used the Laura Mercier Foundationer Primer in Radiance here, topped with the Shiseido Brightening Spot Control Foundation. I used the Shiseido Natural Eyebrow Pencil in Deep Brown to sculpt my brows.

How to make your makeup stay on longer

Primer (on the face, eyes, and lips) helps to keep your makeup down for a longer time. However, it's also important to bring blotting sheets and a powder brush to help retouch your makeup as you oil up.

How important is packaging to you when it comes to perfumes? I've seen really expensive ones that come in simple bottles - I guess in those cases, the scent is queen. But I do like having beautiful mini-sculptures to have as a keepsake. Someday, when I have my dream dresser, I'm going to keep my favorite bottles there just to look at.  ^_^

Anyhoo, I recently received the new Anna Sui La Vie De Boheme Eau de Toilette to review. The box and bottle alone immediately made my day (it doesn't take a lot, really!) because they look so striking. I don't have anything like it!

This scent is inspired by the modern bohemian woman. She lives an unconventional lifestyle. She's an adventurer who loves to travel, an artist with a romantic streak. She prefers to be herself and to express herself, sometimes against what is considered acceptable in today's society. The ruffled, printed skirt and floppy hats are just optional!

Yesterday, I got these ugly pair of shoes from Topshop in Powerplant. I saw them last November and wanted to get them then, but I'm so happy I waited. They were at 50% off! I shouldn't be surprised though. They are rather ugly, after all.

I like how chunky and awkward they look. It's kinda trendy at the moment, this affair with 90s grunge. But the main reason I got them is that I used to have the same pair of shoes before.

Oh, you're probably grumbling, here she is with yet another bright pink lipstick. I know, I know! Sometimes I just pick these things up without thinking. I know in my heart that I don't need another shade like this but whenever I scan a lipstick selection, pink is the one I always gravitate towards. -_- Sorry. Please bear with me.

(And just yesterday I was thinking of getting NARS Schiap. Hmm.)

Anyway! I just want to share a quick swatch of the Collection Cosmetics Lasting Colour Lipstick in Sweet Tart (P199). The cheery pink shade with a subtle red undertone is quite nice; it's not neon, but it gives a fresh burst of color on the face. 

The formula is smooth although it tends to gather around the lines of my lips. I just blot after the first layer, then apply another one to get an even blanket of color. Staying power is average at 3-4 hours without eating or drinking.

Can I just say, it's hard to feel beautiful when your back feels like an 60-year old's! I'm always hunched in front of the laptop so my neck and upper back sometimes feel stiff. Last week, the stiffness has evolved into a dull ache. It's not really that painful but I can feel the muscles all knotted up!

Then I remembered that I just got the Zenutrients All is Well Salve (P88/20g and P225/50g) in a press kit. I blogged about some of my fave Zenutrients stuff before, and I really liked the Ginger Rx for muscle aches. Perhaps this salve can do the same, or even better?

It did! I rubbed some of the salve on my neck/upper back and sure enough, the muscles felt less tight and achy after an hour. I couldn't believe it. Maybe I'm giving it a placebo effect? I tried it again the next day and I got the same positive results. Placebo effect or not, it helped my back feel better! I'm not going to argue!

How many mascaras does a girl need? Honestly, you only need two. One should be a daily mascara that volumizes your lashes and is easy to wash off - no waterproof nonsense unless you have extremely oily lids! Then you need one mascara for special occasions, something that's waterproof and looks practically like falsies. You can layer these two to get different effects.

The Estee Lauder Double Wear Extreme Zero-Smudge Mascara (P1,350) is something that falls between those two categories. It blackens, fattens, and lengthens my lashes in just two coats, looking a little like falsies when I close my eyes. It's sooo black! And matte. 

I love that this doesn't smudge all day. Just yesterday I wore it from 10am to 6pm - eight whole hours - and it did not smuge at all. It has also never flaked or smeared on me (I've been using this for about two months now). Even though it's long-wearing, the Double Wear Extreme Mascara is super easy to remove with just a water-based makeup remover. This is currently my fave everyday mascara!

I do tons of makeup reviews, but what actually ends up on my face during a full day out of the house? Now that's the question. I guess the best way to show that is to do regular FOTDs (Face of the Days), where I can discuss the logic of each makeup choice. Haha. Look at us, talking about logic here.

Anyway, I just want to show you a look I wore last week. I failed, terribly, at capturing what I wore (it was a printed navy dress from Dorothy Perkins with a classy pair of nude pumps), so this is all I have to write about here. -_- I'll wear that outfit again, it deserves to be chronicled!

Okay! For my face, I just wore the MAC Studio Finish Concealer with the Ellana Intensive Cover Foundation. That's it. No other hoopla. I love the flawless finish I get with this duo! It's mostly matte but there is a subtle sheen to the foundation. 

If you love applying eyeshadow, it's important to know how to do it correctly. Nothing pains me more than seeing a half-baked eyeshadow job - but then again, I've also been there. It's easy to watch tutorials and think we get it, but it's never that simple. Applying the same techniques to our own eye shape rarely gives us the same results. We need to practice and tweak those techniques until we get it right. Maybe you're not there yet but you will get there, like I eventually did!

Today I'd like to show you some palettes that I think would be perfect for eyeshadow newbies. The Beauty UK Posh Palette (P550 from Makeupholics) is affordable yet offers a nice selection of colors that are of fairly good quality, considering the price. I have here the three palettes: Eden, Masquerade, and Festival. You'll see the swatches later!

Quickly though, the Beauty UK Posh Palette has ten colors that are of varying pigmentation and smoothness. Some are really good while others can be patchy. In general though, most of the colors in Eden and Masquerade have great quality. Festival's matte brights are kinda uneven. This just means you need to wear a primer and to layer the colors carefully.

I highly recommend that you get Eden since it's the best out of the three in terms of quality, while Masquerade is also a good choice if you like silvery, dusky shades.

Hi Miss Liz! I've been a lurker for far too long and I stumbled upon your blog sometime November last year and I'm super thankful to have found it.  

I was never really interested before with makeup because my family and the community I'm in (which is very small that news travels fast in the grapevine) has this fixation that natural beauty is the only way to go and most of my friends haven't really been using makeup aside from the occasional lipstick. Because of this, I'm not really confident walking around with makeup when everyone else is bare faced. I just wanted to ask if you have any tips for a girl who is just starting out and how to deal with the stares.

I'd like to thank you in advance and please continue with Project Vanity since it has given me purchase ideas :) - KitKat

Glad you like it here! ^_^ l also grew up in a small povincial town, so I totally understand where you're coming from. I was also self-conscious about wearing bright eyeshadow and lipstick (not to mention, crazy outfits when everyone else is just in jeans!), but I did get over it. It may be difficult to change a person's POV about dressing up, but it's never too late to change yours!

1. Know and remember why you're wearing makeup. Is it to feel more confident about yourself? Is it because you enjoy the process of collecting and applying it? Whatever your reasons are, it pays to acknowledge them. Remember that you're doing this for you. You're not seeking approval or attention. You just want to bring out the beauty you already have. 

Say it like a mantra, if you need to. It will make you feel more comfortable with yourself.

2. They don't really care, and if they do, they can't do anything about it. I think all of us has this paranoia that everytime we're in a crowd, everyone else is just watching us every second, waiting for us to make a mistake. This is hardly true.

I spent the last couple of days reading a book called Beauty by Sherri S. Tepper. Beauty is a book about a girl meant to be Sleeping Beauty, as she travels back and forth in time, protecting a special gift to humanity. She sires fairytale characters like Cinderella, Snow White, and the Frog Prince, but they're nowhere near anything Perrault or the Grimm Brothers led us to believe. 

This book is dark, intense, and in many parts, horrifying. It was written by a pro-abortion, eco-activist feminist. Prepare to be lectured. I didn't mind, since I'm always open to new ideas. :) I like the book and would recommend it those who like fairytales for adults.

So! It's Manicure Mondays once again. Here's dignified mauve polish: the INGLOT Nail Enamel in #368 (P450). It looks muddy in the bottle but it has the subtlest shimmer that makes it look more dimensional, somehow. It doesn't look flimsy or flat as colors like this tend to do. 

#368 is a mauve shade with a sepia undertone. The texture is creamy and smooth, and it's pigmented enough that I needn't apply more than two layers.

What do you usually do on Saturday mornings? I either read a book or play a video game. I try not to do anything work-related or even blog-related on weekends, but I want to write about these glosses before my themed week officially ends. ^_^ I think they're quite good!

This Stila Lip Glaze Set (P1,750) was part of the brand's Holiday 2013 Collection. It was such an awesome deal, that all told each lip gloss just cost P195. I'm not sure if this is still available, but I would wager that it is since limited ed holiday stuff are usually on counters until late January.

I gave one set as a gift and kept the other two lol. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons!

What I love about the product

• Surprisingly pigmented, with a super smooth glossy finish. I get medium coverage with most of the shades I have here. It's not crazy opaque but the jelly effect is quite nice.
• The gloss isn't drying. You can also get away with wearing lip balm underneath (it won't affect the texture, that is).

The pliable synthetic brush has a squarish shape that helps you do a more precise application

Whenever I'm in a bookstore, it takes all of my willpower not to go crazy buying pens, paper, and art materials. It's a good day when I don't spend more than a few hundred on things I already have. It's a bad day when I hoard! I don't know! I just like that paper has so much potential. You can write on it, paint on it, manipulate it with scissors and glue. I guess I like hoarding potential. Possibilities. I never want to run out.

Okay I'm done with the crazy talk. I just want to show you guys some of the notebooks that Belle de Jour sent me! 

I admit that I don't really use notebook planners, nor am I likely to start now. My iPhone Calendar and Reminders app, synced with my laptop, is da bomb. But I like the idea of having a Belle de Jour Power Planner, which is not so much a planner for your day-to-day activities but a planner for your whole life.

It has inspirational stories and quotes, handy coupons, life reminders, budget pages, and a thorough events calendar. The BdJ is more of a lifestyle guide to help you live life to the fullest. Here are some of the pages inside!

Love the soft leather cover, with the fine stitching

Planner proper