Wednesday, October 30, 2013

The Return of Krispy Skremes!

My all-time favorite doughnut store Krispy Kreme has just brought back Krispy Skremes to make your Halloween parties more fun!

Krispy Skremes Pumpkin

The Pumpkin has an iced vanilla frosting, with no kreme filling inside. Even if it's bright orange, it still tastes like classic vanilla. Just the way I like it, since it's sweet without being too sickeningly sweet.


Anybody would love to receive these doughnuts for Trick or Treat! Tomorrow, I bet most of you are going to celebrate Halloween with costume and sweet treats. Don't forget to drop by Krispy Kreme first to grab a dozen of these Krispy Skremes for just P395.00!

Happy Halloween! :D

Love,
Helen

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Save The Date: Blogapalooza 2013

Hi everyone! I'll be sharing with you this cool event you might want to join! Last September 2011, I got the chance to attend the very first Blogapalooza event. It's a business-to-blogger networking event where the brands featured their products/services to about 150 bloggers. This time, it's even bigger and better since now 500 influential bloggers will take part in this event!
 
Blogapalooza 2013
Date: November 16, 2013
Time: 11:00AM-9:00PM
Venue: Function Room 1, SM Aura, Taguig


If you're a good online influencer who's interested to join Blogapalooza 2013, sign up here: http://blogapalooza.wheninmanila.com/. As of the moment, they are still looking for 250 more bloggers, so don't miss out on this big opportunity!

Are you coming to Blogapalooza 2013? I'll see you all there! :D 
 
Love,
Helen

Monday, October 28, 2013

Wacoal Perfect Fit Party

After weeks of doing overtime work, I finally had the chance to attend my first (but not last) event this month! Congratulations to me and thanks to my boss for excusing me from Saturday afternoon work. :D


Last Saturday, I went to the head office of Wacoal Philippines in Makati for the Perfect Fit Party with fashion and beauty bloggers.


Upon arrival, my body was measured to determine which size of undergarment would best fit me.


The lobby of their office was underwear wonderland. So much pretty underthings on display!


Wacoal has lots of styles to choose from. Whether you're looking for something sporty...


something fun...


or something classic and ladylike, Wacoal has them all! Later in the day, I found out that the brand not only has style but also substance, as there's actual science involved in the creation of these underwears.


Before the event started, light snacks like club sandwiches and C2 Red Tea Raspberry were served. A crowd favorite were these cute and yummy cupcakes from Sweet Patti Cakes!


Take a look at my cute matching cupcake set! I liked the red velvet better than the chocolate one. The one with the Wacoal logo on top even had cookie dough in it! :D

Attending the Wacoal Perfect Fit Party was like a refersher course on Underwear 101. I was reminded with the fact that underwear is the closest thing to touch your skin, so comfort is crucial. I was amazed with how Wacoal did intensive studies on the shape of a woman's body in order to create the best fitting underwear.


For over 30 years, the brand has tracked how a woman's body naturally undergoes changes with age. Test subjects ranges from children to senior ones. As of press time, I am currently at Stages 0-1. The later stages like 2-3 are usual for women who have given birth, with the more emphazised puson. Stages 3-4 are usual with grandmas, where the back loses its curve and the body has a more rounded shape.


As the body ages, fat begins to accumulate in certain areas and sagging happens. Weight gain or loss might also occur, one common cause is due to pregnancy and childbirth. This means that even if you've stopped growing, the underwear (particularly the bra) size you have in college might not necessarily be the same as the one you have years afterwards.


Another important thing I learned was that certain bra style/sizes are made for women in different age stages. A woman in her 20s can wear a bra made for women in their 20s and the fit would be perfect, but if a woman in her 40s tries on the same bra, it won't be as flattering since the bust has already changed in shape. So this is the reason why not all bras with the same size fit perfectly on us. The style and construction of the bra are also things to consider.


One thing Filipinas must be aware of is the importance the fitting process. On your next underwear shopping trip, don't hesitate or be ashamed of asking assistance from the store personnel to help you take your measurements properly, so you can know the right size of undergarments for you to achieve the perfect fit. Not all bras are created equal, so fitting is crucial.


At the end of the event, each blogger was handed a box filled with undies in our size to try on. My picks were bras made for Stages 0-1, pieces that give proper lift, pushing the bust from the side to the center for a flattering shape.

Comfort Fit Bra (P985.00)
With its wireless design and soft fabric, this bra slides in effortlessly underneath your body hugging t-shirts.

This was actually the smallest/flattest looking bra in the bunch, and I thought it wouldn't do much for my almost non-existent boobs, but it turned out to be a favorite! It's amazing since it has no wire and yet it managed to lift my bust and make it look more perky. It feels very comfortable too!

Volume Up Bra (P1,200.00) & Lowrise Panty (P345.00)
This collection features fully padded cups that increase the volume of the breasts and create a fuller cleavage.

Almost all my undies are in basic black, nude, and white. Functional yes, but it can get boring. This matching set a nice start to adding color to my underwear. Plus, knowing that I am wearing a pretty matching set of undies is like a secret confidence booster. You know you look good not only on the outside, but also inside!

Boyleg Panty (P425.00)

I have a secret. I love wearing dresses, but I always wear shorts underneath! I can't imagine myself going out in short dresses or skirts with no cycling shorts inside. This one's perfect with everything short in my closet!

I also received some stuff from the event sponsors, for which I am very excited to review!

Pevonia Botanica Ligne Tropicale De-Aging Mist in Mango-Passion Fruit

Pevonia Botanica, an elite and eco-friendly skincare used by prestigious salons and spas worldwide, was one of the sponsors of the event. I have tried the Crystalline Skin Body Treatment at The Spa in Trinoma, and they used Pevonia Botanica products with this treatment to scrub and moisturize my skin. I can't wait to try this hydrating body mist!

Goody Slide-Proof Headbands

Organic stuff from Zenutrients, Mir & Ryvi, and Droplets of Nature

With Blair, Dawn, and Carizza

I learned so much from the Wacoal Perfect Fit Party! Now, no more keeping bras that are way past their expiry dates. Even the pricey ones you can't seem to let go. If it doesn't fit right, it won't do much for your body or confidence, so make sure to invest in good underwear. Upon going home, I've just tossed out 3 old bras out of my drawer and made room for my new ones from Wacoal! :D

Twitter: @wacoalph
Instagram: @wacoalph

Love,
Helen

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner - Now at 50% Off!

I'm going to keep this post short and sweet. I was just walking around SM's beauty section at the department store when my feet led me to the Revlon counter. I spotted the poster about this month's promos, and saw that the Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner is on sale at 50% off!

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner in Black
(P475.00 -> P237.50 until October 31, 2013)

I had no plans of buying an eyeliner, but this deal was too good to resist! I controlled myself and just got one, unlike Revlon's sale last time on their Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains (where I got 2 shades on the spot). I believe this promo is only for SM department stores. In Landmark, it's the Revlon Brow Fantasy that's at 50% off until the end of the month.

I'm crossing my fingers that this eyeliner will withstand my oily, hooded eyelids. Gotta test it out first. Go get one while you still have time this week! ;)

Love,
Helen

Saturday, October 26, 2013

KitKat Green Tea - Now in Landmark Supermarket!

I have some OMG news for you! I was able to buy this pack of KitKat Green Tea at Landmark Supermarket in Trinoma last Sunday! :D

KitKat Green Tea 12's

Inside are 12 of these mini green tea goodness ♥


My sister was able to buy this same pack at a supermarket in Hong Kong for about P160.00. Here it's P258.50, and I think the price is just right.

This one's located in Aisle 20 where the imported goods are, not the usual chocolate aisle. The day I bought it, I saw only 3 packs left on the shelf. Stocks run out so fast! But at least, you don't have to buy overpriced packs of this online (at about P300.00+) or at Greenhills (at about P700.00+). This is the cheapest price of KitKat Green Tea I've come across so far (here in the Philippines).

Like this? Spread the good news! :D

Love,
Helen

Friday, October 25, 2013

Cafe Breton, Trinoma

My new cozy place in Trinoma would have to be Cafe Breton. I am always in Trinoma because it's so near, but I find it noisy and crowded compared to other malls I've been to. However, once you step into this restaurant, you'd be transported to a homey place, away from the hustle and bustle of the mall.

Cafe Breton, Trinoma

My first time to dine in Cafe Breton was early this year over at their UP Technohub branch, where we had some crepes for snacks. Now, I came here with my Dad and sisters for real food.

Breton Mozarella Burger (P235.00)
Juicy all beef burger patty with a mozzarella surprise, served with a side salad.

I remember my friend raving about this burger. I thought, "Really? Burgers at Cafe Breton? I thought all they served was crepe." But then, I gave it a shot since it had the magic word "mozarella" written on it. I'm happy to say, I LOVED this burger! It reminded me of Bite Club's mozzarella-stuffed burgers, only less cheesy, but the soft juicy beef patty with mushrooms, and veggies on the side made up for it.

Chicken Run (P175.00)
Chicken breast fillet topped with asparagus and cheese sauce on whole wheat toast. Served with a side salad.

Tuna Melt Sandwich (P145.00)
Creamy and spicy tuna spread with melted cheese. Served with a side salad.

Some of the healthier choices are the Chicken Run and the Tuna Melt Sandwich, which my sisters love. (Now if only I could make equally delectable sandwiches at home!)

La Pinay (P180.00)
Mango, vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce

For dessert, we had La Pinay. The name of this dessert is apt, as mangoes are our national fruit. (No, not coconuts, as I thought as a kid due to the sheer abundance of coconut trees everywhere.) And, Pinays are well-known for their simplicity and beauty. The ingredients of this crepe are simple, but the combination is delectable! The vanilla ice cream melts quickly on the hot bed of crepe with sweet mango pieces inside. Eat both the ice cream and the crepe at the same time for that unique hot-cold sensation. This is a sweet treat to end your meal with.

This place serves good food, but one caveat is that it takes forever for them to bill out your food. Do you have other recommendations from Cafe Breton? :D

Love,
Helen

Thursday, October 24, 2013

我的美麗日記 (My Beauty Diary) Black Pearl Mask

On one of my sister's trips to Hong Kong, she got us this box of My Beauty Diary sheet masks as pasalubong. Aside from good chocolate, we love getting kikay stuff, too! ♥

My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask

Each box comes with 10 sheet masks inside.


The entire description at the back of the box is in Chinese, except for the ingredients. But I will share with you here the English translations I got from Sasa.com:

Description:
  • My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask whitens skin and restores elasticity for skin. It is ideal for all skin types, especially dull and loose skin.
  • Ultimate whitened skin: Ultimate whitening complex composed by black pearl extracts is a beauty ingredient containing amino acid and microelements. Blended with marine and botanical essences, it activates skin’s natural hydrating and whitening mechanism, leaving skin silky and radiant.
  • Leaves skin elastic and translucent: Natural vitamin C extracted from pineapple, rum and cucumber boosts metabolism and removes cuticles for fine, refresh, watery and white skin. Deep nourishment restores skin’s elasticity. Skin is revitalized and perfect.
  • Amazing Nanospheres Technology: Structured with plenty of tiny holes, it enhances absorption of nourishment, leaving skin moisturized.

How to use it:
  • Put the mask on cleansed and toned face. Leave it for 20-30 minutes and peel off. Gently massage the remaining serum for better absorption. No rinsing is necessary. Follow with usual skin care products.

Country of origin:
  • Taiwan

Ingredients:

  
The manufacturing and expiry date of the product is also indicated in the packaging. The shelf life of this one is good for 3 years.


Each mask is packed like this. Simple but cute!

Pros:
  • The sheet mask is thin, but not too flimsy.
  • The mask has a nice fit.
  • The sheet mask is well saturated with serum, as in, if you took the mask out of the packaging, you'll see a lot of leftovers left inside the foil pack, so better make the best out of it and use it on your neck, elbows, knees, whichever area needs a little bit of softening.
  • It has a mild floral scent, nothing too overpowering.
  • It feels cooling and soothing on the skin.
  • It leaves my face looking bright and radiant afterwards, and the day after I use this mask.
  • Dry patches were gone after using this mask.
  • The serum does not feel sticky and is absorbed well by the skin (with the help of patting motions after you take the sheet mask off).

Cons:
  • It's not readily available in the Philippines.
  • It has no noticeable whitening effect, just brightening.
  • Like most sheet masks, the skin brightening effect is temporary.

Will I repurchase? Yes!
Price: HKD 58.00 (on sale from the SRP of HKD 115.00) for a box of 10
Available at Sasa or Sasa.com

I love this sheet masks and this one is an easy favorite because it's even more affordable than the masks from Etude House or Tony Moly, and it works! Even if it weren't on sale, the price is still at par with the Korean sheet masks. Now if only I will go to Hong Kong anytime soon, I'd make sure to get myself boxes of these home! :D

Love,
Helen

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

#25Surprises from #AyalaLand25: Family Mart Goodies!

Last October 18, the good folks from Ayala Land dropped by our office in U.P.-Ayala Land TechnoHub for #25Surprises!


This indeed was a surprise for us since we were just busy working around 4:00PM when my boss told us to go down for some "activity" and "free food". I thought it was just going to be some food-tasting activity, but we found Yellow Cab pizzas - free for all!

  
Also, if you get your picture taken by the photo/video booth and you get goodie bag from Family Mart. I was able to snag a goodie bag filled with snacks. Yey! :D

Family Mart Collection Nagewa Salt Taste Potato Ring Snack

Family Mart Collection Caramel Corn

Family Mart Collection Waffle Corn Crunch Choco

...and a bottle of Mogu-Mogu which I didn't make it home for the photoshoot! :D

Happy 25th Anniversary, Ayala Land! Thank you for one of the fun #25Surprises; it was a pleasant distraction and a nice way to end a busy workweek! :D

Love,
Helen

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

[CLOSED] Lucky Citrine x L'Oreal Professionel Wear Your Color Proud Giveaway

[10/25/2013] UPDATE: Wear Your Color Proud Giveaway winner announcement here.

Different kinds of Filipinas come in varying skin colors. While most of us are born with jet black hair, it has been found that warm shades of chocolate browns look equally stunning on Filipinas. (Hint: Shades of brown can even soften the look of our facial features and make us look more youthful!) With this, it is crucial that we get the right shade of brown for our skin tone. This season, it's all about beautiful, natural looking hair - no reds or blondes - but never boring!


"One shade fits all" is not applicable when it comes to hair coloring, as the type of brown hair that looks good on a Mestiza may not necessarily work for a Chinita or Morena. With this in mind, L'Oreal Professionel launches the Wear Your Color Proud Campaign.

The campaign aims to create a discussion between the hairstylists and their clients on what color would go best with any Filipina skin tone. An integral part of this campaign is the Color Consultation Diagnosis Guide and Training to aid both the hairstylists and their clients based on the latter’s skin tone as well as a clear understanding of L’Oreal Professionnel’s color brands for the clients’ preference. With a reliable education tool and guided consultation and diagnosis with the hairstylist, the Filipina client is now given the power to properly choose the hair color that will suit her best, allowing her to have informed control over the hair color she wants to achieve. This collaborative effort will also make the client feel more comfortable over her decision, giving her a boost of confidence and satisfaction.


For this campaign, L’Oreal Professionnel has partnered with the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP). With a healthy mix of different kinds of Filipinas in its roster of talents, PMAP is the perfect partner to represent the campaign. Now, any mestiza, morena or chinita can achieve the hair color she wants by working closely with her hairstylist in selecting the right shade that suits and exhibits her skin tone best. 

To be able to execute this grand partnership in a sensational manner it truly deserves, L’Oreal Professionnel mounted a beauty and fashion shoot with non-other than Photographer Sara Black and Fashion Designer and Project Runway Philippines alumna Milka Quin. Together, the team was able to elegantly express the message the campaign aims to convey – that every Filipina - mestiza, morena, or chinita - can now be be prouder by having the most ideal hair color for her.

#proudmorena
#proudmestiza


#proudchinita

Now, it is your chance to get the hair color that will suit your skin tone best! L’Oreal Professionnel is holding the Wear Your Color Proud Week where women are invited to get the hair color that will truly bring out the best in them and will make them prouder. This November 11 to 15, we are offering a special promotion: For every hair color service that one person will avail, get another hair color service for a friend absolutely FREE!


This will be available in the partner salons of L’Oreal Professionnel: Bench Fix Salon, Bang’s Tony & Jackey, Henri Calayag Salon, Philippe Tordjman Le Salon, and Regine’s.

Get the best hair color for your skin tone by availing of this exclusive offer during the Wear Your Color Proud Week. But before this, I'll be one of the firsts to be part of this color movement and I'm giving away the slot for my +1! This event will happen on October 27, 2013, Sunday, 11:00AM at Tony & Jackey SM North EDSA Annex.

To make it different, this time it's going to be a Facebook giveaway!

Mechanics:
1. Like @Lucky Citrine on Facebook.
2. Follow @LOrealProPH on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
3. Like and share THIS poster publicly, and caption "I wanna be part of the 5000 Filipinas to Wear Their Color Proud!"
4.Tag @Lucky Citrine, @LorealProPh and #wearyourcolorproud
5. I will announce the winner on my Facebook page on Friday, October 25, 2013.

To know more about L’Oreal Professionnel Steampod and its #WearYourColorProud campaign, visit:

Love,
Helen