As a consumer, I went through phrases with all my beauty obsession. For a long period of time, I swore off perfume, found it too overpowering, too strong, unacceptable to the nose and next thing you know I am all over it like a rash. As you can guess it, I am currently all over it like a rash. Add to the already obsessed list of fruity, floral, rose, tuberose, apple blossom and now this.
Say hello to Jo Malone’s limited edition Osmanthus Blossom Cologne. What a mouthful but certainly delightful to the nose. This bottle captures the essence of exotic white flower, apricot and leather. There’s also hints of petitgrain, peach, orange flower and cashmere wood.
Top: Petitgrain
Heart: Osmanthus Blossom
Base: Cashmere Wood
With my Chinese background, I am no stranger to Osmanthus as it is commonly used in tea and Chinese herbal medicine known as 桂花茶 (Gui Hua Cha) that helps to rid body of excess nitric oxide and improve complexion in a long run. To find this ingredient in the heart of this perfume captures my attention and my curiosity.
Scent wise, this reminds me of See by Chloe, not sure if both perfume shares a similar blossom ingredient. See by Chloe is a younger, fruitier version and Jo Malone’s is a grown up adult version with a luxurious woody leave behind scent. Overall, I LOVE this for its rich fruity aroma, first two words that came to mind was crisp and citrusy. Few minutes later I am left with this woody scent I cannot stop myself to sniff. The scent is addictive and definitely long lasting.
Fun fact: I also told le garçon to give this a good sniff and the only word I managed to squeeze out of him was “grapes”!
30ml RRP AUD$90
100ml RRP AUD$170
For stockist 1800 661 062
See by Chloe has been taking off the fashion scene by a storm with its much affordable fashion pieces. Their latest addition to the collection is none other than an EDP. One that resembles the simplicity of Chloe brand – clear, clear, elegant packaging that oozes sophistication. I love the multi-faceted bottle packaging and is sure to prettify (is that a word?) any dresser.
The word that jumps out to me upon sniffing this scent is – SWEET FLOWERS. My favourite type of scent and never fails to put a smile in my face. I gave le garçon a quick whirl and the first two words that came out of him was SWEET and VANILLA ICE CREAM!
Combining notes like bergamot, apple blossom, jasmine, sandalwood and vanilla, this perfume isn’t overwhelming, isn’t dominant and certainly isn’t a scent that can be forgotten easily. The combination of bergamot, jasmine and vanilla stands out the most and is a clear winner in my book because it is uncomplicated, doesn’t smell like most perfume (note – the none overwhelming bit) and is unique much like her sister Chloe.
See by Chloe EDP 30ml RRP AUD$80
See by Chloe EDP 50ml RRP AUD$110
See by Chloe EDP 75ml RRP AUD$140
Available at David Jones and Myer Stores nationally
Call 1800 812 663 for stockist
Recently, Vivienne Westwood released their latest irresistible new heroine – the Flirt Alice.
Read my past review on Cheeky Alice here & Naughty Alice here.
Flirty Alice is feminine but feisty, brimming with spirit and sparkle.
This floral composition combines a hint of bergamot citrus, green tea undertones to uplift the fragrance with a feminine rosey notes overlay with vanilla and blond wood blend. It’s sweet and a little musky to the nose at first scent and once the woody scent lays off, it leaves a charming floral and citrusy blend. If you like your perfume substantial with a woody bottom notes, you’ll love this perfume.
Definitely one to wear when you want that long lasting impression.
RRP AUD$79
Available for a limited time from 2nd June 2013 from Myer and David Jones stores
For stockist call 1800 812 663
Today, let me start this post with a short story.
Couple of years ago, a friend came to me and said she’d walked past a woman at the mall and came across this intriguing fragrance that she knew on the spot she needed to know where is it from. She stopped this complete stranger and asked about it and the lady just simply replied with “Chanel”. With determination, my friend then went to the nearest Chanel counter hoping to find this perfume but to no avail.
This was when she came to me and tried to describe the scent in hopes that I could decipher. Needless to say I couldn’t help, after all I am no perfume guru and never got the chance to sniff the scent that she was talking about.
Photos credits: DRIAN, © Adagp, Paris 2012
Fast forward couple of years later, one day it hit me – the reason why she couldn’t find the perfume was because it must have been from the niche Les Exclusifs de Chanel collection. The very same limited collection that is only available exclusively through Chanel Beauty Boutiques and not many people are aware of.
Chanel as we know it is a fashion house, a make up house, a skincare house but it is also a perfume house. Complete with their “in-house” perfumer and laboratories, Chanel has access to heaps of exclusive sources, hence their perfumes are distinctive, unique and most of all memorable. In each of their beauty boutiques, you’re guaranteed to come across the Chanel Espace Parfums where you can discover these amazing scents over the Olfactive Bar.
What makes this fragrance unique and different from others is that you will be presented with ceramic blotters, these blotters capture the essence of each creation, encapsulating the freshness and fullness of each scent delivering a clear insight into each scent’s character.
Every single piece of Les Exclusifs de Chanel creations are deeply inspired by the spirit and history of Mademoiselle Chanel. Each one refers to episodes and times in her life and the landmark places that figure prominently in her history hence you see names like 31 rue Cambon, Coromandel, Bel Respiro, 28 La Pausa, Sycomore, Beige, Jersey and the latest chapter – 1932.
If you follow my blog on Facebook, you’re most likely to have come across this video about – a constellation of diamonds, if you haven’t I strongly urge you to click through the explore the world of Mademoiselle Chanel showered Paris with diamond stars back ins 1932.
Inspired by the precious, white and oh-so feminine flower: jasmine, 1932 marries the blend of woody, fruity and floral. Go on, step into your nearest Chanel boutique to try out the world of new sensory experience if you’ve never been, I promise you will not be disappointed.
Ps, My personal favourites are Coromandel, Beige and Gardenia. What’s yours?
Les Exclusifs de Chanel prices:
75ml RRP AUD$220
200ml RRP AUD$350
1300 CHANEL
In late Feb, Marc Jacobs released a new version of their signature Daisy perfume and its call the Daisy Sunshine. True to its name, the lid of this perfume comes with three cute flowers (pink, orange and green matches the notes in this perfume perfectly). The burst of rainbow colours are pleasant to the eyes and adds a pop of colour to my dresser.
Overall, Daisy Sunshine is a lighter version of the original Daisy version. With notes like red currant, guava, mandarin, lily, violet, lychee, apricot and musky wood; this perfume releases a faint hint of sweet mandarin at first sniff from the bottle but once sprayed in contact with my wrist, it blossoms with a fresh mix of floral and fruity mix.
Once the perfume is settled down, it leaves a floral and musky lingering scent and isn’t too overpowering and is great for day to day wear.
RRP AUD$79
Available on counters now for a limited time only
Many moons ago, I got to attend Lady Gaga’s debut fragrance launch and concert. After months of biting my tongue, it is officially here and we can finally get our grubby hands on the long awaited and much talked about perfume. The black fluid that was compounded by Lady Gaga from The Haus Laboratories in Paris comes in 30ml and 50ml.
“First of its kind, this perfume in an innovation in fluid technology it’s black like the soul of fame, but invisible once airbonne.”
Combining the tears of Belladonna, crushed heart of Tiger Orchidea, a black veil of Incense, pulverized Apricot, the combinative essences of Saffron and Honey drops; the perfume oozes sweet notes of apricot/honey and is very distinctive with its bottle design / composition (of being black fluid).
Being Lady Gaga’s first signature fragrance, this challenges the existing industry standard and delivers in terms of darkness, mystery with a strong burst of crushed floral notes.
Leading up to its launch, Fame has received quite some hype and raves due to a number of reasons.
#1 This is Lady Gaga’s first perfume, ever.
#2 Fame comes in a black fluid formula that once sprayed it comes off clear. Very clever!
#3 Despite it’s dark and eccentric marketing, this perfume is actually VERY wearable. We’re talking about floral, sweetness wearable, think Carebears and My Little Ponies.
#4 Unique and sleek bottle design oh and amazing teasers and promotions helps.
RRP AUD$55 (30ml) / $75 (50ml) / $110 (100ml)
Available on counters now
For skin
Mary Kay has been available in Australia since 1971 and have since build a strong customer base via word of mouth. Good news is that they are now online and has just recently launched their new Botanical Effects collection; a collection for ladies who want simple steps and a complete routine for their skin type.
Botanical Effects collection (RRP AUD$120) comes in cleanser, freshen toner, moisturiser and mask catering needs for dry, normal and oily skin. Since I have oily/combination skin I went with the oily/sensitive skin range that is free from alcohol, fragrance and synthetic dyes. They are non comedogenic by clarifying and treating skin without further provoking skin. Loving how lightweight the moisturiser is and it doesn’t leave any greasy residue.
Skinvitals Hydraflex New Generation Cosmeceutical Masks Ranging from Hydraflex masks targeted for specific areas of the face/body which includes 3D face, neck/decollete, eyes and hands. Retailing at a very reasonable price point of RRP AUD$14.99 each, I am find these masks very handy for specific treatments. Be sure to check out the Hydraflex 3D Face mask that loops over the ears and also targets the neck area. It is a shame that the mask didn’t fit my face but I did enjoyed the results this mask provided. Instantly tightens my skin and my fine lines were less visible.
Q Silica Paw Paw Rescue Ointment (RRP AUD$8.95), this all natural multipurpose balm helps to soothe dryness on skin or on lips. I use this mostly on my lips and cuticles as they are the driest points on my body. With its natural fermented paw paw extract and soothing base of mineral silica, shea butter, beeswax, macadamia oil and calendula extract; this rich balm works by sealing in the moisture and protect skin from drying out.
Highly recommend this as a night treatment by applying a thick layer before bed and gently exfoliate lips with a wet toothbrush in the morning for baby smooth lips.
For makeup
When Clinique launched their Superbalanced Makeup (foundation), it quickly became a favourite amongst everyone I knew. The hardworking people with lab coats at Clinique decided to bring forth a new addition to the Superbalanced range – the Clinique Superbalanced Power Bronzer (RRP AUD$65). A lightweight and oil-free mineral powder bronzer that doubles as an oil absorbing make up product, suitable for all skin types and is especially great for combination/oily skin.
The smart packing also helps to prevent messy bronzer spilling everywhere, so all you need to do is turn grinder clockwise and a fresh dose of bronzing loose powder appears. Colour wise, the pigment is quite subtle and doesn’t have shimmer (my fav!) in it so it is great to use as a contouring product too! Love it.
Say hello to Estee Lauder Eyeshadow Palette in #Bronze Sands (RRP AUD$90). I have always been a big fan of EL eye shadow palettes, they seem to complement my skin tone very well, carries really good pigments and best of all they always come in fail proof shades.
The #Bronze Sands eyeshadow palette is no different. The formula is silky smooth, palette is pretty, shadows are pigmented and the finish is long lasting. You seriously can’t fault Estee Lauder Eyeshadow Palettes.
For hair
Tigi Catwalk Your Highness Volume Collection Root Boost Spray (RRP AUD$29.95) delivers lift and volume at the roots. Anything that promises lift and volume at the roots, will always be my weakness as I am forever out there hunting for the latest and newest technology to lift my limp, fine hair.
This one sprays fine mist foam onto the roots (only over damp hair) and massage well for lift & volume and blow dry according to your needs. Be sure to massage well because if you spray too much mist foam in one area of your hair and once dried, it will become stiff and you don’t want that. In terms of strength, this really delivers lift and volume while thickening hair without the heavy feeling.
Its official, I have a love hate relationship with dry shampoo. I love how they can somewhat cleanse my hair, reduce oiliness and make them look presentable in no time. I do however hate that not many shampoo in the market could serve me when I had darker hair and now that I have lighter hair, normal dry shampoo makes me look like I have dandruff issue. No matter how much I shake, comb and shake it off, the white powder residue JUST KEEPS COMING back. I have put this down to having way too oily hair hence the white dandruff looking flaky issue.
Bastiste Dry Shampoo recently launched the XXL Wild (RRP AUD$9.95) and Volume (RRP AUD$12.95) dry shampoos. Both of which does what it promises – cleaner, fresher, floral scented hair minus the grease which I like my hair to be 24/7. I have experimented in spraying the dry shampoo far away, close by, just underneath my top layer of hair, changing different type of combs, blow my hair with a hairdryer, essentially everything but seems to find the annoying white flakes to be unbeatable. Let me know if you do have a trick up your sleeves.
For body
Manicare Glambody Avant-Garde Collection Body Tattoo (RRP AUD$9.95) is the accessories for your skin with these dazzling designer inspired velvet and crystal body tattoo. This famous one was also recently spotted on Leighton Meester. Love it.
Sportsgirl recently launched their first ever fragrance collection also known as “Makes Scents”. This new collection is available in 4 different scents in a slim travel bottle design inspired by test tubes. Each scent is unique, energetic and is of playful nature. At RRP AUD$9.95, this collection is extremely affordable and it’s hard to miss the perfumes which are wrapped in graphic prints matching to the fragrance notes.
I am not much of a drinker these days but couldn’t help but noticed a drink that stands out – espresso martini seems to be a crowd favourite amongst both males and females. From the famous coffee house illy, they have recently released the illyquore, perfect for DIY-ing your own espresso martini at home (just add ice, shake & serve) or having it cold with ice and serve.
The options are endless, you just need to get creative with it.
Say hello to Vera Wang’s latest perfume – Princess Night.
This perfume has a floral blend with fruits and woody tones. At first sniff, it is quite overpoweringly florally sweet and I am not surprised the base note of this perfume is sugar (an ingredient I don’t often see in perfumes) but after a while, the scent is quite pleasing and I love the spiced orange blossom and watermelon fruity blend that lingers behind.
As for the bottle, can I just say it’s awesome? I haven’t seen a bottle is as edgy AND girly at the same time for such a long time. The bottle itself is a winner for me with its original heart-shape and gorgeous dark purple-ish glitter all over with a crown on top. Most importantly, did you know you can remove the crown and wear it as a ring? Love it!
Top notes: Wild Berries, Watermelon & Raspberry
Core: Jasmine Petals, Spiced Orange Blossom, Passionate Rose
Base notes: Sugar, Vanilla, Musk
RRP AUD$69
Available on counters now
