Review: J.Crew Sloane Patent Pumps

It has been ages since I bought anything from J.Crew...in years past, I would have at least one shipment a month. 

During the Memorial Day weekend, I randomly went on the site and started browsing the sale section (because there is no use buying anything full price from there..everything will eventually go on sale. AND more often than not, there is an additional 30% off sale items code going on) and I came across the Sloane pumps on sale in Bright Poppy. 

The online picture gave me the impression that Bright Poppy was more of a pink tone than anything, so I gave it a try.

As you can see, it is more of a muted/faded version of a true bright red. 

The shoe itself is well made, using real leather on almost everything -- the soles, the inserts, etc, which is why I think that J.Crew shoes are really good mid-price options for shoes. 

(These shoes were on sale, with additional 30% off. I paid $84, which is a steal for the quality that it is)

It has a 3 1/2 inch heel, which is the perfect height for wearing to work, where one would have to last all day in them. It gives sufficient height without it being too much.

Sizing is consistent with all my other shoes, and I fit perfect in my normal 8.5

 

However, I don't like how long the toe-box is. I prefer my shoes to cut a little lower so that there's more toe cleavage (I tend to associate long toe-boxes with cheaply made shoes. May not be true, but that's just my own observation)

This will be a return for me because of toe-box length, and also because I don't particularly care for the muted red color...I veer towards the thought process that if one is going to do red, then go all out and make it a true bold red. 

J.Crew Sloane Patent Pumps, on sale for $120

Beauty Bit: Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Fresh Watery Cream Review

Over the past few weeks, I've started breaking out and it was like a revival of my cystic acne episode that has plagued me over the past 2 years. 

Originally, I thought it was triggered by the Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Ampoule (and it very well may have been) but it ceased to get better even when I stopped using the product. I had to go back on my prescription topical creams from my dermatologist and those cause some killer dry and peeling skin (even with exfoliation night and day) 

And with makeup on, my skin was a peeling mess by the middle of the day. 

Lovely. 

However, this time around, I have a game-changer within my reach. 

Nature Republic's Super Aqua Max Cream is a "high-performance hydrating cream which infuses extra moisture and refreshment back to skin with an energizing complex of deep sea minerals from maritime plants while extracts of chlorella, seaweed, plankton and water-soluble collagen and hyaluronic acid help to strengthen skin's ability to defend itself against external aggressors and dehydration"

It is said to mimic Biotherm's Aquasource and blind tests have shown that users prefer Nature Republic's version.
And the huge difference in price will also be a substantial consideration when trying to decide between the two, I would imagine. 

Now, all this official mumbo-jumbo aside, I really really like the cream.
I have the one meant for combination/oily skin and it has a light gel texture. 

First impression was that it has a REALLY strong scent...it smells like men's cologne. 

It is cool upon application, it is easily absorbed and leaves a slightly sticky feeling to the skin. 

Performance wise, it definitely helps keep my skin hydrated and made a significant difference in helping reduce the peeling from harsh prescription acne creams. I can even reapply over makeup throughout the day (I had a cold during my breakout and the constant nose-blowing meant that my nose and upper lip was even more of a peeling, flaky mess) and because it is a gel, it doesn't cause my base to rub off, or separate like it will with other rich moisturizing creams.

Another benefit is that it greatly helps reduce my oiliness throughout the day. Because it is so hydrating, it really helped in rebalancing my oily skin so that it is not constantly producing oils to make up for the dehydrated state of my treated skin. 

I'm almost at the end of my first jar, and my replacement order has already been placed through Soko Glam.

This is on the definitely recommend list!

Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Cream, $18

Beauty Bit: ETUDE HOUSE Precious Mineral Any Cushion Compact Review

ETUDE HOUSE is a South Korean makeup brand. I've seen their stores during my visits back to Malaysia, but was never tremendously interested in trying it out.

Until my dive off the deep end into everything Korean, that is.

This product is claimed to be similar to the IOPE Air Cushion that was shown being used in My Love from Another Star. And since they have ridiculously perfect skin, I got suckered into trying.

To be honest, I wasn't quite sure what to expect...I assumed that it would have a somewhat powdery texture (WRONG!), that it would be cased in slim packaging so that it would be easy to tote around (WRONG!) and that it would be easy to reapply (RIGHT!)

The consistency of the product is like a cream. It is a little thinner in consistency than my Skin79 BB cream, and the coverage can be adjusted with the application of multiple layers.

It takes some practice to get the perfect amount of product onto the sponge -- if I press too lightly, there is too little product. But if I press too hard, too much gets on the sponge and I have to blend, blend, blend.

The product gives off a cooling sensation when I first apply it on my skin, which was a slightly odd feeling (I kinda like it now though). The formula is easy to blend, gives of a brightening glow  and provides some coverage. 

Now that my skin's hyperpigmentation is improving, I can get away without packing on the concealer, or foregoing it completely, but I would still need a second layer of my base product on the areas with the dark spots.

Because I have oily skin, I start to "glow" excessively in a few hours, but reapplication of the product was easy and it didn't make my skin look cakey at all, which is an issue I have when I try and touch up throughout the day

I ordered the cushion compact in Natural Beige (W13) and it is a tad light for my skin tone -- It would probably be best if I went up the next shade or so.

As with most Korean products, it claims to serve multiple functions: brightening, wrinkle reduction, and sebum control. It also has an SPF of 50+ (which protects from UVB  rays that causes sunburn) and PA+++ (which protects from UVA rays that may cause long-term skin damage)

I bought my compact from Soko Glam, which is an online store based in NYC that curates Korean beauty and skincare items. Their prices are a little higher than online shops that ship directly from South Korea, but at least it gives you the reassurance that you will be getting authentic products.
 (yes, there are actually counterfeit beauty products in the market. Crazy Asians.)

ETUDE HOUSE Precious Mineral Any Cushion in W13, $24

EDIT: check out this video for a tutorial on how to use air cushion compacts

Beauty Bit: Rimmel Show Off Lip Laquers Review

 

I have been wanting to try these Rimmel lip laquers out since seeing UK YouTubers talking about them.

I veered off from my normal gravitation course towards reds and went for pinks instead
(due to a Korean drama that I have been OBSESSED with these past few weeks)

 

L to R: Nova and Apocaliptic

These are bold lip colors that deliver intense color upon the first swipe. But they absolutely CLING on to any dry bits and bobs that you may have (which I certainly do...blast this cold weather) so exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate prior to use!

The colors are gorgeous, and bright 

Above, I have Nova as the base and Apocaliptic applied in the inner portions of the lips for a just-bitten/ombre look....at least...that's what I tell myself!

As for longevity and wear, it is not budge-proof and will pretty much transfer to any and every surface your lips touch. It did ok, lasting through a meal -- the color faded, but was still visible. However, it did fade evenly, so you are not left with a ring of color lining your mouth.

At around $5, it is an affordable lip option that delivers mega-watt color, but I won't be buying any more due to the color transfer and how it really emphasizes dryness. Being realistic, regardless of how many cups of water I drink, or how often I apply balm and exfoliate my lips, there are times when my lips are just, well...dry. So I would need lip products that can help moisturize, or at the very least, not magnify the problem.

Review: Rag & Bone Harrow Booties

Rag & Bone Harrow booties in black leather

Sizing - I've read reviews that say the shoes run small, and other reviews that said they ran large...it's all very confusing. But in the end, I made an executive decision to order my regular size 39 and they fit perfect. Perhaps a tad narrow initially (which was remedied after a few wears, when the leather stretched), but the length was spot-on.

Comfort - It has a very thick heel, so it provides a sturdy surface to prevent one from teetering around as they walk. As I mentioned above, the width is a tad narrow, especially when one wears socks, so taking it out on its virgin voyage for a long visit at the mall was not a good idea. That long visit was cut short because my feet were having shooting pains up the archs (which disappeared the moment I took my feet out and placed them on level ground) I have yet to wear them again on such a journey, but they comfortably withstand a day at work.

Quality - It is 100% leather (mmm...the smell of new leather...) and it is well-made. It did come with an odd white glaze over parts of the shoes that made it look like it went a-tramping around some snow banks that have been sprinkled with salt. Perhaps that is the look that was intended...I have no idea. I did try to rub it off, but to no avail. I suppose it can take the pressure out of trying to keep it shiny and pristine since it never was in the first place...Ha!

Price - Ridiculous. At $495....I'm sorry, but there's no other word for it. But then again, I am the idiot silly person who got them nevertheless. Because I am a weak, frivolous ninny (acceptance is half the battle). However, I didn't pay full price for it -- that would have been pushing it. I pounced when ShopBop had one of their promotions and got them at 25% off. Still an exorbitant price, but at least I would only have to sell one arm, rather than both.

Versatility - One only has to Google "Harrow booties" and there will be a plethora of images and looks to gather inspiration from since these were quite the "It" item last year. A friend calls them my "pixie" boots, which actually, now that I've thought about it, they do kinda resemble. And I think that's cute. My only peeve is that it is not possible to wear socks with these because the front of the booties have a cleavage type detail that will make the socks visible (even my low-cut ones) and that is NOT a cute look to me. Until I can find something that is cut low enough, I shall have to wear this sans socks or with tights.

Would I Buy Them Again? Yes. They are well-made; they don't kill my feet; I wear them often enough since it pairs well with casual outfits, and tones down an excessively girly one; there's lots of colors and textures to choose from (smack me, but I am currently eying the grey nubuck ones)...And also, because I like expensive shoes. There's just something about them that makes one stand a little taller and walk more confidently down the hallways. And that, my friend(s)...is priceless.

Random Files: Spring Haul from Dorothy Perkins

 

I usually do a haul-type activity at the beginning of every season to perk my wardrobe up a bit. This spring, I ordered from Dorothy Perkins after successful purchases from other European brands like Topshop and Zara.

They have amazing dresses at absolutely amazing prices. There's usually a code for $ off plus free shipping to the US, so make sure to utilize that (I used a 15% off one for this order). The quality of the items are on par (exceed, even) with stores like H&M. 

As far as sizing, because European sizing is smaller than the US, I ordered almost everything in a size 4.

I got my package within a week of ordering, which seems crazy fast especially when compared to Topshop (who is owned by the same parent company), which also ships direct from England.

1) Stripe Boxpleat dress, $29 - I have a stripes addiction -- specifically navy and white stripes. If something has it, chances are, I'll get it. This dress is adorable. I am anticipating it to be a workhorse for the summer.  

2) Sheer Insert dress in Blush, $44 - I loved, loved, loved this dress...but unfortunately, it did not love me. In my normal size 4, the bodice was simply too tight (stuffed in a sausage casing, anyone?) This is one where sizing up is advisable. This was a return for me, as they do not have an exchange program.

3) Waffle Skater dress in Ink, $35  - A love -- navy and white are probably most favorite combination. The dress (worn here) looks classic with just enough detailing to make it girly. The length is appropriate to be worn for work, and it can be worn both in the warmer and colder months.

 

  

4) Jersey Midi dress in Black, $12 - I got this in a size 2, because size 4 was unavailable. It fits perfectly. The cut and length of the skirt was perfect. The price ($12!!) was perfect. Makes me break out in a cold sweat when I remember the amount of $$ I've spent on Rachel Pally clothing that is essentially made of the same material.

5) Jersey camisole in Black, $17 - Basic camisole with adjustable straps, this top is nice and flowy. Even though it is a bit expensive for a basic top, it is the perfect staple that can be dressed up (shown here) or down.

6) Notch Neck dress in Ink - $39 - These type of pencil dresses are my HG dresses. They just exude the perfect amount of femininity and sensuality, whilst still being quite conservative. Sexy librarian chic, I call it. However, they are also the type of dresses that rarely fit well right off the rack. Because I have minimal fat around the small of my back (plenty elsewhere though!), I usually end up with a substantial amount of fabric bunching around there, looking like I have a second butt. It is the case for this dress. Else it fitted perfectly in a size 4. This was a return.

*****

The only unfortunate thing is that Dorothy Perkins does NOT offer free returns for orders to the US, unlike Topshop and ASOS, and there is no exchange policy.

 I had 2 items that didn't fit me quite right, and it cost $22 for me to ship it back to England via USPS. I'm afraid that is simply too expensive for me to risk having to pay for when ordering from them because it essentially negates the fabulous pricing and promotions that is offered (yes, I am cheap weird like that - I have no issues spending  $$ on items, but not when it is for something as "boring" as shipping)

So until they start offering free returns as well, I will be staying away.

Review: Topshop Floppy Hat

 

I like hats, but hats usually don't care for me. 

I'm sure it has something to do with my moon face and substantial cheek fats

But, I persevere. Because hats are cool. 

Well...some of them are, at any rate.

 

I've been obsessed with floppy hats lately and ordered one from Topshop.

(It arrived 2 weeks later - it ships from the UK...so note -- plan your purchases if there's a particular event you are buying for...unless you're willing to pay for expedited shipping)

And I love it.

It arrived flattened and smushed into my postbox, but no harm done - it fluffed and flopped back easily.

Made out of 100% wool, it has a nice weight to it and it flops perfectly - unlike the picture of it on Topshop's website. 

The fit is comfortable (although I would recommend holding on to it on windy days) and I think it will be the perfect accessory to give that little smidge of bohemian whimsy to outfits.

 Topshop Big Floppy Hat $56

3 Ways and A Review: Zara Combination Biker Jacket

I don't own a leather jacket.

It is a classic, but in my mind, I gravitate more towards the prim and proper librarian/newscaster/Emma Pillsbury image rather than the cool and effortless biker/rocker/edgy looks. Simply because pigs will fly before I can look biker chic. 

But I was intrigued and I wanted to branch out a little this year. So I got one. Not full on leather, because Rome was not built in a day. So I got a "combination" one. And here are some looks to help ease me into this territory...

1) For work...

Dress: Max & Cleo / Shoes: Christian Louboutin Declic / Necklace: Ebay

2) For a date night

Playsuit: Topshop

3) For a casual daytime out and about...

Shirt: MNG / Jeans: Joe Jeans / Belt: Linea Pelle / Shoes: Manolo Blahnik BBs / Necklace: J.Crew

Being a loyal J.Crew girl, I don't venture out to other brands within the same market much.  Add to the fact that there are no brick and mortar Zara shops around the corner results in me having never bought anything from it before.

The search for a leather jacket brought me back to their online site again and again, until finally one day, I bit the bullet. They offer free shipping, free returns AND their delivery was lighting fast. My order arrived ONE day after I placed it.

I was beyond impressed.

And I was impressed by the jacket too. It was beautiful. Although not composed of real leather, it definitely did not have that fake plasticky-pleather feel to it. It is well-made, it looks expensive and it fits lovely.

As it is with most European brands, I found that I had to size up from my regular "American" sizing. I am normally a size 0 in J.Crew. I took a size S in the jacket.

 

Zara Combination Biker Jacket $129