| 
Toni Platon-Tiu spent the last 12 years working in the advertising and media industry. Recently, she decided to work from home to spend time with her family and raise her little boy. Now, she is brand strategist for an American Company as well as a contributing writer for the Philippine Online Chronicles, WikiHealth Philippines, among other endeavors. On top of that, she is one of the country's top mom blog, Wifely Steps.
*****
Simple, no-fuss, easy peasy – these are three ways that best describe the beauty products I love. They’re also the same words I use in describing my relationship with personal care in general. I’m generally hesitant about trying new things in the realm of beauty, but when I find something I love I stick to it all the way. Well, at least till I get hair or skin fatigue that is.
For hair care, I love Pantene Hair Fall Control Shampoo and Conditioner. I started using this two years ago after I gave birth to my son. Hair fall is common after pregnancy, and of all the anti-hair fall products I tried back then, this was the best for me. Super like! L’Oreal Total Repair Shampoo and Conditioner are effective on my regularly blow-dried hair so they’re staples in the bathroom. What I’ve been using more of this summer is the shampoo and conditioner pair from Sonoma. I love, love, love Sonoma Natural Daily Shampo and Sonoma Natural Daily Conditioner. Aside from keeping my hair healthy, the lavender scent is super refreshing and relaxing.
In the shower I also enjoy Sonoma’s Natural Bath & Shower Gel, which I always partner with the Sonoma shampoo and conditioner. Lavender all the way – perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The Body Shop’s Cocoa Butter Creamy Body Wash is so yummy. I love its decadent scent and how it moisturizes my skin so well. When I’m in the mood for a light, fresh scent I use my Dove Go Fresh Body Wash with Cucumber & Green Tea. On days I have a little more time to indulge myself in the bath, I use The Body Shop’s Spa Wisdom Morocco Black Olive & Argan Oil Scrub.
I always shower with my favourite body puff. My toddler picked out this turtle from Rustan’s.
Both lotions I currently use and love are from Johnson’s and Johnson’s. I originally bought them for my son but we ended up sharing them. The classic pink bottle is a mainstay in the bedroom, but we use Johnson’s Baby Bedtime Lotion more often. It smells soooo good and sooo relaxing that I use it during the day too, not just after baths in the evening.
For my face, I use only three products: Splash Extract Soap, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer (during the day) and Pond’s Gold Radiance (before bedtime). I started using Splash for a research I was doing on facial care products last year. While I’m not really into skin whitening, I found that my skin became softer and smoother a week after using it. Super like. Coupled with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer during the day and Pond’s Gold Radiance before bedtime, this trinity of facial care products works very well for me.
In my bag, I always carry Bath & Body’s Warm Vanilla Sugar Body Splash. Vanilla is my everyday go-to scent. There’s also Visine to battle my usually dry eyes, my Neutrogena sunscreen, and a small bottle of Bath & Body antibacterial hand gel. I hardly wear make-up, but I do use Maybelline Clear Smooth Face Powder which I super love. For my lips, I like Fruits & Passion’s Moringa Nourishing Lip Butter, Alba Botanica Terra Tints Blaze, ModelCo Lipstick Satin Lip Couture in Emily (the built-in mirror is super convenient), but my favourite of all is my Maybelline Lip Smooth Color & Care Tinted Lip Balm in Cherry. It smells sweet, moisturizes my lips but feels very light. It’s the ultimate in simple, no-fuss, easy peasy. This lip balm is the only beauty product that makes me panic when I can’t find it!
as told to @ divasoria
 | comments: Leave a comment   |
| 
dear lena,
i'm a sucker for girl friend shows and new york city. yes, i was a fan of sex and the city and i was quite intrigued..nay...excited when i heard that you were going to launch a show on hbo. i've seen your movie tiny furniture, i've heard your fresh air interview, i've read all these new yorker and NYT articles on your work. i also heard judd apatow was executive producing your show. yadda yadda yadda. needless to say, i was pretty much psyched.
after seeing the first episode, i really liked the earnestness of the voice you were trying to portray. i lived in the city when i was your age and although i'm a little bit older than the "girls" now, i thought the characters were authentic and found a lot of familiarity as some of my friends lived that lifestyle back in the day.
that said, i have to tell you something - i know, who am i to tell you anything- but from one jaded person to another here it goes: i'm really sick of seeing naked bodies all the time. some say i maybe just too programmed to seeing perfect naked bodies and can't take "real" women and men. whatever. i'm also not a nun but i feel like the stories you're trying to tell do not need copious amounts of naked bodies and bad sex EVERY single episode.
i've heard people say that you either love or hate "girls", i'm right smack dab in the middle. i love the story and characters but i don't know how long i can last watching flailing bodies going at it with so much awkwardness and discomfort. and seriously, it's pretty painful to watch. sadly, these take away from the core of such an honest portrayal of love, lust and life in the big city.
i hope you'll take this with a grain of salt and affection.
best,
grace
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| a little update on my discoveries and new favorites the past few months.
discovered these while walking around watson's in SM city...BACOLOD. yes. i'm not a beauty snob, and i'm willing to try all sorts of products as long as it works and these WORK!(and honestly, i don't exactly know what the brand is so i just look for these tubes and that's it) i especially love the moisturizer. it leaves my skin moisturized but not sticky! it also has a cooling effect. i love it so much, every time i go into a watson's, i have to look for these. delighted that they were on sale a few months ago and hoarded so MUCH. you should look through my bathroom cabinets and they are filled with these little things. hehehe.
my current everyday beauty schtick - i put on a tiny amount of skinfood's good afternoon honey black tea bb cream or pat a thin layer dr feelgood as primer. i really like this bb cream because it's illuminating - keeps your skin glowing. then i use sugarbomb as bronzer/blusher, curl my lashes and use THE BEST mascara - armani's eyes to kill. for lips, i go either very "natural" with chanel's rouge coco baume(the prissy girl's lip balm! HA!) or this amazing new line from armani beauty, it's rouge d'armani sheer lipstick! my friend gave me this bright barbie pink color(vita 501) but on the lips it's light and sheer. it's really pretty and fresh.
i was also cleaning out my stack of beauty products and forgot i had this smokin' eye kit from benefit! makes smokey eyes easy-peasy which i love to do for evenings. another night-out essential is gloss d'armani in nude.
and since i'm miss kuripot, i found a good mattifying top coat from dashing diva. this keeps me from obsessing over not hoarding enough bottles of chanel's velvet matte top coat.
whenever i can, i love getting a good tan and since i came back from the beach, i've been obsessed with trying to prolong the golden glow. my usual beach staples are a good sunscreen, currently i'm using VMV's armada sport 70 spf for my body and chanel's uv essentiel for my face. for tanning, i swear by amazing maui babe's browning lotion. simply the BEST and most effective.
to make the tan last, i use a combination of nivea's smooth body oil and nivea's baby loving caring oil at night. unfortunately, i haven't seen nivea's smooth body oil in watson's or supermarkets lately so i've been worried. let me know if you see this! i am going to hoard! i also discovered vaseline's total moisture cocoa glow recently and have been using this in the mornings/daytime. it keeps the skin buttery soft with no icky feeling.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Giselle Tongi-Walters or also known as G Toengi is best known as one of the local showbiz's 90s icons of teen angst. She first made a name for herself at 16 as one of the members of the very first batch of star circle talents. She then landed the role of one of the lead characters in seminal adolescent afternoon melodrama "gimik"(we all watched that and TGIS!) and she was also a co-host for "music bureau" and a former VJ for MTV asia. She then decided to leave everything behind to pursue her dream in America. After 12 years of living abroad, G is back in the Philippines and adjusting to being home in the islands.
While in the US, she went to school both for acting at the lee strasberg school as well as finishing her college degree at UCLA(read her lovely and honest article on her life in the US here). She is now married to Tim Walters and they have two kids, Sakura and Kenobi. She is also back on television as a contrabida in an ABS-CBN teleserye called Aryana along with pursuing production work in a documentary called the Basco Balikbayan Project.
********
My hair care regimen is essential especially now that I am back to work- my hair is usually blow dried, curled or styled at least 4 times a week.
My shampoo and conditioner is Pureology for damaged hair. I love the smell and it really works wonders.
Once a week I use Kerastase Cement Anti- Usure. Then once a month I use the Kerastase Resistance Age Recharge. I get all my conditioning treatments and shampoo from the Jesi Mendez salon in New World.
I have very limp and fine hair so the Big Sexy Hair products are my ultimate must haves. I use the Powder Play that I sprinkle on my roots and then the Volume Dry shampoo to add body to the hair that frames my face. Before I curl my locks I spray Loreal's " tec hot style constructor ". It helps my hair keep the curls in longer.
My daily skin/ hygiene care regimen must haves are the following:
My moisture that I have been using for over a decade is Creme De La Mer. Its pricy but you only need a small amount of it.
I use Ponds Cold Creme/ Nivea Visage Cleansing Milk and Virgin Coconut Oil to remove my makeup every night.
Jolens I use to bleach my eyebrows. Be very careful when doing this on your own- you dont want to have orange eyebrows.
Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer chapstick with SPF 15 keeps my lips supple.
I use Vaseline Total moisture lotion for my body after showers and Lactacyd everyday.
I use Secret Platinum Protection for my deodorant.
Then I spray my legs with REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellant.
Then my hand creme is True Blue Shea Butter or Tahiti Sweetie.
I can't reiterate how much I love basking in the sun and going to the beach every chance I can. However, I make sure I am lathered in Sunblock from head to toe.
Everyday I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock in SPF 70.
I use Rite Aids Ultimate SHeer in SPF 85 for my body.
In the mornings when I am in the sun I will spray Hawaiian Tropics Royal Tanning Oil.
After a day at the beachThe Hawaiian Tropic After SUn Cooling Gel feels like heaven.
I used to keep my makeup in a big toolbox but when you are on the go with kids to take care off, downsizing is inevitable. I have been known to do my makeup in 5 minutes in the car on the way to an event.
Now I keep all my makeup in an S. Viscarra rattan make up case. I like the naturalness of the case and it holds just the right amount of things.
My favorite lipstick colors:
Covergirl in Hot Passion
Mac in Vegas Volt
Chantecaille in Angel Skin
Revlon in Hot Coral
Closer shot of my essential makeup
Step by step guide to how I do my makeup in less that 5 minutes.
I use Loreal Studio Secrets base primer before I put on any kind of makeup.
I use Mac select moisture cover stick in nw 25 under my eyes as my concealer. For heaveir coverage when i am working in front of the camera, I use Mac Select coverup in nw 30.
Then I use 230 FIT Maybelline liquid foundation. It lets your skin breath which is why you can wear it all day.
I use Mac Studio Fix in c5 with a brush instead of a sponge so its not as heavy.
Then I use the following blushes depending on what I am wearing.
For a rosy flush I alternate between Trish McEvoys blush sick in Coral or Mac Pretty Baby beauty powder.
For a heavier blush i use Mac in Aristocrat
My ever dependable Nars Pallet in Natural nude shades are great for m eyes
Then just some Loreal hip jelly balm for my gloss and a quick curl of the eye lashes using my Shu Uemura. Its the best brand. Just get extra rubber lash curlers at Beauty Bar.
Benefit one hot minute for an overall sheen and DONE!
For retouches I use JK (Jenna Kid) Mattifying Powder
My ultimate favorite nail polish is Revlon 185 in Sweet Tart.
Tools of my trade. I have invested in mostly MAC and Trish McEvoy brushes.
My perfume really depends on my makeup and my outfit- which all depends on my mood. I like sweet fruity smells and clean crisp smells ranging from Spanish cologne to Bulgari to Chanel #5 to Carolina Herrera. I usually go in phases and will wear different scents according to how Im feeling.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| last weekend, my friend yvette and i decided to celebrate cinco de mayo by doing brunch at chihuahua mexican grill. brunch is one of my favorite meals - mixes some of my favorite breakfast food plus you get it with the requisite cocktail!
here are a few things we tried:
breakfast tacos - flour tortillas filled with eggs, queso, chorizo, country potatoes, salsa and pico de gallo, and also topped with bacon. not as hearty as i'd hope but it's light and refreshing though!
breakfast burrito - scrambled egg topped with queso and homemade Mexican chorizo, country potatoes, refried beans, salsa, pico de gallo, ketchup and a strip of bacon, wrapped in a large tortilla. MY FAVORITE! this is brunch food - hearty, filling and satisfying, what brunch is all about. it's also the perfect hangover food.
and yummy dessert - capirotada: a traditional mexican bread pudding made with dried fruit, nuts, and monterrey jack cheese topped with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, crème anglaise and cajeta—a Mexican milk caramel that takes 4 hours to make. tastes as good as it looks. noms!
and what is brunch without a proper cocktail? we had the paloma - a tart and tangy mix of Tequila, Ruby Red Grapefruit juice and fizz and tequila sunrise with fresh OJ and Grenadine.
and thanks to ines cabarrus for inviting us to the launch of chihuahua's weekend brunch menu.
Chihuahua Mexican Grill
Weekend Brunch - Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm
7838 Makati Avenue (Across A. Venue)
0916-3737-308 or 890-3192
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Janthina Fong is a recent "re-pat", coming home from five years of living in California. She is currently a public relations practitioner handling Jewelmer, the French-Filipino purveyor and one of the leading suppliers of the finest south sea pearls in the world. She does a wide range of tasks for the luxury brand such as overseeing and preparing marketing collaterals to accompanying Jewelmer's collection during fashion shoots to handling and meeting with the press. She is also a a fixture in industry events.
******
Days (and nights!) seem to be getting busier and busier and it does take a toll on my skin (or maybe it’s called AGEING AAAAH), so since I’ve started working full-time in Manila, I’ve had to bump up my skin and makeup regimen. It’s kind of daunting to be in that transition time where you’re going from the natural look of youth that is so easy and well – natural, to having to fake the dewyness and glow. A lot of my friends are in the same transition, but we’re considering it a challenge. Fight!
As for shampoos and conditioners (including the leave in sort), I’ve always been loyal to Kérastase Bain Miroir. I also switch between Kiehl’s Olive Fruit Nourishing Shampoo and conditioner. Lately, I’ve been looking into more organic/natural alternatives. If anyone has any suggestions, I’m all ears!
Aveeno’s Smoothing Body Wash - the pomegranate smell wakes me up in the morning
Kiehl’s Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish – amazing. Slather away at your legs, pile on the lotion after, then finish off with Bathina and you’d think you were going to be in a music video. WIN!
Caudalie’s Gommage - their Vinotherapie line is fantastic for a deep scrub. I discovered this in a Paris pharmacie and brought back little tubs for my friends
Gilette’s Venus - for razors of course (except why can’t we find the nice razor heads with the moisture things in them here?)
Skyn’s Glacial Facial Wash – perfect for mornings. It’s tingly and almost minty, so it’s a nice wake up call right before work.
Lately, I’ve been looking into more organic/natural alternatives. I’m trying out Pureology’s shampoo and conditioner right now (by the suggestion of HAIRess Nica Mendez), and so far, it’s been good. I wouldn’t say that it delivers on volume exactly, but at least it’s more natural.
Lancome’s Genefique and Visionnaire as a combo is magnificent. I LOVE these two together as the perfect way to condition your skin before moisturizer.
Eve Lom Moisturizer - On really dry days, I sometimes use this, but it’s kind of oily for the humidity here. Sometimes I’ll use it at night, alternatively with La Roche Posay’s Nutrific.
Eve Lom’s Cleanser - I can’t say I’ve experienced anything better than. It comes with this towelette and you’re supposed to do this whole ritual with hot and cold water.
The Clarisonic Brush - replaced my towelettes because it really takes everything off, massages your skin, and buffs it until it glows. I swear it GLOWS. EVERY WOMAN needs a Clarisonic brush in her arsenal. With their powers combined, it will REALLY change your skin.
Estee Lauder’s Night Repair - which is great. I’m using the eye cream that came with it for now, since I haven’t found a good alternative. My La Mer (passed down from my mom) ran out a long time ago.
Almays’s Oil Free Pads - my favorite for removing stubborn eye makeup. I hoard these like crazy since I’m not sure if they’re available here, but my mom and my grandmother use them and they were so right about this brand.
Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir - before or sometimes after my makeup. The smell wakes me up and it just gives it this really set look. Can’t explain it, but it’s lovely.
Caudalie’s Gentle Skin Buffer - nice when you need a quick pick me up.
And then I have my creams from Dr. Gio Dimayuga and Dr. Aivee Aguilar-Teo to treat my skin asthma. They’re the best in the city and I’ve seen so many doctors!
SK-II’s Signature Eye Cream – purchased this during a trip to Japan about a month ago and I’m SO happy with the results. It’s not overnight like La Mer, but I do feel like my eyes look better rested. Unless I’ve been a douchebag and really stayed up all night, in which case, I can’t expect any eye cream to be my salvation. Oh, I also use this in the morning. You only need a teeny bit so even if it is a little pricey, it looks like it’s going to last quite a while.
Aveeno Firming Lotion – I’ve always trusted Aveeno because of my very sensitive skin, so this lotion is nice and light. I think that’s really important in humid climates like in the Philippines.
Kiehl’s Hand Salve – I keep one at home and one at the office. I try to remember to use it as much as I can cause I just want to be one of those people with really soft hands during hand shakes. ☺
La Roche Posay’s Anthelios SPF 45 – sun block is a major essential for me now because of frequent trips to the pearl farm.
Korres After Sun – another beach essential for when I have my “breaks” between work in Palawan which I spend tanning within an inch of my life. I slather this on all cool from keeping it in the fridge and it’s feels good, prevents peeling, and smells really nice.
Renee Fusterer’s Mousse – used sometimes when I decide to blowdry my own hair
Kiehl’s Volumizer – this root lifter was introduced to me by my friend Anna. She swore by it and IT”S GREAT. You can even apply it on your hair when it’s dry and suddenly you have volume like no other.
Bumble & Bumble’s Texture – does just that. My hair is super flat so naturally I hate it. You put this on when your hair is damp and then you just have like “French Girl Hair” all day. I love it. Alternatively, I also use Surf Spray when I want kind of messy hair. I love messy hair.
Bed Head’s After Party – Takes the smell of cigarettes, clubs, Korean/Japanese food or whatever right off and leaves you with the yummiest scent ever. It lasts ages.
Kerastase’s Deep Conditioner – for when you have time at night. I put this on, wrap my head with plastic wrap, and read a magazine like a granny.
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré - Thanks to the ever-knowing Jigs Mayuga, A friend finally brought this back from Paris and this AMAZING moisturizer and primer that gives you the smoothest skin plus a nicely dewy look. HOARD THIS PRODUCT.
Jouer-This is one killer product that I hoard to death because it’s only available at Henri Bendel’s or you have to get it shipped from the website (so be nice to anyone who is coming home from the States!). It’s a moisture tint with SPF 30 and I use it in both glow and bronzed since my skin color is always changing due to frequent trips to Palawan for work. Again, HOARD THIS!
Bare Escentuals - I use warmth to contour, golden gate as blush, and then double dewy in clear radiance and rose radiance to highlight. I got this great Kabuki Brush from Real
Techniques by Samantha Chapman that you keep closed for blush and then you can open up lengthwise for contouring and highlighting. It’s the best for lazy people
Naked Palette – easy nude colors and it even comes with a brush and the best eye primer that I also use to set my eyeliner.
Stila Liquid Liner – this is so amazing that you can draw this nice fluid line and it will last so long. I even wore this in the pool once and then I woke up at 1pm the next day and it was still on.
NARS - orgasm for a quick blush at night since it’s pretty shimmery for day.
Kiehl’s Lip Balm – I’ve been using this since I lost my La Mer lip balm, which was UNBEATABLE, but it’s ok. Just a little too liquidy.
Shiseido’s Brow Set – great for filling in eyebrows. Still looking for a good eye pencil though.
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact – so great and versatile because you can use it as several shades of eyeliner or you can swipe it with a big bronzer brush (which is what I do) and instantly enhance your tan.
Maybelline’s Magnum Volume Express – copied this from my friend Stacy because I liked it so much. It really does what it promises to do.
Caudalie’s Vinoperfect Perfection Fluid – works so well for the no-makeup make up look for the day. Fool everyone!
Trish McEvoy Luminizer – A little under and over the brows, on the nose, and above the cheekbone at night. Alternatively I use Guerlain’s Precious Light in the same way but for the day.
Lipsticks – Right now, I’m obsessed with MAC’s Dubonnet, Ruby Woo, MAC Red, Lickable Cremesheen alone or layered. There’s also a great nude one by Trish McEvoy that you can use with a nude liner for definition.
Bathina – THE great essential. I never go out at night without this and sometimes, I tote it around in my bag during the day just in case. Swipe this on your arms, legs, and shoulders, and you’ll look like you’re supposed to be in a music video. Like in a good way. Looks great with flash too!
Throwing this in because it’s always nice to get ready in a room that smells great. Agraria’s Balsam is another product I hoard from the states. I use the diffusers and leave them in strategic parts of my room and they just smell amazing. It’s such a comforting smell to come home to after a long day.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
woke up yesterday with the news that my favorite beastie boy, adam yauch aka MCA, passed away at age 47 and it made me real sad. to a certain degree, i'm more affected by this than when michael jackson died.
beastie boys and their music were something i learned to love when i was in high school i distinctly remember my friend jon, one of my pop culture soulmates in high school(RIP jon), tried to do skateboarding tricks(operative word:TRY) while hanging out in pisay's front lobby and listening to the beasties' ill communication.
if you guys knew jon and knew how the pisay front lobby looked like in the 90s, you have an idea of how ridiculous this activity was. i practically peed in my school girl uniform whenever this happened.i also associate beastie and sabotage with lino cayetano? i know weird. did he sing sabotage while hanging out in UP D? who knows. and i remember beastie boys blowing the fuse of araneta when they were here with foo fighters and sonic youth for MTV's alternative nation tour. all those moments distinctly defined beastie boys and their spirit for me - loud, young, cool, quirky, crazy, adventurous and fun.
with MCA's death, the news slaps you back to reality and to our mortality. he died of cancer at 47. the antithesis of what beastie boys was for most of us. f*ck cancer.
ely buendia sums it up in a little tweet of his yesterday -
the only positive thing i can think of after hearing of MCA's passing is that jon palala and MCA can now party up there.
RIP MCA. no sleep til brooklyn. peace out.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| i first heard about caramoan in camarines sur a few years ago. it was dubbed the "next big thing" and the place slowly built its reputation by being the location of choice for numerous editions of the reality tv show "survivor".
i had a few issues about going to caramoan as the first few friends who've ventured out to this place were mostly the backpacking types(read: used to roughing it). i'm not a princess nor do i demand the four seasons but i have my bare minimums - clean bathroom, running water and airconditioning.
recently, i've been hearing about full-fledged resorts popping up in the area so i decided to book a trip for this summer. my friend poma recommended we stay at tugawe cove.
dubbed as one of the country's best beaches, caramoan is mainly a group of islands by the coast of the bicol province of camarines sur nestled in the pacific ocean. although its popularity has been rising the past few years, the numerous secluded islands will provide you serene white sand beach sanctuary. perfect for those not too keen to spot familiar faces. unlike boracay, this is not greenbelt with a beach backdrop.
this is what welcomes you as soon as you exit the naga airport. i kind of LOLd when i saw this. the copy was witty but i thought the fact that the governor is the one wakeboarding made for a good snicker or two.
getting there can be quite an adventure itself. the "easiest"(or most convenient) way is to fly to naga(45 minutes), hire a car to go to the pier at san jose(1 hour) then ride a boat(2.5 hrs to get to tugawe) to your resort.
i didn't mind the plane and the car, but the boat ride was..let's just say..not for the queasy. another option would be flying to virac, catanduanes. and you only do a 1-hour car ride and a 30-minute boat ride. that said, flights to virac are few and far between.
tugawe cove is in one of the bigger islands of the caramoan. picturesque with lush foliage, the cabanas are plotted along a hill and you are also assigned a butler for the whole duration of your stay. he becomes handy as the restaurant is up a very steep hill and you can just ask him to serve your food at your cabana. he can also arrange various activities for your party to enjoy like kayaking, island-hopping, etc.
although the resort itself is quite modern and clean, we had issues with the intermittent utilities - fluctuating power meant airconditioning was on-and-off and cable TV can be a bitch. i guess this comes with being in a secluded island and a yet-to-be developed tourist spot. you can see this as a good thing - the place is still pretty much untouched. the downside was - they're not exactly charging loose change. ANYWAY.
my favorite part about the weekend was the island-hopping trip which took us practically the whole day. in that list i posted on the top 10 beaches of the philippines, i've been to 6 of the 10 and caramoan truly is breathtaking!
like i always say these days, let the instagrams do the talking.
beautiful islands with stone cliffs. it reminded me of ireland.
this was on one side of the island where the current season of US survivor was shooting. i found it funny/weird that as soon as we reached part of the island's beach, some white guy on a speedboat wouldn't let us dock.
the pacific blue waters were clear and inviting.
quite a number of islands had powdery white sand very much like boracay's.
honestly, i think the photos don't do the place justice. it was simply gorgeous!
apart from "communing with mother nature", i was really about getting a summer tan.
and also about catching up on my reading. YAY!
a few friends were sort of upset because i wasn't answering texts. guess what - globe signal on tugawe's island was virtually nil which makes for an oddly refreshing experience. when was the last time you guys were absolutely disconnected? i kind of liked it.
i had to climb a steep hill just to text, tweet and instagram. a little bit of a sacrifice but this was the view from the peak of that hill. not bad, huh? i also spent some time in the infinity pool soaking up on the sun and the scenery.
the vacation had some bumps but ultimately it was an awesome experience. with so much yet-to-be-capitalized beautiful places like caramoan, the philippines can truly make its mark on the worldwide tourism stage. this trip alone reminded me of how gifted our country is with its natural resources. i can't even say it enough-our country is BEAUTIFUL.
if only we get our act together and focus on important things that will boost tourism like infrastructure, transportation and utilities, tourists in our country can outnumber that of thailand or indonesia.
that said, if everything work out perfectly, can we truly say "it's more fun in the philippines"? nah, don't think so.
i woke up every morning to this beautiful view from our cabana. now how can you not fall in love with this?
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
(photo credit:Gelbert Apdal)
Cai Subijano is the current assistant editor of Philippine Star's Supreme and maintains a regular lifestyle column called "Wild Card Inside". She dabbles in film and is shooting a small role for Marie Jamora's first feature-length film "Ang Nawawala". Cai also does advertising work as a voice talent for Hit Record Productions and is a veteran in the VTR-circuit represented by Cosmopolitan talent agency. Her most recent project was a supporting role in a TVC for Nestle Drumstick. (That’s MUA Ricci Chan in Version C!).
And yes, if you think she looks familiar she joined Binibining Pilipinas back in 2011 and this year, she is joining Miss Philippines-Earth. Watch Cai compete for the crown during the coronation night on May 27th.
****
If Chuvaness’ Glossy feature is “30 things for the high maintenance chick,” I don’t know what mine is because I can’t count how many products I included here! And unlike Ginggay, bathing, and fixing my hair and makeup (including body makeup on certain occasions) will take me three hours. Mine might be the longest Glossy feature yet. Seriously, if Chuvaness is high-maintenance, I don’t know what to call myself, but for my entry, I’ll just call it “the beauty queen stash.”
Organix Ever Straight Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo
Organix Soft and Silky Vanilla Silk Conditioner (because I couldn’t find the Brazilian Keratin Therapy Conditioner)
Organix Brazilian Keratin Therapy Anti-Breakage Serum
Davines Nourishing Vegetarian Miracle—for when I’ve abused my hair too much
I normally use whatever my mom buys from the grocery store—Sun Silk, Cream Silk, Head and Shoulders, etc., but upon seeing the Organix line in the SM Beauty Department, I had to grab a couple of bottles. I actually discovered the brand five years ago while grocery store shopping in the US and what truly got me addicted was how divine my hair smelled after! Plus, after getting my hair colored using Schwarzkopf’s organic Essensity line (by Doods Dimaano of Salon Signatura), I was advised to use organic products to wash my hair to maintain the color. Too bad though that they’re much more expensive here in Manila.
Skin Food’s Coffee Body Scrub—when I feel bacne and chest-ne coming on; it smells like a yummier version of coffee
AHAVA Uplifting Butter Salt—to exfoliate before shaving
Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub—for knees and elbows. I’m not sure if it really works, but I found Solenn Heussaff saying, “Puting walang tinatago” in the Asian Secrets TVC so amusing, I decided to buy it
Kiehl’s Crème de Corps Nurturing Body Washing Cream—saved my dry, itchy skin after a couple of weeks using Safeguard!
Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap 8-in-1 Hemp Tea Tree Pure-Castille Soap Made with Organic Oils—a wonderfully quirky and certified fair trade product; a little goes a long way as a body wash or as a clarifying shampoo.
Beyond Bath Organics Sunflower Soothing Soap-free Body Wash—for travel
(Not pictured: Jurlique Rose Hand Cream—I love putting this on before bed at night because it smells like a dream. In the morning, I wake up with baby soft hands.)
I’m OBSESSED with sun protection. In fact, whenever I find out that someone doesn’t use sunscreen, I can’t help but mildly reprimand them! Seriously, we’ve come a long since Coppertone—sunscreen doesn’t feel sticky and oily anymore, so there’s really no reason not to use them. Just think about it: If you use sunscreen, you can prevent sun damage (aka skin cancer, sun spots, and WRINKES!!!). If I can help it, I never go lower than SPF 30. I always apply sunscreen on my face, neck, chest, arms, and the back of my hands, especially if I’m driving because I don’t want Sarah Jessica Parker hands!! And whenever I remember to, I reapply ever two hours.
Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 45—great for traveling because it doesn’t spill and you can spray hard-to-reach areas
Vaseline Healthy White SPF 24 Triple Lightening—for everyday use
Proactiv Daily Protection Plus Sunscreen SPF 30—non-oily and non-comedogenic
VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Face Cover SPF 30—the Holy Grail of sunscreens
Belo Essentials Sun Expert SPF 40—the texture is surprisingly similar to Armada)
The Face Shop Oil Free Sun Cream SPF 35—I got this for free at a Meg party (Face of the Night daw!) and keep it in my bag
For removing makeup, I used to use Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil, but switched to Etude House Cleansing Oil when I found out it was just as effective for a fraction of the price. Then I switched to The Face Shop because it’s more accessible.
The Face Shop Oil Specialist in Fresh and Brightening—a little more expensive than Etude House; works great as a foundation and stippling brush cleaner!
Olay Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System—on days when makeup is especially heavy; it’s been compared to the Clarisonic and I got it for a song.
I don’t actually use all of these products on my face—my skincare routine is just going through a transition. I used to use Proactiv faithfully day and night, but now that my skin is 100 percent pimple-free (blackheads are another matter altogether), I’ve decided that perhaps it’s time to address my skin’s other needs. I’m already quite fair, but I’ve learned that the reason why Korean women have such nice, glowing skin is because they use whitening products. The goal isn’t necessarily to have whiter skin, but to just fade out blemishes and achieve evenly-toned, luminescent skin.
Pond’s White Beauty Gentle Exfoliating Foam—the Pond’s White Beauty Line is natural daw
Pond’s White Beauty Pore Correcting Toner—para matching na sa line
L’Oreal Skin Genesis Pore Minimizing Serum—mom bought it for me, I use it during daytime
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Cream—SPF 15, for day
Avon Anew 360 White Intensive Correcting Serum—my nighttime serum
Pond’s Flawless White Brightening Night Cream—Pond’s Flawless White is the more advanced whitening line daw
For basic cleansing, I use Cetaphil and Avene Cleanance Gel, and AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask on days when my face feels especially icky.
L’Oreal Revitalift Double Lifting Eye Cream—for night because it contains AHA. I can’t tell you if it really works because my eyes aren’t wrinkly yet; I just use it for preventative measures
Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 25— #sunscreenobsession
Avene TriAcneal –to prevent blemishes, only at night because it contains AHA
Save Our Skin Roll-On Clindamycin Phosphate—my beauty find at Mercury Drug; only P98! Dries up my pimple in a jiff. Who needs Mario Badescu when I have this??
Of course, all the topical creams in the world won’t help if you don’t care for your skin inside out. Fish Oil prevents inflammation, while I credit my blemish-free skin to 50 mg Zinc Gluconate. Seriously, Google “zinc + pimple prevention,” then try it for yourself. I tell everyone who has problems with zits to try this out!
Apart from my #sunscreenobsession, I’m counting on the Slendertone Face prevent my face from falling off when I’m 60. Luckily, my mom doesn’t look her age, but I’m not taking any chances. When I interviewed Sue Lewis, the Asia Pacific business development manager for Slendertone, she said that if I start using it now, by the “pure logic” of the product, I should be able to maintain my 24-year-old looks. Sorry, mom. Looks like I’m going to look better than you will when I age! (Just kidding! Love you, mom.)
During my stint in Mega magazine, I received a lot of free perfume. I also get a lot of perfume as gifts, so I really just use whatever I get.
Avon Women of Earth—for day, I thought it was appropriate, since I am currently a Miss Philippines-Earth candidate (watch me on May 27 for the coronation night!)
Leyende Beach Bomb—perfect for summer
Chance by Chanel—for night, LOVE THIS
Covet by Sarah Jessica Parker—I don’t want her hands, but I wouldn’t mind smelling like her!
Irresistible by Givenchy—for travel because it’s so tiny
If you look inside my makeup kit (or rather, makeup cabinet), you’ll find that most of it is comprised of foundation. Last year when I joined Binibining Pilipinas, I hadn’t discovered the wonders of taking zinc for my skin, so I had a lot to cover up. At the time, only Dra. Cecilia Faustino of MD Aesthetique could control my acne—miracle worker!!
Makeup Designory (MUD) Cream Foundation in YG1—for maximum coverage and TV-ready makeup (Makeup Designory is known as the Harvard of makeup schools, so this is the real deal as the makeup for makeup artists)
MUD Cream Foundation in YG3—for contouring
Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation in BE-1—to highlight my forehead, nose, and chin; a gift from Metro beauty ed, Charmagne Garcia-Laconico
MAC Studio in either NC30 or NC40—to set cream foundation
Mineralize Skinfinish—for highlighting after setting
MUD Dual Finish Pressed Mineral Powder in DFM1—to contour my jaw, cheekbones, and nose line. As Venus Raj once said, “Mawala na ang lahat, huwag lang ang nose line!”
Urban Decay De Slick—one of my ultimate beauty finds from Sephora. I can’t use primer every day because it will clog my pores and this controls my facial oil production and keeps my makeup from sliding around
Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals SPF 30—for everyday makeup
Glotherapeutics Oil-Free SPF 40 Facial Sunscreen—it’s water-based so I mix it with Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals when I want more sheer coverage. Glominerals and Glotherapeutics wasn’t available here in Manila, but I found them at glostoremd.com
Makeup Forever UV Prime SPF 50 Make-up Primer—for day, #sunscreenobsession (I actually wanted the primer from Becca with SPF 30, but it’s always sold-out in Adora )
Smashbox Photofinish Primer—for night
Of course, no self-respecting beauty queen (or beauty queen-wannabe) will be caught without a can of Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs. Ika-nga, “Alam mo namang ang hirap ma-achieve ang golden tan!” A spray-on tan can make you feel like a Victoria’s Secret Angel during the bikini portion of a pageant—even Rose Huntington-Whiteley has admitted that she won’t go down the VS runway in lingerie without an airbrush tan. If you can get it, MAC Face and Body is also a great alternative.
As a chinita, I usually leave the smoky eye looks to the professionals, like Gio Flores because he knows my face best and he always makes my complexion look more perfect than perfect.
Eye makeup palette by Lancome—for everyday makeup, I use the brown eye shadow from this palette
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner in brown or black—cheaper than Bobbi Brown and Makeup Forever; almost as effective (pwede na)
Shu Uemura eyelash curler—the Holy Grail of eyelash curlers
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Blasting Waterproof mascara—no raccoon eyes!
DUO eyelash glue—for falsies; I get my false eyelashes customized by Gio Flores
Shiseido Majolica Majorca Brow Customize Super Slim retractable eyebrow pencil—the thinnest eye brow pencil in the market; always sold-out in SM and Watson’s!!
Laura Mercier Brow Definer in Fair—to soften brow; also always sold-out in Rustan’s!!
MAC Brow Set in Girl Boy—eyebrows just look neater with this, although I plan to switch to Billion Dollar Brows in Blonde once Beauty Bar’s new shipment comes in because it’s also sold-out!!
My Cover Girl Lash Blast is about to run out, but thankfully, a good family friend gifted me with this tube of Fairydrops Mascara, a best-selling mascara in Japan and according to her, a perennially sold-out product in the US (why do I always discover the products that are never available?). I think it takes its name from its teardrop-shaped mascara brush.
Because I forgot to include these with the rest of my foundation products:
Glominerals Matte Liquid Foundation—a blessing for oily skin!
Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Skin Perfecting Makeup—for HD makeup, but provides little coverage (I wanted Makeup Forever HD Foundation in 123, but sold-out!! )
Shiseido Majolica Majorca Pressed Pore Cover—for quick touch-ups without making your foundation too thick
MUD Dual Finish Pressed Mineral Powder in DFL 2—it’s talc-free and frankly, healthier for your skin in comparison to MAC Studio Fix
A box of 250 oil blotting sheets from the 88-Peso Japanese store—sulit!
I’m not very adventurous when it comes to lipstick either, but here are the tubes that I use on regular rotation:
Revlon Color Burst Lip Butter in Lollipop (Shade 075)—also from Metro beauty ed, Charmagne; haven’t had the guts to try it yet, but love the color
Avon Ultra Moisture Rich in Mellow Magenta (shade D103)—my go-to pink for nighttime; super moisturizing, but the color doesn’t last long
Estee Lauder Pure Color Lasting Shimmer in Exotic Orchid (shade 65)—so I look buhay, according to Charmagne
Maybelline Totally Toffee (shade 215)—for everyday use, I usually mix with Estee Lauder Exotic Orchic
Chanel Rouge Allure in Velvet (shade 38)—the only red lipstick for me; does not budge
Guerlain Rouge in Georgia (shade 62)—my pa-cute-slash-pa-girl pink lipstick
Before applying lipstick, I always line my lips with MAC Subculture lip pencil to make sure lipstick doesn’t creep where it isn’t supposed to. I got this tube of Hourglass Prodigy lip gloss in Ingenue for free at the Sephora in ION, Singapore and I love it!
Maybelline Baby Baby Lips SPF 20— #sunscreenobsession
EOS lip balm—my lip care staple for the longest time; I’m having withdrawal symptoms because it’s not available here!
Body Shop lip and cheek stain—I use this more for my cheeks than I do for my lips when I want a natural makeup look
I’m also a fresh breath fanatic—I can’t stand the idea of talking to someone and all they can think about is my coffee breath or what I had for lunch! For this:
C.O. Bigelow Mentha Lip Shine –tastes like a peppermint candy cane
Fisherman’s Friend Sugar-Free mints—cheap and has never failed me
Ilog Maria Throat Spray—for days when my throat is itchy, it soothes it while keeping bad breath in check
I also keep the pre-packaged cotton buds from hotels—the packaging keeps the buds from loosening and they’re great to keep in your bag whenever you need to fix raccoon eyes, and overdrawn eyebrows and lips!
Your makeup is only as good as the tools you use to apply them. I’m not big on super expensive makeup brushes—as long as they do the trick, they’re good in my book.
Light fan brush by Kirkland—so my blush doesn’t go on too thick
I have a collection of foundation brushes by Suesh, Kirkland, Topshop, and The Face Shop—Suesh and Kirkland are my favorites and work the best
Mini-foundation brush by Bloom—a good size for correcting lipstick, eyebrow, and eyeshadow mistakes
MAC Duo Fiber Stippling Brush—the most versatile and irreplaceable in my collection; no other brush can give me flawless skin
Contour brush also by MAC
Basic powder brush by Elite Studio Makeup
Most of my eyebrow brushes are by MAC and Kirkland
Stiff eyebrow brush by Makeup Forever—nothing else compares
(My kuya is so cute — once he saw all my brushes laid out after being washed and he asked me if I took up painting! Yeah, painting, uh, my face. Haha)
Veteran beauty pageant pros (as in the ones who’ve been joining since their teens) can curl their hair with their eyes closed, but admittedly, this is something I struggle with. At first, I used Remington Style Ceramic Compact Hot Rollers (a good brand, but I can’t help but think Zombadings: Patayin sa Shokot si Remington whenever I see it), but the problem is that left on too long, they can make your hair super kinky.
In terms of hair irons, Babyliss would be the La Mer (or Rolls Royce, if you’re not a beauty fiend) of hair styling tools. I recently bought a Babyliss Pro hair iron and since I’m not good at curling, I iron a section of my hair and then wrap it around Velcro rollers—I need a lot because my hair is so thick; it pisses off the parloristas who blowdry my hair. I’ve also gotten used to sleeping in rollers—I just wrap my head in a silk scarf then doze off. In the morning, gorgeous shampoo commercial hair!
I have these baby hairs that obstruct my three-head (most people have a four-inch forehead; I only have three)—I hear Anne Curtis has the same problem, but she her forehead isn’t as small as mine. To keep them away from my face, I put a small amount of Jonathan Dirt Texturizing Paste than roll back the baby hairs with Velcro rollers.
Whew! That was a lot, obviously. Confession: I left out more than half of the products in my makeup, hair, and skincare kit—what I included here really are the “bare essentials” for the beauty queen kikay kit. So the next time you watch a beauty pageant on television—or any televised production or photo shoot, for that matter—remember that a lot of time and product goes into achieving that look. However, if you want to (and you’re patient), you too can learn how get the look yourself—you don’t always need a pro to do it for you.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Gabbie Tatad calls herself a "raket scientist" - she dabbles in a wide variety of things including her own fashion jewelry business called aláti where she single-handedly crafts each piece and manages its online presence via shopalati.com. She does freelance video production and graphic design on top of her regular column for the Philippine Star in the Supreme section.
This fall, she is entering the Fashion Institute of Technology's Jewelry Design program and hopes to hone her skills even further in her craft.
****
When it comes to beauty products, I'm definitely a maximalist. I have varied and specific issues with my skin, hair, and preferences, so I like trying out things meant to address those problems. I wouldn't say I'm incredibly high maintenance, just that I'll try anything once and that I like having options. (At least this is what I tell myself.) In any case, what I'm really trying to say is, you've officially been warned.
I was recently converted to Bioderma Crealine, a makeup remover/toner/cleanser that is beyond amazing. If some women live in fear of weight gain, I fear premature wrinkles, so it's a bonus that this cleanser lets me take off my eye makeup without having to rub the skin. (It's one of those soak a cotton pad, leave for a minute and wipe sort of things.)
In case of any makeup mishaps or eyeliner that won't budge, I break out Almay Makeup Eraser Sticks. They're nifty cotton buds that have makeup remover in the stem. You break off one end and it soaks the remaining bud with the solution. These are especially great for travel.
If I feel like I need some deep cleaning, I pack on Chantecaille Detox Clay Masque with Rosemary and Honey. But normally, I wash my face with Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser or Human Nature Balancing Facial Wash. I follow with Rohto Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Lotion, a moisture-boosting toner, and some SKII Signs eye cream. In case of spots, I dab on Dermalogica Concealing Spot Treatment. It's one of the few spot treatments that has sulfur as its main active ingredient, which works for me as I'm not particularly receptive to benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid. (I have to say that the old liquid formula was so much better, though.)
During the day, I make sure to put on sunscreen, especially since I'm prone to pigmentation. I use Suntegrity All Natural Moisturizing Face Protection SPF 30 or a basic Clean and Clear Clear Fairness Moisturizer, which also has SPF 30. In the evening, I use Human Nature 100% Natural Moisturizing Night Cream, which has this in-between a serum and cream consistency and comes with a pump. (Hooray for hygiene!) I alternate with SKII Signature from time to time.
I always end with good lip balm. My lips have been chapping like crazy as of late, and the lip treatment I've found to be most effective is the Molton Brown Protecting Vitamin Lipsaver (many thanks to Qatar Airways for their samples). On the regular, I also like Smith's Rosebud Salve and EOS lip balm.
BODY
Right now I have Watson's Olive Cream bath that I use with a natural sponge. I have Watson's Milk and Salt Scrub for days I feel I have yet to scrub within an inch of my life. I also use Human Nature feminine wash, which does what it's supposed to, but in a much gentler manner than other similar products might.
I have combination skin that leans pretty dry, so it's extra important for me to moisturize. Depending on my mood, I'll use Johnson's bedtime baby oil straight out of the shower, or maybe go with a thick body butter. I also have more specific moisturizers like Curel Continuous Comfort or Aveeno Eczema Care for days that my skin needs a little more TLC.
As far as anti-perspirants go, I'm rather extreme. When I have a light day or it's cool out, I use Deo Nat Mineral Deodorant Stick (which is truthfully a fancier repackaging of "tawas"). If it's really warm out or I have a long day ahead, I use Kiehl's Cross Terrain 24-Hour Strong Deodorant. It has that baking soda sort of smell which doesn't bother me at all; I like the idea of swiping once and not having to worry about it later.
HAIR
My hair is far from the dream Pinay shampoo commercial mane. I have a stubborn natural curl that makes my hair more prone to dryness and frizz than most. Sometimes I'll put Body & Hair Thairapy Morocco Argan Oil through my hair before going to bed. But if I need a serious moisture boost, I take a page from my Indian friends' beauty book and soak my hair in some Amla oil, wrap with cellophane, and leave for about an hour. It totally smells like ass (pardon my French), but it does work.
My real hair color is a very stark blue-black that brings out the Cullen-like nature of my complexion, so I color it a few shades lighter to maintain a more warm/human appearance. To cleanse, I use either the Keratin Color Care Shampoo and Conditioner or the Shiseido Tsubaki Head Spa line (I buy the refill packs and just decant as needed). I rotate with Kiehl's Olive Fruit Oil Nourishing Shampoo and Bumble and Bumble Super Rich Conditioner (which smells like heaven on wheels). I also apply some Keratin Infusion to my hair while it's damp, and it really helps to keep it from knotting.
If I style with heat, I spritz on some Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray. I'll use Pagoda Lovely Look Hairspray for industrial updos (tried, tested, and unmovable). Otherwise I finish with Bed Head After Party, Phyto Phytomist, or Dove Nutri-oil Serum.
I have this amazing Panasonic Ionity hair dryer that makes 1/4th the noise of your conventional dryer while doing the same amount of work. But when I really want to smooth things out, I leave it to my trusty (and in my opinion, underrated) Instyler.
MAKEUP
I used to be obsessive about keeping everything in a certain order, but I find it's most practical just to have everything where you can see it. I have drawers with little plastic bins arranged by eyes, lips, cheeks, and base, and store my makeup brushes standing up in vintage glasses filled with translucent beads.
Base:
I love Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint, which has super sheer but buildable coverage and has SPF 20. It evens things out in the most understated way, so I use it on most days with a little MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer. If I need to be somewhere more dressed up, I avoid SPF because it can cause some flash back in photos, so I opt for either NYX HD Studio Foundation or Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation.
I set with a powder or with Motives Look Younger Setting Spray, which while I'm not sure about the "looking younger" part, does keep everything blended in one nice, fluid layer. I tote around either my MAC Studio Fix powder (for extra coverage) or Skin79 Sun Protect compact (for SPF touch-ups) depending on the kind of day I expect to have.
Cheeks:
Sleek makeup blushes are my all-time favorites. The ones I use the most are Flushed, Life's A Peach, and Rose Gold (which is a less shimmery dupe for Nars Orgasm). I sometimes brush on MAC Fleur Power when I want a pinky flush, and Chanel Turbulence when I want something with a pop of sheen. I then contour either with Benefit Hoola or a little Palladio brow powder, and occasionally highlight with Benefit High Beam.
Eyes:
On my eyebrows, I use either an auburn eye pencil by Ever Bilena (80 pesos' worth of greatness) or MAC Impeccable Brow Pencil in Dirty Blonde. Sometimes if I'm in a rush, I just sweep on some MAC Browset in Girl Boy and I'm all set.
My go-to duo for a daytime eye is my Prestige Brow Studio. Sometimes I'll opt for one of my Maybelline 24-Hour Color Tattoo pots (similar to MAC Paint Pots, except they work better as stand-alone shadows than the Paint Pots.). I have other favorite singles from MAC, Chantecaille, Chanel, and Armani, as well as my trusty Sleek Storm palette, which I like to play around with given time.
I'm a fan of colored liner, my favorites being a blue NYX Studio Liquid Liner, a MAC eye kohl in Minted, and a bright purple/plum Eyeko Line and Shine pencil. When I'm feeling more conventional, I use an In2it Waterproof Gel Liner Pencil or a NYX Super Skinny Marker.
But truthfully, I can do without eyeshadow and eyeliner as long as I have mascara. I let my Chanel lash curlers do their thing, then I cap off with a serious coating of Maybelline Stiletto Lash mascara. I've tried a lot of other brands and types of mascara, yet I keep coming back to this one.
Lips:
MAC and I have this sort of love affair because prior to discovering their products, all I'd known were rosy-toned balmy-textured hand-me-down lip products from my 4 older sisters. Once I met MAC, I felt like I found my color soulmate, and the collection grew from there. I have to say though, that I'm working on mixing it up because it's getting a little embarrassing.
The ones standing up in the photo are the ones I wear the most, with recent favorites like Party Parrot and Scarlet Ibis from MAC's Iris Apfel Collection, and my longest long-time love, the Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in dragon.
FRAGRANCE
I wish I was a "signature scent" kind of girl, but I adore a variety of good smells. My favorite "day-to-night" scents are Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Soleil, Guerlain Aqua Allegoria in Herba Fresca, and Jo Malone Wild Bluebell. When the season permits and I want that deeper, more peppery scent, I spray on JLo Still.
Most days I use Elizabeth Arden Green Tea or Bath and Body Works Dancing Waters. But on days that require me to be on my feet or doing a lot of physical labor, I prefer colognes like 4711, Gotas De Oro, or Johnson's Baby Cologne Heaven.
On dressier occasions, I take with me a little L'Occitane Cherry Blossom concentrated perfume that layers well with my other scents and tucks away in the smallest of evening bags with ease.
NAILS
I work a lot with my hands, and I keep my nails painted rather frequently in an attempt to cover a varied manner of sins. Some of my favorite polishes are OPI Over The Taupe, OPI Here Today Aragon Tomorrow, Chanel Peridot, Chanel Black Pearl (especially when paired with a matte topcoat), Barry M Navy and Barry M Block Orange.
But if there's one that I'm close to fanatical about, it's the Seche Vite topcoat. It dries quickly, it's super glossy, it seals everything into one solid layer, it's far better than most top coats at keeping the color from chipping. Seriously, if you have the chance to try it, do.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| i had gone through 40 days of no sweets and i was determined to fulfill my sweet tooth on easter monday when i saw candy dizon tweet about this....
gooey salted caramel on a buttery shortbread topped with a thin and crispy layer of dark chocolate.
 </a>
the best reward after such a long and hard lenten season.
to order: email this address: andreaspastryart@gmail.com
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| A few months ago, Jackie Clark of Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance reached out to me and offered to guest post after reading the glossy series. Here's an excerpt of her email:
I have always had a passion for fashion-from shoes to makeup, nail polish to handbags, and everything in between! Coupled with that is belief that all women need to feel beautiful, no matter what circumstances they may be facing. Women are powerful beings and WE need to realize it! Sadly, many women are hearing those devastating words 'you have cancer.' Despite a cancer diagnosis, women can still feel beautiful in their own skin. Fashion is a wonderful way to feel strong and confident. I would like to share with your audience the reality of cancer and how women can say 'YES I have cancer', but I am no less beautiful than I was before my diagnosis.
So for this week, I'm giving way to our guest blogger, Jackie. She will share with us a heartwarming and inspiring article on how fashion and make-up help show off our natural beauty.
****
The movie "Annie" sums up the most important beauty secret when they say, "You're never fully dressed without a smile." Even if a woman is going through treatments for mesothelioma cancer, she can still look beautiful if she remembers to wear the most important accessory of all, a smile. A smile shows that she is confident and happy, which will read as beauty to anybody looking at her.
Wearing a smile with every outfit is sometimes easier said than done, but there are a few things that a woman can do to ensure that she is always wearing her gorgeous smile. When getting ready for the day, a woman needs to choose clothing and makeup that make her feel confident. When a woman feels confident, a smile is sure to follow.
The easiest way for a woman to feel confident is to choose clothing that accentuates her best features. Whether a woman is most proud of her legs, her chest, or her butt, she should make sure to show off those assets. For a woman with a pear shape, this might mean to get boot-cut trousers paired with a form-fitting blazer to accent her curves. For a woman with an apple shape, she might want to wear an empire-waist dress to bring the attention to the smallest part of her torso. If you know how to properly dress your body type, you can feel confident in any outfit.
Clothing is not the only thing that makes a confident woman; makeup also plays a big role. By wearing makeup, a woman can make herself feel that she looks her absolute best. When makeup is applied correctly, it only accentuates a woman's natural beauty.
Even if you are just going to school, it is important to always feel your best. It has actually been proven that when a woman dresses up, she feels more confident in herself. When she feels more confident in herself, she does better on tests. So a woman should always dress to impress, no matter what she is doing. It may take a little more time and effort, but the benefits that she receives from it are worth it. She will feel better about herself all day, which will make her perform better at school and work. If she is single, dressing in a way that makes a woman feel more confident will attract more men to her. Men can sense the confidence that women have. Not only that, but a confident woman is more beautiful.
So the lesson to be had here is; no matter the prognosis, a woman should always take the time to look her best, not because she will be more beautiful, but because she will feel more confident. It doesn't matter if she is thin or fat, short or tall, or brunette or blond, what matters is that a woman feels good about herself. When a woman gets dressed, it is important that she dresses in a way that accentuates her body type, wears make-up that looks natural, and always remembers to wear her smile.
****
Jackie Clark is a research assistant at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, where she joined after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in fitness and nutrition. Jackie’s experience in technical and medical research has allowed her to assist in the development of medical content and outreach efforts, with specializations in alternative care, cancer support programs, and social media campaigns.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| when most people run to the nearest resort on holy week, i almost always choose to stay behind and savor metro manila at its most peaceful.
empty streets, one of the best reasons to stay in the city. this was ortigas avenue at 10am on maundy thursday. amazing!
thursday, i visited my 92-year-old grandmother and accompanied my mom to a round of visita iglesia. we decided to have lunch at the cafe of the midas hotel. i love these chairs!
we didn't get the buffet and we just ordered ala carte, i loved this - it's potato pancakes with smoked salmon. NOMS! the food was actually very good but the service sucks.
i went to the restroom before leaving and was delighted to notice the lighting. nice lighting = nice photo?
the next day, i checked up on my friends' house as they were out on a vacation. kevin was housesitting. sponge bob is holding down the fort at the krusty krab.
my family and i also trooped down to the hyatt hotel and casino to have all-you-can eat dimsum at Li Li.
for 788 pesos, it was really good quality stuff. noms!
i met a new friend, his name is nash. such a sweet dog! he's camera shy though.
i had dinner on black saturday at nomama with some QC folks. this is their soft shell crab salad. new discovery? their squash flower tempura with prawn mousse was great!
plus i had time for a couple of sessions of forma.
all in all? now THAT was a staycation.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Stephanie Zubiri is a chef with training from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. After finishing her education in France, including completing History and Geography at the Sorbonne, she moved back to Manila where she put up her business to expand and explore her love for food and wine. Currently, she is Managing Director and founder of Epicurus, Inc - the company of the Modern Epicurean Kitchen — a catering, events, lifestyle and consultancy firm offering a wide range of services.
Stephanie also pens a regular food column - Feast with me - for the Philippine Star.
********
I am pretty low maintenance girl but love the idea of having lots of beauty products. Every once in awhile I go through a grand awakening and tell myself "from now on I will truly start taking care of myself." It lasts about a week or so then, I get a little lazy to fulfill the complete regimen. This means I have a lot of half used bottles and my products usually last me a very very veryyyy long time.
My lolo was a dermatologist and my mother is a true blue glamorpuss. I grew up with the smell of my mother's pond's cold cream and the idea embedded in my head to never sleep with makeup on. No matter how tired, lazy, sick or plain wasted I am... I always remove my makeup. It must have been an extremely rough night to wake up with makeup on. When this happens I usually wake up with my shoes on too. Not a good sign and thankfully hasn't happened in ages.
-Shu Uemura Facial Cleansing Oil: Easy one step make-up remover than gets most of the guck out of my eyes.
-Cils Eye Makeup Remover: For the hard core waterproof stuff that I usually get on shoots. I always bring home a bottle from France.
-Klorane: If I still need to remove some more after all of that doesn't work! Great because it has some natural extracts that help sooth the eyes.
-Murad Cleanser: If I feel extra icky and need a good deep clean.
I also always remove my contact lenses... although I've found them quite a few times shrivelled up and dried on the floor. Thank goodness they're disposable.-Renu
Again I grew up watching my mother slather on all kinds of expensive creams and serums... day and night! I wish I could say I'm that disciplined. The older I get the more I believe in prevention. She always told me that when you get old no matter how much you pull your face or do botox... if the quality of your skin is bad, it won't make a difference. So I try, and this is what I use:
-Murad Morning and Night. I used to use Shu Uemura which is great for asian skin, but had been using for a long time, so it's always good to change as you skin can fatigue (tips from my lolo). I was invited to a Murad event were I got all sorts of goodies. I tried them out and liked it! Everyone is different so choose what works best for you.
My mother always said that the first thing that ages in a woman is her hands.... (The voice of beauty is the voice of my mother, it will haunt me forever and so I shall haunt my future daughters as well.)
-Diptyque Crème Génereuse I love this stuff! So rich and velvety, and it smells just divine. I also think it looks really pretty by my night table. I'm a chef so my hands are always being abused... This is the one time they can relax a little. When I'm feeling extra luxurieuse I put them on my feet too!
I love make-up! And am not so bad when I'm in the mood. My problem is I always forget to re-apply so I looked washed out at the end of the day. I'm more a natural girl in the day and love blush. I'm a blush junkie. I hate looking tired (and between 5pm and 7pm I always do.)
-Nars Orgasm: Just all over great
-L'Oreal: This cheapy little thing I bought in Robinson's Cagayan de Oro because I had left make-up kit in Manila *gasp* but turns out, color is great and so small and convenient with the little brush.
-Jane Iredale Whisper: The color is perfect on my skintone and I can pile it on without looking like a clown. Super glowy too!
I just recently discovered the benefits of light foundation and good concealer. I guess a few years ago I was young, healthy and jubilant... Now I'm tired, stressed and age is creeping up on me. But I hate the moonface twilight look. I like to look tan and glowing à la J.Lo... *peg*
-Jane Iredale Circle Delete: I LOVE THIS STUFF! I used to use touché éclat of yves saint laurent but after awhile I got little bumps and rashes... Because this is mineral makeup it goes on so easy, never get irritations and it lasts quite a long time. The pigments are pretty strong too so only a little goes a long way.
-Jane Iredale Pressed Powder Foundation: from their starter kit it works really well. And has that glow effect from mineral makeup.
-Mac Lightful: For evening or serious makeup I use this but applied with a brush.
-Sisley: I love this bronzer because it comes in two tones... but am running out and looking for a new product with a little shimmer.
-I have been wearing the same perfume for almost 10 years. Chanel Chance. I don't feel the same without it.
I adore Bourjois and cheap drugstore frenchie make-up. I also love sephora's stuff! It's inexpensive, good pigments and I get to experiment a lot with colors!
My bestie Steph Kienle and Patrick of Shu Uemura Rockwell has taught the incredible life changing tricks of made up eyebrows. I finally learned how to pencil them in properly without looking like Frieda Kahlo. I can not live without these two items.
-Shu Uemura Eybrow Pencil
-Shu Uemura Eyebrow mascara thingie...
As for my lips... My collection of lipsticks vary from freebies, gifts, emergency buys, bored buys and the like. One can never have too many lipsticks! For day I go with sheer light peach/pink colors. For evening I like the high intensity of Mac.
-Sexy Motherpucker: my fave gloss! Found in Boots in Bangkok Airport, I always have someone buy for me. I love the sheen, the tingly effect and vanilla smell. The name is awesome too.
-Mac: Pink Nouveau and Lady Danger... When I'm feeling dangerous or drab :) Makes me happy!
-Assorted Sephora Colors
-Shisheido, Armani, Chanel etc...
I used to have nice long hair till the "Lob" phase hit me plus a few other hair disasters that I'm slowly growing out of.... So I do have a whole bunch of hair tools! And When I'm patient, I am very good at updos. I also can't focus when I have hair in my face. I am obsessed with goody thick black ouchless rubberbands and hairspray. I like the small bottles so I can take them with me.
And now I feel like I've divulged everything... here's a little secret... When I feel like I'm preening myself too much, I make ugly horrible faces in the mirror. Go figure.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
my repetto flats are some of my favorite shoes. they're simple, comfy and iconic. not surprising that a number of women i admire are repetto fans as well! ever since i saw these boards up around december i was counting down the days til the first Repetto store opens in Manila!
if you've been to repetto stores abroad, they are magical places. the window displays alone are very whimsical and feminine. it reminds me of degas' ballerinas.
and i think most girls are actually frustrated ballerinas deep down (including myself!)
and thanks to the people of bench for allowing me to preview the store this evening. they were still fixing the store for tomorrow morning's opening but i like what i'm seeing! (yes, it took them a few months from the initial january target to open, but who cares! it's here!)
lovely chandeliers in the middle of the store
hundreds of ballet slippers everywhere! including these lovely classic ones in the palest of pinks.
the store carries the full line of repetto apparel, shoes and even bags!
they even have a small section for little ballerinas. surely my friends with little girls would love this corner! totally adorbs.
i have 3 pairs of repetto flats and i'm coming back to the store for this one!!! i'm glad to note that the price range is similar to HK(some are even cheaper!) and they have size 41s in a few styles. according to cathleen cotioco of suyen corp, more styles and colors will be coming in by after holy week, so brace yourselves, ladies!
the repetto store at greenbelt 3 will open tomorrow, april 4th, 11am.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| i was putzing around my neighborhood national bookstore when i rummaged through the sale bin and saw this:
i literally grabbed it and ran to the cashier. if you know me well enough, you probably know that john f. kennedy jr is my biggest crush. ever. i still get a little teary-eyed just thinking about him. oy vey. ANYWAY.
here's a little flip through the book John F. Kennedy. Jr.: A Life In Pictures.
book, as the title suggests, covers his life from birth to his last few photos just before his death. that's 250 pages of pure John F. Kennedy Jr. sigh.
i really love the kennedy white house photos, they were such a photogenic family. sigh.
too.
cute.
heartbreaking.
plus a couple of chapters on his life, post white house.
my friend L asked me if there were "centerfolds". well... let the pictures do the talking.
plus photos from the last few years of his life, with his wife Carolyn
the best 800 pesos i've ever spent.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Patti Mallari is the Communications Director at an ad agency, co-founder/writer/photographer of travel and lifestyle blog Life’s My Trip, partner at Philippine heritage conservation group Laraw, and co-owner of children’s ballet school Dance Basics.
Patti is also one of the earliest supporters of the Azkals, the Philippine National Football team.
****
I’m always on the go so I need to stick to a very basic routine that doesn’t take up much time. Plus, having really sensitive skin, there are a lot of limitations to products I can use. After a lot of trial and error, I found some that not only work really well for me—they also don’t cost a lot.
When Pantene introduced its Nature Care line, I was thrilled. It’s the only thing I use at the moment, as much as I can help it. I tend to be allergic to most imported shampoos and some of the local ones are either heavy or sticky. This variant of Pantene works just right.
My hair is naturally straight, with coarse and thick strands. I’ve taken to having it permed loosely so that the frizz looks a little more... controlled. On occasion, I rub a few drops of Kerastase Oleo-Relax or Loreal Smooth-Intense between my palms and scrunch it into my hair. I ended up with two very similar products for I can’t-remember-what-reason, so I alternate in an attempt to figure out how they differ. I can’t tell the difference, but both add a nice sheen and keep stray strands properly tucked away.
I always need my bath soap to be white. I don’t feel clean otherwise! But most soaps, baby soaps included, are too drying for me. So I stick to Dove and use a bath lily for a good lather. I use Dove on my face, too.
I love Johnson’s 24 Hour Lasting Moisture because it softens my skin but keeps it cool at the same time.
For additional moisture, particularly on my hands and feet, I use these citrusy or aloe lotions that I always end up getting as gifts or from hotels. Of course, nothing beats drinking lots of water to keep the body properly hydrated!
I like Neutrogena Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ for sunny days and beach trips, and Hydrocortisone Lotion to handle any reactions my skin has to too much sun exposure. I’m paranoid about cellulite so I use The Body Shop’s Body Focus Cellulite Serum. When traveling, whether locally or abroad, I pack along Off! and Caladryl.
Before bedtime, I apply a thin layer of Hydrocortisone Cream, then a mild formulation of Retinoic Acid. I put Hydroquinone Cream on dark spots left by occasional breakouts. And a spot of Benzoyl Peroxide when I sense a zit coming. These are products I get straight from my dermatologist.
In the morning, I apply Hydrocortisone again, followed by Neutrogena Moisture SPF 15. On top of that, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock SPF 50+. I love how Neutrogena products are so light on my face, unlike most other moisturizers that feel so heavy and oily.
Colgate Total for toothpaste and Oral B toothbrushes. Brands I’ve been using since I was a kid.
I like Listerine’s Total Care in Clean Mint, which I alternate with Bactidol. The latter due to a conversation with the family EENT who scoffed at the idea of any other mouthwash brand.
Maybelline is gentle on sensitive skin. I pat an even layer on my face and neck after my routine morning moisturizing regimen.
My lips are perpetually chapped so I need to have lip balm handy all the time. The ones that work for me are Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 and Carmex Moisturising Lip Balm. I switch between the two for no particular reason. Guess I love them both equally. For color, I prefer the simplicity of a cheek/lip stain like the one I’m currently using from Model called Cheeky Tints. As for lipstick, I don’t have a particular preference just yet.
My favorite concealer is from Smashbox. I just dot my face with it and spread it with a brush. The only downside to this brand is that, it doesn’t work well around my eyes. I wear contact lenses, and if this concealer gets anywhere near my eyes, it stings. For that area, I use Perfect Concealer Stick from The Face Shop. Then I dust my face with a bit more powder to even everything out. But I won’t lie. The ultimate concealer of all time is Photoshop.
For daytime, I keep it basic by using my Shu Uemura lash curler followed by a quick swipe of Maybelline Magnum Volume Express waterproof mascara. For evenings, I include Maybelline Impact Shadow Liner, and a bit of eye shadow from The Face Shop.
I’ve always done my own eyebrows, with the exception of two times I risked leaving things in the hands of a “pro”. First time, the girl was excellent. Next time, different girl, and I was left with two thin lines that aged me about 10 years. Never again. I’m back to maintaining them myself, using my trusty tweezers from The Body Shop, and give them a quick brush with The Face Shop’s eyebrow pencil brush. I don’t use the pencil itself as I end up with scary looking brows if I try to darken them.
My nails are usually bare and cut very short. On the occasion I want a treat, I go to my friends’ nail spa, Silid ni Maria for a Dampi manicure and a head-spinning lacquer selection. (Lala and Claire even let me choose some of the Misa colors to bring in!) My favorites are the light and bold pinks of Misa and OPI, and Orly’s Tennis Anyone?
I have only one main scent: Bvlgari Omnia Amethyste. I use it every day. But I also carry around a pot of L’Occitane Thé Vert solid perfume which is soothing during flights or road trips.
And when I want to remove smells that stick to my clothes and hair after eating out or going to a bar I spray on Messy Bessy Odor Absorber from the Beauty Bar.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| the past few weeks have probably been some of my busiest. ever. but nice to take a short breather in between the hustle and bustle.
life is good.
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| 
Mara Coson is a part of the recent crop of repatriates who have come back to the philippines to pursue their passion. She is a fiction writer for both print and online media publications ranging from culture magazines to literary journals such Rogue, Preview, Esquire, GMANews, Broadsheet Melbourne, and Voiceworks. Currently, she writes a regular column for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. In 2011, she was included in the Melbourne’s Emerging Writers’ Festival and is now in the process of completing her first novella.
She has an ongoing online project called the Grim Repat, these are collections of short videos chronicling the emotional, mental and cultural experience of moving back to the Philippines.
*****
I really just use soap and shampoo. Cetaphil and St. Ives I use just for when I pop into Watson’s to pass time (and so I don’t have to move the Aesop bottle back and forth from my sink at seven in the morning!).
Clear shampoo to be honest has never worked well with my hair. But this is why I use it—it doesn’t give me that smooth no-buhaghag television hair that would have led me to look like Jim Carrey in Dumb and Dumber. A bad hair day for a lot of people is to me most tolerable.
That strange translucent yellow bar is actually soap from Ritual, which is a tiny little shop I’ve recently described this way: a responsibly-sourced shop of local produce that sweats for the claim ‘made in the Philippines’. And because I trust the shop so much I had myself a slice off the soap block called My Little Secret (or something like that). It has lemongrass in it. There are other soap blocks you can pick from—Ritual takes the time to tell you what each of them can do for your skin. But frankly, I picked this just because it smelled nice.
Aesop’s clinical look has always appealed to me; I interpret its coldness with this steely cleanliness that I can’t find in other brands. No fuss, low foam. I use ‘Fabulous Face Cleanser’. I’m not one for beauty advice but I highly recommend this. It’s often the best part of my morning—and helps me reconcile with my alarm clock. Afterwards I seal the deal with ‘Camellia Nut Facial Hydrating Cream’. Thanks to being desk-bound very often under air-conditioning my face dries up easy—but it’s an excuse to keep using Aesop I guess.
Sorry if you noticed, but there’s a print out of a MAC eyeliner. The real-life one that I had ran out a few weeks ago—but I’ve been using MAC for quite some time, I just haven’t replaced the last one for weeks. The last shade I used was Photogravure. It’s all the make-up I usually put on, and so these days I haven’t been wearing make-up. I think I’m considered low-maintenance.
That’s a Bare Escentuals brush that I use with the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural when I feel pale. But it’s all a matter of lighting isn’t it? So I don’t really use it much actually. I borrow my sister’s make up when I really have to.
Then that gray disc is Gatsby Grunge Mat, and I’ve been using for years. It's hardly fancy. I usually pick one or two up in Watson's at Singapore airport—I like the subtle boof I get from it. Everything else I tried before made me look like I endorse floor wax.
YSL L’Homme. I don’t know. Maybe it’s because it smells like heaven’s laundry. The search effort for a new scent was as overpowering as the kind of scent reserved for former opera singers—so I picked up my brother’s and eventually bought my own. I don’t really believe in the gendered scent division, I just believe in smelling something nice when I breathe in.
as told to @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| one of my favorite restaurants is mangetsu. it used to be at the mile long/creekside area and i've consistently had good meals there! but since they've changed management and moved to jupiter st in bel-air, i haven't been back up until a couple of days ago. and it was even better than i remembered it to be! everything was so good!
let the instagrams do the talking:
C's hamachi. she likes it with sushi rice on the side. noms.
melt-in-your mouth salmon sashimi. noms.
MY FAVORITE! spicy tuna maki. so good. i've had this 3x in a span of a week. noms.
because we were trying to be good - cold tofu with ginger and bonito flakes. noms.
prawn tempura! with shrimps SO HUGE!!!! noms. it also comes with the best kropek. double noms.
uni tempura. perfectly cooked-crispy on the outside, oozing on the inside. love uni. noms.
shisamo! a whole fish filled with roe, deep fried! reminds me of this snack my brother and i used to get at the narita airport. it's like a sausage-shaped thing filled with fish roe. we would get excited for a stupid layover at narita just to get this! now i can have something similar(well, better to be exact) at mangetsu. NOMS!
Mangetsu
38 Jupiter Street, Bel-Air, Makati
Tel. 478-3292
originally posted @ divasoria
| | comments: Leave a comment |
| |
![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif?v=92.2){kind=small}
homaygess's journal
amused
blah
sad
bouncy
awake
accomplished