Juji Chew

Primped VIP: L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Primer

2010-01-12T15:05:00.002+08:00

Once again the lovely ladies at Primped HQ have sent over another package of goodies for review.

First up this month is the new L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Smoothing Resurfacing Primer.
Released in Australia in around October 2009, L'Oreal's new range of Studio Secrets products are said to deliver 'all the secrets of studio make up to you'.

With the advent of mineral make up, and the drip down of department store brands to chain stores like Target (such as the NP Set range in Australia and others available in US locations, such as Jemma Kidd's JK Range, and Pixi by Petra Strand), the popularity of make up primers has grown ten-fold. Products such as make up primers are no longer expensive extras only to be found in department stores.

This new primer from L'Oreal delivers superior results at a (relatively) pocket friendly price tag of $39.95.

While writing this I can hear you muttering "why do I need (another) product?"

Primer is a worthy investment as it creates an invisible barrier between your skin and make up - ensuring that your pores don't "eat" your carefully applied slap over the course of your busy day, and that it stays looking fresh all day long.

Primer not only improves the performance of your make up, but also improves the overall texture of your skin - diffusing wrinkles and open pores. Most formulas include silicone (dimethicone) which acts as a sort of "spak filla" for your skin, creating a smooth surface for make up application.

L'Oreal's latest offering is a great choice for anyone concerned about wrinkles, open pores or dry skin. It has a silky, light texture, and won't dry out skin over the course of the day. Make up applied over this product goes on smoothly and stays put. It diffuses wrinkles, and practically makes pores disappear.

Oily skinned folks beware - this does nothing to diminish shine. Prior to receiving this I purchased the oily skin variant from this range, which was only slightly superior to this one in terms of the shine factor. You will still need a powder retouch during the day.

After moisturising, apply a small amount of the L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Primer to problem spots, smoothing on in gentle circular motions. I try to focus on my cheeks and nose, which are my main areas of concern. Allow about thirty seconds for the product to settle, then you can proceed with the rest of your base. As this primer has a silky texture, it works well with both liquid and powder/mineral foundations.

The formula of this L'Oreal product is almost a perfect duplicate of Clarins' Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Makeup Base, which was released around 2005.

As an aside, L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Smoothing Resurfacing Primer is quite a mouthful of a name. Which, I have to say is worth noting, beauty gods above!

Ever noticed the uncanny ability of fans of a product to abbreviate a name into something easier to remember, and easier to name when typing (particularly when sharing the love world-wide on blogs and bulletin boards)? A perfect example - Urban Decay's (famous) Primer Potion, or as you may know it - UDPP. I'm not sure "LPSSPSRP" has quite the same ring to it.

Long name aside, this is a nice product which delivers great results at a good price.

Available now from Priceline locations, AUD$39.95.

P.S
Please remember that when using silicone based products, you should always take extra time when cleansing, or use a cleansing oil (My favourite? Refer to this post). Primers are wonderful for filling in pores. Don't think these products won't stay there if you don't remove them properly! After all, it's what they're there to do.

The last emperor

2009-11-05T20:25:00.004+08:00

I recently read that the average woman sees her first wrinkle aged nineteen.

Then I was browsing WWD and found this ...

Image via WWD

I can only conclude that no matter how many birthdays you have, faux tan is no substitute for the power of sunscreen, skincare and (kabbalah) water.

Eeek!

Girl Friday

2009-10-02T20:59:00.000+08:00

Girl Friday / Tango Mango
Ordered from Head2Toe

Style Rookie

2009-09-29T21:24:00.004+08:00

I always wanted to skip school when I was 13.
But I never would have thought to go to Fashion Week.
See this and this and this.

First Base.

2009-09-29T20:26:00.006+08:00

Click for product information!

I am a creature of habit when it comes to the slap I put on every day. I rationalise that this is to be expected, given that I start each working day around 7am. While I am perfectly happy eating my breakfast at my desk, the one thing I cannot bear to part with in my morning routine is the make up.

As a result, I have whittled it down, to the point of sheer perfection. With the help of some friends ...

Nude by Nature Mineral Foundation - I was iffy about the marketing (A Home and Away actress? Come ON!) But I have to say this is a great find. Talc and bismuth free. Good colour choices (if you're not lily white or ebony hued) and well priced. Good coverage, lasts at least 10 hours or more (I kid you not).
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish - I use a shade called So Ceylon, which is sadly discontinued. But there's other goodies available online. Somewhere between a blush, highlighter and bronzer, I find a swipe of this is all I need to look less like death dressed as a public servant.
MAC 187 Brush - Use it for the MSF. Use it for foundation (dry or liquid). Use it for blush (cream, if you dare). Use it for everything!
Artiste by Manicare flat contour brush and bronzer brush - I like these for the Nude Minerals. See this post by Stephanie for the deets.
Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado - This sneaks into the 'first base' post, even though it's actually skincare. I use this under my eyes regularly, and found that applying it post moisturiser, leaving it to sink in while dressing, and then applying mineral cover on top gave flawless results! It was like super special lightweight non-cakey concealer. It works on all manner of other blemishes before the spackling of mineral foundation. Try it!

These are The Goods I use everyday - and they've served me well. I haven't deviated from this carefully coreographed bunch of products for months and for me that's quite a feat!

About face.

2009-09-29T18:02:00.009+08:00

I've noticed a lot of women spend an endless amount of time and money on products based on which celeb is spruiking it, the hype, and the shiny packaging.

I don't claim to be immune to this - certainly not, because nothing gets my attention like a bit of carefully placed bling, or a shiny haired, poreless spokesmodel.

But I've come to realise that over time I keep going back to a group of go-to products which has withstood the test of time.

These are the goods (IMHO), and are worthy of your attention.

Click for product information!

Here's some of my picks ...

Neutrogena cleansers - I like to rotate within the range. A personal favourite is the Deep Clean Cream Cleanser. I think I love it more cos you can buy it in the supermarket!
Neostrata Ultra Smoothing Lotion - An absolute winner. No nonsense. All action. I like it!
Paula's Choice BHA liquid - I've tried numerous other "skin smoothers" of this ilk, and The Paula's is still the best, naff packaging and all.
Kiehl's Microderm scrub - I'm sounding like an exfoliant addict now... But it's really good. And I use it (only) once a month.
Neutrogena sunscreen - See my review for Primped here
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Gold Capsules - I apply one of these maybe once a week before bed, and awaken with amazingly soft skin. And they come in delightful capsules you can stash in your travel kit! A great choice for in-flight hydration.

It should be noted here that I have combination skin. This list makes my skin sound schizophrenic. And most days it is - so there's a little something in this list for everyone!

Primped VIP: Estee Lauder Ultimate Red

2009-09-28T19:10:00.007+08:00

Images via Primped

Next up in the Primped package is some classy stuff from Estee Lauder - a Signature Eyeshadow Quad, Opulent Shimmer Gloss and Turbolash Mascara.

Updated product information (provided by Primped): Ultimate Red is a limited edition Colour story launching in November and is a fun, party look that’s all about sexy reds and glimmering golds and smoky eyes and, of course, the shimmery gold lashes. There’s two looks, Ultimate Red, or Lavish Plum and also in the collection was the Opulent Shimmer Powder for highlighting the face and a Gel Eyeliner and the Signature Lipstick.

Face: Nude by Nature Mineral Foundation, MAC MSF - So Ceylon
Eyes: Urban Decay Primer Potion, EL Signature Eyeshadow Quad - Gold Opulence, Maybelline Colossal Volum Express Mascara - Glam Black, EL Turbolash - Gold Effects
Lips: EL Opulent Shimmer Gloss

I was pretty excited to see the Turbolash in the parcel - however in reality I find it lacking. Looking at this formula, I think it's intended to "gild" the lashes rather than lengthen or create volume. The gold flecked pigment is pretty - but not your go to if you want length or volume. As for the vibration effect ... I suppose it could be good for lifting and separating of the lashes, but that effect remains to be seen, as this formula lacks the oomph of a regular mascara. There's not really any need for the additional technology.

The eyeshadow quad will go to good use, but I found the colour payoff wanting - I'd actually use this during the day (with a restrained hand when it comes to the dark bronze and grey-black shades) for a natural but put together look. There wasn't quite enough pigment in the deeper shades to satisfy my needs when creating a smoky "evening eye".

The lipgloss offers plush texture - minus stickiness, and the colour I received is a very wearable orange-red which works for me. I like the brush applicator - for some reason sponge tip wands gross me out.

I wanted to like these products - I mean they're just so shiny.

They look very glam on my bathroom counter. I guess these are great finds for lots of consumers - I can see why everyone I know thinks of Estee and says "Oh, my Mum has always worn their make up" ... It's because there's something inherently "safe" about these products - no matter how much deep bronze or grey-black eyeshadow I put on, there was little I could do to increase the depth of colour.

I found these lovely to use and look at (because who doesn't like a bit of gold?) - but I didn't find anything here that I didn't already have from my usual go to brands.

In summary, some key points:

Colours - Nothing ground breaking, but definitely wearable. Colour pay off - Not convinced about any of the eye products, but the lippy is a keeper.
Packaging - Certainly a plus, if you like bling.
Technology - a vibrating mascara. Just call me "underwhelmed".
Textures - Good, particularly the lip gloss.

P.S - My eyeshadow looks really wingy even though that was not what it looked like at all. I think the lighting and angles were doing something a little weird here!

Primped VIP: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Lotion

2009-09-27T19:54:00.001+08:00

For the purposes of this Primped VIP review I had the the boy J, test this out on his weekend squidding jaunt.

It was a bit of a struggle to get some feedback but I think J made some great points:

It's not greasy at all (J is a regular user of "man product" and grease is enemy number one)
It smells like sunscreen (translation: It doesn't have a strong frangrance, and is suitable for men and women, even those of us who find strong scents overpowering)
It lasted a really long time (we were out from 11am to 2 pm, after having applied it at 10.30am before leaving the house)
I didn't burn (which is ultimately what we're trying to avoid!)

I used it too - and though I wasn't actively fishing or squidding, another delightful plus side of this particular product is that sand doesn't stick to the powder dry finish!

Primped VIP: Nelsons Pure & Clear

2009-09-16T19:13:00.007+08:00

The lovely ladies at Primped sent out a care package to me, laden with loot for review as part of their Primped VIP club.

In my test batch is Nelsons Pure & Clear Purifying Daily Facial Wash (aka zingy fresh face gel) and Acne Pimple Gel (aka cream that takes away the ouch).

I do wish I was blessed with perfect skin that didn't require all of this, but alas...

I tested out the Purifying Daily Facial Wash, after removing my make up with my trusty Neutrogena Make up Remover.

Ingredients: aqua, polysorbate 20, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate (vegetable source), cocamidopropyl betaine (coconut source), chondrus crispus (carrageenan seaweed) extract, phenoxyethanol, arnica montana extract, benzyl alcohol, calendula extract, hypericum extract, xantum gum, tea tree oil, lavender oil, limonene (essential oil source), grapefruit oil, linalool (essential oil source), petigrain oil.

This stuff feels and smells remarkably fresh like I just washed my face in a garden bed of herbs. But in a good way.
It made my skin feel squeaky clean - it was satisfying to see the dirt wash away, but didn't leave my skin dry.
The light foaming action was probably what they were aiming for when they made this range sodium lauryl sulphate free. It also has a cool jelly texture from the addition of seaweed as the base ingredient.
Tea tree oil, Arnica and Calendula are the "active" ingredients. I normally find Tea tree oil products way too drying, but this seems to be doing the trick.
Arnica is an old-school remedy for bruises - having used it in creams for that purpose before, I'm interested to see if the addition to this range improves the overall ickiness of blemishes.

To follow up, I used the Acne and pimple gel post-cleanse on top of my usual Neostrata Ultra Smoothing Lotion.

Ingredients: aqua, alcohol, tea tree oil, arnica montana extract, calendula extract, hypericum extract, triethanolamine, carbomer, limonene (tea tree oil source), linalool (tea tree oil source)

Great texture. Maybe it's just me, but treatment creams always seem to be a bit too runny to truly stay where I put them. This has a thick gel consistency which certainly met it's mark (the horrible blind mofo on the tip of my lip).
Smells strongly of Tea tree oil. This doesn't bother me too much, but might be an issue if you're sensitive to that kind of thing.
It absorbs quickly and dries to a matt finish - see great potential for this as a pre-makeup fix.
Also contains Arnica - in this case, intended to calm and soothe red spots. I think this actually worked in this instance.
Only gripe is the ethanol base. This is probably acting as a preservative, and also speeds up evaporation of excess moisture (from the product), but sensitive skinned folk beware - this could dry you out. So use with care.

All in all I found these products nice to use - good packaging, reasonably priced - about $20 clams retail, and seemingly chockers with good natural ingredients.

I am impressed with the no-nonsense very clear ingredient listing, which is often my major gripe with "natural" skincare brands. Most consumers don't know what Melaleuca alternifolia oil is, and Nelsons have (kindly) remedied that by putting the conventional names clearly in brackets next to each botanical listed.

Props Nelsons! The Beauty Brains would be pleased, regardless of how efficacious your product is.

"I don't do chatty. I like quiet. Quiet and mean."

2009-08-18T19:04:00.001+08:00

Edie Falco is awesome <3!

Huzzah, Poppy!

2009-07-20T18:09:00.006+08:00

Scoot over to your nearest Kit, and you will be rewarded with The Lipstick Queen, Poppy King's latest offering - Chinatown Glossy Pencil.
The colours are fresh, and the texture is fantastic. Very wearable sheer brights. And while that sounds like an oxymoron, in true Poppy style, she makes it work.

And because I know you love a product with a story, this range is based on Roman Polanski's 1974 film of the same name.

Will be channeling Evelyn Cross Mulwray while I am wearing it.

P.S
I bought 'Genre', and it is every bit the cheery bright orange you see in the photo above. Only less like a crayon, and more like something that peps up my standard work-day uniform of black on black.

Loving

2009-07-14T17:14:00.003+08:00

L'oreal paris Derma Genesis
Pore Minimising Smoothing Serum

Hair-spiration, where art thou?

2009-07-14T16:43:00.004+08:00

Every year I seem to find myself in the same pattern of hair abuse ...

Summer: Embrace excellent haircut by new exxy stylist.
Autumn: Decide to ditch haircut because of insert lame reason here
Winter: Get stuck in a major hair rut, influenced by the now growing out hair cut and cold weather (read: over-enthusiastic blow dryer use and long hair = split city!)
Spring: Hit rock bottom. Completely un-inspired. No idea what to do with now overgrown mop, and no plans to change it.

I am now completely convinced that if I want to break this cycle, like any good addict (lazy person), I need to launch a pre-emptive strike before spring.

So far, I have enlisted the help of these lovelies:

Kerastase Lait Nutritive Sculpt

L'oreal says: 'Provides light-weight nurturing, softness, hold, and detangling ease. Reinforces the hair fiber to help protect against damage caused by blow-drying and heat styling. Hair is left shiny and smooth.'

Verdict: It's all that, and more. I'd call this my desert island product. I think the lightness is the key here, because I seem to have delightful hair that looks dirty after one day. This doesn't add to that, but instead gets me by for another day and a half.

Matrix Sleek.Look Iron Smoother

Matrix says:

Protects against heat damage up to 400ºF
Seals in high-shine finish
Long-lasting style memory
Easy, spray-on application
Locks in sleek finish, locks out humidity

Verdict: Oh, hai, did I mention that besides delightfully dirty locks, I also suffer from naturally coarse, and strangely kink/curl-prone straight hair? I know it sounds like an oxymoron, but I kid you not. In any case, this stuff works a treat when I'm blow drying or using the ghd.

So while I may still have no idea as to what I should do with my hair, I can rest assured knowing I've tried my hardest to keep my locks going all year (or at least until spring/summer).

But it's definitely time for a trim in lieu of any real plans.

Melbourne I love you.

2009-06-03T21:08:00.006+08:00

Oy vey!

2009-06-03T20:17:00.007+08:00

Today I decided to put a long overdue plan into action.

In fact, the same plan I cited when discussing my leave plans with my colleagues over a week ago: The Great Wardrobe Re-Organisation of 2009.

Also known as, The Great Wardrobe Cull of 2009. Or, my personal favourite (which I think wins over great titles such as He's just not that into you) - "I have over fifty pairs of underwear and I do my laundry twice a week."

Left to right (an approximation): Rack - dresses (not visible), hoodies, coats, jackets, cardigans, skirts.
Cubes: Tshirts, singlets, underwear, jeans, trousers, sneakers (not complete collection) PJs,
shoes (hanging organiser plus more in storage), scarves (underneath shoe organiser), boots in front.

There are overstuffed plastic cubes. Storage containers. Shoe organisation devices. I still haven't worked out the kinks, but overall I am pleased with the result.

To conclude, I need to stop buying clothes, shoes and accessories, or I will run out of space; that much is painfully obvious. Alternatively, I need to move to a bigger house with extra rooms I don't need, simply for the purposes of storing my collection. Or come up with alternative arrangements and storage solutions.

And to think I was considering buying those suede Givenchy heels today (on SALE) or that super-soft black wool coat with the cute buttons (also on sale)!

Sigh. I have a problem.

Toil.

2009-05-04T20:59:00.003+08:00

Ok, so I would laugh, but I do regard all things porcine as enemy number one right now.

In short, pandemic hysteria has made my work-life take over my actual life, and I (along with my colleagues) am starting to resent it. Even though I found myself thriving amongst the chaos.

I'd still love the opportunity to get in a decent night's sleep without thinking about work. Hmph. Please tell me it's over...

Recently...

2009-04-07T21:56:00.004+08:00

Zoe Chew / J rediscovers fishing / Lauren and Clinton / Sam says goodbye

Things I Love Thursday

2009-03-12T20:19:00.003+08:00

Rimmel Exaggerate waterproof eye definer in 260 Deep Wine - an excellent shade of eggplant purple
Revlon Spa Age Defying concealer - twist and brush applicator, light creamy texture
Law and Order SVU season 7
Rediscovering my vintage Bally red leather heels
Cirque du Soileil Dralion tomorrow night
Edo custard Mochi
Cardigan weather
A mutual love for Laura Mercier
Avene Cleanance K AHA/BHA cream

Kiehls: now in bulk, and other recent discoveries...

2009-03-11T19:25:00.004+08:00

Am very excited to note that Kiehls has just unveiled a 1 litre pump pack size of Creme de Corps for a limited time!

Now, if I could just convince the folks in Kiehls land to package the Epidermal Retexturising Micro-Dermabrasion scrub in a giant tube...I've kept my tube in the shower, and use it mixed with body wash and face wash - just the most gentle scrub sloughs off any skin past it's use by in a flash. (And it works wonders on my often neglected feet and hands)

Both available from Mecca Cosmetica and Kiehls freestanding stores.

My recession-friendly find of the week is Neutrogena's Pore Refining Cleanser.
Contains alpha and beta hydroxy acids and microbeads for thorough cleansing with a gentle exfoliating effect. It's halfway between a cream and a foaming cleanser and has proven to be great vaule for money, for a 200ml tube at under $15.And while I'm recommending two exfoliantastic products here today ... don't get all crazy and start exfoliating twice a day every day. I hear skin cells do stop regenerating after a while.

Take note. According to the dermatologists quoted in every chick-mag I've read, it's the sure fire way to age prematurely. And we wouldn't want that now, would we?

Things I Love Thursday

2009-02-19T19:07:00.002+08:00

LuckyMe: (Particularly) Hudson Mohawke and Rustie
Elizabeth Arden's new Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation (SPF 20)
Everyone Worth Knowing by Lauren Weisberger
Tea 'like a Kimberley sunset' (Thanks, Bushells)
Macaroni cheese lunch dates
L'Occitane Citrus Verbena Intense ... Mmm...
And lastly, I truly love this Thursday because that means it's Friday tomorrow.

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

2009-02-15T19:30:00.003+08:00

Claiming to beat rival anti-ageing creams on the market with $350 price tags*, Olay has launched their new Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream in Australia.

This is the very same cream which sold out within hours in the US and UK, and left others on waiting lists a mile long. Sounds like a winner. Or like I'm describing a new Hermes Birkin.

All the same, after reading about this online for the last few months, and quizzing the staff at my favourite Priceline for two weeks, I finally purchased this on Tuesday last week, from a Priceline salesperson who gave me a knowing smile. I hear the "official" launch is actually today, which makes me quite pleased to be ahead of the pack without even trying.

So, what's in it for me?

'Get beautifully fresh, younger-looking skin around the 3 hardest to treat areas - the eyes, jaw line and neck - with Olay's most concentrated amino-peptide formula ever. It helps you achieve dramatically younger-looking skin.'

More specifically, Hyaluronic acid (seen more recently in the L'Oreal Dermagenesis range) and peptides to keep things smooth, plump and generally good looking. Noteworthy is the addition of Mica (which you may be familiar with from most mineral make up lines), which acts as a complexion enhancer.

I personally enjoy the fresh apple scent, and the smooth non-greasy texture. It's moisturising, but not heavy, which is a big plus for oily-combination skin like mine.

I'm still waiting for a miracle, but in the interim this is doing well. Particularly when you consider the price tag $49.99 (I got it for $39.99 on sale). Worth checking out.

* Based on a Good Housekeeping Magazine study from 2007, which put this cream up against it's much exxier counterparts, including La Mer and La Prairie.

Polished.

2009-02-04T20:12:00.004+08:00

Revlon | Cherries in the Snow + OPI | Start to Finish

Three things...

2009-02-02T21:12:00.003+08:00

Which reflect my current colour obsession, which was caused by this fair lady, and her stellar choice of lip colour:

* Incidentally these products have since become additional obsessions.
At least everything in my hand bag is colour coordinated.

Schmap city guide.

2009-01-10T07:13:00.002+08:00

Cupcakes on Pitt Street :
Now featured in the sixth edition of the Schmap Sydney Guide

Special Letters Unit.

2009-01-09T20:07:00.000+08:00

Reading.

2009-01-09T07:43:00.002+08:00

This article - What's wrong with Vogue? makes for some interesting reading, especially when paired with my current 're-read':

Interesting.

A) I can't believe they printed it.

B) I can't believe Kathryn Williams of San Diego thought they would care.

"You're good raw material. Nice legs, great hair, and not fat. I can work with not fat."

2009-01-05T17:48:00.002+08:00

Image | http://www.flickr.com/photos/carshamus/

In a post work haze, I browsed the racks in Cue. The yards of taffeta up for grabs were immediately vetoed. Fifties dirndls, nay (these were dirndls made for a six foot model, not a five-two midget) Shiny. So much shiny.

I did find a great dress in a work-friendly grey, with some interesting detailing (tucks, grosgrain ribbon, flattering cap sleeves) - it immediately appealed.
Seeing only size 14s on the rack, and one lonely 6, I decided to go for gold and try the 6. I am usually a size 10. I was horrified to see that it fit. Awkwardly. There was some dreadful emphasis on underarm cleavage. And yet, the rest was fine. Great, even.

I have been a little down on clothes recently, shopping in places where I know what size I am, and don't have to think, or see myself in multiple full length mirrors. And rarely straying from black. I have been utterly convinced that I am now paying for years of not noticing (or caring) what or how much I eat. Don't even get me started on (my lack of) exercise. Am I one of those Skinny-fat people? Perhaps.

But ultimately I blame the labels.

In recent months I have been declared an XS, S, M, 6 - 12. Don't even get me started on jeans, which claim to be beacons of accuracy with intimidating inch measured waistbands.

I hereby declare war on sizing. This is what makes some of the most amazing people I know call themselves fat.

Quitter, not a joiner: Day six

2008-08-11T20:17:00.002+08:00

This hasn't been an "epic fail".
I'm surprised at my efforts (to be completely honest!)
But I think this might work out.
Slowly but surely it's getting easier.

To make myself feel better, I have been buying shoes and cosmetics.

Marking the end.

2008-08-04T18:00:00.004+08:00

I've decided it's time to kick a bad habit.
Being a semi-closeted smoker for almost 5 years had been particularly damaging to my health and wallet.

This time it's the end for real.

Pros:
Teeth only stained by coffee. (If at all)
Fresh breath. (early mornings not included)
A saving of 0.48 cents a ciggie, multiplied by 50 per week (yes, I worked it out)
Nails only stained by occasional dark nail polish.

Cons:
I kind of enjoy it.

Why:
I always said this would be a "sometimes" thing.
I never anticipated it would take this long to quit.
But I feel crap, and my body is no longer catching up with me, but rather, dragging behind (a little slowly).

I don't want to be a statistic, but sadly this habit means I probably will be one day.

I used to smoke up to three packs a weekend when I partied too hard. I have visions of myself bopping to drum and bass whilst smoking my obligatory dunhill blue (which then turned to silver, in an effort to "cut down" ... talk about false economy!) in dirty clubs and talking to strangers over our shared weakness for nicotine in the freezing cold outside.

Since I have given up my partying-bingeing habits, there is no reason to smoke any more, when there is rarely any need to "come down" from anything.

This is a good beginning.
I'm nervous but excited and feeling like a fraud ("what if I can't do it and I secretly start again?")

I'm sure I'm as neurotic as the next quitter.

/End.

Non-squeaky Clean: Cleansing Oils

2008-06-23T20:21:00.004+08:00

Those in the know will tell you oil-attracts-oil.

While we rely on detergents to wash away the grime on our dirty dishes, the same should not be true for your face - in an ideal world.

I confess I am shamefully lazy at the end of a long day of work, and will happily use (gasp) soap in my too-hot shower to scrub off the grime.

But when I wish to be saint-like where skincare is concerned, I spring for one of these babies...

My personal fave is MAC Cleanse Off Oil, $37.

Sure, I am always slightly alarmed when I rub this into my dry, uncleansed face - remembering not-too-distant teenage years where this sort of thing would have been "natural", but add water and all the days sins disappear. This oil actually emulsifies with water. And all that remains is (non-squeaky) clean skin.

One pump will do you fine - any more seems like overkill.

Further reading on a similar method.

The Building Show

2008-06-23T20:05:00.001+08:00

, originally uploaded by _juji.

Saturday, 21 June 2008
7pm

If I were...

2008-04-21T21:15:00.001+08:00

Kate moss.
And it was 20 degrees and cloudy.

Brought to you by Polyvore.

Life or something like it.

2008-03-26T18:07:00.002+08:00

It's been approximately three and weeks since I officially entered the real world - I got my first "real" job, that requires I show up everyday (not just when I'm rostered on), and pays me a salary I don't sneer at.

I'm exhausted all the time. But weekends seem so much more shiny and new.

I'm still not sure this is for me. What I wouldn't give to live the good life of being paid mega-bucks to be awesome, and not much else.

I'll keep dreaming. It keeps me sane.

Favourite Things: Prada Infusion d'Iris

2008-02-18T20:46:00.003+08:00

Top notes are orange blossom and mandarin; heart note is orris; base notes are galbanum, lentisc, benzoin, incense, vetiver and cedarwood.

image & text via the scented salamande r

It's my newest shiny thing and I am very much a fan.

Melbourne

2008-02-14T08:34:00.004+08:00

Last Wednesday J and I set off for Melbourne at a rather ungodly hour (5.45am), but we were rewarded with lots of amazing food, shopping and great things to see/do.

Top to bottom, Left column to right:
J & I by the Yarra, Federation Square, My new swallows, Cool graff
Views from Flinders street (i think!), Luna Park, OUCH
I heart Acland street, Flinders street train station, Spotted graff by Fafi, NGV

Suffice to say all I want to do now is go back!

A few of my favourite things.

2008-01-11T09:39:00.000+08:00

Things of late that I'm really digging:

Skins.
New to SBS, a British series that just makes me feel down right old.

It almost feels like nu-rave and prime-time-television's teenage love child.

image: metro.co.uk

The black book of Hollywood Beauty Secrets,
by Kym Douglas and Cindy Pearlman.

image: amazon.com

I wouldn't consider this life changing prose by anyone's standards, but I found it interesting. Of course, I am the girl who enjoys reading Who weekly and the myriad of other hollywood gossip mags around the place (I know I'm not alone!)

I confess most of the "tips" inside I was already aware of. But don't let that deter you. I am a sponge where beauty advice is concerned. One of those sponges that absorbs ten times it's own weight.

"If Burger King doesn't have the whopper, they might as well be Burger Queen."

2008-01-05T10:25:00.000+08:00

brow envy

2007-12-10T20:30:00.000+08:00

[1. image: imdb.com ... 2. make-up: me]

The brows are a little too dramatic for everyday,
But one can channel Ms. Taylor for photographs.

(she's not Mrs Fortensky any more, is she?)

Onward, Upward (Also known as the "pre-new-years-resolution")

2007-12-05T15:08:00.000+08:00

I'm feeling more than a little challenged at the moment.

My university "career" over, it seems, the time is now ripe for me to get a job, a career, or some form of regular money-exchanging for services which;

a) Will continue to feed my growing addictions to increasing the contents of my wardrobe, travel, freedom and well, life in general.
b) Allows me to "do something" hopefully useful with my time. Perhaps even rewarding or stimulating (!)
c) Makes me a real life adult (for real, we're not talking the year I turned eighteen.).

Part of me keeps screaming "wait, it'll happen, just enjoy the ride!" and the cynic that has always been my fallback-persona keeps persistently reminding me that time's a-wasting, and I really need to get a job now, if not sooner.

Did I study art to avoid responsibility? No.
To avoid conventional employment? Perhaps yes.
Do I ACTUALLY want to make art? Sure, but I need money to do that.

In short, I shall consider this post an emotional pep-talk, a public service announcement reminding me, that YES, I need a job.

I'm not a complete fraud, I have applied for two jobs. Perhaps in the near future I will be a cosmetic counter chick or a public servant. Ha. I pick the best careers.

dear diary

2007-11-30T06:45:00.000+08:00

Is now on my "to read" list.
I am a bandwagon jumper.

Old(er), Wiser.

2007-11-28T20:30:00.000+08:00

Today I walked into the chemist near my work, and the sales assistant who looked like he was about two to five years older than me addressed me as "Madam".

This evening, sitting with J in front of Cafe 130 in Leederville, watching the peroxide blonde surge of girls and their man-bags walking past (or, was that "attempting to walk in four inch stilettoes..") I heard the words "I feel OLD!" creeping out of my mouth.

Old. Me. Aged 21.

I suppose I can say I was probably always "mature" even aged thirteen, but now I can no longer rely upon poor fashion choices and irresponsible public behaviour to reveal my true status as a youngin'. I prefer to do those things in the relative privacy of home, or at very least, where the few who do see it, are well aware of my momentary lapses in concentration that lead to such things.

I don't really like spending time in clubs with strangers because I'd rather be with my friends.

I hate 99.95% of all one-liners that could be considered pick up lines.

I am quite partial to the post-lunch siesta, followed by a gin and tonic in the evening before dinner.

Still, I can't help but find myself questioning whether I'm "acting" old, or whether this is all, indeed, a sign of the times.

In my defence, I don't drive, have a mortgage, a fulltime job, or a wedding ring, but even so, I feel so done with going out, getting wasted and waiting for a taxi on a darkened street corner in shoes that don't fit.

But I think I can just about live with that and not feel too bad about myself.

dreaming

2007-11-23T07:33:00.000+08:00

I woke up with a start at approximately 3am, and found myself all twisted.
My feet had met with my headboard, and I had somehow lost all my pillows and sheets.

I remember a dream, but not what it was about.

Things are complicated, I am anxious, and I know that's probably the best explanation.

Link love

2007-11-18T19:27:00.000+08:00

New links I've been very interested in ...

Perhaps the most famous Australian blog around, iCiNG, for all your fashion, beauty and lifestyle needs - let's just say I'm now co-dependant. I want to dye my bright pink and take snaps of my outfits everyday. Perhaps now that I am free, besides my standing "to do" of world domination I can get on to that!

Then there's Makeupbag, as I have found nothing beats a blog run by an American beauty editor for all your to the moment news on brands like MAC (my personal fave). A trans-continental solution that includes tried and tested advice on what's good and what isn't by someone I'd definitely take advice from!

And finally... KABAKUBA ... I'm not sure what it's about, but lets just say "me likey" Looks good. Nice page. Interested? Yes.

WOO-HOO

2007-11-15T10:21:00.001+08:00

I managed a HD for my exegesis!

One that didn't make the cut

2007-11-14T09:29:00.001+08:00

portrait with prosthetic nose
juji chew 2007

Really Happening

2007-11-11T16:37:00.001+08:00

sorry about the chair in the middle... it's not supposed to be there.

My exam is really going to happen.
I am currently trying not to hyperventilate.

The prints turned out beautifully (hundreds of $$ later), which is good. A huge thank you to my "patrons" who know who they are, for saving me from a fate of horribly finished/wrong colour/bad paper/too small print alternatives.

They're about A1 in size - rather, they fit in an A1 page. The white borders make me think of polaroids, and I can't get the idea out of my head that the lighting in the third image from the right reminds me of something by Corrinne Day or Mario Testino. HA. Cos I am totally as good as they are.

Maybe it was Wolfgang Tillmans or Juergen Teller.
Either way, I think it's somewhat obvious I probably list "fashion photography" as a direct interest and influence.

Dear Marc Jacobs,
Hire me for your next ad campaign.
I can totally be your new Cindy Sherman.
from Juji xx

the mobility-challenged

2007-11-04T16:02:00.000+08:00

Just when I thought I had "gotten over" my teenage co-ordination problems, I managed to roll my ankle whilst jogging this morning.

Note to self:
Grass is soft.
A potential death trap - particularly where your shoddy ankles are concerned.

This better be okay by tomorrow.

ha

2007-11-02T07:31:00.000+08:00

Hirst's Shark Arrives at Met (New York Times, October 16)

Damien Hirst's The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living, a 13-foot-long shark preserved in 4,360 gallons of formaldehyde, has taken up residence in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art after six weeks of installation work. Owned by hedge-fund titan Steven A. Cohen, who purchased the 1991 piece for $8 million, the sea creature will terrify visitors to the museum for the next three years. Hirst had to replace the original shark last year because it had begun to rot. In a related story, the artist has been busy repairing another of his works, Mother and Child, Divided, an installation of a bisected cow and calf in four formaldehyde tanks housed in the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art in Oslo, due to a tank leak.

sigh of relief

2007-10-17T19:40:00.000+08:00

Thank christ.

The end, I can actually see it!

The hard uni-work is almost done (ie. essay, and supporting documents)
Now all I have to do is have my photos printed (or rather, organise said printing), the installation, the sounds, the overall look.

I can see it in my head, and it looks good.

I feel somewhat better now.

Yeojin Bae & Gail Sorronda for Target

2007-10-12T15:20:00.000+08:00

A bit late on the uptake, but even so, this is pretty interesting.

Amuses me that Gail Sorronda's lines all seem to be mirrored by the way she dresses. I suppose the same can be said of Bae (though it's less obvious).

As usual I intend to wait until I've seen them, no desire to buy immediately (ie. tomorrow!) Ever the sale-savvy shopper, I've bought all the previous collection items I own on sale (up to 75% off) ... I just can't justify paying full price when the items I generally want fall under the multi-tasking/any season categories.

That, and because I know I own enough clothes already - and further still, I haven't worn most of them.

Am liking the expansion into accessories. About time!

ARTIST SEEKS

2007-10-10T15:57:00.001+08:00

ARTIST SEEKS:

Wealthy patron.

Need not be ridiculously wealthy (eg. Richard Branson).
Required to finance final project necessary to university degree.
Will repay ... when I can, next year.

Financial outlay would amount to approximately $500 - $1000.

Indebted to you forever.

You can be my De Medici or Pieter van Ruijven.

attempting authenticity

2007-10-08T20:38:00.000+08:00

(via flickr)

WTF of the day via dailymail.co.uk

2007-10-07T18:02:00.000+08:00

Lily Allen slims from size 12 to an eight by having her 'brain reprogrammed'

by STEVE MYALL - More by this author » Last updated at 22:55pm on 6th October 2007

Lily Allen has gone from size 12 to size eight after several sessions with Susan Hepburn, who she claims has reprogrammed her brain to enjoy healthy organic food and associate trips to the gym with feeling happy.

Allen, 22, is delighted with her new look and said: "After the hypnotism, I want to go to the gym every day, otherwise I feel really bad.

"I just want to get more toned and healthy. I'm really good about everything at the moment - I've never been happier."

The singer, daughter of actor Keith Allen, is not the first celebrity to turn to hypnotism to lose weight - model Sophie Dahl, singer Geri Halliwell and the Duchess of York have all done so.

Mind the junk: Lily Allen tucking into fast food in April (left) and, right, showing off her slimmer look last week

Hypnotist Ms Hepburn runs a Harley Street clinic specialising in self-improvement techniques. She charges about £300 an hour for weight-loss treatment, including instruction on self-hypnosis.

Those who have undergone the treatment claim that she implants subconscious messages that remind them to stop eating when they feel full.

Ms Hepburn also teaches clients to associate healthy activities, such as working out in the gym, with happiness.

Ms Hepburn said: "Lily was great, a really nice girl. I'm glad I could help."

But an attempt to cure Allen of her addiction to cigarettes has been less successful. The singer was spotted smoking on a night out in London last week.

Allen, whose biggest hit Smile reached No1 last year, turned to Ms Hepburn after she posted a video of herself talking about her body-image fears on the website MySpace.

In it she said: "I used to pride myself on being strong-minded and not being some stupid girl obsessed with the way I look. I felt like it didn't matter if I was a bit chubby.

"I'm afraid I have fallen victim to the evil machine. I have spent the past hour researching gastric bypass surgery and laser liposuction."

Allen's new look has helped her win the affections of a new boyfriend – Ed Simons, one half of the electronic music duo The Chemical Brothers.

In the past Allen has spoken passionately about the 'size-zero' debate, criticising fashion editors for using thin models.

Thought:

Is this "re-programming" business even possible?

Why are they comparing Lily's apparently gargantuan size 12 figure (when she's wearing camos and a massive shirt) to her svelte size eight in a dress that clearly is all about illusion? Or am I just slow for not "getting" it?

On another side note.

Ed Simons + Lily Allen = Huh?

nearly done!

2007-09-26T11:05:00.000+08:00

and i don't know whether to laugh or cry.

Things to do:

2007-09-19T16:55:00.000+08:00

1. The exegesis. Only 1500 words to go!

2. Edit reference list.

3. Celebrate birthdays (including mine. debating whether i can be arsed to do the social-brithday ... maybe little creatures ... maybe not.)

4. Catch up with Mai.

5. Figure out why commonwealth bank is charging me fees even though i'm still studying full time!

6. Refine flims. Work out kinks. Sort out photos. Take more of them.

7. Go to the talk Lucas Bowers (ericaamerica) is giving next Tuesday.

8. Work out a plan for next year. Employment. Self-employment. Portfolio. Galleries. "How to be good." Replace good with moderately-successful (to get the idea)

9. Go for a jog on Sunday. Weather permitting (refuse to job in rain.)

10. Go to PICA artist car-boot sale, Saturday 10am - 1pm.

about as yellow as they come.

2007-09-12T16:01:00.000+08:00