Rebel Flower Rihanna

Another celebrity turned perfumer, Rihanna is set to launch her fragrance, "Rebel Flower". Named after her grandmothers nickname for her – Reb’l Fleur (rebel flower), Rihanna’s scent is inspired by her Caribbean roots. (Rihanna also has a 'Rebel Flower' tattoo on her neck) Ingredients include tropical fruit essence, coconut water and a musky mix of vanilla, patchouli and amber. The fragrance was created with the help of Parlux, the company responsible for fragrances by Jessica Simpson and Paris Hilton.

In the words of Rihanna herself, she explains that, "This fragrance is about my passion for individuality – being expressive and empowering, yes, but also emotional and intriguing. I promise you Reb’l Fleurwill not be easily forgotten. Over the years, I layered many different scents to get something that was truly my own. But I wanted…something that said ‘Rihanna was here.’ Something delicious and special, a fragrance with subtle hints that linger and leave a sexy memory.”

As for the bottle, the bottle is formed in the shape of a high heel, adorned with silk ribbons and a golden ring on the stopper. It is encased in a pink packaging with Rihanna's signature red curls adorned with heavy makeup smelling the scent of the flower....a Rebel Flower perhaps.

Excited for this fragrance!

The Art of Seduction

The Bordelle Lingerie Collection for Spring/Summer 2011 is simply divine and brings the art of seduction to the next level. Void of the common lace and ruffle placements, this collection is the new sexy. Satin, silk, sheer mesh play to bring a new edge to intimates. I want every single item in this collection! Brava Bordelle.

You can shop the Bordelle collection and see other seductive collections at Bordelle.co.uk.

Striking Ad Campaigns for Spring 2011

There have been so many ad campaigns for Spring/Summer 2011 showing up everywhere--the two which caught my eye was that of Louis Vuitton's and Versace's Spring/Summer 2011.

Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2011:

We've seen the collection, which entailed bold colors, with an oriental influence. When seen in stores or images all across the web, it wasn't too impressive. However, when showcased in a glossy ad campaign featuring Freja Beha Erichsen,Raquel Zimmermann and Kristen McMenamy, the end result was bold and oozed of pure glamour.

Versace Spring 2011:

Newly dyed platinum blonde Abbey Lee Kershaw models for the ready-to-wear Versace collection in the Spring 2011 ad campaign. Bright colours and fringed Mediterranean inspired prints are the focal point of this ad campaign, set against a plain white background and lanky male models, who also have their hair dyed platinum blonde. Straightforward, product focused, striking ad campaign.

Hello (Pretty) Kitty!

Hello Kitty has made it's beauty debut in the cutest form--- a fun spirited, girly chic make up line, true to the Hello Kitty spirit. It's collection launched in January, exclusively in Sephora, for now. So for my Jakarta friends, if you are traveling there anytime soon, make sure to pick these adorable items up! (Bring some for your girlfriends back home too!) With flirty packaging and friendly prices, these beauty pieces make for perfect collectables and gifts.

Take a look at some of my favorite picks from the line:

1. Hello Kitty Brush Set

One of the cutest brush sets I've ever laid my eyes upon. Love the pink coloring and the Hello Kitty case it comes in to keep the brushes dust free! It contains 5 brushes: face, eyeshadow, blending brush, angled eyeliner brush and lip brush. A good basic set for all make up and beauty enthusiasts.


2. Charmmy Kohl Eyeliner Kit


I'm a big fan of eyeliner. So naturally, this set makes it to the top of my list. It's pencil case packaging is also reminiscent of elementary school days but this time it's filled with 7 playful Kohl eyeliners for make up fun. Not only will it change up your look but it is also said to be good for the skin, containing strawberry, apple and grapeseed extracts to keep the skin soft and hydrated. Eye candy, indeed.

3. Say Hello Palettes

A beauty on-the-go and in-your-bag must have. Lil' Hello Kitty palettes with four shades of lip gloss and eyeshadows. The tiered, compact housing it comes in adds more fun, too. What's not to love?

4. Hello Kitty Fragrance

Though I haven't sampled the scent first hand, the whimsical vintage perfume bottle it comes in is enough to make me reach for a bottle and place it on my beauty shelf. It is described to have hints and notes of fruit, spice, and flowers that capture the very nature of Hello Kitty itself.

5. Hello Kitty Bling Mirror


How many times do we girls reach inside our back to take a peek at the mirror for make up checks, and touch ups? Too many to count. This Hello Kitty crystallized mirror is just the perfect thing for those moments and makes for a good conversation starter, too!
Head over to Sephora.com to view the whole Hello Kitty Beauty collection.

Belle Noel by Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian continues to build her resume and fashion empire through the creation of her new jewelry line "Belle Noel". She teamed up with Pascal Mouawad to create 75 pieces, which will be making it's launch in January 2011, in other words....anytime now. Pascal Mouawad is a Lebanese jeweler and has also worked with Nicole Richie to launch her successful House of Harlow jewelry line and other celebrities, too.

Her inspiration for the Belle Noel collection is said to come from classic movie stars like Carole Lombard, Vivien Leighand Sophia Loren and 70’s fashion icons like Lauren Hutton and Julie Christie.

“It’s been a dream of mine for a long time to have my own jewelry collection, so it was such an amazing opportunity and experience to sit down and create designs that I feel reflect my personal style, and a collection that is also varied and offers a little something for everyone. You guys know I love my statement jewelry pieces, so I wanted to create pieces that really stand out and make a statement, but most importantly, I wanted to make them affordable for everyone!” - Kim Kardashian

The Belle Noel collection consists of four series:

Honey Hexagons - classic one of a kind design with an effortlessly chic appeal. Has elements of cream resins, black acrylic, paved details and touches of ivory and midnight blue.

Glam Rock - the more edgier design series. Elongated studs and mixed chains are infused with feminine details, such as crystal, leopard skin, and chiffon.

Gold Clusters - where geometry and nature come to the fore, via undulated shapes, ivory toned leather and textured gold and silver.

Peek-a-Boo - the most playful of all the series which entail statement pieces that are inspired by lighthearted thoughts of carefree, sunny days. Features colored stones, enamel accents, & butterflies.

Verdict: Being a devoted accessory girl, I'm always on the lookout for interesting pieces. Not only are the jewelry pieces striking and unique, but I love how the collection encompasses everything from classic looks to edgy to glam. In addition to this, unlike other celebrity driven lines, Kim's Belle Noel pieces are surprisingly affordable with nothing over $100, or IDR 900,000,-. The main downside, is waiting for her collection to debut in stores and specialty boutiques in Asia. Calling on Le Privee, MUSE, IVY and Jade to make their orders ASAP! Meanwhile, as for now Belle Noel is available for pre-order from ShopStyle.com, RevolveClothing.com (US) and soon from Miijo.com (AUS).

Beauty Run Mondays

For this Monday's Beauty Run, I picked up a few essentials, which have been running low in my beauty cabinet.

1. False Eyelashes

My three utmost must haves when it comes to eye make up are: eyeliner, mascara (important as the air we breathe), and false lashes. Not that I use them on a daily basis, but if I don't have lashes on my make up shelves. I go into a panic. It has become a sort of security blanket, mostly because of the ease of knowing that you can completely alter the way you look with just a lash. I love the fuller, more glamourous, sexy feel it gives you.

There are many different types of false lashes on the market but I always go for more natural and luxe lashes which gives an eye opening effect without being too dramatic and heavy. I bought three types today, the one from Hollywood Lashes which have a thicker setting in the middle of the lashes, and criss-cross ones and straight up natural ones from Spring Heart. All available from Glow Plaza Indonesia and the Guardian drugstore.

2. Kerastase Bain Prevention Shampoo

As I am a frequent hair washer, Kerastase Specifique's range is perfect. It cares for the hair, without overdrying and making it prone to loss, and it's safe to use daily.

3. Limited Edition Rose Des Neiges Body Cream from L'occitane

The gorgeous L'Occitane Rose des Neiges Body Cream is part of the limited edition range from L'Occitane's Magic Tree this Christmas. I've passes it many times during the Christmas season, but as my usual almond lotion was still full, there was not a need yet for replacement. Once I tested this lotion out though, I instantly fell in love. I was on the lookout for a light, but buttery textured body cream that is fragrant to last throughout the whole day. (I found the almond's scent to disappear quite quickly).

Verdict: The Rose des Neiges scent is sweet and floral. As the description reads, "it is inspired by a velvety white winter rose and enriched with sweet almond oil and rose absolute. It is a smooth body cream, which will help to nourish and perfume the skin with a delicate, flowery fragrance. It leaves a subtle iridescent veil on the body" I love the rose scent, which is apparent but not over empowering or too common. It also gives off a beautiful sheen. As a plus, intentional or not, I love how it's packaged in a cupcake reminiscent glass cup. Beautiful, thoughtful packaging just makes everything that bit better.

Early Red Carpet Review: Golden Globe Awards 2011

Jakarta time: 8 am.

Watching: Golden Globe Awards, Live from California.

With the 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards already full swing, here are some early peeks from the red carpet this evening. Spotted trends for this year include full formal ballgowns, colors of green and pink all throughout the carpet.

Sandra Bullock in a Jenny Packham shimmering gown, styled with long, blunt bangs.

Angelina Jolie, green with envy in a floor sweeping Atelier Versace gown! Refreshing and a far cry from her usually black-clad appearances.

Season 10 American Idol Judge, Jennifer Lopez in a white Zuhair Murad dress with a sequin clad lace poncho, with her hair slicked back in a classic ponytail and greytone inspired make up.

Lea Michele of Glee, gorgeous in a blush coral pink Oscar De La Renta gown, lined with ruffles.

Olivia Wilde made an entrance with a strapless full sequinned ballgown from Marchesa, which made her look like she just stepped out of a fairytale.

Continuing the theme of big, full gowns, comes Catherine Zeta-Jones in a deep green Monique Lhuillier creation, diamond chandelier earrings and husband Michael Douglas in arm.

Eva Longoria, who usually dons bright colors, went for a black Zac Posen floor length gown this year with cap sleeves and a plunging neckline.

Leighton Meester mixing it up in Burberry Prorsum, a more covered up look but I love the thigh high slit. The choice of shoes that peekaboo and accessories complete the look.

Christina Aguilera star of Burlesque, looking very much like the retro diva in a black strapless Zuhair Murad lace gown.

Expecting mom to be, Natalie Portman, glows in a peach pink Viktor & Rolf strapless gown with a striking red rose adorning the bodice.

Mila Kunis, who was nominated for an award for her performance in Black Swan, also stunned in a beautifully designed emerald green one shoulder gown by Vera Wang.

More of the most memorable fashion moments of the red carpet from this year's Golden Globes to come soon!

The Smell of Bliss: Niche Perfumes

Not all perfume scents are driven by widespread marketing campaigns or endorsed and created by a celebrity. After many smell tests, duty free perfume runs in Changi Airport and countless visits to pick up different, unique perfume scents and bottle designs from all around the world, I have come to the conclusion that the best fragrances come from smaller brand houses devoted to the art of perfumery. In other words, niche or boutique perfumes.

Niche perfumes is a term generally used to describe perfumes made by smaller brand houses that are harder to find. These perfumes also have a certain level of artistry and uniqueness that are not usually found in mainstream, commercial department store perfumes. (In my opinion, those perfumes are becoming to smell too alike to one another) Their price tags are a little on the higher end but it is most well worth it. Not only are the scents a lot more memorable, of better quality, and more beautifully packaged, but it provides you with this special feeling that this perfume bottle, this fragrance, no matter what and where ... is completely yours.


The first niche perfume brand I was introduced to was that of Bond No. 9 New York: Aston Square. I found the perfume scent to be so fresh and original, and it lasted much longer, too. Ever since then I've been a devotee, but I'm very much ready to try some other niche fragrances and thus the search begins for my next perfume bottle. Other notable niche perfume brands are L'Artisan, Les Parfumes des Rosine, Serge Lutens, Carthusia, Ormonde Jayne, Acqua di Parma and CB I Hate Perfume.

I am so utterly thankful for the presence of beauty boutiques such as Glow in Plaza Indonesia and Papillion Duo in Pacific Place and Kemang to make it possible for us here in Jakarta, Indonesia to dive into this wonderful world of niche perfumery. The search for my new favorite niche fragrance starts tomorrow with the L'Artisan and Les Parfumes des Rosine lines. Not only are the the front runners for its perfume art and creativity, but their bottles are absolutely beautiful too.

Get the coffee beans ready, please.

Couture Manicure

It's been a couple of weeks since my last manicure, and I'm feeling to give it a bit of an updated french couture manicure straight from Yves Saint Laurent's Fall/Winter 2010 "Rock & Baroque" collection. Yes, it's not completely up to date but I'm thinking this trend can carry on through many seasons to come.

To recap, the collection comprises of two YSL nail enamel colors and a special tip brush, which will then be used to create the french manicure. There are four color duo combinations, that can be interchanged as tip or base and transcend from day to night occasions.

The whole purpose is to take two unexpected colors, that may or may not be thought of to clash, and to make a statement with it. Mission accomplished.

The color collection are as follows:

Belle de Jour (Turquoise & Purple)

Rive Gauche (Orange & Fuschia)

Y-Cone (Pale Pink & White)

Belle de Nuit (Plum & Gold)

For my own manicure couture, I'm in between the Rive Gauche or the Belle de Nuit. Both attract the eye in different ways, one's more playful and another one's deeply mysterious. We'll have to see what the mood brings tomorrow. Will be posting pictures of the final results post manicure!

Put your Face on this Spring/Summer 2011

Seasons change, and so should your make-up routine for the Spring and Summer months of 2011. After countless magazine reads, peeks at upcoming make-up collections, fashion event mingles and trend gazes, these are the Top Three Trends that I've noticed on what is coming up on faces for Spring and Summer.

1. Bright Eyes

All over the runways of Christian Dior were sweeps of gorgeous bright eye colors over lids.

Many make-up artists are now experimenting with eye makeup in vibrant shades, and making them wearable now that they've thought of special application techniques. Pair them with a single line of black eyeliner, nude gloss or matte colored lips and these bursts of color can perk up any look.

2. Statement LipsBright, matte shades of lipstick are popping up everywhere on the Spring 2011 runways. Red, coral oranges and bright pinks are amongst the top picks. Keep everything else clean, fresh and simple i.e. nude eyes with lots and lots of mascara, sleek, shiny hair and let the lips take center stage!

Bright lipstick colors are always fun to play with. Here are some of my favorite statement lip shades for this season, from MAC. I find their lipstick have great intensity of color and staying power.

For a Coral Orange: MAC Morange

3. Glowing SkinAnother trend seen on the runways was glowing, luminous skin. A subject that will never go out of style. The focus was to illuminate the face and enhance the natural beauty of our features. Choosing soft, neutral colors and highlights to bring out the eyes, lips and cheekbones.

My absolute favorite face products to achieve these looks come from NARS.
Try mixing in NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (a glowing, satin finish foundation with build-able coverage) into your normal daily make up routine and finish with soft blends of the NARS Orgasm Illuminator (a beautiful weightless fluid with flecks of gold, peach and rose) on cheek and brow bones to give you that dewy, radiant look.



For extra shimmer & shine, to give an edge to the natural look for the night time, sweep a little NARS Hungry Heart Blush Duo across cheeks. Fair warning though, there is high glitter impact in this product, so one little swoosh of a brush gives you plenty of sparkle.