Ways To Send Help For Sendong Victims

I was supposed to post about Sendong 2 days ago, but then I decided the emotional outbursts I earlier wrote wouldn't help much. Instead, I am reposting this compiled information  from Bayanihan Online on where you could channel your help for those affected by the typhoon. As of writing, death toll has risen to 1000.  As you may have heard from the news, Cagayan de Oro (the city where I live) has been the most ravaged by Sendong, along with Iligan City. People we actually know have either died in the flash flood or are now homeless. We're doing everything we can in our little ways to help but a lot of families are still in dire need of assistance.

Local celebrities like Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Kris Aquino, and Vice Ganda have spared time in distributing relief goods here Cagayan de Oro 2 days ago. Whether or not it was for media mileage, as some critics have made an issue out of it, bottom line is that they've helped increase awareness on what's going on here. We appreciate their efforts to help out and bring smile to the people in evacuation centers. Local government sectors from other cities like Davao City have pitched in too. The generosity shown by everyone who reached out gave life to what Christmas is all about.  If you want to do your share, here are the ways you can help:

From Bayanihan Online:

Here’s a compilation of recent tweets and retweets regarding monetary donations for areas affected by Typhoon Sendong. Please note that these are copied as is. Let us know if there has been a misinformation and we’ll do our best to rectify them immediately.

FOR MONETARY DONATIONS

1. 7/11




• We accept cash donations for victims of Typhoon Sendong. No service fees will be deducted & donors will be provided an official receipt.


2. ABS-CBN’s Sagip Kapamilya




• BDO Peso Account


• Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya




• Account Number: 39301-14199


• Swift Code: BNORPHMMBDO Dollar Account


• Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya




• Account Number: 39300-81622


• Swift Code: BNORPHMMPNB Peso Account


• Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya




• Account Number: 419-539-5000-13


• Swift Code: PNBMPHMMBPI Peso Account


• Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya




• Account Number: 3051-1127-75


• Branch: West Triangle, Quezon City


• Swift Code: BOPIPHMMBPI Dollar Account


• Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya




• Account Number: 3054-0270-35


• Branch: West Triangle, Quezon City


• Swift Code: BOPIPHMM


3. Angel Brigade




• For CASH donations, deposit to Isdanco Foundation via any RCBC branch office:




• Account Name : ISDANCO Foundation (RCBC Main Branch, Ayala Avenue, Makati City)


• Account Number: 4001577579


4. CDO Bloggers Inc.




• CDO Bloggers Inc now accepting Paypal Donations: francis.siason@gmail.com


5. All Cebuana Lhuillier pawnshops


6. Citibank




• Citibank Citimobile: Charge donations by texting CITIGIVE<space>KAPAMILYA<space>AMOUNT<space>MPIN to 2201 (Globe/Sun) and 350 (Smart)


7. DepEd




• The Department of Education, through the Center for Students and Co-Curricular Affairs (DepEd- CSCA) is appealing for donation in-cash or in kind for the flood victims of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City. Please send your help to DepEd Region X in CDO or to DepEd-CSCA, DepEd Complex, Meralco Ave. Pasig City. For queries, contact 6318495 or 6363603 or write to our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/csca.deped


• DepEd will forward all relief goods, clothings and other donations to Mindanao through partnerships with Philippine Airlines Foundation and the LBC Express Foundation.


8. DSWD




• Land Bank of the Philippines




• Peso: DSWD Donation – 3122-1011-84


• Dollar: DSWD Donation – 3124-0055-81


• Donations may also be sent via GCash.




• Text DONATE<space>AMOUNT<space>MPIN<space>DSWD and send to 2882. Example: DONATE 1000 1234 DSWD


9. Enderun




• Enderun Community Drive — Address: Enderun Colleges 1100 Campus Avenue McKinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio Taguig City


10. Gawad Kalinga




• Through Bank DepositGawad Kalinga Philippine Peso Current Account




• # 3101 0977 56 BPI EDSA Greenhills


• Gawad Kalinga US$ Savings Account




• # 3104 0162 34 BPI EDSA Greenhills


• Swift code: BOPIPHMM


• Donate online: http://gk1world.com/DonationPage.aspx?page=form&section=sendong


11. GLOBE




• Gcash: For GCASH, donate through Red Cross by texting DONATE <amount> MPIN REDCROSS and send to 2882.


• Text: Text RED <amount> and send it to 2899. You may donate in these denominations: 5, 25, 50, 100, 300, 500 and 1000.


12. GMA Kapuso Foundation




• METROBANK Peso Savings Account




• Name: GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.


• Account Number: 3-098-51034-7


• METROBANK Dollar Savings Account




• Name:GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.


• Account Number: 2-098-00244-2


• Code: MBTC PH MM


• UNITED COCONUT PLANTERS BANK (UCPB) Peso Savings Account




• Name: GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.


• Account Number:115-184777-2 or 160-111277-7


• UNITED COCONUT PLANTERS BANK (UCPB) Dollar Savings Account




• Name: GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.


• Account Number: 01-115-301177-9 or 01-160-300427-6


• CEBUANA LHUILLIER


13. Habitat for Humanity Philippines




• Donate to @HabitatPhils deposit to BPI CA 2421-0014-67


• Fax your deposit slip to (02)8565389


14. Iligan Bloggers Society




• Donation Paypal ID: singcol.inquisitor@gmail.com


• UNION BANK Account: Revilla N. Carbonell-Noel – 109451077611


15. Iliganon Association




• Iliganon Association in Manila accepting cash and clothes donations.


• Contact VP for external affairs Lisa Lluch 09175098165


16. La Salle Academy Iligan




• Cash donations may be deposited to La Salle Academy Iligan via




• Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Account No. 0820-016221-030




• Kindly inform Lourdes Melegrito of DLSU COSCA the details of your donation


• Email lourdes.melegrito@dlsu.edu.ph


• Tel. No. 524-4611 local 147


• Telefax 523-4143.


• BPI Account name: La Salle Academy. Savings Account Number: 9353-03-62


• Additional details for those outside the Philippines:




• Swift code: BOPIPHMM.


• Bank Address: 935 Quezon Avenue cor Lluch St. Iligan City.


• Bank Telephone Number: (+63) 63-223-8053; (+63) 63-223-8054


• Please make a digital copy (or photo) of your deposit slip for proper documentation and email this file to Br. Raffy Reyes FSC, president of LSA: raffyreyes1018@gmail.com


17. La Salle Greenhills




• Donations in cash can be received at Gate 2 of La Salle Green Hills at 343 Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550.


• You may also call any of the following telephone numbers for further inquiries:




• Alumni Office — 721-2729, 722-7750, 725-4720


• GS Principal — 721-2482


• HS Principal — 721-8914


• Buildings and Grounds Office — 721-8904 (Telefax)


• La Sallian Mission Office — 726-5851 (Telefax)


18. MINCODE




• The Mindanao Coalition of Development NGO Networks is joining hands with Balay Mindanaw (NGO member of one of MINCODE’s member networks, Mindanao Congress) in mobilizing material and financial resources for the typhoon victims in NorthernMindanao. We are asking for your support for our unfortunate brothers and sisters in Northern Mindanao.


• For cash donations please deposit in the following accounts of the BALAY MINDANAW FOUNDATION, INC.




• Peso current account no. 1768022630 – BDO Xavier Branch, Cagayan de Oro City


• Dollar savings account no. 2044006882 – Bank of the Philippine Islands (SWIF Code BOPIPHMM), Velez Branch, Cagayan de Oro City


• Bank charges have been waived for donations thru BDO


• Contact: Charlito “Kaloy” Manlupig




• Balay Mindanaw


• 53A, 12th Street, Zone 2, Upper Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City, Mindanao, Philippines


• www.balaymindanaw.org


• Mobile Phone Numbers:  +639188877111  and +639177176000


19. National Union of Journalists of the Philippines




• Tel. No.: (02) 376-7330


• Mobile No: (0910) 495-0095


• Email: nujphil@gmail.com


• The NUJP is also collecting donations for media workers in areas hit hard by Sendong:




• Metrobank Peso: 229-722-9507-458


20. One for Iligan




• Iliganons Sa Manila Inc., BDO Checking Acct 5308004019 Asia-Tower Paseo Branch


21. One Meralco Foundation




• OneMeralco Foundation is accepting cash donations in G\F Lopez bldg, Meralco Center, Ortigas.


• Call 6328301, look for Joy.


22. Oxfam




• Leading UK charity Oxfam GB now accepting donations for those affected by Sendong. Donate now.


23. Philippine Daily Inquirer




• The Philippine Daily Inquirer is accepting donations for victims of Tropical Storm “Sendong.”


• Cash donations may be deposited in the Inquirer Help Fund’s Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) current account No. 4951-0067-56, under the name Philippine Daily Inquirer Inc.


• For inquiries, call PDI corporate affairs at 8978808 and ask for Bianca Kasilag or Connie Kalagayan.


24. Red Cross Philippines




• Donate via http://www.redcross.org.ph/donate.


• You can also donate through mobile load. Text RED<space>AMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4143 (Smart).


• Smart subscribers may send financial help to the Philippine Red Cross through text. To donate, cellphone users should send RED to 4143. Valid donation amounts are 10, 25, 50 and 100 and will be charged to the subscriber’s prepaid load or postpaid bill.


• Globe subscribers may send help to Red Cross. Just text RED and send to 2899. Valid donation amounts are 10, 25, 50, 100 (For ex, RED 10).


25. RockEd Philippines




• Rock Ed’s potable water fund and underwear drive for CDO and Iligan


• BPI Loyola Heights 3080-0073-44 Rock Ed Philippines.


26. Sagip-Tulong. To donate,please visit their website.


27. Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan




• Bank of the Philippine Islands (Loyola-Katipunan Branch)
  BPI Peso Checking Account Number: 3081-1111-61
  BPI Dollar Savings Account Number: 3084-0420-12


28. SMART




• Smart Money: Donors to Typhoon #Sendong may help through Smart Money acct. no. 5577-5130-6822-1104 at any BDO, Hapinoy or Cebuana Lhuillier outlets.


• Text: Smart subscribers may donate to #Sendong victims via text. Send RED <amount> to 4143. Valid donation amounts 10, 25, 50, 100.


29. TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation




• Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc. is accepting donations for the flood victims of storm ‘Sendong.’ Cash donations may be sent through the following accounts:




• Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc.


• BDO Savings Account No. 005310-410164 and


• Bank of the Philippine Islands Savings Account No. 1443-05333-2


• Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc. also has dollar accounts, for those who wish to make donations from abroad and/or in dollars. Donations may be made through:




• Bank of the Philippine Islands




• Beneficiary: Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc.


• Beneficiary Account No.:  1444-0214-85


• Beneficiary Bank: Bank of the Philippine Islands – Ayala Avenue SGV Branch


• Address: 6758 Ayala Ave, Makati City, Philippines


• Swift Code: BOPIPHMM


• Banco de Oro




• Beneficiary: Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc.


• Beneficiary Account No.: 10-5310-46264-4


• Beneficiary Bank: BDO Unibank Inc – BDO Makati Ave-Ayala Branch


• Address: Ground Floor L.V. Locsin Bldg., 6752 Ayala Avenue corner Makati Avenue, Makati City, Philippines


• Swift Code: BNORPHMM


• For inquiries, please call News5 Aksyon Center hotline – 938-6393.


30. UP Manila




• Direct bank deposit to UP-PGH account: DEVELOPMENT BANK OFTHE PHILIPPINES 0410-002882-035. Thank you. Every centavo counts.


31. World Vision Philippines


32. Xavier University




• Bank DepositAccount Name: Xavier University
  Account Number: 9331-0133-63
  BPI MAIN BRANCH

WORLDWIDE

1. Now accepting #Sendong donations: All LBC branches in




• US


• Canada




• Donate via GlobalMedic.




• Website says Rapid Response Team there now, more to deploy.


• The donations go to water filters and rehydration salts that were deployed to PH Navy [via @noreenbautista]


• KSA


• UAE


• Singapore




• To All Pinoys in Singapore we can drop our donations at LBC AirCargo #04-077 Lucky Plaza, Orchard Rd. (via @beejing)


• Hong Kong




• In HK, LBC in Worldwide offers to send your donations for #Sendong victims for free. They will have a drop box frm tom. (via @raymond_ph)


• Brunei


• Malaysia


• Taiwan


• UK


• Spain


• Italy


• Australia




• If u r in Sydney, LBC in Main street Blacktown is a drop off center and will deliver relief goods for free. Call for details. Dont hav no. (via @jimparedes)


• LBC Branch Finder http://bit.ly/hZF0nG so you can drop off your donations and they will send it to the distressed areas for free! [via @mmdirections]

Philippine Fashion's Next Top Designers

Manila, Philippines – December 2011 – As the challenges in MEGA’s Young Designers Competition 2012 begin, let’s take a look on each of the designers will battle for their mark in the industry.

 

Nikita Agatha boasts of being able to do anything from scratch. She picked up her flair for fashion from her grandmother and mom who loved dressing her up when she was little. She considers Sari Yap, editor in chief of MEGA Magazine, as the judge to please, urging Nikita to carefully think of her designs. She cites Alexander McQueen as her idol for his out of this world construction of outfits that women can wear.

Dino Bancoro recently started as a fashion designer sharing that the pieces he presented during the audition were his first ever creations. Through YDC, he hopes to learn more on pattern making and sewing since he has yet to formally study fashion design. He admits that he still needs polishing but is proud to say that he has the vision and creativity that would amaze people.

 

Hazel Cargado is a registered nurse. However, after graduating and passing the board, Hazel felt lost. Eventually, she decided to go back to what she really wanted. After finding a fashion design school in Manila, she quickly grabbed the opportunity to learn. Through YDC, she hopes to find her personal directions in design.

 

Mara Chua has a motto that anything and everything can be inspiring. He believes that to be successful, talent is not enough. He sharpened his technical skills in pattern making and learned sewing through a seamstress who made his clothes. He cites Rei Kawakubo and Bjork as inspirations that allowed him to expand his horizons and stretch his aesthetic.

Kirby Cruz wants to represent his feelings through his designs. His goal is to have an identity that makes his pieces unique. As a fresh fashion graduate, he feels the need for the right exposure and he believes YDC is the best venue for him. He loves the design of Hussein Chalayan and Alexander McQueen since Kirby is fascinated where these designers find their concepts and ideas.

Ched Dalogaog is a fashion instructor at one of the top fashion schools in Manila. He tells a story with his creations, incorporating pop culture and considering the modern women who will wear them. He believes his edge is his understanding of color, textures and fabrics that other designers take for granted. By joining YDC, he hopes to establish a brand that he can introduce to MEGA, hoping to also be acknowledged in the industry.

Corleen Duero specializes in constructing basics but still adding a touch of style. Hailing all the way from Surigao, Corleen is proud to represent the south and hopes to be a designer who can bridge fashion and design from Manila to Mindanao. He admires Issey Miyake, always remembering the quote of the designer, “These clothes are no wrappings, you can understand them the way you want, you can wear them the way you want.”

 

Oz Go’s designs dwell on futuristic and experimental looks. At a young age, he discovered his affinity for fashion when he became obsessed with drawing her mother’s wedding gown. He took a course in fashion design and eventually mounted a show during Philippine Fashion Week. Being the younger brother of singer Rachelle Ann Go, he is proud to mention that they still share the same room and creates outfits for her to wear.

Robin Gundran is the youngest member of this year’s competition. At 18 years old, he showed his creations and wowed the judges during the go-see. He received negative remarks from a lot of people who did not believe in his passion. However, he turned this into his motivation. He knows that with perseverance, he can show his detractors that he can get past them, and achieve fame and success.

Ann Lorio is an industrial engineer from Cavite who wanted to shift to fashion design. Despite her parents’ initial doubts on her dream, she travelled to Manila and worked to buy a sewing machine. After seeing her passion, her parents eventually showed support to her. With her background in engineering, Ann attacks a design starting with the structure. As a YDC contestant, she wants to learn and make her mark as a designer.

 Cristian Mallabo believes that God has a purpose why he’s alive and in the competition. His mother attempted to abort him but he survived. For as long as he can remember, he’s had a passion for clothes. He was motivated when friends and family started to ask him to create party clothes for them. He wants to be known as a designer who can brave through any challenge and hopes to win in order to give back to his aunt and sisters.

Porfi Medina thinks of fashion more as a form of activism and advocacy. When he was in elementary, Porfi’s grandmother opened a dress shop. At that tender age, he would observe the fabrics and sewing, starting his dream to become a fashion designer. He views his craft as a form of expression, translating social issues and its relevance into ensembles. He wishes to convey a message on pressing issues in society with every design he makes.

Renan Pacson simply wants to make his family proud. He initially took up Hotel and Restaurant Management but eventually found his calling in fashion. He studied Clothing Technology and was lucky to have the support of his parents. Luckily, he was accepted not based on his audition pieces, but based on how he packaged himself. His biggest challenge is to find his signature aesthetic and intends to find this in YDC.

Ismael Palma tried his luck during the auditions for the first season of Gen M: YDC but did not make the cut. At that time, he still did not know how to sew so he took his failure as an opportunity to improve. He decided to learn more about sewing and developing his designs. He was accepted this year and shares that whatever the judges say, he will keep in mind and apply.

Erica Panlilio hopes to dress up Katy Perry because of her fun playful personality. She started looking up and imbibing the stylish attitude of her grandmother when she was young. During the go-see, she had a major setback because the judges thought that she had a styling problem. Still, she was chosen to be one of the finalists and she believes that through YDC, she can grow and become a top designer.

Ram Silva designs for a cause. He intends to help the dying weaving community in Panay and Iloilo. During the go-see, judges were surprised with his mix of native materials to create a modern look. He keeps in mind the advice of Sari Yap, EIC of MEGA magazine, that what other designers learn outside in six months to a year, they can experience and learn in YDC in two months.

Mary Ty is inspired by YDC alumna Furne One, hoping to be as successful as him. Mary has never joined a fashion competition because of her fear of rejection. She tried her luck by joining Philippine Fashion Week but did not succeed. Edwin Ao, another YDC alumna, urged her to join the upcoming YDC. Her quirky comments amused the judges and are sure to liven the intense challenges for the YDC hopefuls.

 Geoffrey Zordilla has always wanted to study fashion design. Initially, he had to struggle with his parents’ disbelief. Still, he pursued his dreams and is currently a fashion design student. He is enthusiastic to experience YDC’s challenges and to learn how to mingle with fellow designers. Nature inspires him, feeling relaxed and comfortable in its serene environment.

Support and vote for your favorite designers through the online poll and the auction of their creations at www.Megastyle.ph. Keep watching the MEGA Young Designers Competition 2012 every Saturday, 7 pm on ETC, with replays every Sunday at 10 am.

 

Generation MEGA Season 3: The MEGA Young Designers Competition 2012 was created for TV by the MEGA Publishing Group.

 

Fashion 21 Double Up Mascara

There are very few brands that earn my nod when it comes to mascaras. The price is not an assurance that it's a good one. The usual problem with mascaras is that they weigh down lashes that have been painstakingly curled, straightening them back. On the premise that I have super straight stubborn lashes,  the only brands that work for me are Maybelline and Cover Girl. Will Fashion 21 Double Up Mascara make the cut? Let's see.

Fashion 21 Double Up Mascara promises up to 2x longer and stronger lashes in an instant. It comes with the following directions:

1. Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, if desired, before using a mascara.
2. Apply mascara starting at the base of your upper eyelashes.
3. Draw the wand gently outward up to the tips.
4. Hold the mascara wand vertically to color your lower lashes.

So how did it go? Let me put it this way, I'm glad that it was given to me for free. Fashion 21 has great and inexpensive products that I love, such as the 2 way cake and blush, but this Double Up mascara is a big disappointment, at least in my opinion.



After curling my lashes, I gently applied the mascara as directed. It yielded longer and thicker lashes but it was too heavy that it instantly straightened out the lashes I previously curled. I blinked, and the next thing I knew, it was all over my eye area. The consistency is too damp that it stains the skin, unless you prevent yourself from blinking for a few minutes or face the fan to dry it off. In the end, I noticed my lashes to be thicker and longer, but straighter than usual and pointed downwards.

I hardly use this because I don't have the patience to wait for it to dry. On a positive note, I think it can double as an eyeliner because of its rich formula. Still, it will take some time to dry.

Rating: 3/10

Pros:

• sturdy packaging


• no clumps


• thick formula


• makes the lashes longer and thicker


• affordable at Php 225

Cons:

• heavy, weighs the lashes down


• straightens curled lashes


• too damp


• takes time to dry


• stains skin when you blink

Although it didn't work for me, note that I have stubborn, straight lashes requiring special needs for mascaras. What might not work for me may perform well for you. If you want to try it out for yourself, it is available online at Weemall, The Philippine Online Shopping Mall. Get 5% discount when you apply the discount code: DOCTORISVAIN.

Be Your Own Bobbi Beauty Expert

In celebration of Bobbi Brown's 20th anniversary, Bobbi Brown Philippines is giving away treats to their loyal fans. A Facebook app was recently launched called the "Be Your Own Expert" which allows fans to choose their favorite Bobbi beauty tip that makes them prettier and more confident, and then recreate it.

You are invited to join this contest to get a chance to win Bobbi’s limited edition Party Collection Deluxe Travel Kit and PHP 10,000 worth of Bobbi Brown products.

Here's what you have to do:

• Like the Bobbi Brown Philippines Facebook Page 


• Look for the "Be Your Own Bobbi Beauty Expert" App on the left side below the page's profile pic


• Launch the app


• Register


• Recreate Bobbi's beauty tips on yourself, then upload your photo less than 1MB


• Answer a short question- "How does this tip make you pretty powerful?"

A winning entry per week will be chosen based on the quality of both the photo and the answer. A grand prize winner will be picked towards the conclusion of the contest.

Up for grabs are:

• A feature in Bobbi Brown Philippines' official facebook page


• Pretty Powerful makeup lesson


• Party Collection Deluxe Travel kit with Php10,000 worth of Bobbi Brown products

Good news, no purchase is necessary but then bad news is, it's only limited to Metro Manila Residents.

The contest will run until December 19, 2011 only. For more details, please read through the contest mechanics and official rules at the BB Philippines Facebook page.

hydraulic cartridge

Fanny Serrano Night Light Lipstick

I've been asked on my recommendations for lipsticks. Mostly, ladies are asking for brands that have long staying power. I can name a few but the hunt for affordable long-lasting lipsticks ends here with the introduction of the Fanny Serrano Night Light Lipstick.

What I initially noticed about this product is its gorgeous packaging: sleek black lipstick case that comes with a mirror on the side of the cap and LED light on both sides of the tube, which turns on by pressing the button below. The Fanny Serrano Night Light Lipstick comes handy even when it's dark. Whether you're inside the movie house, in the car, or out clubbing, the lipstick is like a secret weapon you can launch anytime as the need arises. Doctors can also transform this into a pen light when examining patients during emergencies.If you're the creepy type, you can likewise use it to scare off people during brownouts at night.

I was sent the shade in Pink Vodka. It is bright and strong enough to perk up your look but not as tacky as red. It's perfect when you're on the go and hardly have any makeup on except powder and lipstick. This perky shade makes up for the lack of color on the rest of your face. What's interesting about this is when it's applied to the skin for swatching, it' appears faint, but when put on the lips, it transforms the puckers into a bold, seductive arsenal that speaks power. Go easy with the application as the color can be very strong if too much is applied.

I go for lipsticks that don't have an annoying scent. I'm glad that the Fanny Serrano Night Light doesn't have this problem. But what I love most about this product is that it lasts long! I can put it in the morning and come home in the afternoon still with it on, albeit lighter after some meals and snacks. This is a lipstick you can trust that you won't be looking drab by mid-day just because your lipstick wore off after a few hours. This is best for weddings as the makeup artist won't have to worry about the color fading after the bride has eaten lechon from the banquet.

For a smooth application, put on lip moisturizer prior to the lipstick. Otherwise, I noticed it to stick to outer areas of the lips and I have to apply another layer to ensure its even distribution.

As to the dilemma of long last lipsticks that tend to be more drying on the lips by nature, I can't really conclude that this has a drying affect as I have dry lips to begin with. For all its worth, at least I didn't find my lips to be cracking or more dry than ever.

Rating: 8/10

Pros:

• Long-lasting


• Comes with LED lights


• Can double as a pen light


• Mirror on the side


• Sleek packaging


• 12 colors to choose from


• No annoying scent


• Affordable at Php 299

Cons:

• Needs lip moisturizer for a more even application

I'll post the swatches soon in a separate post.

The Fanny Serrano Night Light Lipstick is available online through Weemall, The Philippine Online Shopping Mall. Great news for readers of vanityclinic.com, as you can avail of 5% discount for products appearing on "The Doctor is vaIN" page at Weemall. Just enter this discount code upon checking out: DOCTORISVAIN. Happy Shopping!

 

Fashion 21 Fine Blush Powder

When it comes to makeups, I invest on the best ones even if they're a little more pricey because sacrificing quality turns out to be more expensive in the long run. The cheaper and poor performing ones usually end up collecting dust because I hardly use them.  However, there are cosmetics that I don't mind spending less on, such as eyeliners and  blushes.  There are a couple of local brands for these products that effectively do the job, lessening the need to look for their expensive counterparts. Fashion 21 Fine Blush Powder (Mineral Based) may qualify as one of the affordable local brands that does the job well.

I was sent the Fashion 21 Fine Blush Powder in #5.   When I saw its packaging, I doubted that it will make it to my staple of makeups as the brush looked rather stiff. Since it was given to me for review, I had to try it out  and give it a fair chance.

The blush comes in loose powder form that has its own dispensing container with brush.  The powder gets through the holes towards the brush when you tap it downwards.  Sometimes, I have trouble getting the product out so I have to tap it again to be transferred to the brush. This can be a good thing, coz it prevents the too much application of the blush. I love how it fits on my bag and the fact that I don't need to bring travel size brushes to put it on.

Upon testing, I was pleasantly surprised that the brush wasn't as bad as it looked. I was expecting an itchy, abrasive feel but did not get it. Although not as soft as Suesh brushes, it's not stiff either. Just right to get the job done. The container can be opened so washing the brush requires detaching the head from the lower part.

The #5 shade reminded of of merthiolate, but nonetheless pretty when applied. The shimmers are kept to a minimum, so there's no worry about ending up with  sparkly or oily cheeks. The shade is peachy pink that's subtle on the skin, leaving a fresh and glowing look.



Pros:

• convenient to bring along


• fine powder


• no break outs


• brush is tolerable


• has UV protection


• distributes evenly


• leaves a fresh, glowing appearance


• affordable at  Php 155

Cons

• difficult to get the product out


• have to detach brush from the lower part of container to wash it


• average staying power

Rating: 7.5/10

Fashion 21 Fine Blush Powder is available online at Weemall, The Philippine Online Shopping Mall.

Fanny Serrano Liquid Eyeliner

Fanny Serrano Cosmetics produces some of the best makeups in the Philippines. That's probably due to the fact that the owner, Fanny Serrano is a makeup artist himself who understands the standards of quality cosmetics. Among my personal favorites is their concealer stick, so when I was sent the Fanny Serrano Long Last Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, I got so excited that it was the first one I grabbed from the loot bag.

Does it measure up to our standards? Let me dissect its performance.

When I swiped it at the back of my hand, it gave a rich consistency which stayed even after washing it off. I had to rub it with soap, then apply a Bobbi Brown cleansing oil to totally erase it. Pretty impressive, I thought to myself. But then here lies the problem with waterproof eye products: they can stand water but not oil. The lids have oil glands, and for walking oil mines like me, it can be a problem.

When I lined my lids, as it's where it's intended to be used, it relatively went well. I tried another brand before that left me with raccoon eyes even before I got out of the house. Smudging did not happen with the Fanny Serrano Long Last Liquid Eyeliner. However, after about 3 hours, I noticed the lines have faded away. It blended with the rest of the eye makeup. No distinct line remained.

At another time, I applied a thin line very close to the lash line and it disappeared more quickly. I decided thicker lines should do the trick. But then after putting on thicker lines, they still faded. I guess it will work on non-oily lids like how it lasted long at the back of my hand.

Liquid eyeliners are generally more difficult to apply than gel forms but the Fanny Serrano Long Last Liquid Eyeliner doesn't require makeup artist skills to put it on. The brush evenly distributes the product which dries quickly.

Pros:

• Minimal or no smudging


• Waterproof


• Dries fast


• Rich consistency in one swipe


• Easy to use


• Applies evenly


• Affordable at Php 195

Cons:

• Fades easily on oily lids

Rating: 5/10

 

Fanny Serrano Long Last Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is available online at Weemall, The Philippine Online Shopping Mall.

Fashion 21 Two Way Cake

I was sent  a loot bag containing local brand makeups from Fashion 21 and Fanny Serrano cosmetics.  I have road tested most of them over the past few weeks and  I decided to launch the first review for the product I like best, so far.  I decided the Fashion 21 Two-way cake with Papaya Extract deserves the first spot.

I honestly wasn't expecting much from this local brand but the instant that I swiped it on the back of my hands, I went "whoah!" for its velvety smooth texture.  For it's dirt-cheap price of Php 185, it wasn't the result I had in mind. It totally caught me by surprise. The next thing I knew, I was looking forward to using it to work.

For the first few days of trying it on, I took note that the coverage was moderate to heavy. There were times I would glance at the mirror while driving, and thought to myself that I looked "made-up." I normally wear mineral makeup for foundation because it looks natural and feels light on my skin, so it took some time getting used to a two-way cake foundation on my face. But then this was a good thing for my scar-ridden skin. Fashion 21 Two-way cake smoothened my complexion like miracle although I still needed a few dabs of concealer powder for a perfect finish. It felt light even if the coverage was on the heavy side.



Two way foundations are called as such because they can be either applied as is (dry) or with a damp sponge. The latter yields heavier coverage which can lead to a mask-like effect if not done properly. So far, I haven't tried applying it wet although I use it over  liquid foundation.

Apart from the texture that earns my approval, I love its oil-control properties! It's been a while since I used a foundation that tamed my  facial oil factory. I work at one clinic in the morning and drive for about half an hour to another one in the afternoon. There are times I hardly have time for touch-ups. Once, I rushed to my afternoon work without applying oil blotting agents or powder and found that my face wasn't as oily as expected.

I can't attest that it won't cause breakouts coz I had some zits (mild, not cystic ones that usually terrorize my skin) on my forehead after a few days of using it. The powder has very mild scent. I usually get breakouts when a cosmetic has scent. It can either be  due to the  powder or my crazy hormones and idiosyncratic reactions. I can't conclude which caused it.

Papaya supposedly functions to brighten the skin. Indeed, I feel that my skin is brighter whenever I use this. But then it could be due to the shade of the powder that they sent me. It was in shade 2. Fashion 21 Two-Way Cake with Papaya Extract comes in 4 shades, with #1 being the lightest. I think 2 is slightly light for  me although after oxidation (acidic skin that darkens the makeup), it suits just right.

Summing it up, I'm  highlighting its strong and weak points:

Pros:

• smooth velvety texture


• superb oil-control


• scent is very mild and not annoying


• feels light on the skin


• not chalky nor cakey


• finely milled powder


• UV protection


• brightens skin


• very affordable: Php185


• refills available

Cons

• has tendency to look heavy and  unnatural- solution: apply lightly, choose best shade
• packaging that screams "I'm only Php185!"

Overall, this product should be included in our "cheaper but effective makeups" list.

Rating: 8/10

Fashion 21 Two-Way Cake with Papaya is available for Php 185 only at leading department stores and online through Weemall, the Philippine Online Shopping Mall.

MEGA Fashion Crew Grand Finale

Sixty contestants originally battled it out for the race to become MEGA’s Top Fashion Crew. The ending is near and the final challenges will play the most critical role in the lives of the contestants. The last ten has bested all the past challenges but only 5 will be chosen. For the final two challenges, the contestants have to release all their creativity and efforts to win.

The two remaining teams have to first produce a motion editorial. The photographers have to execute their ideas not just in print, but through a video that will establish their edge. The fashion stylists, make-up artists and hair stylists have to produce the look that will work and highlight the photographer’s vision. Last, the model must not just pose for the camera but act out the scenes to complete the motion editorial.

The final challenge is one of the main highlights that will seal one's mark in the fashion industry. The team will be tasked to produce a MEGA magazine cover. Being the best fashion magazine, it has always been a great pressure to put together the look of the cover. The cover must convey the content and feel of the entire magazine. The challengers will know first-hand what it takes and what must be done to perfectly deliver the glossy cover of a magazine.

This is the final episode that everyone shouldn’t miss!

Everyone has witnessed the struggles and triumphs of everyone through all the challenges. Still, friendships were established in the course of the competition. Their skills have been tested with their creativity improved. Now, it all boils down to the final judgment for the last ten finalists.

The question is, who makes the final cut to becoming MEGA’s Top Fashion Crew? Find out tonight on ETC.

 

Mega Fashion Crew: Final Stages

Weaknesses were overcome, challenges were surpassed, and two teams have remained.

MEGA  Magazine has brought out only the best people deserving to be part of the fashion industry. Sixty contenders originally made the cut but only ten survive for the grand finale. With only two episodes left, the battle to reach the top intensifies.

Last week's episode gave a glimpse of the process to becoming the final two teams of the MEGA Fashion Crew. Everyone saw the difficulties and victory that all the challengers went through. The remaining teams have reached this far. To prove that they’re the best, a tougher round of challenges will be prepared for them.

Will it be the Vanguards or the Fashion Army?

For the  first round, four challenges will be given . Each challenge will showcase the skills of each member from the hair stylist, make-up artist, fashion stylist, photographer and model. Teams will put together a photo layout for L’Oreal Paris, a beauty shot for Maybelline, a fashion page for FILA and an ad for ZenZest. Each member will lead the teams through the different challenges, highlighting their niche in the industry.

Special guests will be top model Borgy Manotoc and fashion enthusiast and columnist Tim Yap, who will become part of the challenges in this episode.

The four challenges will test the different strengths of each member. In the first part of the grand finale, everyone will know the reason why the remaining challengers are still in the game. Their edge in the industry will be further revealed; the creative skills of each will be tested.

But in the end, only one team will be crowned MEGA’s Top Fashion Crew.

 

Response From Mary Grace Cafe

In response to the review I previously made about Mary Grace Cafe, they emailed me  their side of the story.

The first email came from the Mary Grace  Head Manager of Dining Operations. It was followed by a message from the owner's daughter who is  also the company's Kiosk  Development Manager. Both of them apologized for the bad experience I reported in my previous post.

The first email read as follows:

"I am deeply sorry about your unpleasant experience in Mary Grace Trinoma. At around 7:00 this morning, Mary Grace
Dimacali, the owner herself called to inform me about your October 1 blog. I checked the net at once and saw your review about Mary Grace. We are so distressed to know that we disappointed you and made you feel unimportant. 

We are currently investigating about the concerns you raised: delayed
service of Amatriciana, missing cheese roll and our inability to respond to your
e-mail. This is definitely not the “Mary Grace way” of taking care of our
guests. Emailed feedbacks for the month of September, positive and negative,
were forwarded to us and were discussed with the branch managers and the café
staffs during our last month's meeting. We also make sure that we get back to
the senders to thank them. I will investigate why we failed to see your emailed
feedback.

I will get back to you as soon as I have all the details and I am
assuring you that this is being taken seriously and constructively.
Maraming salamat po for calling our attention. This will surely help us
improve. We owe our success to people like you who never failed to remind us of
our shortcomings. I pray that you will give us another chance to serve you in
the future.

Please always feel free to email us at
marygracefoods@yahoo.com.ph and we hope we will not disappoint you this time.
You may also contact me through my contact details below. God bless you
amazingly as you continue to bless others with your valuable insights!"

Later in the afternoon, she added:

"I would like to inform you about the result of our investigation regarding the delayed service of Amatriciana and the missing cheese roll. Trinoma cafe's record shows that they had problems with their computer ordering system from September 7 to 12, 2011. Printers and ordering monitors weren't working well and were pulled out for repair on Sept.10, 2011. Coordinating with kitchen of what food to serve was done manually. This caused the confusion between the order taker, the dispatcher and the cook.

I talked to the people involved including the manager who was in charge that time. Necessary actions on how to avoid the same incident when ordering system is down were reviewed and polished.We really hope to be of service to you again."

Ms. Marian, Ms. Mary Grace's daughter has this to say:

"We came upon your blog just recently. We are very sad to hear of this,
and we deeply apologize for the inconvenience caused! Rest assured that
we are reviewing SOPs to avoid causing disappointment to other customers!

We are very grateful for your feedback! Thank you for this! My mom always says
that it is has been customer concern that has helped Mary Grace grow through the years.
Mary Grace would like to give you a call. May we get your contact information? You may email me
back. Have a good day Vanity Specialist! God bless you!"

To Mary Grace Cafe:

Apology accepted. I appreciate that you are taking measures to improve the quality of your service and that you listen to feedback from customers. I did not blog about it to demand special treatment as a customer nor ask for a truckload of cheese rolls to make up for your shortcomings. I just wanted to call your attention to an area of your enterprise which needed improvement after failing to get your response from the email I sent you. This is  because I want Mary Grace Cafe to stay long in the business, and hopefully, be successful enough to put up provincial branches (including one here in Cagayan de Oro) soon. Thank you for keeping an open mind about customers' comments, whether good or bad.

I will definitely visit one of your branches when I visit Manila again and will report to you my feedback then. I'm keeping my fingers crossed it will be a good one.

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MEGA's Quest for the Best New Young Designer

Are you a budding designer who wants to break into the  fabulous fashion scene in the Philippines?  Here's good news for you:  MEGA announces  its opening of application for the Young Designers Competition.

MEGA , a top fashion magazine in the country, has been consistently on the hunt  for young talents who can continue to bring innovative designs to the fashion scene. Generation MEGA’s Young Designers Competition (YDC) provides aspiring designers not just a break in the industry, but the opportunity to highlight their aesthetic for the public to see. The competition has paved the way for Rajo Laurel, Oj Hofer, Furne One, Patrice Ramos-Diaz, Aries Lagat, Mich Dulce, Ivarluski Aseron, Veejay Floresca, and Vanessa Ang among others to establish their names in the fashion industry. During the first ever telecast of YDC, Russell Villafuerte was awarded as the first grand prize winner.

MEGA once again opens its doors for the 10th edition of YDC. A screening will be held to serve as a venue for aspiring designers to showcase their creations. Participants must convince the esteemed panel of judges that they are worthy to be featured on the pages of MEGA. This is the second time that participants will be given a rare chance to showcase their fashion flair on television. The story of their determination will transpire in front of millions of viewers, anxious to meet the newest additions in the fashion industry.

Interested applicants may download the form at the MEGA website - www.megastyle.ph. Deadline for confirmation is on October 10, 2011. Designers must submit a 500 word essay about who they are, and present two works (one formal and one casual wear) during the callout.

Watch out as past YDC finalists and winners share their thoughts and experience through a video callout on the MEGA Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/megamagazine.

 

Mary Grace Cafe Review

It took me almost a month to post this review on Cafe Mary Grace. I had to give it time for a more objective recount of my sad experience in one of their branches, in Trinoma Mall. Had I written about it minutes after it happened, I might have blurted out words that will only compromise the integrity of this blog.

I was in Manila for an intensive 4-day seminar. The schedule was so hectic that I didn't even have the time to check out the latest cosmetics in the nearby malls.

On September 9, 2011 (Friday),  my friend and I decided to pass by Cafe Mary Grace on our way back to where we were staying.  I've heard a lot of great things about it, especially its cheese rolls.



Since it was already 8:00 PM, I opted for a take-out of pasta Amatriciana and a cheese roll.  I was considering on bringing a box of cheese rolls home to CDO so I had to try it out first. The cashier told me it would take around 10-15 mins to prepare the pasta. We were already tired but I thought the wait should be worth it.

We got ourselves seated while waiting for my order. Fifteen minutes have passed and my friend was already getting impatient. I followed up the order with one of the waitresses who told me it wasn't ready yet.  After a few more minutes, I noticed some pasta being served to people who came much later than us. My friend noticed the waitresses glancing at our table. Finally, someone came to us and checked my receipt. She hurriedly went to the kitchen and came back with my order packed for take-out. More than 30 minutes of waiting for a pasta and cheese roll is a little too much, don't you think?  I could have ordered for a pizza delivery at the dorm and it would have been much quicker. Although it was a Friday, it wasn't that busy for Mary Grace Cafe as a lot of their employees had their hands free.

I asked the waitress why it took them so long, she was apologetic about it but did not offer further explanation. When we got to the the place where we were staying, the bread that I believed to be the cheese roll seemed flatter that I thought.  It turns out it was the garlic bread that came free with the Pasta Amatriciana. The cheese roll, although only Php35, was something that I so long wanted to try wasn't in the bag!

Partly, it was my fault because I didn't check the bag before leaving. The receipt was not even there. Perhaps with the rave reviews about Cafe Mary Grace, I trusted that there staff is trained to be efficient in what they do, such as delivering the order on time,  putting them with the receipt in the bag and checking if they are complete. Apparently, I was wrong. After all, the good reviews have much to do with the taste of the food than the quality of service they offer.

I think they're pretty good with the dine-in clients.  As I have  mentioned, people who came later than us were being served on time, and it looked like they were enjoying their meals. For some reason, they lacked the training in handling to-go orders. Yes, the staff is generally friendly, but  it doesn't necessarily translate to efficiency.

The Pasta Amatriciana was a flavorful blend of thick tomato sauce with bacon and chili, plus the Italian meatballs. But with the disappointment I was feeling at that time, I couldn't really appreciate the taste. It was pretty decent for its price of Php 210 , but not something I would crave for.  The imaginary cheese rolls must have been good,  if only they came with my order.

As to the Cafe Mary Grace customer support online,  they don't fare well either. I tried sending a complaint about the incident, which was written as courteously as possible, to no avail. Probably the person assigned to check the emails isn't doing the job, or they have read my message but they don't welcome negative feedback.  Well, they can bask in the positive comments from customers that they proudly display on their tables, but I hope they are aware of the other side of their business that they should do something about. As Jack Canfield puts it, " you cannot improve your life, your relationships, your game or your performance without feedback." I hope Mary Grace Cafe will take this review constructively.

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Mega Fashion Crew: Exuding Beauty in Threes

Hype is building as the remaining teams feel the pressure to prove that they should be MEGA’s Top Fashion Crew. As a final twist last episode, no teams were eliminated during the last challenge. But for this week, good will not be enough.

The teams have made it this far and the judges are expecting only the best among the best.

People always view beauty as seemingly effortless. In reality, it requires a lot of work to create an image worthy of perfection. It also needs quite a great deal of attention to achieve. This week’s challenge will show beauty in different aspects and stretch the contenders’ creative ideas further.

A three pronged challenge awaits contestants as they strive to be the final two.

Contestants will have to show beauty through three different mediums: a print ad; a television commercial; and a fashion show. The teams have already executed fashionable photos and a stylish runway show. But will they be able to pull-off a tv commercial for a product feature?

In just one challenge, teams have to display their strengths in the three challenges to wow the judges. The teams also need to convince judges on a product feature through a tv commercial. Will the challengers survive through three challenges in one episode?

Veteran director Joey Reyes and top creative director Mr. Manuel Villafania share their ideas and expertise as a guest judge for the episode.

The teams must be bold enough for a beautiful triumph. The four remaining teams will have to show only their strongest to make the final cut for the grand finale. Who will be the last two teams vying to be MEGA’s Top Fashion Crew?

Catch Generation MEGA Season 2: MEGA Fashion Crew every Saturday at 7pm, with replays on Sundays at 10am, only on ETC.

 

Return To Temptation

After bringing high fashion to the streets of Manila, the remaining Mega Fashion Crew contestants are faced with the hypnotic – and sometimes dangerous – challenge of temptation.

This week, challengers will bring an expression of seduction. Teams will create a stylish look that mirrors the original temptress herself, Eve. Hold on to your senses and be allured with the most exotic episode of this season.

But how do you pull off a high fashion shoot without clothes? Think Eve and what else was with her in the Garden of Eden? This episode proves juicier than the bite on an apple. Sexiness will be brought to life with another round of surprises.

With the tantalizing Ms. Tessa Prieto Valdes as a guest judge, viewers will see her take on this sinfully delightful challenge.

Temptation being personified

 

Prepping to be Eve

Still, it’s not going to be a paradise of dreams for the teams. Some challengers will be eliminated as we inch closer to the grand finale of the show. With only 20 contenders left, only the strongest can survive the strong seduction of failure.

Catch Generation MEGA Season 2: MEGA Fashion Crew every Saturday at 7pm, with replays on Sundays at 10am, only on ETC.

Generation MEGA Season 2: MEGA Fashion Crew is created for television by the MEGA Publishing Group. For the latest updates, visit www.megastyle.ph. Like MEGA on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/megamagazine or follow MEGA on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/mega_magazine.

Pure and Natural at Healthy Options

Who wouldn’t long for life at its most natural

 Who wouldn't yearn for life at its healthiest

 It’s natural to seek better options in life 

 A life free from artificial and chemical additives

 Live a better life, with better choices, only at Healthy Options.

 

Healthy Options seek to empower people to take control of their health. Being healthy means living a fuller, richer, and more beautiful life – a life free from artificial and chemical additives, just as nature intended. Healthy Options invites you  to enter its world where you will find a wide range of all-natural and organic products – healthy snacks, powerful breakfast choices, wiser sweet tooth options, naturally nutritious drinks, and quick & easy gourmet meals – to help you live the healthy and beautiful life you deserve.

Visit any Healthy Options store today and discover a world where Life is Beautiful. 

 

MAC Cosmetics at New York Fashion Week S/S 2012

New York, NY (September 8, 2011) – Each year, M∙A∙C Cosmetics participates in 23 Fashion Weeks and approximately 850 shows around the world: New York, London, Milan, Paris, Sydney, Copenhagen, Athens, Moscow, Berlin, Delhi, Istanbul, Barcelona, Mexico City, Miami Swimwear, NY Bridal, Auckland, Toronto, Tokyo, Sao Paulo, Paris Couture, Milan Menswear and Paris Menswear.

Starting September 8th in New York City, M•A•C’s international team of more than 275 makeup artists will open their kits and unleash their creativity, hitting the shows at Lincoln Center, Milk Studios and other venues throughout the city with the cutting edge makeup ideas, inspirations and techniques that will define the S/S 2012 season. M•A•C artists work closely with legendary makeup artists such as Diane Kendal, Charlotte Tilbury, Val Garland, James Kaliardos, Lucia Pieroni and Polly Osmond.



Working alongside New York’s most influential designers and makeup artists, this season M•A•C Artists will be backstage conceiving flawless looks for the runways at Proenza Schouler, Altuzarra, Prabal Gurung, Nicole Miller, Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, Donna Karan, Ohne Titel, Jason Wu, Alexander Wang, Peter Som and many others.

John Demsey, Group President, The Esteé Lauder Companies says, “This season we are continuing to provide backstage makeup artistry and product for over 95 designers in New York and are deepening our relationship with designers and our brand. We will continue our support for Prabal Gurung on his S/S ’12 Fashion Show, as well as host a private dinner in celebration of his collection and this partnership. We are also working closely with Joseph Altuzarra and are excited to assist him in his decision to show in a space that is unique to his brand.”

M•A•C Cosmetics commitment to fashion is stronger than ever this season with an exciting line-up of M∙A∙C hosted events and dinners throughout the entire fashion week – uptown, downtown and everywhere in between.

MADE FASHION WEEK PRESENTED BY M•A•C

M•A•C Cosmetics is thrilled to continue as a sponsor of Milk Studios’ collective showing space. We will be supporting the overall initiative as well as each of the over 35 designers participating there by allowing them to have the opportunity to work closely with M•A•C’s pro team of artists who will help bring to life the designers’ vision for their spring 2012 collections.

FASHION’S NIGHT OUT
On September 8th M∙A∙C Cosmetics will kick off Fashion Week with Fashion’s Night Out. Beth Ditto will be at M•A•C Cosmetics SoHo store where she will be treating guests to a three song performance. Additionally, performance artists Gill & Jill Bumby will be providing “Fair and Honest Appraisals of Your Appearance.”

BOFFO PRESENTS BOFFO BUILDING FASHION 2011
BOFFO is a nonprofit arts and culture organization based in Manhattan that brings artists and designers together through exhibitions and events with the goal of fostering collaboration and creativity while pushing the boundaries of art and design. This Fall BOFFO will partner five fashion designers with five architects to transform 50 + 57 Walker Street in Manhattan into an original retail environment, rotating every two weeks. M•A•C Cosmetics will present the premiere installation from Nicola Formichetti & Gage/Clemenceau Architects at BOFFO Building Fashion 2011 that will be on view September 8 – 21, and is proud to sponsor the entire series. As a longtime friend and supporter of Formichetti, M•A•C is proud to continue their relationship by sponsoring BOFFO Building Fashion.

M∙A∙C PRABAL DINNER
Deepening the relationship between M∙A∙C and CFDA award winner designer Prabal Gurung, The Estée Lauder Companies, Group President John Demsey and M∙A∙C will host a dinner in celebration of Prabal’s Spring 2012 collection.

DAPHNE GUINNESS EXHIBITION AT THE MUSEUM FIT
On September 15th Fashion Week comes to a close as M•A•C Cosmetics will be one of several sponsors to support the opening reception of Daphne’s exhibition at The Museum at FIT. The exhibit will feature approximately 100 garments and accessories from both her personal collection of notable designers as well as those of her own design to be displayed from September 16, 2011 through January 7, 2012.

NEW PRODUCTS ARE PUT TO TEST BACKSTAGE
To create the season’s key beauty trends, makeup artists need the newest and most advanced products on hand - the latest finishes, formulations, shades and beauty innovations are all essential. Fashion shows around the world play a critical role in the M•A•C Product Development process. Artists use this unique opportunity to test-drive M•A•C’s very latest product prototypes, sometimes years before they reach consumers, and put them to the test on the runways of New York, London, Milan, and Paris. If the texture, color, application or finish aren’t up to scratch, artists let M•A•C’s Product Development team know what needs tweaking. The end result: the perfect formula that works equally in the hands of a professional makeup artist and the regular customer.

FOLLOW M•A•C FOR THE ULTIMATE FASHION WEEK BEAUTY SCOOP
Launching September 9, 2011, follow M•A•C on Tumblr for exclusive beauty visuals and video content direct from backstage. M•A•C will publish from each of the four major RTW cities and additional markets where you’ll find M•A•C artists in action. When Fashion Week S/S 2012 closes, M•A•C will continue to share unique content from behind-the-scenes at M•A•C events around the globe. For total access, follow M•A•C at maccosmetics.tumblr.com.

M•A•C Senior Artists continue to take Twitter followers with them around the globe and backstage at Fashion Week. Get in-the-moment trend details, application tricks, quotes, glimpses of the latest looks and the ultimate lowdown on the products everyone’s buzzing about. Visit macartiststweets.com for easy access to the Twitter feeds for more than 40 M•A•C Senior Artists.

ABOUT M•A•C COSMETICS
M•A•C (Make-up Art Cosmetics), a leading brand of professional cosmetics, was created in Toronto, Canada in 1984 and is part of The Estée Lauder Companies, Inc. The company’s popularity has grown through a tradition of word-of-mouth endorsement from makeup artists, models, photographers and journalists around the world. M•A•C is now sold in 78 countries/territories worldwide. Become M•A•C fan at facebook.com/maccosmetics. View M•A•C YouTube and follow our M•A•C Artists on http://www.macartiststweets.com/. For a M•A•C location visit maccosmetics.com.

 

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Star Magic Ball Dissected

I was browsing through the Star Magic Bal 2011l pictures at Yahoo Philippines and noticed that most of the comments had to do with the celebrities' makeup.  This goes to prove that no matter how beautiful a person is, she/he must choose the makeup artist well. Fact is, makeup can make or break you.

Some comments are really funny but true, such as how Gretchen Barreto was missing the broomstick with the avant garde dark makeup and black shapeless dress. Others are plain rude, perhaps out of fan rivalries.

The  star of the night for me would be Kristine Hermosa, whose makeup and outfit speak royalty, even with the baby bump. Being a makeup artist herself, she clearly knows what looks good on her.

Melai Cantiveros looked simple yet pretty. Someone even commented that she should stick with the makeup artist who dolled her up that night. But then her gown looks rented from a wedding shop.

There were a number of actresses who donned white, but it was Kim Chiu who pulled it off elegantly without looking like a bride waiting for her groom in a mass wedding.

Jodi Sta. Maria, a highly esteemed actress of her generation is as classy as ever, although I think the look would have been more neat with her hair pulled up.

Speaking of hair, Kiray Celis  happens to have one of the most gorgeous hair styles that night. But apart from the hair and the handsome partner, well.. Kiray is a young comedienne after all- the outfit must have been a joke.

If you want a nice peg for a prom, check out Mara Clara star, Kathryn Bernardo's hair. The gown and makeup are just right for her age.  A good example of  how young people should look during formal events

I'm a fan of nude lipsticks but it didn't go right with some celebrities like Megan Young, whose pallid lips didn't do justice to her Hollywood-worthy beauty. Disturbing to see was Lovi Poe who was Jake Cuenca's date for the night. Her divinely morena features are usually stunning,  but  she looked rather tired and dehydrated at the Star Magic Ball. The messy hair and nude lipstick didn't help, either. The pale colors of the dress would have been balanced with darker lip colors.  The hair defined her look for the night- messy.

On the contrary, Bea Alonzo wore super red lips which aged her a lot. I prefer her with pinkish lip shades. Somehow the dress and overall look seemed as if she was channeling Dolly Parton on her way to the Casino.

A lot of male actors had makeup gone bad. Grooming is undeniably difficult for males, as some makeup artists tend to put makeup on them in the same way that it is applied on females, leaving the guys  emasculated. Some had obviously lighter foundation and shiny lipgloss. With flash photography, the foundation mismatch can get accentuated, downgrading the makeup artist into a mortician.

For the males, among  the best would have to be Xian Lim and Rafael Rosell who looked like they stepped out of  GQ Magazine. Oyo Sotto, is not to be missed, whose dashing good looks perfectly matched her ethereally beautiful wife.

See the pictures for yourself at the Yahoo Philippines entertainment page .

 

Canon Photomarathon 2011 Winners Mindanao Leg

As promised on my previous post on the Canon Marathon 2011 Mindanao Leg, here are the photo entries of  finalists for both the point and shoot and DSLR categories. Pardon me for the poor quality of pictures which I only took while they were projected on screen.

Out of 200 plus participants,  nine finalists  from each category emerged as the best from  the three themes given:

Theme 1:
"The people of this golden friendship city, inherent and traditional traits.Camaraderie and hospitality. The beauty of this golden glimpse."

Theme 2:
" The golden blessings that glow and behold to this city of the river of gold. Like the confessions of His love and passion. You will deeply cross this rare Kagay-anon."

Theme 3:
" A city considered as a melting pot in Mindanao, where modern lifestyle and booming economy arise. With the goal of nature preservation for future generation. They put eco-tourism as the core of it's tourism attraction."

Finalists, Point and Shoot Category:



Winners, Point and Shoot Category:

Grand Prize Winner:
Yonelyn Robles
prizes include Red Canon EOS 1100D, Benro Tripod, SD Cards, Bag, etc





1st Runner Up:
Charles Cepeda
prizes include Canon Ixus ___, Tripod, etc



2nd Runner Up:
Christopher Ronald B. Bandoy (my husband)
prize: Benro Tripod only (uh.. in fairness the tripod was nice!)





Finalists, DSLR Category:


Grand Prize Winner:

Euben Hallazgo
prizes include Canon EOS 600D, Tripod, Loot Bag with SD cards, Bag, etc





1st Runner Up:
Sally Mileva Dime
prizes include Canon EOS 500D, Tripod, Loot Bag with SD cards, Bag, etc





2nd Runner Up:

Erwin Romel Roa
I don't remember the prizes but I'm guessing it's also a tripod



Congratulations to all the winners! Remember, if you're joining the Canon Photomarathon in the upcoming legs in the Visayas and Luzon regions, have fun, do your best but don't expect too much. Anybody can win in this event, pro or not. If you don't get lucky, don't let the loss put you down. Consider it a rare learning experience.

Thanks to Canon for putting up a fun event like this and for choosing CDO as its Mindanao destination! Thanks for the food and other freebies! Hope this will not be the last time to gather "Canonites" from Cagayan de Oro.

Schedule for other regions:

Tagbilaran City Bohol (Visayas)- September 3
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur (North Luzon)- September 10
Legazpi City, Bicol (South Luzon)- September 24
Metro Manila- To be announced

You may register at the http://www.canon.com.ph/photomarathon2011/


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