Tag Archives: Singapore Lifestyle Blogger

Red dress kinda day ;)

Been quite excited over this red dress and the sunglasses since receiving it from Choies.com in the mail! Was expecting the red colour to be brighter but after wearing and see the photos, the deep red colour is growing on me as well. Perfect for a formal day wear as well as for dinners!

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Took these photos at my current company office’s balcony which you can tell is rather obviously neglected in terms of paint work. But after some fotorus & vsco filters it looks like I’m somewhere in HK highlands having a holiday. Well, no picture that a filter can’t fix and a holiday abroad somewhere cold… I could do with that right now. >_<

Get them here! 😉 –> Red DressVintage inspired Sunglasses | Shoes from Charles & Keith

xx
Ena

Enabalista x Cyber Monday OASAP Coupon Giveaway [Closed]

*Updates*
Thanks to all for sharing and taking part in this contest!
Although the contest did not hit 50 shares, the folks at Oasap.com have kindly agreed to select one winner nonetheless! Thanks Oasap for your generosity! 😀
Loredana Battista has been chosen to be the winner!
Congrats Loredana!

Thanks to OASAP, I’m holding another giveaway, this time it’s the Cyber Monday coupon giveaway!

Enabalista x Oasap Giveaway

Good news is, EVERYONE gets a 30% OFF coupon code for shopping on OASAP.com! Whee!
☆*・゜゚・*(^O^)/*・゜゚・*☆
Shop at OASAP.COM during Christmas 2013, get 30% OFF for 20000+ women fashion items with coupon code: NUSZ48CD, and there will be special offer for some products UP TO 70% OFF from BLACK FRIDAY to CYBER MONDAY! PLUS shipping is free ok! 😀

DISCLAIMER: If you do use the 30% discount code, I will get a 2% credit of your total bill to my account which I can then use to buy OASAP products. Thank you in advance! (๑>ᴗ<๑)

BUT WAIT, that’s not’s it!
Take part in this giveaway and One winner will receive $50 coupons and
the second winner will get $30 coupons for purchasing any wish items on www.oasap.com!
Please note, this giveaway will only be activated if there are at least 50 participants! So please share the 30% coupon code & the giveaway! 🙂

JOIN the Enabalista x Cyber Monday coupon giveaway, follow these steps:
Go to my Enabalista Facebook here, find the post pinned to the top that looks like this:
Screen shot 2013-11-30 at PM 03.11.27

1. Share the pinned FB post (see above) on your FB profile page
2. Register on www.oasap.com (Some of you might have registered before already!)
3. Comment** with your favorite apparel/accessory pinned on http://www.pinterest.com/OasapOfficial/
4. Follow my blog page Enabalista on Facebook here
5. Follow one of following OASAP pages:
    http://www.pinterest.com/OasapOfficial/
    http://facebook.com/oasap
    https://twitter.com/Oasap
    http://instagram.com/oasap_official
    http://oasap.polyvore.com/
Giveaway is held for 7 days, beginning 30 Nov to 7 Dec 2013!
Winner will be announced here and on Facebook 7 Dec evening about 10pm.
See Terms & Conditions below.

**An example comment should be:
” Hi Ena, I’ve shared the post on my FB,
I’ve registered on OASAP using email <sample@xmail.com>
this is my favourite apparel! >> http://www.pinterest.com/pin/316096467567562368/
and I’ve followed both Enabalista and Oasap on Facebook!”

One winner will receive $50 coupons and the second winner will get $30 coupons for purchasing any wish items on www.oasap.com!
Please note, this giveaway will only be activated if there are at least 50 participants! So please share the 30% coupon code & the giveaway! 🙂

Now now, if you’ve not already clicked away to OASAP.com site in my links above,
check out my top picks from their BLACK FRIDAY selection! 😉

Ena’s favourite pick for OASAP BLACK FRIDAY

Enabalista OASAP Giveaway

1. Leather Paneled Oversized Turn Down Coat US$77.54 here

ENABALISTA OASAP GIVEAWAY patent-leather-front-ankle-boots

2. Patent Leather Front Ankle Boots US$48.92 here.

Enabalista Oasap Giveaway

3. Distinct Teardrop Necklace $13.96 here

Enabalista x Oasap Giveaway

4. Lovely Plaid A Line Dress US$29.93 here.

Enabalista Oasap Giveaway
5. Icecream (more like cupcakes) Graphic Sweatshirt US$22.35 here.

Enabalista Oasap Giveaway

6. Floral Embriodered High Low Chiffon Blouse US$25.13 here

My first pick is above US$50, the rest are below $50 and picks 3-6 are all below $30!
So if you win the voucher giveaway you have plenty of affordable fashion choices to pick from! 😉

Happy Shopping & Good Luck!

xx

Ena

Giveaway terms & condition:
Participant should be comfortable with providing his/her name, shipping address and phone number
which is required for Oasap.com to ship and deliver the item to you.
Winner will be picked randomly by me, all decisions made by me are final.
If a winner does not respond or remains uncontactable within 5 business days of notification,
winner’s prize will be forfeited and given to the next member in line.
I reserve the right to amend the contest rules without prior notification.

Collections Cosmetics Pop Diva Workshop

A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend Collections Cosmetics bloggers event! 😀

Introducing Collections Cosmetics which is a UK brand that is newly launched in Singapore!

Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva (SG Version)

Pop Diva Inspired Collection Cosmetics Singapore Model

The event is a Pop Diva inspired event where we attended a short introduction by the Make Up Room make up artists followed by a session where we apply the make up and then took photos which is on their

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Classic Pop Diva Inspiration Board, Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.

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Picking up tips from the pro!
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Defining the eyes by lining them…

Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista

With beauty bloggers Patricia of The Sweetest Sins blog and Jerlene of MusicalHouses blog!

Collection Cosmetics Singapore Ena Teo

Here’s my modern interpretation of a Pop Diva look! 😉
It’s also on Collection Cosmetics SG page. 😀

In this look, I’m featuring purple, silver and dark grey eyeshadows using their Smokey Eyes palette & Trio Purple eyeshadow palette, Lasting Colour Lipstick in Sugar Plum, Cover & Go Foundation Duo, Lasting Perfection Concealer & a generous double layer of eyelashes, heh! 😛

Overall, I am impressed with the quality of the make up for its price tag! The Cover & Go Foundation Duo, Lasting Perfection Concealer had great coverage that was creamy without being sticky/oily. The eye palettes and lip colours were rich in their pigments. Overall, two thumbs up and I’m sure to purchase some of their products when the new lines are out, since they have kindly gifted a set for this collection! 🙂

Smokey Eyes_pack open and closed in foreground_on white

Collection Cosmetics Smokey Eyes palette, retails at $19.90.

Trios 07_on black

Work the Colour 07, retails at $14.90

Plum Perfection

Volume Sensation Lipstick, retails at $9.90.
No image for the one I used in the photo, Lasting Colour Lipstick, Sugar Plum retails at $12.50 each.

03-Fair-Light-Cover and Go_CMYK

Cover & Go Foundation Duo in Fair, retails at $16.90 each.

3 Medium

Lasting Perfection Concealer in medium, retails at $14.90 each.

Collection Cosmetics is available at selected Watsons stores, BHG and the newly renovated BHG Bugis.

Check out more photos! 😀

Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista

My usual made up face, just eyeshadow and light lipstick/balm.

Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista

Post make over under orange lighting. 😉

Took a few more selfies back home:

Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista Collection Cosmetics Pop Diva Ena Enabalista

YES the eye lashes were really long and thick! 😛

Visit Collection Cosmetic SG Facebook page for updates and more! 😉

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Thanks Collection Cosmetics for having me! 😉

Sothys Lifeline (Fil de Vie) Energizing Day & Night Creme Review

Recently I was invited by Sothys to attend their media launch of their latest Lifeline (Fil de Vie) Energizing Treatment,
and their Energizing Day & Night Creme of the same line.

Sothys Lifeline Energizing Line event

Before I go on about this line, let me share with you more about Sothys.
Sothys is a global leader in professional skincare innovation. Founded in Paris in 1946, they have delivered integrated and targeted solutions that cover a complete range of care, from face to sun treatments.
What’s interesting is that Sothys is not available above the counter in Singapore and they are exclusively available through Spas, Salons and more recently through the Singapore Airlines. Now that’s exclusivity!

The key ingredient in the Lifeline (Fil de Vie) Energizing series is Siberian Ginseng which is touted the root of youth.

Sothys Lifeline Energizing Line event

Sothys assures that:

with the Lifeline (Fil de Vie) Energizing Programme, your skin’s energy reserves will be recharged and regenerated, revealing luminious and glowing skin at every age.

As I have combination skin type that is usually dry on the surface but oily beneath the surface skin’s layer, I usually only use moisturizing lotion that is moisture based in the day and evening. Thus I did not review this creme personally but passed them over to my mum to use!

I asked my mum how she found the creme after using for 2 weeks and
she says she likes it as it not only moisturizes her skin but also had a brightening effect.
Thus her skin has become less dull after usage.
Thus this is recommended especially for older women looking for a moisturizing creme. 😉

I like how they’ve packaged their day creme, simply and with class.

Sothys Energizing Creme Review Enabalista Sothys Energizing Creme Review EnabalistaSothys Energizing Creme Review Enabalista

And I was also 1 of the 5 lucky winner at the media launch lucky draw to receive the EOps NoiseZero Sports+ ear phone!

Sothys Lifeline Energizing Line Event Blogger Ena Teo of Enabalista with Ms Cheryl Lee GM of Sothys Singapore & Malaysia

With the glamorous Ms Cheryl Lee, the GM of Sothys Singapore & Malaysia.

More of how the earphones look like:1385442_648591608504978_1631670540_n

My earphones along with the lovely Winter Time scarf found in all the media gift bags. What a sweet gift!
And I am so blessed to have won the lucky draw! 🙂Sothys Lifeline Energizing Line event gifts

Thanks Sothys Singapore for the invite & the earphones!
Visit their Facebook page here for their latest updates. 😉

CoCo Ichibanya Curry House @ Star Vista | Food Review

Recently I was invited down for an intimate food tasting session at
CocoICHIBANYA Curry House at Star Vista!
😀

I was delighted to be invited for this food tasting session
because I am a fan of Japanese curry rice
which is flavourful and yet not too spicy
and I’ve previously dined at CocoICHIBANYA outlet at 313Somerset!

Star Vista is conveniently located close to Buona Vista MRT station
with sheltered walk way all the way till the mall.

Let’s take a look at what’s on the menu shall we? 😉
CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewAs you can see on the menu above,
First you select the curry dish from the various selection available,
then you select the quantity of rice,
choose the spice level,
& lastly add toppings if you’d like! 😉

By asking for less rice, there’s a $1 deduction!
Best for ladies who wants to enjoy Jap curry rice
without busting their waistline
& extra savings, woohoo~!
ヽ(^。^)丿

For the spice levels, level 0 is standard.
We also tried level 1 and 3.
More on the various levels in a bit!

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewHere’s another pic of the toppings available on the menu,
such as cheese, kimchee (!) & mushroom.

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review Here’s our lovely host Lucas ordering delicious Japanese curry dishes for us. \(^▽^)/

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review
With my sister, Jia Hui. (^▽^)

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewOur salad greens that came with our mains.

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewLucas’ salmon croquette with cheese
less rice
& spice level 3!

We had the a taste of the curry and it had a  stronger pepper/spice taste,
definitely recommended for those who’d like their curry that pack a punch! 😉
CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewOur pork cutlet curry rice
less rice
spice level 0.

The cutlet was fried to a golden perfection,
but it was a pity that it slightly on the overcooked side
and a tad too tough for our taste.
We gave our feedback to the staff and hopefully it won’t be too tough for others in the future!

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review Our omelette rice aka Omu rice with mushroom & cheese toppings
with less rice
spice level 0 standard.

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewWe ordered chicken karaage to add to this dish~

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review As mentioned, I am a fan of Japanese rice
and I am also a BIG fan of omu-rice!

The combination of eggs, mushroom and cheese with the curry was yummy!
I liked that the mushroom tasted fresh and flavorful in diced pieces
& the chicken karaage was also perfect!

I probably had too much of goodness in my belly that day.
>.<
So this has got to be my FAVE dish of the day.
☆*:.。. o(≧▽≦)o .。.:*☆

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewWe also tried beef curry, on Lucas’ recommendaiton
with extra spinach topping that added a sweetness to the dish
with spice level 1
My sister noted that this dish had a stronger tumeric taste to it!
Definitely recommended combination for people who like beef and spinach. 😉

We also ordered a strawberry yougurt smoothie
which was sweet & refreshing!
Def’ a hit with folks who love strawberry + yougurt. 😉

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista Review With my sis & Lucas!
Follow us on Instagram, @jiahui2289, @ena_teo & @niftylucas. 😉

Check out CoCo Ichibanya Curry House Facebook page here.

CoCo Ichibanya Curry Outlets in Singapore
‘cos you do wanna eat their curry rice right?

Star Vista outlet
The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green, #02-06, Dover, 138617

313 @ Somerset outlet
#B3-25, 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Road

Their latest outlet at Bugis+!
#01-10, Bugis+, 201 Victoria Street

Budget
~$11-15 person not inclusive of drinks

Did you know, CoCo Ichibanya is also the largest curry chain in the world in term of the number of branches?
There are about 1,268 branches (and counting!) w(°o°)w
around the world in countries such as US, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand!

So for all my non Singaporean reader friends, you can also taste this delicious Japanese curry
if you’re visiting one of the above countries!
☆*・゜゚・*(^O^)/*・゜゚・*☆

CocoICHIBANYA Star Vista Enabalista ReviewA selfie picture I posted on Instagram after the lunch and
I commented that my face was bloated
probably because I pinned my hair back
but also probably because of too much delicious jap curry rice!
:’D

Check out my instagram @ena_teo for more of my updates~!
♡〜٩(^▿^)۶〜♡

Till the next post,
xoxo
Ena

Oasap.com Fashion x Enabalista Giveaway! [Closed]

*Update*
Thanks to all who has taken part!
After a random selection, Chia Wan Ting has been picked as the lucky winner! 😉
Congratulations Chia Wan Ting!

As I’ve mentioned on my Enabalista FB page recently,
I’m collaborating with Oasap.com,
one of my online fashion store partners
(see the banners of fashion partners I support on the right panel of my blog)
to conduct a giveaway for my followers! 

Ena Teo Oasap Contrast Collar Embriodered Dress 1Oasap.com has a fab variety of clothing in great quality which I can attest to.
Thanks to them, I also got lots of compliments when I wore this dress. ^^
Read my review here.

Coinciding with the FALL season,
stand a chance to be the
1 lucky winner & owner of 1 of the featured sweaters!:

1.  V Neck Cutout Back Sweater (Burgundy).
Also available in Beige, Lavender and Navy. See here.Oasap Enabalista Giveaway

2. Union Jack Style Loose Sweater
See here.
Union-Jack-Style-Loose-Sweater

3.  Leaves Graphic High-Low Blouse (Black)
Also available in blue.
See here.

Oasap x Enabalista Giveaway

4.  Contrast Zigzag Print Long Sleeve Cardigan (Blue)
Also available in Cream.
See here.
Oasap.com x Enabalista Giveaway

5. Contrast Cross Striped Sweater (Apricot)
Also available in Navy & Red.
See here.
Oasap x Enabalista Giveaway

To take part, simply:

1. Register on Oasap.com >> https://www.oasap.com/signup
2. Follow all 3 of my accounts on >>
Facebook  – www.facebook.com/enabalista
Instagram – @ena_teo
Twitter – @ena_teo
3. Follow one of following OASAP pages >>
Oasap Facebook
Instagram – @Oasap_Official
Twitter – @Oasap
Oasap Pinterest
Oasap Polyvore

4. Leave a comment on this blog post below with:
which sweater you want to win,
your email address which you signed up for Oasap.com,
Facebook, Instagram & Twitter usernames,
& which Oasap page/s you followed! 🙂

*UPDATE*
Oasap Giveaway Enabalista
Increase your chances of winning by going to Enabalista FB page here
share this blog post’s link (+1 chance) &
comment on the FB post(the one I’ve pinned, image above) and tag a friend’s name (+1 chance)!
Every  name will stand you 1 more chance, so 2 names = 2 chances, 3 names = 3 chances, etc! 😀

This giveaway starts today, 3 November 7pm and ends next Sunday 10 November 7pm!

This giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY! 😀

The Winner’s name will be announced here and on my Enabalista Facebook page! 😉

Let the giveaway begin!
xx
Ena

Giveaway terms & condition:
Participant should be comfortable with providing his/her name, shipping address and phone number
which is required for Oasap.com to ship and deliver the item to you.
Winner will be picked randomly by me, all decisions made by me are final.
If a winner does not respond or remains uncontactable within 5 business days of notification,
winner’s prize will be forfeited and given to the next member in line.
I reserve the right to amend the contest rules without prior notification.

Oh, Graduation!

Graduation ceremony was about a month back,
but been too busy with Fide Fashion Weeks and work in general,
so here are the pics,
better late than never!

Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

On my way to the venue, at expo. Fringe all pinned up, prepped for the mortar board. Wearing Urban Decay’s makeup fix spray for the first time and it worked wonderfully well. Also sporting one of my current fave lip colour, Maybelline’s Coloursensational in Fuschia Flash. I got the lippy when I was in UK and I think they rebranded it as Bold and Matte series in Singapore. I had on a coat of nude colour as the base so that the colour will stand out better and last longer. 🙂
Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

First time in a mortarboard! Definitely a milestone in life.
Ena's Graduation

With cutie Shella.

Ena's Graduation

O hai.

Ena's Graduation

It’s me again!
Personally I feel that these western graduation gowns were made to fit the western physical frames better and generally just overwhelm the more petite asian frames. Thank God for heels so that I can bask in my Harry Potter moment, heh.Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

With Adeline, from Kizuna trip, who is blessed with long legs! See how it looks like the gown’s made for tall frames like hers? 😉Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

With Shi !Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

w Sifra and Ashley! Not quite sure why Sifra and I have a shocked expression, LOL.
Ena's Graduation Ena's Graduation

With Des, also from Kizuna trip, who was part of the duo who designed the collaterals and paraphernalia for Graduation! So proud of him!Ena's Graduation Ena's GraduationEna's Graduation Ena's Graduation

Ena's Graduation

With bestie, Bini! :*
We’ve been through 3 years of Lasalle together and
we always talk about how we want our future to be like and
so many dreams and ambitions we want to accomplish.
We’ll continue to hold each other accountable to our dreams and
become the capable women that we aspire to be! <3Ena's GraduationWith Christabelle who is always a ball of fun and never fails to bring the entire room laughter! 
Ena's Graduation

w Ade, Alex and Shao Jie, graduating Kizuna peeps!
It’s amazing how months ago we were all huddling in the cold of Japan and
in a blink of an eye, we’ve graduated!
Ena's Graduation Ena's GraduationA piece of gold paper slot in between each of the graduands’ booklet, folded to be released at the end of the ceremony.
It symbolizes how we’re now ready to take flight.

Ena's Graduation
Probably only in LASALLE where you get dance faculty graduands pirouetting on stage when collecting their certs
and a STOMP performance by juniors at the end of it.
Ena's Graduation
With PriyaEna's Graduation

Our sweet and super patient finance tutor Lawrence who says he never misses a graduation to see his students graduate,
which is his source of pride and joy.

Ena's Graduation

With tutors Lawrence, GIlles and Ginette!

Ena's Graduation

With our class girls and Circe!
Ena's Graduation

Our studio / business management tutor, Gilles!
Thanks for being ever patient with us and giving us unending advice and guidance.
Ena's Graduation
And Circe! <3
For HK trip which was definitely an eye opener for us,
for teaching us how to deal with drama in our lives with a good laugh,
for your generosity, your love for art and believe in feminine power whilst staying as a beautiful woman and wife,
thank you.:)Ena's Graduation

With Pris, who is a wonderful dear, despite dramas and the years in school, remains as sweet as ever.
Stay that way and never let anyone steal your spirit. <3
Ena's Graduation

With Shi again!
It’s always a joy to do grp work w her cause she’s super conscientious
and parties are always fun with her!
Her bf took this pic for us, might not be long before we attend someone’s banquet? 😛
Ena's Graduation

WIth Mum and Pop
Always grateful to them for being cool parents in supporting me to go Arts college and study Fashion
Even tho it’s pretty rad even for my generation.
Mostly for believing in me and giving me the right biblical values in life.
I thank God for my family everyday.
My sissys were at work so they missed my graduation, I still love you guys ya!
Thanks for doting on your youngest sis and I will be happy to be forever your younger/est sis. 🙂

Graduation day was definitely one of the happiest day of my life,
equal parts thankful and happy to have gone through a rigorous study
and emerged not only with a cert that’s accredited by Goldsmith uni
but also a stronger person in my mind and spirit
with a clearer vision of lives and life
and with many friendships which will surely stay with me in this lifetime

Most of all,
Thank you God.
<3

Matsuri Day Beauty Workshop featuring Majolica Majorca, Senka & Ma Cherie

Hello!

Today I’ll be blogging about my experience at Matsuri Day Beauty Workshop about 2 weeks ago. 🙂

Matsuri means Festival in Japanese. I am not quite sure which festival we were meant to be celebrating, but I think it should be the Mid-Autumn Festival or Lantern Festival which was just recently passed!

Once again, I’ll let the photos do the talking. 🙂

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Shiseido
The workshop was held at Shiseido’s office and conference hall.
Matsuri Beauty Workshop Hummingbird Palette
The little hummingbook III and a set of nail polish looking bottles which are actually blush tints! >_<

So I took these photos before the workshop started proper, and I thought those bottles were nail polish. When the time came for us to test and apply the products, I used them on my finger, only to realize they don’t dry up but rather they become a powder-like layer over my names! The girls on the same table and I have a good  laugh over it. 😛

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Hummingbird Palette 2
This is how the little Hummingbird III Palette look on the inside. It has a 3 light eyeshadow pots and 1 lip gloss pot.

The light pink is the eyeshadow base followed by two eyeshadow colours in gold and pink which you can decide to use them individually or together. I don’t like that the eyeshadow and lip gloss pots were placed together as the eyeshadow powder will contaminate the lip gloss pot. I also don’t like the lip gloss colour as it didn’t seem to go with the other colours. But what I do love, is the pretty and unique packaging…

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Hummingbird Palette 3
The palette with musical score which I believe to be accurate. Would be interesting to play it out on the piano!
Matsuri Beauty Workshop Senka
Senka Product Table

The workshop started first with Senka product introduction followed by testing/application. According to the trainer whose name is Louis, Senka means expert or specialist in Japanese and essentially the brand is known to be focus on R&D to produce the best skincare products for Asian skin. Hence they have good quality products without much fan-fare on the packaging.

I won’t go much into details about the products except for the Senka Perfect Watery Oil, which is known to be a makeup remover that also helps to remove and minimize blackheads!

Perfect Watery Oil Senka

Louis was raving about how effective it was and that he used it and it works. So I even asked him if it is non-comodegenic (non acne causing) and he said it is! Out of all the products, it’s one that I’d like to try and thankfully they handed us a sample bottle to try! So I’ll likely try and put up a review after I’ve used it. ^^ Meanwhile, you can check out QiuQiu’s sponsored review on their makeup removers here.

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Majolica Makeup 2013

After the Senka introduction portion, we had our hands on session with Majolica Majorca makeup! I tweeted after the session how I love this brand for its fantasy concept… It’s so beautiful lah! *^^* They remind me of Anna Sui, except with a stronger concept with more story telling. 🙂 Check out their website and watch the video on the site! You can follow their FB page here. This season’s story is reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland with a strong baroque styling. Not exactly the most original concept, but still interesting and captivating!

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Majolica Makeup

My favourite items out of the tray of testers/samples will definitely be the Skin Lingerie Pore Cream with its BB cream like effect and it acts much like a lightweight primer and the golden brown eyeliner, which I also have one at home. I bought it at Watsons sometime last year when I was hunting for a brown liquid liner and the lady recommended me it. It doesn’t have the best of mechanism as it requires one to shake and dispense on a brush tip, but when I mastered it, the effect and colour is most lovely. 🙂 Matsuri Beauty Workshop Majolica Tints

Saying Hi again to the deceptive blush tints, nail polish wanna-bes! 😛

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Ma Cherie

The last segment of the workshop was Ma Cherie, it means my dear in french. Looking at the branding and design it looks just like a French pastry store logo doesn’t it? I guess Ma Cherie wishes its customers to feel sweet and happy when using their products!

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Hair Demo

Louis the skincare and hair trainer showing how to work a Ma Cherie product. I think this was a hair curl setting spray.

Matsuri Beauty Workshop Ena and Friends

Taking a photo for memories with the ladies on our table! Wei ling, Huihong, Winnie & Huili! 🙂

My review! 

Out of all the workshops/events I’ve attended thus far, this has got to be one of the most light-hearted and enjoyable event, much credit due to Louis’ good humour and entertaining demonstrations! It was also really nice meeting new friends who are also makeup lovers! Thus the time during the session just flew past. 😀

It’s surprising to me that Shiseido would invite 30 female guests down for a free workshop and offer so many of its products for free testing. But I reckon it works out for them if after the session 1/2 of us or more would actually buy their products after testing and potentially become loyal users. This is especially so if there are also existing and similar Japanese brands such as Hada Labo skincare and Liese haircare in the market who are stiff competitors. Also, I got a chance to attend the workshop by taking part in Majolica Majorca’s Facebook contest and was 1 of the 10 winners. So it’s also a strategy of giving back to the fans, thereby reinforcing brand loyalty. 🙂

I don’t love every single item that I tried on that day, there were definitely some hits and misses. But for what it’s worth, it made me fall in love with the Majolica Majorca Skin Lingerie Pore Cream and want to try the Senka Perfect Watery Oil! That’s a pretty good desired effect from a participant, I reckon!

Oh, as a note to self,  it might also be a good idea to bring a small set of usual makeup so in case there aren’t some holy grail makeup items to achieve my desire effect, such as my eye makeup, at least I would have backup… I didn’t that day and took the longest time using Majolica Majorca’s makeup (which are not close substitute to my usual ones) to draw my eye makeup. >-<

So with a face full of makeup (which is rare for me, since I usually don’t put full on foundation) I decided I’d snap more photos!

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup

After the Nth time to get a good angle.

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup2

Still a bit dark.

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup3

Changed a spot to get the light on my face. 🙂

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup4

Anotther one. Panda eyes, Duck smile!

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup5

Retarded smile! 😛 Angles are so important for face selfies, really!

Ena reviews Majolica Majorca Makeup6

Gotta love my tiny eyes and funny faces! ^^

And yes, I’ve probably worn the exact outfit and necklace combination more than thrice. What do it, it’s nice like that right? 😛

xx

Ena

Blogging for a Living by Grace Tan Book & Workshop Review

 

I first found out about Grace Tan’s new book Blogging for a Living when my aunt shared with me her Facebook post about it, along with an exclusive offer for a free 2 hour blogging workshop for the first 20 that purchased the book from her.

After reading the Facebook post, I promptly paid (Ibank) her for the book and signed up for the course mainly because it is one of my dream to be a book author (along with many of my other life ambitions, heh!) and as a fellow Singaporean blogger, I wanted to support her and also read what she has to say about Blogging. The workshop was simply a bonus and I am really glad I signed up, turned up and met her in person (see her post hereb.). More about that later, I will review the book first followed by the workshop! 🙂

Image
Blogging for a Living by award winning Singaporean blogger Grace Tan

I will not divulge all the tips and tricks that Grace shares in the book, so that you will pay a small cost of ~$22 (slightly more with gst) at major book stores (see below for listings) and support our local author! 🙂

But I will share some parts from the book which I found to be very interesting for me, and hopefully also interest you to get the book. 🙂

Grace Tan’s Tips for blogging success (Summary):

1. Discover your passion. Blog about what you are passionate about so that it does not feel like ‘work’ and will be sustainable in the long run.

Ena: I can’t agree more with her, the reason why I am able to sustain this blog is because I love what I do here. Whether it’s a beauty product review, fashion apparel outfit of the day or restaurant/food places recommendation, I blog about them simply because I enjoy doing so and sharing about them on my blog to my friends and readers!

2. Do something different. Focus on your strengths and who you really are and convey that through your blog. Grace is famous for interviewing entrepreneurs, celebrities and millionaires for her blog. So find a way to make yourself and your blog memorable.

Ena: This is a point that I am still working on, I don’t think I have a very strong unique selling point (USP) that distinguishes me from other Singaporean lifestyle blogger. But I do think right now that my blog name – Ena Teo – is quite unique. I hope in time, people can begin to remember my name, face, blog name and for writing articulate, in-depth and honest reviews about fashion,  beauty and more. 😉

3. Emulate your way to success. In short, what you want to know about blogging, you can figure out from studying other, more established blogs.

Ena: This is a point that I’ve applied many a times on my own blog. Whenever I am in doubt, I’d reference other blogs and essentially, my blog is a result of my version of the best features that I liked on a few of my favourite blogs. 🙂

Another excerpt from the book, from an interview she had with Silver Ang:
“Also don’t start a blog because you think it will earn you good money. It is a lot of hard work if you don’t enjoy blogging. You want good money? Go into the banking and financing industry. And don’t think that that’s going to be easy either.”

Ena: As a part-time blogger, I can assure you that blogging is not an easy feat. Don’t expect money to drop your way just by writing and posting photos on your blog, that is if you even do that consistently. Just like any other task in life, you reap what you sow. A blogger has to be consistent and diligent in creating good content in order to reap rewards, whether in kind such as products, services or even cash. At this moment, I don’t make a single cent off my blog and in fact I’ve put in some money into this blog, to pay for my own domain. But I’ve reaped rewards in sponsored products sent for reviews, invitation to events and most rewardingly, a community of WordPress bloggers and friends I’ve made through this blog. 🙂

One last excerpt from chapter 9 “Different ways to monetize your blog in Singapore”:

Write a book. If you have the expertise, you can also write a book and get it published, or sell it online as an e-book; it is a great way to earn passive income off your work!

Ena: As an aspiring book author, I have some ideas on what I’d like to write about, mainly about topics such as fashion and beauty which are of keen interest to me. But it’s been simply a “dream” I’ve yet to put any action to. So meeting Grace in person is an inspiration, to know that someone has done it before me and as Singapore entreprener Adam Khoo would say, “If I can do it, so can you!” Although in this case, it would be, “If Grace can do it, so can you!”. This is a principle I’ve always adopted in life – if I want to achieve something, I’d look to someone who has done it before, and be convinced that if someone has done it before me, surely I can as well! 🙂

Overall book review: 5/5

I’d give this book a 5/5 for it’s content, delivery and layout. For what it’s worth ($22), Grace has shared so many helpful tips in the book that even with many years of blogging, I still found more than 50% of the content to be new and inspiring. It definitely helped that she has interviewed 7 other Singaporean bloggers (Patrick Liew, Celestine Chew, Silver Ang, Alvin Lin, Renee Lorentzen, Daniel Ang & Melissa Koh) who generously shared their experiences about blogging. I love Grace’s writing in the sense that it reads pretty much like how she’d speak to you in person, like a friend. No boring corporate speech but very friendly and engaging. Lastly, the layout was very easy on the eye and there would be lightbulb graphics to emphasize on certain topics of issue of note. If I were a complete newbie to blogging, I might even add a star * to 5/5 because she even has screenshots to detail step by step how to create a blog. That’s a lot of effort for your convenience. Overall, this book is definitely value for money, although I think if there was a special discount for students, it would be even better. As $22 isn’t a lot for me as a working adult but it would be for a student. 😛

Do go by her blog to check out a Book Hunt giveaway with total $1000 worth of SK-II products. 7 winners will be chosen with at least $100 product each! >>http://workingwithgrace.wordpress.com/2013/08/16/book-hunt-for-s1000-sk-ii-products/ Contest ends 12 October, so gotta hurry! For list of places to buy her book, see below. 🙂

Now onto the 2 hour free workshop I attend along with 5 other bloggers!

 Grace Tan Blogging Workshop Review 22nd Sept 2013

From left to right: Joanna, Nasri, Carol, Leesa, Grace, Myself and Steven.

Overall workshop review: 4/5

I’ve got to say, my favourite part of attending the session was definitely meeting Grace in person. She is simply one of the most down to earth and honest person I know. She simply speaks her mind, gives excellent advice based on her real life experiences.

To be more specific, her advice for getting more traffic to one’s blog is to make opportunities to appear in mainstream media, such as Television (although, who still watches that? :P), newspapers and radio stations. This will greatly increase a blogger’s credibility and awareness. Perhaps it’s not simply about appearing in the media, but to also own the bragging rights to have appeared on the media, as a badge on your blog and book. 😉

Another practical tip she gave on how to be a better blogger is to commit to blogging consistently at least once a week. This is something I have a lot of problems with because I have no obligation to blog, and thus it makes it difficult for me to make a commitment:P However I do see the potential that my blog has, to grow to be a platform known for good recommendations and in-depth reviews for readers and thus I am definitely inspired from the workshop to take my blogging more seriously! Grace is very driven to make a proper/full time income/living off her blog. She sees how every effort she makes towards her blog as a business strategy and opportunity for income and that, is something that is really not easy for many.

Lastly, I am most inspired about how clear she is about living, that she desires to do the things in life that makes her happy and not to waste any moment of it. If there was only one thing I could take away from the workshop, it would definitely be that I want to be able to make decisions that will guide me to a happy living – whether physically, emotionally or spiritually. The reason why I didn’t give the workshop a perfect score is because the session was a tad too long, would be great if it could have been 1.5 hours instead of 2. 🙂

Here’s my review of the workshop, also seen on Grace’s blog:

Jia En, Digital Marketer and Blogger: “I like that I learnt how to be consistent in blogging by making a commitment – like blogging every Sunday. Thank you Grace, I really appreciate your time and sharing”..

It’s actually longer than that, but I guess you have the full version above already! 🙂

Do check out and like Grace’s Facebook page.

xx

Ena

You can purchase the Blogging for a Living book at these places here:

1) MPH

Raffles City: 6336 4232

PARCO Millenia: 6336 4232

Robinson Road: 6222 6423

2) Kinokuniya [website]

Singapore Main Store (Ngee Ann City)
Tel: +65 6737 5021

Liang Court Store
Tel: +65 6337 1300

Bugis Junction Store
Tel: +65 6339 1790

Jurong Store
Tel: +65 6430 0868

3) Times [website]

JCube: 66844150

Jelita: 6466 5702

Tampines 1: 6782 7017

Centrepoint: 6734 9022

Marina Square: 6334 4650

Paragon: 6836 6182

Plaza Singapura: 63368861

4) Popular Bookstores -> Full list of contact numbers HERE

 

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Ena Recommends Nam Nam Vietnamese Noodle Bar! :)

So on the same night that my friend and I went down for the Sephora Beauty Night out, we had a late dinner after the event at Nam Nam Vietnamese Noodle Bar @ Raffles City Shopping Centre!

Here’s a quick review of our dinner!

Nam Nam Vietnamese Noodle Bar @ Raffles City Shopping Centre
This is the view of the store from where we were seated. I tried my bestest to capture the Nam Nam sign board but the light box made it impossible for my IPhone camera, hahaha.
Nam Nam Vietnamese Noodle Bar @ Raffles City Shopping Centre
I like how quaint the entire decor and vibe of the noodle bar was. Although right smack in the CBD area of Raffles City Shopping mall, one still feels as though she could be right next to the vietnamese road side. And of course, here’s the old school tiny cup that came with the coke can!
Nam Nam Vietnamese Noodle Bar @ Raffles City Shopping Centre
This was my dinner of the night, beef pho and typing this at midnight is making me saliva very badly. I LOVE IT. I am not quite sure if it’s because I was hungry or it was delicious, I believe it is more the later. What I loved about it was definitely the delicious fish sauce flavour and the lime in the soup. The meat was tender and the noodles were cooked perfectly.

I did not manage to take a shot of my friend’s dish which was a stir fry beehoon and I tried a bite and it was DELICIOUS. I did not expect it to be so delicious. So I am going to go back to eat that dish the next time.

Now time for my review!

Taste: 5/5 

As I mentioned, I loved my pho as well as my friend’s stir fry beehoon. The ingredients like meat and noodles were cooked just right and I love the authentic flavours in the dishes!

Price: 3/5

I think at SGD$9/10 per dish it is definitely on the pricey side, for a basement venue at that. But for the taste, I think it is still worth it. For young working adults like myself, we probably will head there once in a while.

Service: 3/5

 I think the service was fast, considering it was 9pm and still packed. But they could do better with more friendly staff as some of them seemed quite shy and not articulate in english. I think language barrier is not that big an issue but rather the friendliness was lacking. Maybe they are worn out from the day.

Decor & Ambience: 3/5 

I love the decor, but the ambience was not great because of the tiny space, guests are seating right next to each other so we could hear the conversations on our side and vice versa. Definitely not the place for meetings or catch ups but if you want to grab a good quick dinner with old friends, yes.

Overall verdict: 3.5 /5

Yes, if you’re a fan of Vietnamese food like me, go for it! But don’t expect the world. Though the taste is great, I would think it’s on the pricey side and expect service and ambience to be like that of the roadside stalls but interestingly situated in a mall basement. 😉

If you want to visit them, here are  the details:

NamNam Noodle Bar
Website: http://namnamnoodlebar.com.sg/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/namnamnoodlebar?fref=ts

Raffles City
Address: 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-46/47, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103
Contact: +65 63360550
Opening Hours: 8am – 9.30pm (last order)

Wheelock Place
Address: 501 Orchard Road #B2-02, Wheelock Place, Singapore 238880
Contact: +65 67351488
Opening Hours: 8am – 9.30pm (last order)

xx

Ena

Sephora Opens in Suntec City Mall

This is a pretty late entry (I will try to blog more promptly in future), but back in early Sep, 5th of September to be exact, I accompanied a friend with Sephora’s White Card (VIP member card) and went down for Sephora’s new store launch at Suntec City Mall. 🙂

I’ll let the photos do the talking and end off with a review of Sephora’s Suntec City Mall outlet launch event, also named “Beauty Night Out”. If you’ve read a post I wrote previously on “My Business Ideas“, in it I wrote that I’d love to have a beauty (makeup and skincare line) some day, so attending these events are not only great for my current job networking but also research for the future, heh. 🙂

Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 1
Pardon the blurriness, not easy taking a clear shot with one hand. That was a goodie bag (box to be exact) tag for guests to claim at the end of the event. I forgot to take a snap of the box, but I will review a part of the box, to be explained later.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 2 Lancome
Several makeover booths by various brands stocked at Sephora. Each with obvious branding, this being Lancome. Surprisingly, there were not many queuing, I guess most came with made up faces!
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 3 Lady Jayne
I have no idea what brand Lady Jayne is. I will google and share with you my findings. I am proud to say that I am proud of my google skills. Haha. #random

Ahh.. It is a hair accessories and styling brand from Australia. For more about them, check out their website http://www.ladyjayne.com.au/. They have a SG Facebook page here.

Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Benefit Clinique
Makeup booths at a glance, Benefit, Makeupforever and Clinique. And ostensibly bigger crowd here, but what you can’t see from this angle are the Ciate nail booths before the makeup booths.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Ciate Bar
I think these were my favourite part of the entire pampering offers! Ciate is an exquisite nail polish brand with quirky nail ideas like Caviar manicure and chalkboard polishes, for example. As a beauty user, I tend to trust and buy a brand after testing, so this in my opinion is great for guests. However, I was not in the mood that day to actually test them, as I didn’t want to squeeze with the crowd. :/

Because I think you’d appreciate me sharing with you images of Ciate Caviar Manicure and chalkboard polishes, in case you have not seen them before!:

ciate_caviar_manicure_pink
Don’t ask me why they needed to put the tiny balls on the lips when it’s only meant for the nails.
caviar-manicure-11
So pretty isn’t it? 🙂

You can buy it on Amazon here at USD$25. (You’re most welcome.)

ciate-caviar-manicure-set

You can get the white one here and black one here, on Amazon.

Those cute little black ribbons just kills it doesn’t it? Makes these cute little bottles so charming!  I am a sucker for ribbons, totally.

Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Ciate Nails
Nope, those obviously weren’t my hands. But proof that the booth though well equipped with sample / tester bottles, had too little space than demand required.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Fragrance Bar
A nifty frangrance bar offering engraving services for guests who purchase fragrances on that day. I think that’s a pretty neat service and will KIV this thoughtful service for a gift idea someday.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Ice Cream Bar
My second favourite part of the event, ICE CREAM. I die. The ice cream wasn’t perfect, I had mango flavour which was so-so, but any event that has free ice cream immediately scores high on my books. I won’t deny that I have a sweet tooth.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening Nail Bar
Ok, I will admit, I did not quite get this. It says “Get Nailed” but it’s a legit alcohol serving bar! So I was expecting it to be a real nails pampering bar, but I think they meant more like get nailed/drunk. Sorry I am not fancy enough to get it the first time (if that’s what they meant). Haha! Wasn’t in the mood for wine that day (next day Friday still have to get to work) so too bad!
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 11
Sephora invited several local TV and theatre celebs down as well as a what seems like tertiary cheerleading group down for a performance followed by rah-rah entry to the store’s grand launch.
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 12
Sorry again for this being blur, as a result of me being highly amused and equally shy to be walking down the red carpet while flanked by cheerleaders cheering and smiling on like we were runners onwards the last lap towards the finishing line!
Sephora Suntec City Mall Opening 13
And a finally clear shot of the store front. The huge Sephora eye palette like wall/stand is where they stored all the goodie boxes for guest to redeem before leaving.

My thoughts:

The Good

It’s always nice to start off with what was good, or great. I thought the free makeovers and nail booths were very generous indeed. I liked that the venue was spacious while still feeling cosy and the handful of local celebs and another handful of famous/semi-famous (depends on how you look at it, if you know them they’re famous but if you don’t then they are not) bloggers like LadyIronChef and Melody Yap and many more makes one feel good to hobb nobb with an exclusive crowd. I also had my star moment, meeting Oon Shu Ann of Tried and Tested on Clicknetwork.tv and I wanted to take a picture with her but also shy and afraid I’d disturb her. (So unlike me, I know.) I liked the free flow of sweet bites and drinks. And the atmosphere of the event was very appropriate for an opening, understandably very enthusiastic with a host and video crew to engage the crowd’s interest throughout the night’s event. The goodie box, without a comparison, was not bad with several tester size products. I took an Urban Decay pouch and passed my colleagues the rest. I will try to review the tester products! 🙂 The photo-booth was really cute, if not for the fact that I wasn’t dressed for the occasion (I woke up that morning and forgot I had to attend the event) I would most certainly have posed gamely for it.

The Not so sure

I can’t say that I enjoyed the rousing cheer leading performance and the lead into the new store. It felt like it was a civilized version of a Lion Dance that got me very amused. I am not sure what stores usually do for openings, but I do think a local band performance with cute male and female models/talents flanking the grand opening entry will be more palatable for me.

For those of you who don’t know what a Lion Dance is, you may check and watch the above video to acquaint yourself with something quintessentially Asian, and perhaps soon to be dying traditional and cultural form of dance.

The Bad

As a VIP card holder’s invited guest, my friend (the card holder) and I were disappointed that we were given a goodie box, without a bag to bring home while we saw the media folks bring home what seemed like a very generous bag 4 times the size of what we had. As a marketer by day, it is a lesson I will learn for any brand/s I may manage now or in the future. I think VIP guests (and their friends who are likely to convert to VIP guests as well) are a big deal to any brand and they should not have to feel slighted at any event. Perhaps the organizer should take note to separate the guests and media event, so the former won’t have to feel slighted by the latter. Also, please, provide a bag for your guests so they won’t have to go to another store and be offered by the store with their bag. Which is what happened, my friend went to Royce to get chocolates and the nice store lady offered us their paper bags.

Additional Thoughts

I generally like Sephora’s clean and sleek image with a black and white colour theme so that all the pretty beauty and skincare products will stand out against their simple scheme. However at times, it can be intimidating when the space is empty (i.e. no one is around) and I will tend to want to exit as fast as I can as I don’t feel comfortable just browsing casually. I also understand that it’s Sephora’s branding policy to keep their brand element consistent, but I can’t help but feel, am I the only one that gets bored of brands that look the same every where? I much prefer H&M’s concept, to jazz things up a little with each venue, so no two shops look identical. What do you think? 🙂

Visit them at Sephora’s Suntec City Mall Address

3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-314/315/316 Suntec City Mall S038983
Opening Hours Daily: 10:00 – 22:00

You may like to visit Sephora website, FB page and their Tweets.

More about Sephora, from Insing:
With more than 750 stores worldwide, Sephora is a chain beauty product store that carries over 250 brands of items including makeup, fragrance, hair products, skin products and more. They also carry their own private label lines that feature beauty tools, travel kits, bath products, make up and much more.

This is not a Sponsored Review.

If you’re from Sephora or a beauty brand and would like to invite me to your upcoming beauty event, simply drop me your invite at enabalista@gmail.com. I look forward to your invite! 🙂

xx Ena

#Ootd Casual Purple |EDD

Taking part in Kukolina’s Saturday outfit posts so here’s mine for today!

Wearing a loose causal purple top from Shana, denim shorts and purple beaded necklace from Diva accessories. Coloured leopard Shades from Primark.

thanks to my sister for taking the pic for me and this is me before going out .. Sans makeup as I usually don’t wear makeup on weekends! 🙂

20130928-164632.jpg

Taking part in this photo blogging is a lot of fun!

Let me know if you want to join us too!^^

I am adding these links from Eszter of Kukolina’s blog,:

Eszter’s entry: http://kukolina.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-week-3-show-that-titi-outfit-of-the-day/comment-page-1/#comment-746
B from http://fantasyholidays.wordpress.com/
Tams from http://nakedbeautyblog.com/?p=1255
Casey from http://veggiesandglitter.com/
Tisha from http://dailyeasyrecipes.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-week-3-eating/
Vilma from  http://freebutfun.wordpress.com/2013/09/27/challenge-food-and-outfit/
Áse from  http://aspoonfulofstyle.co.uk/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-ootd-and-eating/
Fanni from  http://theblackberryboys.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-week-3-eating/
Grace from http://czechtheflip.com/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-eating/#comment-3691
Ena from  http://enabalista.com/2013/09/28/ootd-casual-purple-edd/
Beth from http://byrnesbeth.wordpress.com/
Sarah from http://journey2dfuture.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/weekend-photo-challenge-week-3-eating/

😀

Ena’s Outfit | Oasap Classic Embroidered Dress

{ Sponsored Post }

Hi guys!  。(⌒∇⌒。)

This week I got my dress which I ordered from Oasap, a very lovely contrast collar and embroidered dress!

So I wore it to work…

Here’s my makeup look of the day aka #lotd:

Ena Teo Makeup LOTDI matched my eyeshadow colour with the dress, with blue and black at the winged tip portion with black eye liner. It’s my current eye makeup style, a mix of eyeshadow and eyeliner that wings outwards. 🙂 Applied a generous amount of blusher that I promise does not look that much in real life. And pink lipsticks. Just happened that today all make up mentioned are Estee Lauder except eyeliner is Maybelline’s Impact Express Eyeliner, which is my favourite of all, my holy grail make up item. Still have not finished all the Estee Lauder products I got from last year! No idea how some girls keep buying when I can never finish mine, lol. Not that I am complaining. the only beauty products I can finish are eyeliner, make up remover and skin care products like sunblock. 🙂 I also have on Estee Lauder brow pencil in dark brown, though you can’t really tell since my fringe is covering my brows.

More pics!:

Ena Teo Oasap Contrast Collar Embriodered Dress 1

Taken during lunch time! Just right outside my office building, which explains why it looks SO bright here cause it was! 😛 Matched it with my Charles & Keith heels which are my new favourite shoes! 😀 They go with almost everything and are the most comfy heels I have. <3 <3 <3 Also seen, carrying my Kenzo green pouch from the SS13 Tiger Collection. I don’t think I’ve posted a pic on that before.. But the season’s already over. Lol.

Pinterest Ena Teo Oasap Contrast Collar Embriodered Dress 1

Ena Teo Oasap Contrast Collar Embriodered Dress 3A close up of the embroidered detailing on the dress. It has a great finish, no frill ends! Accessorized with my star & wing ring and black strap watch from Fossil Relic.

My review: 

Design & Quality: 4.5/5 I picked this dress because it’s simple, classic and I just love the touch of gold and baroque leaves design! It’s a dress that’s great for work, formal lunch and dinners and even dates! 🙂 I am super glad to report that the quality is great! It has an inner soft lining so the dress is comfortable on the skin. Finishing is flawless. Fit is great. In fact when I wore it to office, two of my colleagues commented on it, saying it was nice. 🙂 Only downside is that the material though perfect for air-con office, it isn’t suitable for Singapore on super hot sunny days, so don’t wear this for a day out, lol. But will be great for rainy weather!

Price: 4/5 At original price US$39.90, I think it could be cheaper(no need for them to pay rental and it was a light package to deliver), since it’s an online purchase, and the folks at Oasap must have read my mind because they are now offering this beautiful dress at… US$33.92! 🙂

Shipping: 2.5/5 I thought the shipping took rather long. I ordered on 2 September but only received it this Monday, 16 September after two whole weeks. However the upside is that it came in mint condition, in fact wrapped in 3 plastic layers which made me wonder if it was necessary, I feel bad for all this packaging waste. But I’m not complaining.

If you like the dress, you can buy it >> here.

Or check out their: new arrivals, bestsellers or sale up to 70% off!

Other items I love!

Screen shot 2013-09-19 at AM 01.30.39

This über cute rabbit print cardigan. U.P US$39.90, now selling at US$27.93 here.

Screen shot 2013-09-19 at AM 01.32.07

Puppy love bag aka Cute Dog Head Shape Shoulder bag, $52 here.

Alrighty, that’s all for now~

xx

3 things no one told you before graduation

graduation

I’ve penned several notes about work post graduation but just have not gotten down to compiling them into a sensible post on the blog until now. I’m wary about posting things too personal on the internet in general, lest I look back in the future and cringe at my past self. A bigger reason is of course I worry, tho I’d like to think them as unfounded, about people reading what I write and judging me for it. Which leads me to digress – why am I, or I believe why are we humans so fearful for others’ judgement on us? It isn’t to say that others’ opinions of us will make us more or less of whom we already are, if that makes sense to you.

So anyway, lengthy introduction aside, if I have not already bored you away, here goes my list of 3 things no one told you before graduation:

1. Be certain of uncertainty.

You know how in school we always have that next thing to look forward to? The next semester, the next exam, the next academic year, the next grade, etc.

But when you come to the working world you’ll find that things aren’t as clear cut. There isn’t (for most people or for me at least) a certain bar that you need to meet and pass before you rise up and go on to the next stage or level. Sure, some routes are tried and tested, perhaps you have a manager above you and you have an idea of how long you’ve got to work before you’ll rise to his level. But in the world of business (yes, so if you belong to the public sector this might not be that relevant to you), there is no guarantee. In worse case scenarios the company might go down but in the best case scenarios you might be promoted and be placed in higher position/s that comes with responsibilities perhaps more than you can manage.

2.  If you have a choice with whom you can work with, then pick people you’re comfortable with. 

Some of you reading this might go, “Jia En/Ena, isn’t that a “duh/ needless to state opinion” ? Yes, to many it’s common sense, but sometimes in the hustle and bustle and the thick of working life, we forget things. We think that just cause we have goals to meet and benefits to gain from another party, we simply have to suck it up and work with people are simply plain bad. That’s not true.

To elaborate, I’d like to humbly suggest for you to choose to work with accountable and responsible people. If you’re the person in charge, then you’d better be accountable and responsible. Choose to work with people you like and likes you back. I can’t emphasize enough how this mutual good feeling of the other party contributes to the success of a project.

3. Chances are, you’re the only one who feels for your dreams and ambitions and the only one responsible to make them come true.

Yes, keeping in line with the idealistic self in me, and thankfully still am at the young but not so tender age of 23, I still believe in having dreams and ambitions and making them come true.

It’s true. When you’re working for someone else, you’re working and helping them make their dreams come true. Unless your dream is to see the team and company succeed, then it becomes your dream as well.

But what about your dreams and ambitions? The truth is, no one else but you will be responsible for making them come true. If you don’t work on making your dreams come true, chances are, no one else will.

I’ve had a wake up call just recently, on one of the past day this week. I love what I’m doing now but being realistic and wanting to get on faster in the professional life is pointing me to another direction in life that I’ve previously turned down. Anthony Robbins once said, “If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve gotten.” And thus, to get what you don’t have, you’ll have to do what you’ve never done. And that my friends, is my wake up call. I want so many things in life, and I know that I have the capability to do so, but I need to take that big step and do it.

Cheers, to life, to knowledge and taking action!

xo

Etude House Pink Play Party

Hello!

If you’ve followed me on my instagram @ena_teo, you’ve seen on last Monday night that I posted about my excitement about attending Etude House Pink Play Party the next day:

SHINee & Sulli
Etude House Pink Play Party Official Poster

I’ll post some photos and videos taken during the event followed about my thoughts and review! 🙂

Etude House Pink Play Party Registration Booth
Registration booth for Media, yeah baby
Etude House Pink Play Party
Just one of the many many group of teenage girls!
It’s the 4th Pink Play Party by Etude House & the first in Singapore! Gotta love the cute Merlion graphic.
Etude House Pink Play Party Singapore
Pink Goodies & my pink heels! 😛

The collagen water tastes like Dolphin (brand) water and the popcorn had a pink powder coat…
I brought a pair of flats to change out from my heels! 🙂

Outfit of the day
My #Ootd, My new GoJane glitter champagne dress & heels w pink & glitter coated nails. ^^
Pink Nail Art
Close up of my pink nails
Pink Heels
My pink heels, love the ruffle detail by the side!
Etude House Pink Play Party
Goodie bag with popcorn, water, fake/toy mirror, card holder, bb cream samples, wristband & SHINee badges!
Etude House SHINee Badges
I’ve got an extra set of SHINee Badges… anybody wants em?

Venue & Pre-party

The venue was held at the spacious MBS convention hall and there was ample space to go around, so thankfully despite hundreds of fan girls, we didn’t have to feel overwhelmed. The idea was, the concert starts at 7pm proper, but at 5pm, the doors are opened for everyone to try out all the makeup and game stations before you collect all the stamps to enter the stage arena, to save your space for the concert. Needless to say, all the girls rushed to complete and be the earliest in order to get the front row spaces and hence closer to their idols. Station wise, I was quite impressed with the station decor and placement as it was very well done and had girly, theme park vibe to the entire place, much like entering an Etude House theme park. I also think the idea of making them complete the stations in a fun way was a pretty smart way of making them interact with the brand instead of just mindlessly waiting for the concert.

Not so good thing: To get a ticket, one needs to buy $100 worth of Etude House items, technically $20 for one item to get a ticket, collect 5 different tickets to get a chance to be the 1st 400 participants to score invite to the Pink Play Party. Yes, it’s that insane. And that’s how dedicated Kpop / SHINee fan girls are. In a way, you could say the girls paid at least $100 to watch the boy group perform, and Etude House threw in products to boot. But it’s a lot of effort on the girls part in order to get 5 different tickets to then exchange for 1 chance. What if they didn’t make it to the first 400?

Pre-concert & Concert 

The doors opened at 5pm, my colleague & fellow Kpop lover Carissa and I reached at about 6. But since we had the Media invite, we didn’t have to go around to the stations to collect stamps before we could be admitted into the stage area to save our space for the concert. The event only started proper at 7.30 and the SHINee boys probably only came out at about 7.45pm. So that was approximately a total of 1 hr & 45 minutes of painful waiting which was necessary in order for us to get front row (technically we were standing behind one row of girls, but close enough!). I had to give it up for Kevin Lao Shi’s enthusiastic american accented English and his pretty and demure Kim Tae Hee lookalike model to make the 7 minutes make over pre-concert/obligatory Etude House marketing plug-in that much more bearable.

As for the concert, that was the real highlight! I highly doubt any girl bought tickets for the show to try on Etude House Make Up or check out Etude House theme park venue… It’s definitely for the boys!!! 😛 For me, I was definitely satisfied(x200%) to have seen the SHINee boys perform LIVE, about a mere 2metres away from me. 😀 Unfortunately my dearest Min Ho was not able to make it! 🙁 Nonetheless I was still extremely stoked to have met Tae Min & Key. Of the 4 present, Key was the only if not the most engaging member who took more effort to reach out to audience by like waving and smiling and acknowledging the fans. <3

I wasn’t very sure if they would be able to perform as they do on Music Bank, but they sure did, and 4 times over! I didn’t expect anything less than them decked out in pink pastels to suit the Etude House vibe, but if you had expected them to appear in their cool chic image, you’d definitely be disappointed. Over all, they are really good looking, personally I feel that Tae Min looks the prettiest, followed by Onew, who looked better in real life then Key then Joon Hyun. Maybe it’s personal preference because Jong Hyun had a lot of fans in the crowd too!

This event was definitely enjoyable for me, as I got to see Tae Min and Key whom I watch on We Got Married (WGM), in person. They were definitely every bit good looking as they are on screen, duh. They are also really really skinny. I wonder how they have so much energy with so little body mass.  >_< I also had a lot of fun experiencing the event and marvel at how Etude House, with their mission to make every girl a princess, integrate their user base’s passion for music and idols to be influencers for their brand across social media platforms (just like this article!). Pretty amazing and splendid job I must say! 🙂

For more photos check them out on Clozette.co >> here!

xo

Why a girl shops and how to RESIST the temptation!

Little girl with shopping bags
Ohhhh yes, THAT face of satisfaction and embarrasement in one when damage’s done. Source: ColourBox.com

I’ve been on a little shopping spree…

Bought items (3 dresses & 4 pairs of shoes to be exact) from GoJane.com on Tuesday night and I bought a pair of strapped wedges from Charles and Keith and was tempted to also get a Fendi inspired red bag in the window…

Why do we like to shop so much? 

Let me list the reasons why.

Girls will never have enough of:

1. Lipstick colours. See my previous post on sampling Etude House lip colours and how I want them all, seriously.

2. Shoes of different types like flat, heels, wedges, running shoes, etc.

3. Bags of different types and colours like bucket bag in country plaid, red, black or tab work /office bag, pink or other favorite colour day/ date bag, hand purse or clutch for dinners or formal events. (Read: it can be both a boon or a bane to be a girl)

So the eternal question: how do we RESIST the temptation???

1. Decide on the chosen item and budget you have to buy.

2. When you are out and you are shopping keep to your budget. Don’t waver.

3. When you waver, decide you MAY get it ANOTHER DAY. So you leave the shop, and go back another time. If it’s gone the next time you’re there, then it’s just not meant to be, besides you didn’t plan to buy it anyways! But if you go back the next time, it’ll be planned. 😀

As for Online shopping….

1. Put your Credit Card far far far away. Ask your mum to safe keep it from you when you are browsing online and

2. When you want to buy the items, review them with your mum or sister or best friend and ask for honest opinion if it is 1. really necessary 2. within your budget 3. not a replicate of what you already have.

Any other effective tips you have that I have missed out? 🙂

xo

P.S. Here are the sale items I got from GoJane. 😀
My colleague says the quality isn’t great, the shoes will last a year, tops. But at those prices USD$10+ per pair, I don’t need them to last that long either! HA.
Can’t wait to have them shipped over, will do a haul post, or maybe even a video then!

gojane_2273_883067269

gojane_2276_635038165
gojane_2273_583278943
gojane_2273_1621867388

gojane_2276_1007114180

gojane_2272_408377755 gojane_2272_3571364037

 

Some really great quotes here. Been thinking and emoting a lot lately. One of the decisions I’ve made is that I’m probably gonna be too busy to be writing fashion posts & reviewing beauty products here now that I’ve got a full time job. But thoughts, I’ve got abundant of them and writing, even if for 5 minutes a day, is surely something I can afford.
To add my quotes to the ones above:

We’ve only one life, if we don’t live it how we will, when will we ever do?

I’ve decided I’ll choose to live life the way I want to because it’s impossible to please everyone.

 

And with that, my dear readers, welcome to a new era on Enabalista – my life, my thoughts.

xo

Lunch at Oca Grassa

Recently my colleagues and I visited an Italian casual fine dining restaurant, Oca Grassa for lunch.

They were featured on TimeOut Singapore online, here.

Oca Grassa means “fat goose” in Italian and it signifies prosperity and the good life. 🙂

From our experience at Oca Grassa, I most certainly agree that the restaurant lives up to its name!

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The cute namecard with a lightly embossed goose with 3 golden eggs. ^^

2013-07-23 12.30.32The restaurant has a lovely lobby / entrance with a beautiful painting. 
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My #ootd, a black dress with pink floral prints and blue wedges.

I matched my earrings with the dress, but you can’t see it here, haha.

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Oca Grassa has an open kitchen concept where you can watch the chefs in action. Here’s our starters of bread with meat slices and vinaigrette.

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For salads, we had seafood with avocado. I love avocado and the squid was grilled to perfection! It was akin to savouring the bounty of the sea in a mouthful. 🙂2013-07-23 13.05.09

Next up we had a seafood fritter platter of prawns and squid. 2013-07-23 13.11.14

Then we had a tomato based seafood pasta. I felt that the pasta was a tad overcooked, could have been better.

For the last main… We were in for a surprise! 2013-07-23 13.37.29

Look at my colleagues shocked expressions! 😛

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And all of us eager to Instagram the chef’s recommendation, the florentine steak served on himalayan salt. 😛2013-07-23 13.41.19

I had never tasted steak so good. It was served medium rare, I had a few cuts, one served more cooked and another in medium rare which tasted better because it was tasty and chewy.

2013-07-23 14.14.00

Lastly, we ended off our meal with desserts, Tiramisu with gula melaka and Panna Cotta with a guava base and topped off with pomegranate flavoured ice. I can’t decide which I prefer more!

Located at 6 Bukit Pasoh which is near Duxton, the restaurant is nestled among shop houses which provides a nice background for a stroll after dinner in the evening. 🙂 The budget per person is about $100, without drinks. For wine, add another $50. If you’re planning for a date, you can request for a smaller Florentine steak for two.

I would most definitely be back again for the seafood salad, steak and desserts!

If you’d like to visit, here’s the details:

Oca Grassa

6 Bukit Pasoh Road

Tel: 6534 9854

Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm (Lunch)
Mon – Sat: 6pm – 10.30pm (Dinner)

Till the next post,

<3

Ena

Happy 48th National Day Singapore! :)

Happy 48th Birthday SingaporeToday is my country’s 48th birthday, also known as our National Day!

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all my countrymen and women a blessed National Day and that we will contribute to our beloved Nation’s continued success, peace and security through the ages!

Go… Singapore! 🙂

That’s not all, here are an outfits I’ve specially picked out for this occasion. 😉

t_589791

Solid Tweed Long Sleeve Cropped Flyaway Jacket by MICHAEL Mi. Buy here.

Neoprene Lampshade Dress by MSGM

Neoprene Lampshade Dress by MSGM. Buy here.

Selma Large TZ Monochrome Satchel by Michael by Michael Kors

Selma Large TZ Monochrome Satchel by Michael by Michael Kors. Buy here.

For a short period of time, my-wardrobe.com is having free shipping!

Free Global shipping and returns – enter code GLOBALSHIP

*Expires 18/08/2013. Free Shipping and returns applies to standard shipping only on full price items. my-wardrobe.com reserves the right to change this promotion. See my-wardrobe for full terms and conditions.

Isn’t that awesome? 🙂

Stay beautiful,

<3

Ena

 

 

New York Skincare Solutions Update

New York Skin Solutions

My previous review post on New York Skincare Solutions is really popular, and many readers have approached me either through the comments or email asking me about my treatments and experience with NYSS.

So I thought I’d compile my answers to the various questions which I’ve been asked and post them here.

If it’s the first time you’re here on my blog, you might want to check out my previous post here. Also as a background to this post, you might like to know that I signed up for NYSS package back in 2011. I have completed my treatment package of 20 sessions with NYSS since February 2013 and have not signed up with them since. The last time I had a facial was for my review for Glomax Aesthetics in June. At the moment I have not signed with any facial salons.

Also as with the previous post, I am not paid to provide this update on my blog. I also do not endorse NYSS. I do think they have helped to improve my skin condition, but I do not take responsibility for your experience with them, should you decide to sign with them. 🙂

Alright, enough with the introduction, let’s get the Q&A going! 🙂

1. How much is the price range for the 20 sessions?

I paid $2,200 for 20 sessions, 10 youth + eye treatment and 10 normal facial sessions. Back then I had face and back acne so I had the choice to use the “facial” for a “bac-ial” which was what I did for about 5 normal sessions.

I am fully aware that the package is very expensive for a student. And that is the reason why I am hesitant to state the price on my blog. But it is, in my humble opinion, a worthy investment because I am now so much more confident in person and on camera. It came to a point for me where I was sick of being troubled by problematic skin and I decided that facial was the best solution for me because it is a non invasive treatment and does not require me to take pills.

Additionally I want to repeat that facial did help but also with other factors like eating healthy avoid oily food, take Evening Primrose oil, and drinking more water.

2. Is the price inclusive of all the creams/facial products etc? If not inclusive, how much is the additional cost?

No, it is not inclusive. The creams and facial products differ from type to type. I have been sold their cleanser, toner but I only purchased their anti-bacterial powder which I applied on my face and back acne. It’s a small container about 30ml in size and cost $30. I think i paid $10 because I used $20 voucher to redeem it. Back then, I would get $10 voucher whenever I made an appointment before 5pm. Not sure if this is still applicable today.

3. Is the treatment addictive (meaning if you don’t go for treatments, will your skin problems return within say a few months)?

I wouldn’t say that the treatment is addictive. In fact the treatments did help me regain the balance required for my skin and my face and back is no longer as oily as before! In fact towards the end of the package, I only went back for treatments about 2-4 months interval.

4. Do they use many electrical treatments / chemicals?

I am not sure if they use electrical treatments, but from what I know, my facial did not include any electrical treatment. As for chemicals, I am sure they do, as do all the skin care products I purchase. But if you mean to ask if they are safe or not, I do think they are safe based on my personal experience.

5. I signed up for 20 sessions Youth treatment packages and 20 Ampules.. I tried to talk to my beautician on the possibility of selling this package to another customer, but she doesn’t respond well.. But from your blog, it seems that your beautician is nice.. I am wondering, do you think you will need more session of the treatment? 

I am sorry to hear about experiences such as yours, but I do not need more sessions and hope you can find someone else who will.

6. When did you start to see the results, after how many sessions?

I can’t remember after how many sessions but I think it is 4 sessions and I didn’t apply foundation and now I also don’t so it helped as foundation tend to clog pores.

7. What is the procedure like when you go for facial at NYSS?

First I went for a free facial (as seen on Newspaper advertisement) and it included a skin analysis. I decided to go for $2200 for 20 sessions. You can try to negotiate the price lower, but the package might change according to your budget…

On normal days, I have to book at least 2 weeks before hand, then go down at the appointed time, go into the room, change and wait for my facial. Post facial, some paperwork then that’s about its. 1hour 30 min in total for each session.

That is all for my update on NYSS, hope it sheds some light or answers the queries you may have!

Be Beautiful, Inside & Out!

<3,

Ena