Sep 23, 2013

Hello plushionistas, it's been a while!

When out shopping recently, I noticed the wave of prints overtaking retail outlets - from loud, colourful geometric prints to aztec-inspired prints to subdued hues, from dresses to maxi skirts and even leggings!

Thus, I present to you my Plus Size Fashion Wishlist + some styling tips cultivated from hours of online browsing.

1. Colour Me Up



For plus sizers, prints can something of a hit and miss. Some even forbid horizontal prints for fear of the 'plus size myth' which can make our bodies appear larger. But I'll say: Take a chance - you might find some ferocious prints that flatter.

If you're curvy, go for bodycon dresses that hug your curves. Another good way to hide bulges and emphasize shape is with a top-fitted dress that flows down from the waist onwards.

Styling tip: Since the prints are loud - skip the accessories and go for a simple nude or black pump. To cover up sleeveless versions, throw on a simple black blazer and you're good to go.

Left: A Line Crinkle Maxi Dress from Roamans
Right: Junarose Printed 3/4 Sleeve Midi Bodycon Dress from Asos Curve

2. Sashay Skirts



Or if you're slightly intimidated by a printed dress, try going for skirts instead. I love these flowy, beachy skirts that ooze simplicity and style.

Banish frumpiness by tucking in your top and throwing on a belt, ensuring that the skirt sits higher on the waist for proportion. If the wider part of the skirt lands too low on your hip, it might make your hips seem larger.

Styling tip: Pair these funky skirts with a non-descript top, simple necklace and gladiator flats for that laid-back Bohemian look!


 3. Black & White



Be the star of a Charlie Chaplin movie with these classic black & white printed dresses. Perfect for any occasion - be it work, school, a date or even cocktail party!

Styling tip: Balance black and white with neutral tones such as a tan belt, simple bracelet and comfy wedges.

Left: Skater Dress in Bird Print from Asos Curve
Right: Monotone Shift Dress from Trendy Confessions

4. Colour Blocking



Inject some colour into your wardrobe with these simple colour-blocking pieces. I love how these dresses subtly add elegance and flair without going all out.

Styling Tip: Let the colours be the hero. For bodycon dresses, pair with leggings and boots on a chilly day, or show off those legs with a neutral strappy heel.

Left: Colourblock Tunic from Roamans
Right: Junarose Graphic Stripe Print Midi from Asos Curve


5. Printed Kicks



Right: Jersey Leggings from H&M


Leggings are a must-have in any wardrobe. Versatile and fashionable, you can dress these up or down for almost any occasion!

For curvy fashionistas with a heavy bottom, try wearing a longer top to balance your figure. Ensure that the top ends just below your derriere (mid-thigh) and not below the knees, as it may make you appear shorter.

Styling tip: General rule of thumb for loud leggings - keep the top simple to avoid overcrowding. Black, white, grey or neutral works best with colourful leggings.



Well, I hope you enjoyed reading and happy printing!
Till next time, stay fabulous! xx

Sep 1, 2013

Aloha! How have you been? I've been loving the cool tropical weather in Malaysia recently, but my skin - not so much.

As mentioned in previous posts, I have the dreaded curse of sensitive, dry combination skin, which means parts of my face (forehead, cheeks and chin) can get dry and flaky while other parts (nose area) remains relatively normal. It's been a struggle finding the best skincare products - I've tried countless moisturizers - some of which stung horribly and left a patchy redness, and others were simply absorbed by my skin in seconds.


Check out the dry skin around my forehead and laugh lines - even after slathering on moisturizer!

I guess what I truly needed was a cream/oil-based moisturizer but at the same time I didn't want to end up looking like a greasy mess.

Alas, the condition got worse about a month ago, probably due to round-the-clock air conditioning, a poor diet, stress and what not. I went on a desperate moisturizer hunting spree in KL and as per my colleague's advice, finally decided on the new Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion +.


This 50ml bottle costs RM68 from Sephora, however considering I'd only need to apply a small dab per usage, it is relatively budget-friendly. On websites and reviews, the texture is often described as silky - and on my dry skin I would agree that it feels smooth and silky - not at all thick or greasy. Then again, it's built for Very Dry to Dry Skin, and if you have Normal/Oily skin, you might find it a tad greasy for your liking. 

I also love the subtle scent, not too overpowering for daily use. After applying this lotion for two weeks, I noticed a drastic change in the texture of my skin. The flakes are gone, and the redness has decreased significantly.


 Look! No more flakes!


Another product that has become a staple in my skincare regime is the Mizon Multifunctional All-In-One Snail Repair Cream. I first came across this cream while browsing on Qoo10. Apparently it's the No. 1 Best Selling snail cream in Korea with 92% snail secretion.

If you're hearing about snails and skin care for the first time, don't be alarmed. I know it sounds disgusting at first - that was my exact reaction - but it turns out snail slime is proven to have miraculous skin benefits for healing and repair. The cream also claims to help skin recover, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, trouble spots, pores, provide hydration and soothe skin.

Say no more - I was immediately enticed by the cream (plus it was on offer at RM54.60 excluding shipping!) and placed an order via Qoo10. The cream finally arrived 3 weeks later via Korea Air Mail.






















The flakes & redness - GONE!


The website describes the texture as 'chewy' and 'elastic', which is quite true! It glides on the skin smoothly and is absorbed in seconds, but does not leave skin feeling taut or tight. I love the fact that it also leaves a healthy after-glow and radiance which lasts for a few hours.

I typically use this right out of the shower, followed by the Clinique lotion to seal in moisture. Definitely my best skincare combination thus far! 























For days when I crave something refreshing and cooling - I apply some Bioglo Skin Perfecting Moisturiser with Pure Aloe (Price: approx RM25+ from Cosway). It doesn't do much in terms of moisture, but it definitely soothes the skin and smells absolutely heavenly.


For toner, I use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising Lotion (Price: approx RM35++) - which doesn't need much introduction for it's hydrating properties.


And as for cleanser, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser does wonders for my sensitive skin. No more tight, 'squeaky clean' skin! It retails for about RM25+ at local drugstores :)


Before I end, here are some skincare tips for dry skin:

  1. Avoid scrubbing your face with a towel. Use gentle dabbing motions and seal in moisture immediately after showering.
  2. Avoid using hot water when cleansing - it strips skin of natural oils. Lukewarm or cold water works best!
  3. Mask up - take three tablespoons of instant oats, soak in half a cup of water and drain. Add honey, mix well and you've got a soothing homemade mask! Leave on for 15-30 minutes and rinse off.
  4. Less is more - Lathering on too many heavy creams may clog pores. Try applying a dab of Vitamin E oil followed by a lightweight moisturizer instead.
What are some of your skincare tips? Share with me!


Well, that's all for today's post! Thanks a million for reading - and I hope this post was helpful in some way for you! Till next time, stay beautiful! :)

Sharethis

 
© 2012. Design by Main-Blogger - Blogger Template and Blogging Stuff