I’ve been shopping at Althea Korea since January 2016 and I am always a happy customer each time I receive my pretty box of purchases. Althea is my go-to website when I want to replenish or try new Korean beauty products. It gives me peace of mind knowing I am buying guaranteed authentic items from a reliable source.

Thus, I am very glad to find out that Althea is launching its own product range starting with the Petal Velvet Powder. The pretty pink packaging contains a translucent powder that you can use to set your makeup, leaving behind a silky finish. 

Since the powder is infused with oil from Althea seeds, sebum production is kept at bay without drying out the skin. The result is a radiant, fresh look! Plus, I love its gentle flowery scent and the fact that it’s made using natural and cruelty-free ingredients.

If you are looking for a lightweight setting powder that will keep your makeup looking great all day, try Althea’s Petal Velvet Powder. It is compact enough to carry, even if you have a small bag, and bring along wherever you go so you can dust some on and stay shine-free.

This Petal Velvet Powder weighs only 3g and can be used by all skin types. Simply use a brush or the provided puff and gently sweep onto your skin. If you’re not prone to sneezing, you may also want to inhale the nice scent to instantly boost your mood :)

Inspired by Korean Althea petals, I love how this powder is described “like a flower’s gentle petals dancing on the skin.” The price? It’s Php 210 and is available via http://ph.althea.kr/petal-velvet-powder. Avail of free shipping when you buy items worth Php999 and up.  

Stay confident and beautiful, ladies! 💕

Anybody who's into music would definitely know who Justin Bieber is. We've seen him grow from a very young talented teen into the famous celebrity he is today. With millions of adoring fans always on the lookout for new songs, concerts, and Bieber merchandise, it's a given that anything related to Justin would catch a lot of peoples' attention.

This June, global Filipino fashion brand, Oxygen, launches a collection of licensed merchandise in partnership with Bravado and MCAA Universal featuring cool graphic tees, pullovers, bomber jackets, caps, and hoodies that take heavy inspiration from the pop star himself and his hit album, Purpose. 

"As a brand that is inspired by both streetwear and music, we believe that Justin Bieber would be the perfect partner for this collaboration as he is globally known for his music and his fondness for streetwear," shares Oxygen Brand Director Jeff Bascon. "And he constantly reinvents himself, just like how Oxygen continues to evolve in fashion to keep up with the youth's edgy but relaxed style."

So, have you gotten curious how pieces in the Oxygen x Bieber Collection look like? Here are a few you should definitely check out:

Bomber jackets are the MVPs when it comes to timeless street-style hacks and the Oxygen x Bieber nylon jacket in jet black brings back the classic cool aesthetic while sporting a set list of JB's Purpose hits. Wear this with sweatpants and a comfy pair of sneakers for some legit swagger vibes.

Tees, which are casual staples for both certified Beliebers and those who just love hanging out with the squad, best paired with a cap, ripped denim, or skinny jeans from the collection can surely help you rock the effortlessly cool look.

The collectible hoodie, featuring songs from JB's album, will let you hit the streets with the relaxed style of a true-blue New Yorker while the pullover can be paired with light chinos for a chill look that has a touch of edginess to it.

Whatever pieces you choose, you'll definitely find a street style look that will fit you. After all, Oxygen always comes up with something for everyone! For updates on the Oxygen x Bieber collection, visit oxygenfashion.com, Like Oxygen Clothing on Facebook, or Follow @oxygenclothing on Instagram and Twitter.

I love FAVORI scents! They are so varied and allow me to "create my favorite feeling" depending on my mood using our leaf aerator at home. But, I have to admit that with more than 30 scents to choose from, selecting specific aromas can sometimes be a bit overwhelming :) 

So I am glad that FAVORI grouped the scents into four collections to simplify the search for the perfect aroma using feelings we can easily relate to: Refreshing, Relaxing, Upbeat, and Sexy. By doing so, the brand has definitely made it easier for everyone to "Create Your Favorite Feeling."

Model/host/actress Angel Aquino shares her thoughts on each new grouping:

Refreshing Collection - "Sometimes a packed taping schedule drains all my energy," admits Angel. "The cooling scent of the Winter Mint Aroma Oil in my Aerator Device is just what I need to recharge and feel refreshed, so I can spend some after-work quality time with my daughters." Like her, you can freshen up with the cheerful citrus aromas and crisp herbal notes of this group of scents that includes: Lemon, Lemon Grass, Pink Grapefruit, Rain Dance, The Vert (Green Tea), Verveine Fleur (Verbena), and Winter Mint. 

Relaxing Collection - According to Angel, lavender is her all-time favorite Relaxing scent. "I use FAVORI's Lavender Aroma Oil on my Aerator and their Sleep and Relaxation Salve on my temples to melt away all the day's stress and prep for a restful sleep." You, too, can find a unique scent that can help you feel less stressed, unwind, and relax any time of the day. Choose from Citronella, Jasmine, Lavender, Magnolia Bloom, Olive Branch, Peppermint, Sea Breeze, Vanilla, and Coco Vanilla.

Upbeat Collection - Need an extra spring in your step? Among FAVORI's Upbeat Collection of scents, Angel says, "The Cinnamon Spice Aroma Oil never fails to brighten up my mood." So, for a quick pick-me-up, check out any of these invigorating, happy aromas: Apple Verde, Cinnamon Spice, Coffee Caramel, Eucalyptus, Fresh Cut Grass, Merry Berry, Sunkissed Citrus, Tropical Blast, and Mango Mandarin.

Sexy Collection - "Scent is a big part of feeling sexy. FAVORI's Premium Reed Diffuser in Cranberry Wine, in its elegant bottle and full, fruity fragrance helps set that sensual mood, even when I'm just lounging at home." So, yes, sexy is a feeling and you can discover alluring scents with FAVORI's sweet yet sensual aromas that come in Cherry Blossom, Cranberry Wine, Ginger Flower, Berry Kiss, Choco Almond, and the new Bouquet Floral.

FAVORI is a handcrafted home fragrances brand that dreams to provide the local market with quality and long-lasting ambient scents for the soul suited for various living spaces at affordable prices. It offers topnotch aromatic products designed to uplift the ambience and improve people's moods. 

Enjoy FAVORI at home, at work, or at any living space. Aside from the soothing Aroma Oils, Reed Diffusers, Soy Aroma Candles, and Aroma Pouches, make sure to also discover FAVORI's Wellness line that offers Air Sprays, Salves, and Massage Oils that are geared to improve a person's mindset and create a positive feeling towards wellbeing. 

Purchase FAVORI items at their stores in Robinson's Place Manila, SM Megamall, SM City Marikina, SM Southmall, and Market! Market!

  

I love christenings! Whether it's a baby being welcomed to the Christian world or a store opening celebration, there's always something joyful about the thought of new beginnings and achieving brand new milestones.

Thus, I consider it a privilege to have witnessed the launch of the first Puregold livery aircraft that was welcomed at Clark International Airport yesterday with an awesome water cannon salute ceremony. The Philippine retailer has definitely gone full swing by taking its retail marketing from the ground to the skies in partnership with AirAsia.

The launch featured the first of two plane liveries with Puregold's official name and logo prominently displayed on both sides of the body of an Airbus A320 aircraft. According to Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co, the day heralded a perfect opportunity to expand their brand's reach like all things that they have been doing since the retail chain started in 1998 up to its Initial Public Offering in 2011. He affirmed, "Our partnership with AirAsia, a globally recognized brand, is anchored on a shared commitment to deliver value and the best quality service."

Philippines AirAsia CEO Captain Dexter Comendador likewise acknowledged how honored they are to be carrying "a homegrown retail brand on the ground and in the skies, extending as far as the whole of ASEAN region to China, Korea, and into the AirAsia Group's massive network of over 120 destinations."

"We are a sociable and innovative brand. We also take pride of our collaborative nature and this new livery demonstrates AirAsia's creative approach to partnerships and marketing opportunities especially with companies that support and promote the Filipino brand of excellent service," described Captain Comendador.

He further added that Puregold espouses the same culture that AirAsia has. "They take care of the their employees like we do." As to the partnership, he confirmed that flights of the two aircraft with Puregold livery will be used for both local and international flights.

Apart from Mr. Co and Captain Comendador, the unveiling ceremonies were also graced by Clark International Airport Corporation President Alexander Cauguiran and Philippines AirAsia Head of Ancillary Business Karlo Sanchez.

A proudly ASEAN airline that has been voted the world's best low cost carrier for eight consecutive years by Skytrax, AirAsia in the Philippines operates a fleet of 17 aircraft with local flights to/from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Kalibo, Caticlan, Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Puerto Prinsesa, and Clark along with international flights to/from Shanghai, Taipei, Incheon, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Singapore.

Meanwhile, Puregold ended 2016 with a total of 329 stores nationwide. These included 277 Puregold stores, 12 S&R Membership Shopping warehouses, 23 S&R New York Style fast-food outlets, nine NE Bodega Supermarkets, and eight Budgetlane Supermarkets.

When asked what cities in the world connote sophistication and elegance, many of us would most likely think of Paris, France. And why not? French women, after all, are known for wearing chic outfits and stylish accessories. They are also said to be adept at layering their favorite fragrance to make it last longer.

enchanted by Enchanteur Paris photo credit: Ed Uy

Enchanteur Paris was recently launched by Watsons Philippines to enable Filipinas be her own Parisian woman. The brand offers a range of high quality and timeless French-inspired fine Eau de Toilettes (EDT) and fragrance-infused body care products for young women. 

Ladies who love to smell nice can now choose their signature scents from Enchanteur Paris' line of quality but affordable products. The four fragrances, created to cater to different personalities, were inspired by the romance of Paris, the City of Lights, and the chic aesthetic of French women:

a touch of Paris

Magique is for the carefree, confident, and adventurous girl. It has a mix of apple, magnolia, and praline that is perfect for a day out with one's sweetheart as you try fun and new things together.

Belle Amour is for the romantic sweet girl on her first date with a special person. With a captivating blend of apple, melon, blackcurrant, and pink rose scents, this scent would make her date's heart beat faster.

Magique EDT with Mon Amie Double Moisture and + Belle Amour set

Mon Amie is for the fun, cheerful, and charming girl. This breezy scent of fresh citrus, red apple, and pink peonies is perfect for those exciting adventures with friends.

Adore is for the elegant, graceful, and adorable girl who likes the sensual scent of wild jasmine, pink mimosa, and golden pear. This alluring fragrance evokes glamor and sophistication. 

Mon Amie Light and Fresh + Adore set

Honestly, it's hard to pick just one scent because they all smell really, really good. All four Enchanteur Paris fragrances strike the perfect balance whether you want something light, fresh, sparkling, elegant, or sensual. 

Like I mentioned above, Enchanteur Paris draws inspiration from the French women's secret to making fragrances last longer. Use the brands complementing products such as the Eau de Toilette with the Parfum Lotion, Parfum Serum, Deospray, and Hand Cream so your scent will linger for hours.

Enchanteur Paris' Joana Marie Atienza and Krishna Kulkarmi

Exclusively available nationwide at all Watsons stores and The SM Store's Beauty Section, Enchanteur Paris products are available with the following prices: P100 - Hand Creams, P129 - Deosprays, P210-275 for the Parfum Serum and Parfum Lotions, and P400 - Eau de Toilette.

A lot of movie-goers are very familiar with Taters. After all, it is one of the best places to get tasty popcorn, chips, and other treats that are ideal to munch on while watching a good film. This 2017, Taters started the year with a big Cheetofied bang last January 25 as it hosted Taters Cheetos Snack Fest -- a crazy, crunchy, and cheesy party at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City.   

me and Aylin enjoying our Cheetofied snacks

Cheetos and Taters are two popular American brands that have been around for decades. Cheetos is a household name when it comes to cheese snacks while Taters is a well-known authority on cinema snacks that was brought to the Philippines in 1994.

snacks galore!

The Taters Cheetos Snack Fest became the perfect mix of two snack giants because Cheetos' iconic orange color and cheesy flavor combined well with Taters' affinity to entertainment. According to Taters Philippines, "In partnership with Pepsi, we wanted to celebrate Cheetos' official entry into the local market [because] we're both 'cheesy'! Our products complemented each other very well."

Taters and Pepsi executives with Chester the mascot

During the event, guests got to taste test five new Cheetofied products as well as join fun games and win prizes. Even local celebrities enthusiastically participated! Taters is the first in Asia to launch a snack fest featuring five Cheetofied products:

The tie up between the two brands aims to attract both Taters and Cheetos lovers alike to choose their favorite Cheetofied snacks and bring them along while watching a movie in the cinema, take them home for those series bingeing moments, or simply enjoy as an anytime snack.

Taters Cheese Fight -- one of the games guests got to play during the event

Asked what product a first-timer should try, a Taters Philippines representative confided, "Each Cheetos Snack Fest product has its high points, but our favorite would definitely be the Cheetos BBQ Crunch Dog. We threw everything we had on it and created an explosion of flavor! It has a very unique  story because you get to taste all the unique ingredients. It Taters and Cheetos had a baby, this would be it!"

Cheetos BBQ Crunch Dog

Go visit your nearest Taters branch and be Cheetofied! Make sure to also like Taters' Facebook and Instagram accounts (@taters.snackleague) to win VIP passes, Chester Plushies, and prizes galore. The promo is on a limited-run from January 25 to May 15, 2017 only.

Oh, and watch out for Shizzle, Taters' beverage innovation coming this summer. I heard it will feature Pepsi and Lipton products as we've never experienced before 😉.

* photos without watermark courtesy of PixRepublik PR

Who wants to look good in pictures? Of course, we all do! No wonder smartphone makers are constantly upping the ante when it comes to the latest in camera technology. This past weekend, Vivo Philippines unveiled the Vivo V5 Plus in a star-studded event at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium where everyone was impressed at the new phone's capabilities.

In today's social media age where both millennials and adults enjoy taking and sharing beautifully-captured selfies online, Vivo responds to this need by launching its newest flagship model: the perfect selfie phone.

"We are excited to bring selfie to the next level. Our latest innovation not only provides high-quality audio but also gives the perfect selfie that everyone deserves," shared Vivo Vice President Hazel Bascon in her opening remarks. "Also, we are very proud to once again announce that Vivo is still the top five global smartphone manufacturer. This is for four consecutive quarters based on the International Data Corporation's 2016 Smartphone Tracker."

Vivo endorser, NBA superstar Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors, was quoted saying he believes in the brand's values -- energy, professionalism, and pleasure -- which are all embodied in the Vivo V5 Plus. Finally, after months of speculation, the most-awaited selfie phone's full specifications were revealed:

1) Vivo V5 Plus has the most advanced selfie-technology to date with the world's first-ever dual front-facing cameras. Co-engineered with top electronics company, Sony, the primary front camera is a 20MP IMX376 while the secondary 8MP camera was designed to collect depth-of-field information for that improved self-portrait quality.

I was fascinated at the "bokeh" effect feature, a background-blurring photography filter that is complemented by Vivo's enhanced face beauty algorithm. Both allow users to take radiant selfies without any need for editing or correction after. In addition, there's the "selfie soft light" which makes selfie-taking possible even in poor lighting conditions.

2) Vivo V5 Plus' rear camera likewise features an impressive 1/2.8-inch 16MP sensor for ultra-clear and high-quality photos. I'd love to test drive that when I go on trips this year! I think I'll be able to take crisper and more colorful photos of my favorite sunsets and nature scenes.

3) Vivo V5 Plus boasts a superior sound system for heightened enjoyment of any kind of music. The AK4376 was perfected in over two years and is the same Hi-Fi system also found in Vivo's recent flagship models.  

4) Vivo V5 Plus is capable of performing multiple phone tasks in a speedy and efficient manner thanks to its 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor. For a unique touch, this smartphone runs on Vivo's very own Funtouch 3.0 operating system, based on Android 6.0.

5) Vivo V5 Plus also features an updated fingerprint recognition technology that allows users to unlock the phone in just 0.2 seconds. The phone also boasts of a fast-charging feature that I am sure heavy phone users would appreciate a lot.

6) Vivo V5 Plus is beautifully crafted and easy to hold. The ultra-slim bezel technology comes with a 5.5-inch large display made of 5th generation Corning Gorilla glass with enhanced resistance. Too, the dome-style, 1.8mm wide u-shaped antenna designed for better signal reception adds to the phone's stylish exterior design.

The V5 Plus launch was graced by Vivo executives and partners as well as celebrities and members of the media. Singer KZ Tandingan and Pinoy Boyband Superstars' Tony Labrusca and James Ryan Cesena were present to entertain guests with musical performances.

According to Ms. Bascon, in their pursuit of innovation and perfection, "Vivo is now expanding our research and development centers to seven. Our latest R and D centers will be in Silicon Valley and San Diego and this direction is geared towards our desire to give the best and unique experiences to our consumers." 

Ms. Bascon furthered pronounced, "We at Vivo Philippines are dedicated to the Filipino consumers and rest-assured that we will expand and continue to cover the entire country so that more will be able to experience the best technology for smartphone."

For more details about Vivo V5 Plus, please visit vivoglobal.ph and get updates via facebook.com/VivoPhil and follow @vivophil on Twitter and Instagram.

One of the essential items in my makeup kit that I would never go without are my favorite items from the Céleteque DermoCosmetics line such as the Dual CC Matt Powder and the Blush and Face Contour Kit. I trust that they continue to help ensure the health of my facial skin while I wear them because they have been co-created by dermatologists and vouched for by beauty experts.

Ironically, despite makeup being known for helping a woman to feel more confident about her looks, we are often warned about how makeup can cause dryness and acne breakouts on the skin. So it's good that Celeteque’s dermatologists see no reason why beauty products should not also help ensure skin health which is, after all, the basic canvas we have to work with when we even out skin tone, highlight our lips or eyes or cheeks, and bring color and drama to our looks.

In the past 10 years, Céleteque has continuously grown in popular demand for its DermoScience skin care products and, even more so, for its DermoCosmetics line because it perfectly blends the enhancing effects of cosmetics with the nurturing benefits of expert skin care. 

The good news is, this dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic ladies' favorite dermo-grade brand has just launched seven more all-NEW make up products! The new dream line offers a "perfect combination" of skin benefits: to protect and nourish our skin as well as make it look radiant and beautiful. 

I am excited to share with you what these are. Here are their ingredients, benefits, and prices:   

Base and Face Products

Joining the Matte CC Powder, Dark Spot Concealer Stick, and 24-hr Photoready Foundation in Céleteque DermoCosmetics’ all-face products line are the 24-hr Photoready Matte Primer, CC Micro-Hydrating Powder, and 2-in-1 Eyebag Miracle Kit. 

The Céleteque DermoCosmetics 24-hr Photoready Matte Primer (P825) helps your makeup look flawless for longer, thanks to its silky, weightless formula that minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines and reduces shine for a smooth, flawless look. Four components help this happen: Polymethyl Methacrylate to minimize pores, fine lines, and wrinkles; Silica for oil control and to give your skin a silky-soft and matte look and feel; and Dimethicone and Dimethicone Crosspolymer, which work together to form a protective barrier on the skin and helps your makeup last longer.

The Céleteque DermoCosmetics CC Micro-Hydrating Powder (P930) comes in light porcelain, classic natural, and deep beige shades. It hydrates your skin while controlling oil and shine and has SPF 30 to provide double sunscreen protection—a must-have in climates like ours! The pot containing the powder features an autogrinding technology that gives you an ultrafine and hydrating powder that evens out your skin complexion and is easy to blend. With a few twists, it provides just the right amount of product you need. It contains Hyarluronic Acid to replenish the skin and help it retain moisture, Silica to reduce excess oil and give your skin a silky-soft finish, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) to hydrate and nourish the skin even further. 

Say goodbye to raccoon eyes with Céleteque DermoCosmetics’ 2-in-1 Eyebag Miracle Kit (P745), which is a two-component solution to the dark circles under your eyes that may be caused by poor sleep, allergies, hormone levels, or even the food you eat or the genes you’re born with. The kit contains an Eye Balm to reduce puffiness under the eye and an Eye Foundation in light, natural, and beige shades to cover and lighten your eyebags. Ingredients include the trademarked Cytobiol Lumin-eye to reduce puffiness and under-eye bags; Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) to nourish, hydrate, and firm up the skin, minimizing lines under the eyes; and antioxidants like Ubiquinone, Squalane, and Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract, all of which help prevent further skin damage.

Lip and Cheek Products

The bloom of youth and health can be enhanced with Céleteque DermaCosmetics’ lip and cheek products; the Matte Lip Stick, Blush & Face Contour Kit, and Cheek Color Stick have become must-haves in womens’ kikay kits, but now you may want to consider the convenience of Moisturizing Lip & Cheek Duo or the luscious effect of the Ultra-Nourishing Lip Lacquer.

If you’re on the go and need a one-stop-shop solution to add some bloom to your look, you may just find the Céleteque DermoCosmetics Moisturizing Lip & Cheek Duo (P665), available in Rosy Blush and Soft Berry, is a lifesaver. This oil-free and streak-free mousse contains Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), which acts as an antioxidant that protects your lips and cheeks from free radicals that lead to dryness, as well as Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin, which help your skin retain moisture better, making it firmer, softer, and smoother for a more youthful appearance.

For an extra-kissable pout, you’ll definitely want to carry around the Céleteque DermoCosmetics Ultra-Nourishing Lip Lacquer (P545), which is lightweight, smooth, and non-greasy and comes in three shades: Natural Nude, Soft Pink, and Velvet Red. This gel-based lip moisturizer will keep your lips soft and supple all day, thanks to a formulation that includes the hydrating and moisturizing Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), castor seed oil, and Panthenol, all of which contribute to softer, smoother lips.

Eye Products

If the eyes really are the windows to the soul, you’ll definitely want to make sure they look gorgeous. Céleteque DermoCosmetics’ 24-hr Lashes Volumizer and Eyebrow Nourishing Serum can go a long way to helping you pretty up your peepers, but they’ll be even more effective when you add the all-new Eyebrow Defining Kit and Long-Wear Eyeshadow Palette to your beauty arsenal.

The Céleteque DermoCosmetics Eyebrow Defining Kit is a 2-in-1 formulation of Tinted Wax and color-complementing Eyebrow Powder containing Shea Butter and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) to moisturize and smoothen your brow area, as well as Argan Kernel Oil to ease the blending process. The overall effect is easy-to-achieve definition for your brows. 

Get those peepers to pop with the easy-to-blend lightweight Primer and naturally toned eyeshadow found in the Céleteque DermoCosmetics Long-Wear Eyeshadow Palette (P725). The product contains Shea butter, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), and Evening Primrose Oil, all of which help keep your lids moisturized and smooth and make the elements easy to blend.

Celeteque DermoCosmetics are available at all Watsons stores nationwide. 

The Christmas season is one of the best times to wear outfits designed with festive colors. The Bayo 2016 Holiday Collection makes that possible as it features warm, playful, and trendy pieces.

Iza Calzado for Bayo

This year's Style Harvest: A Playful Holiday showcases pieces with flattering silhouettes, cuts, and prints to take every Filipina down memory lane. You see, the clothes are inspired by classic children's toys like yoyos, slinkys, pick-up sticks, building blocks, puzzles, and toy soldiers. To my contemporaries, I'm sure you have also played with those things during your childhood. I did!

As such, expect the latest collection to highlight cheerful Christmas colors -- mainly blues, reds, yellows, and greens -- in timeless pieces such as tops pants, skirts, and dresses. Bayo's color palette was based on happy hues and shades that complement the season.

clothes inspired by slinkys and yoyos