Salt and Vinegar

Chinese New Year Shopping In Sungai Wang Plaza

2012-01-28T11:54:00.001+08:00

I was so exited about Chinese New Year this year, i bought quite a lot of clothes. I did also mention i would blog about my shopping expedition to Sg Wang (a place i have not been to in a long time since it caters more for young adults to teen fashion and i am already not a young adult *sad*), since it is one of the few places that sell cheap clothes that sort of follow the latest Japanese trends. I used the word 'sort of' since some of the clothes there are just cheap scraps of rubbish.

Anyhow, i decide early on I'd take some pictures to blog about it since shopping makes me happy and reading about shopping probably makes a lot of people happy too. However, i can't bring myself to whip out a camera and snap as if the shopkeeper owed me money. I can't i don't know why. I'm too shy for my own good sometimes. Thus i walked around holding my phone in hipstamatic mode (ie: less obvious: i have got to download spycam soon) in the hopes that no one would notice. And thus the shopping pics you are about to see are all their hipstamatic glory.

I ended up taking pictures of knick knacks instead of clothes. Oh, well. They make a pretty picture.

These fairy cupcake lip glosses are RM18 (USD 5.90) each at Watson's. (RM= ringgit Malaysia)

In the spirit of candies here are some lollipop lip glosses also spotted in Watson's.

Liese bubble hair colour costs RM34.20 and comes with a free butterfly mirror till stocks last.

There were still a few boxes of Majolica Majorca mascara,eyeliner and red lash curler sets around going for RM59.90.

Spotted: Bling panda bag!

Even more bling iPhone4 covers all affordably at the RM30-40 range.

Racks and racks of cheap fashion with free belts.

Rilakkuma iPhone4 covers. If only iPhone3gs covers weren't obsolete.. *sigh*

You must be wondering, since this is Chinese New year shopping where are the clothes? Well, I'm getting to that. Things get a bit hectic clothes shopping especially if you have a husband in tow, so no pictures of clothes while in Sg Wang, but these are my collective buys taken all conveniently packed in one photo.

I'm actually pretty happy with my buys. All are comfortable, with many pieces i can wear out on casual outings and there are pieces i can actually wear to work.

Sungai Wang shopping review?

Do:

1) Go into a few RM25 (USD 8.20) shops to suss out what you can actually get for RM25. There are rows ans rows of shops on the 1st and 2nd level that sells all items at a flat rate of RM25. The catch is , no trying, which is a brilliant idea since most clothes actually do look good hanging off the rack but not necessarily on a normal human form unless you are Miranda Kerr in which case you can wear anything. Thus i have on many occasions bought clothes that look like it has a great pattern and cutting but looks stupid/horrible/ridiculous on me due to the no trying policy. So the operative word here is SUSS out what's available and not actually BUY. That way you know that you're not being overcharged when you get to the normal priced stores. I guess you can get dresses and t-shirts at these shops but be warned that they are RM25 for a reason, ie: quality may be lacking.

2) Go to the shops in the top 2 levels and enjoy the rows and rows of pretty up to date Japanese fashion at a fraction of the price. The shops are small but at least you can try on the clothes. The only bad thing though is that the prices are so steep by Sg Wang standards. For example the peter pan collared cream blouse was tagged at RM69 (USD 22.70) before discount.

3) Ask for a discount, because you can! If you buy more than one piece, you can definitely ask for some kind of discount, though they'll probably just give a 10% discount but i guess that's better than nothing.

Do not:

1) Pay RM70 and above for a detachable collar cos at the end of the day it's just an accessory.There are other cheaper options around.

I bought this for RM20 at City Square JB. I did see some pearl ones at Sg Wang going for RM30-40.

2) Look down on knock-offs. I only noticed this when i got home, but apparently i bought a singlet with pearl diarrhea on it from the famous Japanese brand Snidel! Hahaha check out the lovely label with cute ribbon.

And it only costs RM39.90 from a Harajuku shop in Sg Wang.

3) Pay exorbitant prices for this brand of ear caps. It was priced at RM12.90 at shops in JB and Sunway Pyramid but only priced at RM5.90 in Sg Wang pushcarts. I asked for a discount and i got both for RM10 (RM5 each). You'd think i got a pretty good deal right? Well i walked into a novelty shop and they were only priced at RM4.90 each! No haggling needed!

If you see these selling online, you know how much you should pay for them now.

All in all i had a really good time shopping!

Next post: Chinese New Year in Johor Bahru and Malacca.

Biteki Magazine with Anna Sui samples

2012-01-25T19:53:00.000+08:00

Biteki aesthethics magazine march 2012 issue comes with 3 gifts. A box of 2 Anna Sui samples, a makeup template for blusher as well as two insoles for shoes. (You can see all 3 freebies on the cover if you have a keen eye)

The Anna Sui samples comprise of a 1g SPF 20 powder foundation with cute black container with purple sponge (not sure what shade but should be 102) and two 0.5mls foundation primers.

The make-up template looks like this.

The pictures below show how you should use it.

The next issue advertorial. Hmm.. nope their not giving out john Master's freebies but Cynthia Rowley bag in bag (whatever that means) and a Lunasol sheet mask.

Marimo: What's so great about it vs moss terrarium

2012-01-25T00:58:00.000+08:00

I came home one day from work to find my housemate tending to something in the kitchen.It was a heart shaped bottle! Cool what is it? I thought it was a moss terrarium something I've always thought was cool since i saw it on many craft blogs. 'Marimo!' he said.

This was how it looked like.

And that was my introduction to this algae ball called Marimo.

It costs around RM40 in Pavilion KL, but it can be as low as RM7 on the lowyat forum. What is this green round ball of algae then that can cost so much, and in other avenues so little? It's a algae ball that can either be original or pirated?

I look up Wikipedia in confusion.

Here's what i gleamed off the online reader contributed encyclopedia.

1. It's from Japan, hence the name. (no wonder it's so expensive). The price of RM40 is probably warranted if it is really the marimo or cladophora ball, a rare algae that grow into ball forms in lakes in Iceland, Scotland, Japan and Estonia.
2. Marimo means ball seaweed.
3.They grow at a rate of 5mm a year.
4.It's a protected species since 1920's in Japan. (So it's impossible that the Japanese will just sell you their national treasure right?The one's sold as ornaments are HAND ROLLED from free floating filaments ie:non rounded forms of the algae.)
5.All it needs is tap water changed every 1-2 weeks, indirect sunlight and oh.. temperature of 24 degrees and below! Seriously in Malaysia? You'd have to have the air con on the whole time. Not ideal for 'fan' people like me.

And thus i conclude i have no need for a ~~fake~~ Marimo.

No matter how cute it may look.

(Pictures of Marimo taken from google images from various sites)

Rather i'd want a moss terrarium!They are basically moss lovingly landscaped into a bottle. People even sell these on Etsy.

The first moss terrarium i stumbled upon had toadstools on it and now i think all moss terrariums should have one.

But of course there are many other ways to make moss terrariums work.

As a hut in a globe, or..

... a ladybug in the forest (okay there are mushrooms here too).

Since i was back for Chinese New Year, i took the opportunity to ~~bully~~ nicely ask my brothers to go for a walk with me around the neighbourhood looking for moss. I was expecting to find thick looking green healthy moss like the pictures online, only to realize i need cold damp climates to pull it off and the only moss i could find were the kinds in drains.

I ended up stealing pebbles, charcoal bits, soil and moss from my dad's garden. And he didn't even bat an eye when i said i wanted some of the moss from his garden I guessed he's used to his daughter and her recurrent need to do something crafty.

And behold my moss terrarium!

Looks like s**t!

But i believe it will start looking better soon! Fingers crossed. If it ends up looking like a gorgeous patch of green grass i'm gonna go buy a plastic toadstool.

If you're keen on making your own, and it turn out looking better, let me know what i'm missing.

I found this tutorial helpful.Link here.

Ps: All pictures from google images and stylehive.com

Ray Magazine Snippets January 2012

2012-01-20T23:59:00.000+08:00

Yay, my exam is over! Not that it carried any marks but it was a big deal anyway. Thanks to my last minute mugging skills i slept intermittently for 10 hours cumulatively in the past 2 days, which means i should probably be sleeping right? Well i tried, but pretty much similar to how i used to have post-call euphoria, i have post-exam euphoria, not that i did well or anything, just that i was glad the exam is over.

I have so many pictures accumulated to blog about, but i have no idea where to start. So i usually do what i usually do and that is to work backwards from the most recent events. Today, i made a trip to the Cite (publication company i would think) office (and it was the most stylish office i have seen) to collect something i have won from the Malaysian Ray magazine.

I won a Sharp Plasmacluster Ion Generator worth RM499 (will you believe that?) Plasmacluster you say? Yup! Apparently it's a portable air purification system, and it looks really cute and pink! I'm not endorsing this product since i don't really know much about it yet, but the whole point is i won something by reading a magazine and writing a slogan on facebook. I'm chuffed! The last time i won something remotely as expensive was a Valentine dinner for two at KLCC for a Swatch slogan writing competition.Not that i'm good or anything.

And this is my prize in a box.

Here's what's inside. Sorry i have not gone about unboxing it properly yet.

This is what the actual product looks like though., just imagine it in bright pink.

So anyway, it's all thanks to this magazine that i won this prize.

So, i thought i'd be really ambitious, take hundreds of pictures of the magazine and give you a good introduction to this English translated Japanese magazine. But i underestimated how sleepy i was so perhaps you'll make do with just 3 magazine snippets? I'll do more later on though if anyone's interested.

The article i decided to show is of TokyoPanda's tips on how to achieve a retro style. Apparently she's a really popular blogger who was born in Japan and now working as a doctor in China. Well, anyway, why she's so popular is because she's a bit of a fashionista despite being a doctor (there is hope!), and she is known to use pieces bought off taobao (China's ebay equivalent but cheaper) to create trendy looks.

Here's what she looks like anyway.

Her looks is definitely trendy in a Japanese fashion magazine way. I like!

I like it even more that she's suggesting the in-trend detachable collars. I love the concept, as you might have known from reading some of my posts. I was desperately trying to find affordable detachable collars and almost resorting to DIY one myself. The good news is, the trend has hit shops in City Square JB and Sg Wang KL, at a fraction of the Japanese price, but still pricey for a collar by Malaysian standards. The price of a collar is equivalent to the price of a normal priced blouse.

That did not deter me though. I so far have two.

The lace one which i bought online, has me cringing, as it seems to be attached to every cheap blouse in town. It was seriously a bad buy which was a hassle buying as it got lost somewhere between the mail room and my office for a while. The pearl one i love love love. I just don't know when i'll have the chance to wear it yet.

So anyway back to the magazine. These are the looks Tokyo Panda came up with.

Think she deserves her popularity? Well i think she's pretty good!

Anyway my eyes are telling me i really need to sleep know. For those who are expecting scans of the whole magazine,I'm sincerely sorry. That would probably be called copyright infringement and hey I'm sure there are sites that you can download the Japanese version from. I just wanted to share some interesting pages off the magazine. I have a few more pictures to share for another day.

Thanks for reading till now. I notice a few new readers so welcome!I'm always glad to see a new face or comment on my blog.

It's going to be Chinese New Year real soon so Happy Chinese New Year everyone!

Free gifts with Elle and Cleo magazine

2012-01-16T18:29:00.001+08:00

Old habits are hard to die, so i find myself always checking out magazines with freebies. I'm surprised to see mynews.com bringing in Elle Hong Kong with Maggie Cheung on the cover with a free Tsumori Chisato pouch and selling only at RM15. Cheaper than any Japanese magazine.I spotted it at the One Utama branch. I nearly bought it id not for my hubby who reminded me that it was an impulsive buy since i have loads of pouches already.

The pouch looks too cute! Wish i had bought it though. *sad face*

Another cheap freebie is the Maybelline Clear Smooth BB Cream that comes with Cleo Malaysia which only costs RM5. But you have to but the small edition and it's only available at certain bookstores. I spotted this at Times, Pavillion.

It's a good way to try out the product before purchasing.

Japanese magazines coming soon

2012-01-13T20:24:00.000+08:00

As usual loads of Japanese magazines March issue coming out in late January and early February.Besides the usual mass of totes and pouches at least there is something interesting this time round.

A Snidel watch with Non-no March issue coming out 20th January (wtf.. a bit early right?). But still i'm liking this interesting freebie. It looks rather plain but elegant nonetheless. Hoping this will not be another case of pretty picture but 'pasar malam' (night market) quality freebie.

Glow comes with a cute kitten pouch from a brand i don't really know.

Cutie comes with Dazzlin tote. Out on my birthday :)

The March issue of InRed comes with a small purse.

Liniere is giving away a boring grey tote.

Sweet comes with a Deicy mirror.

Spring comes with a Tsumori Chisato pouch , out 23rd February.

Steady comes with a cute Anna Sui tote and card holder, coming out 7th February.

Sorry for the lack of updates lately. I have just entered another posting in microbiology and that is parasitology. I have 2 weeks to revisit parasitology, and though it's tiring i quite like it! But i will as usual be slightly hypochondriac for the coming weeks.

Cat feces = toxoplasmosis, tap water in eye,swimming = risk of achanthamoeba keratitis , and the list goes on but i shall not bore you. Nothing induces hypochondriasis better than a few days in parasitology. I'm staying off raw food and unboiled,unfiltered water for a while. I also recently realized how interesting malaria can be. Okay i think you're starting to puke now.

Don't worry I'll keep this blog as pleasing to the eye as possible. No pathology related pictures anytime soon though i have so many to share!

On a different note, I'm getting all excited about Chinese New Year even though i have 3 tests tomorrow. Time to visit crazy shopping centre full of cheap clothes where everyone is fighting for new clothes to buy for Chinese New Year. I'll take some snaps if things don't get too hectic.

I can't wait to do some serious shopping!

Top Ranked Japanese Products

2012-01-07T11:13:00.000+08:00

I was searching the net to see where i can purchase my current obsession: Lux Super Shine Rich shampoo and conditioner, when i chanced upon this!

This was featured in PopSister September 2011 edition, and i realize i'm not the only one crazy about Lux haircare.It is the number one hair care brand in Japan based on repurchase rate.

I can't believe i am so slow to discover this though.

Well, better late than never. Have a look.

Top ranked facial cleansers
1) Biore Marshmallow Whip (It's out in Singapore, but not in Malaysia yet and the drawing point is purportedly the tiny particles of foam it produces so it cleans deeper? Go figure.. number 1 in Japan anyway)
2) Biore Facial Foam
3) Lush Kindness of Angel (天使の優しさ)- This is a Japan limited edition. Heck we don't even have Lush in Malaysia yet, but since it's in Singapore already, probably wont be long now)

Top ranked face toners/lotion
1) Hada labo Japan Gokujyun Hyaluronic emulsion and lotion (I've tried this before but it only succeeded in making me break out, and tiring nights slapping my face- those who've tried it will know what i mean). Since I've got a whole bottle that was barely used to i tried using it on other body parts (like my dried out cuticles and shins) and by golly it really locks up a lot of moisture!
2) Sana Nameraka Soy Bean milk lotion and whitening milk moisture toner (i think i saw it at Watson's somewhere-tempted to buy but i've got so many stuff i'm putting on my face already- so how?
3) Orbis Aqua face lotion and moisture (Not even a whisper of this in retail markets yet)

Top ranked face masks
(I really have no comment about these cause I don't really use masks save for the MyBeautyDiary ones given to me: Thanks ChauPei!)

1) Pure smile essence mask
2) Missha pure source sheet mask
3) Skinfood black sugar mask

Top ranked body cream/lotion
I really hate the feeling of sticky body cream on me so i'm not a fan of body creams either. Perhaps these are exceptions?

1) Body Shop Pink Grapefruit body butter
2) Nivea happy time body milk
3) Johnson's body care creamy

Top ranked hair care products
1) LUX Super Rich Shine shampoo + conditioner (The product that started this whole post. I still can't find a place that sells this in Malaysia though)
2) Pantene Extra damage care shampoo + conditioner
3) Shiseido Tsubaki shining shampoo + conditioner (At least this is available at Watsons. Will have to try this too)

Top ranked beauty gadgets/skincare devices
1) Panasonic steamer NANO care EH-SA60
2) Panasonic hairdryer NANO care EH-NA93
3) Estenad skincare

Okay now, on to the make-up items.

Top ranked foundation
1) RMK Liquid Foundation
2) KATE mineral liquid foundation
3) Coffret D'or silky fit powder
(I've never tried any of these! Any good?)

Top ranked eyelashes
1) Dolly Wink #1 Dolly Sweet *awesome!*
2) Diamond Lash Fairy Eyes
3) Daiso Lashes (can't see from the picture which eyelash they're referring too, cos there are so many types in Daiso- and not all of them are great)

Top ranked eyeshadows
1) KATE Gradical Eyes BR-1
2) Dolly Wink Eyeshadow No.1
3) Majolica Majorca BR355

Top ranked blushers
1) Canmake cream cheek no.8 (I have this in another colour-soft and slightly creamy blush turns powdery on application.Though i feel application with fingers is a great way to spread microorganisms on your face-since I'm in microbiology now- super paranoid)
2) Candy Doll cheek color (strawberry pink)

Top ranked mascara
1) Maybelline volume express magnum waterproof
2) Majolica Majorca lash expander frame plus
3) Dolly Wink volume mascara
(We rave about Japanese mascaras so much and the top ranked brand is Maybelinne?-Feels cheated)

Top ranked eyeliner
1) Loveliner brown liquid eyeliner
2) Dolly wink liquid eyeliner
3) Maybelline Eye studio creamy gel liner

Top ranked lipstick
1) MAC lipstick in siss
2) Candy Doll lipstick (ramune pink)
3) Maybelline water shiny milky RD606 (I can never find the exact shade here!)

Top ranked lipgloss
1) Candy Doll lipgloss (macaroon pink)
2) Majolica Majorca honey plump gloss (NEO PK144)
3) Melliesh lipgloss (06 candy pink)

And that's it! A whole new lot of products for you to look out for and buy! I'm not too sure if that's a good thing or not for the pocket, but definitely something to look out for when shopping, especially since Chinese New Year is just 2 weeks away!

Credits: Hudie

L'occitane fan giveaway

2012-01-03T19:44:00.000+08:00

I've redeemed my L'occitane holiday charm and sample sachets. Have you redeemed yours? I blogged about how i requested for it here.

I was late at redeeming but thankfully the sales assistants did not make a fuss about it, and was quite prompt about giving me my gift.

Since I'm on the topic of free samples, i might as well show you two other items i recently redeemed.

Biore eye and lip makeup remover.

As well as a sample which came by courier. When i received a notification informing me that i had a parcel delivered to my place but i was not in (why do they always have to send things to my empty house when I'm away at work?). I was scratching my head as to what it was.

It turned out to be a Biotrue contact lens solution sample which i redeemed but did not post it on my blog as i wasn't sure whether the redemption period was over. If you want one go here.

I really think sample redemption are great! You get travel friendly sizes to bring around cos i am those kind of people who buy travel sized products so i don't have to lug heavy bottles around. Also, the person requesting for the product is interested in it, and thus if your product is worthwhile i will definitely repurchase.

Cynical reader: Yeah yeah yeah that's what you say you cheapskate.

Ha ha ha! I admit to being a freeloader sometimes, and get excited about freebies a bit more than the average person (okay quite a lot), but i am also the kind of person that if i want or perceive something to be good, will go all out to purchase the product.

Currently i am quite obsessed with buying myself bottles and bottles of Lux Super Rich Shine Shampoo and Conditioner after trying it out as a free samples with a Japanese magazine i bought ages and ages ago. Read here. The Japanese really produce pretty amazing hair care products! The first time i used it my hair for the first time in my life felt that it will never get tangled again.

Of course it did, as i gave finished using the samples and am desperately trying to find out where they sell this since i don't see it on Malaysian shelves. I'm definitely going to find this when i go to Singapore.

Anyway the point is, i do buy stuff after i try them. That is if they're worth it.

In the spirit of free things then are the pictures below depicting the huge influx of calenders given away with magazines this month.

The problem is, i think, no one actually uses calenders anymore.

I have my iPhone :p

Plugy

2012-01-01T14:46:00.002+08:00

I've known about Plugys since about 6 months ago and since I'm not the kind who trusts online sellers very much ( a lace collar I bougth is still stuck somewhere), I waited for the day Plugys would find their way in some ingenious Chinese persons hand, and that he/ they would manufacture it in bulk and export it to Malaysia at a dirt cheap price but still enough for them to make a tidy profit.

I'm sorry paying rm50 for a piece of tiny plastic is not my style. Though I've been seriously tempted.

I am proud to say the Plugy, basically a phone accesorry with not much of a function except to make your phone cuter, but marketed as a functional tool to prevent dust and water from entering through the ear plug access (how come it wasn't invented a long time ago for other phones then huh?), is finally widely available in Malaysian stores!

And here's my Hello Kitty Plugy, part of a Christmas present from my brother!

It's seriously cute and matches my iPhone cover.

I went to Sunway Pyramid Asian Avenue today and spotted a few Plugys there as well at affordable prices.

This one is a diamond shaped one with a matching diamond iPhone push button sticker. Looks a bit low quality. Both for RM 25.

This was at mini toons going for RM 12. (Sorry for the 2 blurry pictures)

I've seen Plugys (original I presume) at Action City in Johor Bahru City Square in these designs at RM 49.90.

Whichever Plugy you prefer, they're the new handphone charms of the generation in an era where iPhones do not give you the option of dangling chunky (sometimes irritating) ornaments on your phone.

Do you have one?

Happy New Year 2012

2011-12-31T20:29:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I'm someone who always counts her blessings and I spent a good part of 2011 thanking God for all the good people in my life as well as the abundance of happiness I encounter everyday.

Here's what I have been thankful for in 2011.

1. Good year for those in the year of the Dog according to my yearly Chinese zodiac reading! Yeah! That set the trend for the year.

2. Singapore tv reception in Malacca. I don't have to forgo my yearly tradition of watching Channel 8's yearly lunar new year special after all.

3. Hubby accompanied me all the way to Kota Bahru for my entrance exam for masters. Feel extremely blessed.

4. Got pass the entrance exam and accepted into the masters program despite only having experience in Paediatrics as an MO.

5. No more sleepless nights.

6. Despite being separated from hubby, managed to see him every weekend.

7. Having no friends at the start of the new semester, I now have fiends some of which I can trust and rely on.

8. Had a great Christmas with family and only my third karaoke session to date.

9. Won a few contests and made many friends from blogging.Collected two cheques from Nuffnang which is always sweet.

10. Being healthy for most parts of 2011...

.... But towards the end of 2011 my luck seems to be running out. I just realized I'm not as healthy as I used to be.

Anyway, you win some you lose some.

I hope the year 2012 will bring improved health,wealth and happiness!

Happy New Year everyone! Time for resolutions!

KKBOX with free Sport B necklace

2011-12-30T20:14:00.000+08:00

This magazine is a backdated issue which only somehow managed to reach Malaysian shores in December. No matter though since the real draw is the Sport B necklace that comes with the magazine. I bought this at mynews.com KLCC branch. Did not see it at some of the other branches i went to though.

Rainie is on the cover since the issue coincided with her album launch.

The Sport B. necklace for the Asian Music Festival packaged in a clear holder.

The necklace is of a substantial lenght. I'm not sure what it's made of but it's definitely not smelly brass.

This was apparently sold out in Singapore, but how come there are so many copies available her 2 months later? Hmmm..

Anyway the magazine only costs RM6.50 so look out for it if you happen to be at a mynews.com store. It's an agnes B. subsidiary after all.

More Japanese Magazines out pretty soon

2011-12-29T17:38:00.000+08:00

As usual before,you can even sit down to rest, another batch of Japanese magazines are out in stores. Here are the February issue Japanese freebies.Sorry more pictures and less words this time. I'm sleepy after a rather taxing study day, and i have more to study later too.The only thing i can think of now though, is what shall i have for dinner?

Steady February issue with Coach mirror and handkerchief.

Glow comes with a tote bag.

Cutie comes with a Cecil McBee tote.

InRed February come with a gorgeous Tsumori Chisato make up pouch.

Liniere comes with a Nest Robe card case.

Spring February issue comes with a fluffy tote. Puppy not included.

Johor Premium Outlets - Is it worth going?

2011-12-25T15:01:00.000+08:00

After all the hype and anticipation, i finally made my way to the newly opened Johor Premium Outlets! I actually visited the outlets a day before official opening day and it was already packed with people with almost all outlets open. A list of shops available is written on my previous blog post.

I dragged my brother along for good measure.

I was all ready to buy designer goods at a fraction of the price, with the sole target being Coach (whose unreasonable prices in Malaysia compared to US is atrocious) and maybe Burberry.

The complaints from Singaporeans about signage is very true! We drove from JB and got a little lost due to the lack of signs, so do google maps before you go. If all else fails head towards Foon Yew High School in Kulaijaya (do not be confused with the Foon Yew High School at Stulang Laut JB).

The roads leading in to the place was congested but parking areas were abundant! Go figure. There were loads of tour groups and buses too.

The first thing i did was to go to the bank located there and withdraw some ammunition.

It was a moderately sunny day when i got there, but there was enough shade and fans around to keep me cool. Not the case though for my KL born and bred husband who found it too hot and congested with people. Perhaps the prospect of shopping helped me overlook all that but i did not feel hot at all.

The layout and architecture is gorgeous, a replica of outlet stores around the world.

As you can see loads of shade and fans.

I seldom see people carrying branded bags in JB but at the JPO there were loads of them, not in stores but on every lady's arm. The palm trees and mini pool added a nice touch.

But obviously you have no interest in how beautiful the place is. You want to know how good are the bargains! And how many Coach bags did i buy?

Well the answer is an abysmal ZERO!

The cheapskate auntie in me could not bring myself to shell a couple of hundreds for a bag! I have definitely lost my need for branded bags. I always feel you should have one or two and hopefully last you a very long time. I have three and i'm contented for now.

I used to like Coach bags but since i found out how cheap it was overseas i had moved on to other brands. Plus the bags are gorgeous but a bit too heavy and big for me.

But that didn't stop me from sniffing out whether there are any good bargains to buy. I went in thinking i can snag a nice cheap wristlet.

I was seriously thinking i can get a cheap wristlet at Coach for less than RM100, since i see blogshops selling genuine Coach for RM100-120. They must be making a tidy profit right? So obviously a wristlet should cost less than RM100.

The only thing i could see costing less than RM100 are the puny coin purses. The wristels cost slightly more than 100. The usual price of 200-300 are slashed to 50% off.

The bags, some of which are pretty nice cost from RM800- RM1-2k after discount. In all a good deal compared to the boutiques in KL, but not what you would want to pay if you're not a Coach fan.

The crowd was so big that there was a line going in to Coach and Burberry.

I did not even bother going into Burberry- the line was too long and I had no plans of getting anything from there anyway.

At Nike, Man U jerseys from last season was going at 50% off, which i thought was a good deal but my Man U fanatic brother said he could buy it cheaper from shops in KL.

So as you can imagine i did not buy much.

Guess where cheapskate me ended up shopping at? Vincci (local shoe and accessories shop). And there were bargains aplenty!

Amidst the bustling crowd i bought a pair of flats for RM13.70.

There were so many people ,it was a grab the nearest salesperson, try and pay that kind of thing. Despite the chaos the salespeople were admirably calm.

But my cheapest buy was this!

It's an embellished necklace which is very keeping in trend with the detachable collar craze in Japan.And with this purchase, i realized how crazily overpriced many items are at normal price.

This necklace...

Had a normal price of RM 79 which was discounted to RM2.50 at the outlet store! I had to exclaim loudly.'Are you sure this is for real' only to have a nearby salesgirl nod her head vigorously with a grim look on her face. That is a 97% discount!

I also bought a Shu Uemura oil cleanser at 30% off from the Cosmetics and Fragrance shop.

All in all, if you're from Johor it's worth driving down for a look. If you're from any other state, then i don't think it's worth coming all the way down, unless you have other places you want to go or friends you wan to visit.

For Singaporeans, it's worth a look, but the prices are similar to what is offered during The Great Singapore Sale.

All in all i'm just happy there is a new shopping place in JB.

It's a rainy Christmas!

2011-12-24T21:34:00.000+08:00

It's Christmas eve here in Malaysia and a flip of the trusty Chinese type calender revealed this..

Yup it's the celebration that everyone celebrates. It's the season of giving and the season for snow in many parts of the world.

It seems like we're getting snow here too- in the diluted form.

It's been pouring almost the whole day over here! But that didn't stop me from doing some Christmas shopping, for myself that is! I've settle all my gift buying and wrapping, so the only thing left is to get myself something!

And the house is looking festive too.

Random Christmas cookie from Isetan which tasted great. Unfortunately i ate it already long before Christmas.

Christmas is not all about the presents.

But a tree with loads of presents under it makes me happy!

And the tree was put up and decorated by my mom all on her own! I just came back home to enjoy the tree.

As you can tell i was obsessed with taking pictures of the tree.

Merry Christmas everyone! May the joy of the season be with you throughout the new year!

Ni Hao Ma?- Jay Chou and Show Luo cracks it up

2011-12-22T21:06:00.002+08:00

Happy Winter Solstice everyone! My family actually never really celebrated Winter Solstice, and i only picked up the habit of eating 'tang yuen' from my relatives and friends, so much so that it has become a yearly must do for me. Sadly though i made 'tang yuen' for one this year since I'm living alone for most of the weekdays this year (ok technically for two since i gave some to my housemate).

So when i'm alone at times of festivities, i take the opportunity to listen to some emo songs, cos it doesn't work that well when you're always around people, you know what i mean?

And what better emo song than Jay Chou's latest, 'Ni hao ma?' (How are you) complete with emo translated lyrics. Just in case you're in an emo state, have a listen and look at this.

And to get out of the emo state why not also watch a recent episode (also rather rare for Jay Chou to appear in variety shows) of 100% entertainment where Jay and Show face off.All in glorious translated form.

Hope you had a great 'dong zhi'!

Liz Lisa Fukubukuro 2012

2011-12-21T20:09:00.000+08:00

Christmas is coming in a few days time and before you know it, it will be the year 2012! New Years is also the time when Fukubukuro's of all shapes and sizes make their way into the market. If you don't know what a Fukubukuro is, read here.

One of the more widely anticipated 'Lucky bag' is the Liz Lisa one.Here's what they have in store for the new year.

Liz Lisa typically produce a variety of Fukubukuro's and unlike many other "lucky bags', they actually let you know what's in the bag (kind of defeats the point since the whole fun is in the element of surprise, but then again these bags are just too pricey for you to buy and not like). This year there seems to be two lines, the Princess line , one with a trolley suitcase and one with a a princess carry tote as well as a 'cute Ralala' line.( I know, what a name)

The 'Ralala'line is a bit more funky and quirky, and it too comes with either a trolley or tote.

Have a look!

Princess Ribbon Carry- I feel a little embarrassed typing this. Yup you can be 30 years old and want to carry a 'princess ribbon carry' suitcase. The suitcase looks a lot like the one they sold last year and the year before, so this line must have sold extremely well. I imagine a lot of girls have this in Japan.

The apparel that comes with the fukubukuro.

They have also thoughtfully provided a blanket to warm yourself during your travels.

But guess what, this set costs a whooping RM433.74 or 10,500 yen!Do not underestimate princessy clothes!

The next fukubukuro in the line is called Princess Ribbon Boston which comes in an all-white bag. Very winter.Also cheaper at RM216.87.

As mentioned earlier, in case you're not the type of girl that does 'princessy' looks, do not fear since Liz Lisa has thoughtfully produced a 'Cute Ralala' line. Though i must say this looks even more juvenile.Perhaps this is aimed at teenagers.

This one also costs RM216.89.

The bag reminds me so much of the HbG tote i got with a magazine.

This is the 'Carry' range.Price RM433.74.

The price seriously scares me. But if you're still not scared (brave one you are!*claps claps salute*), then you can have a look at this!

You can have the whole Princess range for RM650.61 or 15750 yen!

Happy Fukubukuro shopping! Pictures all courtesy of this site.

iPhotography

2011-12-18T10:24:00.001+08:00

I have accumulated quite a number of random and in my opinion rather print worthy pieces.

Here are some pictures taken and edited on my iPhone and also a reflection on what I've been seeing in my daily life.

First up, deformed macaroon- but it tasted nice so..don't judge a book by it's cover, but then again macaroons are all about the look aren't they?

One of my cheap thrill buys, a rose gold coloured ribbon ring at 50% off at Vincci = RM10 *happiness*

Another one of my cheap thrill buys, a detachable collar of sorts.

Random bear in my cousin-in-laws place. I like looking at stuffed animals but i can't stand dust so i don't really buy any for myself.This one is super cute and friendly though.Paddington bear if I'm not mistaken

And speaking of cheap thrill buys, this one is a freebie buy. I bought this for the darling vintage packaging as well as..

.. the free vintage magnets at the back. Seriously i would have been happy with just one magnet!

I'm so sleepy yet i have so much to do! Gotta go cook dinner now *healthy*!

Japanese Magazines in Kinokuniya KLCC December 2011

2011-12-18T09:40:00.000+08:00

I have not done this for a while now, so here's what's at the Japanese magazine section in Kinokuniya KLCC as of Friday.

There was one last copy of Sweet December 2011 with the Lesportsac multicase left on the shelf. I was hopping to see the November Vivi with the Murua collar, but that was just wishful; thinking.

The last issue of Sweet.

I was surprised to also see the January issue of With magazine with the Coach freebies still on the shelves. Also one copy left.

These are the latest magazines in store.

As it's Christmas time, Kinokuniya is having a Readers Rhapsody promotion where selected mooks are at 30% off. Here are some i managed to take pictures of.

Old mooks.(Sorry for the shaky picture)

Rather new mooks.

On a separate note, the Kinokuniya magazine promotion going on now is a free metal photo frame by Winko which purportedly costs RM159 (seriously?) with purchase of Malaysian Tatler and Tatler Homes (both for RM 35). Hmm.. i guess if you're rich enough to buy an RM159 photo frame, you wouldn't need to buy magazines for the freebies?

Over at the Chinese magazine department, I'm surprised to see the latest Chinese Agnes B mook, unfortunately it's the one with an ugly tote.. well, glad that Kinokuniya KLCC is starting to bring in Chinese mooks anyway.

On the magazine aisle, i saw that Bon Voyage magazine comes with a 5 piece Cellabel gift set.

Who would have thought there'd be so many bags , hair and skincare products to 'buy' in a bookstore?

Free Liese Bubble Hair Colour with Jessica Magazine

2011-12-18T08:48:00.001+08:00

The December issue of Jessica Malaysia magazine comes with a full sized Liese Bubble Hair Colour in Strawberry Pink.It's limited to the first 300 customers and exclusive to Kinokuniya but when i was there on Friday there were 1-2 big boxes of hair colour still available.

However, Sweet Pink is the only colour available and the manufacturing date is.. well see for yourself.

Hmm.. a one year old product in a colour called sweet pink? No wonder they're trying to give it away free!

But i don't mind since i feel whatever colour i use from Liese, it kinds of look the same? (true with Chesnut Brown and Ash brown.. i have not tried Sweet Pink yet).

The magazine costs only RM8 while the retail price of the hair colour is RM38.

Coach Chinese Mook

2011-12-15T18:40:00.001+08:00

UPDATE: KINOKUNIYA KLCC is actually bringing this mook in! Coming in 31/12/2011.

Coach has decided to release a Chinese Mook, which i suspect will not come to Malaysian Kinokuniya, like how all the previous Chinese mooks did not reach our shores. But still, it's good to hope.

It comes with a gorgeous box packaging with signature stripes.

The box contains a mook and the gift.

Obviously the gift won't be a tote, or wristlet or anything from their main line. So we get a make up pouch which actually looks quite cute.

The thing about this make-up pouch is that it consists of two parts. The first being an inner clear pouch with Coach logo.

And the second being an outer covering with a few clear compartments which packages the inner clear pouch.

From close-up pictures, it looks pretty well made.

I'll just wait and see if this arrives in out shores. If all else fails I'm making a trip to Singapore. But then again, I already have a gorgeous Gelato Pique make up pouch. Hmmm..

All pictures courtesy of books Taiwan.

Agnes B necklace

2011-12-14T01:09:00.000+08:00

I am constantly amazed by how greedy and unscrupulous some people are for the sake of money. Yet sometimes, though rare I meet someone who blows me away with their kindness and generosity.

It all started with my blog post on mooks in Taiwan. Meng Her was one who found the blog post useful and wanted to buy me a gift in return.

I though she must be joking! Buy me a gift? When all i did was just penning down my memories and thoughts? Of course i declined, but when she mentioned it again, i asked if she could help me buy this particular mook that was not sold in Malaysia and that i would pay her back.

To cut a long story short, she helped me buy the mook, took the trouble to post it to me, and up till now had been declining any payment or return gift!

I'm definitely getting her something in return.. but what?? Definitely don't want to get her something she may not like considering how much i love the Agnes B mook with necklace she helped me buy.

Thanks dear! It helped that the parcel came right after my not so good day.

Here's the pretty present i got in the mail.

Look at how prettily it is packaged!

And I'm really touched that she took the trouble to modify the box and make a cute card *super sweet*

I was so bummed Kinokuniya did not bring the Chinese Agnes B mook in to Malaysia, while the Singaporeans were scrambling to purchase it in Kinokuniya and Popular.

Thanks to Meng Her i don't have to be green with envy no more!

*There is kindness in the world*

Detachable collars

2011-12-12T18:01:00.000+08:00

I am a confirmed net addict! I am currently typing from my room. I am currently typing from my room while being locked inside my room. Don't ask me how it happened.. i didn't think it was possible either. I just opened my room door from the outside, went into my room, closed it again and voila I'm a prisoner in my own room.

How can a condominium unit this pretty have so many flaws? First it was the light, then the air-con, now the door knob! It doesn't help that my landlady cannot be bothered about us and expects us to pay for the faults in her house most of the time. Is there a law somewhere that protects me from this?

Anyway while i await my housemate to bring someone to save me, i am utilizing the time to blog.That's how addicted i am.

Anyhow since adorablycluelessme's blogpost (look at the side link if you wanna read her post) about detachable collars, I've been hooked!

I desperately want one for my own. It does not help that every other Japanese fashion magazine is flaunting them on almost every issue!

Here are some pictures to illustrate my point.

I want the beaded ones!

Peter pan collars with knits is the trend in Japan now.

Who needs a necklace?

Just in case you're wondering why the sudden change in styling, well half of the pictures are from the more girly and feminine Ray magazine while another half is from the more sexy grungy Scawaii.

What did i tell you about collars and knits?

Imagine how a collar can totally change the look of an outfit. For example this is look number 1 with a white pearl collar.

This is the same sweater with a dark blue polka dotted peter pan collar.

Pearls are awesome in any colour.

This one is just a necklace with a collar effect.

Sigh the problem is, the trend has yet to hit Singapore or Malaysia, and it is not being sold in many shops as of yet.

I did however manage to find a lovely crochet/lace collar at one of the clothes shop in City Square JB and they only brought in one piece too.. the thing is the price of that detachable collar is RM59.90. I almost bought it but my hubby just had to put things into perspective that with that money i can buy a whole blouse and not just a collar. Also, i did not exactly have anything to go with that collar anyway.

So now I am, still collarless, and plotting to DIY my own detachable collar. I'll let you know if i do manage to sew a decent collar. In the meantime, i do wish the locksmith would hurry up!

Daiso Soft Clay

2011-12-09T00:44:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the hiatus in blogging. Though I still am unable to blog a proper post, I don't want to leave my blog dormant for too long.

Here's further proof that my love for all things cute have gotten a bit out of hand. I was recently interested in producing my own miniature sweets crafted out of clay.

I've always thought of myself as arty, though my creations beg to differ. Anyway this is how I went overboard at Daiso lately in preparation for my miniature creations.

I turned to Daiso Soft Clay since it's the cheapest, but it's definitely too flimsy and crackly to make toy figurines, but for food like macaroons and bread it just might work. It works well to make whipped cream though!

These are what I bought!

Sorry for the dodgy pictue size. I'm blogging on my phone. As you can see I bought way too much stuff. Anyhow I've started making some creations out of the clay but not as nice as I would like it to be. I'll post it up once I take some pictures!

Johor Premium Outlets, Malaysia-Finally open!

2011-12-01T17:51:00.001+08:00

As a JB girl, i am seriously glad they have finally opened a premium outlet store in South East Asia, and what better place to have it than good old Johor Bahru! It opens starting from today and sneak previews are from 2-10th December. Official launch would be on 11th December. Although it's not officially launched yet, that did not deter many of my friends from going to check things out, and things look really good! And i am here to share what i have found out about the newest South East Asian shopping must-go!

Outlet stores are where, retailers (mostly high end shops) set up shop to sell past season items or items that are deemed defected.

Why would anyone buy old or defected products? Well, because defects are usually minor and designs are still really pretty even if it is not from the current collection. And of course, this is a chance to purchase 'branded' products at a fraction of the price.

How branded?

Quite branded:

Coach
Salvatore Ferragamo
Burberry
Armani
Polo Ralph Lauren
Michael Kors
CK Calvin Klein
DKNY
Raoul
Versace
Samsonite
Royal Selangor

Moderate:
Adidas
Gap
Guess
Nike
Lacoste
Esprit
G2000
La Senza
Levis
Poney
Puma
Quicksilver
Ripcurl
Roxy
Tomy Hilfiger
ShangHai Tang
Universal traveller
Timberland
Charles and Keith
Sketchers
Clarks
City Chain
Evita Peroni
Bonia
Carlo Rino
Fossil
The Body Shop

I don't know what brands these are *shy*:

Tumi
Canali
Ermenegildo Zegna
Oroton
Flow
Pink Jambu
Geox
Pedro
Fidani Chocolate

This is branded?:
Cotton on
Padini
Vincci
Akemi

As of now 70% of the shops are open and discounts supposedly between 25%-75% everyday. From my friends observation, Coach was going at 20-40% discounts with some wrislets going for around RM80.

Here are some pictures of the place.

I really need to go! I can imagine many Johoreans walking around in Coach from now on, and long jams across the causeway from Singapore to JB!

Be warned though, the weather is a bit loopy these days- one minute it's burning hot, another it's raining cats and dogs.

Here's the address:

Johor Premium Outlets
Jalan Premium Outlets
Indahpura 81000 Kulaijaya
Johor Darul Takzim
Malaysia

And map on how to get there.

If you need more detailed instructions,go to the official site here.

I really am excited to go!Probably going around Christmas!Which shop are you more excited on going to?Let me know and I'll snap a few more pictures on what they have inside.

A big thanks to Reen, for the lovely pictures!

UPDATE: I've visited the place and put up my review here.

Not my day

2011-11-30T16:41:00.001+08:00

Today, so far has proven to be a bit of a 'not so good day. I'm someone who whines and complains then forget about it after i have complained enough. I find that if i don't release it to someone, or somewhere (ie this blog) it gets me really down. So since my one and only 'dumping buddy' whom i can tell almost anything to, no matter how silly or embarrassing had gone back to Ipoh to continue part 2 of her postgrad term,I have no choice but to express my whines here.

Look away if you can't stand whiny people.

I should have read the signs.
As i was walking to work/school (i do nothing but study), my shoe broke. Stupid RM15 shoe. Okay it broke earlier as in it had a crack in it 2 weeks after wearing it. But today the crack basically became a big hole. As i was halfway there, i decided to just continue walking since it was still walkable.

Felt sleepy.

Unable to answer a basic chemical pathology question asked by my friend. And i have just completed the posting a month ago. Feel moderately depressed and scared. I actually need to study seriously now. Sigh.

Left to go home.It's raining.

Opened my umbrella. Walked to shop.

Realized i only had RM6 in my purse. Forgot to refill working purse.

Bought a knife for RM5.90. Wanted to but a roll or bread. Took it anyway.

Scrambled through purse to find an extra dollar.

Found an RM10 note *sweat for nothing*

Actually had RM16 in my purse.

Bought the RM1 roll.

Left shop.

Wind overturned my NT100 umbrella. And rendered it deformed.

Continued to walk home.

Faulty shoe with hole decided to provide more problems.

Metal plate at bottom of shoe folded in half, thus forcing me to walk as if i have a heel at my sole.

Walked like i had one short leg. Feel bad for people who actually do have the condition.

Self conscious that people are looking at me.

Still thinking of what to eat for dinner.

Most likely cooking for one.

The end.

Moral of story:
1: Time to buy new shoes..
2: Ditto for umbrella
3: Have to force myself to do questions/study/ develop long term memory for things that are actually important.

I feel infinitely better after whining!Thanks whoever you are!

Mooks

2011-11-30T00:02:00.000+08:00

Yup another round of mooks for your visual pleasure.Most of them should be out now at a Kinokuniya near you! Only the first mook (Rinka, a Japanese model's mook)does not come with a freebie.

L'occitane Christmas sets 2011

2011-11-27T12:36:00.001+08:00

Here are the holiday sets available in L'occitane Malaysia. I figured this might be a good guide for the seasonal gift buying sprees!

L'OCCITANE Discovery RM159 (worth RM360)
Shea Butter Hand Cream 30ml, Pure Shea Butter 8ml, Revitalizing Shower Gel 75ml, Relaxing Body Lotion 75ml, Repairing Shampoo & Conditioner 35ml, Essential Face Water 30ml, Immortelle Precious Cream 15ml, Shea Ultra Rich Cream 15ml, Shea Milk Soap 50g, Drawstring Bag.

L'OCCITANE Stars RM129 (worth RM150)
Shea Butter Hand Cream & Foot Cream 30ml, Pure Shea Butter 8ml, Shea Ultra Rich Lip Balm 5ml, Shea Verbena Soap 100g, Pouch.

Mini Hand Cream Trio RM110
Cherry Blossom Hand Cream 30ml, Peony Hand Cream 30ml, Rose 4 Reines Hand Cream 30ml, Gift Box.

Pivoine Flora RM306 (RM360)
EDT 75ml, Shower Cream 250ml, Beauty Milk 250ml, Peony Gift Box

Shower Celebration RM99 (worth RM108)
Assortment of Shower Gels 75ml x 4pcs in a Gift Box.

Almond Body RM320 (worth RM450)
Shower Oil 250ml, Delicious Paste 200ml, Milk Veil 250ml, Straw Bag

Aromachologie Travel RM149 (worth RM243)
Shea Butter Hand Cream 30ml, Pure Shea Butter 8ml, Revitalizing Shower Gel 75ml, Relaxing Body Lotion 75ml, Repairing Shampoo & Conditioner 75ml, Shea Milk Soap 50g, Drawstring Pouches.

Flowers of Provence RM110 (worth RM162)
Peony Shower Gel 75ml, Peony Beauty Milk 75ml, Cherry Blossom Bath & Shower Gel 75ml, Cherry Blossom Shimmering Body Lotion 75ml, Pouch.

Délice Delight RM120 (worth RM138)
Délice des Fruits & Délice des Fleur Shower Jelly 75ml, Délice des Fruits & Délice des Fleur Hand Cream 30ml, Candy Pouch.

Délice des Fleurs RM306 (worth RM360)
Shower Jelly 250ml, Body Cream 250ml, EDT 75ml, Holiday Gift Box.

All pictures and information are from Loccitane Malaysia.

L'occitane Holiday Charm Freebie

2011-11-25T18:55:00.001+08:00

I chanced upon this, and since the charm is so cute i thought i'd spread the word.

Here's the link if you're interested: L'occitane facebook page.Go to the link on the side which says 'like page contest'.

Good luck! Let me know if you gals actually win something.

Little budget buys

2011-11-25T11:23:00.001+08:00

I seem to have amassed a small number of pictures from my restricted and controlled shopping sessions. Here are some of the stuff i got recently.

Imagine where i bought this? A shop with probably no particular brand at Tesco. I wasn't planning on getting this since i almost always only buy from Vinci (i dunno why- since their shoes don't last very long), and i don't wear heals, and I'm a bit skeptical at shoe shops that sell shoes that are of no particular brand.

I was actually just accompanying my shoe crazy friend who was getting this pair of shoes, and she sort of persuaded me to get this as well.

Normal price:RM69.90, after discount: RM49.90. Conversion rate: US$1= RM3.20 thus
shoes =USD15.50.

These are really nice and comfy, but i have a nagging suspicion that somewhere in China these shoes are going for much much cheaper.

I also bought a vintage charm bracelet from a push cart in Midvalley called Vintage 1988, the kind where you choose your own charms, your own bracelet and the lady will customize the bracelet for you. Again it's probably cheaper on blogshops, but i'm too lazy to wait for mail, and over there the lady can measure my wrist and customize it there and then for me. I made a mental note to ensure i don't spend more than I'm supposed to.

Each of the small charms cost me RM5 each, the larger bracelet RM8 and the finer bracelet RM6 (I wanted double chains) which totals to RM34. These are brass charms with a vintage feel to it. The only reason i customize my bracelets is because my wrists are really small, so ready to buy bracelets don't suit me at all.. some just fall off when i put my hands down.

From Daiso, i got this cute gadget. What do you think it is?

It looks like a correction tape dispenser, yeah? But it actually dispenses strawberry patterns! I know this thing is a useless decorating tool that only serves to satiate my need for all things cute. Plus it's Daiso cheap at RM5.

I also recently went to a Bata sale at ViVo Homes Cheras and every Bata show was really cheap going at RM5 fro slippers to RM20 for shoes. The school shoes were sold for RM10 each and i saw parents buying up to 3 Ikea bags worth of feet apparel!

I did not buy anything from the Bata brand, but there was another section for shoed from other brands and i could not go home empty handed could I? I bought these cute cover-up shoes, since it's a lab requirement that i not where my usual sandals, at RM15. These are surprisingly comfortable but i wonder how long it will last since i have to walk 10 minutes to work everyday.

Oh, and on a separate (but not entirely so) note, Christmas decorations are up! These are some snaps i took at Sunway Pyramid.

I know... the sight of Christmas trees and Christmas music just makes me want to buy presents!

The real folks of "You are the Apple of my eye" (那些年,我們一起追的女孩) - 柯震东,陳妍希

2011-11-24T13:05:00.001+08:00

I think by now every Chinese person in the 15- 35 age bracket (even though it's rated 18SX) in Malaysia would have seen this movie.

I've heard of this movie name dropped on radio programmes and TV shows in Taiwan for the longest time now so it is with much anticipation that i dragged JH and my youngest brother along to watch the much hyped about in the Chinese entertainment world movie, 'You are the apple of my eye' (which i think is a rather cliche title as compared to the actual Chinese title which i very much prefer 'Na xie nien wo men yi chi chui de nu hai' -sorry for the play by ear han yu pin yin- i have never had a Chinese lesson in my life, or 那些年,我們一起追的女孩) . At this point i'm overwhelmed by the desire to actually read Chinese.

Anyhow, the movie was okay for me. JH and my baby brother thinks it's actually quite good. Perhaps i had months of anticipation and expectation for this movie that i expected a lot more? Anyhow, even though i felt the story line was a little too plain, the leads were charismatic and good looking, the movie was peppered with funny and vulgar parts (not that i liked the vulgar parts), and though it was basically a running commentary of a teenage boys love and lost of the girl he loved, it did not feel flat or boring as it could have been in the hands of lesser directors/producers. Most of all i loved the way the whole movie presented itself visually, with lovely camera angles, not too corny special effects and vibrant landscapes of Taiwan.

Now the whole point of this post is not to review the movie, (though i seem to have covered it somewhat in my above ramblings) but to reveal the identities of the protagonists in the movie.

Many may already know this movie was written and directed by a prolific Taiwanese author with 50 books under his belt call 'Jiu Ba Tau" loosely translated as 9 swords.

The story is based on his own personal experience and every character in the movie is real.

This is what the lead Ko Chen-Tung (柯震东) looks like. He's a 20 year old university student in his movie debut.

He plays the male lead, who is in real life the author of the story as well as the director, 'Jiu Ba dao' aka Nine swords and officially in English he's called Giddens.. and this is what he really looks like.

*Disclaimer: Don't read the rest of this post if you live in clouds and want to believe the real life protagonists actually look like those telegenic actors in the cinemas*

Probably not the most good looking , but as you can see definitely very mischievious and sentimental.Also rich after the success of the film, besides being a popular author.

The rest of his gang from the movie. Can you guess who is who?

I know, i can understand now why this bunch was described as childish by the female lead in the movie.This was probably taken at the actual wedding!

Ha ha ha, how nice it is to have your early adult years translated into a movie? I wonder if they get royalties from it?

Anyhow, the most important question on everyone's mind is probably what does Shen Chia-Yi, the pretty and smart lead and object of many a young boys desire look like.

We know the actress who plays her, Michelle Chen Yan Xi (陳妍希), 28,who previously acted in many Taiwanese idol dramas, the most notable one being 'Miss No Good' with Rainie Yang and Wilber Pan, is a really pretty girl. She's not the kind of pretty that other girls hate, cos it's more of a natural and simple type of beauty that sells beauty products.
Throughout the show, all i could think of was, 'Why is her skin like that? I want her skin!'. And this is why.

She looks good with even seemingly no make-up.

The popularity of the movie has lead to increasing public interest on who the actual 沈佳宜 is.

And the Taiwanese media gladly obliged as shown by the Youtube video above and the picture below courtesy of this site.

Now that that's done with, what have the main actors of the movie been up to since the phenomenal reception of the show?

Chen Yan-Xi has cut her hair into a cute bob and is gracing the cover of Taiwanese magazine, Choc which is now out in Malaysian newsstands.

Also, she has been nominated as Best Actress for the 48th Taiwanese Golden Horse Awards.

She hasn't actually won yet (she's just posing) but results will be out 26th November 2011.

The male lead, Ke Zhen Dong (柯震東) on the other hand,being the lucky fella that he is, (let me see, genetically blessed good looks and height -he looks 6 foot tall, enough luck to play the lead role in his movie debut, enough luck for the movie to break box-office earnings in Chinese cinema, can actually act) has now moved on to release his first music album!

Productive or what? And he can actually hold a tune!

Here you judge for yourself. Here's his duet with Chen Yan-Xi.

It's somewhat of a rarity to find a Taiwanese film that is so popular, so if you have not watched it, i would suggest you to watch it just to see what all the fuss is about.

Marc Jacobs, Cath Kidston Japanese magazine freebies

2011-11-22T13:43:00.000+08:00

I used to have this 'must buy' mentality with January issues of Japanese magazines. That's because that was the time where I can purchase cute/ branded/ one of a kind calenders. Ever since getting an iPhone, I've been using a physical ( ie paper calenders) less and less. Nevertheless it's good to have a look yeah?

Here are the freebies with January issues of Japanese magazines.

The January issue of Cutie comes with a Liz Lisa make up pouch. Out 12th December in Japan.

The January 2012 issue of InRed comes with a Cath Kidston calender and Zucca tote bag. Out 7th December 2011 in Japan.

This is a really promising one. An Agnes b tote in the typical Agnes B prints but with a black pink theme this time. There have been so many Agnes b freebies this year but the only difference will be that this one comes with a zip.This one also comes out 7th December 2011.

Last but not least Sweet January issue comes with 2 Marc by Marc Jacobs pouches and a Marc by Marc Jacobs calender.

H&M Versace Singapore

2011-11-19T10:36:00.001+08:00

When H&M opened it's first store in South East Asia (in where else but Singapore?) a while ago there were already snaking ques going into the store. It comes as no surprise then that with the latest release of the H&M collaboration with Versace (launched 17th November) that even longer ques are expected.Oh, i wish i was there to get a piece of the action!

A report on 'Lianhe Wanbao' stated that there were employers or their children ( the report gave an example of a 25 year old university student) who made their maids line up as early as 2pm the day before the launch!The Chinese evening daily also reported at least 3 maids lining up in que with enough cash and a list of sizes and model of chlothing to get.

Is the hype warranted? I guess it is! We're talking about Versace and also exclusivity. The nearest place to get it is Singapore or else you would have to travel to Hong Kong or China just to line up to buy the clothes.There were 280 people in the que before stores open at 8am. Furthermore you can only buy 1 piece per size to prevent hoarding.

Anyhow, I'm loving the special Versace paper bag, and would you just look at the ques in Singapore?

Here are a couple of items that are getting people around the world all flustered.

And for a reason too. You get to wear a quality Versace classic for a fraction of the price.To put things into perspective a couture Versace gown can cost up to US$10,000 while the for the H&M collaboration the most expensive piece in the Singapore store is a S$549 leather jacket.Not good enough a reason? Well then how about wearing the same dress as Jessica Alba?

Yup this is the same outfit as worn as the model above and it cost S$119 for the silk top and S$199 for the silk skirt.

Or how about taking a leaf out of Emma Robert's closet?

The silk bustier cost S$199 while the pants cost S$119.

Or Sofia Coppola perhaps?

The dress on the right costs S$249.

And I can't wait to see how the Asian celebs rock the collection, a prime specimen being Sammi Cheng.

Glittery dress costs S$ 199.

Included in the collection are accessories,men's line, home furnishing pieces and bags.

Here was the guidelines to shopping stated on the official website.

By now I suppose all the garments would have been snapped up and perhaps some on e-bay at sky high prices. Can't wait to see people wearing these collections around. Did you manage to get a piece of the action?

Image source: Google, H&M , Sammi's Weibo.

Some lucky people who managed to snag the pieces were over the moon after all the effort made lining up (except perhaps the university student who made her maid line-up).

Here are some links to people who actually were part of the whole experience:

Seekthesleek
BeauteRunway

I really need to make my way down to H&M for the next collaboration.Yes, I'm silly like that.It's all in the experience yeah? Or maybe i should get myself a maid...

My blog has been copied part 2

2011-11-17T14:33:00.000+08:00

If you are a long term reader of my blog, you would probably have remembered that my post was copied word for word spelling errors and all by an entertainment web page. By a stroke of luck (good or bad- up to you to decide) i chanced upon a blog that copied every picture and every post I published since 2007!!

Unimaginable!

And the worst thing is , I can't do anything about it!

Here are some pictorial proof of that low-life copycats copycat blog.

In between my posts were silly unrelated posts about wallpapers and links out.That's how the hacker makes money i suppose.I hate it that it's called HelloKittyWallpapers! That just took it to a whole new bimbotic level. (Note to self: less bimbotic posts from now on)and how incredulous is it for the hacker to actually establish 6 blogs chock full of posts at the same time on October 2011!

Does blogspot not find this suspicious?!

My hotmail account was hacked a while ago but the problem was subsequently rectified. The problem was, i used the same account for my blogger login. That i presume was how this imbecile managed to export my whole blog onto another account. I don't understand though what's in it for him/her. I hope it's a girl though, make me feel better somehow.

Anyhow i've changed my account to a different login author and that's why i suppose this person is not able to get access to my newer posts.

Cheh stupid person! My readers are not stupid enough to go and click on your suspicious links!

There really should be a cyberlaw against this in Malaysia but for now, i really can't do anything about except report the blog as spam.

Anyone has any ideas what else i can do?

Biore facial foam freebie

2011-11-14T20:53:00.001+08:00

Biore is giving away facial foams this time on their facebook page.

If anyone is interested here's the link.

Ray November 2011 with Juju Aquamoist Freebie

2011-11-13T10:45:00.001+08:00

I'm becoming more and more like an 'auntie' everyday. I went to catch a train in KL Sentral. Since I had time left I went down to the MyNews.Com shop sand saw the November issue of Ray with a really gross looking guy on the cover (well not gross, but how inappropriate right to have a guy on a female fashion and make up magazine, and he's not even the manly type- in fact he looks very much like a girl).

Thankfully though the content is great. But my 'auntie' gear had to kick in, and so i put back the magazine which was at the front of the shop. Went into the shop to check for posters on discounts, got out of the shop, picked up the magazine again and when I paid I reminded the guy at the counter that there is a free gift with the magazine. I'm paranoid like that. Perhaps because many a times the cashiers are not too good at remembering that there are freebies that the magazine purchaser is entitled to. The ironic thing is half the time i don't even use the freebies. I just feel happy picking up a gift with purchase.

So anyhow, while stocks last, you would be able to get a 30ml bottle of JuJu Aquamoist with a copy of the English version of Ray magazine.

PS: Is it a sign of me getting old when I get all nostalgic when I look into my neighbours apartment unit and I see children enjoying Sunday morning cartoons?

Japanese mags December 2011/January 2012 issues coming out in November

2011-11-12T09:11:00.001+08:00

As you know Japanese people are too efficient for their own good. These are some magazines already in Kinokuniya or coming really soon.

Giselle December issue should be in stores now, and comes with 2 Jill Stuart pouches.

Janurary issue of Liniere comes with a liflattie ships (gota love the name) tote. Release date 19th November in Japan.

Monomax December issue which should be in stores already comes with a manly overnight bag by Brooks Brothers.

Smart January issue which come out 24th November in Japan comes with a Head Porter wallet.

The January issue of Spring comes with a fluffy cosmetics pouch.Out 22nd of November.

Glow January issue comes with a Bobbi Brown cosmetic pouch and lip brush!Out 28th November in Japan.

Not forgetting two really good freebies out now : LeSportsac multicase with Sweet and HbG tote with Cutie.

I'm sick~

2011-11-08T13:03:00.000+08:00

I would love to update my blog with the usual cutesy stuff i always put, but today however hard i try i am unable to, for the simple fact that i am sick. I hate being sick.I seldom get sick. I have not been sick in the past 6 months. And this time it's not just the common cold or fever. Let me whine a bit ok?

Last Friday i was happily awaiting the long weekends, with Monday being a public holiday due to Hari Raya Aidil Adha. I do not celebrate this particular event but i am happy nonetheless. So when my husband came over on Saturday i was happy and fit as a fiddle. On Sunday morning however, i felt dizzy and when i stood, i felt as if my head was spinning.

Then i started to burp a lot, felt bloated, as well as have cramps over my legs.I also had one episode of watery diarrhea.However the symptoms were really vague and i just could not put a finger on it. Many differential diagnosis went through my mind ranging from the mild, pre- menstrual symptoms and Chinese restaurant syndrome to the more sinister which i don't really want to mention.

After some rest i was well enough to go for a Saturday lunch with my hubby and his friends but generally i was just sleeping and lying down the moment i got home, mainly because of the dizziness.

On Sunday morning, again i had dizziness, nausea, 2 episodes of watery diarrhea and per vaginal bleed ie my period.(No no it's not what you think i had a beta HCG screen)

We (me and hubby) finally put it down to a diagnosis of gastritis and i was stated on Ranitidine 150mg, which rendered me well enough to go for my husbands birthday celebration at night.

But this morning, i finally vomited, had 10 episodes of watery diarrhea and my period had stopped.Sigh, i hate being sick. So for now I'm treating it as a combination of gastritis and gastroenteritis. Luckily i'm starting to tolerate fluids and some soft diet.

What i'm wondering is, how does someone like me who eat regular meals (except during housemanship on-call days) get gastritis? H. pylori? Or is it because i generally eat dinner at 6pm and leave my stomach empty up until the next morning? Compounded by the fact that i eat a lot of citrus fruits after dinner.

Sigh, I'm feeling better now, but there goes my long holidays where i had plans to study, revise for my next module which is microbiology and generally have some quality un-sick time with the hubby.

I really want to be 100% fit soon!

No more rich food for now. Welcome, porridge, plain water and plain bread!

Jay Chou's latest 2011 album - More new songs (周杰倫『你好嗎』(2011新歌), 迷魂曲)

2011-11-04T21:20:00.001+08:00

The album is not out yet, but Youtube is already deluged with songs from his latest album! And so far besides 'Mine Mine' I'm really loving this song:

It's called 你好嗎 (How are you?)

This is exactly the ballads that get me yearning for more of Jay. The melodies and lyrics just tugs at the heartstrings. Hopefully there will be more ballads in this album for people like me.

The next song is an uptempo one. It's catchy,fast and furious. Not usually my cup of tea, but lets see if it grows on me.

It's called 迷魂曲. Don't ask me what this is in English cos really it's beyond my Mandarin literacy.

What do you think of his upcoming album? I know i might be Rm50 poorer come 11/11/11.

Gelato Pique More January 2011

2011-11-04T16:22:00.003+08:00

The January issue of MORE Japanese magazine comes with a Gelato Pique pouch and tissue cover in the prettiest fabric as well as an equally pretty calender.

Will be out in Japan on the 28th of November.

Hiya Zakka

2011-11-03T20:07:00.000+08:00

Ever heard of Zakka?

Here's the definition from wikipedia:

"Zakka (from the Japanese 'zak-ka'（雑貨）or 'many things') is a fashion and design phenomenon that has spread from Japan throughout Asia. The term refers to everything and anything that improves your home, life and appearance. It is often based on household items from the West that are regarded as kitsch in their countries of origin, but it can also be Japanese goods, mainly from the fifties, sixties, and seventies. In Japan there are also so-called Asian zakka stores; that usually refers to Southeast Asia. The interest in Nordic design or Scandinavian design, both contemporary and past, is also part of this zakka movement. Zakka can also be contemporary handicraft."

Well to me Zakka are handmade, simplistic designs be it in clothes or any household decorative item, that although simple, add a touch of whimsy as a whole.

And to think i stumbled upon a Zakka store in my hometown of Johor Bahru. Here's what the store looks like. All photos grabbed from their Facebook page.

See what i mean by whimsical? I want my house /room to look like that!

And this is what i bought from the darling shop:

I could not resist the yummy food stuff in the tiny jars. And best of all RM10 for 3 jars.

The shop is located at KSL City, Johor Bahru.

Here's the full address and contact:
07 3313209
hiyazakka@gmail.com
L1-75, KSL City, Johor Bahru.
Opens from 10am-10pm everyday.

Ps: I am in no way affiliated to them. I just found the stuff there to be really cute!I wish i could make my own miniature sweets and pastries.

周杰倫JayChou's latest album 2011 驚嘆號完整版MV and Mine Mine 完整版 MV

2011-11-02T21:04:00.001+08:00

It's time for Jay Chou's once a year album and so far two MTV's have been released. The first one being an over CGI-ed one.

I can see why it's been getting 'dislikes' on Youtube. It's cute but in a poor cartoon kind of way. Obviously nothing compared to Disney'Pixar but it guess you have to start somewhere. Anyhow i'm not such a great fan of the really fast and furious songs. The second MV released is for a song called "mine mine" which is definitely more my cup of tea.

It sounds as it should for a breezy happy love song. Wonder if this is meant for anyone? Anyhow, i'm looking forward to listening to more from the album of this musical genius who can dance,act, be flilial son of the year as well as have the ability to choose the prettiest girlfriends.Oh, and also the ability to irritate paparazzi no end. Apparently as they were tailing him at the airport after his rumored holiday in Japan, after constant bugging from paparazzi's he had this to say' Walk carefully if you fall then that would be really funny.' Love his soundbites.

The latest album loosely translated as 'exclamation mark' will be launched on 11/11/11, an apt date for his 11th album release.

I'm looking forward to this one.

In the meantime i'm still in awe of his slick dance moves.

UPDATE: Two more new songs have been released. Just blogged about it here.

Naruko Tea Tree Oil Out Acne Clay Cleanser review

2011-11-02T20:27:00.001+08:00

Finally Naruko has reached Malaysian shores officially. I've been eyeing this particular brand of product since forever, but was not keen to buy online or pay the hiked up prices from various push carts around town. Furthermore with the pushcarts, one will never be able to completely verify the authenticity. Luckily though, Watson's decided to bring this Taiwanese based beauty product in and after reading the glowing reviews from vloggers and bloggers I decided to try it out myself.

Niu er is a really famous skincare guru (i have no idea if he is actually a dermatologist or make up artist or what) in Taiwan so obviously the skincare line (Naruko) he developed won many fans in Taiwan as it claims to be paraben and preservatives free. With the big names and eco-friendly claims, the product is very reasonably priced. No wonder then the Naruko stands in Watson's were mostly quite sparse, except for the Tea tree line (perhaps because of the ugly packaging?)

I bought the Tea Tree Oil Out Cleanser as well as the Tea Tree Oil Out Balancing Serum as i felt this range was the most suited for my oily yet dry and easily prone to break outs combination skin.

The packaging is really ugly and almost manly.

But i guess, it's a marketing ploy, because this is their motto written on the box:

I guess it is apt that the inside is lovingly decorated and designed as such that it can be reused as a stationary holder. My only grouse though, if they really are that environmentally friendly, why is there another piece of cardboard covering the product besides the reusable cardboard box? Does not make sense.

Anyway this is what it looks like inside:

This is what the actual product looks like:

Packaging: 2/5- exterior 3/5- interior 4/5- idea

Function: Cleanser (the usual lather,massage and rinse) and face mask (apparently just put it on your face and it works as a face mask- i leave it on for about 5-10 minutes), some exfoliating properties- there seems to be tiny particles in the cleanser.

Ingredients:

Claims: Pore refining, oil control, conceal and fight blemishes, regulation of skin metabolism, anti-bacterial. (Phew..)

Performance: When used it gives a really cool feeling to the skin and a really strong tea tree oil scent. As a mask the cool sensation and tea tree oil scent is intensifies 10 times to the point that it actually stings the eyes slightly but not to the extent that will cause tearing.But i think it will seriously hurt if the cleanser gets into the eyes. Works fine. Does not give the too taut and squeaky feeling. Used together with the serum, does reduce oil production on the face. In terms of blemishes, it does reduce the severity of the break outs somewhat. I still have pimples but are smaller and less inflammatory.I've only been using it for 2 weeks. Pore refining component: I don't think anything can shrink my pores. No visible improvement seen yet. I rate it 8/10 just for helping me with my spots. Mind you i've got skin so problematic that i've never used a normal lather cleanser without breaking out badly before.

Price: Cheap at RM29

Would i repurchase: Most likely yes.

Oh and have a look at what the inside of the box turned out to look like:

Oops, ignore the slipshod card i made.

Free Coach calender and book cover with With magazine

2011-10-31T20:52:00.000+08:00

The January issue of With Japanese magazine comes with a Coach calender and book cover.The magazine comes out November 28th in Japan. Here's a peek at the freebie.

Free iPhone application (Jetpack)

2011-10-29T12:00:00.000+08:00

If you're the few people who don't jailbreak their phones/iPads, but would love to get a free yet non-crappy game once in a while then you're in luck.

For a limited time, if you 'Like' Jetpack Joyride on the app store page on facebook, you get to redeem the game for free until all codes are fully redeemed.

I've redeemed mine , and the graphics are cute!

Here's the link.

Mooks galore

2011-10-28T22:53:00.000+08:00

Once again more mooks coming Kinokuniya KLCC's way.

All cute but not something i would buy for now.

On a separate note, I'm sure you know Naruko products are in Watson's Malaysia now and i've bougth a few! So far loving them.

In care you don't know Naruko is a brand formulated by Niu-Er famed make-up guru in Taiwan. Apparently he's a doctor too. The fact that the products are without parabens and very affordable got me interested. Also the packaging is interesting with really blah outer design and lovely colourful interior that is designed to be reusable with simple DIY instructions showing you how.

Oh, crap, i need pictures to do this.

Will do a review soon once i have less studying to do. Oh, i've accumulated loads of cute pictures of cute purchases with no time to blog about them!

In the meantime here's Naruko's main Malaysian website.

Cheap Ice cream ear phones

2011-10-26T11:41:00.001+08:00

Happy Deepavali folks! While i anticipate a 5 day holiday of family, wedding and study (stupid exam just has to be scheduled right after the wedding), i'm chilling at home, and basically wasting half a day of holiday doing nothing. Therefore i figured i'd better do some blogging.

Somehow i managed to lose my ear phones. Or someone stole it, i have no clue. Thankfully though the ones lost were not my original iPhone ear phones but a cheap but much cuter and equally functional RM10 one. I figured it would be great to have some spares and i bought two at Minitoons Sunway Pyramid. These were cute and even cheaper than the one i bought at KL Sentral.

Seriously, cheap things are cute!

The blue chocolate candy look-a like ear phones cost RM10 and comes with a wire organizer.

I only intended to buy one, but the ice cream ear phones were cuter, with pink wires and it only costs RM8!

And therefore I am very happy. The ice cream ear phones work great so far in case you're wondering and it matches my phone casing too.

Daiso eyelid tape and much more.

2011-10-25T18:44:00.001+08:00

I have not done this in ages, but the buys this time warrants a post i feel, cos i'm super happy with it.

As usual i try to keep my buys less than 8, so i only bought 6 items bringing the bill to RM30. Right at the back is a twin pack of facial cotton that amounts to 180 pieces. I've vecome quite addicted to Daiso facial cottons since they are generally not the type that are overly fluffy and stick to the skin. I've tried other types in Daiso before, and i feel this should be the same ,albeit with a nice box packaging .

In front of it, is a stip of 10 sets of eyelid tape and eye lash glue. I've bought the eye lash glue before and found it really good since it dries clear. The reason why i'm buying though is because in my haste i punctured the tube and basically caused all the glue to leak out on the very first time i was using it. I'm going to be extra careful this time round.

The eye lid tape looks really promising. I suppose i should first explain why i need to use tape on my eyelids in the first place. Well, i've got double eyelids, but they're assymetrical.My left eye has a nice eyelid crease while my right eye has a double eyelid which is too deep. As a result one eye looks bigger. I once had a well known to be flirtatious opthalmologist ask if i had ptosis (drooping of the eyelid) when i was a medical student.He then proceeded to bring me to another room alone with him so that he could have a better examination. See how dangerous having assymetrical double eyelids can be? Flirtatious doctors can put you in awkward situations. Adding a tape solves the problem. But honestly i never bothered till recently. I hated that the tape could still be seen if some one looks closely at the lids. I opted using a slim-type of double eyelid tape. However this one is slimmer and is double sided! This should be practically invisible. I have not tried it yet, but as i have said, it sounds promising. It's a bit pricey at RM5 for 10 sets, but it's ok for me since i only have to use it on one side.

In front of the double eyelid tape is another yellow box of double eyelid tape (the type i used to use).

The contraption with 5 yellow round orbs and a blue prong? That's an embosser! Very happy that Daiso is bringing in more craft supplies.You can't see it from the picture, but i'm going to be able to emboss animal shapes.

The green package consists of sachets to put green/chinese tea in so that the tea leaves don't get into your cup. My mom likes it a lot!

Yup Daiso is still my favourite budget shopping place.

Liniere with Liberty Print multi case

2011-10-23T22:29:00.000+08:00

I succumbed and got myself yet another multi-case after the abysmal display that was Jill by Jill Stuart multi-case.

It's true about people saying that Liniere gives out good quality multi-cases. The cover does not look like your typical Japanese fashion magazine, cos it's not. It's more of a clean, sustainable simple living/fashion magazine.

What attracted me was the gorgeous Liberty print.

And i'm definitely glad i bought it. The quality is leaps and bounds better than a lot of freebies. No colour transfer of the fabric, no weird folds and abnormal shape. The print is gorgeous and water proof. The stitching pretty neat.

The only drawback is that it's a little cumbersome to use since you'd have to open it all the way to retrieve money. It's main purpose is for travel and putting all essentials including passports in it.

The only tiny defect i see is some puckering at one side, which can't be helped i suppose.

I'm definitely someone who can't stand folds on the spine of the multi-case/wallet, so i'm glad to see a nice clean line on this one.

The back portion was flawless.

I'd say this is a good buy. I saw about 10 copies in Kinokuniya. They might have a second shipment of this i suppose but generally Liniere stock is usually limited.

Non-no however with the Agnes B bag is in abundance! The first shipment sold out, and they have restocked! There were piles and piles of the Non-no with Agnes B bag all over the Japanese section!

No more multi-cases for me i suppose. I have enough to last me ages.

Agnes B Non-No November 2011

2011-10-20T17:11:00.000+08:00

After thinking for quite a while i finally decided to get the November issue of Non-No with Agnes B tote. I bought the one last year with stars instead of spots, and i'd say both are equally cute!

This post is late cos the December issue of Non-No is already out!

I like it how the freebie is modeled at the cover, no denying what's the main draw of the magazine!

Coordinated packaging.

The inside is unlined and rather thin, but is coated so it's slightly water resistant .

What i hate though are the creases, since the bag is folded, sigh..

A close up of the material.

The straps are a bit sloppy and needed some trimming.

But all in all a cute bag!

The latest issue (Dec) is out now and comes with with a checkered Heather bag.

Big Bad Wolf 2011- What i bought!

2011-10-16T12:17:00.001+08:00

I finally was able to make my way to the book sale of the year. MEAPS Serdang was a huge place but was fairly easy to locate. There were loads of signs once you get to Serdang. The parking lots were ample which also means it may be a distance from the halls, but the trams that come and fetch people to the halls were abundant and at regular frequency. You would initially have to line up to get in, but it takes no longer than 10 minutes to get in.

Now my only grouse is, because it is a warehouse sale, people seem to have no respect for the books! Many of the children books were torn/missing freebies/ missing pages/ missing a portion/ unwrapped. And don't get me started on the books with battery operated sounds/songs at a press of the button.You can imagine what children do to those. Poor books.

Here's what it looked like inside the halls.

Yup, that many book lovers in Malaysia!

Lots of Mr Men and Little Miss books at RM3 each.

Also for RM3-RM5 English translated mangas.

And as you can see loads of books for dummies.

As you can see, one of the headlining books for this book sale, Jamie Oliver's cookbook (there was only one, and not even a new one but enough to get everyone into a frenzy) was running out on the second last day of the sale. Loads of people had a copy.

It gets claustrophobic if you stay there long enough.The lines to the cashier was long but thanks to the efficient cashiers and packers (there are one packers per cashier who helps to carry your heavy load of books to the cashier and pack them into bags-Nice), it did not take as long as expected. Of course the bill was the best thing of all. In all spent RM177 on 18 books, with an average of RM9.80 per book.

This was our box stash as we lined up to get to the cashier.

And this is our collective haul out of the box.

Of course, i had to get the headlining book. I've been watching his cooking shows since Saturday morning 'Naked Chef' on channel 5 when i was in secondary school.

I bought a few children's books for my friends kids, but i couldn't resist getting something from my childhood for myself. I used to have a flower fairies colouring book. The illustrations are classic!

And here's a page out of one of the books i bought. Retro coffee shop cup and saucers.

All in all very happy with my buys.

Angelababy (杨颖) Eddie Peng (彭于晏) in Love You You (夏日樂悠悠)

2011-10-14T16:41:00.002+08:00

*Update: Have watched the movie,and though the start was a but slow and fragmented, it was ably compensated by the eye candy that is Eddie Peng , Angelababy and the island of Lang Tengah. There is a nice twist in the middle and a nice sweet ending. All in all the movie is great for romantics and fans of said eye-candies*

This is a sequel of sorts to the 2000 Hong Kong movie starring Sammi Cheng and Ritchie Ren Summer Holiday. The movie was filmed in Pulau Redang and substantially increased tourism to the island.

This film, called Love You You (i know the English title makes no sense) 11 years later is filmed in Lang Tengah another island off Terengganu, Malaysia with lovely pristine beaches.Lang Tengah island is decidedly less commercialized but just as beautiful.Pulau Redang is now so saturated with tourists and not as pristine as it used to be.

The latest installation stars one of the best looking people in the Chinese entertainment industry at the moment, Taiwanese actor Eddie Peng and Hong Kong based China born model/actress/ plastic surgery rumours plagued Angelababy.

Being Malaysian, i'm pretty chuffed at the prospect of seeing the natural beauty of Malaysia on display in the big screens. I'm ashamed to say though, i has no idea they were shooting the film in Malaysia until now.

Here are some photos and stills from the movie.

Here's the trailer.

And here's the music video of the theme song in case anyone of you is a JJ Lin fan.

You can tell this movie is going to be nothing but fluff and eye-candy with little substance, but i guess once in a while you need to watch movies like that.

Also, in case you're wondering , this is the trailer for the first movie.

My only grouse is, in the first instalment local acts like ah-Niu and Guang Liang were utilized to the benefit of the movie whereas in this version it seems that the the local actors act only as fillers with roles of villains, sidekicks of villains and overall carelefares.

Would i watch this show? If someone goes with me, yes!

Credits: Here and here.

Cutie December 2011 with HbG tote.

2011-10-14T08:49:00.001+08:00

The December issue of Cutie comes with a cute HbG tote! It's been a while since i saw a HbG freebie. The totes are always similar in pattern with the typical shape and tri pockets on the outside.I bought one ~~ages ago~~ in January this year and the basic shape is the same.

However, the one thing different this time is that this freebie comes with a zip which is very rare. The previous ones, even the mook freebies come with button clasps.

Not too keen on the graffiti pattern, but why oh why is my name on the front of the bag!!

Once again, the money in my wallet is in danger of voluntarily flying out! Sigh~

Latest Mooks

2011-10-14T08:28:00.000+08:00

Here are some of the latest Japanese mooks, most of them already in stores.

Lowry's farm.

BAPE Kids.

A Bathing Ape.

Hysteric Mini.

Nicolai Bergmann.

Petit Robe Noire.

Armani Exchange.

United Colors of Benetton.

Milkfed.

Michell Klein.

Bee attack!

2011-10-13T21:12:00.000+08:00

Being a great wife without needing to be in 'The obedient wives club', i once again took a train ride north to visit JH in the place we fondly call Slim.

However my refreshing countryside visit has currently turned into a bit of a horror film.

My place in Slim River is full of bees! Help! I'm normally not too scared of bees , but these are just too scary. I was just minding my own business, surfing the net in JH's room when i noted one single bee in the room. Bah, lost bee go away.

Then i went out to the living room and there were a swarm of bees, attracted to the light buzzing away like they wanted to form a nest there and then in the living room.

I then noted that every area where i had my light on, had bees. The kitchen, the toilet, the living room! Thank God the bedroom was spared. I'm breaking out in rashes just thinking about it. This just reminds me why i should stick to the city and not stay in the country/jungle. Those pesky exterminators must be doing some removal of nest thing at night and forgot to inform the residents living nearby. Ugh, i had to brave myself to switch off all the lights and switch on all the ceiling fans (these bees are silly and keep hitting the fan thus injuring/ performing kamikaze on themselves). Hopefully they will all fly out to somewhere with more light! In the process though one bees landed/buzzed around my hair/neck (not very sure since i did all this in the dark). It did not sting me I'm pretty sure of that, but now I'm all itchy over my neck.

Good thing, i actually live in the hospital compound. Any sign of anaphylaxis and I'm going over for some IV hydrocort and anti-histamines.

I would take a picture of the swarm of bees and show you if i could cos it really is an interesting sight, but i can't cos I'm scared and not keen to be kept overnight in the ward for observation if i am stung.

So you see, I'm actually blogging to allay my fears from a dark apartment unit in the ~~jungle~~ suburb. Thank you for being part of this and hopefully by the time i want to bathe all of them will go away!

Laneige Water Sleeping Pack Ex

2011-10-13T20:29:00.000+08:00

Being un-rich, i have embarked on a quest to only withdraw a certain amount once from my account per month. This covers all my daily expenses by the way, and for the past few months I've been succeeding! Yeah! But i do sometimes charge to my credit card. Does not count right? Anyway I'm saving for a house, so I'm going to be thrifty!

In regards to the sale in the previous post, I managed to limit my spending to just ONE item! *trifty max* And that one item was the much loved Laneige Water Sleeping Pack Ex. I got 2 a sample each of the Hydra solution essence and cream and upon registration of a Laneige card member I received small sachets of Water Bank Essence, White plus renew night cream, Water sleeping pack ex (again) and a handphone charm cum screen wiper. Have only used it once so far and all I can say is it smells great.

This product has been around ages and reviewed loads of times, so I'm looking forward to see if it works for me.

Sweet December 2011 issue

2011-10-12T17:34:00.001+08:00

It's bad enough the current issue of Sweet (November) comes with a really practical and good quality (purely based on outlook) looking Snidel bag, but the December issue comes with a LeSportSac freebie. LeSportSac hardly ever gives freebies with magazines and it is always almost exclusively to the mooks. Not too sure how good the quality will be (you wouldn't want to buy something that everyone will doubt it's authenticity) but the picture looks okay so far.

Hmmm.. once again tempting..

Isetan members Sale October 2011

2011-10-10T22:25:00.001+08:00

My husband is an Isetan member, so he probably got the newsletter about the sale but did not show me *angry face*. But that's okay as i do a lot of reading online, therefore it is with happiness that i stumbled upon these promotional pictures from a blog i visit quite often.And Fiona kindly let me nick some pictures off her blog. Thanks girl!

Have a look at these lovelies.

Sales run from Oct 7th till 20th.

Obviously a lot of these things are out of my tiny budget constraints, but it's fun looking at them , no? I did however manage to buy something within my budget and i'll let you have a look as soon as i finish doing some studying!

For more pictures from the newsletter head on over to Fiona's blog.

NuYou October issue comes with Chloe 1.2ml perfume

2011-10-10T21:54:00.001+08:00

The latest issue of NuYou which has the pretty Tiffany Xu on the cover, comes with a 1.2ml vial of Chloe Eu De Parfum sample, similar to the one given out by Female.The perfume is really great , but since the sample is tiny, do buy only if you actually can read Chinese. Should be exclusive to Kinokinuya KLCC only, since i've only seen it there so far.

Upcoming Japanese Magazines December 2011

2011-10-08T09:46:00.001+08:00

Looks like a whole lots more bags, a poncho blanket and a hair curler?

Glow December issue comes with a John Masters Organics cloth bag which looks like something you bring grocery shopping.

InRed December issue comes with a Roberto Camerino tote and pouch with the typical R emblem and belt and buckle patterns.

Mini December comes with a United Arrows small cloth tote.

Steady December issue comes with a really novel freebie, a blanket poncho? This is cute, interesting and comes in Lest Rose's signature rose prints!

A recap of a November freebie since this one looks really promising. Snidel tote in floral prins. Comes with a zip and 2 external pockets.

And even though this is technically from a mook, i'm having it featured in this post since it's so interesting! A mook that comes with a hair straightener/curler. Very interesting but i wonder how well it works.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale 2011

2011-10-07T16:27:00.001+08:00

I so want to be at The Big Bad Wolf book sale which starts today!Sadly though i'm in Perak at the moment so i'll probably have to wait till next week to have a look at the humoungous book sale. Hopefully the books i want are still available next weekend! I thought the Popular Book Festival was amazing but the offers at BigBadWolf seem to be even better if the official website is to be believed.

Here's are some examples of the fantastic deals on offer:

Jamie Oliver's Jamie's Kitchen CookBook ( I want!) = RM25
Sophie Kinsella's Shopaholic books = RM8 (Too bad i've read them all already)
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan = RM8
Nancy Drew books = RM8
Mr Men and Little Miss children books = RM3

The date runs from 7th to 16th October, 10am to 9pm at Hall A MAEPS (Malaysian Agro Exposition Park Serdang).

Here's the map.

And here's the official website.

Oh please let there be lots of books still next weekend.

iPhone 4s

2011-10-05T19:40:00.003+08:00

I was expecting an iPhone 5 but they released an iPhone 4S instead.

Tell me what you think of this new apple phone.

For me it was a little bit of a let down since i was really looking forward to seeing a different design from I-phone 4. So it looks the same as I-phone 4, but with a better camera and a few new features which is a faster processor, I- Cloud and Siri.

I have absolutely no use for Siri since i like typing anyway. I guess it would be great if you're looking for a hands free phone.And is it just me or does Siri sound robotic and annoying? I do not look forward to talking to Siri everyday. Great for extremely lonely people.

Also the added camera function where you can crop and edit photos, I've already been doing with many great iPhone apps anyway. I'm looking forward to see how well the new and improved camera takes pictures though.

The iPhone 4S will hit stores in the US, Canada, Japan, Australia,UK, France and Germany on the 14th of October. On October 28th 22 other countries including Singapore will be starting sales of the new phone. Malaysia will possibly follow not long after.

Price wise, i have no idea but there are predictions. Hopefully it will be cheaper, considering how much cheaper the other smart phones are.

I'm looking forward to iPhone 5 already.

Burberry Body Sample

2011-10-04T12:36:00.002+08:00

Remember the post about requesting for a Burberry Body fragrance sample through facebook? I've received the sample last week in the mail! What amazed me though was how thoughtfully planned the sample was presented. Plus the sample was sent all the way from Europe!

I'm loving the classy packaging and rather mature but sensual perfume. Here's a look at the fragrance!

Can anyone tell me where this package is from? Holland?

The packaging is amazing for a free sample!

They even included a thank you note which i felt was really sweet.

Nice :)

Mirai-chan 未来ちゃん (Future-chan) - By Kotori Kawashima

2011-10-02T16:51:00.002+08:00

For quite a few days now i have been googling ' Japanese Village Girl Pictorial Book', 'Cute Japanese Village Girl', 'Japanese Village Girl Kinokuniya', with the hopes of discovering the identity of the cute cherub in my previous post. The book was featured in a tiny section in Kinokuniya KLCC and touted to be one very popular book in Japan. I was intrigued and immediately fell in love with the book, but as i knew nothing about who the little girl was, i decided to not jump in and buy the book until i found out.

The problem was, with no name and lame search phrases as the ones above, google images returned me images of everything from 'Memoirs of a Geisha' to seductive Japanese girls in various states of undress.

My curiosity insisted i seek help, and a quick question to one of my favourite blogger, Yumeko did the trick. Within minutes, i had my answer (I can't say thank you enough!) and i was on a roll on the internet (Thank God for Google translate) searching for pictures and information about the girl and photographer of the captivating picture book.

The girl's name is kept secret i suppose and is referred to as Mirai-Chan or Future-Chan. She was first featured on Brutus magazine.

The popular pictures, were then published as a picture book and the various photo exhibitions were held by the photographer Kotori Kawashima (川島小鳥).

Have a look at the pictures.

In love yet?

In my rather relentless searching online, i found almost 80% of the English medium blogs that featured Mirai-chan has the misconception that she was photographed by her mother. They even wrote whole essays about the photographer,Kotori Kawashima's (male, born 1980) , supposed motherly love.

The actual fact is, Mirai-chan is the daughter of his friend who lives in a village in Sado Island, Nigata prefecture.

Making mistakes is one thing, making mistakes collectively is another, but making a mistake, not knowing facts and creating stories from mistakes is just bad!

To quote the link in the picture above:

"Kotori Kawashima's daughter is her favourite subject. I don't blame her.."

Seriously?

The photographer is a guy in his early 30's who has had many exhibition's and one of the most popular pictorial book in Japan and everyone's calling him a lady?

I wish people would get their facts right.

In case you're interested what he looks like, here are links one and two with pictures of the mysterious photographer who really should put his picture on his official website.

I don't own any of the pictures and all the pictures belong to the photographer Kotori Kawashima.

If you like what you see, the book is available in Kinokuniya KLCC.

Here's signing off the post with one of my favorite picture.

Too cute!

Kinokuniya KLCC Japanese Section

2011-10-01T09:00:00.001+08:00

Just in case you're wondering what's available at Kinokuniya, here are some spy photos i took last week.

I was greeted by a huge promotional poster for August Man. You might have remembered the promotional box set from Borders? Well Kinokuniya is running a different promotion at a cheaper price and instead of a Moleskine and Dior fragrance, the Kinokuniya one contains a Camper canvas tote bag worth RM299. Anyhow the box sets were all sold out by the time i went, but since i already took a photo i thought I'd put it up. Plus perhaps Yumeko would like to have a look at the picture? He he..

Here are the loads of Japanese magazines available last weekend. I seriously should have bought Non-No or ViVi instead of that stupid Spring issue. The Agnes B tote really looked quite good (but the straps are rather thin) and you can have a touch and feel and good look at the bag as it's on display at the Japanese counter.

ViVi and the tempting Murua detachable collar.

Maquia with a cute floral pouch.

Also planners for next year are available for purchase at a 20% discount. Really tempted to but the Liberty print ones, but at a price tag of about RM50 before discount and the rather plain interior, i guess i can afford to scout around at other bookstores and novelty shops first for a cuter planner.

Here are some mooks available, most of them with a 20% discount with purchase of another item.

At the topmost portion of the shelf are the Tsumori Chisato and Agnes B mook bags (not to be confused with the Non-no ones.)

I have a feeling that there are now more interest in Japanese freebie magazines and mooks, as there are now more people thronging the place compared to when i first started buying them.

But still buy with caution and always ask to see the actual product before buying.

On another note i overheard a Chinese lady asking this to her husband after picking up a copy of Non-no, 'Why is this magazine like that? Why are there bags in the magazine? Why are there bags with all these magazines?'

I was really tempted to impart whatever mook and Japanese magazine knowledge i had with her, but i guess she would know soon enough.

She reminded me of how i was when i first chanced upon these magazines in Singapore where they were prominently featured in the store instead of hidden in a secluded corner like in the KLCC branch. I was so intrigued by the bulging magazines with features of bags on the cover. But since i read no Japanese and was to shy to ask, i did not buy those magazines initially since i had no idea whether the picture on the cover represented the freebie inside. For all i know, the picture of bags on the cover was just for promotional purposes and that there would be a different freebie inside.

Yup i know better now, but still i get the occasional crap freebie.

And here i need some help. I chanced upon a pictorial book of a really cute Japanese child who stays in the village with her family and the pictures are really breathtaking. I was really tempted to buy it but then I'd be wondering the whole time, who is this child and why are photographer taking pictures of her like how National Geographic photographers go to poor Asian villages and take pictures of the children there?

Is she a celebrity who has her own TV reality show? Or is this book a charity pictorial book for the children of her village? Someone who can read Japanese or know of this girl please do tell me since my google search for 'Japanese Village Girl Pictorial Book' rendered me various images of celebrity pictorials instead.

Who is this cutie? I need to know! Sorry obsessive compulsive traits kicking in...

iPhone 3GS and iPhone5 Cases

2011-09-30T14:41:00.003+08:00

It is so hard to buy iPhone cases for 3GS phones now. It's even harder to find cute iPhone 3GS cases. Every other cute and cheap case is for the iPhone 4. With iPhone 4S launching soon (there will be an announcement on October 4th to announce the release date for the new iPhone 4S), my chances of finding a case for my soon to be given datuk-ship phone was going to be as slim as the new iPhone 4S. (Will you believe it my husband has the great-great-grandfather version!).I was really tempted at one point to buy the iPhone 4 just so i could cover it with a cute Rilakkuma case.

But thankfully, at a night market near SS2, i found a stall still selling iPhone 3GS covers. I got a Cath Kidston star print one and this Paul Frank one.

It's pink, it's quirky and it's cute! I'm happy and I'm sure the 'pasar malam' seller was too for off-loading old stock.

My advise, haul whatever covers for iPhone 3GS you can get now if you don't plan on upgrading. These iPhones can last really really long.

And while we're on the topic, have a look at covers for iPhone 5. Covers (pirated ones i presume) for I-Phone 5 are already out in China, even before anyone has an idea what an iPhone 5 looks like!

Is this a ploy to get people to buy their covers, or do they already know what the new phone will look like? Well, judge for yourself.

Bigger and thinner? Sounds good to me! But what i'm really gearing towards is the HD camera.

Spring November 2011 with Jill Stuart multi-case

2011-09-29T20:31:00.000+08:00

I've been waiting for this magazine to come out, as i figured i needed a new multi-case and this Jill Stuart one looked like a nice one. Well, as i have said never trust promotional pictures as the actual product may fall short.

Probably one of the main reasons i have not been buying these Japanese magazines is, i already have many many cute bags, and sometimes you never know what you're going to get with these magazines. I mean you know what product you're going to get but you would have no idea regarding the quality.

Usually i'd go have a look at the real products at the Japanese counter in Kinokuniya, but this one was not on the shelves, and i was too lazy to have them open it up for me to have a look. Also this was the second last copy, and since i have not bought a Japanese magazine for a while, i thought ,why not?

So this is the magazine i bought.

And this is the freebie that came with it.

This is the Jill Stuart multi-case which can be used this way or worn as a wristlet.

I have no problems with the inner portion of the multi-case, even though the pockets are a tiny bit asymmetrical and the fact that i'd have to unzip the case open fully to get my cash.

What i do have a problem with is the ugly folds on the front and back of the multi-case.

And don't get me started on the bizarre colour transfer on the fabric.

I had to resort to ironing out the creases which is tricky since the case is coated with a plastic like waterproof material. I ironed it with a protective white cloth on top briefly to heat the material, then held it in place smoothen the creases. And it worked to a certain extent.

From afar it's a cute case, but i wouldn't encourage anyone to buy this magazine for the freebie just because, i don't think it's worth the hassle and money for such a low quality product.

Crabtree& Evelyn Rose Essence Skin Nourishing Mask gift with Casa + Living Magazine

2011-09-25T23:20:00.001+08:00

I was not planning to blog tonight but a recent finding over at Kinokuniya KLCC had to be shared cos it's just too good an offer to keep to myself.

The October 2011 issue of Casa + Living comes with a 100ml good sized tube of Crabtree & Evelyn's Rose Essence Skin Nourishing Mask.

It even comes with a lovely paper bag. (Harumph.. the last time i spent RM 200++ in the Crabtree and Evelyn shop they gave me a really boring white paper bag.)

Here's the magazine. Go look it up at the Chinese magazine section.

Here's the prize.I actually love the inside of the paper bag more than anything. Surprise fruits and flowers and butterflies on the inside of a dark blue paper bag? Like x 1000.

Here's the gift which has one of the best scents in the Crabtree and Evelyn range in my humble opinion.

While gifts last. I have no idea how many gifts they have prepared but there were plenty of the magazines left when i went to Kinokuniya today. Collection is at the Chinese Magazine counter once you have paid.

My love hate relationship with SCawaii Malaysia

2011-09-25T01:10:00.004+08:00

This post was supposed to be titled ' Why i hate SCawaii Malaysia', but then that would be a really odd post since i realize i have bought almost every copy (except issue 3) of this particular magazine since it was introduced here in Malaysia.

So the post became titled so, and here i am sharing with you my dilemma of how much i hate this magazine (well irritating parts of it which i will share later on) , and yet how i can't help but have this insatiable itch to buy a copy!

I've been a huge critic of this magazine ever since i started buying this magazine. SCawaii as some of you may know is a hugely popular Japanese fashion and beauty Magazine. If i were to buy the Japanese version (which often do not come with freebies) it would cost me about RM30-RM45 in Kinokuniya. If i were to just read scans online, then i would be infringing on copyrights. Ha ha just joking. I have no qualms about reading it online but i don't like the hassle of downloading and exposing my already old and fragile computer to viruses. Oh, and the fact that I'm such an old fashioned person who just likes the feeling of flipping through magazines while lying on the bed.

I had bought the SCawaii Malaysia version, which is basically a replica of the Japanese version translated into Bahasa Melayu with some added local content and advertisements, with glee, relishing in the thought that i now would have access to the latest in Japanese fashion news in a language I'm rather good at, at a seriously good price.

But alas, though the Japanese content was great, the local content was jarringly below par (I have no problems with local artistes ,just so you know, rather i have a problem with the horribly dated styling and layout) with very dodgy translations. Half the time, i was pissed off at the atrociously bad Bahasa Melayu grammar (If you are trying to learn Bahasa Melayu reading this magazine then you are going to get an F for your BM paper), so much so i just looked at the pictures.

Contradictorily however i can't stop buying it.

So this post is dedicated to unraveling the mystery as to why i can't seem to quit on this good/bad magazine.

Why i bought the latest issue:

1) The cover was not redone as opposed to all the previous (3 of it) issues. (If you want to sell a translated version of a magazine as popular as SCawaii why bother redoing a cover to dissociate yourself from it?If you want to do a whole new magazine why not just do a whole new magazine?If you are copying a magazine with at least 80% copied content please copy the cover too, thank you.)

2) Awesome content (All thanks to the original awesome magazine)

Let me count the ways.

a) Gorgeous fashions.

Loving the retro blouses.

Loving the detachable collars.

Also loving the overall styling and photography .

b) Two whole charts featuring the model's favourite skin care items.

c) This issue featured interviews with the models and normal SCawaii readers with a peek into their private lives. (Would you believe it, this page was actually the deciding factor to buy the magazine i had initially sworn off!)

d) Amazing makeovers!

Yes..

being ugly...

is not a barrier..

to...

being pretty!

I think some guys are feeling kind of cheated at the moment.I asked a guy what he would do if his girlfriend on the left side of the picture, removed her make-up and looked like the girl on the right side of the picture. And the answer is : Break-up!

I somehow kind of agree? If you want to deceive people with your fake look, then you can't complain when the person breaks up with you when you reveal your true look? I know it's shallow. But if a relationship is based solely on looks, then it's not going to last anyway, is it?

e) Comic based on the love diary of one of the models! Whats not to like?

All right this is starting to sound like a paid advertorial promoting the magazine. As i said this post is very contradictory.

Now I'm going to illustrate the annoying bits of this magazine that irks me no end.

1) Horrible grammar.

When they can't seem to form a whole sentence in Bahasa Melayu they add English words as and when they like! How would you feel if an English magazine peppers Malay words (blatantly without apology) in between sentences. In almost every sentence?

There were so many errors in this magazine but i only bothered to photograph 1% of these errors and only glaring errors with large to moderately large fonts at that.

Note the sentence 'Gambar dan NEWS terkini (Translation: Latest photos and news). There is actually a word for 'news' in Bahasa Melayu and that is 'berita'. Can't they just use that? And yes they used the word 'Spree' too but i suppose they were unable to find a Bahasa Melayu substitute for the word.

2) Spelling errors aplenty.

They forgot to spellcheck on the words with the biggest fonts on the page?

But they remembered on the very next page!

Spelling errors on 'disbanding = dibanding' and bergatuh = bergaduh'.

3) When the translators are unsure of what they are translating, they very conveniently type in a question mark, like so .. ?

I know the question mark is not supposed to be there because the sentences are definitive sentences without an inkling of questionable doubt.

The same though can't be said for the dubiously translated text.

4) Sometimes the sentences just make no sense.

Observe the text above. (I'm so sorry,this must be tedious for non-Bahasa Melayu reading readers.)
'Seberna' is a typo. It's supposed to be 'sebenarnya' which means actually.

But i have no idea what alien language 'gaya girly@ Penukaran karakter?' is. Seriously a pre-schooler can tell you there is something fishy about this sentence! Mind you this was just the header. I did not bother taking pictures of the actual article in small print.

Another illustration of the affinity for question marks peppered everywhere inappropriately throughout the magazine.

Translation of defected sentence: Is currently working as a representative as well as a designer for llamanda? while continuing her studies in university. (Yes they started the sentence with a verb.)

5) Poor typing / editing.

How did this get through proof-reading?

I hope you see what i'm trying to show. There's a box in front of the letters 'appy'. Nevertheless with or without the box the sentence makes no sense.

6) Jarringly different local content in terms of styling, make-up, and layout. You judge for yourself.

7) Encouraging counterfeits?

As far as i know, Treats Boutique do not sell Longchamp bags!

And the page seems to suggest the brand name for the bag is 'Treats' just as the brand name of the bag below is 'Zara'.

Phew, that was one lengthy rant. I'm glad i am finally at the end of the post as the more i type the more my blood boils. I have a good mind to forward this to the editor if i knew how, because a simple letter will do no justice in illustrating the preposterous mistakes this local version makes!

I'm sorry if you think I'm making a mountain out of a molehill. I once worked part time as an assistant editor for secondary school textbooks while waiting for my STPM results, and i do know how important it is to get things right.

Everyone has a job, and i believe everyone should do their job with a little bit of responsibility even if it is something as frivolous as a copycat fashion magazine.

Perhaps they should pay their staff more...

Justin Bieber,Selena Gomez and 6 kids

2011-09-23T23:50:00.000+08:00

I know it's late but i have got to share this.

Unveiling, Brangelina 2.0 in Jb's own words.

Before you start wondering which paparrazi took such a great snapshot , well i have to reveal that the source is none other than the dad wannabe himself.

This is from Justin's Instagram account, called instabieber lol..

All that's missing is a few Asian kids.

Apparently Justin wants to be a father by 25-26 years old!We'll have to wait and see on that one but all i can say is, this is one cute photo!

Disclaimer: I am no Belieber! Really!

Biore make-up remover freebie

2011-09-23T18:16:00.001+08:00

As usual, if you're all right without revealing some basic personal information, fill up the form Here on Biore's facebook page to get a free sample.

Thanks Fiona!

Upcoming Japanese magazines November 2011

2011-09-23T17:37:00.002+08:00

This is a preview of the Japanese magazines and it's freebies that will be out next month. If you're wondering what's in stores currently, see Here.

The November issue of InRed comes with a 'See by Chloe' pocket mirror and pouch.

I'm actually really interested in this one. The December issue of Liniere comes with a floral multi-case.

I'm in a huge dilemma about this one. I can't decide which one would be a better choice. Should i just buy the Spring November issue which comes with a Jill by Jill Stuart Multicase which is out now or wait for next month for the Liniere one? Sigh.. or maybe just buy both?
*UPDATE: Do not buy Spring November with Jill by Jill Stuart multicase- Quality not up to par*

The November issue of Mini comes with a really ugly Beams pouch.

The December issue of Spring comes with a reversible Paul and Joe Sister tote!

Steady November 2011 issue comes with an AG fold-able shopping bag.

The Sweet November 2011 issue comes with a really promising looking Snidel floral and zip-able tote bag!

The November issue of Cutie comes with a polka-dotted pouch and mirror set.

Glow November issue comes with a Fauchon make-up clutch.

Smart December 2011 issue comes with an A/X duffel bag.

ViVi November 2011

2011-09-23T11:37:00.001+08:00

The latest issue of ViVi is out in Japan today and comes with the cutest freebie i've seen for a while.

It comes with a Murua detachable collar. I've seen this collars around for a while (a few years maybe?) but it seems that it's back in trend with many Japanese fashion magazines featuring it. Vivi is going one up by actually giving one away. But be warned though, the quality of a freebie is usually less than premium.By the looks of actual pictures, it looks like it's made of felt (but it's actually polyester) with lace along the edges and secured by a single black button.

Besides the collar it also comes with a Mod Hair Inner Glamour (melting wax) sachet sample.

Kate Spade New York Mook

2011-09-23T11:17:00.000+08:00

I've never seen a Kate Spade Mook before, so i wonder if it is the first KSNY mook.I'm not sure when this is coming out (apparently October), but Amazon Japan is already selling it online.

Here are some pictures of the mook and bag.

Hmm.. the tote looks small and uninspiring but you have to love the packaging! A mook in a box, what's not to like? Sadly the bag leaves a lot to be desired.

Home away from home

2011-09-22T14:10:00.001+08:00

I travel a lot. Not in an international way though. I divide my time between KL, JB and Slim River. It's bothersome traveling but somehow never very tiring since the distance is not crazy far. The good thing is i feel at home at all 3 places and i welcome the changes of environment. Like now, I'm in Slim River. And the difference in air quality and weather is palpable! Seriously! Even though it's just an hour away, the air is so much fresher and cooler! You are greeted by birds chirping instead of 2 hour KL traffic jams. Living the 'kampung' (village) life once in a while is definitely refreshing!

For the benefit of international readers (yes i think i do have them), here are 3 maps on where these places are in Malaysia.

I am so loving this refreshed feeling, I don't even mind cleaning up a very dirty apartment, and also hopefully study and finish up my presentation for next week.

Even though Slim River is a small district, it has great internet connection speed (without having to worry about the thing called internet usage quota, since my husband has a landline). I had a huge urge to blog and hence this post.
Obligatory 'uniform' on the cold ETS train, jeans, purple fleece jacket and Longchamp bag. It takes about one and a half hours to reach Slim River from KL Central.

I understand so much how tourists sometimes prefer to take trains rather than faster public transports when traveling. The view of the countryside along the rail way line is just so pretty! Plus i guess it's the best way to see a country and all of it's beauty without hiding it's flaws and all. You often get to see lush greenery and countryside and also get a good view of a person's backyard, with clothesline and all. Sad to say though not all trains are made equal. The ETS trains are new and clean and punctual and fast in a non-scary way. It only plies the route from Seremban to Ipoh, so if you are a traveler i would suggest taking ETS trains instead of the normal old ones.

This was taking in the morning after a light shower, but seriously my i-phone camera does the beautiful scenery no justice. Might need some tweaking with my camera + application.

I know I've voiced my dissatisfaction over the Malaysian edition of SCawaii, and i told myself not to buy it anymore, but i succumbed to the temptation of flipping though pages and pages of Japanese fashion. This issue fares better though so RM6.90 well spent! Plus i had a great kick out of spotting gross spelling and grammatical errors in this Bahasa Melayu version. So much so i will dedicate an entire blog post to the flaws of the BM edition of this magazine.

Also another reason why i bought it is because it had a great cover.

My task for this weekend (it's only Thursday and i feel like it's the weekends already?) is

1) Clean house
2) Finish presentation on 'proteins in body fluids'
3) Study at least 1 chapter
4) Blog
5) Make full use on unlimited internet access! Muahaha

Ending this post with random pictures I've taken this month.

1) Inflation part two. Remember how much these card games use to cost? Rm 1 at most? Look how much it costs now! I have a nagging suspicion the cards we used as kids were counterfeits.

2) Ikea makes the best cookies.

3) Neighborly present from Greece!

4) Yet another pair of shoes. My shoes don't last more than 5 months- tell me why?

6) Lantern festival decorations in City Square JB on the first day of Hari Raya. I kind of feel truly Malaysian seeing Malay shoppers in their new Raya clothes celebrating Hari Raya at the shopping centre to the rhythm of Chinese traditional music.

Fred Perry document case with Monomax magazine

2011-09-21T15:41:00.001+08:00

This just might interest the guys or girls who are thinking of buying something for guys. Monomax October issue which should be out now, comes with a Fred Perry laptop case/ document holder.

Hmmm.... Nice or blah?

August Man boxset with Dior fragrance and moleskine

2011-09-17T16:20:00.002+08:00

I have become quite the prowling eye for magazine promotions. I recently spotted this promotion at the Gardens Midvalley Borders bookstore. Even though I have absolutely no interest in this promotion since I am not a man, and my husband seems allergic to all types of fragrances, I thought I'd share this with those who might be interested.

August Man September issue comes with a double cover and for it's third anniversary, is teaming up with Borders to release a box set worth 342 to be on sale for RM 138. The box set consists of the two variations of the September issue, a Dior Aqua Farenheight 75 ml fragrance and a moleskine plain notebook.

Here's a picture I found online on the boxset.I linked the forum I got this picture from just in case anyone is interested.

I have no idea whether this is a good deal but I suppose if you love moleskines and use male fragrances then it would be.

Karen Mok 莫文蔚 Pre-wedding Pictures

2011-09-15T17:44:00.000+08:00

Karen Mok is getting married in October to her first love a German by the name of Johannes!Yay for her!But first love does not mean only boyfriend ok? They met at 17 while she was stydying in Italy and broke off after a year. They contacted each other in 2003 and reconciled 6 years later.

So anyhow, any Karen jetted off to South Africa and had some lovely pre-wedding photos taken, alone.

What?

Apparently, the bride and groom are not supposed to see each other/photograph together until the wedding day so no husband in pre-wedding pictures.It's supposed to be a German custom. But if you ask me its just an excuse to protect the husband from being scrutinized by her fans.

Anyway the pictures of her lonesome self are gorgeous!

Source: Here and here.