[Media Invite] New Look Fashion - Autumn/ Winter 2013 + Discount Promo

Attended the New Look Fashion workshop held in one of their outlet, at Suntec City Mall last Saturday with some other girls. It was truly an enjoyable fashion sharing workshop! I've always been loving New Look's fashion and it's collection, own a few pieces myself and am still loving them.. So i'm really glad i had the opportunity to learn and work with them!

New Look delivers irresistible fashion at brilliant prices which means more fashion excitement, value and newness for their customers. They cater all trendy and fashionable apparel and accessories for both women and men. So be sure to try out their weekly new designs arriving in stores.

Excitedly waiting outside the store just in time to see the store open!

 light refreshments were provided for all of us

The workshop started off with the introduction to New Look Autumn/ Winter 2013 collection follow by some of the basic styling tips for Autumn as well as a team challenge at the end of it.

Firstly, The New Look New Autumn/ Winter 2013 collection comprises of 3 different categories;

(1) Baboushka - Folkish flair and rustic Russian charm

Rich in colours, sumptuous fabrics and decadent of prints within this 'Baboushka' collection! Faux fur coats are worn over delicate, embroidered blouses and are seem teamed with ripped denim and a colour-block beanie for a snug and stylish look.

Burgundy, teal and navy are the key tones of their cosy, wintry collection. Prints and textures are layered up with accessories to create an opulent look that is rich in autumnal colours, luxurious textures and statement jewels.

Above are the few mix and match suggested to us during the workshop and how we can make use of a coat, accessories and matching shoes to bring out the sexiness of the collection.

Aztec designs are so hit today, i went to try it out myself right after the workshop ends, love how it brings out the curves in every girl;

 Easily matches my boots right? =)

The Tapestry Dress is one of the Must-Have piece in this collection!
Such an elegant piece.

(2) New Model Army - Casual off duty style, with a premium edge

Clear lines, structured shapes and classic cuts are the unique characteristics of this 'New Model Army' collection. Fabrics are luxe, silhouettes are clean and colours are powerful and bold. Delicate sheer sleeves with a hint of shimmer add a feminine twist, whilst faux-leather on coats and jackets give an alternative edgy look.

Monochrome is the key tone and provides a neutral base that works to make the accent colours, scarlet and cobalt, hyper pop. Prints such as leopard and graphic cheeks are used as a statement.

When i see this 'New Model Army', i think of all the high-end fashionista, sophisticated and edgy!

and in this collection, the Asymmetrical leather skirt is one of the Must-Have piece!

(3) Grunge - Feminine twist to the rebel style of the 90's

Made with a mash-up of hard-edged embellishment, bold print and tough texture, which reflects a cool, carefree confidence look. Leather pencil skirts, fishnet tights and distressed biker jackets give a harsh twist to feminine ditsy print dresses and oversized check shirts.

Focuses on checks with studs, chains and spikes that toughen up an outfit. This 'Grunge' collection contrasts the Tough and Rough with pretty. Ultra-feminine highlights to capture the true spirit of 90's Grunge.

The Must-Have piece will be this Tartan Wrap Top in red for this collection!
Good to go along with skin-tight jeans and black bold accessories.

Warm weather doesn't mean we can't wear trendy outfit for Autumn, the pretty stylist, Melissa suggest that we can;

1) Lose the bulk

2) Layer with thin garments (which are commonly seen nowadays)

3) Go for sleeveless items

Some photos to share during the mini team challenge;

I get to team up with Zoe and Estella

 Dressing Estelle up with New Look's latest Grunge collection!

The winning team - looking great

Not forgetting the group photos, cheers!

After the dismissal, i stayed on to check out what's in store and took some photos,

 Crazy sales are everywhere!

Clothes cater for men as well! =)

 Are you already eyeing on something and busily adding onto your to-buy-list? Here's a great deal for you,

Simply quote "omy bloggers" at any New Look store to receive a 10% discount on all regular-priced items,

this promotion is valid from 14th to 30th of September 2013!

Do check out their webpage, http://www.newlook.com/

[Food Tasting] Authentic American BBQ Smokehouse and Grill in the West

Let me share with you this wonderful place to dine in - the Smokey's BBQ American Smokehouse and Grill located currently in both Joo Chiat and Clementi.

Just last week, i visited the one at Clementi (their 2nd outlet), at Sunset Lane. I've never been there before and i thought it would be difficult to find my way.. but no, not at all. In fact, it's pretty easy to find, short walking distance from the bus-stop (Take bus no.184 from Clementi MRT station).

Located at Blk 106, Clementi Street 12

I really like the whole concept in wood, having a bar station in the middle of the outlet and the AL-fresco dining area with their checkered table mat that truly represents the authentic American feel. Interestingly relaxing place to dine at or to just chill out with friends having some wines or beers! Was told that they own one of the best selections of craft beers in Singapore, of which many were direct import from small US craft breweries!

First up on the table was their in-house Tortilla chips with chilled salsa as starter. Very crunchy plain chips that most probably goes well with beers. :) We had two different starter that night. The next one was the Smoked Venison Chili Nachos with salsa, topped with cheddar, sour cream and their homemade chili sauce. This dish is a lot more tastier than the first one. It's chili sauce wasn't really spicy with a little hint of sweetness, great as a starter!

Then came the fried Buffalo's Wings, marinated and tossed in Smokey's hot wing sauce, with homemade blue cheese dressing. Super hot tasty wings, crispy on the outside and tender in the inside! The temperature was just right. =P
Super love the blue cheese dressing, so much that we kept it throughout our dining experience. If you are a spicy lover, you can even tell the chief straight to add the level of spiciness.

Southern Style Grilled Fish, Simple yet family-friendly! Perfectly blend coleslaw and yummy tasty fries as the sides. =P
Here, we dipped the fries into the blue cheese dressing which we kept with us earlier on.

Next on the table was the beef brisket. Personally, i don't quite like the tenderness of this meat, rather hard to chew.. Not sure if it was suppose to be like this but it does taste good. I still prefers beef to be tender soft instead!

Moving on to the mains now, delicious Smokey's Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs Full Slab ($33), well-seasoned with it's homemade barbeque sauce. Perfect tenderness! YUMS!!! I personally feels that this is one of the must-try dish here!

After trying the baby back ribs, next was this massive St Louis Pork Spare Ribs Full Slab ($48)! It's more like a family-size serving, suitable for family dining or group gatherings (about 4-5pax). Seasoned with homemade rub and smoked with hickory and mesquite wood to perfection, really juicy and tender meat.

Because the meat is too HUGE, the sides and the smoked beef rice have to be placed onto a separate serving plate, but they actually comes together as one main dish! (Choice of 2 sides for each main dish)

Smokey's well blend of all BBQ sauces, dressing, rubs, sides, and seasonings provide each of its dishes the unique full flavours! Unlike the local tradition of charcoal grilled BBQ, Smokey's uses hickory and mesquite wood chips to smoke its meats in custom built smokers, which make a true and distinct American flavor.

Considering the huge serving per dish and its unique flavours, i think the price is relatively reasonable.

And if you are considering to try them out, do make table reservation before you head down as seats are rather limited. Do check out their webpage for more details - www.smokeysBBQ.com.sg

Address: Sunset Lane (Blk 106 Clementi Street 12 #01-54/56, Singapore 120106) - Multi-story carpark available at Sunset Lane

Opening Hours: Tue-Sun, 3:00pm till 11:00pm daily (Closed on Mondays.)
Happy Hour from 3:00 to 7:00, Tues-Fri • Starters after 4:30pm daily • Mains served after 5:00pm daily

Reservations hotline:
Joo Chiat: 6345-6914
Sunset Way: 6872-6857
Contactus@SmokeysBBQ.com.sg

HELLO SEPTEMBER

 A few days ago, I received a pretty Pink Instax Mini 8 Instant Cam as my birthday gift from my siblings. :)

For those who wish to get Instant Camera and related accessories at a much cheaper price,

you may want to drop by the warehouse next to Tai Seng MRT (Circle Line).

[Shout Out] Support Mentholatum Acnes Ultimate Ulzzang contestants!

The Mentholatum Acnes Ultimate Ulzzang Contest

Acnes Medicated Skincare Singapore is currently running the Acnes Ultimate Ulzzang 'BEST FACE' contest and has now calling for the final online voting ( From NOW till 1st Sept 2013 ), start voting for your favourite Ultimate Ulzzang here on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acnes.sg/app_714692158545976 

By participating in the voting, you might be one of the 3 lucky voters to win a pair of GV movie ticket!

And for those who may wish to try out Acnes 3 steps skincare kit sample, you may redeem it at https://www.facebook.com/acnes.sg

In addition to above, there is also a Instagram contest just for you! 

Simply FOLLOW 'Acnes Medicated Skincare Sg' on instagram and LIKE their instagram posts. Then POST a close up picture of yourself in best Ulzzang, beautiful and clear skin. UPLOAD it and HASHTAG #MetholatumAcnes #UltimateUlzzang. Last but not least, TAG ‘Acnes Medicated Skincare Sg’ Instagram account.

3 winners will be selected and a chance to win a polaroid camera each!

Good Luck!~

[Product Review] Vita Yin Yang - A Great Health Enhancer

VITA YIN YANG

We have heard more and more health problems arising these days and that keeping the right diet and plenty of rest may no longer sound as easy to most of us who has busy schedules to follow each day. Most importantly, how many of us really eat what's right? How many of us willing to spend that extra time in the morning to prepare our very own organic, healthy lunch box?

External pollution, stress, poor diet and lack of exercise can all take a toll on our lungs and kidneys, giving rise to illness and disorder. In Chinese medicine, kidney and lung function are related so that a weakness in either organ can create problems such as respiratory discomfort, coughing and general malaise. Made from 100% premium grade pure cultivated Cordyceps* (One of the most precious Chinese herbal medicines), Vita Yin Yang is the ultimate health enhancer for kidney, lung and immune functions, achieving the balance our body needs.

*Cordyceps has long regarded as an elixir of life, consumed by the imperial and wealthy families as an exclusive nutritional supplement. Cordyceps possesses both therapeutic and nutritional properties for overall health. Hidden in western China on high mountains 12,000 feet above sea level, Cordyceps is rare, hard to find, exclusive and expensive.

Unboxing Vita Yin Yang,

6 packs x 10 capsules = 60 capsules of Vita Yin Yang in a box, 

with each capsule containing 15 wild cordyceps (in terms of the active ingredient),

made in Hong Kong and is available at any Guardian stores at SGD$109 per box (Original retail price)

Vita Yin Yang is formulated to tonify the lungs and the kidneys, strengthening our immune system. It helps retain useful nutrients; excrete harmful substances and alleviate excretory problems; relieve symptoms of weak kidneys such as tiredness, and delay the need for medical intervention such as kidney washouts. It also helps to improve lung functions which include relief coughing and breathing discomforts from air pollution, and improved inhalation and exhalation. These magic pills not just a good remedy for weakness and a good enhancer for rejuvenation, it also, in turn, helps to prevent hair loss.

As advertised,

With smaller packs of 6 in a box, I shared it to my parents and gave them both 2 packs each, especially helpful for my dad who has been experiencing very bad cough lately.

Tip: Vita Yin Yang can be used to boil herbal tonic soups by pouring the Cordyceps powder out of the capsule into the tonic soups.

Dosage: For health maintenance, take 1 capsule daily. For health improvement, take 2-3 capsules daily.

It has a very minimal herbal taste and small in size that can be easily gulped down the throat.

Website: http://www.vitagreen.com/en/vita-yin-yang

[Media Tasting] DOMINOS PIZZA For Everyone!

Hey readers! Dominos Pizza is currently offering a 50% off pizzas deal for all my readers and friends simply by using my unique coupon code " BLG92 " . This promo started on 27th June 2013 and its coming to an end very soon ( Promo code will end on 27th August 2013 ). I must say i really do enjoy eating their pizzas, their onion rings, their drumlets and wings, their chicken crunchies and their lava cake! Really thankful for letting me know about Dominos Pizza and have the chance to try most of their pizzas at a great 50% off !

Just ordered 2 large pizzas and a side from the recently for the fam and myself,

orders came as promised.. in 30 mins.

had one Meatzza on classic hand toss & one Classified Chicken on crunchy thin crust..

feels that Classified Chicken doesn't go well with thin crust,

but their classic hand toss, on the other hand, is Yummy!! =)

( Read my first post on Dominos Pizza here: http://meryl-lpy.blogspot.sg/2013/06/dominos-pizza-party.html )

I hope you guys will continue to support me till the promo ends,
and if you have yet to try out their pizzas, this is a great chance to have a taste of it!
( who knows you might love it?! ^^ )

[Product Review] Juicy Shower by LIESE

LIESE has come out with the all-new 2-in-1 Liese Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist, treatment and styling aid developed especially for permed and wavy hair!

Start Your Day On A Berry Good Note!
Do you usually experience bad, messy looking hair when you wake up in the morning? I do. So most of the time we had to wake up earlier to shower and then blow dry them (especially girls with long hair). However, there are days i feel really lazy and decided not to wash my hair, i bun it up so my hair won't get wet and that i don't have to blow dry them after a shower and i just head out with a ponytail, trying to hide those wavy, messy hair.=X

My undone hair under natural light

My undone hair under indoor room light

Liese Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist, an extension to the current Juicy Shower range, specially made for wavy hair contains wave defining ingredients, to bring out beautiful waves in permed or wavy hair. It infused with a raspberry extract that provides moisture to dry and damaged permed or wavy hair, transforming them into bouncy and shiny curls that also gives off nice berry scent that lasts all day!

Just A Few Spritzes In The Morning!
Yes! Just a few spritzes before heading out in the morning will help to revitalize and moisturize our hair. Dull and limp curls no more!

I took no longer than 2mins in two easy steps;

1) The product can be sprayed either on dry or damp hair, hold the bottle about 15cm away from hair and pressed the trigger effortlessly towards the wave lines.

2) Then, scrunch the wave lines with fingers.

And tada!!! My finish look!~

It takes a while for hair to dry after spraying Liese Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist. My wavy hair looks more even after use and is ready to head out without having the trouble to wet my hair and blow-dry it. What i love most was the effect of the treatment, leaving hair soft especially when i wash them at the end of the day! Before this, i have been using Liese Hair Treatment Water and this latest collection, Liese Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist has added a "bonus" with its styling performance that able to define wavy curls!

John Tham, Liese Hair Expert says, “Every lady wants the perfect hair that lasts all day but not all are willing to sacrifice their beauty sleep. The answer to these ladies who want it quick and perfect is the new Liese Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist for Wavy Hair. Undeniably fuss-free and light, this new hair mist helps ladies achieve shiny and elegant waves in just a few spritzes right after they get out of bed. The non-sticky, non-greasy formula doesn’t weigh hair down, leaving curls looking and feeling bouncy. Also, the raspberry scent brings on a great mood to start the day!”

LIESE Juicy Shower Moisturizing Hair Mist for Wavy Hair is retailing at S$14.90 for the trigger bottle (200ml), and S$16.90 for the refill bottle (400ml) at all leading pharmacies, personal care stores, and supermarkets. For more information, do check out Liese's webpage!

[Product Review] Ground Coffee x São Tomé Luxury Chocolate by CAFEDIRECT

Like many, i am a coffee lover be it having it served sweet, bitter, hot or cold! Not just because i need them to keep me focus at work.. I just love that interesting, satisfying taste it gives when sipping on a nice cup of coffee and even before it was watered and mixed, i will tend to sniff the aroma of coffee ground! As much as i like coffee, i don't restrict to just one brand.

I like how Cafédirect and its workers believes in working towards environmentally sustainable production, just take a look at the material they choose in packaging. Here's a chart i copied from their web, showing a summary of Cafédirect's sustainable packaging;

I hereby introduce to you the award-winning and most recommended UK hot beverage company,

CAFEDIRECT and their latest creations to suits our local taste-buds:

Ground Full Roast Coffee  &  

 São Tomé Luxury Hot Chocolate

The Ground Full Roast Coffee is one of their latest blended roast and ground coffee range. Being a strength 4 blend (On a scale of 1 to 5), it has been carefully roasted to create a full-bodied, rounded coffee with velvety caramel overtones, bursting with character.

The smooth Arabica beans (90%) from Latin America and Central America, grounded by the energetic Robusta from Africa (10%) are carefully blended for a full-bodied coffee that’s also silky on the palate. And, as with all of Cafédirect’s products, it is made the small way by expert smallholder growers whose pride and passion deliver the finest taste!

Cafédirect’s Ground Full Roast Coffee is retailing at $8.70 for a 227g pack and is available at Cold storage, FairPrice Finest, Giant, Jasons and Market Place.

I can already smell the aroma of the fine ground coffee just by sniffing near the packaging without opening it! Coffee drinkers who crave a coffee flavour between something fuller than medium roast yet lighter than rich roast will be delighted with this new addition to the Cafédirect range of blends!

 To have a smooth blend, a coffee plunger or a filter is required else your cup of coffee will look like this (still drinkable though);

3-in-1 São Tomé Instant Hot Chocolate – directly from Chocolate Island…

On the other hand, São Tomé, also known as Chocolate Island, is steeped in cocoa farming history and has an unparalleled reputation for growing some of the most prized cocoa beans on earth – the criollo bean. This is due to the islands location on the equator, rich soils, the perfect balance of temperature along with the perfect humidity and forest shade. São Tomé gives a rich yet smooth taste, with only four ingredients and no added nasties you’re guaranteed a truly natural flavour in every cup!  
 

This fine chocolate powder smell really tasty! It contains no artificial additives, flavouring or colouring, offering 100% natural alternative to instant beverages. And don't worry about having too much of it because each serving contains only 62 kcal! With its fine grade cocoa powder, combined with sugar, skimmed milk and whey powder to give a delicate, velvety beverage with an intense chocolatey aroma.
 

Cafédirect’s São Tomé Luxury Hot Chocolate is retailing at $8.85 for a 300g tin and is available at Cold storage, FairPrice Finest, Jasons and Market Place.

Hot Chocolate, as it was named, can also be served chilled! I think its great to have a cup of iced chocolate in the morning before heading out to work, giving a refreshing feel. Just add in cold water and some ice to a 2-3 tablespoons of Cafédirect’s São Tomé Luxury Hot Chocolate Powder and stir well! 

Other wonderful drinks that can be made are Cold Tiramisu Drink; chocolate milkshake; Coco Loco with ice-cream; and many more! This are great for friends or family gathering at home, with the right ingredients added and a blender, we too, can enjoy a luxury cup of chilled chocolate or mocha (mixing with ground roast coffee) from our most comfortable living space - Home!

For more information, check out Cafédirect’s webpage; http://www.cafedirect.co.uk/

[Product Review] Sparkling Wine - by JAILLANCE

Was recently introduced to award-winning Jaillance sparkling wine so here i am, sharing it here ~!

Sold in over 14 different countries with roughly 120,000 walk-in customers per year, Jaillance is France's leading brand of Sparkling wines - Appellation d'Origine Protégée sparkling wines, originates from the Drôme Valley, nestled between Vercors and Provence, and represents the Cave de Die, a cooperative founded in 1950 under the leadership of Henri Bonnet.



 Jaillance 's range of sparkling wines includes (from left to right in above image);  
  (1) Merlot
  (2) Semillon
  (3) Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay
  (4) Chardonnay
  (5) Muscat, Clairette

Late last year, Jaillance launched part of their range here in Singapore, the Sémillon and the Muscat, Clairette retailing at $29.90 and $26.90 respectively at Bottles & Bottles, Cold Storage, Giant, Jasons and MarketPlace.

 Award-winning, elegant-looking bottles with 750ml in size

  The Muscat, Clairette

Fruity flavour with notes of Muscat grapes and Citrus fruit, with 7% alcohol by volume.. The Muscat, Clairette is fruity, full and elegant, sophisticated with hints of white flowers, rose and lychee. It is well-balanced and rounded on the attack with a good mousse. It was said to be an excellent dishes for pairing with barbecues prawn and mango skewers with lemon and sambal, grilled chicken skewers with caramel-based gravy, grilled beef rib with teriyaki sauce, grilled pork spare ribs with honey and soy sauce or pork chops with oyster sauce! Alternatively, as an appetizer, pairing with frozen desserts, fresh fruit flans and cakes!

Muscat, Clairette consists of a harmonious blends of 90% Muscat and 10% Clairette.

Tasted it with my mum and dad, and we like the citrus aroma that blends well with oyster sauce in one of mum's home-cooked dish. Personally prefers this than the Sémillon, maybe because the alcohol level is lower, and its distinctive fruity-rosy aroma is higher.. i guess most ladies will like it too!

The Sémillon

While the Sémillon, on the other hand, 12.5% alcohol by volume, elegantly offers notes of brioche with an aroma of gooseberry, pomelo and hawthorn. This won them the bronze medal at the 2012 Challenge to the Best French Wines and Spirits for Asia for its clarity, intensity, harmony and aftertaste when paired with Asian cuisine. Similar to the Muscat, Clairette, it is well-balanced and rounded on the attack with a good mousse. It was said to be an excellent dishes for pairing with barbecues favourites such as grilled salmon with tomato and sambal, chicken skewers with lemongrass and yoghurt, beef skewers with ginger and soy sauce or tuna skewers with coriander and ginger. Alternatively, as an appetizer, pairing with an aumoniere of prawns in saffron which is very popular in France. 

Sémillon consists of 100% pure Semillion which is most commonly found in high-end white Bordeaux still wines.

Had an enjoyable time at boyf's place for his mum's bdae celebration, and Jallance's Sémillon was served. Jallance's Sémillon sweeten our palate after a heavy steamboat gathering! One of them suggest pairing it with lychee, and it turns out great!

You may find Jaillance's sparkling wines rather acidic as well so a great way to savour them is to pair them with food that are rich in flavours!

With our all-time humid and warm weather, sipping on a glass of sparkling wine during/ after dining gives a cool and refreshing feel. The brut Sémillon and the sweety fruity Muscat, Clairette are both delectable options to bring down tropical temperatures. It would be great to have them at a poolside or a beachfront grill!

Ms Marine Lombardo, Marketing Manager for Jaillance, shares that "The effervescence, acidity and flavour profile of sparkling wines make them ideal matches for a range of cuisines. A cold glass of Jaillance is exceptionally pleasing with the caramelised, charred and smoky flavours at a barbecue."

For more information, check out Jaillance's webpage http://www.jaillance.com 

Would love to try their premium range, especially the limited edition - Clairette de Die Cuvée Icône.