The Primp Queen

CHIN CHIN OBCENA REGRAM: The Most Influential Social Media Personalities of 2018 Most Influential Style Icon Awardee Influence Asia 2017 Top PH Lifestyle Influencer Nominee E! Bloggers Ball 2017 Breakthrough Blogger of the Year Nominee E! Bloggers Ball 2016 Gotta Have It Look Awardee "Everyday is a fashion show and the world is the runway."-Coco Chanel De La Salle - College of St. Benilde (management student) Raffles Design Institute Fashion Institute of the Philippines (fashion student) Mapua University (engineering student) Got a question or message for me? Click the "MESSAGE ME" tab above For collaborations, sponsorships, modeling, events, promotions, projects, etc. [email protected] [email protected] var sc_project=11279353; var sc_invisible=1; var sc_security="b1084c06"; var scJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://secure." : "http://www."); document.write(""); (function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){ (i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o), m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m) })(window,document,'script','https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga'); ga('create', 'UA-65922306-1', 'auto'); ga('send', 'pageview');

[chinchinobcena]

All About Art and Relaxation at The Picasso Boutique Hotel

If you truly know me, you will know that I love staycations. Sure, I do like going out and having a good time in the city with my friends. But nothing beats having some moments to yourself and reconnecting to what’s really important. This is why when The Picasso Boutique Hotel invited me for an overnight stay at one of their newest rooms, it was a much-needed breather!

There are many reasons to love The Picasso Boutique Hotel. One of the most unique features is how they host an art gallery inside, Altro Mondo Contemporanea. Here you will have a chance to see exhibits of artwork by upcoming Filipino artists. It’s perfect for when you need some quiet time. The art extends all throughout the hotel. Inspired by Pablo Picasso’s different phases and famous artworks, you’ll see it in the details everywhere in the hotel. Spot it in the lobby, the Harlequin Lounge, and on the corridor leading to your room. 

When I was there I stayed at the Malaga Superior Room. It’s a spacious setting for me and some of my friends. It has a big cozy bed, a guitar-shaped desk, and a balcony where you could chill and enjoy Salcedo’s quiet vibe. It’s a 45 sqm room and you can either get a queen-size bed or twin beds. The room is also an architectural tribute to Pablo Picasso’s famous Período Azul, and named after his hometown of Malaga, Spain. It’s because of this, the Malaga Superior Studio feels like the perfect getaway inside the city. You get to travel to Picasso’s hometown even just for a little bit. 

The Picasso Boutique Services Residences is full of amenities you need to create your perfect staycation. If you want to cool off via exercise, you are privileged with gym access, equipped fully to whatever your fitness routine is. I like going to the spa every now and again and Picasso has one of the best: Qi Wellness Spa so you can totally unplug and recharge your mind and body. 

Since I was with my friends, we opted to enjoy the in-house restaurant Pablo Bistro which serves Spanish Mediterranean cuisine. I loved their oven-baked pizza. For coffee and pastry lovers, there’s Kartel as well. Perfect in the morning right before you head over the Jaime Velasquez Park or any of the Salcedo stops that are so easily walkable from Picasso. For people who like to shop, malls are just nearby!

So if you’d ask me, I would definitely go back. I would also recommend it highly to anyone coming from abroad to stay in. Or to anyone in the metro who needs some art, relaxation, and a perfect staycation place. 

The Picasso Hotel Boutique Serviced Residences is located at 119 LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati.

For more information, Instagram: @thepicassomakati Website: www.picassomakati.com

[chinchinobcena]

But first, lemme take a selfie. 🤳🏼 And oh, look at my phone. Still can’t get over the 48MP Triple AI Camera of my #HuaweiY9sPH! Gotta bring this on my travels. ☺ Still on sale at P13,990. How do you like the color of my new phone? 💜💙 #Y9sPopsUpAgain https://www.instagram.com/p/B8OUlbUHdol/?igshid=14ffd7vmahr9s

[chinchinobcena]

Being able to smile confidently esp during events is so important to me! 😁🤗 I get to meet a lot of people in this industry I’m in and get to converse with them. I can’t imagine facing them with bad teeth. 😅 I love how my teeth are well taken care of. Huge thanks to @gaocdental, @drstevemarkgan, and my current dentist Dr. @samcyg. 💃🏻 They just provide the best services and have state-of-the-art facilities whichever branch I go to. 💚 Take a visit, and see for yourself! 😉 #GAOCdental #ichooseGAOC Dress by @loveara.ph 📸: @itsjkl (at Manila, Philippines) https://www.instagram.com/p/B7VrOfsH098/?igshid=1327np6rz8y8t

[chinchinobcena]

The Day I Attempted To Kill Myself

Behind this smile is a story of a woman who attempted to end her life. Yes, I ATTEMPTED SUICIDE that’s why I got hospitalized. I’m posting this not for attention because when you’re depressed, all you want is to be alone in your bed or just be with very few people you trust the most and feel comfortable with especially just the love of my life (he was my family and made me feel like I was never alone). And it was hard for me to find the courage to share this because I don’t want to be judged. It’s just such a chaotic world out there… Anyway, I knew there was something in me for more than a year or two already. But I never faced it because I thought I can manage it. Mind over matter, right? Get a hold of your feelings, just do the things that make you happy, surround yourself with good people, stay busy with work that you’re passionate about, and inspire people the best way you can do… But at the end of the day, it’s still there. And as time went by, I got worse… I came to a point where I’m scared of so many things, I cry over people leaving as if they died. I felt so lonely (even when I’m not). When I’m around people I’m not close with, it suffocates me, I just want to go home or be on my phone. I feel so walled, I’m scared of everything and everyone. I always assume that everyone I meet will just leave anytime, like people just come and go… I always had a hard time sleeping so I’ve been drinking Benadryl before. But I’ve still been so anxious and sad even if it made me groggy. I had episodes—I was sad and crying, sometimes without a reason even. There’s just something inside me that I can’t control, AT ALL. There were months I couldn’t eat, and when I was just about to take a bite of my food, it makes me want to vomit. And then I helped myself get up again. And it became a cycle. I’d tell people, I was just on a diet…

I’ve been seeing a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with clinical depression. She first asked me why I was there and I said, “I’m tired of fighting this everyday and it makes me sadder how it affects the people around me especially the people I love.” My medicines have been working well and sedates me at night so I can sleep. I became my old self again—jolly, talkative, I don’t run out of stories to tell, annoying and makulit. It gave me hope and every day my boyfriend would remind me that I’m strong and I’ll get through it. He made me believe more in myself, he made me feel like I had a support system. But at the same time it makes me sad how I affect him and how he has to deal with me like this. He never made me feel like I’m a burden, but I always think that I am. He doesn’t deserve someone like me.

While taking medications, I looked for other things to do so I won’t depend on meds. I started playing games, watching netflix, reconnecting with old friends, and learned to rest. Because all I did before was to work—I only get up to work, go to events, take photos, finish deadlines, do unboxing, create whatever content. Yes, that makes me happy, but the pressure and knowing that it’s all work also drains me at some point. But I promise it’s my passion and it’s what makes me happy and keeps me going. I also like the feeling of how I make people happy and inspire them, all their messages on Instagram help me to keep going too. But then eventually, I felt like my body got used to the meds and it’s like I became immune from it.

Oct 31, my Tito and Tita went home to the province but I couldn’t cause I had work for Halloween. Nov 1, my body felt so tired, I felt sick too. The whole building was quiet, and all I saw on Instagram were people with their families. It was sad but I was still okay watching Dynasty. But every after a few hours I’d go to my bed and just relaxed my body and then watched again. It was only my boyfriend’s presence (through text) that didn’t make me feel lonely. I was so excited for him to be home so I can see him on FaceTime. He wasn’t my world (because I do so many things everyday and I don’t always get to see him), BUT he was my hope, he gave me hope, and he made me believe in so many good things in life. Everytime I see his face, I just get sooo happy and I make a lot of chikka to him that sometimes it’s too much that he couldn’t absorb everything anymore but I see it in his eyes how happy he is too seeing me lively and talkative and excited about my kwentos. Nov 2, I was so down and crying because idk maybe bec I’ve been in my condo alone for days or my meds weren’t working anymore, idk if I needed a higher dosage, but my mistake was I never messaged my psychiatrist about it. I called my boyfriend crying, I “needed” him again. And eventually, I couldn’t take being a burden to him or to anyone anymore. I can’t always be a burden to people I love. I love him so much and I just felt like he deserves someone better and I shouldn’t be his responsibility. I wanted him to have a better and happier life—everyone wants that. But at that moment, I just realized I’m already too much for anyone to handle. Too much for my friends, too much for all my loved ones. So I decided to take my life away…

I always thought that nobody loves me as much anyway, and maybe they wouldn’t even mind if I die. Cause I’m just a burden to people I love. And just always wearing a mask in front of other people pretending she’s that jolly funny talkative girl. I just got tired of myself and got tired of fighting… The normal dosage of my meds are Tab A (¼) and Tab B (1 whole), so I took Tab A (¼ x 48) and Tab B (1 whole x 10). I wrote a letter to my mom saying, “I love you… I will always be here…” and messaged her “I love you Mama.” Because we were never the cheesy type but I just really love her for whatever. And then I messaged my Tita that I overdosed myself. She and my Tito went all the way from Tarlac but I was already unconscious/sleeping idk when they arrived. I barely remember things because I took so many meds, all I remember was my Tito, Tita, Mom and my boyfriend were there in the ER. And lastly, that my boyfriend kept hugging me and kissing me on the forehead before he went home telling me to be a good girl and that he will message me. I held on to that... And that moment I realized there were people who really love me, that I actually mattered. I suffered so much in the hospital and until now. The feeling is just so bad. And I was having withdrawal syndrome, that I just wanted a successful suicide yesterday. I couldn’t find any reason to live. There was nothing else on my mind, but to end my life. My mind was vague because of the withdrawal, like it’s also withdrawing my brain (char). I just don’t want this to feel so heavy for you guys. But kidding aside, my friends had a hard time stopping and controlling me and they made me realize that what I was feeling was just the withdrawal and I shouldn’t let it get into me. I was still supposed to be in the hospital, but I forced them to discharge me because being there made me feel worse, sad, and sick. It’s like I’m in a cage and there was nothing that could make me happy. I want to heal naturally, choose to heal with a healthy mindset, but still see my psychiatrist of course.

All I wanted to avoid was to be a burden that’s why I wanted to vanish but I just ended up hurting the people who love me. I just became a total burden rather than not at all. All I feel right now is guilt, I hurt the people I love. And if I actually died, I would regret seeing them affected and carrying what I did for the rest of their lives. I just want to say sorry to everyone I’ve hurt, it was just really hard for me fighting my depression everyday and seeing people having the “responsibility” to make me feel better so I chose to end it all. To the people going through something, never be afraid to seek for help, and I promise you there are people who genuinely care. Don’t ever feel like you are a burden because if they truly love you, you never will and they will help you get through it without even asking for it. Because that’s what my boyfriend kept telling me but I just let my depression win me over. Please trust your loved ones more than that depression that kills you inside. Don’t let all the love and effort they did for you to be put to waste. The only way you can pay them back is to help yourself get better, trust them, and keep yourself alive even when it’s hard. Sometimes, if you can’t do it for yourself anymore, do it for the people you love, it helps to be strong for the people you love too.

I actually wonder why I’m still alive cause I really took a lot of meds to make sure it comes to an end. But as my friend told me, “Surely you’re not meant to die yet. Your life still has a purpose, there’s a reason why you’re alive.” And maybe this is it, sharing my experience and realizations to the world. Let’s all help each other and not only think about ourselves. Be positive even when it’s hard. But don’t bottle up your feelings, and let it out once in a while. Balance is key.

Never beat yourself up, you can still start over. Believe that it will all get better… You have no idea how much courage it took me to share this to the world so please, be strong… I just want everyone to believe that life is worth living. When things feel heavy, just look at the people who love you and it will all make a difference.

I’m sincerely sorry to all my loved ones for trying to take my life away. It was so selfish of me. When all my boyfriend did was to make me happy and help me get through everything...

To my boyfriend, hurting you was the last thing I would want to do or should I say I WOULD NEVER WANT TO DO and I fucked up, and made you go through the worst... It breaks my heart to know that I broke yours. I’m deeply sorry and I know it will never be enough. If only I can take it back to take away all the pain I’ve caused you, I would. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me. I love you so much. And I will never put all your love and effort to waste, I will be better. (Just had to write it here, because messaging him directly won’t help him and won’t make things any better…….)

I don’t care about what people think of me now. If some of you are gonna be judgmental or whatsoever. Cause I tell you what, I never believed in depression before and I thought it’s all in the mind. And this life changing experience proved me wrong. But I know there are still people out there who have a big heart and I hope you could help people who are in need and make them feel loved, especially your loved ones. I kept this from a lot of people even my close friends because I didn’t want to be judged. I don’t feel embarrassed nor scared about it anymore. I accept myself for what I am. And I choose to pick myself up to be the best that I can be.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m still normal. I just have episodes of sadness especially when someone triggers it. That’s why I only surround myself with people I trust and I’m comfortable with. Their care just calms me and makes me happy.

Just 5pm today, for the first time, I went to a Psychologist. And this is what he told me, “You may not see it now but you’re in the process of seeing life in a deeper perspective. There’s a reason why you didn’t die.”

I don’t want anyone, in any way, to feel sorry for me. All I want is for everyone to learn from this whether you’re depressed, just around a depressed person, or none at all.

There’s still so much to say but I’ll end this here.

THIS IS ME, CHIN CHIN OBCENA, RAW. I AM CLINICALLY DEPRESSED BUT I SURVIVED AND I WILL BE BETTER.

[chinchinobcena]

Inside the Avon Labs in Shanghai, China

The moment my invitation to travel with Avon to Shanghai, China popped on my notification bar, I was a bit startled. Why? Because Avon has always been a brand close to my heart. I remember back when I was a teenager, my grandmother and my mom would have an Avon lady who regularly goes to our house and they would buy me lotion, powder, lip balm, jewelry, and those really cute brassieres that they would collect for me – to be honest, I get excited when there’s a new collection on the brochure.

So it finally happened, armed with my Fujifilm Camera and my Instagram App, I had a one in a million chance to go around Avon’s Research and Development (R&D) Center and discovered how some of their products are made. During our R&D Tour, there were five stations: 

1.)   Analytical Laboratory (Fight Radicals) - They showed us how they test the anti-oxidative activity of glutathione. I found out how much they make the effect of glutathione faster in whitening the skin compared to Brand X. 

2.)   Color Product Laboratory (Make Your Own Lipstick) – We got to make our own lipsticks. Mixing of colors is very critical so they did that part for us. What we did was to place the mixture onto the lipstick mold. After that, it had to be refrigerated for a few minutes and then we took the lipsticks out from the mold using the actual lipstick tubes. 

3.)   Skin Care Product Laboratory (Skin Skin Skin) – It was a demonstration of whitening technology and how their line Anew Fairness prevents further skin pigmentation. Without Anew, I really saw how the other liquid demo darkened. 

 4.)   Clinical Efficacy Method (Quench Test) – They used a certain instrument certified by the International Department of Dermatology to test the level of our skin’s moisture before and after applying the Avon Anew product. From a rating of 20, our skin’s moisture went up around 30 to 40.

5.)   Pilot Plant Run (All Systems Go!) - In this station, we learned about product quality process and they demonstrated how they make a bottle of perfume. There’s a specific machine intended to convert substances into smaller particles for it to penetrate faster and be softer on the skin.

I admire how they emphasized that Avon products are animal-friendly and not animal tested because they believe in “beauty for a purpose.” They look for an alternative way to test the products just to make sure the cute animals are not harmed. Plus when it comes to shades of cosmetics, they don’t just go for colors that are trendy. Instead, they also make it a point that they make colors that suit Filipina skin tones. Avon doesn’t just consider women’s wants but they also have their needs in mind.

Avon also believes in “empowered women empower others.” I think this is why Avon is about a lot of relationship building. Remember how I got to know the brand because of my mom and grandmom’s Avon lady? I think that is a part of what Avon means. And look, here I am right now, talking about products that make us look good and feel empowered. 

I thought I would only learn about the science behind making Avon products but I really love how they believe in women empowerment and “beauty for a purpose.” My appreciation for the brand is now stronger and I look forward to what else Avon can do. 

Website: www.avon.ph Facebook: www.facebook.com/AvonPhilippines Instagram: @avonph

[chinchinobcena]

Hotel Room Hopping with ZEN Rooms

Are you the type of person who loves staycations? You no longer have to worry about expensive rooms that limit you from the length of stay that you want or the frequency of stay that you feel like booking with friends and family. Whether it’s just an ordinary day or there’s a celebration, book a room that’s worth every dime you’ve worked hard for. I’ve discovered ZEN Rooms – an actual hotel chain that provides quality and affordable room stays not only in the Philippines but in top destinations in Southeast Asia such as HongKong, Bali, Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and more.

In ZEN Rooms, they provide the service and amenities for each room. Just like this room I had on my first day with ZEN Rooms. I first stayed in ZEN Home Icon Plaza in BGC. It is located near Fort Strip and Tipple & Slaw. What makes it even more convenient is that there are a lot of establishments downstairs. Icon Plaza is a residential condominium so I just stayed like a tenant there. There’s a gym there, same floor where the pool area is. I had the 60sqm quadruple suite that’s pretty big for me, of course. But some friends visited me for dinner so I was able to maximize my stay! The regular price was P6,760 but it was on sale at P4,199 – and using my promo code ZENPHCHIN, I got additional 20% OFF. CHECK IT HERE: ZEN Home Icon Plaza BGC

So on the second day, I chose to stay at ZEN Rooms Malate Robinsons in Birch Tower. I got it at a regular price of P2,229, but I was able to use my promo code ZENPHCHIN for 20% OFF anyway. It’s walking distance to Bellagio Square and Robinson’s Place Manila. I like how the room looks, and my favorite part is the bedroom. This hotel room has everything you need from kitchen stuff to toiletries. I just realized, though, that I wasn’t able to take photos because I stayed in the bed all night long. Not to mention, I super love their homemade pizza! CHECK IT HERE: ZEN Rooms Malate Robinsons 

There are actually a lot of choices, I just ran out of rooms that time because I booked last minute. So, visit the website to see more! Each room has a different feel and set-up. My next targets for Manila area are Gramercy Residences and Milano Residences! One more thing I shouldn’t forget to mention is ZEN Rooms really has very hospitable and caring staff! When you need anything, they are just a text or call away.

Book your room now at www.zenrooms.com. For additional 20% OFF, use the promo code ZENPHCHIN. Happy staycation! For more information, visit their Instagram @zenroomsglobal.

[chinchinobcena]

Tokyo Tokyo’s New Wagyu Burgers

Do you always crave for Japanese food just like I do? Tokyo Tokyo is my go-to Japanese fast food restaurant especially when I’m in school. Not only that they serve food fast, but also because they continue reinventing their classic dishes which excites me! After the release of Rising Sun Wagyu Burger, here’s another batch of new unique burgers that’s going to make you drool over.

They added two new Wagyu Burgers to their menu – the Mozza Furai Wagyu Burger and Best Chicken Teriyaki Burger. You can enjoy the Mozza Furai Burger that has mozzarella patty coated in a cheese-flavored batter and Japanese crumbs layered with sliced cheese, Wagyu beef patty, a bed of fresh lettuce, and Sriracha mayo cooked in cheese-flavored batter goodness sandwiched in a soft brioche bun for only P195. Wait, why am I the one drooling right now? Lol. For chicken teriyaki lovers, the Best Chicken Teriyaki Burger is for you! You get to taste a generous and premium signature chicken teriyaki fillet grilled the Japanese way filled with sliced cream cheese and fresh lettuce all in a soft brioche bun for a price of P175.

Trying out unique food really excites me! And I can say that these burgers are worth it. I was even able to make my friend, who was on a diet, try them and he loved it. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Tokyo Tokyo branch near you and satisfy your craving with the premium Wagyu Burgers that you wouldn’t want to miss, for sure. Don’t forget to pair it with everyone’s favorite Signature Red Iced Tea! Ciao!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tokyotokyophilippines Instagram: www.instagram.com/tokyotokyophilippines Twitter: www.twitter.com/TokyoTokyoPHL Website: www.tokyotokyo.com.ph

[chinchinobcena]

Falling in Love with Fashion 21 Cosmetics

It’s February, we just celebrated Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year. It’s a great time to give ourselves another chance despite how the first month of the year went. Never be afraid to try new things that you could’ve been missing out on – just like finding the right makeup products to get you through hectic days. So, I’ll be sharing with you two products of Fashion 21 Cosmetics that I’m glad I gave a shot.

Some time last week, I went on a super spontaneous staycation with friends. It’s been the most spontaneous decision I’ve made to date! I had nothing in my bag except for my wallet and my two phones! The next day, my friend Vyn (if you’ve seen it on my IG Stories), called me to watch Fifty Shades Freed and I was just like, “I look so hungover and I don’t even have any makeup in my bag.” Since everything’s been spontaneous anyway, I just decided to buy something from the mall. I randomly just bought what the saleslady recommended, the Fashion 21 Color Matte Liquid Lipstick and the Fashion 21 SPF 35+ Two-Way Cake w/ Papaya Extract.

I’ve tested out the matte lippie first. I fell in love with the Fashion 21 Color Matte Liquid Lipstick in Butterscotch that I also wore on this shoot. It is creamy matte so it glides easily on the lips and doesn’t dry up your lips! Pay attention to the shade, it’s so nice! It’s not the kind of nude that’s so pale and I just feel like a Kardashian. Lol kidding! It’s highly pigmented that it provides full coverage in a single swipe. It comes in 7 shades, check it out! Next one is the Fashion 21 SPF 35+ Two-Way Cake w/ Papaya Extract, it makes the skin smooth and glowing. My friends would always tell me to get something with SPF to protect my skin from the sun so this one’s perfect!

Website: www.fashion21cosmetics.com Instagram: @fashion21_cosmetics

Photography by Gerard Del Mundo

[chinchinobcena]

The New Closeup Fresh Attraction

They say there is always a reason behind someone’s smile. Especially when your smile is as big as ours, right?! We are amazed with how strong and effective the new product range of Closeup is – the New Closeup Fresh Attraction! To begin with, a lot of savory food started to be served at the event without us knowing that after eating, we were actually going to give the new toothpaste a try!!!

Who would say no to the food in VASK Tapas Room (where the event was held), anyway? I am always found guilty of eating too much at events and the Closeup event was not an exception. Afterwards, we were directed to the washroom to brush our teeth! I’ve tried both flavors – the Oxyrush and Artic Shock – which are powered with a rush of shocking menthol. Oxyrush is my personal favorite because of its intense menthol flavor. On the other hand, people who opt for a less intense flavor can go for the Artic Shock with its sweet and fruity notes.

Closeup Fresh Attraction’s ambassador, Sarah Lahbati, graced the launch event – that was hosted by Kryz Uy and Slater Young. Sarah Lahbati stated that Oxyrush is her favorite among the two flavors! According to her, for her hectic shoot schedules, and time for family, she has to make sure that she is armed with fresh breath all day!

Keep your breath fresh with the New Closeup Fresh Attraction without any hesitations of getting closer than ever! As for me, well, how can I say no to a product I’ve proven myself to be effective? Both flavors are already displayed in my bathroom because the flavor I use each time just varies on my mood!

For more details, follow Closeup Philippines. Instagram: @closeupph

[chinchinobcena]

Elizabeth Arden Speed Services

Last Monday, August 14, I went to the Elizabeth Arden event in its flagship store in Trinoma. Me, along with other influencers, customers, and people from Elizabeth Arden, spent an afternoon of tea and pampering sessions. I have good news for you! You can also pamper yourself for FREE at the Elizabeth Arden Flagship Store Trinoma. Read more to have a quick virtual tour of the store, to know the products available in their flagship store, and what are the speed services you can actually avail for FREE as of the moment!

Yes, you heard it right! You can experience their speed services for FREE as their promo in the Elizabeth Arden Flagship Store Trinoma. It will be ongoing until they announce that it’s no longer available. So, what are you waiting for? These speed services are only available for The Red Door Club VIP members, but they’re giving you the chance to experience it for FREE too! Take advantage and I assure you that it’s worth your time!

These are just a few of the products available in the Elizabeth Arden Flagship Store. They have a variety of skin care range to choose from. But note that their #1 Best Selling product – the Ceramide Youth Serum can make you look 10 years younger than ever! Among the fragrances, my personal top pick is the Elizabeth Arden White Tea perfume. And oh, the cosmetics are to die for!! Of course that was the first shelf I ran to when I arrived. LOL.

The Elizabeth Arden Flagship Store is located at the 3rd Floor of Trinoma. 

Instagram: @elizabetharden_ph

[chinchinobcena]

The Body Shop: Make Love Not War

I was called “SENSITIVE” when I reacted about the issues people created themselves to ruin my image. They made it look like I was a “STORYTELLER” for saying things I never knew I actually said. But I took the courage to speak for myself cause I knew that people deserve the truth… So, who’s the storyteller now? I hope that people would stop hating and spreading rumors that have no basis at all — especially when the mere intention is to drag someone down to lift themselves up.

Join us and The Body Shop to #MakeLoveNotWar with sensitive skin by sharing what you were called sensitive for. We’d love to hear your stories, too! :)

Facebook: CLICK HERE

[chinchinobcena]

My Top 10 Fashion Finds at The SM Store

I’m so done with Finals! Woohoo! So I guess, I deserve a reward, which is a shopping spree? I went on a therapeutic shopping day at The SM Store in Makati and I’m sharing with you my Top 10 Fashion Finds – from clothes to cosmetics.

1.) Other than gingham, everyone’s going gaga over pinstripes right now! Also, this dress is something I can wear to school and at the same time is stylish enough that I can go straight to a dinner date with friends when I get dismissed. Pinstripe dress from True Love

2.) Can I just say that I’m currently obsessed with sling bags and color red?! I mean, sling bags are so hassle-free. And I like that color red lowkey demands for attention. Lol. Red sling bag from Parisian

3.) How can you resist these comfy white slippers? Its pointed toe style adds sophistication to its minimalist design. Pointed slippers from Parisian

4.) Let us not forget that, “Contour is life.” Besides confidence, never leave home without contour! Infallible Pro-contour from L’Oreal

5.) What I like about this shade is it’s not so light nude and it’s not so brown. It’s just the right nude shade that can match whether a light eyeshadow or a smokey eye. Crème Brulee velvet lips from BYS

6.) Who doesn’t like rompers anyway? We all need rompers to wear on days when we’re lazy to put together clothes. Green floral romper from Got To Wear GTW by SM

7.) Patches are a thing now! I just find any thing with patches very attractive. Plus, backpacks make things easier. Everything I need just fits in here. Backpack from Parisian

8.) Accessories beautify all kinds of outfits, just like this belt! Belt from SM Accessories

9.) What else can I say? Gucci-inspired mules are to die for! Everyone knows that. Mules from Parisian

10.) Every woman needs a red lipstick because sometimes your lipstick alone has to do the talking. This Desire shade of Max Factor is like an orange-y red which makes it an ideal day to night buddy. Desire Velvet Matte lipstick from Max Factor

There you go! All items are available at The SM Store Premier in Makati, Aura, and Megamall. Well, there were actually a lot of items to go crazy about (you know it, if you were able to watch my instagram stories haha) and I had a hard time trimming them down to Top 10!! The SM Store, for me, is the best place to shop because literally everything I need is there! I no longer have to go from one place to another to complete the items on my list. 

[chinchinobcena]

Celebrate Friendship with Raffa Sparkling

The best way to spend my free time besides going home to Tarlac to see my family, is to celebrate great friendship with the people I can count on. So, I’ve decided to have an intimate dinner date with two of my favorite people, Debbie and Fons, at Heat Edsa Shangri-La. And oh, lucky us because it was a lobster night! Completing our dinner is the Raffa Sparkling! What’s a better way to celebrate friendship, right? #CelebrateAlways with Raffa Sparkling.

Are you aware of the benefits of sparkling wine such as it’s good for your heart and memory? It actually has the same benefits as the red wine. For people who like something sweeter and lighter though, can go for sparkling wine. In fact, sparkling wine has a fewer calories than that of a red wine or white wine. It contains beneficial polyphenols, too! I remember that I’ve read one article on HealthLine way back that mentions that polyphenols are micronutrients that we get through certain plant-based food. They’re packed with antioxidants and potential health benefits.  But keep in mind that too much of anything can be bad. So, drink responsibly!

Unlike your typical sparkling wine, the Raffa Sparkling is in a bottle that is the same as a beer. It’s very handy which makes it your go-to buddy wherever you want to go. It comes in a Semi-Dry and Dry 330mL bottle that you can finish alone if you have those thirsty days like I do. Yeah, there are times when I want some sparkling wine but I’m lazy to go out so I just get a bottle of Raffa Sparkling in my fridge and I’m satisfied!

[chinchinobcena]

The SM Style Series with Makeover Masters  Jake Galvez and Jigs Mayuga

The Love Your Summer Style campaign gave awareness that The SM Store is a premium shopping destination that defines everyone’s summer style. The SM Store created an event called SM Style Series, which allowed a few people from the industry to talk about photography, styling, and beauty. This is a summary of what happened during the SM Style Series.

I was the SM Style Series Insider for the beauty talks conducted by Jake Galvez and Jigs Mayuga. It was a privilege for me to be assigned and to learn from these beauty experts. So, to those who weren’t able to watch my IG Stories, let me share with you what I learned from them.

Jake Galvez shared with us the latest trend in makeup, which is bold-colored makeup. But at the same time, emphasizes that it always depends on what you are most comfortable in. Thus, never be afraid to play with different colors and try different products.

Here are the 7 tips and tricks on how to achieve the bold-colored makeup:

1. Colored Eyeliner – Apply colored eyeliner on top of your lash line. If you’re wearing black/brown eyeliner, you can still apply colored eyeliner above it.

2. Bold Lipsticks – Use a bold lipstick. It depends on your skin tone so don’t be afraid to try out different shades. You are free to do so in any The SM Store branches.

3. Highlight Eyes – Highlight the inner corner of your eyes. It gives a brightening effect and makes your eyes sparkle. I do this, too!

4. Contour Eyes – Contour the outer corner of your eyes. Create a side contour of the bright eyeshadow along the crease.

5. Peach Blush – Apply peach-colored blush along the apples of your cheeks to highlight the cheekbones.

6. Purple Eyeshadow – It’s very basic and effortless to give emphasis on your eyes. You just simply apply purple eyeshadow on your eyelids.

7. Colored Mascara – Never underestimate what this can do. Apply it how you apply your typical black or brown mascara – start from the roots of your eyelashes.

Just a week after, Jigs Mayuga did the talk at The SM Store Aura. He created a fresh makeup look. The highlight of his makeup workshop is to say goodbye to thick makeup – to focus on beautiful skin and maintain that natural look. Just add a little color on the lips and/or eyes. All the products he used are available at The SM Store Premier in Makati, Aura and Megamall and I’m glad that I personally use most of them.

Here are some tips and some of the products he used during the workshop:

1. Moisturizer – Bioderma Hydrabio. It is important to moisturize face before putting on foundation.

2. Base - Use BYS Liquid Illuminator for the cheek area and NYX Angel Veil for the T-zone area.

3. Corrector – For the eyebags, “correct rather than conceal.” Use NYX Dark Circle Concealer.

4. Foundation and Powder – L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation and Powder, which I also love!

5. Eyeshadow Sticks – NYX Eyeshadow Sticks are very reliable and easy to apply.

6. Highlight – SleekMakeUP highlight for the apples of your cheeks.

7. Tint – The Body Shop lip and cheek tint.

To sum it all up, I love how The SM Store does not only provide us with all the products we need and want, but also make it fun by doing activities such as the SM Style Series. It gave us the perks of learning from the experts not only in beauty but also in photography and fashion – BJ Pascual, Laureen Uy, Pam Quiñones, and more. I can’t wait for the next line up of events from The SM Store.

[chinchinobcena]

Lunch Date with CHEERS and My Girls

I may not get to see my friends too often but we make sure to find time to be together and nothing changes ­– it’s still the old sweet girls that I met way back. Only a few days before our mini get-together that I asked them to spare lunch time for me. I didn’t have enough time to prepare but things went well with the help of CHEERS. It made that day hassle-free!

Later on, I’d like to tell you more about my 3 girl friends. But for now, I’d like to introduce to you CHEERS. If you are looking for quality hygienic napkins that you can use on either big or small celebrations, CHEERS is the one! We actually had the CHEERS Picnic Set during our lunch date. Inside of the box includes pull napkins, starch-based cutleries and trash bags ­– yes, all of these in just one cute box. This is being offered at P60 only! Available in SM, Puregold, Robsinsons and Metro supermarkets. I also stocked up more of the CHEERS Picnic Set for any spontaneous get-together in the future. Since most of the time our schedule won’t cooperate, the ones that push through are the spontaneous ones – be it in our friend’s condo or a picnic site, it doesn’t matter anyway, as long as we got each other.

Let me share with you how I met these 3 girls who are too close to my heart. On the left most is Bianca Baranda. She’s my schoolmate in CSB but I met her in Pool Club years ago. I can’t even believe we’re, by chance, classmates right now in one subject. Beside her is Debbie Then. She’s from Magic 89.9 and is also an influencer. We just used to follow each other on Instagram and see each other at events. Then, we just clicked! Lastly, meet Trish Terrado. I met her in Hydro, a music festival. She was heartbroken back then and I’m really soft with things like that ­– maybe also the reason why we got along so easily! Lol. It may not look obvious on their figure but all of them love to eat as much as I do. That’s why I’m happy I found CHEERS to take with us when we eat out. Yeah, these girls are going to kill me without tissue. Sometimes, I really feel like a girl scout.

[chinchinobcena]

Clinique Crayola Chubby Sticks

Have you heard about the much talked about Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick Collection? I was able to try it out at the #CliniqueCrayola booth in UP Town Center Phase 2 Activity Center! Clinique even provided exclusive offers to the ones who visited their booth from March 24-26. I can’t wait to share with you which among the 8 brilliant shades are my top picks!

The Clinique Crayola Chubby Sticks are moisturizing lip colour balms ­– it prevents your lips from being cracky and dry. It contains shea butters so it feels comfortable on the lips. Since it’s a balm, the color is lighter when you apply it on your lips. The shades are perfect to achieve a fresh makeup look for the summer season. It’s easier to match with your outfits, too! The 8 brilliant shades are brick red, wild strawberry, mango tango, melon, mauvelous, pink sherbert, fuzzy wuzzy, and red velvet. My top picks are mango tango, mauvelous, and fuzzy wuzzy!! You should try them out! The Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick Collection is available at Clinique UP Town Center and other Clinique branches.

I learned so much from the makeup session conducted by the celebrity makeup artist, Paolo Maranan. We were able to witness it for free on the first day, March 24. A lot of people also lined up for the free popcorn and cotton candy! Did I mention everything in the booth was just instagrammable? Everyone went crazy over the Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick Collection, the fun activities, and all the freebies! 

[chinchinobcena]

Pantene 3-Minute Miracle to the Rescue

Summer is here! Are you excited for all your planned beach trips and adventures? But then, due to the intense heat of the sun, we all get worried about our hair being dry, frizzy, and damaged. Oh my, that won’t look good on Instagram! Ugly hair means ugly selfie! No need to fret, Pantene 3-Minute Miracle can repair up to 3 months of damage in just 3 minutes.

­Among all the conditioners, Pantene 3-Minute Miracle is effective and repairs really fast. It can strengthen even the weakest part of the hair because of its Pro-Vitamin formula. With continuous use of the Pantene 3-Minute Miracle, you’ll see the big improvement of your hair ­­– it will be healthier and stronger. You get to achieve #HairWithoutLimits. By that, you can enjoy being out every day without the fear of damaging your hair. You can even cut it, style it, and color it whenever you want to.

Nothing should hinder you from doing the things that you want. If you want to go out and make the most out of summer, go for it! If you want a new hairstyle, if you want to curl your hair, if you want to dye it, give that to yourself. You deserve to do whatever is going to make you happy and what is going to make you feel more confident about yourself. So, make the switch to Pantene 3-Minute Miracle now and rescue your crowning glory!