Some of you may recall that I ran a giveaway for FLABuLESS a while back. Well, FLABuLESS has now changed its name to TRES SLEEK.

For the benefit of my new readers, here’s a little background information about TRES SLEEK:

Founded in August of 2008 by Lee Stevenson TRES SLEEK is the first ever arm shapewear for real women. Lee saw a void in the shapewear market and TRES SLEEK was born. A pioneer in arm shapewear, Lee created these unique compression sleeves for the “everyday” woman to instantly smooth the arms and reduced the appearance of sagging and bulging skin. TRES SLEEK arm shapewear comes in four lengths long sleeve, short sleeve and cap sleeve, in two colors nude and black, as well as a variety of sizes. For more information please visit www.TRESSLEEK.com

While it takes hard work and discipline to stay in shape certain parts of the body can at times seem unresponsive to diet and exercise, leaving women frustrated and discouraged. TRES SLEEK, offers innovative, convenient and affordable solutions that slenderize, conceal, and reshape common trouble areas. The arm shapewear collection is available in two styles, the Pleine, and the De Quart; two colors, black and copper nude. Retail Cost: $29.95 and $26.95 respectively.

If you use discount code “TresSleekApril09” throughout the month of April 2009,  you will be eligible for 20% off your purchase at www.TRESSLEEK.com. Offer is valid for US and Canada only.

I am a huge fan of mineral makeup because they are made from naturally ground minerals from the earth,  non-pore clogging, provide long lasting weightless coverage through out the day and doesn’t irritate the skin. In fact, they are the perfect solution for women with sensitive and mature skin. Thus, when I was offered the opportunity to review Elizabeth Arden’s latest mineral makeup - the Pure Finish Mineral Foundation SPF20, I jumped at the chance!

I had chosen the the Pure Finish 3 shade and the mineral powder foundation came equipped with its very own portable grinder compact to create a fresh layer of microlight mineral makeup for each application. Just remember these simple instructions – Twist, Swirl, Tap and Apply. I absolutely love this innovative feature as it allows the powder to remain pure and fresh over time plus there’s no wastage or mess. (For full details of how to use its built in innovative grinder feature, click this application link here!)

Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF20 is also enriched with anti-oxidants, natural skin smoothers, non-drying ingredients and an UV protection, SPF 20 and PA++. I am personally a strong advocate of using products with SPF and PA++, to the extent that I  will never go outdoor without such coverage. So, this product definitely scored extra points from me.

When I first tried it, I was amazed at how  comfortable it felt over my skin. The mineral powder was lightweight and blended smoothly and evenly. Unlike traditional liquid foundation, it doesn’t cake but instead, easily lasted all day without any retouching.  After 5 days of using Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Foundation SPF20, I am now a firm believer that once you have tried it, you will not want to go back to traditional liquid foundation.

BUY IT : If you’re looking to keep your skin beautiful and problem free, Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Foundation SPF20 is the smart alternative to chemical laden cosmetics that most of us are used to. For a look of pure perfection that’s non-drying, skin brightening and comfortable to wear every time, paying only $37.50 is definitely a worthy investment. Go and grab one of the nine shades available for yourself. You can thank me later.  

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

TOKI is the first natural collagen drink clinically shown to reduce fine lines and age spots. Introduced to the United States by way of Japan in 2002, TOKI has become a leader in the field of natural beauty aids. TOKI was used in Japan to support the joints, thanks to its combination of potent active collagen and glucosamine but soon after it was introduced clients began reporting an overall improvement in the texture and appearance of their skin.

TOKI reintroduces a youthful look and feel to skin with an extraordinary ingredient base that includes the moisture-rich retention of Hyaluronic acid in a mucopolysaccharide complex. The mucopolysaccharide complex replenishes skin from within, and combines with Collagen Peptide and Vitamin C to restore a more youthful quality. When modified with HAI™ Amino Acid Extract from Hijiki seaweed for enhanced absorption, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles may be dramatically reduced. Your skin tone, moisture level and resiliency are revived. In as little as 45 days, skin texture starts to become smoother and tighter and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles may be diminished.

BUY IT : Price: $175 for a 30 day supply. To order, visit www.888ageless.com.

WIN IT : If TOKI sounds like an awesome product, here’s your chance to win it:

• Let me know why you want to win this product. One winning entry will be picked based on the best “want to win” reason.
• Giveaway is open to US and Canada shipping addresses only
• Giveaway closes on 21st March 2009.
• Remember to subscribe so that you will be updated with the contest result.

As you know I wrote a post awhile back about Heidi Klum being Diet Coke’s heart health ambassador for the Heart Truth campaign. Just thought some of you, fans and readers alike will be interested to see Heidi being interviewed for this webisode as part of her effort to spread the word about women’s heart health. Click Heidi Klum’s Webisode to view the interview.

I’m also taking this opportunity to include some healthy heart tips to share with you all:

• Go for whole grains. Eat at least three ounces daily of whole-grain foods such as whole-grain cereals, whole-wheat bread and pasta, and brown rice.
• Get hooked on fish. Eat omega-3-rich fish such as salmon, trout and herring at least twice a week.
• Load up on produce. Enjoy colorful fruits and vegetables — their fiber, vitamins and minerals are great for your heart and blood pressure.
• Go a little nuts. Choose modest portions of foods with unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds.
• Focus on fiber. The fiber in oatmeal, barley, fruits, vegetables and beans is good for your heart.
• Exercising is a must. Ensure you have proper outdoor clothing and shoes that are comfortable for the type of exercise activity that you chose.

I’m sure many of you out there have included “losing weight” as one of your New Year Resolution Well, if you’re like me, you’ll agree that it is one of the hardest one to keep. That’s probably why we have it on our New Year goal year after year. LOL.

Well, I’ve just discovered a new visual weight loss tool called Weight View which may be useful to kick start your weight loss challenge. WeightView.com is a FREE digital weight loss tool that allows users to see what they would look like at their target weight. You upload a photo of yourself, specify how much weight you’d like to lose, and WeightView sends you back an image of yourself at your target weight. What I love about this is the fact that dieters can see themselves thinner, which can provide the motivation needed to sustain a weight-loss goal… oh the things we do for motivation. Users are printing out the images and hanging them on their refrigerators, downloading as screensavers, etc. I’ve included some images for you all to see:

WeightView has over 100,000 users and is currently the #1 Facebook application under “weight loss”. If you asked me, I’m definitely trying it out. Afterall, it’s FREE and may just be the motivational tool that I need!

Do we really need to keep up with the fashion trend when it is freezing cold ? I don’t know about you but I would love to pile on as many tops, sweaters or north face jackets as possible just to keep warm, without worrying whether they are fashionable enough for this season

However, I know fashionistas can never resist the need to look good. So, I’m going to list a few accessories to help you stay on top of the fashion for this holiday.

1. Louis Vuitton’s Damier Neverfull – My current favourite at this point in time. Timeless, yet resolutely modern, these bags are great for traveling and shopping. The size of the bags can also be adjusted using the two side straps.

2. May Boot from Tory Burch’s collection – Stretch Mestico and veg tan leather boot with front zip closure and logo pull. Rubber platform sole. 4″ heel with gold accent.

3. Margaret Jacket  - Available exclusively on Toryburch.com and in Tory Burch boutiques, the Margaret Jacket is featured in Medium Navy/Ivory Tweed. Pair this chic jacket with a turtleneck and the Abbigail skirt for the complete look.

4. Coach Resort Leather Shoulder Tote – Another one of my favourite line of handbags. Look pretty in pink with this simple drawstring bag.

5. Juicy Couture ‘Holiday Themed’ Charm Bracelet – Isn’t this the loveliest bracelet you’ve seen this holiday?  This cute winter-themed charms comes detailed with crystals and smooth enamel dangle from an open-link bracelet.

6. MARC BY MARC JACOBS ‘Miss Marc’ Medium Hoop Earrings – It’s no secret that I prefer simple accessories. What makes this a little unique is there’s a logo-embossed ball which lends modern definition to the end of a handcrafted simple hoop earring.

7. Nordstrom Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves – Leather from Italy makes indulgent gloves extra supple on the outside. The cashmere lining makes them heavenly soft on the inside.

8. Tasha Skinny Headband with Vintage Stones – Beautiful turquoise stones accent the vintage-inspired charms on a skinny satin headband.

9. Juicy Couture Graffiti Beanie - I so love this one. Cheeky phrases pattern an easy-fitting beanie which comes in 3 colours.

10. Emilio Pucci ‘Nelion Weel’ Cape with Fringe – If you’re on a budget, this one might be a little pricey but I could not resist the gorgeous painterly design colors. This eye-catching cape comes detailed with long fringe, while a hint of cashmere provides for ultrasoft wear.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

I’m so excited to partner with another skincare company to bring you ladies some more great products to help you look divalicious this coming holidays!

Young Essential Skincare or Y.E.S for short is founded by entrepreneur Linda Eastwood, Founder & CEO of Y.E.S., Inc. Together with a group of leading chemists, they created the exclusive formulas for Y.E.S. Young Essential Skincare^®

Y.E.S. products dramatically increases the moisture, elasticity and firmness with their exclusive CP24 Complex^®. This proprietary complex works synergistically with active components for optimal results; these exclusive formulas will alleviate even the most frustrating skin concerns working together to enhance the beauty of your skin. The unique formulas will protect against free radical damage, the main cause of aging and sagging skin.

WIN $125 worth of Young Essential Skincare Package!

Here’s what we are giving away:

1. Y.E.S. Rejuvenating Moisture Cream (for all skin types) with CP24-Complex™ is the most advanced age-defying treatment that instantly goes to work stimulating new cell production, bringing new younger cells to the surface. The rapid absorption makes it perfect for all skin types, never greasy; the cream/gel like consistency makes it extremely hydrating, leaving the surface velvety smooth.  Cost: $55.00

2. Y.E.S. Anti-Aging Serum (for all skin types). Serums have been recognized as the most efficient vehicles to deliver ingredients with therapeutic effects. This delivery system addresses your immediate skin concerns from wrinkles, scars and dullness to age spots, acne and sensitivities. Cost: $60.00

3. Y.E.S. Rejuvenating Eye Patches® are a high performance multi-action treatment for today’s woman on-the-go. Y.E.S. Rejuvenating Eye Patches contain biologically active ingredients that alleviate puffiness, dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles in record time. They are specifically designed to treat the under eye area, actually vanishing wrinkles right before your eyes. The Rejuvenating Eye Patches consist of a patented delivery system with highly effective ingredient, Chitosan that is derived from a bio-marine origin and prized for its moisture retaining effects along with collagen and Vitamin C. Retail Cost: $20.00 2 Pair/Pack.

HERE’S HOW YOU CAN ENTER & WIN:

• Visit www.yesskincare.com and leave a comment below letting me know which of their product would benefit you best.
• Three additional entries if you Stumbleupon this post (please leave your SU id) AND/OR
• Three additional entries if you blog about this post (please leave your blog url) AND/OR
• Three additional entries if you subscribe to this blog via email (button on sidebar)
• Giveaway closes on 20th December 2008 and a winner will be selected using the Random.org number generator. Giveaway is open to US shipping addresses only.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

With Christmas coming up in a few weeks,  everyone is preparing to look their best for this holiday gathering. However,  as the economy continues its downward spiral, many of America’s most beauty-obsessed women are forced to alter their shopping habits. Women are now more conscious of what beauty products can do for them and the savvier shopper will select products that deliver compelling results .

To ease the your spending budget, I am giving away two beauty products to one lucky US readers:

Viviscal Maximum Strength (www.Viviscalhair.com) – Viviscal hair vitamins are a combination of vitamin C, silica compounds, and a highly concentrated marine protein, AminoMar C, the brainchild of Dr. Allan Lassus of the University of Helsinki improves hair from the root. AminoMar C has been shown to nourish the hair follicle, strengthen and encourage the growth of existing hair and promote the growth of weaker, less visible hairs. It is well known that basic amino acids, fats and vitamins are essential for the growth of healthy hair and that undernourishment slows the growth rate of hair, eventually leading to hair thinning and then actually falling out. Viviscal addresses the hair’s needs from the inside out. It has long been standard to treat lackluster – or even thinning – hair topically with shampoos or styling products and almost always with disappointing results. Viviscal introduces to the playing field the first nutritional supplement that promises, and delivers, better hair.

AminoGenesis DermaScyne2 (www.AminoGenesis.com) – AminoGenesis’ range of products is founded on the understanding that each and every person’s skin functions at its best when properly nourished and hydrated. Whether the problem is dry skin, oily skin, acne, discoloration, or anything else, according to AminoGenesis, a lack of vital proteins is to blame. When proteins, such as collagen and elastin among many others, break down due to aging or skin damage they must be replaced or repaired for skin to maintain a healthy, attractive appearance. DermaScyne2 Intense Daily Serum is the only anti-aging compound that directly delivers 25 key biological building blocks to the skin. Instead of sealing off the skin to prevent loss of moisture, it is absorbed by the skin to improve overall hydration. All AminoGenesis products, including DermaScyne2, have a controlled viscosity which becomes less and less so as force is applied, additionally the electro static properties are compatible with the skin’s natural electro static charge. Finally, DermaScyne2 boasts molecules that are small enough in size and weight to penetrate the skin’s barrier layer.

WIN THEM - Here are the requirements:

1. Leave a comment below telling me why you want to win the above products
2. Three additional entries if you Stumbleupon this post (please leave your SU id) AND/OR
3. Three additional entries if you blog about this post (please leave your blog url) AND/OR
4. Three additional entries if you subscribe to this blog via email (button on sidebar)
5. Giveaway closes on 4th December 2008 and a winner will be selected using the Random.org number generator.

Did you know that seven in ten girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way, including their looks, performance in school and relationships with friends and family members? Therefore, The Dove Self-Esteem Fund (DSEF) was established as an agent of change to inspire and educate girls and young women about a wider definition of beauty.  Though this initiative has reached almost 2 million lives, the goal is to spread the message to 10 million people by Year 2010. The Campaign For Real Beauty is still continuing with its quest for people to help free themselves as well as the next generation from beauty stereotypes.

For this phase of campaign, everyone can help to promote this cause by downloading these free self-esteem building tools for girls, moms and mentors:

• True You and Mirror, Mirror booklets
• Interactive exercises
• Workshop Facilitator Guide DVD

Just click here to get started!

What do you buy for a brother in law who has everything? I am actually making my holiday gift list for my friends and relatives but I am already  stuck at number eight, which is my brother in law. Forget about the usual pen, cuff links, wallet, shirts, chocolates and all that regular stuff. Trust me, he has more of those than he actually needs. In fact, he has been stuffing my kids with plenty of chocolates whenever he comes back for a visit, not that we are complaining. 

After a lot of surfing on the net, I’ve finally found something that might be ideal for him. My brother in law is an outdoor enthusiast who loves hunting, surfing, mountain climbing, snow boarding and hiking. So, I figured that we could get him something useful like those north face jackets, a set of new skis or even a backpack.

I had consulted the hubby and we narrowed down the option to the jacket and backpack. Even with only two choice of gifts, there were so many brands to choose from. And boy, they were not cheap! Getting a good quality jacket or backpack meant we had to part with close to $150. We preferred not to get those cheaper ones as they would be less durable for the outdoor lifestyle. So, a friend advised me to try to bid for those goods at eBay and you know what? I managed to win a bid on a jacket, which ordinarily would have cost $199. I got a brand new one at only $110, a discount of 45%. I’m sooo happy, I’m definitely bidding for more stuff from eBay this Christmas. Just to share, here’s a look at the jacket we bought (pictured below).