In Style ● Hong Kong Galleria Pop Up Store @ Parkson, MPH & Cubix

Do you remember my recent dining experience with the famous Hong Kong food personality Luk Ho Ming (陸浩明) in conjunction to the mega international promotion event, “In Style ● Hong Kong” happening now in KL?

On top of the Hong Kong gourmet offerings, there is a citywide promotion on Hong Kong’s creative lifestyle, fashion and design-led products; One of the main highlights is the In Style ● Hong Kong Galleria Pop Up Store.

In Style ● Hong Kong is here in Malaysia this year!

What is In Style ● Hong Kong?

In Style ● Hong Kong is a large-scale promotion campaign organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) to promote and highlight Hong Kong’s vibrant and unique lifestyle in Malaysia.

Remember to grab this booklet at any participating outlet to enjoy the discounts!

There are lots of sales promotions, pop-up stores and various activities lining up in town to give you a different experience of Hong Kong lifestyle in terms of fashion, food and products. For instance, well-known Hong Kong fashion and lifestyle brands Giordano, G2000 and Hang Ten, popular jewelers Chow Tai Fook and TSL, optical boutiques eGG and Optical 88, as well as hotels Dorsett and Shangri-la are offering discounts for us through November 2017.

So we are here at the 6th Floor of Parkson Pavilion KL to check out the latest Hong Kong Galleria Pop Up Store which offers a wide variety of unique and innovative products invented locally in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong brands featured in the pop up store will also be showcased in the In Style ● Hong Kong Expo and Symposium in Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur on 7–8 November 2017.

First to attract me is the HYone Smartphone Ring Holder that is made from Swarovski elements and comes in several metallic colors. So chic and elegant right?

HYone Selfie Stick is also something I have been eyeing on, because of its impressive sturdy material, ultra compact and lightweight design. No doubt HYone is famous in Hong Kong as a smart and stylish gift idea for everyone.

The matching color Stand Firm Mug is from HYone too.

This is my personal favourite product, as it is “push safe” (does not topple if you accidentally push it), all thanks to the patented grip design. And it has a stainless steel double wall interior that helps keep the water warm for 6-8 hours. 

Artiart "Spill-Free" Suction Mug, Bottle, and other household items

Tea Maker from Contact Design Limited

SiliBAG from a Digit-Band, a Hong Kong-based lifestyle brand

Look at the cute, cheerful-looking tote bag! Minimalist design, waterproof silicon material and fun pairing of colors make it look so interesting there. I heard that SiliBAG was sold at Van Gogh Museum shop in Amsterdam in 2014 too.

Paris Garden, home planting kits for growing kitchen herbs, flowers and vegetables.

Sunflower or Lavender? I just can’t decide which should I get for a greener working space at home.

Jigzles 3D Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle from Team Green

Seriously, creative ideas here are endless! They call this 3D Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle a "stress reliever for all ages", so we have decided to give it a try. With 5 different levels of difficulty, it is a good mind training game for yourselves and your young ones :)

I go for a 3D Rabbit which has a level of difficulty of 2 (on a scale of 5). Each pack comes with easy-to-follow instructions and a complete set of “wooden parts”. As soon as I complete it, the satisfaction always gives the best feeling ever. Try making one if you have not! 

I saw Star Wars collection too!! If you have friends who are Star Wars fanatics around you,
now you know what to get for them this Christmas!

More game ideas? Meet the Brick Toys from M.H.Blocks with many interesting designs to choose from.

Apart from that, there are more brands / products partnering with HKTDC for this annual event including:

❤ ECO Concepts drinkware
❤ Herkomst artisan soaps
❤ Hoobbe creative gift ideas
❤ Harvest Home (“Me Too!” brand) cute electrical appliances
❤ Tea Lab eco-friendly tea accessories
❤ Tints creative stationery and gadgets
❤ Topchoice ceramic tableware

In Style Pop-up Store is available at:

2 Cubix outlets: 14 Oct – 30 Nov 2017

10 MPH outlets: 14 Oct – 31 Dec 2017

5 Parkson outlets: 25 Oct – 8 Nov 2017

Parkson Elite Pavilion KL

Parkson KLCC 

Parkson 1 Utama

Parkson MyTOWN Shopping Cenrre

Parkson Subang Parade 

For more information about In Style ● Hong Kong, please visit: 

Main Event: www.instyle-hk.com

Symposium: www.symposium.instyle-hk.com

Expo: www.expo.instyle-hk.com

Citywide Promotion: www.citywide.instyle-hk.com

Facebook: fb.com/HKTDC.Malaysia

[BEAUTY] Review: Cellise Ionised Honey Serum

Oh hey, honey! Are you a fan of honey when it comes to skincare / beauty products? ❤

I have tried several types of honey series products but this is my first time trying an Ionised Honey Serum. What’s so special about this serum? It is the unique ionisation mechanism that brings out the best of the golden Manuka honey.

Cellise Ionised Honey Serum (15ml)

Initially I am abit skeptical because undoubtedly, Cellise Ionised Honey Serum is relatively new in the beauty market. But the product gains its popularity quickly! Launched since March 2015, over 30,000 bottles have been sold exclusively online.

As soon as I learn that it is made of pure natural ingredients and best quality honey, I am eager to try.

Cellise Ionised Honey Serum contains mainly the highest grade of MGO™ 400+ Manuka Honey (that's suited for skin therapy), an exceptionally rich content of at least 400 mg/kg of methylglyoxal natural compound in Manuka plant. No doubt it is dubbed as the elixir of youthfulness and longevity!

Having said that, Manuka Honey alone can’t bring out the best of its benefits.

The enzymes in the Manuka honey need to be ionised.

The revolutionary patented formula from Australia

Technology wise, Cellise is, by far, the only skincare company in the world that has introduced a unique ionisation process when formulating the serum to combat fine lines and pigmentations.

How does ionisation work?

Upon application, the serum triggers regeneration of negative ions (primarily oxygen molecules) into our skin for “cellular energy”. As we age, our cells start to lose these Negative Ions. Therefore, by replenishing the lost ions through Cellise Ionised Honey Serum, we can slow down the aging process.

Some benefits of this mineral-rich and antioxidant-rich serum are:
❤ Boost collagen
❤ Increase metabolism
❤ Regenerate skin cells
❤ Rejuvenate skin

Looking at the benefits alone, it seems to be just another serum product in the market – I’m not impressed until I try it out myself. The result can be seen instantaneously within the first usage itself!

My Personal Experience

Although the bottle only contains 15ml of golden goodness, it can actually last for 2-4 months because you only need one pump of serum for the entire face. I personally use it only at night, so a little can really go a long way for me.

How To Use:

After cleansing and toning, apply one pump of serum evenly onto the face (including eye area and lips). You can either

(1) Leave it on, then apply moisturizer and day/night cream; or

(2) Wash off after 10 minutes of application

Important: Remember to shake well before use!

*Be careful if you use it on wounds/scars as it may cause tingling sensation.

Packaging: ★★★★☆

Simple, straight-forward and convenient to bring around for travelling.

Texture: ★★★★★

Thick liquid type of serum which is very spreadable and easily absorbed into the skin upon applying a thin layer.

Feeling after use: ★★★☆☆

 Initially, it feels slightly sticky on the skin. But after a week or so, I sort of get used to it,

and I don’t feel as sticky when I put on moisturizer / night cream on top of the serum.

Result: ★★★★☆

Fantastic result! I always have small zits on my forehead, so I apply the serum (without any other product) and leave it overnight. On the next day, as you can see from the above picture, the zits have subsided significantly and the redness is gone.

It works well under the eyes too, to reduce saggy eye bags / dark circles / crow’s feet. Another thing I love about it is the lightweight texture that is easily absorbed by the under-eye area, without causing any sensitive reactions as compared to some overly strong / concentrated eye cream.

Since it is all natural, you can apply lightly onto the lips too. In case you’re wondering, it does not give the same sweetness like honey.

Scent: ★★★★☆

Pretty neutral for me, since it is almost scentless.

Disadvantage: The serum may be lacking of some moisturizing functions.
So make sure you put on your moisturizer to replenish moisture of the skin.

Overall Verdict: ★★★★☆

If you are looking for pure, all-natural products with solid science foundation and able to deliver fast and long-lasting effects, you may consider investing in the Cellise Honey Serum. No regrets, I promise!

Cellise Ionised Honey Serum retails at RM388 per bottle for non-members.

For membership / purchasing inquiries, please visit:

Website: www.celliseinternational.com

Facebook: fb.com/CelliseSkincare

Instagram: @celliseskincare

Fook Kee Taiwanese Food @ Hup May Coffee Shop, Kota Damansara

Are you up for some Taiwanese delights?

People often say, one of the best food in town is always hawker food. True indeed, I have recently discovered a hidden gem in Hup May (合味茶餐室) Casual Coffee Shop, located at the vibrant neighbourhood of Kota Damansara. Fook Kee, one of the popular stalls in this coffee shop, is the creator of unique noodles and rice dishes using Taiwanese braised pork ("Lu Rou" / 滷肉).

The stall is easily noticeable with its red 'signage'. To get there, you can park at Sunway Nexis and walk across, or just commute there via MRT - either way is pretty convenient.

Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice (台湾卤肉饭) @ RM7.00

The No.1 crowd's favourite here is the Taiwanese Lu Rou Fan, which is served in a 'mountain of goodness' in a bowl. Unlike those I had in Taiwan, the amount of meat in the Lu Rou Fan here is so generous.

What surprises me is the pleasant biting pleasure created from the beautiful medley of ingredients found in this wholesome bowl - chunks of pork belly, pork slices, minced pork and braised peanuts - all drenched in thick, aromatic concoction of premium soy sauce, dark sauce and premium rice wine.

The photo above shows how generous the portion is!

When I mix everything together, it just feels so good on the mouth and satisfies the tummy well! For only RM7, this is certainly a steal. I mean, where else can you find Lu Rou Fan with so much meat, egg and peanuts?

Deep Fried Pork Noodles (炸猪扒面) @ RM7.50

Choice: Soup (Roasted Pork Broth) / Dry (With Black Sauce)

Noodle: Thick / Thin noodles

A nice variation from the usual staple rice is the Pork Noodles, available in both dry and soup version. Similar to the Lu Rou Fan, the noodles can literally be named as "Lu Rou Mian" (卤肉面) as it is crowned with equally generous amount of braised pork, hard-boiled egg and braised peanuts.

An additional component in this bowl is the crisp-tender deep fried pork chop that tastes deliciously savoury and is not dry at all.

Braised Pork Chinese Crullers (卤肉油炸鬼)

A special treat from the owner of Fook Kee - Braised Pork Chinese Crullers (卤肉油炸鬼) - is an off-menu item but the friends / regulars are lucky to be able to try this unique snack dish. Don't worry, you can probably show them this blog post if you want to order this item :P When the spicy soy sauce seeps into the crunchy crullers, the spicy-savoury flavour actually gets us hooked easily.

It feels like having a totally different level of sloppy beef nachos!

Verdict:

Although the food here seems to be simple hawker fare, I truly appreciate how Fook Kee injects elements of creativity into each dish to enhance its taste, texture and flavour. If you are up for good quality yet affordable cheap eats, here's the right place to have your hearty breakfast or lunch.

Fook Kee @ Hup May Coffee Shop

(Corner lot, opposite Cookie Nation)
15, Jalan PJU 5/4,
Kota Damansara,
47810 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor.

Business Hours: 7am - 2.30pm everyday
(Fook Kee usually opens at 8am, till 2pm)

[BEAUTY] Review: SUGAO Japanese Makeup Series

Hi, lovelies! Are you up for J-pop look?

If you notice, I have been doing alot of K-beauty reviews and I thought now it'd be a perfect time to take a break and switch to J-beauty instead. I have Sugao with me here, a simple Japanese makeup collection that is good enough for everyone including newbies.

Sugao (素颜) means bare, natural face in Japanese, which translates to the brand's concept that focuses on airy, natural and carefree characters in achieving natural beauty.

Well, who doesn't love soft and light makeup that gives a natural no-makeup makeup look and lets your inner beauty shine? Plus, all Sugao products are made in Japan. Let's check out Sugao makeup products!

[MUST-HAVE!] Sugao Air Fit CC Cream (25g) @ RM69.90

4-in-1 functions:

❤ UV protection: SPF23 PA+++

❤ Color correction

❤ Blur visible pores, fine lines and rough skin

❤ Fragrance-free and alcohol-free

Available in 3 types: Air Fit Moist, Air Fit Pink Bright Moist, Air Fit Smooth

How To Use: Squeeze appropriate amount and gently spread evenly onto the entire face.

Beauty Tips: Finish off with loose powder to brighten skin tone and blur rough skin.

Type I tried: #02 Pure Ocher (Natural Skintone) for Air Fit Pink Bright Moist

Sugao Air Fit CC Cream is one of the most popular CC cream among Japanese girls, and is also a must-have beauty product in Japan. Thanks to the unique Air Fit breathable formula, a thin layer of 0.01mm coverage is able to leave the skin "breathable" while it brightens the skin with soft shades of pinkish glow. 

Texture: ★★★★★

It seems very thick and creamy upon touching the skin.

As soon as I spread it evenly over the skin, the texture is amazingly light like a mousse!

Feel: ★★★★☆

Very matte, silky smooth finish with no sticky feeling.

Coverage: ★★★★☆

The coverage is pretty good to cover the visible pores, leaving a "soft-focus" / blurring effect of the skin.

However, I would still need my concealer for my under-eye area before applying the CC Cream.  

Long-lasting: ★★★☆☆

Good in absorbing excess serum (only with powder finish), hence ideal for long hours application.

Sugao Cheek and Lip (6.5g) @ RM59.90

2-in-1 functions: For natural rosy cheeks and bright radiant lips
Available in 3 colours: Natural Red / Active Orange / Brilliant Pink
How To Use: Dab gently on cheeks and lips using fingertip, and blend in circular motion.
Beauty Tips: Build up the color by applying multiple layers, bit by bit.


Color I tried: Brilliant Pink

Texture: ★★★★☆

It has light, fluffy soufflé-like texture that melts onto the skin easily and blends evenly.

Color Payoff: ★★★☆☆

Although the shade Brilliant Pink appears to be very rich, the color payoff is surprisingly soft and subtle. If you prefer a brighter, healthier looking blush / lips, just apply few layers of the product as it is easily buildable using fingertip.

Feel: ★★★★☆

On the cheeks: It leaves a smooth, creamy finish without any stickiness.

On the lips: Light, comfortable and weightless on the lips.

Long-lasting: ★★★☆☆

It can easily stay on the cheek for 4-6 hours, but not as long on the lips.

Sugao Lip Tint (4.7ml) @ RM45.90

Available in 3 colours: Juicy Red / Sweet Pink / Apricot Pink

How To Use: Apply onto the centre of the lips, and blend outwards using the applicator.

Beauty Tips: For a glossy finish, apply a thin layer of lip gloss after the lip tint dries completely.

Color I tried: Juicy Red 

Texture: ★★★☆☆
Its water-like texture is easily blendable but I find it a tad watery for my liking.

Feel: ★★★★☆
Light, comfortable and weightless on the lips.

Color payoff: ★★★★☆
The color is very rich and vivid. Usually I'd apply 2 layers for a more vibrant finish.

Long-lasting: ★★★☆☆
It stays on the lips for a couple of hours, hence re-application is required.

Overall Verdict: ★★★★☆ 

Overall, Sugao makeup series is pretty fun and vibrant. I personally love the sweet packaging
and amazing color payoff that gives a "pop" color to the complexion, full of energy and cuteness.

Sugao makeup series (Sugao Air Fit CC Cream, Sugao Cheek and Lip, Sugao Lip Tint and Sugao Chiffon Powder) is available only at selected Watsons outlets.

For more information, please visit Sugao at:

Website: www.sugao.com.my

Watsons Online Store: www.watsons.com.my/sugao
Instagram: @SugaoMalaysia