The rebel.

Jumpsuit: The Tinsel Rack

Heels: Aldo

Necklace: Xevana

Watch: Skagen

Fancy lustworthy designer gowns, divine jewels and big hairdos has been the holy trinity of red carpet dressing for as long as we can remember. But if there's one thing we all know about fashion, is it changes. So amidst those floor sweeping gowns, we see an emerging rebel -- the jumpsuit. We've seen celebrities ditching their fairytale gowns and popping up in jumpsuits while they strut the red carpet. And among all the other rising trends, this all-in-one garment is definitely a big hit on the runways! Top designers (and almost every other designer) have been pushing the boundaries of fashion and creating their own unique versions. If you've been following fashion week, you'd have seen a range being presented in the recent fall 2014 runways.

Jumpsuits which were once only worn by fashion people have pretty much become a style staple for all and for every occasion. It has gone from something we used to shrug upon to what we pick over a cocktail dress for a wedding or run to for a smart looking and fail proof attire. Best part, whatever your sartorial preference, there's bound to be one that suits. I'm loving my very first (and I foresee that it won't be my last) jumpsuit from The Tinsel Rack! Can never go wrong with black and white!

Photos by Gian

"It's a new era in fashion -- there are no rules.It's all about the individual and personal style, wearing high-end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together."
- Alexander McQueen

With love,

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

Ask.fm @clarabellefaithng

Bio-Essence 24K Bio-Gold.

Skincare has always been a huge part of my daily routine 'cause proper care is needed to maintain youthful and healthy skin. I've heard a lot about the benefits of gold in skincare products and have been wanting to try them out, so I was pleasantly surprised when I received 2 premium products under the luxurious 24K Bio-Gold skincare range courtesy of Bio-Essence (Singapore's leading skincare brand!) and Sample Store. Read on to find out more about these amazing products!

Both the 24K Bio-Gold Water and 24K Bio-Gold Platinum Dual Cream came in really pretty gold and sparkly boxes!

Fun fact. The use of gold is an ancient tradition. The famous Egyptian queen, Cleopatra. covers her face in gold masks daily to keep her skin flawless, radiant and smooth.

What is 24K Bio-Gold? It is 24K gold infused with herbal extracts and Bio-Energy Fluid. 24K Bio-Gold promotes rapid absorption into the skin, keeping it nourished and moisturized for lasting soft, smooth and youthful complexion.

Why 24K Gold? It is the softest and most malleable metal, allowing it to be made into flakes.

How does it work? The gold flakes that are being absorbed by the skin releases active gold ions rich in trace minerals which help stimulates cellular growth on the basal layer of the skin in order to regenerate healthy and firm skin cells to give that tightening effect and elasticity of the skin. This aids your skin in defying fine lines and staying wrinkle free. We all know that gold never rusts. It is this property that makes it a powerful anti-oxidant that fights free radicals (one of the main cause of ageing) to prevent collagen depletion and premature ageing. Gold also prevents age spots and pigmentation due to sun damage by slowing down melanin production. Bottom line, our skin cells are sensitive to the electric charges of 24K gold which improves blood and oxygen circulation to keep skin detoxified and glowing like GOLD!

How much gold is in the products? A whooping 98%!

Skeptical that the 24K gold flakes really gets absorbed by the skin? I was too, till I tried it our for myself.

The gold flakes disintegrate as you gently massage it into the skin!

 

The 24K Bio-Gold Water is suitable for all skin types; contains minerals, trace mineral elements and every bit of goodness. The formulation helps achieve 6 aspects of a perfect skin:

1. Fine pores -- Tightens unsightly enlarged pores for fine and smooth skin.
2. Firm and Supple -- Improves skin's elasticity to prevent sagging.
3. Wrinkle free -- Plumps up skin to defy wrinkles and fine lines, taking years off skin to restore youthfulness.
4. Sebum balance -- Regulates moisture and sebum balance, leaving overall skin evenly moisturized and matte.
5. Energized -- Activates skin renewal for a youthful and healthy skin.
6. Luminous radiant -- Restores a naturally glowing complexion.

Directions of use. Cleanser --> Toner --> 24K Bio-Gold Water --> Moisturizer. The 24K Bio-Gold Water is used twice a day -- every morning and night. After cleansing, poor sufficient amount onto the palm and apply evenly on the face and neck. Don't forget to pat gently until it is fully absorbed.

The 24K Bio-Gold Platinum Dual Cream consists of 2 creams in a bottle -- day cream and night cream. Both creams have high anti-oxidant power to protect the skin from harmful free radicals and defy ageing. They are also infused with Bio-Energy Fluid so that the Nano Bio-Platinum and 24K Bio-Gold can be absorbed faster and deeper into the skin to provide it with energy and nourishment to revitalize the skin cells.

The right half is the Nano Bio-Platinum Day Cream containing SPF25 PA +++ to prevent skin damages caused by the UV rays. Nano bits are used 'cause they provide better penetration into the skin. This day cream is a hydrating and moisturizing formula that protects and maintains skin radiance in the day.

The left half is the 24K Bio-Gold Night Cream. It shares the same efficacies as the 24K Bio-Gold Water, leaving you healthy glowing skin at night.

Directions of use. Apply them on the face and neck then gently massage in circular motions until the cream is fully absorbed. Both creams are to be applied after using the 24K Bio-Gold Water 'cause they work as a complementary duo.

I have very sensitive skin (the reason why I'm hesitant to try out new skincare products); combination skin type making the T-zone my problematic areas. The 2 products worl really well for me after having used them for awhile now. My skin feels a lot smoother and plumped. I also love the fact that they deal with my combination skin type by regulating moisture in areas where my skin is dehydrated and control sebum balance to keep the oily areas matte. Best part, no allergic reactions!

Can't speak for everyone but I personally hate it when skincare products leave behind a sticky feeling after application. The 24K Bio-Gold Water has a moisturizing essence-like texture yet feels as light as water. The 24K Bio-Goal Platinum Dual Cream has a creamy texture yet doesn't feel greasy on the skin. Both products glide easily and feel light on the skin.

Another benefit of the 24K Bio-Gold skincare products is that they double up as a face and neck cream. Most people often neglect the neck area when it comes to skincare when neck care is just as important as facial care 'cause the neck is prone to wrinkles, revealing signs of ageing. With my previous skincare routine, my face and neck creams came in 2 separate bottle. However, with the 24K Bio-Gold skincare range products, I only need one bottle to cover my face and neck. Good for those lazy nights!

There's a misconception that skincare are for the older women 'cause we don't see the problems with our skin yet. But I firmly believe that prevention is better than cure! The 24K Bio-Gold skincare range products are targeted at people in the early 20s to mid 30s to fight premature ageing. Having good skincare habits while you're still young will contribute to younger looking skin in our not so young years down the road.

So go get your set of 24K Bio-Gold products now from your nearest pharmacy/departmental stores now! The 24K Bio-Gold Water and 24K Bio-Gold Platinum Dual Cream retailing at $45 (150g) and $42 (40g) respectively are value for money and wouldn't cause a huge hole in the pocket!

Photos by Ing

Editing by Gian

"In polite society, a well-maintained skincare routine is one of life's great successes."

- Violet Grey

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

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5 things every girl should know.

"You know what's really, powerfully sexy? A sense of humour. A taste for adventure. A healthy glow. Hips to grab on to. Openness. Confidence. Humility. Appetite. Intuition. Smart-ass comebacks. Presence. A quick wit. Dirty jokes told by an innocent-looking lady. A storyteller. A genius. A doctor. A new mother. A woman who realizes how beautiful she is."

- Courtney E Martin

The only way to realize how beautiful you are is to love yourself, flaws and all. We girls are the most self-critical creatures by nature, fixated on the ring of flab encircling our waits, whatever bit of cellulite, every line, and every spot. It comes to a point where we often forget how beautiful we are. Embracing our imperfections empowers us and radiates confidence -- that invisible yet powerful energy that draws attention. Stop trying to pursue those unrealistic bodies that society worships 'cause there aren't any fixed mould you have to fit in to be beautiful. Be your own kind of beautiful instead of a cookie cutter!

"When a woman puts on a heel, she has a different posture, a different attitude. She really stands up and has a consciousness of her body."

- Christian Louboutin

Most girls shy away from high heels 'cause they leave us sore, blistered, and limping. While a pair of flats can be the easy painless way out, it can dull our ensembles and make them appear flat (all pun intended). Heels not only elevate women physically, but also emotionally. That extra bit of height gives you that added boost of confidence. Moreover, heels seem to have that captivating ability to make heads turn by transforming your walk into a strut that's ever so sexy and alluring. So go get a right pair that tailors to your feet shape, and do heed Victoria Beckham's advice -- Wear big high heels, but do practice walking. Go perfect you wiggle I'd say!

"You will always be too much of something for someone: too big, too loud, too soft, too edgy. If you round your edges, you lose your edge. Apologise for mistakes. Apologise for unintentionally hurting someone -- profusely. But don't apologise for being who you are."

- Danielle LaPorte

Haters gonna hate and there's always one in every nook and cranny. There's nothing wrong with you, how you're shaped or what you choose to wear; haters are the ones with the problem. They project their own insecurities on you to make them feel better about themselves. Ignore them 'cause buying into their crap is a waste of time. And remember, those who try to bring you down, are definitely below you. So whether it's your assets or flaws, wear them unapologetically!

"A strong woman accepts both compliments and criticism graciously, knowing that it takes both sunshine and rain for a flower to grow."

- Mandy Hale

We would like to believe that the whole "women are bad in accepting compliments" notion is just a stereotype except, (as much as I hate to admit) it's the truth. More often than not, we fluster when we get an honest and sincere "you look amazing". What's worse is reciprocating with self-loathing rebuttals or brushing them off like they were nothing. We need to stop undermining ourselves. Instead, graciously accept compliments and bask in the moment.

"There is a special place in hell for women who do not help other women."

- Madeleine Albright

You can cloth yourself in expensive labels, but clothing yourself with a good character appeals more. A truly strong and confident woman is one who helps build other women uo rather than tear them down. Rise above and set yourself apart by avoiding catfights and petty gossips. Surround yourself with women who inspire and empower you, and do the same for other women. Do what you want done to you.

Photos by Gian

Also, lots of love to Love Out Loud Asia for giving me the honour to do a guest post for their blog. 

Love Out Loud Asia (LOLA) is a SIMPLE, FUN & PRIVATE dating app that helps singles spend less time online and more time actually dating! How are we different from other dating apps? We focus on date ideas and only send you one match a day at noon.. here's a short 30sec video to better illustrate how-it-works: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqkPh3dFde4 Available on both iPhone & Android. For more info, simply visit: http://loveoutloud.asia.

With love,

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

Ask.fm @clarabellefaithng

The Nail Artelier.

Managed to squeeze some time this morning to do an outdoor photoshoot for Room290 in Bugis, so do keep a look out for their next collection!

And since I was in the area, I visited The Nail Artelier for some nail pampering! It's been eons since I last had a manicure 'cause my job doesn't allow us to have painted nails.

Always wanted to try out The Nail Artelier and I'm glad I finally did 'cause I'm super happy with their service (had really stubborn cuticles) and how my nails turned out. Now I've got pretty nails for my vacation!

Can't wait to get on the plane later and jet off to my summer adventure of the year! Shall go do some last minute packing before I head to the airport.

Have a great weekend, everybody!

"A girl should be two things -- classy and fabulous."
- Coco Chanel

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

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Ripped.

Top: Runway Bandits

Jeans: Topshop

Jacket: Amber Avenue

Shoes: ASOS

Sahdes: Ray-Ban

Watch: Solvil et Titus

Bracelet: Pandora

Did a photoshoot last weekend featuring my current favourite pair of ripped jeans from Topshop. Decided to do something more androgynous (I'm secretly a tomboy) and really love how the photos turned out! I wanted to take my new pair of heels out to play and I thought it helped lean the whole outfit towards the edgy and sophisticated look. Sneakers could do the job too if you're looking for comfort. 

Jeans were once considered sloppy and inappropriate for many occasions, let alone ripped ones. But fashion never stops surprising us 'cause it seems like whether you're going for skinny, straight or slouchy, those draughty jeans are back in trend. The irony is that it actually takes a lot to make something so reckless look effortlessly pulled together.

If you seek comfort when it comes to dressing up yet want to stay fashionable, ripped jeans are definitely your best friend. Opt for subtle shreds if you want something that will probably transit you through many more seasons, then play up the rebellious attitude with smoky eyes, basic tops with statement accessories and heels. Get creative!

Photos by Gian & Nelson

"Jeans represent democracy in fashion"
- Giorgio Armani

With love,

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

Ask.fm @clarabellefaithng

Flower power.

Top: H&M

Skirt: Room290

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: By Invite Only

Bracelet & Ring: Pandora

Photos by Jali

I'm a little late on catching the midi skirt trend, but you know what they say, better late than never! I really love the floral midi skirt, courtesy of Room290. It was the ideal skirt for Mothers' Day celebration last Saturday. The floral design was so apt for the occasion and the a-line structure was great for hiding my belly bulge after stuffing myself with good food at the Fullerton hotel. Best part, it had functional pockets! Like whattttt?! It's so hard to get skirts to have pockets and actually look good, and we all know how important pockets are!

This year we had Chinese dim sum buffet at Jade.

One of the two dishes to die for is the "Golden mantou stuffed with spicy crab meat". It was so damn gooddddddd! Although it was super crispy on the outside, the inside was soft and fluffy. Plus they were really generous with the spicy crab meat filling. 

Can't go without the "Steamed custard bun" when it comes to dim sum. The bun was served hot enough and the custard was oozing out! If heaven doesn't have custard buns, I'm not going. Kidding!

You can check out the rest of their dishes on their menu here. It's $38++ for adults and I highly recommend this restaurant 'cause their food are pretty good.

And meet my youngest niece who has no eyebrows! *sniggers* She's so adorable!

I hope you guys enjoyed your Mothers' Day celebration! Don't forget to get your midi skirt from Room290 at a 10% discount when you quote "clarabellefaithng". Shop away, sweetpeas!

Have a blessed weekend! Till the next!

"To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colours of a rainbow."
- Maya Angelou

Instagram @clarabellefaithng

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