Who knew that looking after your skin could be rewarding and loads of fun? I experienced just that during the Origins Make A Difference Night Media Launch at Port Dickson recently.

This skincare-inspired beach escapade was memorable for three reasons. Firstly, its sun-soaked theme was the perfect backdrop to demonstrate the importance of using this new night skin rejuvenating gel-cream. Secondly, I learnt a great deal about the natural key ingredients that allow this revolutionary product to visibly correct existing skin damage, strengthen skin’s protective barrier and provide thorough hydration for a healthier and youthful-looking complexion. Lastly, the beach-themed telematch activities and the revitalizing reflexology session certainly taught me how to celebrate the carefree essence of youth, and why pampering myself truly benefits my body, mind and soul.

Here’s to more well-planned and uplifting events like this!

If using mascara isn’t girlie enough, what about having one with the cutest iconic cat in the world on it? Maybelline New York has teamed up with Hello Kitty to come up with a special edition of its No.1 mascara franchise, Volum’ Express Hypercurl Cat Eyes. I’m a mascara addict, so it’s a must-have for me whenever I’m going out. Maybelline is my turn-to mascara brand, thanks to its quality, effectiveness and pricing. Once I heard of this collaboration, I couldn’t help but Google it…and as soon as I laid my eyes on it, I was instantly smitten! When and where will you come across such an adorable, metallic pink case with the iconic Hello Kitty imprint at only RM36.90? Needless to say, I’ve grabbed one for myself. The last word? Get it at Watsons outlets nationwide before it goes “poof!”. Don’t say I didn’t warn you…

Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Hypercurl Cat Eyes Hello Kitty, RM36.90

Come on, take a sneak peek…

The Outsiders

Pieces: barbour jackets, jodphurs, equestrian-style jackets, faux fur collar parkas, pea coats, khaki and navy wool capes, leather coats, waxed fabric on bags, straps and coats, wader-style boots with garter-strap details, thermal leggings, chunky socks.

Dark Nouveau

Pieces: fierce studded corsets, cage-like skirts with harness detailing, hand-crafted, heavily-encrusted studwork leather pieces, strapped footwear with harness, black chiffon tops with structured leather and silver buckles, black lace shirt with leather panels.  

Out Of The Wild

Pieces: nude mesh leggings and cardigans with diamante sparkles, pleated chiffon maxi skirts, tights, long, draped and dramatic dresses and skirts, sheer bias cut skirts, origami treated jersey dresses, trapper hats, chunky tassled scarves, chunky boots with straps.

These, and more at your nearest Topshop outlet. What are you waiting for?

I was excited! No, make that very excited – because Toru Kobayashi was in town recently to give our readers a makeover for female’s October Make Me Over column. The RMK makeup maestro flew in from Japan to launch the brand’s Fall/Winter collection and we were lucky to secure a few hours with him.

On the day of the shoot, I was shocked to see our in-house studio packed to the brim. It must be the busiest day in our studio EVER; there wasn’t even a tiny space of work station left! Expecting only Toru and Stephanie (RMK’s Marketing Executive, Malaysia), I was pleasantly surprised to also meet Isabella Chui (Marketing Manager International Group, Japan) and Yuko (OJT trainer, also from Japan). Yes, that’s RMK for you!

Professional and proficient, they made sure they covered all aspects when meeting you! They were all dressed smartly in black and looked every inch the pro; they were friendly and helpful too. After setting up, Toru went straight to work and transformed our first reader from a plain Jane to a glamour puss. The focus was on her eyes and it was just stunning! The second reader got a more neutral look but with look-at-me cheeks. I thought she looked very doll-like, with cute lashes and red cheeks. The girls were of course, ecstatic with their new looks.

The new collection, I realise, is mainly brown but with a hint of baby pink – and looks great on our skin tones, no matter what race. Oh, did I mention that Toru is also a master of perfection? The amount of detail and dedication he spent on the faces he made up can make even the most cynical sceptic shiver. With him, mistakes and flaws are practically unheard of.

The RMK team

Makeup Artist, Toru

Toru at work

Plus-size women’s clothing has US sizes with even numbers, starting at 14 or 16 and going up. Specialty plus-size clothing stores may have sizes beyond 28. Check out stores like Liz Claiborne New York as well as Coast at Bangsar Village II, among other brands, for the best plus size clothing.