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| Peter Alexander & Kylie Balint |
Happy Snap
Look who Kylie ran into while attending a recent sale at Peter Alexander's Westfield Chermside store!!
xxx
Monday 12 December 2011
Wednesday 7 December 2011
Sale Alert: Peter Alexander one day sale
A little Christmas treat from Peter Alexander...
Spoil yourself, or a loved one, this Christmas.
xo
Tuesday 29 November 2011
Want to win $10,000 in Westfield gift cards?
Westfield are giving you the chance to win $10,000 worth of gift cards for Christmas. In addition, 5 lucky runners-up will win a $1000 gift card. All you have to do is enter your details here!
Good luck!!
Sunday 27 November 2011
Sweat it out
This weekend SereneMuse visited Zen Hot Yoga & Spa located at Sherwood in Brisbane (Australia) to experience the Detox Box (as seen on The Great South East).
This 40 minute detox involves sitting in a chair and sweating it out using Far Infrared (FIR) technology; also referred to as "happy rays". FIR heat is the most effective way to remove those nasty toxins from your body and stimulate endorphins. It's like doing a 10km run while sitting down! Trust me... the sweat will be dripping off you.
The beautiful set-up and friendly staff at Zen add to the relaxing atmosphere. You'll even be greeted with ginger tea and water. While you sweat those toxins away you can stay amused by choosing from a selection of dvd's - or bring your own dvd or music. A shower is available and much needed after your detox!
Also available at Zen Hot Yoga & Spa is Hot Yoga (obviously) and Pilates. The Hot Yoga also uses FIR heat; so if you don't feel like you're achieving anything without sweating - this is the yoga class for you! There are yoga and pilates classes every day so check out the timetable and book yourself in for some ancient therapy.
So whether you live in Brisbane or elsewhere, research spa facilities that are utilising the FIR technology to get the most out of your time and money. SereneMuse is a big fan!
Also a great gift idea for Christmas.
xo
Sunday 13 November 2011
Arnhem The Label - SereneMuse's First Purchase
I'm so totally excited, I can't wait to receive my first Arnhem piece!!
This hand made, hand screen-printed floral dress is made of a soft & lightweight cotton/ rayon mix. It looks stunning and perfect for the earthly, vintage inspired style which is bound to be popular this summer.
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| Ellie Sunshine Maxi Peachy Nectar Dress |
I love the shape and the detail at the bottom of the dress...
So pretty & feminine...
xo xo xo
Luxuriously refreshing
Homemade Iced Tea
With the weather warming up, it's a good time of year to experiment with refreshing drinks to keep you satisfyingly hydrated. Usually this would be of the alcoholic kind, but instead I've discovered the joy of making iced tea at home. I've heard these concoctions can sometimes contain a lot of sugar... but my gosh it's a delicious little treat! And whats better is that it feels good to make something yourself and experiment with all the different flavours available. No doubt we'll be bringing you more idea's for yummy new teas in the near future.
With the weather warming up, it's a good time of year to experiment with refreshing drinks to keep you satisfyingly hydrated. Usually this would be of the alcoholic kind, but instead I've discovered the joy of making iced tea at home. I've heard these concoctions can sometimes contain a lot of sugar... but my gosh it's a delicious little treat! And whats better is that it feels good to make something yourself and experiment with all the different flavours available. No doubt we'll be bringing you more idea's for yummy new teas in the near future.
See the bottom of this post for an iced tea recipe!
The teas used by SereneMuse are purchased from T2 Tea.
Here are our tried & tested favourite products for Iced Tea...
Green Rose
A vibrant medium-strength green tea based on currents, mango, papaya and rose petals; making an engaging brew with a bold taste sensation.
The beautiful flavours are accompanied by grassy green tea, yet not overpowered.
Best served iced in the summer, but makes a delicious cup hot or iced.
Ingredients: green tea, dried fruit (currant, mango pieces and papaya pieces), rose petals, cornflowers and flavour.
Brew: 2tsp, 2-3mins at 80 degrees celsius.
Strawberry Sensation
Fresh berry flavours and tender tart aromas combine to make a sensational juicy tisane "for all you strawberry sweethearts".
Crimson berries have been mixed with a hint of citrus to give it a zing. Enjoyed hot or chilled.
Caffeine free.
Ingredients: hibiscus, apple pomace, rose hip peels, blackberry leaves, orange peel, strawberry pieces, safflowers and flavour.
Brew: 2tsp per medium tea pot, 3-5mins at 100 degrees celsius.
You may also like: Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Slice, Sencha Sensation.
Click here for more details and pricing.
Fruit Royale
For a truly regal fruity and intense tisane, this product contains the flavours of black & red currents blended with elderberries and a touch of strawberry.
Delicious served hot or cold; though SereneMuse prefers to blend this with other tisanes. Caffeine free.
Delicious served hot or cold; though SereneMuse prefers to blend this with other tisanes. Caffeine free.
Ingredients: hibiscus petals, elderberries, currants, blackcurrant and flavour.
Brew: 1/2 - 1tsp per 200mls, brew 3mins at 100 degrees celsius.
You may also like: Very Berry Fruitea, Turkish Apple Chunky, Botanica.
Click here for more details and pricing.
Turkish Apple
The traditional version of the national drink of Turkey, making this an all-time classic.
Oh so sweet and full of crisp, crunchy apple flavour.
Traditionally served hot, but I like mine iced in summer for a sweet treat!
Moreish is the perfect word to describe this one. Great hot as an afternoon break or served iced in summer for refreshment. Add to it, a cinnamon stick or cloves when warm, or with lemon slices and fresh mint when iced. Caffeine free.
Oh so sweet and full of crisp, crunchy apple flavour.
Traditionally served hot, but I like mine iced in summer for a sweet treat!
Moreish is the perfect word to describe this one. Great hot as an afternoon break or served iced in summer for refreshment. Add to it, a cinnamon stick or cloves when warm, or with lemon slices and fresh mint when iced. Caffeine free.
Ingredients: sugar, citric acid, maltodextrine, colour, anti caking agent, vitamin C and flavour.
Brew: 1 heaped teaspoon per 200ml, dissolve in water at 100 degrees celsius. For an iced jug, add 1 teaspoon per cup, fill 1/3 with water at 100 degrees celsius, stir to dissolve. Fill to top with ice and garnish with mint and lemon.
You may also like: Turkish Apple Chunky, Turkish Apple & Cinnamon, Turkish Cherry, Liquorice Legs, Gorgeous Geisha.
* This is a staple for me as I have quite a sweet tooth *
Click here for more details and pricing.
French Earl Grey
For an oh-so-fruity twist on the classic earl grey, look no further then T2's French Earl Grey.
A black tea base infused with petals, fruit and classic bergamot.
This medium-bodied tea is bold and refined with hints of peach, apricot, citrus, a field of sunflowers, rose, cornflower and hibiscus... wow! This elegant tea is full of good taste. Best served black, with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
A black tea base infused with petals, fruit and classic bergamot.
This medium-bodied tea is bold and refined with hints of peach, apricot, citrus, a field of sunflowers, rose, cornflower and hibiscus... wow! This elegant tea is full of good taste. Best served black, with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Brew: 1tsp per 200ml, 2-3mins in water at 100 degrees celsius.
Click here for more details and pricing.
T2 The Jug
The perfect accompaniment for making iced tea; these 1.2L tea jugs are the easiest and most effective way to make iced tea. The lid is completely leak proof - perfect for picnics!
Click here for more details and colour choices.
Combination Iced Tea Recipe
2tsp Strawberry Sensation
1tsp Green Rose
1/2tsp Fruit Royale
1tsp Turkish Apple (2tsp if I'm feeling naughty)*^
Boiled water
A squeeze of lemon juice*
Ice cubes
mint leaves (desired amount)*
Process
1. Place the Strawberry Sensation & Green Rose in the detachable strainer.
2. Place the Turkish Apple in the jug.
3. Add boiling water to the jug, filling most of the way.
4. Squeeze some lemon juice into the mix.
5. Attach the strainer to the jug lid and place the lid on the jug, ensuring there is sufficient water to allow the tea to seep. Stand for 3-5mins.
6. Remove lid and remove the strainer from the lid. Replace lid.
When serving
7. Fill your glass with ice cubes.
7. Pour tea over ice and add mint leaves.
Get your tan on
Bronzed Babe St. Tropez Self Tanning Range
Having tried many self tanning products I feel confident in recommending St. Tropez to everyone. The Bronzed Babe range will give you a streak free, natural looking tan with a delightful smell. Number one for tanning experts; this product will last for days and is suitable for most skin types.
St. Tropez Self Tan Bronze Mousse
(favourite!!)
With it's easy application and lightweight velvety mousse you can rest assured that, unlike other products on the market, St. Tropez will leave you with a natural-looking, even and streak-free tan.
Through innovative fragrance technology they've created a self tanning product with a beautiful fragrance that won't leave you with the tell-tale tanning aroma.
St. Tropez Naturals
Self tan for sensitive skin
I just heard about this product and can't wait to try it! Occasionally tans can irritate my skin but the self tanning St. Tropez bronze mousse seems to be the only one that doesn't react; so I'm excited to see whether the Naturals range by St. Tropez feels more hydrating for my skin as it boasts super hydrating qualities. I must be too eager though as I went looking at Priceline and David Jones last week; neither of the retailers had heard of it (which wasn't a good sign they stocked it). As soon as I track some down, I'll let you know how it goes. Remember, a safe tan is a fake tan!
This lightweight milk comes with a subtle hint of tan. This is achieved through the use of Vegetan, a naturally derived tanning ingredient. Included is Melanobronze, a melanin-stimulator "distilled from the berries of the monk's pepper tree". Your skin is lovingly hydrated through the infusion of grape and blackcurrant seed oils. All of this, plus babassu oil, makes for their most gentle natural formula.
St. Tropez Naturals Self Tan Lotion
Much like the St. Tropez Naturals Self Tan Milk, this melt-in-your-skin lotion delivers a subtle tan through Vegetal and Melanobronze. The lotion is infused with grape and mango seed oil ensuring deep hydration. The addition of avocado butter just adds emphasis to the gentleness of the formula.
St. Tropez Tanning Mitt
An absolute must for the perfect looking tan!
Time to get your tan on for summer! xo
Sale Alert: Sukin Skincare Products
Saturday 12 November 2011
Arnhem The Label..
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| Photo by Caitlin Morey Photography |
"Free spirited and elegant, Arnhem's collection basks in the light of femininity and playfulness, embodying the love for simplicity and creation."
Delicately crafted by the lovely and gifted Arnhem Bickley, reaching out from the beautiful Byron Bay hills, Arnhem The Label is a brand much adored by SereneMuse. Her designs include vintage inspired florals, hand sewn beading and sequins, alongside more contemporary styles; varying from simple to elegant.
With a celebrity following, Arnhem The Label is destined for a bright future. We love her creative flare and hand crafted touch, her beautiful embellishments, hand screen-printed signature florals and tribal prints on natural fibre fabrics... how could we not fall deeply in love with Arnhem The Label!
Isabel Lucas spotted wearing Arnhem The Label
'Arnhem The Label' we love you!
Thursday 27 October 2011
CanTeen's National Bandanna Day ~ Friday 28 October 2011
Show your support for young people living with cancer by purchasing a funky bandanna, designed by Industrie Clothing. Scarves are on trend this season and you'd be supporting a great cause.
Wear your bandanna tomorrow for CanTeen's National Bandanna Day!
Sunday 23 October 2011
Get your live music fix with British India
Melbourne rockers, British India, will be performing at The Zoo, Brisbane on the 28th and 29th of October (that's this weekend!!). Tickets are only $28 at the door.
You can find more info -----------> HERE
Wednesday 12 October 2011
Sale Alert!
SereneMuse loves a good bargain.
If you do too, then check out the latest sale at Jacqui-E:
Offer valid until 16th October 2011.
Saturday 1 October 2011
A High Tea Sunday
High Tea
Adventures
SereneMuse are loving high-tea gatherings at the moment! It's such a great idea to relax & mingle with friends. Recently, I attended a high-tea celebration for my future sister in-laws (Jen) Bride-to-Be party. I adored it; believe I may even be kidnapping this idea for my own future wedding celebrations.
Jen's Bride-to-Be high-tea gathering was a beautiful day; with good company & a gorgeous reason to have a high-tea party!
We love high-tea gatherings so much we are going to make it a ritual on a Sunday, once a month. A great reason to have a cuppa & chat with your friends.
Why not send out invitations to your friends for high tea for a relaxing Sunday get-together?? Share the load and get everyone to bring a plate if you're on a budget. It's a stylish way to catch up with friends and an excuse to use that beautiful china you have stashed away in the back of the cupboard (or to go out and purchase some!).
Background of high tea: High tea originated in the 1600's and was a substantial meal for labourers in the early evening. Once referred to as 'meat tea', this meal traditionally includes both cold & hot meats, as well as cakes, cheese and of course tea. As time has progressed, high tea has become well known as a formal affair in which the best china is used.
♥ For information on herbal tea's, please refer to this page ♥
Budget Cosmetics ♥
Maybelline 'Fit Me'
Makeup Collection
Part 2
So continuing on from my Maybelline 'Fit Me' Makeup Collection Part 1 review, I'm happy to say that I liked all the products the 'Fit Me' collection has to offer. Who doesn't love a bargain? But there is a fine line between a bargain & cheap/nasty makeup products. Fortunately, this range has a high quality feel. The only issue I encountered was the poor pigment in the blusher (more about that later on). So my journey begins...
Concealers
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| Fit Me Concealer #20 Sand |
OK, so I was at the pharmacy the other day & Maybelline 'Fit Me' collection had 'buy a foundation & receive a free concealer' deal; obviously I had no choice but to purchase it. The concealer was worth $14.95, but i got it free!!
I use concealer a lot; not only because it's great for hiding flaws, it's also gentler around your eye area then foundation (most foundations have SPF, some women ask why foundation hurts around the eyes... well this is the reason). I use it as a touch up during the day, especially around my eye area for when I'm feeling tired.
Described as 'flawless that lets the real you come through', i think it's a pretty accurate description for this bargain concealer. My skin breathed & looked natural, it made my imperfections vanish, & what I liked best is that they actually had concealer shades for people that are tanned; I often see women wearing a concealer that's way too light for them, & frequently wonder if this is due to poor makeup skills with not enough knowledge, or simply because the diversity of shades just aren't on the market.
The coverage is light to medium & leaves skin looking natural & youthful, has no waxes or oils, is non-comedogenic, & dermatologist-tested. Great for all skin types. If you're looking for a more air-brushed look, then I would probably get a heavier/thicker concealer.
Application: Once you have your 'Fit Me' foundation number or your normal foundation, apply sparingly using the doe-foot applicator, dot concealer onto imperfections & around eyes (remember less is more), pat with finger to blend.
Compact Pressed Powders
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| Fit Me Pressed Powder #230 Natural Buff Purchase at Amazon.com |
Besides the foundation I think this is my favorite product. I do love a good compact powder as they are so handy & they come with a convenient mirror. The over-powdering look is terrible, so please don't over powder. I want to look my age, so in my books powder is used for setting purposes more so then full coverage. However, if I don't have foundation on me I will use powder to even out my complexion, using concealer for blemishes & under the eye area.
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| EcoTools Bamboo Bronzer Brush |
Once you have your foundation shade number all you have to do is match that up with the pressed-powder shade number, & you automatically have a powder that suits your skin tone. I like to have 2 powders for myself, a lighter one & a darker one.. skin color is always changing. Leaves your skin flawless, fresh & natural, has no waxes or oils, is non-comedogenic, & dermatologist-tested, this powder is a keeper for me.
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| EcoTools Finishing Kabuki Brush |
Application: after you've applied your foundation & concealer, using a powder brush apply to T-Zone, centre of forehead, & chin, using gentle pressing movements.
Note: always apply liquid based makeup products before you powder!
My favorite powder brushes are from EcoTools, their Finishing Kubuki Brush & Bamboo Bronzer brush range from $16.95 - $20.00. You can purchase these from Priceline or online. EcoTool brushes are soft & cruelty-free taklon bristles which gives a light finish.
Blush
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| Fit Me Blush |
I was hoping to love this product but I only like it. There are so many blush shades out there that I thought just maybe (their shade spectrum is pretty good) it could be my new blush for this summer. The shade I bought was #106 Light Nude, which is typically a color that I wear all the time (apricot/peach/nude/skin color) but unfortunately the pigment wasn't there. It takes so many brush strokes to work up a color, which is really just putting more powder on your skin, leaving you looking aged & over-powdered.
In saying that, I still love the shade & the feel but for me I probably wont be purchasing it again... however, I will buy another one just to check mine wasn't faulty or out of date. Maybelline promises that it is fade-proof. Even though I had to over apply it, it did last for ages. No waxes or oils, is non-comedogenic, & dermatologist-tested.
Application: For a soft, natural look apply using a blush/bronzer brush, from the apples of your cheeks to your temples, sweeping upwards. Note: Never smile when applying blush, as this will make your face look aged & your cheeks will appear sunken.
Bronzer
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| Fit Me Bronzer |
I haven't tested this product yet, but judging by the blushers pigment I can only assume that the bronzer will either have no pigment or be orange-pigmented; obviously hoping it's amazing though. I will however test the bronzer out & do a review for you soon.
If you have tried this bronzer, or any of the above products please leave a comment below. I would love to hear your thoughts on the new Maybelline 'Fit Me' Collection.
♥ Bronzer review to come...till next time xo ♥
By Peta-Lea Bond
Makeup Artist
Budget Cosmetics ♥
Maybelline 'Fit Me'
Makeup Collection
Part 1
As I'm always trying new makeup products out, & every girl loves a bargain, I thought I would try Maybelline's new collection 'Fit Me' & give it my review.
At first I was hesitant as the foundation felt a little watery, which would decrease longevity, but to my surprise it lasted for hours, although I was using a primer. The second time I tested the foundation, I was in such a rush & I couldn't find my primer, so I used my normal moisturizer, & was so happy with the results, I had to purchase the entire range... In saying that, the entire range was the same cost for one Chanel or Mac foundation, so I was pretty happy.
I was also happy with how many shades of foundation there are, especially as Australia doesn't seem to get the entire shade spectrum that Maybelline has to offer. Oh & I love the modern-chic black packaging!
♥ The collection has 18 shades of foundation, 6 shades of concealers, 12 blushes & 3 bronzers. Something that will suit every skin tone at a bargain price ♥
Foundation
The shade numbers begin in the 100s for lightest skin & go to 300s for darkest skin, which makes it easy to find the right shade. It's weightless & is so light that I didn't feel like I was wearing any foundation, I even went out & bought my mum one because I know she dislikes the feel of foundation... & she loved it!
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| My winter shade #220 Natural Beige |
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| My summer shade #230 Natural Buff |
The coverage is light to medium, leaves your skin looking dewy & natural. Has no waxes or oils, is non-comedogenic, & dermatologist-tested. Great for all skin types; for oily skin, come summer you may need to powder your T-section a little more, but overall I think it 's a winner for everyone who wants to look amazing for $18.95.
Oh & another great thing about the 'Fit Me' range, once you have chosen your foundation shade number, all you have to do is simply match your foundation number to the concealers & powders; which certainly makes life easier then having to guess what shades to buy.
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| 'Fit Me' Foundation Shade Spectrum |
You can find Maybelline 'Fit Me' Foundation from Priceline, Woolworths, Coles, & most pharmacies. You can also purchase it for a great low price on Amazon.com
So if you're looking for a bargain & a new foundation or an entire makeup collection, I recommend you try this out for yourself. If you have any makeup questions, please leave me a comment below.
♥ More Maybelline 'Fit Me' pruduct reviews to come soon ♥
By Peta-Lea Bond
Make-Up Artist
Thursday 29 September 2011
Chain Store Update: Portmans
When I'm looking for good quality corporate workwear for a reasonable price, I head to Portmans. In recent years their range has grown to represent more then just work attire. I always feel feminine and classy in their clothes. And with proper care, they last for years. The range in store reflects the current tribal, feminine and colourful trends for Spring/ Summer. Check out a few faves below.
Stylish Work Options
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Full skirts add a feminine touch to an otherwise simple outfit...
Add a bit of colour to your weekly wardrobe with a bright blazer...
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Lace will forever be ladylike...
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Feminine & Flirty
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| Button through printed maxi dress - $99.95 |
Brights, prints and florals will prepare your wardrobe for the current season.
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Great Buys
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| Tribal printed dress - was $99.95/ now $49.95 |
And if you're based in Queensland, spend $100 or more at Westfield Chermside and go in the draw to win one of four $5000 shopping sprees.
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