Book Review: Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad

I am not new to books that talk about style, fashion and makeup. In fact, I have been blessed (as gifts by very thoughtful people) with many excellent publications from InStyle, Lucky, Nina Garcia, Tim Gunn, Kate Spade, and Bobbi Brown.

However, there is something so fascinating about a book talking about the same things but from the perspective of our Creator -- the very One who fashioned each of us so that we may be the highest representation of what He sees as beautiful. Interesting isn't it?

More about that later. First and foremost, the book is loaded with practical advice for both the clueless and the fashion-savvy.

What does it cover? You will find a generous amount of information on the following:

• Figuring out your body type
• How the right hair color will bring out your best natural features
• How your clothes can go far with gorgeous accessories
• Investing in correct underwear
• Minimizing the pains of swimsuit shopping
• Basic makeup application
• Searching for that flattering pair of jeans (this one helped me a lot!)

Now the better stuff. Author Shari Braendel deals with deeper issues that women typically associate with beauty.

• Some of us believe that there is one body type that is considered more attractive than the others
• Some of us feel like they have to spend so much on clothing that we give up looking nice altogether
• Some of us associate modesty with boring and outdated
• Some of us have a hard time grasping the idea of being "fearfully and wonderfully made"
• Some of us just have no clue how deal with all this looking good stuff
• Some of us feel defeated as we compare ourselves to other women

Braendel made a very thoughtful attempt to clear these issues out before the practical lessons. It was not in-depth but it was a strong start.

I hope that it will encourage the book's female readers to dig deep into the Word in order to figure this part out. I feel that it is necessary to sort out the junk inside before doing work on the outside.

(Note: I highly recommend getting the Kindle version of this book. Great reference when you go out shopping!)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Link Love: December 29, 2010

Sending a lot of link love your way before the year ends! You will find tons of information on skin care, hair style, blogging, writing, and great reading material. Enjoy!

5 Sure-Fire Winter Skin Moisturizers Under $15 by BellaSugar
When it comes to hydrating skin dried out by cold wind and indoor heating, you don't have to go high-end to get something soothing and highly hydrating. Perfect choices for a budget-conscious person like myself!

Get Natasha Bedingfield's Sweetly Shaggy Hairstyle by BellaSugar
The stylist who created Natasha Bedingfield's messy look, Caile Noble of the Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon in LA, gave a step-by-step breakdown on getting this look right. This was the basis of my new hair style.

6 Reasons Why I Am Thankful for Blogging by BLOGGINGPRO
Andrew G. Rosen resonates by own feelings why I am grateful to be given an opportunity to have a voice in this crazy, online universe.

50 Free Resources That Will Improve Your Writing Skills by SMASHING MAGAZINE
Smashing Magazine collected over 50 useful and practical tools and resources that will help us to improve our writing skills.

The Lure of Public Productivity by catalystspace
I just loved Pete Wilson's insights on John Piper's recent announcement to step down from his ministry role to work on his marriage. I also can't wait to visit his church when we move to Nashville!

The God Who Is There by THE GOSPEL COALITION
In February 2009, Don Carson presented a 14-part seminar entitled “The God Who Is There” at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis. This series will serve the church well because it simultaneously evangelizes non-Christians and edifies Christians by explaining the Bible’s storyline in a non-reductionistic way. Full audio and video are available for free on the website.

My Twitter Toolbox by Chris Brogan
Brogan has mastered productivity in using social media tools. His in-depth description on how he uses and manages his Twitter account has challenged me to evaluate how I interact with mine.

3 Ways to Groom Your Eyebrows by EVERYDAY with Rachael Ray
Everything any girl needs to know about having well-groomed eyebrows. Ladies, this is something we must be on top of every day.

How to Grow a Leader by CHURCHLEADERS.COM
This one page PDF article by KidLead gives parents practical tips on how to develop the leadership qualities of their kids.

Catalyst Dallas
The famous (and rightly so) Catalyst Conference is opening its third location in Dallas, Texas on May 11 to 13. The theme is 'Take Courage.' We are praying about being a part of this gathering.

God Uses Critics to Help Us by Josh Harris
Being criticized is a good thing! My constant prayer is to always receive them graciously and never have the desire to 'put anyone in their place.'

Preaching Notes Series by Josh Harris
This is a great learning series. Why? Josh Harris was able to obtain manuscripts of preaching notes by well-known preachers such as Mark Dever, Mike Bullmore, C.J. Mahaney and Tim Keller.

13 e-books to Put on Your Brand-New Kindle by Michael Hyatt
Kind of biased because most books are from the publishing company that he leads but since I have read 10 out of those 13 titles this year, it is still a great list to look at!

15 Books That Have IMPACTED Me Personally by Perry Noble
Great reading list! Just started reading #13 -- The Grace of God by Andy Stanley. I love how it is making an impact on me as well.

5 Books I Want to Read Before 2011 by Neli Atiga
And another reading list worth sharing! I got 'Decoded' by Jay-Z for Robert on Christmas and we just started  going through it. I cannot say I am a hiphop expert (because I'm not) but I have found myself really connected to a couple of songs in that genre in 2010. One them being 'Not Afraid' by Eminem. While a lot of Christians give a lot of grief to fellow believers who listen to hiphop, I love listening to a person's life story and being exposed to the kind of pain/suffering he went through.

iPad Guide: 25+ Essential Resources for Your Apple Tablet by Mashable
The ultimate, non-manual guide to one of the best inventions! I got my iPad in April 2010 and it is now an indispensable tool to my work and personal productivity.

Get Started With a Reading Plan by YouVersion
Ready for a new Bible reading plan for 2011? This link is a great starting point.

Lasting Student Ministry
A 64-page e-Book for youth pastors that has been buzzing with great reviews. Bought this for Rob and excited to learn from the wisdom of great 14 youth leaders.

(Note: I have a new 'feature' on this blog called 'On The Radar.' You will see it on the right side of the blog. You will discover more links to valuable content that I feel is worth sharing right away, instead of waiting for it to be featured on 'Link Love.' Hope you enjoy the stuff I share with you!)

Looking Pretty in the Winter

Growing up in a hot, humid tropical country allowed me to embrace a lifestyle of cute sundresses that matched with glowing, moisturized skin. Today, I am in a season where bright, orange leaves are turning into gray and temperatures have dropped severely.

Yes, winter is finally settling in and I have a confession to make: I feel least beautiful in this season.

My skin has turned itchy and seems to have lost its golden luster.

My hair is dry and limp. I am unable to style it because it's always covered in thick, knit hats to keep my head warm.

It's been really difficult to work out. I prefer exercising outdoors, taking in the sight of beautiful trees and soaking in my quiet time.

I am not the kind of person who is content on complaining and continue on doing so. I find joy in seeking opportunities to make positive changes.

In this case, positive changes mean: MAKEOVERS!

Here are some little changes I plan to make to put some holiday cheer into my look.

1) Get a haircut. My last trim was July. That was five months ago. The ends are dry and it needs to be healthy again. Here is the picture of the new style I am going for. I love Natasha Bedingfield.

2) Liven up my hair color. Normally, I go for a permanent formula. However, I just want to bring back health to my dry hair. I will most likely go for a dark brown "glaze" and do it myself. If you're looking to boost your color or bump up your highlights, choose a gloss or glaze with "semipermanent" color (like John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze, $10).

3) Start using a gradual glow skin moisturizer. I don't need a tan in the winter. But I don't need to look pale and gray either. Jergens Natural Glow daily moisturizer will help me to stay golden throughout this cold, dry season.

4) Go to a waxing salon. I am very adamant about not having excess hair. Especially in my face. I would love to have a clean canvas when I start putting on some holiday makeup!

Teach me: What do you do to give yourself a little holiday makeover?

BLUSH Magazine

Just in case you haven't realized it by now, I am going to say this again: I love beauty products (skin care and makeup). I am blessed with a mother and grandmother who loved taking care of themselves and always made sure they walked out consistently well-groomed.

I was really delighted when around the middle of this year, BLUSH Magazine came out with its maiden issue. A magazine devoted exclusively to a lifestyle of beauty -- I know a lot of women like me were saying "Finally!"

KC Concepcion on the cover

For BLUSH's September/October 2010 issue, I had the privilege of contributing to its regular "First Person" section. It was really fun talking about staying beautiful in times of traveling through many cities.

Contributors' page

If you live in Metro Manila or any major city in the Philippines, I would like to invite you to grab BLUSH magazine's latest issue, check out the article I wrote, and discover beauty lessons from the point of view of the experts.

Let me know what you think!

Last of Two Parts: Favorite Skin Care Products

Thank you to every person who has responded to the previous blog entry with so much enthusiasm! I received all the comments, direct messages, tweets and e-mails. I am looking forward to trying most of the products that you recommended.

Today, I am excited to share with you the last part of this series. I asked several women (who are all beautiful inside and out!) about their skin care secrets -- products that they have come to rely on throughout the years.

Abby Cruz (@itsmeabbytots)
I love Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier for taking out makeup especially waterproof mascara. Good for cleansing too!

Anna Moran (@annadmoran)
I use mild facial soap, toner, and moisturizer from LAB 46 (a brand my sister-in-law sells). I use Johnson's Milk Baby Lotion too. I use it everyday before I sleep.

Anne Jackson (@FlowerDust)
Simple, old-fashioned Oil of Olay moisturizer. The kind that my mom used! She is 60 and barely has a wrinkle!

Carisse Escueta (@carrisescueta)
It'll have to be Aveeno Facial Sunblock with SPF55. I never leave without putting some on, no matter what.

Cesca Litton (@checklit)
I use moisturizer with SPF everyday. Right now I'm using Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF50. The SPF factor is a bit high for daily use but it's non-greasy and it hasn't made my skin break out. I'm still on my first tube but so far so good.

Charmaine Guiao (@lotsaCharms)
Neutrogena and Celeteque works for me. I like their compact powder. It doesn't make my face itch unlike other products.

Donita Rose (@RealDonitaRose)
Creme de la Mer is the best ...

Gemma Alburo (@gandagemgem)
My all-time favorite is Photo Finish Foundation Primer by Smashbox.

Jackie Forster (@jackieforster)
My favorite skin care product TODAY would be my Origins moisturizer with SPF30. But my all-time favorite is St. Ives Apricot Scrub! The old school version. That will forever be by the sink!

Karen Rigoroso (@justkakers)
My most favorite is Neutrogena Acne Stress Control Power Cream Body Wash. Makes my skin smooth and soft.

Kookie Guzman (@voodoogirl)
I love Dermalogica's Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque. My skin feels smooth instantly. It smells good too! I also love their Intensive Moisture Balance. It's what I use everyday and it doesn't feel heavy or sticky. I have dehydrated and sensitive skin.

Kristie Enriquez (@kristieenriquez)
Shu Uemura cleanser! And VMV moisturizer.

Kristina Maralit (@KristinaMaralit)
I'm not so much into beauty products but I use Cetaphil. I also like Ponds facial wash and toner. That's pretty much it!

Liz Claudio (@lizetteclaudio)
Normaderm Anti-Imperfection Hydrating Care moisturizer. Kind of pricey but it doesn't make my skin break out. I can't find it in the Philippines though! Only in CVS/Duane Reade.

Liz Tokushige (@liztokushige)
I use Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion. I love its lightweight hydration. It's fragrance-free too. Perfect for my sensitive skin!

LJ Moreno (@daredevilchic)
My favorite is Oil of Olay Anti-Aging Night Cream.

Mafae Belasco (@MafaeB)
My favorite would have to be Ponds Age Miracle with SPF15.

Maia Reyes (@maiasky)
Does Ivory soap count? That, plus Proactiv Repairing Lotion and MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator.

Malou Atienza (@malouatienza)
Neutrogena!

Margaux Cortez (@PnutButterNoJam)
In high school, all I ever used was Noxzema. Can't find it in Manila though!

Miakka Lim (@Miakka)
Ponds Cold Cream and Age Miracle. Did you know that as soon as a lady hits 20 she should start using the Age Miracle line already? It's great for evening out skin tones.

Patricia Hizon (@patriciahizon)
Clindamycyn 2% and Vitamin A by Dr. Sylvia Huang. Put the Clindamycyn on your pimple and it's gone without a trace the next day!

Patricia Malay (@patriciamalay)
Dove Beauty Bar. The plain one.

Rica Peralejo (@ricaperalejo)
Shu Uemura Cleasing Oil!


Hope you enjoyed reading all these skin care recommendations! How about you? Any tried-and-tested skin care product or regimen that you would like to share with us?

First of Two Parts: Favorite Skin Care Products

About a month ago, I found myself in complete enjoyment sharing with you my favorite makeup products that can be brought from the drugstore. And you know what drugstore brands mean: affordable!

Who doesn't love an inexpensive product that works really well ?

When it comes to skin care, I do not mind investing a bit more if it means I can rely on it for fantastic results. I am loyal to a lot of drugstore brands but I also have favorites that require me to save up and set aside some of my hard-earned paycheck.

No makeup can ever replace the glow of a clean and healthy complexion. That is why taking care of our skin is worth every penny.

Today, I am excited to share with you some products that I have come to rely on throughout the years. Not only that, I have also asked some of my female friends (who are all beautiful inside and out!) what their skin care favorites are.

Disclaimer: I have very oily skin. What might work perfectly for me might not work for other skin types. However, you can look for other stuff in their product lines that match your skin type.

1) Neutrogena® Oil-Free Acne Stress Control™ Power-Cream Wash ($7.99)
Robert and I both rely on this facial wash to keep our complexion in check. I tend to break out a lot in the chin area during times of stress. It has always been that way since I hit puberty. Using this wash helps out a lot in this problem area.

2) Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets ($5.99)

There is a debate out there whether this is good for us or not. Legitimate sources claim that absorbing oil from the face makes our skin produce more sebum -- making it a whole lot oilier. 

It's probably true; and to tell you the truth, I never wanted to verify it. My reasons are very superficial. I just don't like an oily face in photographs. I just can't stand it. Therefore, I will always rely on these sheets to mattify my skin without adding any more pressed powder.

Has it made me break out more? I haven't really experienced a facial attack that makes me question my blotting habits. That's just me!

3) RoC® RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Night Cream ($15.44)

Something I wish I knew when I was way younger: start using an anti-wrinkle night cream as early as possible. I started in my late 20s when I could have been doing it for ten years. RoC makes the neglect much more bearable! I'd like to think I still look okay for my age (34)!

4) Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips ($7.99)
This is a product that I completely rely on when I live in Manila. I walk around a lot in this congested city (read: heavy pollution) which makes my pores prone to blackheads. Ugh! Thank goodness these strips get the job done.

5) Noxzema Deep Cleansing Cream ($4.99)
Nothing beats a classic! I use this when I need to take off a fully made-up face. It takes it all away! I will always love its minty smell and the tingly feel.

6) L'Oreal Eye Makeup Remover ($6.59)
Everything I want and need in a product that removes thick, waterproof mascara: effective, very gentle, clean, and non-oily.

7) Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($7.99)

Yes, I have a cleanser to beat acne in humid weather. Another one to take off makeup completely. Here is another one that I use for daily general cleaning of my face. It's gentle on the skin, not masked with with some weird fragrance and it leaves everything soft.

8) Neutrogena® Age Shield Face Sunblock ($8.24)
The most important thing of all! You probably hear this all the time and I will say it again: we must use sunblock at all times :-)

Here are some reasons why this particular product works so well. It is a broad spectrum UVA-UVB sun protection. It works really well under makeup. It has antioxidant vitamins that our skin needs. Never clogs my pores (so important to me).

That wraps up the first part of the skin care series! Up next: favorite products by women I love!

How about you? Please share products that have worked well for you throughout the years :-)

Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Concealer

I have been searching for a new undereye concealer lately. I have been using MAC's Select Cover Up Concealer and it perfectly gives great coverage for my face.

However, I need a shade lighter specifically for my eyes so that it looks "awake" throughout the day. It has to be in a smooth, creamy liquid that glides over my undereye circles. And it has to be streak-free of course.

I also want a concealer that will last for 18 months -- which is its average shelf life. I don't have the luxury of running out of high-quality concealer only in a matter of months.

I went to Sephora in Village Pointe to check out what's available out there. I love that samples are everywhere! It helps me come up with a more informed decision.

After looking around and trying on products, I picked Make Up For Ever's HD Invisible Cover Concealer.

Here is the description from the website.

What it is:
An oil-free, medium-coverage concealer that covers imperfections while remaining invisible to high-definition televisions and the naked eye.

What it does:
This concealer creates a soft-focus effect, brightening the eye area while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a natural, radiant look. The innovative soft silicone applicator enables precise application for a perfectly even finish on camera and in person.

My verdict? The concealer delivers what was promised. It truly takes out the effects of fatigue or lack of sleep.

A bit of a warning though. Some reviews have said that this product has a tendency to separate and I can totally see that. It's best if you shake the tube well before application.

How about you? Do you use concealer specifically for the eyes? What is your preferred brand?

Haircut: Results Are In!

Sometime last week I told you that I was planning to get a new haircut before I leave for the States. I badly needed one because of the following reasons.

• I haven't had a decent haircut since August 2009
• My hair has grown into a chin-length bob. Hot Manila summer has dried it out so badly that it looks unhealthy.
• I need to turn my hair into the wash and wear kind because I won't have the luxury of cheap (only $2 here in Manila) shampoo + blow dry services in the United States.
• My husband Robert prefers that I have a shorter hairstyle.

Here is how my hair looked like before going to the salon. A stick-straight bob (styled a bit with the help of a hair dryer) with a new base color in Medium Golden Brown.



Here is how my hair normally looks like without help of a styling tool and humidity takes over. Yes, it is as rough as it looks!



Last week, I asked for your thoughts about the two hairstyles I was trying to choose from. Thank you so much for responding! This style won by a landslide!



I went to my favorite Hairshaft Salon at The Podium and asked for an appointment with Fred Penales mid-afternoon. I expressed to him the reasons for the haircut and the look that I was going for.

I showed him the "winning" picture and said that I prefer to skip the bangs because these are hard to have if I am going for a wash-and-wear style. The bangs will have to wait until I get back.

I love that it is so easy to communicate with Fred! And I love that The Podium has free WIFI!



Fred worked so hard to get my hair back into a glorious shape.





This is the result of Fred's magic.









I went back to Hairshaft Salon the following day to get my highlights. I told Fred that I have no reservations when it comes to color.

He put in two colors and I loved the result!









Robert was also very happy with the result and that's what matters the most!


Fred Penales
Hairshaft Salon
The Podium 5th Level 18 ADB Ave. Ortigas Center Mandaluyong City
+6326382040

The Five-Minute Neutral Eye

People always ask me how I do my makeup. I do not claim at be an expert but I have mastered what works best for me.

I also love learning from other people who are REALLY good at it. One of my favorite sources of online makeup application tutorials is Temptalia.com. Visit the website when you get the chance!

I still feel a little uneasy doing makeup on other people. I think I still have a long way to go in my makeup application skill.

However, when my good friend Anna asked me to apply her makeup for a party she was going to, I couldn't say no. I really wanted her to look pretty just in time for our friend Carla's party.

I wanted to apply a simple, neutral look for her eyes for that particular event.  She is the matron of honor in Carla's wedding a few days after that.  Therefore, I did not want to do anything too dramatic on her eyes that will upstage her wedding makeup.

Here is my consistent, go-to video in applying neutral eyes in five minutes:



I am still waiting for Anna to send me a picture of her finished look!  I wasn't able to take one from my own camera.

By the way, here is a video recap of Joe and Carla's lovely wedding. Single ladies, hope this inspires you!


Carla (Rica) Peralejo and Joe Bonifacio's Same Day Edit from Jason Magbanua on Vimeo.

Lay Bare Waxing Salon

I am one of those girls who always makes sure that her body hair is always non-existent. Every month, right after my period, I always go to a professional for a thorough waxing job.

Today was one of those days. I am leaving for the United States in a couple of days and I just realized how much I will miss this affordable treatment in Manila.

I entrust this monthly hair removal process to Lay Bare Waxing Salon. I go to their branch in 2/F Citiplace Building, 8001 Abad Santos Street, Little Baguio, San Juan.

Here is the salon's price list:

Eyebrow threading - 100
Upper lip - 100
Lower lip - 100
Face - 150
Underarm - 150
Arm - 250
Chest - 250
Back - 250
Bikini - 250
Brazilian - 450
Half leg - 300
Full leg - 500
Full body - 1500

Going for full body is my preferred treatment. All customers get cozy, private rooms. The waxers are professional, thorough and gracious.

For more information, please visit their website. The salon is open daily from 9am to 9pm.