Monthly favourite

Time to take the wraps off my favorites once again!

1. Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer
Want a quick fix in the morning? This product hides blemishes and imperfections in a jiffy! It's the second time this product is being featured here so you can imagine how much I love it. 

2. Wella Shockwaves Natural Definition Texture Gel
I have boring hair. This product plumps my mane, adds texture and holds it in place. I got my jar from Agha's and it cost pretty cheap too (around PKR 400 I believe). 

3. Sigma Beauty Blush In Heavenly
I love this color! It looks so flattering against my complexion and it's very wearable too. 

4. E.L.F Studio Makeup Mist & Set Spray
Nothing sets my makeup and makes my face look fresh but this! Love it!

5. Noxzema Ultimate Clear Bacteria Fighting Cleanser
So it seems that my ever so favorite cleanser got revamped. I cannot stress how AMAZING it is; doesn't dry out my face in any season and cleanses wonderfully. 

What are your picks? Digging something lately?

L'OREAL PARIS STUDIO LINE #TXT VOLUME SUPERSIZING SPRAY – REVIEW

I have naturally thin hair and so I am always on the lookout for products that would add volume and bounce to my locks. 

Line #TXT Volume Supersizing Spray
With texturising micro-powders the volume supersizing spray instantly creates bouffant back-combed volume from root to tip. Leaves the hair sensationally texturised and volumised, with an irresistible matt finish.

My thoughts
I am on my second can and I have to say, I am super impressed. It claims to add texture and volume to your hair – it does exactly that. It smells amazing which is a plus because usually hair sprays smell awful. Besides adding body to my hair, it also makes hair appear somewhat matte and natural-looking as opposed to looking like you’ve put something in your hair. 

I like to spray it on my roots and back comb if needed. When I am in a rush, I spray it on and scrunch my locks to create volume and texture. It doesn’t have a lasting hold which is kind of disappointing. Also, I noticed that it makes my scalp oilier than usual – another downside. 

All in all, I am in love with it only because it adds lots of volume to my lifeless hair.

You might like it if...

• It adds volume and texture to your hair
• You think it smells amazing
• It makes your hair matte 

You might not it this...

• It makes your scalp oily the next day
• It doesn't hold very well

My rating

3.5/5

L'Oreal Paris Studio Line #TXT Volume Supersizing Spray is priced at PKR 665 and can be purchased from Agha's superstore Karachi.

Bol TV asked to wait for clearance of Axact

Bol TV asked to wait for clearance of Axact

ISLAMABAD: The Pak­istan Electronic Media Reg­ulatory Authority (Pemra) ordered the management of Bol Television on Thursday to stop their transmission until the directors of their parent company Axact were exonerated from charges of fraud and money laundering.

Axact’s directors are currently facing charges in the wake of a massive fake degree scandal, which was exposed by The New York Times.

A spokesman for the electronic media watchdog told Dawn that the Bol management had been told that until the investigation into this matter was concluded and the directors of Axact were proven innocent, they could not air their channel’s transmission.

The management of Bol TV had announced the first of Ramazan as the formal launch date for their channel and a test transmission had begun a few days ago.

According to the Pemra spokesman, the authority asked Bol TV to cease transmission in pursuance of the letter, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broa­dcasting earlier on Thursday.

The information ministry had issued directions to Pemra to stop the transmission of Bol TV.

The letter, titled ‘Policy advice under Section 5 of the Pemra Act 2007’, directed the authority to “ensure stoppage of transmission of Bol channel through any distribution network for the time being (sic).”

The letter further says that the directors of Axact are about to launch the Bol TV channel, and that since the matter is under investigation by the Federal Investigation Agency, letting the channel go on air may seriously hamper the investigation.

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2015

GOLDEN EMBROIDERED CLUTCH BAG WITH CRYSTAL BROOCH BY MADIHA COUTURE

Fancy clutch bags?

About the brand
Madiha Couture is a Karachi based designer brand specializing in signature clutches and a couture line. With traditional and contemporary designs Madiha Altaf, the owner of the brand, excels in casual and formal wear that has become very popular amongst local and international clients. Madiha Couture delivers across Pakistan and also internationally. 

Golden Embroidered Clutch Bag with Crystal Brooch 
Heighten the degree of your style with this Golden Clutch from Madiha Couture! The unique texture of upper gives it a classy appeal while the adorned crystal brooch surrounded by black embroidery is the proverbial cherry on the icing.

Golden Embroidered Clutch Bag with Crystal Brooch

Golden Embroidered Clutch Bag with Crystal Brooch

Golden Embroidered Clutch Bag with Crystal Brooch

My thoughts
I think this clutch bag is simply stunning! It's slim, trendy and the glimmering gold exterior is to die for; it looks even more beautiful in reality. What I love most about it is that it's simple yet effortlessly elegant and will exquisitely complement any formal attire in my opinion. It's quite long, which I wasn't expecting however it's easy to carry around. The polka dot printed interior was a pleasant surprise; it kinda reminds me of Minnie Mouse which is really cute.  As you can see, it's quite roomy enough to hold some makeup items and all of those little extras. All in all, it's a good one to carry at an evening party and is definitely something that will turn heads. It's priced PKR 2200. 

Get a good look at the entire collection by joining Madiha Couture on Facebook. Madiha Couture's collection is also available online at Daraz.pk.

Store locations
Dubai
Signature Studio,
Bay Avenue at Business Bay 

Karachi
Nadia Lakdawala
1-C, Saba Commercial Street No. 1
Phase 5 Extension, D.H.A

Brands-Just Pret
Store No 24, First Floor
Dolmen Mall, Clifton 

MULTICOLORED EMBROIDERED GOLDEN WALLET BY MADIHA COUTURE

About the brand
Madiha Couture is a Karachi based designer brand specializing in signature clutches and a couture line. With traditional and contemporary designs Madiha Altaf, the owner of the brand, excels in casual and formal wear that has become very popular amongst local and international clients. Madiha Couture delivers across Pakistan and also internationally. 

Multicolored Embroidered Golden Wallet by Madiha Couture

Multicolored Embroidered Golden Wallet by Madiha Couture

Multicolored Embroidered Golden Wallet by Madiha Couture

My thoughts
Madiha Couture’s range comprises of unique handbags and clutches with embroidery and delightful spill of colors that’s bound to catch your eye! About this wallet, I would only say that it’s gorgeously crafted and I absolutely love carrying it around in my purse. I like the fact that it’s sleek and the inside is compartmentalized nicely. I adore the multicolored thread embroidery contrasted against the golden background and not to mention, the pebbled faux leather gives it an additional oomph! The only thing that could get better here is embroidery I believe. I feel that if it were completely done up to the rim, it would’ve been perfect. I like it anyways. 

The wallet is priced PKR 2500. The price of products on Madiha Couture ranges from PKR 2000 to 4500.

Get a good look at the entire collection by joining Madiha Couture on Facebook. Madiha Couture's collection is also available online at Daraz.pk.

Store locations
Dubai
Signature Studio,
Bay Avenue at Business Bay 

Karachi
Nadia Lakdawala
1-C, Saba Commercial Street No. 1
Phase 5 Extension, D.H.A

Brands-Just Pret
Store No 24, First Floor
Dolmen Mall, Clifton 

LAILA BY ASH L'AMOUR – REVIEW

I love anything that represents culture and tells a story. Let's meet Laila by Ash L'amour.

Laila -- clutch bag 
Named after the folk-tale. Laila is a beautiful embroidered leather cloth clutch

Laila Clutch Bag by Ash L'amour

Laila Clutch Bag by Ash L'amour

Laila Clutch Bag by Ash L'amour

My thoughts
Laila is a part of Ash L'amour's heritage collection. It reminds me of a beautiful garden under a starry night sky -- "Laila". This bag has to been seen in person because no camera can capture its true beauty.

The clutch bag is very spacious; can hold some makeup items, a small hair brush, a mirror and a cell phone. It doesn't lose its shape since it's quite sturdy and the overall quality is also remarkable. 

Laila by Ash L'amour comes with a price tag of PKR 1650. Good news! Get a 10% off on this bag. Use the code "Sara0001" when you purchase from Ash L'amour. For more information, visit Ash L'amour'sfacebook.

MARILYN/AUDREY LAPTOP BAG BY 9LINES – REVIEW

9lines is making waves with its edgy retro-style bags, stationery and clothes. I recently ordered a laptop bag from the store – got really bored with my old one. 

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag 

• Material: Cotton (thick) & Leatherite
• Code: LB-03
• Size: 16inches X 12inches X 4inches
• Long Shoulder Handle
• Small Zip Pocket, Mobile Pocket Inside & Fabric Divider Inside
• Digital Printing
• Double sided print

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag - 9lines

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag - 9lines

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag - 9lines

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag - 9lines

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag - 9lines

My thoughts
Well, I have to say I’m a bit disappointed with my purchase. Quite frankly I was hoping for something brilliant for the price I’ve paid. For one thing, the digital print is not as bright and intense as I was expecting. Also, the print is not clear hence seems a bit pixelated. The quality of the bag in general isn’t bad. The size is right, my laptop seems to fit comfortably and there is enough room for other stuff too. The only reason I dig this so much is because of Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe printed on it but that doesn’t make up for the overall quality of the bag. All in all, it’s a so-so.

My rating

3/5

Marilyn/Audrey Laptop Bag is priced at PKR 3400 and can be purchased from the website. For details, catch 9lines on Facebook.

BLACK SUEDE GOLDEN CHAIN CROSS-BODY BAG BY AMNA Z. – REVIEW

The on-going cross body bag trend isn’t gonna fade anytime soon. With variety of cool styles and hands-free function, cross body bags are an obvious go-to for summer.

Black Suede Golden Chain Cross-body Bag

Black Suede Golden Chain Cross-body Bag

My thoughts
In the past few weeks I’ve been carrying this bag and I’ve gotten many compliments on it. In my opinion, it’s neat and simple-looking yet high on functionality and style. The only thing that bothers me about this bag is the middling quality it has.

The front of the bag is plain black suede with its back made of faux leather. It features a magnetic snap closure along with a zipper that secures smoothly. It comes with a solid shoulder strap that can be adjusted for length. The strap is removable which allows you to carry it using the golden chain strap in front. I personally prefer wearing it on my shoulder since it is itself on the bulky side. What I love about it is the roomy interior; it can accommodate lots of stuff! There is one back-wall zip pocket plus two slip pockets for putting small things in. It can fit all my day to day essentials very comfortably and still there's a lot of room left. All in all, it's one good-looking bag. 

My rating

3.5/5

Black Suede Golden Chain Cross-body Bag is priced at PKR 3900 and can be purchased online throughAmna Z. The store has a collection of unbranded/replica bags. 

HANDBAGS BY HOBO – REVIEW

A good bag – or shoes for that matter – speaks volumes about your style and character. 

HOBO
HOBO by HUB is for the young and the young at heart. At HOBO, one can find vibrant handbags & shoes and fashion accessories in line with today's trends.

handbag by HOBO

handbag by HOBO

handbag by HOBO

My thoughts
I had the chance to visit the store a couple of days back. While there aren’t many options for you to choose from but there were few that caught my attention.

The studded cream bag is a beauty I believe. I’ve received many compliments on that one. I got the black one as a sample to try from the store. I have to say, both bags have got the current look however, I am a little displeased with the finishing of the black one. Don’t get me wrong, I love the glossy snake texture; it gives an expensive feel to it. Having said that, it’s a structured bag and it’s supposed to hold its shape. The edges seem to have dents and that, to me, doesn’t look nice.

I'd like to see more variety from HOBO. Plus, you get what you pay for – quality is fair to middling. 

The studded cream bag cost me under PKR 5000 and same goes for the black one too (don't remember the exact prices). For more information, visit HOBO by Hub on Facebook. 

EVELINE WHITE PRESTIGE 4D WHITENING GENTLE MAKEUP REMOVING LOTION – REVIEW

I have been MIA for a while; switched to a new job and it's taking up a lot of my time. Anyway, I am back with a review. 

White Prestige 4D Whitening Gentle Makeup Removing Lotion 
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY LumiskinTM4D White Complex - Cleansing Milk - Tonic - Make-up Remover Removes even waterproof make-up. For all skin types including sensitive.

APPLICATION: Apply the lotion onto damp skin with moistened cotton pad, cleanse face and neck. For eyes make-up removal hold the moistened cotton pad for a while on closed eyelid, repeat until cotton pad is clean.

Eveline White Prestige 4D Whitening Gentle Makeup Removing Lotion

My thoughts
This product is pretty average to be honest. While I do like how it doesn’t irritate my skin and keeps my skin moisturized, it's not my favorite makeup remover – it’s just not effective. My Nivea Cleansing Milk does a much better job. Perhaps, it has something to do with its thin consistency, I don’t know, it just fails to take off all my makeup. I can see traces of makeup on my skin which makes me mad. To give it a fair trial, I used it a couple of times before making up my mind but I quit using it once I broke out. And this is coming from a person who’s very finicky about makeup removal (I double-cleanse to make sure my pores are squeaky clean).

Personally, I did not like it. It just didn’t work for me.

You might like it if…

• You expect it to keep your skin hydrated
• You have sensitive skin

You might not like it if…

• You expect it to remove all traces of makeup

My rating

2.5/5

White Prestige 4D Whitening Gentle Makeup Removing Lotion costs PKR 595 and can be purchased online at Just4girls.pk.

EVELINE PURE CONTROL SOS DEEP CLEANSING FACE WASH GEL – REVIEW

First of all, I deeply apologize for being MIA. I have been so very busy with work and recently Fashion Pakistan Week A/W14. If you’d like to keep in touch, follow me on Instagram to have a peek at what I’ve been doing for past couple of days.

Pure Control SOS Deep Cleansing Face Wash Gel
Against spots and blemishes

• perfectly cleanses
• unblocks pores
• mattifies and smoothes

high effectiveness. SALICYLIC acid + hamamelis + ZINC

My thoughts
If you are struggling with an oily or acne prone skin, this product is probably the answer you're looking for. I like that the fact that it cleanses deeply and my face feels super clean however, I cannot stand the medicinal scent – it smells awful to me! It makes my skin feel matte which is a good thing though I should warn you, it dries out skin very badly. I am guessing this is probably because of salicylic acid in it (I have a combination skin and the temperature is somewhat moderate and dry these days).

Overall I think it’s a good cleanser. My only issue with it is the scent. Also, since it dries out my skin, I will not be using it again but I believe those who have super oily skins would like the result. 

You might like it if…

• Your skin is oily or prone to acne
• It cleanses deeply and mattifies skin
• It keeps your skin clear

You might not like it if…

• You think it has a medicinal scent
• You have dry/normal/combination skin
• It dries out your skin

My rating

3.5/5

Eveline Pure Control SOS Deep Cleansing Face Wash Gel is priced at PKR 395 and can be purchased online through Just4girls.pk, BeautyArena.pk and Daraz.pk.

TONI&GUY CASUAL SEA SALT TEXTURISING SPRAY LIMITED EDITION MARCHESA – REVIEW

Alright guys, this is my second sea salt hair product and I have to say I am not disappointed. 

Casual Sea Salt Texturising spray Limited Edition Marchesa
Tropical textures with TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray and bold botanicals.

Create texture and body with light hold. Suitable for all hair types and perfect for achieving a lived-in, beach look. Spray evenly from root to tip, on towel-dried or dry hair and work though to create tousled waves with natural movement.

My thoughts
Holy moly, do I love the scent! Smells just divine. I love how it gives body to my hair and creates a sexy mess. After spraying it on my damp hair, I use a diffuser to create those loose tousled waves. You can also use it with a curling for better definition. Did I mention it gives my limp hair some life? My hair is naturally thin and straight and I am always picking products that would add volume to my locks. My only gripe is it doesn’t hold; I have to use a hair spray for a long-lasting hold.

Sea salt sprays tend to make hair dry and might make your scalp itchy so avoid spraying it on the roots. Also, you need a little amount of product to get the job done. Don’t go overboard; it might weigh down your hair so be careful with that. For some serious va-va-voom hair, add a volumising product (I love using L'Oreal Studio Line #TXT Volume Supersizing Spray).

Overall, I am happy I got to try it. The one I have is an L.E so if you don't find it on the shelves, do not freak out for it's the same as the regular Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray.

You might like it if...

• You expect it to create a tousled texture to your tresses
• You expect it to add some volume
• You think it smells amazing

You might not like it if...

• It doesn't hold the texture all day
• You expect it to give some serious amped up volume

My rating

3.5/5

TONI&GUY Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray is priced at PKR 1200 and can be purchased online for thewebsite. It is also available at Agha's, Hyperstar, Naheed and Farid's if you live in Karachi.