The Expat in Bali

Top 5 Current Favourite Foundations

Hi Guys,

Back at you with another post, today I’m going to talk favourite foundations EVER! As a blogger I tend to try out lots of products including foundations and can say that some don’t live up to the hype and some do. Some I try because its a new release from a brand I love and I end up either falling in love or trying to give it away to a friend that can use my shade.

Foundations are tricky and often very personal as I have friends that say they hate ones I love. This has a lot to do with the fact that not everyone has the same skin tone, texture or colour. We all are different and the way foundations are marketed means that certain ones are targeted towards oily skin, dry etc….and for the finish itself such as dewy or matte. A foundation marked for oily skin that is matte may not work for my skin but for my friends it’s the best thing since sliced bread.

So here it goes my Top 5 as of NOW (these are in no particular order)! Also, worth noting this will probably change as new foundations get released this year…

Dior – Diorskin Forever Foundation

This is pretty much my go to foundation on a daily basis. The great thing about this is that it sits on the skin so nicely and you don’t need a lot of product to get the coverage you need. It is lightweight and has a matte finish but if you add some of those Cover FX Enhancer drops, the highlighter ones you will get a dewy look. It is versatile and the first foundation I fell in love with. There is something about this that makes the skin look better each time you use it.

Side note: I’m a Dior girl in relation to makeup so I’ve had to be super critical of all the Dior foundations and only include ones that are truly great.

IT Cosmetics – Your Skin But Better CC + Illumination Cream

Technically this product is a CC cream but it certainly does not feel that way when you apply it. To me this a full fledged foundation. This is the illumination version and personally I prefer it to the original but they are both fantastic so you will not lose out either way. What I love about this is that it makes your skin look like skin without feeling like you have foundation packed on. I love that a little goes a long way and it offers radiance and a little glowiness to your face without looking like you are covered in glitter. I find this is a great travel foundation as I pack the mini version in my hand carry on. I just apply a little to the areas I need to and add a bit of a concealer and voila I’m ready to hop of the plane without looking like a dehydrated mess!

Dior Airflash Spray Foundation

This product is insane!!!! It’s a spray can with foundation in it. I hear you are thinking how does this possibly work as aerosol sprays tend to not give you control of the product. I agreed with this argument initially until I got the lady at the Dior counter to actually try it on me. After that I was sold! Yes, you can spray the foundation directly onto the face and it gives a very fine mist of product that goes on lightly to the skin then you would go in with your brush to blend. However, my preferred method is spraying onto my brush from a reasonable distance and then use the brush to buff in the product. It goes on a dream and gives a flawless finish that evens out complexion and makes the skin smooth. It really does give you an airbrushed look. Every time I wear this people compliment me on my makeup and how good my skin looks.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

This is a holy grail foundation amongst many people including makeup artists. It’s just too good. It is what it says it is luminous and gives a glowy finish. It is buildable so if you need full coverage you can have it and doesn’t dry out the skin if wearing for a full 8 hour day. This was my go to foundation when I worked in an office as it just looked effortless and natural whilst not drying my skin out.

If you don’t like a dewy finish I would not suggest this and would recommend the Giorgio Armani Power Fabric foundation which is the luminous silk counterpart but has a matte finish and long wearing if need to go beyond 6 – 8 hours.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup

This foundation sits alongside the super popular Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup but this is much lighter and water based compared to the original. The Double Wear Stay-In-Place can be quite heavy and matte. This version is great for those that need a foundation that is light weight and living or going on holiday where the climate is warm or hot. This is perfect as it doesn’t melt off your face after being in the sun and by just walking about. For me I tend to use a little bit of this and work with my concealers to give me the perfect coverage without wearing too much makeup. It is hard for us girls who want to wear makeup but the climate doesn’t really suit it so you have to be inventive on how you use your products. The finish is beautiful and allows your skin to breathe whilst covering imperfections as well. This is a winner!!!

That’s it! My current 5 favourite foundations….that was harder than I thought to narrow it down. I have many that I do love so it was a tight call in many cases but I have to say I’m pretty happy with the ones I have here now.

Special mentions:

See you next time – the expat xxx

New videos up

Hi Guys

I have a few new videos up which are worth checking out if you want a sneak peek into my travel bag and want to know what my morning skincare routine is.

Also, if you want to be kept up to date with all my video content please subscribe to my channel.

the expat xx

The Return of Monogram and Logos Everywhere…

So it turns out the 90s and early 2000s has returned in full force. I have seen many of the major fashion houses return to their signature monogram on accessories, shoes and ready to wear. Obviously it never really left Louis Vuitton as their monogram bags are some of the most affordable in their line and classic to boot.

I am talking about the Dior monogram that adorned the classic Saddle bag. First I can’t believe they re-released the Saddle bag with their signature monogram, I’m all but drooling all over my keyboard for this pic.

I’m not sure I can justify the Fall 2018 version but there are plenty of vintage bags on the market that you can pick up for a steal. I might be in fact doing that right now in my second tab trying to find the bargain of the century…😆

In other brands Gucci has been rejuvenated under the leadership of Alessandro Michele. They not only make me want to buy Gucci but want me to dive back into their archives waiting for the return of one of their classics. This can be seen in the Ophidia line and I’m particularly fond of this one. It has a vintage feel and a classic camera bag shape which lends itself to ease of wear and accessibility.

The other brand that has brought the monogram back in a bag way is Fendi with their beloved Zucca print. As far as I’m aware this print has been a part of Fendi since the 60s and has had a huge resurgence in the last two seasons. Everyone I know who loves fashion is after the Zucca print in the Kan I and Peekaboo styles. Personally if I had to choose I would pick the Kan I in the leather and velvet combination…😱

Fashion is cyclical and all the trends that existed in a particular period are in one way or another reinterpreted for a new era and generation. Fashion is fickle one minute the logo is too much and the next; bloggers and celebrities alike are adopting the monogram back into their wardrobes. This creates hype for these styles and then they sell out making us want it even more now that it’s not readily available. I’m not just saying this is applicable to only bags either because in clothing we are seeing a love of all things monogram. This is evident by Kim Kardashian West who wore head-to-toe Fendi with the double F logo. If you haven’t seen it get onto it ASAP!!!!

This is how the fashion industry sets the trends and ultimately creates the look of the season or year which will then filter down into the H&M, Topshop and Zara of the word who present the logo trend on a friendlier budget. I can only say this is a trend and who knows how long these classic monogram pieces will stick around for but at the moment the monogram logo is here to stay.

the expat

Clear PVC is BACK!!!

Hello everyone,

I’ve noticed a trend over these last couple of weeks, the return of clear PVC accessories. This trend has come back as my 12 year old self rocked a clear smiley face backpack from either Wet Seal or Limited Too. Much like this one…

But this time around much more high end designers are taking on this PVC clear trend. Chanel released these bags which to be honest I really like but would I pay $2,000 for PVC, absolutely not! I’m not sure if the quality from 90s backpack has improved. I can still remember that it was not the best and would kind of stick together. I would hope you wouldn’t have that problem if you were buying from Chanel or any other brands now.

I do see myself jumping on this bandwagon as wouldn’t it be easier at festivals and other large events to have a clear bag to go through security rather than having them rummage through it. Also, airports it would make sense to have a clear bag, I’m sure you have to still put it through the scanner but still everyone can see yes you are only caring a wallet, phone, passport, a few makeup items and your iPad for travel.

I do like Chanel’s use of the green and blue PVC so as to give a green or blue tinge when you see the items in your bag plus differentiating yourself from the overuse of all things clear is a bonus!

Not only are big design houses going for this, the mid-range brands are doing it too. This is in fact where I see myself rocking this trend again. This Staud one is perfect and if you don’t want all your handbag contents viewable there is a pouch which is removable to hide your things in. It is available in white and tan faux croc. Either colour would do me but leaning towards the tan croc one. Hold your horses everyone this is SOLD OUT everywhere! I’ve been trying to get this for ages and I’m on the wait list for it on Net-a-Porter and the Staud website.

Aside from these options I am sure the High street will no doubt come out with their version shortly. I managed to order two online for cheap prices so you can check them out here…

Shop Girl LA transparent Tortoiseshell bag

Cozy N Chic LaRue Clear Tote

Also, if clear bags are not your thing how about clear clothing. I don’t mean you go walking down the street in a clear t-shirt! More along the lines of clear outerwear. I’m particularly fond of the Miu Miu transparent raincoat!

The Burberry take on the classic trench is also worth looking at as well.

If you don’t want to invest that much money into this trend check out what Topshop has to offer.

Much like the bum bag there are many options for all budgets. Once I get my bags I might share how you can style this trend.

Until next time… xxx

To Not Be A Typical Asian

So today’s post is slightly different as its about me and sort of a personal essay about growing up here in Melbourne. I did spend a lot of time as a child living overseas but I couldn’t really say I thought about much of this then only really in my teens and now.

I’m a 3rd generation Australian, my grandparents were the migrants that came to start a new life here. I don’t have any connection to the homeland or the places that inform my background other than what my family does now in terms of traditions. These traditions are tied to a sense of family and almost always surrounded by the food from my Chinese and Sri Lankan background.

Yes, you read that right, Chinese and Sri Lankan. I’m mixed and whilst being of a mixed race or ethnic background is very common in our globalised world I’ve been made aware by friends and strangers alike that this is not very common a mix. Mainly strangers express disbelief and ask me; are you sure? Of course, do you think I wouldn’t know my own ethnic background! My favourite of course are those that truly believe that I must be half white and some form of half Asian as explained by my semi-American, specifically Texan accent mixed with in with the Aussie one. I find this bizarre and funny…

In saying all this I’m very proud to have this background as it is what makes me ME. I am also extremely lucky to have never personally experienced anything racist or been judged on my background. I cannot say the same for my parents or my grandparents though. I very much consider myself to be Australian and growing up particularly as a teenager and as an adult now I did and do wonder if I was the “non-typical Asian” for both my Chinese and Sri Lankan sides. I didn’t attend Chinese school on the weekends or speak any language other than English at home.

I have grappled with this concept of being a “non-typical Asian” most of my adult life and to be honest I think I have pushed away from my “Asianness” not because I’m ashamed or don’t like my cultural background but because in someways I cannot connect to it. I’ve grown up in the US and Australia and remained in Australia through university and majority of my working career. As a teenager at school this was all I knew and often couldn’t understand why some of my friends who were also Asian were saying they couldn’t do certain things such as sleepovers or take public transport to Camberwell on a Friday after school. I obviously could if I asked my parents politely and they knew where I was going and who I was with. To ask your parents to go out was unthinkable for some of my Asian friends and sometimes involved elaborate lies of where they were and what they were doing.

To them I was the most Australian Asian they have ever met and I had the best life. My husband to this day thinks this and I guess thats what happens for 3rd generation and beyond. What I have come to realise is that my family assimilated over time and those cultural customs and attitudes slowly faded away. That is not to say everything has as there are some things that still stick and what I see now is that it must be hard to keep them alive over extended periods of times and I guess thats what my friends parents were trying to do….

I was raised with my family’s cultural upbringings but also with the sense to explore things like the arts and sport. I had the chance to be in bands and get the thrill of hearing an audience give a round of applause to me and my fellow bandmates; perform in plays at school; and play different sports each season that even included weekends where my parents ferried me to different matches all year. In saying all this they knew the importance of education and making sure I did well in school. I knew I personally wouldn’t be a lawyer or a doctor but there were other things that I was passionate about like reading, writing, politics, fashion and art for example. I was allowed to discover what I wanted to do on my own. This is considered not very Asian at all as I was not pushed into a career field, I was allowed to explore as long as I had a plan and was not aimlessly siting on my butt for days.

I now know I didn’t have a typically Asian upbringing which ended up informing the way I feel as a “non-typical Asian”. I didn’t know better and I just grew up the way I was meant to. I am proud of my background and the cultures that I come from and I think I will always feel not very Asian despite my appearance but that is ok. I have been carving out my own traditions now with my husband who is also from another background and we just keep moving forward with our heritage with us.

Modern Day Suiting for an Everyday Gal

Hi everyone,

I am glad to be in Melbourne for Autumn…what an exciting time to be at home! First, I can safely say suiting is back for womens wear and I don’t mean super tailored pieces but rather oversized blazers and baggy pants paired with Converse and Vans. I am loving this trend as this speaks to the tomboy in me.

I’m particularly loving this looked pair with sneakers and glad that the sneakers trend has replaced our obsession with heals. I do like the look of a classic black pump but nothing can beat my Vans or Adidas Stan Smiths. Also, it can elevate an outfit if you pair it with a feminine dress or with wide pants. What can I say I’m a sucker for everything this season so everything to me looks good.

As I follow fashion weeks around the world I did notice that suiting and men’s tailoring was more apparent in womens street style and has obviously come here in stores like Seed, Witchery and Country Road. I’m loving the look in bright colours such as red and pinks and even toned-down in pastels. Obviously classic black and a grey pin stripe will never go out of fashion but why not try being bold! Also, loving the pants in a skinny leg paired with chunky Dr. Martens…woah this look has me written all over it!!!

I did spend an afternoon trying on this trend and working out which colours and styles worked for me. Some looked a little meh but I came to realise the outfit only works if your accessories are on point. I am wearing this trend to a wedding I have coming up and aside from swapping the sneakers for some mules so I can withstand a night on the dancefloor. I am pairing the suit with, you guessed it a bum bag I found in velvet. I want to try this trend as I mentioned in an earlier post but not nearly ready to fork out for the Gucci one.

I love these looks so much I want to copy from head to toe.

Handbag Wishlist 2018

Hi everyone…

So today I decided to delve into my 2018 handbag wishlist. Now I pride myself in trying to make smart decisions for where I spend my money as well as items that are classic and will stand the test of time. It is on my wishlist because I love the piece not because it holds its value on reselling. If I do ever sell a piece it is because it ended up not fitting into my lifestyle or to fund another purchase…one in one out kind of thing.

Also, fair warning this is wishlist and therefore price and budget were not considered in me wanting these items. A girl can dream right…

Hermes Kelly Sellier

32 in Etain or Vert de gris
Palladium hardware.
Togo or Epsom leather.

This is the dream bag for me and if I ever manage to get my hands on it I will have made it hahaha….

Prada Cahier bag

The small green one or scrumptious velvet version; either or will do. This bag has been on my radar for ages but I am worried if it is something I won’t reach for in 2 years time. The velvet might seem too trendy so for now it stays on the wishlist and the small green one might come into my hands one day.

Senreve Maestra bag in Cream

This bag seems incredibly practical for those on the go and who need their laptop with them everyday. I love bags that combine a beautiful aesthetic with organisation. This bag does that with heaps of internal pockets so you can access your daily essentials plus it even has its own padded laptop compartment. Oh, did I tell you it doubles as a crossbody and a backpack!!!

Cafune Basket Bucket

I love a bucket bag but this super structured one just speaks to me. I’ve been on the Mansur Gavriel bucket bag train since Day 1 so it is no surprise I would fall for something like this. The mini one is also super cute if you want to downsize.

They also make this stunning velvet bag and for me this is a more affordable option to get on the velvet bandwagon then the Prada one.

Saint Laurent College Bag Large

This bag has been sitting in the back of my mind for ages. At first I preferred the Loulou shoulder bag but then I realised I can’t do without a top handle. I would only want this bag in black with black hardware as the all black look of this bag is to die for. I’ve never wanted a Saint Laurent bag this much.

Ok, that is it for me. My handbag wishlist does change often so keep reading as you never know I might mention something completely different next time. For now, I probably won’t be purchasing any of these as I will stick to my trusty Chanel Gabrielle and Lady Dior but if I had to pick one to purchase it would definitely be the…..Senreve Maestra. It has everything I could want these day in a bag and for an affordable price.

See you next time!!!

The return of the bum bag..

Hi Guys

Apologies for the time between posts. I am back now stronger than ever.

Fashion is a fickle thing one minute something is in, the next it is out. But it is also cyclical with trends from one era returning 20 years later. The 90s was always an interesting era to me as I grew up in it and I knew what I liked at the time. Yes, I was that girl with butterfly clips, chokers and overly wide pants and accessorised with an inflatable bubble backpack.

I look back at that with great fondness…now as I look at the trends that have dominated 2017 – 2018 I can’t help but feel I have been sucked into a vortex back to 1996. There are some things that I am glad are back such as chokers and wide pants but nowadays I style slightly differently. This has clearly come with age and more wisdom about what actually suits me

I have seen the bum bag or fanny pack show up in bits and pieces in street style blogs and if you follow anything related to street style of Korea or Japan these have been on trend from 2 years ago. It is only in the last season that I have seen it filter into the Aussie & US markets. No longer, called the bum bag it is now a belt bag. Big designer houses such as Prada and Gucci have all released versions themselves with the high street market flooding with their own versions.

I personally don’t see myself purchasing a Prada belt bag (never, say never) but I can’t say that I haven’t thought about adding a version to my wardrobe. I don’t want to wear it just because it is on trend so my view is to make sure it all sits within my personal style. Personally, if I were to do this trend I would do an Adidas version…maybe!

I am in awe of the way that the average Japanese or Korean man/woman and boy/girl have such sartorial flair and are so ahead of the game. Also, I feel like they don’t need to wear the big brand names and if they do it is mixed with the likes of Adidas, Supreme, Stussy; and many other great street style brands that are easily accessible here. For the this is refreshing.

It goes to show that the West has a lot to learn from the rest of Asia on what fashion is and becomes. They are becoming so innovative that we are adopting the trends a few seasons later. Also, brands here are starting to take notice with the likes of Off-White raising the standard of what is considered high fashion.

Can I tell you, I am feeling much more inspired about what is to come…

Beautiful Jewels

Hi guys

Apologies for being so long between posts…it has been a crazy dash to December.

I just wanted to share with you today the beautiful Ananda Soul they make the amazing beautiful jewellery that has a philanthropic aspect to their business. This ensures products are ethically made and in ensuring that people are paid fairly for their services. The part I particularly love is the company supports women and children in the areas where their products are made. Currently this includes employing mothers of street children in Bali so that their children get to go to school and the cycle of poverty can be broken. What a great idea!!!

Apart from their great message their jewellery is amazing. I have picked up a few pieces myself and I continue to be on the lookout for other great pieces.

Here are some great pieces to go check out.

This one is next on my list…this is a gorgeous gold cuff

RL…christmas pressent?

This stone is Citrine and is known for its power to give you success and wealth. I wear my one everyday…

This crown like ring looks amazing on the thumb

This stunning necklace holds a special place in my place as I am a true believer in the power of Ganesha to bring success and ward off any evil. It also comes with a small Peridot stone which is the my birth stone

The Hamsa bracelet is GORGEOUS and symbolises protection against negativity and gives the wearer good fortune and peace.

These are some of my favourite pieces that either I am eyeing off for myself or already have on my finger at the moment. Please check them out this brand has everything on point!!

the expat xoxo

My Bali…

Hi everyone welcome back..

Today I wanted to share with you some of my key spots in Bali. I have been here enough times to be able to say I have found some gems even if they are well known about amongst locals and expats here.

I wanted to share these places with you but also have a little twist by partnering with X Nihilo on showcasing there wonderful bags in paradise here on the island. The bags featured here are the X Nihilo Milford (Tan) and X Nihilo Eight bag (Gold).

This weekend I was lucky enough to stay at Katamama; a modern boutique hotel that sits next to Potato Head Beach Club. I definitely took advantage of that plus there is a MoVida there too (yes the one from Melbourne).

Since I was staying at Katamama I was able to reserve the day bed for Potato Head. Normally you have to lineup to get the best spot at this popular beach club but no, not us! We reserved our spot and arrived at 11am the next day (best to book 24 hrs in advance). This was a completely chilled day. I just took it all in by admiring my beach front view and sunbaking. The best bit is when it gets a little too hot I jumped into the pool and a had a few sneaky cocktails to match. I also did manage a nap as well…hahaha

Another one of my fave places to check out is MoVida as you can experience a fine dining experience at a discounted price. A few good things about being in Bali is that food is generally cheaper even if you do go all out and splurge at a MoVida like restaurant. There is also a great bar attached to Katamama’s lobby – Akademi. Please check this out as you are allowed to make the cocktails you order. What a great experience!!

Another one of my favourite things to do is wander up an down Seminyak’s main strip and enjoy a coffee at the best coffee shop in Bali Revolver Espresso. These guys make the best iced latte in the whole of Bali and to top it off they are unbelievably nice. They also make a killer chilli margarita (Angel Eyes)…💥 bet you never had one of those before!!!

Also, another great coffee stop is Coffee Cartel which has a wide variety of weird and wonderful lattes like the Beetroot latte and Charcoal latte. The colours are enough to excite the young and the old. I must say they do taste pretty good!

I would also take the opportunity to wonder around the street and enjoy everything Bali has to offer. There is so much to do here and everyplace has its great things to do. There are many shops/boutiques in Seminyak worth checking out like Magali Pascal & Bamboo Blonde. Both worthy stores with Magali Pascal being the more higher end boutique. Also, check out the wide range of homeware stores as they will sure inspire you to redecorate your home. My go to place is near Sea Circus and is called Satunama. There is an eclectic array of homewares from woven bags to decorative statues and everything in between.

On a side note, I just want to say how great and versatile both my X Nihilo bags are. The Milford in the tan is probably more practical and everyday…just as a bucket bag that can carry all your daily essentials. But the Eight…OMG. This has grabbed so much attention and did so in Bali. A few tourists did ask me where my bag was from and I’m eyeing off the silver mini version 😂

Be sure to check them out on Instagram and on their website…well worth it. Also, checkout my unboxing video on YT if you want to see my first impressions of the bag.

I hope you enjoyed reading this as its been a pleasure to shoot this and explore My Bali…

See you next time xxxo – the expat