Jill Stuart Jelly Eye Color N in 06 Berry Sparkle

Jill Stuart Beauty is so attractive because its designs epitomize the bureau of the happily-ever-after princess. Kose knows that reality + tiny bit of fantasy = beautiful sales figures. 

I always looked at Jill Stuart with a wary eye because of that. I was very much skeptical whether this brand had enough substance beneath its intricacy. On a trip to Taiwan (incidentally the cheapest place to purchase Jill Stuart beauty items), I was lured to the counter. After trying to look with some detachment, I finally settled on their famed Jelly Eye Color N (and loose powder, which I have just finished).

There's no arguing with the packaging. It is the most gorgeous eyeshadow cover I ever laid eyes on. The pot has a scallop rim running all around it.

06 Berry Sparkle looks pink in the jar, but it applies as a cross between pink and violet. The texture is amazing: like cold jello. I can literally feel the product bouncing softly each time I dip my finger into the pot. It is neither solid nor understated like Shiseido's Hydro-Powders. Steer clear if you hate sparkle, because Jelly Eye shines,shimmers, and glitters like fireworks.

I usually use it on top of powder eyeshadows to intensify colors. Many times I have paired it with Lunasol Blooming Eyes in 03 Purple Gradation. This product does not travel around the face. It stays put nicely. Overall, I love the product. 

Here, the ingredient list:

 More Japanese details:

Awake Stardom Aqua Trans Powder in 02 Venus Sea

Reading about the imminent closure of Awake's Stardom line, I succumbed to a long-time wish: the legendary Aqua Trans Powder containing 77% water.

The gleaming red screw cover is a signature of Awake Stardom line's modern elegance. While most loose powders are housed in wide and low tubs, Aqua Trans Powder is slightly higher and more compact. The fern logo and "AWAKE" font add a very nice touch to the packaging.

There are five shades on the loose: 01, Moon Glint (pale yellow); 02, Venus Sea (translucent); 03, Sand Dune (light bronze); 04, Pink Sunset (pale pink); and 05, Sea Lavender (pale lavender). All have shimmer except 02 Venus Sea, which this post will focus on. Although a tad pale when applied, the powder blends into the skin seamlessly and assumes its natural shade in no time.

The cool feel of the powder definitely left an impression on me. That experience was a first in my history with makeup. It takes some patting for the particles to dissolve onto the skin. The powder provides moderate coverage. I found that using the included puff, compared to a brush, provides a more even finish. It won't cover pimples or blemishes, but it does minimize the appearance of pores. It also controls oil well (tested in air-conditioned environment). It does not cake or settle into pores, and the finished face is natural and smooth.

A plastic cover is provided to keep the powder from evaporating. The puff has also comes with its own protective case.

Below is a picture with some product still left in the tub. The powder is translucent with a tinge of pale yellow.

Overall, this powder delivers despite its revolutionary streak.