The Juice: Magazine Review (December Issue)

Print magazine subscription has been a forgotten story in my house since long. May be because whatever information we need is instantly displayed on our smart gadget in a click... But I was lured by excellent content in front of my eyes when the December issue of The Juice magazine reached me in Xmas theme cover page in red n white. (For those who are unaware, The Juice is a monthly print magazine by Jabong.com.)

The December issue, with the punchline "Don't Stop the Party", basically focuses on Party Looks. Its admirable that the mag not only is a handy guide for women fashion but has styling ideas for gentlemen also :)

To bring on the festive feel, the cute, cheerful n colorful Christmas inspired nail art designs are exhibited that are sure to tickle your creative side. There is glittery makeup looks for your eyes and lips suited for get-togethers scheduled in coming days to welcome 2016.

Overall the magazine was worth holding in my hand staying awake for few more hours on my bed, but I won't miss mentioning my favorite articles ;)

Some useful hair styling tips put together in a short n crisp post were simply adorable and can save your hard-earned cash if donned at home.

'Look Good in 4 Weeks' gave my fading spirits a boost to work on my fitness routine to get gorgeous. The Sample Meal Plans came so easy to follow even for working women like me and helped me put straight my disorderly diet these days. Can't thank you enough for this!!

And lastly, if you are getting party-ready for upcoming Christmas and New Year celebration, don't forget to try delightful tequila recipes for your guests while listing all must-haves for the tasty treat.

There is much more worth enjoying in 100+ pages of the mag. I'm already waiting for the next issue to begin the year fab way :)

#KnowYourRights against Sexual Violence

Our country is struggling hard with serious outbreak of violence in one part or the another. The crimes like murder, theft, burglary are in the newspaper headlines everyday and its like a hurtful start of the morning to come across such disheartening news. The most horrifying crime among all is any kind of sexual abuse that involves not only physical hurt, but leaves a lifelong impression on victim's mind. 

The survivors of any kind of sexual offence are often reluctant to report the crime as observed in many cases. Since these crimes are mostly women-centric, the victims are afraid of social non-acceptance at the first hand. The victim happens to undergo such intense emotions of guilt, anger, fear and depression that they lose all their self-esteem to decide what's right at the moment. Also, at times there is no support to decide whether or not to report to police or any authority and unfortunately the matter is swept under the rug. 

If this be the case all the time to shield these criminal, there can be no hope to commence the required action ... Ofcourse, it is a difficult decision to report the crime, but an assistance can be provided only if the victim is firm to protect her dignity... 

In my opinion its important to encourage people report the sexual violence for many reasons...

The sexual offenders may be the repeaters who tend to get unidentified for long just because the victim is not ready to voice the occurrence of crime. When there is a strong case against such repeat offenders, medical authorities or police authorities can draw deductions of his behavioural patterns, thereby taking corrective measures. It not only helps to reduce chances of further sexual offences, but also is an appropriate way to control and channelize feelings of victim. 

Many a times, when the crime victim delays reporting, the physical evidences may fade away making the case less-binding. Also it may cause ignorance for the internal physical injuries of the victims which may be apparent later as any sexually transmitted disease due to the crime. So it is advisable to bring the issue into light as early as possible to avail medical assistance provided by law officials.

When a woman who has borne a huge loss for herself can only understand what she has gone through. Its the courage in her heart that can save the community she belongs to .. the community of other women. It is the willingness to act in public interest to safeguard every female who can be the next target. So to initiate an investigation, the crime must be promptly filed.

Just like most women, I also had little knowledge of my rights in the underlying situation, but this informative video made all my doubts clear that reporting against sexual violence is not a complex task... Just have a look to #KnowYourRights 

“I’m writing this blog post to support Amnesty International’s#KnowYourRights campaign at BlogAdda. You can also contribute to the cause by donating or spreading the word.”

My Jewelry Haul From BornPretty Store

In olden days, the jewelry pieces rarely excited me. The usual gold toned jewelry, either in real gold or imitation one, looked so shiny to me that I almost decided not to try them ever. But as time moved on, my liking too got changed slightly. Since the inception of statement jewelry, I developed interest in admiring people adoring lovely pieces. Though it took me lot of time to clearly decide whether I want these for myself, I am glad I did land on a great place to shop which is Bornpretty Store :)

Bornprettystore.com stocks wide selection of fashion jewelry, hair accessories, clothing, watches, phone cases, makeup, nailart and much more. They have a special section for products under $0.99. The most amazing thing about BornPrettyStore.com is that there is free shipping for delivery in more than 150 countries across the globe and that too within 24 hours of placing your order. I really appreciate the team work that goes into maintaining such an efficient order process system.

Now, coming back to my shopping experience with the store..
As I just mentioned that I recently developed my liking for fashion jewelry, I wanted to buy some decent neckpieces. Being the first time shopper, I decided not to go for very expensive items and ordered two necklaces of moderate pricing.
From my previous experience with few other international websites, I expected my order to be delivered in appx. 3-4 weeks. And its commendable that I got my parcel delivered exactly in 14 working days.

What did I buy?
I bought two necklaces,both with lovely gemstones in them and a pair of Anti-UV sunglasses too.
A Flower necklace in candy color caught my eye for its pretty design and color combination. The fine finishing, not so shiny look also appealed my taste. And its truly speaks of elegance when styled with either ethnics or western outfits. Buy it for $ 5 at Gemstone Flower Necklace Candy Color Dual Layer Floral Decor Pretty Sweater Necklace

This necklace is an unusual handpicked jewel in my collection, because the soft color make it class-apart from usual traditional necklaces in red, maroon, green colors :)

Another necklace that I loved resembles more of a big pendant with an attached chain. I bought it for its multicolored stones that I style mostly with V-neck tees, shirts and kurti to highlight my neckline :) Its available for just $3.31 at Trendy Necklace Gemstone Necklace Retro Sweater Chain. 

Now, if you are wondering why I needed this pair of eyewear, I have a reason for that. I have a good collection of all kinds of sunglasses, but I was genuinely in the need of a plain, uncolored glasses that can protect my eyes while driving in the night, since the colored ones are an obstacle to my vision at that time. So I ordered this vintage inspired, anti-UV sunglasses with cute printed frame as well :) You may find it at Posh D Frame Sunglasses Anti UV Sunglasses Fashion Sunglasses for price as low as $2.12

As long as, its about buying quality goods at competitive prices, BornPrettystore is my answer. It really made me feel pretty like every woman is :)

I am so in love with their stuff that my next order will be placed soon.
Have you shopped with this excellent store? If not, you can shop using 10% off coupon code WEMT10 that is valid on any non-discounted products sitewide..

Waiting to read your views...

**PR Sample

Winter Body Care Routine With Ethicare Remedies Products

Cold weather makes my skin lot more drier, chapped and stressed. The normal skin care routine that I follow through out the year requires a careful change to protect the sensitivity of skin for fall/winter months. Though I continue using all the products for different parts of my body namely hands, feet, hair, face etc., but I pay attention to switch to products that are composed ingredients specially meant for tackling skin issues.

Today, I'm collating some products from Ethicare Remedies in this post that proved to be efficacious for me in past year..

As the mercury lowers, we love taking long warm water shower or bubble bath, but using highly soapy bodywashes tend to strip off the skin moisture and as a result the skin feels itchy and stretchy post bath. The idea is to either pour few drops of a nourishing oil in your bathing water or choose a soap bar that does the job. I have many of the natural soap bars in past many months, but one of my fav had been a pocket-friendly soap from Ethicare i.e. Vizigly Plus. It has high percentage of aloe vera extract, almond oil and wheat germ oil to keep the skin supple and moisturized. You will also love its oval egg-like shape and cute baby pink color ;)

Buy at Rs 99 for 100 gm bar

If a soap bar sounds impractical to you, go for the Nutraclin liquid body cleanser that will not only be more hygienic to use, but will also maintain the natural pH level of your skin. The quantity offered for the price is also a added plus to the product.

Buy at Rs 159 for 250 ml

Cleansing is one of the crucial step that most of us practice religiously. For summer months, I like using foamy cleansers that need rinsing and leave skin fresher after splashes of water. But as the temperature falls, I can't dare to wash my face with cold water and its not advisable to use warm water as well. So the best option is to use a non-foaming cleansing lotion that can be lightly patted down with a damp cloth. The Epiclin Cleansing Lotion made of olive oil and glycerine is the kind of product that satisfies my need with its emulsifying effect for enough time. Being a color-free and fragrance free lotion makes this product a choice for many people.

Buy at Rs 139 for a pack of 125 ml 

A richer moisturizing lotion or cream is my most demanding product in winters. I like creamy emollients that have thicker consistency. Those who have normal or oily skin might go for normal lotions, but whose skin type is on drier side like me must opt for creams that maintain a barrier on skin and protect the natural skin oils. Team Ethicare Remedies has been so very considerate that they have created their Hydrofil Moisturizer in both lotion and cream base. I can't admire any product more than these two, because of their lovely fragrance and excellent absorption. I love it so much that I keep its bigger, more economical pack in my stock.

Buy at Rs 132 for a pack of 100 ml 

Now coming to hair care for the season, do use an extra mild shampoo that doesn't compromise in quality ingredients and keeps the scalp and hair healthy. In my opinion, a less-lathery shampoo is quite fine if it removes dirt and pollutants from your scalp with some more quantity per use. And when you find a shampoo that is doubled up with blend of conditioners, moisturizers and UV filters, your worries are much relaxed. Like it happened when I tried Seren Shampoo.

Buy at Rs 126 for 100 ml

I back up the performance of this conditioning shampoo with yet another hair care product from Ethicare line which is Trichoz Serum. It is superb to pump up the manageability of my hair and adds such a natural lustre that I earn so many compliments for my long, shiny hair :) I can vouch for its effectiveness for easy detangling and less hair breakage. I don't forget to carry it in my bag while going out for a trip or something.

Buy at Rs 171 for 50 ml

Lets not forget talking about lipcare, the most adversely affected part of our body due to cold, chilly winds. These days, we have unimaginable options of lip butters, lip balms and what not. Some are available to supplement with pretty colors also and I see young girls loving these a lot :) Actually I am also among those girls. We, the women, have wide choices to use any of these lipcare product. But what about men?? They also need a product to hold on moisture to keep their lips soft. The Lipz moisturizer is best for any men or women who hate waxy coating on their lips in the name of lip balms and like a genuine formula that works. Its a kokum butter and shea butter based product with light vanilla fragrance. The small tube packaging makes it easy to slide in your pocket and use it anytime you need.

I believe these products will help winterproof your skin to great extent..I will come up with more such recommendations, if my readers like to.

p.s. All the products referred in this post have been reviewed individually as well. Do refer the links for detailed posts.

**PR Sample

MojoBar - A Healthy Snack for your 'On The Move' Moment

Health bars are not a new thing happening in the town.. I have taste some of them and usually don't feel like continuing them for long because of their boring taste and no choices of flavours. You see, the taste matters to me. And some of these are so laden with added sugar that pisses me off on how to call it a 'health bar' :/

Recently, I travelled to Goa from Chandigarh and needed to pick some 'on-the-go' snack to toss in my handbag to carry during my flight. I was attracted towards a colorful packaging of Mojobar showing a chewy bar on it. A quick glimpse on its nutritious ingredients list made me fall in love with it and I made up my mind to try that. 

On liking my first MojoBar variant in Choco Almond + Protein, I was keen to ask for more. And I felt happier to know that these health bars come in 2 more yummy flavours i.e. Nutty Apricoat + Fibre and Yogurt Berries+ Antioxidants loaded with choicest constituents. 

Nutty Apricoat + Fibre flavour speeds up your metabolism and improves digestion without disturbing your sugar intake.

Yogurt Berries+ Antioxidants flavour is simply an innovative one with yogurt as key ingredients with a right balance of sweet n sour taste of cranberries. Its packed with Vitamin A, C and E. Loving it truly :)

Choco Almond + Protein is for chocolate lovers who can't ditch their all time favourite flavour yet need a punch of nutritional nuts n fruits in their snack. 

MojoBar- When & Why?

• MojoBar is one of the healthy snack that can be easily incorporated in our busy lifestyle. The glucose used in the bars has replaced most sugar content in the bars, and so I feel a boost in my energy level after its consumption, so I highly recommend it to gym-freak people as pre-workout snack.  
• Its so easy to carry, not because of its sleek size, but because it requires no refrigeration of heating. I simply slip it my purse and port it almost everywhere I go.
• I did a thorough research on what should be the right proportion of nutritional value of these so-called healthy snacks and realized MojoBar fulfills all those criteria. Though its slightly high in fat content, but it has 80% unsaturated fat derived from seeds and nuts. So deserves a thumbs up from me.

• At occasions, when I am short of time for my meals, one of these bar is my substitute for my meal for the moment that helps maintain my energy level.
• Most importantly, all variants of MojoBar are gluten free and preservatives free, so it won't cause you bloating and flatulence.. There is nothing artificial used in the bars and keep a check on my calorie count and I don't need to compromise in taste as well. 

Now-a-days, Mr. hubby feels himself like a child eating MojoBar during lunch break at his office and doesn't hesitates refusing anyone to share :P

Looking at these benefits, I would say these nutritious bar are ideal to be eaten in place of chips, biscuits, muffins or even plain chocolates. Ready to grab a bar?? Here is where you can buy these on Amazon at Rs 240 for a pack of 6 bars.

Read more about the goodness of MojoBar on www.mojobars.co and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

**PR Sample

Christmas Giveaway With First Step Projects (Closed)

My blog Alive n Kicking has crossed 1,00,000 pageviews and the Facebook page completed 800 followers recently. And as soon as it came to my notice today, I decided to bring on a small celebration with my readers..

I have collaborated with First Step Projects for a giveaway. If you didn't recognize who are they, just read the posts where I reviewed Being Juliet Box and Travel Essentials for Women Sanitation.

The ONE TIME giveaway steps are quite simple:

Giveaway Rules:

• Follow Alive n Kicking and PeeBuddy India on Facebook. 
• Follow me and Peebuddy India on twitter
• Follow me and BeingJuliet on Instagram 
• Subscribe to my blog via email and verify your subscription by clicking on the link you receive in your inbox.
• Answer in comments below this post "Where do you mostly face the lack of sanitation and how do you think this prize hamper can help you?" 
• Share the giveaway blogpost on your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram timeline tagging both pages and 3 of your friends.
• Leave your participation details below along with email id, links of shared post and tweet. 
• Valid for residents of India above the age of 18. 
• The giveaway starts today and is ending on Christmas day i.e. 25 Dec. 

Winners Selection:

3 winners will be selected in total, one each from Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

The participants can choose to enter on any one of the platform or can enter on all three platforms to increase their chances of winning.

Prizes:

The winners will get a hamper containing a pack of PeeBuddy, Intimate Wipes and Disposable Bags each.

Start posting your answer and be active on all social media platforms including blog to earn brownie points.

P.S. Its a sponsored giveaway and the prizes will be directly sent by the brand to the winners. The prize pic is for the reference only and actual prize may vary from the image above.

#PlayUpStyle With OOTD in Vibrant AW15 Collection of John Players

Its quite less-obvious to find menswear brands experimenting with vibrant colors and prints than womenswear. But men also need playing with vivacious styles to give a positive flip to their personality. To sort the wardrobe needs of today's youth, the iconic menswear brand John Players has come up with their AW15 collection recently that concentrates more on animated colors and lively prints. 

A print range of casual shirts, tees & sweaters inspired from Playing Cards called Jack of hearts is decked up at the stores to #PlayUpStyle with graphic and monogram prints this season to add a zing to usual boring style. 

Talking about the colors, the brand has not overruled the classic favourites of most men i.e. black and blue, but has added the bold colours like Spicy Orange, Pepper Yellow & Sour lime to the existing shades to create a superb mix of classic n modernity. 

These colorful jackets are dual-hued that can be flaunted reversing the inner side up in a different color and gather attention wherever you go...

When casuals are the talk of the town, we know what goes well with it...the denims. John Players Jeans has an entire range of Indigo Theatrics denim wear showcasing contemporary fits in experimental washes & bold styling. The brand’s entire jeans collection is with ‘stretch’ to make you feel comfortable all the day long & is available in 4 fits to choose from i.e. Regular, Slim, Skinny & Comfort skinny.

The denims have cool laser printed tattoos and interestingly this laser technology saves a lot of water; bringing eco-friendly denim. What an awesome innovation !!

JPJ has also brought in edgy leather jackets and cool denim shirts in greys to complete the look. 

Till now, we have been speaking a lot about casual wear, but what about breaking the monotony of formal and semi-formal work wear!! JP has left us amazed with elegant Bandh Galas and the Slim fit jackets that are sure to make you stand out in the crowd and earn admiration from everyone. Those who love keeping their signature style intact can opt for smart formals in various colors and patterns that speaks volumes of gentlemen. 

The AW15 collection by John Players is already up for revving up your dull wardrobe offering Formals, Casuals, Party wear & Denims and ofcourse Winterwears incorporating a trendy mix of colors, playful styling & smart fits.

So its high time to #playupstyle with what your heart yearns for!!

p.s. Thanks to Mr. Hubby for being a support n model for my post ;)