So this is my favorite set of photos from Bali, and to get this series, I took 45 minutes to doll up and style, and endured a million stares from everyone who was at the scene. Not like I really care because it is not my hometown and I do not know anyone, but there is something that really baffled and annoyed me: Why are there so many people criticizing me (heavily) for the full makeup by the pool?

#1. Why would I curl my hair and have a garland on my head if I was planning to swim?
#2. Does anyone swim with a throw-over on?

This was obviously a planned photoshoot! You mean you didn't realize? And if you didn't, you mean you never knew such things can happen? What about those promotional photos you see on swimwear collaterals? And those magazine features with models posing by the beach in their clients' products? Do they not also have full makeup on (yes, including long falsies) and have their hair done?

Why do people get so worked up from that few photos I posted on Instagram and on my blog? The most ridiculous part is having "concerned readers" email me to tell me I put too much blusher for the pool and that I should doll up according to my age. Nonsense.

You know something? As much as I try to always always always always be nice to everyone who writes to me/ comments on my Instagram/ says hi to me on the streets/ asks me for fashion advice, I am in a complete not-out-to-please-the-world mode as I draft this post for that bunch of people who have every issue with me and my photos.

I love this series, as with all my other by-the-pool and at-the-beach series. Yes, all with makeup and styling. But of course, I am still very appreciative of all the people who love and support me and my styles. :)

Also taking this opportunity to say thank you to my trusty hair sponsor, Shunji Matsuo, for never failing to give me the prettiest hair colors. Once again, my red hair saw many Indonesians and tourists praising me to death.


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Shunji Matsuo
313 @ Somerset
313 Orchard Road, #03-26, Singapore 238895
Call 6238-0226 for appointments.

Photography: Brad Lau @ladyironchef