TUMI unveils Fall 2024 collections featuring innovative designs for your travel and everyday needs

Jul 18, 2024Jul 18, 2024

Travel in style this Fall with collections inspired by Seoul that embodies the city’s influence on modern culture and its deep respect for tradition.

Featuring new silhouettes and colourways, TUMI’s new Fall 2024 collections showcase all-new prints that include the vibrant Seoulite which captures Seoul’s electric energy and the Olive colourway which represents the city’s mountainous landscape.

TUMI also unveils new designs like the 19 Degree Frame luggages as well as new additions to their sports range which include a tennis backpack and yoga sling.

19 DEGREE FRAME

As an expansion of the 19 Degree collection, the introduction of 19 Degree Frame features integrated frame opening and closing latches that will help to keep your contents secure during travel.

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The collection has three durable sizes ranging from carry-on to packing cases with colour options that include Black Texture and Pearl Grey Texture.

Each piece is also built with modern retractable handles and smooth, quiet transport signature wheels. On the interior, you’ll find tie-down straps and mesh zip pockets for organisation.

TURIN

The all-new Turin premium collection is made from Italian leather with elevated metal accents in sleek silhouettes. Blending practicality with innovative design, each piece has been meticulously crafted in an all-black colourway to retain that timeless look that will elevate any wardrobe.

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The collection includes seven sleek styles ranging from backpacks, briefcases, slings and totes to small leather goods.

VOYAGEUR

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TUMI relaunches its iconic Voyageur collection this season, which will be available in luxurious, smooth leather with the TUMI “T” logo, elevated hardware details and added functions.

The Voyageur leather collection will include backpacks, totes, shoulder bags and crossbody bags, including an all-new train case in colour options such as classic black with light gold or gunmetal hardware, and the seasonal dynamic Pewter Metallic with gunmetal hardware.

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Totes and backpacks from the collection are also equipped with a sleek removable leather pouch.

TUMI SPORT

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As TUMI continuously expands into the world of sports, the brand introduces new offerings for racquet sports that include a Pickleball Bag, Tennis Racquet Bag and Tennis Backpack, which come with magnetic shoulder straps, providing you with the option to carry them as a sling bag or a backpack.

For cyclists, TUMI presents new styles like the Tour Biking Backpack, Alliance Backing Backpack, Peyton Sling, and Signal Sling, which have been crafted with durability in mind that uses water-resistant materials and incorporates reflective accents to enhance safety on and off the road.

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If you’re a yoga enthusiast, you might find the Yoga Sling a useful companion with its spacious design that allows you to hold a 26-inch mat with room for accessories.

The new Fall collections are available now at TUMI stores and TUMI.SG.

The Dyson OnTrac headphones sound as good as they look, and the best part — they are fully customisable

Jul 18, 2024Aug 23, 2024

In the wake of the Dyson Zone — the brand’s “purifying headphones” — Dyson unveils a dedicated audio device, the Dyson OnTrac.

Above: our customised Dyson OnTrac.

There are no jokes to be made this time; this is a serious piece of audio equipment that competes in the luxury headphones category; and at $699, they go head-on with established audio solution brands like Sennheiser and even Bang & Olufsen.

Above: Unboxing the Dyson OnTrac and accessories.

DESIGN

Let’s get straight to the point — the Dyson OnTrac is going to sell much, much better than the Zone, and because they won’t look awkward when worn. In fact, they’ll look great.

[click on the images to enlarge. photos courtesy dyson.]

We think their biggest selling point is in their ability to be customised. You can swop out the ear cups and the side caps to a colour that suits your mood and style, and all the colours released for these accessories look fantastic.

Above: Various colours for the side caps and ear cushions. (Photo courtesy dyson.)

Above: unboxing the accessories.

Above: the dyson ontrac in Ceramic Cinnabar.

Above: customising the side caps on the dyson ontrac.

Above: Photo courtesy Dyson.

We also love the storage and carrying case that we think is very well-designed; it’s slim and has an open concept where you just slide in the headphones, and then slip the entire thing into your bag. If you insist on a case with a zipper, we believe it’s only a matter of time before we see third-party ones on Shopee and Lazada.

Above: The Dyson Ontrac Case that comes in the box with the headphones.

USING THE DYSON ONTRAC

Above: Photo courtesy Dyson.

The Dyson OnTrac connects via Bluetooth, and is simple and intuitive to use. Just turn it on with the physical power button on the device, and connect it to your smartphone, tablet, computer or other device.

Above: the power button on the dyson ontrac.

If you pair it with the MyDyson app (available on the Apple App and Google Play stores), you’ll get full functionality, which includes sound monitoring (this tracks and visualises external noise and in-ear volume), the preset EQ modes that are balanced by Dyson audio engineers, and more that will be released through app updates over time.

Above: our customised Dyson OnTrac.

The headphones boast a battery life of up to 55 hours (even with ANC enabled), and it charges fast — 10 minutes of charging gives you 2.5 hours of listening, and a 30-minute charge provides up to 9 hours.

Above: Side view of our customised Dyson OnTrac.

We particularly like the “joystick” style button on the right side of the headphones, which gives control of volume, tracks and access to your voice assistant (eg. Siri).

Above: The joystick-style button on the side of the dyson ontrac.

The headband takes cues from the Dyson Zone, where there’s a sponge that sits on the head to cushion it from the weight of the device. The sides of the headband house the batteries, so there’s even weight distribution while wearing the headphones.

Above: The headband has a cushion at the top and batteries are housed on the sides of the band, taking the weight away from the sides of the earphones.

SOUND

With the Dyson OnTrac, Dyson prides itself with what they call best-in-class noise cancellation. For over-ear headphones, these do block out an incredible amount of ambient sound. Dyson has built in 8 microphones to sense outside sounds 384,000 times a second, and the result is an immersive listening experience that cancels out unwanted noise.

Above: Photo courtesy Dyson.

With our test set, audio is clear and balanced, but that’s expected with headphones that command this price. We listened to the remastered version of Hotel California on Apple Music and could single out the various instruments, and these were further separated from the left and right sides so you really feel like you’re listening to music live right in front of you. It’s similar to the spatial function on AirPods Pro, so nothing new, but still impressive.

WHO’S THIS FOR?

Above: the dyson ontrac and case.

If you’re willing to spend $699 on a pair of headphones and want to look stylish wearing them, you’ll love these and you’ll definitely show them off. If you believe yourself to be an audiophile, try these out in-store first when they launch (we’re told sometime in September for Singapore), and then decide for yourself if the sound is what you’re looking for. You might actually prefer a more affordable model from Beyerdynamic, or want to save up for the Focal Utopia that’s a breed of its own.

The Dyson OnTrac will retail at $699 in Singapore, and be available in all colourways (CNC Nickel, CNC Copper, CNC Aluminium, and Ceramic Cinnabar), at dyson’s VivoCity Dyson Demo store, and the Dyson ONLINE STORE from 24 August onwards.

Consumers will also be able to purchase the additional Ear Cushions (sold separately at $69 a pair) to create their own unique colour combination. the additional Ear Caps will be released at a later date.

CHANEL introduces the three-in-one PREMIERÈ SOUND which functions as a necklace, watch and wired headphones

Jul 16, 2024Jul 16, 2024

Crafted in 1987, the CHANEL PREMIERÈ watch is a timeless piece that is unlike any other timepiece out there with its unique look that combines function with the House’s familiar icons.

The timepiece had been inspired by the stopper of the No. 5 CHANEL perfume bottle and a flexible bracelet, in place of an ordinary watch strap, as a nod to the chained shoulder strap of CHANEL’s iconic bag.

This time, the original PREMIERÈ watch has been reimagined into a fully-functioning PREMIERÈ SOUND — a three-in-one accessory which functions as a long sautoir necklace, a watch and a pair of wired headphones that connects easily to a smartphone or any other audio device.

The watch features a steel case, steel crown and steel necklace coated with 18K yellow gold, a black-lacquered dial and offers high precision quartz movement, while the headphones are equipped with a microphone and a remote control to adjust the volume, control audio and video playback, and receive phone calls.

PREMIERÈ SOUND is also equipped with state-of-the-art audio technology to provide high-quality sound to ensure you get a pure immersive listening experience with passive sound insulation that helps to cancel out external noise interference.

Here’s a look at the CHANEL PREMIERÈ SOUND that was worn by BLACKPINK’s Jennie at the recent opening party held in Korea.

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Pricing and availability for the Chanel PREMIERÈ SOUND will be announced at a later date.

Starbucks Singapore launches an exclusive collection with homegrown Musoka Club

Jul 16, 2024Jul 16, 2024

Riding on their tradition of partnering with local designers, Starbucks has once again teamed up with a homegrown label to launch an exclusive collection, just in time for National Day!

The Starbucks + Musoka Club collection, that will drop on 17 July, features Musoka Club’s signature bold graphic designs showcasing the top favourite Starbucks beverages, food and Starbucks’ iconic Bearista on tote bags, tumblers, mugs, a cushion, and even a limited-edition oversized tee.

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The oversized t-shirt (S$89.90) is an online exclusive available in black featuring Starbucks fan favourites like the Iced Caramel Macchiato, Rosemary Chicken & Cheese Croissant, and Chocolate Chip Monster Cookie.

Here’s a closer look at the collection.

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The Starbucks + Musoka Club collection will be available from 17 July in-stores, on STARBUCKS ONLINE store at 10am, and on LAZMALL, SHOPEEMALL at 12 pm.

The Starbucks + Musoka Club t-shirt will only be available exclusively on STARBUCKS ONLINE store at 10am.

MCM and Harper Collective team up for an upcycled sea-plastic luggage line

Jul 15, 2024Jul 16, 2024

In an effort to create a future of sustainable and eco-conscious travel, MCM has partnered with Harper Collective to develop a luggage range that integrates upcycled components and an embedded NFC chip.

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For those unfamiliar with Harper Collective, it is a brand founded by Jaden Smith and Sebastian Manes and inspired by their shared passion for environmental responsibility.

Harper Collective’s hard-shell rolling travel cases are made from a blend of 70% recycled ocean plastic, such as fishing nets and plastics, and are produced at an Italian workshop located 47 miles from Milan.

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This collaboration with MCM reimagines Harper Collective’s ‘Ghost’ collection of luggages and comprises of three distinct models namely the Cabin (S$1,550), Cabin Expandable (S$1,690), and a large check-in case (S$1,900).

The collection uses MCM’s iconic cognac Visetos to wrap the new lightweight aluminium handles for the exterior, while the interior features MCM’s signature recycled quilted nylon alongside upcycled MCM webbing straps from three different decades.

Each piece also includes luggage tags crafted from up cycled Maxi Visetos material.

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Keeping to Harper Collective’s vision for embracing the beauty of imperfection, no two pieces are exactly alike due to the upcycled nature of the source material.

In addition to the unique make of the luggage, each piece includes a blockchain-linked NFC chip and a Digital Product Passport (DPP) so that you can effortlessly verify the authenticity and sustainability of your purchases — which can be easily done through the scanning of the embedded NFC chip.

This initiative reflects MCM and Harper Collective’s shared commitment to ensure each luggage is genuine and eco-friendly with the entire lifecycle of the product transparently documented and easily accessible to the customer.

The collection will be promoted with a computer-generated imagery campaign that has been conceived by Jaden smith and features artwork by graffiti Japanese artist Inagaki that depicts an alien journey from outer space to the depths of the earth’s sea where an alien confronts the dilemma and opportunity of plastic waste.

Here’s a look at the campaign video.

The MCM x Harper Collective collection is available at MCM PARAGON AND the Harper Collective WEBSITE.

The Dior Groove bag features pared-down patterns of macrocannage and Graphic Cannage embossed on the leather

Jul 13, 2024Jul 13, 2024

For Dior’s Autumn-Winter 2024-2025 Ready-to-Wear collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri introduces the Dior Groove bag, a new object of desire that’s ultra-modern, and both casual and sophisticated all at once.

On its Boston form, there’s the iconic Dior Oblique jacquard and the pared-down patterns of macrocannage and Graphic Cannage embossed on the leather. Finishing touches include a gilded padlock and a key ring punctuated with a star — Christian Dior’s talismanic symbol.

It’s designed to be perfectly functional too, with an adjustable shoulder and crossbody strap, and sturdy handles for carrying the bag by hand.

Priced from $3,700, available in Dior boutiques and online at dior.com.

Mugler x Gentle Monster collaboration to launch 18 July with two signature styles

Jul 12, 2024

Integrating luxury brand Mugler’s unique heritage and the contemporary aesthetics associated with Gentle Monster eyewear, the Mugler x Gentle Monster collaboration is one that fuses creative artistry and innovation in two unique eyewear silhouettes.

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Aptly named Spiral 01 and Spiral 02, after the signature spiral details, Spiral 01 (S$635) is a geometric designed eyewear inspired by a modern exploration of Mugler’s ‘Fourmis’ eyewear, which was first introduced as part of the House’s 1997 ‘Les Insectes’ haute couture collection.

Spiral 02 (S$495), on the other hand, stands out with a contemporary edge and features embossed line details and a chrome logo on the temples.

Here’s a look at the campaign, lensed by creative Theo Liu, that pays homage to iconic visual innovators that include Helmut Newtown and Manfred Thierry Mugler.

The Mugler x Gentle Monster collection is set to launch on 18 July through MUGLER and GENTLE MONSTER’s official online and physical boutiques as well as select multi-brand shops globally.

For more information, click HERE.

Louis Vuitton launches Men’s Workwear Capsule Collection by Pharrell Williams

Jul 12, 2024

In a collection that is inspired by the American Western origins of workwear, the Men’s Workwear capsule collection by Louis Vuitton Men’s Creative Director Pharrell Williams will include not only ready-to-wear apparels and the limited edition Keepall 50 Toolbox bag but also the brand’s highly-anticipated boot collaboration with Timberland.

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Emphasising versatility, the ready-to-wear apparels from the collection features sophisticated workwear silhouettes combined with durability and refinement in suits with over-dyed jacquards rendered in elegant tones of browns, blacks and beiges.

You can also find characteristic yokes and leather appliqué motifs of Western wardrobes on the pockets of the trucker jackets and coats alongside turquoise-like buttons, pearls, embroideries and studs to reflect the flair of Louis Vuitton.

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A focus of the capsule collection is the introduction of the Keepall 50 Toolbox which is a utility-inspired interpretation of the Maison’s emblematic bag. Created in the image of a toolbox, the Keepall is crafted in natural leather and constructed with multiple exterior pockets and rivets, and lined in coated Monogram Canvas.

LOUIS VUITTON x TIMBERLAND

Crafted in Fiesso d’artaco, Louis Vuitton’s Italian shoe atelier, the collaboration between the American brand and the Maison has reimagined the classic Timberland boots into three designs, namely the LV 6-inch, the LV Boot and the LV 6-inch Exceptional Edition.

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The LV 6-inch boot, available in wheat and black, is created using premium supple Italian nubuck leather with an insulation system and seam-sealed waterproof construction, and features the work boot’s signature rubber lug outsole and an elegant LV Monogram embossment which is visible up-close.

Magnifying the 6-inch silhouette by fifteen percent is the LV Boot has been manifested into various different forms, offering you the option of an ankle boot, a ranger boot with an elongated shaft, lace hooks and strap details, a pull-on mid boot with bag puller details and brown leather ankle cuffs, and a pull-on harness boot that features side buckles as well as a harness.

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The LV 6-inch Exceptional Edition ankle boot is crafted using the Classic Monogram premium supple waterproof Italian leather with a bespoke interpretation of the work boot rubber lug outsole and embellished with 18K gold LV tongue initials, Louis Vuitton eyelets, lace tips and tag hardware.

The shoe tongue has also been inscribed with the words “THE SUN IS SHINING ON US”, a sentiment expressed by Pharrell Williams during his debut show for Louis Vuitton in June 2023.

The Men’s Workwear Capsule and Louis Vuitton x Timberland Collection will be pre-launched on LOUISVUITTON.COM and the LV app on 18 July.

It will be available in-store on 8 August at the Louis Vuitton Marina Bay Sands Island Maison.

Samsung unveils the next generation of the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip, Galaxy Watches and Galaxy Buds

Jul 10, 2024Jul 10, 2024

It might have seemed not long ago when the Korean tech giant gave us the new and improved Z Flip Series but Samsung has upped the ante with their latest launch, making the Z Flip series smarter by infusing the next frontier of Galaxy AI into the devices to make everyday living a whole lot easier.

The new devices were announced at the highly anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event on 10 July in Paris, France to coincide with the Paris Olympics 2024 where Samsung is also a global sponsor.

Earlier this year, Samsung unveiled the era of mobile AI with the power of Galaxy AI and the launch of the new Galaxy Z series would open the next chapter of Galaxy AI designed to enable a range of unique mobile experiences.

The new Galaxy Z series is Samsung’s slimmest and lightest ever with a dual rail hinge structure that supports a strengthened folding edge to better distribute the shock of external impacts, and enhanced layers on the main screen to help improve the crease while maintaining strength.

Both the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 are also equipped with enhanced Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 to make it the most durable Galaxy Z series yet.

The devices are also both equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 mobile processor that combines the best-in-class CPU, GPU and NPU performance and optimised for AI processing with enhanced graphics for improved overall performance.

Here’s a closer look at the line-up of devices that were introduced.

SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FOLD6

Leading the line-up is the next generation of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 (from S$2,548) that offers a range of AI-powered features and tools to maximise the use of the large screen and enhance productivity.

It is also the lightest of the Z Fold models, weighing in at 239g and is the thinnest at 5.6mm.

A key feature to look out for include the all-new Sketch to image which allows you to create sophisticated art pieces that generates image options for you to include when you sketch or draw on your photos in the gallery or note screen.

The Galaxy AI has also enhanced barrier-free communication on the Galaxy Z Fold6 with the Interpreter by maximising its unique dual screen enabling both parties to conveniently view translations on the main and cover screens.

One-way translation is also offered for easy understanding when listening to lectures or presentations, and the Live Translate option makes it easier for you to translate phone calls in real time, directly on your device.

Not only does the Galaxy Z Fold6 allow you to create content but it now makes content more enjoyable too with an upgraded gaming experience brought to you by its powerful chipset and a 1.6x larger vapour chamber for you to game longer while maintaining performance.

The 7.6-inch screen makes vivid, life-like graphics come to life with a brighter display of up to 2,600nit to deliver more immersive gaming.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 will be available in Silver Shadow, Pink and Navy and is available for pre-order starting 10 July, 9pm. General availability in Singapore starts July 24.

SAMSUNG GALAXY Z FLIP 6

Even though the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 (from S$1,648) retains the design of its predecessor, the new generation of Z Flip offers a range of new customisation and creativity features for you to enjoy.

You can now enable AI-assisted functions without needing to open your phone thanks to the 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow. This means that you can reply to texts with Suggested replies, which analyses your latest messages to suggest a tailored response, and get access to more widgets such as the music widget.

With the AI-powered Photo Ambient, you can now see your wallpaper change in real-time based on the time and weather and customise your screen layout.

The camera experience on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 has also been upgraded with a new 50MP Wide and 12MP Ultra-wide sensors for crisp and clear details in photos. The new 50MP sensor supports 2x optical zoom for noise-free photos while offering AI zoom with up to 10x zoom.

Camera features such as Nightography has also been enhanced with video HDR to capture videos in dim lighting and is also available to use in-app on Instagram so that you can take photos at night directly within the app.

Another new feature to look out for is the new Auto Zoom on the FlexCam which automatically finds the best framing for shots by detecting the subjects and automatically zooming in and out hands-free, so that you don’t have to choose between cutting your friends or the backdrop out.

The Galaxy Z Flip6 will be available in Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue and Mint, and is available for pre-order starting 10 July, 9pm. General availability in Singapore starts July 24.

SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS3 AND GALAXY BUDS3 PRO

The new Galaxy Buds3 series comes with a new computational design that not only offers you a comfortable fit but also comes with an ultra-sleek and modern style complemented with Blade Lights.

This new design gives you a more intuitive physical experience by allowing you to control your Galaxy Buds by pinching or swiping up or down the blade.

Tapping on the power of Galaxy AI, the Galaxy Buds3 series also brings you a new communication experience through Interpreter when paired with the new Z series phones, allowing you to hear conversations or foreign lectures translated directly through your Galaxy Buds.

For those that are seeking a premium audio experience, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro (S$358) comes with enhanced two-way speakers with a planar tweeter for sophisticated, precise high range sound production, and Dual Amplifiers for a crystal-clear sound experience on-the-go.

The Galaxy Buds3 are priced at S$258.

The Galaxy Buds3 series will be available in Silver and white, and is available for pre-order starting 10 July, 9pm. General availability in Singapore starts July 24.

SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH ULTRA AND WATCH7

As the first Android smartwatches to be powered by Wear OS 5, the Samsung Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra is set to be the most powerful release from the Wear OS yet.

Building on the foundation of the Galaxy Watch7’s advanced health monitoring features and powerful hardware, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (S$988) further unlocks enhanced fitness experiences and is built for extreme durability with its Titanium Grade 4 frame and 10ATM water resistance, allowing you to swim in the ocean or cycle in extreme environments.

Other new features to look out for on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra include the multi-sports tile to track multi-course workouts for triathlons, the Functional Threshold Power (FTP) for accurately measuring maximum cycling power, and an advanced Personalised HR Zone for you to workout at optimal intensity levels based on your physical capabilities.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra also has the longest battery life within the Galaxy Watch line-up, offering up to 100 hours in power saving mode and 48 hours in exercise power saving mode.

Equipped with the most powerful chip in the Galaxy Watch line-up, the Galaxy Watch7 (from S$448) delivers a more seamless wearable experience for the first-time with a 3nm Processor which offers three times faster CPU and 30% improved power efficiency.

The Galaxy Watch7 is also the first Galaxy smartwatch to feature a Dual-frequency GPS system for you to more precisely track your location even in dense urban environments.

You can expect to have more intuitive experiences with the Galaxy Watch7 such as effortlessly responding to text messages with Suggested replies, and using Double Pinch Gestures to easily control your all-in-one Samsung Wallet when you have your hands full.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra will be available in a 47mm size in Titanium Grey, Titanium White and Titanium Silver, while the Galaxy Watch7 will be available in two sizes, 40mm (Green and Cream) and 44mm (Green and Silver).

Both smartwatches will be available for pre-order starting July 10, 9pm, with general availability in Singapore starting 24 July.

EXPERIENCE GALAXY AI

If you’re looking to get hands-on with Galaxy AI and the new devices, Samsung has prepared an interactive journey through Parisian-inspired pop-ups in Singapore.

Galaxy AI Village @ CHIJMES

Besides interacting with the latest Samsung devices, you’re invited to check out the Galaxy AI Café pop-up at Dough @ CHIJMES where you can savour exclusive Galaxy AI menu items that include ‘Hotteoking My Heart’, a brown sugar danish and ‘Doenjang Caramel Latte’, a sweet and savoury iced latte with soybean paste flavour.

Samsung members can also enjoy S$6 deals at selected CHIJMES merchants (Almost Famous, Analogue, Dough and Harry’s) when using the Samsung Wallet to pay.

Galaxy AI Studio @ Funan Mall

Experience the latest Galaxy AI features through a fun and interactive stamp rally where you can receive an exclusive Galaxy Blind Bag, designed by local student artist @threeangstybaos when you visit all six stations.

You’ll also be able to receive free CASETiFY accessories when you pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold6 or Galaxy Z Flip6 phones at Funan. Limited to the first 100 customers.

For more information on the events, click HERE.

Review of the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G with AI functions and a whole new design

Jul 9, 2024Jul 13, 2024

OPPO recently launched their Reno12 series on June 29th, and it includes the Pro version with incredible camera specs for a mid-range phone. The rear system features three lenses: a 50MP main, 8mp ultra-wide and 50MP telephoto lens. The front also sports an impressive 50MP selfie camera with auto-focus.

The candy bar phone feels really good in the hand; it’s slim and smooth, but not slippery. The Nebula Silver finish (the model’s signature colour) has a purplish holographic appearance at various angles, and it surprisingly doesn’t attract fingerprints considering its shiny surface.

The 6.7″ flexible AMOLED screen is curved on all four sides, and is what OPPO calls, the new Infinite View Screen — one of the most advanced screen technologies currently available on any smartphone. What this means is that it has the aesthetics of a curved screen, but with the grip of a flat screen, so you get immersive visuals without accidentally touching the curved sides. With this new screen design and shape, the phone is beautiful and looks premium.

The Reno12 Pro has all the other key features of a flagship phone model — ultra-long battery life (5000 mAh), fast charging, a protective Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 display, and an IP65 rating. These specs are close to a top-of-the-line smartphone, but at a price point that’s below a thousand dollars.

Apart from the phone’s expensive look and high-end specs, what’s most impressive about the Reno12 Pro is undoubtedly the advanced GenAI capabilities; and it’s no surprise with all new phone launches turning their focus to AI. With OPPO, they’ve partnered with Google, Microsoft, MediaTek and Qualcomm (to name a few) to produce a suite of GenAI features that cover a range of everyday uses.

There’s the “AI Eraser” function to magically remove unwanted people and objects in photos, “AI Clear Face” for restoring low resolution or blurry shots, and “AI Best Face” to identify people in photos with closed eyes, and to use AI to reopen these eyes in the photo. It all sounds almost frightening how advanced AI is getting, but to see OPPO incorporate this into their new launches shows that the brand is in the right direction.

The Reno12 Pro is another solid product from OPPO that is reasonably priced for what you get — and the OPPO customer knows it.

The OPPO RENO12 PRO is priced at $949 and available in Nebula Silver and Space Brown.

There’s a launch promotion running until 31 july 2024, with $80 off the phone + a free enco air 3 pro, worth $130 (total savings of $210). Myoppo app members get a further $38 voucher on top of the launch sale. valid on LAZADA, SHOPEE, Telcos, as well as OPPO ONLINE Store and OPPO Concept Stores.

PUMA teams up with LA-based label Carrots for a playful streetwear collection

Jul 9, 2024

Rooted in streetwear aesthetics, PUMA and Los Angeles-based label Carrorts by Anwar Carrots have partnered up to create a collection featuring a range of apparel, footwear, and accessories with throwback graphics of the PUMA mascot in a garden-inspired colour palette of oranges and greens.

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Each piece of garment from the collection also has a hidden logo embroidered in a different location as a nod to Carrots’ playful approach to design.

Apparel that you can expect to find from the collection include cut-and-sew items like the hoodie (S$129) and shorts (S$79) that features a logo lockup mixing the Carrots word mark with PUMA’s leaping cat.

[CLICK ON THE IMAGES FOR MORE.]

PUMA’s familiar footwear silhouettes have also been reworked in the collection and features the Suede XL (S$169) fully dipped in orange with contrasting green laces and gold Carrots detailing.

The 180 (S$219) has also been transformed using a black Cordura colour scheme with a special PUMA badge on the shoe’s tongue.

Here’s a closer look at the PUMA x Carrots collection.

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The PUMA x Carrots collection is available at the PUMA 313@somerset flagship store, PUMA outlets in VivoCity, Bugis+, ION Orchard, OG People’s Park and Footlocker, as well as online HERE.

Pamper yourself at the first-ever Dior Spa in Southeast Asia on board the Eastern & Oriental Express

Jul 9, 2024Jul 9, 2024

Since resuming its rail journey in February 2024, the Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia, has partnered with the House of Dior to create the region’s first-ever Dior Spa on board.

Departing on seasonal journeys from Singapore through Malaysia, the addition of a Dior Spa on the Belmond will offer you a wellness space to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.

Following a temporary residency on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express, the first permanent Dior Spa was launched on the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland in April 2023. The Dior Spa Eastern & Oriental Express will mark the Belmond’s third Dior Spa on the rails.

This new Dior Spa will be housed in one of the Eastern & Oriental Express’ 16 plush Art Deco-inspired carriages designed using hand-crafted tropical wood materials to blend in with the natural surroundings where the train passes.

The interior will also pay homage to Christian Dior’s love for flowers with rose emblems on the carriage carpets in shades of green and beige.

Each of the two luxurious rooms within the space is designed with furniture in iconic Toile de Jouy print which showcases the tiger — a nod to the Malaysian Sacred Tigers known to the region.

Guests will also be taken into a dedicated reception area to discover the spa and its premium range of products before or after treatment.

NEW ASIAN-INSPIRED BEAUTY TREATMENTS

To complement the serene and natural landscapes of Southeast Asia, the Dior Spa Eastern & Oriental Express offers five tailor-made treatments devised by the French Maison’s wellness experts.

- D-Jungle: An exclusive face and body treatment of Asian inspiration which offers a rhythmic, deep muscle massage from head to toe using stretching techniques and targets specific energy points
- Constellation: A body massage which uses a mix of massage techniques to help relieve tension
- D-Tissue: Offers the ultimate muscle relief using deep, slow and soothing movements to focus on releasing muscular pain
- Kobi-Dior Facial Treatment: Rooted in the ancient Japanese Kobido massage tradition, this treatment blends traditional Asian techniques with the Dior Prestige skincare line to sculpt the face and rejuvenate the skin to leave you with a radiant and youthful appearance
- Le Spin de Minuit: This treatment incorporates meditative exercises designed to promote sleep and optimise skin regeneration for a luminous and revitalised complexion by the morning

EXPERIENCING THE WONDERS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

In addition to the relaxing time onboard at the Dior Spa, you can also expect to go on great adventures with two unique three-night itineraries namely the Essence of Malaysia (November to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to October).

The Essence of Malaysia takes you from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and finally to Penang where you can enjoy the sights at UNESCO World Heritage sites, lively street art, and a thrilling food scene.

Wild Malaysia, on the other hand, covers the untouched areas surrounding the ‘Jungle Railway’ and gives you the unique opportunity to visit the Taman Negara National Park which is home to the oldest tropical rainforests in the world and hundreds of species such as tigers and leopards.

This itinerary also offers you a variety of excursions off the train which include learning about the safeguarding of the Malayan Tiger and a foraging experience in the jungle.

The Eastern & Oriental Express boasts eight sleeping carriages with two restaurants, a Piano Bar and an open-air observation car. All three cabin categories — Pullman, State, and Presidential — feature cherry wood interiors, air-conditioning, en-suite showers and bathrooms.

Prices start from USD $3,750 (approx. SGD $5,087) per cabin. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Gucci unveils new Interlocking Watch collection in a timeless design featuring its iconic motif

Jul 8, 2024Jul 9, 2024

The Gucci Interlocking watch collection reflects the essence of modern elegance and sophistication with timepieces that offer sporty and contemporary variations.

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Crafted for those who value precision and personality, the sporty variations (£2,200 each, approx. S$3,800) include two 41-mm automatic versions and three 41-mm chronograph variants.

Available in brushed blue or black PVD, the 41-mm automatic range is paired with sporty rubber straps and features the iconic interlocking G motif on the bottom of the watch face as well as a seconds hand that colour matches with the ring around the crown.

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The chronograph (S$3,410 each), on the other hand, comes in black, blue or green with three sub-dials and two pushers for precise time measurement. It also features a tachymeter which allows elapsed time to be converted into speed, blending functionality and elegance.

[CLICK ON THE IMAGES FOR MORE.]

Embellished with diamonds, the contemporary variations include two 29-mm timepieces (S$2,660 each) that feature the interlocking G motif in the small seconds display alongside sun-brushed silver dials accented with pink tones or a sun-brushed pink dial with eight diamond markers.

The timepieces also come with a stainless-steel bracelet and Gucci’s hallmark cushion shape which adds depth and enhances the design of the watch, capturing the essence of the modern Gucci aesthetic.

For more information about the Gucci Interlocking Watch Collection, click HERE.

CMF by Nothing launches its first phone — Phone 1 — and it’s modular and affordable

Jul 8, 2024Jul 7, 2024

London-based consumer technology brand, Nothing wants to make good design accessible; and they do this through their sub-brand, CMF. CMF stands for colour, material and finish, and the brand delivers on these three simple principles, with a focus on well-designed products that are functional and affordable for most.

CMF launched in September 2023 with three products — Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN, and now less than a year later, they unveil their very-first phone: CMF Phone 1.

DESIGN

The CMF Phone 1 looks nothing like the original Nothing phones; there are no fancy glyphs that light up or funky sounds to programme, instead it’s a solid matte case that can be removed and switched out according to the colour you feel like. Its build looks and feels premium, and the phone is amazingly thin.

Above: the cmf phone 1 in the all-black case. It’s a brushed, matte finish that you won’t get a single fingerprint on.

Above: the four colours that the phone case comes in. we’re loving the orange and blue that are beautifully crafted in vegan leather.

Each cover comes with its own screwdriver, set of screws and matching SIM card tray. And with this modular design, you can mix and match all the parts of the phone, for example, pairing a black coloured knob with the orange case.

Above: this is what the cmf phone 1 looks like with the case removed.

The phone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, has a good battery size of 5000 mAh that supports 33W Fast Charging (you get 50% power in just 20 minutes), and allows up to 16 GB RAM. As for the screen, it’s a large 6.67″ Super AMOLED display that has a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate. These are all really great specs for the phone’s price point and compared to other phones at a similar price range.

CAMERA

The camera set-up is pretty straightforward; it’s a Sony 50 MP main camera featuring an f/1.8 equivalent aperture and 79º field of view, and a 16 MP front camera for your Zoom calls.

Above: The 50 MP camera also supports electronic image stabilisaton with action mode.

WHO IS THIS FOR?

The CMF Phone 1 is priced affordably at $369 (8 GB + 256 GB). Nothing touts it as a great entry-level phone for early smartphone buyers. It’s attractive for someone who’s on a budget, but still wants a stylish Android phone that looks expensive. This model is suitable for parents as well who are considering a spare phone with a decent-sized screen for kids to use.

ACCESSORIES

Nothing launches the Phone 1 along with three (also affordably priced) essential accessories: a magnetic card case, kickstand and lanyard ($19 each).

Above: the lanyard is very easily attached by replacing the circular knob.

Above: the kickstand in orange.

Above: the card case comes in orange too, and is screwed in via the holes on the back of the case.

Above: the case itself is attached magnetically to the backing and can be removed.

To complete the CMF ecosystem, Nothing unveils their new Buds Pro 2 and Watch Pro 2 that work seamlessly with the CMF Phone 1. But of course even without Phone 1, you can connect these to an existing smartphone via Bluetooth.

The Buds Pro 2 has what Nothing calls, the best-in-class sound specs. There’s Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation of up to 50 dB with a frequency range of up to 5000 Hz. The sound is a bit bassy, which makes it good for use on noisy trains and airplanes.

Above: CMF Buds Pro 2 in black.

Above: The buds pro 2 case and earbuds, which sit securely and very comfortably in the ear,

The Buds Pro 2 case is the winning part of this product; the Smart Dial on the case itself can be customised to control different aspects of sound, from volume to pause and play.

Above: CMF watch pro 2.

Available from 12 July 2024 at the official CMF stores on lazada and shopee.

prices: CMF Phone 1, $369 / buds pro 2, $99 / watch pro 2, $119.
phone accessories (stand, lanyard, card holder), $19 each.
watch strap, $29.

Jo Malone London launches a Paddington Bear-inspired Orange Marmalade scent

Jul 8, 2024

Inspired by the beloved trench coat-wearing Paddington Bear, Jo Malone London has launched a collaboration that celebrates Paddington’s favourite snack — his marmalade sandwiches that he hides beneath his iconic red hat.

The scent offers a refined take on the most British of preserves and blends warm wood notes with the essence of orange zest to create Orange Marmalade.

The limited-edition Orange Marmalade Cologne is available in a 30ml bottle (S$135) and a 100ml bottle (S$260).

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In addition to the cologne, there are four exclusive gift collections which includes a special trunk design, inspired by Paddington’s suitcase, that features Jo Malone London favourites across cologne, home and bath & body categories.

Products in the VIP-Exclusive Trunk Set (S$875) are fully customisable with at least one Orange Marmalade scent.

The limited-edition Paddington collection is available now at Jo Malone London outlets and online at JOMALONE.COM.SG.

Receive a customisable leather luggage tag when you make a minimum spend of S$240 at the ION Orchard Boutique during the month of July.

Watchmaker Girard-Perregaux teams up with Saint Laurent for limited edition Casquette 2.0

Jul 6, 2024

Following the success last year where watchmaker Girard-Perregaux and high-end lifestyle brand Saint Laurent Rive Droite teamed up to create an exclusive interpretation of the Casquette watch, the two luxury brands have come together once again to conceive a new design of the Casquette for 2024.

Girard-Perregaux Casquette 2.0 Saint Laurent 02 in 2024 (USD $7,500, approx. S$10,181).

The Girard-Perregaux Casquette 2.0 Saint Laurent 02 (USD $7,500, approx. S$10,181) has once again been reinterpreted into a limited edition design, presented in silver grey tones and crafted from grade 5 titanium to endow the watch case with a combination of different finishes, similar to satin, polished and sandblasted surfaces.

The 2024 version of the Casquette 2.0 includes an ergonomic watch case that weighs less than the steel model of 1976, ensuring comfort when you put it on.

Since 1791, Girard-Perregaux has been one of the leaders of fine watchmaking and a leading exponent of quartz timekeeping, setting the frequency of 32,768 Hz, which became a standard that was universally adopted within the watch industry.

In 1976, the brand unveiled the Casquette that encompassed cutting-edge technology and presented in an avant-garde style with futuristic tubular LED display, bright red numerals and housed in an ergonomic watch case offered in steel, gold plated steel, and Makrolon — a composite material that is light and robust.

Girard-Perregaux brought the Casquette back in 2022, aptly naming it Casquette 2.0, with several enhancements that included a watch case formed of black ceramic and titanium and features a chronograph, second time zone (to display time in a different location), and a ‘secret date’ which marks the wearer’s memorable date such as their birthday.

It also featured a new quartz movement, the Calibre GP3980, which delivered an inventory of functions that included the hours minutes, seconds, day, date, month, and year.

The Casquette 2.0 was then reimagined last year, in partnership with Saint Laurent Rive Droite, with a design that included black ceramic and Grade 5 titanium, an alloy that is light, strong, stiff, corrosion resistant, non-magnetic and hypoallergenic.