It’s time we dropped neutrals, beige and millennial grey. The Le Bain Hermès collection proves that colour is something we can embrace, especially with how these vibrant glass bottles, and the delicately-crafted formulas within, are guaranteed to bring joy during our bath and shower moments.
The new Le Bain Hermès sees refillable glass bottles bearing the Hermès hallmark, and consists of eight compositions infused with the house’s signature and most evocative fragrances — three of these bring us the joyful freshness of the Colognes collection, while the other five represent the beautiful floral gentleness of the Parfums-Jardins creations.
If you’re into layering scents and smelling good wherever you go, scented bath products are the way to go. Here, the three colognes — the Eau d’orange verte, Eau de rhubarbe écarlate, and Eau de citron noir — are bottled in a hair and body shower gel, and a foaming hand and body wash, both offering a nice fragrant lather. These are complemented by their own refills, as well as a moisturizing body lotion to complete one’s body care ritual.
Then, there are the fragrances — particularly, the Un Jardin sur le Nil, Le Jardin de Monsieur Li, Un Jardin à Cythère, Un Jardin sur le Toit and Un Jardin sur la Lagune. These are interpreted into a hair and body shower gel, the first three with their own refills, and a moisturizing body lotion. The Un Jardin sur le Nil and Un Jardin à Cythère are also available as a dry body oil to leave skin absolutely silky-smooth.
Le Bain Hermès, available from June 2024 at Hermès Liat Towers, Hermès Marina Bay Sands, Hermès Takashimaya, Takashimaya Department Store, and Tangs Department Store and Hermes.com.
As a celebrated makeup artist to the stars, and the go-to professional for Kim Kardashian herself, Mario Dedivanovic is renowned in the beauty world, and has had over 20 years of experience under his belt — which is why we trust anything he touches.
His namesake brand, Makeup by Mario, became an instant sensation the moment it launched in 2020, because it seems like Mario knows exactly what we want: products that work, while making one’s beauty beat look as effortless as possible. So of course we’re dizzy with excitement knowing that it’s (finally!) be launching at Sephora Singapore.. today!
Here’s brand founder Mario making the announcement on Sephora’s Instagram page:
The high-performance makeup by the brand include pigmented eyeshadows, a luminous foundation, and complexion products such as balms, bronzers and blushers, as if he’s distilled his years of perfected techniques and understanding of beauty into formulas that are intuitively easy for everyday use.
They’re often touted for being truly blendable and buildable; the complexion products, especially, have earned rave reviews online, and are often at the top of beauty awards lists because of how natural, and naturally-enhancing, they look on one’s skin.
Ahead, we round up 6 bestselling, most talked-about items that have taken the world by storm — and that you should pick up immediately at a Sephora near you!
1. SurrealSkin™ Foundation, $82
If you find yourself craving for a foundation that gives you a beautiful, luminous glow, you’ve come to the right place. Makeup by Mario’s SurrealSkin™ Foundation arrived to the scene with much fanfare, and is one of those base products that enhances your skin’s natural glow, while providing just the right amount of buildable coverage to even out texture and blemishes.
It has a weightless feel, and impresses because of how sheer to medium to heavy you can take it; netizens also speak of how well it wears throughout the day, without separating or oxidising, so it looks just as good at the end of the day as the moment it goes on.
2. Master Mattes® Eyeshadow Palette, $102
Here’s another product with its own cult following: the Master Mattes® Eyeshadow Palettes, perennial Sephora bestsellers for their modern, creamy mattes. It can easily function as a makeup newbie’s starter kit, or as a seasoned pro’s go-to, because either way, you know the matte shades are specifically curated to be as versatile as possible.
There are two versions of the palette. The Original version features “Mario’s ride-or-die mattes”, inspired by human skin tones that go from light to deep, though in timeless shades that focus on clean application and minimal fallout; the darkest shade, Intense Black, even contains a carbon black pigment that’s 5x more intense than a traditional black shadow. As for the more recent launch, The Neutrals, think 90s supermodel, with a neutral-toned eyeshadow palette of 12 buildable shades, balanced between warm and cool tones so it’s curated for every skin tone.
3. SoftSculpt® Transforming Skin Enhancer, $62
A classic since its inception, the SoftSculpt® Transforming Skin Enhancer seems to be one of those makeup artist secrets, packaged in a neat case. This is essentially a 3-in-1 tinted complexion balm, with sheer coverage, that warms, tints, and evens out the skin tone — it’s just as beautiful as a skin tint, though we can also opt for a slightly darker shade to use it as a creamy bronzer that gently sculpts the face. Another plus is its nourishing formula, so you’re always promised a dewy finish.
4. Soft Pop Plumping Blush Veil, $60
Cream and liquid blushes are still having their moment, and why not? They often provide a your-skin-but-better luminosity, and yes, of course the Soft Pop Plumping Blush Veil aces this as well. Mario himself attests that his modern take on cream blush melts onto the skin for a “stunning, transparent veil of colour that allows your natural complexion to shine through”. That’s enough motivation for us. We have to say though, its weightless balm formula is infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, and the precise amount of pearlescent pigments to nourish and enhance our cheeks.
5. SoftSculpt® Shaping Stick, $62
There’s nothing more convenient than a makeup stick we can take with us on-the-go, which is why we’re impressed with the design of this one — a dual-ended shaping stick with a buffing brush on the other end? Sold! That said, we’d trust Kim Kardashian’s makeup artist for his contour techniques too, so this creamy formula pays off with its blendable and buildable texture for a softly-sculpted look. It also gives natural-looking definition that then dries down to a natural matte finish.
6. MoistureGlow™ Plumping Lip Serum, $50
True glossed-up lips require a good skincare routine, it’s true, but if you’ve got no time to exfoliate and lip mask and lip balm before, while still needing colour on your lips, here’s where the MoistureGlow™ Plumping Lip Serum shines. The melting glossy balm gives the look of plump lips with its dewy shine, and is made in a range of inclusive shades so you’ll be able to find your perfect neutral.
Makeup by Mario, available at Sephora online, in-app, and at Sephora Vivo City.
Summer is always an all-out affair, especially when we’ve got beach days and sunny holidays in our horizons, which is why CHANEL’s setting us up for an ideal escapade. The CHANEL SUMMER CLUB will have us looking and smelling amazing on our next vacation, with a suite of fresh fragrances, luminous makeup and skincare essentials, all available at Changi Airport Terminal 1.
The pop-up space at the airport terminal’s departure transit hall, meant to be a stunning stopover before your next flight out, is a destination in itself, thanks to its luxurious ambience and a welcome desk surrounded by palm trees, akin to a summer beach club. It’s open to the public — and travellers — now till 1st July, while the podium is also CHANEL’s first summer club concept that’s launched in the Asia-Pacific region, in partnership with The Shilla Duty Free Singapore and Changi Airport Group.
While you’re there, go ahead and discover a range of CHANEL’s iconic fragrances, including the LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL, a collection of fragrances inspired by different chapters of Gabrielle Chanel’s life. The house’s signature series of skincare and makeup travel essentials will also be there for us to be inspired by.
The CHANEL SUMMER CLUB will further offer exclusive podium services, such as a ‘Minute Mode Avion’ eye contour treatment and ‘L’Escale Relaxation’ hand massage for us to feel pampered, and the ‘L’Instant Parfum’ experience where we get to learn the art of scent layering with CHANEL’s exquisite fragrances. You’ll then get to complete your visit with a photo opportunity at the photo wall, or send a postcard to a loved one.
CHANEL SUMMER CLUB Podium Date: May 23rd to July 1st 2024 Location: Changi Airport Terminal 1, Departure Transit Hall Opening hours: 6am to 1am (Daily)
A wet floor cleaner is basically a mop, right? Well, Dyson has just made the fanciest mop in the world. They’ve tapped on their expertise in making vacuum cleaners, and turned one into a device that can clean with water and mop up liquids through its iconic rollers. They call it the Dyson WashG1 wet floor cleaner. Watch the introduction from Dyson engineers:
In photos, the cleaner looks like quite a large device, but when we see it in person, it’s sleek and has a streamlined design. Assembling the unit out of the box is straightforward, and if you’re familiar with Dyson vacuums, you’ll intuitively know where to snap in the various parts.
Above: the dyson washg1 wet floor cleaner ($999).
There are two water tanks — one for clean water (with a 1 litre capacity), and the other to hold the dirty water (with a 0.8 litre capacity). This separation ensures that you’re always using clean water on the floor, and not just swishing around the used dirty water from previously cleaned areas.
Dyson users will be familiar with the motorised rollers. These are made with high-density microfibre that is super absorbent, and spins at a speedy 250rpm to pick up dirt. There are two rollers, both spinning in opposite directions, and you can see them at work sweeping smoothly across the floor and cleaning up dirt, spills, hair and anything else on your hard floor surface.
Above: the rollers spin in opposite directions.
The dry debris is collected in a tray, which has a click release for easy disposal and washing, while the dirty water is sucked up to the lower tank — also easy to remove and wash. Watch the technology in action:
This separation technology is certainly far more hygienic than what conventional mops do, but then it’s also 500 times more expensive. While this gadget is for homes with hard floors (which is every Singaporean home), you’ll get most value out of it if you have larger floor spaces that aren’t cluttered with a lot of furniture, carpets and things; you’ll appreciate being able to glide this across your home, and watch it do its magic.
Above: using the dyson washg1 wet floor cleaner.
At the top of the handle, there’s a 1.4″ UI screen that displays useful info including your remaining run time, charge status, and here’s where you can also customise the level of water used based on debris type, flooring and personal preference.
Above: the UI screen.
If you need a burst of power, there’s a boost mode button, but this zaps up battery quite quickly. We do wish the Dyson WashG1 lasted longer than its 35 minutes of run time, but then it’s easy enough to charge and use again when needed.
Above: charging the dyson washg1 wet floor cleaner.
I do like the Self Cleaning mode that flushes 1 litre of water on the highest setting, so the rollers can get cleaned after each use, and won’t get gross so quickly. Would I reach for this when there’s a spill? I’d probably still grab a rag. But for whole house cleaning, this device definitely makes the job easier and far more fun.
The Dyson WashG1 wet floor cleaner is priced at $999 and will be available by July 2024 on DYSON.COM.SG and at dyson demo stores.
The hotly anticipated Leica D-Lux 8 has finally been announced by the brand, and this new compact digital camera brings the Leica experience to a more accessible form (and price point). The controls have been simplified and ergonomically repositioned, and the user interface takes after the user-friendly one used in Leica Q cameras.
The camera features a 4/3″ CMOS sensor offering 22MP (effective 17MP), and a fast Leica DC Vario-Summilux 10.9—34 f/1.7—2.8 ASPH lens (35mm camera equivalent to 24—75mm).
It connects to the Leica FOTOS app, has an included flash like previous models, and is also the first D-Lux to offer the DNG file format.
Leica will also be releasing a range of compatible accessories for the D-Lux 8, including a hand grip, carrying straps, wrist straps, leather covers in various colours, an automatic lens cap, soft release buttons and a range of bags.
The Leica D-Lux 8 retails at $2,450 and is available at official Leica Singapore Stores, the Leica ONLINE STORE, and authorised dealers starting 2nd July 2024.
Customers can register at this LINK to be notified once the camera becomes available in-store.
Adventure is out there! At least, that’s what Starbucks is gearing us up for, with a bunch of exciting Summer launches that’ll have us looking stylish while out in the sun and on our next quick getaway.
In anticipation of beach days, island life, and even intense travelling, some of their most functional drops in the Summer Lovin’ series include a beloved co-branded Starbucks® + Stanley® 40oz Quencher and an oversized 64oz Giant Water Bottle for all you hydro homies, in chic ombré tones of Starbucks-exclusive soft grey and dusty blue for the former, and a dusty green and black for the latter — which also happens to be a Singapore-exclusive.
Starbucks® + Stanley® 40oz Quencher ($81.90) in Dusty Blue and Grey.64oz Giant Water Bottle ($46.90) in Dusty Green and Black.
As for the merch to carry all these in, there’s a lightweight and extra roomy Mesh Tote Bag, made of durable nylon and polyester, so it remains waterproof and versatile for all occasions. It’s available in Steel Blue and Olive Green colourways, both just as versatile as well.
The Starbucks® + Stanley® 40oz Quencher ($81.90), 64oz Giant Water Bottle ($46.90), and Mesh Tote Bag ($39.90) are now available in-stores, Starbucks® Online Store, LazMall and ShopeeMall, while stocks last.
Mesh Tote Bag ($39.90) in Steel Blue and Olive Green.Mesh Tote Bag ($39.90) in Olive Green.
Starbucks has also launched additional exclusive swag for Starbucks® Rewards Members — these Summer Travel Bags and vouchers. For a limited time only, you’ll be able to snag an exclusive travel bag set online for just $69.90 (worth $99.90), which includes a compact travel bag alongside dine-in digital drink vouchers of 4 x Free Grande Drinks and 4 x 1-for-1 Venti Drinks. Available from 27 May only on the Starbucks® Online Store.
HUAWEI’s P Series has undergone a major transformation and is now known as the Pura Series, which starts with the Pura 70 line. There are three models available: the HUAWEI Pura 70, HUAWEI Pura 70 Pro, and HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra, with each redesigned from previous models to feature a new camera system and back plate — and for the HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra, the industry’s first Ultra Lighting Pop-out Camera. The lens pops out and retracts with each use, and houses a thin one-inch sensor and a large aperture of f1.6-f4.0.
This week, we had the privilege of shooting with the HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra in black (the other two finishes include a classy green and traditional brown). For the Ultra models, there’s a Starry pattern on the exterior, embossed onto the textured finish made of vegan leather. We would have preferred a cleaner design without any pattern, but we also understand the need to differentiate this premium model from the main lines.
Above: the huawei pura 70 ultra in black.
Fancy exteriors aside, the HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra is really all about the new camera system (like every P series model before it). HUAWEI fans and mobile purists will know this smartphone camera system is one of the best in the industry; and now this new Ultra model has an actual pop-out lens that activates with a satisfying mechanical sound. Based on HUAWEI’s testings, this camera structure can withstand 300,000 times of retractions, plus it’s fitted with a large one-inch sensor that captures more light. These specs are no doubt exciting for mobile photography.
Above: the lens pops out when the camera is activated. it then retracts when the camera is switched off.
We hopped over to Kuala Lumpur for HUAWEI’s XMAGE event to find out more. Here’s what we captured on the road:
Above: waiting to enter the boarding gate, shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: Waiting to board our Singapore Airlines plane to Kuala Lumpur, shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: blue skies flying to KL, shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: taking the shuttle bus at KL airport, shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: photo exhibition at the huawei event in KL, shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Like any smartphone, the HUAWEI PURA 70 Ultra is really easy to shoot with. The big difference is in the quality of the photos that it produces; they are clear and vibrant, but not overly saturated. For portrait pictures, the camera system handles bokeh really well; subjects look natural, with a gradual fade out towards the background. Check out these portraits that I captured at the HUAWEI event:
Macro shots look good too. The camera automatically detects the subject and how close it is, and changes lenses accordingly.
Above: spotted this cat outside pizza hut.
shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: the cat looked very comfortable.
shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
Above: had fresh, steamed mantis shrimp for dinner.
shot on huawei pura 70 ultra.
The HUAWEI Pura 70 series is available from today, 25th May 2024 at the brand’s official stores and distributors. For the Ultra model, if you didn’t pre-order a unit, chances are you’ll have to wait for the next batch to come in because it appears to be sold out at the time of writing.
HUAWEI pura 70 (12+256GB), priced at $1,098.
HUAWEI PURA 70 PRO (12+512GB), priced at $1,548.
HUAWEI PURA 70 ULTRA (16+512GB), priced at $1898.
available at HUAWEI Experience Stores at 313@Somerset & Westgate, and huawei official stores on lazada and SHOPEE.
It seems like spacious, oversized bags are in season over at Ferragamo, with their latest Spring/Summer 2024 launches embodying the old adage of “bigger is better” — they’re not wrong. The Hug Bag is an elegant design with two symmetrical straps, finished with Gancini closures, embracing the front panel with an air of sophistication. As for the Tote Bag, this isn’t your typical simplistic design, as they’ve opted for sides that fold in, creating almost a star shape that looks charming and leisurely. Take a look at the two new styles ahead.
THE HUG BAG
For those who like roomy bags without sacrificing on sophistication, the Ferragamo Hug bag checks off all the boxes, with trusty craftsmanship and a modern silhouette, perfectly balanced by two straps finished with symmetrical Gancini closures at its side. It’s minimalist, chic and sleek.
The Hug bag is available in two sizes — a Medium with the shades forest green, azur and sage leather, canvas with brown leather trims, as well as blue and azur rafia; and a Mini in azur and forest green. The collection also includes a clutch, with a removable strap so you can opt to wear it crossbody-style.
THE TOTE BAG
This is Ferragamo’s take on a large, deconstructed tote, made of tumbled calfskin and treated with vegetable anilines so it feels soft and luxurious to the touch. The bag was originally designed for the Men’s collection, but took off in popularity such that it’s been adapted for the Women’s series as well. We think it’s due to the casual yet elegant look of its folded sides, especially when paired with such a roomy silhouette, that’s then complemented by deep handles so you can just as easily sling it on your shoulder.
For functionality, there’s also an internal zipped pocket, double address tag and key ring charm, while the bag is able to retain its star-like shape while carrying it and even when it’s been set down. The Spring/Summer 2024 collection sees new colourways of a delicate sky blue and cement gray, as well as bi-color versions in optic white with sky blue, as well as cement gray with dark brown.
Available in Ferragamo boutiques and online at ferragamo.com.
Louis Vuitton unveils a collection of accessories and objects for Father’s Day 2024. There’s everything from trays and perfumes, to luggage and a turtle keychain. See a selection below and check everything out now at louisvuitton.com.
Find dad a forever gift from louis vuitton in-store and online HERE.
Tech and lifestyle brand CASETiFY is definitely the first place we go to for fun, printed phone cases and exclusive collaborations that range from tie-ups with k-pop groups BTS and BLACKPINK to fandoms such as Pokémon, Pixar, and Harry Potter. That said, they’re making quite the case for minimalist designs that still protect your precious smartphone from drops and spills, via an Essentials by CASETiFY™ collection, now available in new colourways.
This new seasonal drop, collectively titled ‘Fleur Expressions’, sees their bestselling Ripple Case in three new Spring hues — Primrose Pink, Buttercream Yellow, and Scarlet Red. These join neutral tones such as White, brown tones including Oat, Latte and Cacao, and a quintessential black, for an array of tech accessories suited to match one’s individuality and personality.
The Ripple Case itself is an elegant design of soft curves and smooth edges, with a subtle tactile ripple that extends from the centre of the premium soft-touch silicone case; you’ll also be pleased to know that it offers 6.6 ft. drop protection and is wireless charging- and MagSafe-compatible.
Other than Ripple Cases for the phone, a look at their website sees the same colour tones across AirPods Pro and AirPods Max cases, Apple Watch straps, and Rope Cross-Body Straps as well.
For a local twist, the latest Essentials by CASETiFY™ social media campaign also features some familiar faces, in the form of Singapore’s own media personalities and content creators. We’ve got Andrea Chong, Christabel Chua, and Sonia Chew reppin’ the new Spring colours, as well as the men Shawn Thia and Lennard Yeong showcasing the neutral browns.
Essentials by CASETiFY™: Fleur Expressions, available at casetify.com, and the CASETiFY Studio 313@somerset.
These are what the hot girls will be wearing this Summer — coloured sneakers! White and black are getting a little boring in the era of the adidas Sambas, and in fact, adidas Originals gives us another key shoe silhouette to look forward to, the Handball Spezial, this time in bright colourways as part of their collaboration with cult LA-based label Sporty & Rich.
The retro sportswear aesthetic of the brand comes through in the campaign imagery for the collection, which captures peak vintage vibes as the shoes are paired with rugby shirts, sweats and chic off-duty bodysuits. This marks the fourth collaboration between Emily Oberg’s elevated wear label and adidas Originals.
As for the co-branded sneakers themselves, each pair is true to the original design of a suede upper and leather detailing, while subtle “Sporty & Rich” text in gold can be seen just above the three stripes. The gum soles add even more of a retro-sporty hint to the footwear as well, available in green, brown and pink.
See the full collection here —
[click on the images below to expand.]
The adidas Originals x Sporty & Rich collection, $169 each, available from 23 May, 10am via adidas.com.sg, sportyandrich.com, and the following adidas stores: adidas Brand Centre Orchard and adidas VivoCity Originals (B1).
How do you stand out in what feels like an oversaturated beauty market? One thing we’re always drawn to — fun packaging. And we don’t mean it in a superficial way either. These days, beauty brands need to nail their aesthetics, simply because the digital realm prizes the visual so much, though it goes beyond that too; see, packaging instantly conveys the brand ethos while connecting with their audiences, a creative process that’s definitely true about Urban Jungle.
The bold fonts and colours by this Gen Z-friendly Aussie beauty brand is just one to communicate their even bolder mission to empower all with their choice of creating inclusive and easy-to-use skincare products at affordable price points, for a “skinimalism” routine that combines what they themselves deem “the Australian laidback approach” with effective made-in-Korea formulations. All their formulas are suitable for all skin types, as well as PETA- and vegan-certified.
The brand has also recently landed in Southeast Asia, thanks to its entry into Sephora, where they’re currently available online and at selected Sephora stores. Peek ahead for a selection of their most well-known products!
Ace name aside, this is one of Urban Jungle’s superstar products, as the powerhouse The G.O.A.T. Face Serum comes packed with skincare MVPs / active ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid for an effective brightening effect. Furthermore, the formula uses a unique micro-encapsulation technology to deliver these actives into our skin, ensuring more potent and better visible results.
Cleansing balms are quite our staples these days, so we’re glad that Urban Jungle has decided to bring in their Melt Me Softly Cleansing Balm. Meant as an everyday cleanser that melts away waterproof makeup, SPF (and the weekend’s regrets, they say), it has a buttery texture and is fragrance-free to make it safe for sensitive skin, while also containing nourishing oils so our skin will feel fresh and moisturised immediately after cleansing.
For days sans-makeup, look to their gel cleanser, which comes infused with Fermented Saké and AHA for exfoliating and brightening effects. The former is rich in enzymes that gently exfoliate the top layer of the skin for an even texture, while the latter, essentially Lactic Acid, further helps that process to reveal bright and smooth skin.
Grime Fighter Body Wash, $32 Midas Touch Body Lotion, $34
This friendly duo of body care products contain Apricot Seed Oil, packed with Vitamin A, C, and E, to nourish the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes, and maintain its baby-soft texture. The Grime Fighter Exfoliating Body Wash is a gently-exfoliating formula that contains Lactic Acid to help with the renewal of skin; follow up shower routine with the Midas Touch Body Lotion, infused with Niacinamide too, so you’re all set for smooth skin.
Urban Jungle is available exclusively on sephora.sg and at selected Sephora outlets.
An award-winning opera performance that recreates an entire beach indoors, with performers lamenting Earth’s decline; or an experimental look at Artificial Intelligence, by using AI itself as part of the performance. These weird and wonderful explorations, along with plenty of acclaimed international works and commissions, are part of the exciting line-up for this year’s Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA), which returns from 17 May to 2 June.
Brought to us by Arts House Limited (AHL) and commissioned by the National Arts Council (NAC), this year’s festival, long embraced as the pinnacle platform for the performing arts, features the theme “They Declare”, meant to express the multiplicity of voices represented by the diverse line-up, where performances span across music, dance, theatre, and visual arts.
The SIFA 2024 programme includes 5 newly-commissioned original productions and 7 international presentations, as well as programmes specially catered for families and children.
This year’s works also bring contemporary issues to the foreground, as intended by Festival Director Natalie Hennedige and her team as they “continue to build a festival that responds to the now, encouraging all present to embrace difference, and different ways of being”.
These include performances that explore our coexistence with the natural environment, in light of the climate crisis, or the beautifully weaving together of technology and art in multimedia, multi-disciplinary works that provoke us to ponder our existence alongside a digital world. Read on to discover four key SIFA 2024 highlights that we’re most excited by!
The Romeo
by Trajal Harrell (US/CH)
Photo credit: Orpheas Emirzas.
As one of the acclaimed international acts in this year’s roster, expect it to shake up your expectations. See, “The Romeo” is less like the Shakespearean play it was inspired by, and more a reimagining of the titular character, this time through the instinctive impulse of dance. Helmed by American dancer, choreographer and SIFA 2016 alumni Trajal Harrell, this is a large-scale piece featuring a dozen performers, one that takes after the passioned enthusiasm of a young lover who believed he could conquer death.
True to Harrell’s style, it also combines and juxtaposes various dance languages, such as court dance, pastoral dance, and even voguing, into a speculative style full of fluid movements. The outfits are one to watch too, and are at time bizarre to accommodate a multitude of protagonists — interestingly, these costumes have been designed by the choreographer himself!
Show Times: 18 May, Sat, 8PM ; 19 May, Sun, 3pm
Location: victoria theatre
More information HERE.
Una Isla
by Agrupación Señor Serrano (ES)
Photo credit: Agrupacion Señor Serrano.
Always wondered about the limits of Artificial Intelligence? Here’s a piece straight out of a sci-fi film, which explores that, these days, very tenuous boundary. Una Isla is a deep-dive into the realm of AI and performance, and through a fusion of choreography, live video, AI-generated music, and holographic sculptures, blurs the lines between human and machine, while exploring identity and coexistence in a digital world — highly apt for our times.
Presented by Spanish theatre company Agrupación Señor Serrano, this experimental work integrates both physical and digital performance languages onto one stage, where the performers themselves are conversing with AI, where they then generate text, images and music. This then brings us to consider, not just the possibilities of machines, but the nature of our own humanity and the meaning of our connections and interactions. For a local twist, our own Singaopore-based dance group ScRACH MarCs have also been invited to be part of the performing cast.
Show Times: 18 May, Sat, 8PM ; 19 May, Sun, 5pm
Location: SOTA Drama Theatre
More information here.
ANGELA (a strange loop)
by Susanne Kennedy & Markus Selg (DE)
Photo credit: Julian Röder.
Who is Angela, and why should we care? This close-up of a woman’s life, told in an inventive form that marries stage performance with innovative use of multimedia technology, provokes us to think about our own lives while she’s making sense of hers.
Having earlier premiered at Avignon Arts Festival in 2023 to rave responses, this is the Asian premiere of ANGELA (a strange loop), brought to us by Germany-based artists Susanne Kennedy and Markus Selg, as they take the character Angela through everyday experiences from eating dinner and waking and sleeping, to illness, giving birth, and ageing, all in an endless loop. We’re then led to fundamental questions of existence, identity, and consciousness, and as the lines between virtual and real start to blur, the nature of reality as well.
Show Times: 23 May, thu & 24 May, fri; 8pm
Location: victoria Theatre
More information HERE.
SUARA / ORO RUA
by Safuan Johari (SG) & Eddie Elliott (NZ)
Photo credit: (Left) Atamira Dance Company, (Right) A Syadiq.
Here’s a festival-commissioned work specially curated for local audiences — particularly, a collaboration between Singapore music artist Safuan Johari and Māori Choreographer Eddie Elliott, inspired by the power of the voice. SUARA / ORO RUA represents an interesting intersection of the two cultures, seen in the name of the piece too, with ‘suara’ meaning ‘voice/sound’ in Malay, and ‘oro rua’ meaning ‘to resonate’ in Māori.
The setting is this: a post-anthropocentric future where the world has gone silent, until the moment when fossilised voices once again emerge, a pivotal moment that too explores the sonic history of the Earth and takes us on a journey through time, movement and sound.
Along the way, we’re witnessing original music composed and directed by Safuan Johari, and performed by Singaporean musicians and vocalists with a mix of string and electronic as well, alongside dance and movement choreographed by Eddie Elliott and performed by New Zealand dance artists. Furthermore, prominent singers in our local music scene, including Aisyah Aziz and weish are featured as part of the vocalist line-up too.
Show Times: 24 May, fri & 25 May, sat; 8pm | 26 may, sun, 3pm
Location: singtel waterfront theatre at esplanade
More information HERE.
The Prose and the Passion
by Haresh Sharma & Chong Tze Chien (SG)
Photo credit: Joseph Nair.
Literature lovers would appreciate this theatrical adaptation of the letters, writing and life of E.M. Forster, one of the greatest English novelists of all time, now re-contextualised into a play that see fictional characters from Forster’s novels — particularly, A Passage to India and Maurice — going across space and time, and oddly enough, interacting with one another in an imaginative shared universe.
Celebrated local playwright Haresh Sharma, best known for his play Off Centre, and director Chong Tze Chien, also beloved in the theatre scene and just as award-winning, have come together for The Prose and the Passion, which sees both creative talents collaborating for a production that, through lyricism and fantasy, finds the heart of human connection amidst, perhaps, inevitable loneliness.
Show Times: 31 May, fri & 1 jun, sat; 8pm | 2 jun, sun, 3pm
Location: victoria theatre
More information HERE.
WIN! We’re giving away 3 pairs of passes to three shows on the SIFA 2024 line-up — The Romeo, SUARA / ONO, and The Prose and the Passion — worth $124 each! Head over to our Facebook page to participate in our contest.
Singapore International Festival of Arts 2024, happening 17 May to 2 June. More information on SIFA 2024 and its programmes, at sifa.sg.
Sunny days are ahead, so it’s time to ditch our Spring layers — not that we were that invested anyway — and embrace the islandcore way of life. LOEWE gives us plenty of reason to be in that tropical state of mind, thanks to the Paula’s Ibiza 2024 collection that’s filled with vibrant colours of green and hot pink, as well as plenty of handwoven raffia bags that show off the Spanish house’s expertise in the craft, perfect for that next beach getaway or leisurely city jaunt.
Let’s first talk about the new twists on their classics. The beloved Puzzle bag, alongside the Flamenco and the Hammock are given Summer makeovers, where we see new woven raffia versions of these signature style. The Puzzle, for instance, takes on raffia-textured stripes that follow the angular shape of the bag, making for a statement piece that looks effortlessly relaxed; a vivid Meadow Green version in leather is also available, as a nod to this recurring colour throughout the collection.
As for the Hammock, it’s also similarly reimagined in handwoven raffia stripes and leather, or crafted with a particularly intricate Ajouré (meaning ‘open to daylight’) pattern and paired with white leather to encapsulate breezy beach vibes. Then, there’s the Flamenco style — now in a Flamenco Purse, Flamenco Purse Round, and newly-added Flamenco Bucket — all of which can be identified by LOEWE’s ruched design, soft nappa lambskin leather, and knots at the sides, in that same bright green as well as sensual colours such as Dark Burgundy and Sahara.
We have to talk about LOEWE’s totes and raffia bags as well, starting with the Puzzle Fold Tote, a recent favourite, because of its innovative panelled design that allows the tote to be able to folded flat; it now sees raffia versions, crafted by local artisans in Madagascar, in various colours and patterns, and in two sizes.
The Font Tote, fun-sized and unfussy styles bearing the brand logo, are back since their debut in last year’s collection as well, in colourways of Meadow Green, Sunset Pink and Honey Gold, as well as a new mini size. Though we love the regular cuboid versions, there’s a particular style with ruffles on the side and heart-shaped embroidery that you absolutely have to look out for as well!
Spot the Anagram logo across roomy Anagram Basket bags and a more petite Anagram Checked Pocket, as well as other accessories such as exotic bird bag charms, raffia bucket hats, espadrilles, and wraparound sunglasses to complete the full Summer suite.
See some of our top picks here —
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The LOEWE Paula’s Ibiza 2024 collection, available at LOEWE stores and online.
Since you’ll probably be skipping over this paragraph, we really ought to go straight to the latest beauty launches we’ve tried, tested, and fell in love with. Ahead, the foundations, blushes and highlighters that give the look of good skin; one amazing brow pencil; and the precise reasons why we’re now walking around with pretty, glossed-up lips.
FENTY BEAUTY Demi’Glow Light-Diffusing Highlighter in Prosecco
“I’m not a fan of shine on the face, especially in Singapore’s humid weather, so I’ve always steered clear of highlighters; but this new one from Fenty Beauty doesn’t make the skin look shiny, but instead, it gives the complexion a subtle glow. Bonus points for the lovely texture that is smooth and soft, and blends easily on the skin. I thought that the pan was rather large but after realising I can use this almost everywhere I have a bone (cheekbone, brow bone, nose bridge, collarbone…), I can see myself working through this product over the months.” — Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief
“Did someone say new brow go-to? It’s rare to switch up one’s good old brow routine, but see, I’ve now tried Benefit Cosmetics’ latest eyebrow pencil, and I don’t think I’ll ever go back. The Precisely, My Brow Detailer is precise alright, and has a super-fine 0.8mm tip, the thinnest of its kind in the market; I enjoy the clean, crisp lines it gives, ones that look like real brow hairs, particularly near the front and the few sparse areas of my brows. It also goes on as creamy as advertised, and if you do make a mistake, the built-in blending spoolie on the other end takes care of it in no time.” — Amelia Tan, Deputy Editor
“Sisley makes very good quality makeup (but at a price) and their latest liquid foundation doesn’t disappoint. Just a dab of this covers the whole face beautifully; the finish is both smooth and matte, and blends in like a second skin. It also feels weightless and comfortable. I suggest going to the Sisley beauty counter to get the right shade and trying the texture for yourself; you’ll likely buy it.” — Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief
“NARS has a reputation for provocative-sounding blush shades (Orgasm, Deep Throat, Foreplay, tell us when you want to stop…), though they always deliver. Enter the new iconic NARS Blush, which boasts an upgraded formula, now with 16 hours of wear for even more satisfaction — and yes, you’re looking at Orgasm Edge, a matte version of the beloved shimmery peachy pink shade. I’ve already used it every day since I got my hands on it, not only because it’s a flattering colour, but also because I love how there’s proper pigmented payoff while the formula goes on silky and lightweight, proving you don’t have to work too hard for that glorious flush.” — Amelia Tan, Deputy Editor
$57, available at NARS stores and counters, and ONLINE.
MAC COSMETICS Studio Fix Longwear Cushion Foundation SPF 50/PA+++
“If you’re looking for a high coverage cushion foundation, this new and improved version from MAC is good. It has a new formula that includes Double-Fix Technology for ultra-thin, 24HR coverage, SPF 50/PA+++, and it’s made up of 76% skincare ingredients like Seaweed Extracts to control oil and shine. It feels good on the skin too; comfortable and natural, plus we love the large mirror and spongey plush puff.” — Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief
$76, available at MAC stores and counters, and ONLINE.
“Mascaras are a very personal preference; it’s whether the formula and brush work for your lashes — or not. Givenchy’s new volumising and lengthening mascara has got a great waterproof formula that’s infused with lash-caring ingredients, including a ceramide-like active that nourishes and smooths the lash’s surface, and D-panthenol, which strengthens eyelashes over time. This mascara seems to work well in Singapore’s weather; it holds up against our humidity without smudging throughout the day, and it does provide nice volume to lashes.” — Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief
$59, available at givenchy beauty stores and SEPHORA.
AMUSE Lip Fuller in Big Diamond
“Like most of the world, I’ve been obsessed with plump, juicy lips. And though I’m somewhat blessed in the fuller lips department, that doesn’t mean I’ll stop searching for the next shiny thing — something like AMUSE’s Lip Fuller. In a dazzling shade that’s really a clear base with specks of diamond-like pink and gold glitter, I like to use this as a lip topper over another lip tint (because I do appreciate more colour on my face). Why the extra step though, and is it worth the fuss? Duh. AMUSE gets it right with a plumping formula that feels cooling on the lips while creating a voluminous effect; more importantly, it literally glosses over lip lines for an amazing glass texture that’ll definitely have you collecting ’em compliments. Trust me on this.” — Amelia Tan, Deputy Editor
“For all you dewy complexion girlies, PIXI’s latest version of their popular On-The-Glow Blush is worth a try. This is a cheek tint / moisturiser stick that already promises fresh hydration, now in a unique pH-responsive shade that gives you a tailored, natural pink flush — and I’m here for it. It’s convenient to use — I simply swipe the stick across my cheekbones and blend with my fingertips — while I’m very pleased with the soft, cool pink and the luminous effect it gives my skin, especially when it catches the light right. This is the kind of low-key blush that makes it look like I skincare religiously.” — Amelia Tan, Deputy Editor
“Consider this love at first shine. I know, I know, the LOVESHINE series just launched, but frankly, I’m already taken by the Wet Shine Lipstick, especially in this sultry shade called Spicy Affair. It might look intimidating in the tube, but I assure you, it goes on with a sheer-but-not-too-sheer wash of colour, a glossy red wine actually, complete with the juicy shine as touted. The nourishing oils go a long way in making my lips feel comfortable and stay shiny for longer, plus it shows up brilliantly for all your flash photography digicam moments.” — Amelia Tan, Deputy Editor
$63, available at YSL Beauty stores and counters, and ONLINE.
Scent layering is one of those things we often hear about, but are, most times at least, too busy to do, so it makes the most sense for us to incorporate it into our daily shower routine — and this is where CHANEL’s latest beauty launches come in. The floral-sparkling notes of the CHANEL’s CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE fragrance is now available as LES DÉS DE CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE, a limited-edition set of four gentle hand and body soaps infused with the scent’s radiant aura.
As a fun touch, these soaps take on the motif of dice, engraved with CHANCE-themed symbols, with the familiar fresh notes of zesty citron, soft jasmine, and vibrant teak leaving a lovely luminous trail on your skin. To beautifully layer your scents — and thus, smell like a dream for far longer — use it together with the CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE Eau de Parfum, or even the matching Body Cream and Hair Mist.
Additionally, CHANEL has also debut two new sizes of the sparkling CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE Eau de Parfum, in an online-exclusive 35ml ($145), and supersized 150ml ($345).
LES DÉS DE CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE, $137 (4 x 40g). Available now on the CHANEL Official Fragrance & Beauty Online Store and CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty boutiques; available from 10 May at all CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty counters.
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