Riri can do no wrong in our eyes — her now-iconic Super Bowl performance comes to mind — and you bet the musician, style icon, mom, and beauty mogul’s always work, work, workin’ on things that inspire us. This time, it’s the revival of FENTY x PUMA, where Rihanna has taken on the role of Creative Director in a multi-year partnership that kicks off with new versions of the football boot-inspired Avanti.
The original Avanti sneaker, with its buttery-soft vintage leather and fold over tongue, is a design that has been around since 2001, and sports an unconventional mix of two PUMA icons: the King football boot, and a heritage running shoe called the Easy Rider.
Seen via Rihanna’s fashion-forward point of view though, we get the FENTY x PUMA Avanti sneaker in both classic black-and-white and edgy chrome colourways, marked by a debossed and printed metallic FENTY and PUMA CAT logo on its folded tongue. It also features a gum outsole and leather footbed, both nods to the PUMA king football boot, worn by soccer legends Pelé and Maradona.
“I wanted to bring something iconic from the archives to the street, and the late great Pelé made the Avanti shoe so iconic,” said Rihanna. The silver chrome sneakers is surely a futuristic take on it, complemented by technology that allows for laser-etched logos and leather chrome details on the shoe’s upper.
The FENTY x PUMA campaign was shot by Dennis Leupold and features Rihanna, A$AP Nast, Pure, Felix Mallard, and two young kids, to show that unisex shoe is available in both adults’ and kids’ sizes. There’s also word of a second Avanti drop that will follow this Fall.
The FENTY x PUMA Avanti is available worldwide on puma.com and select retailers. The collection will be available at PUMA 313@somerset, Limited Edt Marina Bay Sands, and PUMA.com from 15 September, 10PM.
Is this set to be the next Internet-breaking MoonSwatch? After all, Swatch has just announced another luxury tie-up, this time with Swiss watchmaking brand, Blancpain, to unveil five new models of the iconic Fifty Fathoms timepiece. This collaboration marks the 70th anniversary of the beloved, and world’s first, true diver’s watch, one that has served diving pioneers, elite marine corps, and those seeking underwater exploration.
For the Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms collection, this will be Swatch’s take on the Blancpain signature, and references their own SCUBA series of diver’s watches while sticking to the recognised hallmarks of the original Fifty Fathoms. That is, the watch’s case, its superior water resistance, outstanding legibility, mechanical movement, unidirectional rotating bezel to measure the duration of a dive, and Blancpain’s patented anti-magnetic protection. Similarly, this new model is water resistant in deep water, up to a depth of 91 metres.
What’s new though is that each of the five watches come equipped with Swatch’s revolutionary SISTEM51 mechanical movement, the first and only mechanical movement whose production is entirely automated. The Blancpain X Swatch collection also see exclusive colours specifically developed for this collaboration.
Swatch’s bioceramic material is also featured here, alongside another sustainable component: NATO straps made from recycled fishing nets removed from the ocean floor, as a thoughtful nod to ocean conservation.
After all, the watches are an ode to the deep seas, and each named after the Earth’s five oceans: the Arctic, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Antarctic oceans. In line with this inspiration, you’ll notice a transparent display back of a corresponding depiction of these magnificent oceans, as well as illustrations of nudibranchs as a digital print on the movement’s rotor, each as mesmerising and colourful as the vibrant creatures they represent.
Each watch will cost $565, a fraction of the Fifty Fathoms’ usual price tag surely, though take note that this is a non-limited collection, so you don’t necessarily have to run to your nearest Swatch outlet to get your hands on one!
The Blancpain X Swatch collection, $565 each. Available from 9 September 2023 at selected Swatch stores; purchases are limited to one watch per person per day.
Got a new home, looking forward to one, or know someone who does? Well, you must be in your household appliances era then, and it seems like a water purifier is the baseline essential for every newly-furbished space, equivalent to a fridge or a washing machine. But why are they so popular, nay, necessary?
Think of them as the upgraded — and more convenient — versions of the water filters our parents used to install. A good water dispenser is able to remove unwanted impurities from water, often pollutants or harmful contaminants such as chlorine, bad taste and odour from tap water; this then results in clean, better-quality water, and often, a better-tasting version too.
That’s not all though. I recently got to try out the RUHENS POP Water Dispenser, my first-ever water dispensing / filtering device, and was obviously taken by how convenient it is to… fetch water. Yep, this modern well was equipped with all the functions to dispense water at precisely the right temperature and quantity according to my whim.
More accurately, it’s able to dispense water at five different temperatures (cold, room temperature, warm, heated, and hot) at the touch of a button. I never needed to bust out the kettle when I needed boiled water for instant noodles, nor do I need to constantly restock my fridge with jugs of cold water, since everything was available this readily. So that’s a win for water dispensers, in general, but what sets this particular model apart from the rest?
The RUHENS POP Water Dispenser (Titanium Grey) in my kitchen.
ON THE RUHENS POP WATER DISPENSER
We’ve covered RUHENS’ other devices, particularly the popular V Series and the souped-up ICE, so you may go ahead and read our review if you’re considering between those. As for the RUHENS POP, it’s just as sleek and effective as the rest, with one major difference — a hidden nozzle.
RUHENS pop’s Hidden Nozzle
The machine itself looks flush from the front when at rest, but actually has a tucked-away nozzle that’s automatically extended when in use. This is for those worried about the tip of the nozzle being contaminated by air pollutants, which then affects the purity of the water; having a nozzle that only extends at a touch of a button helps prevent exposure to air contaminants, making our water even safer to drink.
While we might think of the nozzle as, well, just a nozzle, there’s quite a bit of science involved here, as RUHENS incorporates a self-automated sterilisation system just to keep it in tip-top condition.
The RUHENS POP is able to dispense water with a three-step sterilisation system that, first, self-sterilises its nozzle every hour for 5 minutes using UV-C LED to kill contamination and bacteria that may have been collected in the nozzle; it then uses Electrode Sterilisation to clear the water pathway every 7 days; and finally, self-cleans every 24 hours by removing residual water from the water pathway.
On top of that, here’s a run-down of the other key features of the machine:
a 5-stage filtration system
This multi-stage system eliminates harmful pollutants, yet keeps the primary minerals in water for a healthy balance.
Micro Carbon Filter — Eliminates harmful pollutants, such as iron, aluminium and mercury, and pollutants greater than 5μm
Nanofact Plus Filter — Removes water contaminants such as waterborne micro-organisms, bacteria as well as viruses
Post Carbon Block Filter — Absorbs remaining harmful organic chemicals such as chlorine, bad taste and odour from feed water
RUHENS also offers an option to opt for an Alkaline filter, which changes the water into a mild alkaline water
These filters are detachable for easy cleaning and replacement, while a filter change indicator automatically reminds users when the filters need to be changed.
The RUHENS POP’s hidden nozzle sits flush against the machine when not in use.
different temperatures and quantity control
As mentioned, the RUHENS POP conveniently dispenses fresh water in 5 different temperature settings, both hot and cold, including:
4°C — Cold, chilled water ready to refresh and rejuvenate
20°C — Room temperature water for quick hydration
40°C — Warm water, perfect for making tea and warm drinks
60°C — Heated water, at the ideal temperature to sterilise food equipment and baby bottles
87°C — Hot water, aiding in cooking and boiling purposes
Furthermore, there is a quantity control feature where we get to pre-set the amount of water needed, ranging from 120ml, 230ml, 500ml all the way to 1200ml.
dual tray + child-safe button
The dispenser comes with two different trays, placed just below the nozzle, for us to switch out according to various cup sizes.
As a safety precaution for those with young children, the RUHENS POP has a child safety lock that regulates the dispensing of hot water, while there’s a toddler button located at the bottom of the machine for children to have quick access to room temperature and cold water.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The RUHENS POP, where the nozzle “pops” out when dispensing water.
I definitely enjoy having a water purifier in my house, mainly for its convenience. RUHENS employs a tankless system that directly connects to the house’s water point, so I never worried about topping up or running out of water halfway through dispensing; having this mental load off my mind was as refreshing as the water that was dispensed from it. Furthermore, I could get instant water for making tea, cooking my cup noodles, filling up my huge to-go water bottle, have cool water for my guests, at the click of a button, and one after the other if need be. Gone are the days of waiting beside a kettle for it to boil, and then be cool enough to steep my tea, and I could even instruct my guests to go help themselves to fresh water. Having the quantity control buttons also frees up my time to move around the house instead of waiting by the machine for the water to fully dispense.
Compared to RUHENS’ V Series, the POP models are also slightly more affordable, along the $1,599 – $1,999 price range. Most of the functions are similar, including the 5-temperature selection and filters, though I’d say the newer POP has a sleeker design, plus you won’t have to remove the nozzle for cleaning since this is an automated function of the POP.
[click on the images below to expand.]
If you’re wondering about how truly functional the RUHENS POP hidden nozzle is, I have to be honest here. I’m not someone who overthinks the possibility of bacteria running over all surfaces, so the benefit of the hidden nozzle isn’t immediately apparent to me, not more so than the other benefits of the water dispenser (its ability to dispense clean water, and its convenience) — though of course I do recognise the peace of mind that some users may have about bacteria collecting on the machine. Out of sight, out of mind? If that’s a mantra you live by, then that’s certainly the case for the RUHENS POP: that I need not worry about contamination at all, much less having to frequently clean its nozzle. That’s one less chore to worry about!
I must, however, commend its hidden nozzle function as an aesthetic design choice. At first glance, the machine doesn’t look quite like the typical bulky dispenser, especially when I have mine tucked into a nook beside my kitchen counter (plan the dimensions with your ID!). The design, in Titanium Grey, blends into the shelf when not in use, safe for the futuristic lit circle of the “dispense” button. Its automated function is smooth and well-calibrated, such that it pops up immediately after the dispense button, and then hides back in place when it’s done. Overall, the RUHENS POP is a good-quality and reliable water dispenser that offers convenience on multiple fronts, and worth considering if you’re going for a no-fuss machine that works from the get-go.
The RUHENS POP comes in Titanium White and Titanium Grey and is priced from $2,099 (now $1,599). Available for purchase at RUHENS Studios.
Brands like Estée Lauder and Clé de Peau Beauté were the pioneers of super luxe creams; many, many years ago when I was working at the Estée Lauder counter, I remember staring at a jar of Re-Nutriv cream, wondering how skin care could cost hundreds of dollars, and how people (mainly women) were actually buying it. Now decades later, there are not just more options of luxury creams available, but their prices have escalated to a thousand dollars and above — and believe it or not, some of these are constantly sold out.
If you have the money, here are four that just launched and are really, really good.
CHANEL SUBLIMAGE LA CRÈME TEXTURE SUPRÊME
At $644 for 50ml, this CHANEL SUBLIMAGE cream is the most affordable out of these three skin care products. Its packaging is also the most stylish, with the polished glass jar designed in collaboration with a renowned expert French glassmaker. The inner jar can also be removed (you can buy the refill on its own) and it comes with its own screw-on cap so you can easily travel with this cream — it’s very light without the outer glass jar.
With all SUBLIMAGE products, there’s the key ingredient, Vanilla Planifolia that increases cellular rejuvenation. The texture of this cream is rich yet fluid; it feels silky smooth on the skin, and absorbs well and is surprisingly not tacky after it dries down. It’s most suitable for dry skin types (or dry climates) and thoroughly hydrates the skin, making it feel soothed and comfortable. Over time, expect skin to appear smoother and firmer, and wrinkles less visible.
CHANEL SUBLIMAGE LA CRÈME TEXTURE SUPRÊME, $644 for 50g (refill at $547). Available at chanel beauty boutiques and online at WWW.CHANEL.COM.
SISLEY PARIS SUPREMŸA LA NUIT AT NIGHT THE SUPREME ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE
This skin care launched on September 1st and is the newest of the three. At $930 for 50ml, it’s a steep jump in price from CHANEL SUBLIMAGE. This is also a specific night skin care; it’s designed with chronobiology in mind. Skin regenerates at night while we sleep, and Supremÿa At Night claims to unlock the skin’s regenerative power so it can recover from the damage and pollution of the day. The formula’s core ingredient is what the brand calls the Fundamental Regeneration Complex; it resynchronises, recovers and detoxifies skin. Expect to wake up to fresher and more rested skin the next day.
Alongside the new Supremÿa At Night, SISLEY PARIS has also launched a Gua Sha massage tool that helps skin care work even better, and that visibly lifts and smooths out skin. Check out the “how-to” video on the product’s web page.
SISLEY PARIS SUPREMŸA LA NUIT AT NIGHT THE SUPREME ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE, $930 for 50ml / Ginkgo Gua Sha beauty massage tool, $180, available at WWW.SISLEY-PARIS.COM.
LA PRAIRIE SKIN CAVIAR LUXE CREAM
LA PRAIRIE’s iconic Skin Caviar Luxe Cream was first launched in 1987, and has gone through several reformulations over the years. This current version features Caviar Micro-Nutrients with Caviar Premier (an ingredient with potent abilities to nourish and rejuvenate skin). There’s also LA PRAIRIE’s secret [Exclusive Cellular Complex]™, which stimulates cellular activities and invigorates epidermal skin cells. This complex is very potent, and only very little of this cream is needed to wake up and repair skin.
LA PRAIRIE SKIN CAVIAR LUXE CREAM, $950 for 50ml / $1,640 for 100ml, available at la prairie counters including ION Orchard #B1-15A, Metro Paragon, Takashimaya D.S., and TANGS at Tang Plaza.
DIOR PRESTIGE LE NECTAR PREMIER
This is Dior’s first refillable serum and it tops this list of skin care in price. At the heart of the formula is the brand’s Rose de Granville ingredient; a very special extract that’s combined with Rosapeptide to create Rosapeptide Premier, rich in 99 molecules. This targets the ageing process in skin and helps correct it so skin texture gets smoother and more radiant, while the contours of the face are plumped up to appear more youthful.
To harvest the Rose de Granville, this must be done just before it blooms, and can only be picked for a week before the rose buds open. And during that week, there is only one hour in a single day when this harvesting can be done — hence the rarity of the ingredient and high cost of the serum.
The Le Nectar Premier bottle looks luxurious, while the product feels like a dream on skin, with a silky smooth texture that’s instantly comforting.
DIOR PRESTIGE LE NECTAR PREMIER, $970 FOR 30ML / $870 FOR REFIL. AVAILABLE AT DIOR BEAUTY BOUTIQUES, COUNTERS AND ONLINE AT DIOR.COM.SG.
OPPO has just unveiled their upcoming flip phone — the Find N3 Flip. It’s the successor to the brand’s flagship Find N2 Flip that has become OPPO’s best-selling model in Singapore.
“For Find N2 Flip, we created the best flip phone possible, and now Find N2 Flip is the number one foldable in China. We couldn’t be more proud. For Find N3 Flip, we’re bringing upgrades across the board – elevated styling, an improved cover screen experience, and a game-changing flip phone camera – simply put, expect the exquisite from Find N3 Flip.” — Pete Lau, SVP and Chief Product Officer at OPPO.
The Find N3 Flip appears to be launching in three key colours (see official photo above), and will have matching leather cases available (local availability to be confirmed). It’s also fitted with a 4300mAh battery that supports fast charging, a 120Hz refresh rate display, dual SIM functionality, and most notably, it will see a flagship camera system in a flip phone format.
OPPO once again teams up with Hasselblad for their imaging engine and camera system, which includes a 50MP main camera, 48MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 32MP professional portrait lens (which we’re most excited about).
The Find N3 Flip launches first in China, with more details shared by the brand at its upcoming global launch.
The right keyboard is so much more important than I give it credit for. I recently discovered the joys of a mechanical keyboard; the satisfying sound it makes when you type, the tactile feel and punch of each key, and on a more practical note, the accuracy it provides because every key is separate. A good keyboard should also feel solid, and the G915 TKL from Logitech is one of the most robust keyboards I’ve ever tried.
Above: Unboxing the Logitech G915 TKL.
The G915 TKL comes in two finishes — Carbon (black) and White. They both have a premium brushed aluminium finish that is fingerprint-proof, and with a relatively thin profile for a mechanical keyboard. And because the switches have a low profile, they are fast and comfortable to type with. I’ve been banging away at this keyboard for a week now, and it’s clear that this is a sturdy, well-built device.
There are three switch types available for the G915 TKL, and the one featured here is fitted with the GL Tactile set that isn’t too clicky, but offers some tactile feedback. It’s the best of both worlds — it’s bumpy, but not too much.
Above: rgb lights can be fully customised, Or you can select from seven different presets.
Like all good gaming keyboards, there’s the all-important RGB feature; and in the G915 TKL, it’s intelligent. There’s a selection of preset effects (like a coloured ripple that starts at any key pressed), and users can create their own animations as well to enhance their gameplay. It’s really fun to type on and watch. My kids call it “chaotic” and they all want one of their own.
Above: The keyboard charges via micro usb and can be used wirelessly by bluetooth. it also comes with a Bluetooth dongle (that stores neatly behind the keyboard) in case your computer needs one.
The keyboard has good battery life too (up to 40 hours at 100% brightness). It can be plugged in and charged with a micro USB, and used wirelessly when you’re on the go. And since this is the more compact version of the G915, it’s portable enough to toss in the bag and bring around.
Above: the good quality volume wheel is a really nice touch to this keyboard. There’s also a switch to turn the keyboard on and off.
I’ve connected this to my Mac Studio and it works beautifully. I easily customised several keys, and I’ve been using the volume wheel to precisely control the computer’s sound levels.
Above: there are two heights for the legs.
For gamers, you can download the Logitech G HUB app to fully customise the keyboard’s lighting, and deactivate any keys that get in your way while you’re gaming.
If you’re upgrading your desk setup, start with an awesome desk mat, and then match it with a good quality keyboard like this one. Anyway it’s Logitech; it’s hard to go wrong.
Above: Logitech G915 TKL in white.
The Logitech G915 TKL is priced at $349, and available on SHOPEE and Lazada. Visit Logitechg.com for more info.
I’ve come to realise that everyone above 27 years old has back aches and wouldn’t say no to a massage. I love a good firm massage, but can never find the time to visit a decent therapist; and somehow Facebook knows this about me, which is why I’ve been seeing StretchPad ads on my newsfeed. It’s interesting what this “mat” promises — a full body stretch and tension relief. In the name of science (and editorial), I put it to the test.
The StretchPad is fitted with 22 precision-controlled air chambers that expand and contract to lift, push and roll the body to stretch and massage it. There are seven pre-programmed routines to choose from, so you can target specific areas like the neck, back and hips, and further customise it with three intensity levels.
Above: The hydragun stretchpad has a mat format that rolls up neatly for storage.
There’s a controller with all these selections and it’s intuitive and simple to use. I just wish they made the cable longer (it’s surprisingly short and I have to turn my head to the right to view the buttons while lying down on the StretchPad).
Above: The hydragun stretchpad controller.
Above: it’s effortless to use the stretchpad. you just need to lie down on it.
The air chambers are located at three key spots: the neck, centre of the back, and hips. For the neck area, the chambers expand and turn the head left and right. This didn’t do much for me, but it’s not bad either.
Above: The air chambers at the neck area expand to lift and turn the head.
The chambers at the sides squeeze the hips surprisingly tightly; it feels nice but nothing that can replace an actual massage at those areas. The back chamber is the one that did it for me; it lifts the centre of the back and this actually does relieve tension and helped me feel more relaxed. The StretchPad didn’t crack my back like a firm foam roller can, but I wasn’t expecting it to.
Above: The centre air chamber feels incredible when it elevates the back.
There’s a built-in heating feature as well that I can imagine helps to soothe sore areas and to boost blood flow. Given that the weather has been so hot lately, I wasn’t inclined to make my body feel hotter. I did, however, pass the StretchPad to my dad to try out (he just turned 80), and it’s been about a week since he took it over and he says that it works really well for him. On the first night that he tried it, it helped him sleep better. On subsequent days, I’ve been told that he’s been using it in the afternoons and he ends up napping on it. I asked him if the StretchPad was painful in any way, and he insists that it’s not. He genuinely likes the product and looks forward to using it.
I do have a massage chair at home, and I can’t say with certainty that the StretchPad can replace it, but it will definitely do well in homes that don’t have the space for a massage chair, or for those who don’t have the budget for one. At $599, the StretchPad is a far more affordable option than a massage chair, and it rolls up and zips up neatly for storage. The StretchPad is also very suitable for the elderly because you can just place it on a bed to lie on. It’s convenient, decently priced, and feels good where it matters. Get one for your yourself, and another for your dad.
Hydragun stretchpad is priced at $599, and available any HYDRAGUN.SG.
A CHANEL lipstick is anything but “simple”, but when you look at the brand’s newest creation — 31 LE ROUGE — it is in many ways a simple work of art; a lipstick created in a glass case instead of the usual plastic packaging. It looks both minimalist and fancy; elegant yet cool; it’s the sort of product that you’ll regard as precious and will use sparingly, if not at all.
The glass casing is inspired by the many panels of mirrors that line the famous rue Cambon staircase in Paris, and it transforms the ubiquitous lipstick into a true object of beauty. It will no doubt become a collectible for CHANEL fans and beauty junkies, and a bragging right when whipped out of the purse.
Above: mirrors along the wall at the rue Cambon staircase in Paris, that inspired the glass casing.
Above: CHANEL 31 LE ROUGE is available in 12 shades.
To create this new packaging, CHANEL called on the expertise of a master glassmaker from Japan to carve its sleek lines. Glass replaces the standard materials in this lipstick case — it’s a first for this type of design — and because it’s glass, the transparent nature of it reveals the lipstick’s colour as well.
Above: you can peek through the glass cap to see the lipstick shade within.
The lipstick’s formula includes gardenia-infused oil for an instant smoothing effect, plant-derived waxes and oils for comfort and hydration, CHANEL-developed camellia esters to soften lips, and Maracuja oil to boost hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin in the skin.
One lipstick will set you back $223 (yes, for one), but it is refillable, with a total of 12 shades priced at $100 each. And for the perfect gift, there’s a coffret that includes one lipstick, two refills and a sleeve, which will retail at $482.
See all the lipstick shades below. [Click on the images to enlarge.]
Earlier this year, American fashion house Coach, already on quite a bit of a roll lately, took the world by storm with the announcement of Coachtopia, a new sub-brand that’s all about circular craft and sustainability. The goal was to upcycle leather scraps and waste materials into brand new accessories, keeping them out of the landfill, and transforming them into functional daily essentials; we’ll admit, this has the tendency to sound rather uninteresting these days, but wait till you look at what they’ve come up with.
Driven by that important mission and with Coach’s over 80 years of leather expertise to boot, the leather bags are exploding with creativity, whether we’re talking about vibrant strips overlapping to form a wavy design, or quirky checkered styles created by woven leather, across signature leather bag styles such as the Ergo Bag and the Wavy Dinky. There’s even a new ‘Upcrushed Leather’ created by pressing together leftover leathers from the production of Coach leather goods, which creates a beautifully irregular pattern that’s unique to each bag.
Coachtopia, now at the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse.Coachtopia, now at the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse.
In Singapore, Coachtopia has launched their exciting array of handbags, accessories and ready-to-wear apparel at the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse, complete with our own unique retail experiences. These include an interactive Coachtopia Cloud Canvas that detects your movements and morphs them into a 3-D cloudscape, sustainable coaster handcrafting workshops, and new menu items over at the themed cafe.
How Coachtopia is Driven By The Gen Z Community
Coachtopia has also nailed the youthful buzz, energised by their campaign visuals and aesthetic design choices surely, but more authentic because of one thing — how they’ve included the Gen Z community since the conception of the brand.
They’re an obvious choice thanks to the young generation’s particular passion towards caring for our Earth, so it makes sense that Coach has tapped on their creative ideation and values, via an inclusive approach that brings together designers, climate activists, journalists, filmmakers, entrepreneurs, and fashion enthusiasts in consultative discussions. This also includes artist collaborations, and having Gen Z faces fronting campaign imagery.
The Ergo Bag and Wavy Dinky bags available at the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse.
“Circularity is about reimagining not just the product lifecycle, but the relationship between brand, planet and consumer,” said Joon Silverstein, SVP, Global Marketing, Creative and Sustainability at Coach and Head of Coachtopia. “We know that to transform our impacts, we need to fundamentally shift mindsets — from seeing opportunity in waste to designing backwards to taking a more open-source approach to creativity.”
“We’ve built Coachtopia as an entirely new world within Coach — an agile start-up with a mission to reimagine the end-to-end system. We’re building it not just for our consumers, but with them, inviting a growing community of hundreds of Gen Z individuals to join us on our Slack channel, collaborate with us on products, take centre stage in our content and campaigns — and reimagine our future together.”
Sabrina Lau (on the right), featured on the Coachtopia campaign visuals.
This then brings us to one such Gen Z creative, visual artist Sabrina Lau. The New York-based art director is part of Coachtopia’s Gen Z beta community, and was assigned the monumental task of designing a series of prints for the brand, which then goes on baby t-shirts, hoodies, and leather bags.
Sounds daunting? Think, opportunity of a lifetime, and naturally, this piece of news was received with much elation on her end. “I read the email, gasped, and then started crying! Honestly, it was initially just really hard to believe, and I still feel that way now,” she shared.
Fast-forward to today, and we get to revel in her vintage-style cherry and strawberry prints, as well as trippy ones featuring clouds and fuzzy mushrooms. Ahead, we detail the process behind her carefree creations, and hear her thoughts on Coachtopia’s goal of sustainability and circular fashion.
We’d love to know more about your graphic design background — do tell us how you got started in this field!
Sabrina: “I don’t have a formal background in graphic design / illustration, though I became interested in graphic design during college. I kinda just grew up drawing silly, cute doodles and have always been fond of different illustration styles. It was only during the pandemic that I really started experimenting with the style that I’ve currently landed on.”
What inspired you for some of the key motifs in your coachtopia designs, particular the cherry, strawberry and mushroom prints?
S: “We really wanted to create a colourful and optimistic world — like if you looked at the designs/art, you’d immediately smile. When choosing motifs like cherries, clouds, and fuzzy mushrooms, I really just wanted to remind people of fun and fond connections/memories they might have with these visuals. Anything related to nature also brings me a sense of warmth and happiness, so that’s why so much of the collection revolved around that as well.”
The Ergo Bag in Coachtopia Leather with Mushroom Print, featuring artwork by Sabrina Lau.The Relaxed T-Shirt in White, and the Ergo Bag with Strawberry Print.
what was the design process like for the collection?
S: “The team came to me with some broad moodboards and direction, so I really had a ton of liberty when coming up with sketches. For every project I work on (not just this one), I love going to the park and sketching with pencil and paper. Again, nature really inspires me in general. From there, I take my initial sketches and create worlds/scenes for each graphic. Once the sketches are finalised, I take things into my tablet and laptop and add color along with all the fun stuff!”
how would you describe your art style?
S: “I really try not to take my art too seriously, and I really hope that comes across in my style. I try to focus more on a feeling that my work provokes — it’s lighthearted, silly, and hopefully makes you laugh a little. Textures like airiness and shine play a big role in my work, but I also like the contrast/tension that my work occasionally provides; the juxtaposition between soft and harsh is something that really interests me.”
Sabrina Lau with the Ergo Bag and Baby T-Shirt, seen on her Sabrina Lau.The Wavy Dinky in Coachtopia Leather with Cherry Print.
which is the coachtopia bag you currently have on heavy rotation?
S: “I’ve got the Cherry Wavy Dinky, and personally love pairing it with more casual pieces to really let the bag shine. Like, if I’m wearing a blank tank top, some long jean shorts, and tennis shoes, it really elevates the look!
What are your thoughts on Coachtopia, especially with its focus on sustainability and circular fashion?
S: “The thing that excites me most about Coachtopia is that the idea of sustainability and circulatory isn’t around for just one collection and then forgotten — it’s baked into the brand from the very beginning. It’s something that will be the brand’s initiative from concept to end product. They’re finding new ways to make sustainability/circularity fun and approachable by creating a colourful world that everyone can be a part of.”
Coachtopia, available exclusively at the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse at 5 Keong Saik Road. From $95 for a bag charm, $150 for a baby t-shirt and $475 – $795 for a leather bag. More information at singapore.coach.com.
There are girlies devoted to the Barbie pink aesthetic, Sanrio and excessive glitter included, and then there are those attracted to all things black and gnarly anatomical hearts. Not to stereotype here — after all, you can be both — but if the latter appeals to your Wednesday Addams-loving aesthetic, then go ahead and embrace the dark side.
CHARLES & KEITH has collaborated with visual artist Henn Kim for a 4-piece capsule collection, titled ‘Heart is Every Wear’, that takes after her surrealist monochromatic drawings. These accessories feature her signature anatomical heart motif, as a reminder for all wearers to confidently “wear your heart on your sleeve” and be authentic with one’s emotions.
“My art has always served as a medium for expressing complex emotions that I could not convey in words. For this collaboration, the reimagined heart illustration goes beyond depicting despondency, and instead offers a new outlook by imbuing the heart symbol with self-assurance and the courage to express oneself freely,” said Henn Kim.
This illuminating thought is translated to all-black accessories that, perhaps as an interesting juxtaposition, carry a spirit of light-heartedness as well. The Illustrated Heart Charm Ruched Hobo Bag, for instance, is a casual, slouchy number that features Henn Kim’s anatomical heart as a metallic embellishment at the heart of the bag’s closure.
Then, there’s a pair of Illustrated Heart Charm Ankle Boots, in a unique style that combines chunky-soled boots with a double-strap Mary Jane design at the front, which also sees those same hearts in silver hardware.
Complete the look with a matching faux leather scrunchie and cosmic-themed blanket, which can be rolled up and carried about, before opening up to reveal a galaxy of planets that encircle a monumental heart, another artist signature that compares the vastness of the universe to the depth of our emotions.
[click on the images below to expand, and for more info.]
It’s travel season all year round, and if you’ve got some holidays lined up in the months ahead — and happen to be flying on Singapore Airlines — this is a deal you don’t want to miss. Pelago, a travel experiences platform by Singapore Airlines (SIA), has introduced a new website feature that will offer an exclusive 30% off travel activities for all SIA customers.
This limited-time promotion is open to both new and existing Pelago users who have booked flight tickets with SIA, where the discount will be valid for all bookings made on the platform from now to 31 December 2023. To use, simply key in your 6-character SQ Booking Reference (PNR) and last name on Pelago’s checkout page.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this new feature:
Step 1: Select your preferred activity on Pelago.co
Step 2: At the checkout page, select “Promo code”, and fill in your details in the “Singapore Airlines Promo” section.
Step 3: Under the section, enter the following details: your SQ Flight Booking Reference Code (PNR) and Last Name
Step 4: Apply the promo and proceed to complete your payment and transaction
You’re free to book any of the thousands of travel activities, across more than 1,200 global destinations, available on the platform. These include theme park admission tickets, guided experiential tours, access passes to museums, car rentals, wellness retreats, and other exciting experiences you’ll want to do when on holiday, whether it’s in Singapore, or popular Singaporean haunts such as Bangkok, Bali, Tokyo, and Seoul.
Click on the images below to see some of the activities and destinations offered across this extensive travel platform:
Sometimes, gadgets come along and make life easier. We’re obsessed with improving our desk experience, and the ALTI Wireless Charging Desk Mat has really shown us that it’s the little details that matter.
Why a Desk Mat?
The easiest way to upgrade your desk experience is with a desk mat, and not all desk mats are equal. I’ve tried “standard” ones from Omnidesk and Everdesk, and even the affordable printed versions available everywhere on Shopee. Journey‘s mat is by far the most innovative; it comes in two pieces — a double-sided mat and a slim wireless charging mat that snaps on magnetically to the main mat.
Above: unboxing the alti wireless charging desk mat.
Above: (left) My usual desk set-up with a simple desk mat / (right) with the alti wireless charging desk mat.
The Charging Pad
The charging mat is compatible with any smartphone and earphone case that can charge wirelessly (including iPhones with MagSafe, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and the new Galaxy Z Flip5, OPPO Find X6 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Ultra). For iPhones in particular, there’s a in-built MagSafe so the phone just snaps onto the mat and begins charging immediately. I love that the phone is right next to me as I type and work, plus it’s at a good spot and angle that allows me to easily glance at the phone’s screen when notifications pop up.
Above: The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay ex and iphone 14 pro max on the alti wireless charging desk mat.
Above: (left) charging the samsung galaxy z flip5 /
(right) the charging pad can be separated from the main desk mat.
Other Details
Interestingly, I get a different typing experience on my Mac keyboard when it’s placed on this Desk Mat. The keys feel cushioned and nicer to type on; almost mechanical, even though the keys are flat.
Above: i keep my kid’s spelling lists here so they never get lost.
Other tricks that this mat can do: The main mat is made of two pieces of fabric that hide documents neatly inside. This is an incredible way to keep the desk neat and free of paper, and important documents close by. And want a different look? You can flip it over! The felted side will give your desk an instantly cosier feel.
I never knew that I needed a charging desk mat until this came along, and it’s a purchase you won’t regret making. Bonus — it makes a great gift for your dad or boss at work.
ALTI Wireless Charging Desk Mat, $179, available in 4 colours for regular (Black, light grey, dark brown and navy blue), and 2 colours for slim (black and light grey). Buy at JOURNEYOFFICIAL.COM.
The first robot vacuum cleaner was introduced in 1996, and now 27 years later, Dyson launches the industry’s most advanced version of it — the Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ Robot Vacuum.
Above: The new Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ Robot Vacuum.
The Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ is designed to be as functional and as smart as possible; it uses complex algorithms, visual interpretation, dust sensing capabilities, and an extremely powerful motor to do a thorough cleaning around the house. As its name implies, it has a 360-degree vision system, using a fisheye lens to map out the floor space, so the machine knows where to clean and where it’s been.
It took around an hour to map out my home floor space, and the blueprint that it produced was pretty accurate. I could then designate areas in the home (eg. kitchen, dining, etc) allowing me to schedule the vacuum to clean specific rooms when needed — all this is done through the MyDyson App (more on that below).
Above: the vacuum has a 360-degree vision system which knows where to clean and where it’s been.
For this new machine, Dyson uses a powerful Hyperdymium™ motor that spins up to 110,000rpm, and this is six times the suction power of any other robot vacuum, making it the most powerful robot vacuum ever. I don’t have any other robot vacuum to compare this to, but just looking at the dust, hair and dirt that this machine picked up on its first run, I’m convinced it’s doing a powerful job of cleaning.
And it’s not just the suction power working alone here; the machine is fitted with what Dyson calls, a triple-action brush bar that picks up large debris, attracts fine dust with its anti-static carbon fibre filaments, and really digs into carpets with stiff nylon bristles. This robot is going to easily glide from hard wood to rugs, sucking up everything in its path.
It did push some of my lighter furniture around (my empty plant pots), but I solved that by cordoning off that area with a “wall” in the floor map.
Above: there’s a triple-action brush bar that has dedicated brushes and bristles for different types of surfaces.
For sides and corners, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ has what the brand calls, side actuators that redirect suction to the side, so even your edges get cleaned and dust-free.
Above: side actuators don’t flick dirt away, instead they redirect suction to the side so your room gets clean from wall to wall.
So as mentioned above, one of the best things about using this vacuum is the ability to map out and designate floor spaces, and then schedule a clean (eg. late at night when everyone’s gone to bed). The app also provides cleaning reports (such as dusty hotspots in the home), and will even increase suction power at those areas. And the reports made a lot of sense; areas under the sofa and bed were extremely dirty, while general open spaces were less frightening. There’s a satisfaction in seeing the report and knowing that those hard-to-reach areas are now a lot cleaner than they’ve ever been, and then looking in the vacuum’s dust bin to see all the dirt piled up in a great big fluffy ball of grey dust. Gross but satisfying.
Above: to get the most out of your machine, the MyDyson™ app is a must to download, sync and use with the robot vacuum.
Finally, as expected with Dyson products, cleaning and maintaining the machine is easy; the bin can be emptied with one hand (just eject the dust and dirt into your trash with the press of a button), and a HEPA filter that can be washed and replaced when needed.
Above: The Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ Robot Vacuum in the home. It’s a beautiful piece of machinery and will undoubtedly serve any home well.
Dyson has really managed to set its robot vacuum apart from the competition, with a superior product that works really well, providing the convenience and functionality that you pay for. But like many nice things in life, this device doesn’t come cheap and will set you back almost $2,000, which is a fair bit more than the average price of a robot vacuum in the market today. But in this case, you will get what you pay for. As Jake Dyson, the Chief Engineer of Dyson explains:
“A robot vacuum cleaner should not be a novelty. We know there are many frustrations with current robot vacuum cleaners — some have low suction power, or inefficient navigation systems which that they often get stuck and don’t do a proper job of vacuuming. Dyson Engineers have focused on developing machines that overcome these challenges and which increasingly anticipate our needs, understand its environment and operate autonomously.”
Can this replace the traditional handheld vacuum? To a big extent, it actually can, but I’d still have a small or portable vacuum on standby to use at odd spots and on mattresses and sofas (and of course in the car). The addition of this robot vacuum will just see you manually cleaning a lot less, and will give you peace of mind that your floor is getting vacuumed while you sleep or are out for the day.
The Dyson 360 Vis Nav™ is priced at $1,999 and available on DYSON.COM and at Dyson Demo Stores.
Truth be told, it’s been a while since skincare brand philosophy popped up on our radar — though things are about to change. Known for cult classics, such as their award-winning purity made simple one-step facial cleanser, philosophy has been consistent in delivering good-for-all skincare with reliable technology and results; that top-tier cleanser, for instance, still holds its own as the No. 1 cleanser in America.
Still, we’re excited for the new direction they’re moving in, one that’s reflected through a new brand manifesto, new product featuring advanced innovation, and freshly-announced friend of the brand for Southeast Asia, all good things that we discovered during an immersive trip to Bangkok.
The new philosophy
As we discovered, the new philosophy focuses on dermatologic wisdom™, a phrase that sums up the brand’s dedication towards ensuring each and every product by them delivers on high-performance yet gentle results that do not irritate the skin. This also means research on advanced technologies to do with the delivery of precious ingredients, in order to maximise their effects on our skin.
What I found interesting was philosophy’s “less is more” approach to skincare as well. It seems we’re long past 10-step routines and the like, simply because, truthfully, most of us can barely muster the time or effort for twice-daily regimes — and yet, we still want products that work. If you feel exactly like this, then know that philosophy is confident in promoting a simplified three-step routine, one that works because their products are meant to be multi-tasking and stacked with multiple benefits. Why layer with three serums, when one does the job perfectly well on its own? This is certainly a task they take seriously, especially when it comes to the new dose of wisdom™ bouncy skin reactivating serum, which I’ve had the opportunity to review below.
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Jeff Satur, friend of the brand
Oh, one more thing — they’ve got Thai musician and actor Jeff Satur as the first-ever friend of the brand across Southeast Asia!
Not only is he involved in the visuals and advertising campaigns for the new serum, he also appeared during the product launch event in Bangkok, gracing us with hit single ‘Dum Dum’, as well as the catchy “bouncy skin” jingle created by the singer-songwriter himself; this one comes inspired by the simple yet beautiful sound of the flute, an instrument he gravitated to when considering philosophy’s line of skincare.
Jeff Satur, friend of philosophy.
“My philosophy is to be bold and live my life in the most authentic way possible. I am constantly travelling and always want to look my best for my fans — so I need a skincare regimen that is simple, gentle and effective. philosophy helps to put an extra bounce in my skin and in my step. My skin is more hydrated, smooth and youthful, so I am always camera-ready,” he shares.
The NEW dose of wisdom™ bouncy skin reactivating facial serum
To accompany the brand revamp, philosophy has unveiled an exciting new product, the dose of wisdom™ bouncy skin reactivating serum. True to its name, the daily facial serum is great for those looking to reactivate and restore a healthy bounce to their complexion, as this multi-benefit product enables both deep hydration and collagen support.
Other than containing essential actives such as hyaluronic acid, the serum boasts an advanced three-tier formulation and unique delivery system so those very actives are further optimised. Their highly-targeted technology includes:
A patented vitality booster — philosophy introduces encapsulated oxygen in the serum, which renews skin’s vitality while giving skin a plumping effect
Molecule grafted hyaluronic acid — The serum contains this ever-reliable hydration booster that’s able to effectively penetrate into the depths of our skin so it stays hydrated for longer.
Molecule grafted Vitamin C — An advanced form of Vitamin C goes right into the third layer of our skin where collagen production happens, and helps support its function for firm skin; Vitamin C is also present in a stable, potent and non-irritating form.
OUR REVIEW
With its skin benefits across multiple fronts, the dose of wisdom™ then becomes an essential part of philosophy’s hero regimen, one that includes the purity made simple and hope in a jar moisturiser to target universal skin concerns — and yes, this means both men and women, as proven by Satur.
I set out to try the simplified three-product routine for ourselves, of course, and was pleasantly surprised by the results. Check out the review here:
STEP 1: purity made simple one-step facial cleanser
I love a multi-tasking cleanser, and this one went right into my skincare rotation the moment I tried it. Since the purity made simple cleanser is touted as a “one-step” cleanser, I did not hesitate to use it on a full face of makeup; the formula is creamy when pumped out, feels smooth, and transforms into a delicate foam that glides without irritation.
After some gentle massaging, I found that it was able to melt away makeup and remove all traces of my base and colour products effectively — without stinging the eyes at all! I can be as messy and lazy as I want!
The presence of meadowfoam seed oil also provides balance to the skin, so despite its functional abilities, the cleanser still left my skin soft and refreshing. I like that it was also fuss-free for non-makeup days, making the start of my skincare routine a lot easier to maintain.
STEP 2: dose of wisdom™ bouncy skin reactivating facial serum
This one’s another formidable product that I’m seriously considering a top-up of. dose of wisdom™ is here for bouncy skin alright, and don’t underestimate its size, because it has pretty significant results. The texture of the serum is gel-like and lightweight, ensuring that it disappeared into my skin pretty quickly, while the dropper dispensed just the right amount of serum for my face. When used, I immediately felt a supple and plump effect, while noting that it didn’t leave a greasy shine as well.
I had also happened to start this regime at a time when my skin was undergoing a dry spell, which meant that it was prone to sensitivity and redness during long hours under the sun. philosophy’s dose of wisdom™ serum, however, improved this over two weeks of diligent use. I noticed that my skin got less reactive to environmental effects, and was better able to retain hydration as it didn’t feel as dry as before, a testament to the product’s revitalising benefits.
Its combination of oxygen, hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C — in optimised forms — did the most to maintain my skin’s plump and hydrated condition, and I was glad that it was introduced to my routine at precisely the right time. I don’t have sensitive skin, but know that this one’s made to minimise irritation for all skin types.
STEP 3: hope in a jar smooth-glow multi-tasking facial moisturizer
I’ve long known philosophy’s hope in a jar moisturiser for its effectiveness in maintaining hydration, but did you know there’s another benefit as well? This multi-tasking moisturiser is also formulated with glycolic acid, which then gently renews skin by removing accumulated dead skin. This effect is, perhaps, less visibly noticeable, but does a lot to increase our skin’s ability to hold moisture; I believe that the use of both the serum and moisturiser combined really helped my skin become more healthy!
The moisturiser also contains an innovative form of hyaluronic acid that’s able to be better absorbed by our skin, which both gives instant hydration and prevents future moisture loss. Its creamy texture went on my skin comfortably and always left my skin feeling refreshed. I do adjust its quantity depending on day and night use though, since it can initially feel slightly thick for our humid climate; in the day, a thin layer is perfect as it melts into skin and allows for makeup to be layered on top without piling or sliding off, and at night, I like to apply a more generous layer to make up for drier air-conditioned air.
philosophy purity made simple one-step facial cleanser ($65, 472ml), dose of wisdom™ bouncy skin reactivating facial serum ($95, 30ml), and hope in a jar smooth-glow multi-tasking facial moisturizer ($65, 60ml).
LA Comedy Live presents the largest Drag Show on earth — RuPaul’s Drag Race WERQ THE WORLD! The scene is set in a dystopian future, with the stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race choosing between the real world and the artificial world they have come to know. The new 2023 show delivers an all-new Sci-Fi production that’s specially designed for large venues and arenas, and in Singapore, it’ll be showing at The Star Theatre.
Ticketing details as follows:
Show Day: Thu 7 Sep 2023, 8pm
Venue: The Star Theatre, The Star Performing Arts Centre
Ticket prices: $98—$388
Tickets available on: www.sistic.com.sg
The show’s rating is Restricted 18, which means no admission for anyone below 18 years old. It also means fun, raunchy times ahead. The line-up of stars are:
MUJI’s about to make walking, well, a walk in the park with the MUJI WALKER series. The series is already a staple if you’re a fan of MUJI apparel, and perfectly designed for light exercises and outdoor walks as t-shirts, pants, leggings and other functional clothes incorporate important activewear elements, while still being versatile for everyday wear.
If you’re living in Singapore, you know how hot and unbearable our weather can get. All clothes in the MUJI WALKER series, thankfully, come with sweat-absorbing and quick-drying properties woven right into the fabric. What’s more, the items are also water-repellent and equipped with UV protection — with an impressive Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50 — which should make them essentials on your next walk, jog, or hike.
As seen in the above video, the MUJI WALKER Series is great for all kinds of occasions, whether it’s everyday wear due to its easy cuts and comfortable feel; rainy or humid weather because of its water-repellent properties; and the sunny outdoors or while we’re active as the apparel features UV-protective, quick-drying and sweat-absorbent benefits. The designs are also kept minimalist, so we can pair them with various outfit while knowing that they’re sure to outlast fleeting seasonal trends.
New to the MUJI WALKER Series — the Quick Dry T-Shirt and UV Quick Stretch Shorts
This year, MUJI has expanded the series with new functional T-Shirts and Shorts, each with specific properties that make them suitable for outdoors and exercise.
The Quick Dry T-Shirt ($29.90), when worn, has a cooling effect on the skin, thanks to technology that instantly releases heat from the body, and its highly-breathable material achieved by a special mesh-like structure. It also features UV-protective qualities that blocks out direct UV rays from the sun, shielding our skin from sunburn. This particular style is available in Men’s and Ladies’ style, with a classic crew silhouette for the men, and a boat neck collar for the women’s style.
For a set of complementary bottoms, reach out for the UV Quick Stretch Shorts ($29.90), which boast a high UPF50+ UV protection, and excellent quick-drying properties to help diffuse sweat and keep us dry and comfortable. Also available in Men’s and Ladies’ cuts, the shorts hold their shape while still being flexible enough for all-day wear.
Other MUJI WALKER Series Essentials
UV Cut Half Top Bra ($29.90) and UV Cut Leggings ($29.90).
Head over to your nearest MUJI store to discover other staples within the collection. One of our favourite pieces has to be the UV Cut Half Top Bra ($29.90) and UV Cut Leggings ($29.90), available separately or in a matching set, that provides UV protection in a material that allows for moderate stretch and light exercises; the four colours, of neutrals as well as a muted pink and blue, also make for great post-gym OOTDs!
Men’s Water Repellent Shorts ($29.90).
The Men’s Water Repellent Shorts ($29.90) remains a hot favourite for the guys too, as they’re made of a windproof fabric that repels water, hence ideal for all kinds of sports or temperamental weather conditions. These are available in black, navy and khaki, sure, but also a bright blue and a rusty orange shade.
As for the other activewear essentials, there are Quick Dry tank tops and sleeveless t-shirts, along with short pants and leggings, which are all able to quickly and effectively absorb and diffuse sweat. Here’s your excuse to head out of the house and stay active!
The MUJI WALKER Series, available at MUJI stores and the official store on Shopee.
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