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NYLON Team Picks: Our Favourite iPhone Apps for Travel Addicts

Dec 15, 2017Aug 15, 2018

If there’s one thing that most people can agree on, it’s that being stuck in an office glued to a computer and only leaving when the sun sets is a dreadful way to live. And travel is a sweet escape from all that. It’s why holidays are so addictive, to the point where boarding a plane almost feels like freedom.
A recurring existential crisis aside, we do love our technology when globetrotting, especially when we use apps, in particular iPhone apps (Apple recently sent us some recommendations, including Clips; which allows you to create video messages and movies; as well as Memrise, an AR app that helps you learn the local language).
Still, we have our personal favourites set in stone, and while they’ll never reach oxygen-level necessity, it’s no stretch to say that we can’t do without them. From getting that shot for the gram’ to enjoying music on the road, here are our favourite iPhone apps you should definitely download if you’re a true blue travel addict:

Adele

Splitwise

This is a finance app that let’s you keep track of who paid for what. It may not sound like something you think you need, but if you’re travelling with friends (even if it’s just one other friend), it’ll be the most useful thing on your trip. Whoever pays can put in the amount and choose how it’s split (equally, the entire bill is paid by a particular person, etc.), and you can see a summary at any time, of who owes you money, or if you owe someone money. No pieces of I.O.U.s and no squabbles!
Sumikko Gurashi

I’ve been playing matchy matchy with these adorable characters since my sis introduced this game to me a year ago. It’s a great time-waster when I have to wait (eg. to board a plane, at the doctor’s, in line for the toilet…) And there’s some strategy involved on which Sumikko to use; so it can get challenging and therefore interesting! By the way, the plushies are now sold at Kinokuniya!
Nikon Snap Bridge

This is Nikon’s app for immediately and automatically transferring photos from a Nikon camera to the iPhone. On press trips I like to take photos with the Nikon D7500 and share them within minutes through WhatsApp; and I always get the surprised “Wah! So fast!” comment from other journalists. That’s because of this app. Did I mention that it transfers photos automatically in the background? I don’t even need to open the app; I just need to have it installed in the phone. That’s what we’re talking about!

Marcus

Instagram

I fully cop to curating a lot of my travel plans around where and when I can capture the best pictures to beautify my feed. Of course, most of what you see on my Instagram doesn’t really reflect the reality of what I’m actually doing (#finsta) but I promise I do it more as a passion project than for bragging rights. It’s also great for checking up what my friends back in Singapore are up do while I’m away.
VSCO

What’s a good photo without some (a lot) of editing? I like the no-edit edit, so if we’re travelling together you’ll probably spot me ever so often carefully dragging my fingers across the various scrollbars in the app to precisely achieve that aesthetic effortlessness which actually took ten minutes of ruthless scrutiny.
Pinterest

Every time I take a new picture it feels like I’ve never done it before. “Oh, the angle’s not right” or “Why do I look so distorted?” are thoughts that often run through my mind. Pinterest is like if Google images were a hipster. There’re mood boards upon mood boards for every personality type and I find that search results are usually pretty spot-on.

Vidhya

VSCO

My ultimate go-to for editing pictures on the go— I mean who doesn’t take loads of pictures when overseas right?
Spotify

Music is so important, whether you’re road tripping, taking a 14-hour flight, or hey you might need music for the hotel jam out session – totally not guilty.
Google Maps

I’ve got myself lost while travelling a bunch of times, and this easy-to-navigate virtual map has been my ultimate saviour each time.

Patrene

My choices are pretty self-explanatory, and I realise while writing this that they’re apps that I use pretty regularly, and not just when I’m traveling.
Spotify

Spotify is a necessity for me as I need music as my companion whenever I’m moving around alone.
Instagram

I picked Instagram because I tend to post a lot of Insta Stories when I’m overseas.
Google Maps

Of course, Google Maps is usually a staple for anyone trying to figure out where they’re going, and I unashamedly use it in Singapore, too, when I’m looking for somewhere specific.

Eleni

Spotify

I use different apps depending on the type of travel I’m on. For a road trip, my 3 main apps would be Spotify for the tunes (there’s nothing better than driving on a long empty road listening to my favourite track).
Google Maps

Definitely Google Maps for direction, although I have previously winged it with my partner and just drove to see where we end up.
Camper Mate

The third is Camper Mate. This app comes in handy when I’m looking for a cool camping spot, it also tells me where the nearest Wi-Fi and grocery stores are among many other useful things.

Joel

Spotify

It isn’t as if it was difficult to get my music kicks before Spotify came along. It’s just that with Spotify, everything is so much easier. From streaming songs to looping playlists that I’ve meticulously crafted for weeks, it’s difficult to find a better app for music. And it goes without saying that Spotify is perfect for long flights or for when you’re waiting for hours at those pesky immigration lines.
Google Maps

What would I do without Google Maps? This app has saved me on countless occasions, whether I was navigating through the narrow, motorbike-laden streets in Ho Chi Minh City, or squeezing my way through chaotic crowds in Delhi. It even came in useful when I was trekking in the Himalayas (connection was a little iffy obviously), but more often than not, this is definitely one dependable tool.
Skyscanner

Unless I have absolutely no choice, I will not pay over the top for an air ticket. Why should I, when there are ridiculously cheap options in abundance? Which is why Skyscanner is a godsend. I love the fact that I can search for flight timings based on my convenience, and if anything, the app is a good barometer for when I should start booking my tickets before they start becoming costly.

The dokiWatch S Will Be Your Kids' New Best Friend

Dec 15, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Granted, we just released our holiday gift guide for new parents yesterday, but we’re no strangers to adding more items into our shopping carts. dokiWatch, the popular smartwatch for kids with highly successful campaigns by Kickstarters and Indiegogo campaigns, is soon launching its latest invention, the dokiWatch S, in collaboration with Amazon Alexa to bring kids all the functions they need to connect with their parents all throughout the day!

dokiAsk

dokiWatch is the leading smart gadget for kids in the world, and their latest partnership with Amazon Alexa has birthed its newest feature on the dokiWatch S, dokiAsk. Dear parents, we know kids are curious creatures, but sometimes it’s just impossible to keep up with their inquisitive urges. Questions like “Why is the sky blue?” might seem cute, but when your answer is met with a “But why?” on multiple attempts at replying, blood can start to boil. dokiAsk acts like your kids’ tutor, answering all their burning questions about the world, whether it be about math or science, even which Pokemon is stronger.

Main Menu, Scheduler, Video Call

If you miss your kids while at work, you can video call them through their dokiWatch S to check up on how their day’s going, and vice versa if they need to ask for permission to stay over at the classmate’s place until dinner time. You can even use your Wifi to voice call instead of wasting cellular minutes, so just make sure you stay near your office router to chat with kiddo!
Checking your kids’ homework at the end of the exhausting workday can be the straw that breaks the camel’s back, so try dokiWatch S’ scheduler function to set guidelines for their daily tasks and appointments. Learning through experience is also a great way for them to cultivate juggling responsibilities on their own.

Customisable wallpaper

Of course, the dokiWatch S isn’t some sinister device that only benefits you. Your kids will definitely benefit from watch’s range of customisable functions, including setting their selfies as wallpapers, using the fitness tracking feature, as well as feeding a “built-in” pet – somewhat like a modern day Tamagotchi.

dokiWatch S will be available to pre-order from November 25, shipping to over 30 countries around early January. It retails from USD219 available in-stores and online.

NYLON's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide: Top Shelf Goals

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

We’ve already featured plenty of good-looking beauty products, whether it’s limited edition holiday kits, or glittery eye colours and lipsticks that’ll make any girl swoon with envy, but wait till you take a look at this. We’re talking the gold standard in gorgeous items (well, they’re usually decked in gold too), the kind you’ll wanna randomly throw in for any pretentious flatlay, or just have on your vanity table / bathroom cabinet so you can stare at them all day. It helps if these are functional too, and thankfully for us and your wallets, these ones are! Pick up the perfect gift here:

1. Man Ray for NARS Double Take Overexposed Glow Highlighter, $65, available at NARS boutiques and selected Sephora stores
Stamped with a seductive lip motif inspired by the surrealist artist, this glamorous and universally flattering highlighter will add a golden touch to your face, as well as be the highlight of your vanity table.
2. Winky Lux Flower Balm, US$14, available at winkylux.com
A flower, frozen in time, sits in the middle of this lip balm stunner that’ll be a hit every time you whip it out of your bag — what’s even better is that the clear shade adjusts to the pH level of your lips so you get your own unique flattering pink.
3. beautyblender Swirl, $32, available at Robinsons, Sasa, BHG Bugis and beautycarousel.com
This cult classic item that made its way to every makeup lover’s beauty stash is already a must, so why not one in a gorgeous marble pattern too? In case anyone needs to stock up!
4. BYREDO Room Sprays, $145 each, available at BYREDO Escentials Paragon
If you’re talking about heavenly scents, it doesn’t get better than BYREDO’s very exquisitely crafted ones — reach for Bibliothèque for a lovely floral woody musk, or a soothing Tree House that makes you feel like you’re living among nature, both housed in black glass bottles.
5. Aesop Hwyl Eau de Parfum, $130, available at Aesop stores
If you’re the kind of girl who enjoys the solitude of contemplative strolls in the midst of natural surroundings, this scent’s for you — you’ll feel like you’re melting into the stillness of an ancient Japanese forest. The down-to-earth fragrance opens with smoky notes, followed by rich woods and spices.

6. Caudalie Deluxe Beauty Elixir Bauble, $22, available at Sephora
Hang this on any Christmas tree and your friend will be absolutely delighted, This beloved toning mist sets makeup and is known for giving anyone an instant radiant glow, with essential oils and plant extracts that work on your complexion as well.

7. Lanvin Modern Princess Set, $126, available at Lanvin boutiques and counters
Don’t be fooled by the word “princess” — Lanvin’s version is just as feminine, though with an irresistible, sensual edge. The youthful fragrance with the delightful skirt-like bottle now comes with a body lotion and shower gel too.
8. Glossier Phase 1 Set, US$40, available at glossier.com
Into The Gloss really started making “Top Shelf Goals” a thing in the first place, so of course their cult beauty brand, created by their editors, falls right into this category. Millennial pink, minimalist, and filled with their best-selling products that your skin can’t wait to slurp up, you can’t go wrong with this one.
9. Christian Louboutin Metalinudes Nail Polish, US$50, available at us.christianlouboutin.com
Why would we bust our wallets on nail polish? Well. With a tall slender cap bathed in gold, we’re already enticed, but wait till you consider the glimmering, metallic nude shades that’ll make your nails look extra rich (even when you’re feeling a little poorer after).
10. YSL Dessin Des Levres Lip Stylers, $35 each, available at YSL Beauty stores and counters
There are lip liners, and there are lip liners — and obviously, these YSL beauties fall under the latter. The creamy formula is applied from the pencil end for optimal precision, while there’s also a flexible blender tip if you like the entire shade on your lips.

11. Man Ray for NARS Glass Tears Eyeshadow Palette, $80, available at NARS 391 Orchard and selected counters
This time, the party’s on your eyes with these six limited-edition, highly-pigmented eyeshadow shades. Don’t be intimidated by the bright gold and greens, you might have more fun with this than you think.
12. OUAI Rose Hair And Body Oil, $48, available at Sephora stores
Rose gold anything would already look great on the shelf, so imagine having this multi-tasker right there as well; it contains absinthium oil, rose hip oil and shea oil, all nutrient-rich ingredients that quickly hydrate both your dry hair and skin.
13. Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Icons, £55, available at charlottetilbury.com
Consider this the holy grail of Charlotte Tilbury items — swathed in her signature luxurious gold packaging, there’s everything from a mascara, lipstick and lip liner in flattering nude shades, as well as the much raved-about Wonderglow Face Primer.
14. Diptyque Figuier Constellations Carousel, available at the Diptyque store
Place this fascinating piece on your existing candle and be prepared to be even more mesmerised — the carousel would seem to magically dance in circles, due to the simple science of the heat generated by the flame. Now, imagine how this would look in a dark room!
15. SK-II Limited Edition Facial Treatment Essence, $269, available at SK-II counters
The famed Facial Treatment Essence gets a makeover every special occasion, and this one nicely differs from the previous versions — with bold, painterly strokes and evocative messages to boot, it’ll stand out in anyone’s beauty cabinet, for sure.

More of NYLON’s Ultimate Beauty Gift Guides, coming soon — stay tuned! Click here to see our full list of beauty gift guides, and here for our ultimate holiday gift guides.

How Gift Hampers/Flowers Make Awesome Christmas Presents

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

The world is filled with all sorts of nasty stereotypes. And there’s really hardly anything more stereotypical than buying a hamper as a corporate gift or giving flowers as part of a special occasion (c’mon people, you seriously can do better than that). But slowly and surely, that clichéd practice is changing for the better.

Just think about it. Don’t your loved ones deserve a hamper chock full of goodies more than a corporation does? And flowers can be and should be given at anytime of the year, and not just at funerals or weddings.
Believe it or not, they make fantastic Christmas gifts too, which is why we’ve picked out six of our favourite hampers and five of our favourite flowers for this yuletide season. Here goes:

Hampers

Chocolate Extravaganza – $142 (Giveaway)

Put that diet on hold and stuff yourself silly with all these chocolate goodies. Available here.
Party Favourites – $149

Ah, the heavenly combination of beer and chips – must-have items for any legit party. Available here.
White Christmas – $196

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, although this massive hamper would up the festive spirit in a jiffy. Available here.
Season’s Greetings – $155 (Giveaway)

Whether you’re getting this for a loved one or for yourself (hey, we’re not judging), you can’t go wrong with this selection of sweet treats. Available here.
French Luxury – $159

Nothing quite spells delicious like a basket of fruits, which is exactly what you’ll get with this humongous hamper. Available here.
Exquisite Treats – $135 (Giveaway)

Can’t think of what to stock your home up for the x’mas period? This hamper has got you covered, sweet treats and all. Available here.

Flowers

Fantasy Roses with Vase – $119

For a visual feast for the senses, look no further than this beautiful arrangement of seasonal floral foliage. Available here.
Pink Romance – $165

Now this is what we call pretty in pink. Enjoy gorgeous eustoma and pink ranunculus flowers in a petite pastel-hued box. Available here.
Garden of Eden – $239

This bouquet sure lives up to its name of Garden of Eden. It’s basically snippets of paradise in a box. Available here.
Mini Spray Roses Bouquet – $49

Can’t go wrong with rose – a classic flower that will never go out of style. Available here.
Pink Purple Orchid Tea Cup Set – $109

Screw quantity. It’s all about that sublime minimalistic effect over here. If a few petals do the trick, why add more? Available here.
Since we’re feeling generous (and festive), we’ll be giving away three different hampers (as labeled accordingly in this article). Head to our Facebook page for more participation details.
For more information, visit gifthampers.com.sg or giftflowers.com.sg.
Images: Gift Hampers/Gift Flowers & Nick Chia: @nick.ys

We Show You 3 Easy Ways To Master The Modern Glossy Makeup Look

Dec 14, 2017Aug 1, 2018

They say fashion trends come and go, only to return again — but we reckon makeup trends work the same way too. Any 90s kid would know the familiar feeling of applying sticky gloss on your lips, only to have it smear all over your hair and face, as we shake our heads at why we bothered in the first place. Still, it seems like we never quite learned our lesson, because — guess what — all-over gloss has been making a comeback.

Stella Jean SS17 ; Emporio Armani SS17

And why not? This is no teenage disaster we’re talking about here; with the right amount of shine, the glossy look can be a very flattering one indeed. On your lips, gloss adds a layer of high shine that makes them look extra plump and kissable, and as not-so-subtle highlights on the high points of your cheeks, it gives you a healthy, hydrated glow that looks like you freshly stepped out of the shower. And then there’s the look du jour of high fashion runways, wet eyelids, that instantly draw attention to your peepers. Either way, it’s certainly not something you want to simply gloss over.

The best way we started tackling this trend would be to try to enhance what we already have — and that starts from our eyes, you know, the windows to your soul and all that, which is why we found ourselves in love with the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ beauty lenses.

You’ve seen the videos with Fiona Fussi where she stars as the cutest girl-next-door, and probably envied her sparkling eyes in the process; but try this latest version on and you’ll realise that it’s an unbelievably easy way to have your eyes look just as pretty, with a dewy, tear-filled effect, which then makes them a perfect fit for the glossy makeup trend. Glossy eye makeup, literally glossy, sparkling eyes, you get the drift!

The effect is achieved by the lenses reflecting, enhancing and enlarging the iris, and the advanced science of blending layers of espresso, brown and tan together — if you realise, this means the lenses are there to accentuate the natural beauty of your eyes, rather than masking them unnaturally. Then, there’s also how it looks when worn.

On our model Valerie Wang, fashion blogger, and founder of the trendy fashion label store UNDA, the beauty lenses make her look even more radiant than she usually is, which is truly saying a lot. Together with makeup artist Peter Khor, we went ahead to create 3 different glossy makeup looks, together with the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ lenses of course, that you’ll want to emulate — a natural look with glossy highlights, a day look with glossy lids, and an evening stunner with shimmery gold eyes — all perfect for your upcoming festive parties and gatherings.

LOOK 1: Glossy Highlights — for a natural, daily look

Nothing says ‘on fleek’ better than skin that looks literally lit from within, and this time, we’re more than happy to take on the whole Korean glass skin trend here — the look calls for glowy cheeks and intensely hydrated skin that light practically bounces off, which is easily achieved with a good primer and some appropriately-placed highlights.

It’s a rather simple, natural “no makeup” look, but easy enough to achieve, especially if you’re just beginning to experiment with glossy makeup. When seamlessly paired with the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ lenses, you’ll look even more radiant and glowy too.

Start off by priming your skin — we used the YSL All Hours Primer to ensure our makeup stays on under any weather, and also a touch of Boscia’s Tsubaki Glotion right on the cheeks for a subtle glow. Then, layer on your foundation and concealer for a clean base, followed by your eyeliner, mascara and a brow product.
The key focal point here should be your cheeks — lightly dab YSL’s Kiss & Blush Duo Stick in No. 4 on the top of your cheeks, then add a little more shimmer with Milk Makeup’s Liquid Strobe in Light Pink. The latter is a liquid highlighter that gives a nice pearlescent effect.
Finish the look with some subtle colour on the eyes — try THREE’s Whisper Gloss For Eye in Wanderlust Rhythm, a light peach pink.

And we’re done!

LOOK 2: Glossy Eyelids — for a trendy, wearable look

Now, we get to really amping up the gloss, especially over the eyes, but also keeping the look sweet with soft pink accents. To keep it truly versatile though, we’ll show you how to achieve this after you’re already done with the simple look from earlier — you get to see how it transitions into this more fancy glossed-up look should your party or event call for more shine.

You’ll also get to feel completely safe about having your contact lenses on while applying your makeup and then wearing them throughout the day. See, the pigments in the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ lenses come safely sealed in between two layers of lens material to ensure they never get in direct contact with eyes, so eyes will always feel as good as radiant and healthy as they look.

Apply a sheer layer of pink lipstick directly on your eyelids, by lightly dabbing it on — try Tom Ford Beauty’s Boys & Girls Lipstick in Greta.
Then, blend this outwards towards your brow bone with your finger, using its natural warmth to help create a soft pink base for your eyelids.
Onto the gloss! We used Chanel’s Rouge Coco Gloss in Subtil, a non-sticky formula that contains tiny flecks of glow-enhancing pigments, though you can use any high-shine gloss for this. With a light hand, layer the gloss onto the top of your eyelids near your crease. Then, finish the look with lipstick with a matching shade for a monochrome look.

You’re now ready to take on the day! There’s the whole sweet, girl-next-door vibe going on with this look, though the difference is really that gloss — with it, you know there’s a certain edginess about you, and yet, you don’t really have to feel intimidated by runway trends either because this one’s just so easy to emulate.

LOOK 3: Festive Gold — for the ultimate party look

Finally, here’s a glamorous look that you’ll want at the next party you hit, and certainly very festive too — dreamy gold eyes, with glimmery specks of glitter to boot! This definitely takes up the gloss factor several notches, we’d say, and as with all our looks, is surprisingly easy to achieve too. Once again, the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ lenses does a subtle job of making your eyes extra glowy, and yes, even underneath all that gold, they still glitter.

Rather than go for the obvious powder-based eyeshadows, try some gold gloss on your eyes for a truly gilded effect. The Photogloss Lip Lacquer in Muse, part of Man Ray for NARS’ holiday collection, comes in perfectly here. Similar to the previous use of gloss, apply with a light hand onto the top of your eyelids.
We recommend pairing this look with a nude lip so that it doesn’t compete for attention with the eyes.
Now, it’s time to add the glitter. We used M.A.C’s Glitter in Gold, a totally necessary step if you’re looking for some serious next-level sparkle. That’s where the gloss comes in handy too — it creates a sticky base for the glitter pigments to adhere to when you dab it on with a q-tip.

What a look right! Go ahead and paint the town gold with utter confidence with this trendy, yet classy, makeup look.

By this time though, and with the entire duration of our shoot spent under the studio lights, you’d think that Valerie might be feeling a little uncomfortable with her contact lenses on — well, rest assured because she tells us that this brand is one of the most comfortable ones she trusts. Not only do they give her eyes a healthy, glossy effect, the lenses also provide a 20-hour cushion of moisture so they don’t feel dry and uncomfortable over time. No easy feat for beauty lenses, by the way. This means that you can truly go all out to party and celebrate, and hang out with your loved ones for hours, once you’ve mastered these glossed-up looks first!

If you’re thinking of stocking up on the latest ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ series, just for this festive season, they’re releasing an exclusive new addition to its collection of collectible pouches — a beautiful limited edition collectible designer travel pouch (in collaboration with popular Korean illustrator Jaesuk Kim), housing your DEFINE® lenses and beauty essentials on-the-go! You can get yours with every purchase of 4 boxes.

Check out 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ at a DEFINE® Experience Studio today! To locate the nearest one to you, go to acuvue.com.sg/des to find out more. Download the MyACUVUE™ mobile application for $30 off your first ACUVUE® purchase!

WIN! We’re also giving away 3 ACUVUE® DEFINE® sets, consisting of a month’s supply of the 1-Day ACUVUE® DEFINE® Radiant Sweet™ beauty lenses + a limited edition designer travel pouch. For a chance to win, like & share our Facebook post here.

Makeup by Peter Khor.
Model, Valerie Wang.
Photographed by Amelia Tan.

Dress Up For Every Occasion This Christmas With Designer Pieces From The Outnet

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

For those of us who want to buy into the design and quality of luxury fashion but just can’t afford to splurge four-digit sums of money on style, The Outnet is our ultimate go-to shopping destination. They often release new items on their website every few days that get snagged within minutes, perfect for keeping our adrenalines on a constant high and our fingers repeatedly refreshing its webpage on our laptops and mobile phones.
If we ever needed another excuse to shop for more clothes, the numerous festive rituals that get crammed into the year end can sometimes leave us in a state of despair regarding what to put on our bodies when we need to face friends we haven’t met in several months and distant relatives whose names we sometimes can’t even remember. It’s one thing to come up with new ways to pair existing clothes, but isn’t it always just a little sweeter to buy something new?

Snuggling At Home

Marni Bow-embellished colour-block cashmere sweater, $574, Tory Burch Cotton-blend jacquard poncho $172, Marques Almeida Frayed mid-rise boyfriend jeans $174

Ever took an off day from work or school just so you sleep in a little (sometimes a lot) longer and binge on some good entertainment like a TV series you can’t keep your mind off i.e. Game of Thrones and Knightfall or a great book like Crazy Rich Asians (not that we’ve ever done it… what, have you?)? This time of year also seems to propel us into that state of mind. Why not throw on this comfy sweater from Marni, a colour blocking genius and top it off Tory Burch’s poncho to give yourself some major Tai Tai vibes. As proud wearers of boyfriend jeans almost every day, these frayed Marques Almeida versions look like it would be fun crossing our legs in them.

Out The Whole Day

Tibi Off-the-shoulder cotton-poplin shirt $164, Isabel Marant Baixa leather tapered pants $714, Anya Hindmarch Tennis Shoe Carrefour embossed leather sneakers $1,214

When the time comes to actually leave the house, it’s better to cram all important meet-ups into a day. We definitely appreciate versatility in our outfits that can transport us from daytime casual to nighttime naughty, from the heat of the Singapore weather into the cold of indoor air-conditioning. This Tibi off-shoulder top mashes the formality of a crisp white shirt and the sensuality of a woman’s shoulders. Paired with contrasting leather pants, this is one outfit that you can wear to walk into an important business conference, meet your partner’s parents in and feel at home in the Celine store. Of course, if you’re going to be walking a ton, rocking a pair of sneakers with a funky logo is a bet you can put all your money into.

At The House Party

Zimmerman Satin Jumpsuit $368, Vetements + Schott Perfecto oversized leather biker jacket $2,988, Charlotte Olympia Debbie python pumps $388

What’s a good holiday without at least one house party? Gather everyone you know under one roof and blast all the top hits of the year. Dance the night away but not without a look that will keep you looking put-together on planet earth while your brain is twerking in off in another universe with these overalls from Zimmerman that’s high-cocktail with flowy pant legs that are airy and great to dance in. If you’re in a jacket kind of mood, this Vetements biker is a great pairing piece that arms your flirty femininity with an edge that’ll make others tilt down their shades just to get a better look at you. Charlotte Olympia’s designs are far from basic, and these luxurious python embossed heels pretty much speak for themselves. If parties are jungles, then wearing these puts you at the top of the food chain.

Gifts For The Guests

Jil Sander Belle Leather Wallet $178, Jennifer Fischer Bow silver-plated ring $118, Balmain Gold-tone Cuff $510

Of course, what’s a festivity without the exchanging of gifts? Before monochrome became a thing, there was Jil Sander. This millennial pink leather coin purse is a great gift for the friend who loves a label and the practicality of a wallet that can fit into any pocket. If jewellery is what your friends prefer indulging in, this sculptural Jennifer Fischer bracelet is wonderful to pair with loads of outfits. From the way it’s made, it hits light off at every angle creating an immaculate 360-sparkle to impress anyone from every angle. Balmain makes great “warrior” pieces, and this gold cuff will definitely arm your friend to stay looking fresh while she kicks ass.

We're Diggin' The New Urban Decay Distortion Eyeshadow Palette

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

We can barely keep up with all the new releases from the big makeup brands recently! For the holidays, Urban Decay has launched the Heavy Metals eyeshadow palette, Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner, and now the new UD Distortion Palette.

We aren’t complaining of course.
The limited edition palette features fifteen shades – ten solid colours (nine are brand new) and five holographic “transformer hues” that are meant to be layered on top of the other colours to make new shades. Cool stuff huh!?

Here’s how it works: Layer the top-row shadows from our Distortion palette over the other shades and watch them instantly transform into shifty, multidimensional hues. 😍 #ShiftYourShadow #UrbanDecay

A post shared by Urban Decay Cosmetics (@urbandecaycosmetics) on Nov 16, 2017 at 4:16pm PST

As you can see in the video above, all you gotta do is layer the top-row shadows (a.k.a the transformer hues) from the Distortion palette over the other shades and watch them instantly transform into shifty, multidimensional hues – much like magic. The holographic shades come in gold shift, green shift, blue shift, lavender shift, and pink shift, and the colours near them have similar tones.
Plus, the colourway? It’s like a gem-toned rainbow dream for colourful shadow wearers. Take a peek at all of the colours up close below.

You only need one swipe to achieve full colour, but you can intensify the pigments by slightly wetting your applicator. The shadows come in a variety of finishes, including mattes and foils, so beauty junkies can create a bevy of cool looks.

Shadow Junkies, our all new Distortion palette is made for you! Layer the top-row shades over the other shades and watch them instantly transform into shifty, multidimensional hues. The sky’s the limit, UDers — get ready to have some fun! #ShiftYourShadow #UrbanDecay

A post shared by Urban Decay Cosmetics (@urbandecaycosmetics) on Nov 16, 2017 at 7:54am PST

And because this is 2017 and holographic = life, there’s a beautiful faceted cover that’s as Instagram-ready as anything we’ve seen.

Our Distortion palette is as trippy on the outside as it is on the inside. 😮😍#ShiftYourShadow #UrbanDecay

A post shared by Urban Decay Cosmetics (@urbandecaycosmetics) on Nov 16, 2017 at 1:58pm PST

While the Distortion palette is unfortunately not available in Singapore YET, it will hit shores sometime in early 2018, and retail for S$78. For now, can get your hands on it via Sephora US and on UrbanDecay.com (starting December 26).
Happy shopping! 😉
Images: @urbandecaycosmetics

NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: Those Who Just Became Parents

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Remember when we were kindergarteners and would go “ewww!” every time our teachers asked us to line up two-by-two holding hands? It’s sure a long shot from that to becoming expecting parents, but for those of us who’ve found love in our lives, having kids can definitely be a happily-ever-after sort of cake-topper.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but the fairytale isn’t over. In fact, it’s some twenty-odd years from the next time you’ll sleep without worry, if at all. That’s why we’re here to help — we’ve come up a list of great purchases you should invest in or hint unsubtly to your friends and family that you need this Christmas. These definitely won’t relieve you of the burden kids can unceremoniously bury you under, but hopefully they’ll help you get through the day without turning into Lynette from Desperate Housewives!

1. Kipling Violet Bag in Belgian Blue, $245, available at Kipling stores
Every prepared parent needs a sturdy bag to bring all their kid’s necessities around right — but who says it needs to look like a standard-issue diaper bag? Buck the trend for this stylish Kipling backpack, in a soft muted blue with a drawstring compartment for easy access.
2. JBL Jr Wireless Headphones, $79.90, available at authorised retailers
Back in the good ol’ days when we were kids, there weren’t any smartphones. Now kids have them, and they even have headphones too. Call them spoilt, but there’s no denying they’re getting good treatment, and from leading audio brands like JBL to boot. These gadgets are JBL’s first line of kids’ headphones, and are designed for children aged three to ten.
3. Little Artist Umbrella, $29.90, available at Gallery & Co.
Don’t let your kids run wild outdoors unprotected when it’s raining! Even the most rambunctious of them won’t be able to resist this super cute umbrella that’s plastered with images of some of the most iconic artists. Made with transparent PVC, they’ll be sure to stay dry moving from place to place without them loosing out on the fun of the pitter-patter of rain.
4. Bloomingville Sleepy Cloud, $52.80, available at 3LittlePicks.com
A soft snuggly pillow in the shape of a cloud that children and parents alike will be clambering to hug. With embroidered sleepy eyes, the cloud is too cute and is extremely squishable.

5. Fizzics Waytap, £129.99, available at firebox.com
Ask any beer lover, and they’d all tell you the same thing – great beer always comes in draft form. That’s why Fizzics Waytapis a godsend. This boozy contraption uses micro-foam technology to improve the flavour, taste, and mouth-feel of canned or bottled beer, so whatever you’re drinking is the maximised potential of your beer. A must-have house party item, we reckon.
6. Sphero Mini, $79, available at lazada.sg
You might want to keep this away from toddlers (especially those who like to put things in their mouths), but for children that are of primary school age, the Sphero Mini can be a fun and educational tool. You can play with it, drive it, and even learn how to code from it. Sure beats four hours at the Playstation.
7. Stelton EM77 Vacuum Jug Lavender, $119, available at bibliotek.co
There’s nothing like a bit of Scandinavian minimalism to make you feel like a hip, Bohemian city dweller whose heart has been left in Europe. And as much we love them, we can’t IKEA to achieve that vibe. Enter Stelton, and its range of Vacuum Jugs. Go for their light pink one to give your home kitchen a happy, whimsical feel. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
8. Donna Wilson X LeSportsac Totes, $140 each, available at LeSportsac, ION Orchard
This time, you’ll feel like the kid! And we assure you, there’s nothing wrong with that, not when tote bags come as cute and cuddly as these textured ones. Just remember to heed your own advice and, you know, share.

9. Lomography Lomo’Instant Automat South Beach, $249, available at Lomography.com
If you want great pictures without the hassle of carrying around heavyset equipment — especially when your one hand is busy making sure the kid isn’t scurrying off — the Lomo’Instant Automat South Beach Edition is your solution. Take perfectly lit instant mini shots anytime, anywhere. Try a pop of colour with Color Gels, take unlimited multiple exposures, or switch to Auto mode and let the camera work its magic. There’s even a remote control for selfies, so you’ll capture every family moment without asking awkward strangers for help!
10. Bugaboo Bee5, $1417, available at Motherswork, Mothercare, First Few Years
Driving around a shiny new car is nice, right? Well, take that same concept and apply it to a stroller. Your kiddo’ may not know what’s going on while riding in one, but at least he or she will look the part in a slick, compact stroller that’s easy to whiz around town. For that, the Bugaboo Bee5 is up to the task.
11. Pediped Children’s Shoes, $64 – $90, available at PediPed
These shoes are ideal for children, whether it’s for their very first steps or if they’re already making big steps. Recommended by pediatricians and podiatrists, Pediped shoes have soft and flexible soles that suit children of every age.
12. EMU Australia Little Creatures Pig Ballet Shoe, $55. Available in sizes US 8 -13 at EMU stores and emuaustralia.sg
These shoes don’t squeak, but you’ll hear squeals of delight anyway because the Pig Ballet Shoes from EMU Australia’s Little Creatures collection are simply adorable. Your little ones will be able to run as far and fast as they want with hurting their feet because of the inbuilt foam footbed that provides lightweight support for their feet. Your kids will also have to start learning how to put on their own shoes because the velcro straps are easy to master.

Notice the “WIN” labels? We’re giving away all these items in our massive holiday gift guide GIVEAWAY — head over to our Facebook page and Instagram page daily to take part in our contests.
More of NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guides, coming soon — stay tuned! Click here to see our full list of gift guides.

This Gel Liner Is Your Best Friend When It Comes To Recreating Runway Looks

Dec 14, 2017Aug 15, 2018

We all love watching fashion shows just to keep up with the latest trends in fashion and makeup as they debut on the catwalk. As much as we love all the runway looks, it might be daunting to even think of where to start. Eye makeup looks are probably the easiest to recreate – all you need is the right tools. We just stumbled onto KATE Tokyo’s range of eyeliners, and found that the KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil is pretty versatile, making it a good choice to create fancy looks. From clean, sharp looks that could cut you to intense, smokey looks, this little pencil will be your best friend.

The KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil

The gel liner comes in a super slim tube, which makes it easier for toting around and application. Just like other automatic pencil eyeliners, all you have to do is turn the case to extend the product. But don’t go overboard and unwind the entire eyeliner stick to see how much product you have left (we are totally guilty of this too), because the shaft is non-retractable. You’ll have to break off the excess eyeliner if you screw it out too much, so twist out only the amount you think you’ll use! The super fine and smooth gel tip is only 1.5mm wide, which means that you’ll never have to worry about ending up with a rounded wing tip. Unlike a liquid eyeliner, you’ll be able to use the KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil to create smokey eye looks too; the gel based formula easily blends out without losing any of its intensity. In case you were wondering, the gel liner goes on smoothly on top of any eyeshadow, which makes it much more useful than your regular crayon eyeliner.

The best thing we really loved about this eyeliner was how smudge-proof and fade-resistant the eyeliner actually was. The KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil actually delivers on its promise to hold up against sweat, rain, and even tears. In our humid weather that threatens to rain every other day, it can be tough to find the right eyeliner that can actually stay on your eye for the entire day, without fading or smudging from the oil on your face. It can even last through running water (yes, we actually tried it ourselves) – so if you need a really waterproof eyeliner to withstand the torrential rains at Zoukout and Laneway and still look on point; look no further. Your eyeliner is not going anywhere unless you take some heavy-duty makeup remover to it.

You don’t need to run away from running water anymore

If black is too intense for you, the KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil also comes in a more natural brown colour. Brown is perfect for those who prefer a more natural look, and can also be used to help soften intense eye looks. Now that we’re on the topic of intense eye looks again, we’re going to show you how to pull off a whole range of runway-worthy looks that everyone can rock too with this one pencil.
We invited celebrity makeup artist Dollei Seah to show us how to wear three runway looks as everyday styles. We chose to recreate the classic cat eye with a twist, took a stab at the tricky fishtail eyeliner look, and how to pull off the ever popular cut-crease look. Creating these looks takes a steady hand and precise strokes. Some of the looks can easily become too heavy if you aren’t careful, so here’s a tip that Dollei shared with us: first use the eyeliner to dot between your lashes to get as close to the lash lines as possible for a fine line. You’d also want the focus to be on your eyes, so go light on the rest of your face makeup. Another trick we learnt from Dollei to create a natural look is to wear your blush below your foundation to reduce the intensity, and also to dot your lip colour along your lip instead of swiping it on for a subtle pop of colour.
Watch the video to see how you can recreate these looks for yourself:

Here are the finished looks so that you can save it for easy reference.
Look 1: Classic Cat Eye

Look 2: Fishtail Eyeliner

Look 3: Cut Crease

Products used:
KATE Designing Eyebrow 3D in EX-4
KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil in BK-1
KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil in BR-1
KATE Brown Shade Eyes N in BR-3
KATE Brown Shade Eyes N in BR-7
KATE Glamorous Lash Volume Mascara in BK-1

VIDEOGRAPHY
Sai Vidhya
MAKEUP ARTIST
Dollei Seah
MODEL
Hanli Hoefer @ Ave Management

The KATE Sharp Lock Gel Pencil (in 2 colours), $20.50 , available at selected Sasa and Watsons stores.

NYLON Team Picks: Bonia's Kitty Clutches And Carlo Rino's Cat Cross-bodies

Dec 13, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Bags aren’t just for carrying the crap we can never fit into our no-pocket outfits, or better still, fake jean pockets — they’re actually a great messenger of our personalities and lifestyles. If big bags suggest we’re practical and small ones imply we’re decisive, Bonia and Carlo Rino’s FW selection of feline-motif clutches and cross-bodies must mean we… love to stay out late and have a great sense of humour! If your first thought was “Oh goodness, cat ladies!” we urge you to knock that thought out of our mind. No joke, these bags have decidedly convinced us from now on to walk into any room with our arms extended, entering with our purse first!

Amelia Tan, Associate Editor

Bonia Cat Embossed Crossbody, $260

I have a preference for tiny bags that can stuff way more things than you’d think — also it’s kinda the feel of a classic Chanel Wallet On Chain, if you know what I mean — so I’m always looking for the next tiny game-changer. And this one’s pretty major — in a pretty millennial pink with an embroidery kitty motif as well, it definitely stands out against a wardrobe with more basic colours (read: denim and black), while it can also be fun against a more poppin’ palette too. Pick this if you want a neutral palette that’s not your run-of-the-mill black or brown leather.

Michelle Ng, Writer

Bonia Cat Embossed Crossbody, $260

If I could describe my dream bag, it would be a palm-sized clutch with a detachable bag. Big enough to fit more than my phone (and my passport when I’m travelling), yet small enough to feel like I’m carrying nothing, I love travelling light and this bag is just right size. I’ve also got a pretty erratic wardrobe too, so this grey colour will match all my loud prints whilst the motif will brighten the most monochrome outfit I’ve got.

Eleni Kontorigas, Media Executive

Carlo Rino Flap Over, $185

My wardrobe is as basic as they come so when choosing my top pick from the Carlo Rino Collection, this bag was the obvious choice. For a tiny bag, it surprisingly has a few compartments that come in handy for day-to-day use. The most clever is the thin zip at the front of the bag for easy access to your bank card and a convenient small pouch for a lip balm and mirror for a quick touch up. It also comes with a strap that’s great for travel.

Nurasyiqin Sedik, Media Executive

Carlo Rino Blazing Stars, $160

This Carlo Rino bag makes the perfect accessory for the festive season especially with the silver star motifs all over! I especially love the silver star detailing on the shoulder strap and that its length allow the bag to fall just above the waist which is perfect. To make it more everyday, I can just swap out the star-studded strap with the plain black one that comes with it.

You Can Now Get Nike Pants Geared Towards Your Workout

Dec 13, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Nike has always been one of the top brands for sportswear gear mainly because we love how their shoes are designed for different terrains and all sorts of conditions. Now, women can also get workout pants that were tailored for the specific workout. We’re not just talking about going into a store and asking for ‘yoga pants’ or ‘exercise shorts’, but something even more specific like tights for high intensity workouts or long distance running.
Not only do the styles differ from each other, but the materials makeup, finishes, rises and lengths are all catered towards helping you get the most out of your workout. Hate tights and shorts? There’s even a pants for running. Now we can’t use the excuse of not having the right workout clothes anymore.
Here are all 9 designs that Nike has just released we’ve made it easier for you by explaining what each pants is good for.
Nike Sculpt Lux Tight

Nike Sculpt Lux, $115

Good for: yoga, pilates, types of dances like ballet
Features: hi-rise waistband to sculpt your lower body, no side seams for extra flexibility and a more fitted silhouette, in-built pocket on the back for essentials
Nike Dry Lux Flow Pants

Nike Dry Lux Flow, $85

Good for: yoga, street dance
Features: jersey knit material as a versatile, lightweight pants, draped silhouette with fitted bottoms to give you 360 range of motion without being too restrictive
Nike Bliss Lux Pants

Nike Bliss Lux, $129

Good for: dance, boxing workouts
Features: relaxed fit and a four-way stretch woven fabric that helps you in your mobility in more intense workouts
Nike Fly Lux Tights

Nike Fly Lux, $99

Good for: workout classes like spin classes
Features: tight but unrestricted fit for workout sessions where you’ll be alternating between loads of different exercises, new type of stitching to reduce irritation, shorter length
Nike Pro Tight

Good for: heavy lifting, practice drills, agility work
Features: lightweight, cooling fabric for increased ventilation and for weightless feeling but providing enough coverage to be worn on its own, minimal stitching to reduce discomfort during exercise
Nike Power Hyper Tights

Nike Power Hyper, $85

Good for: high-intensity interval workouts
Features: bonded waistband for increased support with a higher curve at the back to ensure that your butt will always be covered, made of powermesh fabric that provides moderate compression without feeling too thick
Nike Swift Pants

Good for: runners who prefer pants over tights
Features: light and loose fabric that won’t chafe over long distances, tapered cuffs that you can pull up or down
Nike Epic Lux Tights

Nike Epic Lux Tights, $129

Good for: long distance running
Features: various pockets for runners to store keys, phones, cards that come with vapor barriers so that you don’t have to worry about your sweat getting all over your things, wide waistband for heightened core support
Nike Speed Tights

Nike Speed, $99

Good for: sprints, short distance running, speedy workouts
Features: reducing extra weight by getting rid of the zipper pocket, mid-rise waistband for core support and compression to reduce soft tissue motion
Maybe if this actually works out, we could see the same for other apparel like sports bras, training tops, and possibly even for the men’s apparel as well. For now, we’ll just pick up a couple of different pants and tights, and go look for some shoes to match them. After all, we need more shoes to complete the outfit!

All nine pants and tights are now available on nike.com, with select styles available at Nike stores and retailers.

NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: Wonderful Presents for a Workaholic

Dec 13, 2017Aug 15, 2018

We all know that one person with an unhealthy obsession for working. Like a drug that never fully satisfies, he or she cannot stop replying emails, leave the office on time, or just well…stop working. And if this person is your colleague, you’ll see them trundling to the office on a daily basis looking like a zombie from The Walking Dead.
And that sight just makes you want to tell them to chill out, although by doing so, you risk them telling you to bugger off. So if you can’t beat them, join them. Feed their workaholic addictions with presents that’ll make them feel comfortable, even if they’ve somehow transformed 9 to 5 to 9 to 1 in the freaking morning.
Here are the best presents you should buy that resident workaholic this Christmas:

1. Anya Hindmarch Eye Nylon Glommy Eyes Pouch, $330, available at Anya Hindmarch stores
Coffee run or lunch break, your friend won’t be able to resist this lightweight nylon pouch to stash their cash — choose from an elated or miserable face as a nod to their general mood.
2. Daniel Wellington Petite Ashfield Watch, $249, available at Daniel Wellington stores and authorised retailers
For the colleague who may not always be thaaat on time, they might need some help, first with this sleek timepiece on their wrist. The subtle black dial and metallic accents make this minimalist design a versatile but eye-catching one, so they’ll hopefully glance at the time once in a while.
3. Compact Blush Terrazzo 2018 Planner, $34.90, available at ThePaperBunny.com.
A compact-sized 2018 planner to jot down everything. From jotting down daily goals, to enjoying the motivational and hand-lettered quotes throughout, your colleague will definitely look forward to 2018 with this handy planner.
4. Bodum Double Wall Water Kettle, $179, available at Robinsons, Metro, Tangs, Courts Megastore, and Popular.
We all have that colleague who stays in office way past dinnertime. They no longer need to go hungry with this stylish water kettle – you can be sure that they always have piping hot water to make their instant noodles with! Plus, it’s always good to take a tea break during long office hours.

5. My Mind’s Eye Botanical Desk Set, $33.80, available at 3LittlePicks.com.
A black and white floral desk set for any work-obsessed colleague to stay on top of things. It comes complete with a notepad, decorative clips, sticky notes and flag pads, a spiral notebook, and cards with envelopes. Oh, and of course, a pen to jot everything down.
6. Nicky Asseraf Chic’ Chic Earrings Gold, $68. Available online at nickyasseraf.com
Statement pieces are the way to go when you want to make an impression! This pair of sleek, gold earrings somehow remind us of that minimalistic painter that no one can seem to remember the name of – classic yet modern. It’s almost like you are wearing art as part of your outfit.
7. Uncommon Goods Deep Sea Sand Art, $115.30, available at Uncommongoods.com
Offer tired eyes a brief break from the work day with a mesmerising piece of sand art. Place it on your desk, rotate the glass ring, and watch the glittery golden sand drift and morph into natural landscapes, ebbing and flowing into one another. With each delicate shift, you’ll be lost in its calming presence – just don’t stare at it for too long and abandon all tasks.
8. The Botanist Gin Mixing Glass Gift Set, available at TANGS.
Don’t listen to all those who say drinking is bad for you! Gin is made from juniper berries, which is an age-old remedy to fight colds and lung infections, and also helping to flush out your system. The herbs and other natural ingredients that are used in gin are full of antioxidants – which means that gin has anti-ageing properties. Cue: surprised face. So kick back and mix a cold one after work with The Botanist Gin gift set that comes with a mixing glass so that you can brush up on your bartending skills.

9. kikki.K Leather Personal Planner Medium: Sweet, $95.90, available at kikki.K stores and kikki-k.com
Though we are a little obsessed with those adorable hand-drawn illustrations on the cover, this 18-month planner has so much more to offer. Let your colleague keep track of their schedule with useful calendar sheets and stay organised with customisable tabs and interior pockets. Go ahead and add a personal touch with monogrammed initials, too.
10. Mischief BANK Mikeneko Coin Bank, $22.99, available via amazon.com
We all need to save up for a rainy day. Why not do at the office? The Mischief BANK Mikeneko Coin Bank is a great piggy bank for all your spare coins and notes after that heavy cai fan lunch, and its design of a maneki-neko – a popular Japanese figurine, is perfect for adding that splash of kawaii in your life.
11. Vaya Tyffyn Lunch Box 600ml in Maple, $51, available at vayalife.com
If clocking long hours are a thing at your workplace, then don’t skimp on lunch too! Store some wholesome homecooked meals in this two-part container, made with stainless steel and with an insulating technology that keeps your meal warm for up to 5 hours. Perfect for any workaholic.
12. Bruno Portable Charger, US$40, available via valfre.com
There are hardly any more annoying work disasters than forgetting to bring out your phone. Having a flat battery doesn’t rank too far behind =, although that can easily be solved with the adorable-as-hell Bruno Portable Charger, which keeps your phone ticking and everything cute too.
Notice the “WIN” labels? We’re giving away all these items in our massive holiday gift guide GIVEAWAY — head over to our Facebook page and Instagram page daily to take part in our contests.
More of NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guides, coming soon — stay tuned! Click here to see our full list of gift guides.

Review: Love Star Wars? Disney/Lenovo’s New AR Game is Perfect For You

Dec 13, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Augmented reality (AR) is huge. Not blockbuster level huge, but it’s getting there, and soon, it’ll be the future of gaming. Don’t believe us? Remember the Pokémon Go craze? Yeah, that was total madness. However, it won’t be Pikachu and friends taking AR to the next level. That job is for Disney and Lenovo’s new Star Wars game.
The two companies recently joined forces (ha, get it?) to create Star Wars: Jedi Challenge, a standalone gaming machine that will allow you to unleash your inner Jedi with the power of AR, making it one of 2017’s must-get items for Star Wars fans of all ages.

And with it, you get to do many cool things. Going toe-to-toe with Darth Maul is one of them, while you can command armies in a Starcraft-like manner, as well as play holographic chess. It’s essentially the world of Star Wars brought into reality, and all it takes is a headset, tracking device, toy lightsaber, your phone, and $379.
Still not convinced you should get it? Here are our experiences playing the game:

WHAT WE LIKED…

Amelia Tan, Associate Editor

Unboxing the set: Now this was pretty surreal — I don’t know about everyone, but the moment I lifted the lid off the box and unveiled the shiny lightsaber hilt nestled comfortably inside, the Star Wars opening theme started to immediately play in my head. I might have sung it out loud. I felt like this was an important moment, like I was bestowed my own set, undeservingly of course.

The set-up: You don’t have to deal with wires, or need a console to work this — which means you can play it straight out of the box! Just follow the instructions, calibrate your set, and insert your smartphone into the slot (with the app downloaded), and you’re in; about 10 minutes in total.

How it’s AR: For those who’ve tried VR and tend to feel giddy afterwards, you’ll be pleased to note that this isn’t that drastic a transition from the real world. Think of it like Pokemon Go. You’ll still be able to see your surroundings, just that the Star Wars characters will look like holograms popping about your house. Yep, exactly like Princess Leia’s hidden message.

It’s immersive: Obvious excitement aside, I have to say that the graphics were pretty realistic! Hold your lightsaber in front of you, and you can see the entire plasma blade lit up, as if you’re actually wielding one. It moves with your every action too. During gameplay, enemies such as the Stormtroopers and even Darth Maul felt like they were really attacking me, and the weapon worked in real time as I deflected blaster bolts or held off Maul’s pesky double-bladed weapon. All me!

Joel Conceicao, Writer

The special effects were great: Unlike the rest of the world, I’m hardly a huge Star Wars fan (in fact, I’ve only watched half of all the movies), so there had to be something special in order to draw my attention over here. I’m glad to say that visually at least, I fell in love with the game. I felt like I was really engaged in a real lightsaber duel when fighting Darth Maul, and physically, I think it’s a great workout too, compared to having your butt glued to a couch playing GTA.

Compatibility: For some stupid reason, most people feel a ridiculous sense of loyalty to smartphone companies that makes millions of dollars off them per annum, and it’s something that I can’t quite grasp, because I’m pretty neutral when it comes to these sort of matters. I go for what works for me, so I’m glad that Disney and Lenovo weren’t exclusivist by making this game an Apple-only or Android-only set. That would be horrendous. Thankfully, this isn’t.

There’s potential for more: While having three game modes is really cool – Trial of Combat, Trial of Insight, and Trial of Leadership, I think what’s cooler is the potential to develop new facets of the game in ways that couldn’t possibly have been imagined a few years ago, and it’s exciting to think of all the AR possibilities that can come to fruition with this game.

THE GAMEPLAY…

Amelia Tan, Associate Editor

Combat Mode: Probably the most fun one — you truly get to be a Jedi and Luke your way through the enemies, from the easy targets of the Stormtroopers of the initial stages, whom you get to satisfactorily slice through, to the boss fights where you engage in a one-on-one lightsaber battle with Darth Maul, and later, even Kylo Ren. When they come charging at you, you get to bring your lightsaber up to parry the strikes, and serve some hits as well. You do this via a guided gameplay; line your blade with the virtual guidelines to deal a successful block, and swing it at your enemy when an urgent circle appears on them for a limited time. The thrill of actually moving around the room as you battle makes the experience more compelling, and quite the workout too. Also, the lightsaber controller has haptic feedback to allow you to feel every triumph or defeat — not that I noticed though because I was having way too much fun.

Joel Conceicao, Writer

Combat Mode: Unlike Amelia, I only played the demo version of this game at the launch event, so I can only provide a gist of things at most. Nevertheless, my solitary bout with Darth Maul was enough to give me good idea of just how engaging the gameplay is, especially when it came to blocking strikes and dealing some of my own. I also had fun adopting an Arya Stark kind of posture while fighting (hey, it was pretty effective, okay), and it just goes to show that the gameplay is intuitively enjoyable, even if you’re not that big of a Star Wars fan to begin with. Who gets tired of swinging around a weapon anyway, especially one that glows holographically?

TAKE NOTE THOUGH…

Amelia Tan, Associate Editor

The Headset: I might have been too excited with the extended play, but after a while, I realised the headset (at 477g) was weighing down on me, no matter how I adjusted the straps. This was a bit of a physical limitation that I felt prevented me from flying through the stages as enthusiastically as I liked, or be able to feel 100% limitless in battle.

You’ll need some space: Well, you’re trying to cram the galaxies in here, but really, you’ll need quite a wide space to have room to move around, and luckily I had a small clear area in my HDB flat. Nope, I was not going to bring this down to my void deck, alright. Be prepared to move your furniture if you’re in a flat too.

Calibration issues: This was one of the major flaws of the game for me; once the system didn’t sync with my actual position, everything went haywire. I struggled at even the menu selection, and once, was even caught in between battle, so Seventh Sister seemed to teleport all over the place for me to deal my strikes.

It’s still a novelty: If you’re thinking of Star Wars Kid-level of madness, you’ll have to hold back a little. The field of view’s still pretty limited, as with most AR headsets, so you’ll still get the feeling like you’re looking through a window, while at the same time, the device can’t handle fast motions as well. If you’re a geek, serious or not, you’ll love it anyway, but I don’t know about the average consumer buying into it. For a groundbreaking unit though, I’d say it’s still pretty impressive and paves the way for more successful ones to come.

WIN! We’re giving away one set of Star Wars: Jedi Challenges as part of our ultimate holiday gift guide, worth $379, courtesy of Lenovo. To stand a chance of winning, simply fill up this form by 15 Dec, 6pm. The winners will be announced on our Facebook page on 15 Dec.

For more information, visit www.lenovo.com.
Images: Lenovo

When Our Favourite Designers Take Hobo Bags To The Next Level

Dec 13, 2017Aug 15, 2018

This morning, we woke up to a buzzing only audible from many incoming phone messages at once. Luxury fashion house Balenciaga just released three more tote bags inspired by wet markets, and we’re can’t decide if this is just a case of April’s fool in December or a genius exemplification of art imitating life.

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It’s safe to say Balenciaga’s pioneered the new aesthetic go-to that’s teetering on ugly but inevitably desirable, and these shoppers definitely fit into that brand visual. Much like Golden Goose Deluxe Brand sneakers, Gucci’s latest Rhyton and Loewe’s toast graphic tees use class irony to create beautiful pieces we all want to wear, Balenciaga’s take on streetwear (like, back alley kind of street) is rather thought-provoking. While many have questioned its authenticity since it’s clearly taking inspiration from a group of people who’d perhaps never buy into the brand, we still can appreciate these bags singularly.
Here’re some of the more outrageous iterations of shopping bags from some our favourite designer labels we’ve seen so far:

Balenciaga Shopper Leather Tote USD2,890, Helmut Lang Trash Bag Metallic leather USD519, MM6 Maison Margiela See-through Tote Bag $315

NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: Who’s The Boss?

Dec 12, 2017Aug 15, 2018

And…the names have been drawn. This year’s Secret Santa has landed you with the task of buying a gift for your boss, and there’s a split second of minor shock before major panic engulfs. What exactly do you buy? Is there any hope? Will this…gasp, affect your job? Insert dramatic classical music.
Ah, but there’s no need to worry. Your boss is only human, and like all humans through the course of history, he or she loves being pampered with a good gift every now and then. Plus, a Secret Santa is probably the best opportunity to show just how well you know your boss. It’s basically free brownie points laid out on a platter for you.
But of course, a price-restricted Secret Santa exchange shouldn’t be the only way to show appreciation for the folks in charge. They too, deserve a little bit of splurging, and if you’re willing to splash the cash, here are the best gifts you should get:

1. FORNASETTI Candles, US$213 each, available at Yoox.com.
Another gift you can’t go wrong with: a candle to win over all other candles! Each one of these beautiful jars features natural vegetable wax poured into a glazed ceramic pot, and printed with the gorgeous designs by FORNASETTI. Both the Flora and Requiem candles have a musky floral scent created by master perfumer Emmanuel Philip, and includes notes of ivy, lily of the valley, jasmine, white rose and tuberose.
2. Moleskine Smart Writing Set, $359, available at Moleskine stores.
Maybe your boss belongs to the generation that grew up with the old paper and pen (hey, we did too); then, he/she would appreciate this — write in the pages of this Moleskine book, and everything gets immediately converted to digital form, live! The set includes a Paper Tablet, Pen+ and the Notesapp.
3. Nespresso Essenza Mini, $158, available at all Nespresso boutiques or online at nespresso.com.
Contrary to popular belief, bigger isn’t always better. Don’t believe us? Well, you should really take a good look at the Essenza Mini – an extremely tiny coffee machine, and Nespresso’s smallest product of all time. Perfect for the home, or perfect for the boss who likes to make his or her office their home.
4. Morgan Lane Sleepy Lids Cashmere Mask, $225, available at MatchesFashion.
These blush-pink Sleepy Lids mask are what every boss needs for a good night’s sleep. It’s crafted from pure cashmere and designed with black closed-eye embroidery, and can also be used for busy work trips since it comes with a matching drawstring-fastening pouch.

5. Slip Embroidered silk queen pillowcase, $69.43, available at net-a-porter.com.
Ensure your boss gets the best beauty rest with this luxurious silk pillowcase. Slip uses pure mulberry silk that reduces friction to prevent skin tugging and the dreaded morning bed-head (unless he/she is into that look, of course). Needless to say, waking up with smooth locks and hydrated skin is a bonus for anyone, but your gift will probably get you a huge bonus, too.
6. Soma Sustainable Pitcher & Plant-Based Water Filter, US$39, available at drinksoma.com.
How about this for a pitch(er)? Remind your boss to stay hydrated with this stunning minimalist water jug, which can hold 10 cups of filtered water. He/she will find it way more bearable to stay at the desk all day.
7. MUJI USB Desk Fan Swing, $49, available at muji.com.sg.
When the office air-con gets into full swing, it can feel a lot like Antarctica. Okay, we exaggerate. Still, there’s just that slight issue of a room taking too long to cool down, and that’s the last thing we need in hot, hot Singapore. The solution? Get MUJI’s USB-powered desk fan – a handy boost to help you get through the daily heat wave.
8. Tiffany & Co. Table Tennis Paddles, US$650, available at tiffany.com
When we first heard that Tiffany & Co. was launching their first-ever homeware collection, we got excited — especially when we realised they were luxury, and therefore ironic, takes on everyday objects. So, who really needs these exquisite leather and walnut table tennis paddles? The person with the most exquisite taste in your office (an assumption we’re willing to make).

9. Lingua Franca Embroidered Sweater, US$413.22, available at net-a-porter.com.
Sometimes the boss gets a chill from the office aircon, and needs a lovely 100% cashmere sweater. And sometimes the boss needs to chill and as the sweater reminds her… to “let it be”.
10. Hermès Brides de Gala Love Twilly, POA, available at Hermès stores.
For the person who determines your paycheck, it’s time for some payback — only the nice sort, of course! And any stylish #girlboss would appreciate this classy scarf from the hallowed halls of Hermès.
11. Bottega Venetta Key Ring in Intrecciato Nappa Leather, USD200, available at BottegaVeneta.com.
What else would you get for the boss who already has everything? A safe choice, but one that will definitely be used everyday: we all need something hardy but fashionable to loop our keys in.

Notice the “WIN” labels? We’re giving away all these items in our massive holiday gift guide GIVEAWAY — head over to our Facebook page and Instagram page daily to take part in our contests.
More of NYLON’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Guides, coming soon — stay tuned! Click here to see our full list of gift guides.

Every Important Moment This Year Barely Got Airtime On 2017's #YouTubeRewind

Dec 12, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Time is just a concept, and looking back on 2017 definitely exemplifies that. There’s been a lot that’s happen throughout the 300-odd days that’ve passed us, and admittedly there’ve been arguably more downs than ups this year than in recent times. But, as we like to stay hopeful for the future, we’re taking life easier as the holidays draw closer and we begin focusing on festivities like shopping gifts for our colleagues on Amazon Prime and listening to our favourite music on Spotify.
Late last week, YouTube released their yearly edition of #YouTubeRewind, combining the forces of YouTuber superstars to create a video montage of the year’s hottest (spicy-noodle-challenge hot) goings-on. Often done away with a ton of cameo appearances due to time constraints, this year’s rendition was explicitly sped up to cram in the multitude of activity that went out online and the world at large. Here’s what we thought about what went on:

1. Fidget Spinners

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Fidget spinners are the physical manifestation of that catchy pop song that you couldn’t stop stop looping on your playlist for weeks that suddenly whittled into a grating, whiny tune. Kids have glorified this thing as an object to look up to, from performing tricks with multiple spinners and even considering the purchase of high-end versions! Like we said, we thought it was cool for a moment when it first came out, but now we can’t look at it without flipping out.

2. DIY Slime

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Do you spend hours on end scrolling through hands destroying indestructible lumps of slime sure to induce the worst of goosebumps for tyrannophobics? We’re guilty as charged. There’s something oddly therapeutic about destroying perfectly shaped goo, especially if it transforms from separate orbs of colours into a pretty ombre rainbow.

3. The Floor Is Lava

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyLmnXxhPFU

This viral online challenge has have had people literally jumping at their feet — basically someone unsuspectingly utters the phrase, causing whoever they’re speaking to to scramble in a frenzy such that their feet don’t touch the floor. Watching people freak out and hop onto the closest available elevation, however, bizarre, is pretty hilarious.

4. Natural Disasters
#YouTubeRewind tends to remain positive and casual, but it couldn’t ignore the multitude of tragedy that transpired, from natural disasters to terrorism to political chaos. There was a moment of B-roll footage of such news coverage, but ended off on a note of unity and reinforced the power of coming together in times of hardship.