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The Real Deal: Budget Makeup Finds Under $52

Aug 7, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Sometimes, the price we pay for beauty is pretty high – just look at all the effort we invest into looking the best versions of ourselves – but let’s face it, there’s no shame in ‘budget beauty’. After all, why break the bank when you can, wisely, spend on gems that work just as well? Here, we’re proud to display some of our best makeup finds – all below $52.

You know that feeling – score a great eyeliner or lipstick at a reasonable price, and you get an overwhelming sense of the world finally working in your favour. We’ll share some of the ways you can get that feeling, over and over again. Hint: it’s more than just the price tag.
1. EYESHADOW PALETTES

1. cyber colors swan lake eyeshadow palette in classic odette, $41.90 (now @ 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off) ; 2. color combos 10-in-1 eyeshadow palette in naked, $26.90 (now 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off)
It may seem like common sense, but rather than get individual pots of colours, you can spring for an entire array of eyeshadow shades that are already thoughtfully put together for you. Cyber Colors’ Swan Lake Eyeshadow Palette offers romantic shades that transition from light to dark, and in a good mix of matte, satin and glitter finishes. If you’re talking value- for-money though, there’s the Color Combos 10-in-1 Eyeshadow Palette, with a nice blend of versatile colours that can take you from natural to dramatic smokey eyes in an instant.
2. INNOVATIVE ALL-IN-ONES

1. color combos all-in-one face kit in pink, $20.90 (now @ $15) ; 2. color combos three tone stackable lipstick in mixed berries, $23 (now any 2 @ $30) ; 3. sasatinnie aqua cc foundation spf40 pa++innatural,$38.90 (now @ 52%off) ; 4. color combos lightup mirror lipgloss in coral, $22.90 (now 2nd @ $5)
Other than eyeshadow palettes, you can stretch your dollar with smart packaging. It’s here that we include the Color Combos All- In-One Face Kit, a compact powder that’s divided into several sections you can pick up for either bronzer, highlight or blush. Talk about convenience! Then, there’s the Color Combos Three Tone Stackable Lipstick that works like one of those stackable markers we used to piece together when we were kids. This time, there’s a bright plum, red, and pink all lined up for you; you can go with a single shade, or up the impact with a gradient lip by layering a darker shade on the inner part of your lips. We’re also throwing in the Color Combos Lightup Mirror Lipgloss, because, believe it or not, a little LED light comes on when you twist the cap open, perfect for night events or parties since you can do a quick touch-up without even reaching for your phone.
3. MULTI-TASKING PRODUCTS

1. cyber colors melting creamy blusher in baby rose, $39.90 (now 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off) ; 2. thebalm pickup liners in fine all over and acute one, $35 each (now @ 15% off) ; 3. sasatinnie booming blush on in blossom peach, $22.90 (now @ $18.90) ; 4. cyber colors allure oil in gloss tint in ispahan rose, $29.90 (now 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off)
With Korean-style monochromatic makeup being the style to emulate these days, it means you can effortlessly recreate the look with one product. A stick blush like the Cyber Colors Melting Creamy Blusher fits right in – swipe some across your cheekbones for a light radiance across your face. Baby Rose is a soft, glowy shade that, because of its buttery texture, can be easily blended out with your fingers, or, use the blending brush that comes with the product. Then, dab the same colour over your eyelids, and just in the middle of your lips, on top of nude lipstick, for a luminous pout. You can do the same with powdered formulas or sheer lip tints too, like the ones featured here. As for the two reddish liners, smudge them out over your lids for a smokier peachy style.
4. A DAILY GO-TO

1. sasatinnie glam luster lipstick in chic red, $25.90 (now @ 15% off) ; 2. cyber colors real lasting smudgeproof gel liner in blackest black, $23 (now any 2 @ $30) ; 3. cyber colors brow-chitect gel in amber, $37.90 (now @ $25) ; 4. color combos hydrating mirror lipstick, $20.90 (now 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off)
Instead of splurging on new products before our current ones run out, sometimes, you deserve to stick to what you know and love. You honestly can’t go wrong with a red lip, and as Sasatinnie’s Glam Luster Lipstick, in the shade Chic Red proves, a stroke of rich bright red, the colour that’s also a confidence booster, is sometimes all you need to get through the day. The Cyber Colors Real Lasting Smudgeproof Gel Liner, along with the Brow-chitect Gel, are no-brainer options for your everyday look, while we’d also recommend the Color Combos Hydrating Mirror Lipstick for easy on-the-go touch-ups.
All items available at Sasa Singapore stores. sasa.com.sg

This Pharrell Williams and Stan Smith Collaboration Is All We've Been Waiting For

Aug 7, 2017Aug 15, 2018

We hope you’re keeping up with adidas Originals’ latest releases, because another round of tennis-inspired sneakers are about to drop soon. Pharrell Williams’ signature adidas shoes, the Tennis Hu silhouette, which takes inspiration from the classic Stan Smiths, is being revisited again, in new pastel colourways that can never go wrong.

With new models released only just last month, it’s clear that Williams is constantly brainstorming on new ideas and designs. This time, however, the multi-talented singer-songwriter is working with the OG himself, the legendary tennis player, Stan Smith, to come up with a “Pastel Pack” collection.

In this collection, the adidas Stan Smith comes dipped in pretty pastel hues in premium full-grain leather, while the Tennis Hu comes in matching colours, and comes constructed with mesh. The latter also features a sock-like fit with a textured mid-sole, and the Hu logo can also be seen on the tongue, co-branded along with the adidas Originals logo.

When you bring two iconic and creative minds together for a collaboration, in addition to adidas’ superb quality, trust that you’re getting classic sneaker staples that are stylish yet comfortable, and are bound to stay with you for a long time to come.
adidas Originals Tennis Hu + Stan Smith “Pastel Pack”, $149 each, available from 10 August 2017 at adidas.com.sg.
Header image: adidas

Yves Saint Laurent's Iconic Touche Éclat Gets a Cushion Upgrade

Aug 7, 2017Aug 15, 2018

The beauty world is no stranger to Yves Saint Laurent Beauté’s Touche Éclat. The iconic gold pen has long been a mainstay in the makeup pouches of novices and professionals alike, imbuing a touch of radiance to the face in a quick click and swipe, so it’s no wonder one is sold somewhere in the world every 10 seconds.

We were there for every physical incarnation of the Touche Éclat, but for the very first time, the cult makeup item has assumed the form of an elegant square cushion compact with an innovative, weightless formula to shake up the game.

Meet Le Cushion, YSL Beauté’s cushion foundation that allows for customisable coverage and luminosity. It acts just like an adaptable dimmer switch, except it’s for your face. No idea how it does that? Well, YSL’s Le Cushion comes equipped with a bi-material sponge with two textured sides so you can used both to achieve your ideal finish. Simply use the smooth side of the sponge to swipe on for a natural coverage, then switch to the flocked side and tap away to adjust your radiance for a more seamless finish.

Of course, it wouldn’t bear the Touche Éclat name if it couldn’t deliver that signature illumination. Gold particles and radiant oils in the formula will treat and hydrate, while Ruscus extract and vitamin E soothes and conditions stressed complexions.
What sets Le Cushion apart is also its micro-net delivery system. It deposits the right amount of product each time you pat your cushion on it, so you never have to worry about being too heavy-handed with every application. Not to mention, it solves the issue of product leakage and evaporation.
There are only 8 shades in this lineup at the moment, so we’re hoping YSL Beauté pays heed to its consumers to address the demands of those with skin tones that fall outside of this narrow spectrum. Till then, we can’t wait to see our complexions in a whole new light with this new cushion.
Yves Saint Laurent Beauté Touche Éclat Le Cushion, $92. $58 for refill.
Available at all YSL Beauté stores and counters islandwide from October.

Adding Highlights onto the Ears Is the Next Instagram Beauty Trend and It's So Extra

Aug 6, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Just when you thought highlighting starts at your brow bone, nose bridge, and ends with applying copious amounts of the life-saving, magical, shimmery goodness onto your cheekbones, Instagram is pushing the boundaries even further. This beauty trend is starting to gain popularity amongst makeup artists all over Instagram, and yes, you guessed it: it’s all about strobing some highlight onto your ears. First reported by Refinery29, who cleverly coined it as the “lobe strobe”, we started wondering why we haven’t been paying attention to our ears when it is so closely positioned to our face. While we initially thought highlighting the ears is such an extra step, we are slowly changing our minds about it. After all, some things just take more time to open up to.

zamn I look good lol 😊

A post shared by Miski (@musegold) on Jul 29, 2017 at 2:31pm PDT

A model named Miski (@musegold) told Refinery29 that she first found out about ear highlighting from Bretman Rock (of course), who she says is “just so extra with the highlight” (totally agreed), and we guess the rest is just history. Looking at the pictures on Instagram, we saw the difference and now we can’t unsee it. It just seems more complete to have the ears receive some bling-bling action as well (we’re sorry ears, for leaving you out all this time), giving the side profile selfie an all-around flawless and on-fleek look. And apparently, Bretman Rock claims that applying highlighters on your ears amplify your hearing when people want to be talking shit about you.

The reason why I Highlight my ears 👂 .. ✨ you can't catch these hands but you can catch this highlight ha bow dahh

A post shared by Bretman Rock (@bretmanrock) on Jan 28, 2017 at 12:45am PST

But… do we really care about dem haters, tho?

When you can't decide which highlight to wear, so you wear them all @makeuprevolution ultra strobe palette 😂😅🌌 #highlightbling #alwaysextra #earhighlight. . .#happybrunchday #melanin #undiscoevered_muas #fiercesociety #bretmansvanity #maryhadalittleglam #blackgirlmagic #cocoswatches #makeupjunkie #elfbeautysquad #gerardcosmetics #doseofcolor #yesnyx #playbeautifully #morphebrushes #norvina #makeupartists_worldwide

A post shared by BreLaville (@theboldbre) on May 7, 2017 at 8:32am PDT

Highlighting is life #earhighlight 😍 When the talented @freshtasahak gets to play with your face 🙌 Amazing festival makeup glam 🔥 STAY TUNED to see the video on how we created this festive look @klaracosmetics 🎥 #klaramakeupartist #klaracosmetics #makeupbyamandarose #klarameetsamandarose _______________________________________________________ #melbournemakeupartist #makeupartistworldwide #professionalmakeup #freelancemakeupartist #makeupartistmelbourne #melbourneblogger #melbournebeautyblogger #cochella #festivalmakeup #cochellamakeup #festivalglam #makeupoftheday #dailybeauty #instamakeup #dailymakeup #heavyglam #flawlessmakeup #bombhighlight #highlightonfleek #makeuponpoint #makeupgoals #makeupinspo #makeupartist #makeupvideos #makeupcommunity

A post shared by AMANDA ROSE PICCOLO (@makeupby.amandarose) on Jul 25, 2017 at 7:55pm PDT

Half cut crease turquoise glitter-pink makeup look 💚💕🖤 I was inspired by flamingos, @dualipa music videos and "Garden", @succuvus makeup looks🖤🖤 Hope you like it 🖤 . . . . . #makeup #makeuprevolution #nyxcosmetics #crueltyfree #drugstoremakeup #glitter #glowing #photography #selfie #muasworldwide #muasfeaturing #dermacol #summer #colorfulmakeup #cutcrease #choker #septumpiercing #summermakeup #dualipa

A post shared by Bence👽☾*ೃ✩:･⋆.✧ (@bence_kontar) on Jul 18, 2017 at 4:34am PDT

Also, for those who have sensitive ears who can’t just wear any type of earrings, this is actually your best bet at giving your ears some attention. But seriously, we’ve been blogging about how highlighters are catching all the light and blinding people with every turn we make, how did we not think of applying them on our ears as a replacement for diamond studs?

via GIPHY

To achieve the “lobe strobe” effect, there is only two steps to it. 1. Pick up a generous amount of your favourite highlighter with a fan brush. 2. Apply to parts of the ears where you want it to glow. It’s so simple, it almost seems like a joke to even be listing out the steps. But you might ask exactly where? Well, you can apply at the top curvature of your ear, or at the tragus if you want people to think you got a really cool piercing, when really, it’s just the power of highlights.

via GIPHY

But you know what? Screw it. We are just gonna spam as much highlighter as we want all over our ears, cause we’re extra like that.
Difficulty Level: This is nothing as compared to getting an actual ear piercing.

Header image: @theboldbre

We Can't Get Enough Of Micellar Waters

Aug 6, 2017Aug 15, 2018

The strength of the micellar water trend has shown no sign of abating, and that’s why, years after Bioderma first led the way with their Sensibio H2O, we’re still really into micellar waters – and brands are still really into launching them.
While Bioderma’s range is mostly targeted at sensitive skin, and is gentle and neutral enough that, essentially, all skin types could safely use it, advancements in micellar formulas has given us more targeted options via the other brands. For example, recently we’ve seen quite a few designed for for acne-prone skin. Another trend: micellar waters from the luxury brands, who are evidently eager to jump on the micellar bandwagon too.
In the past months, we’ve gotten plenty of options:

(Clockwise from top left):
Garnier Micellar Oil-Infused Cleansing Water
$19.90, available at Watsons, Guardian, Unity, and selected supermarkets and hypermarkets
Now, doesn’t this look interesting. Yes, it’s basically a combination of the current two most popular makeup remover types: the micellar water, and the cleansing oil. Garnier’s added argan oil into this one, to nourish dry skin while quickly ridding the skin of waterproof makeup.
Biore Acne Care Micellar Cleansing Water
$18.90, available at Watsons, Guardian, and all supermarkets and hypermarkets
The key here is the anti-bacterial formula, that makes sure you’re not aggravating your breakout, but actually helping it, as you wipe this micellar water all over your face. It’s non-comedogenic and doesn’t contain alcohol, fragrance, artificial colouring and oil, so it’s very safe indeed.
Dior Hydra Life Micellar Water – No Rinse Cleanser
$62, available at the Dior Beauty store and counters
Dior calls this a “pleasure-infused version” of your standard micellar water, probably because of the subtle fragrance they’ve infused it with. Its main ingredient is the extract of the coneflower, which serves as a powerful antioxidant and a moisturising agent.
Nivea Acne Care Make Up Clear Micellar Water
$9.90, available at Watsons, Guardian, and major supermarkets
See, we told you micellar waters for acne-prone skin is a thing now. Nivea’s version promises acne-fighting ingredients in the formula, such as lactic acid and decylene glycol to both soothe existing breakouts and kill off bacteria.
ETUDE HOUSE Monster Micellar Cleansing Water
$26, available at ETUDE HOUSE stores

Okay, we’re mostly into the packaging. Another thing is that this is very reasonably priced for a 700ml bottle, which will last you a long time. Comes with a handy pump dispenser too.
Estelle & Thild Biocleanse Micellar Cleansing Water
$38, available at Sephora
If you like your micellar waters organic, Estelle & Thild’s micellar water hydrates with aloe vera leaf juice, which helps the skin better bind moisture and boosts skin regeneration, as well as natural surfactants from coconuts that act as a mild cleansing agent.

Main image: ETUDE HOUSE Singapore

Bag Update: Metal Accents That Are Trending This Season

Aug 5, 2017Aug 15, 2018

If there’s one thing that we’re zooming into this season, at least for the accessories we carry on our shoulder, it’s hardware. And this season’s It-bags are tinkering with many splendid, innovative versions of those, far different from their predecessors in terms of how they’re used and where they’re used. It’s not just crisp metallic clasps or constast zippers we’re talking about either — from a fascination with rounded hoops, geometric-style bars and chains in unexpected places, you’ll find that it’s now way harder to pick a favourite.

Full Circle

L – R: Chloé Faye Day in Blush Nude, available at Chloé boutiques ; JW Anderson Black & White Medium Pierce Bag, £1,095, available at Club21 stores ; Marni Pannier Bag, available at Marni boutiques
Circular objects always make for very classy designs, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing them all over the latest bags too. Chloé’s Faye Day is one of those breezy crossbody/shoulder bag varieties that have lots of room for your daily essentials, but what we love is the utilitarian draw of the otherwise feminine design, thanks to that signature ring loop and hanging chain. Of course, you’d have seen JW Anderson’s now-classic leather bag all over the most stylish mavens, and surely, that gold-tone circular barbell piercing stands out even more in a modern black-and-white design. As for Marni, the hoop goes oversized, and is now transformed into a round metal and leather handle that anchors the more freeform shape of the calfskin bag.

Bar None

L – R: Building Block Disc Textured-Leather Bucket Bag, $404, available at net-a-porter.com ; The Strathberry Midi Tote in Bottle Green, $880, available at Pedder on Scotts ; Prada Pattina Leather Shoulder Bag, available at Prada boutiques
The cool set’s favourite minimalist bag brand is here with this pared-back design, a sculpture of a bucket bag made with textured leather on a rounded base, and a touch of that silver toggle. Similarly, other bags have jumped on the metal bar trend that have been so popular among under-the-radar brands, especially those who favour minimalist or geometric accents. Edinburgh-based Strathberry recently joined the On Pedder family with their luxury Spanish leathers, clean designs, and that signature and functional metal bar, while long-standing luxury favourites Prada has a burnished gold hardware that’s supposed to remind us of antique book bindings — quaint and modern, all at once.

We Need Closure

L – R: Mulberry Amberley Bag, available at Mulberry stores ; Off-White Printed Leather Shoulder Bag, US$808, available at net-a-porter.com
Refined, or industrial? Take your pick on two very different designs. First, this Mulberry beauty by creative director Johnny Coca, named after the Amberley Castle in the English countryside; other tan equestrian-inspired stitching and quilting details, plus those saddle-like leathers, there’s a classy Rider’s Lock that keeps the bag closed, an original hardware design that’s inspired by the metal on horse bits and bridles. That those manage to look this refined and slender is a testament to his ingenuity. Of course, you’ll wanna reach for Off-White for something more unconventional; the equally-lauded Virgil Abloh has made this bag a signature one in recent years, complete with the bold stripes, industrial tape strap, and yep, your good old binder clip.

Chained To The Rhythm

L – R: Alexander Wang Roxy Mini Studded Textured Leather Bucket Bag, available at Club 21 ; Gucci Sylvie Medium Chain Embellished Leather Tote, available at Gucci stores ; Stella McCartney Metallic Falabella Box Wicker Mini Shoulder Bag, US$1,080, available at Stella McCartney stores
Yeah, we’re usually used to chain straps for that bit of rock ‘n’ roll edge, but these are a little different; Alexander Wang updates the rockstar Roxy with scores of silver studs and that signature bike chain that you casually loop around your wrist, while Gucci presents a roomy tote, that’s super elegant even when those iconic stripes are trimmed with a gleaming gold hardware buckle. Finally, Stella McCartney’s Falabella Box shoulder bag, in a metallic wicker effect eco alter nappa, on top of the chain sling, sees its flap lined with chains too to amp up the edgy appeal.

Edible Beauty: Unique Ingredients Your Skin Needs to Keep Glowing

Aug 5, 2017Aug 15, 2018

The beauty industry is no stranger to strange ingredients. It occasionally swerves off into the kitchen and emerges with a bunch of new ingredients to be introduced into skincare products. You may raise an eyebrow at some of these and even squirm at them, but hey, if they work, surely you’d want to give them a go. Here, we’ve gathered a few products that put an intriguing spin on edible beauty.

Soo Beauté Rice Comfort Natural Smoothing Exfoliator, $36.90 
Who knew we could derive beauty benefits from our daily source of energy? Well, rice actually makes an excellent toner as it acts like an astringent to tighten pores, keeping the skin smooth. Boosting that ability, this exfoliator from Soo Beauté gently polishes to brighten your skin and give it a radiant, healthy glow without being too harsh on the epidermis.

Suisse Programme Caviar Lifting Milk Cleanser, $109
It may be expensive to eat and even more expensive to have in your beauty routine, but caviar extract can be quite the miracle worker for those who are looking into anti-aging skincare. This ingredient is loaded with vitamins and amino acids that provide building blocks for skin cells to function optimally, slowing down the skin’s aging process. This is why you might wanna take extra time to cleanse your skin with Suisse Programme’s offering. It whisks away impurities and strengthens your skin, so you can look forward to a smoother canvas with every use.

Soo Beauté Elixir Donkey Milk Brightening Silk Skincel Mask, $3.90
We all know that Cleopatra used to bathe in milk daily for glowing skin, but did you know it took at least 700 farmed donkeys to provide for her milk baths? Yup, donkey milk is actually prized for its skin benefits. It’s rich in vitamins, proteins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and it even contains four times the amount of vitamin C compared to cow’s milk. So for your next pampering session, use this mask by Soo Beauté instead to hydrate and brighten your complexion.

Sasatinnie Oatmeal Eye and Lip Makeup Remover, $16.90
Not just used extensively in breakfast bowls, oatmeal can also be found in a number of skincare products because of its soothing and calming properties. They contain a range of minerals, vitamins and lipids as well as avenathramides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s a good thing that Sasatinnie’s makeup remover contains this soothing ingredient then. Most makeup removers can be harsh around sensitive areas like the eyes and lips, but this one’s infused with nourishing oils, making it a gentler option.

NoTS Aqua Barrier Lotus Essence Mist, $35 
If you’re searching for an essence that doubles up as a hydrating mist, this is it. NoTS’s Essence Mist contains lotus, which is a powerful antioxidant that’s packed with flavonoids to help heal the skin. There’s vitamin A in lotus too, which is why it’s able to reduce inflammation – a much-needed benefit for those struggling with acne. Combined with 7 lightweight botanical oils, a spritz of this will restore moisture and calm reactive skin.
All products available now at Sasa stores islandwide.

We Tried The New YSL All Hours Liquid Foundation On Our Friends

Aug 5, 2017Aug 15, 2018

By Adele Chan
I’ve reviewed many liquid foundations in my life as a beauty journalist, and I still get excited every time a new bottle is launched. I believe that when you get your base right, your day will be right as well. There have been many standout liquid foundations launched this year, such as shu uemura’s Petal Skin Fluid foundation (gives skin the texture of a soft petal), Shiseido’s Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation (apparently “syncs” with skin to create a natural, but “better than skin” finish), and even drugstore options like Bourjois’ Healthy Mix Anti-Fatigue foundation (NYLON’s Associate Editor, Tami says that it blends well and smells nice). There’s a lot of choice when you’re shopping for a good liquid base, so before you spend your money, make a list of what you want:
PRICE: How much are you willing to spend on this product? I always recommend spending more on base makeup (like foundations) than face colours like eyeshadow, blushes and lipsticks. Invest in a good foundation and your skin will look and feel fabulous. NOTE: I’ve tried foundations that cost more than any makeup product should (eg. clé de peau beauté The Foundation, $430!!!), and they aren’t always the best. I’ve learned over the years of editing beauty, that the price of makeup usually correlates to how good it is, but it’s not always the case.
FINISH: Matte or dewy? It’s really a personal preference, and sometimes may boil down to the type of skin you have. For example, if you have an oilier skin type, you may want to focus on matte finish foundations to tone down the shine.
COVERAGE: Do you want sheer or full coverage? Again, this depends on the condition of your skin. If you have generally good skin, you can get away with just a hint of foundation (that looks like you’re wearing nothing!); but imagine those days you break out and your skin is red and patchy, you’ll want to even out your skin and cover that up. A good liquid foundation will offer buildable coverage, which means you can apply a light layer for something sheer, or you can layer it on and make it heavier based on the coverage you want.
This month, an exciting liquid foundation landed on my desk, with an equally exciting campaign video. Check this out:

Why is a liquid foundation exciting? That’s because it’s from YSL; and YSL is currently a super hot makeup brand with products that command overnight queues and stampedes (by the way, that particular Sparkle Clash collection will be back exclusively on tangs.com on 9 August 2017!!); not to mention their Encre De Peau cushion compact has a immense cult following and is the top seller across all local YSL stores and counters. If you’ve tried the Encre De Peau cushion or powder compact, you know how lovely the finish and application is; and this is the new liquid foundation version of this same line. What’s also exciting is that there will be 22 shades of this foundation, all launching in Singapore. So yes, whatever skin tone you are, you’ll find your match.

And because I have the most awesome job in the world, YSL sent me all 22 shades to play with and review, so I called five friends (including the makeup artist) to try them out.

DOLLEI SEAH

Dollei working on Claire Jedrek at the shoot.
Dollei is a makeup artist that has been in the business a long, long time… and she’s a person I love to work with because she speaks her mind and gets to the point (very much like me). She also really knows her stuff and I trust her professional opinion on beauty products. So I passed her these bottles of foundation to use on four girls, and according to her, this liquid foundation is best. She was obviously having fun applying the foundation on the girls, and she says that “the texture just keeps getting better and you want to keep adding more”. Her summary of this foundation: it’s easily buildable, gives good coverage, has a modern matte finish (it’s matte but reflects light at the right areas), it does not cake, and is good enough to use as a concealer to cover scars and dark rings.

AARIKA LEE
I last saw Aarika on an Enfagrow ad (baby milk powder if you didn’t know). This girl has been popping up on my computer (when I log on to Paypal), television screen (dancing to McDonald’s!), and social media (I just saw her new blonde hair for Kérastase), so I thought… here’s a busy girl who I could try this new wonder foundation on. Aarika’s feedback: she likes the smell, she likes the coverage, she doesn’t like to use a lot of makeup and this product feels light — like her skin can breathe, oh, and the bottle is nice. A plus point for Aarika is the wide range of shades this foundation is available in; she usually falls in-between colours and this wasn’t a problem with 22 shades to match her with.

Makeup used on Aarika:
All Hours Foundation in B60, $98
Rouge Pur Couture in 70 Le Nu, $51
Vernis à Lèvres Vinyl Creme in 401 Rouge Vinyle, $51
The Shock Volumizing Mascara, $60
Couture Variation Palette in Tuxedo, $129
All Hours Foundation in B80 (for contouring), $98
Dessin Du Regard in 1 Black, $38

SAVINA CHAI
If you follow Savina on Instagram, you’ll know that she’s a very busy girl. She tells me that she wakes up daily at 8am, has coffee by 9am, is out of the house by 11am, and has meetings and events all the way past dinner. So her requirements for a base makeup is something that can be a “BB cream, powder and concealer all in one”. After we tried the All Hours foundation on her, her immediate feedback was that it didn’t feel heavy; and her skin felt like skin. Yes that’s definitely a good thing. But the main selling point of this foundation for her: it’s long lasting, i.e. 24-hour longwear.

Makeup used on Savina:
All Hours Foundation in BD25, $98
Couture Variation Palette in Tuxedo (on the brows), $129
Rouge Pur Couture in 70 Le Nu, $51
Rouge Pur Couture in 01 Le Rouge, $51
Couture Palette in 2 Fauves, $105

CLAIRE JEDREK
This is the third time I’m working with Claire on a shoot, and you know what they say… third time’s a charm. In this case, CLAIRE’S PREGNANT! Wow! Congrats Claire!!! As I’ve said before, Claire is one of the coolest girls I know; I mean, she’s a race car driver for goodness sake! Naturally, she’ll need a foundation that stays on the skin and won’t transfer to her helmet. The All Hours foundation claims to be waterproof and transfer-resistant; everything our super cool mum-to-be needs. Also, because she’s out in the sun so much, sunscreen is essential; and this foundation has SPF 20 PA+++. Claire’s reaction to the All Hours foundation: “It feels super light, almost like powder, and it doesn’t feel cakey. I don’t want a look that makes people think I took hours doing makeup, or a powdery white look when you take a photo — this one seems to get that picture perfect finish from the start.”

Makeup used on Claire :
All Hours Foundation in B50, $98
Blush Volupté in 5 Favorite, $70
Kiss & Blush Duo Stick in 1 From Marrakesh to Paris, $50
Rouge Pur Couture in 13 Le Orange, $51
Couture Palette in 2 Fauves, $105

R NAMETHA
I first met Nametha on the set of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 5. She was one of the Singaporean contestants on the show, and I noticed her because of her edgy hair cut and expressive stare. I invited her to try the new YSL All Hours foundation because as a model, she would be able to show how impressive this foundation is. And it just so happens that Nametha wasn’t having a good skin day on the day of the shoot (it happens), which made the challenge even more interesting. Check out her before and after photos; the transformation is impeccable. Dollei claims not to use any concealer on these looks, so it’s really all the work of the foundation. Namatha’s thoughts on the product: “It has a cool feeling on the skin and it doesn’t feel dry.” Yes, my sentiments exactly.

Makeup used on Nametha :
All Hours Foundation in BD45, $98
Couture Variation Palette in Tuxedo, $129
Rouge Pur Couture The Mats in 207 Rose Perfecto, $51
Rouge Pur Couture The Mats in 205 Prune Virgin, $51

YSL Beauty All Hours Foundation, available in 22 shades, $98.
Available from Friday 4 Aug 2017 at YSL Beauty stores and counters, and on tangs.com.
Look out for the NYLON team’s review of the product! Coming soon.

Selena Gomez's Makeup Artist Reveals His Top Beauty Tips

Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Natural, fresh-looking skin is always in vogue, which is why the “no-makeup” makeup look has continued to rule the runways season after season. The effortless glow isn’t just favoured by designers, though. More celebrities have been taking on a sheer route as of late, and who better to help them achieve that coveted dewy skin than the Global Artistry Ambassador of Marc Jacobs Beauty, Hung Vanngo.

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Image credit: Marc Jacobs Beauty

One of the most sought-after makeup artists in the business, Vietnam-born Hung Vanngo has come a long way from being a hairdresser in Calgary, with a resumé that spans across hundreds of magazine covers and pages, from i-D to Vogue as well as NYLON Singapore’s 38th issue featuring American singer-songwriter, Banks.
Over the years, he’s established close relationships with supermodels of the highest tier such as Helena Christensen, Gisele Bündchen, and Miranda Kerr; Hollywood darlings Kate Bosworth, Taraji P. Henson, and Julianne Moore; as well as young stars like Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner and Selena Gomez, honing his craft and garnering fans on his Instagram account at the same time.
We sat down with the talented and courteous makeup artist to gather some exclusive beauty tips and celebrate the launch of Marc Jacobs Beauty’s new Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eye Palettes.

You said you started getting into makeup because there was a makeup station at the salon you worked at. Do you remember the first product you picked up or the first look you created that jumpstarted your love for makeup?
I painted a lot when I was young, so I was always attracted to colours – I’m a very visual person. It’s really hard to say what triggered it. When we weren’t busy in the salon, we’d just sit down and play with the makeup. At the time I didn’t know the order of things, but I just went ahead and experimented. That’s how it was. For me, I apply foundation first before concealer, but a lot of people would say you have to put on concealer first then foundation, so I just worked in a way I was comfortable with.

Which Marc Jacobs Beauty products would you recommend to Singaporeans?
The Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara is amazing especially for Asians because we all have shorter lashes. It gives you tons of volume and makes the eyelashes a lot thicker. I would choose the Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon because it’s longwear. You have about 15 to 20 seconds to blend it in, then it sets and it doesn’t move, so in this humidity, it just stays. In hot weather, people are scared to wear pencil liners because it might run everywhere, so I think the Highliner is the perfect solution. Oh, our new Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eye Palettes are very pigmented and there’s four different textures for you to play with. You can do a subtle eye for the day and a dramatic eye for the evening, and they’re great for creating different dimensions – from matte to satin to pearl to metallic, it’s a lot to play with. For foundation, I would go for the Genius Gel Super-Charged Oil-Free Foundation because it’s more sheer and it leaves the skin feeling fresher.

(L-R): Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara, $44; Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon, $38; Genius Gel Super-Charged Oil-Free Foundation, $39

For those with hooded eyes or monolids, what’s the best way to go about using the new Marc Jacobs Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eye Palettes?
I love monolids! I guess because I’m Asian also, I understand those eye shapes very well. Applying eyeshadows on monolids is actually much easier for me compared to those with a full crease. I love creating a subtle gradation, so I’ll add depth to the lash line and just fade it out. It automatically opens the eye when you extend the shades out. I love that, and it’s a lot easier to blend.

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Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eye Palettes, $69 each. Available from Sephora and sephora.sg from 16 August.

Is that your go-to technique when you want to create brighter, bigger-looking eyes?
Yeah, ultimately I think we all want bigger almond-shaped eyes, I think that’s the most beautiful. Even when I’m trying to create a smoky eye, I’m always trying to extend the eyes out with eyeshadow, which is the shape that most Asians naturally have, except our eyes aren’t as open as Caucasian eyes. That’s why I’ll always try to extend it out and up, I think that’s beautiful.

Which shades should an eyeshadow novice start off with?
I think the best thing about the six new Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eye Palettes is that every palette has neutral shades, and each of them has just a pop of colour. So when people see that bright colour, they think that it’s a lot, but it’s not. If you cover that one shade from each palette, you’ll realise that every colour is wearable. That pop of colour is for when you wanna dress up, but every other colour is really neutral. They’re easy palettes to use, for sure.

#FETISH July 13th ❤️

A post shared by Hung Vanngo (@hungvanngo) on Jul 12, 2017 at 7:21pm PDT

We love the “no-makeup” makeup you did on Selena Gomez for her ‘Fetish’ music video. What’s your approach to creating that fresh, dewy look?
That look is perfect for this weather, and I think the key is to make sure you exfoliate your skin really well. You can then use our Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Primer and mix it with a little bit of the Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter to give your canvas a nice sheen. Then top it off with a little bit of lip gloss and mascara.

(L-R): Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Primer, $69; Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter, $69

Are there any tips and tricks to creating natural-looking faux freckles?
When it comes to creating fake freckles, a mistake people make is using a normal pencil to draw them on, so the sweat cause by humidity will make the pencil run, but if you use the longwear Matte Highliner Gel Eye Crayon (shade: (Earth)quake) to create small dots and pat them down using your fingers, they’ll look really natural and when the formula sets, they won’t move at all. The key to creating faux freckles is to centre mostly around the nose area.

Matte Highliner Gel Eye Crayon in (Earth)quake, $38

What’s your favourite beauty trend at the moment?
I love colours, but I also love the “no-makeup” makeup look. I think there’s nothing more beautiful than a woman who looks like she’s wearing no makeup, but really she’s used 20 products on her face. [Laughs] I think that’s the ultimate – people want to look like that! When you go to an event and you look like you have no makeup on – but you actually spent an hour on the face – and you have a really chic outfit on with a bare-faced look, I think that’s really gorgeous.

What’s the one makeup mistake that always gets on your nerves?
I don’t wanna call it a mistake because everyone sees makeup artistry differently. With the way I do makeup, sometimes people don’t really love it while others will say, “Wow! I love it!” So, they’re all different. For my own aesthetic, I’m not into heavy contouring and highlight. I like a softer contour and highlight, if you’ve seen my work. I love lip gloss but I never go overboard with it. A little hint of gloss is nice, but when you do gloss all over the lips, it cheapens the look. Or for eyebrows, when people stencil them on, they look too heavy. Those are not mistakes because some people love it, but it’s not really my thing.

Who or where do you draw inspiration from to create your looks?
Truthfully, I draw inspiration from the talent sitting in my makeup chair. I just look at the face and think, “You know what, I think these colours from the palette would look amazing on you,” or I look at what they wear. But really, the inspiration comes from the faces I’m working on. I know it sounds boring, but it’s true. [Laughs] It’s not as exciting, you know. Actually, I browse through Instagram accounts and get ideas from there. But for me, it’s all about enhancing someone’s natural features and making them look beautiful.

Main image: Selena Gomez Facebook

Here Are Things You Can Do Throughout The Entire NDP Week To Celebrate Singapore's 52nd Birthday

Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Didn’t manage to score tickets to watch the National Day Parade live? Fret not, for there are many other activities lined up for you and your loved ones to participate in and show your love for Singapore. From art performances to exhibitions, and to family activities, we’ve got you covered with a list of things to do to celebrate Singapore’s 52^nd year of independence. Ahead, get carried away with all the things you can do and check out over this national day weekend.
1. Merlion Magic Lights

Watch as Singapore’s iconic mythical creature glows in the dark with vibrant and colourful lighting effects projected on the majestic 37-metre-tall Merlion over at Sentosa Island. Not only does the light show offer a sight to behold, with the half-lion-half-fish set against Singapore’s bustling skyline, you can also immerse yourself in some augmented reality action while watching the show through your smartphones, by just downloading the marq+ app that is free to download on both the Apple store and Google Play Store. Oh, and don’t forget to bring along your cameras!
You can catch the Merlion Magic Lights in action on weekdays, 11 am to 8 pm (Merlion Plaza & Beach Plaza) and on weekends, 10 am to 8 pm (Beach Plaza & Merlion Plaza). Going during the night time is strongly recommended.
2. Singapasar

What better way to celebrate the Singapore spirit than to support local? For the third year running, Singapasar, a pasar malam-inspired market that focuses on locally designed or made products, will be running through 4 to 6 August 2017 at the National Design Centre. And yes, it’s air-conditioned. Shiok ah! A specially curated array of Made-in-Singapore items can all be found under one roof, ranging from furniture, food and beverages, to apparel, bags, accessories, and much more! And to add in to the festive mood, some items are created specially for National Day and will be launched exclusively at Singapasar. We’re pretty sure you’ll be able to find things that are uniquely Singaporean while you are there, confirm plus chop!
Singapasar will be held from 4-6 August 2017, 4-8pm, at the National Design Centre.
3. Red Dot August

Of course, there are other ways to support local, and one other way is to simply chill with your friends and family, and groove along with local music acts all lined up for the month of August. First up, Red Dot August will be featuring musicians and bands from all walks of life, such as Vivienne’s Verdict, Fym Summer, Cadence, Police Quintet, Tammy Ying, General Lee, and WEBE. From classic hard rock to alternative beats, the event crosses several genres that will have you standing up on your feet.
The acts will be held at the Esplanade, spreading across from now till 3 September 2017. Admission is free.
4. Sundown Festival 2017

More exciting acts await at the Sundown Festival that is happening tomorrow, which boasts an entertaining lineup of homegrown artists such as local veterans Jack & Rai, award-winning singer Derrick Hoh, pop/rock band The Summer State, and even rapper Axel Brizzy where you can expect him to churn out some sick flows and witty lyrics to nod your head to.
The Sundown Festival 2017 is happening on 5 August at City Beach Resort, Labrador Park. Doors open at 4pm. Get your admission tickets for $15 at Sistic.com.
5. Mystic Island by Reza Hasni

Besides music, take some time to appreciate artworks created by Singapore artists. Why not start with one that explores the “supernatural”? Okay, trust us, it’s nothing scary. Motion graphics artist, Reza Hasni, presents a tongue-in-cheek illustrated journal of his interactions with spiritual people in Singapore. Something different and unexpected, Hasni drew out illustrations based on his experiences with bizarre stories he heard from numerologists, Chinese “suan ming” fortune tellers, parrot astrologers, to people who believe they are the reincarnation of stars in the cosmos. Spanning a wide range of mediums, from ink on paper, ceramics, to digital prints, you can also show your support by purchasing his works!
Hasni’s work will be up on public display from now till 12 August 2017, Monday to Saturday, 11am – 8pm, at UltraSuperNew, 13 Bussorah Street. Admission is free.
6. Civic District Outdoor Festival

For the lovebirds who wish to spend some much needed time together, hanging out with rabbits with a picnic basket sounds like a plan huh? We’re talking about larger-than-life, 7-metres tall inflatable rabbits casually lounging around at the Padang, with lights that illuminate from within their bodies. If going to exhibitions and visiting places tire you out, just find a spot to settle down and soak in the National Day mood with the light installations created by Australian artist, Amanda Parer, and we’re pretty sure the much anticipated public holiday won’t go to waste.

The Civic District Outdoor Festival is happening from 4-5 August 2017 and 11-12 August 2017, from 5-11pm.
7. Orchid Extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay

Take a walk through Gardens by the Bay, where there will be a floral display called “Orchid Extravaganza” that tells the story of Singapore’s extraordinary transformation through the motif of a butterfly’s life cycle. As the name suggests, you will get to see a wide spectrum of orchid varieties such as Phalaenopsis, Vanda, Dendrobium, and many others. In celebration of Singapore’s 52^nd birthday, look out a sculpture made out of 52 butterflies in the shape of Singapore, put together by award-winning garden designer Peter Cheok.
The Orchid Extravaganza is happening from now till 20 August 2017, from 9am – 9pm, at the Flower Dome. Guided tours are free but admission charges to the Flower Dome applies.
8. Zouk Mambo Jambo
For the wild party-goers and party animals out there, you can still celebrate National Day at Zouk’s legendary Mambo Jambo Party, which will be held on the eve of National Day. Dance to the beat of classic Bananarama anthems and retro hits from the 70s, 80, and early 90s.
The event will be held on 8 August 2017, 9pm – 4am, with tickets costing $35 for ladies and $45 for men.

If you are allergic to crowds and staying at home is the only place you want to be, fret not, for you can still enjoy the festive holiday by shopping online! Look out for discounts on Jetstar with flight tickets going as low as $37 (T&C applies), or shop for new clothes on lazada.com with items receiving up to 90% off and $52 vouchers to be won.

Finally, make everything easier by travelling and paying for everything using NETS’ limited edition FlashPay Card, that reflects this year’s NDP theme of “#OneNationTogether”. You can get one for $12 (inclusive of $7 stored value) at all TransitLink ticket offices, or online at $5 (without any stored value) at flashpay.nets.com.sg. Cards will be available while stocks last.

The Dark Gallery Is Every Chocolate Lover's Heaven
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

You’ve gotta look really hard for someone who doesn’t enjoy chocolate. But dark chocolate though… mm, that might not appeal to everyone, unfortunately. So you’d think that a new boutique-and-cafe that’s dedicated to the slightly more bitter chocolate preference would be kinda risky, except, it’s not. In fact, we think that only true chocolate lovers — like us — appreciate the biting acidity of dark chocolate, especially since there’s literally more cacao content in it, so there! If you’re more keen on the dark side, The Dark Gallery, newly opened at Millenia Walk, is the right place for you to indulge yourself at.

Be prepared for an education in the fine art of chocolate, except the knowledge isn’t force-fed to you The Clockwork Orange style; the place, by local F&B brand Thirtythree, is going more for nurturing that appreciation, by way of alluring tasting platters that showcase their various single origin chocolates and chocolate blends. All of their signature chocolate drinks (which are doing super well), desserts and ice-cream, a signature at this establishment, are freshly made using couverture chocolate sourced from the gourmet brands of Valrhona and Cacao Barry, as well as other small-batch bean-to-bar chocolatiers.

In fact, we tried some of the tasting platters for ourselves — the Single Origin Dark Chocolate Ice Cream Platter ($12) is pretty worth it for its price, and perfect for sharing. You’ll get to try three generous scoops of ice-cold ice cream, which were creamy and indulgent, each with a subtle variation in their flavour profile thanks to how they’re crafted using different single origin cacao beans. Don’t worry, it’s not a Masterchef blind-tasting, they don’t expect you to detect the subtleties on the go, which is why there’s a helpful infographic that accompanies each platter to help you (and all of us) along.
The 64% Madagascan was the lightest of the lot, with the ice cream being especially smooth and welcoming to dark chocolate newbies; the 70% Dominican Republic beans had a floral-spicy note that was intriguing, though possibly an acquired taste, while the 72% Venezuelan, though the most bittersweet and intense, was still pleasing to the palate. These will be switched out every few months or so, so that returning customers can look forward to constantly trying out new flavours.

On top of that, there’s also the Single Origin Chocolate Pastries Platter ($12), for you to sample mini versions of their dessert; including chocolate macarons, a crisp tartlet filled with 66% Ecuador dark chocolate ganache, delightfully smooth, a homemade s’more complete with torched marshmallow and a graham cracker and a dark chocolate button on top, along with a mini trifle. Dip your spoon in the last one and you’ll be able to enjoy some rich dark chocolate mousse along with caramelised bananas, brownie chunks for texture, and whipped cream.

The star of the show though belongs to this dessert; a beautifully-plated The Chocolate Rhapsody ($18) comprising of three scoops of The Dark Gallery’s signature dark, milk and white chocolate ice cream. This is layered onto a bed of chocolate ‘soil’, and then, in true top-notch dessert style, accompanied with chocolate mousse, crispy meringue, and cacao tuile (which has that satisfying snap when you bite into it). Why is this such a godsend? Well, we have to talk about that 80% Dark Chocolate ice cream, said to already be a bestseller here. It’s smooth and rich and has that perfect intense balance of sweet and bitter, here a lovely complex acidity, that it’d give our other favourite chocolate cafes a run for their money. The milk chocolate is a sure crowd-pleaser, and even the white chocolate isn’t too sweet that it throws off the beauty of the other two.
You should also opt for the Frozen S’more ($7.50), an Instagram-worthy dish simply because of its drama. A block of 80% Dark Chocolate ice cream is dusted with graham cracker crumbs and then wrapped in marshmallow; this pure white outer layer is then given that Snapchat-favourite blowtorch treatment, which results in that nicely browned exterior and gooey, sticky texture. Better than a Baked Alaska!

We also heard that the cafe particularly chose to specialise in ice creams in order to find their own niche, and we’re glad they did. At the outlet, you’ll find 12 chocolate and non-chocolate flavours on display everyday, on top of that lovely 80% Dark Chocolate, there are also flavours such as Salted Peanut Butter and Honey & Rosemary, artisan-sounding flavours because they are created from scratch and churned in small batches throughout the week. A scoop goes for $5, and a double scoop for $8.50, while you can opt for toppings or have it served in a chocolate waffle bowl.
Note that you can also sign up for a pint subscription service if you can’t get enough — three pints of ice cream will be sent to your doorstep every two weeks ($96), or every month ($48). And while we didn’t try this at the outlet, there are also 1-kg Ice Cream Cakes (from $69) where you can get that beautiful chocolate fix.

Of course, you’ll be able to enjoy chocolate beverages too, and while you’d expect the usual Signature Hot Chocolate ($7) and Signature Iced Chocolate ($8) drinks, we’ll have you know that these are quality ones too. The drinks are mostly made from a 66% chocolate blend, which flows freely from an on-site chocolate tap, which looks pretty, and also assures you of the smoothest texture you can find, basically, none of that cloying taste at the back of your throat. Then, there’s the photogenic Chocolate Cube Hazelnut Latte ($9), where you pour hazelnut espresso and steamed milk over some frozen chocolate blocks; what you’ll end up with is a rich chocolate drink that’s spiked with a kick of caffeine.

Other than the dine-in options, there are many other chocolate goods you can take home with you too — including these Bean to Bar Craft Chocolate (45g, from $10), chocolate granola, bonbons, macarons, and a range of cookies. Trust us, after spending the entire day trying chocolate course after chocolate course, we were actually tempted to bring some of these home — a testament, surely, to either our insatiable greed, or how good The Dark Gallery and their chocolate desserts appeal to us.
The Dark Gallery
Location: #01-K5 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039596
Opening Hours: 11am – 9.30pm, daily
Phone: 6255 0368
More info at thedarkgallery.com

Nylon Team Picks: The Beauty Items We Go Straight For At Any Sasa Store
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

You know that feeling of stepping into a Sasa store and being enticed by everything at once – but having absolutely no idea where to start? Well, let’s make it easier. Here are the NYLON team’s favourite beauty and skincare items – picked out from the plenty that we’ve tried – so all you’ve got to do now is go get them too.

The Face Inc Primer Mist, 3 x 15ml, $68 (now @ 20% off)

For some bizarre reason, I ended up as one of the judges on the final episode of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 5. On the day of filming, I had Ginger Lynette do my makeup (she always gets it right), and while on set, she introduced this interesting product to me. She spritzed it on one side of my face and then pressed it in slowly… a minute later there was a tingling sensation on my skin (that’s apparently the skin tightening). This depuffs the face and makes it appear instantly slimmer. I looked into the formula of this magic potion and it contains a mix of natural ingredients (soybean protein, mushroom extract, aloe extract), and some common hydrators and skincare compounds (niacinamide, allantoin). There’s nothing particularly unique about the ingredients in this mist but the combination of them somehow works.
– Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief

GOSH Xtreme Liquid Gel Liner in Black, $21.90 (now @ 52% off)

The first time I tried the Gosh liquid eyeliner, it was because I received it in this gorgeous almost-pastel sky blue that I instantly wanted to try. At first swipe, I already knew it was great; it went on completely opaque, and wasn’t too watery to handle. Throughout the day, it didn’t flake nor smudge. Naturally, I soon moved on to the classic black for everyday use (I really use black eyeliner every day), and it hasn’t let me down. While the ultra-thin brush applicator might take a bit of skill to use, after some time you’ll get used to it. Plus, the thin tip makes drawing extremely precise lines easier.
– Tami Lai, Associate Editor

TheBalm The Manizer Sisters, $51.90 (now @ $39)

One thing I love? Convenience. Rather than be armed with pots and pans of many things, I usually don’t mind trading in some full-sized items for a quick-fix palette, and this highlighting trio is exactly what that is. The formulas are exactly the same as the original cult favourites – all of them with spectacular colour payoff and soft buttery textures, making it really easy to blend. I use Cindy-Lou Manizer, a peachy pink shade as a blush on my fair skin, and it comes out a subtle glow, plus the Mary-Lou Manizer, which I brush just on top of my cheekbones. Now, this is easily the one I’ll regularly reach for: it’s a nice champagne shimmer with flattering warm undertones that really illuminates my skin when it catches the light. As for the Betty-Lou, I find it works beautifully as eyeshadow, or layered as a bronzer. That the powders are triple-milled ensure that they disappear into my skin, so all that’s left is a healthy, gorgeous glow.
– Amelia Tan, Associate Editor

Dr. G Brightening Up Sun SPF42 PA+++, $45 (now @ 10% off)

The hunt for a mineral sunscreen that checks all the boxes can be a distressing one. For starters, one that doesn’t leave an unsightly white cast and a greasy slick would be much appreciated, but I was lucky enough to have discovered Dr. G’s Brightening Up Sun. This hydrating cream melts into the skin and dries to a natural, matte finish while it shields my complexion from the scorching sun and other environmental stressors. It’s formulated with aloe and centella extracts, elements that help to soothe my red patches and restore some much-needed hydration, while regulating sebum production. The Brightening Up Sun tones my skin ever so slightly too, probably due to the fact that there’s grapeseed oil and witch hazel in the formula. Perhaps the best part about this is its slight peachy undertone that doubles up as a brightening makeup base, so it’s perfect for days that don’t call for a full face of foundation. Consider all bases covered!
– Jade Yeo, Writer

Chosungah22 Dong Gong Minn Brow Maker, $34 (now @ 30% off)

The first thing I notice about this is its striking packaging. It resembles a fluorescent highlighter pen from your school stationery set, which is unlike any brow product I’ve ever seen before. I tried the medium blonde shade in an attempt to match my bleached blonde hair. A few strokes of the fat angled brush immediately coats the brow hairs and thickens and lengthens them, much like how mascara works on your eyelashes. The dimension and colour it adds feels natural and not overdone. The triangular felt-tip applicator at the end of the brush is just the right shape for defining the arches. It’s a quick and easy brow that doesn’t look too good to be true.
– Joanne Cheah, Designer

Cyber Colors Real Lasting Smudgeproof Gel Liner in Espresso, $23 (now any 2 @ $30)

I have never been overly fond of gel liners, due to the fact that they usually come in pots, which would entail in dipping a brush in manually to pick up the pigment. This one, however, fulfills my lazy needs by coming in a pencil form! The nib itself resembles the texture of an oil pastel rather than actual lead, which results in a smooth application. Another thing I found interesting was that the other end of the product is a blender, which helps you smudge your liner for an eyeshadow effect (despite it being ‘smudgeproof’, but I digress). True to its name, it did indeed withstand my 10-hour day, right up till I removed my makeup at home. Very handy for maintaining defined eyes in Singapore’s humid climate.
– Patrene Mathieu, Designer

Blumei Jeju Moisture Aloe Soothing Gel, $12.90 (now at 20% off)

I’ve read the many benefits of aloe vera, and of course, we commonly use it when suffering from sunburn. Not only does it soothe and replenish the skin, it also treats acne, fights ageing and lessens the appearance of stretch marks! I have tried the highly raved-about aloe vera gel from Nature’s Republic, but just as I was about to stock up on that online, I chanced upon Blumei’s Aloe Vera Gel. To be honest, it looked so similar that I thought that the brand was a little dubious. Still, I went ahead to purchase it, because how different can aloe vera gel be? While the former is a little sticky, Blumei’s isn’t and it gets absorbed quickly into the skin. Also, this has more aloe vera content, at 97%. I apply the cool gel on my calves and neck where my dry areas are and also after waxing to calm the skin. You can even create your own eye mask by soaking round cotton pads in the gel. This gel does its job — definitely an alternative to consider!
– Phyllis Guo, Editorial Assistant
All items available at Sasa Singapore stores. sasa.com.sg

:CHOCOOLATE Brings Old School Manga Cool Back with its Saint Seiya Collection
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Before popular manga series like Fullmetal Alchemist, Naruto, and One Piece came about, there was Saint Seiya – a story about five mystical warriors called the “Saints”. It was a true classic of the 80’s, and now, this OG of Japanese lore has gotten a modern, apparel revamp thanks to cult clothing brand :CHOCOOLATE.
The Hong Kong-based label, which is known for dishing out wacky reinterpretations of pop culture classics like Gudetama, Looney Tunes, Pompompurin, and Star Wars, will launch its new range of Saint Seiya pieces from August 8 onwards.
Here are some highlights from the collection:

The new collection will mostly comprise of images of characters from the old school manga series, and it goes without saying that fan favourite characters like Seiya, Shiryū, Hyōga, Shun, Ikki and Gemin will be featured on a variety of men’s tees. Each tee comes in a monochrome palette, with the shirt’s base colourway as black or white.
That’s not all though. This retro collection will also include special edition Saint Seiya Playing Cards and a Tee Bundle set; which is basically a deck of Saint Seiya playing cards in a box that can be paired with any :CHOCOOLATE x Saint Seiya tee.
If you’d like to score these shirts, they’re retailing at $59.90 each and are available from August 8 onwards at i.t’s Bugis Junction and Orchardgateway stores. The Deluxe Playing Cards and Tee Bundle Set is retailing for $23.90.
For more information, please visit www.itlabels.com.sg.
All images taken from i.t Singapore. Cover image taken from Saint Seiya’s Faceboofan page

A Massive Zombie Horror Survival Game is Heading to Singapore this September
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

You’re all alone, the sun is down, and nobody is there to help you. Suddenly, you hear a slow, sickly groan. Your body starts to shiver. And then, warm breath smears the back of your neck. You turn around, but there’s nobody behind.
Think that such a frightening scenario can never happen in safe, safe Singapore? Well, think again.

Come September 2, 2017, St. John’s Island – a small island that lies to the south of Singapore, and a former home of political prisoners and leprosy patients, will play host to the largest horror survival game of the year: Pulau Zombie.
And yes, the game is as terrifying as it sounds.
From 4pm to 5am, participants have to roam about the island, finding weapons, forming alliances, all within the horrifying grasp of zombies.
Organised by Void Deck (Singapore), this nightmarish 13-hour game will test your survival skills to the limit. The only way to win is to chase away the living dead till the sun comes out. Once you get bitten, say goodbye to your humanity.

Right now, tickets ($129.90) for the game include accommodation (no air-conditioning), a meal, a chartered ferry to the island, and loan sets of foam zombie blasters and weapons.
You’ll also be able to take part in survivor missions with immersive story telling, but if you’d like to up the ante, there’s a VIP “Doctor” ticket ($249) that lets you heal other survivors. You’ll also get to wear a souvenir costume for the game.

Thinking of scaring yourself to death? The game will take place from 4pm to 5am at St. John’s Island, with the ferry leaving Marina South Pier at 4pm sharp. Once you’re there, there’s no turning back, so be prepared for one heck of a night.
For more information on the game, visit voiddeckgames.com.
All images taken from Void Deck Games.

How To Wear Bold Colours In Unexpected Ways
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Green, electric pink, blue and a dark red are colours that we usually would be extra cautious about putting on our faces, but these 4 beauty looks have made them suddenly very appealing indeed. Here’s to challenging ourselves to be a bit more adventurous this month.

GREEN
There are very many ways this shade could be worn badly indeed. We’d usually even hesitate to wear it as a manicure, but this look makes us want to take the leap. The key is to keep nails short and well-groomed before painting them in this shade, to keep them from looking like monster claws. And if you’re feeling particularly gutsy… we dare you to match your lashes to your nails.

Dress, Nicole Miller; top, The Kooples
For this look, try:

Guerlain Lingerie De Peau Aqua Nude, $81, available at Guerlain counters at TANGS, Takashimaya and Metro Paragon from end August 2017; Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Moheato, $13.90, available at selected Watsons and Guardian; Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lash Multi Effects in Green, $44, available at the Estee Lauder store and counters from September 2017.

ELECTRIC PINK
If you’re not one to usually go for a hot pink lip because it feels too overpowering, we’ve been there. We’d ease our way into this look by keeping the rest of the face free from too much colour – maybe just a subtle flush on the cheeks – and finishing by blotting on the colour, blending out the edges so they look slightly blurred. Definitely skip the lip liner here.

Jacket, The Kooples; earrings, Eddie Borgo.
For this look, try:

shu uemura Stage Performer Fresh Tint Cushion, $68, available at shu uemura stores and counters; Burberry My Burberry Blush Palette, $94, available at the Burberry counter at TANGS at Tang Plaza and Sephora ION; Dior Rouge Dior Double Rouge in 578 Shock Fuchsia, $50, available at the Dior Beauty store and counters from 1 September 2017.

BLUE
Blue on the eyes is no game-changer by now, but how you can shake things up a bit by wearing the hue in daring blocks painted high up on the lids. Choose an eye colour in a glossy texture to really make a statement – just remember to keep brows subtle, so they don’t compete for attention.

Jacket, The Kooples; dress, Alice McCall.
For this look, try:

KATE Tokyo Designing Eyebrow 3D, $20.50, available at selected Watsons and Sasa; Shiseido Makeup Inkstroke Eyeliner in Kon-ai Blue, $43, available at Shiseido counters; M.A.C Studio Fix Plus Powder Plus Foundation, $55, available at M.A.C stores and counters.

RED
Nothing new about a red lip, so it’s about how you play with variations of red, and texture of the lip colour. Instead of a regular red, opt for a darker crimson as a base, then go over it with another layer of a glossy dark purple. Many bonus points if you dare to add some contrast on the eyes.

Coat and dress, both by Sachin and Babi.
For this look, try:

YSL Beauty Rouge Pur Couture in No. 71 Black Red, $51, available at YSL Beauty stores and counters; Too Faced Melted Latex Liquified High Shine Lipstick in Bite Me, price TBC, available at Sephora soon; Dior Metallizer Eyes & Lips in 828 Pink Pulsion, $41, available at the Dior Beauty store and counters.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Magdalena Niziol
MAKEUP
Maria Ortega using M.A.C Cosmetics
HAIR
Matthew Green using R+Co
NAILS
Elizebethe Garcia using NCLA
STYLING
Julianna Alabado and Jamie Huggins
MODEL
Chen Yu | MSA Models NYC

Samsung Releases Yet Another Flip Phone and This Time It’s High-End
Posted on Aug 4, 2017Aug 15, 2018

Back in June when Samsung “revived” the flip phone with the Galaxy Folder 2, our nostalgic receptors went berserk. After all, we didn’t expect to see something like that in 2017. Well, here’s round two: the Korean tech giant have launched yet another flip phone; but this time, it’s as smart as your regular smartphone.
Say hello to the Leader 8 – a sleek flip phone/smartphone hybrid that’ll make all your geeky gadget dreams come true.

How? Good question.
The Leader 8 puts all other flip phones to shame with its Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 chip, 4GB of RAM, as well as its 12-megapixel rear cam and 5-megapixel front cam. It even has two 4.2-inch AMOLED displays – one on the outside and one on the inside, making it way more advanced than the Motorola RAZR could ever hope to be.

But wait; hold up. Don’t get too excited. Samsung has only launched the phone in China, and if it does make its way to other Asian markets, it’ll most likely drop in South Korea only. Bummer.

Hopefully, it’ll launch in Singapore too, although judging from the past; that probably won’t happen. As of now, Samsung has yet to release any details regarding pricing and availability for the Leader 8 outside of China, so there’s still a bit of hope for us there. Till then, fingers crossed.
For more information, visit www.samsung.com/cn.
All images taken from Samsung.

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