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Move Over Millennial Pink, Purple Is The New Colour To Sport On Your Feet

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As much as we would love to stay true to our minimalist wardrobe, we can’t deny that millennial pink has slowly crept into our lives, by first adding colour into our shoe racks, and then overtaking our vanity table with beauty collections that come in pretty millennial pink packaging, down to our beauty blenders, and even stepping into the tech gadget arena as well. While millennial pink is undeniably a strong contender for being the most trendy and insta-worthy colour to sport this year, it seems like another candy-coloured hue is rising up to take its spot. And that is none other than the mystical yet magical purple. Ahead, a roundup of sneakers that come in a variety of purple hues to prove that this colour might just be the next millennial pink.

Nike Air Max 90 SE Mesh
Nike Air Max 90 SE Mesh in Violet Mist
US$150, available here.

The Nike Air Max 90 takes on a pastel purple colour with its upper covered in a soft lavender hue, continuing down to the colour-blocked midsole, and finally filling the outsole as well. Named “Violet Mist”, these purple pair of shoes are constructed with SE Mesh for breathability, while the foam midsole and visible Max Air unit provides for lightweight cushioning.
Nike Dunk Low
Nike Dunk Low in Violet Mist
US$90, available here.

Just like how the younger siblings will always want to emulate the elder sibling, the Nike Dunk Low is following in the footsteps of the Nike Air Max 90. While the latter is leaning towards the pastel side, the Nike Dunk Low adds in more punch by going for the monochrome effect. Doesn’t it also remind you of all things unicorn, rainbows, and bubblegum? Drenched completely in a magical purple hue, the laces also come complete in matching purple, and true to Nike’s quality design, the perforated vamp allows for ventilation, while the rubber outsole provides for a solid traction.
New balance 574
New Balance 574 Sport Suede
US$110, available at New Balance and select retailers from 5 September 2017.

This next silhouette combines cozy footwear with style and versatility. The New Balance 574 gets a little upgrade, with what seems like a Primeknit-like material being incorporated into the sneaks. The cozy detailing can be found at the toe box, tongue, heel counter, and the N logo at the lateral. The kicks also boast a subtle diamond-patterned white midsole, which makes for a very covetable sporty-meets-street-style pair of sneakers to wear this coming fall.
Nike Lunar Charge Essential
Nike Lunar Charge Essential in Plum Fog
US$130, available here.

The best kinds of shoes to wear are those fuss-free ones where you can simply slip on and take off easily. And that is exactly the Nike Lunar Charge Essential, which now comes in a mysterious plum fog colourway. With the tongue attached to the cut-and-sewn upper and the pull tab extending from the heel, putting on your shoes has never been this easy. Its plush bootie-like design and stretchy textile construction is bound to offer wearers a snug and comfortable fit throughout the day.
Reebok Classic Leather
Reebok Classic Leather in Smokey Orchid
US$93, available here.

For a classic sneaker to remain as a classic, updates are usually kept to the minimum to ensure the key characteristics of the shoe are maintained. In this iteration of the iconic Reebok Classic Leather, the silhouette remains the same but with a colour and fabric update. Covered in smooth suede and arriving in a muted pastel purple/lilac colourway, the sides also feature lace paneling at the sides, contrasted against a nubuck upper. For an understated yet bold outfit look, these are the ones that you should cop.
PUMA Basket Heart
PUMA Basket Heart in Lilac
US$85, available here.

Just like how NMDs ring the cash register for adidas, the Basket Heart and Suede Heart models are currently PUMA’s winning formula. And just like how adidas is constantly introducing a different colourway in a blink of an eye, PUMA is doing the same with its Basket Heart, which is now receiving the purple treatment. Other than the Formstripe and off-white rubber midsole, the entire shoe is dipped in a soft purple colour, and comes with its signature wide ribbon laces in a matching purple chroma.
Nike Sock Dart
Nike Sock Dart in Taupe Grey
US$130, available here.

By definition, taupe is a mixture of grey with a tinge of brown. However, these Nike Sock Darts are definitely not anywhere close to grey and is looking like it belongs to the purple family tree instead (let’s not start a discussion thread on this). Colours aside, these women-exclusive kicks are constructed with a lightweight knit upper, sporting a translucent matte mid-foot strap that adds a nice touch to the futuristic-looking white midsole and heel pod, making sure wearers get a seamless fit in the utmost comfort.

Here's Where You Can Get Pat McGrath's Exclusive Makeup Products

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When one of the most iconic makeup artists in the world launched her first Gold 001 kit back in 2015, it seized the attention of every beauty enthusiast. Pat McGrath‘s eponymous makeup label is an ode to her endless obsession with pigments, and ever since her first product sold out within mere minutes, she’s been producing makeup gems in a slew of innovative formulas, keeping her at the forefront.
Her next move is a smart one that will propel the line even further – not that she needed help with that in the first place, but it would certainly benefit those who can’t get easy access to her exclusive offerings (i.e. us fans in Singapore). Pat McGrath Labs is going global thanks to a partnership with luxury digital retailer, Net-a-Porter.
 

 
It’s rare for a makeup artist to sustain a profitable cosmetics line so successfully, then again Pat McGrath isn’t just any makeup artist. She’s the most requested one in the fashion industry, helming the beauty looks of almost 80 runway shows every year, and she’s often summoned by major fashion brands to help develop their beauty lines. That clever combination of presence, star-power, masterful use of social media, and gorgeous product packaging have all played to her total world domination.
Curious to find out what’s in store for us at Net-a-Porter? Feast your eyes on Pat McGrath’s creations.
 

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Skin Fetish 003 Kit – Nude, $78
Products (L-R): Buffing Brush , Nude Shiny Stick Highlighter + Balm Duo, Iridescent Pink 003 Pigment (Pressed Powder Highlighter)
 
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Skin Fetish 003 Kit – Golden, $78
Products (L-R): Buffing Brush, Golden Shiny Stick Highlighter + Balm Duo, Fine Gold 003 Pigment (Pressed Powder Highlighter)
 
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Dark Star 006 Kit – UltraSuede Brown, $135
Products (L-R): UltraSuede Brown Eyeshadow, Black SmudgeLiner Eye Kohl, Buffer Brush; Eyeshadow shades in ‘Dark Matter’, ‘Astral White’, and ‘Mercury’; Cyber Clear Eye Gloss
 
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Dark Star 006 Kit – UltraViolet Blue, $135
Products (L-R): UltraViolet Blue Eyeshadow, Black SmudgeLiner Eye Kohl, Buffer Brush; Eyeshadow shades in ‘Dark Matter’, ‘Astral White’, and ‘Mercury’; Cyber Clear Eye Gloss
 
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Lust 004 Everything Kit, $156
Products (L-R): 6 Matte Lipsticks in ‘Flesh 1’, ‘Flesh 2’, ‘Blood 1’, ‘Blood 2’, ‘Venom 1’, and ‘Venom 2’; Clear Vinyl Gloss; Microfine Glitter Pots in ‘Blood’, Metallic Champagne Pigment Pot, Microfine Glitter Pots in ‘Flesh’ and ‘Venom’

 
Pat McGrath Labs, available now on Net-a-Porter.
Main image: Net-a-Porter

Innisfree Now Makes Customisable Makeup Palettes, & They're The Bomb

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For a brand that makes such fantastic skincare products, Innisfree has a really strong makeup game. Their cushions and lip colours are of quite superb quality, and there’s an impressive variety of product types and colours within their makeup selection.
Basically, we’re quite used to good stuff from Innisfree. This, however, still feels like quite the game-changer:

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Meet the My Palette series, which brings us makeup palettes that are ~customisable~! 😱 They come in 3 sizes, the standard S, M and L: the Small houses 4 eyeshadow pans/2 blusher trays; the Medium 8 eyeshadow pans/4 blusher trays; and the Large a whopping 18 eyeshadow pans/9 blush trays.
The inside of the cases and the backs of the makeup pans are both magnetic, so switching colours in and out is as hassle-free as it can get. As for what you can put inside, the options span 7 categories: eyebrow powder, eyeshadow, blusher, highlighter, contour powder, colour corrector and concealer; and 4 different textures: matte, shimmer, glitter and cream.
Another reason why you’ll want to be quick about getting your hands on this launch: innisfree is launching limited edition palettes featuring quirky designs by renowned Italian graphic designer and illustrator Olimpia Zagnoli.
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Good luck trying to spend under an hour in the Innisfree stores trying to assemble your palettes, once this range launches next month – this is most definitely a case of being spoilt for choice.
 
innisfree My Palette range, from $8. Available at innisfree stores from 1 September 2017. innisfree.com/sg/en

All The Ways You Can Now Pamper Yourself At TANGS' New Beauty Floor

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There’s been a pretty major shake-up at TANGS at Tang Plaza lately. While a small cluster of beauty services used to be available at an exclusive space on level 7, the department store has converted the entire fourth level of its flagship to a Beauty Services floor, and greatly expanding the variety of services offered while they were at it.
The familiar names like Chanel, Shiseido, Sulwhasoo and so on are still around, but they’re now joined by a whole bunch of other brands, both established and new to the scene. There’s a whole lot to explore indeed, and the services available have got you covered, literally from head to toe. We picked out some of the most exciting ones here.

FOR THE FACE
Aesop Facial Appointments

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Aesop’s always been all about finding harmony for the skin, mind and all the senses, so you can expect their new Facial Appointment space at TANGS is a beautifully-designed one, where 6 different types of customised facial treatments are administered by a trained therapist, with a focus on aroma and stimulating the skin with “cursive, sweeping movements”.
As always, it starts with a skin consultation, following which the therapist will prescribe the most suitable treatment from the menu, which includes ingredient-focused ones like the Parsley Seed Intensive as an anti-oxidant treatment, and Lactate Surge to kickstart skin renewal. All treatments are available in 60-minute or 75-minute versions.
Aesop Facial Appointments, $150 for a 60-minute session and $180 for a 75-minute session. Book an appointment here or call 6836 4748.
 
Shiseido Facial Studio
shiseido-facial-studio

Qi is all about your inner vital force, and the belief is that for your mind and body to be healthy, your qi better be flowing well from top to toe. The Shiseido Facial Studio, previously a familiar presence at the old SEVIIN at TANGS and now part of the level 4 beauty services, offers 4 Qi-based facial treatments that all encompass massages for the face, neck and shoulder.
The Qi facial options include Thermal, Energising, Reviving and Brightening options, each lasting 80 minutes.
Shiseido Facial Studio, $150 to $170 for various 80-minute sessions. Book an appointment here or call 6737 5500.
 
Qween
qween-tangs

Qween is essentially a eyebrow and eyelash service provider, specialising in eyebrow enhancements and eyelash extensions. They get their lashes and lash glue from a European supplier, and their technicians are trained in European techniques as well. You can also book your IPL sessions here – they cater to both male and female clients.
Qween, from $118 for lash extensions and from $916 for brow enhancements; IPL hair removal begins from $72. Book an appointment here or call 6735 0013/9666 8843. qween.com.sg
 
FOR THE HAIR
Urbanhair Ginrich
urbanhair
Image: Urbanhair Facebook page

Another familiar name from the previous SEVIIN @ TANGS, Urbanhair by Ginrich has also moved to level 4. This new spacious location has plenty of natural light streaming in from the full wall of windows overlooking Orchard Road, and services provided make use of natural Aveda products.
Urbanhair Ginrich, haircuts from $48 and styling services from $98. To book an appointment, call 6737 7813. urbanhair.com.sg
 
DrHair
drhair-tangs

Dr. Georgia Lee sure has been busy, opening a new location for her DrSpa brand for face and body treatment services at TANGS, a space that is shared with DrHair, which focuses on hair and scalp treatments. For example, to unclog hair follicles and give the scalp a deep cleanse, you can try the 60-minute Cleanse & Defend treatment.
DrHair, treatments from $138. Book an appointment here or call 6734 9885.
 
FOR THE NAILS
M’Pir – The Nail Bar
mpir the nail bar
Image: Instagram @tangssg

We know you’re wondering – it’s pronounced “empire”. It’s no stranger to TANGS, and is another brand that’s moving to level 4 of Tang Plaza. They specialise in using nail polishes that are free from the nasty stuff like toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate, stocking premium brands like Shellac and Magelic.
M’Pir – The Nail Bar, from $33 for a classic manicure. Book an appointment here or call 6732 9001. 
 
TANGS at Tang Plaza Level 4, 310 Orchard Road, Singapore 238864. Open Mondays to Saturdays 10.30am to 9.30pm; Sundays 11am to 8.30pm. tangs.com

7 Stylish Laptops You Could Mistake For MacBooks

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“Once you go Mac, you never go back” is a catchphrase widely uttered by Apple fans. And to be fair, that is true to a large extent. The MacBook is the most iconic laptop of all time, whether it’s the Air or Pro series, and its combination of design and performance is hard to beat.
The times are a-changing though, and Windows laptop makers have caught up to the game in recent years, even if they’ve had to outright copy the original at times. If you’re thinking of making the switch from Mac to Windows for whatever reason, here’s a guide on similar laptops you should look out for:
HP EliteBook Folio

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With its foldable function, UHD touchscreen, 4K display, and Bang & Olufsen-certified audio, the HP EliteBook Folio is without a doubt the MacBook’s biggest threat, and for good reason. This stylish 2-in-1 laptop is not only small, but it’s powerful too, with an Intel Core m7 CPU quicker than similar Apple and Samsung processing systems. It also doesn’t hurt that its aluminum body gives it a very premium look.
HP EliteBook Folio, $2,999, available via www8.hp.com/sg.
HP Spectre x360
HPSpectrex360_standmode_leftfacing

Now here’s a laptop that can do what even the MacBook can’t: become a tablet. For that, you can thank hinges on the Spectre’s back that allow its screen to be propped against its keyboard in a reversed fashion. But that’s not all. HP’s latest premium touchscreen hyrid model has a whole lot of processing power to boot; it’s pretty much as good as a Mac with its Intel Core i5-7200U processor, 4K display, and 8GB of RAM.
HP Spectre x360, $2,299, available via www.harveynorman.com.sg.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga
lenovo-thinkpad-x1-yoga-gallery3

Like the HP Spectre, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga has hinges that allow it to be folded up into a full-on tablet – a feature that truly lets it live up to its yoga name. Besides that, this hybrid gadget also has long battery life and excellent graphics, plus an ultra-thin design. The cherry on top of the cake however has to be its built-in, rechargeable stylus that allows users to sketch or take notes wherever they go.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga, $2,185, available via www3.lenovo.com/sg.
ASUS Zenbook UX330CA
frontview

Is ASUS’s Zenbook UX330 a classic case of copying the competition, in this instance the MacBook? Well, perhaps. But there’s no denying the sleekness of this laptop’s aluminum-allow unibody chassis, giving it a high-end look that’s as Mac as it gets. In terms of specs, users can look forward to a decent performing dual-core Intel Core i7-6500U processor that runs at 3.1Ghz, as well as a solid 8GB of RAM.
ASUS Zenbook UX330CA, $970, available via www.lazada.sg.
Microsoft Surface Book
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When Microsoft declared three years ago that it would make a tablet that could replace your laptop, people were skeptical. Fast-forward to 2017, and the tech giant is having the last laugh. Its Surface Book is the culmination of everything we look for in a great gadget – it’s powerful, looks fantastic, and is multi-functional as both a laptop and tablet, making it better than even the best MacBook out in the market.
Microsoft Surface Book, US$1,499, available via www.microsoft.com/en-us/.
Acer Chromebook 14
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If you’re looking for a dirt-cheap alternative to a Mac, you won’t go wrong with the Acer Chromebook 14. This shiny device not only looks like a legit MacBook Air, it’s also value-for-money considering its price tag – US$289 from Amazon at last check. But don’t expect great specs here, you’re not going to get that. What you’ll get instead is a decent performing laptop that has a good build and long battery life.
Acer Chromebook 14, US$289, available via www.amazon.com.
Dell XPS 13
Dell-XPS-13

Okay, fine. The Dell XPS 13 doesn’t exactly look like a MacBook, what with its black and rose gold colourway, although it is at least as powerful as one. Spec-geeks will be pleased to head that the XPS 13 runs on a dual-core 2.7GHz Intel Core i7-7500U CPU, while its 13.3-inch, QHD+ InfinityEdge touch display is a gem to behold, and not to mention, fantastic for going on those Netflix binges.
Dell XPS 13, $1,899, available via www.dell.com/sg.
Cover image taken from HP. 

Blur Out Your Skin Imperfections With This Millennial Pink Powder

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Dewy makeup has held the spotlight for aeons now, but that doesn’t mean we don’t crave a matte finish at times. Even the glowgetter’s go-to brand Glossier is attempting to “undo the dew” with their latest Wowder, officially marking the comeback of setting powders. Don’t believe us? Well, BECCA Cosmetics has just added a member to their Soft Light Blurring Powder line, and it’s about to shake up the setting powder game.


 
Now available in “Pink Haze”, the shade is designed to work wonders on complexion issues we struggle to cover up on the daily. The finely-milled formula containing ceramic microspheres promises to blur out blemishes, eliminate shine, and brighten up our dreary faces. Sounds like an instant skin saviour, if we’re being honest.


 
Use a fluffy brush, swirl it in the pot, and smooth it over your face and neck for that soft, velvety finish. To keep your makeup looking good late into the night, you can also use the Blurring Powder for baking – yes, that makeup setting technique, not what you’d do in the kitchen.
And let’s not forget that decadent packaging. It’ll be sitting pretty on our vanities, because seriously, you wouldn’t want to hide this gorgeous setting powder in your beauty cabinet.
BECCA Soft Light Blurring Powder in “Pink Haze”, US$38. Available from Sephora US.
Main image: @beccacosmetics

Get All Your Beauty Must-Haves For A Lot Less With Sasa's National Day Deals

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Everyone loves a discount right? You can even say that it’s synonymous with our local culture, where it’s no longer strictly “auntie” behaviour to hunt for the cheapest and most worth-it offers for everything, from plane tickets, to electronic goods and mattresses, to apparel and accessories, and certainly, makeup that we can never get enough of. If that’s what you’re looking for, multi-brand beauty retailer Sasa has got loads of beauty items to offer, including, among other things, makeup removers, mask packs, and moisturisers that are going for just $5.20*. Yep, that’s more affordable than a Starbucks frapp.

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You’ll find these sweet deals as part of their in-store catalogue, created in conjunction with Singapore’s 52nd birthday, hence, all the deals that revolve around the number 52, such as an irresistible 52% off, or $5.20 and $52 deals, and more, for their coveted range of makeup and skincare products. What’s even more special this year though is the collaboration with up-and-coming local talents on the cover — that and the fact that we’ve also included some exciting editorial features of our own — our favourite beauty picks, and an easy eye makeup tutorial, for instance — and even launched an exclusive collectible with the brand. Stick around, and you’ll see!
First off, here’s what the cover looks like:
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Everyone’s decked in red and white to celebrate the most important event in August, of course. You’ll be able to pick up a copy from any of their stores, or head to their site for a sneak peek — either way, we’ll have you know that it’s not a regular catalogue. Firstly, and as you can tell from the happy faces on the cover, for the first time ever, Sasa has collaborated with the talented Tree Potatoes for a full feature, as they share their #SasaSuperstarPicks and beauty obsessions.
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The popular YouTube-based production company should be no stranger to you; they’re known for their hilarious, relatable web content, and recently, scored a hit web series in Toggle’ top-grossing English series, The Breakup List. It’s great to know that the collaboration with the mini-celebrities of the group extends beyond the page; there’s news about an upcoming web series called Overnight Celebrity, presented by Sasa Singapore, which will be out in August. Details are teasingly scant at the moment, though you can check out a stylised music video that features the characters who’ll be part of the show.
The cast includes familiar faces as well, including founder Janice Chiang (@janclp), actresses Jannassa Neo (@jannassa) and Le En (@goofy_feline), along with actress and singer at The Apex Project, Jean Seizure (@goh_seizure). In the catalogue, they share their favourite Sasa beauty items and beauty obsessions — here’s a quick look at what they shared, and how you can easily snag these at a fraction of the price. Truly, #SasaSuperstarDeals, we must say.
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  • Janice, the ‘glamour queen’, and her beauty obsession … “for the perfect winged look, I use join-the-dots method to line my eyes with a kohl pencil”
    Try: Cyber Colors Real Lasting Smudgeproof Gel Liner (now 2 at $30, UP: $23 each)
  • Jannassa, the ‘sweetie pie’, and her beauty obsession… “I swear by my sunscreen before heading out the door to keep the harmful UV rays at bay”
    Try: Dr.G SPF42PA+++ Brightening Up Sun Cream Set (now $30, UP: $39.90)
  • Le En, the ‘rock chick’, and her beauty obsession… “after a long day, all I need is an ice cold facial sheet mask to pamper my tired skin”
    Try: Soo Beaute Aloe Vera HA Jelly Mask (now $13.90, UP: $16.90)
  • Jean Seizure, the ‘style guru’, and her beauty obsession… “I can’t do without my facial mist spray. It helps to keep my skin refreshed and hydrated throughout the day”
    Try: Swiss Thermal Water Spray from Methode Swiss (now $20, UP: $29.90).

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Dr. G Brightening Skincare Series, now 1 @ 20% off; 2 @ 30% off (U.P. $35 – $59)

If you’re not already enticed, you’ll also get to hear Sasa employees share their favourite skincare must-haves, for instance, the Dr. G Hyper Brightening skincare series, a brand which we’ve previously pointed out is the secret to actress Kim Ji-Won’s flawless skin. The Korean skincare brand is well-known in the land of kimchi, and this series caters to those of us who’re constantly yearning for bright, glowy skin. There’s a triple whitening effect across all their products — the Dr. G Hyper Brightening Cream, for instance, works from within while also immediately makes it look brighter with amethyst and pearl powder, while the innovative Dr. G Hyper Brightening Capsule Serum uses a micro encapsulation technology so that the concentrated whitening essence can be fully absorbed by the skin. Either way, technology and science work together to ensure beautiful results.
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Hadatuko Collagen Skincare Series. Cleansing Foam and Enrich Lotion, now at $52 each (U.P. $76.90); Serum and Cream, now 1 @ 20% off, 2 @ 30% off (U.P. $113.90 – $13.90)

As for Hadatuko, and the soft pink bottles of its Collagen Skincare Series, the Japanese brand is looking to keep your skin healthy and youthful, thanks to the skincare items being infused with the anti-ageing ingredient collagen. The serum, for example, stimulates cell turnover and collagen synthesis to defend your skin against fine lines and creases, while the cream formula is designed both to give you bouncy skin and leave it feeling well-hydrated after use. You might see “anti-ageing” and think of someone way older, but the series is really a reminder for us to take early action in order to counter the long-term effects, hence the lightweight formulas as well.
Of course, we can’t wait to talk about our own content as well… which we’ll be unveiling over the next couple of days, so watch this space!
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Plus, here’s a little something that we promised to talk about earlier. The exclusive collectible that we’ve partnered Sasa Singapore for is none other than this — limited edition stamps! Designed by our team, including the illustrations of local icons and makeup products on the stamps and booklet, they reflect both our brand’s passion for all things beauty, and all things local as well. After all, NYLON SINGAPORE is always looking for ways to showcase our myriad of local talents; this includes NYLON cover girls such as Stefanie Sun, Sheila Sim, Tabitha Nauser, Oon Shu An, Rathi Menon, and more, all of whom we’re proud to see represent the growing number of young, empowered women in Singapore. And what better way to celebrate this than to (literally) put a stamp on things? 
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From 8 August 2017, drop by a Sasa store to see the entire collectible stamp booklet — collectible because surely you won’t want to use any of these precious stamps to mail your long-forgotten pen pal. You may get them at just $5.20 with any $52 purchase*, though we must warn you that they come in highly limited quantities. With discounts galore at all the Sasa Singapore stores, you’ll find it way too easy to fill your basket with lots of value-for-money items, and still make it past $52, but we assure you, every cent is worth it, whether you’re a true-blue bargain hunter or beauty junkie on a budget.
All deals available at Sasa stores from 31 July to 3 September 2017. Grab a copy of Sasa’s Superstar catalogue, and collect the limited edition stamps, at all Sasa outlets too. More information at sasa.com.sg.

Hello Kitty Now Wants To Be A Part Of Your Daily Skincare Routine With Her Latest Rose Collection

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Hello Kitty is on the move yet again. It wasn’t enough that she made us want to buy mooncakes that we probably can’t bear to eat, she even had us feeling all too nostalgic over old-school stationery items that had her face plastered all over. Now our favourite feline has moved on to another upcoming project with skincare brand Peter Thomas Roth, but guess what? This collection is made exclusively for the brand’s Chinese distributors and are only available stateside in extremely limited quantities. So now she’s even playing hard to get. This kitty sure knows how to keep us coming back for more, it almost seems too hard for us to catch up.

HK rose repair gel mask

The three-piece collection includes a Rose Repair Gel Mask, a Rose Repair Balancing Essence Water, and a Rose Repair Cleansing Gel. Enriched with four rose extracts and five rose plant stem cells, the Rose Repair Gel Mask is meant to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and help hydrate and strengthen the skin.
HK rose repair cleansing gel

Incorporating similar rose extract ingredients, the Rose Repair Cleansing Gel wipes off makeup, dirt, and impurities, and improves the appearance of aging skin. Packed with Vitamins A and C, this cleansing gel promises to reduce the look of dullness and rejuvenate the skin, all while leaving a light, delicate rosy scent that soothes and relaxes.
HK Rose repair balancing essence water

Lastly, prep your daily beauty routine with the Rose Repair Balancing Essence Water that claims to “yield truly astonishing results”. The hyaluronic acid contained in the essence helps to hydrate the skin, setting a clean canvas for the face to absorb other skincare products, while the natural rose water that’s infused in the solution will help calm the soul.
If you are a fan of Hello Kitty, big enough to even include her in your daily skincare regime, then make sure you cop these at peterthomasroth.com. Besides, unlike the mooncakes, at least you still get to keep the bottles as collectibles.
Hello Kitty x Peter Thomas Roth, US$38 – US$52, available at peterthomasroth.com. A parcel forwarding service might be required.
Header image: Peter Thomas Roth

A Guide To Making Flannel Shirts Look Instantly Stylish

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There’s nothing plain about plaid — the problem, though, is that unless you’re going for a country-style, laidback lumberjack kind of look, flannel shirts might not be the most stylish thing around. Come on, how many times can you pull off a shirt + jeans combo without coming across as mildly boring? Then again, it’s often not what you wear, but how you wear it. So take this as a fresh perspective on the classic flannel shirt.

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Whether it’s on its own, tucked in, buttoned up, as outerwear, or layered under dresses (our new favourite way to wear them), you’ll find that the shirts work surprisingly well across a range of styles. After all, there’s good reason why they’re considered a wardrobe staple; the myriad of colours that you typically find on a plaid shirt can go from muted and subtle, to a faded vintage style, or loud tone-on-tone, making it one of the most versatile garments you can own. Naturally, the first place we’d go to when hunting for the perfect flannel shirt would be somewhere where we get plenty of options — and obviously, Uniqlo comes to mind.
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You must have been to their flagship store at Orchard, right? It’s bright and gleaming and brimming with so many new things all the time, a joy to anyone who steps in, though today, we’re zooming in straight to the Japanese brand’s newest launch, the Uniqlo Flannel collection. There are over 50 colours and patterns available, in the softest material, so you’ll truly be spoilt for choice — and like all things Uniqlo, they go for an affordable price of $29.90. Here, we’ve put together a couple of looks — for both men and women — to get you inspired.

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Look 1: Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Denim Jacket, $59.90; Slim Boyfriend Fit Ankle Length Jeans, $49.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Look 2: Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Rayon Slit Neck Sleeveless Blouse, $29.90; Drape Jogger Pants (Stripe), $49.90. All items, Uniqlo.
We’ll start off with something simple. Here’s the most straightforward way to wear a flannel shirt, with your favourite pair of jeans, and everyone owns one right! To make it stand out, consider a denim jacket as well, though this ideally should be part of the overall colour scheme — here, we went for a tonal look, where the blue checks both went in sync with and stood out against a sea of light blues.
With pastel shades and millennial pink being key colour trends this year, you might have already introduced them in your wardrobe too — but how about your work attire? While most people tend towards black and navy, you can look just as put-together with a clean-cut top and fitted pants, especially when it’s subtly pinstriped. Then, toss a flannel shirt over (note the vintage hues) or tie it around your waist to soften the Casual Friday look. Bonus: this chic outfit totally works for the weekend too.

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Look: Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Crepe Camisole Long Dress, $49.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Uniqlo’s sleek camisole dresses are usually snapped up in no time (trust us, actual experience here trying to hunt down our sizes), and it’s probably because of the trendy, and very 90s throwback, look of layering your plain t-shirts or long-sleeved tops under a slip dress. While that trend’s a bit more monochromatic or grungy, who’s to say you can’t mix it up with some bright colours and plaid? Choosing a vibrant dress, based on your flannel shirt, and then having it layered over, makes the look immediately fun and feminine; these summery shades go perfect with peachy-hued makeup too.

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Look 1: Flannel Checked Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Jogger Pants (Cargo), $39.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Look 2: Flannel Checked Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Blade Hat, $29.90; Faux Leather Double-Breasted Jacket, $99.90; Slim Fit Damaged Jeans, $59.90. All items, Uniqlo.
We’ve come up with some great looks for the men too, and here, you’ll see a classic red-white-grey style worn in the most mainstream way — over pants — though it does look more stylish than the average dresser. It all boils down to the details, of course. Having that nice brown play off the earthy tones of the shirt makes the look pleasing on the eye, while cargo pockets and boots aren’t that run-of-the-mill either.
And since plaid is very much entwined with grunge culture, having a look that you’ll wanna rock up to music festivals with doesn’t hurt too. We’re used to plaid shirts and their colourful washes of colour, but here, a flannel shirt with a grid-like pattern is subtle enough on a full black-on-black attire, a style that has just enough street cred and laidback vibes for one to stand out at an event or get-together.

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Look 1: Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Drape Gaucho Pants, $49.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Look 2: Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Rayon Sleeveless Long Dress, $49.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Colour blocking’s always in, and other than a flannel shirt doing half the work for you, be bold and flounce around in a pair of culottes too; the mustard gaucho pants you see here adds an electrifying pop of colour to the outfit, a nice contrast since this time it isn’t just paired with neutral black or white. You’ll wanna pop by cafes or go museum-hopping in these, or wear them around your creative “millennial” shared work space, basically anything but a dinner-and-movies date.
On the more subdued end of the colour spectrum, there’s the familiar red checked shirt, though this time worn under a navy dress. We’re getting a preppy, schoolgirl vibe to the outfit, which you’ll want to play up on with mary jane heels to match. Perhaps to dinner with your future-in-laws? Either way, the graphic pattern on the shirt makes the look infinitely more interesting than, say, wearing the dress on its own, so you know you’re not playing it too safe.

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Look 1: Flannel Checked Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Baseball Cap, $29.90; SPRZ NY J.Polan S/S Graphic T-Shirt, $19.90; Chino Shorts, $29.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Look 2: Flannel Checked Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90; Dry Stretch Jacket, $79.90; KANDO Pants (Striped), $59.90. All items, Uniqlo.
Here are two very different outfits that work; first, a flannel shirt worn as an outer layer to your casual graphic shirt-and-shorts combo. It’s something you’d immediately wear to the beach, or realistically, anywhere in tropical Singapore, since the style’s so easy to pull off. Put on that baseball hat, sure, but stand out with both coral chino shirts and fuss-free layering.
Then, when you’re in need of a smarter outfit for an event or one of those new-age garden weddings, you don’t necessarily need to turn to the old suit and tie. Play around with textures — the striped pants, flannel shirt and lightweight formal jacket all give off dandy crisp lines, especially when they’re in the same grey spectrum, but the barely-there stripes and more casual feel of the shirt (those micro-checks too!) means you won’t look too stuffy or stiff. It’s the best, and easiest, way to break out of formal wear, really.
Uniqlo Flannel collection, each shirt at $29.90, available at Uniqlo stores islandwide and online at uniqlo.com/sg. 

PHOTOGRAPHY
Adele Chan
STYLING
Josiah Chua
HAIR
Ikeda Mitsuru
MAKEUP
Dewi Mahoney
MODELS
Aimee Cheng-Bradshaw (Basic Models) and Kim Sung Su (Now Models)

Review: What Brushing Your Teeth With Aesop Feels Like

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As long as a bottle, tube, or jar with the Aesop label is present in any room, that room instantly becomes a bit more… refined. We can’t narrow it down to a single factor, but it’s probably something to do with the combination of the amber glass bottles and the minimalist labels; and when you pump or squeeze out the product it holds inside, the aroma that envelopes the senses.
That’s why it’s so easy to be sold on the Aesop branding, and it was so easy to be sold on… this:

aesop-toothpaste

Yup, Aesop toothpaste, also what is probably the most photogenic tube of toothpaste to exist, ever. This is the first toothpaste from the brand, but not their first oral health product – they already have a mouthwash.
Like the rest of the Aesop products, this toothpaste is considered premium, and a 60ml tube will cost you $19. The Aesop team was kind enough to send me a tube to try, and brushing my teeth has never felt fancier. Here’s what $19 toothpaste feels like. And more importantly, is it ever worth it to brush your teeth with $19 toothpaste?
By Tami Lai

FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I’m charmed the moment I laid eyes on this. The classic Aesop aluminium tube that gets so photogenically creased with use, and here’s the clincher: this tube comes coloured in a pastel mint, basically my favourite colour.
When I eventually get over the beautiful packaging and get to actually reading what’s printed on the tube, it’s quite interesting. The main ingredients listed are Sea Buckthorn, Cardamom – both common enough botanical ingredients – and… Wasabi Japonica. Yes, that’s wasabi extract, the same green paste I like to dip my sashimi in. Is this going to burn through my sinuses? This looks set to be a very different teeth-cleaning experience indeed.
 
HOW DOES $19 TOOTHPASTE FEEL ON MY TEETH?
When squeezed out of the tube, Aesop’s toothpaste looks… unremarkable. A standard white paste, just like your usual Colgate and Darlie. I’m not entirely sure what I was expecting – maybe some kind of ridiculously aromatic paste? But I proceed to squeeze a dollop out onto my toothbrush anyway, while wondering if I should be a bit less generous with the squeezing, since this is, after all, $19 toothpaste.
At first taste, the wasabi extract, included in the formula for its anti-microbial properties, is evident. Not in the stinging way that comes with ingesting too much with your salmon sashimi, but in a much subtler way that makes this toothpaste taste mildly spicy, which actually feels quite pleasant. Other than that, this has a generally light flavour, with none of that strong minty taste that comes with standard-issue toothpaste.
Initially, that’s what I missed. That minty sensation is what makes your teeth feel clean in the first place, and without this, your mind tricks you into thinking your teeth isn’t as clean, although logic tells you that mint has nothing to do with keeping teeth clean and healthy.
But after a few uses, I realised the difference. While your standard Colgate and Darlie leaves a strong minty taste that makes your mouth feel fresh at first, once it dissipates, sometimes your breath can still feel not-so-fresh, especially in the mornings. With Aesop’s toothpaste though, I felt like it completely rid my mouth of any traces of morning breath, as well as garlicky dinners. That’s probably thanks to the mix of cardamom, anise, clove and spearmint essential oils, so you still get a light refreshing sensation, but without any overpowering mintiness.
 
SO IS PAYING $19 FOR THIS TOOTHPASTE WORTH IT?
If you’re an Aesop fan, definitely. In the grand scheme of things, $19 is still a much smaller dent to the wallet than, say, a $67 room spray. It’s not that much extra to pay for a little bit more luxury in your everyday, if you believe in such things.
Still, as Aesop also reminded us in their press release for this toothpaste, no matter how luxurious your toothpaste and mouthwash, they don’t replace regular visits to your dentist.
 
Aesop Toothpaste, $19. Available at Aesop stores and counters. aesop.com/sg

Foolproof Eyebrow Tints for Bolder, Natural-Looking Arches

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Our drive to achieve bolder brows doesn’t just stem from a perpetual longing to look like Cara Delevingne (though with her new platinum pixie, we’d love to now more than ever), having a pair of naturally-defined brows makes for a quicker morning routine, and you’ll look put-together sans makeup too. Just one tiny problem: we weren’t born with those dream arches, and having to draw them on daily is starting to become real annoying. This is where eyebrow tints come in.
What is a brow tint?
Brow tints are a semi-permanent peel-off formula that enhance the colour, shape, and thickness of your brows with pigments, so you’ll be able to see results almost instantly. A few minutes are all you need to achieve groomed brows with added structure, and it makes a huge difference for those with faint Renaissance eyebrows. Most brow tints last up to a week before they start fading, which could sound a little high maintenance for some, but think about it – you won’t have to carve time out just to make sure your brows are even. When it’s done right, it’ll look incredibly natural, and there won’t be visible marks like those left behind from your sketching attempts.
How do I choose the right shade?
Take extra caution when it comes to selecting the right shade for your brows though, if it’s too light, your dark and sparse brow hairs will be highlighted for the world to see, and if you go too dark, your brows could look like Crayon Shin-chan’s, which could be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how much you aim to look like the character. A grey-brown or ashy shade is the safest bet for us Asians. There are also plenty of hues to choose from now, so go ahead and experiment with an orange or khaki shade if you want to mix things up.
Before you commit to the non-committal brow tint, remember to do a patch test of the formula on a concealed area of your skin first. The last thing you’d want out of your tinting session is a pair of red, itchy brows. But if all goes well, then apply the tint carefully and try not to paint it on too close to the front of your brows. When you’ve removed the tint, don’t wash your face or touch your brow area after, so it’s recommended that you do this at night after your standard beauty routine. This will help your tint last for as long as they can. Take your pick from these offerings.

ETUDE HOUSE brow tints (1)
Etude House Tint My Brows Gel
$15.90 each, available at Etude House stores. 

k-palette brow tints
K-Palette 1 Day Tattoo Lasting Eyebrow Tint
$23.90 each, available at Sasa, BHG, selected Watsons and Guardian stores.

maybelline brow tint
Maybelline Fashion Brow Tattoo Gel Tint
$19.90 each, available from Watsons and Guardian stores.

yadah quick tattoo brow
Yadah Quick Tattoo Brow Gel
$16.90 each, available from zalora.sg. 

clio brow tints
CLIO Kill Brow All Day Tattoo Brow Cara
$17.90 each, available at Watsons and Guardian stores. 

An Epic 10-Day Star Wars Festival is Heading to ION Orchard this September

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Star Wars fans, head down to ION Orchard this September you shall.
The force will be strong over there thanks to a mega 10-day Star Wars festival organised by ReedPOP and The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia, with a line-up of exciting activities ready to transport you to a galaxy far, far away.

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Taking place between 1 to 10 September, starting at the stroke of midnight, the festival will lead up to a grand finale at the Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Convention (STGCC) from 9 to 10 September, where there’ll be a dedicated Star Wars zone featuring fan-built vehicles, games, releases, and collectibles.
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Before that though, the ION Orchard version has plenty of stuff to check out as well. For instance, fans can snap pictures with the first ever installation of the Millennium Falcon in Southeast Asia at ION’s outdoor event space – perfect for the gram’ we reckon.
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Other cool stuff to look out for includes Padawan Training; where kiddos aged between 4 to 12 get to practice their Jedi skills, while the world’s most adorable droid, BB-8, will be rollicking about in a special virtual reality experience station at Basement 4.

Together they could rule the universe. #MayThe4thSG #StarWarsDay

A post shared by @iamstarwars_sg on



And of course, no proper Star Wars festival would be complete without exclusive merch, something there’ll be an abundance of thanks to retail partnerships with Toys “R” Us, Simply Toys, and Taiwan-based toymaker Beast Kingdom, with their famed 3.5-metre tall AT-ACT Walker.
Even better, everything activity is FREE.
This isn’t the first full-scale Star Wars festival in Singapore though. Back in May, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and The Walt Disney Company organised a three-day fest at Gardens by the Bay, with roaming characters, toy collectors, a run, and a Silent Disco.
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At the Star Wars run back in May 

If you missed out on that one, here’s your chance to make amends. If anything, you’ve got 10-days of Star Wars-filled fun to do so!
For more information, visit www.experiencetheforce.sg.
All images taken from Star Wars: Experience The Force Singapore.

PUMA Is Getting Ahead In The Copper Rose Game With These Latest Updates

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Have you guys ever allowed a friend to copy your homework and he/she just decides to blatantly copy everything, wholesale? Yeap, that’s how it is with Skechers trying to cop the adidas Yeezy aesthetic and Jeffrey Campbell literally churning out similar-looking PUMA Suede Heart shoes.
“Can I copy your homework?”
“Yeah just change it up a bit so it doesn’t look obvious you copied.”
“Ok”

Suede Heart Puma JC side by side

But PUMA is not letting this imitation game get in its way and in fact, is actually on the roll by giving three of its fan-favourite models a little update. And they all have something in common – pink. Can we ever get enough of millennial pink trainers? Well, clearly not now, and not ever.
puma fierce frontpuma fierce side
First up, the high-cut PUMA Fierce model is getting a copper rose gold treatment with metallic detailing at the circumference of the ankles. The rest of the upper comes in a warm pink tone and features extended tabs at the tongue and heel. In this update, the toe cap is also made from a neoprene material instead of a netted mesh, offering wearers a more versatile gym-to-street look. The PUMA Fierce Copper Rose is retailing at US$110 and is currently available at Six:02.
puma suede heart

Following up on its Suede Heart model, PUMA has added a subtle touch to it so you know the difference between the real and the ones that ahem… look similar. Arriving in a gorgeous Cameo Brown colourway, the extra details are all in the Suede Heart II’s laces. The pack includes the usual fat satin laces as well as a woven bow lacing that has its edges lined in white. The rubberised midsoles are also drenched in pink, giving us monochrome lovers, more reason to love it. This iteration of the Suede Hearts is also available in Black, with the borders of the woven bow laces lined in white too. You can cop these for US$85 at PUMA.com.
pume basket heart

The final silhouette that’s receiving a lil update as well is the PUMA Basket Heart. Like the Fierce model, the Basket Heart gets an all-over metallic copper rose makeover, and we are obsessed. Sporting a matching pink rubber midsole, these babies naturally come with their iconic wide ribbon lace that ties the shoe together. For US$100, you can get yours over at select stockists such as Shiekh Shoes.
Header image: PUMA puma.com

Nintendo’s SNES Classic Available For Pre-Order this August

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Forget VR, AR, mobile apps, and all that modern crap.
These days, it’s all about old school cool, with retro gaming consoles making hot comebacks in 2017. And of course, the most highly anticipated of which has been Nintendo’s SNES Classic Edition system, which will be made available for pre-order later this August.
According to a Facebook post by Nintendo, a “significant” amount of consoles will be shipped to stores for launch day on September 29, as well as throughout the year. You can view the announcement below:


How many Nintendo means by significant – that’s anyone’s guess, really. What’s clearer is that fans will have their best chance of landing the console since last week’s Walmart debacle, where people received notices about their pre-orders getting canceled due to incorrect payment issues.
Needless to say, people were pissed, although the new pre-order launch is great way to remedy things.
Also, if Nintendo’s post is anything to go by, fans can look forward to scoring the console from other retailers, including Amazon, which recently let people in Chicago buy the SNES Classic at its original price of US$60 from its Treasure Truck (like, what?)


For those of you who aren’t sure what the SNES Classic Edition is, it’s a micro-console featuring 21 built-in games, including Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Yoshi’s Island, Earthbound, and the yet-to-be-released Star Fox 2 – the sequel of the original Star Fox.
If you want to score this awesome retro gadget, it’ll be retailing for US$79.99 and will be available from September 29 onwards. Pre-order date is yet to be announced. Stick with us for more updates.
For more information, visit www.nintendo.com.
All images taken from Nintendo.

New Apple Leak Confirms More iPhone 8 Upgrades

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Everyone, from renowned Apple leakers to eagle-eyed Redditors, has been tearing apart the secrecy behind the iPhone 8. Past leaks have shown that Apple’s new flagship gadget will have an all-glass display, wireless charging, and an exorbitant price. And it looks as if facial recognition is the latest feature to be confirmed.
This time however, the latest exposé is nobody’s fault but Apple’s.
The company shot itself in the foot when it released an early firmware update for its new HomePod smart speaker. Developers then inspected the product and found hidden deep inside its code details indicating infrared facial recognition tech.



It’s already been suggested that Apple will move the TouchID to the back of the phone like the Galaxy S8 or Note 8, so it’s not clear if facial recognition will actually become the new de facto method for iPhone users to unlock their phones, or if it’s an add-on feature to provide more security. Chances are is that it’s the latter.


Whatever the case may be; Apple users can expect the iPhone 8 to be the most drastically changed iPhone of all time.
The yet-to-be-launched gadget will reportedly carry a powerful A11 chip, feature ProMotion display technology – a function that’s meant to improve performance and save battery life, as well as sport OLED screens developed by Samsung.
As of now, there is no clear sign of when the iPhone 8 will be released. Previous launches have been in September, but KGI Securities’ Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the phone’s arrival could be between October and November, while Apple’s supply chain mentioned it might not launch till December.
We guess the only thing to do is sit back, relax, and wait. Till then, stick with us for more updates.
For more information, visit www.apple.com.
Cover image taken from iDrop News.

Frequently Asked Questions About My ‘Hair for Hope’ Experience

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By Jade Yeo

The hair on a person’s head imposes its own grammar on the individuals in a given society, and a lack thereof speaks volumes in ours. In a bid to undo the knot of social stigma that’s tied to baldness as well as to raise awareness and funds for children’s cancer, Hair for Hope returned for its 15th consecutive year last weekend, so I headed down to VivoCity on 30 July and signed myself up.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions I had to address after that close shave.

 
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Image credit: Hair for Hope Singapore
 

What happened?

A common yet fairly insensitive question posed by many upon first sight, often accompanied with a bemused expression. I’m guessing what they mean is, “Why have you gone bald? Was this for a good cause or…?” Well, if you haven’t read a little about it in the news, an annual event organised by non-profit organisation Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) called Hair for Hope was held at VivoCity on 29 and 30 July. Combined with numerous other satellite events arranged by corporate offices, schools and grassroots organisations, it is the only head-shaving event in Singapore that serves to raise funds and shed light on childhood cancer, one that I gladly took part in.
 

What made you decide to do it?

Donating to the CCF is a deed on its own, but to physically demonstrate courage and get your head shaved at the event makes for a larger visual impact. Up to 90 percent of cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy lose their hair, and it doesn’t happen all at once. The treatment causes hair to fall out in clumps, so on top of their existing ailment, self-confidence really takes a hit. Between being bald and wearing a wig, it’s an easy choice to make, except wigs that are well-made tend to be pricey, and no one wants to deal with an uncomfortable, poorly-made option. I know we’re not curing cancer by any means, but by getting my hair buzzed off along with the other participants, I hope we’ll be able to let children and adults know that it’s okay to be bald and that it’s no laughing matter.
 

Were you scared?

I’ve taken hair clippers to my own head several times before and I’ve sported a pixie cut for about 5 years now, so the fear is non-existent at this point. In fact, I was pretty excited to get all of my hair shorn off, and it’s rather evident in this video my nervous mother took. Here, you’ll see me getting my head shaved by a volunteer hairstylist from QB House who has actually given me a haircut in the past (she’s no stranger to buzzcuts and loud hair colours herself), so it definitely made the shearing session extra special.
 

Were there a lot of girls who shaved their head?

Similar to every visit I pay QB House, I was one of the few females scattered along a long line of males, and I felt really proud to see girls and women with long hair grace the stage. We’re used to seeing boys and men with shaved heads, but the image of a woman with no hair can still pack quite the visceral punch. For most males, it’s seen as a spring-clean or a rite of passage in the case of our NS boys, but for females, it’s seen and treated as a sign of self-inflicted crisis and distress (case in point: see first FAQ). However, bald females have built a stronger reputation as of late, with the media serving up some refreshingly badass characters on screen – I’ve even written an article to honour them. So if you’re a female who needs the extra push to register for a Hair for Hope event, look to them for inspiration.
 

Does the hair get donated to make wigs?

One of Hair for Hope’s objectives is to diminish the stigma that’s attached to being bald, which is why the CCF doesn’t collect shaved hair and turn them into wigs. If you’re keen on donating your tresses, you can send them in to Locks of Love, a US-based organisation that creates wigs from donated hair.
 

HFHselfie (2)
 

How did your parents react?

When I told my mum I’d be doing this, she didn’t take it too well. She cried, in fact. She didn’t want to see me with a bald head, and it was her only reason – that it would make me look less attractive. Way to go, mum. Dad, on the other hand, is pretty used to my “antics”. Two tattoos and years of cropped haircuts have prepped him well, so he supported my decision. They both expressed concerns about the process of growing my hair out, though. Sure, it’s going to be an awkward and uncomfortable one, but at least there’ll be room to experiment with new styles along the way. Maybe I’ll attempt that mohawk again.
 

What did your boyfriend say about it?

He’s a boy with an unconventional aesthetic sensibility and thankfully an open mind, so he was all for it when I told him I was set on doing this. I do wish he were here to witness the spectacle (LDR woes) and perhaps get his hair shorn off too. He says I look more feminine with a shaved head which surprised me, and even suggested I dress up like Eleven from Stranger Things one of these days. Also girls, if your boyfriend threatens to break up with you because you’re getting your head shaved for a good cause, please do yourself a favour and break up with him first. The last thing you need is a piece of misogynistic garbage like that in your life.
 

Did you get a lot of stares after?

Of course. Even when we’re just out getting lunch at the nearby kopitiam, I can feel the gaze of others and I even saw some of them pointing me out to their fellow colleagues. Hence, getting onto a crowded bus or train is a nightmare for an introvert like myself. It makes me want to crawl into a ditch each time I catch someone judging my appearance for a prolonged period of time, so I really can’t imagine how self-conscious the individuals battling cancer must feel when they step out in public.
 

Are you gonna wear a hat?

Unless I know I’ll be stuck under the searing heat for more than 15 minutes, I won’t be needing a physical shield. After all, I didn’t get my head shaved only to cover it up with an accessory. As someone who’s quite averse to hats in general, it won’t stand for any positive message if I started wearing an obnoxious fedora to cover up my bare head.
 

For more information on Hair for Hope, check out hairforhope.org.sg.
To make a donation to Children’s Cancer Foundation, head to ccf.org.sg.

 

BONUS: Comments I didn’t need to hear + other unsolicited advice

“Your hair now shorter than your uncle’s.” – Aunt.
“Lol. With the tag on your wrist you look a lot like a patient. OH WAS THAT THE POINT???” – A friend.
“Wah, look like nun now.” – A discriminating, ignorant fool. I mean, my elder brother.
‘”Cut ‘botak’ for what? Just donate can already.” – Same fool, pre-shave.
“If I donate, you don’t cut okay.” – Mum out of desperation, right after my brother’s suggestion.
“But you will look like a boy.” – Mum again, pre-shave.
“I thought you broke up with your boyfriend.” – A friend.
“Haha like Britney’s meltdown.” – A friend.
“You should start experimenting with hats and scarves actually.” – People who don’t know me well enough.
“Aiyoh!” – An auntie exclaimed before nudging the uncle next to her. She proceeded to stare at me for about a full minute, brows furrowed, until the train arrived.
“其实，这个头发现在很流行,” which translates to, “This hairstyle is really trendy now, actually.” – An auntie said to another auntie as she pointed at my head. These two ladies were standing right in front of me on the train to work today.