Scrolling through Selena Gomez’s Instagram feed is akin to being treated a treasure trove of incredible beauty looks that we’d always subconsciously want to recreate. But of course, Gomez has an army of talented makeup artists that she can rely on to make her look this good, whereas all we have are… ourselves. The next logical thing to do would be to find out exactly what products were used, so that we can colour match our own makeup to nail the look as keenly as possible. But while Gomez (and team) have the Midas’ Touch of making her look drop-dead gorgeous, they also possess this uncanny talent of keeping the products used on her face hush-hush. We double tap your images on the regular, Selena, why do you do this to us…?
It wasn’t until Pat McGrath, celebrity MUA (and our homegirl) revealed the winning lipstick that she used on Gomez to create the perfect nude pout for the singer’s first Coach campaign shoot. And you guessed it, it’s none other than McGrath’s upcoming Lust: MatteTrance collection in a gorgeous pinky beige nude shade called 1995.
Everyone loves a good nude. 1995 falls into the cooler-end of the pink spectrum, and goes on pretty pale, even on fairer skin tones. It’s pretty much a MLBB shade that we all might already have in our stash, but hey, no one ever said no to another pink beige, yes? And since the Lust: MatteTrance lipsticks will only be launched in July, you might as well get your hands on one of these dupes, which we dare say, are pretty spot on.
L-R: Estée Lauder Pure Colour Love Lipstick in Blasé Buff, $36, available at Sephora. Nudestix Magnetic Matte Lip Colour in Blossom, $37, available at Sephora and sephora.sg. Maybelline Colour Sensational Powder Mattes in Nude Illusion, $19.90, available at Watsons, Guardian and major department stores. Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Noble, $32, available at Sephora and sephora.sg. M.A.C Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Honeylove, $31, available at M.A.C stores and counters.
When we think of Korean cosmetics, what comes to mind are the cutesy packaging like the popsicle-shaped gel tints from Etude House, or character-themed makeup collaborations such as the Innisfree x LINE FRIENDS series. But one K-beauty brand is going a different route and is taking inspiration from the iconic Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo. While you might expect the brand to come up with brow-related products (since Kahlo was known for her signature thick unibrow), it’s the packaging of their foundation compacts that’s actually influenced by Kahlo’s bold paintings and art in this collection.
The limited-edition Frida Kahlo x MISSHA Original Tension Compact comes in five skin tones and four foundation formulas. The Intense Moisture formula keeps skin hydrated and includes ingredients such as olive oil, jojoba seed oil, ceramide and hyaluronic acid, while the Perfect Cover formula is said to provide high coverage that is long-lasting. The Natural Cover formula gives a natural finish, needless to say, and lastly, the Tone-Up Glow formula includes brightening and anti-aging properties. And you know how the Koreans take their SPF seriously. Packed with SPF 37, you can go about your day while protecting your skin from harsh UV rays.
But let’s be honest, the exciting part has to be the packaging. There are four designs available and if you’ve seen Kahlo’s work, you will find the yellow deer against a backdrop of red flowers and green leaves to resemble one of her paintings – The Wounded Deer. And while everyone is only obsessed with flower crowns now, Kahlo was already wearing them way before our time. What a legend. Her love for nature and colourful prints including Aztec designs, are translated into the packaging of the compact foundations. Even the sponge provided comes in foliage and flower designs, and if you are alert enough, you will spot her pet monkey on the sponge applicator! To complete the full package, the compact also gives off a flowery scent, although we’re not sure if it smells just like the fresh blooms from Kahlo’s garden.
Although the compact foundation was launched in Korea early this year, it wasn’t brought in to Singapore, sadly. However, the collection will drop on misshaus.com on July 13th and while the site does not ship outside of the US, you can engage the help of travelers via Airfrov or use a parcel forwarding service. The compact foundations are also available at kollectionk.com with prices ranging between $27.44 and $30.35 and testerkorea.com for US$15.93 each. Both ship worldwide. Even if you don’t wear Korean cosmetics, it’s one that will make every makeup guru gladly buy, just for the design. Frida Kahlo x MISSHA Original Tension Compact, available at kollectionk.com for $27.44-$30.35, and at testerkorea.com for US$15.93.
Header image: @missha.official
It’s no secret that 2017 has been all about that millennial pink shade. From sneakers to slides, the popular colourway has invaded our lives like never before, and Samsung, which recently revived the flip phone, is the latest company to slap the eye-catching colour onto one of its products – namely, the gorgeous Galaxy S8.
But before you start rejoicing and taking out your wallets, here’s a major buzzkill: this limited edition release is only available for the lucky folks living in Taiwan. You can check out the announcement via Facebook right below:
There’s no need to fret though. Samsung has a penchant for releasing these exclusively coloured phones in mainly Asian countries, and that includes Singapore, which got a “coral blue” version of the S7 Edge late last year. So we wouldn’t rule them out launching a millennial pink one especially for us next time.
That said; the Galaxy S8 already comes in a spectrum of pretty good-looking colours, including Black Sky, Orchid Grey, and Artic Silver. But for the time being, scoring the millennial pink model would require you to fly to Taiwan, or at least know a buddy there who could help you out. Better luck next time if you can’t get both to happen! For more information, visit www.samsung.com/sg. All images taken from Samsung.
The last movie I saw Rinko in was Pacific Rim. She played the strong female lead, Mako Mori, the adopted daughter of Stacker Pentecost. I’m looking forward to the sequel which is scheduled to be released February next year. In the meantime, I had the pleasure of chatting with Rinko at the recent premiere of Chanel’s Mademoiselle Privé exhibition in Seoul.
By Adele Chan
[Me outside the D Museum. I’m really feeling this exhibition…]
Adele: Hi Rinko, how are you today?
Rinko: Fine, thank you. Adele: Let’s start with a question why we’re all here today. What is your relationship with Chanel?
Translator: I’ve been close with Chanel for 12 years. I’ve been with several brands in the past, but when I’m working with Chanel, I always feel like I’m at home. I feel welcomed and I feel very comfortable. Adele: What do you love about the brand?
Translator: I’ve been wearing Chanel for the past 12 years. I always wear Chanel couture, like on the red carpet and on anniversaries. It gives me a lot of power, and it gives me special feelings.
Rinko: It’s kind of like my lucky charm. Adele: Wow! So you always choose to wear Chanel?
Rinko: Yeah. Adele: Good choice. What are some of your favourite items from the brand?
Rinko: For makeup; I like the red rouge, the eyeshadow, the mascara, and nail polish. For my wardrobe, the little black dress, and accent jewellery — every piece, I really love them.
[Rinko Kikuchi photographed by Karl Lagerfeld]
Adele: Yes, I can understand the love for Chanel. Let’s talk about the Mademoiselle Privé exhibition. Which part of it did you like best?
Translator: I was photographed by Karl Lagerfeld in Paris two years ago [Editor: photo above]. The photo display is my favourite part of the exhibition; it’s different from the [Mademoiselle Privé] one shown in London. The photos are printed on thin paper, and the two pieces that I wore in the photographs are also exhibited here. It was measured to my body and specially made. I met seamstresses in Paris, and they were so passionate about fashion; and I was so touched with their passion and warm heart. This time [for this exhibition], the fashion pieces and jewellery pieces are exhibited separately; I think it’s very nice to be separated, so you can concentrate on looking at jewellery, or looking at fashion.
[The photo display at Chanel Mademoiselle Privé in Seoul]
Adele: I agree; I like this part of the exhibition as well. Your picture, in particular is beautiful. So tell us, what is new with you right now? Do you have anything exciting coming up?
Translator: I had a baby last year! I was pregnant so I wasn’t really working on much; but I do have a science-fiction Hollywood movie coming up — I can’t tell you the name of it yet. And I’m also going to do an indie movie this year too. Adele: Where are you heading to after this?
Translator: I’m going back to the hotel, and hopefully I can get a mango bingsu. That’s mango shaved ice. It’s the hotel’s speciality! Adele: Mmmm… I think I shall do that too after this.
Translator: And then I have to get ready for tonight’s reception. I’m looking forward to what’s going to happen at the after-party. Adele: Same! Are you going to wear the dress you wore in the picture? Is that your outfit for tonight?
Rinko: You mean this one? [Points at the dress on display] Adele: Oh wait… it’s here, I guess you can’t wear it because it needs to stay here on display. Thanks Rinko! I’ll see you tonight!
[Editor: This was Rinko’s final outfit at the exhibition premiere.]
VISIT THE EXHIBITION! MADEMOISELLE PRIVÉ SEOUL
23rd June — 19 July 2017
D Museum, Seoul More information on the exhibition can be found at www.mademoiselleprive.chanel.com. Admission is free, but booking is required through the Mademoiselle Privé app.
You’ve probably seen the Lazy Oaf x Hello Kitty capsule collection all over Instagram and scrolled through your feed in envy while stabbing your heart at the same time. We know, because Singapore is always just one step slower in receiving all the merch. But lucky us, at least the 16 piece capsule collection has finally reached Singapore shores (better than stingy collections that are only available in the US right?), and we have the good people at Actually to thank for.
While pastel hues are all the rage right now, Lazy Oaf founder, Gemma Shiel, is taking it back to basics, emphasising on the striking primary colours of yellow, red and blue – the OG colours seen on the classic cat.
Of course, Hello Kitty takes centre stage in the collaboration, with her signature face and distinct red bow plastered throughout the collection. We have the vintage-style high-waisted jeans that have Hello Kitty’s face embroidered all over, and also her face right smack in the middle, at the back of a dropped shoulder pink denim jacket, featuring dainty ruffles at the sleeves. And if that isn’t enough to show how meow-ssive a fan you are of the kitty cat, the white denim A-line skirt will do it. The skirt is literally the face of Hello Kitty, complete with a 3D red corduroy bow and yellow button nose.
We also love how the recognisable red bow ties are cleverly incorporated into the pieces, with one using the ribbon to replace the buttons that bind the back of a seemingly formal white collared shirt and another, serving as the strap of a simple white Hello Kitty face cap.
But we understand that kids are not the only one obsessed with this Sanrio character. For the adults who are still young at heart, some of the pieces might not fit in with your office wardrobe. Even wearing it out on weekends might get you snide remarks like: “Why is she still dressing like a kid at her age?”. But this gingham trousers, our personal favourite, are preppy and cute yet formal enough for dress-down Fridays at work.
The pricing is pretty modest as well, ranging from $35 to $259, but with prices so affordable in addition to the number of Hello Kitty fanatics in Singapore, you’d better hurry yo ass to the Actually store to get a piece of this collection. Hello Kitty x Lazy Oaf, $35 – $259, available now at Actually, Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Road.
Header image: Lazy Oaf
Samsung’s Galaxy S8 is one of the best smartphones in the market right now and quite rightly so. It is an absolute beast of a gadget after all, both in terms of design and specs. But soon enough, another less high-tech, less expensive Galaxy phone may very well steal its thunder.
Say hello to the Galaxy Folder 2, a brand new flip phone by Samsung that’s bringing back a whole lot of nostalgia, reminding us especially of the RAZR – Motorola’s classic handset that everyone wanted back in the good ol’ days. Complete Nokia 3310 move by Samsung? Yep, you’ve got it.
Spot any similarities between this and the RAZR?
Like the RAZR, the Galaxy Folder 2 is flip-able and comes in that elusive pink shade. The difference that it’s a whole lot more advanced. It has 3GB of RAM, a 1.4GHz quad-core processor, and it runs on Android 6.0. The phone will also have both 3G and 4G models, so in terms of specs, there’s nothing much to complain about here.
The Galaxy Folder 2 also has a touchscreen on its top and a retro keypad right below it, and it’s easy to see why the Galaxy Folder 2 is geared towards the “older” market, which makes us a little sad, since well; we were kind of excited about this one.
The Galaxy Folder 2 also comes in black
There’s just one slight problem if you want to score the phone though. Samsung has only released it in the company’s home market of South Korea, after originally releasing it in China in 2016. But you are able to buy a gold version of the phone via Qoo10, just not the pink or black models.
As of now, there’s also no word as to whether Samsung is planning an international launch for the Galaxy Folder 2, although we’re hoping that’s going to change soon. For more information, visit www.samsung.com/sg. All images taken from Samsung.
In recent years, the buzz around oxygen facials seems to be getting louder, with droves of glow-getting beauty junkies heading to Porcelain Spa to give the OxyRevive Facial a try. But hey, if host and radio DJ Rozz Lee swears by this, then we’re pretty much sold, right? Nope, we’re going to delve a little deeper into the science behind oxygenating facials to find out what it does for our complexion and if our skin even needs the added O2.
Well, you know how burn victims are put in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber (not that many of you are familiar with being caught on fire), or when oxygen is administered when you’re suffering from a brain injury (again, not applicable to most of you)? There’s a reason for that. Oxygen stimulates your body’s natural healing function – it’s anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and it boosts collagen production. After an oxygen treatment is performed, you’ll notice a visible lift in dewiness, and your epidermis will be much calmer and happier after it as well.
At this point, however, you’re probably wondering, “Isn’t there enough oxygen in the air for our skin already?” Here’s the unfortunate news: the air that surrounds us is compromised thanks to pollution, so you won’t be able to find the same oxygen in the air that passes through our lungs. If you’re looking to breathe a little life into your complexion, though, you don’t need to head down to a spa for that. Here, we’ve charted the best oxygenating beauty products you can use at the comfort of your own home.
Philosophy’s The Microdelivery Detoxifying Oxygen Peel
Philosophy’s upcoming Oxygen Peel is not as intense as it sounds. Yes, the word “peel” terrifies me too, but think of it as a standard mask, except this mask has two steps to it. The first step is infused with activated charcoal that helps to draw out impurities and prep the skin for the next step to brighten and re-oxygenate. You don’t have to remove Step I – simply apply Step II on top of it and leave the combination on for 3 minutes before removal. I tried it out on the back of my hand and it had an instant brightening effect, I kid you not. $89 for both tubes, available from August at Sephora.
Caolion Premium Blackhead O2 Bubble Pore Pack
With the advent of bubbling Korean face masks, surely you’ve heard of and dabbled in a few of them yourself. Well this famous one by Caolion has a delicate formula tha’s suitable for sensitive skin. Similar to Philosophy’s, it contains charcoal powder to sop up the gunk and utilises micro-oxygen bubbles to clean out your pores gently, getting rid of those dead skin cells while infusing your skin with some much-needed moisture. $39, available from Sephora.
Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift Advanced Wrinkle Treatment
Since we can’t try out Kate Somerville’s most saught-after facial treatment here in Singapore, this bottled version makes the perfect stand-in. This potent formula contain line-smoothing perfluorocarbons (PFCs), oxygen, hyaluronic acid, and botanically-derived antioxidants to lock in the moisture, softening your skin dramatically and boosting that glow to reveal a more youthful complexion. To use, just shake the bottle well and spritz stripes onto your face. Massage the product in before following up with rest of your skincare and makeup, no need to rinse this one off. $153, available from Sephora.
Peter Thomas Roth Brightening Bubbling Mask
Peter Thomas Roth’s offering combines chemical and botanical brighteners – bearberry, mulberry, licorice, and vitamin C – to help even out the skin tone, as well as reduce the appearance of pigmentation (no thanks to the blazing sun). It also contains Fiflow, which assists with skin oxygenation to plump up skin cells and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles to give you a more refined visage and a rosier hue to an otherwise lacklustre complexion. $110, available from Sephora.
Sephora Bubble Mask Detoxifying & Oxygenating
If you’re really tight on cash and you need to revive your dull complexion in a pinch, then head over to Sephora and do your skin a favour by picking up this bubbling face mask. Its soothing texture goes from gel to foam when it comes into contact with your skin, absorbing impurities and traces of pollution with its oxygenating white tea extract. $26, available from Sephora.
Perhaps in our next life, we’d want to be part of the Kardashian klan, because hardly anyone can command a following so loyal — that products from their various business ventures can hardly keep themselves in stock. The most recent case in point: Kim’s Contour Kits from her KKW Beauty line. Did it crash the Internet? Well, almost — considering how an estimated amount of 300,000 kits in her inventory sold out in 2.5 hours, ringing in a hefty US$14 million. And that’s just one marketing success that banked on what her fans knew her best for — chiselled cheek bones and highlighted under-eyes.
We have to admit though, it hardly mattered to us that her contour kits sold out in a finger snap; considering that dual-ended contour sticks aren’t exactly revolutionary in the beauty world, especially when we’re in a stage where innovative beauty is on trend. Like Kylie’s Lip Kits, we’re more often than not just paying for the name of these beauty moguls, but it is what it is, KKW Beauty is officially sold out. We assure you though, you’ve hardly missed out on anything, because there’s a big, big world of dual-ended contour sticks out there.
NYX Wonder Stick $22, available at NYX stores, Sephora and on sephora.sg
The Wonder Stick by NYX comes very close to the one by KKW Beauty in terms of the sheerness of the kit’s formula. Watch the many reviews by beauty vloggers on YouTube, and you’d see that Kim’s contour sticks blend out to a soft, diffused sheen of colour. And NYX’s one makes for a great starter product for amateur beauty junkies who are just dipping their toes into the world of contour and highlight.
PÜR Cosmetics Cameo Contour Stick US$39.50, available on purcosmetics.com
The chubby girth of PÜR’s Cameo Contour Stick makes it incredibly easily to carve and contour larger portions of your face, such as the forehead, cheekbones and jawline. And because of the creamy and pigmented formula, contouring and highlighting is really made into a one-swipe-wonder. On top of that, there are light-reflecting microspheres in both sides so that even more dimension will be added to your face, in addition to the contouring effort. But rest assured, the formula still goes on matte on your skin to mimic actual shadow and light.
Wet N Wild MegaGlo Dual-Ended Contour Stick US$4.99, available on wetnwildbeauty.com
While reviewers have lamented that this offering by Wet N Wild isn’t as creamy as how they’ll like their contour sticks to be, the waxy formula might actually be useful for folks who tend to over pile on pigment on their faces. Use this product sparingly, and after buffing it out you’ll end up with a natural-looking contour, which is great as an everyday look.
NARS Sculpting Multiple Duo Stick $60, available at the NARS store and counters, Sephora and on sephora.sg
Can’t be arsed to get your hands on two different pans of product for contour and highlight? Check out NARS’ Sculpting Multiple Duo Stick then, where the brand has combined cult-favourite shades together to create the ultimate sculpting stick. Just like PÜR, the thicker width of the product allows pigment to easily glide across your face. These don’t set down to a fully matte finish, but rather, a satin one, so you’ll have to expect a teeny bit of sheen. Folks with medium skin tones will be pleased to know that the combination of Hot Sand + Laguna has been a fan-favourite among troves of beauty gurus.
Nudestix Sculpting Pencil $37, available at Sephora and sephora.sg
If you’re looking for a subtle contour and highlight product for an everyday look, then the Sculpting Pencil by Nudestix might just be the one you’re looking for. The dual-ended pencil doesn’t possess high and full coverage pigment, but rather, just a soft flush of colour for a barely-there, fresh-faced look. It’s nothing too intense, and this will make for a great starter kit for beginners.
Maybelline V-Face Duo Stick $19.90, available at Watsons, Guardian and major department stores
It’s a pity that the Maybelline V-Face Duo Stick comes only in two shades — medium and dark — because the product does really translate to a rather lovely finish on the skin. The contour side of the stick glides on creamy and sets matte, while the highlight end has fine sparkle specks in it, for added brightness along the areas that require highlighting. They are easily blend-able, and dry down lightweight.
As one of Singapore’s most notable drag performers, you might have seen the larger-than-life Becca D’Bus on stage, all dressed up in a standout drag outfit — or um, even on Stomp — whatever it is, the founder and host of RIOT! is proud of who he is; he’s someone you’d notice right away, and someone you shouldn’t shy away from too. For one, underneath that loud and sassy exterior… he’s just as sassy and quick-witted, which makes for some hilarious stage banter, and just as eloquent and passionate about the LGBTQ cause as well.
Recently, D’Bus started an Instagram series where he posts a daily makeup look, though with a caption that’s definitely more than skin-deep: there, he paints a bold picture of how LGBTQ people are discriminated in society — especially the institutional inequality that includes Singapore’s housing policy laws, NS, the experience of queer teachers in our public education system, and more. So, it makes sense that he’d be the first person we’d wanna talk to regarding this year’s (and every year’s, really) controversial Pink Dot event. Read on to see how you can support the LGBTQ community, what you need to know before attending the event on 1 July this Saturday, and what you should totally avoid doing too.
Picture by Ken Lim, at Pink Dot 2016
1. How many Pink Dots have you attended?
2017 will be my 7th! I’ve been every year since 2011. I’ve followed it since its first year. I wasn’t in Singapore, but watching it from afar, in Boston, and cheering! 2. Why do you go?
I started a little series on Instagram (@beccadbus) a few days ago, in which, every day, I post a new makeup look, and in the caption offer a true story of inequality in Singapore, I’ve had to really edit it down. The simple truth is Singapore is grossly discriminatory towards LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) people. We have a mental image of middle class and richer gay men having a good time, but there are LGBTQ people in every social class, every industry, and of all backgrounds. It’s not that more of us are male and rich, it’s that if you’re not, you’re either necessarily invisible for survival, or made invisible by policy. Those policies have effect in areas as diverse as education, housing, end of life planning, healthcare, military service, career advancement, law enforcement, most of which LGBTQ people pay for with their taxes but are discriminated against in reality. No, It’s not just about Section 377A of the penal code.
I don’t 100% agree with the position of Pink Dot on every issue, but it is one day in which we (LGBTQ people and our allies) make ourselves visible, stand up, and be counted. I believe in solidarity. I believe that when people stand in solidarity, we are powerful. I believe that when 28,000 people stand in solidarity, we are extremely, unavoidably powerful. And I believe one day Singapore and the world can be just.
3. What do you generally look forward to at the festival?
Pink Dot is not a festival, it’s a rally, a picnic and a protest action. Which is one of the reasons why it can only happen at Hong Lim Park, the other being that homophobic public policy has made it impossible to license a gathering of people in support of LGBTQ equality anywhere else.
I look forward to contributing towards making a rare space in Singapore where my people are welcome in ALL our diversity. I look forward to learning about the groups that are formed by people in Singapore to celebrate, support and care for each other in a country that frankly, takes a crap on them almost daily.
And I look forward to being visible with my people and those who love us. 4. What are you particularly looking forward to this year?
This year, Pink Dot is being tested. New, harsh, and oppressive public assembly laws mean that only Singaporeans and PRs will be allowed into the park for Pink Dot. I am excited to see folks really turn up and be counted. We can’t rely anymore on large swathes of expats from large MNCs to do our work for us. So I look forward to seeing Singaporeans come to Pink Dot for the first time, and stand for what they believe in — our equality as people.
My friends and I at IndigNation, Singapore’s Pride Season (August of every year) will soon be publishing a list of folks who would be open to helping make sure people feel welcome and supported in going to Pink Dot (maybe for the first time). Look out for information on meet-ups to travel together to Hong Lim Park on Facebook. I am ALWAYS moved by people caring for each other. I really look forward to seeing the ways that happens every year, but especially this year because so many people I’ve heard from have said that with all the restrictions, this will be their first year going.
Also, this year, IndigNation will be creating space for people with crowd anxieties to chill out in. I am looking forward to seeing how my community will help, protect and care for total strangers. Will we? I trust we will.
5. I’m sure you have your outfit planned. Can we see it?
Ah hah! Part of the fun of drag for me is making things happen at the very last minute. I finished my dress last year 2 hours before I left the house to go to Hong Lim Park. This year, I’m not sure what I’m wearing, there’s lots to consider since I’ll be going on the MRT, so I’ll have to make it through the gates, but beyond that, we’ll see! 6. What’s your makeup going to be like this year?
Waterproof. 7. For someone who has never attended Pink Dot, what should he / she wear?
There are two things to remember about choosing your outfit.
It has to be Pink. Lots of pink. Very Very Pink. There’s plenty available to buy if you don’t own anything, The Authority is the official Pink Dot retail partner this year, and they’ve got some minimalist pieces in the colour of the day. Or if you wanna wear something really, really gay, I make and sell pink t-shirts with dots on them made from the off-cuts from building my costumes. They’re all handmade by me and my mother, and they are all one off, with sizes from Newborn to 3XL. Bus Detour will be stocked only at SUPERSPACE in the days running up to Pink Dot.
Be fully and truly your own person. You represent you at Pink Dot. You should fully express who you are. Whether that means looking like you thought Coachella was at Hong Lim Park, or being extremely masculine, or being in some kind of drag, the most important thing is to be yourself, and be visible in your support of the cause. If you’re like the editor of NYLON and you only ever wear black, erm… thank god for shopping and black underwear.
Highlights from previous years’ Pink Dot events.
8. What should one pack along for the event?
Definitely bring your Identity Card, you have to prove you’re Singaporean or PR.
Bring a torch light, to join in forming the dot as night falls.
Be ready to be outdoors, water, sunblock, a foldable fan, some food if you like.
If you wanna go early to picnic, then pack that too!
Bring a plastic bag and bag up your trash, you may need to carry it out of the park at the end, because trashcans overflow with that many people.
Most of all, bring your heart, be ready to be kind and friendly.
Lastly, try not to bring too much. bags will be checked on the way in, don’t make security have you account for half your life in your backpack.
9. What do we not need to bring that you think would be too much?
Lawn furniture. Every year I see people with lawn furniture. I don’t understand this. At all.
10. Finally, can we get a list of Dos and Don’ts from your point of view:
Please, if you are queer, or if you support your LGBTQ friends, come, be present, be counted, help build loving, accepting, space, it’s family friendly, bring your friends and family, talk to them about why you want to come and why they should, we need the numbers.
Please when you do come, take part, watch the concert, visit the community booths, soak in the atmosphere. Make friends. Or not. There’s no pressure, if you just need to find a quiet spot to chill out, do it, crowds can be stressful.
If you’re not LGBTQ, know that for some folks, this could be the only space in Singapore where they feel safe, accepted, loved, supported. There might be dizzy queen dancing in front of you during the concert, don’t insist that she sit down so you can see, this is her space too, and this is her time as well.
Do try to respect everybody.
Do ask before you take pictures.
We all look friendly, unless it’s invited, don’t insist on hugging people.
You will see some gender variant people
Do give mad props for the fierce individuality
Don’t point and stare.
If you see a drag queen, know that we love all of you, but don’t touch us, unless we initiate it. There’s not a lot holding it all together, one false move and it could all fall apart. Also we’re hella sweaty. Also wigs are like fur hats. IN SINGAPOREAN HEAT. Pink Dot 2017 Date: 1 July 2017, Sat Time: 5pm Venue: Hong Lim Park More information on Pink Dot 2017 at pinkdot.sg and facebook.com/pinkdotsg.
Bangkok is a city full of gems.
It’s the reason why we Singaporeans love heading there all the time, whether it’s to embark on a full-blown shopping spree or to just pig out on some really good food. Living there however is a completely different ballgame, no matter how much we love the place.
Good news though. You can now experience “living” with the locals on your next trip to Bangkok without booking an Airbnb or Couchsurfing thanks to luxury shopping mall Central Embassy, which recently opened Open House – the city’s first “co-living space”.
Located just below swanky “Beach in the Sky” restaurant and rooftop bar Siwilai City Club, Open House is basically a lifestyle and retail destination that’s meant for visitors to mingle or hang out, something like a co-working space, except this doesn’t involve any working at all.
Designed by Japanese architecture firm Klein Dytham Architecture, the space features a total of seven zones, ranging from dining to shopping.
For instance, the dining area comprises of some of Bangkok’s most hip restaurants and cafés, with niche specialties for all kinds of foodies. There’s Italian food from Peppina, Thai cuisine from Nara, vegan grub from Broccoli Revolution, Spanish fare from Rico, and artisanal pastries from Paris Mikki.
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Once your tummy is filled, you can either chill at the bookshop with all its towering shelves or visit the Art Tower that changes exhibits on a regular basis. There’s also a working zone called Co-Thinking Space, plus a design shop and even a playground for kids.
So spending a day here (or two, if you’re not chased out by the security guards) won’t be a problem as there’s just so much to do. We only wish that Singapore has a similar concept, but ah well. We guess here’s another excuse to book those tickets to Bangkok once again. For more information, visit www.centralembassy.com. All images taken from Central Embassy.
This summer, we are seeing a ton of brands jumping onto the pastels bandwagon, because you just can’t go wrong with such a delicate colourway, can you? Or perhaps, brands are just capitalising on the fact that pastels are the way to a girls’ heart? Sneaky… Either way, ASICS Tiger are wanting in too, by offering their GEL-LYTE V silhouettes in three pastel colour-blocked designs (mainly pink, orange and green), and they’re not just for girls.
As with all GEL-LYTE V models, the signature Mono-Sock liner remains intact, but instead of going for a usual monochromatic pastel look, the colour-block scheme combines several shades of pastels in one shoe, which further brings out the retro appeal that the shoe already has. Constructed with perforated nubuck leather, these kicks also feature laces that weave through the nubuck ASICS stripes, and the GEL-LYTE V logo highlighted in a matching colour with the rear outsole. Boys, if you have just completed your national service and are looking for a much trendier pair of running shoes than the ones provided in the army, do yourself a favour and add this “Pastels” pack into your options. ASICS Tiger A/W17 “Pastels” Pack, $199, available from July 2017 at Limited Edt stores.
There’s nothing quite like watching GD live on stage (our Ed-in-Chief can testify to that: she even got a video to prove it!) If you were at his Singapore shows just a few days back, as part of his current world tour <ACT III, M.O.T.T.E>, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about too.
Just before his Singapore stop, he performed in Macau, at the Cotai Arena at The Venetian. This is where we get to be a little more intimate: Chanel followed him in between the shows, even trailing the superstar back into his hotel room, to give us a really close look at GD behind the scenes.
Of course, his luggage was packed with pieces by Chanel, specifically from the 2016/17 Paris Cosmopolite Métiers d’art collection, and with the new Chanel Gabrielle bag taking the spotlight. The one GD has slung across his shoulder is the Gabrielle hobo bag in black aged calfskin, that measures in at a roomy 28cm x 21cm.
Cop his style by heading to a Chanel boutique to check out the Gabrielle bag for yourself – it is after all a timeless style that’s worth the investment (recommended retail price: $5,460). In the meantime, get up close and personal with GD here:
CHANEL Gabrielle Bag, $4,420 to $5,940, available at CHANEL boutiques. chanel.com/en_sg
Every self-respecting beauty junkie should know that it’s a big deal every time Colourpop announces a new launch. Partly because the brand is always evolving, always expanding — we’ve followed them in their humble days of the Ultra Matte Lips (and still loving those, btw) — to their present era of Pressed Eyeshadows and the Ultra Blotted Lip, which we too, have in bountiful quantities in our beauty stash. Can you say no to a US$6 lipstick…? A US$15 eye palette…? With the (occasional) free international shipping…?
And just yesterday, the Los Angeles-based brand uploaded a video that revealed their latest new collection, to be launched… tomorrow. Talk about a surprise drop, but what really got us reeling from the entire 7 minutes 32 seconds video was this: The entire line-up is not only inspired by the healing properties of crystals, but actually contains real crushed crystals in their formulations. And that’s not even the best part — we won’t be welcoming any of the conventional makeup like lippies and eyeshadows (not like it’s a bad thing, though), but instead, a trio of new products — priming sprays, liquid highlighters, and pearlescent lip toppers.
Clockwise: Aventurine, Aquamarine, Rose Quartz, and Amethyst liquid highlighters
Each trio is greatly inspired by different crystals, namely Aventurine, Aquamarine, Amethyst, and Rose Quartz. Clearly, the highlighters speak to us. Colourpop’s highlighters — cream or powder — have never quite failed us before, so you can be sure we’re excited to get our hands on their liquid ones as well. The colour range is pretty safe, spanning from a petal jade to a classic rose-champagne. But hey, that doesn’t mean that the other priming sprays and the lip toppers get left out; it’s the brand’s first foray into makeup prep and at the crazy attractive price point that they’re at, we’re more than willing to give those a whirl too.
The priming sprays are going for US$6 a bottle, which falls in line with the usual Colourpop prices. The liquid highlighters and lip toppers should retail for the same price, or less. Either way, we reckon they’re gonna be snapped up in a jiffy, so you’ll have to act fast to get your hands on these gems. All products will launch on colourpop.com on June 28, 10am PST (June 29, 1am SGT). Header Image: Colourpop
Close your eyes and imagine strolling through an endless expanse of gardenia shrubs, the wind wrapping its intoxicating floral fragrance around you as you brush your fingertips through the velvet soft petals. Now, imagine sealing that scent and sense in a bottle. That’s the Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia.
An elegy to the gardenia flower, Gucci’s Flora Gorgeous Gardenia captures the lightness of the flower as it blossoms and unites it with an addictive richness that can only be attained in full bloom. Think, a bouquet of delicate florals to have and to hold, except this bouquet will never wither, and that’s what this charming scent encapsulates – a fleeting moment that never leaves. At the heart of the fragrance, tinges of succulent red berries and glacée brown sugar are whisked together with white gardenia, grounded by a hint of earthy patchouli to intensify its femininity. Captivated yet?
Topping off this alluring aroma, the new limited edition flacon that contains it is a sight to behold. When light gleams through, the pink nectar brings the bottle to life with a radiant rosy glow that tints all that surrounds it, meeting the flora and fauna of the botanical Flora print on the fresh outer carton. A fragrance can do so much more than just make you smell attractive. It forms an invisible veil that lifts the mood, ignites sensuality, and induces nostalgia all at once, creating a truly sensorial experience. As for Gucci’s Flora Gorgeous Gardenia, it happens to be the fragrance that does it all. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Limited Edition Eau de Toilette, $121 for 50ml. Available now at the following department stores: Takashimaya, BHG Tampines, BHG Bugis, Robinsons JEM, Robinsons Raffles City, Robinsons Heeren, Metro Paragon.
Freshly tatted or well-worn, if you’re sporting some ink on your skin, you’ll want to reach for The Body Shop’s latest creation. The Amazonian Saviour Multi-Purpose Balm will help protect your new tattoo and protect your existing ones. The origins of this powerful balm starts deep within the Amazon rainforest, where its potent ingredients have been used by Amazonian communities to heal wounds and tattooed skin for centuries. Those natural oils they rely on are now called upon to craft this beauty do-all.
It’s packed with babassu oil, a key ingredient found in some of the brand’s most nourishing products, as well as beeswax to help seal in the moisture, so it isn’t just a balm that’s made to protect your tattoos, you can also call upon this mighty formula to hydrate and soothe any areas of parched skin.
If you’re unfamiliar with babassu oil, it’s a nourishing ingredient that’s loaded with vitamin E and phytosterols, which is why it calms down any inflammation in a jiffy. It’s also been known to treat troublesome skin conditions like eczema, so rest assured, it’ll care for your tattoos, visible scars, and itchy patches.
To match its powerful formula, The Body Shop has invited renowned UK-based tattoo artist Saira Hunjan to create a beautiful exterior to house the balm in – a rather befitting design, if we may say so. Go ahead and pick this up to show your ink some TLC. The Body Shop Amazonian Saviour Multi-Purpose Balm, $16. Available from 29 June.
If you’re ever looking to get a discreet tattoo in a… not so public part of your body, yet not as conventional as the usual wrist or ankle, we have another option that’ll let your ink go as undercover as possible. Armpit tattoos.
Yuuuuuup, getting inked on your pits is actually a thing, though we honestly aren’t sure when will you be able to show them off. When reaching for the hand-grabs in the MRT? When swimming? When yawning while casually stretching? We don’t know, but you do you.
Not all of us in the office have tats, so we aren’t the most well-versed in tattoo-speak. But when the trend was pitched during our weekly meeting someone jumped right in and said, “Wait, with armpit hair???” No, without armpit hair. It’s probably gonna be pretty hard for your tattoo artist to y’know, work his/her magic, so it’s best to go in with a cleanly shaven pit. Preferably without BO too.
Plus, since the skin on your underarm is delicate, you’ll have to be prepared to grit your teeth through some pain when getting inked, so this really is a project recommended for people with high pain thresholds to embark on. For us, we’re still likely to stick to our mini wrist tattoos and high coverage foundations for when we need to cover up. Header Image: @tatt.me IG
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