Blog - Page 499 of 505 - NYLON SINGAPORE

5 Ways You Can Go Bananas Over Monkey Prints For CNY

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

By now, you should already know it’s the Year of the Monkey. Instead of an awkward cringe every time a CNY song comes on at the shopping mall, or when you catch sight of a hard-to-miss display of red and gold plastic decorations, consider embracing the whole spirit of the Lunar New Year. Don’t take yourself too seriously – be that person who goes all out, ironically even, if you like. These brands bring not-too-serious fun to the festive season, and they mean monkey business.
1. :CHOCOOLATE and BABY MILO®

These two popular street fashion brands are collaborating once again for two festive collections that feature the ape, as the animal is, after all, an iconic part of their pairing. There are red-white-blue colours, all over sweaters, zip-up hoodies and baseball jackets, and even popular Chinese New Year family games like mahjong and dice sets, all part of the main collection. A more exclusive series, the “Gold Monkey” collection, sees the auspicious gold colour as a key feature, running across their clothes and accessories. That’s launched exclusively at the orchardgateway atrium pop-up store.
:CHOCOOLATE x BABY MILO® Year of the Monkey collection, priced from $59.90 – $399. Main collection available at :CHOCOOLATE Bugis Junction and :CHOCOOLATE orchardgateway.
2. Cath Kidston

556989_Monkeys Small Slip Pocket Handbag_1

In this Asia-exclusive print, we get playful and stylised monkeys swinging across pretty blossoms, all on a lucky red background. Inspired by the brand’s classic Bird print, and still very much like their other pretty products, this new edition is seen on handbags, purses and pencil cases. If you make you way down to the store by 9 Feb, you even get to enjoy a mean 10% off selected festive-themed items.
Cath Kidston CNY 2016 collection, priced from $19 for the pass holder to $69 for the small slip pocket handbag. Available at Cath Kidston stores.
3. Kipling

The brand has recently undergone a revamp, and are now out with more vibrant offerings, including this Monkey Print edition. Monkey motifs go on eye-catching hues of purple and hot pink, while we can trust that these are available in practical, lightweight and functional styles, great to stuffing in all your angpaos. Naturally, their popular ape key chains make an appearance too.
Kipling’ Monkey Print Collection, currently available in stores, while stocks last.
4. Coach

Technically, you won’t be able to buy these off the shelves, but you get to keep them if you’re a big spender at their store during this festive period. Head down to their store and purchase something from their stylish collections, and you’ll be rewarded with these Coach red packets, embossed with a monkey silhouette (regular-priced purchases). Or, spend $600 on your total bill to snag this luxurious leather Monkey Luggage Tag.
5. Paul Smith

Even Paul Smith joins in the fun, with these special edition t-shirts. Stepping into the spirit of the occasion, they’ve designed two celebratory pieces that are fun but also minimalist, in other words, not entirely obiang. There’s also a long-sleeved collared blouse that’s embroidered with a miniature monkey motif, and both women’s and men’s version feature mother of pearl buttons, as well as cotton twill fabric.
Paul Smith T-shirt (in grey and white) is retailing at S$130, men’s shirt at S$430 and women’s shirt at S$390, available at Paul Smith Mandarin Gallery and Hilton Hotel.
6. Dolce&Gabbana

Alternatively, you might really want to go all out. And while this isn’t at all a monkey print, we can’t help but feature this vibrant Lunar New Year Caretto Print collection. Here, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana look towards the Chinese culture for inspiration, and just in time for Lunar New Year, launched a capsule collection that features lemons and oranges in the traditional Carretto Siciliano print, on a symbolic red shade.
Dolce&Gabbana Carretto Siciliano (Lemon & Orange) Print collection, available at all Dolce&Gabbana boutiques in Singapore.

Spring/Summer Jewellery Just Got A Whole Lot Prettier

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Simple is chic with Monica Vinader, whose jewellery pieces are quickly becoming the epitome of minimalistic elegance. We love how they’re so effortlessly wearable, and the latest Spring/Summer 2016 collection proves no different – the British jewellery brand is pushing out fresh new styles in a fun variety of colours and silhouettes.
For anyone looking to personalise a gift, the Diamond Alphabet collection in all its rose gold glory is a definite crowd-pleaser (or girl-pleaser). The diamante letters are fashioned in a free flowing script inspired by the handwriting of Monica Vinader herself – how’s that for unique?

Alternatively, there’s the Riva and Siren collections, which are both coincidentally inspired by natural water bodies. Taking its name from the Italian Riviera, the Riva collection features rippled silhouettes inspired by the constant motion of the sea; while the updated Siren collection takes inspiration from sea worn treasures of the deep – you’ll be able to see how, with the iconic textures and shapes that still prove versatile when layered with the older pieces.

RP-RG-RISB-DIA RP Riva Wave Stacking Ring

GP-RG-RITW-DIA GP Riva Wave Triple Band Ring

RP-BL-SITD-AGB RP Siren Teardrop Bracelet

RP-PT-GBZM-AMZ RP Siren Medium Bezel Pendan

There’s something for the men too – the silver corded bracelets and cufflinks with bespoke cut gemstones are making us tingle, tbh. Plus, monogram engraving is available on all the pieces, free-of-charge courtesy of the good people over at Monica Vinader.

SS-BM-LNBB-BLA Linear Large Mens Friendship Bracelet

But the real star of the Spring/Summer 2016 collection has to be the new styles of the ever-popular Fiji collection. Your favourite friendship bracelets get a fresh, sorbet-coloured update with the new colour cords – each with their own individual meaning. There’s Ballet Pink for Imagination, Mint for Truth, Peach for Fun, Powder Blue for Loyalty, and Violet for Good Fortune – perfect for gifting to your besties, we would say. And don’t just take it from us; the Fiji bracelets are a hit with celebrities too, gracing wrists of the likes of Rita Ora and Olivia Palermo.

Rita-Ora-in-MV-at-Jingle-Bell-ball-11.12.12

(image from http://goodleybullenpr.co.uk/)
What can we say? Flashy bling just doesn’t cut it anymore.

Monica Vinader Spring/Summer 2016 Collection, available at Monica Vinader, ION Orchard. Monicavinader.com

A Shot of Luxury

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

We all know that Leica cameras usually have a very expensive price tag pegged to them, but it’s generally accepted by the photography community for a slew of reasons; two of them being the quality of the build and the long history and tradition of excellence in the construction of lenses and optical devices. You’re basically getting what you’re paying for, and that itself speaks louder than the sum of any naysayer.
They’ve taken luxury to the next level by crafting the world’s first full matte brass finish M Series for The Hour Glass, which is limited to only 35 set globally. While Leica has always maintained focus on tradition and innovation, The Hour Glass pride’s itself as the world’s leading cultural retail enterprise by celebrating the primary concept of authentic luxury and putting the spotlight on an appreciation of objects with exclusivity and artisanship. The project began two years ago as an idea with the concept of luxury in its most authentic and artisanal form as its focus. Brass was used to create a pure and unadulterated object as it represents the glamour of gold in a very understated manner.

The Leica M-P “Brass Edition 35” takes after the iconic design of an M series, finished in the most raw and original form of full clear lacquered brass and buttons. The leather trim on this special model uses distinctive chestnut leather for the exterior wrap and carrying strap (included in the set). And yes, the lens that comes with it, the Leica Summicron-M 1:2/35mm ASPH, along with the classic round lens, also boast a pure brass finishing with clear lacquer for protection. To make things more exclusive, Leica has included a limited edition number imprinted on both the hotshoe and the lens with the The Hour Glass logo above it.
But the pomp and circumstance doesn’t just end there. Of course the presentation box has to be just as ostentatious. The camera is presented in a special box that was hand made in Black Forest, Germany, and wrapped with a golden paper called “Treasury” (fun fact: it’s the same paper used for the envelopes of the Oscars Awards).
Leica M-P “Brass Edition 35”, $35,000. Available exclusively at Malmaison by The Hour Glass.

Singapore's Very First Craft Beer Festival Is Finally Here

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Beer lovers beware – your wallet might just be about to experience a severe deficit in exactly 4 weeks’ time. CRAFT Singapore is launching the first ever craft beer festival to take place in Singapore, and you’ll definitely want to be a part. Oktoberfest’s got nothing on this, seeing as CRAFT has partnered some of Asia’s best breweries – think Archipelago and Brewerkz – to bring our Little Red Dot a taste of what artisanal beer really is.

It’s not just the hotshots that will be brewing this March – among the 25 or so local and international brewers, expect to see microbreweries Beerfest Brewery, Little Island Brewing Co, and more, take center stage with their exclusive range of fresh craft beer flavours. Mind you, that’s hundreds of beers we’re talking about.

Thinking of bringing the little ones? You’ll be glad to know that there’s definitely something for the whole family. Held in conjunction with iLight Marina Bay Festival, CRAFT Singapore 2016 will include performances by local musicians and DJs, and fun light art exhibits to add a little oomph to your beer tasting. And if you feel peckish, take your pick of the local restaurants featured like Full of Luck Club, Park Bench Deli, and Vatos Urban Tacos, for quality nibbles to go with your beer. But for the real beer enthusiasts, be sure to check out the exclusive workshops and masterclasses hosted by experienced brewers themselves – whether you’re a casual drinker or raging beer buff, there’s definitely something to learn.

CRAFT Singapore 2016
Date: 4 March to 6 March 2016
Venue: Marina Bay (Big Top)
Session Timings:
Friday 4 March: 4 – 11pm
Saturday 5 March: 12 – 5pm (Family Friendly) and 6 – 11pm
Sunday 6 March: 12 – 5pm (Family Friendly) and 6 – 11pm
Tickets*:
Single session Early Bird: $80
Single session Standard: $95
Double session Early Bird: $100
Double session Standard: $125
Family Ticket (2 Parents and at least 1 child below 18): $100
*All tickets include $50 F&B voucher. Available at sistic.com.
More information at craftsingapore.com.

The Marc Jacobs Beauty 2016 Campaign Is Super Dreamy

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Marc Jacobs has a penchant for picking out pop culture icons as sources of inspiration for his makeup line. Case in point: The Le Marc Lip Creme in a loud vermillion that’s named Oh Miley!, and from the recent Holiday collection, an eyeshadow palette named after Sofia Coppola. And as he reveals the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty’s 2016 campaign, we’re not surprised at all that it’s Winona Ryder, known for her roles in cult classics like Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, and Girl, Interrupted, one shoplifting scandal in the early noughties, and, together with Johnny Depp, for once being a part of one of the most iconic 90s Hollywood couples.
Winona Ryder is definitely a Hollywood icon, even if some of you might not be old enough to appreciate it. This year, she turns 45, but in the campaign images shot by David Sims, she’s been transformed into a twenties-era beauty looking nothing like a woman in her mid-40s, sporting strong brows, artfully lined eyes, and soft nudes on the cheeks and lips along with a delicate string of pearls.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Winona Ryder 2016 Campaign (moodshot 1)

The focus here is obviously on the eye makeup, and celebrity makeup artist Diane Kendal has used new releases from the Spring 2016 collection to achieve this subtly glamorous look. The specific products and shades to note here are the Fineliner Ultra-Skinny Gel Eye Crayons in Blacquer and (Big)Eyes! ($35 each), a few lashings of the Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara ($42), and a slick of the New Nudes Sheer Gel Lipstick in Strange Magic ($42).

The two gel liners and mascara are part of the new collection, launching in Sephora this month. Get Ryder’s look by first lining the lids with the Fineliner crayon in (Big)Eyes!, extending the flick further, and then add on the Fineliner in Blacquer over the white lines. A few coats of the Velvet Noir mascara will get you the thick, lengthened lashes Ryder sports here. Add your favourite pearl accessories, and you’re good to go.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Spring 2016 collection, available at Sephora. marcjacobsbeauty.com

Pac-Man's Got Good Taste

Feb 3, 2016Aug 15, 2018

It seems the :CHOCOOLATE collaborations just keep getting better. The latest happy partnership is with none other than the iconic 1980s Pac-Man, and we’re beyond stoked. It’s childhood nostalgia time, as we #throwback to burning hours away with the little guy, whether it was at the arcade or behind our computer screens. First developed as an arcade game by Japanese video game designer Toru Iwatani in the May of 1980, Pac-Man and his classic chomping took the storm, quickly overtaking big players (pun) of the arcade game trade Space Invaders, Asteroids, and Pong. Fun fact: the entire original game took up only 24KB of space – an average iTunes song today is 4MB!

Now the whole gang is here – Blinky, Inky, Pinky, and Clyde join our yellow hero in adorning the T-shirts that come in both men’s and women’s sizes. We foresee these quirky tees everywhere soon; after all, Pac-Man has shown to have the highest brand awareness of any video game character ever created (94% of American consumers, to be exact). Spin-offs like the Pac-Man animated TV series, and more recently – his cameo in Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph, and the 2015 movie Pixels – are testament to the Pac-Man legacy. And you know what that means – Pac-Man will never go out of style.

:CHOCOOLATE x PAC-MAN collection, $49.90 to $59.90, available at :CHOCOOLATE Bugis Junction and :CHOCOOLATE orchardgateway on 12 February 2016. chocoolate.hk/

PUMA x Stampd Spring/Summer 2016

Feb 2, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Last year’s collaboration between global sports brand PUMA and west coast “avant street” label Stampd LA, was very successful. The relationship gave birth to a bunch of highly sought-after products, like the R698s, sports-inspired attire and Trinomic socks. They’ve teamed up once again to dish out more ready-to-wear kicks and apparel that fuse the running technologies of PUMA with Stampd’s vision and creativity.
PUMA’s renowned Blaze of Glory silhouette has been given a new spin, featuring a neoprene blend upper and matching coloured sole, speckled elastic laces and both branded logos on the tongue and heel; all in full black or white for a simple but textured look. However, they’ve also completely reworked the iconic silhouette to release a special release. The PUMA x Stampd Blaze of Glory Strap, a mid version of the model, bears an all-mesh upper, adjustable leather straps near the tongue and pretty much premium leather all through out for a sportier, more futuristic feel. To go along with these sick kicks, they’ve also included an apparel collection that continues the timeless design and athletic elements. The lineup sees a range of sports-inspired clothing in a monochromatic palette that has been enhanced with lightweight fabrics and tech elements, such as a tech windbreaker, running techy shorts, a bomber jacket, a backpack and a cap.
PUMA x Stampd Blaze of Glory, $250; Blaze of Glory Strap, $190, Spring/Summer 2016 Apparel, $50-$360. Available from mid-Feb at Limited Edt stores, Leftfoot stores and Manifesto (Capitol Piazza, #02-19).

Ring In The Lunar New Year With A Nice Hot Brew

Feb 2, 2016Aug 15, 2018

At Nylon, we’re all about embracing new trends. So this Chinese New Year, as you gather around the dinner table, switch out your cha for some rich and hearty coffee instead – specifically, Nespresso’s Nine-Sleeve Coffee Assortment.
We’re psyched to try the nine exclusive coffee flavours, exotic as they sound. There’s one sleeve each of Kazaar, Dharkan, Ristretto, Roma, Volluto, Indriya from India, Fortissio Lungo, Arpeggio Decaffeinato, and Caramelito – a perfect treat for the whole family. And that’s exactly what Nespresso is aiming at. Even if drinking coffee seems a little newfangled for the festive season, Nespresso brings tradition back into the spotlight, by emphasising the importance of family reunion. Hence the prominent lettering ‘Yi Jia Tuan Yuan’ on the striking red case that looks straight out of The Little Nyonya days. And to really put your unique capsule coffees to good use, take inspiration from the handpicked recipes included in the Assortment, created specially for the year of the Monkey.
Looks like the year’s already off to a delectable start.

Nespresso Nine-Sleeve Coffee Assortment, $90.70, available at any Nespresso boutique. nespresso.com

The NUS Arts Festival is Back Again

Feb 2, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Heads up! The 11^th installation of the NUS Arts Festival will be happening in about a month’s time, to bring to you two full weeks of culture and fun. The theme this year is Wonder: Rediscover. Reawaken. Reconnect, made special by the festival’s partnership with the Centre for Quantum Technologies. Don’t be alarmed – the otherwise bizarre collab seeks to explore how science intersects with performing arts, and in that way, rediscover new possibilities and realities in art. Cool.

Alumni of the university will be pleased to know that of the 30 or so performances to be put up, many are directed and presented entirely by NUS undergraduates. And even if you aren’t there to support a friend, stop by still, for the varied performances by local and international artists, ranging from theatre and dance showcases to musical sets. Look out for “now then again” by the NUS Theatre Ensemble, which reworks the typical childhood sweetheart romance to include a fun quantum physics angle – and stars popular YouTuber-turned-actress Munah Bagharib (pictured in the middle below).

From 11 to 26 March, the Festival will take place at locations around the island, including student favourites University Cultural Centre and University Town. Brace yourself for a month of art, music, and literature, as select NUS student groups will be putting up added performances at the Esplanade Concert Hall and the Victoria Theatre as well, in conjunction with the Festival.

NUS Arts Festival
Date: 11 March to 26 March 2016
Admission: Tickets available online. nusartsfestival.com
More information at nusartsfestival.com

Bookmark This: Sephora.sg Is Now Live

Feb 2, 2016Aug 15, 2018

February 1 was a big date for beauty online shopping: Sephora.sg, the official online store for Sephora Singapore, went live yesterday. And yes, we were very, very excited.
To give a little background into what has been happening, Sephora officially acquired local beauty online store Luxola as of July last year. This was what set into motion the transition of Luxola.com into Sephora.sg, answering the longtime requests of beauty shoppers here to have a way to get Sephora-stocked products online.
Besides a dramatic website redesign to adopt the familiar Sephora.com look and feel, the site will continue to stock some online-exclusive brands that were cult Luxola favourites. You can still stock up on brands like Sachajuan, Mirenesse, Sleek MakeUP and Zoeva, but now, in addition to Sephora favourites like Marc Jacobs Beauty, NUDESTIX, Peter Thomas Roth and Tarte, which were previously only available in Sephora’s brick-and-mortar stores.
What you see on the site now is not all: Sephora is definitely looking at expanding its brand offerings over time, so there’s definitely lots more you’ll soon be able to add to your virtual basket.
And yes, there’s still free shipping for purchases above $40. Woohoo!

sephora.sg

Dr. Dre Drops One For The Ladies

Feb 2, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Two words – rose gold. Excuse us as we run outside to shout “FINALLY!” to the heavens, but Beats has just released all-new rose gold on-ear and in-ear headphones. Perfect if you’ve always wanted a little added pizzazz to your daily jamming (can you tell how thrilled we are that the rose gold trend is still going strong?).
Gorgeous pearlescent tones aside, the Beats by Dr. Dre Solo² Wireless headphone and urBeats in-ear headphones come with a host of handy new features that we’re absolutely loving. For the Beats Solo² Wireless, think improved acoustics, cushy frames, a 12-hour lifespan, and best of all – complete wireless freedom. It may seem a little dated, but the Bluetooth pairing is a godsend for anyone who hates having to deal with tangled cords, all for some good ol’ tunes. Plus point: it’s foldable, so that’s one less thing to worry about if you’re usually put off by the size.

If you’re still unconvinced, then the urBeats in rose gold is a great everyday alternative. It’s your usual trusty earphone but elevated – complete with enhanced bass, built-in mic for easy switching between calls and your music, and tangle-free cables. We aren’t 100% sure how tangle-free works (aren’t cables just built to be messy??), but hey, for the last time, rose gold.

Beats by Dr. Dre Solo² Wireless Rose Gold, $490; urBeats Rose Gold, $160, available at all authorised Beats retailers. sg.beatsbydre.com

WATCH: Zayn Sure Knows His Pillowtalk

Feb 1, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Let’s talk about sex – specifically, how prevalent it is in Zayn’s new video “PILLOWTALK”, which made its grand debut four days ago. As his first single after his departure from One Direction, it’s no surprise that “PILLOWTALK” pretty much broke the Internet. A closer look at the lyrics reveals the usual dark, aggressive romance as in most R&B tunes, but, naturally, it’s the video that’s got us hooked.

It’s trippy, experimental, and features just the right amount of nubile, naked bodies gyrating sensuously to make an artistic statement without being pornographic. But perhaps what’s most satisfying about the video is that it’s premised on the knowledge that it’s a new solo artist’s attempt to break free from mass music, shaped entirely by having to previously exist within his alma mater’s bubblegum brand of pop music.
Mind of Mine, Zayn’s debut solo album, couldn’t be more explicitly named. Kaleidoscopic Gigi Hadids aside, the “PILLOWTALK” video is Zayn’s strategic invite into what he wants his music, and his image, to be – bold, matured, and fiercely uncensored. The themes of sexuality aren’t there to be provocative. Sure, sex sells, but instead of using naked bodies as click bait, the ex-boybander harnesses it to announce his new personal branding in a way that’s both classy, and memorable (seriously though, how can one not remember the flowering genitalia?)
So, the first step in his dramatic career move involves dropping his last name, which we all know signals greatness – or an attempt at it. The next involves releasing Mind of Mine on the one-year anniversary of him leaving the band. Oh yes, you read that right. It’s not so much an act of rebellion as it is an ingenious PR move – livid Directioners are bound to remember it, and new listeners will give him credit for having a sardonic sense of humour. In any case, it’s a statement, and while we’re not expecting a Timberlake any time soon, it’s safe to say we’re officially curious.
March 25, people; mark the date.

The Cutest Ghouls On Your Sweaters

Feb 1, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Seems a little belated, but we aren’t complaining about the new :CHOCOOLATE Nightmare Before Christmas collection! If you’re as big on Tim Burton as we are, you’ll be psyched to see all your Halloween faves on an all-new range of sweaters, jackets, and creepy-cute accessories.

As Hong Kong label i.t’s latest addition, :CHOCOOLATE is all about reinterpreting fashion – mixing mass market brands and high-end fashion to create fresh, wearable looks that still stand out from other pop casual wear brands. Personally, we think bringing the Nightmare Before Christmas franchise to the table is a perfect step forward, because who doesn’t love themselves some wearable Tim Burton?

:CHOCOOLATE l Nightmare Before Christmas Collection, $79.90 to $139, available at :CHOCOOLATE Bugis Junction and :CHOCOOLATE orchardgateway on 5 February. chocoolate.hk/

Nike Air Force 1 Ultra Flyknit

Feb 1, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Nike’s Air Force 1 (AF1) is probably one of the most recognised sneakers around. These iconic shoes, whose roots lie in basketball and holds a legendary status in street culture, has seen over 2,000 iterations over the past 34 years. This year, Nike welcomes the AF1 to their renowned Flyknit family, making it the lightest AF1 ever.
The idea materialised while the brand’s designers were taking 12-hour “inspiration strolls” around Paris in the summer. They were wholly convinced that they could make the AF1 lighter and more flexible, while enhancing the fit and reducing creasing on the toe vamp, and preserving the essence of the original AF1. Nike Footwear Design Director Jonathan Johnsongriffin quickly got to work; he bonded a dark grey Flyknit upper to a 3D-printed prototype of an AF1 sole and used a black marker for the Swoosh and eye soles. And the rest, as they say, is history; a collaborative team of footwear engineers, developers, last engineers, Flyknit programmers, 3D designers and product line managers got together to develop the Air Force 1 Ultra Flyknit. The AIR lettering was debossed instead of the usual embossing to make the shoe lighter (talk about small details). Also, they decided to use injected unit rubber tooling instead of polyurethane tooling. They’ve also kept the 52 stars on the rubber toe piece.
All in all, the team has kept the original stance of the tip, saddle, foxing and vamp, as well as the perforations in the vamp by using thicker, firmer yarn on the raised tip and undulating eye stay. Besides being the lightest Air Force 1 ever (about half the weight of the original), it’s also the first Flyknit shoe with a leather Swoosh logo.
Nike Air Force 1 Ultra Flyknit, $239-$269. Available at Nike Shaw, Nike Raffles City and various Limited Edition outlets.

The Wanderlust Is Strong With This One

Feb 1, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Whether you wanna believe it or not, we have an escapist living within us; it just varies in degrees, really. If you’ve ever stayed in bed the entire weekend, or listened to music while on the way back home to shut out the surrounding noise, or even taken a nice bubble bath with Lush’s bath bombs during a staycation… yeah that’s all escaping. And then there’s the grandest of all escapism – travelling. We all travel for different reasons; whether it’s to get away from the troubles here, to revive your zest for life a la Eat, Pray, Love, to visit a city you’ve always wanted to see, to experience a new culture, to bond with family over a trip… they’re all valid, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. It’s a personal journey where anything can happen. You’re free to be who you want to be, and do what you want to (as long as you’re not breaking the law). And that’s what Californian watch brand Tsovet is all about – the freedom of travel and exploration.
The brand was founded by David Bonaventura in July 2008, and was born out of his interest in metal fabrication and mechanical gauges. So naturally, they pay very close attention to details to make watches that can create lasting impressions. They’ve spent long days and sleepless nights to explore new and better ways to engineer, develop and build premium watches. For example, the JPT-PW36 is a sleek 36mm watch that was created with the purist in mind. The minimalist and high-contrast design ties in seamlessly with the watch’s functionality. A raised inner-ring and an imprint of the model name highlights the dial, making it stand out. A hand-stitched “Horween Leather” strap – a hallmark of quality and durability – is used to complete the look. But if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated and versatile, Tsovet’s latest offering represents both function and style that you can wear for any occasion. The SVT-DE40 Chronograph takes visual cues from the world of auto-racing, where fine-tuning is a constant. Powered by a Swiss-made Ronda quartz movement for excellent performance, the watch features a 40mm stainless steel case with refined contrast finishing, as well as sub-dials and index markers that serve both functional and design purposes while adding depth to the dial; truly a utilitarian timepiece.
TSOVET JPT-PW36, $358; SVT-DE40, $608-$645. Available at the CLOUT 9 Store (Wheelock Place #02-09 & Capitol Piazza #B1-32). Follow them on Instagram (@clout9sg) and be entitled to 15% off at Clout9 stores when you mention “NylonSG” (valid from 1 to 21 February).

[CONTEST] A Vintage-Style Valentine's Day At Kombi Rocks

Feb 1, 2016Aug 15, 2018

Most people expect fancy gifts on Valentine’s Day, including the classics of chocolates, roses, and bling, but if you’re all about the experience, then this one’s for you. By no means is that euphemism for being a cheapskate though – just, you can use your money for a more unique kind of splurge at Kombi Rocks, where they’re offering a whole escapade experience of riding an old-school Kombi, or vintage vehicle, into a sweet sunset. There’s also a retro diner, or a restaurant in a quaint 1950s shophouse, that serves a menu of Teochew and Thai dishes handed down by the founder’s dad.

Best friends Credit One Sweet Affair Production

This Feb, they’re also offering a host of Valentine’s Day packages, for you and your significant other/date to snuggle up to. Here’s one of them: Kombi Rocks Valentine’s Day Package, worth $288

A nostalgic couple’s Joyride in a chauffeur-driven vintage Kombi or the 1962 Chevrolet Impala (you’ll get a nice rustic pit stop for photo opportunities – bring your own camera!)
Limited edition diecast collectibles for each person as a keepsake

There’s more too – for example, a $568 package comprises the above, but also a romantic 4-course meal, and a photoshoot conducted by “One Sweet Affair Productions”, against the backdrop of the diner, the vintage fleet, and in their garage (retail shop) and AutoCutt Barber shop. You’ll get a total of 8 edited digital shots. As for the private dinner, this will be held inside a Kombi, a pop-up one that the restaurant has specially arranged to look its best.

Kombi Rocks is located at 66 Yio Chu Kang Road. Visit them online at kombirocks.com or email party@kombirocks.com to see what Valentine’s Day Lunch/Dinner packages they have to offer.
Photos courtesy of Kombi Rocks.

WIN! We’re giving away three Kombi Rocks Valentine’s Day Packages*, worth $288. Simply ‘Like’ and ‘Share’ the post on NYLON Singapore’s Facebook page by Wed, 3 Feb 2016, 3pm, for a chance to win. Good luck!
*Valid for use on 13-16 February 2015. Reservation is required.
Available slots: 12pm | 2pm | 4pm | 6pm | 8pm**
**Just for NYLON readers: once you’ve won this, you may top up $128 for the full Valentine’s Day package (worth $568) that includes a romantic 4-course meal at the diner, and a professional photoshoot.