Technology
8 Hidden tricks your iPhone can do if you upgrade to iOS 11
Is it worth it, let us work it

26.09.2017
By Rachel Au

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It’s still unclear when Apple will be releasing the new iPhone 8/8 Plus and iPhone X in Malaysia but update your current device (only applicable to iPhone 5s and later) and you pretty much have a new smartphone in your hands. We recently took the plunge to uncover all the coolest tricks iOS 11 can do. Here are some of our favourites and how you can find them. Read on after that for our two cents if you should upgrade now or wait for the next update.

1. Do more with your Live Photos

This is ultimately our favourite update as Apple adds three new effects you can apply to your Live Photos: Loop, Bounce and Long Exposure. Simply swipe up on a Live Photo to find these options.
Loop is self-explanatory and might not work as smoothly if you move your phone quite a bit before/after you snapped the photo. Bounce is essentially a very short Boomerang and considering the duration of a Live Photo, you probably wouldn’t see a very dramatic effect for Long Exposure.

2. Customise your Control Center

Did a pilot design the new Control Center because it certainly looked confusing at first sight! Don’t get us wrong; it’s definitely cleaner and just takes getting used to. With all the buttons and sliders now minimised, Apple now allows you to add whatever shortcuts you want here (Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls).
Our recommendation: Add Notes so you can access it from the lock screen (Settings > Notes > Access from Lock Screen). Remember to select “always create a new note” so anyone who picks up your phone can’t see the last note.
Tip: If you, like us, use AirDrop a lot and now can’t find the option to turn it on (or to select between ‘Contacts Only’ and ‘Everyone’), apply 3D Touch on the Bluetooth button and a hidden menu will open up.

3. Do Not Disturb While Driving

How often do you get distracted by notifications on your phone while driving? No? Just us then? Well, sometimes. If you turn on Do Not Disturb While Driving (under Settings), it’ll detect when a user might be driving through vehicle movement or Bluetooth connections and silence notifications to keep the screen dark.
*You can then select the option of sending an auto reply (customisable) to your Favourites, contacts or recents to let them know you’ll respond once you’ve arrived at your destination. However, the recipient also has the option to reply “urgent” to allow the notification through.
*Applicable to iMessage only at the moment.

4. Apple’s Messages app has more tricks up its sleeve

iPhone X’s Animoji may not be available with iOS 11 on your device but that doesn’t mean Apple can’t add more features to the current Messages app. We were previously introduced to stickers and effects (balloons, confetti, invisible ink, etc). Now, there are two new animations: Spotlight and Echo. The interface has also been redesigned to add a line of apps/stickers below the text message box when you tap on the App Store button.
Tip: To access the animation effects, type your message in the box then press and hold on the up arrow button next to it.

5. One-handed keyboard mode

If you own the bigger iPhones, you’d especially appreciate this. Turn it on (Settings > General > Keyboards> One Handed Keyboard) and your usual keyboard will be squashed to your preferred side of the screen to ensure you’ll be able to reach all the keys with one hand. Alternatively, if you already have multiple keyboards enabled, you’ll be able to turn it on/off anytime from the input switcher menu by pressing and holding on the globe key.

6. Move multiple apps at once
Better late than never, Apple. Now you can rearrange several apps/folders at once by holding down on an app as you usually would to make them all wobbly. Then with one finger half moving the first app, use another finger to tap on the next app you want. This should cluster them all together.

7. Set up Emergency SOS

Also accessible via your Settings app, you probably shouldn’t overlook this function. First, set up one or more Emergency Contacts. In the event you feel threatened, rapidly press the sleep/wake button five times and your phone will automatically call your local emergency services as well as text your Emergency Contacts to notify them while sharing your location.

8. Take foolproof flatlays

How? Turn on Grid in Settings > Camera. When you open the Camera app now and try to level it above your flatlay (or any subject in question), two + icons will appear. Line them together until a yellow + icon appears and snap. It’s a nifty levelling tool!

Verdict
iOS 11 brings with it a ton of new and cool features. Some of the other ones that we didn’t mention above include quick password sharing (one of the two devices running on iOS 11 can now share the WiFi password to the other without needing to type anything), a blog-like App Store, Screen Recording and more. But with so many cool features comes the big question: Is the update going to drain your battery faster?

If we look back at the past big iOS updates, power drain is a common (but not 100 percent) occurrence but it doesn’t mean it’s here to stay. There are many factors to consider and one of them includes the apps on a user’s phone that are not yet compatible or optimised for the new system. Not to mention, downloading and installing app updates also eats up a lot of battery life. We say give it some time but if you really want to be on the ultra safe side, wait for 11.1.

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Fashion
A look at Loewe’s head-turning, fruit-chomping campaign for SS18
Ripe for the picking

27.09.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Loewe’s creative director Jonathan Anderson is taking the consumption of fashion quite literally for its Spring/Summer 2018 women’s collection. As a prelude to the runway presentation in Maison de L’Unesco, Paris this September 29, a series of original works by acclaimed photographer Steven Meisel will be displayed on more than 500 kiosks across the capital. Aptly titled ‘Fruits’, the series of five portraits features Italian model Vittoria Ceretti holding an assortment of fruits in her mouth—”a modern interpretation of the long-standing subject of depicting fruit in art,” according to the press release by the Spanish brand.
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While there seems to be a hint of allegory within the brazen close-up visuals, Loewe has mentioned that the campaign is neither symbolic nor literal. Fruits such as dragonfruit, pomegranate, and mangosteen are cut into half and placed in Ceretti’s mouth, with equally head-turning face makeup courtesy of Pat McGrath to complete the looks. These striking compositions “point evocatively to notions ranging from taste, nature and biology to disguise, artifice and desire.” The campaign images are scheduled to appear from 28 September to 4 October 2017 on a billboard outside the Loewe St. Sulpice atelier—be sure to check ’em out if you’re around town for Paris Fashion Week.

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Fashion
Instagram Stories: The top 15 fashion-industry users with the best engagement
Social media superstars

10.08.2017
By Joan Kong

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Launched in August 2016 as the answer to the equally popular app, Snapchat, Instagram Stories has now surpassed its rival with a global audience of 700 million, whereby 250 million users use it daily. And to celebrate its one-year anniversary, Instagram has released a list of top 15 users from the fashion industry with the best engagement, and it comprises of a mixture of big fashion houses, supermodels and fashion influencer. The ranking was based on the total number of views of its top accounts over the past year.

Instagram’s head of fashion partnerships, Eva Chen, told Business of Fashion that the success of Instagram Stories is thanks to the informal engagement between the accounts and their audience. “What Stories has really meant is that fashion is now able to be a little bit more authentic, a little bit more down to earth, funnier, scrappier.”

See the full list below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Instagram Stories list” rid=”5365″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Beauty
New scents to discover this weekend: Les Eaux de Chanel
An olfactory journey

02.06.2018
By Cai Mei Khoo

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An invitation to travel, and to dream, the new Les Eaux de Chanel is inspired by three of Gabrielle Chanel’s favourite locations: Deauville, Biarritz, and Venice. Created by perfumer Olivier Polge, the scents evoke unchartered waters, and signify the start of a new adventure. “More than the actual reality of the destination, I liked the idea urbanites make of it when they dream of a weekend away in the country,” says Polge.

PARIS-DEAUVILLE
Holiday destination of choice for Parisians, the seaside town of Deauville was where Gabrielle Chanel opened her first shop in 1913, with the help and financial assistance of Boy Capel. The immediate impression of Paris-Deauville is a bright, bitter orange rind, followed by aromatic basil leaf, which then reveals essence of rose and jasmine-like notes, further grounded by a woody patchouli.

PARIS-BIARRITZ
Two years after the launch of her shop in Deauville, Gabrielle Chanel headed to yet another glitzy holiday destination, Biarritz, where she opened another store, next to the casino and the beach. Inspired by the ocean, the Paris-Biarritz fragrance is ‘the most aquatic fragrance in the Les Eaux de Chanel collection,” says Polge. The fragrance opens with a burst of grapefruit and mandarin, with a heart of lily-of-the-valley, which then unfurls to scents of vetiver and white musk.

PARIS-VENISE
When Boy Capel tragically died in a car accident in December 1919, Gabrielle Chanel was inconsolable. To help take her mind of his death, she travelled to Venice on invitation by Misia and the painter José Maria Sert. Venice was where Mademoiselle Chanel was so taken by the the opulent designs of St Mark’s Basilica, that it became the inspiration for her first jewellery collections. Paris-Venise smells of a tinge of citrus and neroli with a hint of red berry, followed by Grasse geranium, iris, which then opens up to base notes of an ambery accord with vanilla and oriental scents. “I wanted people to smell that gateway to the Orient, which, at Chanel, is also an evocation of the baroque,” says Polge.
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Les Eaux de Chanel is now available at the Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutique at 1 Utama, Sunway Pyramid, Suria KLCC, IOI City Mall Putrajaya, Pavilion KL, Gurney Plaza Penang, Queensbay Mall, and JB Komtar. Follow us on Instagram at @buro247malaysia as Editor-in-Chief, Cai Mei, heads to Deauville to discover the stories behind these fragrances.

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Art + Design
6 Easy and fun DIY ideas to decorate your home this Christmas—they’re eco-friendly too!
Celebrate in style!

11.12.2019
By Zoe Yang

Image: Sugar and Charm
Image: DigDigs
Image: Funky Junk Interiors
Image: Jojotastic
Image: The Lovely Drawer
Image: Dreamy Whites

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While Christmas means it’s the season of shopping—which could also potentially translate to creating more wastes—it doesn’t have to be at the expense of Mother Earth. Get your handy tools out and put your DIY talents to the test this jolly season. We have compiled a list of eco-friendly ways you can take your holiday decor up another level. These handmade items will definitely make interesting conversation pieces! Let’s get crafting:
Rustic wreath with rosemary

Image courtesy of Sugar and Charm
They say first impression always lasts, right? This holiday season, greet your guests at the front door with a good smelling wreath. To make this festive garland, you will need these four items: a round metal frame, clippers, a wool of green wire, and a lot of dried rosemary sprigs (make sure you have enough bundles to go around). Pro tip—you can also collect some flowers from your garden to add colour to your wreath!
Find the detailed step-by-step here. To learn the basics of wreath making, you can watch the tutorial here.

Wall-mounted Christmas tree

Image courtesy of DigsDigs
Since a real or faux Christmas tree can be pricey, this DIY holiday creation could very well replace the standard, traditional tree, especially if you’re on a budget, or if you would like to try something different this year. To make a “tree” from scratch, you only need two items which are fairy lights and clear decorating clips or hooks (these are easily taken off the wall after usage, you can read the instructions here). If you prefer a minimalist look, leave it as it is. Pro tip—you can also include wrapped presents, tinsel garland, baubles, and tree decorations on the clips, or hooks for a more complete festive feel. This idea also helps save your storage space at home.
You can learn the tutorial here.

Hot cocoa bar

Image courtesy of Funky Junk Interiors
It’s not Christmas without a fresh cuppa hot cocoa! If you’re hosting a party at home this year, it definitely doesn’t sound like a bad idea to prepare a hot chocolate bar for your guests. The personalised bar can be easily set up with five ingredients: cocoa powder, mini-sized marshmallows, peppermints, any milk of your choice, and hot water (your electric kettle will come in handy). Pour the cocoa powder, mini-sized marshmallows and peppermints into the desired containers separately. This is the perfect time to bring out your old, reusable jars or bowls at home. Lastly, find a decent looking table to display the spread with some added festive decorations such as baubles, candy cane, and more. You can also print and frame a how-to recipe card for the most sinfully delicious hot cocoa. Bonus points if you have cute spoons for stirring. Pro tip—prepare some sprinkles, chocolate bars for chocolate shavings, and whip cream for guests to have fun decorating their very own cup of hot cocoa.

Eggnog soy wax candles with essential oils

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While some get busy perfecting their Christmas decorations for the eyes, it is also common scents to ensure that one’s home smells like Christmas too. A soy wax candle DIY project is perfect for those who are environmentally conscious, and looking for eco-friendly home decor. Learn more on how soy wax candles can benefit both you and the earth, and how it is different from paraffin wax here.
To create your eggnog soy wax candle, you will need these few ingredients: soy wax, wood wicks, essential oils such as vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg, and bulk spices such as cinnamon sticks, star anise, peppercorns and ground nutmeg. You will also need seven handy tools: a stove, a medium-sized saucepan, a heatproof glass bowl or double boiler, a wooden stirrer (chopsticks and skewers work great for this), assorted glassware or containers, a pair of scissors and a nail clipper.
Get the step-by-step guide here.

Tree branch as a festive decor

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If you’re running out of time to decorate your home for Christmas, head out to the nearest park and collect some nice tree branches. This could be a fun activity with the kids too! Once home, paint each tree branch with a desired colour—we recommend gold or silver — and let them dry overnight before arranging them inside any empty, aesthetically-pleasing glass bottles or pitchers. Rummage through your cupboard for any old, unused glasswares; you might just come across some surprising finds! For a festive touch, take your collection of baubles out from storage and hang them.

Creative Christmas tree stand cover-ups

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While your Christmas decorations blend in well with your room, you suddenly notice the basic tree stand—the horror, it does not fit into your design aesthetics! Fear not; with just a knitted blanket (or throw), a barrel, a bucket, and a crate, you can cover up the tree stand to look pretty. Just use a knitted blanket to wrap around the base as shown in the image above. Another idea is to place the tree stand in a barrel, or a bucket. However, you might have to trim the leaves below for it to fit. Alternatively, you can also use a rustic crate to place your tree stand in and fill it up with your excessive purchases of baubles and ornaments.
For smaller trees, replace the tree stand with glass bottles and pitchers. Pro tip—fill them up with water to add more weight! Swipe through the gallery above and explore some creative ways to replace or cover up your tree stand with minimum effort.

For more holiday content, visit Buro Christmas Village.

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{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Festive decor: Tree branch diy” rid=”7724″ order=”a_tstamp”}

{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Festive decor: Creative Christmas tree stand cover ups” rid=”7728″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Lifestyle
An afternoon with a Master of Wine: Annette Scarfe shares her insights with us
One of the few elites

04.08.2015
By Buro247

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During our afternoon with Annette Scarfe, she introduced us to ICON Wines from Estates & Wines, the wine division of Moët Hennessy, and how to appreciate the diversity of the wines when we pair them with Asian food. Her knowledge and passion truly shone as she highlighted the quality of grapes and tasting notes in each wine, and how it matched the exquisite food prepared by Executive Chef Koji Tamaru of Kampachi.

In order to achieve her dreams, Annette Scarfe left her job as an Investment Banker in pursuit of her Master of Wine (MW), the highest accolade available in the world of wine. After obtaining her MW in 2012, she now holds a successful career in the world of wine, consulting for international restaurants, educating fellow wine enthusiasts, and is part of the Estates & Wines team.

Can you tell us why you decided to become a Master of Wine?
When I left banking, I wanted to pursue something that I’m really interested as my next career, or more of a vocation, probably. But I knew that I had to get some qualifications to get there. So, I was doing my WSET Level 3 and my diploma. And when I was doing my diploma, I met these rare people of which there were 270 in the world before me and I thought they were special. But it didn’t look like it was an unachievable special and it was just something that I have always been very driven to do. If I follow something and I follow it with passion, I want to do the very best that I can do. It’s the highest accolade in the world of wine and once I started my career in wine, there’s no other target to aim for than the MW.

What does it feel like to be one of the four Masters of Wine in Asia?
It’s very exciting and I think the thing that’s nice for me is that I’ve lived in Asia for 19 years. So, I’m genuinely in Asia because I love Asia and that’s where I live. I’m not in Asia to be one of the four Masters of Wine in Asia and try and make it commercial. I think there’s a big difference in that because it’s my home and it makes me very proud and it makes me feel very connected. I feel very special but I’ve worked very hard for it as well and it’s great.
The most difficult of being a Master of Wine is that you get so many opportunities to do fantastic things.
What is the most difficult thing about being a Master of Wine?
The most difficult of being a Master of Wine is that you get so many opportunities to do fantastic things. And also, I’m very active in the institute. I mentor a lot of students, who want to be Masters of Wine and they are very demanding of my time as well. So, the most difficult thing is really finding the balance between working on paid opportunities, working on unpaid stuff, helping my students, and also getting a little bit of time off just to relax and not travel. I travel extensively and sometimes what happens is, I get invited to an event for a talk and I agree and then I look at my calendar later on and realize that I’m going to be in Taiwan this week, and then in London on the next week and then back in New York a week later, which is really what’s happened to me this last month. So, it’s really managing the calendar but it’s not a bad problem – it’s a good problem to have, being too busy.

What advise would you give to those who would like to pursue a Master of Wine?
You’ve got to really, really want it because it is the most exhilarating and exciting journey you will ever go on but the most humbling and humiliating experience you will ever go on.  You’ve got to commit everything to it; you need a real family and support network. You can’t do it on your own – it is absolutely impossible to do it on your own. Don’t try to do things on your own; don’t try to be precious about your own study. Get the support of your family and friends and be really committed and be willing to dedicate your whole life to MW and that’s really what you have to do. It’s a long process and it’s a very demanding process.

What is your wine philosophy when you choose a wine?
It really depends what I’m choosing it for. I do honestly think about the people I’m with a lot as well and what they will like. I want them to enjoy the wine as much as I enjoy the wine. But I like introducing people to new styles.  I think if there’s any philosophy, what I really like is for it to have a nice story behind the wine but really it’s more what I fancy at the time, who I’m drinking with, and what will bring the most enjoyment to the occasion.
Quality wine doesn’t have to be expensive wine.
Could you share with our readers how to distinguish quality wine?
Quality wine doesn’t have to be expensive wine. The real thing about quality wine is that when you smell or taste wine, you’re looking for everything in balance. When I say everything is in balance, that means the acidity – if it’s a red wine, the tannins – the alcohol, the fruit. You don’t want wine where all you can taste is alcohol because if that’s what you’re looking for, you might as well have a spirit and not add a mixer to it. If all you want is a fiery feeling, then why not just have a swig of a spirit or something. You want to have some fruit there, you want to have some alcohol there, and you want to have some acidity because it makes it nice and fresh. But it’s really just a wine where everything is in balance.

What makes an ICON wine?
The ICON wines represent the real pinnacle of the expression, but I do think that the Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc should be in here as well as the Te Koko, but that is my own honest opinion.  We are the proud privileged owners of 1800 hectors of vineyards and the ICON Wines are ones that really express that expression of wines that we own to the world. We know the land and this is the best expression of the grape that we can get out of those wines.

The ICON Wines consists of Cheval Des Andes 2009, Terrazas Single Vineyard Las Compuertas Malbec 2010, Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, and Cloudy Bay Te Koko 2012.

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Beauty
Team Buro Answers: 2019 resolutions and must-have apps that are going to help

02.01.2019
By Rachel Au

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Who else here can’t believe it’s already 2019? A fresh new year calls for a fresh new beginning; and that could apply to anything, including the little aspects of your life which are your lifestyle habits. As we continue to strive to be the best version of ourselves, it’s normal to (sometimes) keep making the same New Year’s resolutions year after year—because sometimes, it’s hard to keep them. Our best advice: Start with just one resolution. And so, in that spirit, here’s what Team Buro is going to change about our lifestyle for 2019, and which gadget or app is going to help with our journey. Maybe there’s something below that applies to you too. To that, we say, “Good luck to us both!”.

TERRY SAW, editor-in-chief

the mindful kind podcast

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?“Loving what I do also means my mind tends to keep going at a pace at which my body isn’t necessarily able to keep up. This year, I’d like to practice a little more self-love so I am taking care of myself (physically and mentally) whilst taking care of things.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help? “It’ll take some practice but a good start will be to cultivate a little mindfulness in my day-to-day routine—I find that helps ground myself in the ‘now’ and stops my mind from running off into planning mode for something that might or might not happen! I plan to start my mornings by listening to a Mindfulness podcast on my drive to work to help set the tone for the rest of the day. The Mindful Kind by Rachael Kable is a great starting point if you’re new to the practice—it is packed with short lessons, blogs, podcasts links that can help you get started. I probably would also try to squeeze in a little evening/night walk (and leave my phone at home) to really reconnect with nature, engaging in the sights and sounds and ultimately give the thinking mind a break after a long day.”

GWEN ONG, deputy editor

30 day fitness workout app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“It’s a given that a new year means a new you, so this 2019, I’m working towards a healthier and stronger new me. I’ve been slacking off for the last few months and I’m really feeling it in my body, e.g. sluggish circulation, bigger bottom and rounder tummy! I can’t keep denying the fact that ageing is happening faster than lightning. My pledge for 2019 is to get off my butt more and work up a good sweat. For starters, I plan to get back into running—at least 3x5km a week! I’ve slowed down quite considerably after I pulled my popliteus muscle during my 10km run last year at the KL Marathon so I’m keen to hit the ground running once again.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“My Samsung GalaxyWatch is going to be my trusty companion in my fitness journey. It can track up to 39 different activities, which means indoor exercises and outdoor sports would also be something I’ll look into. Boxing and HIIT are two workouts that I enjoy. For days that the weather is not favourable or work demands my attention, I will be turning to the 30 Day Workout app for some challenges that I can do at home to focus on my problem areas. That’s my game plan for now—check back again in three months to see if I’ve made any progress. Haha!”

JOAN KONG, fashion editor

daily water app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“I’d like to say that I’ve practised a fairly healthy lifestyle last year—I had seven to eight hours of sleep every day, and I try to head to the gym for an average of three times a week. But one (or two) thing I’d like to change in 2019 is definitely my drinking habit (it’s not what you think). I’m a sucker for sodas—Coca-Cola is my go-to beverage, whether it’s during a meal, on flights, or at the movies. But yes, I’ve read enough “Coke is bad for your health” articles to know better. So this year, I would like to cut down on fizzy drinks and more importantly, consume more water. I tend to “forget” to hydrate especially when I’m out and about, and it’s definitely something I’d like to improve on this year.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“I’ve downloaded the Daily Water app on my phone. Dubbed the ‘drink reminder’, it also tracks the amount of water I drink following the recommended goal. I’m also making the conscious effort to bring a big bottle of water wherever I go with a goal to finish it by the end of the day. Here’s to feeling more energised throughout the day and having a better skin complexion!”

WEI YEEN LOH, senior fashion & beauty writer

pocket expense 6 app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“Looking back at 2018, I realised that I haven’t been wise about my expenditure (a quick glance at my savings account reaffirmed my theory). From spending excessively on indulgent things (desserts, coffee, and the like) to splurging on more than a few overseas trips without saving sufficiently beforehand, I have an inkling on what I could do better for my pockets come 2019. For starters, scoring a pour-over coffee filter to brew my own cuppa joe every morning, and also investing my money where I can glean returns may help. Baby steps, but we’ll get there!”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“Before I can figure out where to invest my money in, a personal finance app like Pocket Expense 6 may be able to help me track my expenditure easily. I have an unsavoury habit of paying bills way past the due date, so this app is a lifesaver as it does everything in one, from categorising my transactions to tracking all my bills. For me, it helps to see where my money goes at the end of every week, just so I don’t get trigger happy with swiping my credit card (even if it means I have to cut down on my dessert intake though my waistline won’t mind just one bit).”

STEPHANIE BOEY, fashion writer

audible app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“Essentially, spending less time on my phone with social media. The recent revelation of our Screen Time reports has left me quite conscious of my digital habits.”

How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“With lots of discipline and self-control, haha! Jokes aside, I’m hoping to tick off more books on my reading list. I have been recommended Audible which is a digital library of audiobooks ranging from history, science and tech to fiction and poetry. I’ve gotten a head-start by signing up for an account but have yet to pick out a title. I’m currently spoilt for choice with their wide range of over 425,000 titles. The first book is free!”

RACHEL AU, lifestyle editor

nekoze posture app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“First, a little backstory: I went for a yoga class and was told I might have scoliosis from the way my body looked as I was going through the poses. Went for a trial session of Gyrokinesis and Gyrotonic at Beyond Movement KL and was basically told the same. The two sessions (personally recommend them for anyone wanting to fix their posture) and this sudden reveal have led me to be very aware of my (bad) posture. I slouch when I’m at my desk, at the dinner table, and even while driving sometimes. While getting a professional diagnosis is on my to-do list, I can start first with slouching less.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“We all generally spend a considerable chunk of each day at the office, in front of a laptop so that’s the first place I’m going to try and break this habit. I’ve downloaded an app called Nekoze on my new MacBook Air (yes, only for Mac laptops, unfortunately). It’s a very simple app that uses an adorable Japanese cat with hawk-like eyes (or rather the FaceTime HD camera) to spot if you’re slouching. If you are, it will appear and “meow” sharply at you from the top of your screen. There are eight expressions in total! Slouch and you might collect them all! Or don’t—that’s not the point.”

SU FEN TAN, senior writer

sleep better app

What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“I’ve been putting this off for way too long, but I definitely want to practise healthier sleep habits in 2019, i.e. to sleep and wake up earlier! Apparently, the deepest and most regenerative sleep period is from 10pm to 2am. I get about six hours sleep on most nights—which isn’t too bad—but it usually occurs after the said recovery window. Maybe that’s why I’m perpetually tired.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“Generally, by breaking the habit of bringing my laptop to bed—so no work or Netflix (it’s not all work and no play) right before bedtime. The plan is to read more books instead. That worked for about a week this year… I just got to work on self-discipline and while I’m at it, and maybe download an app (looking at Sleep Better by Runtastic that tracks sleep cycles and its efficiency) or bring out my old Mi Band to help track my sleep.”

YI SUEN CHONG, art director

headspace app
What’s one thing you would change about your lifestyle for 2019?
“I’d like to meditate more! I’m constantly on the go these days and things can get stressful both at work and at the gym. Finding the time to wind down and de-stress will be my top priority for 2019, and hopefully, it will help me relax before bedtime and ultimately make me sleep early.”
How will you do it and which app/gadget is going to help?
“I’m actually going to try two apps for this. One of them is Headspace. There have been a lot of good reviews so I’ll give it a try. I’m not one to stick to routines for long but hopefully, this app will help me meditate more. The other is the Breathe app on the Apple Watch. Since it’s literally on my wrist and I need not do much, I should really be using this app more often. Deep breathing exercises really calm me down and help regain my focus.”

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Fashion
Holiday must-haves from Chanel that are sure to stun at any festive party

04.12.2019
By Joanna Pinto

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Four things on our wish list this year: the Chanel 19 bag, the two-tone pumps, the J12 watch and Coco Crush rings
Buro Christmas Village
Buro Christmas

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Watches
On our watch: 5 New timepieces millennials will love

29.07.2020
By Celine Yap

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Let’s be honest here. As much as they are beautiful, watches can be quite boring. Especially when we’re told they’re so mind-bogglingly complicated and full of minuscule details, but really, they all just look alike.
To some extent, it’s got to do with the industry’s largely Calvinistic origins, although to blame everything on ancient history wouldn’t be fair as well. For a long time, there was simply no incentive for brands to reinvent the product because the key target audience (men in their late 40s and above) were satisfied.
But things are different today. After recognising the need to refresh its image in order to appeal to younger buyers i.e. millennials, the industry has finally accepted the fact that there is more than one way to design a luxury watch.
Hublot Big Bang Millennial Pink

In this day and age, pink is no longer a colour just for girls. Millennial pink in particular is completely gender-neutral as it veers between subtle tones of beige, salmon, apricot, and grapefruit. Hublot sees the beautiful positive message behind this joyous hue and dressed one of its classic Big Bang models in full millennial pink.
A collaboration with Milan-based design firm, Garage Italia, this 42mm timepiece is cased in ultra-light titanium anodised in this specific colour and satin-finished on all surfaces. We love how the watch comes with two interchangeable straps. Use the Hublot patented One Click system to switch between a soft rubber strap and another in Velcro and knitted PES fabric.
TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic (160 Years Montreal Limited Edition)

Watch companies are always celebrating anniversaries. And they really love doing so by releasing special editions based on existing best sellers. Think of them as seasonal drops that offer you something different from the usual staples. And this TAG Heuer timepiece is no exception.
Blending design influences from a 1972 timepiece named Montreal with the Carrera DNA of today, TAG Heuer offers a striking “blue panda” chronograph in a very elegant and wearable 39mm diameter. Additional red and yellow livery around the white dial play up the watch’s bold auto-racing heritage—the Carrera spirit—while the domed glassbox sapphire crystal evoke a vintage appeal.
IWC Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Edition Orlebar Brown

Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or just love being near water, it’s always a good idea to stock up on swim-appropriate apparel. Designed for aquatic pursuits, the IWC Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph found an ideal partner in British men’s swim and resort wear label, Orlebar Brown.
The 44mm diameter makes it a hefty piece but the custom navy blue strap made by Orlebar Brown for IWC sits as comfortably as the polished stainless steel case allows. Old-school mushroom-style chronograph pushers reminiscent of vintage yachts, and that beautiful deep blue dial, make us want to drop everything and charter a boat out to the nearest private island for an instant getaway.
Hermès Cape Cod Martelée

As one of Hermès’s most enduring watch icons, the Cape Cod has taken on numerous guises yet the French maison is far from out of ideas. This only goes to prove how timeless and artful this timepiece is, and can be. This striking new rendition not only looks unusual but feels different too. It’s edgy, it’s chic, it’s bold, and it’s completely unexpected because this fine luxury watch is covered with…dents.
Found all over its stainless steel case, lugs and dial is a traditional jewellery crafting technique known as hammering, where an artisan strikes the perfectly smooth surfaces of the watch repeatedly with a hard and heavy tool. It lends a raw, weathered appearance to the watch, and is intensified by a thin layer of translucent lacquer on the dial painted in gradated shades from anthracite in the centre to deep black around the edges.
Pasha de Cartier 35mm

Making a glorious return in 2020, this 1980s icon proffers a slew of improvements crafted for the urban sophisticate. The watch with the famous screw-down chained crown now bears refined edges, a slimmer profile, an extra blue spinel (or sapphire), a see-through case back, and a lovely hidden customisable engraving known only to the wearer.
There’s also a cool QuickSwitch system that allows you to change between different straps and bracelets, the latter boasting Cartier’s unique SmartLink system designed for adding or removing links whenever, wherever.
This article was first published on BURO Singapore. Minor edits have been made.
Related: 12 Watch designs you should be paying attention to this year

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#MondayMontage: Flower power

Lifestyle
#MondayMontage: Flower power
Beautiful blooms

30.11.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 15 & 16 July 2023

1. Megan Dunlap
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Megan Dunlap runs Victory Blooms, a floral studio based in Atlanta, Georgia that creates organically structured, romantic arrangements with a vintage touch for events and celebrations. There’s a certain moody, rustic quality to her feed that is really quite beautiful.

2. Kiana Underwood
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This San Francisco-based floral artist finds constant inspiration from her garden and neighbourhood, creating colourful, eclectic arrangements that instantly brightens a room with its sunny Californian charm. This translates into a cheery disposition in her photos, making them a delight to come by.

3. Flora Starkey
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Dubbed “London’s coolest florist”, Flora Starkey boasts an impressive list of clientele that includes Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Alexander Wang. Her arrangements often feature romantic and sumptuous displays of uncommon blooms that make for exquisite visuals.

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Lifestyle
7 Things to do this weekend: 17 & 18 September 2022
Out and about

17.09.2022
By Marissa Chin

PHOTO: Mo Mo Paradise / PHOTO: Rempapa / PHOTO: Jyu Jyu

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7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 15 & 16 July 2023

From exciting store launches to a luxury pop-up, here are seven exciting activities to include in your weekend plans:

1. Learn about the new wave of luxury fashion at the Dia Guild x Starhill Pop-up

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When: 6 to 25 September 2022 | 10am – 10pm daily
Where: The Starhill Entrance Foyer, KL
Embodying the concept of “inclusive luxury”, Dia Guild believes that premium design should emphasise on a variety of factors that include a focus on artisans, slower production processes, and open interactions with many cultures. Rather than being a symbol of elitism and wealth, the artisanal platform has curated a stunning selection of local and regional brands that are striving to make luxury fashion more inclusive. Brands available at the pop up include Alt Collection, Argent Studio, Feanne, Fern, Garden of Desire, Kelvin Morales, Neil Felipp, Olena Jewellery, Pink Jambu, Talee Studio, and Zikurat. There will also be poetry reads, panel discussions, and live music performances to keep you entertained all day.
Follow Dia Guild on Instagram to get the latest updates.

2. Visit the newly refreshed Isetan The Gardens store

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When: 10am to 10pm daily
Where: GF to 3F, The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City Kuala Lumpur (The Table is located on Level 3)
For the first time since opening in 2007, Isetan The Gardens recently unveiled a refreshed look offering a streamlined variety of products and an all-new dining floor dubbed “The Table”. The retail destination now features homegrown, regional, and international labels for menswear, womenswear, children’s wear, beauty, household, and sporting products all within the store—making it a one-stop location that caters to families and friends shopping together.
This timely update is underscored by the entry of “The Table”, Isetan’s dining concept which was first made popular at Isetan The Japan Store. Curated with authentic Japanese flavours in mind, the concept comprises a collection of seven restaurants and one bar. Out of these, six are currently open, namely Jyu Jyu Yakiniku (pork-free), Tamaruya Honten Teppanyaki (pork-free), Tonkatsu by Ma Maison (non-halal), Mo-Mo Paradise (non-halal), Takumi Craft Bar (non-halal), and Menya Appare (non-halal). The two remaining establishments—Taverna by The Tokyo Restaurant (pork-free) and Kintsugi (pork-free)—are slated to open soon.
For more information or to enhance your shopping and dining experience at Isetan The Gardens, explore The Table by Isetan app here.

3. Shop and explore the all-new Rimowa boutique in Pavilion KL

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Where: Pavilion Kuala Lumpur (Lot 3.33.00, Level 3)
Up your travel game by checking out the brand new Rimowa outlet in Pavilion which offers a full range of Rimowa products, from their aluminium Classic suitcases to your daily essentials. The new boutique spans 1220 square feet, making it the largest in Malaysia. Customers walking in will be greeted by their recognisable minimalistic aesthetic and the latest Never Still collection on display front and centre. There is also a dedicated personalisation service with a hot stamping machine to further customise your Rimowa leather goods. In addition, you can find out more about the iconic German brand’s luggage craftsmanship with the help of the in-store client care centre which provides travellers with expert knowledge and repair services.

4. Immerse yourself in a cultural performance at RexKL

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When: 17 September 2022 | 8:30pm to 10:30pm
Where: RexKL, 80, Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur
Featuring Kumpulan Sri Wahyuni from Batu Pahang, Johor, and Kumpulan Manora Cit Manit from Bukit Yong, Kelantan, get ready for a night of folktale and legends that celebrate Malaysia’s history through performance. Registration is free and open to all.
Follow RexKL on Instagram for the latest updates.

5. Get your Passport to Feast with SG At The Yard

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When: 15 to 18 September 2022 | 12pm to 10pm
Where: Tiffin At The Yard, Sentul Depot
Be transported to the land of the Lion at Passport to Feast: SG At The Yard. Presented by the Singapore Tourism Board, Passport to Feast is a Singapore-themed food marketplace that will feature award-winning and up-and-coming bars, kitchen pop-ups and private kitchen experiences.
This weekend’s vendors include Flourish Bake House offering sweet and savoury bakes; The Masses serving Franco-Asian dishes; Rempapa highlighting traditional heritage cooking; Sago House mixing up fun cocktails; and Sarah Huang Benjamin, who will cook a late lunch and dinner for guests who pre-book her services. This is the last week to try out what Singapore cuisine has to offer so don’t miss out!
For more information, follow Visit Singapore MY on Facebook.

6. Celebrate the opening of Hugo’s first ever Asian Pacific store launch at Lalaport

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When: 16 to 18 September 2022 | 2pm to 6pm
Where: Lot G-56, LalaPort Bukit Bintang City Centre (The Hugo Festival will be at Wow Plaza)
After the brand’s refresh in January 2022, Malaysia has the privilege of being the first Asian Pacific country to host the new Hugo store concept. Featuring a modern and bold approach, the store—spanning 86.6 square metres—is characterised by its signature Hugo red hue, with splashes of white and black and cool metallic wall elements amidst its open facade architectural design. The store also displays its latest Fall-Winter 2022 Menswear collection that range from shoes to accessories. In conjunction with its launch, customers can also visit the Hugo Festival happening at Wow Plaza in Lalaport, offering complimentary ice cream, live music performances, and more.
To learn more about Hugo’s bold new concept, follow their Instagram.

7. Find preloved gems at the Lalala Preloved Market by Awegallery

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When: 17 & 18 September 2022 | 11am to 7pm
Where: Awegallery, Taman Paramount
Want to own some second-hand goods from your favourite local actors, singers and influencers? Peruse this charity market featuring over 300 handpicked preloved items and support rescue animal efforts at the same time as a portion of the proceeds will be donated to organisations that rescue stray animals. Plus, there’ll also be live music, beer and board games!
Follow Lalalamarket on Instagram for more updates.

For more ideas on what to do around KL, head here.

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Dior AW18 Livestream

Fashion
Dior AW18 Livestream

26.02.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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Music
Radiohead releases new album: A Moon Shaped Pool
Just in

09.05.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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Trust the English rock band to gain attention in their own unique way. Earlier this month, Radiohead caused a slight commotion online when their internet presence gradually disappeared; their Twitter and Facebook posts were erased, and their website slowly decreased in opacity until it went blank—even Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood‘s personal Twitter accounts seemed to follow suit. This happened one day after the band sent vague and mysterious flyers to loyal fans with the words: “Sing a song of sixpence that goes/Burn the Witch/We know where you live.”

Then came the light two days later, when they posted animated clips on their social media accounts, hinting that a new album is on the way.

A video posted by Radiohead (@radiohead) on May 3, 2016 at 4:00am PDT

This was promptly followed by the unveiling of the music video for the single ‘Burn the Witch‘, and ‘Daydreaming‘ a few days later. Radiohead eventually announced that their new album A Moon Shaped Pool (their first since 2011’s The King of Limbs) will be released on May 8, solving the mystery once and for all.

Finally, the wait is over. Fans can now get their hands on A Moon Shaped Pool—available in digital, vinyl, CD and special edition forms—on the website. The new album will be physically released on June 17.

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Lifestyle
Brad Pitt to co-star with Leonardo DiCaprio in new Tarantino film
Stars aligned

01.03.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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After cutting ties with The Weinstein Company (which just announced its bankruptcy), Quentin Tarantino’s ninth film has been picked up by Sony Pictures, and it is falling into place quite nicely. Tarantino now has a title—Once Upon A Time In Hollywood—and two confirmed A-listers on the cast.

According to Tarantino, the film is “a story that takes place in Los Angeles in 1969, at the height of hippy Hollywood. The two lead characters are Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), former star of a western TV series, and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Both are struggling to make it in a Hollywood they don’t recognize anymore. But Rick has a very famous next-door neighbor… Sharon Tate.”

In case you were still in the dark about it, yes the film is about the infamous Manson family murders. Charles Manson will be looming in the movie, but he will not be its focus. Other names that were in talks to be in the project include Margot Robbie, whom Tarantino asked to play Tate, as well as Tom Cruise (we’re hoping this will actually happen), Samuel L. Jackson, Jennifer Lawrence and Al Pacino.

Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is set for a 9 August 2019 release.

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Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S2 unveiled

Lifestyle
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S2 unveiled
Entertainment & productivity in one

07.08.2015
By Buro247

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7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 15 & 16 July 2023

The Galaxy Tab S2 is the latest addition to Samsung’s premium tablet series. It is Samsung’s thinnest and lightest tablet of its size ever. The Super AMOLED display is optimised for viewing any type of digital content as it is designed for both entertainment and productivity.

The Galaxy Tab S2 comes fully equipped and preloaded with Microsoft Office Solutions, which allows you to compose and edit documents while conveniently storing up to 100GB of files on the cloud via OneDrive (complementary for two years). The tablet introduces a fingerprint scanner and offers multitasking options that will allow users to view and run two apps simultaneously.

For entertainment, the Galaxy Tab S2 comes preloaded with Samsung Milk Music, a digital radio streaming service designed for Samsung users. Movie buffs will enjoy this: the tablet is also preloaded with iflix, an Internet TV service that comes with an exclusive 1-year subscription when you  buy the tablet.

At just 5.6mm thin and only 392g (9.7”) and 272g (8.0”) in weight, the Galaxy Tab S2 is not only sleek and stylish, but it will fit perfectly in your hand and your bag. Perhaps our favourite feature; the Galaxy Tab S2 makes it comfortable to read digital content. The tablet provides the best-in-class reading experience which displays 94% of natural tones that recreates the same viewing experience of browsing traditional print media.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 will be available in the Malaysian market from 14 August 2015. More information on the tablet are available at www.samsung.com.my

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Fashion
Jacquemus to debut his menswear collection this June
Homme-coming

04.05.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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The wait for the first look at Simon Porte Jacquemus’ debut menswear collection is almost over. Yesterday, the designer made the announcement of the date and venue (though not specifically) of his first menswear show on social media, while also revealing French union rugby player Yoann Maestri as the first Jacquemus man:
“L’Homme Jacquemus,
Very happy to announce that I will show my first menswear collection in the South of France on the 25th of June.
Also super proud that I shot Yoann Maestri, the French union international rugby player as the first Jacquemus man.
A new chapter for myself and Jacquemus now begins.”

Stay tuned for more updates!

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Beauty
Let’s talk about: Hydrating vs Moisturising products
Same, but different?

15.03.2016
By Terry Saw

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The crucial but sometimes slightly confusing topic of hydration vs moisturisation is like an elephant sitting pretty in a room: we’re aware of the issue lingering at the back of our heads, but it doesn’t get enough airtime so to speak – until now.
A quick beauty chat with our team and Buro readers have inspired us to scratch the surface by seeking out expert opinions from the belif team all the way in Korea, that may shine some light if you’re still navigating your way through these terms, or reset what you think you already know about hydrating vs mosturising products.

Hydration vs Moisturisation: The real deal
“First up, hydrating products are specially formulated to increase water content in our skin cells. By doing so, it plumps the skin, making it smoother along the way.
“Usually, hydrating products contain humectants to absorb water from its surroundings to effectively hydrate normal skin. But when it comes to dehydrated and oily skin, excess sebum is produced and hence, you’ll need to opt for hydrating products that are also lightweight in texture to balance the skin’s condition while keeping it hydrated from within.”
“Moisturising products on the other hand can also include hydrating ingredients and humectants just like hydrating products. The key difference is that they also contain emollients that create a moisturising skin barrier to prevent moisture evaporation from the skin. And since dry skin has a low level of sebum that forms a protective skin barrier, additional use of a moisturising product is required here to bump up protection for the skin.”

How do I know what’s best for my skin?
You’ll need a hydrating product when…

1. The skin surface is oily and shiny.
2. You have large, visibly uneven pores.
3. It’s a challenge to get your makeup to stay on for most of the day.
4. Your skin tone seems dull and ‘darker’ over time.
5. You occasionally suffer from acne due to excess sebum clogging your pores.

Try: belif The True Cream – Aqua Bomb to instantly replenish the loss of water in your skin.

You’ll need a moisturising product when…

1. The skin feels very taut after cleansing.
2. You experience the occasional scabs and flakiness of the skin.
3. Pores are rarely visible.
4. Your skin feels tight and slightly parched around the eye and mouth areas, and fine lines are quite visible around these delicate areas.
5. You experience caking in some areas around the face when it applying your makeup.

Try: belif The True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb for up to 26 hours of intense hydration for the skin.

Now available at belif cosmetics, Sunway Pyramid

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Healthy snacking: Vegetable chips

Beauty
Healthy snacking: Vegetable chips
Crispy delights

15.10.2015
By Buro247

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Crispy with a hint of sweetness, vegetable chips are a healthy alternative to starchy and high in sodium potato chips. Preparing vegetable chips at home are so easy and the best part is, you’re in full control of what goes into making them, ensuring that the flavours suit your palate and your health requirements. All you need is some olive oil, sea salt, and your favourite herbs and spices for that extra punch in flavour.

To make the perfect batch of vegetable chips, preheat your oven while you line your baking tray with parchment paper and place your thinly sliced vegetables flat on the surface of the baking tray, making sure that none of the vegetable pieces touch (this is important so that all of your chips are evenly cooked and crispy). After your vegetables are evenly lined, sprinkle a small amount of olive oil, sea salt, and (optional) herbs and spices onto them before you place them into the oven. Halfway through the cooking time, turn your tray once so ensure even cooking.

These steps can be applied to any vegetable chips to produce the same delightful results. Listed below are four of our favourite vegetable chips and their cooking temperature and durations. Happy snacking!

1. Sweet Potato

Temperature: 120 degrees Celcius
Cooking time: 2 hours

2. Kale

Temperature: 175 degrees Celcius
Cooking time: 15 — 20 minutes

*Note: the stems of the kale has to be removed before baking them and for even flavours, make sure the kale leaves are dry and toss the, with sea salt and seasoning before placing them on the baking tray

3. Carrot

Temperature: 175 degrees Celcius
Cooking time: 20 — 30 minutes

4. Cauliflower

Temperature: 110 degrees Celcius
Cooking time: 1 hour

*Note: the cooking time might vary depending on how thinly you slice your cauliflower

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Fashion
Watch the livestream of Versace SS17 here
#VersaceLive

23.09.2016
By Buro247

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Couture wedding gowns that will make you feel like a fairytale princess

Are you as excited as we are for what Donatella Versace has to offer for Spring/Summer 2017? Based on the sneak peek posts on the Italian brand’s official Instagram, we’re expecting plenty of sporty materials and sky-high platform heels. Catch all the action below:

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Beauty
COVID-19: How to protect your mental health during a pandemic

24.03.2020
By Kelly Lim

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BURO Beauty Empties Giveaway Week 2: Win up to RM4,500 worth of beauty prizes

Closed borders, movement control orders, increased travel restrictions—countries all around the world are imposing more measures to curb the spread of COVID-19.
This week in Malaysia, life as we knew it changed in a matter of days as businesses and schools shut, rush hour ceased and anyone out on a grocery run is usually mask-clad, sanitiser-ready and three feet away from you. But while the government and medical experts explain that social distancing and staying at home is the most effective tool to slow the spread of coronavirus in our community, less has been said about how to protect ourselves and each other from the negative mental health impacts of the outbreak.
These are profound moments of uncertainty and disruption. Combined with the increased separation, contagion and financial worries in our everyday lives, it’s normal to feel concerned, stressed and anxious during this period of crisis.
We spoke to three clinicians, clinical psychologist Puveshini Rao, mental health therapist Magda Thé and professional counsellor Eric Hiew from KL-based Rekindle Therapy for advice and tips on how to look after ourselves and each other.

Keep calm in and in control (of what you can control)
Widespread panic can complicate efforts to manage the outbreak effectively. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment and breathe.
“We as a society don’t know what we are facing and hence, we feel out of control aka unsafe,” explains Rao. “We try desperately to find some form of control which leads to panic buying, the catastrophic thinking, going back to hometown or being close to family. This brings a sense of comfort in a way because people feel they are doing something to defend themselves. However, sometimes this same urge to do may be counterproductive and causes the spread of the virus, which is the threat in the first place.”
Do your best to stay calm, positive and sensible. Try to remember the distinction between the things that are out of your control and the productive ways you can actually help:

Buy groceries in moderate amounts like you usually would
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap or hand sanitiser
Stay at a relatively safe space, as much as possible and indoors
Engage in calming activities such as reading, playing with your dog, watching TV, jump on the Tik Tok bandwagon. Now is the time to do things you previously didn’t have time to do, but remember to do so mindfully

“This is you doing something. You can’t see it, but in your own way you are helping safe us all from this pandemic,” says Rao.
Take a break from the non-stop news cycle
While reading the news is necessary to stay informed about updates and changes taking place in response to the coronavirus, the sudden and near-constant influx of news reports (and the rampant spread of misinformation) can cause anyone to feel anxious or distressed. What we don’t need to do is open up 10 tabs of bad news on our laptops and think that the end is near.

So limit your intake of news to trusted sources of information and perhaps decide on a specific time to check in each day. Turn off notifications if you need to and avoid continuous use of social media if it’s exacerbating your fears and anxieties.
Maintain structure
As we readjust to the MCO period by setting up home offices (check out our WFH guide here), it’s paramount to impose a system to help us feel less anxious and have some certainty.
“If we work from home, don’t show up in your pyjamas but dress up as a sign that you are working and have boundaries in terms of space and time,” says Magda Thé, mental health therapist. “When you’re done with your work, get into your comfy house gear again. If you have kids at home, offer that greater structure too, without being overly rigid. Maintain the routines of getting in and out of bed at your usual time during work and school days.”
Professional counsellor Eric Hiew adds that we must also remember to be flexible to changes. It’s common for things to not turn out as planned at times. When that happens, “breathe first, handle the situation and take it one step at a time.”
Reframe the situation
“Remember that every crisis constitutes opportunity,” Thé advises.
While it may feel like things are only going downhill from here, try to maintain perspective. Medical experts and scientists all over the world are working hard to contain the virus, treat those affected and find a vaccine as soon as they can.
Amid the unprecedented lockdowns taking place, there is a welcome silver lining: nature is slowly reclaiming its place. The canal waters of Venice are clearer because of decreased boat activity, while NASA’s satellites show blue skies in China where the air is usually filled with smog.

She reminds us that we should remember:

Amidst fear and isolation, we can remember our connectedness to friends and family and we can reach out to ask how they’re doing.
Amidst panic buying, we can remember to be generous and order online food and have it sent to that old person on the same street.
Amidst sickness and death, we can remember to love.
And remember to look up at the sky, see how it is clear, and with much less noise on the roads to hear the birds.

Stay present, stay connected
Perhaps your worries are magnifying—not only are you thinking about what’s currently happening but also projecting into what will happen in the future. In moments like this, gently bring yourself back to the present moment.
Engage in mindful activities that help you stay grounded when things feel beyond your control. Keep yourself moving around the house, do a spring clean and organise if you feel like it.

It’s also important during times like this to stay connected with each other. While we may be practising social distancing right now, it’s only physical. Stay in touch from afar.
“In the modern world, we are blessed with relatively good internet connection around Malaysia,” Hiew says. “I’ve seen many people started using applications such as Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, WhatsApp, Line, and etc to stay connected with family, friends and colleagues.”
And for those living with family or flatmates, take the opportunity to spend quality time together and enjoy each other’s company.
“If you are staying under the same roof, it doesn’t hurt to bring out some evergreen games such as snake and ladder, monopoly, mahjong, congkak, or you can simply do something fun like gardening or watching a movie together.”
We’re all in this together
Though it may feel like the world is fencing off with increasing separation between communities, remember that what’s happening now is a shared global experience. We may be standing in solidarity, but we’re standing in it together. The pandemic should motivate us to promote public health and not just our own personal security.
If someone around you is stressed or worried about coronavirus, show compassion, listen to understand their anxieties and offer your support even if its not IRL.
On the other hand, if someone around you isn’t taking the coronavirus seriously, remember that actions speak loud than words.
“We have to walk our talk. When others see that we are taking it seriously by practising social distancing, they will start to do the same. Be supportive of each other during this period. Instead of ‘I need to survive’, reframe it ‘We can survive this together’,” says Hiew. “When we change our perspective from ‘I’ to ‘we’, things will be pleasant as we can support one another. Technology allows us to be of support to someone who is in need without us being there in person. A simple positive thought or positive note can be of great help to someone in need. There is always an old saying, ‘A single twig breaks, but the bundle of twigs is strong’.”

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Hair
Why is my hair falling out? All your hair loss questions—answered by an expert
No can 'do

29.07.2020
By Redzhanna Jazmin

Sarah Tai for BURO

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To get to the root of your problems, we asked an expert to answer any and all of your hair loss concerns.
Bald spots materialising out of thin hair? You may be experiencing hair loss. Don’t let your worries get ahead of yourself just yet—if you’re looking for answers, we’re here to deliver. We spoke to Dr Lee Kim Siea, Reconstructive Plastic & Cosmetic Specialist Surgeon at the M Clinic who happens to know a thing or two about hair loss.
Ahead, Dr Lee covers everything from the aetiology of each type of hair loss to the importance of SPF in the prevention of balding—there is no stone left unturned here.

What are the signs of hair loss?

“Usually, losing around 50 to 100 strands a day is normal. Obviously, the closer to 50 you are the better, but anything up to 100 hairs is usually okay—as long as the scalp can regenerate the hair. If you find that you’re losing more than this, then you may have a problem.
“In terms of ‘signs’, it really depends on the aetiology of each case—there are different patterns for each kind of hair loss. It could just be the visual thinning of the hair, where we see the general pattern of thinning right on the crown of the head or just above the forehead. That’s the area that usually sees a lot of loss in male pattern baldness. Alternatively, it could just be a circular patch that is lost. Other times, you may just have sudden, total hair loss—it can be an extreme shock when it happens that way.
“It can also be due to drugs (like patients undergoing chemotherapy) or a disease—ringworm infections that can cause hair loss and patches of scaly scalp. If you’re not seeing any of these patterns, then it’s probably due to stress or nutritional issues. Also, we do naturally suffer hair loss as we grow older.”
Read: Think you know what your hair type is? Think again.

What are the different types of hair loss?

“The different types of hair loss are usually related to their many causes. The first is hereditary hair loss—this includes male pattern baldness and, on occasion, female pattern baldness.
“The second is hormonal changes. You may experience hair loss during pregnancy and menopause or if you have thyroid problems.
“If you have autoimmune issues like alopecia areata, you are also predisposed to hair loss as your immune system attacks your hair follicles. If you’re under radiation treatment or certain medications (chemotherapy and arthritis medications in particular), that can also lead to hair loss for obvious reasons. Fungal or bacterial infections like ringworms can also cause hair loss in addition to scalp flaking.”
“Finally, stress (both physical and emotional) is also a big factor in a lot of cases. This can be poor nutrition, emotional stress, harsh environmental factors, smoking and even using too-tight hairstyles and hair treatments that put stress on the hair follicles (traction alopecia). There is also the hair loss that comes inevitably with age, which actually happens as your body becomes less and less able to cope with these stressors over time.”
“Although it’s less common, sometimes we even see hair loss in patients with burns over the neck and jaw. The burns actually tighten up the skin, which puts pressure on the scalp, reduces blood supply and thus leads to hair loss.”

How can you prevent hair loss?

“Again, it’s dependent on the aetiology. In general, I think we should take it in steps. First, we identify the risk factor, and from there we can see what we can do. If you can determine the cause, then you need to remove it to prevent hair loss. For example, if your hair loss is rooted in stressful conditions and poor nutrition, all you have to do is avoid these things and your condition will improve.”
“This means avoiding stressful situations at work or home, eating right and protecting yourself against harsh environmental factors like sunlight, coldness or strong wind. I’d actually really recommend that you use SPF, or if you can’t, at least use a hat. While you’re at it, you should stop smoking as well. Similarly, if you’re on medication which causes hair loss as a side effect, consider shifting onto a new medication.”
“If, however, your hair loss is caused by genetics, you have to accept that one day you will probably lose your hair, but there are also treatments that you can do to delay the inevitable so you can enjoy your hair for longer.”
“You can also prevent it or slow down the rate by being gentle with your hair—stopping things like heat styling and tight hairstyles will reduce stress on the follicle.”
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

If you’d like to find out more about the different doctor-approved treatment options that can potentially help to stop or reverse hair loss, click here. For more haircare tips, click here.

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Makeup
Mini-trend: Metallic cat-eyes that are the very definition of low-key drama

31.07.2019
By Wei Yeen Loh

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The classic winged eye gets a summer-ready update this season by way of sparkle and shine, as seen on celebrities most recently. Cara Delevingne already demonstrated an easy breezy way of elevating your cat eye (in a swoon-worthy shade of denim blue) last week, but for makeup lovers (and anyone who’s not afraid of glitter), consider playing with metals for a traffic-stopping effect.
A week ago, actress Lucy Boynton aka our favourite beauty risk-taker who’s tried everything from hologram graphic eyes to cross-hatched lashes, took on this trend and made it her own with the help of makeup artist Jo Baker. Her “galactic kitty wings” were made up of spiked wings with metallic silver over her lids, inspired by a swallow’s forked tail. Just look at the meticulous detailing of the double swooshes in the video below:

Boynton isn’t the only fan of this low-key dramatic look. British actress Laura Harrier attended a film premiere in London two days later sporting—you guessed it—metallic silver eyeshadow over a subtle winged liner coupled with full lashes, complementing her futuristic-chic Louis Vuitton look.
But our personal favourite has got to be rapper and actress Awkwafina’s gold-speckled eyes—proof that monolids can totally rock metallic hues and elongated winged liners. Makeup artist Matin dusted her eyelids with loose gold glitter in the shape of a cat-eye and kept her complexion and lips naturally flushed and tinted respectively to let her peepers do all the talking. Which variation of this mini-trend are you most keen to try?

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Features
BURO Does Basics: Han Pin Ma on comfort in fashion, self-love and Gote Club
"Let the Gote times roll"

24.02.2022
By Kelly Lim

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Does style improve self-confidence? When you dress for yourself, looking good isn’t just part of the package, the best part is you also feel good. Whether it is a lucky accessory for a job interview or wearing your favourite pair of jeans to a first date, never underestimate the power of clothing if you’re in need of a little confidence boost. That’s something local entrepreneur, fitness trainer and influencer Han Pin Ma (also known as Jane Chuck’s other half) has a firm footing in.

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At 30, the multi-hyphenate has built a life for himself out of his different passions; he got into spinning in 2019 and co-founded PWRHOUSE the year after, alongside countless other projects and brand partnerships that he’s constantly involved in. His latest endeavour includes the recently-launched Gote Club, “a brand and community where we thrive to educate all the men out there that self-care is equally important for men, which is often neglected. We believe that being confident is vital, hence our brand is to help men discover their confidence (in and outside of the bedroom) and the potentials that they may not know of.”
Ahead, we caught up with Han Pin on his relationship with fashion (read: it’s all about comfort and confidence), self-love and more about his exciting new venture:
BURO: What was your first encounter with fashion?
Hanpin: “I started to dress a little better during my college days. You know, young boys trying to impress girls.”
BURO: Why are shorts an essential wardrobe staple for you, and how does this reflect your personal style?
Hanpin: “Shorts are great, especially in a country like Malaysia where it’s summer all-year long. I’m all about feeling comfortable and that includes what I wear. My personal style would be things that are more casual and can be easily mixed and matched. This saves me a lot of time in deciding what to wear, and of course, the bottom line would be that I have to feel good and comfortable no matter what.”

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BURO: From your collection, what do you think are three essential items every man needs in their wardrobe?
Hanpin: “T-shirt for everyday wear––this can be both plain or graphic tees; button down shirts for dinner occasions; and shorts (mostly active shorts that allow me to feel comfortable as I do a lot of workouts).”

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BURO: How would you describe your relationship with fashion in 2022?
Hanpin: “It would be a love-hate relationship. In 2022, cases are surging, yet borders are opening up. I think if I were to choose, my take on fashion this year would be to dress to impress, and seize every opportunity to flaunt my outfit for every event and friend gathering that I’ll be attending.”

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BURO: How did Gote Club come about and what inspired you to launch the brand?
Han Pin: “As I’ve grown older, I’ve begun to realise that men are a very shy species. They have their needs but it’s not often heard, because in general, men are less expressive compared to women. Gote Club is built on the idea of bringing back the confidence that one should have. It’s also about emphasising the message that it’s ok that to have needs, it’s ok to want to look and feel good about yourself, and it’s ok to even be vain at times, because you are not wrong in wanting to take care of yourself.”

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BURO: Could you talk a little bit about the products of Gote Club and what we can expect from it?
Han Pin: “The first product that Gote will be launching is “Please”, which are endurance wipes for everyone out there who enjoy sex. Good sex makes you feel good about yourself, and longer sex boosts your confidence. This is what “Please” is all about. As a married man, I know: happy wife, happy life. We will also be launching more self-care products for all men out there!”
BURO: What are your own everyday self-love routines?
Han Pin: “My everyday schedule can be pretty tight, so my self-love routines would involve having at least an hour of me-time in the morning. I usually take my own sweet time enjoying a cup of coffee, chilling and reading my Kindle before I start my day. This one hour is important for me to clear my mind and set my agenda for the day ahead and of course, without forgetting a good (workout) sweat everyday!”

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BURO: In your opinion, what does it mean to be the best version of yourself?
Han Pin: “The best version of myself involves the desire to constantly seek for improvements and adapt to the ever-challenging and surprising tomorrow. I believe in always finding a better version of myself; there’s never 100 per cent, it’s always 99 per cent where there’s always room for improvement.”
Read more ‘BURO Does Basics’ here.

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Power snacks for a mid-day energy boost

Beauty
Power snacks for a mid-day energy boost
No caffeine needed

12.11.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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More often than not, it always comes to a point in the day where our focus wanders, drowsiness kicks in and working is just the last thing you want to do at the moment. In times like these, fight the fatigue with these easy-to-prep power snacks for a healthy pick-me-up:

1. Edamame

Rich in magnesium and B-vitamins, a single serving or half a cup of edamame gives you just the right nutrients to boost your energy and state of mind.  These delectable soybeans also deliver exercise-friendly carbs, fibre and protein for muscles, and serve as the perfect after lunch snack to convert eaten food into energy.

2. Protein bar

Great for pre- or post-workout snacking, protein bars also serve as an ideal between meal meal snack with their nutty goodness. When you’re looking for an office snack at the store, be sure to look out for the calories to keep it healthy, or alternatively you could always make your own. Try our DIY health tip recipe here.

3. Ants on a log

What it is: peanut butter spread on celery sticks with raisins sprinkled on top—yum! Replace peanut butter with cream cheese for a twist, or try dried cranberries instead of raisins, whichever tickles your fancy. A fun and easy-to-prep snack for your mid-day cravings, this snack is high in fibre, potassium, irons and calcium.

4. Trail mix

Like a deconstructed protein bar, trail mix provides you with essential fatty acids, protein, antioxidants, fibre and other nutrients that are great for your body. The classic trail mix consist of dried fruits and nuts, but we’d recommend adding some dark chocolate to the mix for an extra kick.

5. Yogurt parfait

A simple yet healthy snack to prepare, the yogurt parfait is a great dessert alternative to indulge in between your meals. Make your own with greek yogurt, granola, and your choice of sliced fresh berries. Add in a dash of honey if you like it a little sweeter.

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News
Who was Dr. Li Wenliang and what was his role with the Wuhan coronavirus?

07.02.2020
By Charmaine Loh

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Who is Dr. Li Wenliang?
Dr. Li Wenliang was a 34-year-old ophthalmologist in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province and also the epicenter of the coronavirus epidemic. He was one of the eight people investigated by the police for allegedly “spreading rumours” about the deadly virus back in December, which has now claimed more than 600 lives and infected more than 31,000 people.
Li died earlier this morning after contracting the virus while working at Wuhan Central Hospital. News reports stated that he was treating a glaucoma patient who at the time did not know that he had already been infected by the virus. According to CNN, Li was hospitalised on 12 January and tested positive for coronavirus on 1 February.

Why is he trending now?
Prior to his death, many Chinese citizens were enraged after learning of his efforts to warn people about the virus and his subsequent punishment for shedding light upon the gravity of the issue. “If the officials had disclosed information about the epidemic earlier, I think it would have been a lot better. There should be more openness and transparency,” Li told The New York Times last week.
News of his death triggered further anger and a massive outpouring of grief online. Li’s death has become the most-talked topic on China’s biggest social media platforms earlier today, with topics “Wuhan government owes Dr. Li Wenliang an apology” and “We want freedom of speech” trending on Weibo—China’s Twitter-like platform—not long after Wuhan Central Hospital released a statement confirming his death. The hospital’s confirmation also follows a series of conflicting statements about his condition from various Chinese state media outlets and the hospital itself. Both topics were quickly censored shortly after.
What was his role with the coronavirus?
On 30 December, he sent a message to his medical school alumni group on WeChat, warning them about a mysterious virus after seven patients from a local seafood market were diagnosed with a disease similar to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and quarantined in his hospital. Within hours, screenshots of his message had gone viral (with his name uncensored).
“I only wanted to remind my university classmates to be careful,” Li told CNN. After he saw the news circulating online, he expected that he will be facing the authorities—and he was right. He was soon summoned and forced to sign a statement that accused him of rumor-mongering.
Now that the Wuhan coronavirus has been officially declared as an global health emergency by WHO, many are criticising the Chinese authorities for downplaying the outbreak in the first place.
For more updates on the coronavirus in Malaysia (and globally), head over here.

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Fashion
#WednesdayWishlist: The life and times of Art Deco
Decorative arts

04.11.2015
By Buro247

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Couture wedding gowns that will make you feel like a fairytale princess

Cai Mei Khoo, Editor in Chief: A weekend at the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez

Bright lights, shiny cars and even shinier A-list celebrities – it’s got to be Cannes and when at this glamourous resort town, there’s no other place to lounge in your Cartier jewels than at the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez. Formerly known as Hotel Martinez, this Art Deco beauty, complete with wrought iron balconies, sits right smack on La Croisette where the Cannes Film Festival is held each year, hosting a bevy of heavyweights from the film industry. Private beach and heated outdoor pool? Check. Two-Michelin starred restaurant? Check. Limo and helicopter tour? 24-hour concierge, at your service. The only thing else you need is a limitless credit card.

Jason Lim, Fashion Editor: Art Déco pen in black composite with palladium finish by Cartier
For my 12th birthday I asked my parents for a fountain pen. I remember how important and grown-up I felt drawing ink into the bladder, using it to write in my journal and cleaning my nib afterwards. Now, as an actual grown-up, I would like something more serious for such instances as signing a letter of dismissal (I joke) or a credit card bill for that all important pair of shoes (more likely). This one by Cartier has the kind of aesthetic that truly speaks to my heart and I know that signing any credit card bill with it will soften the blow of wondering how the hell I’m going to pay it off in the following months.

Loh Wei Yeen, Fashion & Beauty Writer: One Light Only by Lee BroomReferencing both Art Deco jewellery and late 1970s fashion photography, One Light Only is a collection of pendant lights created by multiple-award-winning British product and interior designer, Lee Broom. Available in three finishes (two matte and one solid walnut), the lights are characterised by a gem-like faceted exterior. What I love about this functional work of art is its symmetrical geometry–something inherently Deco-influenced; while its wood grain finish gives it a certain tactility accompanied with a polished gold interior that emanates a warm glow.

Su Fen Tan: Baume & Mercier Hampton 10024 The roaring 1920s was all about geometric designs, where square, rectangular and barrel-shaped timepieces reigned. Fast forward almost a century later, and the style is still as relevant as ever. Elegantly bold, the classy Hampton by Baume & Mercier flaunts a diamond-set rectangular steel case with a delicate satin strap-a timeless creation inspired by a model dating from the Art Deco period.  Besides, you can never really go wrong with black.

Jessica Fang, Culture Writer: Le Grand Rex, Paris The largest cinema theatre in Europe, the Grand Rex in Paris seems to have stepped right out of any film from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Sumptously decorated, its main auditorium seems to transport you into a fairytale world while its facade of neon lights and fancy tower has turned it into an architectural art deco landmark. I would love to one day visit this shrine of Parisian cinema, and indulge in the fantasy world of Hollywood (and Disney) productions.

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Fashion
10 Haute Couture Spring 2016 looks we love
A gush-worthy spectacle

04.02.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Couture wedding gowns that will make you feel like a fairytale princess

Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani had old Hollywood glamour in mind with Spring/Summer 2016’s haute couture collection that were made up of hues of purple. This impeccable number fuses both vintage and modern elements, from its styling (Marcel waves) to its embellished and textured material—perhaps the first lilac look we’re crushing on this season.

Chanel

There was plenty to talk about during Chanel’s haute couture show, be it the giant Princess Leia/croissant-lookalike chignons or the “ecological approach” that Karl Lagerfeld took with the materials and silhouettes. But what we loved the most was this oval-sleeved dress with 3D embroidery (naturally) and delicate white flowers peppered over the skirt, evoking a futuristic vibe that went beautifully with her hair and makeup (although we can’t say the same for the cork wedges).

Dior

Studio directors Serge Ruffieux and Lucie Meier rolled out a wearable collection filled with realistic pieces that could relate to consumers, a distinct trait from what the usual haute couture collections offer. What we really would wear from Dior this season is this white Bar jacket and pencil skirt combo. It’s truly the details that make an outfit stand out subtly: the long flounced cuffs, sensual side slit, embroidered lilies of the valley, and even the ankle-strap ribbon shoes. Très chic.

Guo Pei

The Chinese couturier debuted her namesake label’s couture show with a royal offering that might have stunned us to silence if we had actually seen this in person. The ballgown matched the set’s details (spot that gold-plated tree in the background) grandly, and this guipure lace bustier gown filled our quota of bold theatrical pieces we look forward to seeing in haute couture collections.

Stéphane Rolland

Haute couture isn’t just about the bold and beautiful (although we’d never get enough of such looks) so look 16 from Stéphane Rolland checked all our boxes for making a difference in the couture scene. The upper part of this gown is an interesting textured fabric made up of crystals sewn into 3D spikes. While the top screams luxe armour, the bottom adds a contrasting element with feminine swathes of tulle.

Valentino

As always, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli gave us a romantically inclined collection that had breathtaking elements: intricate brocade, sheer gauzy skirts, and even gold in the form of serpent hair accessories and medallions attached/sewn onto gowns. This filmy white piece is everything we’re dreaming of, and we’re loving how the gold medallions inject a Greek goddess vibe to this look.

Viktor & Rolf

What could we expect but walking—and towering—works of art from the dynamic duo? Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren gave us a radical all-white collection inspired by Cubism, and despite how these fashion sculptures might be deemed unwearable to some (except for the likes of Lady Gaga and Róisín Murphy), this white dress with a 3D face plastered on the front is an unpredictable number we’d gladly wear.

Zuhair Murad

Although we’re fond of red carpet favourite Zuhair Murad’s heavily embellished creations that usually include a mile-long train and plenty of luxe fabric, this short and sassy look is our favourite from his haute couture collection. Reminiscent of a white gilded cage, the crinolined frock had white floral embroidery smattered all over—cue a dreamy sigh as you visually take in this stunning number.

Giambattista Valli

You can’t always have a princess moment without it being the most absurd and voluminous piece to wear. And at Giambattista Valli’s Haute Couture SS16, this empire-waist tiered pleated tulle dress was that princess moment. It just about had our hearts stop beating as our eyes feasted on the model gliding (or floating?) down the runway.

Elie Saab

And like every haute couture presentation, the final bridal look of our choice this season is none other than Elie Saab’s sari-inspired gown. The couturier did the eastern Indian culture justice, juxtaposing Victorian-era silhouettes while referencing Indian bridal wear with a built-in sash on the ethereal pale-blush gown. We appreciate when a couturier tries to steer away from what’s safe and foolproof, and Saab’s change in aesthetic (albeit a slight one) is one that we look forward to seeing in the future.

Related stories:
Dior Couture Spring 2016 CollectionBest street style looks from Haute Couture Spring 20165 Beauty looks from Paris Haute Couture SS16 we want to try

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7 Things you can do in KL (or at home) this CMCO weekend: 13 & 14 March 2021

11.03.2021
By Rachel Au

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7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 15 & 16 July 2023

1. Vitra Sessions – Distributed Work

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When: 5pm, 11 March
Where: https://bit.ly/VitraSessions
Price: Free
The pandemic has changed the way we work, and with most industries adapting successfully to a remote style, many questions arise: What is the best work model and is ‘distributed work’ here to stay. Vitra Sessions is a series of short digital events to discuss space (offices, home and public areas) and its evolution. The first session, ‘Distributed Work’, brings together designers, thought leaders and innovative organisations as they share alternative points of view on this based on studies, best practices and recommendations.
2. Four Hands Supper Club at Quan’s Kitchen

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When: 7pm, 11 & 12 March
Where: Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
Price: RM170 nett
Reservations/Enquiries:
WhatsApp: +6012 507 3327
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If you’re bored of cooking at home or ordering delivery, check out this limited-time chef collaboration series. This week sees Executive Chef Gerald Chong of Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown, play host to Chef Kelvin Wong of Jing Ze, where the menu highlights the beauty of Asian flavours and local ingredients. The five-course menu will have you savouring dishes such as Roselle Chicken Liver Parfait, Tamarind Glaze Duck and a delicate Asian-inspired Asam Boi Tart.
If you can’t make it for March 11 and 12, fret not, as March 25 and 26 will see Executive Chef Lim Heng Kit of Neighbourhood Restaurant Group (Li and Provisions) take over the reins. Expect mouthwatering items such as Fish Umai, Smoked Morten Bay Bugs, Daging Bakar Percik, Sous Vide Mandarin Chicken, and Duck with Heirloom Ulam Rice.
3. Attempt to be a home barista with these Nespresso recipes

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The new Nespresso World Explorations coffee range takes inspiration from six cities’ coffee culture and traditions: Shanghai, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, Vienna, Stockholm, and Cape Town. While you can enjoy the capsules in their rich and aromatic Lungo style, you can also have a little fun with them by trying out Nespresso’s creative recipes. Hint: One of the recipes uses a cucumber slice and yuzu peel.
Find the recipes here.
4. Have Taf Meals plan your day’s meals—it’s delicious and nutritious

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