Film, TV + Theatre
His Dark Materials: James McAvoy and Lin-Manuel Miranda tell us more about their roles and experiences in the hit series

28.12.2019
By Ronn Tan

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Have you seen His Dark Materials yet? Even if you haven’t, you might have heard of the television series. The HBO Original programme is one of the top five most watched series on its streaming platform, HBO Go, since its debut in November 2019. His Dark Materials is adapted from Philip Pullman’s trilogy of the same name and features a cast that includes Dafne Keen, Ruth Wilson, James McAvoy, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Clarke Peters, and Anne-Marie Duff. The finale of the fantasy drama happened on Christmas Eve (24 December 2019)—on HBO Go and HBO (Astro Channel 411 and 431 HD).

If you’d like more information and to understand His Dark Materials with more depth, here’s what James McAvoy and Lin-Manuel Miranda had to say:

James McAvoy

1. Who is Lord Asriel?
Lord Asriel Belacqua was a high-flying nobleman in his youth, but he made a pretty big mistake with shall we say “another cast member” and because of that, both she and he suffer huge consequences. My life was very much changed and by the time I become the 40-year-old person that I am now, I’ve become quite hateful and doubtful of organised religion—their doctrines, beliefs, and their motives. I spend a good 13 years trying to get to the heart of what I believe, trying to bring them (the Magisterium) down really. I’ve been trying to determine what spiritualism really is and how it’s been perverted in our world by organised religion.
I am also the closest living relative to Lyra Belacqua. I’ve placed her in the stewardship of the scholars of Jordan College and said to them, “Keep her safe,” because she won’t be safe with me. So, I leave her with them to have a life of running about being a skinny ragamuffin. I come back and visit her periodically and bestow upon her gifts every now and again and wild stories of the frozen North and armoured bears and witches and all sorts.

2. What kind of fantasy world is His Dark Materials set in?
It’s not as “lore-heavy” as Lord of the Rings. Don’t get me wrong, I love Lord of the Rings and I love the lore, but this is not as dependent on that. I think it’s more spiritual. It’s more of a clear argument, what’s going on. Don’t get me wrong, Harry Potter’s world was very clear, but our world is less whimsical than that. Philip Pullman is such a brave and fearless storyteller that he knows, no matter how crazy things get and how wild his imagination makes the story go, he’s a good enough storyteller that the audience are going to want to follow Lyra, and they’re going to want to follow Roger, and they’re going to want to follow Will along that journey to discover what is going on and why we’re all acting so terrified and afraid, when really, we should just all be happy to be alive. When she’s on this journey to figure out what Dust is, figure out what the Magisterium is, discover what the authority is, and take control for herself—that through line is so strong that it drives you onwards as a reader and hopefully as a viewer.

3. Who is Lord Asriel’s dæmon and what does it say about him?
She’s called Stelmaria and is a snow leopard. Stelmaria is at home on the edge, hanging on to a cliffside, climbing, and aspiring, and trying to get to the summit, and trying to conquer that summit, and trying to conquer her prey, if you like. Asriel, as his dæmon suggests, is hunting for something. We don’t really know what he’s hunting for at the beginning, but you find out in no uncertain terms what he’s hunting for in the end and his ambition is incredible. The audacity of what he’s planning on doing in seasons two and three, it’s unthinkable, really. But again, his ego is his solitude and his ego I think is also encapsulated in Stelmaria.

4. What do you think Jack Thorne has managed to achieve in compressing such a vast novel in to these eight scripts?
The scripts are really, really good. I think Philip is quite a mysterious writer in a lot of ways which is one of his great strengths for me. He’s a master storyteller but he doesn’t dole out information in a linear or didactic fashion so you’re never quite sure where you are with him. That’s exciting as a reader but it makes it difficult in a much more passive form of entertainment like television or film where you only get to see what we show you. You don’t have time to let your imagination ruminate or sentences really roll around in your mouth and in your mind. You’re onto the next thing. If you don’t keep up, you’ve lost it. It does present, I think, difficulties just in narrative but Jack is a superb writer and I think you’ll see that he’s up to the challenge.

5. If you could have a dæmon in real life, what would it be and what would you call her?
I think it’d be something mountainy. Maybe a nice mountain fox. Actually, I don’t know if you get mountain foxes; you probably do somewhere in the world. Anyway, I’d call it Athena.

Lin-Manuel Miranda

1. Who is Lee Scoresby?
Lee Scoresby is a Texan aeronaut, which means he flies in a hot air balloon in Lyra’s world. It is interesting. When we first meet Lee, he’s a bit of a non-sequitur. We are suddenly in an air balloon flying above these mountains but we soon learn that he is a close friend of Iorek Byrnison, the armoured bear who is without his armour. He joins Lyra in her quest up north to find the missing children and to see Dust.

2. Is he a good guy or a bad guy?
I would say he’s a good guy and a rascal at the same time. He’s not above picking a pocket, he’s not above doing bad things to achieve good ends: he’s a cowboy. But a cowboy very much in the Gary Cooper High Noon mould. He’s got this incredibly decent heart even though he drinks and he gambles and he fights and he’s got a gun—but he also uses all those powers for good.

3. Why did you want to be a part of this adaptation of His Dark Materials?
I was working on Mary Poppins Returns in London when Jane Tranter and Jack Thorne invited me to dinner. I am huge fans of each of their work, independent of each other, from Doctor Who to the Harry Potter play, which I thought was an incredible piece of work. So I said yes to that dinner. Then, I was gobsmacked when they told me, one, what they were doing and the scale of the ambition behind adapting this project. It’s what—as any Philip Pullman fan will tell you—this material deserves. The worlds are so rich. Then, when they told me they had me in mind for Lee Scoresby I said, “Yes,” at dinner. There was no thinking about it. I first read those books when my wife and I started dating. It was within that courtship period where you start reading things together, and there are certain shared things that stay with you. This is a very beloved series that my wife and I have re-read many times. I got home from dinner barely able to believe what we had just talked about. “I’m going to be him,” I thought. It was a real thrill.

4. Of all the characters, Lee Scoresby must be the most fun to play…
Let me put it this way, my first day of filming, I did a musical number on a hot air balloon with a rabbit. My second day of filming, I got into a bar fight and had a stool broken over my back while I picked pockets and got thrown out of the bar like the classic western bar-room brawl. My third day, I talked to an armoured bear. Those were the first three days of work. It’s like every day has been an actor’s dream—from the way in which we interact with our dæmons and the incredible puppet work and CGI work that is going to be happening with this production to the incredible dream team cast of actors we have. From Dafne, who is so preternaturally grounded as a young actor, to James McAvoy to Ruth Wilson, all the way down the line.

5. What has it been like acting with a dæmon or with a giant bear?
We had these incredible puppeteers on-set. They’re basically a stand-in. I have a lovely young actress named Ruby who’s been voicing Hester (Lee’s dæmon) and does the dialogue with me, so I’ve got two people playing Hester. Basically, in every take, we’ll do a couple of puppet passes so we understand where the dæmon is within the space and how we do or don’t interact with them. You do a puppet pass and then you’ll do a version where it’s the same deal but you know where your eyeline is and you know who you’re talking to and so you get the muscle memory of where they’d be before you do a take without them in it. It’s important to get it right; Lee Scoresby spends so much time alone in his hot air balloon. He talks to his dæmon like crazy lonely people who are by themselves talk to themselves. It’s totally Han Solo and Chewy. He just keeps his own council.

6. Is that a challenge?
I don’t know an actor alive who didn’t spend most of their childhoods talking to themselves. It’s really just playing pretend in the true sense. The reason we got into this is it’s calling on your imagination to do the rest of the work.

7. What would your dæmon be if you had one in real life?
It’s funny. I always used to joke that my dæmon was my own pet dog, Toby, who I love very much. But now I actually think that’s not true. I think that’s just me loving my dog. I think my dæmon is probably an introvert. I think my dæmon is very quiet and shy because I’m not very quiet and I’m not very shy. I think my dæmon is something like a bookworm, wearing a sweater and reading in bed saying to me, “What are you doing on that stage? Get off.”

If you’ve seen His Dark Materials, what are your thoughts? If you haven’t, hopefully this might persuade you to give the television show a go. Whether you would like to begin watch or re-watch, you can stream all the episodes on HBO Go.

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Beauty
Mindful beauty: 7 Self-care tips to help you look and feel amazing all week
‘Me time’ o’clock

14.04.2017
By Terry Saw

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For many years, wearing too many hats and juggling far too many balls, which included a rewarding career, friends and family responsibilities plus the needs of everyone else but myself was not just the reality I was living in, but it became my way of life.
I was happily living (read: keeping up) in that lifestyle that never once did I feel burdened by it in any way and was super committed to giving everything and everyone my all, and in return the achievements – may it be personal or professional – fueled the fire to go even further until one day, things still came crashing down even before I had a chance to realize there were just far too many balls in the air than I could handle. I know my situation is not unique, and I speak for many women out there when I say – so, what now?
I like to say the one-off cure to this involves a combination of stunning sunsets and lazy days on the beach, preferably in the Maldives, coupled with a string of endless spa sessions to soothe and knead our worries away but unless you’re a Kardashian, let’s face it – we need more sustainable solutions to happiness and self-care and we need them stat, ladies.
The concept of mindfulness and self-care practices are not new, yet are still some of the most underrated movements when it comes to our health and wellbeing. Trust me, if you rather plunge into a pool of sharks than deal with the thought of disrupting your busy day to take a little time out for yourself, I can honestly tell you I’ve been there so.many.times, and speaking from experience, life truly is a damn marathon and no amount of Usain Bolt-worthy sprints will get you through the long haul. Which is why this week, if there’s one thing you do for yourself, set aside a little ‘me time’ and try out these quick self-care practices as they will be what’s taking you a lot further in life.
And even if you do not notice the changes within yourself immediately, you’ll at least notice that the world still went on its merry way in your 10-minute absence so you have absolutely nothing to lose now, do you?

Monday: Practice yoga
Seasoned yogis are already rolling out their mats as we speak but especially if you’re completely new to the practice, read on. We’re not talking yoga robots here, but taking a 10-minute break after work today to just stretch it out.

Forget the crow poses and headstands, attempt something as simple as legs-up-the-wall, which still gives you all the benefits of an inversion, calms the nervous system, relieves fatigue in the legs and feet, and makes you feel 100% better at the end of a stressful day.

Tuesday: Wear that ‘special’ outfit
We’re all guilty of being the biased parent when it comes to our wardrobes – we’re always saving the good pieces for that special occasion but join me in stepping out of that bubble for a second – we are alive today and shouldn’t that be ‘special’ enough reason to dust off that statement dress and turn your Tuesday into the best day since yesterday? Body confidence, here we come.

Wednesday: Meditate
If ‘Don’t hate, meditate’ is a little too hippie for you, relax. Meditation takes many forms but ultimately something as short and simple as sitting in a quiet space for about five to 10 minutes a day for a series of deep breathing exercises can help you clear the clutter in your mind and give your thinking mind a break.

Long-term meditation practices have been proven to significantly reduce stress, increase happiness and give your health and immune system a boost – sign up today.

Thursday: Go back to basics

It’s been a hectic week and you may feel a roadblock between you and your creativity and productivity. Put on your runners and spend some time surrounded by nature. Pound the pavement or take a relaxing stroll – being with nature has also been proven to help fight depression, increase creativity, happiness and improve focus so much so Friday won’t know what hit it.

Friday: Be present
We’re so caught up in the doing, that we forget to live and just enjoy the moment. Focusing on being present for example, improves your social skills when you’re paying attention to what people are saying and are more engaged in a quality conversation. Being present also allows you to experience every day tasks differently, and notice different things about yourself and your surroundings and over time, not only will you be living a higher quality way of life, but will also be more open minded to the world in receiving all its positivity.

Saturday: Digital detox
Online beauty pioneer, Michelle Phan recently broke her silence about depression and her yearlong digital detox as a result of the struggles she faced trying to keep up with living in the breakneck speed of the digital landscape.

In the face of online bullying following the fall of her cosmetics line, she knew when enough was enough and pulled the plug on social media, went away to heal and nourish her soul from the inside out and is now back bigger than ever. If Michelle Phan can take a year out for a digital detox, you can try an hour this Saturday. Disconnect and reconnect with what matters.

Sunday: Eat that dessert
Here comes the best part of the story – eat that dessert for crying out loud. It’s the weekend, so go ahead and spoil yourself a little. Newsflash: your life will not be ruined, you will not miraculously balloon overnight – it’s all about striking a balance.

So work hard always, move and work out where you possibly can and work through that list of must-eats because there’s always a time and place for everything – and most Sundays, for me, it happens to be chocolate brownie with extra vanilla ice cream day – ah, life is good.

More beauty inspo ahead…
Sustainble beauty treats that’re missing from your stash
Out-there hair trends to try at least once in your lifetime

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Culture
Want to invest your money but don’t want to deal with the stock market? Here are some great alternatives

25.06.2020
By Marissa Chin

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Looking for ways to invest your money? The stock market is a popular choice right now as people are taking advantage of its volatile state due to the pandemic, but for some of us, it’s still less than ideal, especially if we haven’t been doing it on the regular (or at all) before COVID-19 went worldwide.
The stock market can be an intimidating arena for rookies—and even seasoned investors alike—so why not consider alternative streams to invest your money instead? They are less well-known but the return can be surprisingly just as good (or even better) as the stock market business—if you can get it right. Below, we’ve rounded up a couple of great alternatives to investing in the stock market to help you get started!
Fine art

Art can be a relatively safe investment as the price fluctuations in the art market generally do not reflect the ups and downs of the stock market. The art world is no stranger to large investments and even larger returns—just last year, a rabbit sculpture by Jeff Koons was sold at a whopping US$91.1 million, making it the most expensive artwork ever sold by a living artist. However, investing in art comes with its own risks and is tricky to navigate without pre-existing knowledge.
In order to understand which artworks can guarantee big returns, thorough research and knowledge about art history and art movements are key. Most of the valuable paintings would come from deceased artists with finite pieces of art—to get your hands on these in the top art galleries, investors would have to start on an upward starting price of US$10,000. Although, you can also start from as low as US$500 to US$1,000 for up-and-coming or undiscovered artists. If you have a particularly good eye, you might be able to discover the next Picasso in the making. At the end of the day, the main reason that should trump all others when investing in fine arts is your own personal enjoyment of the piece. Even if the artwork does not appreciate as much as you’d like overtime, at least you can still enjoy the piece for yourself.
Wine

If you’re an avid wine drinker, then it’s possible (and easy) to turn your evening hobby into a possible investment strategy. The phrase “age like fine wine” didn’t come out of nowhere—wine is not only a tangible asset, but it has proven to have one of the best performing major financial index over the last two decades. Fine wine returns become less volatile the longer one holds it for, reaching an average of 7.73 per cent returns after five years.
However, much like any other investment, research is absolutely key. Before putting money in the fancy liquids, you need to know which regions are particularly popular and sought after—for example, Bordeaux and Piedmont in France are in high demand. Buying a crate of fine wine will also generally yield better returns than a single bottle. And don’t forget that proper storage of these wines is essential. To be a proper investor in fine wine, you will need a temperature-controlled room to keep all the wine cool, which will incur additional costs—wine connoisseurs are notoriously picky and will know if the wine has not been kept properly.
Song royalties

Did you know you could also invest in your favourite tunes? Imagine listening to a hit on the radio and knowing you also had a small right to it. Over the past decade, song royalties have been gaining popularity as a way for people to invest outside of traditional stocks. Companies such as The Hipgnosis Song Fund went public on the London Stock Exchange last year and offers investors pure-play exposure—in other words, investors get a drop of the dime every time the song is played on the airwaves which includes hits such as Justin Bieber’s ‘What Do You Mean’ and The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey’s ‘Closer’.
Song royalties do seem to be an evergreen investment, providing passive income without doing much—after all, even if the economy is in recession, people will always be listening to music. Make sure you research on which artists can yield the most returns and will remain relevant for many years to come.
Lego

Bet you didn’t know a kid’s favourite toy could actually turn into an investment piece. Lego has become a fun alternative investment stream due to its collectability and rarity amongst buyers. While 36,000 bricks are being moulded every second in their factories in Denmark, Lego sets are actually only in production for one to two years before they go into ‘retirement’. Therefore, anytime a Lego set goes off the shelves, the prices often skyrocket as it would be harder to get their hands on them in stores.
Licensed properties such as Lego Star Wars tend to do very well as with Lego-themed sets such as Lego City and Lego Architecture. In fact, the US$499.99 Millennium Falcon from 2007 now currently sells for around US$1,500, which is basically a 200 per cent return. So before you throw out that prickly brick because you’ve painfully stepped on one (yet again), consider if it would be worth keeping them (out of harm’s way) as an investment.
Antique cars

It’s well-known that luxury vintage cars can produce large investment returns. There’s just something about the look and feel of a vintage car that has driven lived through the nostalgic yesteryears. Contrary to popular belief, investors of vintage cars do not leave their automobiles in garages to sit and collect dust. Unlike the bottle of whisky that loses its value the minute it’s opened, a vintage car does not lose its collectible status even when it is being used—most collectors are enthusiastic car lovers who enjoy driving and working on them.
Ferraris tend to be popular choices for investors and collectors due to its consistent track record of winning races. According to Dietrich Hatlapa, founder of the Historic Automobile Group International, Ferrari accounted for “57 per cent of all cars sold at auction for over US$5 million (A$7.4 million)”, with Porsche (10 per cent) and Mercedes-Benz (9 per cent) behind by an impressive margin. If you are thinking of investing in vintage cars, try attending classic car events or even join a classic car club for advice and helpful information.

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Fashion
Embracing powerful pink for International Women’s Day
Girl power

08.03.2017
By Buro247

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Say pink and breast cancer awareness, Barbie doll boxes and tulle ballerina skirts spring to mind. Well, it is no surprise why—after all, the colour pink is assigned to be the “fairer” sex upon birth and has always been attributed with girly-ness. There was once a time where wearing pink is synonymous to being demure and conventional. However, in recent years, the colour is all grown up. In an era of feminism, pink is unapologetic, frank and boldly present. Just recently, crowds of women donned pink “pussyhats” in a show of empowerment and a stand against President Donald Trump. It was not just for women’s rights, they voiced support for immigrants’ rights, health care, Black Lives Matter and education, amongst other causes. Pink is a symbol of power.
On the other side of the pink spectrum, a progressive take on the colour has also emerged, dubbed as “millennial pink”. You have seen this colour explosion all over Tumblr, beauty product packaging like Glossier and in pretty flatlays on Pinterest-it is the pink that is, well, not exactly pink. Unlike the oversaturated pink we have known for decades, the colour varies from a salmon shade to soft blush nudes. Otherwise, you may recognise the dusty pink colour, ‘Rose Quartz’ as Pantone’s colour of the year for 2016. The diffusion of this colour in pop culture is apparent: Lady Gaga flaunts it on the cover of her newest album, Joanne, Solange dons it all throughout her video for ‘Cranes in the Sky’ and transgender model, Hari Nef cloaked in the colour on the cover of Globe Magazine.
Besides the fact that pink is the colour to rock in 2017, the colour is no longer a ladylike cliché and shapes a girl power revolution. Hence, all the more reasons to wear the colour on International Women’s Day, or any other day for that matter. We look to the streets for style inspiration, so go ahead and scroll through our gallery and gain some ideas on how you can wear the colour pink with pride (and in style):
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Power pink street style” rid=”4893″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Culture
Ramadan 2020: 13 Hilarious memes every Muslim can relate to

26.04.2020
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Firstly, we’d like to join habibi Spongebob in wishing everyone a happy Ramadan.

Ah yes, the true meaning of Ramadan

Text talk just got an upgrade

The family chat is relentless

4am Sahur brings out the worst in some

This is a mood

Prayers are one of the five pillars of Islam, ya know?

It just feels personal

Turns out, your stomach shrinks when you don’t eat for a whole day :/

A far too familiar conversation…

We were just practising, okay!?

Even the non-muslims out here feeling some kind of way

On that note: Selamat Berpuasa everyone! Granted, this year’s Ramadan proceedings are bound to be a little odd, but there’s no reason we can’t make the best of it! For some nifty tips and tricks to make your fasting experience easier, here are some quick Sahur meals and some useful tips on staying hydrated throughout the day.

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Technology
BURO Gadget Guide: 5 New tech gadget launches in September 2021

22.09.2021
By Natalie Khoo

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This month, we’re served with a rounded list which includes a home cleaning appliance, a sound bar, an action camera, a tablet, and a pair of earphones. ICYMI, Apple and Samsung have also recently announced a slew of new launches which you can read all about in our Apple Event coverage here and Galaxy Unpacked coverage here. By the looks of it, the top tech giants have more exciting gadgets in store for the rest of 2021 too. In the meantime, however, here are the latest tech gadgets to consider investing in for September 2021.
1. Dyson V12 Detect Slim

Dyson has upgraded its already category-leading vacuums yet again, though we’re not complaining (especially after the WFH life we’ve gotten used to). Its latest Dyson V12 Detect Slim debuts as the brand’s first vacuum clear with laser detect technology that reveals dust particles invisible to the naked eye. The laser dust detection features a precisely-angled green laser that’s integrated into the Fluffy cleaner head so users don’t miss a thing while cleaning.
With the Acoustic Dust Sensing function, the LCD screen shows the size and number of particles to provide a real-time reflection of microscopic dust particles, then automatically adjusts suction power to suit different surface types and dust amounts. In addition, there’s a new anti-tangle hair screw tool that efficiently clears hairs precisely, even in small spaces.
Price: RM2,999
Availability: From 24 August 2021 at dyson.my, Dyson Demo stores at The Gardens Mall and Mid Valley Southkey, and the Dyson Service Centre & Store in TTDI
For more information or to purchase, visit the official website.
2. Sonos Beam

Sonos has unveiled the latest version of its industry-leading compact smart soundbar, the Beam. The second-generation Beam features an updated polycarbonate grille that’s precisely perforated to deliver greater sound quality while blending seamlessly with your home setup. The size is retained, but it now boasts a 40 per cent faster chip with two new audio paths for an improved virtual surround sound.
The immersive experience is further enhanced by the 3D Audio with Dolby Atmos, which allows users to experience planes as if they’re flying overhead and hear footsteps moving across the room. Users can easily control sound via the Sonos app, or via a TV remote, supported voice assistants, Apple AirPlay 2, music service apps, and more.
To do its part for the environment, Sonos has housed the new Beam in sustainable packaging, including a premium uncoated kraft paper, a gift box made of 97% sustainable paper, and no single-use foam.
Price: RM2,699
Availability: Pre-orders open from trysonos.my, Harvey Norman,  Lazada and Flash Gadget from 14 September 2021 and will arrive in-store starting 6 October 2021
For more information, visit the official website.
3. GoPro Hero 10 Black

For the adventure seekers, check out GoPro’s latest flagship camera, the Hero10 Black, which boasts a new high-performance GP2 processor. The powerful chip claims to deliver two times faster video frame rates to capture life-like 5.3K videos at 60 frames per second, 4K videos at 120 frames per second, and 2.7K video at an impressive 240 frames per second. This upgraded processor also enables the HyperSmooth 4.0 video stablisation, to deliver the “smoothest shake-free video you’ve ever seen from any camera.”
It features a higher resolution 23.6MP sensor and improved video algorithms featuring local tone mapping (LTM) and 3D noise reduction (3DNR) to capture finer details, even in low-light. Users can also access content easily while on the go with the new USB wired offload option that’s 50 per cent faster than wireless connections, as well as upload footage to cloud while charging for later access.
Price: RM2,399
Availability: From late September 2021 at select retailers around Malaysia
For more information, visit the official website.
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE

Not long after introducing a slew of new launches at the Galaxy Unpacked 2021 event, Samsung announced another addition to its tablet lineup in the form of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE. It comes with a large 12.4-inch display and S Pen support for better productivity and multi-tasking. The fan-edition tablet also comes with a 8MP rear camera and 8MP front camera, as well as dual speakers with Dolby Atmos surround sound for an immersive experience.
To allow users to enjoy a smooth performance, it is equipped with a Snapdragon 778G chipset with 4+64GB or 6+128GB of memory and up to 1TB of additional storage via a microSD card. Equipped with a 10,090mAh battery, it offers up to 13 hours of continuous video playback and takes only 90 minutes to get back a full charge with 45W Super Fast Charging support. It comes in three colours for the Malaysian market: Mystic Black, Mystic Silver, and Mystic Pink.
Price: From RM1,899 (4+64GB variant)
Availability: From 17 September onwards from samsung.com
For more information or to purchase, visit this website.
[READ: I spent two weeks with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G—here’s my review]
5. Jabra Elite 3

Jabra has unveiled the new Jabra Elite 3 for those who are looking for a rich sound, powerful bass, and clear calls without necessarily boasting top-class features. These earbuds are engineered to offer exceptional sound quality via its 6mm speakers, accompanied by noise isolation with the HearThrough feature.
It is equipped with a 4-microphone call technology, Qualcomm aptXTM HD audio, and class-leading music equaliser that helps to deliver crystal clear calls. Battery life is rated at seven hours, or a total of 28 hours with the charging case. In terms of design, it’s carefully built to ensure a comfortable yet secure fit with a sleek Danish design and comes in four trendy colours: Dark Grey, Navy, Lilac, and Light Beige.
Price: RM389
Availability: From September onwards at selected retailers at and Jabra’s official e-stores on Lazada and Shopee
For more information or to purchase, visit this website.
Keep up to date on the latest tech gadget launches in our monthly BURO Gadget Guide here.

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Fashion
Watch the Dior Cruise 2017 livestream here
A royal affair

30.05.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

It’s Cruise 2017 season and we’re all awaiting with bated breaths to see what Dior has lined up for us this time around. This year, the maison returns to the charming, historical Blenheim Palace, a beautiful country house located in Oxfordshire, England, also the birthplace of Winston Churchill and the home of the Duke of Marlborough. Dior has had a long history with Blenheim Palace, having previously shown collections there in 1954 and 1958 respectively.

Here’s a teaser of what to expect from this year’s Cruise 2017 show:

Tune in to the livestream of the show on June 1, Wednesday at 1am below:

Related stories:
Rihanna for Dior Eyewear: The perfect accessory to have this summer
Dior finally restores its founder’s home in Grasse

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Style
London Fashion Week SS22: Emerging designers to watch out for

17.09.2021
By Kelly Lim

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The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

London Fashion Week returns today, with plenty of designers set to showcase their (entirely gender-neutral) Spring/Summer 2022 collections via a mix of physical shows and digital presentations. Alongside a cast of British stalwarts, including Simone Rocha, Erdem, Matty Bovan, Richard Quinn and Vivienne Westwood, a multitude of burgeoning brands will also be taking to the catwalks from September 17 to 21––some for the first time, while others in the newly minted show space by TikTok, who’s also an official partner of the British Fashion Council’s NewGen programme this season.
So who to watch and what do we need to know about them? With so much incredible British talent on display, we’ve rounded up the top designers everyone will be talking about at London Fashion Week SS22:
Edward Crutchley
When: Friday, September 17 at 8pm Malaysia time

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Having worked under Kim Jones for a decade (during his tenures at Louis Vuitton and Dior Hommes), Edward Crutchley creates clothes that are intelligent, impeccably crafted and a reflection of true contemporary luxury. Alongside collaborations with Louis Vuitton, Kanye West and Pringle, the British designer was awarded the ‘Innovator’ and ‘Menswear’ awards at the prestigious International Woolmark Prize in 2019. His AW21 collection was a homage to his Northern roots and the characters of his childhood in Yorkshire––think cashmere-blend tracksuits and jacquard donkey jackets paired with animal-shaped clutches, the latter crafted by iconic accessories designer Judith Leiber.
Nensi Dojaka
When: Friday, September 17 at 11pm Malaysia time

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As the 2021 recipient of the prestigious LVMH award for emerging talent, Albanian designer Nensi Dojaka’s runway debut is one of the most highly anticipated shows in London this season. Her fresh take on modern femininity fuses ’90s aesthetics with sheer fabrics, deconstructed panels and asymmetrical shapes––seen on the likes of Bella Hadid and Dua Lipa––to create pieces that are elegant, sexy and empowering. It’s no wonder that her signature mini-dresses have been hailed as the most coveted LBDs of the year––there’s no better way to do revenge dressing than in her strappy, delicately layered garments.
Yuhan Wang
When: Saturday, September 18 at 6pm Malaysia time

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If you’re keen on whimsical elegance and silky floral fabrics that play on proportion and layering, Yuhan Wang is the answer. Since launching her eponymous brand in 2018, the Chinese designer has gained worldwide attention for her celebrations of femininity under the lens of romantic nostalgia. Her collections are gracefully rebellious in the way that it subversively deconstructs traditional notions of female fragility and sensibility to explore the relationship between Chinese traditions of femininity and Western culture. Inspired by the cultural backdrop of Tang Dynasty landscapes, her recent Autumn/Winter 2021 collection presented fantastical, nature-embossed watercolour prints across signature draped dresses and ruched tailoring, photographed on a cast of mothers, daughters and girlfriends.
KNWLS
When: Saturday, September 18 at 11pm Malaysia time

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Fashion
On show: Underwear inspired looks to wear now
Inside out

05.08.2015
By Buro247

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

One thing’s for certain, you’ll never be caught underdressed—as garments intended to be hidden can very well double up as alluring visible elements if approached in a sensible manner.

Slinky slips

Conventionally meant for the fanciest of sleepers, slip dresses now denote a second-day glamour that’s totally doable for a night out. All you have to do—as indicated by Ashish, Prabal Gurung and Louis Vuitton, is throw on an oversized jacket, or accent with accessories not meant for the boudoir and voilà, sultry appeal is neutralized.

Bodysuits

This one’s a no-brainer (just pair it with a high-waisted bottom) and as Narciso Rodriguez demonstrates, a nude onesie goes surprisingly well with flared trousers in pastel orange. The one thing to keep in mind: if you feel too exposed, layering always does the trick, so you can always opt to wear a blazer or sheer knit on top for a peekaboo effect.

Bustiers

Validate a lacy bustier to be eveningwear-appropriate by pairing it with a floor-sweeping ball skirt (style cue: Oscar de la Renta) to create an air of romanticism.  The key is in complementing the risqué bodice by toning it down with a high-waist and full-length bottom.

Waist corsets

Flaunt your svelte figure with the outré-bravado of a waist-defining corset like Givenchy’s to give off a sultry appeal to an otherwise no-nonsense pantsuit. We don’t recommend this as office-appropriate, but we suggest pushing the envelope as this will work its va-va-voom wonders at a cocktail party. Dare to bare!

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Travel
3D2N Road trip: Adventures and adrenaline in Penang
#hungryforadventure

20.06.2016
By Rachel Au

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Guide to ETIAS: The new travel pass for Malaysians visiting Europe

Everyone knows that Penang is a treasure trove of good food, heritage buildings, rich culture and Insta-worthy graffiti art—to name a few. But few knows of an adrenaline-filled itinerary that the popular island has to offer. To match the dynamic power and active lifestyle that the new Mercedes-Benz GLE represents, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia took us on a 3-day adrenaline road trip in the full-sized luxury SUV to discover some of the most exciting adventure activities you can do in Malaysia.

Day 1
With a long day ahead of us, we gathered early at the meeting point in Publika for the final preparations, quick introductions and most importantly, breakfast at Plan B. Joining us along for the road trip were local personalities Yasmin Hani and Sha’arin Razali as well as Vincent Ho, who is the Managing Director of Kimarie Salons & Academy.

It was three to a car and even with three luggages, there was still plenty of space in the boot of the GLE, and equally so in the cabin space. As we got ourselves comfortable in the leather seats, we set the built-in GPS to our first stop in Gopeng and we were ready to convoy out of Publika.

The weather was perfect and with the smooth traffic on the highway, we tested two of the GLE’s Dynamic Select driving modes. In Sport mode, the driver is given more free rein of the steering wheel to manoeuvre around corners but this also makes for a slightly bumpier ride due to its pre-set suspension settings. Comfort is my preferred choice simply because it does everything right for me—it’s the ultimate auto of the auto mode, and for long road trips, it’s literally the most comfortable setting.

Almost two hours later, we arrived at Nomad Adventure Earth Camp in Gopeng for the first adventure activity—white water rafting. Prior to this trip, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia made a pitstop here too where they tried outdoor rock climbing as part of their GLC endurance-themed 3D2N road trip. It’s definitely one of the best places to try out various outdoor activities as you can also camp overnight there.

A video posted by Buro 24/7 Malaysia (@buro247malaysia) on May 26, 2016 at 4:27am PDT

After you ‘suit up’ in their helmets and life jackets, it was a 30-minute truck ride to the top of the river where we white water rafted our way back down. The experience on that day was a little on the mild side as the currents were slower than usual, but fun nonetheless. And it did work up quite the appetite and we wouldn’t settle for anything less than Penang food so it was back to the car and the #hungryforadventure journey became more like #hungry.

It took another two hours to reach the famous Lorong Selamat Char Koay Teow shop from Gopeng but it was worth it. The aunty here serves a decent helping of char koay teow with the best part being the big and juicy prawns. The rojak is pretty good too. With our bellies filled, it was time to check in to our home for the next two nights: Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa.

A photo posted by Rachel Au (@currynana) on May 29, 2016 at 12:51am PDT

Day 2
The itinerary for the day revolved mostly around the hotel, specifically the beach. The first half of the day was flyboarding, or as some of us kept joking, ‘being Ironman’. From the same people who provide this water sport activity in Putrajaya, they brought their gear to Penang just for our trip. But with the sea’s rougher currents, the instructor mentioned that it wouldn’t be as easy for beginners. Well, challenge accepted; and to the surprise of most of us, we all managed to elevate ourselves at least two to three metres above sea level. Tip: Make sure your helmets and footgear are secured tightly as you will fall smack into the ocean several times and it could hurt in the process.

Then, it was lunch and a short break, which was spent leisurely at the hotel with walks by the beach and just relaxing by the pool. Even adrenaline junkies need a time out. The second highlight of the day was jet-skiing, which after flyboarding, wasn’t much of a challenge.

As the evening came around, we headed to the Mercedes-Benz Georgetown Showroom for the launch of the C-Class Coupé. Driving down the narrow and curved roads of Batu Feringgi, the GLE proved to be a master at sharp turns with no hesitations in its power and speed—no doubt a feat partially managed by the 400 4MATIC’s seven-speed 7G TRONIC automatic transmission. It was also a good way to test out the SUV’s multiple driving assistance systems. The Active Blind Spot Assist, for example, came in useful when switching lanes in Georgetown’s busy traffic. A small bulb on the outer rims of the side mirrors will light up in orange if it detects any vehicles or motorbikes coming from the back.

Day 3
It was the last day and no one was excited to leave. However, no one was excited to wake up early and meet in the lobby by 7.30am either. Our last adventure started at the foot of Penang Hill where we ran to the top—or at least, attempted to since it was mostly brisk walking and then calling for backup (read: car). Still, the gorgeous surroundings of nature and the refreshing cool air were more than welcomed. We took some photos (Instagram is always a priority during an adventure) and headed back to the hotel.

Lunch was at the famous China House, known for its vintage decor and wide variety of cakes. I’ll be honest that while the menu was interesting and the food was pretty decent, the service is a tad slow. But it could also be because we went during peak hours.

The drive back to KL was a satisfying one. Traffic was great, considering we left sometime between 3pm and 4pm, but above all, the Mercedes-Benz GLE truly offers a luxurious kind of comfort—for both the passenger and driver.

Related stories:
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launches a premium SUV range
3D2N Road trip: This is one for the adrenaline junkies
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launches the new E-Class

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Lifestyle
Now at Palais Royal: ‘Self’, a project by Saint Laurent

10.11.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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

After his much-talked about collection debut for Saint Laurent in Paris, Anthony Vaccarello blazes on with an off-runway project titled Self, now showing at the Palais Royal for one weekend only in conjunction with Paris Photo. Curated by Vaccarello, Self is an art series that captures the many facets of the Saint Laurent personality through the eyes of different artists. An artistic commentary on society, it represents the freedom of self-expression without censorship — which is very much in line with the House’s core values.
The first of the series, dubbed Self 01, features the works of Daidō Moriyama, a prominent Japanese photographer known for his black-and-white images depicting the breakdown of traditional values in his country post-war. If you happen to be in the City of Light this weekend, catch the exhibition in the Galerie d’Orléans courtyard in front of Palais Royal. If not, here’s a glimpse of what’s on show:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] YSL Self” rid=”6716″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Self by Saint Laurent will run until 11 November at Palais Royal, Paris.

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Lifestyle
7 Things you can do this weekend: 31 March—1 April 2018
Hoppy April Fool’s Day!

28.03.2018
By Buro247

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

1. Easter Sunday Brunch at The Brasserie @ The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, 1 April
Make Easter a fun-filled family affair as The Brasserie whips up a series of signature traditional Easter dishes like Ricotta & Pepper Frittata from Italy, Baked Eggs from the UK and Chervil Soup from Germany. As for the kids, the Easter Egg Hunt around the hotel as well as the Easter Egg Painting Masterclass and Easter Egg Rolling sessions will surely keep them entertained (and busy).
RM568 nett per person with free-flowing alcohol; RM368 nett per person with free flow of non-alcoholic beverage. Children below the age of 12 dine at half price whereas children below five dine for free.
For more info or to make a reservation, call 03 2727 6696 or email [email protected].

2. Mozart in Prague at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, 30 Mar – 31 Mar, 8.30pm

Australian conductor Benjamin Northey is returning to lead the concerts this weekend. Malaysian pianist Loo Bang Hean will be alongside him, playing musical pieces from Beethoven and Mozart. Whether you’re a fan of classical music or merely looking for a special date night activity, do not miss this opportunity to hear the symphonic masterpieces written by some of the greatest musicians of all time.
Tickets are priced from RM60 to RM150. For more info, visit the event page.

3. Q Sound at No Black Tie, 31 March, 10pm

Get jazzy with your loved ones this Saturday night. Known for having sold-out performances, New Yorker Marques Young, now based in Kuala Lumpur, is set to perform that night.
Admission fee is RM53 per person. For reservations, contact No Black Tie at 03 2142 3737 after 5pm or email [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit their website.

4. Easter Sunday Brunch at Drift Dining and Bar, 1 Apr, 12pm – 4pm
Easter is this Sunday and one of the places celebrating it is Drift Dining and Bar with an Easter Sunday Brunch. They will have a special menu for the occasion featuring mouth-watering dishes such as fresh oysters, roasted chicken, cheesecake and more. The kids will also enjoy the bouncy castle set up for the day.
For more info, visit their event page.

5. Laugh Out Loud at Jaya One, 31 Mar – 1 Apr, 11am – 7pm
It’s also April Fool’s Day this Sunday and Makers & Co, in collaboration with Sun Day Out, will be hosting a fun-tastic weekend for everyone to enjoy. There will be an arts and crafts bazaar, a stand-up comedy lineup, a kitten adoption drive, workshops and more.
For more info, visit the event page.

6. MAP Fest 2018 at Publika, 24 March – 22 April
MAP Fest is a month-long festival featuring showcases and exhibitions of arts and culture along with a variety of fun activities and acts for people of all ages. This year’s edition of the art festival is held in conjunction with the mall’s annual Eco Month campaign to help spread the awareness on conserving Mother Earth.
For more info on the schedule of the festival, visit the event page.

7. Inaugural World Reverse Cancer Day at APW Bangsar, 31 Mar – 2 Apr
Witness the launch of the first-ever World Reverse Cancer Day (2 April) here in Malaysia. It’s the reversed date of World Cancer Day which takes place annually on 2 February. Check out the event to support Cancer Research Malaysia’s efforts in spreading awareness that reversible cancer is possible. There will also be food vendors, merchandise, educational talks on cancer and more.
For more info, visit the event page.

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Watches
The 13 hoop earrings that are perfect for all occasions

14.08.2020
By BURO London

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Earrings have literally been a thing since the dawn of civilisation. Who knows, perhaps Eve herself was wearing a pair of oversized hoop earrings when she ate the forbidden fruit and thus established Hoop Earring Theory (‘the bigger the hoop, the bigger the hoe’) alongside all other forms of misogyny.
More memorable than studs, but less ostentatious than statement earrings, hoop earrings—particularly gold ones—are probably (if you like using this sort of language) the most essential piece of jewellery you can own. This of course excludes anything resembling a medical ID bracelet.
While hoop earrings can be anything from small to large or something to something else, their appeal is universal—you just have to find a personally perfect pair to realise it.
Below, the 13 picks that are worth the investment:

Pavé Link diamond & 18-karat gold hoop earrings, Shay

Florentine 18-karat white gold hoop earrings, Carolina Bucci

18-karat rose gold diamond hoop earrings, Diane Kordas

Diamond bar hoop earrings, Diane Kordas

18-karat rose gold diamond hoop earrings, Mattia Cielo

Organza 18-karat yellow gold hoop earrings, Annoushka

Gumball Akoya pearl and 18-karat gold hoop earrings, Irene Neuwirth

Ara diamond pavé & 18-karat gold hoop earrings, Spinelli Kilcollin

Pearl & 14-karat gold hoop earrings, Mizuki

Diamond, topaz & 14-karat gold hoop earrings, Suzanne Kalan

The Etruscan Reminder 24-karat gold-plated hoop earrings, Alighieri

Mercy open-ear hoops, Georg Jensen

Cablespira 18-karat yellow gold hoop earrings, David Yurman

This article was first published on BURO London. Minor edits have been made.

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Travel
Buro’s City Guide to Kyoto: Where to stay, eat, and go
Spirited away

24.10.2017
By Rachel Au

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Guide to ETIAS: The new travel pass for Malaysians visiting Europe

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan. It was once where the emperor resided. Because it was so for over 1,000 years, the Kyoto of today is sometimes referred to as the thousand-year capital. It is here where history and traditions have been preserved but modernity is also subtly present. It is here where the colours of Japan are strikingly painted across the city. From the blazing gold of Kinkakuji temple to the burning red of the Fushimi Inari shrine to the evergreen of Sagano Bamboo Forest, Kyoto is a wonderful dream no one would want to wake up from.

WHERE TO STAY
As Japan’s seventh largest city, Kyoto is a city aplenty with sites of interest spread far and near. Whether you choose to walk (the best way to enjoy any city in Japan), take the speedy and efficient public transportation, or go by cab (the fastest way), travel time needs to be factored into your itinerary. Or you can split your stays.

Arashiyama, where the famed Sagano Bamboo Forest is located, is worth an overnight trip and there, you can choose to spend a night at Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel. You can read our review of the hotel, along with things to do in Arashiyama, here.

Back in the city centre, there’s Four Seasons Kyoto (good job, Chryseis Tan!) with the picture-perfect Kiyomizu-dera within walking distance and bustling Gion just ten minutes away by car. You can also read our hotel review, along with a mini guide of the area, here.

If you prefer to stay in the city centre itself, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is set just along the banks of the Kamogawa river, which runs along Gion, and next to the shopping district. This doesn’t mean the scenery from your room is limited to either the cityscape or the river as the hotel also features Zen gardens and water features as well as panoramic views of the Higashiyama Mountain.

WHERE TO EAT

Japan as a whole is a foodie’s paradise. It’s no match even for the Michelin guide with Tokyo holding the record for most Michelin-starred restaurants (227 to be exact) for 2017. Even Kyoto beats Paris’ record of 92 and Osaka’s 91. According to this year’s Michelin guide, the ancient imperial capital houses 96 restaurants with stars. Two notable mentions are Ifuki and Noguchi who both moved up from a previous one star distinction to two stars.

Ifuki focuses on seasonal Kyoto ingredients, specialising in kaiseki cuisine and grilled items are done over an open flame. Every dish features balanced and composed flavours, leaving no room for judgement but only pleasure on the palate. Noguchi in the Kamigyo area, on the other hand, approaches his way with food in a more homely manner yet still maintaining a refined and elegant character. Sake lovers will particularly enjoy his dishes.

With kaiseki cuisine out of the way, botan nabe is another must-try dish when in Kyoto. The traditional boar-based dish is widely popular throughout Japan but it’s Hatakaku in this city where you must try it. The dish was invented by its former owner and thus the restaurant serves the original recipe and it’s arranged in a beautiful flower shape.

For local street food and the freshest sashimi cuts, explore Nishiki Market for a bit of everything. Or actually, it’s a street filled with over 100 food stands and restaurants. Prices here are affordable and you can get some shopping done at the same, for both food and non-food items.

WHERE TO GO

We can start an entire guidebook if we were to list our favourites but we’ll save that for another time (a legit Buro City Guide book sounds like the dream). We’ve mentioned the Bamboo Forest, the Golden Temple (Kinkakuji), Fushimi Inari Shrine and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple—all of which should be on your priority list. If you have time for more cultural sites, stop by the Kyoto Imperial Palace where it was the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when both the emperor and capital moved to Tokyo. It holds a long history, maintaining most of the architecture, and hosts a few historic sites and gardens within it.

The Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto and best visited in July for its Gion Matsuri, the most famous festival in Japan. It dates back to over a thousand years and features a procession with massive floats and hundreds of participants. But otherwise, it’s a lovely place to visit for a burst of culture and at night, it’s lit up with hundreds of lanterns by the dance stage. If you visit during the cherry blossom season, you can adjourn to the adjacent Maruyama Park, which is one of the most popular spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in Kyoto.

Minimalists would enjoy the Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is especially popular for its surviving kare-sansui (dry landscape) garden. Essentially, it’s a refined type of Zen garden featuring large rock formations arranged over a field of smooth pebbles and sand. It’s a form of abstract art as well as a means to incite meditation. The history behind the temple and how the garden is formed is also enough to intrigue curiosity.

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Food + Drink
Experience fine dining with Michelin Star chef Francisco Araya at The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur
A seafood culinary odyssey

07.03.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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Review: Sky35 KL presents an omakase experience plated on Hermès finery

Yesterday, The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur kicked off its Guest Chef Dinner Series 2018 at The Library with Chilean award-winning Chef Francisco Araya. From 6 to 10 March, Chef Francisco will be showcasing an exciting seven-course degustation menu, tantalising taste buds with his brand of modern European cuisine that has seafood at its heart.

While Chef Francisco is currently based in Shanghai at NAPA Wine Bar & Kitchen, his vast experience in the industry has seen him with stints all over the world, from his native Chile to Tokyo, where he was awarded one Michelin star at 81 Restaurant. He also spent a season at three Michelin-starred and five-time World’s Best Restaurant elBulli in Spain.

This translates into a menu with a medley of flavours and influences. The (fresh) seafood odyssey opens with an amuse-bouche of crispy scallop and herbs, smoked celeriac hen egg, tomato, shrimp and watermelon, as well as beetroot tartelette. Then come the mains; among our favourites are an Asian-inspired dish of scallop ceviche served with ginger and cilantro, oyster topped with caviar, as well as a beautifully done shrimp dish that comes with yuba (tofu skin), caramelised onion and dill.

Chef Francisco also includes a Malaysian spin on the menu with a dessert of pandan ice cream, financier, raspberry crisps and jelly made with dessert wine, ending the sumptuous meal on a sweet note.

The seven-course dinner menu is available until 10 March 2018 from 7pm until 11pm, priced at RM350 per person. For reservations and enquiries, call 03 2142 8000 or email [email protected].

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Lifestyle
Clean Bandit to perform in KL for Urbanscapes 2017
First phase announcement

01.03.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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

Malaysia’s longest-running creative arts festival is back for its 15th year! This time, the city of Kuala Lumpur will once again play festival site for Urbanscapes, which spans over three weekends from 5 to 21 May. And like last year, much fun will transpire at 2 Hang Kasturi as Urbanscapes House returns to set up shop at the historic building. The Bee Publika, too, will host several intimate shows.

Headlining the first phase of the Urbanscapes musical lineup is British electronic music outfit Clean Bandit, who will take the stage at KL Live on 18 May. Performing for the first time on our shores, the trio is sure to get you up on your feet with their brand of classical-meets-electronic dance music.

Meanwhile, Danish progressive rock band Mew will play at KL Live on 10 May, supported by The Trees & The While from Indonesia. Other international acts include TTNG, Mylets and Stars and Rabbits. On the local lineup for now is The Venopian Solitude, with more acts to be announced.

Stay tuned, as tickets go on sale on 10 March, with more acts to join the lineup. For more information, visit urbanscapes.com.my.

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Watches
Introducing Montblanc Malaysia’s first Friend of the Brand: Lawrence Wong

30.08.2018
By Joan Kong

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

After years of working with the brand, Montblanc Malaysia has announced its first Friend of the Brand, and it’s none other than actor Lawrence Wong. Born in Malaysia, the 30-year-old star has acted in Singapore and Thailand, and has ventured into the China market the past two years. He recently starred in the hottest Chinese drama at the moment—the Story of Yanxi Palace, and will be appearing in two more series in China—Love and Passion, and One Boat, One World.
In a statement released by the brand, the President of Montblanc Southeast Asia says, “Lawrence is without a doubt an ideal personality for Montblanc. We recognise his consistent association with the Maison since 2014, translating and reflecting the brand values to create genuine emotional connection with the target audiences.” The actor had nothing but praises for the brand as well, saying he has always admired the brand’s craftsmanship, innovation and style, which are a reflection of Montblanc’s commitment in delivering the best luxury accessories, be it the iconic writing instruments, watches or leather goods.

For more pictures, scroll through below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Lawrence Wong Montblanc” rid=”6476″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Fashion
Who is Mindy Kaling calling a closeted bling-loving Indian woman?
Merrymaking

21.11.2017
By Buro247

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

They were great!
About six years ago, Mindy Kaling tweeted, “”I love you Tory Burch, you closeted bling-loving Indian woman you.” And instead of fuelling a full-fledged media feud, it sparked a beautiful friendship (Look at the size of that gift box! You don’t give someone you don’t like a box that big).
This festive season, to spread some Christmas cheer, Mindy Kaling—actor, writer, producer, and director—gives us a lesson on the art of (re)gifting. From a Tory Sport Peace Sweatshirt and Ruffle Sneakers to a Tory Burch McGraw Tote and earrings from the Kenneth Jay Lane for Tory Burch capsule, there’s something for everyone on Mindy’s list. They might all be things Tory’s picked out just for her but considering how tight these two are, we’re sure Tory understands. At least she kept the Tory Burch Foundation Seed Box (a curation of products that support and benefit women entrepreneurs)!
Here’s a look at “A Very Merry Mindy,” a holiday video by Tory Burch about gifting and regifting:

Discover what else Tory Burch has to offer at toryburch.com.

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Travel
10 Best parks to visit around the Klang Valley, from Titiwangsa to Shah Alam

01.10.2021
By Natalie Khoo

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Guide to ETIAS: The new travel pass for Malaysians visiting Europe

After being cooped up at home for far too long, it’s needless to say that many of us Malaysians have been itching to stretch our legs outdoors. Besides eating out at cafes and restaurants with al fresco dining spaces (for those of us who aren’t quite ready for enclosed dine-ins yet) or booking a flight to Langkawi, some have taken to visit beaches, forests, and other nature attractions for a breath of fresh air.
Whether you’re planning to go for a walk, run, cycle, or have a picnic, here’s a list of the best public parks to visit around the Klang Valley along with the facilities and activities they offer.
Perdana Botanical Gardens

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Formerly known as Taman Tasik Perdana or Lake Gardens, Perdana Botanical Gardens is Kuala Lumpur’s first large-scale recreational park. It is located in the Heritage Park of Kuala Lumpur within the heart of the city, offering a lush respite for urbanites around the area. Spanning 91.6 hectares, it features various walking trails, a man-made lake, and a boathouse. Among its other attractions include a Hibiscus Garden, a Sunken Garden, a Bamboo Playhouse (temporarily closed), and Laman Perdana—the main square that’s ideal for gatherings.

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Popular activities: Running, cycling, picnics, skateboarding, rollerblading
Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Shah Alam Lake Gardens

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Dubbed as the green lung of Selangor’s state capital, Shah Alam Lake Gardens is an expansive parkland designed by renowned landscape architect Fumiaki Takano. It was the first public park to open in Selangor in 1985 and remains a commonly visited attraction until today. There are three man-made lakes (Central, East, and West) in the park, complete with gazebos, a lakeside promenade, overwater walkways, reflexology paths, children’s playgrounds, as well as jogging and cycling trails. Activities such as kayaking and ziplining are also available.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, kayaking, ziplining (flying fox)
Address: Persiaran Tasek, Seksyen 14, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor
Taman Rekreasi Bukit Jalil

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Bukit Jalil Park or Taman Rekreasi Bukit Jalil is another scenic recreational park that’s situated about 20km away from the city centre. One of its main highlights is the International Garden, featuring 10 distinctive landscapes inspired by England, Netherlands, China, Japan, and other countries around the globe. Other facilities include walking and cycling trails, manmade lakes, exercise stations, a children’s playground (temporarily closed), a reflexology path, a heliconia garden, and a dedicated area for the disabled.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, picnics, photography
Address: Jalan 13/155c, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur
TTDI Park/Bukit Kiara Federal Park

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Not to be confused with the neighbouring Taman Rimba Kiara, which is managed by DBKL, Bukit Kiara Federal Park is wholly managed by the National Landscape Department (JLN). The Family Recreation Zone of the park is also commonly known as TTDI Park among the locals in the affluent neighbourhood, who frequent its well-paved paths for a jog or hike in the mornings and evenings. It’s also home to a dense forest that’s popular for hiking and mountain biking, as well as a kid’s playground, exercise stations, a reflexology path, lakes and ponds for more leisurely activities.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, hiking, mountain biking, picnics
Address: 78, Jalan Abang Haji Openg, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
[READ: Where to hike in the Klang Valley: Get back on the trail post-lockdown]
Kepong Metropolitan Park

Kepong Metropolitan Park is located north of central KL at the tip of Jinjang. The 95-hectare park is particularly famous for kite-flying thanks to its wide open field that runs parallel to the main road in the park. Visitors can also purchase kites from on-site vendors, or take advantage of other facilities such as the jogging and cycling tracks (complete with lakeside views), reflexology paths, children’s playground, and exercise stations.

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Popular activities: Kite-flying, jogging, cycling, picnics, photography
Address: Jalan Lingkaran Tengah 2, Kepong Metropolitan Lake Garden, 52100 Kuala Lumpur
Titiwangsa Lake Gardens

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Designed by Rio Takahashi, a Japanese landscape architect, Titiwangsa Lake Gardens was first opened in 1980 to ease the congestion at Perdana Botanical Gardens. It occupies over 95 hectares, boasting a large lake resulting from tin-mining activity during the British colonial era, alongside other smaller manmade lakes that make for picturesque backdrops when juxtaposed against KL’s skyscrapers. There are also jogging and cycling tracks, picnic tables, gazebos, children’s playgrounds, a boathouse, a football field, and mini reading nooks all around the park.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, picnics, fishing, reading
Address: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Jalan Tembeling, 53200 Kuala Lumpur
Putrajaya Botanical Gardens

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Spanning 93 hectares, Putrajaya Botanical Gardens is a tropical garden that was inaugurated by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad in 2003. The park is divided into eight botanical themes, which are collectively home to over 750 plant species from different continents. It houses the Moroccan Pavilion Islamic Garden and Ethnobotanical Park, two of its more popular attractions that have drawn local and foreign tourists alike. Visitors can also expect jogging and cycling trails, a canopy bridge, and a massive manmade lake with views of the majestic Putra Mosque.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, boating, sightseeing, photography
Address: Lebuh Perdana Barat, Presint 1, 62000 Putrajaya
The Central Park at Desa Park City

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Desa Park City’s Central Park is a hotspot among dog-owners looking to bring along their furry friends for a walk or jog. The dog-friendly residential park features tree-lined 9-foot-wide pathways with loops ranging from 1km to 2.3km, accompanied by a scenic lake, children’s playground, and manicured lawns. While it’s much smaller than the other parks on this list, it’s worth a visit if you live nearby the township or if you’re keen to stop by The Waterfront for a coffee or meal after.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, picnics
Address: C-3-1 Plaza Arkadia, 3, Persiaran Residen, Desa Parkcity, 52200 Kuala Lumpur
Taman Wawasan Recreational Park

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Those living in the Puchong area will be familiar with Taman Wawasan Recreational Park, a laid-back neighbourhood park with a decent amount of facilities. The verdant park offers jogging and cycling trails shaded by trees, large open spaces for outdoor activities, a children’s playground, an outdoor gym, and a basketball court. Beautiful lotus ponds and colourful structures further highlight its laid-back landscape.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, picnics, basketball, futsal, outdoor exercise
Address: Persiaran Wawasan, Taman Wawasan, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Central Park at Gamuda Gardens

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Tucked within Gamuda Gardens, the latest 810-acre township by Gamuda Land, is a lush lakeside park occupying 50 acres of land. Named Central Park, it is highlighted by a grand waterfall and fountain feature which set the scene for a picturesque jogging loop. There’s also a wetland boardwalk, a large children’s playground, a lookout point, a pavilion, and a football field nearby the pet-friendly park.

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Popular activities: Jogging, cycling, outdoor exercise, zipline, paddleboarding, horse-riding
Address: Gamuda Gardens, Jalan DC 2/7, 48020 Rawang, Selangor

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Style crush: Melissa Sin

Features
Style crush: Melissa Sin
(Designer) bag lady

06.02.2017
By Buro247

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By day, she is the Executive Director of SKB Shutters Corporation Berhad and by night (or any other day for that matter), Melissa Sin is the founder and lady boss of The Bag Atelier. Often spotted at the coolest events and photographed for her eccentric style, the 29-year-old is never seen without a to-die-for arm candy. A firm believer “more is more”, we caught up with the 29-year-old as she talks about her minaudière label, the art of accessorizing and her love for all things sparkly.

Describe your personal style.
More is more. I’m always in the mood for celebration—I love sequins, embellishments, and crystal-embellished pieces!
Where do you find your style inspiration?
These days, inspiration is everywhere because of social media—it is made a lot easier and quicker! I personally love street style snaps. If I had to pick a style icon, I’d definitely go with Victoria Beckham. As cliché as it sounds but her style transformation is truly inspirational. Not forgetting her classic edgy style, even more when she started her own label.

Tell us more about The Bag Atelier. How did it all start?
I fell in love with crystal strass minaudière since I first had it when I was 14. My mom gave me a customised minaudière with Swarovski crystals all over. She had them handmade in a workshop and since then, I was hooked. It took me 12 years before I decided to visit the workshop, curious to know what it is like. I couldn’t stop thinking about tapping the potential of personalised customisation. The next day, I browsed the name, The Bag Atelier on Instagram and I said to myself, “If the handle name is available, we should do it!” Within our first month, our orders were overwhelming but absolutely encouraging! We hit 10 times the target we initially set for the first three months of inception.
What sets The Bag Atelier apart from the other e-labels out there?
I always wanted to make The Bag Atelier a personal experience, selfishly for myself for a number of reasons. I wanted it to be challenging, individualistic but also experimental. We headed off with zero-capital, reasonably affordable and individually customized. Hence, we opted for Instagram, WhatsApp and email rather than a click-and-go website. With no initial capital at all, we insisted zero-capital all the way to encourage other young start-ups and first-time entrepreneurs to work on their ideas. It is tough because many times, I am tempted to spend marketing dollars out of my own pocket but I always reminded myself there must be a way—just start brainstorming and act on it!
Speaking of personalisation, The Bag Atelier offers made-to-order services. Can you walk us through the customisation process?
Sketch-to-strass is simple and entirely up to your preference. You can start with choosing the shape. We have more than 30 over cases to choose from—different sizes, shapes and clasp. Some like it bigger to fit an iPhone, some like it palm-size for a good grip. You may have a ready-sketch whether drawn or even an inspiration from Pinterest; The Bag Atelier will work on simplifying the sketch to make them strass-friendly. Once that is done, we can work together on the shades. For Swarovski crystals, there are up to 50 different shades ideal for gradient blending and more complex strass. It will take a couple of weeks for your personalised piece to be hand-placed by one of our craftsmen and then, it’s good to go!

Do you have any personal favourite(s) on The Bag Atelier?
I can’t possibly name them all! I would say the ‘Pop Art’ series are my favourite. It was a turning point for The Bag Atelier when ‘Pop Art’ first debuted on our Instagram—we went from ready designs to sketch-to-strass, where most enquiries that came through were customisation orders with some even hand-sketched by our customers,. Ultimtately, we want to give them a truly personalised experience.
How would you style a minaudière for a daytime outfit?
I would pair a crisp white shirt, knotted at the waist, with high-waist dark denim jeans and a cross-body chain hooked to a ‘Galaxy Girl Vintage Box’.
Any plans on exploring other bag styles on The Bag Atelier?
Definitely, we are constantly looking out for interesting pieces that would embed a luxurious accent yet friendly to the pocket.
Favourite cities/places to shop?
I love going to craft markets to be inspired! I love the quaint shops in the alleyways of Paris. I once discovered a glove room in Madeleine and spent two good hours admiring the workmanship on many fancy designs that I’ve not seen elsewhere.
If you could wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
This is tough, I love to mix and match! Can I make that two? Alaia and Balmain. I love anything structured and I think you can never go wrong with Balmain. Alaia creates statement wear but it gives an entirely different vibe—it simply spells chic.

What are some of accessories that you can’t leave the house without?
My watch, definitely, then my rings. I am really sticky with time. Wearing my rings makes me feel like I’ve got an armour! No kidding, I just feel more empowered like some warrior.

What is the most cherished item in your wardrobe? Why?
It has got to be a vintage black Kelly that is as old as I am. It’s more of a sentimental piece. I still use it regularly; it’s classic and ages really well.
What is the last fashion item you bought?
A pair of Christian Louboutin shoes with an organza attachment on the heels. How sexy.
What is the best and worst fashion advice you’ve ever received?
Never to dress head-to-toe in the same shade—ironically, it’s actually the best and worst!  But hey, nowadays, I believe being decked in monochromatic colours can be pretty bold and statement-making.
What is your personal fashion rule?
Don’t be afraid to be bold. Confidence is the key to pull off anything!

Finish this sentence: I would not be caught wearing…
A turtleneck and choker at the same time.
If you were to give advice to someone who is thinking about becoming a fashion entrepreneur, what would it be?
Try everything that you need to. Never be afraid to seek advice, feedback or even compliments.

Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements you wish to share?
I can’t reveal too much, but I can tell you that we’ve got something in the pipeline!

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Fashion
Paris Fashion Week SS17: Highlights of Day 7
Think big

04.10.2016
By Buro247

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If there is anyone who served up a feel-good moment at Paris Fashion Week, it was definitely Stella McCartney. Ending her show with a bang, models shimmied and hollered to an upbeat dance-off choreographed by Blanca Li. Always designing with “girl power” in mind, the SS17 collection incorporated all sorts of elements, from athletic to tribal and even menswear, all done in unique volumes and silhouettes. As a longtime vegetarian, it is a known fact that McCartney does not include leather or fur in any of her clothing. This time, she displayed her passion front and center on oversized T-shirts, dresses and even lacey evening looks with positive messages like Girl Thanks, No Fur and No Leather: they were so chic, we actually would not mind donning the slogan pieces.

Sacai’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection is a tribute to the greats: legendary musicians like Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon as well as celebrity style icons such as Jane Birkin, Tommy Nutter and Pablo Picasso. If you think that the juggle of so many personalities is the recipe to a pop culture disaster, think again. Drawing ideas from each of these influencers, Chitose Abe manipulated the multiple aspects and synthesized them into something original, presenting a collection that is fresh and simplified. From Birkin’s classic trench coat tweaked with oversized shoulders to Picasso’s signature stripes-and-plaid combination transformed into a thigh-high slit skirt with a lined mini apron skirt, each look starred a single, identifiable piece amidst Abe’s multiple-garments-in-one approach. Our favourite hero piece? The Daniel Johnston T-shirt worn by Cobain at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1992.

Previously spotted on the Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Isabel Marant runways, it is safe to say that the ’80s silhouette is back. At Hermès, Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski sent models down the catwalk in big shoulders, padded-shoulder shirts and high-rise trousers. Eliminating the costume-y factor of the all-glam era, Vanhee-Cybulski took on the throwback influences with a modern approach: fabric play, and understated yet charming hues. And just when we thought we had seen it all, models appeared in boiler suits that are given an ultra-luxe spin, topping the look off with a lunchbox handbag. Well, hand us the utility-inspired look and we are ready to get to work.

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Paris Fashion Week SS17: Highlights of Day 6
Paris Fashion Week SS17: Day 7 Street Style

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Fashion
Gucci will officially dress Florence Welch for the “How Beautiful” World Tour
A worthy muse

15.03.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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…and it’s not easy to see why: Combine Alessandro Michele’s magic with Florence Welch’s vintage/1970s-inspired style (and a dash of hippie whimsy) and you’ll get quirky long diaphanous dresses and a rather eccentric, geek-chic aesthetic that the singer-songwriter pulls off so brilliantly.

If you’re looking out for Florence + The Machine’s “How Beautiful” world tour that has begun March 11, keep an eye out for Welch’s amazing wardrobe as she will be decked in Gucci throughout this tour. The flame-haired songstress is no stranger to the brand as she was confirmed as their watches and jewellery ambassador a month ago.

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Beauty
#CanCandice: Biotherm x Candice Swanepoel
Fighting fit

02.11.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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Can Candice reverse time, or perhaps defy gravity? These are just some of the challenges in the series of fun Instagram interactions between Biotherm and famed Victoria’s Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel. Watch as Candice takes on a different challenge each week, and join in the fun by taking up the challenges too—all in the name of wellbeing and fitness.

Here, Candice shares with us her personal mantra in life, beauty habits and fitness regimens:

What most inspires you about Biotherm?
“I really identify with Biotherm because of my love for the ocean but also for Biotherm’s natural beauty approach. That’s what I strive for in my beauty regimen. It’s a perfect fit.”
What is your fundamental life philosophy?
“My mantra right now is not to take life too seriously. The one thing that has always remained with me is to stay true to what I believe in. My parents instilled this in me.”
How important are your daily beauty habits?
“I consider a beauty routine as important as eating well and working out. People don’t realize that your skin is an organ just like your heart or your lungs. Taking care of it goes way beyond beauty and good looks: it is a necessary part of living a healthy life.”
Do you have any essential skincare products?
“I love using natural products such as essential oils – grapefruit oil, tea tree oil, jojoba oil, rose oil – I always have 100% organic coconut oil that I buy at a local market, taken both internally and as moisturizer Aquasource and makeup remover Biosource. The Life Plankton serum is one of my favorites too because of its magical ingredients.”

What is your beauty routine before and after working out?
“I never work out with makeup on, and after a workout I jump straight into the shower, cleanse with an organic tea tree oil and green tea cleanser (It’s extra cleansing as I have oily skin), tone with pure rose water spray, moisturize and put sunscreen on if it’s sunny out. I believe it’s important to let the skin breathe when I’m not working.”
What is your vision of a modern strong woman?
“It’s important to feel strong, healthy and good. Models are athletes: I have trained with the same trainer for 9 years. I used to box a lot to release my emotions. So don’t mess with me! As a woman you feel very powerful boxing. I think every woman should try this sport.”
What are the fitness regimens that you do and enjoy?
“At school I was the least athletic child, I adored ballet and that was it. After my first big show, my trainer approached me because he spotted the potential. I started working out, initially boxing and resistance training. I became addicted. My workouts vary, now I’m doing Pilates, yoga, meditation and I’ve just taken up surfing. I’m a Libra: which is the sign of balance. I’m looking to create balance between being healthy and strong, between my work and my personal life, to find overall happiness.”
Would you say you live an intense life now that you are an urban woman?
“I live an intense life by choice. My work life is very dynamic, while doing sport and pushing myself makes me feel alive. It’s important not to get stuck in one thing. Even if you think you can’t do something, just try. “

Follow the #CanCandice campaign now at @biothermworld and @angelcandices.

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Fashion
The best of PFW SS19 day 2: Anrealage’s chandelier headpieces

26.09.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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The name Anrealage comes from the combination of words ‘real, unreal, and age’, and it is the foundation upon which founder and designer Kunihiko Morinaga builds his progressive creations. He once told Italian Vogue: “I think that there is both a science technology and a human technology in technology. I am interested in making clothes by crossing over these two different technologies. Combining the technology made by man’s hands and the high technology made by the latest machines may be our future task.”
This season, Morinaga tasks himself with showing the extreme opposites of a garment. A series of elaborately embellished looks came down the runway twice—while the clothes appeared black during the first walk, they were transparent/white the second time round. The secret to this transition is in the fabric, a photochromic material that darkens when exposed to UV light. Morinaga complements his head-turning creations with accessories that are just as fantastical. Forget masks for masquerade parties, these delicate yet futuristic chandelier headpieces will do the trick. Take your pick from the full collection below:

Get daily updates on Paris Fashion Week SS19 here.

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Travel
Travel bucket list: 8 Coolest places to visit in 2016
Grab your passport

12.01.2016
By Rachel Au

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The world is such a big place that you can never run out of countries to visit—but this is also the reason why finding or choosing a new travel destination can be tricky. To get you started for 2016, we’ve scoured the maps (as well as Google and Instagram) for some of the best places you should travel to this year!

Bavaria, Germany

Love Oktoberfest? There’s no better time and place to celebrate it than this year in Germany itself as it’s the 500th anniversary of their Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Law). It’s a legislation that ensures Bavarian beer is made to its exceptional perfection. Besides the party, this particular region of Germany is also home to a magical-looking castle set against a backdrop of stunning mountains.

Taipei, Taiwan

As the World Design Capital for 2016, it’s going to be exciting to visit Taipei—especially if you’re into art and design—as there’ll be high profile international events scheduled throughout the year as well as a chance to see the social design projects they’ll be implementing to help enhance city life. If you have the time, do visit Taiwan’s famous mountain town, Jiufen which was also the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA

Or any of the beautiful parks under the National Park Service as it’s their 100th birthday in 2016 and to commemorate, they’re offering free admission to parks on 16 occasions! For Yellowstone National Park, steaming geysers and iridescent pools aren’t the only jaw-dropping sights to see. Our personal highlight of the park is the hot spring aptly named Morning Glory Pool.

India

Yes, we’re putting the whole country in this list simply because we think it’s an underrated travel destination but 2016 might see a change in that with the upcoming The Jungle Book movie. If you’re a fan, the Kanha Tiger Reserve park is a must-visit as the Kanha area is said to have been the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling.

St. Helena

Disconnect and experience a true and relaxing escape by travelling to one of the world’s most remote islands. Located in the South Atlantic Ocean, the island is perhaps mostly famous for being the place of exile for French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. St. Helena is so remote that visitors can only get there by taking a five-day cruise from Cape Town; although not for long, as they will be starting a weekly flight service to Johannesburg.

Svalbard, Norway

Two words: Northern Lights. 2016 is the last year of an 11-year cycle where the Aurora Borealis is the most dramatic and visible. This Norwegian island in particular is a great place to seeing the Lights as it’s really near the Arctic. The best time to witness this phenomenon is between November and February.
MORE: You can view Northern Lights and more in Iceland too

Cuzco, Peru

Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of Peru should be on your travel bucket list already but 2016 is an exceptionally good time to pay the UNESCO World Heritage Site a visit because a unique accommodation by South America’s premier luxury adventure travel company, explora will be opening in July.
 How unique? You’ll be able to stay in a traditional corn plantation right in the heart of the Inca’s Sacred Valley. Of course, the luxurious stay isn’t the only reason; explora  is also know for offering exclusive excursions from their boutique lodges and Cuzco’s explora Valle Sagrado will be no different.

Aksaray, Turkey

The province of Aksaray in central Turkey is home to amazing natural beauty and a quarter of the popular tourist attraction, Cappadocia. Besides the aforementioned must-see, Lake Tuz Gola, a salt lake and which is the country’s second-largest lake, is a perfect picture opportunity. Last year, the whole lake turned into a beautiful blend of pinks and reds due to the blossoming algae.

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Fashion
All we want for Christmas is Chanel’s new J12 XS watch
Naughty or nice

29.11.2016
By Buro247

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Sleek, dark and sexy, the new Chanel J12 XS proves that black will always be the most fashionable colour. A play on the words “excess” and “extra small”, the J12 XS watches are the latest models to join Chanel’s famed stable of ceramic beauties. Measuring just 19mm in diameter, the petite dials are framed by rock-star worthy leather cuffs.
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The large cuff in black leather, black ceramic and steel has a flange and loop set with diamonds. The flange is set with 32 brilliant cut diamonds while the steel loops on the black patent calfskin cuff is set with 56 brilliant cut diamonds.

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For those who enjoy the luxury of choice, the small black leather cuff allows you to wear the watch with only its slender patent leather strap for an elegant evening look. The black calfskin cuff with silver piping can be added for a little more edge.
To witness the transformative power of Chanel’s sexy new watches, see our girl-next-door be turned into the heroine of our shoot in the videos below.

To try the watches on for size, head to Chanel at LC-G06/LC-G07, Suria KLCC. Tel: +603 2726 1818.

Credits
Photography: Chuan Looi/Yipieyaya
Styling: Jason Lim
Makeup: KF Bong
Hair: Bibian Leong
Model: Laura S/Icon Model Management
Photography Assistants: TK Teo, Lock Chee Wei and Yuki Amiya

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Fashion
Watch: Salvatore Ferragmo’s Off-Duty project in (playful) action
#FerragamoOffDuty

21.04.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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Johannes Huebl, model, photographer and husband of Olivia Palermo, stars in the film alongside Diana Molcovan and Maja Mayskar. Remember the stop and go game we used to play as a child? Watch as the trio partake in a game of 1 2 3 Stella—some of us may remember it as ‘Red light, green light’—with the city of Berlin as their playground.

Director Theo Stanley injects Italian joie-de-vivre (a playful desire to enjoy life to the fullest) in the film, as the models bring the Salvatore Ferragamo SS16 footwear collection to life in iconic venues such as the Museumsinsel, Alexanderplatz and the Villa Harteneck. Dubbed the Salvatore Ferragamo’s Off-Duty project, the new collection showcases a seamless blend of casual and sporty, handmade and hi-tech, as well as comfort and practicality, designed for both him and her.

Watch 1 2 3 Stella here—it might just make you feel like playing a game or two yourself, with a pair of Ferragamo Off-Duty shoes on, of course:

Ferragamo Off-Duty is now available at Salvatore Ferragamo Pavilion, The Gardens, and Suria KLCC.
Source:https://www.buro247.my/fashion/accessories/salvatore-ferragamo-off-duty-is-all-about-gender-f.html

Related stories:
Salvatore Ferragamo Off-Duty is all about gender-fluid footwear
Milan Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 5
Edgardo Osorio for Salvatore Ferragamo (featuring Debbie Goh!)

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#BuroGetaway: Learning to be a mixologist for a day at Katamama, Bali
Cheers!

05.07.2017
By Gwen Ong

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Confession – a drink or two to get into the holiday spirit was what I was after during our #BuroGetaway. So it was with pleasure that I made my way to the Akademi at Katamama, Bali for an exciting cocktail-making class. Akademi serves as a centre for the craft of mixology where it is dedicated to the study of local flavours and creating drinks that showcase the best of Indonesia. The team works closely with the island tribes and local artisans as well as permaculture experts to grow the best produce on the hotel grounds.

This allows Akademi to contemplate, dissect and transform a different indigenous ingredient every month in its quest to innovate while respecting the local flavours. Hence, the bar promotes a “root-to-flower” concept where the drinks are based around the best seasonal products. It also houses a vast range of locally produced arak made from coconut, rice and cane that is used to curate a selection of unique libations.

Upon entering the Akademi, my eyes were immediately drawn to the walls surrounding this space. The Akademi features an open concept with books on mixology and a collection of vinyl plus turntable stacked neatly on the marble shelves. You’ll also find a selection of bespoke ceramic, wood and copper cocktail vessels made by local artisans and a library of homemade arak on one end of the bar.

I settle down to a short introduction by the bartender, who walked us through the instruments and tools that we’ll be using that day. From the bar spoon to the measurer, strainer, citrus zester and cocktail muddler, everything was laid out on the counter for us to see. Next, he started on the two cocktails that we’d be trying our hands at—the Akademi Negroni and the Lemongrass Citratus, a special for that month.

I was personally excited about the latter, as lemongrass is one of my favourite ingredients. I love how innovative the Akademi is in infusing ingredients familiar to this region into its cocktail. The Lemongrass Citratus features kemangi or lemon basil leaves, homemade lemongrass syrup and arak mixed with orange vodka, citrus juice, homemade dried sambal matah and kitchen bitters. Topped with salted and smoked ginger, and lemongrass foam.

The perfect cocktail is a little about science and a lot about knowing your way to a balanced concoction. Standing behind the counter, I had a go at pouring the strong component, which is alcohol with the sour (citrus flavours) and sweet (syrup) elements together with a jigger or measuring cup. This required deft hands; mine were shaky (from excitement!). Next, out came the shaker – this was a workout itself as you’ll need to vigorously shake to combine the ingredients and get the perfect blend.

Next, strained the concoction into the ceramic glass. I learned the art of mixology is as much about presentation as taste. With a twist of lemon peel and garnish, my Lemongrass Citratus was ready. I passed with flying colours – cheers to that!

Click here to know more about the Akademi at Katamama, Bali.

For more on our #BuroGetaway to Bali…
#BuroGetaway: Bikini Restaurant is hotter than how we’d look in a bikini
#BuroGetaway: 5 Homeware havens in Bali that fulfil all your interior needs
#BuroGetaway: Our HomeAway from home, Villa Theo, Bali

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