Culture
Meet the new British artist collaborating with Burberry
#BuroExclusive

07.06.2016
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

All the exciting live concerts in KL to look forward to in 2023

Trust Christopher Bailey to combine something old with something new for his latest Burberry fall/winter 2016 campaign.

Launched today, the campaign features portraits of well-known Burberry favourites, model Edie Campbell and actor Callum Turner, shot by Mario Testino wearing key pieces from Burberry’s last seasonal FW16 show — Bailey’s next September runway will mark his first ‘seasonless’ collection; and will be immediately available for purchase in Burberry stores after the show. But, in a first for the house, Bailey has introduced original illustrations by British artist, Luke Edward Hall.

“Luke is a great talent and it has been wonderful working and collaborating with him on our campaign,” said Bailey, Burberry’s chief creative and chief executive officer. “His beautiful illustrations next to Mario’s powerful photographs capture the artisanal spirit of the collection.”

And artisanal, it surely is. The campaign also introduces the new Patchwork Bag inspired by the buckle on the iconic Burberry trench coat. No two Patchwork Bags are the same. Each crafted from a mixture of different textiles and fabrications — from the Burberry house check to soft English suede — the bags were previewed during the February womenswear runway show, but subsequently sold out of its online Runway Made to Order allocation within a week. For the fall/winter 2016 campaign, Hall has interpreted the Patchwork in five different illustrations; and to celebrate the campaign launch, the bag is now available for purchase on Burberry.com. What are you waiting for? Get shopping.

In a Buro 24/7 exclusive, we speak to Burberry’s latest recruit to discuss the relationship between fashion and interior design, the endearing appeal of Brittania, and his favourite Christopher Bailey collection for Burberry to date.

How did the collaboration between you and Burberry come about? Burberry contacted me earlier this year about the possibility of working together, which was a huge surprise, and it all developed organically from there. It’s been exteremely exciting to collaborate on the campaign and it’s been a huge amount of fun working with the Burberry team, and to see my drawings used in a whole new way has been wonderful. I feel very honoured that my artwork sits alongside Mario’s portraits. The colours all work together really nicely, the deep colours in my drawings echo the colours in the campaign and collections.
 Were you involved in the creative plan? I had the freedom to draw in my own style interpreting the collection in my illustrations. The result is artwork that is very true to my aesthetic.

How did you become an artist? I always wanted to be an artist. I grew up in Basingstoke, and from a very early age, I wanted to move to London and go to art school and that is what I did. I started with fashion design, and then studied interior design, photography and fine art. I’ve always wanted to do a lot of things and that is why now I do illustration work and I design fabrics and ceramics. The aesthetic is one thing but can be applied to lots of different things.
 What made you decide to pursue art and interior design despite a background in menswear? Would you say that being an interior designer is your true calling? I’ve always been interested in both fashion and interiors. I worked in an old country house on weekends as a teenager, and whilst studying menswear, I was selling antiques online in my spare time. I’m not entirely sure what my true calling is. I like to apply my aesthetic to different things — could be a pair of trousers, a vase or a room. I’m very much enjoying working in interior decoration, however. I feel that the rooms we live in reflect our personalities perhaps even more than our clothes do.
 Do you apply tenets of fashion design in the art and interior decoration work you do today? When designing these days, I’m still interested in the same things as I was when I was making clothes — mixing lots of different colours, textures and prints. This is apparent in my interior design and also in my designs for fabrics and ceramics. When it comes to clothes, I like rather classic shapes — a good, simple shirt or jacket — but what I’d always choose now is something colourful, or with an interesting (but not irritating) detail; funny buttons or contrast piping, or something like that. For me, it’s the same for homewares and interiors. I like classic design. An old Howard armchair for example, but I’d always want to upholster it in a fun, unexpected fabric.

With Burberry’s latest menswear collection titled ‘Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue’, share with us one of each of your favourite interior items from these categories.
I like furniture from the 50s and 60s, new sofas made by excellent old English firms, piles of recommended books borrowed from friends, and something blue — the sky. I love being able to see big expanses of sky through windows.
 We’ve read that you appreciate a quiet environment when working. In London, where do you find yourself creating your best work? At my kitchen table — it’s got a really handsome pink and green marble top. I live in North London, on the first floor of a house, on a very quiet street. When I look out of my windows I see only trees and sky. I’ll put on some music, gather books for inspiration and get to work.
‘BRITISHNESS’ IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO ME AS AN ARTIST — OUR CULTURE, HISTORY AND LANDSCAPE INSPIRE ME TO NO END
In your opinion, which is London’s most underrated haunt that you personally love? I’m a big fan of Tate Britain. It never seems as busy as say, Tate Modern or the V&A, but I love the way the pictures have been hung. And whenever I visit, I’ll always pop downstairs to see Rex Whistler’s beautiful murals in the restaurant.
 Being English, what does Burberry mean to you? What is your first memory of the brand? I am from Basingstoke, so I have been aware of Burberry from a young age. I love its heritage and iconic pieces such as the trench coat, while remaining innovative through its designs and advancements in the digital space, for example. ‘Britishness’ is extremely important to me as an artist — our culture, history and landscape inspire me to no end.
 Do you have a favourite collection by Christopher Bailey? I really loved spring/summer 2014 — all the bright primary and pastel colours and boxy jackets and coats.

We’ve read that the Amalfi Coast inspires you. Which village do you most enjoy spending time in, and what is your best memory there?
I love Ravello probably most of all — it’s up in the hills, high above the sea, so the views are incredible. It’s pretty quiet and full of steep steps and alleyways leading to great restaurants. It’s got a magical atmosphere about it — I was there last year and we had thunder every day — you could sit in a restaurant and watch lightning strike the sea. Also the Villa Cimbrone hotel is in Ravello and it’s absolutely one of my favourite places on Earth.
 In your opinion, how should the interior of one’s home make them feel? Your home should make you feel comfortable, I think, above all else. I love homes that reflect their owner’s personalities — mine, for example, is full of objects that I’ve picked up on holiday, my favourite books and furniture and pictures that have been collected over the years.
 What do you want people to feel when they see the work you’ve created in collaboration for Burberry? I’d like people to think that it’s fun… and a bit different.
 Tell us about the materials you used for the campaign illustrations. I used a mixture of materials including watercolour, chalk, oil, pastel and a bit of acrylic. I quite like playing with texture, which you get with chalk, and then watercolour gives a painterly effect. I then went over them with oil pastels to get the thicker, more defining lines.

What are your indispensible tips to decorating a home, regardless of preference for design? I like to use intensely colourful or patterned wallpapers in small or dark spaces to emphasise the fact that they’re small or dark. Lighting, I always think, is key. In a sitting room for example, table lamps and candles create atmosphere whilst floor lights (or can lights — very useful) throw light up into dark corners. And reading lamps next to armchairs are essential!
 Who are your heroes when it comes to artists and interior designers, and how are you inspired by them? I’m a big fan of Cecil Beaton, William Morris, Andy Warhol… people whose work spanned lots of different disciplines — from set and interior design to fabric design, ceramics and painting. I like working in this way, so these people are very inspirational.
I LIKE TO USE INTENSELY COLOURFUL OR PATTERNED WALLPAPERS IN SMALL OR DARK SPACES TO EMPHASISE THE FACT THAT THEY’RE SMALL OR DARK
What inspires you about Britain? I seek inspiration from Britain and it’s little pockets of history. Big inspirations for me are artists and the Bloomsbury group, Duncan Grant and the spirit they had around creating, decorating and painting everything.
 I love living in London but I also love the countryside, such as Yorkshire with its sweeping views, which has a strong connection to Burberry. I am very proud to be British, my work is made in England, so working with an iconic British brand like Burberry has been a great honour.
 And finally, what is your most British attribute? Probably being too polite.

This interview originally appeared on Buro 24/7 Singapore.

You may also like…
A look at Burberry’s new Ramadan campaign
Burberry’s new campaign illustrates Brit chic to a whole new level
“It’s kind of like validation for my insanity,” artist Trevor Andrews tells Buro 24/7

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Insiders
Burberry
Artist
Culture
Art and Design


Fendi Pop Tour 2018’s first stop: Rome

Fashion
Fendi Pop Tour 2018’s first stop: Rome
Around the world

11.04.2018
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Can’t get enough of b(r)and tees? Fendi has launched a series of casual T-shirts that are inspired by different cities, and the first stop is at Rome, where it all started. The capsule collection—consists of six short-sleeved T-shirt in tropical graphic prints—highlights some of the most iconic locations in the city, namely Fendi Palace, Colosseo Beach, Appia Antica Boulevard, Testaccio Bay, Trastevere Sunset and Trevi Falls, and a special edition featuring West Garbatella is exclusively available at its Rome flagship boutique. The landmarks are accompanied with fun motifs such as palm trees, flamingos and sunsets, and sequinned embroideries that amp up the fun. For its campaign, the brand tapped It-models Barbara Palvin and Hailey Baldwin to star in a ’90s inspired video that saw them dancing to the catchy beat.

Watch the video below:

All Pop Tour T-shirts are now available at its Pavilion and KLCC boutiques. Click here for more info.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Fendi
capsule collection


The Gucci memes you need to see

Fashion
The Gucci memes you need to see
On point

20.03.2017
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

You know the meme culture is probably not going anywhere soon when Gucci is on the train. The brand recently launched #TFWGucci (That Feeling When Gucci) on Instagram, a collaborative art project featuring memes created by a lineup of international artists and meme-makers—all handpicked by Alessandro Michele. Of the series of memes, some feature original photographs, while others are reappropriated paintings, but they all have one thing in common (besides being witty): timepieces from the new Le Marché des Merveilles collection by Gucci take centre stage in the images.

See some of our favourite #TFWGucci memes here:

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 17, 2017 at 3:17am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 19, 2017 at 9:29am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 18, 2017 at 12:49pm PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 17, 2017 at 9:20am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 17, 2017 at 10:19am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 17, 2017 at 4:58am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 19, 2017 at 12:33pm PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 19, 2017 at 6:49am PDT

A post shared by Gucci (@gucci) on Mar 19, 2017 at 2:34am PDT

More on the #TFWGucci campaign here.

Related stories:
Milan Fashion Week AW17: Highlights of Day 1
Gucci’s new advertisement is larger than life
Peek into Gucci 4 Rooms, an art installation in Gucci Ginza
Source:

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Watches
Gucci
Instagram


Style
Cos’ CNY 2019 collection has something for everyone in the family

30.01.2019
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

Chinese New Year is the time where the colour ‘red’ takes centre stage, but if your wardrobe consists of mostly black and white hues (we feel you), good news: Cos has released a Lunar New Year collection with fail-proof picks that’ll make rocking the auspicious shade a breeze. Made up of wardrobe staples such as sweaters and shirts, we love how the pieces can be styled up or down for any occasion. For your reunion dinner? Throw on a red sweater over an asymmetrical midi skirt—it’s a great outfit to hide any food baby. For house-hopping? An oversized shirt-corduroy mom jeans combo will ensure your comfort and style. While you’re at it, try giving tonal dressing a shot, and pile on the reds if you’re feeling adventurous. After all, since the shade symbolises good fortune and joy, there’s no harm going all out for the Year of the Pig. The best part? The collection also includes clothing for men and kids, so if you’d like to coordinate your looks with the family, you know the one-stop shop for it.

Below, all our picks from Cos this season:
For ladies:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] COS CNY19 women” rid=”6890″ order=”a_tstamp”}

For men:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] COS CNY19 men” rid=”6891″ order=”a_tstamp”}

For kids:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] COS CNY19 kids” rid=”6892″ order=”a_tstamp”}

The collection is now available in its Pavilion Elite and The Gardens Mid Valley stores.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Chinese New Year 2019
COS


Lifestyle
Stephanie Chai on 2017’s travel trends and must-visit destinations
Get your travel notebooks out

11.01.2017
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Just before 2016 came to a close, luxury travel website The Luxe Nomad had some pretty exciting news: They had officially gone global with the addition of a carefully curated selection of properties in some of the world’s most popular destinations outside of the Asia-Pacific. From private apartments in London’s chic neighbourhoods to designer pads nestled in Hollywood Hills, these breathtaking villas and chalets are reasons enough to travel. Moving forward to 2017, we spoke to Stephanie Chai, founder of The Luxe Nomad, on the global expansion as well as travel ideas and trends for the year.

The story behind The Luxe Nomad’s expansion
Growing a business is a step-by-step affair and having coined some key Asian destinations, we felt offering a global collection was the next natural move. We’ve seen a pick up in travel to Europe and beyond, so why not offer more choices to our customers?

Her favourite accommodations in The Luxe Nomad’s new global collection
Chalet Lilianette in Verbier, Switzerland is an amazing ski chalet where you can ski-in from the slopes and the interior is gorgeous with its exposed wooden beams and bookshelves, giving it that classic cosy cabin feel. In Tokyo, we have Gyoen Loft Shinjuku, a minimalist top-floor loft in the heart of Shinjuku – it’s a great place to stay if you’re keen to explore the city – while in Cape Town, South Africa, I love 47 Camps Bay. It’s honestly our nicest villa there and has swanky all-white interiors, a private pool, cinema, and the beach is just a few steps away.

The makings of a perfect accommodation at a holiday destination
It all boils down to location, design and service. If the service is bad, it won’t matter how incredible the place looks.

Her top three predictions for 2017’s travel trends
1. Skiing. It’s on the up and up! Whilst a beach is somewhat easily accessible, skiing isn’t as much (due to location and price) which makes it that much more desirable.
2. Japan. It’s the hotspot of Asia for the next few years. People just can’t get enough of its culture, sights and fantastic food.
3. Private properties. It’s all about ‘value’ and ‘privacy’ and no other type of accommodation delivers that better than renting a private villa or apartment. The reasons are simple: You get more space at lower rates and if it’s a villa, your own chef and butler to boot!

2017’s must-visit travel destinations
First off, Hakuba. It’s Japan’s up-and-coming ski destination that’s just a few hours away from Tokyo and was the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. It has a charming village that will give you a taste of Japan’s rich traditional culture. For beach lovers looking for something different, South Africa’s Cape Town has it all: Scenic coastlines, pristine beaches, picturesque mountains, and a great food scene. The Amalfi Coast in Italy is another place that will certainly be one of 2017’s hottest places to visit. You’ve probably seen photos of it all over Instagram – the scenery is spectacular!

My goal for 2017 is to… take The Luxe Nomad to the next level by growing our upcoming Chinese website and property management art. That means it’s going to be a lot of work but I’m excited to get to it.

If I could travel with any celebrity, it would be… George and Amal Clooney! I imagine we would have great conversations about how to change the world.

The best travel advice I ever received is… to Google it.

Related stories:
Stephanie Chai on her top 5 beautiful resorts around the world
Travel diaries: Stephanie Chai of The Luxe Nomad gives a mini guide to Hong Kong
Palawan in the Philippines: Asia’s hidden gem

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

The Luxe Nomad
luxe getaways
Luxe stays
2017
Travel ideas


Style
Lanvin names Bruno Sialelli as new creative director

21.01.2019
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

10 months after Olivier Lapidus stepped down as its artistic director, Lanvin has announced his replacement, and it’s 31-year-old Bruno Sialelli, who was previously the menswear design director at Loewe, under the helm of Jonathan Anderson. Prior to his stint at Loewe, the French designer worked at Paco Rabanna, Acne Studios and Balenciaga.
In a statement released by the brand, its chief executive officer, Jean-Philippe Hecquet says, “His singular and very personal vision, his audacity, his culture, his energy and ability to build a strong creative team convinced us”. Previously owned by Shaw-Lan Wang, the brand was acquired by Fosun Fashion Group last February, and its chairman, Joann Cheng also echoed Hecquet’s excitement, stating that “We are excited to see the dynamism that will be brought to this great house through the complementary combination of Bruno’s creative talent with Jean-Philippe’s energetic and singular corporate direction”.

More updates to follow.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Creative Director
Lanvin


Culture
Cyrus Chen, head of TuneCore in Southeast Asia, shares how independent artists can make more money from their music

30.12.2021
By Adelina Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

All the exciting live concerts in KL to look forward to in 2023

Growing up, we were always told not to pursue a career in the arts if we wish to live a comfortable (aka financially secure) life. While it’s still definitely not the easiest and most straightforward path to making bank, there are now more ways to monetise creativity. Think artists who reach new collectors via NFTs, authors who self-publish or parlay Wattpad success into publishing deals, and music artists who find viral fame and dedicated fanbases through TikTok.
These days, singer-songwriters and musicians don’t have to wait for music executives to come around with recording deals to live off their talent. Music distribution services enable independent artists to get their music heard via streaming services and on social media, as well as to sell their songs to listeners worldwide.
In Southeast Asia, TuneCore is headed by Cyrus Chen since late 2020. This gives Chen invaluable insight into how the pandemic has impacted the region’s music industry. Below, we find out from him what independent music artists can do to thrive digitally, as well as the ways in which a service like TuneCore supports their growth within the industry.

Cyrus Chen heads TuneCore in Southeast Asia
What can local independent artists do with TuneCore to grow and sustain a career in music, more so during these challenging times?
Cyrus Chen: “The music industry has inevitably been impacted hard by the pandemic, affecting live performance revenues, sponsorships, distribution and ad spend among others. It has created underlying trends that would change not only the industry itself but also for artists and consumers alike.
“Music consumption habit is shifting in response to changing new routines. For many artists, whether they are signed or independent, the way they engage with their listeners and fans have to evolve based on the changes in listening behaviours. Virtual events, video series and even partnerships are gaining popularity on platforms like Twitch and Instagram.
“For independent artists specifically, as opportunities to perform for a live audience gets reduced, so does their income. However, what this does is that it also creates opportunities for artists to engage with an even larger audience with streaming services now playing a more important role in meeting consumers’ behaviours. In Asia alone, the number of potential music listeners is expected to exceed 3.5 billion.
via GIPHY

“Thanks to our deep local industry knowledge to further build our offerings, catered to the specific needs of independent artists in the region, TuneCore is uniquely positioned to help independent artists grow their fan base through our game-changing education, best in class tools and wide-ranging global reach, all while allowing artists to keep all rights to their music and earn 100 per cent of their revenues.
“What sets us apart even further from others is that apart from helping independent artists, labels and managers sell their music, we also offer:

TuneCore Music Publishing Administration, where we assist songwriters by administering their compositions through licensing, registration, worldwide royalty collections, and placement opportunities in film, TV, commercials, video games and more.

TuneCore Artist Services, where we offer a suite of tools and services that enable artists to promote their craft, connect with fans, and get their music heard.

TuneCore Rewards, a first of its kind, multi-level educational programme which allows TuneCore artists to unlock rewards and VIP status through career education. This is free for all TuneCore artists.

TuneCore x Believe Signed By Program, where rising-star artists who release music via TuneCore are upstreamed to our parent company, Believe, where their careers are further accelerated.

“At TuneCore, we care deeply for our artist community. TuneCore’s driving forces are innovation and collaboration; we take both very seriously. Innovation keeps us working hard for our artists, pushing our “Artists First” agenda and Collaboration is key in driving the way in which we work, as well as the way in which we approach our company’s vision and mission.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TUNECORE MUSIC DISTRIBUTION (@tunecore)

What type of country-specific initiatives can Malaysian independent artists look forward to from TuneCore?
Chen: “Since our expansion into the Southeast Asia region, we’ve partnered up with various organisations to plan and execute initiatives that help independent artists to grow exponentially. TuneCore participated in the ASEAN Music Showcase Festival, as a co-presenter, to bring together upcoming artists from the region (including Malaysia) to perform as well as to network with industry delegates.
“In Malaysia, independent artists can be rest assured that we’ve got something worthwhile lined up that will enable them to grow their fan base through our specialised offerings.”
 TikTok and Instagram have become important platforms for artists to promote their songs and increase their following. How do you see this trend growing or evolving?
Chen: “While Instagram has always shown prominence in Malaysia, we are also beginning to see TikTok rising through the ranks and becoming a crowd favourite. For example, ever since Malaysia went under lockdown back in March 2020, the platform now has approximately four million users in Malaysia, and these numbers are set to grow even more in the future.
“We foresee TikTok will continue to play a pivotal role in helping independent artists promote their songs, especially given the fact that this platform has yet to reach its maximum potential. On top of that, with 41 per cent of TikTok’s user base are largely skewed towards the younger audience aged between 16 to 24 years old, independent artists will be able to explore a new set of target audience to expand their fanbase.
“It’s also important to note that while TikTok and Instagram are gaining in popularity, YouTube is still the most-used social media platform in both Malaysia and Southeast Asia. All three social media platforms are available for monetisation on TuneCore. To help our artists fully leverage the power of social media, back in June this year, we joined forces with Facebook to launch the new Facebook Independent Artist Program. This program will give our artists more opportunity to reach more listeners globally through Facebook and Instagram products like Stories, Reels, and everywhere else Facebook offers a music library.
“Overall, we are seeing a levelling of the playing field as discovery is happening via social  media and no longer solely dependent on industry executives, recording companies and DJs handpicking hits. Furthermore, through DIY Distribution platforms like TuneCore, all music creators can choose to be their own record label. With music being able to be created, distributed, discovered, streamed, shared, promoted by audiences themself, the music industry is now more democratised than say, a decade ago.”

via GIPHY

Now that TuneCore is in more countries around the world, are there plans to encourage and promote collaboration between artists?
Chen: “The modern music industry is facing one of the greatest challenges of its existence, with virtually all shows, festivals, and tours being cancelled (during the pandemic), resulting in the significant loss of income stream for music people. Things are tough out there right now, and they’re probably going to get significantly tougher before things start to change for the better.
“Even though keeping collaborative relationships during these challenging times is tough, we have seen an increasing number of artists stepping out of their comfort zone and collaborating across music genres, countries and languages with other artists. Some of which have successfully penetrated into mainstream pop music.
“I do think that such collaborations are definitely something we can initiate with our global reach. It presents opportunities for artists to create and learn, while we play our role in facilitating music delivery. Artists can expect to receive the best of both worlds: a straight- forward distribution process via TuneCore that will get their music onto consumers’ favorite streaming services and digital stores like Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok, while also gaining exposure and receiving valuable feedback from hundreds of music industry players.”
There is still a prevalent belief that it’s difficult to earn money as a musician/artist, especially one without the security of a label. What is TuneCore doing to change this perception?
Chen: “In the past few years, we’ve seen—and continue to see—a rift in the music industry. Scottish-American singer, songwriter, David Byrne back in 2015 spoke about the lack of transparency from major labels, more specifically calling out labels only giving artists 15 per cent of earnings from a single release.
“Digital music distribution is changing the way artists reach fans. And artists are picking up on this. With growing high-speed internet penetration across the Southeast Asia region, the accessibility to streaming platforms is getting easier. Our forecast is that by 2028, Asia is going to be the largest music market in the world which means we can see exponential growth in the region, including Malaysia, in the next few years.
“This is where aggregators (like TuneCore) can help artists and music people to capitalise on the impending growth we will see in the region. Our goal is to get your music onto the world’s biggest streaming platform such as Spotify, Apple Music, Joox, YouTube Music, TikTok, Tencent, all while enabling independent artists to grow their music fan base and keep 100 per cent of the sales revenue from the music they distribute. It’s the new model of distribution and it’s simple and accessible for artists of all levels.”

via GIPHY

How does TuneCore’s Artist Accelerator program define “breakout artists who are on the rise”? Any tips for those who are hoping to be selected?
Chen: “The TuneCore Artist Accelerator programme is part of our TuneCore Rewards initiative, where independent artists stand to receive expert advice from some of the best minds in the industry, gain real insight from top artists, and get VIP access to exclusive TuneCore services, all for free of charge.
“For artists who are hoping to get selected, I will recommend going through the masterclasses first in the TuneCore Rewards program. These courses are completely free and has everything you will need to learn to make it as an independent artist. The more active you are as an artist, the more point’s you will be able to earn, and the faster you will move through the five-tiered program.”
TuneCore’s fees for distribution and other services may seem like a lot of money for local independent artists, no thanks to the exchange rate. Why do you believe it’s worth the price?
Chen: “Before TuneCore was established, artists needed a label to get their music sold online. In 2006, we changed the game by partnering with digital stores to allow any musician to sell their songs worldwide while keeping the song rights and a 100 per cent of their sales revenue.
“Today, TuneCore is the world’s leading digital music aggregator, having served millions of artists and with presence across 14 countries in four continents. Together with our parent company Believe, we distribute a significant share of the world’s digital music and hence, we have been able to do direct negotiations with Digital Streaming Platforms to provide the best rate for our artists.
“When we say a 100 per cent, we really mean it. Other competitors might claim the same thing, but they pay 100 per cent of your fees, after deducting costs of middlemen. We cut out the middlemen and this means more money is being distributed to our artists.”

via GIPHY

MORE: How lo-fi became an Internet phenomenon, the connection with anime and more burning questions answered

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Insiders
music
Interview
Music industry


Beauty
#FitnessFridays: Team workout with Nike+ Training Club
Intense but impactful

15.01.2016
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

If you can’t find the time or budget to join a gym or fitness center, the Nike+ Training Club (N+TC) app is the perfect solution. Ever since its introduction, the N+TC app has been getting raved reviews as a personal trainer in your pocket with workouts (over 100) by real pros—the Nike Master Trainers.
The N+TC app, however, isn’t catered to solely helping you get lean and toned. Similar to the experience you’d get at a gym, the app has become a community of friends with the same goal who motivates one another.

Thanks to the folks at Nike Malaysia, they organised a fun, but intense, session for the Buro 24/7 Malaysia team along with Patricia Knudsen, Azura Zainal, Farah Ann and Katrina Ann to try it out with Malaysia’s first and only Nike Master Trainer Emelda Vincent leading the exercises. Check out how we fared in the video below!

Cai Mei Khoo, Editor-in-Chief
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is the perfect workout for those who are strapped for time. In about 15 minutes, our trainer Emelda, managed to cram in a full body workout that included planks, squat jumps, single leg squats and sit-ups, which had me all sweaty a few minutes in. We worked out in pairs which made the workout a little more fun. It was also a great preview to what is available on the N+TC app, which I tried a few days later—I’ll definitely be using it to create a workout programme.
Rating: 4.5/5

Su Fen Tan, Editorial Assistant
When Emelda told us the workout session will only be 15 minutes just so we can have a taste of what the Nike+ Training Club app has to offer, I thought to myself: “okay, this should be fairly light and easy”. Little did I know that was all the time it took to really work up a sweat. By the end of it, my thigh muscles were begging for mercy—the ache (the good kind of pain) that followed in the next few days is probably a reminder that I should be working out more consistently. All in all, I thought that the short and intense workout was a really great way to start the week.
Rating: 4.5/5

Susan Lee, Digital Marketing Manager
I’ve heard a lot about the N+TC app before this and have used it once or twice. I found it a little difficult to use because I wasn’t entirely sure how to navigate it. But after this session, I learnt that there are many features within the app that I could take advantage of. It does feel like a personal trainer; you can programme your own workout based on the Master Trainer’s recommendations on the app. The best part is if you have an Apple TV, you can use the AirPort to sync it and enjoy a full workout session in the comfort of your own home. I definitely recommend this to those who have a busy lifestyle yet want a short but impactful workout. Let’s do this together!
Rating: 4.5/5

Yi Suen Chong, Digital Designer
I’m an avid fan of Utah Lee, Hong Kong’s Nike Master Trainer (check out her Instagram @utahlee and drool over her strong physique, people!) so I was thrilled when Cai Mei informed us that we will be joining Nike Malaysia for an N+TC session! All in all, it was a fun partner-workout; it was good to have someone to work out with as we encouraged each other when we were out of breath, trying to do that last rep of jump squat. Hopefully Nike could organise more N+TC workouts and make it available to the public!
Rating: 4/5

Rachel Au, Lifestyle Writer
I’ve actually downloaded the N+TC app a year ago but never really got to try it because I’m just one of those people who don’t exercise. Hence, this was a good opportunity which quickly turned into feelings of despair for my thighs halfway through the 15-minute session. I’d say it’s intense but you can really feel the effects from the exercises and since it was a partner-workout, Azura really helped motivate me to push on a little harder. Overall, though my thighs still feel like jelly three to four days later, I highly recommend it! I might even try working out with the app over the weekend (although I might take it down a notch till my muscles get used to the idea of actually stretching and moving).
Rating: 4/5

The Nike+ Training Club app is available on both the App Store and Google Play.

Related stories:
#FitnessFridays: The team tries out Xtend Barre at Urban Spring
#FitnessFridays: Team workout at Fuel Athletics
4 chic and discreet fitness trackers you’ll love

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

lifestyle
technology
health and fitness
fitness
FitnessFridays


Fashion
New month, new bags: August ’21 edition—from Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, and more

24.08.2021
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

The end of summer is near! To help usher in the new season, more brands have launched their Autumn/Winter 2021 offerings alongside a reintroduction of Coach’s signature camouflage print and a one-of-a-kind collaboration courtesy of Fendi and Rimowa. Whatever you have your eye on, there’s no better time than now to bag it before September resets the fashion system.
These are all the new bags to check out this month:
Salvatore Ferragamo AW21 Collection

Back in March, the Italian fashion house’s sci-fi-inspired runway introduced a new member to the Trifolio line with the Trifolio Shoulder Bag in all its minimal, feminine glory. Clean lines and bright colours come together with iconic elements to exude freshness in geometric shapes and a soft matte-finish calfskin, completed by a golden Gancini clasp. Peep inside and find a versatile construction that makes it the ideal companion for the everyday, including a double compartment and a central zip pocket that’s perfect for organising all your personal effects.
The contemporary statement comes in three sizes to prepare you for any occasion, from large (ideal for the lady about town) to medium and small, which arrives in an ultra-chic hybrid of a bucket bag and the classic shoulder bag. Diverse colours are available, ranging from cheerleader pink to astronaut white and siena tan, as well as an unmissable jacquard model with an all-over Gancini pattern.

Shop: Trifolio Shoulder Bag, Salvatore Ferragamo, £1,210 (approx. RM7,001)

Shop: Trifolio Shoulder Bag (L), Salvatore Ferragamo, £1,490 (approx. RM8,621.52)

Shop: Trifolio Shoulder Bag (S), Salvatore Ferragamo, £1,025 (approx. RM5,931.62)

The Salvatore Ferragamo Triolio Shoulder Bag is available online internationally.
MORE INFO
Louis Vuitton AW21 Collection
As part of Louis Vuitton’s AW21 time-travelling aesthetic, the brand unveiled a wide selection of bags from a new collaborative capsule with Italian artistic design atelier Fornasetti. Reflecting historical imagery that combines Fornasetti’s illustrated world with Nicolas Ghesquière’s contemporary design, the bags include new designs as well as reinterpretations of iconic models.

First up, the Capucines BB arrives in an all-black classic quilted pattern, alongside special collectible models with a faded portrait theme and an Italianate edifices print to add some pizzazz to any outfit. Then, there is the quilted Troca PM handbag with a gold-coloured S-lock in two sizes and colours that include black, glacier, pink and beige. The bag’s square, compact shape is finished with studded trim and corners and arrives with a removable shoulder chain as well as an adjustable leather strap.
Others from the Fornasetti collaboration include a Cannes Vase Architettura handbag in a classical vessel shape with a ceramic sheen; a Keepall Bandoulière 45 adorned in a coin-printed Monogram canvas; the Minaudière Papillon covered in Italian buildings and gold hardware; a Pochette Tête handbag that reads like an oversized antique cameo broach and much more. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s bound to be a style and size that’ll tickle your fancy.

Shop: Capucines BB, Louis Vuitton, RM23,000

Shop: Cannes, Louis Vuitton, RM16,600

Shop: Keepall Bandoulière 45, Louis Vuitton, RM12,000

Shop: Pochette Tête, Louis Vuitton, RM11,800

Shop: Minaudière Papillon, Louis Vuitton, RM53,500

The full Louis Vuitton AW21 collection is available in stores and online here.
MORE INFO

Tory Burch AW21 Collection

Tory Burch looks to New York City for its AW21 collection and with it comes the T Monogram Barrel in a classic silhouette that dates back to 16th-century mariners. Here, luxury meets utility in perfect proportions that showcases the brand’s signature jacquard pattern alongside a modern leather frame to ensure its barrel shape. The stitch-wrapped top handles are decorated with buckle details to reflect craftsmanship and the bag can be worn carried or crossbody. New to the T Monogram collection is a lush hazelnut colour in a petite monogram model as well as a navy rendition.

Tory Burch T Monogram Jacquard Barrel Petite Bag in Hazelnut

Tory Burch T Monogram Jacquard Barrel Petite Bag in Navy

Find out more on www.toryburch.my.
MORE INFO

Coach Camo Print Collection

First introduced in 2015, Coach’s reimagination of classic camouflage came in a drip-painting style as a nod to the energy and attitude of the house’s hometown of New York. This season, camo returns with a neon update across an all-gender collection inspired by the idea of using camouflage to stand out instead of blending in. See Jeremy Lin, Michael B. Jordan, and more members of the Coach family don the new range of backpacks, belt bags, and a generously sized tote with enough space for all your essentials.

Shop: Field Tote 40 with Camo Print, Coach, RM3,450

Shop: League Belt Bag With Camo Print, Coach, RM2,000

Shop: Charter Backpack with Camo Print, Coach, RM2,950

The Camo Print collection is now shoppable at http://malaysia.coach.com or through Coach On Delivery, a complimentary home delivery service that allows you to shop products from the safety and comfort of your homes.
MORE INFO

Fendi x Rimowa Classic Cabin Luggage Collaboration

Fendi joins forces once more with iconic luxury luggage brand Rimowa to create a one-of-a-kind suitcase that’ll have you excited to get away in first-class style once we can travel. Combining the former’s luxury details with the latter’s industrial know-how, the Classic Cabin suitcase comes with a new brushed effect that shows off the emblematic FF logo layered atop distinctive parallel aluminium grooves and changes in different lighting. The light, durable style includes a telescopic handle, double-fastening and a combination lock to protect its inner FF-lined compartments. Alongside a customisable name tag, the cabin-sized trolley also features black Cuoio Romano leather handles on the top and side, and is available in total black and a natural aluminium colour.

Shop: Cabin Size Trolley, Fendi x Rimowa, RM13,500

Shop: Cabin size trolley, Fendi x Rimowa, RM13,500

The online Pre-Launch of Fendi x Rimowa collaboration is available now on fendi.com/my.
MORE INFO
For last month’s launches, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Accessories
Fashion
Salvatore Ferragamo
Fendi
Tory Burch
Coach
Louis Vuitton
Handbags
New bags
Rimowa


Trends
The 7 biggest wedding trends in 2020 every bride-to-be needs to know

18.02.2020
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

Reviewing the metallic silver fashion trend in 2023

Calling all 2020 (and 2021) brides—planning to look for your Dream Wedding Gown but don’t know where to start? We’re here to help you out with our cheat sheet of the biggest 2020 bridal trends.
While being too trend-driven may hinder you from finding the perfect dress, it’s more than okay to take them into consideration, especially for modern brides who’d like to push the boundaries (even if just a little) on their big day. We scouted the Bridal Fashion Week Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter 2020 runways to round up the trending styles you should know—even if you’re not walking down the aisle just yet, feel free to feast your eyes on the gorgeous designs (and make a mental note on your favourites while you’re at it).
These are the top wedding dress trends this year:

Neck and neck

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

We’re calling this the Meghan Markle effect. Ever since the Duchess of Sussex stepped out in a Givenchy halter-neck satin dress for her wedding reception, the trend is officially back on the hot list. And almost two years later, it’s still one of the top trends to take note of. Unlike the minimal design that the royal was spotted in, the bridal designers introduced a range of different designs, from an intricately constructed design at Papilio to a fully embellished number by Julie Vino.
Make me blush

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

If you’d like to go for something outside the box without being overly unconventional, try opting for a coloured gown—we’ve spotted numerous blush pink designs on the runway this year, and the soft yet sensual hue is one we can’t get enough of. Accessorise with rose gold jewellery for a complementing finish.
Poof!

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

Puffy sleeves have been trending on the ready-to-wear runways for a while now, and they’ve finally made their way to the bridal territory, and we’re all for it. The voluminous details add that special allure to the simplest of looks—cue Sophie et Voilà’s minimal straight-cut gown, and Phuong My’s silk sleeves that are one of our favourites on the list. The bigger the poof, the better!
Tulle fantasy

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

Tulle may not be suitable for everyday wear, but on your big day, there’s no better time to bring out the grandeur. Just imagine sashaying down the aisle in these ultra-romantic—and totally dreamy—designs! Justin Alexander and Pronovias’ frothy gowns are almost cloud-like.

Who wears the pants?

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

We do! Pantsuits are no stranger to bridal, but if you’re looking for a trousers look that still exudes femininity, scroll through our roundup for some suggestions, from a two-piece by Isabel Sanchis to a sleek jumpsuit ensemble by Viktor & Rolf. If you’re set on a gown, these make the perfect after-party get-up too.

Shoulder on

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

If you’re looking for something that is universally flattering, the one-shoulder neckline is made for you. We love how the design can be interpreted in different ways, whether it’s in a sexy thin strap à la Berta, a bow detail (as seen at Julie Vino), or Sophie et Voilà’s fashion-forward cape-like piece.

The Belle of the Ball

1/5

2/5

3/5

4/5

5/5

If the runways are of any indication, ball gowns are back big time this year. While we got to admit we’re not totally in love with the trend, here’s a simple tip on how to nail the princess-vibe dress in a modern way—keep the top half of your look clean and minimal. We love Demetrios’ simple scoop neck design, but if you want to tune up the drama, Pronovias’ deisgn is the one to go for.

For more bridal stories, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

#BuroBrides
Wedding
Wedding gowns
Bridal Fashion Week
2020
Fashion
Trends
bridal


Watches
Chanel Camélia is made for the woman who lives and breathes freedom
Eternal allure

26.02.2018
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

“If you were born without wings, do nothing to prevent them from sprouting” — Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel

The Camélia isn’t just a beloved icon of the luxury house, it was one of Gabrielle Chanel’s favourite motifs, her emblem of choice for its purity and timeless femininity. At a time when the camellia is commonly used on man’s lapel, Mademoiselle Chanel borrowed it as a symbol of refinement. She also loved that the flower did not exude any fragrance, allowing its wearer the freedom to choose her own.

Like the flower, the Chanel Camélia fine jewellery collection radiates an air of independence and irreverence. The beautiful creations dazzle in white and yellow gold, and even in ceramic, with a brilliance that shines with or without diamonds. In the Spring/Summer campaign, Alma Jodorowsky captures that bold spirit in a series of stunning images that showcases the collection to perfection. See them here:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Chanel Camelia” rid=”5995″ order=”a_tstamp”}

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Jewellery
Chanel


Lifestyle
Exo’s Chen releases new album ‘Dear My Dear’, Demi Lovato apologises following Israel trip

04.10.2019
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Hello pop culture junkies! Welcome back to another edition of Pop Culture Catch-Up (sans podcast) as we discuss the biggest news of the week in the entertainment circle. This week’s headlines include: Exo member Chen’s new album Dear My Dear, the Robert De Niro discrimination lawsuit and Demi Lovato’s trip backlash. Now on to the top trending news!
Demi Lovato faces backlash for her visit to Israel

What might seemed like just another vacation has now been treated as choosing a political stance. While Demi Lovato had a great time in Israel, there is an ongoing conflict between the United States and Palestine—which the Cool For The Summer singer is now unfortunately intertwined with. She even had to turn off comments on Instagram.
The singer responded to the backlash with the following, “I’m extremely frustrated. I accepted a free trip to Israel in exchange for a few posts. No one told me there would be anything wrong with going or that I could possibly be offending anyone. With that being said, I’m sorry if I’ve hurt or offended anyone, that was no my intention”. She continued her apology by saying, “this was meant to be a spiritual experience for me, not a political statement and now I realise it hurt people and for that I’m sorry. Sorry I’m not more educated and sorry for thinking this trip was just a spiritual experience.”.
For the singer, this was an opportunity to visit the places she grew up reading in the Bible. What do you think?
Robert De Niro sued by former assistant

Two months after the legendary actor sued Graham Chase Robinson for alleged embezzlement, she has now done the same to Robert De Niro—for alleged gender discrimination and wage violations. De Niro and his company are accused of subjecting her to “years of gender discrimination and harassment” and a “hostile work environment.” That isn’t all. Derogatory names were said to be used to call her including b***h and br*t.
In addition to that, Graham Chase Robinson claimed that “she typically worked 11-hour days with no meal breaks and no overtime pay” as well as given traditionally female roles such as hanging clothes and washing sheets. If you think that’s all, you’re wrong. Robert De Niro was also said to have uttered sexually-charged comments. How much is she seeking for damages including back pay, front pay, compensatory damages, liquidated damages, and punitive damage? Well, $12 million (approximately RM50,217,900).
All of these claims are alleged and we shall wait to see what happens in the future.
Chen of Exo releases new mini album
Dear My Dear is finally here! The vocalist from South Korean boy group Exo has just dropped his latest album, following April, And A Flower earlier this year. It comprises of six songs, including My Dear, Amaranth, and Good Night. Chen said this in a press conference—”while preparing for this album, I realised how hard love is. I truly hope that there are a lot of people who are happy. It’s hard for me to define what love is personally, but I hope every day is overflowing with love. I hope listeners feel comforted and loved while listening to every single song in my album”.
It seems like things are off to a great start for Chen. Shall We, the album’s lead single (or title track) shot straight to the top spot on iTunes charts in 36 countries, including Thailand and France.
Rich Brian and Chungha just dropped the music video for These Nights

Nobody saw this collaboration coming but it’s here. Both the digital single and music video for These Nights were released on 88Rising’s YouTube channel (Rich Brian’s label). Both the former girl group member and the Indonesian rapper showed different sides in the song and accompanying video. While Rich Brian, known for his verses and low voice, sang, Chungha can be seen to be laid-back—instead of her usual powerful choreographies. These Nights is a synth pop track reminiscent of the 80s with a punchy base and smooth R&B hooks. Korean and English are both utilised as well. What are your thoughts on the song and music video?

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Kpop
music
Celebrity
Pop Culture Catch-Up
Pop culture news
tv
Film
News


Travel
10 Unique Airbnbs for weddings in and around Malaysia

18.05.2019
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

A recent study by the UK Office of National Statistics found that the true key to happiness is a steady marriage, ranking only below good health. According to the research, life satisfaction for married people is 9.9 per cent higher than widows and widowers, and 8.8 per cent higher than the divorced or separated ones. When people feel secure and loved, they tend to feel way better about life. Generally, the foundation of reliable love is based on the promise that someone will stick around regardless of what happens. “Love is all that I can give to you, love is more than just a game for two”. Yes, that’s Nat King Cole and isn’t love just wonderful?
From a Utopian perspective, love and marriage goes hand in hand, and the zeitgeist of 2019 has seen a change in attitudes when it comes to the elements of marriage. And so, when it comes to planning a wedding, ranging from wedding venues/destinations to themes, we are now officially living in a diaspora of creativity and manifestation—and that’s simply wonderful!

If you’re planning to tie the knot soon but prefer to hold your ceremony somewhere unique, then keep on reading as you’re in luck. Airbnb has curated a list of special homes in Malaysia, Bali, Phuket, and Australia, that are superb as wedding venues. If you’re a bride- or groom-to-be, Airbnb has got you covered with these trending spots. Ring the bell, a wedding is coming through.

1. The Eden at Robertson KL, Malaysia

Price: RM93 per night
The Eden is located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and it’s perfect for lovebirds that prefer a vibrant metropolis while keeping quite a humble guestlist. A city destination wedding is ideal for friends and families too as there will be things to do for everyone. This listing even has a swimming pool, a gym, and an impeccable view of the KL Tower.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: If you’re into Wes Anderson’s work, this Airbnb home will interest you

2. Modernist apartment in Melbourne, Australia

Price: RM199 per night
Picture perfect memories? Checked. Glorious city skyline? Checked. Let’s just say that you’re on the right track to the wedding of your dreams as you revel in Melbourne‘s city skyline. In this minimalist apartment, you can soak in the sunlit balcony with your husband or wife-to-be. What makes this Airbnb home excellent? The floor-to-ceiling windows, the open-floor plan design, and the creative wall art. As a wedding venue, the apartment is sleek and spectacular.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Check out other romantic getaway destinations in Southeast Asia

3. Villa Sanglung, Bali, Indonesia

Price: RM705 per night
Bali has alway been known as the perfect vacation destination but do you know that the island has also risen in favourability as a wedding spot? While it might be difficult to choose from the many amazing options in Bali, Villa Sanglung has been singled out as one of the best. Apart from seclusion, this oasis also offers a splendid, low-key spot to tie the knot. Furthemore, look forward to the private pool villa’s 180º views of the sea and nature. Don’t miss out on the sunset from your own private pool! Wedding goals? Without a doubt.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Have you been on a hot air balloon? You can while you’re in Bali

4. Tamarama Paradise, Sydney, Australia

Price: RM506 per night
If you are searching for a slice of paradise, head over to the birth nation of an Avenger (Chris Hemsworth, that is). Situated on the cliffs, Tamarama Paradise is suitable for newlyweds-to-be who love the sun and fresh sea breeze. Located in close proximity to the famous Bondi beach, but still a sanctuary away from the hustle of the city, fill your wedding with peace and serenity, and ride the waves of love!
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: How much do you know about Tasmania? Find out more!

5. Heritage Listed C1886 End Terrace, Sydney, Australia

Price: RM662 per night
If you’re the kind of couple who prefer to celebrate love by immersing in culture, this Australian home definitely has that covered for you. This period house, with a history beginning from 1886, is a heritage-listed property. Situated within private gated mews, you will enjoy tranquility as you spend precious time with your significant other and loved ones. Let your love be part of the house’s long history, and like the listing, your relationship will withstand the test of time. S-w-e-e-t!
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Find out how the Notre-Dame could look like in a few years

6. Breathtaking Home with an Enchanting Garden and Roof Terrace, Phuket, Thailand

Price: RM436 per night
Where can you enjoy views of both the Andaman Sea and Patong City? From the roof terrace of this stunning home in Phuket. Rebel Wilson might have pronounced it a little too provocatively in The Hustle, but there is nothing inciting about this home. Immerse in the traditional Thai design elements and artworks while you, your partner and loved ones take in the lush greenery that surrounds you. Tie the knot here and absorb ambiance of the highest quality.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Don’t know where to go? Let your zodiac animal decide for you

7. Hinterland Villa, Gold Coast, Australia

Price: RM766 per night
According to Airbnb, there is a rising trend of travellers choosing sites that are located out of town in order to be truly disconnected. If you’re a couple seeking for escapism, look no further than Gold Coast’s Hinterland Villa. If you’re wondering, hinterland is defined as a part of a country located far from urban areas. This luxury villa is perfect for a large group with its 10 acres of land space. Combined with a 25-metre lap pool and a hot outdoor spa, everyone can join in the celebration with an abundance of space and activities to do together. If that isn’t inviting, what is?
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Check out these hidden gems in Brisbane while you’re there

8. Hideout Eco Bamboo House, Bali, Indonesia

Price: RM678 per night
What shouts escapism more than staying in a home hidden in the mountains of the Gunung Agung volcano? This eco stay is ideal for the adventurous couple. Celebrate love with the rusticness and authencity of the Balinese village life. Experience solitude and privacy while immersing in the beautiful nature around the home. Want to take the perfect wedding photos? The river surrounding the land is your backdrop. Tying the knot here would be epic, wouldn’t it?
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: These are travel destinations to get a peace of mind

9. Mountain View Lodge, Queensland, Australia

Price: RM260 per night
Majestic mountain views? Yes! Cascading waterfalls and bubbling hot springs? Yes, and yes! If you’re a couple seeking a matrimony that’s action-packed, this lodge is ideal for you. Wake up to glorious views of the Buderim Mountain and take advantage of the epoch by taking in the style and comfort of the home. You don’t even have to worry about panopticon as you will enjoy total privacy. With a good amount of things to do around the lodge, your matrimony is bound to be both marvelous and memorable.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: If Australia is too far, check out this unique waterfall in Singapore

10. Eagle View Park, Foxground, Australia

Price: RM925 per night
Looking for a home that’s only for the both of you (aka an elopement)? There is no better matrimony spot than this Australian guest house. Stay elevated as you overlook commanding escarpments, rolling green pastures and magnificent ocean views. Let romance continue to blossom and grow while you watch the sunset together. The location is calm and tranquil, but you will be amongst chickens, cattles, bunnies, tortoises, and wombats. If you’re a couple who loves animals, this farm-based guesthouse is the right place to seal your vows. Time to revel in this dichotomy between being on top of the world while Down Under.
For more information, click here.
READ MORE: Check out this 7-day Western Australia itinerary

Cheers to the end of the party for one, and celebrate the bond of two with these unique Airbnb homes. Love conquers all, and here’s to everlasting relationships.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Wedding
Travel
Australia
Bali
vacation rentals
Airbnb
Love
Travel Guide
Indonesia
Malaysia
Thailand
Bride


Style
The best Twitter reactions to Kim Kardashian’s green six-pack Christmas dress

27.12.2020
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

And just like that, Christmas has come and gone. But before we get ready to welcome the New Year (eek!), we’re taking a look at how our favourite celebs celebrated the holiday season. From the Kardashian clan to JLo and more, stars took to Instagram to show off their festive activities and striking get-ups, but there’s one get-up in particular that has set the internet abuzz—Kim Kardashian’s Schiaparelli ensemble.
Custom-made by creative director Daniel Roseberry, the green couture dress comes with a leather moulded six-pack and an absinthe silk velvet skirt. While we think that she abs-olutely nailed the outfit, Twitter has been flooded with The Hulk and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle memes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kim Kardashian West (@kimkardashian)

Check out the best Twitter reactions below:

I’m sorry pic.twitter.com/4voVEZd122
— Momo (@itsMOMOlicious) December 26, 2020

pic.twitter.com/JNK9t7jJgB
— MR.LARGE (@MRLARGE) December 26, 2020

But why is she dressed as the hulk and wearing eggplant earrings….
— Hannah G (@hgruer22) December 26, 2020

Don’t forget the rest of the Fam pic.twitter.com/eHWG2jKQiH
— Barry Halpin (@BarryHalpin) December 26, 2020

Merry Christmas to everyone except Kim Kardashian in her scary 6 pack abs bodysuit
— Morgan (@MorganWilkes) December 25, 2020

You forgot your gloves pic.twitter.com/H165GhjcyU
— James625 (@Zeronine625) December 26, 2020

what the fuck was the dress code 😐 pic.twitter.com/feX7uH9qIe
— a halliwell sister (@tinasarina) December 26, 2020

How many minutes until Fashionova recreate that ninja turtles dress @KimKardashian had on………..
— breezy claus (@ambriadominise) December 27, 2020

Tony Stark making Kim Kardashian’s dress pic.twitter.com/Ly2bQkPyUh
— bryan (@bryanyang) December 26, 2020

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

2020
Fashion
Kim Kardashian
BURO Holiday Guide 2020
Christmas
Twitter reactions
twitter
Kim Kardashian West
Schiaparelli


Travel
This is the only luxury liveaboard to consider for your year end holiday

27.10.2018
By Cai Mei Khoo

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

As we approached Labuan Bajo by air, its surroundings made it seem like we were in a distant land, not neighbouring Indonesia. We flew past countless islands (Indonesia is known to have some 18,000 islands), with the larger ones showing savanna-like terrains—yellow-brown grasslands dotted with small, round dark green bushes that looked almost like they were placed there on purpose.

The jetty was a short drive from the airport, and soon enough, our dinghy approached a modern-looking phinisi, a traditional Indonesian sailing ship with two masts, although in the case of Rascal, its masts were removed to allow the construction of five spacious above-deck cabins, making it the only phinisi of its kind in the world. Done up in a palette of neutrals, navy and white, this handsome boat would be our home for the next few nights. Led by Cruise Director, Gaz Phillips, the boat boasts 9 crew members, who make sure your every need is catered for. Although a luxury boat, Rascal is laidback in its approach, which is evident the moment you step onboard; there’s a barefoot policy, which I was more than happy about, although I had packed 4 different pairs of shoes.

The five en suite bedrooms are spacious and well-appointed in a tropical chic style, and boast Sonos speakers that you can connect your playlist to, although you’ll most likely be spending majority of your time out of the room. The plushest room on the boat is of course the master cabin; located at the back on the top deck, the room opens out onto a beautiful lounge, the perfect spot to enjoy a Dark and Stormy, made with Rascal’s own brand of rum.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Rascal” rid=”6689″ order=”a_tstamp”}
What makes Rascal stand out from other luxury boats is that there’s just nothing else like it: it’s not an extension of a luxury resort, it’s only available for private charters, meaning no screaming children if you’re on your honeymoon, for example, and because it’s a private charter, your route and trip itinerary is completely tailored to suit your wants and needs. Looking to see the famed Komodo dragons? First thing on the itinerary. Want to dive the tropical waters of the Flores Sea? Gaz knows the top dive spots like the back of his hand. Raja Ampat, or the Four Kings, is known to be one of the top diving destinations in the world, best covered on a liveaboard, and with a boat like Rascal, you’ll be utterly spoilt—but of course this isn’t your typical diving liveaboard. In fact, nothing about Rascal is typical.

Owned by Rascal Republic, the same group that owns 1-Altitude and Dallas Bar at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, Rascal knows a thing or two about the good life, and was designed for just that in mind. Private yoga sessions can be organised on the roof deck, or if the weather is right, a movie screening complete with bean bags. There’re also paddle boards and kayaks onboard, and if it’s a rush of adrenaline you’re after, wakeboarding can be arranged, or simply just jump off the rooftop deck (it was higher than expected but so much fun nonetheless). Special dining experiences can also be organised—on our last night, the crew set up a table on the front deck, and very sweetly surprised us by decorating it with paper lanterns and traditional Indonesian umbrellas. Food is a hearty mix of local, Asian or Western food—I woke up to the best mee goreng for breakfast and had that every morning, although if you have stricter dietary requirements, that can also be catered to.

On our adventure across a tiny portion of the vast Flores Sea, we went to visit the Komodo dragons (a must do), magnificent creatures who generally only concern themselves with sun bathing and only move (rather slowly) to the next spot when a shadow falls over them, but don’t let their seemingly drowsy state fool you. When it comes to eating time, which is generally once a month, Komodo dragons are capable at running at speeds of up to 20km/h. We had guides with us at all times, who also helped us take a group photo with a ‘smiling’ dragon, and thankfully left without incident. Other highlights include trekking up Gili Lawa Darat twice, once in the morning, and another time to catch the sunset—the light here really is something else. Then there’s the diving. This part of Indonesia boasts incredible biodiversity that will appeal to divers with different interests; larger creatures still excite me more than say, nudibranches, and it was here that I found myself in the closest proximity to a shark that I’ve ever been.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cai Mei Khoo (@caimei.k) on Jun 30, 2018 at 4:10am PDT

The best part on being on Rascal, however, must be waking up on the boat in the middle of the ocean at the crack of dawn to complete silence, where I watched the sun rise from the master deck. It’s precious, uninterrupted moments like these (there’s barely any phone reception out there), watching the colours of the sky slowly change from pink to mauve, to red and orange that I’m truly appreciative of mother nature’s beauty.

Rascal was a great introduction to what luxury liveaboard holidays are like, and truth be told, I think it will be tough to beat. Two more boats are currently under construction and will join the Rascal fleet in 2020, covering more unchartered territories in the region. Now, when’s the next long weekend?

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Luxury Liveaboard
Raja Ampat
Rascal Voyages
Indonesia
diving
Flores Sea


Beauty
7 Minutes with celebrity makeup artist KF Bong on his new faux eyelash collection
Max impact

25.05.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Ever wanted to channel that eye-opening, fan-like effect with your eyelashes but too afraid to try out eyelash extensions? If mascara and an eyelash curler can’t quite cut it for you, take on KF Bong’s latest faux lash collection in collaboration with Dubai-based hair and beauty expert, Shindesu. The lineup consists of two types of handmade mink lashes—Born Like This and Big Liar—that are cruelty-free and offer weightless comfort. We caught up with the talented celebrity makeup artist on how you can pull off the prettiest pair of peepers with handy tips and tricks:

1. How did your collaboration with Shindesu come about?
I have been trying out Shindesu products for a year, and I really love the effect of the mink hair lashes. Also, I realised that there is a market here in Asia for faux lashes and that most Asians place utmost importance on enhancing beauty in the most natural way. So I figured that this would be the best way to transform our eyes. Shindesu’s lashes that are exclusively available in Dubai do not suit Asian eye shapes, so I thought why not redesign it based on that?

2. What makes these faux lashes so special compared to others in the market?
I’m using the latest 3D technology for these mink lashes, and every pair can be worn more than 20 times—which is a stark difference compared to synthetic lashes that you can only wear up to 3-8 times. Every single hair’s texture starts thick from the root, and tapers thinly to the end, which also gives it a natural “C” curve. Each pair of lashes are made of three layers, so it will give your eyes a dreamier, more seductive effect upon application.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”KF Bong Shindesu” rid=”5092″ order=”a_tstamp”}
3. How would you recommend wearing #BornLikeThis and #BigLiar?
#BornLikeThis is ideal for small eyes, eyelids that aren’t as defined, and also monolids. It is great for women who prefer light to medium makeup. On the other hand, #BigLiar is suitable for big eyes and those who prefer bolder, evening-appropriate makeup.

4. Is there a reason for using mink instead of other materials?
Mink hair’s texture closely replicates that of human hair—it is as fine as human hair, and you can even curl it with an eyelash curler if needed.

5. An eyelash or makeup trick that you can share with our readers?
To master the application of faux eyelashes, all you really need is a thin line of eyeliner to transform your eyes to a whole different level, but in a natural way of course.

6. What is one beauty faux pas you notice women do when it comes to their eyelashes?
I notice that many women do not curl their lashes before applying mascara. It is imperative to curl it beforehand so that the mascara’s effects will be visible. Also, before picking the right mascara,  you must first understand the type of lashes and effect you wish to achieve—whether it is longer, curlier, or more voluminous lashes.

7. What is next for you? Will we see more collaborations as such in the future?
Hopefully I will design new makeup products catered not only for women, but for men as well—because everyone deserves to look the best version of themselves.

KF Bong x Shindesu is now available online and at all Kens Apothecary stores.

Related stories:
Secrets to photo-ready, flawless skin, as told by Will Malherbe of Smashbox
7 Minutes with Andrew Fitzsimons, Alterna’s new ambassador

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Insiders
Beauty
KF BONG


Lifestyle
Cannes Film Festival 2022: Full winners list and highlights
Festival de Cinéma

29.05.2022
By Phyll Wu

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

After kicking off on 12 May at the Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes, the star-studded annual Cannes Film Festival is finally done and dusted. Ever since its inception in 1939, the annual festival has continued to showcase and honour films on an international level while promoting the development of cinema by acting as a springboard for new talents to be discovered. For its 75th edition, the festival remained committed to its founding purpose with its diverse guests and winners.
Among the many celebrities who came from across the globe is K-Pop superstar and actress, Lee Ji-Eun—also known by her stage name, IU—who attended the festival along with the cast of Broker. Lee’s attendance at the festival went viral for not only her head-turning visuals, but also her admirable “fan service” as she was seen continuously interacting with fans who came in support of her. Needless to say, she has truly earned the nickname of the “Nation’s Sweetheart” of South Korea.

When IU went to Cannes: An appreciation. pic.twitter.com/GO7pPbW95p
— NEON (@neonrated) May 28, 2022

IU serving kpop idol aegyo at a fancy Cannes film premier is such a power move pic.twitter.com/ynByeqjVSx
— kitkat (@the_kittykat5) May 26, 2022

Anxiously wants to go over across to meet her fans and she was able to and it’s the sweetest thing happened in Cannes ♡#아이유 #IU pic.twitter.com/yPcscxWSXS
— May 28, 2022

However, IU was not the only star of the show. The movie she starred in, Broker, received a 12-minute standing ovation—making it the first Korean movie to receive the longest standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival.

CANNES FILM # 22 – BROKER – This is healing cinema. One of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. Mesmerizing in its simplicity. As if you just listened to the most gorgeous piano solo. Equally enthralling, sad and affirming. Essential for all humans. #Cannes2022 pic.twitter.com/urR0kUFwD3
— Jack Schenker (@YUNGOCUPOTIS) May 26, 2022

Another celebrity who took the internet by storm was Anne Hathaway, who stole the show with her stunning looks while looking as youthful as ever.

Anne Hathaway’s style at this years Cannes film festival needs to be written in the history books pic.twitter.com/GY1yQZAY7Z
— (@VersaceVenus_) May 28, 2022

anne hathaway at the cannes film festival. she looks so angelic pic.twitter.com/YPdk9HdCAU
— 2000s (@PopCulture2000s) May 19, 2022

READ: 30 Best looks from the 75th Cannes Film Festival
This year, the Un Certain Regard jury was presided by actress, director and producer Valeria Goliono, as well as director Debra Granik, actress Joanna Kulig, actor and singer Benjamin Biolay, and actor and producer Edgar Ramirez. After twelve days of glitzy and glamourous red carpet looks, the winners list has finally been revealed.
Keep reading to find out who bagged the coveted Palme d’Or at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival.

Winners of the 75th Cannes Film Festival
Feature Films
Palme d’or: Triangle of Sadness, directed by Ruben Östlund
Grand Prix (jointly awarded): Closem directed by Lukas Dhont; Stars at Noon, directed by Claire Denis
Award for Best Director: Park Chan-Wook for Decision to Leave
Award for Best Screenplay: Tarik Saleh for Boy from Heaven
Jury Prize (jointly awarded): EO, directed by Jerzy Skolimowski; The Eight Mountains, directed by Charlotte Vandermeersch and Felix Van Groeningen
75th anniversary Prize: Tori and Lokita, directed by Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne
Award for Best Actress: Zar Amir Ebrahimi in Holy Spider, directed by Ali Abbasi
Award for Best Actor: Song Kang-ho in Broker, directed by Kore-Eda Hirokazu
Short Films
Palme d’or: The Water Murmurs, directed by Jianying Chen
Special Mention: Melancholy of my Mother’s Lullabies, directed by Abinash Bikram Shah
Un Certain Regard
Un Certain Regard Prize: The Worst Ones, directed by Lise Akoka and Romane Gueret
Jury Prize: Joyland, directed by Saim Sadiq
Best Director Prize: Alexandru Belc for Metronom
Best Performance Prize (jointly awarded): Vicky Krieps in Corsage, directed by Marie Kreutzer; Adam Bessa in Harka, directed by Lotfy Nathan
Best Screenplay Prize: Mediterranean Fever, directed by Maha Haj
Coup de cœur Prize: Rodeo, directed by Lola Quivoron
Caméra d’or: War Pony, directed by Riley Keough and Gina Gammell, presented as part of the Un Certain Regard Official Selection
Special Mention: Plan 75 directed by Hayakawa Chie
La Cinefondation
First Prize: A Conspiracy Man, directed by Valerio Ferrara
Second Prize: Somewhere, directed by Li Jiahe
Joint Third Prize: Glorious Revolution, directed by Masha Novikova
For more on the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

TV and Theatre
Buro 24/7
Cannes Film Festival
Cannes
Film


Beauty
When forgotten 18th century art inspires a Valentine’s fragrance
Romanced by the past

17.01.2017
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

A forgotten craft, a French tradition and a passion to revive a historical treasure, brought three young restorers of the arts together to form À Paris chez Antoinette Poisson—specialists of domino paper.

During the Age of the Enlightenment in France, 35 x 45 cm paper sheets adorned with ornate motifs were printed by hand using engraved plates while colour was applied with stencils. These decorative sheets of paper were called “dominos”.
The exquisite material lined boxes and furniture. They breathed character into alcoves and corridors; and essentially birthed the idea of the wallpaper. After they faded with the turn of the 19th century, the only glimpse into the past lies in the binding of vintage paperbacks.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”diptyque rosa mundi-creators” rid=”4738″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Enchanted by the technique and timeless delicacy of the floral and geometric motifs, the trio behind Antoinette Poisson brought the craft back to life as contemporary decoration in hopes of restoring its former glory. In true homage to a style inherited directly from the 18th century, the atelier retains the original block printing and hand colouring techniques—resulting in beautifully nuanced irregularities and subtleties, all of which can only be achieved through manual craftsmanship.

À PARIS CHEZ ANTOINETTE POISSON POUR DIPTYQUE

It was the creative fervour demonstrated by the atelier of Antoinette Poisson that struck a chord with the perfume brand, Diptyque, whose founding members embraced that same passion for the decorative arts. And so, a partnership was born. With it comes a Valentine’s collection, both olfactory and visual, Rosa Mundi is a fragrance illustrated.

A distinctive arsenic green that is reminiscent of the 18th century plays backdrop to intertwined florals in pink. The duality of the colours evokes romance and vitality. A duet between two of perfumery’s most adored roses, the Damask and May, echo the sentiment.
The Rosa Mundi candles burn with an introductory scent of black current and bergamot, while the freshness of lychee lifts and geranium intensifies the aroma; all to set the stage for the blossoming fragrance of a thicket of roses.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”diptyque rosa mundi-diptyque products” rid=”4740″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Let the romance of Valentine’s linger with L’Eau Dominotée, a multi-use fragrance with the grace of the rose, spices of a graden and an ethereal waft of patchouli. Finally, a new solid Eau Rose embeds itself into Diptyque’s repertoire. Encased within a luxurious engraved black box in the emblematic Diptyque oval, the Centifolia and Damask rose are enhanced by a sumptuous blend of lychee, honey and cedar.

Related stories:
Diptyque’s Collection 34 is a fashionable work of art
Diptyque teams up with Olympia Le-Tan for a rose-tinted collection
Diptyque Pavilion KL has a new facelift – here’s what you’ll love about it

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fragrance
Beauty
diptyque


Watches
Bvlgari Barocko is the perfect tribute to the Baroque era with its vivid colours and extravagant shapes

16.11.2020
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

In the time of what seems to be doom and gloom (2020 has not been the most positively eventful), Bvlgari’s much-welcomed message of hope and light is personified with the latest Barocko high jewellery collection. A kaleidoscope of colours? Check. The most extravagant shapes teemed with meticulous details? Check and check. There is nothing that the Bvlgari Barocko collection didn’t cover; and its inspiration is none other than its native city, Rome, given the brand’s deep-rooted heritage.
Baroque indulgence is key here, with prominent architectural landmarks influencing the high jewellery creations’ shapes, lines and complexity, including the iconic Fountain of the Four Rivers, Sant’Agnese in Agone, Archangel Michael and more. Spearheaded by Bvlgari’s jewellery creative director Lucia Silvestri, the Barocko collection straddles the line between maximalism and effortless elegance.
Ahead, some of the most exquisite pieces from the Bvlgari Barocko collection:
Lady Rubellite

A 70-carat flat drop-shaped rubellite in vivid pink takes centre stage in this sautoir, copuled with diamonds, amethysts and rubellites in pavé setting. Pearls add a sophisticated element to the necklace—an apt choice that reflects its popularity back in the Baroque period.
Cabochon Exuberance

Inspired by the Eternal City’s Horti Farnesiani complex’s graphic facade, the Cabochon Exuberance is a stunning display of three tanzanites (sourced in New York), rubellites and emeralds from Jaipur and aquamarines from Hong Kong—all cut in various shapes and combined for a uniquely chromatic expression.
Rosso Caravaggio

An outstanding piece from the Barocko collection, the Rosso Caravaggio took 1,500 hours to complete. It has a rare 10-carat cushion ruby (sourced in Mozambique) and a slew of sparkling diamonds—a fascinating contrast inspired by influential Italian painter Caravaggio’s artistic style. Fun fact: this piece has a mechanism that allows it to be detached to two separate necklaces for various styling options.
Raggio di Luce

The Raggio di Luce stands out for a few reasons: 1) the rare, kite-shaped yellow diamond sourced in Hong Kong; and 2) the artful placement of yellow and white diamonds that bring to mind the light effects of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa sculpture.
Peacock

It’s no wonder how this bold piece acquired its name. The Peacock necklace highlights the extravagance of the Baroque movement while referencing the flair of peacock feathers. A variety of precious stones make this creation, from tanzanites and aquamarines to chrysoprases and emeralds.
Lady Arabesque

You can probably glean the Baroque influences on this Lady Arabesque necklace. Pink and violet sapphires are brought to life, with small Paraiba tourmalines, emeralds and round and drop diamonds—all set in Baroque-style curls for a decadent twist.
Wings of Rome

The bronze statue of Archangel Michael in Rome was the key reference while creating the Wings of Rome platinum necklace. A stunner in its own right, the necklace features diamonds in marquise, round and drop cuts—all set in three different layers for a three-dimensional effect.
Ruby Drapery

Inspired by Baroque artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s dynamic sculptures, the Ruby Drapery earrings and rings in white gold, diamonds and rubies are melded into curved, sinuous lines—spot the pieces’ allusion to marble drapery.
For the latest in watches & jewellery, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Watches and Jewellery
BVLGARI
High jewellery
Jewellery


Beauty
The business of beauty: Glow Gen’s founders on why their products are made in Malaysia
#SupportLocal

29.07.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

In case you missed it: There’s a new skincare brand on the local beauty scene, and it’s a breath of fresh air in the Malaysian beauty landscape. Best described as the antithesis of our trend-driven industry, Glow Gen offers minimalist, gentle and efficacious skin solutions without misleading marketing claims and unrealistic promises.
READ: 13 Malaysian skincare brands every beauty lover should know
The brand launched earlier this month with just two products in its first collection. The first is the Balancing + Perfecting Serum—a lightweight and easily absorbed formulation that harnesses the hydrating, pore-refining and blemish-fighting powers of niacinamide, salicylic acid, Kakadu plum, and hyaluronic acid. The second is the Pink Clay Purifying Facial Mask—a hydrating hyaluronic-acid-infused pink clay mask that has been enriched with soothing mangosteen and hibiscus flower extract.
READ: 11 Made-in-Malaysia scented candle brands to shop for a major mood lift
Rather than replace your tried-and-true skincare staples, Glow Gen’s pared-back lineup has been designed for easy incorporation into any routine. To learn more about the brand’s philosophy and a little more about its inner workings, we spoke to Ruth Lim, one half of the dynamic duo behind Glow Gen. Find our full exclusive below:

Pictured: Glow Gen’s founder, Ruth Lim.
Glow Gen was founded by you and your Malaysian husband, Kevin Lim. Could you walk us through your brand story?
“Kevin and I moved to Malaysia during the pandemic. As long as we’ve known each other, I’ve visited regularly and always enjoyed my time here so it felt like an easy decision to join him in Malaysia and start the next chapter of our lives!
“I have always had sensitive and reactive skin—when we arrived in Malaysia, the stress, change in climate and mask mandate triggered stubborn breakouts that I couldn’t budge. I tried many things including seeing skin specialists, medication and, of course, constant trial and error with topical products, but found that most of the options on the market were too strong for my skin and led to further breakouts.
“I couldn’t find a brand that spoke to my skin’s needs that was available locally, so I set out to create a solution myself! We’ve lived in Malaysia for a year and a half now working on this passion project and I’ve incorporated Glow Gen into my routine, and I have to say—my skin has never felt better!”

What is the significance behind the name Glow Gen?
“Glowing skin is the current trend but it can be a very exclusive one, calling for complex routines and strong ingredients that more ‘fussy’ skin types like myself often can’t use. We wanted to introduce the word generation to make it more inclusive—to us this name is an invitation for everyone to participate and enjoy trend-informed skincare without the fear of triggering reactions.”

You’ve got a background in branding and e-commerce for beauty startups in Australia—how has your experience informed Glow Gen’s own business model?
“I think the biggest influence it has had is providing me with the confidence to get started. Startups are all about solving problems, so when I couldn’t find the types of products I needed for my sensitive skin (and spoke to family and friends who had a similar need), I already felt empowered with the knowledge and skills to create the solution myself.
“Every aspect of the brand will continue to evolve based on the needs of the local market, so I try not to make assumptions based on my Australian experience and instead let the important decisions be led by customer feedback.”
What exactly is your husband’s role within the brand?
“My husband and I have always loved working together—even during our first year of dating in Australia we designed a salon together and took on a number of design projects! He is the more practical, admin-focused one while I enjoy being creative! From the get-go, I’ve led the product development process—thanks to my e-commerce background—and I oversee the branding and marketing too. We are lucky to be able to support each other with these complementary skills.”

Pictured: Ruth and Kevin Lim, founders of Glow Gen.
What sets Glow Gen apart from Malaysia’s current beauty market?
“Many of the brands I am familiar with here are either all-natural or are in competition for the most potent ingredients or highest percentages of actives in their products. While these approaches are fine for lots of people, both can be problematic if you have reactive skin, whereas a gentle, balanced approach works best and synthetic ingredients can be incredibly beneficial.”
What are the logistics involved with launching a brand? How did you source everything you needed to get the brand going, from suppliers to ingredients to packaging and beyond?
“We try to do as much as we can locally, as I think it’s important to support local industries! We always approach local suppliers first and only look overseas if there is something we can’t feasibly get done here. For our glass packaging, all of the local suppliers we approached were outsourcing to China so, for this, we decided to work with overseas manufacturers directly. However, at this stage, all of the rest of our packaging and products are manufactured locally.
“Finding good suppliers is a trial-and-error process. We always reach out to multiple manufacturers for samples and cut them down until we decide on our favourite to work with. Our main criteria are quality and, of course, being great to deal with-—most of our supplier contacts feel like an extension of our team.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Glow Gen Minimalist Skincare (@glowgen.co)

How did you choose the ingredients for your first two products?
“Our goal was to combine clinically proven clarifying ingredients with the best Malaysian and Australian botanical extracts in a way that would be received well by sensitive skin. We worked with a cosmetic chemist to bring this concept to life and went through many rounds of development as we had big ambitions for the texture and efficacy of the products. In particular, our mask took well over a year to develop and complete lab testing. We’ve gotten great feedback on our unique formulas, so this process was well worth it!”
The packaging is so cute! What went into designing the packaging for Glow Gen?
“My priority was to bring some joy into skincare for fussy skin—our guiding principle behind everything we create is that it should be ‘gentle, not boring!’ Generally, brands for sensitive skin take a very clinical approach to the look and feel of their products and as a result, my shelfies have always looked like they belonged in a pharmacy! Our next few products really take this fun approach to the next level and we are really excited to share them with our community.”

Glow Gen | Clarifying Routine from Glow Gen on Vimeo.

What was the advantage of producing your skincare line in Malaysia instead of Australia?
“For us, it’s not about securing an advantage as it’s often easier to market an internationally-made product (and many brands choose to do this). Working with local manufacturers is us placing our vote of confidence in the trajectory of the Malaysian beauty industry and choosing to support local businesses as this has a positive cumulative impact.
“From a sustainability perspective, it also makes sense to do as much locally as possible. We have also been blown away by the exceptional creatives and talent we have collaborated with to bring our imagery to life—it has been one of the highlights of the entire process.”
There are currently just two skincare products (not including the accessories) in Glow Gen’s collection—what was your reasoning behind this minimalist lineup?
“In general, keeping your routine simple is one the best things you can do for sensitive skin, so it made sense to stick to the necessities when planning our first capsule collection. These days, with so many ultra-specific products on the market, it can be hard to figure out what goes where in your routine and what may be incompatible with your skin. Our approach was to create two versatile products that work with any routine—just use your own trusty cleanser and moisturiser and you’re good to go!”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Glow Gen Minimalist Skincare (@glowgen.co)

Glow Gen claims to be a “clean skincare brand”. Clean beauty isn’t standardised across the industry, so what exactly does clean beauty mean to you and why was it important for you to have established that in Glow Gen’s marketing?
“For us, clean beauty means we make a conscious effort to stick to ingredients that are the best in class in terms of safety, as demonstrated by the latest available research. Many brands who identify as ‘clean’ spend a lot of time focusing on what they leave out and can demonise ingredients that are generally safe to use, but we prefer not to do this and instead like to focus on the good stuff we do include in the products!”
What went into the decision to make Glow Gen vegan and cruelty-free as well as irritant- and allergen-free?
“Generally, I don’t think animals should ever have to suffer for the sake of beauty, so [going vegan and cruelty-free] was an easy choice! We also want our products to be as inclusive as possible, so minimising irritants and allergens is a key way we can support people with sensitive and reactive skin. I’ve enjoyed great results from taking this gentle approach and think it’s an option that can benefit many people.

Glow Gen is available to shop online here or through their website. For updates on the brand, follow them on Instagram!
Find more beauty insiders here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Insiders
Malaysian
Beauty
Interview
Local brands
local businesses
Malaysian beauty brands
The Business Of Beauty