Fashion
Halloween dress-up guide: Iconic villainesses
"Doesn't it feel so good to be bad?"

28.10.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Just because it’s Halloween doesn’t mean you can’t strut into the party with style. Be it Cruella De Vil’s chic fur coat or Maleficent’s head-to-toe gothic look, here’s how you can dress according to the memo while looking chic and undeniably cool.

Cruella de Vil, 101 Dalmatians

Stella McCartney Ramona oversized embroidered faux fur coat
Balenciaga button-detail midi dress
Alexander McQueen red lambskin elbow gloves
Fendi 2Jours Shopper
Fendi Pompon Charm in black and white
Jimmy Choo Darylin patent leather and suede pumps

Maleficent, Sleeping Beauty

Anna Sui embroidered faux leather-trimmed faux fur cape
Gareth Pugh stretch silk georgette gown
Cartier Les Oiseaux Libérés ring
Chanel Rouge Coco in #446 Etienne
Aquazzura Amazon suede and leather pumps

Queen of Hearts, Alice in Wonderland

Charlotte Olympia Queen Of Hearts textured-leather clutch
Valentino embroidered crepe couture dress
Piaget Heart cuff
NARS Eye Paint in Solomon Islands
Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in Trafalgar
Brian Atwood + Donald Robertson Alis Lips printed canvas pumps

Scarlet Overkill, Minions

Falke Pure Matt 50 denier tights
Chopard Diamond 18k White Gold Necklace Choker
Carolina Herrera red gown
Alexander McQueen long-length button-through leather gloves
Fendi Color Flash sunglasses
Gianvito Rossi 100 suede pumps

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Trends
Halloween


Fashion
Paris Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 8
Discerning aesthetics

09.03.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

While all the guests sat front row only at Chanel, many of the girls carried the weight of the pearls on their shoulders. But what a tremendous burden to bear—numerous strands of pearls in varying sizes (some verging on ping pong ball proportions) swung and clicked to the rhythm of the models’ gait. The Grand Palais was transformed into a huge couture salon devoid of backdrop or props—a departure from the grandiose sets Mr Lagerfeld has come to be known for (supermarkets, casinos, airports and who could ever forget the iceberg of AW10?).  A simpler, cleaner setup allowed the clothes to speak and the accent and vocabulary was undeniably Chanel. Tweed suits, pearls, printed camellias, tiered ruffles and Baptiste Giabiconi all made appearances, as did Hudson Kroenig who took a bow with Uncle Karl. Willow Smith (daughter of Jada and Will) was also in attendance and was announced as Chanel’s newest ambassador.

The Valentino runway opened with sombre, dark creations that breezed down the runway with movement; some evoked images of a dancer off duty, which was explained by Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaoplo Piccioli’s inspiration for this season—dance and the movements that takes place within the discipline. The moody tone was soon displaced by a series of ethereal, nude-hued dresses and tutu-inspired pieces, disrupted (beautifully) by contrasting looks of patent leather and velvet in between, while shapes are kept flowing and fluid. The dreamy tulle dresses that closed the show? Magic.

Humberto Leon and Carol Lim decidedly chose to do a quirky cultural mashup this season at Kenzo. Show notes referenced Sailormoon and the intrepid Kenzo girl who’s not afraid of adventure as the collection evidently brought on way more than just these elements. From extralong sleeves with ruffles to major print-on-print action via layering (read: neon tiger stripes, dandelion motifs and grid-like prints), it was sensory overload but not in an overwhelming, almost combustible way, although we think that exaggerated shoulders should seriously take a backseat this season already.

Related stories:
Paris Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 7Paris Fashion Week AW16 Street Style Day 7: A powerful statement#WednesdayWishlist: Paris Fashion Week AW16

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Fashion Week
Chanel
Paris Fashion Week
Collections
Valentino
Kenzo


Culture
Make 2018 a good one — get organised with these planners
Jot it down

28.12.2017
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Just a few days till we close the chapter of 2017 in our lives, and turn the page to the New Year. Whether you are one for resolutions or not, a surefire way to get 2018 started on the right note is to have your goals for the year in mind— better still, jot them down in your trusty journal or planner and relish the great joy of crossing them off as the days go by. Stay on top of your appointments and plans for the year while you are at it, too.
Here, we’ve curated a list of our favourite planners for 2018, including some great locally made ones. Like what you see? Shop right now from the links below.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] 2018 planners” rid=”5786″ order=”a_tstamp”}
1. Moleskin 12-Month Weekly Alice In Wonderland Planner
2. Hobonichi Navy Plaid Weekly Planner
3. Fully-customisable planner from ana tomy
4. Mossery Aurora 2018 Planner
5. Mucca 2018 Planner in Forest Green
6. Hobinichi Cousin Mina A5 Journal
7. Semi-customisable planner from ana tomy
8. Moleskin 12-Month Daily Star Wars Planner
9. Mossery Black Speckle 2018 Planner
10. 2018 Calendar Clipboard from Tabiyo Shop (old school rules!)

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Stationery
Mossery
The Alphabet Press
Local design


Technology
Which iPad should you get: iPad 8th Gen, Mini, Air or Pro?

14.09.2021
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

Threads 101: How to start and everything you need to know

Being spoilt for choice isn’t always a walk in the Apple park. Tablets these days could easily be a replacement for a laptop, should any of them tick all the right boxes. Apple’s range of iPads is a good example of this as each of the models serves well as a device for entertainment, productivity and creative needs. But how do you pick the right one for your lifestyle, and what’s the difference? Having had the opportunity to test out the currently available iPads, and ahead of Apple’s September event, I’ve decided to put together a quick review guide to help you out of that pickle.
The following refers to the Wi-Fi models as a base for this comparison guide.
iPad Mini (2019)

Weight: 300.5gDisplay: 7.9-inch Retina displayOperates on: A12 BionicBattery: Up to 10 hours

Rear camera: 8MPFront camera: 7MPCharging port: Lightning connectorStorage options: 64GB, 256GB

REVIEW
Pre-pandemic, the iPad Mini was my favourite for its portable size and weight. This is also because I travel with my Macbook anyway, so the iPad Mini served well for in-flight entertainment, be it reading via the Kindle app, playing games or watching Netflix. It’s also compatible with the Apple Pencil, which makes doodling or note-taking easy on the go. In addition, the A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine meant it could keep up with most tasks such as Adobe Photoshop CC, and with three million pixels for its Retina display, the visuals look sharp, bright and vibrant. Under natural light, True Tone adjusts the white balance automatically, so images look true-to-life under any light. I personally don’t know anyone who takes photos and videos with an iPad, but if you’re up for it, the quality is decent enough. Otherwise, it comes in handy for video calls.
WHO IS IT FOR
If you’re considering between a Kindle or an iPad, the iPad Mini offers a whole lot more. Of course, the price tag is also different so it might not seem fair to compare. But the reason for bringing that up is more so to question if you’re also looking for a device to play games, watch videos and take digital notes or drawings. The iPad Mini is a great all-in-one if you’re on a budget and looking to own your first tablet. Extra points go for its compact size and storage space.
SHOP: RM1,699
iPad 8th Gen (2020)

Weight: 490gDisplay: 10.2-inch Retina displayOperates on: A12 BionicBattery: Up to 10 hours

Rear camera: 8MPFront camera: 1.2MPCharging port: Lightning connectorStorage options: 32GB, 128GB

REVIEW
As you look at the specs, you may notice that between the iPad 8th Gen and iPad Mini aren’t too different except for the size. True enough, in terms of performance, the iPad 8th Gen fares well enough. The only downside is that the model starts with a very modest storage option at 32GB (which isn’t sufficient if you plan to download many apps and keep tons of photos and videos in your Camera Roll)—and that 1.2MP selfie camera. It’s also compatible with the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard.
WHO IS IT FOR
Between the iPad and iPad Mini, the latter offers better value for better specs, albeit in a smaller size. If you’re on a similar budget and prefer a tablet with a bigger display, the iPad 8th Gen wins uncontested, but it’s best to go with the 128GB model.
SHOP: RM1,499
iPad Air 4th Gen (2020)

Weight: 458gDisplay: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina displayOperates on: A14 BionicBattery: Up to 10 hours

Rear camera: 12MPFront camera: 7MPCharging port: USB-CStorage options: 64GB, 256GB

REVIEW
Now, let’s move to what I consider the second tier of iPads. The iPad Air comes at a higher price point and an upgraded chip that delivers amazing performance (as compared to the two models mentioned above). Fun fact: The A14 Bionic chipset is the same one in the iPhone 12 range. It’s lighter than the basic iPad—and almost as thin as the iPad Mini—yet packs a ton of power for faster graphics and CPU performance, as well as 10 times faster machine learning. It’s capable of even editing a 4K video with stunning graphics to match, thanks to the Liquid Retina display and all-screen design. In addition, the audio is upgraded too with high-quality landscape stereo speakers, perfect for gaming or entertainment. Both the front and rear cameras too cater for video calls with crisp visuals.
WHO IS IT FOR
If you especially dabble in photo- or video-editing—or even digital art—the iPad Air will be your perfect day-to-day companion and a worthy investment. Compatible with the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen, Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio, it’s versatile for all fields. Plus, it comes in a range of fun colours!
SHOP: RM2,599
iPad Pro (2021)

Weight: 682gDisplay: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDROperates on: Apple M1 displayBattery: Up to 10 hours

Rear camera: 12MP + 10MP +LiDARFront camera: 12MPCharging port: USB-CStorage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

REVIEW
The crème de la crème with the super chipset that is Apple’s very own M1 chip, the iPad Pro can truly replace your everyday laptop. This is especially so if you add on the Magic Keyboard for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (5th Gen) and the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen. Accessories aside, almost everything is jam-packed with upgrades: four-speaker audio, better cameras (which includes Portrait mode and Portrait Lighting), the added Face ID authentication, 8-core graphics and CPU, better brightness and the list goes on. All of that while still maintaining that “up to 10 hours of battery life” spec.
Since switching over to the iPad Pro, I’ve edited videos with multiple layers with ease and zero lag. In addition, drawing with the Apple Pencil and on the Procreate app is seamless with a pen to paper feel. More than that, however, the colours simply jump off the screen, and details are literally true-to-life. You’ll be able to appreciate your favourite movies even more as the display’s dynamic range extends to a breathtaking 1,000 nits of full-screen brightness and 1,600 nits of peak brightness. Fun fact: This is due to the over 10,000 mini-LEDs behind the back of the display.

My other favourite feature is the Ultra Wide camera with Centre Stage. I use FaceTime a lot to catch up with my best friend in Tokyo. Seriously, we call for the most random things, at the most random timings. With Centre Stage, even if I’m cooking in the kitchen or doing laundry, the camera will automatically pan to keep me in the centre of the frame as I move around the room. Also, I look way more flattering now in my PJs than before.
WHO IS IT FOR
For the ultimate experience, add on the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen and Magic Keyboard for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (5th Gen). Altogether, it is heavier than the other models but convenient nonetheless, and more importantly, ultra-powerful with all-day battery life. The combination works well for people who are always on the go. It does come with a hefty price tag, so if you’re not using it for heavy graphic work such as building AR models or editing full-length 4K videos, it’s not entirely necessary to opt for the iPad Pro. But if you do, it’s a splurge you’ll enjoy day-to-day.
SHOP: RM3,499
For more info, check out the Apple website.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Gadget Review
iPad
iPad Pro
Apple
Tech Reviews
Gadgets


Fashion
Just in: Disney x Coach is the ultimate all-American collection to have
Dreams do come true

11.06.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Calling all diehard Disney fans who also love splurging on luxury accessories—Disney has joined forces with Coach on a limited-edition collection featuring Mickey Mouse designs (everywhere!) on Coach leather goods and ready-to-wear apparel. As part of a series of exclusive projects that celebrate American pop culture and Coach’s 75th anniversary, this collection sees specially created sketches of Mickey by Disney animators on T-shirts as well as signature Coach glove-tanned leather bags i.e. the Saddle and the Dinky.

“Mickey Mouse is one of my earliest memories of American pop—his nostalgic charm, cheekiness, individuality and inherent cool make for the ultimate American icon,” says Coach Creative Director Stuart Vevers. “I’ve always seen Mickey as a playful rebel at heart and a timeless symbol of joy and creativity. That spirit reinforces the new youthful perspective we are bringing to luxury at Coach.”

You can expect an all-encompassing range with this collection, such as sneakers with Coach’s signature hangtag redesigned in the shape of Mickey’s ears, a biker jacket with studs in the shape of Mickey’s ear, and a frame on a re-edition of an archival Coach bag from the 1960’s ‘the Kisslock’. Collectible pieces include oversized black leather Mickey dolls and shearling beanbags (because why not, right?)

Here’s the full collection from Disney x Coach:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Disney x Coach” rid=”4069″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The Disney x Coach Collection will be available from 24 June 2016 onwards at Coach stores in Pavilion, Suria KLCC, The Gardens Mall, Sunway Pyramid, and Gurney Plaza Penang.

Related stories:
Coach highlights its New York City-rooted heritage in Pre-Fall ’16 campaign
Buro 24/7 Exclusive: Hunny Madu and SonaOne serve blue steel in Coach

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Coach
News
Disney


Beauty
#OrganicBeauty: 4 Serums to add to your beauty shelf now
Onboard the clean beauty movement

16.10.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Serums are typically packaged in smaller bottles compared to other skincare essentials, but they are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin and hold a chockfull of concentrated ingredients, making them ideal for targeting specific skin concerns—which brings us to the following list.

Here we have rounded up four serums you can add to your beauty shelf—all from brands that believe in non-synthetic, natural ingredients—depending on your skin type and concern.

For combination or oily skin
Perfect for use given the hot and humid weather we have here, the Neal’s Yard Remedies Oil Free Hydrating Facial Serum hydrates and mattifies skin upon application. The lightweight serum is formulated with rice extract, alpaflor alp-sebum, shiitake extract and other potent ingredients that leave skin, moisturised, smooth and shine-free—it smells absolutely lovely too.

For normal skin and anti-ageing
Melvita’s Nectar Supreme Serum and Oil combines the efficacy of a serum with the nourishing power of facial oils, forming a two-in-one concoction that will fit right in your anti-ageing skincare routine—a routine one is never too young to start. It harnesses the revitalising and repairing properties of precious nectars and plant oils to help shield against signs of ageing, giving you soft, radiant and youthful skin.

For stressed, dull and uneven skin
Going through quarter-life crisis? Then the Origins Skin Renewal Serum might just be your skin saviour. Formulated to address millennial skin concerns—also known as rough, dull skin and visible pores that appear (no) thanks to late nights—this serum helps refine skin texture, shrink pores and restore radiance with its innovative blend of high-performance ingredients.

For dry and/or normal skin
Things we love about the Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S Thirst Quenching Serum: it’s oil-free, fast-absorbing and hydrating—plus the lightweight texture also makes it great for summer weather. With regular use, you’ll find that your skin’s moisture balance is restored, leaving it supple and comfortably soft.

Related stories:
24 Minutes with Ella Mills of Deliciously Ella
Go Manic for Organic
The Body Shop Expert Facial Masks: Superfood for your skin

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

#GoGreen
Eco-friendly beauty
Sustainable beauty
caudalie
Neal's Yard Remedies
Organic
Organic Skincare
Origins
Skincare
Melvita
sustainability


Lifestyle
Buro Culture Guide: Local art and music events happening in January ’17
A jazzy kickoff to the year

04.01.2017
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

6-7 January, Endless Keys: 8 Pianists @ No Black Tie, KL
If you haven’t got plans for Friday or Saturday night just yet, head down to No Black Tie as eight of Malaysia’s greatest pianists—Michael Veerapen, Wei Li Chea, Tay Cher Siang, Justin Lim, John Dip Silas, Ee Jeng Hin, Ch’ng Wee Lern and Toro Cheng—take the stage and show what they do best, killing it on the piano.
The cover charge is RM53. For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

7-27 January, ‘Great Leap Forward’ – A solo exhibition by Nirmala Dutt @ OUR ArtProjects, The Zhongshan Building, KL, 11am-7pm
‘Great Leap Forward’ serves as the opening show of OUR ArtProjects new space in Kampung Attap, KL. A pioneering figure in the Malaysian contemporary art scene, Nirmala Dutt’s practice spans documentary photography, painting, silkscreen, collage and public art, and often directed attention towards the plight of the downtrodden. Unfortunately, she passed away peacefully just last month, before the opening of the exhibition. The exhibition focuses on Dutt’s practice in the 1990s, and hopefully inspires future artists to follow in her footsteps.
Admission is free. For more information, visit the website.

13-15 January, The 4th Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival @ KLPAC
The brainchild of renowned local jazz musician Michael Veerapen, the Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival has come quite some ways since its inception in 2014. The three-day event includes performances, clinics, and a competition.  Whether you are an aspiring professional musician or simply a jazz enthusiast, drop by KLPAC next weekend for some jazz lovin’.
For more information, visit the website.

14, 15 & 17 January, Mozart’s The Magic Flute @ Petronas Philharmonic Hall
An iconic work that has been popular since its premiere in 1791, The Magic Flute’s universal appeal lies in its playful spirit with a serious philosophy of life, and brilliant orchestration with ravishing melodies. Don’t miss it as the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and Kuala Lumpur City Opera Chorus bring the opera to life onstage at the Petronas Philharmonic Hall.
For ticketing and more information, visit the website.

14 January, KLigraphy pointed pen calligraphy workshop @ Table & Apron, 1-6pm
If you’ve always wanted to learn calligraphy but haven’t gotten to it, make it happen in the new year with this basic pointed pen calligraphy workshop. Specifically designed for beginners, it’ll be a fun 5-hour session with Inks and Letters and Inez Calligraphy, where you’ll be introduced to calligraphy and get acquainted with the basic supplies, techniques and strokes.
The workshop fee is RM320. For more information, visit the website.

19 January, Electric Carnival @ TREC, 7pm-late
TREC’s Electric Boulevard turns one, and it is celebrating with a bang. With band performances, DJs, samba dancers and fringe activities (beer pong, photo booths and more), the avenue will also be decked in fairy lights and carnival décor as Electric Carnival promises a fun night out with family and friends.
For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

21 January, Bryan Adams Live in Kuala Lumpur @ Malawati Indoor Stadium, Shah Alam, 8.30pm
Bryan Adams is bringing his ‘Get Up World Tour’ to KL—let the veteran singer-songwriter serenade you with his hits like ‘Heaven’, ‘(Everything I Do) I Do It For You’ and ‘Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman’. Adams’ most recent album is Get Up, which was just released in October 2015.
Visit Ticketpro for ticketing information.

Ongoing exhibition:
18 December 2016-16 April 2017, ‘Afterwork’ @ Ilham Gallery, KL
A major group exhibition curated by Freya Chou, Cosmin Costinas, Inti Guerrero and Qinyi Lim, ‘Afterwork’ explores the issues of class, race, labour, and migration in the region, as well as their corresponding aesthetics and histories. It features the work of artists from different generations, contexts and practices, showcasing different approaches and perspectives of the issue at hand.
For more information, visit the website.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Buro Culture Guide


Style
Fashion buzz: Google search data reveals Malaysia’s most popular celeb style icon, British supermodel Stella Tennant dies “suddenly” at age 50, and more

25.12.2020
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

Malaysia’s most popular celebrity style icon is…

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lady Gaga (@ladygaga)

Lady Gaga. According to research done by Money.co.uk using Google search data, Billie Eilish cinched the top spot when it comes to the number of countries (19, to be exact), but in Malaysia, Lady Gaga still remains the most searched fashion icon locally, and the third worldwide. Other top celebrity style icons on the list include Harry Styles, Kylie Jenner, Ariana Grande, and more.
Related: Lyst’s 2020 Power Dressers list includes a BTS member, a TikTok star, and a politician
British model Stella Tennant dies at age 50

Days after her 50th birthday, Stella Tennant has died at the age of 50. While the cause of death was not revealed, according to BBC, a police spokesman said that there were “no suspicious circumstances” surrounding her passing. “It is with great sadness we announce the sudden death of Stella Tennant on 22 December 2020. Stella was a wonderful woman and an inspiration to us all. She will be greatly missed,” a statement by her family reads.
The British supermodel was one of the fashion darlings in the ‘90s. Aside from walking in as many as 75 runway shows a season, one of the career highlights was her stint as a Chanel ambassador in the late ‘90s. Although she took a break from modelling not long after to focus on her family, during the 2012 London Olympic Games, she was one of the supermodel squad who participated in the closing ceremony. Her last runway appearance was during the Valentino Haute Couture SS20 show in January.
Saint Laurent unveils its Women’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection

Its choice of venue? The desert. While its Autumn/Winter 2020 collection back in February was filled with drama and latex, this season, the French fashion house is focusing on the exact opposite.
“I wanted to focus on the essence of things. I think it’s a sign of the times. But I didn’t want anything bleak or heavy. The desert, to me, symbolizes that yearn for serenity, open space, a slower rhythm. The clothes are also softer, the spirit of the collection is more gentle, stripped back,” creative director Anthony Vaccarello explains in a statement.
Presented via a film that was shot in a sand dune, the collection was filled with the brand’s version of ease, with a spotlight on silhouettes that are soft yet form-fitting. Aside from its signature jackets and leather separates, lounge-favourites such as bike shorts were one of the mainstays of the line-up, whether in the form of a bodysuit or dressed up with gilded tops and bralets. Watch the full film above.
Kate Spade New York’s new flagship store opens at Pavilion KL

Need a one-stop shop to get you ready for your NYE party? The new Kate Spade New York store has opened at Pavilion KL. Spanning across 161 square-meter, the pink and rose gold-themed space houses ready-to-wear, handbags, accessories, watches, and more.
Its creative director Nicola Glass says, “We’re incredibly proud to be unveiling our new store in the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur mall. Our brand, and everything we make, is about bringing joy to women, and enhancing their personal style. Kate Spade has always been known for its clever use of colour and playful sophistication, and I looked to embody those brand hallmarks in this new retail space, but with a modern twist. We’re so excited to be sharing our vision with the Malaysia shopper.”
The Kate Spade New York Pavilion boutique is located at Lot 2.06.00, Level 2, Pavilion KL.
Miu Miu is collaborating with Levi’s

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Miu Miu (@miumiu)

Before the year ends, Miu Miu has announced an exciting partnership to look forward to in 2021 with the iconic denim label, Levi’s. While not much has been revealed aside from an Instagram post, the capsule collection will be part of the brand’s upcycled line, and the pieces will be made with vintage 501s. Stay tuned for the unveiling in Spring 2021!
Read last week’s Fashion Buzz here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Miu Miu
Saint Laurent
Models
Lady Gaga
SS21
Fashion buzz
Fashion news
Levi's


Beauty
Insider Goss: Everything you’ve ever wanted to know (but too shy to ask) about waxing
Bush to bare

08.04.2018
By Terry Saw

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Girl walks into waxing salon. Girl decides this time she’ll (wo)man-up and have a chat with her waxologist. What’s so difficult about asking a few easy questions, right? Girl gets prepped for her session and gets into compromising position. Girl freezes up, ‘awkward turtle’ takes over, questions forgotten. Ah well, maybe next time.
We get it. The best time to strike up a hair-y conversation with a total stranger is when you’re in the most vulnerable position, said no one ever. Which was why, we gathered some of your top questions and sat down with a Strip waxpert to get the lowdown on hair removal tips, trends and everything in between.
Q: I’ve been trying to psych myself up, but I heard a Brazilian Wax can be excruciatingly painful.
A: “I’d say to expect some discomfort during a wax session but you can rule out excruciating pain. Here are some of my tips to make the experience more pleasant for you.”

 Avoid waxing for a couple of hours after consumption of alcohol. Contrary to the popular belief, stimulants can cause the skin to be extra sensitive, and hence for the experience to be a little more uncomfortable than usual.

 Make sure skin is moisturised for a more effective and pain-less wax.

Q: Soft wax vs Hard wax – which one should I opt for my first time?
A: “You can try our Desert Rose Wax treatment – this is a hard wax exclusively formulated with first-timers in mind. Hard wax is the most gentle on sensitive skin and is packed with anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera to leave the skin moisturised and to prevent irritation. This treatment also has the benefits of chamomile to hydrate and reduce redness of the skin. Our Desert Rose formulation is designed to be super soft so it spreads a thin layer easily onto the skin and dries quickly for speedy removal, minimum discomfort and maximum results – really a good introduction for your waxing experience.”

Q: I feel self-conscious each time I visit the waxing salon no matter what I do or tell myself!
A: “This is perfectly normal, but coming from a waxpert who’s been in the business for the past 12 years, I’d say, don’t sweat the small stuff. Remember, this is our job as waxperts. We do this everyday and we’ve probably seen it all by now so it’s totally unnecessary to worry about where you stand on the ‘hair-y scale’ – none of these details matter to anyone but yourself. We are more focused on getting the job done as precisely and as quickly as possible to make it short and sweet for you.”

Q: I hear waxing makes the hair regrow thicker – is this true?
A: “Not at all. With regular and long-term waxing, the hair will regrow slower and finer, even less coarse than before.”

Q: I experience some redness and sometimes red spots appear for hours or last for rest of the day – is this normal?
A: “Some redness is normal. Strip waxperts are professionally trained to apply certain techniques to ensure a more comfortable experience for our customers – we work in smaller sections and you’ll see that our waxperts will apply light pressure on the skin immediately after pulling off a wax strip. This helps to numb the pain a little. We will also apply Strip Ice-Cream, our specially formulated cream to calm rashes and itch – this is also available for purchase so you can apply at home as many times as required.”

Q: I seem to have really bad ingrown issues after – how do I deal with this and will this ever go away?
A: “This is quite normal for new customers – it takes up three to five waxes to get the body/hair in check and the ingrown issues should subside with regular waxes. Apply Ice-Cream generously or the occasional aloe vera gel helps too.”

Q: Waxing vs laser hair removal or other methods – how do I know which works best for me?
A: “This really depends – generally waxing is the most popular method as it’s quick, affordable and it removes hair closer to the root and is way more effective than shaving (depending on the area of the body). Lasers are an investment but extremely effective if you are really hairy or have really dark, thick hair and generally more prone to ingrown hair issues. But do check in with a waxpert, who can advise clients on a case by case basis.”

Q: Do you get many male clients these days? How is the male vs. female experience different in your opinion?
A: “We are definitely seeing a spike in male clients, which is great, because waxing is also part of personal grooming and hygiene so it’s good to see it gaining more traction with the guys now. Men generally have a lower pain threshold and they come into the salon feeling more intimidated of course, as it takes them a lot more courage to get a wax done, but I also see many repeat male clients, which means they also don’t scare off easily!”

Q: What do male clients get done at your salon?
A: “The more popular ones are the backs, legs and Brazilian too!”

Q: What about the ladies – what are some of the more popular trends now?
A: “Definitely bush to bare. Brazilian waxes are still by far the most popular. There are also requests for landing strips and dainty well-trimmed triangles that come in close.”

Q: Do I have to literally bare all during a session?
A: “Absolutely not! Depending on what you’re getting, our waxperts will only ask you to remove what’s necessary. If you’re having a Brazilian done you may need to complete remove your underwear but you can always keep your top on – so you definitely shouldn’t be removing more than what is required.”

Q: Does it ever get ‘easier’? Some sessions still feel more uncomfortable than other times for me – shouldn’t it be something I get used to by now?
A: “It’s all about timing as well – leave one week before and after your period before undergoing a Brazilian as the pain and sensitivity can be heightened during this time of the month. Everyone’s pain threshold is different, but it can get easier if you have it done regularly.”

Q: Does my hair have to be very long before I can get a wax?
A: “Not necessarily. The hair only needs to be a minimum of 6mm in length for an effective hair removal session.”

Q: What are some of your top aftercare tips?
A: “One of the more common mistakes is that a hot shower after waxing will help soothe the skin – this is far from true. Waxing leaves the pores open, so any form of heat and sweat can cause irritation – here are some things you can do to ensure a good post-wax experience.”

 No hot showers or baths.
 No swimming or sunbathing.
 No tight clothing.
 No application of perfumed products including deodorant, antiperspirant or makeup on the treated areas.
 No scrubbing or rubbing of the treated area.
 No intensive workouts for at least 24 hours.

Q: Waxing also acts as an exfoliating session – I don’t necessarily need to exfoliate after, right?
A: “While waxing itself does help to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells, it is advisable to exfoliate three days after a wax treatment to prevent ingrown hairs.”

The Desert Rose Wax is available at Strip from now until 31 May 2018 only. First-time customers can enjoy Desert Rose Brazilian Wax for ladies at only RM88.00 (Normal price RM120.50) and the Desert Rose Boyzilian Wax for men at only RM118.00 (Normal price RM149.00). Book online or call a Strip outlet closest to you for more information.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Boyzilian
Brazilian
Insiders
Beauty
Waxing
Trends
STRIP


Food + Drink
#BuroEats: 7 New cafes and restaurants in KL to visit for October 2020

01.10.2020
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

1. Chateau Dionne

Photo by Chateau Dionne
After cementing a prime legacy in Shanghai, founder David Lim and partner executive chef Andy Choy have finally established Chateau Dionne here in Kuala Lumpur. The French fine dining restaurant’s menus are seasonal-progressive but patrons can definitely expect “classic French dining with a contemporary local balance”.
Check out the Degustation Menu that consists of palatable dishes such as Homard (Canadian lobster, Norwegian salmon, ravioli and lobster sauce); Champignon Et Artichauts (Mushroom and artichoke velouté, black truffle, and parmesan); as well as Bouillabaisse (Sabah Coral Trout, saffron potato, and rouille).
Address: 24 (Ground and Mezzanine), Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03 2011 2333
Website | Facebook | Instagram
2. Half & Hāfu

Photo by Half & Hāfu
Part hair salon, part coffee bar, Half & Hāfu is the every embodiment of sip and snip. Combine a minimal and tranquil space with curated beverage—and you’re all set for a relaxing time out.
Make sure to try their namesake signature drink, Half & Hāfu (Mocha with dry bitter orange) and a slice (or two) of the Burnt Butter Carrot Cake. The team at the cafe is always experimenting and there will always be new and exciting concoctions to check out.
Address: Lot B-1-05, First Floor, The Hub SS2, Seksyen 19, Petaling Jaya
Contact: 03 7931 1990
Facebook | Instagram
3. Am Found

Photo by @quarter_a and Am Found
Up for heartwarming coffee and hearty meals? Check out this Shah Alam-based cafe that’s sure to give your Instagram game a boost with its simple yet alluring aesthetics. Beverage options include Gula Melaka Cafe Latte, Long Black, Apple Enzyme Cinnamon, and Genmaicha Latte.
As for food, opt for the signature Sambalnara, Mr Lu Braised Pork Rice with the cafe’s signature garlic kimchi, Otak-Otak Quiche, and Miso Salmon with Rice.
Address: B-01-08, Sunsuria Forum, Shah Alam
Contact: 03 5032 1405
Facebook | Instagram
4. The Sherry

Photo by The Sherry
Located in OUG, The Sherry is a pork-heavy eatery that focuses on hearty mains and contemporary fusion cuisine. Signature dishes here include Sherry Iberico Steak, Pan-Seared Salmon, Tiger Prawn Aglio-Olio, and HamHamSap Belly.
You will also find desserts such as Bitter Sweet Matcha Pound Cake, Torta Caprese, and Vanilla Pound Cake with Fresh Strawberry Compote.
Address: 32, Jalan Selera 1, Taman Bukit Indah, Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 012 764 6028
Facebook | Instagram
5. Core by The Mechanic

Photo by Core by The Mechanic
Here’s an establishment that needs no introduction. Core by The Mechanic is an amalgamation of classic minimalism setting with exciting culinary offerings. You’ll find specialty coffee, pastries, and brilliant food—in addition to the opportunity to take Instaworthy shots at the entrance.
Options to check out include Thai Basil Spaghetti, Grilled Chicken Chop, Ikan Curry, and Black Sesame Waffle with Earl Grey Milk Tea Ice Cream.
Address: D-G-12, Medan Connaught, Taman Connaught, Cheras
Contact: 03 9108 1828
Facebook | Instagram
6. Wop Pizzeria

Photo by Wop Pizzeria
No, this eatery has nothing to do with Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s song—but the place sure is packed with all the characteristics of a banger. Founded by Ikmal Burhanuddin and wife Azara Nur Abdul Rahman, Wop Pizzeria is the latest artisanal pizza joint to join the scene in KL. Using the Gianni Acunto wood-and-gas kiln, you will find Neapolitan-style pizza here.
Wondering what to try? Order options such as Bianca Con Pomodorini, Margherita, Smoked Beef and Rocket, as well as Spicy Shrimp Garlic. Don’t forget to snap some shots of the exquisitely adorable store entrance while you’re there.
Address: H-0-8, Plaza Damas, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 019 2279 324
Website | Facebook | Instagram
7. Niko Neko 2.0

Photo by Niko Neko
With the temporary closing of their first outlet in Bangsar comes the opening of Niko Neko 2.0—a new concept store in Chinatown. Considered the pioneer of specialty matcha in KL, there really is no better place to savour and experience matcha like never before. The interior is sleek, minimal, and definitely bigger than its predecessor.
Here at Niko Neko 2.0, you will still be able to find classic favourites such as Genmaicha Choux, Matcha Burnt Cheesecake, Matcha Sourdough Croissant, and of course—the matcha-based drinks.
Address: 181, Jalan Tun H S Lee, Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 019 2136 456
Website | Facebook | Instagram
For last month’s list of restaurants and cafes, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

food guide
Kuala Lumpur
Restaurants in KL
Cafes in KL
BuroEats
food and drink
2020
Eating out


Culture
Are virtual weddings the way to go? Here’s how Nana Al Haleq did it during MCO 2.0

17.03.2021
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Pre-pandemic, if you had wedding plans for either 2020 or 2021, many other engaged couples could probably relate. Reservations had to be put on hold. Selected dates ended up being postponed countless times, with no end in sight as to when the actual ‘special day’ could take place. Moving between MCO to CMCO to RMCO, and then back to CMCO—wedding planning is more challenging than your typical ‘Bridezilla’ problems. What’s even more difficult is the simple desire to officially (and legally) solemnise your love, and to start your life together as Mr. and Mrs.
Thankfully, there is one safe option: Having a virtual wedding. That is exactly what Nana Al Haleq and her husband, Nik Mohd Fadhil did. She tells us, “After all, happiness in a marriage isn’t measured based on the size of the ceremony—not to us, at least.” Of course, recent events have since allowed marriage ceremonies and weddings to take place, be it at the National Registration Department (NRD), places of worship and non-Muslim religious association premises—with the exception for areas under EMCO.
However, the SOPs restrict a maximum attendance of 10 people (including the marriage registrar) for marriage registrations at the NRD; while the attendance for places of worship and religious association premises depends on the area (not more than 10 people in MCO areas, maximum 20 people for CMCO areas, and maximum 30 people in RMCO areas).
Social events such as weddings—including outdoor wedding receptions—are also now allowed for areas under CMCO and RMCO. “The social events include wedding receptions, engagement ceremonies, aqiqah, doa selamat and tahlil events, birthday celebrations, reunions, retreats and others. For wedding receptions, it is extended to non-Muslims couples as well,” said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on March 2.
The SOPs for this include restricting the attendance of the event to a maximum of 50 per cent of people, based on the capacity of the space. Social distancing should still be observed.
On the other hand, if you, your partner and your family are open to a virtual wedding ceremony instead, Nana Al Haleq shows us how it’s done!

Hi Nana! Congratulations on your recent wedding! Tell us about that special day.
“Thank you for the wish, BURO Fam! It was a humble and tiny ceremony attended by five people—the groom, bride (me!), my mum and our two witnesses. Our special day started just like any other. We attended to our work commitments in the morning and with two hours till the ceremony, we rushed to my mum’s place to set-up and get ready. All we could think about was our hope that the internet connection would be good, and that all our phones and laptop are fully charged to capture our special moment.
Getting ready was a bit challenging without the help of a makeup artist or assistant. Since I usually keep my hair free, putting on a hijab was a little tricky but thankfully, I had my husband’s help. Somehow, he managed to style it and placed all the pins in the right places.
15 minutes before the ceremony began, our close friends and family joined us virtually. It was a very intimate virtual gathering as they were only informed about it at a last minute’s notice—the morning of our big day. And yes, some of them were shocked about the news!
We were pronounced husband and wife at around 4.15pm by Ustaz Hilmi (Juru Nikah) from Pejabat Agama Selangor Daerah Gombak. And yes, it was conducted virtually too. It’s a blessing in disguise, to be honest. We were both set on being solemnised at the Pejabat Agama Selangor Daerah Gombak due to CMCO in Selangor. Then, MCO 2.0 happened just a week before ur big day and we were informed three days prior that we might need to postpone our nikah. Thankfully, there was a free slot for a virtual solemnisation ceremony and we just took it!”

While some couples were still waiting for the MCO 2.0 to be over before resuming their wedding plans, you and Nik went ahead with an online solemnisation—what led to that decision?
“We couldn’t afford the delays any longer, especially because we’ve delayed it since the first MCO in early 2020. We were tired with all the uncertainties and at that time, God knows how much longer MCO 2.0 would be, right? So, we decided to just do it in whatever way possible. After all, happiness in a marriage isn’t measured based on the size of the ceremony—not to us, at least.”
You guys even had friends and family attend the virtual ceremony—what did you have to do to set it all up?
“The set-up was actually super easy and straightforward. We used a MacBook Pro to Skype with the Ustaz from Pejabat Agama to conduct our solemnisation. For our close friends to witness our humble ceremony, we set up my iPhone 12 Pro Max with Zoom and then used the iPhone 11 Pro Max to record the ceremony. Once that was done, we used the iPhone 12 Pro Max to take the wedding pictures, because the camera is amazing and it’s easy to snap via the Apple Watch Series 6. Apart from using those great Apple products, tripods played a big role too.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Malaysian Fitness Goddess (@nanaalhaleq)

Yes, we saw that gorgeous photo on your Instagram! How exactly did you do it with the iPhone and Apple Watch?
“All we needed was good, natural lighting, a tripod to place the iPhone 12 Pro Max, and the Camera Remote app on the Apple Watch Series 6. You can check if you’re in frame by viewing everything directly from the Watch. We adjusted the brightness a little, set the timer to three seconds, and then all that was left was to strike a pose! It was so easy to take beautiful photos that had professional quality despite MCO.

TIP: Check out Apple’s guide to using Camera Remote and timer on the Apple Watch here.
Some may still prefer to hold a traditional wedding/solemnisation ceremony—nothing wrong with that. But there are misconceptions about hosting it virtually instead. What are some pros and cons of doing it virtually?
“Pros: We saved a lot of money and we didn’t have to deal with wedding planning, which surely saved our friends from dealing with a ‘Bridezilla’ (laughs). Cons: Not a lot of wedding presents and angpows. Also, some parents might not be happy with this decision.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Malaysia NABBA WFF INTL PRO (@nikdoeslift_wffpro)

It’s a hard time now, being apart from friends and family. How are you guys finding ways to still stay connected while social distancing?
“It really has been, but thankfully, most of our loved ones are Apple users so staying connected is just a FaceTime away!”
What’s life like as newlyweds in a pandemic? Is it difficult being ‘stuck’ together all the time with no ‘space’ (since you can’t really go out as compared to pre-MCO)?
“Not at all! We love being stuck together at home. It is the best time to get to know each other and do fun and/or productive activities together—cooking, cleaning, watching movies, working out and so much more. We look at it as ‘quality time’ that’s otherwise hard to come by. Once everything is back to normal (and we’re back to hustlin’), we’ll miss this precious time, for sure.”

View this post on Instagram

Last, but not least, you’re both into a healthy lifestyle. Can you share three pieces of advice for those looking to stay healthy and fit while being stuck at home?
“Here’s what we’ve been doing:

Do not stock up junk food, cookies or desserts at home. Only buy whole foods that your body needs
Be creative and use whatever tools you have at home as an equipment to exercise. Just make sure they are safe to use
De-stress! Keep your mind healthy and active by playing fun games, read light educational materials, meditate, and be sure to have a good night’s sleep. The Apple Watch Series 6 is a great help for this, whether it’s by using the Breathe app to meditate or via Sleep Tracking to ensure I get enough sleep.”

Follow Nana Al Haleq on Instagram for more updates and health advice.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

#BuroBrides
Wedding
mco
Apple
cmco
Nana Al Haleq


Fashion
Coach unveils next generation retail concept store in KLCC with Jay Park
A star-studded affair

28.08.2015
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Coach hosted a private reopening party with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring celebrity guest Jay Park, Ian Bickley, President of Coach International Group, Andrew Stanleick, President of Coach SEA & Oceania and Andrew Brien, Executive Director & CEO of Suria KLCC. Warm and inviting, the newly refurbished 1,600 square foot retail space eloquently reflects the sophisticated yet playful refinement of New York, where the luxury brand originated.
“We are thrilled to open our modern luxury concept store here at Suria KLCC, one of the most fashionable and iconic shopping malls in Malaysia,” said Stanleick. ” I believe the new incarnation of the Coach store that Stuart Vevers and William Sofield created will trigger a powerful change in the perception of Coach; it is sophisticated and refined, yet playful and authentic.”
A dazzling list of guests graced the launch event, with members of the press and Malaysian high society in the mix. Celebrities like Joe Flizzow, Sona One, Joanne Yew, Juliana Evans, Debbie Goh, Nazim Othman, Cristina Suzanne, Jane Chuck and Yumi Wong among others were spotted wearing pieces from Coach A/W ’15 collection. After the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were invited for a tour at the new modern luxury concept store, before adjourning to Marini’s 0n 57 for an after party with a special performance by Jay Park.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Coach” rid=”3257″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The Coach Suria KLCC store is located at Lot G01A – G01C,  Suria KLCC and is open daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Coach
Jay Park
News
Fashion


Watches
Now at the Tokyo National Museum: The Art of Bulgari
Italian jewellery finesse

11.09.2015
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

An exclusive retrospective presented by the Tokyo National Museum and Bulgari, the exhibition has approximately 250 pieces created by the renowned Italian jeweller over four decades on display. Path your way through the history of Bulgari’s eclectic creativity and style evolution since the end of 19th century; from “Art Déco” jewels from the 1920s-1940s, to artisanal “tremblant” brooches of the 1950s and 1960s, to opulent pieces from the 1980s and 1990s.
Jewels have inevitably been involved in the celebration of special moments and sentimental relationships. In a special set-up to recall the love affair of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, a selection of jewels from the personal collection of Taylor, bought by Bulgari back in 2011, is showcased alongside the original costumes the actress wore in the movie set of Cleopatra (where their love sparked) and the wedding dress she wore when she married Burton in 1964. It was a romance sealed by spectacular Bulgari pieces—the engagement ring features a 7.40 octagonal step-cut Columbian emerald and 12 pear-shaped diamonds.
Bulgari CEO Jean-Christophe Babin thus commented: ” Since longtime we wanted to set up a major retrospective in Japan as a tribute to one of our most important markets worldwide. This year we are very happy to finally bring this show to fruition for Japanese public in collaboration with one of the most important museums in the Country. Visitors will be able to discover the scope and power of Bulgari’s innovation through more than 130 years, fuelled by the unique heritage of its Roman roots”.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Bulgari” rid=”3302″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The Art of Bulgari: 130 Years of Italian Masterpieces will run at the Tokyo National Museum till 29 November 2015.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Watches and Jewellery
Bulgari
Jewellery
News


News
Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games: Everything you need to know and who are the Malaysians competing

04.02.2022
By Adelina Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Beijing is hosting the 2022 Olympic Winter Games, which officially starts on 4 February. This time, the Winter Games coincides with Chinese New Year—also known as the ‘Spring Festival’ in China—with the Opening Ceremony falling on the fourth day of celebration, which also happens to be ‘li chun‘.
Which athletes will benefit from the extra luck and prosperity (if any) during this auspicious period? Time will tell. We’ll be looking forward to thrills, joy, stellar sportsmanship, and the inevitable tears as the 15 winter sports are competed from now to 20 February.

Will Beijing 2022 thaw the hearts of its critics?

China, as the host, will also be seeking to put on an exemplary (if not memorable) Games to boost its international reputation and attract tourists once borders reopen. Things have not been smooth-sailing thus far. A few nations, chief among them the US, have diplomatically boycotted the Beijing Winter Olympics over human rights violations of the Uyghur in Xinjiang. US athletes, however, are allowed to compete. The Americans’ allies—the UK, Australia and Canada—have also boycotted the Winter Games diplomatically, alongside India, Kosovo and Lithuania.
Covid-19 concerns
Due to Covid-19 concerns, the royals of Norway and Sweden have chosen to sit out the Olympic Winter Games, which they traditionally always attend (not many other countries can rival them in long winters and heavy snowfall). Leaders of Germany, Austria and Switzerland are also erring on the side of caution—officially, at least—citing Covid-19 as the reason instead of any diplomatic quarrels. Those from Denmark, the Netherlands and New Zealand have officially cited both reasons for their absence.
Conspiracy theories… or not?
Many Western nations (notably those that are allies of the US) have instructed their athletes to use burner phones over espionage fears. A few cyber security experts have also warned that a health app designed for use by Olympians is able to spy on them, stealing health and other personal data—a privacy concern that isn’t unique to this particular China-made app.
If you are tuning in to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics or wish to stay informed, these are the facts and figures to know:
Beijing 2022 fact sheet

This video will brighten your mood! Let’s celebrate the #Olympics spirit and vibe with #BingDwenDwen and #ShueyRhonRhon! Our #Beijing2022 journey is about to start! pic.twitter.com/4IdLFwSwVE
— Beijing 2022 (@Beijing2022) February 2, 2022

Sports: 15; 109 medal events
Venues: 16
Nations: 91
Athletes: 3,000
Dates: 4 Feb, Friday to 20 Feb, Sunday (officially; competition began on 2 Feb)
Motto: Together for a Shared Future (一起向未来; Yīqǐ xiàng wèilái)
Mascot: Bing Dwen Dwen, a panda (the Paralympics mascot is Sheuy Rhon Rhon, anthropomorphic Chinese lantern)
Fun facts:

At the helm of the Beijing 2022 Opening Ceremony is celebrated filmmaker Zhang Yimou, who also directed the opening of 2008’s Beijing Summer Olympics

While most of this Winter Games’ sporting events will be played in Beijing, some are being held in Yanqing and Chongli

There are seven new events being introduced to the Olympic Winter Games: women’s monobob; men’s and women’s freeski big air; mixed team snowboard cross; mixed team ski jumping; mixed team aerials; and mixed team short track relay

Watch the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony, at the “Bird’s Nest” stadium, via Stadium Astro (YouTube):

Who are the Malaysians competing in Beijing 2022?
This is Malaysia’s second time at the Olympic Winter Games following our country’s debut in the 2018 Pyeonchang Winter Olympics—no small feat considering we don’t even experience winter locally.
Flying the Malaysian flag in Beijing are alpine skiers Jeffrey Webb and Aruwin Salehuddin, who is the country’s first female Winter Olympian. All alpine skiing events will be held in Yanqing, 75km northwest of Beijing’s city centre. Both athletes were Malaysia’s flag bearers at the Opening Ceremony.

Malaysia Credit Video: Sukan TV RTMhttps://t.co/RNklg5yfFQ#OWG#OlympicWinterGames#Beijing2022#SukanRTM pic.twitter.com/0D3dKFhtsJ
— NOC Malaysia (@ocm_mom) February 4, 2022

Jeffrey Webb

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeffrey Webb (@jeffrey_webb)

Jeffrey Webb is a 23-year-old of American-Malaysian descent. Born in Selangor and currently based in the US, he also represented Malaysia at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games—making history with Julian Yee as one of the first two athletes to compete in winter sports at the Olympics level for Malaysia.
Prior to that, he proved his mettle in the international arena by competing for Malaysia in alpine skiing—a first—at the 2017 Asian Winter Games in Sapporo.
Catch Webb in the men’s slalom on 6 February at 11am.
Read: 24 Minutes with Jeffrey Webb
Aruwin Salehuddin

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aruwin Salehhuddin (@aruwin.sal)

Only 17 years old, Colorado-based Aruwin Salehuddin has also trained in Croatia. This trailblazing alpine skier is the daughter of a former Olympian, Salehuddin Ayob, who represented Malaysia at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics in the kayak singles event. She picked up skiing at two years old and turned pro at the age of 13.
Catch Aruwin in the Women’s Giant Slalom on 7 February, at 10:15am; and the Women’s Slalom on 9 February, also at 10:15am.
Fun fact: Another alpine skier with a link to Malaysia is Adrian Yung, who is the first man to represent Hong Kong in the sport at the Winter Games. The 17-year-old was born in Malaysia and raised in the UK.
All the best to the athletes, especially our very own Jeffrey Webb and Aruwin Salehuddin!

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

News
Malaysian athletes
Sports
beijing
Winter Olympics 2022


Culture
Killing Eve Season 3: Jodie Comer on playing Villanelle, the serial killer you can’t help falling for

28.05.2020
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Killing Eve’s Villanelle may be one of the most lovable TV villains of all time. Despite her childish immaturity and non-existent moral code, the fashionable serial killer has captivated and had us rooting for her since we first locked eyes on her in season one, following her opening scene which involved knocking a bowl of ice cream onto a little girl’s lap just because she felt like it:

via GIPHY

While on-screen villains are no stranger to possessing enticing strengths of charisma and flair—which they often exploit to indulge in their fullest evil potential—Villanelle is refreshingly different and, bizarrely relatable in comparison.
For one, she’s pretty simple about what she wants for herself. Working a high-stakes job to live an above-average life, she’s financially independent, rewards her hard work with the relish of designer dress-up and is never superficial about it. On top of that, she has a great sense of humour to keep herself enviable optimistic even in the worst of situations.
via GIPHY

Though ruthless, reckless and holds zero bearings of any sort of conscience as she takes out her targets, she’s also radically honest and unapologetically herself, demonstrating in-between glimpses of vulnerability that point towards the reality of her feelings—perhaps the reason as to why she doesn’t show remorse, guilt or love the way that other people do is because she simply doesn’t know how to.

Villanelle is a robust character, with as many flaws as she does strengths, now unimaginable without the warmth, wide-eye innocence and skillfully precise comic timing that Jodie Comer brings with her to manifest the character to life. The British actress’ nuanced portrayal of a psychopathic serial killer won her multiple best actress awards including a BAFTA and an Emmy.

Add on the crackling chemistry between our killer-for-hire and Sandra Oh’s MI5 agent Eve, alongside plenty of dark humour, plot twists and endearingly badass moments, and the enthralling cat-and-mouse thriller has us just as obsessed with it as the two frontrunners are with each other.
With a third season in full steam since April, the show picked up with our globe-trotting murderess trying to move on in her new life in Barcelona. With plenty of (expectedly) unexpected twists, the ongoing plot takes a deep dive to unveil Villanelle’s past as she returns to her roots and is tested in new ways. Meanwhile, Eve is still alive (totally didn’t expect that!) and in recovery, meaning she will eventually cross paths with her assailant/lover, in addition to the long-awaited face-to-face between Villanelle and Fiona Shaw’s spy boss Carolyn.
Ahead, Jodie Comer opens up across the web to talk about the attraction of Villanelle, how she prepared for Season three and her favourite assassin looks to date.
via GIPHY

Where and how are you riding out quarantine?
“I’m spending time with family in Liverpool, which I don’t have the luxury of doing all the time.”
How would you describe Villanelle to someone who doesn’t know her?
“Villanelle is very high-paced, and energetic, and she’s always in some extravagant place, wearing ridiculously fancy, eccentric clothes. And she’s pretty much always on her own, she’s a bit of a lone wolf.
“Her playfulness and childlike quality take away the terror at moments where we should really hate her. Often we sympathise or even agree with her, which makes her seem a bit like us.“

Season three begins with Villanelle trying to move on with her life under the assumption that Eve is dead. What does ‘normal’ look like to Villanelle and what’s really going on in her mind post-‘breakup’?
“Season three picks up six months later and it seems that Villanelle is trying to lead a somewhat normal life and move forward. She’s trying to convince herself that she is feeling things that everyday people feel. In the opening of the first episode, she’s at an event and gets an unexpected visit from someone in her past who shakes things up within her world. Dasha trained Villanelle when she was younger but the relationship was left on rocky terms. Villanelle ends up descending on this crazy journey with Dasha. She doesn’t really have a choice, she’s confused.”
What’s different or/and new about Villanelle in season three?
“We see her in a much more vulnerable light. Villanelle has to face a lot of personal demons this season. We see the life she could have led.”

via GIPHY

Season three also delves deeper into Villanelle’s character and her backstory. How did you prepare yourself as an actor to show these different sides of her?
“With Villanelle going into her past it’s like seeing her in a whole different world, with a new insight, which is really exciting. Everyone’s being tested in different ways and it feels like a couple of the characters come to a point of realisation at the end. They’re all on their own trajectories but somehow their worlds collide in this series.
“To really reel people in—I have a scene with Fiona Shaw! At last! You should stick around for that alone. I’ve been fighting to get a scene with Fiona since day one so it was a glorious day to shoot.”
What do you admire most about Villanelle? What’s the best and worst thing about playing her?
“Everything attracted me to playing Villanelle. I expected her to be one thing and she was the total opposite. I read ‘assassin’ and immediately thought of a sexy woman in a catsuit scaling walls in six-inch heels, but Villanelle felt more real than that. She has a sense of humour and makes mistakes, which are so relatable.
“Assassins can sometimes feel like creatures from another planet, like they’ve got super powers, whereas there’s something very earthy about Villanelle. That has continued throughout the seasons. She’s so much fun to play. She gets away with murder, quite literally, but I love her.”

via GIPHY

Fashion has a huge personality in Killing Eve. How does Villanelle’s style evolve throughout the series and what does it say about her character?
“It’s just part of her—it’s how she expresses herself.
“My favourite costume in season one was the suit that I wore in Berlin when Villanelle killed Bill. It looked badass and I felt really comfortable in it. I had Doc Martins on and I was just weaving around everywhere in that club trying to catch him.”

via GIPHY

“My favourite costume from season two is the pyjamas. I hated them at the time because they were very unforgiving and they’d made them super small but in the end that was my favourite episode. When I saw them on camera I realised how brilliant they were. I originally liked a different pair but actually they were perfect.
“My favourite costume for season three is hard to choose because I’ve got quite a lot. But there is an epic outfit on a golf course that is very green and looks like something from Sesame Street. I’m going to leave that there.”

via GIPHY

Obsession is a huge theme throughout the series and we’re all obsessed with Killing Eve. What are you currently obsessed with?
“Love is Blind and Succession.”
Three seasons in, what do you want audiences to take away from Killing Eve?
“I want the audience to come away having had fun and having enjoyed it. Our show doesn’t have a huge message to the world, and that’s probably why people enjoy it so much. They can escape through it and live through the characters, having fun with it. The characters are definitely on another journey and the story has to push forward. Things have to change and hopefully the audience will come along with us.”

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

TV and Theatre
Interview
Jodie Comer
Killing Eve
Film
Movies


Buro Tries: Bouldering @ Bump, Jaya One

Beauty
Buro Tries: Bouldering @ Bump, Jaya One

22.08.2019
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Did you know that climbing is the latest addition to the Olympics? The sport will make its debut in Tokyo next year. Officially called Sport Climbing, three disciplines will be featured—lead climbing, speed climbing and bouldering (read more here). On that note, there’s a new bouldering gym in town; in The School, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya to be exact.
Bump Bouldering is the largest of its kind in Malaysia. If you’re unfamiliar, the sport is an offshoot of rock climbing and is performed without the use of harnesses and ropes. We made our way there to check out what Bump has to offer. For this edition of Buro Tries, we climbed and hung on for our lives (literally). Watch the video above to find out how we did before proceeding below for our thoughts.

RACHEL AU, editor
Rock climbing was hard—I tried it many years ago and somehow couldn’t find the strength to “pull” myself up. Also, my fear of heights could have been a major factor. Unlike rock climbing, bouldering is essentially the same minus the safety harnesses. That should be worse for me, right? Not really because Bump’s climbing walls aren’t so tall that it’s dizzying. During the “orientation”, Zhao had us climb up the easiest wall in the gym and taught us the right way to jump off the wall at the end of the descent. Once I overcame that, there was more courage to try the rest. My only gripe was that, for someone like me who has a fear of heights, there weren’t enough Level One (difficulty level: one dot) walls for me to attempt. The other girls “promoted” themselves rather quickly to the more difficult walls, so fret not, you’d be able to challenge most of the climbing walls there too.
Rating: 5/5

LOH WEI YEEN, beauty editor
Bouldering is one of those underrated activities that you never knew could cause all your dormant muscles to be sore the next day. I’d only tried rock climbing so the thought of scaling a wall sans rope and harness was a little daunting. But after completing it, I have to say that bouldering requires a lot of technique, finesse, and understanding your own body—it’s really not just about “climbing” up the wall. We learned about balance, using our hands and feet to our best advantage (so that we wouldn’t fall, obviously) and basically puzzle-solving to find out the (right) next move to make. My sore back and arm muscles the day after are a testament that I *tried* my very best—even if it means hanging around the easiest routes. #noshame
Rating: 4/5

TAN SU FEN, contributing writer
It has been a long while since my last climb, what better way to get back into it than trying out the latest bouldering gym in town? What I really liked about Bump—aside from the huge space it encompasses, read: more climbing routes!—was how each route was marked with its difficulty level at the bottom, so we could readily pick out routes that were more suited to our capabilities. The extra neutral holds to make the climb-downs easier (and safer) are a nice touch too. It is not uncommon for people to spend hours on end or even the whole day at climbing gyms, and Bump’s bright, inviting space with an in-house café makes the experience all that more comfortable.
Rating: 5/5

RONN TAN, editorial assistant
“Am I really doing this?” I asked myself prior to my first contact with the wall. I’ve climbed before—an actual rocky hill in Pangkor Island, Perak. No ropes, no harnesses. Just me and some prayers. Bouldering should not be that difficult, right? After all, I had guidance from Zhao, and my fellow supporters to cheer me on. Truth be told, while it was fun and exhilarating, the experience wasn’t that easy either. I had to be honest with myself; going from I don’t exercise to Spiderman-ing on walls isn’t really ideal. Oh, the fatigue! Even though my body reacted badly the next day (with aches all over), I enjoyed Bump’s spaciousness and its indoor cafe—the smoothie bowl is amazing! Will I do this again? Yes, but maybe stick to the Level One this time. #HaveFunButLoveYourself
Rating: 4.5/5

Bump Bouldering is located in The School, Jaya One. For more information, visit this website.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Malaysia
Sports
Tokyo
Olympics 2020
Bouldering
Bump Bouldering
Buro Tries


Fashion
12 Beaded bags to tote around this summer

06.08.2018
By Stephanie Boey

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Step aside woven straw bags, there’s a new trend in town. Already breaking into fashion influencer #OOTDs, the beady newcomers are making a splash in the virtual stratosphere of Instagram and stores near you. Majority of the silhouettes come in square shopper shapes… and major throwback vibes. Make no mistake, this isn’t your grandmother’s purse—think rainbow-coloured beads in striking geometric designs with a charming hint of kitsch that’s nothing short of endearing. Playful and quirky, we also love its versatility. The beaded bag can carry you from day to night, as you dress it up or down. We’re eyeing Susan Alexandra’s handmade beaded gems in cheerful colourways (opt for single-coloured options if you indulge in normcore). Next, pair with jean shorts (aka jorts), a front-tie blouse, oversized strawhat and matrix sunglasses for an added playful take on the trend. It’s all about maximalism this year!
Swipe through our picks below, tailored for every budget:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Beaded bags” rid=”6423″ order=”a_tstamp”}1. US$265 (approx. RM1,081), Susan Alexandra2. RM279, Mango3. RM185, Mango
4. US$315 (approx. RM1,285), Susan Alexandra
5. US$179.90 (approx. RM734), Front Row Shop
6. US$345 (approx. RM1,407), Susan Alexandra
7. RM179, Zara
8. US$398 (approx. RM1,634), Cult Gaia
9. RM180, Topshop
10. RM199.90, Zara
11. US$695 (approx. RM2,835), Shrimps at Shopbop.com
12. RM185, Mango

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Accessories
Trends
Shopping
Bags
Handbags


Buro Loves
17 Indulgent holiday beauty gift sets to pick up ASAP

24.11.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

It’s nearly December. We repeat—it is very nearly December, so if you haven’t gotten holiday gifts sorted yet, now is probably a good time to start thinking about it.
READ: Holiday 2021: The best beauty advent calendars to gift (to yourself)
While there are plenty of ways to curate a great gift, why not opt for the best of beauty—ahead, we’ve compiled our favourite beauty gift sets from cult-favourite and staple brands alike that are bound to put a smile on any beauty lover’s face. Without further ado, here are the best beauty gift sets to grab ASAP for the holiday season:
SK-II
Pitera Aura Skincare Kit, RM272

If you’ve been looking for a great excuse to get your mitts on SK-II, here it is. Behold—a gift set of the brand’s best-selling beauty products, neatly packaged in a cute Aura Kit. In this kit, you’ll find the brand’s iconic Facial Treatment Essence (75ml), Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser (20g) and the GenOptics Aura Essence (10ml).
SHOP HERE
Laneige
Water Bank Moisture Essence Set, RM190

In this festive gift set, you (or your lucky giftee) will find everything you’ll possibly need for beautifully hydrated skin, including: Laneige’s Water Bank Moisture Essence 70ml, the Essential Power Skin Refiner Moisture 15ml, the Essential Balancing Emulsion Moisture 15ml and the Water Bank Moisture Cream 10ml.
SHOP HERE
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Serum 50ml Holiday Collection, RM690

Featuring the brand’s Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Serum 50ml, Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Water 25ml, Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Emulsion 25ml, and the Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX 10ml, this gift set from Sulwhasoo is guaranteed to delight any K-beauty enthusiast.
Available in Sulwhasoo boutiques nationwide.
Diptyque
Limited Edition Carousel Set with 2 X 70G, RM697

This ornate gift set features two of Diptyque’s most iconic festive candles, Feu de Bois (Wood Fire) and Ambre (Amber), in a 70g format, accompanied by a stunning carousel mobile. The mobile turns from the candle’s heat, casting stunning shadows and lights across the room from its gilded pendants—the perfect gift for anyone with a flair for the theatrics.
SHOP HERE
Jo Malone
Luxury Cologne Collection, RM2,100

Immerse yourself in the world of Jo Malone with this cologne gift set. Featuring 25 of the brand’s signature scents in 9ml bottles packaged in a limited case, it’s a treat for any perfume enthusiast.
Available in Jo Malon Stores nationwide.
Dior Backstage
Holiday 2021 Collection

Tis’ the season for dewy skin and rich shades of bronze and plum—and that’s exactly what Dior Beauty has in store. The new 2021 holiday collection from the brand features limited-edition eyeshadow palettes, five new bronze and plum shades of the Dior Addict Lip Maximiser, and new bronze and plum shades of the Dior Addict Lip Glow Lip Balm.
SHOP HERE
Dr Dennis Gross
Merry, Smooth and Bright Holiday Set, RM2,550

If you’re looking for a power-packed solution to your issues with fine lines, texture, and more, this LED mask, peel, and serum combo makes for the perfect gift to yourself. The gift set contains the brand’s coveted LED face mask (complete with anti-ageing red light and anti-blemish blue light settings), as well as the Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel, the Triple Correction Eye Serum and Texture Renewal Serum.
Available in Sephora nationwide.
Glow Recipe
Watermelon Glow Magic Skincare Set, RM209

This holiday season would not be complete without the gift of glowy goodness. Good thing Glow Recipe has you covered with their cult-favourite Watermelon Glow Magic Gift set, featuring three of the brand’s top-sellers: The Watermelon Glow Hyaluronic Clay Pore-Tight Facial, the Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner, and the Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops.
SHOP HERE
Omorovicza
Evening Facial Set, RM945

This holiday gift set contains everything you need for a rejuvenating evening skincare routine. First, the Thermal Cleansing Balm allows you to gently cleanse your skin of makeup and impurities. Then, the Midnight Renewal Serum and Rejuvenating Night Cream work to replenish and repair the skin overnight. Finally, the brand’s cult-favourite Queen of Hungary Evening Mist gives you a boost of slumber-inducing melatonin and hydration.
SHOP HERE
Fresh
Protect and Firm Skincare Gift Set, RM491

The set contains four Fresh products, including the smoothing, anti-pollution Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence, the elasticity-boosting Black Tea Firming Corset Cream, the intensely moisturising Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask and the softening Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask.
Available in-store at Fresh Mid-Valley and online here. Find more Fresh gift sets here.
Fenty Beauty
Glossy Posse: Fantasy 4 Sum 4-Piece Gloss Bomb Collection, RM184

This gift set has everything you need for a perfectly plumped pout, fitted with four of Fenty’s cult-favourite Gloss Bombs, including one full-sized Gloss Bomb Cream in Candy Milk and three travel-sized Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizers in Fenty Glow Fantasy, Hot Chocolit Fantasy, and Champ Stamp Fantasy.
SHOP HERE
Malin+Goetz
Saving Face set, RM459

The holidays are the time to put your best face forward. Luckily, Malin + Goetz is here to help you do just that. The brand’s Saving Face limited-edition set will keep your complexion in tip top shape throughout the season, thanks to its Grapefruit Face Cleanser, Vitamin Face Moisturiser, and Detox Face Mask Combo.
SHOP HERE
Dr Jart
The Heroes Set, RM220

This curated gift set contains Dr Jart’s ultimate soothing trio from the healing and fortifying Cicapair Serum to the ultra-light moisturising Cicapair Calming Gel Cream to the colour-changing Cicapair Re-Cover SPF40/PA+++ CC Cream (AKA one of the winners in our BURO Beauty Empties!).
Available in Sephora stores nationwide.
OleHenriksen
Shelfie Stars Skincare Essentials Set, RM198

With this three-piece set of OleHenriksen’s top glow-getters, you’ll be the star at the top of your tree this Christmas. Featuring the brand’s full-size Banana Bright Eye Crème, and travel sizes of the Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner and Truth Juice Daily Cleanser, it’s all radiant skin and clear complexions from here on out!
SHOP HERE
Ren Clean Skincare
All is Calm Skincare Kit, RM320

Perfect for the eco-conscious giftee with sensitive skin, this skincare set by Ren features favourites from the brand’s Evercalm range—the Day Cream and Recovery Balm—packaged entirely in completely recyclable materials.
SHOP HERE
Caudalie
Beauty Elixir Glow to Go, RM215

Packed with plant extracts, this multi-tasking facial mist is a godsend for dull, dry skin and smooth makeup application. Better yet, this gift set comes with two sizes of the Beauty Elixir—a nifty 30ml travel-size and a 100ml staple for your vanity.
SHOP HERE
Crabtree and Evelyn
The Big 50 Kit

Crabtree and Evelyn is turning 50, and in celebration of the occasion, they have curated a special gift set. Featuring four products representing past, present and future, this kit is the perfect celebration of Crabtree and Evelyn’s rich history. In this kit, you’ll find Lavender & Espresso Hand Cream (past), Crabtree Cleanse + Awaken Shower Gel  and the Bali Jasmine + Ylang Ylang Self-Massage Oil (present), and the new Greece Silk Sea Sponge (future).
SHOP HERE
For more gift guides, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Holiday Guide
Fenty Beauty
Dr Jart
Sephora
Crabtree & Evelyn
Dior
OLEHENRIKSON
Malin + Goetz
SK-II
REN
Gift guide
Omorovicza
diptyque
Christmas
Holiday 2021


Beauty
M.A.C x Chris Chang hits the stores in 24 hours
Worth the wait

11.04.2016
By Terry Saw

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

M.A.C Cosmetics has done it again. We’re barely recovering from the excitement of #MACStarTrek – a 25-item special release for the movie’s 50th anniversary (collection drops in September 2016) and here we are again, holding our breaths for one of the most beautiful collections featuring China’s most outlandish fashion designer, Chris Chang of Poesia.

In this 14-piece collection, Chang injects an acid-soaked twist into a decorative selection of lipstick, eye shadow and cream colour base in a vivid kaleidoscope of colours encased in frankly, keepsake packaging of our dreams. Here’s a close-up of the collection, inspired by the ancient Chinese art from Kunqu, which hits M.A.C boutiques nationwide tomorrow – purses at the ready, ladies.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”M.A.C x Chris Chang” rid=”3923″ order=”a_tstamp”}
24 Minutes with Chris Chang
How did the collaboration with M∙A∙C come about? How do you think this collaboration is different than others that M∙A∙C has done?
“M∙A∙C has been known for collaborating with designers and artists for years – so you can imagine I was thrilled when they approached me. The idea sparked three years ago after they saw my work and studio decorated with my bespoke illustrations. We share the same joyful, colour enriched spirit and had an instant connection from the start.
“The whole process was wonderful – M∙A∙C gave me free rein from creating the colours on the graphics to the overall presentation. The printed designs on the compacts and lipsticks were my idea and they created it flawlessly true to my vision. This is the first time M∙A∙C created printed artwork like this on the packaging – each piece has a different print on it.
“For a creative person like me, M∙A∙C is the perfect brand to partner with – we share the same drive for innovation and breakthroughs. Collaborating with M∙A∙C is a dream come true – I have been a fan of M∙A∙C makeup from my early college days, my first ever lipstick was M∙A∙C!”

What is your first experience wearing makeup and how has that affected your career as a designer and now M∙A∙C collaborator?
“I was born with full lips, which is not common for Chinese people, so I was teased for it growing up. I think being unique was always in the back of my head. Once I reached my 20’s and got into Parsons School of Design, I was able to embrace being different. Lipstick is now my favourite makeup accessory. Everything I do, everything I design, is about individualism and bringing out my own personality. My collection with M∙A∙C is about being genuine to one’s self.”

Tell us a little about the design of the packaging.
“The inspiration came to me in two seconds that it’s going to be Kunqu-based. (Traditional Chinese opera) Everything just flows. This collection is the Chinese element mixed with the Western one.
“The packaging is one of my original illustrations. It is based off of all of my past illustrations and all of the icons that I have worked with over the years. This artwork is a collage of everything that I have done in the past and the idea of having printed components was the starting point.”

What were the defining factors when deciding product shades?
“I wanted to incorporate every single colour from the spectrum. In the end, these five lipsticks and the four eye shadows were all a variation of the spectrum colours – red, yellow, blue, purple and orange in its simplicity.”

What is one makeup product you cannot live without and what product in your collection will be a new staple?
“I can’t live without lipstick! From the collection I will be wearing the yellow hues more. Yellow to me is the new nude – when you wear it, it’s not a pasty colour, but is dewy, glossy and transparent.”

What is next for Chris Chang?
“I don’t know! My life has never been about planning. This is why I am so childlike in my work and the way I think. I don’t plan ahead I just go with it. When things happen it’s always a pleasant surprise – like serendipity. I don’t even know what I’m going to do for my next collection until that inspiration comes to me.”

Describe the collection for M∙A∙C in 5 words or less?
“Daring. Innovative. Happy. Poetic. Kaleidoscope.”

Who is the girl wearing your makeup collection? Who is it for?
“My makeup collection is for a girl who is very confident and wants to be unique. A girl who doesn’t dress or get made up to appeal to men. There is a Chinese saying that means women get dressed to be beautiful for men – I am really against this. Women should be dressing to be beautiful for themselves. This collection is an invite for maximalists from around the world to be daring and to do what makes them feel good.”

Where did the inspiration for this collection come from?
“I got to know Kunqu when I moved to Shanghai. Kunqu originated from Suzhou (the city right next to Shanghai) and has developed a distinctive look with exaggerated and colourful, yet poetic costumes.
“My aesthetic is very similar to this mentality. In my design, I use a lot of colours, however, there is always white colour to give my designs breathing space and make it less strong. That’s why I included the Transparent Finishing Powder in my collection.”

How do you combine history and future?
“I take the best of what’s in history and reinterpret it. When you have a different view of interpreting things then you have something new. I was able to give this makeup a new interpretation by saying these colours can be worn differently. They can be worn as art- in geometric shapes instead of just eye shadow on the lids and lipstick on the lips.”

What’s your favorite moment of the designing process?
“I’m happiest when I have sorted out all of my inspirations and have a direction, because the inspirations come from everywhere and it’s always a mixture. So my favorite is when I know where that direction is going. It’s always about reorganizing, sorting, doing tons and tons of quick sketches, before I am settled in one direction.”

What’s the hardest part of a designing process?
“Deciding what I like and also being commercial – that’s the hardest part. I am not your average office lady, housewife or socialite. Staying true to myself yet at the same time being commercial is most difficult for me.”

How about the Chinese makeup traditions?
“Chinese tradition is in my blood. Chinese women have always used eyeliner and rouges. Eyeliner is crucial to brighten up the eyes. I think all Chinese women should line their eyes.”

The perfect woman in your opinion and her makeup.
“A daring woman with class and taste is the perfect woman. She is careless about what others think without being vulgar. I admire woman that are daring and I aspire people to become daring.”
M.A.C x Chris Chang will be available at all M.A.C Cosmetics boutiques nationwide from 1st June 2016

Related stories:
All you need to know about M.A.C x Charlotte Olympia
Two diva-status lip collections you need now

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Beauty
M.A.C Cosmetics
Chris Chang
Insiders
Makeup
News


Culture
Soak up in the magical downpour that is the ‘Rain Room’
Cloudburst

06.02.2017
By Gwen Ong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Imagine walking into a gallery where the water falls continuously all around you but you don’t ever get drenched. That is the Rain Room, an immersive light and sound installation created by Hannes Koch, Stuart Wood and Florian Ortkrass of the London-based collective Random International.
The Rain Room is equipped with overhead sprinklers and motion sensors that will turn off when visitors walk underneath. The surreal environment gives visitors a chance to experience a cacophonous interior downpour that includes sound and smell of the rain. This cool space uses close to 2,000 litres of water within a self-contained system where it is recycled and used throughout the entire run of the exhibition.
From London to New York and Shanghai, Rain Room’s recent run was at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Nearly 190,000 visitors have frolicked in the rain since its LA opening in November 2015. While the installation had recently just closed last month, Rain Room will be part of LACMA’s permanent collection moving forward with future exhibition dates to be determined.
“After Rain Room’s incredible success at MoMA in New York and its unprecedented 15-month run at LACMA, we are proud to donate this piece to LACMA’s collection, giving it a permanent home and continuing to inspire those who encounter it,” said Gary Friedman, Chairman and CEO of Restoration Hardware, whose company originally commissioned the exhibit.
There is no doubt Rain Room will continue to be a popular exhibit, take a look at this remarkable work of art:

A video posted by Los Angeles County Museum of Art (@lacma) on Jan 22, 2017 at 6:01pm PST

A video posted by ZACK KALTER (@zackkalter) on Jan 25, 2017 at 2:09pm PST

A video posted by J O H N N I E H O B B S (@johnniehobbs) on Jan 20, 2017 at 7:41pm PST

Related stories:
Ernest Zacharevic has a bus chopped in half for his latest installation
Haunting yet captivating – Europe’s first underwater museum is now open

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Art Installation
Exhibition
Art galleries


Lifestyle
24 Minutes with Malaysian gymnast Farah Ann on the Commonwealth Games 2018
A beaming talent

06.04.2018
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

It’s been eight years since national artistic gymnast Farah Ann Abdul Hadi made her first Commonwealth Games debut back in 2010 in New Delhi. But the 24-year-old became acquainted with the sport since she was three. Now, at her third Games, her first aim is to qualify for the finals since the last time in Glasgow, she made an incredible finish to place 11th in the individual all-around event. We had a quick chat with Farah Ann to find out more about her training routine, the biggest challenges of the sport as well as her most serious injury and more.

A day in Farah Ann’s shoes
“I have my breakfast before heading off to my first training session at the gym. Then, it’s either a session with the physiotherapist or back to the dorms for a quick shower. After lunch, I take a short nap followed by my second session of the day at the gymnastics gym. I usually finish around 6.30pm or 7pm, and then I’ll go for a recovery session and take an ice bath.”

Her training diet
“A well-balanced meal, of course, and lots of water. When I have competitions, I’d stay away from oily and spicy food. I do, however, treat myself to the occasional ice cream or a small slice of cake.”

Major injuries she’s had so far
“I’ve had quite a few! The biggest one was from a couple of years ago. I had this pain on my backbone but I still competed with it for a few months. After SUKMA, which was my last major competition of that year, I decided to get it checked and that was when the doctor told me it was fractured. I had to take a break for six months to undergo physiotherapy, rehab and light gym training”

Why she loves artistic gymnastics
“For me, it’s a sport that combines a lot of things: Strength, artistry, coordination and creativity. It has allowed me to overcome many boundaries that I thought was impossible. It has also taught me dedication, honour and how to work as a team.”

Her biggest challenge with the sport
“I have a tendency to not believe in myself and this has caused me to doubt my abilities to perform certain skills, thus holding me back from a lot of things. It’s a lot about mental preparation but my coaches and teammates, and their belief in me, have helped me through training sessions. That’s how I came to realise how important it is to have them, and how believing in oneself is the key to achieving any goal.”

Biggest misconception about gymnastics
“That it is an easy sport and all we do is just twirl around.”

On gender equality and female empowerment in the sports industry
“It’s important regardless of the industry but especially so in the sports scene because it’s supposed to be male-dominated. Sexism usually comes in a verbal form to me. People have said things like, ‘You run like a girl,’ or ‘You’re strong for a girl’. If anyone tells you that, counter them with words too. ‘Yes, I am strong. And yes, I’m a great runner’. Be confident in yourself and don’t let others judge or deter you at any point in your life. We should be respectful to one another without looking at gender.”

Her routine for the Commonwealth Games 2018
“It will be the same as the recent SEA Games as my coaches and I feel this is the best course of action. I only have one new skill on the beam, which I have already competed with at the Melbourne World Cup back in February. My target is to perform a good, clean routine.”

On what’s changed since this is her third time competing at the Commonwealth Games
“My experience, that’s for sure. I now know what type of training will benefit me most, and how to deal with the varying training and competition schedules.”

Her pre-competition rituals
“Listen to music. I created a playlist of my favourite songs. Also, I give myself pep talks to motivate myself.”

Farah Ann will be competing for her events at the Commonwealth Games 2018 from 6th till 9th April. Follow Farah Ann on Instagram for her day-to-day updates.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Interview
Malaysian athletes
2018 Commonwealth Games
sporting events
Team Malaysia


Technology
These are the new tech gadgets to check out for November 2020

02.11.2020
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

Threads 101: How to start and everything you need to know

Every month, the realm of technology is blessed with new gadgets and products—from wearables and computers to mobile and audio. Some are completely fresh drops while the others are modified or updated versions of existing items. Let’s take a look at the most exciting ones you should definitely check out this month.
1. Garmin Descent Mk2i

The Descent Mk2i dive computer is described as next-generation dive product packed with features for both underwater and on the surface. The product is equipped with leakproof inductive button technology, customisable in-dive data fields, and Garmin’s most sought-after everyday smartwatch features. In addition to supporting up to six dive modes, the gadget also features an underwater three-axis compass and displays depth, dive time, temperature, ascent/descent rates, gas mix, decompression/safety stop information, time-of-day, and more—all on a 1.4-inch sunlight readable colour display. The Descent Mk2i boasts a battery life of up to 16 days in smartwatch mode and up to 80 hours in dive mode.
Price: RM7,399
For more information, visit this website.
2. Huawei Sound X

Photo: Huawei
Described as the first-ever premium wireless speaker, the Huawei Sound X is a collaboration with acoustics giant Devialet. In addition to adopting an inventive four-speaker acoustic design as well as a four-inch 40W woofer and three full-range 5W loudspeakers, the Sound X also packs three evenly spaced full-range tweeters—complemented by Devialet Space Technology. The lower portion of the body is coated with a glossy fiber grid cloth for protection against dust infiltration and splashes.
Price: RM1,299
For more information, visit this website.
3. DJI Pocket 2

Known as the smallest stabilised mini 4K camera, the Pocket 2 is equipped with a 4K camera, a large sensor, a new zoom feature, an upgraded focus system, the DJI Matrix Stereo, as well as pre-programmed shooting modes. The gadget can be used as a stand-alone stabilised camera, connected to your mobile device with a dedicated phone connector, or operated remotely with wireless accessories for greater camera control. The DJI Pocket 2 weighs just 117 grammes and offers up to 140 minutes of battery life.
Price: RM1,549
For more information, visit this website.
4. Louis Vuitton Horizon Earphones

The new Horizon wireless earphones are designed in collaboration with Virgil Abloh for the very first time. Bearing the House’s signature details, they are available in jet black, pristine white, bright red, pink or neon yellow, and black and green. The earphones come with a charging case that’s now available in a graphite shade. In addition to 30 hours of battery life, there are two new features to be excited for—active noise-cancelling mode and ambient listening mode to stay aware while listening. The Louis Vuitton Horizon earphones’ audio uses a system developed by Master & Dynamic.
Price: RM5,200
For more information, visit this website.
5. HP DeskJet Plus Ink Advantage 6000 Series

If you’re looking for a printer tha fits well in spaces where work and life intersect, here’s one to consider. Available in white, the printer allows you to present rich black texts and bright graphics for everyday documents and photos. In addition to offering an effortless printing experience with intuitive and guided interactions, the printer also has smart buttons that only appear when needed.
Price: RM459
For more information, visit this website.
For last month’s list of new tech gadgets, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

lifestyle
2020
technology
Shopping guide
Gadgets


News
Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel doesn’t look like how it used to anymore

12.02.2019
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Did you know that the Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel is known as “the Grand Dame” of hotels in KL? After a good 22 years, the hotel finally underwent a multimillion-dollar facelift and with the renovations now completed, it’s like brand new.

Sheraton-Imperial-KL-Hotel-Lobby reception

For starters, it has increased its room inventory to 398 rooms and from the comfortable Deluxe Rooms to the spacious Suites, they’ve all been refreshed with bright and contemporary finishing.

Sheraton-Imperial-KL-Hotel-king deluxe room

The 38th floor’s Club Lounge, which overlooks the KL Tower, has also been renewed with wanderlust hues, promising to gives its guests a restful ambience. Adding on to the long list of new interiors are the hotel’s dining venues such as the Chinese restaurant Celestial Court, the standalone Italian restaurant Villa Danieli (which really gives off strong Tuscany villa vibes) and The Pavilions Lounge & Bar.

Sheraton-Imperial-KL-Hotel-celestial court

However, the last two venues are more than just a prettier place to dine at. Villa Danieli has a new chef—Fedrico Bozzo from Genoa, Italy who is set to interpret traditional Italian dishes while using local Malaysian produce. The Pavilions Lounge’s living room, on the other hand, has been transformed into a new library-styled bar area with a built-in wine cellar and cigar humidor.

Sheraton Imperial KL Hotel – The Pavilions Lounge

Similarly, the meeting and banqueting facilities have also been upgraded with new furnishings and state-of-the-art AV equipment. Let’s just say, don’t judge the hotel from its historic colonial-style setting. Within the building is a host of new comforts, technology and experiences to satisfy every need and more.
For more info, visit the website or call 03 2717 9900.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Sheraton Imperial KL
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Kuala Lumpur
Hotels
hotels in Kuala Lumpur