Film, TV + Theatre
Fact vs fiction: 5 Movies and shows that missed the mark in depicting animals

22.04.2020
By Marissa Chin

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It goes without saying that with almost every Hollywood movie that we watch, we have to suspend our beliefs to some extent. Similarly to how a character could never actually scale a skyscraper without any proper climbing equipment (we’re looking at you, Dwayne Johnson) or come out of a horrible car wreck without so much as a scratch on their face a la Vin Diesel in Fast & Furious, we should remember that movies about revengeful sharks and prehistoric animals are not actually real representations of their species.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing it is since Hollywood loves playing off our already existing fears of the unknown lurking in deep oceans and the Amazonian rainforests. Unfortunately, these movies have a lasting effect not only in making us fear these majestic creatures but also in negatively impacting conservation efforts.
Here, we set the record straight in how these animals actually behave:
Jaws

It’s safe to say that Jaws created an unprecedented shift in how people during that time, and even to this day, think about sharks. Before the international blockbuster classic hit theatres in 1975, sharks swam freely in the oceans, undisturbed and unbothered. It wasn’t until Steven Spielberg’s summer film that sharks, particularly the Great White, were cemented as the relentless man-eating predator that has an insatiable thirst for human blood.
Beaches reached an all-time low in attendance during the mid-1970s with thousands afraid to even dip their toes in the warm waters. It even spawned many shark hunts and competitions to which many had no remorse killing as they thought they were hunting man-eating predators.

As it turns out, shark attacks are extremely rare, with fatal ones being even lower. According to the International Shark Attack Files, the world’s only scientific data log of all shark attacks, shark attacks have been decreasing every year. In 2019, there were 64 unprovoked attacks (no previous provocation or interaction between human and shark) that saw a decrease in the average of 84 attacks per year. There were also only five fatal attacks during the whole year—three of which were considered provoked attacks by humans initiating interaction with the shark. This is nothing compared to the number of shark killings by humans that is an estimated 100 million to 263 million sharks per year.

In fact, Jaws was so wrong about shark behavior that Peter Benchley, who wrote the original novel, regretfully expressed in an interview in 2006, “knowing what I know now…I could never write that book today”. Benchley devoted the rest of his life to undoing the effects of Jaws in an almost ironic Frankenstein-monster dynamic.
When sharks do attack humans, it is often not due to any sinister intentions or revenge like what’s seen on screen. Many researchers state that sharks, curious by nature, bite to see if you’re worth eating—and most of the time, humans are not so they’re spit back out. They much prefer seals, fish and other sharks (yes, they prefer cannibalism over our human flesh). Some experts go as far as to say that attacks happen when humans ignore the shark’s warning signs as they are often territorial and mistake humans as competition for their prey.
Just remember, you have a higher chance getting struck by lightning or being crushed by a vending machine than getting munched on by Bruce from Finding Nemo.
Here’s a video of one of the most famous and largest Great White Shark believed to be recorded (20 feet and growing!) named Deep Blue, affectionately dubbed the “gentlest grandma great white”:

Shark Week

Courtesy of Discovery Channel
This is not a blockbuster Hollywood movie but it definitely has the action and suspense of one. Shark Week has become a cultural phenomenon since it’s debut in 1988, with many around the world treating it as a national holiday.
But how did a one-week series dedicated to celebrating and dispelling myths about the powerful creature slowly turn into a program that inadvertently fed into those very same misconceptions? Original programs on Shark Week focused heavily on conservation and appealing to viewers’ empathy with titles such as Sharks on the Brink of Extinction and The Man Who Loves Sharks. However, over the years, titles like Great White Shark Serial Killer Lives and Devil Sharks began emerging.

Courtesy of Discovery Channel
It was like someone up  in the boardroom said “More blood, more gore! Give the viewers what they want!” The show narrowed its focus on shark killings with re-enactments and slow-mo footages of great white sharks leaping out of the waters with their prey. As they continued to feed the audience’s morbid fascination and trembling awe at these sharks, one could only speculate how effective the show is at actually forwarding conservation efforts or instilling more fear into the public. We have a feeling they’re creating more of these reactions:

Piranhas

This prehistoric fish has been getting a pretty bad reputation as of late with the popularisation of the 2010 film, Piranha 3D based on the original 1978 Piranha (just three years after the release of Jaws—can you tell Hollywood really ran with the ravenous fish-monster trope?)
While it’s clear Piranha 3D certainly doesn’t take itself seriously as a comedy horror in the B-movie industry, it has still generated a lot of fear about the species since piranhas do eat meat unlike other fishes. Would they really start munching down uncontrollably on the first patch of skin they see if you ever encountered them?
The answer is yes and no. Yes because piranhas will eat meat if they see it floating around but no because they only almost always eat meat of a creature that has already passed and often decomposed. In the cases that they do attack live animals, they are usually the size of a chicken and not a full grown human. Rather than the active predators portrayed in movies, piranhas are actually scavengers that pick off whatever has unfortunately ended up in the waters.
Here’s a fun video of Teller jumping into a container of piranhas (willingly) and oh-so-ferocious piranhas skittishly swimming away:

The most common piranhas used in film are red belly piranhas but there are actually more than 30 species that are mostly vegetarian! Yes, even the ‘carnivorous’ ones like the red belly piranhas are at best omnivorous because they prefer small fish, algae and even seeds.
Anaconda

With the Anaconda franchise confirmed for a reboot with a “Meg-style” anaconda (oh boy), here are some facts you can go into the theatres with for a peace of mind.
Unlike how they are portrayed in film, anacondas are not stealth hunters that slither speedily across land on the hunt for food—they’re actually rather slow out of waters due to their weight. With their eyes and nasal openings located on the top of their head, they prefer ambushing their prey while remaining completely submerged sometimes for hours on end.
Another common misconception perpetuated in movies is that anacondas asphyxiate and crush the bones of their prey while coiling around them—this is not the case. Research has shown that anacondas actually use the strength of their constriction to restrict blood flow. Due to the pressure, the heart is unable to pump blood to the rest of the organs in the prey and they subsequently die from ischemia or drowning as this normally occurs in waters.

As for them being known as a giant mythical creature that swallows humans whole, well, there isn’t actually enough evidence to support this other than badly made Hollywood movies. There have been very few attacks between anaconda and human recorded—and even the reported attacks have shaky details and cannot be substantiated. There is also no known record of an anaconda eating a human. A full-grown anaconda could also go six months to a year without eating after a big meal so movies where anacondas pick off humans one after another would make no sense, especially since they prefer to conserve their energy as cold-blooded reptiles.
The Happening

Who else talked lovingly to their plants and apologised profusely to them for not watering them enough after this movie to get on their good side?
Then again, the idea of plants releasing harmful neurotoxins as a result of increased pollution was not completely unreasonable. After all, it’s been documented that marine life can cause red tides as a result of external environmental conditions. If exposed in large quantities to humans, it could lead to throat and nose irritations. So why not plants?
Luckily, if you’re a plant lover (hoarder), we have good news for you. Don’t worry, your plants are not secretly communicating amongst themselves to stage a rebellion so you can breathe a sigh of relief. While biologists concur that plants do communicate, it’s not in the same way humans conversate. Rather, they do so chemically and often release chemicals as a response to herbivores chewing on them so other plants may sense it and produce protective chemicals. They also cannot hear us due to their lack of complex brains and cognitive abilities—so if you were worried your plant was angry at you for begrudgingly calling it high-maintenance, you’re good.
We’re afraid the only real horrors in this disaster movie are its half-cooked execution and Mark Wahlberg’s questionable acting.

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Fashion
Balenciaga’s latest musical collaboration—and other fashion news you may have missed!
Get it while it's hot!

31.05.2022
By Pravin Nair

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Tudor x Swiss Watch launch in 1 Utama

Tudor Boutique 1 Utama

Partnering with luxe watch boutique Swiss Watch, Tudor has recently unveiled a new boutique in a prominent area of the Ground Floor of 1 Utama Shopping Centre’s new wing. Whether it’s the sporty Black Bay, the classic Tudor Royal, or other models you’re looking for, the watchmaker’s extensive range of quality timepieces will surely satisfy. Launching with a grand opening affair on the 24th of May, with 300 guests in attendance, the event was elevated with the presence of Singaporean hip-hop artist and rapper Yung Raja. Loving Tudor and interested to check out the latest collection in person? Head on over to the store today for an up-close-and-personal look at the watches today.
A wrap up from the Cannes Film Festival Red Carpet

South Korean Singer, IU in an all sage-green Gucci look at the 75th Cannes Film Festival

Stéphane Bak in Loewe at the screening of Un Petit Frère

Amira Casar at the 75th Cannes Film Festival wearing the Indomptables de Cartier Panther & Zebra necklace, Indomptables de Cartier Tiger & Giraffe bracelet and the Indomptables de Cartier Zebra & Crocodile bracelet on the red carpet.

Virginie Efira pictured wearing the Cartier Essential Lines earrings, the Maillon Panthère bracelet and the Reflection de Cartier ring at the 75th Cannes Film Festival

Edgar Ramirez in the Cartier Panthère de Cartier brooch and the Drive de Cartier watch at the 75th Cannes Film Festival

Bella Hadid attends the Chopard Loves Cinema dinner for The 75th Cannes Film Festival in Chanel A/W 1986 by Karl Lagerfeld

We’ve done our round-up of the best Cannes Red Carpet looks for 2022, but there’s always something else worth mentioning when the event’s all said and done. At the closing ceremony, South Korean singer IU donned an all Gucci sage-green look, Stéphane Bak in an all Loewe get up for the screening of Un Petit Frère and the house of Cartier sparkled with the likes of Virginie Efira, Edgar Ramirez and Amira Casar in earrings, diamonds, brooches and watches.
The Air Force 1 by Louis Vuitton Exhibition

A cultural symbol for many individuals across the globe, this collaborative venture between Nike and Louis Vuitton was done under the vision of the late Virgil Abloh before his passing. In honour of celebrating and cherishing the designer’s last efforts, the Maison exhibited all 47 of the Air Force 1’s that were designed by Abloh himself. Taking place in Brooklyn, New York the space not only displayed the shoes that are so sought-after, but the Maison also included a tree house at the rear of the venue for guests, a symbolic nod to the playfulness that the designer held.
Check out the collection here
Feeling a little rocky? Moschino has something to suit your mood!

Leading us to the town of Bedrock is Jeremy Scott, who loves piloting his devoted fans across worlds and eras. Now, Scott is prompting fans of Moschino to have a little fun with the Flinstones. Showcasing Fred, Wilma, Dino and the rest of the gang on T-shirts, hoodies and a dress, you too can rock it out like your favourite nostalgic cartoons. Available online and at Moschino boutiques at Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur and KLCC, head on over, get yourself a piece of some much-needed nostalgia and yell out, “yabba-dabba-doo!”
What about some music…from Balenciaga?

Balenciaga has recently collaborated with musical group Acid Arab to collate an exclusive playlist streaming on Apple Music. In addition, there is a limited-edition line of clothing and accessories in bright fluorescent green, all with the words “Acid Arab” splayed across it in Arabic and Roman lettering. Don’t wait too long, head on over and stream the Balenciaga x Acid Arab playlist while you’re eating, working or even showering.
Stream the playlist on Apple Music here
The Derry Girl, Now a Valentino Girl

Nicola Coughlan in custom Maison Valentino for the BAFTAs 2022
Bridgerton and Derry Girls star Nicola Coughlan stepped onto the BAFTA 2022 red carpet donning Valentino Haute Couture. Stunning the crowd, Coughlan strutted down to her seat in a Barbie-pink gown with bows and frills, looking absolutely elegant.
Sandro keeps the ‘Fluo’ going

Psychedelic prints and nostalgia meet this summer at Sandro’s Fluo collection

Going back in time to the ‘70s is Sandro with its Fluo collection, where the summer is reminiscent of the past and bright sunny days. Shades of acid yellow and psychedelic stripes live together on each piece, expressing an energy that is both a summery nonchalance and an uncalculated presence that perseveres through clothing. Sway away into the summer with a little (or a lot of) Sandro.
Interested in this article? Click here to read more fashion-related stories.

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Art + Design
How you can infuse your home with the magic of Gucci
Build an eclectic home

30.07.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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That’s right—this September, Gucci will be launching Gucci Décor, a collection of home items that are dressed in Alessandro Michele’s signature eclectic touch. The collection ranges from porcelain candle holders and metal trays, to decorative folding screens and wallpapers.

With Gucci Décor, the idea is “not to prescribe a particular decorative look, but to provide elements that allow for living spaces to be customised”. The line has all the elements that we’ve come to love of Michele’s Gucci; a touch of contemporary romanticism here, a touch of whimsical flora and fauna there. There are cushions in rich velvet sumptuously decorated with snakes, tigers and tassels, wallpapers in silk, vinyl and paper, as well as porcelain scented-candle holders (made by Richard Ginori) featuring Gucci Garden details in 3D.

Take a look at the Gucci Décor collection here:
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Inside Gucci’s special collaboration with Spanish artist Coco Capitán

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Style
American Music Awards 2018: What the stars wore

10.10.2018
By Joan Kong

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Hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross, the American Music Awards 2018 this year is definitely one of the most star-studded yet, with top music stars such as Taylor Swift, Cardi B, Jennifer Lopez and Rita Ora in attendance. Black, as usual, was the colour theme of the night, alongside pops of pink that made the red carpet a sweet and girly affair. Some noteworthy looks include Rita Ora‘s floral gown with poofy cap sleeves, Heidi Klum‘s “naked” fringed dress, and Camila Cabello‘s bustier-pants look that was a refreshing pick for the gown-filled red carpet. Jennifer Lopez slayed the red carpet (as usual) in her skin-baring hot pink gown, and Dua Lipa dialed up the glamour this round with a demure off-shoulder ensemble. But the most eye-catching look of them all was definitely Taylor Swift‘s metallic get-up. Although she opted to skip the past few awards show this season, Taylor Swift made a sparkly comeback to the red carpet with a Balmain dress, complete with matching thigh-high boots that definitely elongated her figure further. The pop superstar went on to beat Drake, Imagine Dragons, Post Malone and Ed Sheeran for the Artist of the Year award.

Here, all the red carpet looks at the 2018 American Music Awards:
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Beauty
11 Beauty looks from the Emmy Awards red carpet that we cannot get over

20.09.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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READ: Met Gala 2021: 21 Beauty looks we actually liked from the red carpet
The Emmys are one of the last major awards left in 2021, so it’s no surprise that some celebs went all-out for the red carpet. There were a few trends that stood out during the night, from the sleek middle parts on Anya Taylor-Joy and Issa Rae to the Old Hollywood homages by Nicole Byers and Mindy Kaling. Ahead, find our picks for the best beauty moments of the evening:

Issa Rae looked radiant, pairing her purple eyeshadow and dewy skin with a sleek, braided updo

Anya Taylor Joy was a vision in her expertly-curled, vintage-inspired updo (complete with military red lip!)

Cynthia Erivo paired her piercing collection with bold lashes and a ’90s-inspired lip

Yara Shahidi paired her green tea dress with a chic matching eye colour

Drag race stars Gottmik and Symone were aesthetic polar opposites during the evening, with the trans star going full goth and the model channelling Barbie

Nicole Byers channeled the ’60s with her gorgeous bouffant updo, pairing the look with long lashes and a nude lip

Michaela Coel looked absolutely gorgeous, accenting her bold cat eye with a stripe of neon yellow

Thuso Mbedu looked every bit the picture of a young Diana Ross with her voluminous ponytail

Samira Wiley’s XXL sidecut reminds us of a red carpet Skrillex (in the best way possible)

Bo Burnham embraced the quarantine look with this groomed beard and long hair combo

Mindy Kaling leant into retro Hollywood with these glamorous waves

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Watch the Dior SS20 livestream here

Collections
Watch the Dior SS20 livestream here

24.09.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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Haute Couture Week AW23: The best moments from Valentino, Balenciaga and more

They say time flies when you’re having fun. And with the blink of an eye, fashion shows presenting designs for the start of the new decade next year are coming to a grand close as its Paris‘ turn on the roster. Arguably the most grand and highly anticipated weeks of out ‘The Big Four‘, we’re on the edge of our seats as the SS20 shows in Paris kick off with Dior.
What we do know about the collection is that Maria Grazia Chiuri will explore the beauty of nature and plants with herbaria. For the show set, she has cooperated with Atelier Coloco—a collective of botanists, gardeners and urban landscapers— to produce an “inclusive garden, a symbolic message that invites reflection”. Can’t wait to look at the final result and the beautiful creations to follow.
Watch the Dior SS20 show live from Paris at 8.30PM Malaysian time below:

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The best of Raya 2019 #2: Fiziwoo, Jovian Mandagie, Melinda Looi and Mimpikita

20.05.2019
By Joan Kong

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Haute Couture Week AW23: The best moments from Valentino, Balenciaga and more

If there’s nothing from our first Raya 2019 round-up that tickles your fancy (or if you simply need more options), here’s another shopping guide to complete your Raya shopping—one thing’s for sure, all last-minute madness can be avoided this time. Find out what local fashion brands such as Fiziwoo, Jovian Mandagie, Melinda Looi and Mimpikita have launched for the festive season this year.

Fiziwoo
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Aside from their Woo/Fiziwoo collection which was launched exclusively on Fashion Valet, the designer duo has also launched a RTW line that’s filled with its signature intricate embellishment. Made up of 25 different pieces, two custom-made fabrics—Batik and Tenun—were used heavily in the collection, complete with handmade Tambour beadwork and embroidery that add that extra charm to the traditional attire. The Batik, in particular, was created in-house, and some were given that added dose of contemporary with hand-drawn lines, abstract prints and tie-dyes. On the other hand, the Tenun pieces were all exclusively made by Tenun Pahang Diraja Felda, with a rich colourful palette as its base.

Shop the Fiziwoo Raya 2019 collection at the Fiziwoo boutique at Sentul. By appointment only.

Jovian Mandagie
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According to the release by the brand, this year, Jovian Mandagie is all about “embracing femininity and romantic influence.” Dubbed the Love Birds, the 40-look collection gives off a sophisticated yet effortless feel, and thanks to the wide range of silhouettes, regardless of your style, there’ll be a look (or more) for you. The Kurungs, Kaftans and mermaid-cut dresses were given that modern update in the form of structured drapings, soft pleats and flow-y trains, accompanied with details such as floral Chantilly lace and feather details that flow with your every move. Colour-wise, take your pick from an array of blues, pinks and greens.

Shop the Jovian Mandagie Raya 2019 Haute Couture line at the flagship boutique in Bangsar.

Melinda Looi
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Titled Pulang, Melinda Looi’s Raya collection this year aims to take us back to the good old days without straying too far from her signature designs. “I wanted to bring back all the memories of life in the ‘kampung’ so I added some of the kampung scenes during the photoshoot. I combined all the colours, textures, prints and silhouettes of traditional-wear to preserve the heritage by making it trendy and delightful,” the designer explains in a statement. The 39 designs revolved around two traditional silhouettes in particular, which are the Baju Kedah Labuh and Baju Pahang Kebaya, made in traditional Batik juxtaposed with jacquard, silk crepe and satin.

Shop the Melinda Looi Raya 2019 RTW collection at the showroom in Bangsar.

Mimpikita
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Creative director Nurul Zuklifi had comfort in mind when she was designing the brand’s Raya collection this year. From cooking up a storm to doing house visits, she wants the Mimpikita ladies to be able to do it with ease (and style). Aside from that, she also added a touch of her roots into the collection. Take a closer look at the geometric prints which are inspired by gambir leaves that are commonly found in Johor Bahru, where the Zulkifli sisters are from. Some of our favourite looks include the two-piece with an asymmetrical flowy top and soft pleats, and the Kurung with an extra-long A-line top that you can comfortably feast in.

Shop the Mimpikita Raya 2019 collection at the flagship boutique in Bangsar, or on FashionValet.com.

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Buro Loves
3 Simple skincare steps from Kanebo for exceptional complexion

21.11.2018
By Gwen Ong

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My beauty shelf is currently overflowing with various products but I’ll never pass up the opportunity to try out new skincare. It’s a task that always excites me and I’ll gladly take it up with delight. More so when I learned that Kanebo’s new The Exceptional range will help my skin achieve the perfect clarity in just three simple steps. Like most modern women would have you believe, any skincare regime that requires more than 15 minutes is a luxury that we wish we could afford. But I learned that with Kanebo, it doesn’t have to be a compromise – luxurious pampering is part of The Exceptional experience.

Kanebo’s The Exceptional three-step skincare collection includes The Lotion, The Emulsion and The Cream. A trio of products is all you’ll need to ensure skin clarity, delivering 9 complete solutions from moisture, radiance, texture, smoothness, firmness and brightness to even skin tones, anti-wrinkle and anti-sagging. These are the six aspects that Kanebo have identified to be the keys to beautiful skin. I like the fact that the three products in The Exceptional are made to address these skincare concerns without stressful product layering or an extensive regime that is hard to follow.

The Exceptional experience

For the first step, I started with The Lotion to prep my skin after cleansing. What I noticed upon dispensing the clear liquid solution onto my palm is the distinct fresh scent. Called the Eternity Bouquet, the specially curated fragrance is a mix of floral and musk notes that is comforting to the sense and mind. As I pat the lotion on my face, the liquid immediately penetrate deep into the skin to leave it moisturise with a satiny finish. Next, I apply a pump of The Emulsion where the rich, milky texture work to further moisturise and soften the skin. The nourishing emulsion contains special oil to deliver plumpness and firm up the skin. I like how supple my face feels after. For the final step, I scooped out a pea-size of The Cream and dot all over my face before blending it in. Just a little bit goes a long way and this is true for the 10 botanical ingredients too play a crucial role to revitalise, regenerate and restore skin’s youth. The creamy texture was luxurious on my face as it melts into the skin to give it a soothing veil.

With my less-than-stellar lifestyle and erratic sleeping hours, my skin is what I would term as a ‘work in progress’. While I’ve only been using Kanebo’s The Exceptional for the last three weeks, I’m enjoying the simple three-step experience so far. The most noticeable difference that I’ve seen on my skin is the immediate glow. I believe this has something to do with Kanebo’s Clear Botanical Complex that includes pear juice ferment filtrate, watercress extract, geranium robertianum extract and aqua glucoside. This secret natural cocktail is formulated into each product and it works in harmony with the Light Reflection Technology to offer a unique approach to ‘light’ and ‘shadow’. The Exceptional collection enhances the skin’s clarity not only from the surface but also within. It helps to restore the epidermis and refine the texture with moisture and smooth radiance (hence, ‘light’), while helping to prevent changes of pore shape and dark circles, signs of ageing, redness and uneven skin tone (the ‘shadow’).
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The take away
With a rich history dating back 130 years, Kanebo has come a long way since establishing itself as a textile and silk trading company. The Japanese brand has evolved to be one of the most recognisable skincare experts in the beauty industry today. Kanebo is trusted to provide quality skincare, fusing science knowledge with natural ingredients, especially with the highly pure water sourced from Mount Fuji itself. Thus, you can be assured of a balance between skin clarity and harmony.

This philosophy can be traced back to its inspiration for creating products dedicated to women’s beauty and well being. The Exceptional collection is a total skincare solution that is well suited for the women who want to address her skin concerns while achieving the perfect clarity with minimum fuss yet feel luxuriously pampered.

Kanebo The Exceptional collection is available at Kanebo counters in selected Isetan and Parkson department stores in Malaysia. Find more info here.

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Fashion
Furla travels through nine decades of music for its 90th anniversary
Turn back time

10.04.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Italian accessories brand Furla has plenty of reason to do a jig this year. In conjunction with its 90th anniversary, the label has created a capsule collection of nine different ‘MyPlayFurla’ flaps (for nine decades) for its iconic Metropolis bag silhouette. This lineup takes inspiration from notable music genres from each decade since the 1920s to the 2000s, culminating in an incredibly detail-oriented yet stylish collection that is keepsake-worthy.

Each bag flap represents the key musical elements from the decade it’s inspired by. The Charleston era (1920s) flap had Art Déco references, while the ’30s interpreted the Jazz Age with a glamourous tortoiseshell PVC flap with ivory mink fur. The inimitable mark that Swing had on the Forties was distinguished with a leather ruffled flap in a petal and ruby check (and a flirty bow as well), while the age of rock’n’roll celebrated jukebox lights with a flap of pink, turquoise and onyx—along with a dash of iridescence.
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The swinging Sixties combined vinyl LPs and the Union Jack flag in one, while the use of glitter fabric and mirrored discs for the age of the disco revolution is a no-brainer. The ’80s was all about punk and the new wave—perfectly complemented by the heart-shaped flat with safety pins, studs and a denim tongue. The age of hip-hop came around shortly after that, immortalised by a suede flap with an onyx and orange rubberised strip. The decade-traversing ends with the sci-fi inspired era of the 2000s, topped off with a silver flap with screw-shaped rivets and rhinestones that make up a robot’s face.
“We had a journey across the different decades seen through a lens of music which is an important part of my life, it’s a life companion. Recognised by everyone in the world, music is an international and a very inspiring language,” – Fabio Fuzi, creative director of furla
Furla has been celebrating plenty of milestones as of late. A recent trip to the label’s atelier in Florence shed light on the astounding number of bags the brand actually produces every year (1.7 million!); while it grew 24.5% in annual turnover as of March 2017. When queried on what contributes to Furla’s appeal to the current consumer, Fuzi highlights the importance of contemporary designs. “An example would be the Metropolis collection that has become a great success—the design is very original and relevant to the fashion scene now. At the same time, we make sure that the quality of our products has to be the priority. I believe this is what people are looking for these days from fashion: creativity, quality and a good value for money.”

A post shared by FURLA (@furla) on Feb 26, 2017 at 4:12am PST

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What goes behind the making of a Furla bag

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Makeup
Petr Simon Fridrich from Pat McGrath Labs shares his best makeup tips on and off the runway
Cue the makeover montage

17.03.2023
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Sephora just hosted their SS23 Press Day, House of Sephora, and the event was packed with some of BURO’s favourite beauty brands. One you may recognise, whether it be from fashion week or the red carpet, is Pat McGrath Labs.
Dame Pat McGrath lends her name to the brand, which has garnered a significant cult following. Best known for its smooth, buttery eyeshadow formulas, luxuriously collectible packaging and beyond ethereal creations, the Pat McGrath Labs brand has earned its sterling reputation. Representing the brand on the day was Petr Simon Fridrich, the European Sales and Education Manager for Pat McGrath Labs.

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A post shared by Petr Simon Fridrich (@facedesigneruk)

Of course, we couldn’t pass up an opportunity to learn more about him and the brand. So, I sat down for a chat with the makeup artist while I got a full-on runway makeover.
WATCH THE PROCESS HERE:

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A post shared by BURO Malaysia (@buromalaysia)

The opportunity to get your makeup done by a professional does not come by often, so I was pretty much down to try anything. When Fridrich asked me how bold I was willing to go with the look he was about to create, all I said was “yes”.
The inspiration for this look comes from Versace’s FW23 show—an intense graphic eye topped with lots of sparkle. The version that ended up on my face is more of an iridescent take on the reference, with the most beautiful blue-hued duochrome topping the inky kohl base. Needless to say, I didn’t have plans for the evening before this little activity, but I definitely made some after!

GET THE LOOK:

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Highlighter & Balm Duo, RM245

Pat McGrath Labs Mothership X: Moonlit Seduction, RM580

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Concealer, RM165

Pat McGrath Labs Lust: Gloss in Sunset Rose, RM130

Ahead, get a look behind-the-scenes at the biggest Fashion Week runways, and glean a few of Fridrich’s best makeup tips:

On his must-have Pat McGrath product…
“The Skin Fetish Highlighter and Balm Duo. It just completes the look. I will just tap it onto the skin at the end and it’s perfect!”

On his must-have makeup tool…
“A Q-tip and micellar water. When you’re doing eyeliner, especially graphic liner, this is the one thing you need to get those really clean, beautiful lines looking crisp.”

On McGrath’s biggest makeup pet peeve…
“A sloppy, dull, matte and cakey finish for the base. She always likes a second skin-like finish.”

On his (immense) talent for makeup…
“If I can do it, anyone can! It’s all about how much you practise. It’s just makeup, it’s no big deal (laughs).”

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A post shared by Petr Simon Fridrich (@facedesigneruk)

On his favourite person he’s ever done makeup for…
“I would say it was before I worked for Pat. I worked on a movie production and I was doing makeup for Pierre Richard, who is a French actor. He is like a legend! It was a big honour to do his makeup. For women, I’d say Paloma Elsesser, the plus-sized model. That was when I was working on a show with Peter Phillips—before I started working with Pat. We did a Fendi show and at the time I didn’t know who she was, but she was really nice! Mika Schneider was great as well.”

On choosing between runway or editorial shoots…
“A bit of everything, I would say! We can be bold and creative in editorials. Most of the time on the runway it’s about the skin, but we have done some really bold looks too. Runways can be fun as long as no one is standing right behind you yelling at you, saying they need their model in five minutes!”

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A post shared by Petr Simon Fridrich (@facedesigneruk)

On the worst runway experience he’s ever had…
“The worst one? It would be the ones without proper lighting and without lots of space backstage—with five other makeup artists behind you all trying to get their models out on the runway as soon as possible. It’s so difficult to say which one because that has happened a lot!”

On the importance of taking your time backstage…
“Our team is quite large, so Pat wants us to really take our time to make the skin look as perfect as possible, and she knows that it takes a lot of time to create a beautiful complexion. When we apply foundation, we apply it in very thin layers. You see, you could slap a full coverage foundation on your face, but then you would see all the texture of the skin and everything. With a medium coverage foundation like we have, it’s buildable so you do it layer by layer, waiting for it to set in between, which takes a long time. You cannot realistically do so many models.”

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A post shared by Petr Simon Fridrich (@facedesigneruk)

On how facial structure can affect makeup…
“Asian eyes are great for any look because Asian features tend to be more flat than European ones. So, it’s a better canvas for makeup. Graphic liners are the best on Asian eyes because you have enough space to draw out your shapes.”
On the cultural differences in makeup trends across Asia…
“Some Asian cultures are very specific with what they are wearing. Like with eyeliner—if you go to China, the shapes they prefer are more downturned, which is quite unusual for Europe where everyone wants to be lifted. So, if you have Asian customers, it can be tricky to gauge what they want.”

On his best tips for eyeliner…
“Look straight ahead when you’re sketching out the shape. Whether it’s a cat eye or a graphic eye, make sure your eyes are relaxed and looking straight forward so you can get the shape right.”

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A post shared by Petr Simon Fridrich (@facedesigneruk)

On his best tips for 2023’s hottest runway trend: bleached brows…
“If your eyebrows are very dark with lots of pigment, it’ll take some time to bleach them. I would use the purple shampoo to get rid of any yellow pigment and undertones to get that nice silver tone in your brows.
“If you want to cover your eyebrows, the easiest way is the best way for me. I would probably use soap. Brush soap through your brows in layers to get them very flat so that you can conceal them and powder them to set. Or, you could use a glue stick to stick down your eyebrows, which is a drag technique. I find that that can look very cakey, though.
“You could also try some fake bleached brow mascara. You could probably find them online. I’ve seen a colleague of mine who used to work with me for Pat—she’s dark-skinned, so her eyebrows are really dark, and she just used one of those mascaras and it looked perfect. They do it in five different shades, and it has really strong coverage, and it literally looks like you’ve bleached your eyebrows because you’re coating each strand of hair the whole way through.”

Find more beauty insiders like this here.

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Beauty
What is the Iridium Spa Suite Retreats and why you’ll love it

10.09.2018
By Rachel Au

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The idea of a wellness retreat at a beautiful destination away from home is always tantalising but it’s not often doable with our busy schedules. The good thing is we don’t necessarily need to hop on an airplane or drive five hours out of town for a similar rejuvenating experience. The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur’s new Iridium Spa Suite Retreats mean you can achieve that same goal within the hustle and bustle of the city we love.

st regis kl spa suite retreats

The Suite Retreats are available as a 1, 3 or 5-day programme for, in the same order, Detox, Clean Eating and Fast Track to Weight Loss. All aspects of your wellbeing will be taken into consideration so you can expect fitness routines, massages and treatments for the body and/or face, and healthy yet delicious food.

LPG endermologie st regis kl

As every person’s needs are different, guests will first do a pre-consultation with a FISAF (Federation of International Sports, Aerobics and Fitness) trainer to evaluate and determine their fitness levels. Next, an Iridium Spa therapist will identify areas of focus and tailor-make treatments from LPG endermologie and ESPA skincare to suit your body type and physical make up. Last, but not least, guests will be well fed with bespoke menus by award-winning and international best-selling author and chef, Daniel Green.

daniel green healthy menu st regis kl

Those with a thirst for adventure can even opt for add-on experiences during their stay such as Midnight Meditation, Cooking Classes, walks or jogs in the 130-year-old Lake Gardens and more. Those with a hunger for the ultimate indulgence can pair an Iridium Spa Suite Retreat with a luxurious St. Regis Suite which includes a Daniel Green custom mini bar, Iridium Spa amenities, In-Suite treatments, butler-drawn slumber baths, soothing surround sound music and scented air purifiers. It’s the kind of getaway you deserve.

st regis kl spa suite retreats

At the end of each retreat, guests will receive a post-retreat overview highlighting the efforts taken, the visible effects shown as well as recommendations to continue a healthy lifestyle. Suffice to say, you’ll be in good hands.

MINI REVIEW
To get a better idea of the Iridium Spa Suite Retreats, I was one of the lucky few invited for a half-day experience, which meant a 45-minute yoga and pilates class by the pool, breakfast by Chef Daniel Green, freshening up at the Suite, an LPG endermologie treatment followed by a massage and ended with lunch by Chef Daniel Green — all in that order. The workout was no joke as my (unformed) abs were really feeling it the next day. Breakfast was light yet delicious, and I especially loved the four detox shooters (essentially juices). It was a great introduction to Chef Daniel Green’s vision of clean eating where healthy can be yummy and look appealing as well.
My favourite part was the treatment and massage. LPG is a non-invasive treatment that uses a machine to essentially “roll” and smooth out fat deposits, thus also stimulating circulation to flush out toxins. I tried it on the face and I’m told my chin look visibly sharper after. The massage that followed, using ESPA’s natural body oils, knocked me out. My masseur had a way with her hands as she skillfully kneaded out a lot of my knots.
Lunch was so wholesome, delicious and flavourful that had I not already known, I’d never have guessed it was completely healthy. Despite a very heavy stomach, for the first time in a long while, I was not hit with food coma on my drive back to the office. Half a day of the Iridium Spa Suite Retreats was definitely not enough. Sign me up for five days next please!

Iridium Spa’s Suite Retreats in a St. Regis Suite start from RM4,688+ and is inclusive of:

2, 4 or 6 nights’ stay
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in between
Pre- and post-consultation
LPG and ESPA treatments
Fitness sessions

For more info, call 03 2727 3180 or email [email protected].

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Features
An interview with Stéphanie Crespin of StyleTribute
Vintage values

14.12.2015
By Buro247

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Fashion Insider: Content creator Eros Erfe on the inspiration behind the ‘Bags of KL’ series

We’ve all suffered from buyer’s remorse: that coral coat is suddenly a lot more orange than you’d like it to be or you’ve realised that even on a discount, green is so not your colour. Or perhaps a radical new diet is working wonders and that beautiful Prada dress from S/S’10 just doesn’t fit right anymore. What to do with these beautiful items, once so cherished but now taking up valuable real estate in your closet?
Co-founders of StyleTribute, Stéphanie Crespin and Camilla T have come up with an ingenious way to help you move no longer needed items in your wardrobe to happier homes and perhaps along the way, to fill it in with something from seasons past you thought you’d never get your hands on. Read on to find out how.

How does StyleTribute work? StyleTribute offers two options for selling your designer wardrobe. If the seller wants to make room in her closet immediately, she can request the “white glove” service, where a courier picks up the clothes and delivers it to our headquarters, where we take care of the photography and the descriptions of the product. Once the item is sold, 25% is deducted by StyleTribute and 75% is transferred to the seller.
Alternatively, the seller sends us pictures of the items and we manage the entire process. Our team prices it, writes the editorial and beautifies the pictures to put online. Once sold, we send a courier free-of-charge to a seller’s home/office to pick up the items. Our team then quality checks everything, packages and ships it to the buyer.
Our team has travelled this summer to bring back some items from Brussels, Paris, Milan, Parma and London. We bring back a mix of vintage pieces, unavailable on the market anymore or pieces dating from the past couple of seasons. Some items have been never sold in shops within this region.

What inspired you to start StyleTribute?
I have always been passionate about vintage and unique designer pieces. In Paris and Brussels, there is an array of brick and mortar stores where I could sell my idle designer pieces and uncover incredible luxury pieces. However, with work life becoming increasingly demanding, I was left with no time to hunt original pieces or sell items to shops. I then turned to EBay and experienced a frustrating experience: selling was a hassle and finding a fashionable piece on EBay was like looking for a needle in a haystack. I was also concerned I would end up purchasing fakes or pieces that were in  poor condition. StyleTribute was then born out of my vision to create a premium, safe and hassle-free solution for high-end fashion connoisseurs to sell and buy luxury and designer items.

How do you source your stock?
StyleTribute answers the needs of many women who have a wardrobe full of amazing, unworn pieces but don’t know where they can get a good price for them. If you’re a stylish dresser but for some reason aren’t getting the wear out of an amazing designer piece, then StyleTribute probably wants it!
The motivation of each of our sellers is different. One of our first clients was moving to a black and white colonial
house and was concerned that the humidity would damage her gowns. Another client had accumulated beautiful and unique Louis Vuitton vintage pieces but lost her passion for the French label and wanted to sell them for a decent price. Our latest client experienced an event invitation change and the S$3000 dress she bought specifically for that occasion was no longer appropriate.
On the other hand, many of our loyal sellers and buyers are young corporates, passionate about fashion. They are smart shoppers: they know how to find a good deal, enabling them to wear a maximum of stylish designer items. They now how to get the best return out of their wardrobe, selling the pieces that they barely wore to buy new pieces on the website.

How do you ensure that what you are selling is a genuine article?
The authenticity check is a critical expertise we hold in-house. We assess authenticity by drawing on the experience of our in-house specialists, working with outside product experts, and in some cases by partnering with vetted third party luxury resellers or retail stores.

What would you say to a customer who is perhaps a little reluctant to own pre-loved?
There is a misconception about second-hand items. People immediately imagine a horrid thrift store that smells of dust and moth repellent, packed with a mix of retro styled and fast fashion pieces for a couple dollars. Now think of it this way, an expertly curated assortment of coveted, pristine condition pieces, many with tags still on and all from the most desirable luxury brands. Prices range from between 50% to and 90% off retail. Not only will you score amazing pieces from the latest collections at unmatched prices, you will also be able to find pieces you missed out on! Be tenacious and you might find amazing deals like a Vera Wang dress for RM580 or Louboutin heels for RM800.

What is the most cherished item in your wardrobe?
All my boots! I’m a Nancy Sinatra kind of gal 😉

If you could raid the closet of a historical figure, who would it be?
Talitha Getty, the perfect personification of boho-chic.

The one thing you wish you had bought but missed the chance to?
Lulu Clutch limited edition from Yves Saint Laurent.

How has growing up in Japan and France influenced your take on fashion? How would you describe your personal style?
My style is vintage inspired with a touch of rock & roll.  I like going back in time and getting inspired by the iconic and timeless fashion pieces or silhouettes: ’20s inspired art-deco jewellery, the French elegance of Dior in the ’50s, Indian batik blouses from the ’60s, high-waisted jeans of the ’80s (but not mum jeans), crazy painted/embroidered jeans or leather jackets from the ’90s. I don’t stick to one trend or designer. What’s important in the outfit is the attitude. Is it empowering?

What would you like to receive from Santa Claus this year?
Something unexpected.

Fashion must-haves?
Boots, an arm cuff, scarves, a vintage leather belt, too many rings, a bohemian kimono.

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Skincare
What’s ‘fast-release’ retinol and why you need it, according to an expert
The hero ingredient that does it all

22.10.2022
By Sarah Hani Jamil

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It’s widely known that retinol is the gold standard in skincare, specifically in anti-ageing, for its highly productive properties, such as visibly diminishing wrinkles, smoothing skin’s texture and firming its appearance. Having said that, did you know that the typical, over-the-counter retinol can take several weeks, if not months, to work, before you start seeing results on your face? That’s because the skin cell turnover rate, also known as desquamation, takes roughly 28 to 40 days, and what happens in the first couple of weeks is that your skin cells retrain themselves to get accustomed to this powerhouse ingredient.
Recently, Kiehl’s unveiled a new kind of retinol skincare, the Retinol Fast Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum, which promises an improved appearance in fine lines and texture in just five days. A stark contrast to its predecessor, the Mirco-Dose Anti-Ageing Retino Serum, this one features a cutting-edge, ‘fast-release’ delivery system, containing 0.3 per cent pure retinol—a percentage highly suitable for beginners—penetrating up to 15 surface skin layers. This allows the product to jump-start the skin’s surface-renewal process for the visible reduction of fine lines in as little as five days. It’s a fast and potent formula ideal for skin that is used to retinol and designed for a nightly application.

Kiehl’s newest retinol update comes uniquely packaged in a dual-sided bottle that allows you freshly activate the formula by releasing a pure retinol powder capsule into an ultra-lightweight serum base. With this method, retinol is protected from the possibility of degradation to ensure optimal potency and efficacy from your very first use. Dr Nancy Ilaya, Kiehl’s Global Scientific Director, share’s more about it below:

Why use retinol
“When it comes to retinol, we know there are those who prioritise speedy results. Whether for an important event or milestone, they want to see visible results quickly. Retinol is amongst the most highly researched and effective skincare ingredients. Dermatologists and skincare experts alike are keen to recommend retinol because of its well-known ability to help boost surface cell turnover and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. We wanted to create a retinol formula that would deliver a myriad of anti-ageing benefits associated with this hero ingredient at a fast rate.”

On its ‘fast-delivery’ system
“The ‘fast release delivery system’ is a unique lightweight serum, without waxes or occlusive ingredients, that allows fast absorption into the skin. The retinol in our formula penetrates up to 15 skin surface layers deep.”

On the inspiration for packaging
“Retinol is well known for its formulation challenges and instability. Many formulation technologies exist to help preserve its stability in formulas that include encapsulation, formulating with antioxidants and photo stabilisers, and special packaging that helps protect it from oxidation and breakdown from light exposure.
“When we developed this product, we wanted to deliver a high concentration of retinol to the skin in a simple, lightweight formula. We were inspired by coffee pod packaging, which preserves the freshness of the coffee and intensifies its flavour. Similarly, our packaging features a dual chamber with serum in one part and a capsule (within the bottom cap) that preserves the pure retinol from light degradation and air up until activation at the first application. When the button is pressed, the capsule releases highly concentrated pure retinol powder into our lightweight serum and mixes to become a pure retinol serum that can be applied directly to the skin.”

On the difference between Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Retinol and this new Fast Release Retinol
“Our two retinol formulas are designed for different uses. Our Micro-Dose Retinol was formulated with ceramides and peptides to gradually deliver retinol skin benefits without discomfort. It is ideal for first-time retinol users and all skin types. It works from day one and can be used daily—morning, at night or both—to gradually accelerate skin cell turnover and diminish the appearance of lines & wrinkles with minimal or almost no adjustment period.
“Fast Release Retinol was formulated to deliver retinol deeply through 15 skin surface layers to jump-start skin cell renewal for rapid results. Unlike Micro-Dose Retinol, this is designed to be used at night and on skin that’s used to retinol. The ultra-lightweight serum formula was designed to quickly absorb into the skin while keeping retinol separate and activating at the point of first application, which helps ensure the protection of retinol is optimised. It’s this combination that allows it to help visibly improve fine lines in as early as five days, and wrinkles (including deep wrinkles) in as little as two weeks.”

For more skincare stories, click here.

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Fashion
5 New collabs to start 2021 on a stylish note: Loewe x My Neighbour Totoro, The North Face x Gucci, Coach x Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring, and more

10.01.2021
By Joan Kong

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2021 may not be off to a good start, but a slew of luxury fashion houses know just the way to make things better: collaborations! From the surprise Loewe x My Neighbour Totoro collection that let you embrace your inner child to fifth installation of the Dior Lady Art project, check out the exciting pieces to add to your wardrobe:
Loewe x My Neighbour Totoro

With everything that’s currently happening right now, Loewe has partnered up with Studio Ghibli on a My Neighbour Totoro collection that offers a cute distraction from the real world. In a statement by the brand, creative director Jonathan Anderson says, “When I think of a movie that affords me that kind of solace, speaking just as directly to a child as it does to an adult, that movie is My Neighbor Totoro. Anyone who has seen Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 masterpiece cannot possibly forget it. The story of Mei and Satsuki’s friendship with the magical Totoro and his cohorts, the mischievous dust bunnies, who can’t be seen by adults but only by the children who love them, is truly touching.”
The collection features ready-to-wear pieces, bags, and accessories that are emblazoned with iconic characters and landscapes from the film, and regardless of your pick, they’ll let you embrace your inner child.
Check out our top picks below:

The North Face x Gucci

Travels may be banned for now, but that isn’t stopping us from wanting to snag a piece from the The North Face x Gucci collab. The partnership channels and celebrates the spirit of exploration, and the collection perfectly fuses both brands’ designs. Case in point: The down jacket that’s covered in ’70s florals or in the emblematic GG prints, maxi down skirts, utilitarian backpacks and belt bags, hiking boots, and more. For those who’d like to amp things up, you can also find a sleeping bag and a tent in the line-up.
Check out our top picks below:

Coach x Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring

Following the release of its collection with Jean-Michel Basquiat, Coach has unveiled a Disney Mickey Mouse x Keith Haring capsule collection that brings three American icons together. “Ahead of its time when it was first made, this art feels so timely today as we can celebrate and appreciate the diverse work of great creators whoever they may be, without social boundaries. As my collections over the years have shown, I love Disney and I love Keith Haring, so this collaboration makes for my ultimate treat,” explains creative director Stuart Vevers in a statement.
Keith Haring’s series of vibrant Mickey illustrations can be spotted on ready-to-wear separates including men’s and women’s outerwear, tops, and more, but the glove-tanned leather bags topped with Mickey’s ears will definitely be a crowd favourite.
Check out our top picks below:

Louis Vuitton x Urs Fischer

After working with Urs Fischer on the Artycapucines, Louis Vuitton has tapped the Swiss visual artist on another “transversal artistic collaboration”, and you don’t have to be an art buff to appreciate the designs. This round, the collection highlights the creative’s playful take on the French Maison’s iconic monogram—one that’s done with a technique called “memory sketching”. The painterly logos can be found on a wide range of pieces, and they’re available in black-and-white, and black-and-red hues.
Check out our top picks below:

Dior Lady Art #5
Every year since 2016, Dior has invited different artists around the world to reinterpret its iconic Lady Dior bags, and this year, it’s no different. For the fifth instalment, the French fashion house has given Bharti Kher, Chris Soal, Claire Tabouret, Gisela Colon, Joel Andrianomearisoa, Judy Chicago, Mai-Thu Perret, Olga Titus, Recycle Group, and Song Dong carte blanche. The result? A collection of intricately and artistically designed bags that brought the Lady Dior to new heights. Judy Chicago’s eye-catching iridescent take, in particular, is one of our favourites.
Check out our top picks below:

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Culture
J.K. Rowling is releasing a new book by chapters—and you can read the first two online now

27.05.2020
By Ronn Tan

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The literary world is filled with brilliant authors. Household names such as Stephen King, Danielle Steel, Paulo Coelho, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Nicholas Sparks are some of the best and most popular in their field. Part of the best-selling fictional authors group is J.K. Rowling, the icon behind the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone kickstarted the seven-part fantasy saga in 1997 and the series as a whole has sold more than 500 million books (in 80 languages) all over the world. That’s half a billion copies.

Photo by Debra Hurford Brown/J.K. Rowling

Before The Ickabog, the author has also released a myriad of other projects. They include The Casual Vacancy and Cormoran Strike. She also wrote the screenplay for Fantastic Beasts. So, what do you have to know about J.K. Rowling’s latest release? According to J.K. Rowling, she had the idea for The Ickabog a long time ago and decided not to publish it. “I decided to put out a book for adults instead, which is how The Ickabog ended up in the attic. I became busy with other things, and even though I loved the story, over the years I came to think of it as something that was just for my own children”, she said on the new website for the book.
With the ongoing lockdown, J.K. Rowling then proceeded to rewrite some parts of The Ickabog. The author made amendments and read it to her children again. With that, the world is blessed with another novel by J.K. Rowling herself.

Photo by Getty Images

Over the next seven weeks (26 May to 10 July), those interested to read The Ickabog can do so on the website—with chapters published for free in installments. Her latest children’s novel “isn’t Harry Potter and it doesn’t include magic”. At the moment, there is no description of what The Ickabog is about but we know from her personal website that “The Ickabog is a story about truth and the abuse of power. The themes are timeless and could apply to any era or any country”.
Suitable for children to read themselves, The Ickabog was also written as a read-aloud book. The book will be published in English in print, eBook, and audiobook formats in November 2020—before being translated into other languages.

Photo by Getty Images

J.K. Rowling has also organised an illustration competition for children who require distraction during lockdown. Children can contribute artwork by drawing based on given suggestions. Although the author herself won’t be judging the entries, chosen illustrations will be featured in the finished books. You can check out the official rules of the competition by Scholastic here. The contest is now eligible for those in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, India, the United States, and Canada. Soon, it will be extended to other countries.
J.K. Rowling ended her note by saying, “I’m pledging all author royalties from The Ickabog, when published, to help groups who’ve been particularly impacted by the pandemic. Further details will be available later in the year”. This is her response to the COVID-19 health crisis. We should all do our parts as a collective society, no matter how big or small.

Photo by J.K. Rowling

You can now read the first two chapters—King Fred the Fearless and The Ickabog—on the official website. Are you a fan of J.K. Rowling and her books? It’s time to check out her newest project that came at the right time. The entire world is experiencing the unprecedented health crisis and reading is a great way to spend time while we self-isolate at home, especially for children. What do you do at home during lockdown and self-isolation?
For more books to read, click here.

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Lifestyle
Bazaars, art and theatre happenings to check out in March 2019

07.03.2019
By Su Fen Tan

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

6 – 29 March, Women Behind The Art @ Common Ground TTDI
A group art exhibition curated by Common Ground and The Art Seni in light of International Women’s Day, Women Behind The Art features works by a lineup of local female artists, including Elly Nor, Fariza Basri, Megan Alessandra, Shan Shan Lim and Tantiyana. There will be curatorial tours and a meet-the-artists session too.
For more information, visit the event page.

8 – 12 March, .IRL Exhibition @ The Zhongshan Building
A collaborative exhibition between artists Valery Koh and Xia Yi Ang, .IRL celebrates the work of Malaysian labels and designers with collage artworks featuring runway looks from Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW). Featured designers include Cassey Gan, Ezzati Amira, Jonathan Liang and JTNC By Justin Chew.
For more information, visit the event page.

10 March, Marble Clay Jewellery Making Workshop @ Craft at No. 7
Marble clay jewellery has been on our radar lately. Look at how eye-catching these Kittuco creations are! And each piece is usually unique too, thanks to the way they’re made. Want to try your hand at making your own? This workshop is perfect for beginners.
For workshop fees and more information, visit the event page.

13 – 17 March, Nadirah @ Studio Revolution Stage
Remember Leaism from our list of up-and-coming local music acts? Well, turns out the multi-talented lass dabbles in theatre too. She takes the director seat for Nadirah, an upcoming play written by Alfian Sa’at.
For ticketing and more information, check out the Revolution Stage IG page.

22 March, Seni Tiga #02: Collaborative Performance @ Kongsi KL
Seni Tiga’s second collaborative performance brings together dancers Hoi Cheng Sim, Lau Beh Chin, Lee Jia Xi and Ix Wong Thien Pau, set designers Loke Soh Kim and Ix Wong, as well as artist Chua Sek Khim for a unique piece that draws inspiration from the venue itself, an empty warehouse which used to be a stainless-steel factory. You can also choose to come by the evening before for an open viewing of the technical rehearsal.
For more information, visit the event page.

22 – 24 March, Malaya Relived: The Fall of Singapore @ GMBB, KL
Liver & Lung brings its critically acclaimed Relived series to KL with the first local chapter—The Fall of Singapore. Set in 1940s Malaya, it depicts the story of a brother-sister duo whose lives are intertwined with black magic and betrayal as they investigate their father’s mysterious death while keeping their family at peace and surviving the British rule in colonial Singapore.
For ticketing and more information, visit the website.

23 March, Pouring Art Workshop @ Mano Thinking
Let your creativity run wild with the swirling patterns and mesmerising outcomes of free flowing paint. You’ll get to discover different techniques to acrylic pouring and bring home two canvasses of your own masterpieces.
For workshop fees and more information, visit the event page.

28 – 30 March, David Glass’ Tempest @ KLPac
Lim Soon Heng, Lee Swee Keong, Lim Kien Lee, Nikki Basharudi, Teo Jun Vinh and Zul Zamir star in this reimagining of Shakespeare’s The Tempest by David Glass, one of the founders and initiators of the Physical / Visual, Devised and Applied Theatre movement.
For ticketing and more information, visit the website.

30 & 31 March, Quarter Market @ APW, Bangsar
APW introduces a new market that is set to take place four times a year (hence the name). Pop by for a weekend of food, shopping, art, performances and surprise competitions!
For more information, check out APW’s Instagram page.

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Fashion
#MCODiaries: I did a complete closet clean-up, inventory and audit, and here’s what I learned

09.04.2020
By Stephanie Boey

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

7:00 AM
My third alarm of the day has already gone off. I’d prefer to wake up a little earlier. The other day I managed to get up at 5AM to squeeze a pre-workout routine. That was a good day. I am struggling to have an encore performance of that early morning wake up call. However, the mind is willing but the flesh is weak. I am not a morning person.
7:15AM
I’ve started to take cold showers, which is odd because I once resented them. I heard that it’s apparently good for you. Well, I don’t know about that, but it certainly shocks the body into waking up. But also, it makes my hair super shiny after conditioning. Steaming hot showers are no good for hair cuticles.
7:30AM
Before I have my breakfast, I usually say hi to the cat. His name is Sam. He’s a ginger kitty my mother adopted and I’m pretty sure if he’s had enough of me during this MCO.

For a cat that seems to be irate with me, he stops by my room a lot
8:00AM
While having breakfast, I like to catch up with the global stats on COVID-19. The numbers continue to increase but hopefully with the government-mandated movement restrictions, we’re starting to flatten the curve. I recently saw an infographic made by local denim makers Tarik Jeans on the projected number of cases we probably would’ve had if it weren’t for the MCO. That was definitely uplifting.

09:30AM
I try to maintain as much of my regular work routine where I can. When I’m at my desk in the office, I usually plug in to my “concentrating” playlist to really get my train of thought going. Since I have the luxury and privacy of working in my own room, I no longer have to wear earphones. I now have classical music or ASMR sounds on blast.

I can’t live without Spotify
11:30AM
Today’s a big day for me. I’m finally going to face the truth and do an audit of every single fashion item I have in my closet. Truth be told, I’ve been whittling down my wardrobe ever since the Marie Kondo trend came about a year ago, but never truly finished.
2:00PM
I figure the best place to start is with my shoes as they’re already neatly arranged in boxes in my room. I did a count, I own 27 pairs of shoes:
i) 12 pairs of heels (7 stilettos, 3 wedged, and 2 block heels)
ii) 7 pairs of open-toed sandals (Malaysian weather FTW)
iii) 5 pairs of sneakers (1 specifically for running)
iv) 2 pairs of laced combat boots
v) 1 pair of dress loafers

I make a mental note to not buy anymore sneakers. I already have my hands full with the 5 that I have.
2:30PM
Next order of business is to assess my bag collection. I was surprised to know I have 30! The number is shocking to me because I’m not much of a bag girl, I carry the same utility driven crossbody bag to work everyday, and when I’m off the clock, I’m in another crossbody bag of a smaller size. I like crossbody bags, hands-free carry ons are my jam.
I figure out the culprit—it’s tote bags. I have 11 of them! Not taking anymore tote bags from now on.
3:00PM
I may not be as into bags, but I am definitely in love with sunglasses. I have 11 in my drawer, and love every single one of them. I like how they each have a distinct style and shape.

3:30PM
I find out I have way too many headbands. 11 in total, and I hardly use any of them. This exercise is getting harder as I keep going. Starting to feel the heat just a little.
3:45PM
I’d like to think my accessories drawer is moderate. I only wear earrings on fancy occasions, keep my daily jewellery to a minimum, and when I do accessorise, I have 3 chunky necklaces I wear on rotation for day events and 2 chokers for night outs and dinners.
I may only use a couple on rotation but I own 32 necklaces, 21 earrings, 12 bracelets and bangles and 11 rings. I think I may have to relook into my accessories drawer. I have more than I anticipated.

4:00PM
I need a break. All this counting is making my head hurt. Gonna watch an episode of Peaky Blinders on Netflix.
5: 00PM
I’ve been wearing a watch almost everyday of my life since I was 7 years old. I still remember how it looked like, it was a gift from my parents. It was yellow and green, and the watch face had a literal smiley face on it telling me to “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”. Grown-up me now has 4 watches to tell me the time. I swap around the round-faced watches on the daily, depending on my outfit, and reserve the dress watches for evening events.

5:15PM
Saved the best for last—my closet! Mine is 100cm wide or 39 inches, and is little over 3 feet. It’s not the biggest closet in the world but I make do. Well, I try to at least. I’ve been struggling to fit all of my clothes into my closet for years.
You know what I’m talking about. We all have that one chair or exercise equipment lying around in the house that substitutes as a clothing rack. Yeah, no more. Bit the bullet and I got rid of all of the clothes that did not “spark joy”. And by the grace of the fashion gods, I just about managed to squeeze in all my clothing possessions into this 100cm wide cupboard from Ikea.

Not pictured: The lower shelf with all my heavy knits and other outerwear.
What a sight, amirite? HAHAHA. As you can see, I’m already breaking the rule of overpacking the clothing rail. By right, you should have ample space in between each hanger so you can easily pick out the things you need.
As much as I am proud of how far I’ve come from using my bookshelf as an additional storage space, it’s still eye-opening to see all the clothes in one-go. Before the MCO, I’d usually start my day staring at my closet and saying “I have nothing to wear!”. Clearly, I was wrong.
5:45PM
Okay, the moment of truth. I have 37 dresses (mostly black and white), 4 of which are evening gowns. I have 3 designated wedding reception outfits I wear on rotation, which comes in handy because they are in fact co-ords. So if I swap the tops and bottoms around, I have possibly 8 more outfits here.
I have 85 tops (this number sounds insane to me?!). 28 of them are white t-shirts and dress shirts—I clearly have a thing for white-button downs. I make another mental note to not buy anymore of these. Aside from that, I also have 11 spaghetti straps, tank tops and bralettes.
Onward to bottoms, I have 12 pairs of skirts and 12 pairs of trousers. (This coincidental matching number amuses me). 6 pairs of shorts, and 2 pairs of jeans, 1 skinny and 1 mom-jean. The lack of denim staples in my closet does not surprise me. I find it hard to find a pair that fits me.
6:30PM
Not gonna lie, feeling slightly overwhelmed since I’m still counting. But seeing the light at the end of the tunnel because I’m down to my final section—outerwear.
I have 19 options for outerwear, 3 of which are appropriate for black-tie events. I also have 12 sweaters, jumpers and pullovers. I love a good, heavy knit. And because of this exercise, I also realise I like gray sweaters (making another mental note to not add anymore to my collection).

8:00PM
I happily share my findings to my parents, although I hardly think they are surprised at the numbers I’ve raked up through the years. However, I’d like to think they are a little proud of all the clothes I have let go and donated. But something tells me they are probably telling themselves, “Let’s see how long this lasts”.
10:00PM
All this counting has exhausted me. I curl into bed for a relatively early night. I think about all the clothes in my closet a few feet away from me. And as much as I love clothes, I don’t think I will be able to shop as much as I used to. Unless, I get rid of more things in replacement. Ah, that breaks my heart! I’ll think about that when the time comes.
As for now, I’m gonna read my book until I fall asleep and repeat the daily struggle to wake up before the sun. I’m determined to make it a habit before the MCO is over.

Hello again, Sam.

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Lifestyle
Art in motion: How Bugaboo reinvented the concept of strollers
Travelling canvas

28.04.2017
By Buro247

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

Few things are as covetable to a new parent as a Bugaboo stroller. As a mum, I know how important it is to have a stroller that’s lightweight, manoeuvrable and smooth, whether you’re travelling on uneven pavements or in crowded shopping malls. At the same time, as someone who adores both fashion and art, I don’t want one that’s clunky and tragically unhip. After all, a stroller, like a bag or a shoe, is an extension of one’s personal style and something that becomes a part of your day-to-day wardrobe.
 Enter the brand that changed thousands of lives when it first burst into the scene in 1999, making parenting fashionable again. Created by Dutch designer Max Barenbrug, the Bugaboo stroller has since come to symbolise more than a luxury item. It is a stellar example of how customisation, personalisation and the appreciation of art and design can manifest itself so beautifully in an everyday object. With a range of strollers that suits all lifestyles and even geographic locations – for example the slimmer and more travel-friendly Bugaboo Bee is more popular in the narrower streets of Asian cities – the brand also believes in creating a durable product that lasts and lasts. Everything from the chassis to the wheels, can easily be replaced, and mums and dads can update their existing strollers with new seat covers and canopies in the brand’s ever-evolving stable of designs and materials. And with exciting partnerships and collaborations with everyone from Marc Jacobs to the estate of artist Vincent Van Gogh, it’s easy to see how the Bugaboo has attracted and sustained so much attention.

But every good product starts with good design. Says Madaleen Klaasen, the brand’s chief marketing officer, “Max [Barenbrug] combines function and form in his design. So the product itself performs really well, has an expected functionality, but also looks very aesthetic. In Holland, after the first four years, the Bugaboo was so popular, everyone had one. For us as a company, we wanted to say that the Bugaboo is for everyone, but we also wanted it to feel exclusive for you personally.” Seeing the opportunity for creativity, the brand reinvented the idea of a stroller. “We thought, since you see it on the streets, why not make it a travel medium for creative statements. We decided to work with young, up-and-coming designers in Holland and see what they could do,” says Klaasen. Working with Dutch designers like Bas Kosters proved to be a resounding success, and from there further collaborations with artists and design houses from around the world were born.

TAMING THE MONSTERSThe latest artist the brand worked with is Niark1 (aka Sébastien Féraut), a French illustrator and artist who is known for his bold colours and monster illustrations. Niark1 is more of a street artist, so he was a little surprised to be approached by Bugaboo. Says Niark1, “When Bugaboo reached out to me, at first I was a bit surprised. It was the first time a client had asked me to work on this kind of product: strollers. I was not sure about this, so I checked the website of the brand and saw they were making high-quality strollers. So I was okay, cause the products was truly quality. I really enjoyed collaborating with Bugaboo, who respected me as the artist. The end result is really cool with a touch of humour, and I like that.” The process of designing for Niark1 usually begins on a screen rather than on paper. He says, “Typically, I like working on my designs on a computer, though I do draw and paint quite a lot as well. It depends on the project. I do a lot of sketches, though it is more for inspiration rather than preparation. I mainly sketch to find new ideas and to test shapes and this helps me keep the spontaneous side of the creation. I tend to work on several projects at once and always keep a personal project going as well. This allows me to find ideas and not to remain ‘stuck’ on something specific.”

Working on the Bugaboo design was quite simple according to Niark1. He says, “Bugaboo is about mobility and moving freely, so we wanted to add that in the way the monsters move. And they couldn’t be too scary. For the rest I could play and design as I wanted to. I wanted to represent these fantastic and strange animal-like characters that move freely in different ways, for example, on skateboards. They had to be fun and crazy.” Niark1 was so happy with the end result that he joked, “I was really proud, and almost hoping for another baby! My son is eight, so unfortunately he doesn’t fit in a stroller anymore.” And another great reason for working with the brand is keeping his art accessible. “Art is for everyone, I try to keep my art as affordable as possible and participate in lots of different projects to be able to show art to a wide audience. It stimulates our brains and creativity.”

ON ARTWhen it comes to selecting artists and designers for its collaborations it seems that Bugaboo has no hard or fast rules. The only criteria is passion. Says Klaasen, “What we want is a company that also has passion and creativity and has a story to tell. Also we want to work together in creating something unique – so it’s something unique for Bugaboo, but also unique for them. When we worked with Missoni and Diesel, the owners were heavily involved. So you really want to feel this togetherness.” The brand’s first collaboration with Kosters was via the Dutch Fashion Foundation, but for Niark1, the idea of working with him was first conceived at a Pharrell Williams concert. Says Klaasen, “One of our designers, saw Niark1’s animations at a Pharrell concert. We felt that his art was fun and we loved how street, raw and creative it was. The brand is about people on the move and now with Niark1, we have monsters on the move. Another thing we like about him is that from the age of five, Niark1 was already fascinated with monsters. We liked that passion of his. For us it was interesting, and we wanted to work together, and I think he loves it [the result] himself.”

ON SUSTAINABILITYAnother way in which Bugaboo is differentiating itself from other lifestyle brands is by moving towards sustainability and making products that last longer.  A quick check on the website will show that it’s just as easy to order parts that might have worn out as it is to order a brand new product. Says Klaasen, “It’s actually a balanced story. We are a company that is about performance and also about timeless design. We want our products to last for a long time. We designed our products for people to mix and match, to choose the style that fits their identity whether it’s a grey mélange or black leather material. It’s a combination of timeless design and customisation.”
And contrary to many business models where the idea is to get customers to upgrade to brand new items every few years, the Bugaboo can find new life with second and even third owners, and last beyond a single child. Says Klaasen, “If you want to sell it to another person and it has a next life, it’s easy to refurbish and update your stroller and that’s why our products last longer. I think this is the big part of our future to bring this even further to the next level so, having a sense of corporate responsibility and wanting our products to last.”

Many of the original Bugaboo products are still in commission — a rarity for frequent-use items. Says Klaasen,”We’ve been around for or 17 years, and some of the people who bought a bugaboo stroller at the very beginning, find the chassis is still fine. The wheels will wear down but you can buy new wheels and clip them back on. They can be given to your sister who then gives it to her friend and you can have multiple kids going through one Bugaboo. You can just buy new seat fabric, and you can always keep the look of your stroller nice. You don’t have to throw out your stroller, and the next person will have one that is just as nice. This is a great quality story because the core of the product is still very high-quality and strong and durable.” The brand has also moved on to luggage design with the same goal in mind — offering a smooth transition from point A to B so you don’t feel burdened when you travel, but carefree. The Bugaboo lifestyle is clearly a marriage of fashion, form and function… and really who could ask for anything more?

Bugaboo by Niark1 will be available in First Few Years, Mothercare and Motherswork for a limited period starting from April 2017. From $199 for a sun canopy to $319 for tailor fabric set.

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Style
Fashion buzz: Millie Bobby Brown is the new face of Pandora, Dior opens a pop-up at Harrods, and more

11.08.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

Millie Bobby Brown is the new face of Pandora

At just 15 years old, the young Miss Brown is named the latest brand ambassador to the jewellery brand, signing a 2-year contract, and is set to launch a collab collection this year. “I feel extremely honoured to be partnering with Pandora”, said Brown in a press release from the brand. “I love Pandora because everyone can tell their own story, and each symbol can represent your individuality. We can’t wait to see what Pandora and the budding British star have in store for us!
Rihanna switched up her regular Crop Over Carnival attire this year

Usually clad in a diamante-encrusted bikini for the yearly Crop Over carnival in her home of Barbados, Rihanna switched things up this year in a hot pink marabou-feathered frock by Dutch designer David Laport for a fashionable shake-up. She did not pass up on the jewels entirely though. Sparkles were seen on her toes with lace-up pointed pumps. The finishing touch? Tinted oval frames embellished in rhinestones. Shine bright like a diamond, Riri!
Now open: Dior’s pop-up store at Harrods London

 In conjunction with the launch of Dior’s Autumn/Winter 2019 collection, the heritage brand works with a fellow household name when it comes to luxury department stores for this exclusive pop-up. Open until 31 August 2019, the store decor is inspired by the AW 2019 show which proudly celebrates British culture. Plastered with bright gingham checks, the store is also decorated with London icons such as the telephone booth and English taxicab for added British flair. The store houses a selection of ready-to-wear, footwear and bags from the AW 2019 collection; with the standout item being the trendy Dior Book Tote with an exclusive Union Jack motif. Also at the store, the unique ABCDiorcustomisation service to personalise your latest purchases.
Barney’s New York files for bankruptcy

Speaking of luxury and heritage department stores, Barney’s New York, has officially filed for bankruptcy. The 96-year old retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, and said in a statement that its position “has been dramatically impacted by the challenging retail environment and rent structures that are excessively high relative to market demand”. Court documents show that the company owes nearly US$10 million in upaid rent, and has 2,300 employees on its payroll. The filing will allow the company to conduct a sale process, review their current leases and optimise their operations. Currently, they have secured US$75 million from affiliates of Hilco Global and the Gordon Brothers Group to help meet its financial commitments.
Farfetch acquires Off-White

The online retailer has bought the brand platform New Guards Group for US$675 million, which holds the license for Virgil Abloh’s streetwear brand along with Palm Angels and Heron Preston. “The addition of New Guards’ brand platform brings a creative and industrial dimension to our suite of capabilities which, combined with our community of more than 650 boutiques, enables us to power and promote both new and existing creative names in the luxury industry to build the brands of the future”, said CEO of Farfetch, José Neves. But what does this mean for fans of Off-White? The brand released a statement following the acquisition saying, “Off-White LLC, which is controlled by Virgil Abloh, owns the trademark of our brand, and New Guards Group is our exclusive licensee pursuant to a multi-year agreement. The New Guards Group transaction with Farfetch will not affect Off-White day to day operations as the New Guards Group team will become part of Farfetch. We look forward to our ongoing work together.” It appears loyal fans of Off-White have nothing to worry about, as the change in management will not get in the way of Off-White’s brand direction.
Beyonce adds another colour to her list of rainbow looks this summer

So we have this theory that Queen Bey can literally pull off any colour. If you saw her ‘Spirit’ music video, you’ll notice that she can rock even the most challenging hues (…like chartreuse? What even, man). This week on Instagram, she added a deeper shade of purple into the mix with a tone-on-tone ensemble. She wore a lilac chequered dress from Altuzarra which featured a wrap-style skirt and thigh-high slit, and accessorised with a purple croc-embossed cuboidal box bag from L’Afshar. What a look!

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Fashion
7 Things from Saint Laurent Autumn/Winter 2017 we’re lusting over right now
Be still my heart

18.09.2017
By Cai Mei Khoo

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

Held at the Saint Laurent HQ on the Left Bank in Paris that’s still under construction, the Saint Laurent AW17 show made for an impactful start to Paris Fashion Week last March. Guests were sat on tiered marble slabs in what is presumably the courtyard of the Saint Laurent HQ. It was a windy and cold night—thankfully black Saint Laurent blankets were given out to keep showgoers warm but what was unexpected was the rain that started to fall as soon as the first model came out.

Over 100 looks were shown, including menswear, marking Saint Laurent’s first combined men’s and women’s runway show. Anthony Vaccarello’s signature body-skimming, cut down to there, with thigh-high mini skirt looks made an appearance but this time in materials like rich cognac brown leather, high-shine electric blue vinyl, sumptuous velvet and heavily embellished finale looks.

Below, 6 standout looks and trends that Vaccarello got us lusting after:

1. Cognac is the new black

Artfully scrunched and draped across the body, or folded into fan pleats as seen on a miniskirt, leather never looked this sexy. Plus, those single-arm glove-sleeve hybrids are bound to appear in many editorials to come, not to mention being high on every street style star’s what-to-wear-at-fashion-week list.

2. Taking it to the streets

‘Casual’ is not typically a word associated with Vaccarrello’s Saint Laurent but for AW17, it was exactly what he showed, in between the sexy, short dresses that is; oversized parkas and bomber jackets, paired either with a sheer white tank or cosy turtleneck knit sweaters, worn with ruched leather boots; it’s weekend dressing at its chicest. A men’s shearling-lined hoodie is one piece we’ll be stealing from our boyfriends.

3. It’s electric

Blue, specifically. Amongst the blacks and the warm browns, these high-shine vinyl looks stood out like a flash of lightning. ’80s-style power shoulders made them even more fiercely feminine, worn with some of this season’s key accessories—the Freja pumps with floral corsage around the ankle, and an extra-long clutch bag.

4. Le Smoking, updated

There were tuxedos for both men and women, so no need to borrow from the boys here. In particular, the women’s tux with sharp crystal-embellished shoulders was a clear standout, both for its tailoring and for those eye-catching shoulders—not for resting heads on.

5. Dark Romance

A romantic twist was seen in the dresses with a floral appliqué around the neck, sheer tulle over bare breasts, delicate lace tops with thick strips of satin wrapped around the upper arms and left trailing behind. For evening, there were LBDs in sumptuous velvet, some with an exaggerated shoulder that mimicked the curves of flower petals, made even more stunning with a generous dusting of crystals. “I love Monsieur Saint Laurent’s subversive approach to clothes, his dark romanticism with a hint of perversity,” said Vaccarello. “I wanted this collection to be like a re-reading, a radical fantasy of this heritage.”

6. Shine, baby, shine

If those ruched crystal-embellished cone-heel boots were an indication of things to come, one would have expected no less from the evening and finale looks. They came drenched in crystals in one-shouldered dresses with plunging necklines, matched with the shine of black patent leather, but it was the final four looks that were both ultra-wearable and ultra-blinged out; a minidress paired with skinny jeans, and a cable-knit sweater so heavily encrusted in crystals that you’d probably need to hit the gym just to last an evening in it.

You won’t need to wait long to get your hands on Saint Laurent’s latest collection; the Winter 2017 collection is now available in stores, and online. Saint Laurent is at both Suria KLCC and Pavilion KL.

Related Stories:
Would you wear Saint Laurent’s show-stopping roller skate heels?
Saint Laurent turns up the heat for Winter 2017 in a new short
Paris Fashion Week AW17: Highlights of Day 1

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