Jewellery
The 10 most expensive jewels in movies—and the story behind each piece
Scene stealers

19.08.2022
By Adelina Tan

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There are movies with gorgeous scenery—and there are those where stunning jewellery steals the show, co-starring alongside screen legends and becoming as well known as the actresses who wear them. Below, get to know 10 of the most expensive and exquisite jewellery ever seen in movies.
Heart of the Ocean Necklace
Movie: Titanic
Worn by: Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet)

The Heart of the Ocean necklace, seen in Titanic, steals the show with its iconic 56-carat heart-shaped blue diamond. Worn by Kate Winslet’s character, Rose, it’s unfortunately fictitious but inspired by a real gem. The 45.52-carat Hope Diamond (45.52-carat), extracted from India in the 17th century, is considered one of the world’s most valuable diamonds.
While the actual necklaces used in the movie were entirely made of cubic zirconia—a far less valuable diamond substitute—a Heart of the Ocean necklace with precious gems was eventually commissioned. Crafted by Asprey & Garrard (now the House of Garrard), the piece included a 171-carat heart-shaped Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 103 diamonds. It was valued at up to $20 million and worn by Celine Dion at the 1998 Oscars.
Isadora Yellow Diamond Necklace
Movie: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
Worn by: Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson)

In How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Kate Hudson plays Andie Anderson, a magazine writer who dons a stunning yellow diamond necklace at a gala to promote a jewellery brand. The necklace is actually a real piece of jewellery by Harry Winston, boasting an impressive 84-carat yellow diamond pendant called the ‘Isadora’ (in honour of dancer Isadora Duncan) worth between $5 million to $6 million. The necklace was so well-recieved, it sold shortly after filming to an undisclosed customer.
Satine Necklace
Movie: Moulin Rouge
Worn by: Satine (Nicole Kidman)

Named after Nicole Kidman’s character in the movie, the Satine necklace also comes to personify the doom and possession of the courtesan who is also known as the ‘Sparkling Diamond’. As captivating and breathtaking as the character, this 18-carat white gold masterpiece is set with 1,308 dazzling diamonds totaling 134 carats. In fact, the largest single gem is a dramatic five-carat emerald-cut diamond. Designer Stefano Canturi found his greatest inspiration from the Louis XVIl open lacework motif and sought to embody the period’s extravagance. Hence, the clasp of this necklace is adorned with a 2.5-carat cabochon-cut Sri Lankan blue sapphire.
Worth an estimated $1 million, the film crew decided to use a replica of the necklace, made of silver and crystals, and with a magnetic clasp, for an intense scene where the necklace is ripped off of Kidman’s neck.
Toussaint Necklace
Movie: Ocean’s 8
Worn by: Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway)

Central to the Ocean’s 8 plot is the Toussaint Necklace, where the plan is for Anne Hathaway’s Daphne Kluger to wear it to the Met Gala, where it would be stolen from her. In the movie, it’s worth $150 million dollars but you’d be disappointed if you were hoping to purchase it for your collection.
The original Toussaint Necklace was created in 1931, having been designed by Jacques Cartier for the Maharaja of Nawanagar. Featuring the 136.25-carat ‘Queen of Holland’ diamond, the original was said to have a cascade of blue-white diamonds. It was eventually dismantled and its diamonds used to create other pieces.
The necklace in the movie is a replica made by Cartier out of zirconium oxides and white gold. The piece took approximately eight weeks to craft in the maison’s Paris workshop, with historical photographs and archival drawings referred to in order to have it closely resemble the original.
Tiffany Diamond Necklace
Movie: Death on the Nile
Worn by: Linnet Doyle (Gal Gadot)

The jaw-dropping 128.54-carat yellow Tiffany Diamond is a pop-culture legend in its own right. It’s been featured in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, in addition to being worn by luminaries such as Audrey Hepburn, Lady Gaga (who donned it to the 2019 Oscars), and Beyoncé.
Its most recent iteration is the Tiffany Diamond 175th Anniversary Necklace, crafted in 2012. On-screen, the necklace most recently made an appearance in the new production of Death on the Nile, where Linnet Ridgeway Doyle (played by Gal Gadot) receives it as a wedding present from her husband Simon (Armie Hammer). This iconic diamond is so priceless, Tiffany & Co. made various replicas of it for the film for security reasons.
Discovered in 1877 in South Africa, the diamond was purchased by founder Charles Lewis Tiffany for $18,000, who gave it his name and decided to never sell the extraordinary gem. Instead, it’s on public display in Tiffany & Co.’s New York flagship boutique, where it stands as a symbol of the brand’s excellence in diamonds.
Camelia Poudré Necklace
Movie: Anna Karenina
Worn by: Anna Karenina (Keira Knightley)

Befitting a movie about a fictitious Russian aristocrat who is highly conscious of her appearance, several stunning pieces of jewellery from Chanel’s Haute Joaillerie collection make an appearance. More precisely, you’ll spot two necklaces, bracelets, a brooch, an engagement ring, and several sets of earrings. All were fashioned in 18-carat white gold with diamonds and pearls.
The most memorable and expensive piece is the $2 million Camelia Poudré diamond necklace, an asymmetrical necklace with the maison’s signature camellias (Coco Chanel’s favourite flower) on both sides. It’s said that the jewellery was made especially for the movie, as actress Keira Knightley, who portrays Anna Karenina in the movie, is a long-time friend of the brand.
Diamond Choker
Movie: The Tourist
Worn by: Elise Clifton-Ward (Angelina Jolie)

An unforgettable moment in The Tourist is when Angelina Jolie’s Elise Clifton-Ward appears on-screen in an understated black dress accentuated with a dazzling diamond choker necklace. There is an unexpected fact: it turned out that the jewellery was an old tiara before. But Its exquisite beauty can be credited to jeweller Robert Prokop, who remade the necklace from an old tiara. It would go on to become part of Jolie’s charity jewellery collection, with proceeds from the sale going to the Education Partnership for Children of Conflict.
Bvlgari Necklace
Movie: House of Gucci
Worn by: Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga)

Much like the fashion in House of Gucci, the jewellery in the movie is eye-catching and very stylish. Playing controversial socialite Patrizia Reggiani, the actress appears in one scene dressed in a sizzling red dress with a plunging neckline—showing off a necklace from the Bvlgari Magnifica collection featuring 11 oval rubies and diamonds, paired with a pair of matching ruby and diamond earrings set in platinum.

In another scene, she wears a showstopping collar necklace from 1991, set with sugarloaf-cut stones in multiple colours. This fabulous piece is one of Bvlgari’s most iconic heritage jewellery pieces, once famously owned by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan. It’s styled in the scene with matching Bvlgari heritage earrings, produced just two years after the necklace, as well as two bracelets from the maison’s signature Tubogas collection.
Sunny Side of Life Rose Gold Necklace
Movie: The 355
Worn by: Marie Schmidt (Diane Kruger)

The quintet of multicultural spies in The 355 are ever-glamourous and well-dressed, with expensive and exquisite jewels to complement their outfits. To take on an opulent auction house in Shanghai, German intelligence agent Marie, who is played by Diane Kruger, wears Piaget’s Sunny Side of Life rose gold necklace valued at $770,000.

The necklace is made of 18-karat rose gold with intricate Palace Decor engraving, set with a beautiful and rare 8.2-carat cushion-cut pink spinel, It’s also adorned with 52 marquise-cut diamonds approximating 13.4 carats, and another incredible 254 brilliant-cut diamonds estimated to be around 19.5 carats.
Three-strand Diamond Necklace
Movie: Grace of Monaco
Worn by: Princess Grace Kelly (Nicole Kidman)

As you’d expect from a biopic about Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco, the film features many breathtaking jewels and gems. These are exact copies of Grace Kelly’s signature 1950s Cartier jewellery, of which the most expensive is a 1955 necklace consisting of three diamond strands. It was given to the former Hollywood actress on the occasion of her marriage, along with a diamond and ruby tiara. The necklace’s value is estimated to be around $400,000 to $600,000.
Click here for more stories and updates on high jewellery.

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Fashion
Levi’s Orange Tab: Old school cool from the ’60s remastered for today
Vintage gold

23.03.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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Aside from impeccable cutting, a feature that unmistakably marks a pair of Levi’s jeans is the signature red tab, sewn into the left side of the right back pocket. But did you know that Levi’s introduced an Orange Tab collection in the 1960s? There was a time (up till 1999) when you’ll find a range of garments with an orange tab in a Levi’s store. Then, they differed from the brand’s traditional 501 jeans, and usually featured pintucks or other unusual design elements—symbolising style and youth during the counterculture of the 1960s.

After almost a decade, Spring 2017 sees the revival of the Levi’s Orange Tab. A tasteful blend of then and now, the new collection features vintage-inspired design elements along with updated fits and fabrics. Staying true to its heritage, the garments flaunt Levi’s logos, prints, as well as fabric pulled from the Orange Tab archives.

In essence, the Levi’s Orange Tab is made for those who embrace a youthful, free spirit. In the men’s department, tops are cut with a slightly looser fit for comfort and ease of movement, while the Trucker jacket gets the Orange Tab treatment with the iconic Arcuate design and welt pockets. For women, the classic 517 fit comes back in a cropped jean, and the overalls and vented skirt are steeped in vintage flair.

See more images from the Levi’s Orange Tab campaign here:
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The Orange Tab Spring 2017 collection will be available nationwide from April 2017 onwards. For an enhanced shopping experience, do check out Levi’s newly opened and first ever Set The Standard store in Pavilion Elite.
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Culture
What it takes to be a stand-up comedienne in Malaysia

01.11.2019
By Gwen Ong

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Stand-up comedy is a serious business. It’s a discipline that requires a lot of work, courage and wit. One has to be on the ball to be able to perform on stage and earn the audience’s laughs. If you ever wondered what it takes to be a female comedian in Malaysia, Joanne Kam is the person to talk to. The Queen of Comedy has come a long way since making her debut in the 90s and is most known for her bold, no holds barred style. Her illustrious career spans stand-up comedy, theatre performance, TV and radio shows. Joanne shares what it takes to be a successful comedienne in Malaysia in this quick interview:
Hi Joanne. Can you share with us how did you get started in stand-up comedy?
I started stand-up comedy in Singapore at the iconic Boom Boom Room alongside Kumar. In fact, Kumar was the one that asked me to come in as a guest performer one night and immediately after that I was offered the position of co-host at the BBR alongside Kumar by the owners. My style of comedy is very much cabaret comedy and sometimes, they seem to be a comparison as both our styles are slightly similar since we were both from the same show club in Singapore.
What are some skills or techniques that you need to be good in stand-up comedy?
A sharp wit—your stories must not only be funny but original and relate to your audience. Also, it’s important to create an on-stage persona that is an extension of yourself.
What were some initial challenges that you faced? And, how have you evolved since?
As a woman, I felt when I first started comedy, it was hard to find a voice. People were not used to loud women, in fact, some actually thought I was a drag queen doing comedy. Later on, I realised that there is no pleasing everyone but you got to stick to your grounds and believe in your work. Right now, my style has evolved to long-form comedy and more experiential style of stories.
What are some things that people don’t know about being a stand-up comedienne?
It’s not easy to get your laughs. The stress of coming out with new material can also create anxiety and depression among comedians but our business is laughter so we always put up a happy brave front but on the inside sometimes it’s like treading on water.

Can you describe to us how it feels like to be on stage? What are some things that run through your mind?
The stage to us is like a drug. I think this goes to all performers not only stand-up. But for comedians on stage, when we get you laugh and do a killer set, the feeling is like an ultimate euphoria.
Some of the things that run through my mind… “Is my time up?” or “Is it time already, so fast!?”. Or if it’s a bad night, I’ll be telling myself to just pull it through. I think the mind does little pep talks in your brain when you’re on stage.
How do you find your materials or inspiration for your shows?
Stories—everybody has them, sometimes observing and listening to people is a good habit. I also derive inspirations from watching comedy skits like Saturday Night Live. James Corden, Key & Peel and most recently, A Black Lady Sketch Show.
READ MORE: The comedians from MACC insult and praise each other using Malaysian slangs
What has been the most rewarding part of your career as a stand-up comedienne? Any show highlights?
The most rewarding part of my career as a stand-up comedienne was my one-women show that we took on tour—La La Lian. Not only was it my first solo show, it was 1 hour and 20 minutes long with no breaks, and the show was an in-depth look into my own personal life story. It wasn’t just a stand-up showcase but more of my journey from childhood to being a single mother and my career as an entertainer.
What do you still love about your job after all these years?
I still love being on stage and being able to create different creative showcase for my audiences.

Besides stand-up comedy, you’ve also dabbled in TV, radio and theatre – what has been your favourite medium of story telling?
I love theatre and comedy, so when I can I always try to combine these two. I think it is also the adrenaline rush of performing for a live audience that lifts you up as well.
What has comedy taught you about life?
Comedy has taught me to understand myself a bit more and to stand by one’s decision. A lot of times you need to live past negativity in your life especially when your comedy is so accessible through YouTube. Everything seems to offend people and there is no pleasing everyone. The entertainment industry is not an easy industry to sustain. Artist and performers are forgotten very quickly, but being able to still be relevant and continuing to be on stage after 27 years, I consider myself a success story. The lesson here is you have to keep reinventing yourself and also not be afraid to take on new challenges.
What’s your advice for anyone who is thinking of going into stand-up comedy?
Be resilient, work at your craft and get your stage time. Learn to respect the art and always have a good story to tell.
Lastly, tell us about your new show ‘Laugh A Mania’ – what can the audience expect?
‘Laugh A Mania’ is a new way to enjoy comedy. It’s a one of its kind variety show that will have everyone coming out of his or her boxes doing different style of comedy. There are skits, parody song and even dance. All in all, you’ll be in for a whole new world of laughter.
For information on ‘Laugh A Mania’ shows, visit this site.

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Body + Wellness
The best body scrubs to buff away everything from clogged pores to cellulite

07.07.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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POV: It’s the FMCO and you’re looking for the perfect self-care routine to fill the void. Well, as the unofficial authorities on the #TreatYoSelf movement, we believe that any at-home #selfcare sesh should look a lot like this: Light your favourite scented candles, get on the serious bathers club with a good 20-minute soak, follow up with a decadent body scrub and thorough hydration right after—then, finish your evening off with an early bedtime (or Netflix with a face mask on, if you’re not sleepy yet).
While you may have a slew of bath bombs, body cleansers and lotions ready to prime your skin to perfection, you should take extra care to pick a body scrub that is able to slough away dead skin cells to make way for brighter, smoother skin. Better yet, swap your microbead scrubs for a biodegradable alternative that incorporates ingredients such as coffee or brown sugar to help improve blood circulation and temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite body exfoliators that work a charm when it comes to removing dirt, grime and sebum in the best way possible (PS: Don’t forget to check out our guide to getting your skin glowing from the chin down):

Fenty Skin
Buff Ryder Exfoliating Body Scrub, RM142

The new scrub from Fenty Skin is a gamechanger—its novel blend of sugar, salt, and superfine sand guarantee a thorough exfoliation that smooths and polishes the body’s complexion. Further, when paired with pomegranate, papaya, and pineapple enzymes, hydrating tropical oils, and the brand’s signature anti-oxidant rich Barbados cherry, you can expect a gorgeous glow from within. To top it all off, the scrub is accompanied by a deliciously sweet scent that you’re bound to adore.
SHOP HERE

Drunk Elephant
Sugared Koffie Almond Milk Body Scrub, RM122

Nourishing almond milk is blended with antioxidant-rich coffee seed, passionfruit, and marula oils in this scrub, while brown sugar takes centre-stage as the exfoliating hero. Another potential plus? This scrub is also perfect for non-coffee lovers who can’t stand the smell, but are still hoping to reap those antioxidant benefits! While coffee is a key ingredient, the smell of the scrub is pretty neutral overall, so you don’t have to worry about smelling like a caffeine experiment gone wrong all day!
TIP: Just make sure to rinse your showers and tubs thoroughly after—this scrub stains surfaces!
Available in-store and online at Sephora

Indie Lee
Coconut Citrus Scrub, RM170

Effective exfoliation that isn’t too abrasive? Well, colour us shocked! That’s right—this delectable scrub smells like a holiday-in-a-tub, and sloughs away dead skin cells without hurting you! Ocean-friendly sugar grains do the heavy lifting while citrus extracts revitalise dull, tired skin and coconut soothes. Better yet, nourishing oils work to moisturise your skin post-scrub, leaving you silky smooth and soft.
SHOP HERE

Frank Body
Birthday Cake Scrub, RM95

Suffering from super dry skin? Allow the sweet combination of raw sugar, coconut husk, and roasted ground coffee to take your skin to new levels. Sugar and coffee are a classic combo (as you know), but the coconut husk delivers an extra oomph on that exfoliation factor, along with some much-needed suppleness. Plus, antioxidant-rich matcha tea and nourishing avocado oils leave the skin infused with hydration (and a kick of anti-ageing goodness).
NOTE: Sensitive skin beware—this scrub can feel a little abrasive, so don’t be too generous with your handfuls!
SHOP HERE

Handmade Heroes
Butt Kickin’ Deep Detoxing Coffee Scrub (Satsuma Orange), RM68.90

Would you like to smell delicious? Specifically, would you like to smell exactly like a Jaffa Cake? This local favourite can definitely help you out on that front. This caffeinated coffee scrub is absolutely bursting with goodness. It is made with a blend of sugar and organic coffee to help you shed dead skin cells and infused with whipped shea butter to deliver hydration after, leaving your skin wonderfully smooth while targeting acne or cellulite. Further, it treats your senses to a delightful olfactory experience—there’s really nothing else you could want in a scrub.
SHOP HERE

Omorovicza
Gold Sugar Scrub, RM363

Are you looking for a truly luxury scrub experience? Omorovicza goes the extra mile. The Hungarian spa brand takes the exfoliation step in your self-care routine to new heights, introducing the powers of gold into their sugar scrub formulation. Plus, with the breathtaking floral scent infused into this indulgence, you’re guaranteed a good time.
SHOP HERE

Ren Clean Skincare
Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Body Scrub, RM169

Fresh sea and magnesium salts are at the heart of this stimulating scrub to polish and smooth the complexion while the extracts of Atlantic kelp and microalgae oil infused into the formulation help replenish the skin’s essential moisture levels.
TIP: It works best when applied and massaged into clean, dry skin—however, if you’d like to take the experience up by several notches, submerge yourself in a warm bath instead of rinsing the goodness away.
SHOP HERE

Molton Brown
Re-Charge Black Pepper Bodyscrub Bar, RM105

In need of a scrub that works on the go? Look no further than this innovative body scrub and bar soap hybrid. Exfoliating black pepper seed makes for an excellent, yet gentle scrub, while the aroma of bergamot, vetiver, and ginger work to excite the senses, toeing the line of masculinity perfectly. All in all, it’s a wonderfully convenient option for those after-gym sessions.
SHOP HERE

Aesop
Geranium Leaf Body Scrub, RM158

While this particular scrub isn’t powered by sugar, salt, or coffee, we had to include it purely for the wow factor. Of course, by this, we are referring to the heavenly scents of geranium, mandarin, and bergamot, along with the innovation of the scrub itself. Two grades of finely-milled pumice and micronised bamboo stem ensure that no rough patches go un-smoothed, taking particular action against pesky ingrown hairs and skin buildup.
SHOP HERE

Caudalie
Crushed Cabernet Scrub, RM122

Once again, we’ve found an all-natural, spa-grade scrub to pique your interest. Crushed grape seeds and brown sugar are behind the particular exfoliation powers of this scrub, but the blend of pure Gironde honey, lemon oils, and grape-seed oil also help with deeper-level skin smoothing.
SHOP HERE

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Fashion
Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Luxe accessories mum would approve of
Splurge-worthy

04.05.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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While we feel that showing your love for mum everyday weighs more than only showering her with gifts on Mother’s Day, splurging a little gift or two on her once in a while is always a good thing. From classy purses to the prettiest jewellery pieces, make mum smile from ear to ear this May with our gift guide:

Céline upgrades its iconic Luggage tote with the Mini Luggage in a slew of designs and colourways this Spring/Summer 2016. Mum would gladly trade her bulky bag with this sleek beige tote that she can carry in the daytime. We do love its one-of-a-kind wavy frame and flared gussets that make it uniquely Céline.

This glamorous Art Nouveau inspired clutch from Judith Leiber Couture is the perfect handheld accessory for mum during events and dinner parties. She wouldn’t be able to resist the attention to detail on this crystal clutch from the brand’s Resort 2016 collection.

Another lovely addition to her handbag is Longchamp’s Roseau Croco compact coin purse. Its mock croc leather with the emblematic bamboo ornament makes it a distinctive piece that is in line with the season’s animal-inspired trend.

Bulgari has done it again. This time, its scrumptious Roman Sorbet line combines brilliant-coloured gemstones with artisanal craftsmanship. This particular bracelet in pink tourmaline and amethyst is a beautiful creation that celebrates the Italian spirit of yearlong summer.

For mum to always have a bit of Chanel everywhere she goes, gift her this exquisite ring in 18k white gold and diamonds from Chanel’s Coco Crush collection. Spot the maison’s legendary “matelassé” quilted motif that’s been transformed into jewellery from this collection.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso One Cordonnet is a modern yet unique timepiece that has a touch of vintage to its design. Its dainty leather cord-strap is inspired from a 1936 timepiece while contrasting with its sleek case, making it a worthy wrist addition to mum’s watch stash.

When in doubt, go for Tiffany & Co. A classic key pendant can never go wrong in anyone’s books, so Tiffany Keys Garden Key Pendant in platinum and 18k gold with white and yellow diamonds is the right sparkler to make mum’s day.

An element of Parisian flair is necessary to every mum’s closet, so get Dior’s ‘Avant-Garden’ silk twill scarf with leather borders in case she needs to dress up her Fridays while keep warm at the same time.

The It shades of the moment is Fendi’s EyeColor sunglasses, characterised by its geometric lines and skinny volumes. Its frame within a frame concept keeps it contemporary, and mum would approve of its cat-eye metal shape around the round lenses. This model comes in four contrasting colourways as well.

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Fashion
Manolo Blahnik opens first standalone store in Malaysia
"Shoes help transform a woman"

21.11.2016
By Buro247

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The first standalone Manolo Blahnik store in Malaysia has opened its doors at Kuala Lumpur’s premier shopping hub, Pavilion KL. True to the Manolo Blahnik style of immersive environments, the 100-square meter space is transformed into an abstract forest enveloped by undulating structures of dark stained bamboo.

The impressive interior is courtesy of Nick Leith-Smith Architecture + Design, a long-term collaborator for the brand’s store design. Inspired by Malaysia’s natural beauty, the sinuous installation of bamboo arranged in a repetitive vertical framework is complemented by a herringbone pattern marble floor evoking the structure of palm leaves. Canopy lighting, natural woven fabrics, touches of dark grey stone, and brass finishes echo the moody tropical aesthetic.

In the midst of the captivating setting, the shoes are arranged in flowing lines, almost floating, as they are perched atop discreetly elegant brass shelves. As always, Manolo Blahnik’s style, humour and playfulness resonate in the space that showcases the artistry of his shoes.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”manolo blahnik” rid=”4595″ order=”a_tstamp”}
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Culture
7 Minutes with soulful alt-pop crooner Lui Peng

01.11.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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My doorway to Lui Peng’s music came in the form of ‘Nocturnal’, a track from his 2017 debut EP Demons. A smooth R&B jam capped with Che Lingo’s rap rhymes, it hooks one in with its suave, groovy vibe, a quality you’ll find nestled in many of Lui’s songs.

If that leaves you wanting more, you’ll be happy to hear that Lui Peng has been keeping himself busy — the British-Chinese singer just recently released his second EP titled Feathers. In town recently for his Asia Tour (also his first tour ever), Buro Malaysia caught up with Lui for a quick tête-à-tête to delve a little further into his music:

With this being your first tour, what’s it been like so far?
“It’s been real good. I’ve really enjoyed Asia. Everyone has been very lovely and food is of course amazing. It’s also been amazing to see how many people actually enjoy my music from all over of the world — it’s something that still feels new to me. It’s refreshing and I’m hoping it will happen more.”

Let’s get into your music. Tell us about your new single, ‘On My Mind’.
“‘On My Mind’ is produced by an American producer called Inner Soul. He basically sent over this instrumental called ‘Got You On My Mind’, and literally that evening I got cracking straight into it because I heard it and went like whoa — it reminded me a little bit of Drake, it reminded me a little bit of J. Cole; all these different R&B and hip-hop people. I just vibed with that and it came really naturally to me. About four days later the song was pretty much finished and ready for tracking. The take that you hear is pretty much the demo take. I’ve done other takes on the song, but the initial take turned out to be the best one.”

And you’ve got an EP out now.
“Yeah. It’s called Feathers, because I write a lot of cute love songs for girls, and “birds” is a slang for girls in the UK, so I thought that will be an elegant way of putting it. There are six songs on it. Three songs have been released as singles already, but one of them is actually not the original version — so if you want to listen to the original one, you’ve got to get the EP (laughs).”

How would you describe your sound?
“You know, I always have a difficult time answering this…”

Because your sound seems pretty fluid from track to track.
“Exactly. I would call it alternative pop, but my sound in general varies a lot because I take a lot of inspiration from various different sources. So someone could give me an R&B/hip-hop beat like ‘On My Mind’, but then I could just strip it back and just go with a laidback, sort of acoustic set.”

What’s your creative process like?
“An idea can come from anywhere, in any shape or form. Sometimes I get the concept of a song in my head, or sometimes a melody will come to me, and I’ll just vibe of it and fit words to the melody. Some of these ideas just sit in my notepad and nothing is done with them, but the ones that I do end up developing turns out being a lot of fun.”

Who are you listening to right now?
“I’m recently hooked onto TS Graye — her music is pretty incredible. The late Mac Miller, who has been a massive influence of mine for a long time, and ‘Missed Calls’ is one of my favourite songs. It’s really sad that he passed away at such a young age. Other artists that are on my playlist right now include Jhené Aiko, J. Cole and Bas (their new song ‘Tribe’ is a banger), 7AM and Jaguar Jones.”

Keep up with Lui Peng through his website, Facebook and Instagram. You can also find his music videos as well as popular covers on his YouTube channel.

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Style
Watch now: Coach’s AW19 campaign is the most star-studded one yet

26.07.2019
By Joan Kong

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The Autumn/Winter 2019 season is almost upon us, and as always, we can expect a wave of beautifully shot campaigns to be unveiled. The latest of the lot? Coach, with a video titled ‘Dream It Real’. Inspired by the new cast of 21st Century dreamers pursuing their dreams in New York City, creative director Stuart Vevers wanted to give a new look and feel to the film and images. And for the first time, he tapped famed photographer Juergen Teller and director Todd Tourso—the man behind many of Beyoncé’s music videos—to bring his vision to life. Poetically narrated by Michael B. Jordan and Yara Shahidi, the one-minute film highlights the unique spirit of the Big Apple, where the fashion house was founded, and where dreams become reality. The result? A free-spirited and “real” film—shot in an artistic and thought-provoking way—that inspires the dreamers to “believe in themselves and life’s infinite possibilities.”
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Coach Fall19 campaign” rid=”7458″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The 21st Century dreamers Coach had in mind include Actresses Yara Shahidi and Jemima Kirke, actor Miles Heizer, singer Lolo Zouaï, model Liu Wen (who’s also its new ambassador), and the reigning faces of Coach—Michael B. Jordan and Kiko Mizuhara. In a statement by the brand, Stuart Vevers said: “Juergen was my instinctive choice for Fall. He is able to create the warm, unpretentious and playful spirit I wanted. He is known for capturing the unique essence of his subjects, and is able to reveal the humanity and authentic personalities of our cast. His portrait of our home, New York City, is new and fresh in a way that speaks to my evolved vision for the house and the inclusive, unapologetic and free-spirited attitude that defines us.”
Watch the ‘Dream It Real’ campaign video below:

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Merdeka Yacht Fiesta 2015

Lifestyle
Merdeka Yacht Fiesta 2015
Supporting the yachting community

12.09.2015
By Buro247

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The Admiral Marina Leisure Club in Port Dickson was bustling with activity from 29—31 August and the highlight was the award-winning Monte Carlo Yachts 70. Holding a key position within the range, the Monte Carlo Yachts 70 confirms the brand’s concept with its high, flared and slim-line bow and lines that will make it feel at ease in a shimmering, calm Mediterranean bay and out crossing the ocean.

Besides the fleet of luxury yachts, the even was also complemented by various exhibitors from luxury cars and bikes to waterfront property, boutique wines, and more. Guests were treated to exclusive evening cocktails and were invited to experience cruising on the Monte Carlo Yachts 70 and Monte Carlo 4.

Prior to the cruise, Johnnie Walker & Sons hosted a whiskey tasting session on board one of the yachts for whiskey aficionados. Other activities offered to the yachting community were remote control sailing competitions and the opportunity to sail a 7-metre sailing yacht firsthand.

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Makeup
How to nail the Barbiecore look (and everything you’ll need to do it)
Think pink

12.07.2023
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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What makes a makeup look Barbiecore-certified? How can one adopt the buzzy aesthetic faithfully? All this and more below…
Last year, the “bimbofication” of women took TikTok by storm. The microtrend saw girls embracing long-forgotten Y2K trends—from bleached blonde hair to hyper-femininity and a penchant for all things pink and sparkly, these are just a few things that came back en vogue with the movement.
Bimbocore has captured the attention of many, and its draw goes beyond aesthetics. Whether one adopted the trend as an attempt to heal their inner pick-me girl, as a form of rebellion to challenge the misogynistic condemnation of early-aughts “bimbos”, or just because looking like a bimbo is fun, the wave of bimbofication defined the cultural zeitgeist of last year.
Now, with the Margot Robbie-lead Barbie film set to hit our shores in less than 10 days, a newer subset of the trend has also become popular this year: Barbiecore. While Bimbocore was focused on a bigger narrative shift, Barbiecore is more of a hone-in on the aesthetics of the movement. After all, early Y2K fashion certainly draws plenty of inspiration from our favourite Mattel Doll. Therefore, with Barbiecore, there is less emphasis on the cultural and social aspects of being a bimbo—it’s all about the look.
Now, this begs the question: How can you emulate the Barbiecore trend in your own style? Good news—we’re here to help. There are three motifs that guide the Barbiecore aesthetic in makeup specifically:

Lots of gloss, shimmer, and glitter
A neat, polished finish (read: Perfectly yassified)
Lots and lots of pink!

Once you incorporate these three tenets, you’re pretty much there. To make it easier on you, we’ve compiled all the inspo you could need to hop on the Barbie trend for yourself from our favourite makeup artists—as well as everything you’ll need to get the look.
Whether you’re prepping your look for the cinema on the 21st of July or you’re actually looking to make the aesthetic a core part of your lifestyle, we’ve got you covered from the neck up. From more classic takes on the Barbie beauty trend to edgier, more striking graphic looks for the bolder Barbie fan, find the full inspo list ahead:

THE INSPIRATION:
This hot pink lip by Patrick Ta

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This sultry purple eye and berry pink lip by Hung Vanngo

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This stunning wash of pink by Lisa Elderidge

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A post shared by Lisa Eldridge (@lisaeldridgemakeup)

This candy-coloured eye look by Pat McGrath

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A post shared by Anna Sui (@annasui)

These XXL Lashes from Charlotte Tilbury

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A post shared by Charlotte Tilbury, MBE (@charlottetilbury)

This cowboy chic take on Barbie by Isamaya Ffrench

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This pink and purple ombre by Alexandra Anele

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This edgier hot pink cutout lid by Bea Sweet

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This graphic liner twist to a pink and purple ombre by Robert Welsh

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This summery pastel pink and coral lip combo by Priscilla Ono

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This ’90s Barbie beauty look by Nikki Wolff

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COP THE VIBE:

Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream, RM100

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain, RM59

Bobbi Brown Luxe Lipstick, RM136

Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush, RM180

Natasha Denona Sunrise Eyeshadow Palette, RM310

Huda Beauty Color Block Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette, RM149

Tarte Tarteist Pro Wifey Lashes, RM62

One/Size Come Thru Full-On Faux Lashes, RM91

Find more beauty inspo here.

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Lifestyle
Adele to headline Glastonbury 2016 alongside Muse and Coldplay
Hello Glastonbury

19.03.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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Adele revealed at her O2 arena gig yesterday evening that she will headline Glastonbury Festival 2016, taking place from 22-26 June this year. Two of the three Pyramid Stage headliners had already been announced prior—Muse plays on Friday night and Coldplay closes the festival on Sunday—that leaves the soulful pop singer to the Saturday slot.

“I wanted to do it last year but my record wasn’t ready. And to the people who say I’m too boring to headline, you’re more f*cking boring for moaning about me headline,” said Adele. You tell ’em, girl.

More on Glastonbury Festival 2016 here.

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Travel
A guide to Tokyo for the luxury traveller
Travel in style

01.09.2022
By Sarah Hani Jamil

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Search online for a list of the best cities to travel to and no doubt, Tokyo, Japan will rank high on it. It’s common knowledge that the capital has a high standard of living, infinite entertainment, plenty of tourist attractions and futuristic hotspots, all while balancing the modern world with the historical. The city even has a tagline, Tokyo Tokyo Old Meets New, which essentially highlights its versatility and fun, unpredictable ways of mixing technology with cultural activity. Being a metropolitan city, Tokyo is truly the ideal destination for foreigners to visit, even if they don’t understand the language. Travelling from one place to another is easy due to the various types of public transport available and their immaculate service.
Tokyo also plays a big role in the global art and fashion world with its unique, artistic and vibrant street style, which so many people abroad try to emulate. Known as the country’s style hub, there are a plethora of great shopping places, art galleries, museums, cafes and nightclubs to head to.
However, if you’re looking for an exclusive perspective on Tokyo on your next visit, scroll down below for a curated list of luxury experiences to try.

See Tokyo from the top

You may have seen the city from the streets but have you experienced it from 2,000 feet in the air? If not, you may want to book a helicopter tour for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. See iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree up close from astonishing new angles or spot the beauty of Mount Fuji in the distance. Each trip takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes where you can see unparalleled views of the city like never before. For an even more spectacular trip, book a flight during sunset when the skies are painted pink, eventually turning dark and the city starts glistening impressively with dazzling lights.
For helicopter tour services, click here.

Enjoy an exclusive traditional tea ceremony

Unlike in other parts of the world where tea is regarded as another hot drink, in Japan, tea-drinking is both a tradition and ritual passed down from generation to generation. A tea ceremony holds a cultural significance and represents respect, harmony, purity, mindfulness and tranquillity. To experience the art of tea-making, book a session at Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Tokyo, where you’ll be introduced to the associate rituals and indulge in authentic green matcha tea and Japanese sweets.
Book a session here.

Shop to your heart’s content at Daikanyama

A stylish neighbourhood known for its high-end boutiques and fashionable cafes, Daikanayama is a must-visit for fashionistas who are looking to elevate their style. Fun fact: it’s a regular haunt of models and celebrities alike. The first store you need to check out is Lift Daikanyama, a curated retail space that collaborates with various artists and designers—both local and international—to put out pieces that are original and challenge the industry norms. The label’s philosophy is to connect with individuals through fashion, art and culture, giving them opportunities to experience something new.

In contrast, the second store, Heliopole, offers pared-down, quality everyday pieces that evoke minimalism and freedom. Each piece is versatile and can be mixed and matched with different sets to create a new look.

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Finally, if you love a more elegant style, check out the Boutique Ashida Daikanyama Flagship Store. Its founder, Jun Ashida, who also launched the eponymous label jun ashida, was also the exclusive designer of the imperial family. From gorgeous evening dresses to suits and practical daily wear, you’re guaranteed to walk out with a piece (or several!) that you’ll cherish forevermore. Moreover, Tae Ashida, a label designed by Tae Ashida, the daughter of Jun Ashida, provides high-quality fashionable items for lively and sophisticated men and women who are active in various fields.

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For more info on Tokyo Tourism, click here.
For more travel-related stories, click here.

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Collections
PFW AW20: All the black-and-white looks that were elevated to new heights

04.03.2020
By Joan Kong

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If the 2020 Pantone Colour of the Year—Classic Blue—is any indication, the colour trends have shifted to a more muted palette as of late, and we’re all for it. At the AW20 runways, an array of brands followed suit by sending down looks in black and white, but one thing’s for sure—what lacked in vibrancy was made up for with their cuts and silhouettes. After all the striking finale get-ups from New York, the bold and beautiful ensembles from London, and Milan’s power pantsuit that will make anyone feel strong and powerful, the monochrome tones are definitely a refreshing way to end Fashion Month on a trés chic note.
As expected, coats were aplenty for the Autumn/Winter season, and we loved the array of selections that were sent down the runways, from Chanel‘s tailored tweed piece to Miu Miu‘s sleek leather outerwear to Ralph & Russo‘s oversized draped trench. On the other hand, there were also sultry pieces that radiate that feminine, sensual allure too. Elie Saab‘s intricate gowns, for instance, are some of the most stunning dresses we’ve seen this season, as well as Mugler‘s sheer numbers that accentuate curves like no other. For the trendy minimalists, Dior‘s borrowed-from-the-boys tailored pantsuit, Hermès‘ sleek leather dress, and Kenzo‘s languid coat are the perfect looks to lust after, but if making a strong statement is what you’re going for, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Isabel Marant, and Rick Owens‘ takes on the puffy shoulders trend this season will bring your look to new heights, literally.
Check out the the best black-and-white looks from PFW AW20 below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] PFW AW20 b&w” rid=”7953″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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11 Depressing movie love stories

Film, TV + Theatre
11 Depressing movie love stories
Reasons to stay single this Valentine's

12.02.2016
By Buro247

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14 Thrilling new TV shows and films to stream in July 2023

Kal Ho Na Ho (2003)

Kal Ho Na Ho may be a Bollywood film filled with singing and dancing, but it is essentially centred around a love triangle. Here, desperation, heartbreak and tragedy and selfless sacrifice unravel in a mix of both comical and dramatic moments.

Sweet November (1968)

The 1968 film follows the odd antics of Sara, who takes different men in each month to fix their problems. She meets Charlie, who becomes her November, simply because he wanted a short fling. However the two end up falling in love, which brings about some rather sad complications.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Forbidden love takes centre stage when two cowboys fall in love. And when the stage is set with strong stigmas, you can bet that all that tension and passion is going to get rather intense.

One Day (2011)

Can a guy and a girl remain friends without developing feelings for each other? One Day pretty much says no. But the journey is long. The story follows the lives of best friends Dexter and Emma, whose lives intertwine through the god and the bad over many, many years.

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

Another instance of forbidden love, Moulin Rouge! Brings together a penniless writer and a beautiful starlet courtesan. The fancy dresses, choreographed sequences, and energetic music doesn’t quite draw the attention away from this tragic love story.

A Single Man (2009)

A Single Man shows the very depressing consequences of what happens following the death of a lover. An English professor is left in emotional anguish after his boyfriend dies, and is unable to cope with his life in 1960s Los Angeles.

A Walk to Remember (2002)

The cool high school jerk Landon Carter (Shane West) falls for the sheltered nerd Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore). It’s an unlikely relationship, but their love eventually evolves into something rather beautiful and pure. But when that happens, Sullivan reveals a tragic secret that puts a damper in their relationship.

Titanic (1997)

Following what seems to be the greatest love story ever, where stigmas regarding class segregation are erased through the power of love, Leonardo DiCaprio ends up freezing to death and drowning in very cold water.

Blue Jasmine (2013)

When a woman loves her high society status more than anything else in the world, things are bound to crumble. An infidel husband doesn’t help either, and it is here that we get to see Cate Blanchett’s character spiral into a downward demise.

Ghost (1990)

The loving relationship of a passionate young couple is cut short when Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze) dies and leaves Molly Jensen (Demi Moore) behind. But Wheat isn’t quite gone yet – his spirit stays behind to warn Jensen of an impending danger.

The Notebook (2004)

Another romantic couple separated by their social statures (man, why are the girls always too wealthy for the guys?), The Notebook is depressing for one main reason: after everything they’ve been through, Allie (Rachel McAdams) is on the brink of losing her memory of everything in her old age.

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Watches
Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils first Japanese flagship in Tokyo
Authentic horological experience

25.11.2016
By Buro247

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November 9th, 2016 marks the inaugural unveiling of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s flagship in Tokyo, Japan. Joining the ranks of a select range of prestigious brands on the premier luxury shopping avenue in Ginza, Namiki-dōri Street, the renowned Swiss maison of fine horology officiated its grand-opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and cocktail reception attended by 150 guests.

Japanese actress and special guest for the event, Maki Tamaru wore a Reverso One High Jewellery with a couture strap by Christian Louboutin. Also on display were exclusive timepieces—the Reverso One High Jewellery, an exquisite expression of femininity, alongside the grande complication watch, Reverso Tribute Gyrotourbillon.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Jaeger LeCoultre Ginza” rid=”4611″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The 100-square-metre single floor enclave of refinement and discreet luxury makes up the Jaeger-LeCoultre Ginza boutique, which is entirely devoted to showcasing the brand’s timepieces. A special area reserved for a Jaeger LeCoultre watchmaker—who will handle maintenance and other interventions—evokes an invitation to enter the fascinating world of the Manufacture. In the warm, luminous space, the hope is to deliver an authentic horological experience and convey true passion for the craft through its past, present and future.

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Food + Drink
When Mummy’s little helper goes five star
Chefs' biggest secrets

27.05.2016
By Buro247

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

For all their posturing about integrity in gastronomy, haute cuisine chefs have been harbouring a dirty little secret in their toques for quite some time, and it’s a skeleton they’re not going to be able to push back into the closet in a hurry, try as they might. Like it or not, it’s an inarguable fact that highbrow chefs frequently use lowbrow ingredients in the food they serve at their restaurants (which beggars, in turn, the question why we pay such extortionate prices for their food, but that’s a fight we’ll leave for another day). Incredulous you may be, but it’s true. At his New York eatery 66, Jean-Georges Vongerichten serves a shrimp starter that’s bathed in a sauce made primarily from Hellmann’s mayonnaise and condensed milk. Perhaps it’s a throwback to his Asian training, but Vongerichten also cites soy and oyster sauces as being instrumental to good food (he’s a bit late to the club on this one; we Asians have known that since time immemorial!). He’s not alone. Kylie Kwong openly lists Maggi seasoning as an ingredient in her recipe for fried rice, while David Bouley of Bouley and Danube uses a base of Heinz ketchup for his Hawaiian yellowtail appetiser (price: USD$21), and Paul Kahan of Chicago’s Blackbird restaurant crushes Snyder’s of Hanover salt and vinegar potato chips into his salt and vinegar walleyed pike dish. Erstwhile the dirty little secret of top chefs, the use of supermarket products in five-star restaurants is now becoming less taboo thanks in no small part to Ferran Adrià and Heston Blumenthal, both of whose molecular gastronomy techniques routinely include the use of industrial ingredients.

Lurking in the shadows waiting to throw off its clock of secrecy too is the sneaking suspicion that chefs are rebelling against the whole small-batch, artisanal, biodynamic, organic movement that’s consumed the industry in recent years. When everyone else is obsessed with culinary mastery, there’s a lot to be said for winning the satisfaction stakes because, when push comes to shove, taste is always paramount. And that’s why, should you ever enter a restaurant kitchen, the likelihood of finding ketchup, mayonnaise and even soft drinks as part of the mise-en-place is exceedingly high. Home cooks will readily attest that said ingredients have long been deployed because they are highly efficacious flavour enhancers. A splash of Heinz ketchup adds depth and vivacity to bolognese sauce thanks to the sugar and vinegar, Coca Cola imbues barbecue sauces and braises with a more complex sweetness than sugar, while any Chinese homemaker will tell you that oyster sauce is truly mother’s indispensable little helper. Marco Moreira of Tocqueville uses Gravy Master as a starter for his USD$75 Kobe dish sauce and all dishes that require marination because he says it facilitates caramelisation of the meat. More scandalously, he says he picked up these short cuts when apprenticing in Michelin-starred French restaurants, where French chefs—for all their haute cuisine ostentations—purportedly use everything from MSG to ketchup to enliven their food.

It’s thus no small irony that for all the collective vitriol that’s been heaped upon Chinese restaurateurs for their prodigious use of MSG all these years, five-star establishments haven’t exactly been swimming between the flags either, except—unlike their Asian counterparts—they’ve kept their dirty little secrets, well, secret. Vongerichten used to even spike his truffle sauce with MSG, saying “I love MSG… because it’s so tasteful” but only stopped, reluctantly, because of public disapprobation of the stuff. Well, well, well. Who would’ve thunk?

Follow Fay on Twitter and Instagram at @misskhoo.

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Technology
Swarovski brings its Activity Tracking Jewelry Collection to Malaysia
Crystal-clear tech

27.04.2016
By Rachel Au

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The barriers between the worlds of fashion and tech these days are pretty much transparent as brands dabble in more than just iPad covers and headphones. Both players in their individual games are coming together to add one’s stylish touch to another’s smart technology to give consumers the best of both worlds for everyday wear-wearables. The latest game changing product to arrive in Malaysia is Swarovski and Misfit’s collaboration: the Activity Tracking Jewellery Collection. After the success of its initial launch in the USA, China and Hong Kong, Swarovski has officially launched the products on a global scale.

The main attraction is the Activity Crystal at the heart of the collection that is embedded with expert tracking technology to log physical activity both day and night such as counting the steps taken, recording the total distance on a run, tracking calories burned, monitoring sleep pattern, sharing fitness accomplishments with friends and plain ol’ showing the time. In addition, it can pair with the Link app to help take a picture or selfie and control your music with the connected device. What makes it even more loveable is how lightweight and soft it is, which adds to its already feminine look.

A video posted by Buro 24/7 Malaysia (@buro247malaysia) on Apr 27, 2016 at 12:04am PDT

The Swarovski Activity Tracking Jewelry is also water resistant up to 50 meters and since its battery uses a patented “energy crystal” solar-charging technology, it doesn’t need to be charged regularly (but it’ll need sufficient exposure to light), making it the perfect companion for the active and on-the-go woman.

Thanks to Swarovski’s jewellery expertise, the Activity Crystal can be set against the Swarovski Slake bracelet or the sleek sport band so you can easily transition from work to play to working out and still look utterly fashionable. “Versatile enough to dress up or down, the Activity Crystal gives the modern woman a fitness tracker that looks and feels like a piece of jewellery, so she never feels the need to leave home without wearing it, and at the same time it reminds her to stay active and fit throughout her days and nights,” said Senior Vice President APAC Product Marketing Joan Ng.

The bracelets are available in two designs—Swarovski’s iconic Slake bracelet and the Deluxe version—that are both studded with a string of dainty crystals and easily paired with other Swarovski bracelets, and comes in a range of classic colours. The sports band, on the other hand (pun unintended), has a soft touch and embossed with the Swarovski Swanflower® design.

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Lifestyle
7 Things you can do this weekend: 27-28 February 2016
A foodie's dream

24.02.2016
By Rachel Au

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RECOMMENDED

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

1. A Gourmet Escape with Chef Ryan Clift of Tippling Club, 25 – 27 Feb
Ever heard of modern molecular cuisine? If you haven’t, then this is the perfect opportunity to try it. That, and the menu is by critically acclaimed Chef Ryan Clift of the equally famed Tippling Club in Singapore. He will be in Kuala Lumpur at Mandarin Grill for a few days to serve guests an exclusive dining experience of signature food and wine pairings.
The five-course lunch is priced at RM298 nett per person (without wine pairing) and RM398 nett per person (with wine pairing). There is also the option of a nine-course dinner that is priced at RM598 nett per person (without wine pairing) and RM768 nett per person (with wine pairing). To make a reservation, please call Mandarin Grill at 03 2179 8960 or email at [email protected]

2. Taste of Tiffin: Brunch Session, 11am and 1.30pm, Sun
Yet another food connoisseur hailing from Singapore is coming to Malaysia to entertain your stomachs. Brunch Bandits is a pop-up dining club that serves unique brunch food inspired from all over the world. At this weekend’s Taste of Tiffin, they have cooked up a hearty menu of Ethiopian food. Read more about it in our interview with Brunch Bandits founder Nithiya here.
Tickets close on 24 February so be sure to grab them quick before they’re all sold out.

3. Tiffin Chowdown, 12pm – 10pm, Sat and Sun
You don’t have to travel from KL to PJ over several weekends just to try all the delicious and popular cafes out there because 26 of them will be gathering under one roof this weekend! From pies (A Pie Thing) to oysters (SHUCKED Oyster Bars) to soft serves (Miru Dessert Cafe) to Mexican food (Fresca Mexican Kitchen & Bar), you better go there with an empty stomach.
Admission is free. For more information, check out here.

4. Taste of Tiffin: Heart of the Run, 12pm – 5pm, Sun
Extend your love for all alcohol by brushing up on your knowledge of it at Taste of Tiffin’s special sampling session. With an impressive repertoire of 40 varieties of specialty craft white spirits from over 14 purveyors, you might just leave as a new cocktail connoisseur.
Early bird tickets are priced at RM110 per person and will be on sale until 26 February. Get them here.

5. Watch with iflix: Pulp Fiction, 6pm – 10pm, Sat
Enjoy a different kind of movie-watching with iflix as they’ll be showing cult classic Pulp Fiction at Impact Hub KL. Admission is free IF you are an iflix subscriber but otherwise, you can always sign up for their 30-day free trial now to gain access to both the streaming site and the event. Refreshing and snacks will also be provided.
For more information or to get your ‘tickets’, head over here.

6. Superheroes by Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), Sat and Sun
Calling all fans of all things superhero-related: enjoy a fantastic afternoon listening to all-action Alasdair Malloy and the MPO use their supersound to play the superheroid themes for Batman, Spiderman and Superman, as well as Super Mario and other video game legends.
Ticket prices start from RM50 to RM130 and you can purchase them online here.

7. Catch up on everything LFW-related
London Fashion Week is almost at its end and if you’ve missed out on all the highlights, the trends and the best street styles, we’ve nailed the most important bits here.

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Lifestyle
Buro Culture Guide: Local art and music events happening in December
Into the last month of 2016

02.12.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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

1-4 December, 12+1 Penang Island Jazz Festival @ Bayview Beach Resort Hotel & Spa, Penang
After the rocking Northern Music Festival last month, our favourite foodie haven up north sees the year out on a high with the 12+1th edition of the Penang Island Jazz Festival. Featuring a string of local and international acts, headliners include Kim Oki Band, James Boyle Trio with Liyana Fizi and Bihzhu, as well as Vladmir Celkar Trio.

3-4 December, The Craft Affair @ The Boulevard, Publika
Co-organised by Craft Haven, The Artsy Craftsy and Ryl Designs, tune into your crafty side this weekend and join in on the creative workshops and make & take sessions happening at The Craft Affair, and maybe bring home a handmade gift or two – Christmas is around the corner after all.

8 December, Cinema a la Carte @ French Feast, KL, 6.45pm
Bringing good food and great cinematography under one roof, Cinema a la Carte combines the best of the two arts with a unique gastronomic experience, where a meal is curated to reflect the scenes and sentiments within the film screened (read about our experience here) – talk about a movie night like no other. The culinary film festival closes out with historical-drama film Vatel at French Feast.

Tickets are priced at RM270. Proceeds will go to The Lost Food Project. For more information, visit their Facebook page or click here to get in touch.

Source: https://www.buro247.my/lifestyle/food-and-drink/cinema-a-la-carte-culinary-film-festival.html

10 December, Film Screening: The Mask You Live In @ MCCHR Pusat Rakyat LB, 7-9pm

The Mask You Live follows a group of boys and young men as they struggle to stay true to themselves while negotiating gender stereotypes.Organised by the Campaign for Equality and Human Rights Initiative, this film screening takes us down the road less taken and explores how our culture’s narrow definition of masculinity is harming boys, men and society at large.

10-11 December, Much Ado About Shakespeare @ KLPAC
Explore man’s core emotional feelings – pleasure, anger, sorrow and joy – with the KLPAC Symphonic Band in Much Ado About Shakespeare, where a repertoire of works inspired by the playwright will be played. The programme includes ‘Selections from Kiss me Kate’ and ‘Gaulimaufry’ by Woolfenden.

12-13 December, Ho! Ho! Holiday Pops @ Petronas Philharmonic Hall, 8.30pm
A joint performance by the MPO and MPYO, this Pops programme is conducted by rising French star Julie Desbordes, who will lead the orchestra in joyful music evocative of the holiday season, such as Leroy Anderson’s ‘ Sleigh Ride’ and ‘A Christmas Festival’, as well as Gershwin’s ‘An American in Paris’.

13 December, Feedback Open Mic @ The Bee, Jaya One, 8-11pm
Off the back of their 11th anniversary show, Moonshine continues providing a platform for local gems with their staple Feedback open mic at The Bee. Featured acts for this show include Rendy Pandugo and Anne-marie Choon, with slots to be filled by budding musicians. Feel free to pop by, whether you are looking to perform or kick back to an evening of acoustic music.

31 December-1 January 2017, Fuyoh! Collectors Market @ Publika

Over 60 vendors are to set up shop at the Fuyoh! Collectors Market. Collector or not, browsing through the selection of antiques, vintage items, toys, records, music memorabilia and more at the event will definitely make for a fun afternoon.

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Fashion
How 6 Autumn/Winter 2020 fashion campaigns are like in the New Normal

20.10.2020
By Joan Kong

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

After an eventful 10 months (to say the least), it’s now autumn/winter, and as usual, major fashion houses have rolled out their new campaigns to celebrate the season. However, with the global pandemic going on, the brands took a slightly different approach this round, exploring new shoot formats and deliveries that are not any less eye-catching.
Below, find out how different brands are presenting their new campaigns this AW20:

Valentino: A charity campaign

As one of the first few Maisons that released its AW20 campaign, Valentino’s aim was plain and simple: To support the ongoing efforts against COVID-19. Titled #ValentinoEmpathy, creative director Pierpaolo Piccoli tapped a long list of It-names in fashion—including Christy Turlington, Gwyneth Paltrow, Liu Wen, Naomi Campbell, Rafferty Law, Vittoria Ceretti, and more—to join the project. All they need to do is to shoot portraits of themselves dressed in the brand’s latest collection at home.
Instead of paying the talents, Valentino has pledged to donate one million Euros—the amount that it would have spent on this campaign—to the Lazzaro Spallanzani Hospital in Rome to help its fight against the pandemic.

Gucci: A campaign featuring models, by models

After giving guests a look at what goes on behind the scenes during its show back in February, for its AW20 campaign, the brand gave full reigns to the models by letting them show their point of view. Titled The Ritual, the imagery is a series of personal, honest, and candid self-portraits—models photographed themselves in the comfort of their own homes being their most authentic self, from gardening to sunbathing to jumping off a bed.
Alessandro Michele explained in a press release, “I decided to let the clothes travel towards the houses of the cast of models—the characters that have embodied my stories for years; individuals I chose precisely, over time, for their uniqueness that usually brings my campaigns to life. I asked them to represent the idea they have of themselves, to go public with it, shaping the poetry that accompanies them. I encouraged them to play, improvising with their life”.

Prada: An auction

Prada is taking a new approach with its AW20 campaign by organising an auction to give back. In collaboration with Sotheby’s, one-of-a-kind items from its Autumn/Winter 2020 men’s and women’s shows—from the looks to the show invitations to the runway décor—will be auctioned off online, and the proceeds will go to UNESCO educational projects to expand “inclusion in education for vulnerable populations across the globe”.
“Fashion has a duty not only to reflect its times, but to help shape them. The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdown of Spring 2020 has not only affected the machinations of the fashion system–making it impossible to work in manners previously deemed essential–but posited questions about fashion’s place within a wider social context,” the brand says in a statement.

Coach: A campaign that highlights family values

If the pandemic has taught us one thing, it’s that family is of the utmost importance—and for its AW20 campaign, Coach is celebrating just that. Titled Coach Family, the brand’s high-profile ambassadors—Jennifer Lopez, Michael B. Jordan, Kiko Mizuhara, Jeremy Lin, and its latest Chinese ambassador Yang Zi—are all photographed alongside their loved ones, be it their parents, children, siblings, or close friends.
“At this moment, it feels important to re-examine our values,” said Coach Creative Director Stuart Vevers in a statement. “To me, fashion, at its best, has always been about community, creativity and building lasting relationships. I am proud to share stories with our Coach Family about the people that matter most in their lives—relationships that are authentic and timeless.”

Stella McCartney: A remote shoot in Shanghai

For AW20, Stella McCartney continues to shine the spotlight on the Stella women who are “unapologetic, unpredictable, and unafraid to be themselves. With remote shoots being the New Norm during the pandemic, the brand hopped on the bandwagon and worked with Chinese photographer Leslie Zhang who staged a shoot in Shanghai’s greenery. And to reinforce the brand’s advocacy for feminism, the campaign stars model Cici Xiang who’s also an arts activist and the founder of C for ABC.
The model can be seen donning ensembles that are made from eco-friendly materials, including organic cotton, sustainable viscose, recycled polyester and nylon, regenerated cashmere, and a first for the brand—the KOBA fur-free fur that’s created with plant-based fibers.

Bottega Veneta: A campaign that keeps the wanderlust alive

With the pandemic under control in some countries, instead of a home shoot, Bottega Veneta wants us to keep the wanderlust spirit alive—without forgetting to social distance. Shot by photographer Tyron Lebon, the AW20 campaign features models—including supermodel Abbey Lee and rising star Mona Tougaard—who posed in the snow dressed in the eye-catching looks of the season, where OTT fringes, knits, and disco sequins take centre stage.

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Beauty
The new lip and cheek rouge that’s a game-changer in our beauty books
Multitasking marvels

07.03.2018
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Chanel has been reinventing the lip colour game with the Rouge Coco range — from hybrid lipstick pens that offer colour, care and comfort to high-shine, non-sticky lip glosses that are replacing matte liquid lipsticks in our beauty arsenal. This month, a new addition is introduced to the Rouge Coco range once more: The Rouge Coco Lip Blush.

The Rouge Coco Lip Blush has a dual purpose that quite evidently alludes to its name. This two-in-one product offers a pigmented hue for both your lips and complexion, and is pretty much all you need in your to-go makeup bag for a handful of reasons. Boasting a soft and silky gel formula that isn’t difficult to blend or melt into your skin or lips, a dose of colour is imparted upon application. The lip blush formula has a Hydraboost complex made of jojoba, mimosa and sunflower oils to moisturise and nourish the skin, alongside a coconut emollient to soften the lips, and a trade of peptides for a photo-worthy plumping effect. The best part? You don’t have to reapply the Rouge Coco Lip Blush on your cheeks throughout the day as the oils doesn’t evaporate on the skin.
Tip: Use the flat part of the applicator to apply the colour on the curve of the lips, while the tip for the contours. For the cheekbones, swipe gently for a tinge of colour, but three dots to increase intensity — then pat it with your fingertips to blend it into the skin. Et voilà — a wonderfully luminous matte finish!
Below, find out some tips and tricks to pull off the Rouge Coco Lip Blush in the latest episode of Chanel Beauty Talks, featuring Chanel’s Global Creative Makeup and Colour Designer Lucia Pica in conversation with the muse of the house, Lily-Rose Depp.

Available now at all Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutiques and counters in departmental stores nationwide.

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Beauty
The best beauty trends from the 1990s that we are revisiting right now

16.05.2019
By Wei Yeen Loh

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No decade has produced a slew of eye-twitch-inducing, cringe-worthy makeup trends quite like the ’90s. The swinging Sixties gave us beehives and doe-like eyes, and we can’t fault the ’80s for giving us full brows and two-toned locks. While we can’t identify as diehard fans of hair and makeup trends from the ’90s, we have to admit that some of these beauty fads are seeing a resurgence as of late.
Beware of a wave of nostalgia (and a step back into your childhood, for some) as you scroll through these makeup trends that absolutely slayed two decades ago:
Brown lipstick

Then: Chocolate-toned and burgundy-based browns were all the rage. Coupled with super skinny brows and frosted lids, it was really pretty much the nude lippie of the era, as seen on fresh-faced Britney here.
Now: Nudes of every shade were trending quite recently, what with the matte liquid lipstick craze that took over for a few seasons. But the new nude now is in a shade of earthy brown (in various textures) that’s Insta-worthy as it is versatile for every look.
Tip: Keep the rest of your makeup in warm-toned neutrals to prevent your visage from looking flat or one-dimensional. Don’t forget to contour your features for a sculpted ‘do.

Blue eyeshadow

Then: Talk about 90s eye makeup trends and the one prevailing trend that still garners a fair share of tongue-wagging is blue eyeshadow—typically in a frosted finish teemed with a bold red (or berry, as spotted on Cameron Diaz) lip and splotches of pink on the apples of the cheeks.
Now: While the likes of azure-dusted lids may have taken a backseat in the early 2000s, the trend has seen a re-emergence as of late. Shades of blue (dashed with green) often get reinterpreted in cyan, teal, navy and cerulean—all worn in various ways, whether on the lids for a subtle pop of colour, a graphic cat eye, or a smouldering smokey eye.
Tip: We’re all for monochromatic makeup but don’t let your outfit steal the limelight of your eye makeup. Always remember to tightline your lash lines to let the whites of your eyes stand out. Try a darker hue (taupe, grey, black) if you’re wearing an intense, smoky eye; or go with a matte blue for a daytime look.

Body shimmer

Then: What better way to capture the light and look like a walking disco ball in pictures back in the day? Body glitter, of course. If your teen icons were Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, sequins and sparkles (that were incredibly hard to clean up) will always hold a special place in your heart.
Now: This era’s body glitter is pretty much highlighter for the body. The effect is more natural, subtle, and glowy—think shimmer mixed in body moisturiser. High-shine body oils, “glotions”, and serums aren’t just made to be worn for music festivals and raves, pat it on to get an allover luminised finish that smells and looks amazing.
Tip: Give the illusion of longer legs by applying some body shimmer along the shins in a straight line down.

Frosted lips

Then: You can’t scroll through images of 90s celebs and teen stars without seeing their frosty lip shades in all its glory. Before the lip gloss took over in the early 2000s, this light-reflecting finish was so popular it even spilled over to eyeshadows and the like.
Now: We’re still bracing ourselves for the comeback of lip gloss, so we’re definitely not ready for this trend to rear its head so quickly. An edgier, reinterpreted version of this trend is the metallic lip—more foil, less frosty, and able to give an illusion of fuller lips thanks to the shine.
Tip: Line your lips before application to ensure the metallic hue doesn’t feather out in an unbecoming way. Cotton buds dipped in micellar water are your BFFs to clean up any colour outside the lines after application.

The scrunchie

Then: The knocked-askew ponytail of the 90s was almost always wrapped around with a scrunchie. These fabric-clad hair ties were so popular that even our favourite twin sisters Mary Kate and Ashley sported these when they starred in their first acting gig, Full House.
Now: Scrunchies are seeing a revival with celebrities (most of them millennials) donning it everywhere from a workout session to red carpet events. Here, Bella Hadid paid homage to the decade with a super high ponytail and gold hoop earrings.
Tip: Spritz a texture spray in your damp locks to give it volume before blow-drying it and securing it with a scrunchie.

Hair clips

Then: Anyone who grew up in the 90s and early 00s have either one of these in their hair accessories stash back then: butterfly clips (a lot of them), jawclips, hair barrettes—you get it. Our personal favourite were teeny butterfly clips that you can use to secure tresses in funky updos. How cute does young Kirsten Dunst look here?
Now: Hair slides are so major that it’s been spotted on the street style folk, the fashion runways, and even on celebs including Gigi Hadid, Emma Stone, Kendall Jenner and more. Instead of cutesy clips, slides now are literally making a statement with logos and text motifs along with embellishments i.e. pearls, tortoiseshell, rose quartz etc.
Tip: This is our favourite hair accessory for all occasions, whether you’re heading to a wedding or a weekend out (and only have five minutes to spare).

Overlined lips

Then: Pamela Anderson in all her overplucked-brows, overlined-lips, and tousled-hair glory? Say no more. The Baywatch star and blonde bombshell of the 90s was the poster girl for over-accentuated lips, typically with a much darker shade around the perimeter of her pout.
Now: Kylie Jenner gave lip liner a new lease of life when she made this trend popular once more, filling in her upper lip with a nude liner in several shades for an illusion of plumper lips. Our beauty muse Lily Collins gave us more inspo on creating a fuller pout with a tres chic ombré lip in two monochromatic shades.
Tip: Choose a nude shade of lip liner that matches your skin undertone to prevent a jarring contrast. Start lining your lips from the corners to make the lines less visible, then blend with your finger. Complete your look with a lipstick in a similar shade to your lip liner.

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Lifestyle
3 Exciting new luxury SUV launches in Malaysia this 2023
Hot (new) wheels

03.04.2023
By Carmen Chong

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Sports utility vehicles, better known as SUVs, have been leading the pack as one of the most preferred vehicle types out there, skyrocketing in popularity in recent years. The additional storage space, driving at a greater and more commanding height, larger seating capability, and overall versatility of an SUV makes it an obvious choice for many. For the year 2023, renowned automakers like BMW and Maserati have innovatively taken the premium SUV segment up a notch and these offerings are nothing short of enviable. Let’s take a look.

BMW XM

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Design: The first-ever BMW M GmbH high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW XM, features an electrifying exterior equipped with the M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadow Line. A large kidney grille with hallmark M horizontal double louvres distinguishes the front end, furnished with illuminated kidney grille contours and accompanied by striking nightgold-coloured trims bordering the window line. At the rear, flared wheel arches take centerstage alongside two twin tailpipes arranged vertically—a unique twist to a signature M feature.

Power: As the first M model to have a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the XM boasts an impressive total system output of 653 PS (644 hp or 480 kW) and 800 Nm of torque, completing a century sprint in just 4.3 seconds. Under the hood, a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 powers its M Hybrid system, facilitating 489 PS (483 hp or 360 kW) and 650 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the XM’s underfloor-mounted lithium-ion battery has an energy capacity of 25.7 kWh, taking a maximum AC input of 7.4 kW to complete a charge from 0 to 100 per cent in just 4 hours and 15 minutes.

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Interior: Complementing its exterior on the inside of the SAV is a luxurious cabin accentuated by the BMW Curved Display and Walknappa vintage leather on the door panels as well as sections on the instrument panel. The XM—decked out with an Alcantara headliner with a prismatic 3D structure that contributes to a unique sense of space—also maintains a bold contrast between the cockpit and the M Lounge rear that lends an exclusive and inviting lounge feel.
Price (on the road, without insurance): RM1,398,800.00
For more information, visit the website.

Maserati Grecale GT Hybrid

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Design: Completing the Trident brand’s fullest SUV range is the 2023 Grecale in a GT Hybrid version, retaining a bold and sleek styling with a low and imposing grille. It features a protruding nose at the front, similar to that of the MC20, coupled with a visually fluid body and boomerang tail lights inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT in the rear. The Grecale GT Hybrid is available in four colours, namely Bronzo Opaco (bronze), Blu Intenso (metallic blue), Bianco Astro (metallic grey), and Bianco (white solid).

Power: For the Malaysian market, the Grecale GT Hybrid is equipped with a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of delivering 300 PS at 5,750rpm with a peak torque of 450Nm at 2,000rpm to 4,000rpm. This is paired with a 48-V mild hybrid, offering reduced fuel consumption without compromising on performance, going from 0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds.

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Interior: Urban, minimal, and contemporary, this SUV is distinctively roomy and comfortable, embellished with best-in-class features including a 535L boot space, an in-car experience managed by the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre, and premium Saffiano leather throughout the cabin. The result is a sophisticated yet clean aesthetic, punctuated by laser processing reinterpreting the iconic Maglia Milano, taken from fine jewellery and watchmaking.
Price (with SST): From RM598,000.00
For more information, visit the website.

Range Rover L460 (2023)

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Design: Range Rover’s crown jewel of luxury SUVs has reached its fifth generation with the debut of the L460. Compared to its predecessor, the L460 appears more pared back and refined, particularly at the rear where it is updated with the world’s first hidden-until-lit tail lights. Rounding off its profile is a soft-sloping roofline and updated waistline. As for the front, the L460 features new Digital LED headlamps and daytime running lamps, flanked by a midsized grille with heavier borders and a new mesh insert.
Power: Primed to be a game-changer in its segment, the L460 is powered by the P530 powertrain featuring a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine delivering 530 PS and 750 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. This launches the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, capped at a top speed of 250 km/h.

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Interior: Echoing the sleek and minimalist theme on its exterior, the inside of the L460 comes with leather upholstery as a standard, with the possibility to upgrade to leather-free interiors fusing Ultrafabrics and Kvadrat wool blend. One significant highlight of the five-seater configuration of the SUV offered in the Malaysian market includes a 13.1-inch curved glass floating touchscreen, linked to the Pivi Pro infotainment system that is combined with a control panel for the climate system.
Price (with SST): RM2,480,000.00
For more information, visit the website.

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PHOTOS: MSGM Resort 2022 Collection

Collections
PHOTOS: MSGM Resort 2022 Collection

21.06.2021
By Natalia Chow

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Lifestyle
Vacheron Constantin presents ‘Architecture: Concept and Notation’ in Shanghai
Where art between disciplines intertwine

07.04.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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

Vacheron Constantin, the oldest watch manufacturer in the world, presents ‘Architecture: Concept and Notation’—an exhibition dedicated to the excellent work and vision of Bernard Tschumi. How is the heritage watchmaker related to the world-renowned architect? Mr. Tschumi was the design mastermind behind the Vacheron Constantin Headquarters and Manufacturing Centre in Geneva, Switzerland. Beyond that, the maison and Mr. Tschumi share a common vision and work philosophy: while the watchmakers constantly strive to overcome the limitations of space in building each mechanical masterpiece, the architect similarly seeks to transcend the constraints of conventional design, producing effective, coherent and future-orientated work that stands the test of time.

The exhibition showcases the work of Bernard Tschumi as an architect, educator, and writer, featuring some of his many projects over his longstanding career. One of the highlights at the exhibition is the model of the iconic Vacheron Constantin building in Geneva. The contemporary building is shaped in a stylised, halved Maltese cross, encompassing the maison’s administrative headquarters and manufacturing workshops.

Exhibition details:
Date: 13 March – 19 June 2016
Opening hours: 11am – 7pm from Tuesday – Sunday
Venue: Power Station of Art, 200 Huayuangang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

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Beauty
Spring essentials: Think sweet pastels and romantic hues
Parisian reverie

30.12.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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

Think that pastel has seen the last of its heyday? Think again. The perfect antidote to the more sombre hues of winter, Lancôme’s Spring collection will soon be here to brighten your New Year beauty haul with pops of soft yellow and sweet blush. Here are your fresh Spring essentials and tips on how to wear them by Lancôme Makeup Creative Director, Lisa Eldridge:

My Parisian Pastels, RM200

Housed in a whimsical little metallic case, this innovative cheek and eye palette consists of nine beautiful, shimmery pastel cubes. Use a single shade if you wish, or go with a combination for a graduated pastel effect—revel in the infinite options to mix and match to your heart’s content.

Expert tip: For the face, sweep a flat blush or kabuki across a horizontal row to take up a blend of corrective, healthy glow or illuminating colours. For the eyes, pick up a cube and apply the colour directly to the lid, pressing down more or less firmly to create the desired intensity and shimmer effect.

My Parisian Blush, RM145
Lancôme continues to entice your inner child with this playful little blush and its nostalgic Play-doh texture. Available in two zesty shades—Corail de Ville and Rose Haussmann—this beauty gem will enliven your cheeks with fresh radiance.

Expert tip: One product, multiple ways; use a beautifying hint of Lip Lover Gloss at the centre of the lips over the same tone of Rouge In Love. For a delectable vinyl effect, apply it alone in a generous layer for plump and simply irresistible lips.

Hypnôse Palette, RM160
Whether you’re going for a soft, romantic look or bolder, more sensual effects, the Hypnôse Palette has just the colours you need to highlight your glorious peepers. It features four warm, graduated tones and a lovely, zesty shade of orange.

The Lancôme Spring Collection will be available at all Lancôme counters nationwide from 11 January 2016 onwards.

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Baby Triangle: The secret to your best skin ever
Beauty Advent Calendar: Lancôme Limited Edition Holiday Beauty Box

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Beauty
Master Perfumer Olivier Cresp on turning everyday pleasures into fragrances
Scents of seduction

25.05.2023
By Sarah Hani Jamil

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The name Olivier Cresp carries weight in the world of beauty and perfumery. Even if you’ve never heard of it before, it’s highly likely that you’ve come across one, or many, of his notable creations in passing, such as the iconic sweet scent of ‘Angel’ by Thierry Mugler, the pleasing freshness of Dolce & Gabbana’s ‘Light Blue’ fragrance, the seductive ‘Black Opium’ for YSL Beauty and more.

Olivier Cresp

To the Master Perfumer, scents have always been unique and evocative. Despite having a myriad of fragrances under his portfolio, Cresp always knew he would create his own brand. That idea took off in 2018 when he launched the niche fragrance label Akro with none other than his daughter, Anais. In fact, it was she who initiated the concept. Living in London’s Ladbroke Grove, a historic centre of British counterculture, the younger Cresp chanced upon the idea of a fragrance line inspired by the pleasures and temptations of everyday life and presented it to her father. Together, they experimented with scents that deliver the essence of a hit, a high and a rush, and thus, the result is nine distinct fragrances—Awake, Haze, Dark, Malk, Smoke, Night, Ink, Bake, and Rise—available worldwide today.

Anais Cresp and Olivier Cresp

On his recent tour of Asia—which included a pit stop in Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore to promote Akro—we caught up with the renowned ‘nose’ to glean insight into the unique brand.

On the meaning of Akro
“‘Accro’ means addict. In French, when you are ‘accro’ to something or someone, it means that you cannot stop thinking about its pleasures. It can also be interpreted as rituals of life that are taken in excess. For instance, if I drink red wine, I get ‘accro’. When I eat chocolate, especially the ones I like, I can’t stop. Your brain asks you not to stop because it’s a lot of pleasure. Akro stems from its pronunciation, ‘ackro’.”

On running a business with his daughter
“It’s really a pleasure to work with Anais. We are close, and I talk to her over the phone every morning or evening about our company strategies and life in general. It’s exciting to share the good moments over Akro. We started five years ago, and it’s been a beautiful journey. It’s like a dream come true. Perfumery takes up a lot of my time because I also work as a Master Perfumer at Firmenich as well as working on Akro. I’m really proud of achieving our dreams.”

On the highs of kick-starting Akro
“It’s never easy, but I know my daughter well, and she knows me, so there are no clouds, you see. Our brand is expanding rapidly. It’s only been five years, and we already have nine fragrances in so many countries. However, if you look at it in essence, we are just a start-up with 10 people who are really working hard and appreciating the fact that we are able to build something.”

On what it takes to be a good perfumer
“First of all, you need to be passionate. You also need to be patient because in order to truly become good, it takes you at least 10 years. Then, to be different, just like in art, you need to have good ideas with a touch of your own personal style.”

On his favourite Akro scent
“I love Haze for its freshness. Why? Because it’s based on cannabis, and I love the smell of cannabis. It’s so diffusing and intense. It’s also a very sentimental scent because it’s the first one we started working on.”

Haze 100ml
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Night 100ml
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Smoke 100ml
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Awake 100ml
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Dark 100ml
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Ink 100ml
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Malt 100ml
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On what else to expect in the future
“I’m currently working on a lot of fragrances right now. I’ve created another one for Dolce & Gabbana, which is to be released in October. It’s a new pillar, so it’s going to be really big. I’ve also created a special scent for Brunello Cucinelli in Italy, a masculine scent that plays on Cyprus.”

Akro fragrances are available for purchase online and at Amaris Suria KLCC.
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Beauty
Your best bet to radiant skin: Clé de Peau Beauté Intuitive Skin Theory
Glow from within

17.11.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Skin science has catapulted the nature of skincare, allowing research to constantly develop means to improve skin complexion. Now, Clé de Peau Beauté’s “Intuitive Skin Theory” has identified the area of skin tissue responsible for its appearance. Using an index of radiance on skin following usage, Clé de Peau Beauté Laboratories have created a range of skincare products to work effectively in skin tissue for visible radiance.

The exclusive ingredient that drives the skincare collection is the Illuminating Complex EX, a special combination inspired by Platinum Golden Silk that helps diminish signs of damage caused by UV rays and hydrates skin, resulting in a smooth refined texture. As the ritual to radiance always begins with vital hydration, Clé de Peau Beauté’s range of products include lotions, creams, emulsions and moisturisers that blends smoothly into your skin with a luxurious feeling.

Clé de Peau Beauté Hydro-Clarifying Lotion delivers ingredients to your skin while gently removing excessive sebum, providing an instant boost of moisture with a gentle refreshing sensation. The Hydro-Softening Lotion allows for a velvety soft skin, its gentle texture delivering superlative hydration and reducing pore visibility.

Clé de Peau Beauté’s daily moisturizer arrives in a form of a Protective Fortifying Emulsion. Powered by “Chai Hu technology” to help firm the skin’s surface, the moist, lightweight texture protects it from external aggressors such as UV rays and dryness. Before you sleep, pat on the Intensive Fortifying Emulsion over your skin for a luxurious feeling and wake up with healthy-looking complexion.

But if you’ve got dryer skin and prefer a richer texture, the Protective Fortifying Cream and Intensive Fortifying Cream will blend comfortably into your skin while keeping it resilient day and night alike.

Clé de Peau Beauté spring/summer’16 skincare range is now available at all stores nationwide.

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How to: Get the perfect glow as seen at Dior Haute Couture SS17
#BackstageBeauty

26.01.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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To complement Maria Grazia Chiuri’s fairytale-inspired haute couture collection for the house of Dior earlier this week, Peter Philips created an equally romantic beauty look, with flawless, luminous complexion punctuated by the occasional sequins and stars for a dreamy element. “I delved into the mysterious atmosphere and the play on seduction in this collection, which presents the hide/reveal aspect of a masked ball,” says Philips. “This is a young woman with a modernised pre-Raphaelite beauty. It was essential to emphasise her soft luminosity and sensuality.”

Here’s how you can get the look:

Face
The complexion was kept light and flawless, with a natural glow effect. To achieve this, Diorskin Forever & Ever Wear Primer was applied as base. Then, he used Dior Forever Perfect Cushion foundation to create a perfect canvas.
A light rosy tint by way of Diorblush n°756 and 876 is brushed on the cheeks, followed by touches of Diorskin Nude Air Luminizer n°001 on the brow bone, the bridge of the nose, and the Cupid’s bow for a lovely glow.

Eyes
Eye makeup was kept at a minimal to “bring out the play on starry glitter”. Forgoing mascara, Diorshow Mono n°317 “Metaphore” was used on the eyelids to unify the looks, along with Diorshow Khôl n°529 in beige along the lower lash line.

“I created several variations to personalise each girl. The glitter was applied in a “Stardust” shower on the cheekbones swept up towards the temples. But I also chose the metallic purity of a single, bigger, more ‘rebel attitude’ star placed on the inner corner of each eye or at the centre of the lower lid.”

Lips
Lips were prepped and smoothed with the Lip Sugar Scrub, with a light touch of Dior Addict Lacquer Stick n°550 “Tease” (not available in the market yet) in the middle of the lower lip, giving the lips a discreet shine for a natural, plumped look.

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How to: Get bold graphic eyes spotted at Dior Haute Couture AW16

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