News
7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 5 & 6 February

04.02.2022
By Genie Leong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

1) Treat your love to a strawberry-inspired afternoon tea by Le Méridien Hotels and Malin+Goetz

Where: Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur and Le Méridien Putrajaya
When: 1 February till 28 February 2022
Price: RM120 nett per person or RM220 nett for 2 persons (Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur); RM158+ for 2 persons (Le Méridien Putrajaya)
Whether you’ve already found your special someone or looking for a little indulgence to celebrate self-love, you’re in for a treat with Le Méridien Hotels’ collaboration with skincare and fragrance brand Malin+Goetz. The hotels’ (Avec Amour) Afternoon Tea Set is available for dine-in—and takeaway at the Putrajaya branch—throughout the month. As an ode to Malin+Goetz’s new Strawberry Eau De Parfum, the tea set is heavily inspired by the bright and warm notes of the fragrance, as well as the strawberry’s life cycle from bud to fruit. For Marriott Bonvoy members, each tea set also comes with an exclusive, limited-quantity Malin+Goetz cash voucher worth RM50.
For enquiries and reservations at Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur, call +6032263788, email, WhatsApp +60122158782, or connect via Instagram.
For enquiries and reservations at Le Méridien Putrajaya, call +603 8689 6861 / 6888 or WhatsApp +60124073101.
2) #SupportLocal and stay healthy with Uniiq’s range of kombucha

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by UNIIQ Kombucha│

Feeling a little weighed down from all the CNY reunion feasts and cookies? Rebalance your system with Uniiq’s refreshing kombucha selection! The newly launched kombucha range includes four delectable favours: Classic, Calamansi, Rose, and Passion Fruit. Each bottle is rich in probiotics, antioxidants, organic acids, and enzymes to promote healthy digestion and a tougher immune system. Furthermore, under Uniiq’s ‘This Is Me’ campaign meant to improve both the physical and mental wellbeing of Malaysians, each bottle comes with motivational stories and messages from everyday people like you and me.
To find out more about the campaign and to purchase Uniiq’s kombucha, click here.
3) Experience the Caorunn Gin Peranakan Affair at Jann KL and Lady Yi’s Tea House

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jann (@jann.kl)

When: 1 February till 15 February 2022 | 2pm-6pm
Where: Jann KL and Lady Yi’s Tea House, Chinatown KL
Price: RM188+ for The Peranakan Afternoon Tea and an afternoon G&T indulgence with three cocktails
With Lunar New Year festivities in full swing and Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to celebrate traditions from the East and West with Caorunn Scottish Gin. The innovative gin label is collaborating with Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur to host a special two-week long experience, featuring Caorunn Gin cocktails at Jann KL and in The Peranakan Affair Afternoon Tea at Lady Yi’s Tea House. Afternoon tea and a little bit of fun, drinking during the day, with a traditional flare? Sign us up!
For enquiries and more info on the promotion, email [email protected].
To make a reservation, contact +60125073327 or email [email protected].
4) Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Tiffin’s CNY Weekend

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tiffin | Tiffin At The Yard (@tiffineats)

When: 5 & 6 February 2022
Where: Tiffin At The Yard, Sentul Depot
Still in the Chinese New Year mood? Continue celebrating the Year of the Tiger at Tiffin At The Yard’s CNY Weekend. In honour of the Lunar New Year, Tiffin is offering a weekend of workshops, performances, fun activities, and CNY menu specials for you and your loved ones to continue ringing in the new year. Haven’t seen a lion dance this year (or last year, thanks to the pandemic)? Great news: there will be a special performance this Saturday, 5 February, so don’t miss out!
For more information on what’s going on at Tiffin At The Yard, visit their Instagram or website.
5) Sip on a cocktail or two at KL and PJ’s exciting new bars

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BURO Malaysia (@buromalaysia)

If you’re constantly on the hunt for fun places to kick back and taste amazing concotions, you’ll want to add these five new bars in KL and PJ to your list of places to visit. From inventive cocktails to sake to highballs, these new gems serve up delicious drinks and an amazing ambience. Who knows, perhaps you’ll discover your new favourite drinking spot.
6) Indulge in boozy Lunar New Year themed desserts by Rémy Martin x The Ice Cream Bar

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Ice Cream Bar (@theicecreambar.my)

Price: From RM37.50 to RM179+
Yet another reunion dinner to attend this weekend? Surprise your loved ones with mouth-watering, Rémy-infused ice cream desserts. The iconic cognac label and The Ice Cream Bar are offering a medley of icy cold sweets, featuring flavours synonymous with the Lunar New Year, such as orange and ginger—combined with cognac of course. From more traditional scoopable ice cream with a boozy twist to the indulgent Rémy Chocolate Ice Cream cake, this is one way to impress relatives at your CNY get-togethers this year.
To place your orders, click here.
7) Hit the dancefloor at Fono KL’s ‘Yaaardcore’ session

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by fono (@fono.kl)

When: 5 February 2022 | 8pm-12pm
Where: Fono KL, The Zhongshan Building, Kampung Attap
Price: RM30 per pax, inclusive of first drink
Calling all fans of dancehall and raggamuffin! Located in the historic Zhongshan Building, Fono KL is bringing back one of their calendar staples this weekend. The playlist features expertly curated Jamaican dancehall and reggae classics, perfect for letting loose and getting down on the dancefloor. You can always expect a good time at Fono KL, so get some friends together for a unique musical experience.
To purchase tickets, contact Fono KL on Instagram.
Find more things to do in our previous BURO Weekend Guides here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Le Meridien
Tiffin at the Yard
remy martin
lifestyle
Things to do in KL
Buro Weekend Guide
Bars in KL


How art can be captured with an iPhone

Art + Design
How art can be captured with an iPhone
Light-drawings

08.01.2016
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

8 Best art galleries to visit in the Klang Valley

There is nothing uncool about light-drawings. It takes a certain amount of skill and some precision to create these trippy drawings, captured with long exposure photography. Light-drawings aren’t new at all, but it’s always really awesome to see it done in the right way. And that’s what artist Darren Pearson has accomplished, as seen in his light-painting series captured with iPhones and his very own “night-writers.”
Be it skeleton figures, animals or dinosaurs, Pearson’s work is undoubtedly fun, lighthearted and hypnotic. This series of photos he created with Apple make us want to go out tonight and try to make some of these:

Related stories:
The world’s most valuable missing paintings
When fruits and veggies get smokin hot
This artist turns food into landscapes

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Artist
Culture
Art


Food + Drink
Dragon Boat Festival 2020: Where to get delicious rice dumplings in KL?

18.06.2020
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

If you’re a fan of the pyramid-shaped treat, you’re in luck! With the Dragon Boat Festival on 25 June 2020, zongzi is back in the limelight. Having been associated with the Dragon Boat Festival (Duan Wu Jie) for more than a millennium, steamed glutinous rice packages are a festival staple.
Rice dumplings come in a variety of versions—from sweet and savoury to being wrapped in reed leaves or bamboo leaves. Some are made with white rice and some purple. Did you know that rice dumplings can also come in various shapes? Although traditionally made to resemble a pyramid, some are shaped to form a cone or a simple triangle.
The festival indulgence is popular in Malaysia (and many other countries in Asia). As time progresses, there have been a surge in unique concoctions—with special ingredients that weren’t used historically. While people no longer toss dumplings into the river to celebrate Chinese poet Qu Yuan, they commemorate by enjoying the delicacy instead.
If you’re searching for luxurious and scrumptious zongzi (or zang), check out the options below.
1. InterContinental Kuala Lumpur

The hotel’s Tao Chinese Cuisine is honouring the annual Dragon Boat Festival tradition with a unique assortment of glutinous rice dumpling. Curated by Executive Dim Sum Chef Lo and his team, the dumplings are made in-house and wrapped individually with traditional lotus leaves. Options include the Brown Rice Glutinous Dumpling with Morel Mushroom and Abalone; and the Spicy Nyonya Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Shrimp and Diced Chicken.
Tao Chinese Cuisine’s dumplings are available for dine-in and takeaway. Advanced reservation is required for takeaways and deliveries (see the link here).
Availability: 15 June to 25 June 2020
Contact: 03 2782 6128
Website
2. The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur

To celebrate Dragon Boat Festival, Li Yen from The Ritz-Carlton KL has created a delectable range of glutinous rice dumplings. The Duck and Chestnut Glutinous Rice Dumpling includes duck meat, dried scallops, salted egg yolk, and chestnut. You can also opt for the dumplings with Red Bean Paste or Sweet Lotus.
They are available for home delivery and takeaway. To place an order, contact the number provided below. All orders to be placed and paid from 11am to 7pm daily.
Availability: 12 June to 25 June 2020
Contact: 018 646 8033
Website
3. JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur

Savour Shanghai‘s glutinous rice dumplings at home with their home delivery and takeaway service. True to tradition with a Shanghainese interpretation, choices include the Spanish Pork and Salted Egg Yolk Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Spanish pork, salted egg yolk, and chestnut; as well as the Sweet Osmanthus and Five-Bean Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Osmanthus-flavoured syrup. All orders to be placed and paid from 11am to 7pm daily.
Availability: 12 June to 25 June 2020
Contact: 018 591 8537
Website
4. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur

Photo by Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
The hotel’s Lai Po Heen has curated a delectable range of glutinous rice dumplings in conjunction with Dragon Boat Festival. You can order by contacting the number provided below. There are five options to choose from. The Steamed Supreme Sea Treasures and Abalone Glutinous Rice Dumpling (RM98) comes with abalone, dried scallop, dried shrimp, chestnut, fresh lotus seed, mushroom, salted egg yolk, green bean, and chicken; whereas the Mushroom Unagi Glutinous Rice Dumpling (RM68) is served with chestnut and X.O sauce.
You can also get the Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Black Pepper Wagyu Beef Cheek (RM88) or the Heritage Traditional Nyonya Glutinous Rice Dumpling (RM48) with chicken, dry winter melon, shallot, mushroom, and garlic. There is also a vegetarian option (RM38) in the form of assorted beetroot, seng kuang, bamboo pith, carrot, snow fungus, and fresh mushrooms.
Availability: 8 June to 25 June 2020
Contact: 03 2330 8798
Website
5. Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

Photo by Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur
Shang Palace has created a plethora of dumplings—including Sweetened Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Red Bean Paste and Walnuts; Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Salted Chicken, Egg, and Preserved Vegetables; as well as Hong Kong Glutinous Rice Dumpling with Abalone, Assorted Nuts, and Supreme Spicy Sauce. They are available for dine-in, delivery, and takeaway.
Availability: 11 June to 25 June 2020
Contact: 03 2032 2388
Website
6. Troika Sky Dining

Photo by Troika Sky Dining
This year, there are three delicious types of rice dumplings to choose from. The Chermoula Chicken in coconut and blue pea flower glutinous rice dumpling comes with fresh Cameron Highland pearl corn, coconut kerabu, and wintermelon pickle whereas Mr Chew’s famous Catfish Charsiew in glutinous rice dumpling is served with salted egg, braised mushroom, smoked chestnut, green papaya somtam, and white fungus passion fruit pickle.
You can also go for the Chilli Beef brisket with three grains dumpling, chestnut, salted egg, braised peanuts, red bean, mushroom, black bean avocado salsa, and pumpkin chestnut pickle. To order, head over to the link provided below and your dumplings will be delivered to you.
Availability: Until 25 June 2020
Website
Do you celebrate Duan Wu Jie? Rice dumplings have been a mainstay in the culinary realm of Chinese traditions for a long time, and will continue to be well-adored. The options above highlight some of the most decadent rice dumplings you can get in Kuala Lumpur in 2020. Happy Dragon Boat Festival, everyone!

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Kuala Lumpur
Dragon Boat Festival
Rice Dumplings
food and drink
2020
food guide


Trends
Working from home: What to wear to your work concall meetings

17.03.2020
By Stephanie Boey

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

Reviewing the metallic silver fashion trend in 2023

Hello everybody! Before you do anything else, take a deep breath! You good?
Okay.
So we’re officially on “movement control” by the government because of the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning working from home will be the deal for the next 2 weeks. The perks of working from home do sound great. You save on commuting time and travelling costs, not to mention you get to work in your preferred tailored conditions.
In this sweltering heat (it was a hot 36°C on Tuesday evening!), for many, it’s in an air-conditioned room that’s going at a solid 16. But for those who aren’t at current liberty to the pleasant cooling breeze of an indoor AC, follow our quick guide!
Short sleeved and sleeveless tops are the most sensible. Light breathable materials such as linen and synthetics like rayon, nylon will keep you at your coolest. However, what one deems to be the most comfortable rumah baju may not necessarily be the best thing to wear during a four-way video call with your colleagues. Here, we list out seven outfit ideas that are totally SFW.
The formal blouse [Safe for work score: 5/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – Formal” rid=”7983″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Rule of thumb is, if it has a collar, it’s good to go. Put on a silk button-down for a formal office look or a bowling shirt for a casual take. If your workplace is chill and is less strict on covering up, a dressy sleeveless top can also be work apropos.
The T-shirt [Safe for work score: 4/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – T-shirt” rid=”7984″ order=”a_tstamp”}
If you work in a corporate environment where your day-to-day consists of button-ups, neckties or court shoes, this may be your safest bet in our entire list. It’s comfortable and casual yet still SFW. But we strongly advise to keep in mind the logo and art on your t-shirt are also SFW.
The off-shoulder [Safe for work score: 3.5/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – one-shoulder” rid=”7985″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Drop a shoulder for a breezy approach and balance with muted hues for a sense of decorum. You might as well flaunt the results of hours on the rowing machine!
The summer dress [Safe for work score: 3/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – Summer dress” rid=”7986″ order=”a_tstamp”}
If we look on the brightside of Malaysia’s eternal summer, you’ll notice it gives us the privilege of wearing summer dresses all year long. And especially now when the temperatures are rising.
The tank top [Safe for work score [3/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – Tank tops” rid=”7987″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Dial it all the way down and go way laidback. A tank top can still work for an on-screen meeting if the neckline isn’t too revealing. But if you’d like to be in the clear, add on an extra layer for a modest yet sartorial flair.
Bring on the athleisure [Safe for work score: 2/5]

work-from-home-millennial-athleisure
There is truly no better time. Just because we’re on a movement control order doesn’t mean our own body movements should be stagnant. Remember to clock in workout minutes into your schedule. Health and fitness levels should be at optimum during this trying time.
Have fun with it [Safe for work score: 13/5]
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] WFH – OTT” rid=”7988″ order=”a_tstamp”}
If you’re working in an air conditioned room and the temperature outside has no effect on your choice of clothes…by all means go all out! Do you have an important (digital) meeting to attend? Throw on your favourite dress! Weekly update meetings still pushing through? Say you’re on friendly terms with your colleagues, why not set a theme for the meet to spice things up?

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Malaysia
Coronavirus
covid-19 virus
Trends
wfh
work from home
Street Style
copenhagen
Stockholm


Makeup
These colourful eyeshadow palettes will complete your Raya looks
What team are you on this year?

26.04.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

eyeshadow
Raya
ramadan
Raya 2022
Makeup
Beauty


Fashion
Lottie Moss joins Chanel as the latest face for the SS17 eyewear campaign
Next in line

14.02.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

It seems like iconic supermodel Kate Moss isn’t the only genetically blessed one in the family. Lottie Moss, the 19-year old half-sister to Kate has been making headlines of her own with her flaxen hair and modeling chops. Her breakthrough came at Chanel’s 2017 Métiers d’Art at the Ritz Paris, where she glided down the mirrored floors alongside Karl Lagerfeld’s current and longtime muses Lily-Rose Depp and Cara Delevingne.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Lottie Moss Chanel SS17 Eyewear” rid=”4821″ order=”a_tstamp”}
This season, Moss joins Depp and Willow Smith as the new face of Chanel’s eyewear collection for Spring/Summer 2017. Shot by Lagerfeld, the campaign sees Moss posing fresh-faced with the latest optical and sunglasses from the lineup, casting off a Lolita-esque aesthetic with her long crimped hair and lacey numbers. The standout in the visuals are the shades that take on both retro and modern silhouettes. One of it sports gradated, contoured lenses that appear to be encoded—a futuristic effect that is done by placing a lettered stencil in between two layers of mirrored filter. Another reps a butterfly frame that has metal temples along the eyebrow line, providing a bold contrast to the lenses in silver, black mirror and 18k yellow gold.

Ahead, check out the full range from Chanel SS17 eyewear collection:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Chanel SS17 Eyewear Campaign” rid=”4822″ order=”a_tstamp”}

Related stories:
5 Things to know about Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017
Chanel’s SS17 eyewear pre-collection takes inspiration from the house’s iconic flower

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Chanel
Summer
Eyewear


Film, TV + Theatre
Watch: How Dr. Strange fared at a kid’s birthday party
Never cross a doctor

21.10.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

It won’t be long before Doctor Strange hits cinemas here (it comes out 27 October—that’s next week!), and we’ll get to see Benedict Cumberbatch’s Stephen Strange on the big screens. With Cumberbatch taking the lead and Tilda Swinton in the cast, needless to say the film is right up there in our to-watch list. But before that, Jimmy Kimmel decided to hire the doctor with mystical powers for a child’s birthday after coming across Strange’s profile on LinkedIn, where he claimed to be the ‘Mightiest Magician in the Cosmos’. And when he turned up, let’s just say things did not really go as planned.

Check out what went down in the video below:

Related stories:
Watch A-listers do their best impressions of ‘Gone with the Wind’
Mark your calendars: Five (more) upcoming superhero films in 2016

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Film
Culture
TV and Theatre


Watches
Father’s Day 2016: Mighty classic timepieces dad will love
A symbol of love and time

16.06.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Calendar

With Jaeger-LeCoultre, there is no going wrong with a Reverso. The Reverso Tribute Calendar, a more complex version of the classic, is the perfect representation of the brand’s expertise. Housed in an elegant pink gold case, it features the traditional function with a hammered moon-phase display and calendar on one side, and another independent face with a day/night indicator on the other. It will serve the dad who loves to travel well with its dual-timezone ability.

IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Automatic 36

If your dad prefers a watch with a slighter built, consider the Pilot’s Watch Automatic 36. The smallest watch in IWC’s prestigious portfolio, this slender timepiece boasts a case diametre of 36mm, complemented by a handsome dark brown leather strap. The clean, uncluttered dial serves as an understated classic visual, while the mechanical self-winding movement is enclosed in a soft-iron inner case to increase protection against magnetic fields.

Hublot Spirit of Big Bang All Black

On the contrary, a masculine figure in its all-black design and tough micro-blasted black ceramic body, this bold masterpiece by Hublot fully embodies the Big Bang DNA. Running on the impressive HUB4700 calibre, the self-winding skeleton chronograph movement with a 50-hour power reserve is visible through the stunning dial—an apparent testament of the watch’s boundary-pushing philosophy.

Globemaster Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 39mm

Meet the world’s first Master Chronometer—representing a new standard of quality, the Globemaster Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer flaunts a simple yet effective design. The stainless steel case features a rhodium-plated Constellation star, as well as hands and indexes filled with illuminous Super-LumiNova. The core of this timepiece houses Omega’s Co-Axial Chronometer Calibre 8900 and a revolutionary anti-magnetic technology.

Montblanc Star Roman Chronograph UTC Automatic Carpe Diem Special Edition

A special edition creation for the special man in your life, the Star Roman Chronograph Carpe Diem displays MontBlanc’s fine Swiss watchmaking tendencies coupled with artisanal aesthetics. Sophisticated and elegant, this watch is part of the Carpe Diem exclusive series, paying tribute to the famous motto which reminds us how precious time is. It is equipped with the MB 25.03 calibre automatic movement with a 46-hour power reserve.

Related stories:
Father’s Day 2016: A gift for every dad
A class in precision: Classic pilot watches reinvented
Omega releases the Constellation Tahiti series

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Watches and Jewellery
Buro Loves


Film, TV + Theatre
Five reasons we want to watch Hail, Caesar!
Old Hollywood glamour

16.10.2015
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

“It’s the ultimate Coen brothers film!” everyone is saying, in the wake of the duo’s release of the first movie trailer for Hail, Caesar! A comedy-drama infused with gorgeous visuals, nostalgia and a seemingly whacky plot, the film was co-written and directed by Ethan and Joel Coen, who have been hailed for the dark wits of the likes of No Country for Old Man and Burn After Reading, among many others.
With much anticipation of the film’s release, many have begun picking apart the details and clues from the trailer, as are we. Here are five reasons why we can’t wait for its release on 5th February 2016.
The Hollywood glamour of the 1950s

Emulating the elaborate, over-saturated, overzealous and over-decorated movie sets of old Hollywood, the showbiz universe within Hail, Caesar! comes off as almost gaudy and cheesy upon closer inspection. Nevertheless we can’t help but be drawn into the charm of Channing Tatum reinvented into a tap-dancing sailor, Scarlett Johansson as a mermaid, and yes, George Clooney as a Spartan.
The all-star cast

Tatum, Johansson and Clooney aside, the trailer teases with a cast we’re excited to see in those roles – some of whom are regulars in the Coen brothers’ films. Tilda Swinton, Ralph Fiennes, Jonah Hill and Josh Brolin are among the acting credits.
The references to MGM icons

A.V. Club has pointed out the rather obvious real-world references in Hail, Caesar! Josh Brolin seems to channel legendary film studio executive Eddie Mannix; Scarlett Johansson’s similarity to American swimmer and actress Esther Williams; Channing Tatum channeling the dynamic dancing of Gene Kelly; and Tilda Swinton taking on gossip columnist Hedda Hopper.
George Clooney’s dim-witted character gets kidnapped

Presumably, of course, as the trailer leads us to believe. The leading man who gets by with his good looks, we see Clooney in a role less glamorous than we know him for, as a bumbling character. An incident that seems to set off the plot for the film, Brolin’s character – a studio fixer – has to get the missing star back in the midst of the year’s biggest production.
The choreographed sequences

Back to the glamour of 1950s Hollywood complete with its incredible setups, Hail, Caesar! seems to bring back the incredibly large and detailed choreographed sequences that old Hollywood banked on. Arial shots of the studio, cheesy costumes and dancing, and the original definition of “showbiz” come alive in this film.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Film
Culture
TV and Theatre


Fashion
9 Most iconic stage looks we can’t stop thinking about
Style shifters

22.06.2023
By Benedict Unang

Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images for NARAS

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Fashion, as we all know, is a powerful form of self-expression that intertwines with music. More often than not, what artists wear on stage is an integral part of their identity and artistic persona. Across the history of entertainment, there have been countless iconic stage looks that have captivated audiences and left an indelible impression on pop culture, including Madonna’s outlandish costumes, David Bowie’s extravagant style, and Lady Gaga’s uncommon flair. Whether it’s glitzy shining outfits or an avant-garde experimental aesthetic, each look has the capacity to transcend fashion and become a crucial component of music history.
In celebration of World Music Day, we take a look back at some of our favourite iconic stage outfits of all time!

Female empowerment

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Historic Pictures (@historic_imagery)

Madonna has had numerous stylish moments as a fashion icon, but the one that stands out was when she wore a pink satin cone bra in Japan during her Blonde Ambition tour in 1990. It gained public attention at the time as it made a bold, loud statement that challenged society’s perception of sexuality and encouraged women to make their own decisions about their bodies.

Army star

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson)

Michael Jackson headlined the Super Bowl halftime show in 1993 and on that major night, he donned a military-style jacket with a gold harness, which matched his cropped black trousers and aviator sunglasses. Nearly two decades later, Beyonce revisited the look during her guest appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2016.

Jungle goddess

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by bada$$ (@godblessfaketan)

A piece of pop culture history was made when Britney Spears performed a jungle-themed version of I’m a Slave 4 U at the 2001 MTV VMAs. Aside from the huge albino Burmese python draped around her, her outfit added drama to the entire performance. The pop star sported a rich-green bra top with pink diamonds at the centre and low-rise embroidered shorts with several scarves tied around the waist that flowed gracefully during the four-minute performance.

Sparkle sequins

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MCM Daily (@dc_hillier)

Elton John sold out the last two gigs at Dodger Stadium on the final leg of his 1975 ‘The Rock of the Westies’ tour, and what better outfit to don than a baseball uniform, but with a twist. On that particular evening, he wore a custom beaded Los Angeles Dodgers ensemble created by costume designer Bob Mackie.

Celestial queen

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Recording Academy / GRAMMYs (@recordingacademy)

In addition to winning Best Urban Contemporary Album, Beyonce performed Love Drought and Sandcastles in a stunning gold Peter Dundas gown at the 2017 Grammy Awards. A closer look at the outfit reveals a medallion of her face at the centre of her belly, while the glorious headpiece signifies the beaming sun.

Gender bender

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mick Rock (@therealmickrock)

As a pioneer of the flamboyant style, David Bowie loves putting on androgynous looks, including this asymmetrical one-legged jumpsuit created by Kansai Yamamoto. Slipping on the knitted jumpsuit during his Ziggy Stardust tours in the early 1970s was a daring decision, as it paved the way for glam rock style, which dismantled gender barriers in fashion and popular culture.

Dramatic debut

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Il basso sfasciato (@ilbassosfasciato)

At her first-ever VMAs in 2009, Lady Gaga performed Paparazzi in her white lacy Haus of Gaga bodysuit, and what made the ensemble more unforgettable was when the crystals on the right side darkened and emitted fake blood, which flowed down her bare tummy, across her torso, and splattered her fishnets.

Bold tailoring

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Freddie Mercury/Queen Fanpage (@old_fashioned_girl_)

Freddie Mercury embraced a more structured look in the mid-1980s, including this popular military-style jacket in bright yellow, decorated with numerous gold buckles, which he wore at the 1986 concert ‘Queen Live at Wembley’. To complete the look, he wore a white tank top and trousers with a crimson stripe down each leg that was embroidered with gold.

Rock and roll

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Elvis Presley (@elvis)

And, of course, not to be forgotten is Elvis Presley, who is synonymous with sparkling white jumpsuits. While he had several other jumpsuits fashioned by Bill Belew, this gem-studded white jumpsuit and hip-length cape he wore onstage at the Honolulu International Centre in Hawaii in 1973 caught our attention the most.

For more fashion stories, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

music
Fashion
Beyoncé
Britney Spears
Lady Gaga
Madonna
David Bowie
Michael Jackson


Fashion
London Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 5
Getting cosy

25.02.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Inspired by the girls around them, from stylists to journalists and photographers, Marta Marques and Paulo Almeida brought a down-to-earth, real-girl cool factor to their AW16 collection, which is further emphasised on the runway: as opposed to the usual string of runway regulars, their friends in reference walked in the show. Diverse textures and visual pops are seen in mesh netting, contrasting fur lining and acute layering, while a show of silhouettes came through in overlong sleeves, flared hems and the mega puff collars that could double as pillows on a trio of jackets.

Winner of the Mercedes-Benz China Designer Award Xiao Li demonstrated her flair for artsy, sculptural creations with a collection that spanned pastel hues and earthy tones. While the former had an airy appeal about them, the latter oozed certain glamour with sophisticated tiered coats and floral-esque crochet-embellished dresses. Drawing cues from Salvador Dalí, the swirly foam necklaces that accompanied a handful of looks definitely drew attention with their unique constructions.

An effortless sense of quirkiness enveloped the Shrimps AW16 collection, one that is laden with covetable and wearable appeal. Founder Hannah Wieland’s signature faux-fur coats were a staple in the line-up, decked in stripes and checkerboard motifs. Meanwhile, a palatte of dusky pink, red and black dominated the presentation that also comprised of printed pantsuits, dresses and jumpsuits.

Related stories:
Best of London Fashion Week AW16 Street Style Day 5
London Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 4
London Fashion Week AW16: Highlights of Day 3

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Collections
LFW
Fashion
AW16


Beauty
The most head-turning beauty looks at Paris Fashion Week SS18
Trend-setting

17.10.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

There was no shortage of razzle dazzle in terms of beauty looks at the past Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2018. Crystal studs had its moment in the limelight at Dries Van Noten, while spidery lashes are making a comeback in all its clumpy glory at Dior. Aside from these wearable trends, others looks worth mentioning include Chanel’s throwback makeup look (think blue eyeshadow and red lipstick), Thom Browne’s slicked-around, shiny hair that looked synthetic to boot, and Junya Watanabe’s super fierce, punkish hair and makeup. Below, check out these beauty looks that are double-take inducing:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”PFW SS18 best beauty” rid=”5569″ order=”a_tstamp”}

Related stories:
How to add sparkle into your makeup routine (and life), seen at Dries Van Noten
8 Beauty lessons to learn from Milan Fashion Week SS18

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Makeup
Beauty
Trends
Hair


Technology
Is that you Snapchat? WhatsApp launches new ‘Status’ feature
What is Mark up to?

21.02.2017
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

The relationship status between Facebook and Snap! may have just turned a shade darker as WhatsApp announced a new feature called ‘Status’ on its blog on Monday. The popular messaging service with over 1 billion users is reinventing the status feature whereby originally a “text only” form will now be available as photos and video clips (yes, complete with emojis, doodles and text) viewable to friends within the app for 24 hours—sound familiar?

The update, which is billed as long overdue for WhatsApp Status, coincides with the app’s 8th birthday on 24 February and has been launched in the Netherlands and France before eventually going live in the rest of the countries where WhatsApp is available.
The company also highlighted that all the WhatsApp Statuses are end-to-end encrypted—like your messages. So essentially, it’s like an improved Snapchat feature minus the facial filters. Or is it? Meanwhile, for those who are interested, Snap! is now selling its Spectacles online at Spectacles.com.

Related stories:
Your WhatsApp messages are now encrypted
Snapchat introduces its biggest update: Memories
Instagram Stories: How to use and why it’s not like Snapchat

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Snapchat
WhatsApp
social media
Instagram


Fashion
The 5 best moments from New York Fashion Week AW20

16.02.2020
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Although some of the New York Fashion Week heavyweights—namely Tom Ford, Tommy Hilfiger, and Ralph Luaren—have opted out of the schedule this season, there were no short of talk-worthy moments that made the event that bit more exciting and special. Below are some of the highlights of the week:
1. The surprise performances
While most brands usually rely on banging soundtracks to set the mood of the show, (surprise) live performances were a common theme on the runways this round. There were Hayley Williams at Carolina Strada; masked country singer Orville Peck at Michael Kors; and Debbie Harry of Blondie who closed the Coach show with punk-rock band The Coathangers.

2. Leslie Jones’ cheer at Christian Siriano
It’s official: Leslie Jones is the hype-woman we all need in our lives. At Christian Siriano’s Autumn/Winter 2020 show, the Saturday Night Live comedian gave some of the best reactions from the front row as models walked down the runway in the designer’s Dadaism art movement-inspired designs. The star gave an extra shout-out to supermodel Coco Rocha as she closed the show, screaming “Yas Coco! Yas baby!” from her seat—we don’t know about you, but she might just be the best guest this fashion month.

3. Navarro cheerleaders made their fashion week rounds
While there’s Leslie Jones at Christian Siriano, there are the Navarro cheerleaders—Gabi Butler and Lexi Brumback of hit Netflix series Cheer—at Tory Burch and Brandon Maxwell. At the latter’s show, the duo “mat talked” the models during the entire show, cheering them on and complimenting them as they walked past.

.@GabiButlerCheer and @Lexi_Brumback from #Cheer brought “mat talk” to #NYFW as they cheered on the models at @Brandonmaxwell. pic.twitter.com/yAobv1MO8M
— W Magazine (@wmag) February 9, 2020

4. Rodarte’s gothic glamour
After a 18-month hiatus, Rodarte is back on the NYFW schedule this season, and creative directors (and sisters) Laura and Kate Mulleavy’s comeback is well worth the wait. The St. Bartholomew’s church was the perfect venue for their Dracula-inspired collection (Francis Ford Coppola’s 1992 adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, to be specific), and the gowns—that strike the right balance between dreamy and gothic—were so beautifully and intricately designed, it’s a (vampire) princess dream come true.

5. Miley Cyrus at Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs closed out New York Fashion Week with a collection that celebrated chaos and form, and amongst the 90 dancers and 50 models line-up, celebrity and longtime friend of the brand, Miley Cyrus strutted down the show-set in a monochrome bra-and-trousers ensemble. Will there be more star appearances taking over the catwalk this season? We’ll find out as London Fashion Week is now underway.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

NYFW
Coach
Marc Jacobs
New York City
AW20
Michael Kors
Rodarte
Brandon Maxwell
Miley Cyrus
Christian Siriano
Fashion
New York Fashion Week


Lifestyle
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia presents the Dream Cars collection
The rides of your life

09.12.2015
By Cai Mei Khoo

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Two days, five spectacular cars – we were in Langkawi to test drive the cars that make up the ‘Dream Cars collection’: the new Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupé, and Mercedes-Benz E 250 Coupé, as well as the Mercedes-AMG GT S, Mercedes-AMG C 63, and CLS Coupé.

“The dream cars of Mercedes-Benz are the embodiment that makes our brand fascinating,” says Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. “We’ve been reinventing the automobile for almost 130 years and with the launch of the Dream Cars collection, we are yet again setting new standards, offering our customers pure performance and the most luxurious cars in Malaysia.”

Upon arrival at The Datai, the Dream Cars and their shiny hoods awaited us in a row. There’s a car for every different personality here – the AMG C 63 for the young at heart, the AMG S 63 Coupé for the CEO who wants to drive himself, the E 250 Coupé for the girl boss and the AMG GT S, for, well, since we’re talking about dream cars, for me.

Boasting a newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine, just the purr of the engine of the AMG GT S had me itching to test it out. Sliding into the racing-style seat of this two-seater with its performance steering wheel outlined in contrasting red topstich with aluminium shift paddles, I felt every bit a racer girl, though lacking the ability (and a straight road) to put the 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds claim to test. Although built with broad shoulders and a long bonnet (the car is just over 4.5m in length) the AMG GT S felt surprisingly compact and easy to drive, responding to the slightest pressure on the pedal and movement on the wheel. Developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG, you can expect superior handling and driving pleasure that’s second to none.

“It is the perfect combination of beauty and intelligence,” says Raine. “Breathtaking proportions, powerfully sculpted surfaces and flowing lines turn the new AMG into a contemporary sports car which embodies the spirit of the Mercedes sports cars. It is a sports car in its purest form.”

My next two personal favourites are cars which might be seen as being from opposite ends of the spectrum – the C 63, stereotypically seen as a ‘younger’ car with its sporty exterior, and the S 63 Coupé, for the aforementioned self-driving CEO. Don’t get me wrong, the S 63 Coupé is essentially a four-seater but with AMG front seats that boast electrical adjustment, memory function, seat heating or cooling (cool air passes through the perforated leather seats for a more comfortable ride), all the fun is definitely in the front seats. Did I also mention the massage function?

Being an S-Class, one might assume that the car would feel heavy but this wasn’t the case at all. Mercedes-AMG has implemented the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy, which results in the car being 65kgs lighter while also being more fuel efficient, with increased driving performance. The fact that my car mate was hanging on to the edge of her seat is probably also good indication of the exhilarating ride the S 63 provides (I assure you I’m a safe driver).

The surprise highlight of the trip though, was undoubtedly the introduction to the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, which greeted us on the beach at The Datai. At just over 5.4m long, this is a beast of a car, with the rear passengers benefitting from the increased space – read: lounge-style seats that can be adjusted separately, kitted out with massage function for the ultimate in comfort. The seats recline to a backrest angle of 43.5 degrees and also feature calf support that’s adjustable in length and angle, along with head restraints that come with additional cushioning – obviously a car you want to be chauffer-driven in. With two tables, thermo cup holders that keep drinks cool or warm for hours and a panoramic sliding sunroof with optional Magic Sky Control that allows the glass to switch from light to dark at the touch of a bottom, this is definitely the car of dreams. Three-hour road trip? Make that five.

Related story:

4-second wonder: The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

lifestyle
motoring


Lifestyle
‘Empire Records’ to get a musical adaptation this 2020
Down memory lane

03.05.2018
By Gwen Ong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

If you grew up in the 90s, you will remember Empire Records being the movie that speaks most to the youths of a generation. The film featuring a stellar cast that includes Liv Tyler, Renée Zellweger, Rory Cochrane, and etc, is about a group of record store employees who comes together in a bid to save their store from being bought over by a large retain chain.
Along the way, the movie addresses young adult drama and issues that people of all ages can identify with. Of course, music played a significant role in a film that is named Empire Records, where songs from 90s alt-rock bands like Better Than Ezra, Gin Blossoms and the Cranberries were featured. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out on stage.
For the musical, the film’s original writer, Carol Heikkinen will be tasked to adapt her script and to develop the characters through dialogue and lyrics. The story was after all based on her experience working at Tower Records. This will not be a traditional Broadway show but more contemporary in its approach and style. Empire Records the musical is targetted to premiere in 2020.
In the meantime, get a dose of nostalgia from the soundtrack below:

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Film
movie
Musical


Food + Drink
5 Instagram-worthy cafes you’ll want to visit when in London
The prettiest picks of #londoncoffeeshops

15.09.2017
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

London is one of the cities that is always on our radar and with good reason too! Built on such rich history, it is, in its own way, a mix of old and new. And what’s even lovelier is the endless possibilities those cobblestone sidewalks might lead you to—including quaint cafes that further stamp London as a pretty city. Whether you’re there now for London Fashion Week or planning a trip to visit soon, be sure to stop by our favourite Instagram-worthy cafes of the moment.

1. Aubaine Selfridges

Unless you shop for designer shoes at Selfridges, chances are you wouldn’t know about this chic French restaurant on the store’s second floor. The highlight: The wisteria covered ceiling.
400 Oxford Street, 2nd Floor, London | 0207 318 3738 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden

Petersham Nurseries began its story in Richmond of west London as a greenhouse and ‘magical cafe’ (which was awarded a Michelin star back in 2011 and 2012 under Skye Gyngell) but extended a second outlet in central London this year. Located at Covent Garden, it’s one to keep an eye out for as two restaurants are set to open on this vast 16,000 sq ft site.
Till then, it houses a a delicatessen, a home and garden shop, a cellar and a florist; so stop by to snap a couple of photos, perhaps make a few exquisite purchases for your home or as souvenirs, and grab a coffee (or a quick bite) before you leave.
Floral Court or 27 King Street, London | 020 7305 7676 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Peggy Porschen Cakes

It’s among the prettiest dessert shops in the whole of London and since Peggy Porschen is also renowned for her gorgeous and delicious cakes—get the cupcakes with a glass of Laurent Perrier Cuveé Rosé Champagne—there’s even more reason for you to stop by. If you’re into baking, the website also lists courses and Masterclasses for the public.
116 Ebury St, Belgravia, London | 020 7730 1316 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

4. Host Cafe

Who would have thought of opening a cafe inside a historical Gothic church building? Host Cafe did, we suppose and it’s definitely something different. Regulars cite great coffee and the peaceful atmosphere that have them returning. They also serve cakes and hot soup; and soon, a variety of focaccia sandwiches.
St Mary Aldermary Church, Watling St, London  | 020 7248 9902 | Facebook

5. Treves & Hyde

Leman Locke is a pretty cute boutique aparthotel and under it, next to the pavement, is Treves & Hyde. By day it’s a cafe catering clean, beautiful food and by night it’s a restaurant and a bar. The interior is almost Scandinavian with pops of sunshine yellow and pastel pink, and a mix of wooden and marble tables.
15/17 Leman Street, Aldgate, London | 020 3621 8900 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Related news:
London in 24 Hours
#InstaLove: Life in London
5 Most Instagram-able afternoon teas in London right now

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Cafes
Instagram-worthy
London
City Guide
Travel Guide
Hidden gems
Interior design
Travel


Watches
Audemars Piguet Code 11.59: All the details you might miss at first glance

07.06.2019
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

When Audemars Piguet announced the introduction of an entirely new collection of watches, anticipation and expectations ran high. After all, the Le Brassus manufacture is well known for its Royal Oak, one of the most iconic watches in the world of haute horlogerie. Enter Code 11.59—a testament of Audermars Piguet’s longstanding devotion to artistic excellence and technical mastery, and its ability to forge forward and focus on the future at the same time. It is in the name, 11.59; a minute before a new day, a minute ahead of the game.

There were mixed reactions when the collection was first unveiled at SIHH back in January, and purely judging from images of it on the interweb, I was on the fence—but that soon changed after I got the chance of seeing it in the metal. You could say now I’m a believer. Why is that? Look beyond the seemingly conventional round case, and you’ll find a wealth of details that makes the Code 11.59 a winner.
ONE-OF-A-KIND CASE ARCHITECTURE

From the front, you might think that the Code 11.59 sports the most common shape in watchmaking, but turn it to an angle and you’ll see that it a holds an octagonal middlecase within its 41mm round case—now we’re talking. Another feature that will require an even closer look lies in the openworked lugs. While the upper part of the lugs is affixed to the thin bezel, the bottom part is actually not welded to the caseback, leaving a space so minute one probably won’t notice it until it’s pointed out. This is no trivial design detail—this allows for a seamless silhouette yet the caseback can be easily removed should the timepiece require servicing.
CRYSTAL CLEAR VISION

With the Code 11.59, you’ll get the optical crystal experience. Audemars Piguet has created a complex double curved glare-proofed crystal, where it is vertically curved from 6 to 12 o’clock on top, with an internal surface that is shaped like a dome. When viewed from an angle on its side, this gives the unique crystal a rather interesting optical illusion of steps. More importantly, it enhances the clarity of details on the dial, giving it an HD-quality sharpness its wearer will surely appreciate.
TOP-NOTCH MOVEMENTS

The Maison seemed to have taken to heart the adage “go big or go home” for this landmark release, introducing a total of 13 references at once. Six of the Maison’s latest in-house movements are used across the 13 watches, of which three are brand new: calibre 4302, a selfwinding movement with seconds and date indication; calibre 4401, a flyback chronograph with an integrated column wheel and instant-jump date indication (pictured above); and calibre 2950, a self-winding flying tourbillon. Other existing movements you’ll find in the collection are a perpetual calendar (which notably comes with a stunning aventurine dial), an openworked tourbillon and a minute repeater supersonnerie. True to Audemar Piguet’s traditions and values, details matter. The movements are intricately decorated with a wide array of high-end finishing techniques, including traits tires, Côtes de Genève, circular graining/satin and gold-toned engravings.
Take a closer look at all 13 references below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] audemars piguet code 1159″ rid=”7301″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Visit www.audemarspiguet.com now to learn more about the Code 11.59 collection.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

News
Watches
Audemars Piguet
Code 11.59
Haute horlogerie


Beauty
The French-girl beauty formula – revealed
Très chic

20.11.2015
By Terry Saw

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

There is a little part in every one of us – tell me I’m not alone on this – that secretly longs to roll out of bed looking like Clémence Poésy with her unstudied hair and seemingly last minute wardrobe decisions thrown together to (a slightly annoying) perfection. But instead of drowning ourselves in the pool of envy, we uncover the top French-inspired beauty secrets all in the name of a little New Year makeover – 2016, we’re ready for you.
1. Natural Waves

In keeping with their no-fuss beauty routines, French women favour flaunting their natural hair colour and texture over chemically treated tresses. The epitome of French beauty Audrey Tatou is a stunning display of how you can pull off a short-and-chic wavy ‘do sans the styling overload.
Try: L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil Serum De Force for stronger hair and added shine.

2. Red Lips

If there’s one thing you prioritise from your list of 2016 resolutions, let it be to give the red lip a go. Parisian beauties are famed for their statement lip and pared down makeup as seen on Eva Green. Piercing blue eyes optional.
Try: NARS Semi Matte Lipstick in VIP Red for showstopping colour.

3. Back to Basics

Many times, what base makeup is to the most of us is the finished look for French women. Here, Léa Seydoux is a picture of minimalist perfection and proves that the lightest of makeup, naturally brushed-out brows and a pinched-cheeks effect are the way to go.
Try: Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation SPF40 for a light, flawless coverage.

4. Undone Makeup

Now is a good time to throw out everything you learnt about perfecting your features when it comes to makeup. The French way is all about looking effortless – think slept-in eye makeup and natural (but not unkempt) brows.
Try: Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings for neat, natural looking brows.

5. The Anti-Countour Rule

Not to be mistaken for laziness, French women also go by the anti-countour rule in keeping with the simple, natural approach they take when it comes to makeup. Instead of using shadow trickery to highlight their features, makeup guru Terry de Gunzburg reveals that French women favour strobing, which uses iridescent beauty picks to naturally enhance the high points of facial features – think cheekbones and the bridge of the nose, where light would naturally hit.
Try: M.A.C Cosmetics Strobe Cream to highlight your features.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Makeup
Beauty
Trends
Hair
French


Film, TV + Theatre
Review: Final episode of ‘The King: Eternal Monarch’

13.06.2020
By Ronn Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

The Korean drama has finally come to an end. Here’s what happened in the last episode

Spoilers ahead
How did 16 episodes go by this quickly? It seemed like it was only yesterday when the first episode of The King: Eternal Monarch premiered on Netflix. The hype over the Korean drama is still fresh in memories and fans had high expectations. After all, it’s Lee Min-ho’s first project in ages and The King: Eternal Monarch is written by legendary writer Kim Eun-suk (Goblin, Secret Garden, and Descendants of the Sun).

Photo by SBS
When the series first aired, it got off to an amazing start—showcasing brilliant cinematography, production, and flow. The first episode was fast-paced and exciting. It kept viewers interested and longing for more. We saw the inaugural meeting between Lee Min-ho’s Lee Gon (with the majestic Maximus) and Kim Go-eun’s Jung Tae-eul; and knew immediately that the show’s going to be epic.

No more #TheKingEternalMonarch next week.Me: pic.twitter.com/LqNloDUWom
— 𝒮𝒾𝓃𝒶𝑔 🩺🔬 (@BautistaR_7) June 12, 2020

Throughout the season, The King: Eternal Monarch encountered a plethora of criticisms—from the unnatural use of product placements to the lacklustre special effects. The acting performances of the cast were also criticised, with the lack of chemistry being one of the major negative points.

Like many, the confusion only increased with every episode. There were too many characters and there isn’t a sense of interconnectivity between them. Not a strong one, at least. However, there was still excitement over Episode 16—to see how the show ends.
Unlike Goblin, The King: Eternal Monarch has a happy ending. Both Lee Gon and Jung Tae-eul ended up together as they travelled through different eras in history. We get to see how different the characters were after the timeline was re-written with the killing of Lee Lim. Yes, he died at the hands of Lee Gon. This meant that the king actually managed to go back in time to solve the problem of problems. This took a really long time but happened within first 10 minutes of the finale.

So there aren’t just 2 worlds, there are so many and Lee Gon entered to every door just to look for Jung Tae-Eul! 🥺He got to witness different Tae-Euls!!! 😂❣#TheKingEternalMonarchFinale #TKEM #TheKingEternalMonarch #TKEMTheRoyalFinale pic.twitter.com/acJ1oFn0ai
— nabi 🦋 #TwentyFiveTwentyOne #BusinessProposal (@yourkdramaqueen) June 12, 2020

The final episode is akin to the first episode in terms of action and excitement. Similar to Episode One, the finale was intense. The fight scene with Lee Gon and Jo Yeong at the beginning of the episode could very well be the best moment in the show. From the slow motion to the choreography, one can only wonder why there weren’t more in the past episodes. The good news is that fans were treated to 30 minutes of well-deserved happy scenes in the finale. Well-deserved, indeed.

It’s a rollercoaster ride with happy endings for Kim Kyung-nam’s Kang Sin-jae and Woo Do-hwan’s Jo Yeong (and Eun-sup). Would it be better if both of Woo Do-hwan’s characters reunite in the end? We’ll never know but that will definitely be hilarious. Woo Do-hwan has become a fan favourite and we’ll probably see more of him.
Jung Eun-chae’s character went from being a Prime Minister to a prisoner whereas Luna ended up the less problematic one among the two. Ah, the mysteries of parallel universes and the re-writing of histories.

Lee Gon bringing leaves 😂😂😂 he’s prepared they might go to that “era”. ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ#TheKingEternalMonarchFinale #TKEM #TheKingEternalMonarch #TKEMTheRoyalFinale pic.twitter.com/5YwH1Wt9Cq
— nabi 🦋 #TwentyFiveTwentyOne #BusinessProposal (@yourkdramaqueen) June 12, 2020

It was a fun final episode. The show did its best to end things on a high—giving fans what they want; a prolonged romance between the leads. However, the show didn’t have to take 16 episodes to do that and would have benefitted from fewer episodes. Viewers have invested a tremendous amount of time with The King: Eternal Monarch but the series was definitely dragged out a little. Great job to the team for reducing product placement in the final episode. It was also a lot less obvious and audiences would appreciate that they weren’t out of place.

Love prevails and that’s evident from the finale. Love is probably the reason that the characters succeeded in their missions and love is why the episode was well-received. Love literally conquered all in The King: Eternal Monarch.

"I wish to be able to love tirelessly." #TheKingEternalMonarch pic.twitter.com/izpa3MZeRF
— kdrama diary (@kdramasdiary) June 12, 2020

Now that The King: Eternal Monarch has ended, fans can watch It’s Okay To Not Be Okay and Backstreet Rookie—premiering on 20 June and 19 June respectively. What are your thoughts on the finale? Did you enjoy it or were you expecting more? You can still stream the drama on Netflix.
For the review of Episode One, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Korean dramas
The King: Eternal Monarch
Netflix
tv
Culture
Celebrity


Fashion
5 Fashion-filled films to look forward to before the end of the year

15.11.2021
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Spencer
from November 6

If you stan Princess Diana and love Chanel, this one’s for you. The French luxury house recently confirmed their partnership with director Pablo Larrain’s Spencer, the highly anticipated biopic on the late Princess (played by a blonde Kristen Stewart), which takes place one Christmas weekend in 1991 in the lead up to her separation from Prince Charles. With Oscar-winning costume designer Jacqueline Durran tasked with reinventing the wardrobe of the style icon, there’s sure to be plenty of reinterpretations of her statement-making looks (and plenty of hats)––courtesy of the Chanel archives. Several vintage Chanel pieces have already been spotted ahead of the release, from the stunning gold and silver-embellished organza evening gown seen on the poster to the red tweed coat from Chanel’s Autumn/Winter 1988 ready-to-wear collection.
READ: Here’s how you can recreate Princess Diana’s best looks in ‘The Crown’ Season 4
Haute Couture
from November 10

Ever wondered what it’s like inside the haute couture atelier of Christian Dior? High fashion’s most hidden activity is getting the cinematic treatment thanks to French-language film Haute Couture. Starring acclaimed Nathalie Baye as head seamstress Esther and rising star Lyna Khoudri as apprentice Jade, the comedy-drama focuses on the lives of the women who produce the exclusive made-to-measure dresses worn by the world’s one per cent. Alongside a rare focus on the behind-the-scenes world of couture, there’s also an appearance of Dior’s 1959 Francis Poulenc dress, with its pleated panels inspired by fans as well as contemporary designs alike to that of Maria Grazia Chiuri’s. A sort of love letter to the artistry of fashion, this one’s a must-see for fashion fans.
The French Dispatch
from November 18

Like his past films, Wes Anderson’s latest big screen creation is distinguishably stylish in its tribute to France, journalism and a lot of really nice clothes. Just in the two-or-so minutes trailer itself, we’ve seen Adrien Brody in a lovely double-breasted suit, Timothée Chalamet donning soft knits (and naked in a bathtub), and Bill Murray wearing tons of great ties, alongside a delectable palette of lemon, strawberry and lava orange fashion across sharp tailoring and lots of sweater vest. Looking for knitwear inspo? The French Dispatch boasts plenty in Anderson’s signature offbeat chic aesthetic, as well as Tilda Swinton in a stunning tangerine caftan.
READ: 9 Cosy-chic ways to wear knits for local weather
House of Gucci
from November 24

A tale of murder, glamour, power and high fashion, Ridley Scott’s 90s-set highly anticipated biographical crime drama House of Gucci covers almost three decades of the Gucci clan, and as expected there’ll be plenty of vintage Gucci on show straight from the archives of the Italian luxury house. Centred on the lead-up and aftermath of head of house Marizio Gucci’s assassination, the film features an Oscar-winning cast including Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Al Pacino and an almost unrecognisable Jared Leto in plenty of flashy, over-the-top couture looks from the ’70s to the ’90s.
And Just Like That
from December 9

And just like that… the moment all Sex and the City fans have been waiting for has finally arrived––Sarah Jessica Parker’s Carrie Bradshaw and her friends are making a return to the big screen this December in a spinoff sequel, 17 years after the original show ended. This time, we’ll be following the OG fashionistas on a new chapter as they navigate life in their 50s, and like its predecessor, fashion continues to play a huge role on the show. Since promotional images were released in early July, the internet has been buzzing about the styles in the reboot, from shout-outs to some of the original’s most recognisable pieces like Carrie’s cult-favourite Fendi Baguette, to vintage designer pieces that include a ruffle organza top from Givenchy’s 1996 Autumn/Winter collection to a white Old Bottega clutch. The fashion is so impactful that Instagram account @justlikethatcloset has amassed 105k followers for its ID of the reboot’s garments, with many of the listed items often selling out within hours.
Read more fashion-related stories here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Chanel
Haute Couture
Sex and The City
Spencer
Wes Anderson
Movies
Fashion
Gucci


Buro Loves
All the times Seo Ye-Ji served us flawlessness in ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’

13.08.2020
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Now that K-drama series It’s Okay To Not Be Okay has finally wrapped up, who is feeling as misty-eyed as we are? While some of us have caved and rewatched the entire series, let’s just openly declare that we’d miss both leads Kim Soo-Hyun and Seo Ye-Ji and their visually-engaging presence (their chemistry can just about melt our screens, if we have to be honest).
On that note, while you may have noticed Seo Ye-Ji’s impeccable style throughout the series, let’s take a moment to deep dive into her beauty looks. Her character has never faltered on the beauty front, consistently delivering talked-about beauty moments to complement her ensembles. Described to be egoistical and arrogant (due to her antisocial personality disorder), her character Ko Mun Yeong wields a polished appearance as a form of self-defence, from her coiffed updos to her perfectly-manicured nails.
Ahead, we break down the best beauty moments that Seo Ye-Ji pulled off as Ko Mun Yeong in It’s Okay to Not Be Okay. Warning: major spoilers ahead!
Episode 1

The series introduces Ko Mun Yeong on a startling note in the pilot episode, highlighting her obsession with shiny sharp objects in her Addams-family-inspired (in the words of her publicist) getup. Her morbid-chic lewk comprised a matte pink-red lip, side-swept natural waves, and a noir manicure.

Later on, we glimpsed her signature eye makeup that we’ll be seeing more throughout the series: straight brows, a hint of gold glitter on her lower lash line and full faux lashes. An updo with bangs completed her look.

Noteworthy mention: her white tortoiseshell jawclip that pulled her hair back as she lounges with a glass of wine.
Episode 2

The second episode opened with a strong beauty look that complemented her bold Magda Butrym minidress. Ko Mun Yeong’s signature eye makeup was spotted yet again, this time offset with a rose-tinged nude lip. Here, we see her hair up in an intricate rose chignon bun—discern the parallels between her dress’s giant floral knot on her shoulder—with a loose tendril by the side.

For her book signing event, Seo Ye-Ji’s character brought her best foot forward with yet another gothic-glam getup: Voluminous loose waves in a half-up, half-down style, a peach lip, and a subtle double winged liner in brown. She ain’t playin’ with this look.

A swipe of pink lipstick for a youthful countenance, minimal eye makeup and her hair down (albeit lightly mussed) as she ponders the best way to stalk the apple of her eye.
Episode 3

Ko Mun Yeong flaunts another flamboyant updo as greets Moon Gang Tae excitedly—this time a spiral bun atop her head with no strands out of place.

Later in the episode, she lets her hair down as she hosts her first literature class—middle-parted sleek, straight locks were juxtaposed with her voluminous sleeves for a novel contrast.
Episode 4

A fascinator was the final finishing touch to her retro-inspired look as she and Moon Gang Tae share a heartfelt moment in a convenience store. That, and a pale pink lip colour and mod white manicure to seal the deal.

Our favourite look of this episode: a side-swept messy fishtail braid that looked good both dry and damp that paired beautifully with her Zimmerman frock. No volume? No problem—check out how you can revive your tresses here.
Episode 5

Ko Mun Yeong repping her ice queen enigma as she pensively gazes out of her balcony. Stunning waves? Check. (We’d like to speak to her hairstylist please).
Episode 6

We could only wish to look this put-together first thing in the morning—her I-woke-up-like-this look is goals here i.e. layered locks that looked blown out for a smidgen of volume.

Her preppy-in-pink look is most definitely goals here—but we’re enamoured with her classic chignon and stray loose strand that framed her face.
Episode 7

Her glamorous getup may not be something we’d don for a BBQ, but Ko Mun Yeong makes us want to look this good while picking meat right off the grill. We like this variation of a half-up hairdo with a twist, coupled with loose waves and a teensy bit of bangs to soften her look.

The ‘messiest’ we’ve seen her hair so far (until Episode 8, that is): mussed tresses on one side for her work-from-home look—we’re definitely taking notes.

We spotted a high updo once again, this time to complement her regal look—and signature icy gaze. A pale pink matte lip topped off her beauty look with aplomb.

We glimpsed a satisfying bit of character growth at the end of this episode. Ko Mun Yeong gets a hair cut by Moon Gang Tae—a symbolic gesture that doubled up as a much-welcomed beauty transformation.
Episode 8

I mean, how chic does her ultra-straight lob look here? BRB—checking out hair straighteners online right now. Tip: tuck it behind the ear on one side for an edge.

Seo Ye-ji’s character sports an extended flick here, but it’s not your average winged look. Her eyeliner is drawn downwards to give her eyes a rounded, more youthful appearance—also termed the “puppy liner” that was trending in K-beauty a few years ago.

If you’re running out of ideas on how to style your lob, take a leaf out of Ko Mun Yeong’s beauty book—don’t be too annoyed when your shoulder-length hair flips outwards. Swap your flat iron for a hair dryer or a curling iron to give your ends a stylish flick.

It wasn’t just the poignant end of this episode that had us starry-eyed—Ko Mun Yeong sports this season’s It-colour for nails: a pale chartreuse shade that complemented her powder blue tweed outfit.
Episode 9

No one does OTT quite like Ko Mun Yeong. Her ‘day trip’ look is worthy of a red carpet outing in Cannes in the heat of summer. We’re obsessed with her ’50s-inspired look i.e. a crimson lip and sun-kissed dewy glow.

Right before Kim Soo Hyun set our hearts aflutter, we glimpsed Ko Mun Yeong’s pink lip and perfectly-in-place lashes—how stunning does she look here?
Episode 10

Dialling it down with a matte nude-pink lip and fine, straight brows in a subtle brown. If this scene didn’t leave you teary-eyed—aside from the brothers’ meltdown earlier on—we’re not quite sure what will.

Her birthday beauty look comprises a low sleek ponytail and full, curled lashes.
Episode 11

Ko Mun Yeong lets her hair down in more ways than one in this episode. Her lob takes on an polished edge with ends curled in for an elegant look here. A matte rose lip elevates her daytime look altogether.

The first time we’re seeing her wear a vivid nail colour (scroll up for evidence)—a bold pink to match her purposeful stance this episode.

Seo Ye-ji’s characters gets a nail colour change as she reminisces about her childhood—this time a periwinkle blue that’s very much on trend (more pastel nail inspo here).

Once again, she proves that lobs don’t always have to be boring if you know how to style it right. Her hair is seen in a half-up, vintage-inspired ‘do here—we love her faux bangs and gently-curled ends.
Episode 12

Seo Ye-ji’s character ups her beauty game this episode with a few note-worthy looks we’re obsessed with. In this scene, a loose curl frames her face while her hair is pulled back in a low ponytail, while her light fuchsia lipstick complements her floral frock beautifully.

A foolproof way to look put-together in a few minutes? Clip hair back with statement-making hair slides. She wears two Miu Miu crystal-embellished hair slides here—score them off Farfetch now.

She brings her best face forward for a family portrait with a generous dusting of gold glitter around her eyes, nude lip and sleek ponytail.
Episode 13

Green nails, retro-inspired, finger waves (as bangs) and an understated makeup look here make a winning combo.

To match the sombre ambient of this scene, her smokey eye takes on a darker, nuanced tone; while a nude lip and a clean hairdo complement her ensemble.
Episode 14

The most dramatic of looks so far, Ko Mun Yeong wears her nails black and hair up in an elaborate updo to brace herself for a confrontation with her mother. Extra points go to her stunning jewellery and head-turning crimson dress that pretty much made this look.
Episode 15

Her hair game definitely killed it in this episode—here, a Grecian-inspired braided ponytail with two loose strands to frame her face. How chic is that braided “hairband” that also served as a hair tie around her ponytail?

For this fairytail-worthy look, pearls dotted her braided hairband to match her pearl earrings and ivory top.

Now here’s how you can make summer-ready waves work for a lob. A half-up ‘do complemented her arresting Louis Vuitton look to a tee.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Korean dramas
Korean
Korean hairstyles
Korean makeup
Seo Ye-ji
Buro Loves
Beauty
Korean actor


Makeup
Tried-and-tested: Cry-proof mascaras to invest in for your next mental breakdown
Tears in the club

28.03.2023
By Redzhanna Jazmin

Image: Instagram/@phoebebridgers

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

The results are in—we’ve found the best waterproof and water-resistant mascaras to wear during your next mental breakdown.
Just last month, I took a trip to Singapore to see Phoebe Bridgers live in concert. As you may expect, I spent the entire hour-and-a-bit duration of the show crying. Actually, no, not crying—rather, I wept. Bawled. Wailed. Needless to say, my mental health is in shambles (NOTE: I also saw Joji live just four days later, so it has been a rough few weeks).
It was an incredible show that apparently really resonated with me—not that I can remember watching much of it, given that my vision was blurred for most of the show (I blame the constant stream of tears flowing out my peepers).
Here’s the catch: Before the concert, I put on a full face of makeup (you know, just in case), complete with winged eyeliner, glittery lids, and mascara. Given the context, you’d assume that I’d look like a mess by the end of the night. Well, you’d be wrong. Post-concert, I looked fabulous. Aside from a few flecks of mascara embedded into the tear tracks in my foundation and a little rogue glitter here and there, my eye makeup was pretty much intact.
The proof is in the pudding: Behold, witness me right after the concert, stunting from my seat.

I was in shock. As you can see, there’s nothing but a barely-there trail of black on my cheek—a remarkable feat for the amount of liquid my eye produced that evening. I also feel like a special shoutout to the Espressoh Hi_Liner is due—look at how sharp my wing is despite the waterworks—truly incredible!
Thus, I set off on my latest beauty mission: To find the best cry-friendly mascaras on the market. Ahead, find my favourite tried-and-tested mascaras to sport during your next mental breakdown:

Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara, RM100

This isn’t exactly a cry-proof mascara, but I must vouch for it. This is the mascara I used at the aforementioned Phoebe Bridgers concert, and bar a few sparing flecks of mascara embedded in the tracks of my tears, my makeup still slayed throughout my entire manic episode. It didn’t quite stay put throughout the evening, but it didn’t stain my cheeks either—all in all, by the end of the concert you could barely tell a breakdown had even occurred, which makes it a winner in my book.
SHOP HERE

Dear Dahlia Paradise Dream Lash Defining Mascara, RM140

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DEAR DAHLIA (@deardahlia_beauty)

This is a mascara that genuinely surprised me. As far as long-wearing formulations go, this one takes the cake. It lasted through an entire day of sweaty urban exploration, tears of exhaustion and even two rounds of cleansing balm. Now, I must say that it’s not the best mascara I’ve ever tried—I did find that while the wand did a great job of defining my lashes and applying the product, the formulation ended up clumping a lot throughout the day. That said, if cry-, sweat- and cleanser-proof is what you’re looking for, you’ve found it.
SHOP HERE

Dior Beauty Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara, RM155

I didn’t mean to, but I ended up putting this mascara through the most heavy-duty wear test of all. For context, not only did I tear up wearing it, but I also dunked my head into a swimming pool (multiple times) and sat in a steam room for 15 minutes. By all accounts, I really didn’t give this mascara a fighting chance—and yet, it came out triumphant. No running, smudging, or budging. It’s not designed to be a waterproof mascara, but I’d be lying if I said it didn’t stay put perfectly.
SHOP HERE

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara, RM70

Tubing mascaras are an absolute revelation, as it turns out, and this particular mascara from Tarte has become a fan-favourite among my friends. Again, it’s not a waterproof mascara, but it is designed to last up to 24 hours without clumping, flaking or smudging. Better yet, it’s formulated with nourishing shea butter, castor oil and carnauba wax to keep your lashes in good health, and it can be removed easily to save the sensitive skin around your eyes from excess tugging and friction—a dream! Now, I personally wouldn’t recommend that you have a full sob with this on, but it’s great for a light burst of tears!
SHOP HERE

Nudestix Vegan Splashproof Mascara, RM126

This multivitamin-packed formulation is perfect for those looking for a vegan mascara that won’t flake and smudge through even the most trying of times. I personally like this for days when I want to wear mascara but my lashes need a little extra nourishment—it’s got goodies like argan oil, mango seed oil, panthenol and tocopherol to moisturise, strengthen and protect your lashes. That, and the fact that it does live up to its waterproof and sweatproof claims has earned it a spot on this list.
SHOP HERE

For more beauty stories like this, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Concert
Phoebe Bridgers
Makeup
Mascara


Beauty
Review: Mococa Body Scrub and Purity Special Massage at Pure Energy Spa, Penang
Scrub and rub

28.09.2016
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

A modern spa housed under the roof of Batu Ferringhi’s only beachside boutique resort—Lone Pine Hotel—Pure Energy Spa (part of the Energy Wellness Group) offers an extensive menu of treatments for a tranquil escape without breaking the bank.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Pure Energy Location” rid=”4448″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Bathed in light filtered through lush foliage, an open corridor led me into the charming reception area. I was then ushered into a hallway where the soft light of a private courtyard illuminated a row of private rooms.

At a spa, the experience is affected as much by ambient settings as the treatment itself. The gentle drapes of fabric from the ceiling, Japanese sliding doors invited and dimmed atmosphere invited a restful mood. After putting my hair up and changing into the minimal spa accroutrements, I was lulled into a state of bliss by a gentle tropical lullaby of wind chimes and the sounds of nature.

A mococa body scrub came first for my two-part treatment package that afternoon. Tailored to sensitive skin and purposed for hydration, the mococa scrub gently exfoliates without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The first thing I picked up on was its luscious smell of dark chocolate that gently punctuated the calm scent of lemongrass and peppermint that lingered in the spa. My fear of a harsh scrub that would leave my skin tender and irritated was immediately eradicated as I felt a satisfying polishing sensation of the fine grains being massaged into my skin.
About 45 minutes later when thoroughly exfoliated and covered in concoction, the therapist proceeded to cocoon me in the sheets to let the nourishing properties of the mococa scrub really settle in and work its magic. After what seemed like a brief snooze session, it was time for a rinse. I was led to a private bathroom with a warm shower already running and everything I needed beautifully set aside.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Pure Energy Massage” rid=”4447″ order=”a_tstamp”}
With my new glowing and supple skin, I sank back into the massage bed for an hour-long full body massage session named the Purity Special. Aimed at purifying the body and mind, the massage involved deep long strokes to alleviate tension. The therapist applied just the right amount of pressure that I felt the intended effects of the massage without having to secretly wince in pain while blinking back tears. She could feel exactly where the knots in my back were and focused on the stiff spots with rhythmic kneads and firm finger work.

The hour was over before I was ready for the time to end. A few sips of tummy-warming ginger tea marked the end of the session. Having expressed my gratitude, I floated out of the premise with renewed skin, a reinvigorated body, and a rejuvenated spirit.

Related stories:
A luxurious afternoon at Pañpuri Organic Spa in E&O Hotel, Penang
Review: Aroma Hot Stone Healing Therapy at St. Gregory Spa, Penang

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Review
Beauty
Body
Wellness
spa


Lifestyle
Posh healing: The Orchard Wellness & Health Resort opens
Relax, reboot and recharge

09.09.2015
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Set in an organic tropical fruit orchard in Malacca with over 400 different types of fruit trees, The Orchard is an elegant and exclusive resort with only 38 villas and suites. The resort is situated in a lush and idyllic location where the clean forest and mountain air will provide guests with absolute tranquility.

A first of its kind in Malaysia, The Orchard is a resort specifically made for in-house treatments with a variety of detox, wellness and de-stressing packages. Guests can choose from Ayurvedic therapies to weight management programs, each personalised and individually made for every guest. On arrival, guests will receive a consultation with a team of specialist doctors and nutritionists who will suggest the best treatment plan to address health related goals.

Also at The Orchard is a Himalayan Crystal Salt room, another first in Malaysia, which is beneficial for all sorts for health conditions and used to detox and improve lungs, organs, and skin. Other amenities include, infrared medical saunas, a herbal steam room, Jacuzzis, pebble foot baths, a library, gym, yoga studio, and dance studio.  Most of the activities are centred around the three main pools — an indoor thermal pool for sports recovery and aqua aerobics, a hydrotherapy pool, and a 25-metre lap pool for fitness games and relaxation.

The Orchard believes that healthy food should rejuvenate the body and satisfy all our senses. That is why guests will receive customised suggestions by the in-house nutritionists. There is also a juice bar where guests can enjoy complimentary juices, teas, and brews all day long.

To experience the luxurious healing of The Orchard Wellness & Health resort, call 06-5528 999 or email [email protected]. www.orchardwellness.com.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

lifestyle
News
health and fitness
Travel


Beauty
Raising the bar for great hair everywhere
Blown away

06.06.2015
By Renyi Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Centro Hair Salon, Kuala Lumpur

Although our home city doesn’t have any salons specifically dedicated to the art of the perfect wash and blow dry, we can happily say that Centro does an excellent job from RM 55 and upwards, with scalp massages that are so good, you’ll be tempted to turn around and ask your shampoo boy to marry you (true story). Their two branches are conveniently located in The Gardens Mall and Suria KLCC, so whether you have an event in town or out of it, you’ll be able to get the blow dry you’re craving to complete your look.
Haute Air, New York
NYC is the city that invented the concept of the blow dry bar, so as you can imagine, you’re spoilt for choice there. We, however, are partial to Haute Air in SoHo – a charming, relaxed ‘haus’ that will have you sporting its signature Blowout in no more than 45 minutes, using cult Bumble and bumble hair products, no less. If you’ve got a hot date on the cards, go for their Haute Biotch deal (USD 70/RM250), which gives you a blow dry and one makeup application session to really knock your new man’s socks off.

Duck & Dry, London
Not to be left behind, London has also sprouted several fantastic blow dry bars – one of those being Duck & Dry, along King’s Road. An extensive menu offers plenty of styling options, from the smooth and bouncy Classic Duck to the vampish Side Cascade (GBP 28/RM 156 for all signature styles). Don’t miss their incredible updos, either – they’re happy to give you the perfect bun, ponytail or braid to give your day (or evening) the boost it needs. Actually, the in-house prosecco bar should take care of that already, to be honest…

Dry & Tea, Auckland
Tucked away in New Zealand, would you believe, is the adorable, retro-inspired Dry & Tea. Part blow dry bar and part tea house, you can sip a de-stressing cup of Harney & Sons or T2 tea (pomegranate oolong for us, please!) while you choose between a sleek, poker-straight Milan, an ultra-wild Rio Carnival, or a Game of Thrones-esque Quick Braid – just three of their signature looks (a Blow Wave or a Quick Pony/Braid/Bun starts from NZD 45/RM 120). Clearly, the girls down under are on top of their blow out game!

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

centro hair salon


Fashion
Dior opens a new boutique in the heart of Seoul
Gangnam Style

19.07.2015
By Buro247

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Located in a district that was rather unfortunately imbued into our daily discourse through song, Gangnam commands one of the highest real estate prices per square meter in South Korea. The Dior boutique building spans six levels, with dedicated floors for men, accessories, fine jewellery and watches, ready to wear and shoes, a dedicated VIP lounge and gallery and on its uppermost floor, a Dior café operated by the Picasso of Pastry, Pierre Hermé. Limited edition Lady Diors as well as jewellery and accessories will be sold at the boutique in celebration of its June 20 opening.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Dior Seoul” rid=”3127″ order=”a_tstamp”}

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

News
Fashion
Dior


Culture
‘The Seven Sisters’ – Neil Gaiman reveals sequel to ‘Neverwhere’
Of myths and legends

22.02.2017
By Gwen Ong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Fresh off from his latest book, Norse Mythology, Neil Gaiman is reportedly “three chapters in” on his next bestseller-to-be if things go our way. The sequel of Neverwhere is currently taking shape more than 20 years after it was first published.
Neverwhere follows the story of Richard Mayhew, an unassuming young businessman living in London with a boring job and a demanding fiancé. One night after helping a girl bleeding on the sidewalk, he gets caught up in an alternate reality and the life he’s known completely vanished. Try as he might to make sense of things, he finds himself in Neverwhere, an otherworldly city populated by the lost, shadows and darkness.

Neverwhere was first released in 1996. It is based on the eponymous BBC Two series that was also created by the author himself along with actor/producer Lenny Henry. The sequel is inspired by Neil’s work with the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and the changes in the world over the past 20 years. Under the UNHCR, he has visited refugee camps in the Middle East and talked to those displaced by the Syrian conflict.
“When Lenny Henry and I came up with the original idea for Neverwhere almost 25 years ago, what attracted us was the idea that we could talk about the homeless, talk about the dispossessed, talk about the people who fall through the cracks, and do it in a way that was exciting and fun and interesting and also relevant and might change people’s heads,” he said during an event at London’s Southbank Centre.
“Neverwhere for me was this glorious vehicle where I could talk about huge serious things and have a ridiculous amount of fun on the way. The giant wheel has turned over the last few years and looking around the work I have been doing for UNHCR for refugees, the kind of shape London is in now, the kind of ways [it] is different to how it was 20 years ago, meant that I decided that it actually was time to do something.
“Now I had things I was angry about. I cared about things I wanted to put in and I’m now a solid three chapters in to a book called The Seven Sisters.”

Related stories:
A rediscovered Mark Twain fairytale is set to be published in Fall 2017
J.K. Rowling reveals she’s working on not just one but two new books
‘The Girl on the Train’ author releasing new book in 2017

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

books
Author
Novel
Neil Gaiman


Beauty
Body polish: 3 skin miracles you’re missing out on
Smooth operator

12.11.2015
By Terry Saw

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Two things I look forward to the most after a big year: parties and pampering! And what the experts at Essa Spa Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur have to say on the missing link between you and a completely renewed mind and body in time for 2016 will have you rethink scrubs and polishes.
1. Thoroughly cleanses your skin
“Think of body scrubs as an effective cleansing solution, which give you the results you otherwise won’t achieve through a normal body wash. A scrub removes all impurities and refine the pores.”
What this means for you: Baby-smooth skin that’s free from dead cells, and healthy skin that is ready to absorb the skincare benefits from body oils and creams you slather on after.
2. Improves blood flow in your body
“A full body scrub, coupled with our signature massage, stimulates your natural flow of blood circulation in your body.”
What this means for you: Lower chances of body aches and joint pains in the long run!
3. Time-proofs your skin
“Body scrubs or polishes are also great solutions to delay signs of ageing as the skin is tightened and looks less fatigued and younger by the end of a session.”
What it means for you: Brighter, more rejuvenated skin.
And if you’re toying with the idea of a pampering session without having to compromise precious annual leave days, a quick trip to the 1,353-square feet Essa Spa at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will give you just the break you need, without having to leave the city.

We recommend the Essa Calm Retreat Package, which features a Jasmine Smooth Body Scrub followed by the Essa Aroma Dream State massage, which as its name suggests, will have you wishing the two-hour session went on for much, much longer.

The body polish is a beautiful concoction of Jasmine essential oil, hibiscus flowers and rose scrub, which preps your skin to absorb the ultra-moisturising benefits of the spa’s signature massage that follows. The experience is topped off with the use of ramuan during the massage, a luxurious cocktail of essential oils featuring jasmine, ylang ylang, bergamot and frangipani for the most relaxing hour-long manual massages you absolutely deserve after a long year – bring on 2016 already, we say!
Essa Spa Packages are exclusively available at Essa Spa Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur by appointment only.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Buro Loves
Beauty
spa
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Essa Spa


Trends
A look at Chanel’s artistic director Virginie Viard’s take on the iconic jacket so far

10.04.2020
By Joan Kong

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

Reviewing the metallic silver fashion trend in 2023

The word “iconic” gets thrown around too easily in fashion nowadays, but when it comes to pieces that have stood the test of time, not many brands enjoy the credibility that Chanel has had over the decades. It’s impossible to mention the French fashion house without thinking of its classic flap bag and tweed jackets—while the former’s core design remains unchanged throughout the years, the latter continues to be reiterated every season.
But the one thing they all have in common is that, regardless of the silhouette, details or colour, they become a staple that will last a lifetime in your closet.

Then
Gabrielle Chanel

Like many wonderful creations, it all began with an idea. In the 1920s, Gabrielle Chanel said: “I really care about women, and I wanted to dress them in suits that make them feel at ease, but that still emphasise femininity.” This led to the birth of the tweed suit. The use of tweed was inspired by the sportswear that belonged to her then-boyfriend, the Duke of Westminster.
Comfortable yet sophisticated, it didn’t take too long for the trend to start spreading like wildfire, especially in an era where women’s clothing were comparably more restricted. In the ’30s, the designer began combining the material with cotton, silk, and wool for a more high-fashion take. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Karl Lagerfeld
In 1983, Karl Lagerfeld took over the helm 12 years after Gabrielle Chanel’s death. With a vision to take the brand to another level, Lagerfeld shook things up and gave Chanel’s signatures a new lease of life. From suits in denim and bright neon hues to embellishment and embroidery, the tweed suit was constantly reinvented.
It wasn’t long until he started pairing the tweed jacket with jeans, shorts, swimsuits, and even with a wedding gown. And then there were the proportions, the length, the cut—you name it, he’s done it. One thing’s for sure: he knows what women want.
Now
Virginie Viard
Cruise 2020

Chanel Cruise 2020 collection

Fast forward 91 years since the creation of the tweed jacket, the Maison is now under the helm of artistic director Virginie Viard, who showcased her first solo collection, Cruise 2020, in May last year. While staying true to the late Karl Lagerfeld’s vision, the designer ushered in the new era of Chanel and focused on the allure that makes the French fashion house so sought-after over the decades.
Putting an emphasis on movement, freedom, and comfort, she injected those inspirations into the outerwear and introduced updated designs with pockets and softer shoulders, and cinched with a chained leather belt to enhance the silhouette. Take a closer look and you’ll notice the little details including jewelled buttons, braids, and silk linings. Our favourite? The skirt suit in waxed cotton canvas and cotton tweed that exudes a hint of utilitarian vibe, setting the tone for the season.
Spring/Summer 2020

Chanel Spring/Summer 2020 collection

The Spring/Summer 2020 collection was designed with young women in mind. The vibe was light and ethereal—designs were equal parts playful and feminine, and colours ranged from fail-proof black and white to girly pinks and statement metallics. The jacket was reimagined and refreshed, appearing in the form of a playsuit and flouncy pleated dresses, or paired with shorts, Bermuda shorts, and voluminous skirts for a statement-making sentiment. Details-wise, pops of embellishment à la sequinned trims and jewelled buttons seal the looks on a shiny note. It is, undoubtedly, one of the most wearable collections to date.
Métiers d’Art 2020

Chanel Métiers d’Art 2020 collection

Viard’s Métiers d’Art 2020 collection, on the other hand, was elevated like no other. By infusing both her predecessors’ and her very own aesthetic, the line-up boasted an array of emblematic black-and-white designs with feathers adorning the hems, or in boxier silhouettes with nothing but necklaces worn under. But the most talked about pieces go to the tie-dye co-ords that was inspired by a pink tweed suit with a graduated lining created by Gabrielle Chanel in 1960. It’s our favourite collection from the designer so far, and Fashion Editor Joan was there to view it up-close.
Autumn/Winter 2020

Chanel Autumn/Winter 2020 collection

Her eye for wearability continues to blossom during the Autumn/Winter 2020 season. Referencing ‘something old’—the casaque (jockey silks in French) worn by the jockey who rode Romantica, the racehorse that belonged to Gabrielle Chanel, the opening look featured bands of white satin on the sleeves that offered a sporty flair. This was replete with slouchy johdhpur pants and equestrian-like boots. The ‘something new’? Branded press studs instead of its usual buttons, and a crisp streamlined design that came with scalloped hems.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

2020
Fashion
Chanel
Cruise