Beauty
Trend Forecast: The jaw-dropping Japanese ‘Hime Cut’ is going to be everywhere this year

25.02.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

If you’ve been paying attention to your Instagram feed, you may have noticed one particularly unusual trend hit your feeds—no, we’re not talking about mullets (though, those were a certified hit as far as alt-beauty trends go). We’re talking about the Hime (pronounced: he-may) haircut—where long, straight tresses are juxtaposed by blunt chunks of hair that frame the face (fringe optional).
Also known as the ‘jaw-drop haircut’, the cut has recently been popularised by K-pop idols like Lisa Manoban (who sported the look in Blackpink’s ‘How You Like That’ music video) and Twice’s Momo (who debuted her cut with a set of full bangs and layers), to name a few. Though it’s one of the more out-there hair trends we’ve seen, its appeal is clear—the face-framing ledge of hair works to slim the jawline and the face while adding an element of versatility to everyday styling.
Not to mention, the heritage of the cut probably has something to do with its allure. ‘Hime Cut’ literally means ‘Princess Cut’, named after the noblewomen who are widely thought to have popularised the style during the Heian Period of Japanese history. The ‘Hime cut’ as we know it is thought to be a hybrid of two hairstyles from the era. The first is “amasogi” is described to be shoulder-length hair; think of it as an ancient lob. Secondly, women would typically grow their hair out for their entire lives, only cutting the sections around their ears during a coming-of-age ceremony (when a lady turned 20) called “binsogi”. The two practises together resulted in the ‘hime cut’.
Image: Portrait of a Heian era woman with a Hime cut (Courtesy of The Met Museum)
The Hime cut’s appearance in pop culture doesn’t begin and end with K-pop, though. The cut was actually initially popularised in Japan back in the ’70s, when Japanese idol, singer, and actress Megumi Asaoka appropriated the princess cut as her trademark.

Megumi Asaoka with her Hime cut
In fact, the Hime cut even made its way across the pond as a hot moment in the ’70s—just check out the inimitable Cher wearing a pretty faithful adaptation of the look!

Further, if you’re an avid anime fan, chances are that you’ve probably seen the cut on some of your favourite leading ladies. Take Yumeko Jabami from Kakegurui or Boa Hancock from One Piece, for instance.

Boa Handcock in ‘One Piece’ (1997–present)
Finally, it should be acknowledged that there are many subcultures that have adopted the style, including a subset of the Harajuku culture called ‘Gothic Lolita’. Basically, the takeaway here is that the style has made its rounds in Asia, and now it’s going global.
Here are some of our favourite takes on the trend so far!

Screenshot: Blackpink Lisa in the ‘How You Like That‘ music video

Screenshot: Blackpink Lisa in the ‘How You Like That‘ music video

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hair TV / Tools / Party (@elevatehair)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Valentina Li (@valentina1121li)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Yeswhat Nails (@yeswhatnails)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Daniel Jianing Liu (@danieljianing)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TWICE (@twicetagram)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NICK NADOL (@nickata.hair)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Saowaluk Luangchai (@mindxsmile)

Instagram: @lilmixedhunny

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CYII CHENG (@cyiichengg)

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Hair care
Trend
Hairstyles
hair styler
Beauty
Trends
Hair


Technology
Stay productive on the go with HUAWEI’s lightest and thinnest tablet yet—the MatePad Pro 11
Slim yet powerful

16.08.2022
By Natalie Khoo

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Are you someone who often shares presentations, streams videos, or reads e-books? Is it important for you to be able to work and stay entertained on the go? Do you find it a hassle to carry around a large-screen device? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should seriously consider investing in a tablet, if you haven’t already.
Cue the all-new HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11, the brand’s thinnest and lightest tablet that doesn’t compromise on power and performance. Designed with the workplace elite, students, and content creators in mind, the flagship device boasts a premium and lightweight design with a 120Hz OLED FullView Display, allowing you to work or play from home, on the go, at the office, or wherever you find yourself.

Premium and portable design

While technological advancements have brought us high-performance smartphones and lightweight laptops, tablets are here to stay to fill the gap in between. The 11-inch HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 hits the spot with its 92 per cent screen-to-body ratio and 4.2mm ultra-narrow bezels on four sides, providing users with the perfect medium-size screen they can carry around conveniently.
Weighing only 449g with a thickness of just 5.9mm, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 is the lightest tablet of its size in the market today. Its sleek magnesium alloy metal body is not only ideal for portability, but also offers a premium, durable design that blends in with a wide range of environments.

Butter smooth display
Whether you’re streaming your favourite drama series or working on a presentation, the display is key for a smooth viewing experience. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 is HUAWEI’s first flagship tablet to boast a 120Hz refresh rate for buttery smooth transitions. This effectively minimises ghost images and frame freezing, while supporting high frame rates for gaming, browsing, and more. Along with this upgrade comes an optimised touch control algorithm to shorten the touch control response time for all-round enhanced efficiency.

With the OLED HUAWEI FullView Display, users can enjoy 10-bit color depth that displays 1.07 billion colours for pro-level colour accuracy that is comparable to a professional monitor. In addition, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 is also the world’s first and only tablet that meets the mark for TÜV Rheinland’s Full Care Display 3.0 Certification, ensuring optimal comfort for the eyes.

PC-level productivity
Aside from the premium design and display, the flagship HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 transforms into a powerful productivity powerhouse when paired with Smart Magnetic Keyboard and second-generation HUAWEI M-pencil. Further, its built-in features like the App Multiplier and Multi-Window promises to level up the multi-tasking experience.

The Smart Magnetic Keyboard features a hidden antenna design to amplify the Wi-Fi signal and offers three modes for versatility: laptop form, detachable form, and studio form. In laptop form, the tablet magnetically connects and pairs with the keyboard via Bluetooth to function like a conventional laptop. This mode also wirelessly charges the keyboard. On the other hand, the detachable form allows the keyboard to be physically separated from the tablet, while staying wirelessly connected through Bluetooth so that users can still type in confined spaces or awkward angles. Meanwhile, studio form allows the keyboard stand to be adjusted between 120- to 165-degree angles for convenience and stability.
Further, the key travel and keycap have been increased to 1.5 mm and 15mm respectively, while the key layout has been optimised for greater typing comfort and more efficient input. For added practicality, closing the keyboard helps to prevent scratches on the screen. It’s even designed with a slot to carry your HUAWEI M-Pencil with you securely.
Speaking of which, the second-generation HUAWEI M-Pencil has been upgraded with a new coating that offers a more comfortable grip, while retaining the hardware capabilities of its predecessor. It boasts a low latency of only 2 milliseconds, promising an effortless writing experience. Additionally, the M-Pencil now supports mixed snippet capturing, where users can draw a circle or an oblique line to capture an image, and long press to select text. And that’s just a fraction of the endless creative possibilities this handy tool offers!

Seamless connectivity with HUAWEI devices

What’s more, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 works seamlessly with other HUAWEI devices through the integrated Super Device ecosystem. For instance, users can start a project on their MateBook and finish it on the tablet, use both screens side by side to extend their workspace, or start a presentation on their MateBook and rehearse it on the MatePad Pro 11 as they go along.

To amp up productivity even further to the next level, the tablet can also be connected to the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro that’s equipped with a powerful 12th Gen Intel ® Core™ i7-1260P Processor and Windows 11. Who doesn’t like having options for convenience and improved performance?

Pricing and availability

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 is priced from RM2,999 and is available in Golden Black. Pre-order starts from 19 August to 26 August (with complimentary M-pencil and HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard worth a total of RM1,298*) on the HUAWEI Official Website, HUAWEI Official Store on Shopee, and HUAWEI Flagship Store on Lazada. In addition, the HUAWEI Matebook X Pro is also available to purchase on the HUAWEI Official Website.
For more information, visit the HUAWEI website.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

lifestyle
technology
Gadgets
tablet


Art + Design
Salone del Mobile 2023: 7 Highlights from Milan Design Week
The future of furniture

26.04.2023
By Marissa Chin

IMAGES: COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE BRANDS

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

8 Best art galleries to visit in the Klang Valley

The world of furniture design just had its biggest week at the Salone del Mobile after three years of pandemic-related disruptions—and it was nothing short of spectacular. Held annually in the heart of Milan during Milan Design Week, the once-humble furniture trade show is now a one-week prestigious furniture fair and cultural programme, attracting over 300,000 visitors this year.
From 18 to 23 April, juggernauts of the art and design world came together to showcase their forward-thinking and innovative ideas, pushing and redefining the boundaries of form, functionality and creativity. Even major fashion houses such as Prada, Loewe, and more did not give this event a miss as they presented their own home design prowess with stylish and fashionable results.
From lights and chairs to tables, Salone del Mobile 2023 presented a plethora of stunning design trends that would no doubt be appearing in a home catalogue near you very soon. If you weren’t in sunny Milan to see them for yourself, not to fret. We’ve gleaned the most memorable highlights from Salone del Mobile 2023 that you should note for your next home facelift.

Loewe, Loewe Chairs

Courtesy of Loewe
1/4

Courtesy of Loewe
2/4

Courtesy of Loewe
3/4

Courtesy of Loewe
4/4

Simply titled Loewe Chairs, the Spanish luxury brand went back to basics to reimagine the ultimate form of the domestic space: the humble chair. The Maison is known for its obsessive focus on craftsmanship and expertise with leather due to its origin as a leathermaking collective. Thus, the stick chair was the perfect medium for the house to showcase different weaving techniques whilst staying true to the Loewe language by utilising materials such as leather, raffia and shearling; and experimenting beyond that with the use of foil of thermal blankets and vibrant swaths of colour. A total of 30 stick chairs were embellished: 22 are original antique pieces while the remaining eight have been crafted anew by a British atelier specialising in stick chairs.

Prada, Prada Frames: Materials in Flux

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Prada (@prada)

Returning for its second edition of Prada Frames, the fashion house fixed its lenses on its own internal code of ethics and aesthetics in the world of moving materials. Fashion and the environment have long been seen as forces on opposing sides; however, Prada curated a multidisciplinary symposium at Salone del Mobile to explore the complex relationship between design and the environment in order to bridge that gap and discover opportunities for low-impact production through innovative materials. The symposium brought together scholars and experts from various fields of research and was held over three days at Teatro Filodrammatici di Milano, one of the oldest theatres in the city. You might be thinking, “Was this too highbrow for a furniture fair?” The sold-out crowd begs to differ, so if you’re able to attend next year’s Salone del Mobile, be sure to cop the tickets!

Giorgio Armani, Armani/Casa Collection

Courtesy of Armani
1/4

Courtesy of Armani
2/4

Courtesy of Armani
3/4

Courtesy of Armani
4/4

For the very first time, Giorgio Armani presented a selection of Armani/Casa furniture and furnishings at Palazzo Orsini. It includes the house’s first outdoor collection as well as new editions of established classics displayed at the ancient building full of rustic and sophisticated domestic charm. Visitors would walk through a secret garden where the first few items of the collection are showcased which include the Timothy sunlounger, the large Thomas dining table, Turner and Terry side tables, and the Thelma folding armchair. The interweaving of wicker and textured upholstery with jacquard fabric was made to withstand the outdoor elements whilst still offering style and elegance to those in a holiday mood. Past the porticoes courtyard, the rest of the Armani/Casa Collection was displayed which further continued its theme of lightness with variations in neutral tones, pieces with interwoven components, and handcrafted mother-of-pearl mosaics that reaffirm Armani’s long-time oriental inspiration.

Bottega Veneta, Vieni a Vedere

My Dear Mountains Handbag | Courtesy of Bottega Veneta
1/3

My Dear Prairies Handbag | Courtesy of Bottega Veneta
2/3

Courtesy of Bottega Veneta
3/3

For Salone del Mobile, Bottega Venetta looked to the power of storytelling and craftsmanship to create a show-stopping installation. Translated to Come and See, the piece was created by legendary Humanist architect-designer-artist Gaetano Pesce who had previously worked with the Maison to produce a site-specific artwork for the Summer ‘23 Bottega Veneta fashion show. His carte blanche continued at a different stage—the Milanese brand’s Montenapoleone store—where the multidisciplinary created an immersive installation made up of resin and fabric that visitors travel through called a “gratto”. The handbags draw inspiration from Pesce’s childhood memories growing up near the mountain of Este and the prairies of America, where he now resides. Each Intrecciato bag was intricately painted with an airbrush technique and a meticulous crocheting technique was utilised in seven shades of green calf and lamb leathers to evoke the look and feel of whorling grass. “I wanted a bag with an optimistic view. There is a capacity to realise anything at Bottega Veneta and this bag opens up a way to express future design. The design of the future has to be figurative and it has to communicate–such an object has to tell a story,” shared Pesce.

Versace, Versace Home

1/2

2/2

In true Versace style, this year’s Salone del Mobile exhibition was conceived as a 500-square-metre black box. Combined with a light-reflecting ceiling and backlit silk crepe panels, the new collection of furniture and accessories was displayed in a theatre-like architectural space that echoes the Italian brand’s spirit of gothic fun. References to the Maison’s inspirations with classicism and mythology are ever-present, due to the creative direction of Donatella Versace and contemporary architects Roberto Palomba and Ludovica Serafini from PS+A studio. The Home collection keeps close to the Versace aesthetic, using baroque prints, jacquard patterns, crocodile-embossed leather, and the use of streamlined geometric shapes.

Antoniolupi

Courtesy of Antoniolupi
1/3

Courtesy of Antoniolupi
2/3

Courtesy of Antoniolupi
3/3

Antoniolupi is a familiar face at the Salone del Mobile and this year, the Italian brand presented yet another future-forward novelty that redefines the possibilities of the bathroom. As the leading luxury brand specialising in home and bathroom furnishings, Carlo Colombo’s Albume collection was truly illuminating as seen in the upgrades with models AlbumeLux and Albume12. The evolution of the freestanding washbasin continues as Colombo’s designs utilise overlapping geometric shapes and raw materials to explore the relationship between form and functionality. Using Flumood Dinamico, a material carefully researched by Antoniolupi, the compact translucent resin allows the stem of the basin to illuminate and transforms a washbasin into a light source and diffuser, which is placed at the upper part of the object. Sink slabs can also be interchanged with different materials and finishings for more customisation options.

Ferragamo, Engineered Miracles

Courtesy of Ferragamo
1/4

Courtesy of Ferragamo
2/4

Courtesy of Ferragamo
3/4

Courtesy of Ferragamo
4/4

While Salone del Mobile has already ended, Ferragamo continues to celebrate the fair by transforming its Milan boutiques with special window displays until 5 May 2023. For the concept, the Italian Maison carefully threads the line between balance and human anatomy, a study Salvatore Ferragamo devoted himself to in order to combine the aesthetics of materials and decorations with the ideal fit. Red panelling forms the backdrop as intricate elastic ropes trace out lines held in place by a sculpted hand, supporting iconic Ferragamo bags and shoes.

For more reads on art and design, head here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Salvatore Ferragamo
Interior design
Loewe
Versace
Salone del Mobile
armani
art & design
home design
Furniture
Prada


Beauty
Celebeauty: Charlize Theron is a vibrant redhead now, Kourtney Kardashian is a tattoo artist and more

23.05.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Thinking of trying something new with your hair this MCO? Allow your favourite celebs to serve as inspiration (but don’t follow through—we all know how MCO haircuts tend to go).
Charlize Theron sports firetruck red in her latest hair makeover

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adir Abergel (@hairbyadir)

Celebrity hairstyling legend Adir Abergel returns with yet another banging hair makeover, and this time the spotlight is on Bombshell star Charlize Theron. Instead of her regular bomb tresses, the South African native has opted for a fiery red mop of voluminous curls. The big makeover comes ahead of her role as Lady Lesso in the Netflix adaptation of School For Good And Evil.
Lana Condor’s MTV Awards look is a departure from her usual glam

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @lanacondor

Though we’re used to seeing our Lara Jean in sweet neutrals and pinks, Condor really punked it up for the MTV Awards. The clean, yet dramatic graphic eye (along with her gorgeous, Giorgio Armani sequin gown) is giving us more intensity than we’re accustomed to, but in the best of ways. We love how the actress is pushing her beauty boundaries and stepping outside of her comfort zone!
READ: Lana Condor on Lara Jean’s beauty and style evolution in ‘To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before’
Emma Stone’s pearl liner accents are stunning

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rachel Goodwin (@rachelgoodwinmakeup)

Behold: Living proof that you don’t need to turn yourself into a walking Euphoria advertisement to pull off pearl embellishments in your eye makeup! Created by celebrated makeup artist Rachel Goodwin, the cat-flick/red lip combo is no departure from Stone’s usual red carpet glam, but the pearls do take the look to a whole new level. Love!
Mandy Moore is blonde once more

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mandy Moore (@mandymooremm)

While Moore is best known for her starring roles in This Is Us and Tangled, her most prominent role in our minds is that of mean girl Lana in The Princess Diaries. Well, we just got taken way, way back to the early ’00s with the actress’ latest hair makeover. It’s true—Mandy Moore is blonde again f

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Celebrity
Beauty
Celebeauty
Emma Stone
Kourtney Kardashian
Charlize Theron
Emma Corrin
Lana Condor
Mandy Moore


Culture
How to travel with your partner (without murdering each other)
Dos and don'ts

06.02.2018
By WanderLuxe

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

This Valentine’s Day, some of you will be travelling with your boyfriend or girlfriend. And for some of you, it will be the first time; and if you’re not careful, it will also be the last. Travelling with your Significant Other (SO) is like travelling with a close friend—you may not realise how annoying they can be until you’re handcuffed for trying to push them out through the plane’s emergency door. So take these precautions for the sake of your relationship:

1. You should not “just be spontaneous”
Couples who have been together for a long time would already know about each other’s quirks. Therefore, they can wing it. However, if this is your first time travelling with your SO, the only thing that will be spontaneous is the insults after the third day. The two of you may have entirely different expectations when it comes to visiting a new city. You may think it’s great to visit museums and art galleries or stare in awe at the natural beauty that is Ayer’s Rock. Your partner may not. And thus, friction is born. So plan an itinerary to ensure both of you get to do the things you guys want to do.

2. Don’t plan to be together all the time
There are couples who love spending every minute of the day with each other. And then, there are couples who sometimes need a break from each other. If you’re the latter and imagine five hours of talking to the same person on the plane could potentially bore you, then make sure to set aside some time to do your own thing. Besides, going in different directions also means covering more of your holiday destination. When one of you finds something interesting, you can rope your partner in for a second visit. That way, you don’t need to compromise on certain things too. While one of you spend a few hours soaking up the arts at the museum, the other can make a guilt-free trip to the mall.

3. And if something goes wrong
At some point, an accident could happen. Maybe your partner cancelled an Airbnb booking without reading the “non-refundable deposit” clause. Maybe one of you woke up late and your only way home is to accept an 11-hour stopover—or get really good at long-distance swimming. But hey, it happens. What matters is that when it does happen, you two focus on finding a solution. When you’re both in a teamwork mode, you’re less likely to point out how your SO snored like a strangled horse all night, thus causing you to wake up late.

4. Be sensitive to bedroom habits
Find out what your SO can’t stand in the bedroom before going on the trip. Some people hate being talked to in a moisty gust of morning breath. Some people feel 32 degrees is “chilly” and insist to turn off the air-conditioning. Some people can’t stand leaving the toilet light on at night (why is it necessary?). Whatever it is, be sure to prepare for it to make everybody’s trip more comfortable.

5. Learn to get over it
Have a disagreement? Change the topic—fast. This is especially important because you’re going to spend an excessive amount of time together. Quarrelling at the same time is the prelude to a break-up—or a Crimewatch episode. Whatever goes wrong, just don’t harp on it.

6. Be prepared to restaurant-hop
Some people are adventurous eaters while others think the curly fries at McDonald’s are too much of a risk (they’ve had the straight ones since they were kids and that’s the kind they’ll eat till they die). You get the idea. Your partner may not share your enthusiasm for local cuisine and when you’re eating three meals a day together for a week, expect some friction. So here’s a solution: You eat whatever chow you want while your SO orders a drink only. Then, follow your partner to wherever he or she wants to have a bite at, and you get a drink. It may sound impractical right now but don’t knock it till you try it. You’ll both be happier.

This story was originally posted at WanderLuxe by The Luxe Nomad.
Dream a little, travel a lot. That’s our philosophy. We’re full-time nomads with a passport in one hand and laptop in the other, traversing the globe to find the best hideaways, eateries, and local scenes. And on our luxury villa and apartment booking portal TheLuxeNomad.com, you’ll know you’re always up for your best trip yet (with the best rates).

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

#BuroInLove
Travel
Valentine's Day
Couples
Dating
Valentine's Day 2020
Travel tips
Relationships


Fashion
Chanel celebrates the Year of Gabrielle with new bag style and fragrance
#GabrielleChanel

23.02.2017
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

“I decided who I wanted to be, and that is who I am.”
These are the words from Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel that opens Chapter 18 of the Inside Chanel series—Gabrielle, a Rebel at Heart, the first of four films to be released that will give you new and impactful insights of the founder’s strong, passionate values and the creations that made her legendary.

Also part of the celebration are two exciting upcoming launches: Chanel’s Gabrielle bag and a fragrance called Gabrielle Chanel. We first had a look at Chanel’s Gabrielle bag (as pictured above) at the Spring/Summer 2017 show, where Karl Lagerfeld channeled strength and elegance into a practical bag dedicated to the founder. The bag, which is considered Chanel’s first major new model since the Boy, will come in six iterations and a variety of colours and materials. Anticipation is already simmering in the air as the Gabrielle bag’s star-studded ad campaign is slated for release on 3 April 2017.

Chanel will also be launching its first new fragrance pillar in 15 years this autumn with the Gabrielle Chanel eau de parfum. Describe as an “abstract floral”, the new scent is inspired by the young Gabrielle—the rebellious free spirit that thrived before Coco. The composition of the scent is yet to be divulged, but it is expected to make its debut in June.

Related stories:
Chanel announces star-studded cast for the ad campaign of its new Gabrielle bag
5 Things to know about Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017

Culture Chanel takes Venice with ‘The woman who reads’

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Chanel
Coco Chanel


Watches
007 Diamonds To Die For: The most dazzling watches and jewellery seen in the Bond films

25.11.2021
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

The wait is finally over! The latest James Bond movie is here, with the release of No Time To Die in Malaysian cinemas today after its original premiere date was postponed from the end of September. As of the past weekend, the 25th Bond feature, which sees Daniel Craig reprise his role as the iconic 007 agent for the final time, has become the highest-grossing film of 2021 and the highest-grossing film of the pandemic era––surpassing the previous highest-grossing record holder F9 at an estimated US$729.1 million worldwide.

Bond has left active service in No Time To Die, enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica until his old CIA friend Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright) shows up and the peace ends there. While it remains to be seen what action and danger awaits for the world’s most famous spy, one thing we can always count on is the appearance of charismatic timepieces and dazzling diamonds throughout the film.
Ahead, we look back at some of our favourite fine jewellery and watches that have made it to the big screen with James Bond:
Watches
Since the first James Bond film, Dr. No, was released in 1962, timepieces have played a serious role throughout the films, with Bond sporting plenty of unique wristwatches over the years. Kicking off the tradition was the now-iconic dive watch Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538––worn by Sean Connery and rumoured to have come straight out of the actor’s own collection––that would also mark the beginning of Bond’s Rolex era. The link between James Bond and Rolex goes back to creator Ian Fleming’s original novels, and was the rugged yet charismatic dive watch was the ideal piece for a silver screen debut. Symbolic of the bold and adventurous, the Rolex Submariner was synonymous with Bond during Connery’s 007 tenure, with its various straps––from leather to striped nylon––even achieving cult status. And who can forget the life-saving Rolex 5513 Submariner with an integrated buzz saw and high powered magnet in Live and Let Die?

Sean Connery sporting a Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538

Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538

In keeping with the times, we were introduced to the quartz and smart watches era, when Roger Moore took over the reins of 007. The world had gone digital, and our high-tech hero switched up his timepieces in his efforts to save the world, sporting plenty of memorable Seiko pieces. Alongside a Rolex GMT Master, Moore debuted a rectangular Seiko 0674 LC in 1977’s The Spy Who Loved Me, a digital watch that also printed out tiny little typed messages from HQ. Then, there was also the two advanced tickers in Octopussy, featuring a Seiko G757 5020 Sports 100 that was complete with a GPS tracking device, and a flashy Seiko Liquid Crystal TV watch with a then-state-of-the-art LCD television screen for Bond to receive satellite calls. In 1987, ending the Seiko run was a strapping Tag Heuer Professional Night-Dive Reference 980.031 quartz dive watch, featuring a contrasting dial and black case that was worn by Timothy Dalton.

Seiko 0674 LC in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ (1977)

Seiko G757 5020 Sports 100 in ‘Octopussy’ (1983)

Seiko Liquid Crystal TV watch in ‘Octopussy’ (1983)

Last but not least we arrived at the Omega era, as the Bond franchise was brought back to life with Pierce Brosnan taking the lead role. 1995’s Goldeneye would not only introduce the dashing Irish actor but also Omega as the franchise’s official watch partner, debuting the Omega Seamaster––the first being an Omega Seamaster Professional 300M Ref. 2541.80 quartz dive watch featuring a built-in detonator and laser in the bezel––that would take over Bond horology in years to come. Brosnan was almost never seen without a blue-dialed Seamaster with a blue-rotating bezel, in a steel bracelet that had alternating polished and brushed links––it became so popular that it was dubbed the “Bond Seamaster”.

Omega Seamaster Professional 300M Ref. 2541.80 quartz dive watch in ‘Goldeneye’ (1995)

Then, the introduction of Daniel Craig in Casino Royale took the association between Omega and Bond to the next level, while Quantum of Solace and Skyfall brought a new Omega to the roster: the Seamaster Planet Ocean. A bigger, burlier watch, the Seamaster Planet Ocean was worn with a rubber strap and the perfect for Craig’s more physical Bond. With No Time To Die, an original Seamaster Diver 300M arrived on set, featuring a military, vintage look with a black-brown dial on a mesh Milanese bracelet. The most exciting part? Craig himself worked personally with Omega for the last two years to design this model, a first for the franchise.

The Omega Seamaster Professional 300m in Casino Royale (2006)

Omega Seamaster Professional 300m

The Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m in Skyfall (2012)

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M in ‘No Time to Die’ (2021)

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

Fine Jewellery
When it came to diamonds, David Morris has been long associated with the films. First appearing in the opening credits of Diamonds are Forever in 1971, the brand was also responsible for the scalloped diamond necklace and a 10-carat blue sapphire ring in Tomorrow Never Dies, and all of the sparkling jewellery worn by Denise Richards throughout The World is Not Enough in 1999.

‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ (1997)

‘The World is Not Enough’ (1999)

Who can forget the two Fabergé eggs in Octopussy? Production designer Peter Lamont commissioned jewellers Asprey to create the eggs––featuring blue sapphires and pearls with a large diamond at the top, and inspired by the original Imperial Coronation Egg gifted to Tsar Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra Feodorovna to commemorate their coronation.

Another memorable moment came in 2012’s Skyfall, when Bérénice Marlohe’s character Sévérine donned a glimmering dress embedded with 60,000 Swarovski crystals and matching jewellery designed by Stephen Webster.

For No Time To Die, Chopard came onboard as the official partner of the 25th film, with Ana de Armas, who plays Paloma, adorning three Haute Joaillerie pieces from their Green Carpet collection. A total of 139 carats of brilliant and pear-shaped diamonds feature in her necklace, bracelet and earrings, alongside the debut of the Golden Heart collection in real life as a symbol of the daring soul and bravery of the Bond girls.

Chopard in ‘No Time to Die’ (2021)
Read more jewellery in movie moments here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Movies
Watches and Jewellery
Swarovski
Omega
Chopard
James Bond
Rolex
Fine jewellery
TAG Heuer


MFW SS16: Emporio Armani

Fashion
MFW SS16: Emporio Armani
A subtle feminine shift

26.09.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Giorgio Armani has always dabbled in the intermeshing of masculine and feminine elements for Emporio Armani, but S/S’16 saw a shift in direction in his inspiration, welcoming a decidedly more feminine aesthetic with “subtle grace” that had modern notions to it.
Case in point: smiley emoticons on cropped tops, sheer organza for movement, coupled with a few floral appliqués here and there, entirely on a palette of faded pink, orange, rust and gray. But there always needs to be a sense of practicality at Emporio Armani, palpable with languid trousers, relaxed blazers, leather-trimmed jackets and a new hybrid form of breeches with calf-length fastenings.
It was girly enough to prove a subtle drift from the original Emporio Armani signature, given that the collection was one part feminine, three parts real-world chic.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Emporio Armani SS16″ rid=”3466″ order=”a_tstamp”}

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fashion
Fashion Week
Spring
Collections
Milan Fashion Week
SS16
MFW


Travel
Being a tourist in KL: 8 Places you should check out (if you haven’t already)

30.08.2018
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

ZHONGSHAN BUILDING by cai mei khoo
“Located in what used to be the Selangor Zhongshan Association, these restored 1950s shophouses have been turned into a hipster-friendly, much-Instagrammed arts and culture space. On the ground floor, you’ll find an art gallery, as well as a retail space that sells a curated selection of goods created by local and international designers that make for perfect gifts. Wander up the stairs and you’ll find a motley selection of stores including a record store (read: vinyls), a vintage bookstore, a hole-in-the-wall cafe, library, and a ‘listening room’/ bar that hosts music nights as uncommon as the building it’s in.”

must visit spots in KL

MTR MALAYSIA by gwen ong
“Personally, I always thought of Brickfields as the place to bring any foreign friends because of the amalgamation of cultures that is so vibrant and alive. Yes, it’s hectic and chaotic but at the same time, it’s beautiful. While the banana leaf rice in the area is always enticing, one of my favourite discoveries in Brickfields this year is MTR — also known as Mavalli Tiffin Rooms. The Southern Indian restaurant does excellent dosa (thosai) — trust me, one bite and you’ll be completely hooked to the light yet crispy texture. This was the main reason why I wanted to share this gem of a place with my team. Or maybe, it’s just an excuse to feed my Indian food addiction (HAHA!). Order the plain dosa to see what I’m talking about. It’s unlike any thosai you may have eaten in the city (or dare I say, country) before. After that, take a walk towards the corner of Jalan Thambipillay for another institution — Uncle Chiam’s pisang goreng. The stall that has been around for over three decades whips up piping hot caramelised bananas and these fritters are not to be missed as a great afternoon snack.”
KL FOREST ECO PARK by rachel au
“Everyone tends to recommend the KL Tower or the Twin Towers but I feel that the KL Forest Eco Park is worth a visit — more so than the KL Tower within its vicinity. The Canopy Walk, though rather old by now, hangs strong and gives you an alternate view of the city with a dash of greenery. If you’re more on the active side, you can even do a little trek on the Main Trail. Otherwise, the Canopy Walk would only take 20 minutes and you’ll have an unobstructed view of the towering landmark nearby.”

must visit spots in KL

BARZHEN by joan kong
“When it comes to being a tourist in KL, many people will automatically think of our amazing food, but after a whole day of eating, the important question is: Where do you go for a nightcap? Recent years saw an influx of bars and speakeasies in KL, and I personally love the ones that have that familiar local twist. For example, BarZhen in Chinatown. With an Asian-inspired menu, you can find drinks such as Ginseng Honey Paloma (using ginseng-infused Cognac), Tongkat Ali Kopitini and Lai Chee Kang cocktail — all with interesting presentations to boot. The drink that I love to order is the Red Dates Clover Club that incorporates red dates-infused gin and served in a traditional Chinese teacup on top of a wooden tray. Some of my other favourite cocktails around town? The asam boi margarita at PS150, the Irish whiskey and bubble tea at Coley, and the jackfruit-infused gin at Pahit.”
LAI FOONG by su fen tan
“This is my favourite kopitiam in town for two well-known reasons: the Lai Foong beef noodles and lala noodles. Both are delicious, hearty soup-based meals that always hit just the right spot. Note the lala noodles stall only opens at 10am, and it can take a little while before you’re served as each order is cooked bowl by bowl — but it’ll be worth it. It’s not easy to find (legal) street parking around the area, so I’ll usually park at the Kotaraya Complex and take a short walk there. It’s also just minutes away from Petaling Street and Central Market, perfect for a post-meal walk exploring that side of town.”

must visit spots in KL

KL CITYWALK by wei yeen loh
“This new urban street arcade is nestled in KL’s Golden Triangle and is easily accessible if you are walking from Suria KLCC via the Bukit Bintang Pedestrian Walkway. It boasts more than 30 F&B outlets along the street and a host of fun-filled activities every weekend, from talented local buskers to serenade you on weekdays to art installations peppered along the street. The KLCW is a go-to if you’re looking to spend quality time with your family in a pedestrian-friendly part of the city, or if you’d like to impress friends from overseas with an eclectic mix of local flavours and unique nightlife entertainment. Also, it’s pretty Instagram-worthy.”
BATU CAVES by stephanie boey
“About half an hour away from the KL city centre are the limestone hills of Gombak. Hidden in one of the caves sits a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan — you’ll find his likeness in the form of a 140-feet statue at the head of the entrance. The massive gold statue leads the way to the steep flight of 272 steps up into the cave and the holy temple. The main facade received a brand new makeover recently and the steps are more colourful than ever. Snap a memory against the breathtaking view. Also, make sure to wear decent attire if you plan to visit the temple up the stairs. Tip: The local monkeys are not phased by the crowds and have been known to display cheeky behaviour. Keep bags zipped, sunglasses in tow and snacks out of sight unless you’re willing to play a round of tug of war with the little primates.”

must visit spots in KL

VILLAGE PARK by yi suen chong
“Every Malaysian has their own favourite nasi lemak joint and Village Park happens to be mine! They have the best ayam goreng nasi lemak and though it’s not really in KL-KL, it’s not too far to make a trip either. From the fragrant rice to the crispy fried chicken to the spicy sambal, it ticks all the right checkboxes. However, it’s always packed so do expect to wait in line but it’s usually quite fast. My tip: Be there as early as you can. They only open till 7pm though so heads up to anyone planning to go there for dinner. While you’re in the area, you can pop by next door to Random Food Store for coffee or walk around the hood for more cafes, restaurants and kopitiams.”
All photos (except for the main image) were taken with an iPhone 8 Plus.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Going out
Instagram-worthy
Merdeka
Malaysia Day
City Guide
Travel Guide
Travel in Malaysia
Buro City Guide
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Restaurants in KL


Beauty
Malaysian drag artist Carmen Rose on beauty, empowerment and the power of drag

09.06.2020
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

When asked about her definition of beauty, the local drag queen was stumped when she tried to come up with an answer.
“I don’t want to set a standard for anyone because beauty is dynamic,” Carmen Rose replied in an email. A member of the Coven Collective and co-founder of monthly KL-based party Shagrilla of Queer, she’s one of the emerging voices of a generation inspiring strength and togetherness in the local LGBTQ+ scene, while serving otherworldly looks and fierce performances through fashion and makeup. “Just like drag, beauty is something you define for yourself—it lies in the eyes of the beholder.”
If you watch RuPaul’s Drag Race, you’ll know there are plenty of beauty (and life) lessons to learn from the queens on the popular American reality competition. From feeling OTT fabulous to perfecting the art of the contour, they’ve also taught us the power of self-expression and the importance of staying true to yourself. As RuPaul says, “If you don’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?”

via GIPHY

The drag community’s influence on beauty trends, language and pop culture is deeper than the credit it’s given. In fact, drag queens were contouring, baking and highlighting well before any of the Kardashians-Jenners or beauty influencers.
With a history rooted in theatre, the term ‘drag’ originated in ancient times as early as Shakespearean acts and Beijing opera to refer to performers dressing in clothing typically worn by the opposite sex. Since women were not allowed on stage, male actors would dress as women to fill the void, using makeup to accentuate their faces and emotions under brightly-flared stage lights.

via GIPHY

Over time, drag began to take on more of an individual form of entertainment, making its way into American vaudeville performances and gaining popularity in the scene of underground gay bars from the 1920s onwards. Despite law enforcement crackdowns on the LGBTQ+ community, the culture flourished over the following decades and provided a safe space for the community to enjoy and express themselves freely. In 1969, the Stonewall Riots, led by trans women of colour like Marsha P Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, signified what is largely believed to be the start of the modern gay rights movement in the United States, and the rest of the world—now commemorated through Pride every year in the month of June.
Today, thanks to the international popularity of RuPaul’s, the once-fringe subculture has catapulted into the mainstream. Since its 2009 premiere, the show, which sees contestants compete in a variety of weekly challenges including acting, designing outfits, comedy and more to be crowned the best drag show performer, is now bigger than ever. RuPaul’s has won 13 Emmys to date, expanded into international versions in the UK and Canada and season 12 ratings continue to show no signs of slowing down. Queens like Shangela, Violet Chachki and Aquaria have become actors and celebrities in their own right, while the cultural phenomenon is embedded in various aspects of our lives, from beauty and everyday language (where do you think the language of shade and T came from?) to internet behaviour and the 2019 Met Gala.

via GIPHY

No doubt, the gender-bending form is all about the art of transformation through fashion and makeup. But glamour and sparkle aside, it’s also a cultural tool for self-expression and has been a powerful vehicle for challenging conventional notions of gender and beauty since day one. By providing a safe space for people to experiment and explore, drag creates a world where all identities are welcomed, accepted and celebrated.
Unbeknownst to many, Malaysia’s drag scene is alive, and growing. The rising generation of local queens like Carmen Rose and increasing popularity of queer parties is evidence of that. While the community is free to live their best lives on social media, many of them are still subject to online hate and harassment.

Their recent ‘Pass the Brush’ challenge, a testament to their makeup mastery and a show of solidarity during the MCO period, ended in the constant battle against online criticism to fight for acceptance and inclusion to be themselves. Even so, the community won’t back down and continues to fight for their rights in order to carve out their space within society.
Below, we interviewed Carmen Rose about her experiences as a drag artist in Malaysia, beauty routines and the importance of standing up for yourself and your community:

How did you get into drag?
“I started off my early 20s equipped with curiosity with regards to my gender identity. After moving out and having my own place, I was at a stage where I finally had the freedom to further explore my gender. Consequently, I bought my first wig from Times Square, the cheapest MAC red lipstick I could find, and a foundation that didn’t even match my skin tone.
“The idea of Carmen Rose was birthed after I realize that I did not conform to what society thought of what gender is. For several years, I’ve been privately recording myself perform on PhotoBooth before I took a brief hiatus. All this happened before I knew of RuPaul’s Drag Race, which has elevated drag culture around the world. In 2018, I started taking my drag more seriously after mustering the courage to take my performance on stage in front of a live audience. The rest is Herstory!”

Ravina Awesome
What was it like growing up queer in Malaysia?
“As far as I can remember, I’ve always been the most feminine boy and have always been bullied for it. But at the time, I didn’t understand the reason behind the bullying and wasn’t too affected by it. It didn’t bother me when they called me names like “pondan” until it did. Fast forward to my college years, I started accepting myself and leaving toxic people behind (the best choice I’ve ever made). Resorting to art and humour were a few of the ways I coped with the constant reminder that my existence as a gay individual was not welcomed by society.
“Today, I am so grateful to be surrounded by queer people who uplift me in what I do and straight people who aren’t focused on my sexuality but rather my art. I’m forever thankful for that. It may take time to unlearn all the homophobic sentiments that you were taught, but it takes no effort to be kind to another fellow human being.”
How did Shagrilla of Queer come about?
“JonnyVicious had an idea of fusing techno music and drag queens into one party and since then, it became a collective effort to make this party a success. It’s a collaboration between me, JonnyVicious, Kumela Kumslut, Acne Scar, Cik Teh Botol, and Peter (who is in charge of PR). We wanted to bring something different to the queer scene in KL on top of the many other queer parties here.”

What does makeup mean to you and how did you learn to do it?
“Makeup has allowed me to conceal the insecurities I have about myself. It’s an uplifting, decorative cosmetics to dive into. It’s also a transformation tool to accentuate one’s physical traits or entirely change the way you look. Since drag makeup is more of an exaggeration and a challenge to completely transform oneself, YouTube is the platform that has helped me a lot in improving my skills. It’s a rich source of inspiration for everyone out there who is thinking of dipping their toes in the water.”
When do you feel most empowered?
“Sometimes standing up for myself can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m not a confrontational person, therefore being able to do that makes me feel most empowered. My activism and my fight for equality have been driven further since I started my drag persona. Given the platform I’ve amassed so far, I feel a lot more responsible to be part of this fight along with my friends to speak up against the injustice and inequality towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

“We have a collective drive to fight for what feels right and we build each other up. Having that sense of belonging has really helped me, not just with my drag but also my own personal growth. Seeing other queer artists also helps me to feel more empowered. I want to be part of that group that inspires those who are still finding their voice and sense of belonging. This would not happen if it was a one-man show. I really want to stress the importance of having a community that accepts you and treats you as an equal, not as an enemy or an inhibitor to your growth.”
What’s your day-to-day beauty routine like?
“I like to keep my daily routine simple. My morning beauty routine consists of splashing my face with lukewarm water—open those pores—and then washing it with a gentle rose gel cleanser. Most people choose to skip the next step but I use toners to remove any access dirt that might be on my skin and—I just googled this—it helps return the skin’s pH and acts as a delivery system for antioxidants. After toning, I go straight into moisturising my skin. I would usually apply an antioxidant serum but I currently can’t afford it. Sunscreen is the last step but we’re all staying in during the pandemic, so at the moment, I skip this step.”My night-time routine is similar to my morning routine except before splashing my face with water, I use cleansing oil to dissolve and get rid of the day’s grime, oil, (or makeup). After that, I wash my face with a gentle cleanser to remove any excess sebum and dirt. And then toning, moisturiser, Netflix, and sleep.”
Who inspires you?
“I draw my inspiration from pop culture and through my own personal experiences. I try not to limit myself with who or what inspires me because some days it may be a drag queen (like Aquaria for example) or it can be any one of my closest friends, and, on other days, it could be just regular, household things around me like a ball of red yarn, or a string of lights.”

Any essential beauty tips/rules to share?
“It’s not easy feeling greasy but having oily skin does come with added benefits. While ageing is nothing to shy away from, having oily skin wards off wrinkles which means you tend to age slower. With that being said, cut back on over-scrubbing and over-cleansing your face because you don’t want to strip away the natural essential oils because then it will cause your oil production into overdrive, which can also cause acne. Hydrating and moisturising your skin is also an important step you shouldn’t skip!”

What do you wish people would understand more about the LGBTQ+ community?
“For the longest time, we’ve been doing things behind the scenes, told that we shouldn’t speak up and to enjoy our “lifestyle” privately. Some of us can afford to be complacent but some of us are tired of pandering to irrational ideals. We want to exist just as much as everyone is free to express themselves. That’s why some drag queens are using their platforms to let our voices be heard. It’s a privilege and as a budding drag queen here, I would also like to use it for good.
“I wish for people to have an open mind when trying to understand our community and to take the time to listen to our stories. We should listen with the intent to understand, not the intent to react. Your belief is yours, but our existence is also our reality. We’re not asking you to derail from your beliefs, because there are people in our community who holds on to that too. We’re simply asking you to understand that we are human beings just as much as you are. We too, are Malaysians just as much as you are.”

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Makeup
Beauty
Local artists
LGBTQ+
Empowerment
Pride
Pride Month
Drag Artist
RuPaul's


Food + Drink
#BuroEats: 5 New restaurants and cafes to try in March 2017
Eating out

24.02.2017
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

1. Duddha
With a tagline that says ‘Asian Food Reconstructed’, there’s nothing about Duddha that doesn’t intrigue. The restaurant is decked with a playful interior featuring comic-inspired characters and neon accents that represents the same injection of fun meets sensual in the menu created by Chef Jet Lo—known especially for his significant contributions to Singapore’s Ding Dong, among others.

Expect familiar dishes with a different take such as the Deconstructed Tofu with Oyster Sauce, Homemade Chicken Floss, Pickled Cabbage, Garlic and Daikon Water (simple yet that sleek texture is addictive) and the Upside Down Ondeh-Ondeh with Sambal (an interesting adaptation although the sambal was a bit overpowering).

Our other favourite items on the menu are the Wagyu Beef Tartare with Watermelon, Pickled Cucumber, Pickled Shallots and Papadum (the slices of watermelon has a texture so similar to tender beef), 5 Spice Lamb Ribs with Apricot Ginger, and the 48 Hours Wagyu Beef Cheek Rendang with Puffed Rice and Crispy Herbs (so tender you can just use a spoon to scoop out a portion). While you’re there, do also give their cocktails a try—the Cool Down and Drunken Breakfast in particular spiked our interest.
Address: Lot G48, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC
Phone: 03 2166 2257
Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Cabana

Offering vibrant açaí bowls and refreshing smoothies made from authentic açaí pulp imported directly from Brazil (along with other premium ingredients sourced locally and internationally), Cabana could very well be our favourite go-to for an energising breakfast or a healthy mid-afternoon treat. You can choose from their signature bowls or customise your own—either way, it’ll be a delightful burst of flavours packed with tons of nutrients. Our recommendation: the Tropical Thunder bowl.
Address: Lot 63, UG, Publika Shopping Gallery
Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Fin

There’s a new poké bar (check out our previous list of best poké bowls in KL) in town promising to serve Hawaiian bowls of goodness topped with fresh sashimi, healthy sides and homemade sauces. Fin also does delivery and catering if you can’t make it to their fin-e store.
Address: The Art Row @ Publika
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8am – 4pm
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 012 780 0270
Facebook | Instagram

4. Tujoh

A post shared by Charlene (@dearchar_) on Mar 2, 2017 at 6:14pm PST

From the outside, Tujoh may seem like an unsuspecting common cafe situated among the row of shophouses in Section 17. Step inside, however, and it’s a cafe destined for social media (#Instagram-worthy) success and it’s evident judging by how many people have taken snaps of its leafy (almost rustic) interior. As for the food and coffee, the menu is positively pleasing with a few surprising items. Do give their hojicha latte a try.
Address: 617 Jalan 17/10, Section 17, Petaling Jaya
Telephone: 03 7932 3611
Website | Facebook | Instagram

5. The Table @ Isetan The Japan Store

The 4th floor of Isetan The Japan Store is finally opened and armed with five new restaurants to seduce your palette. A sixth restaurant is expected to open at a later date as well on this Restaurant Floor (fondly known as The Table) that promises to give guests the experience of premium dining.

In the meantime, these places are at your service: Sushi Azabu (a Michelin-starred sushi establishment from NYC), Yakiniku Toraji (from Tokyo), Tonkatsu Anzu (from Fukuoka and uses premium aged pork sourced from Kyushu), Toriden (a restaurant specialising in chicken hot pot from Fukuoka), and The Tokyo Restaurant (serving contemporary flavours of the city it’s named after).

Full review here.
Address: 4th floor, Isetan The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang
Telephone: 03 2141 7777
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Related stories:
Best poke bowls in town and where to catch them all
8 Romantic bars and restaurants for a memorable date night
The Table: Five stellar restaurants under one roof at Isetan The Japan Store

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Restaurants in KL
BuroEats
Food Review


How to cook Smoked Duck Hokkien Mee

Food + Drink
How to cook Smoked Duck Hokkien Mee

24.08.2018
By Dish by Ili

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

HOKKIEN MEE
Hokkien Mee is a traditional Chinese noodles dish commonly found in Malaysia and Singapore. This dish is made in lots of dark caramel soy sauce and thick yellow noodles. Commonly found in Hokkien Mee are key ingredients such as pork, duck, and seafood. We’ve made a pork-free version of this delicious meal using duck meat, prawns and squid. It’s super easy to make and super delicious too. All you need is a good wok to get that ‘wok hei’ effect. To get that delicious duck taste, we first fry the duck skin in some oil until it gets crispy. Then we remove the skin and set aside. Using that same oil, we use it to make the noodles.

Dish by Ili’s Smoked Duck Hokkien Mee — serves 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Ready in: 30 minutes
Level: Intermediate

smoked duck hokkien mee recipe

INGREDIENTS
1 x duck breast with skin
8 x garlic cloves, finely minced
500g large prawns, peeled (reserve the heads, shells and tails for prawn stock)
200g squid, sliced
2 x cups white cabbage and Chinese mustard greens
250g thick yellow (or Japanese udon) noodles
1/2 cup thick caramel sauce (for colour)
2-4 tbsp light soy sauce
Salt to taste

MAKING THE PRAWN STOCK
1. In a pot of water, add in your prawn shells and bring it to a boil to make the prawn stock.
2. Once boiled, strain the stock and discard the prawn shells. Keep the stock for later.

smoked duck hokkien mee recipe

METHOD

 1. Remove skin from the duck and slice the meat and skin thinly. Set aside.
2. Then, in a wok, heat some oil and fry the duck skin until golden. Once done, set aside.
3. In the same wok, over medium-high heat, add in the duck, prawns and squid. Cook it halfway so that you do not overcook your proteins. Remove from the wok and set aside.
4. Then, add in the garlic and fry for a couple of minutes. Once fragrant, add in 5 cups of prawn stock. Then add in the noodles and soy sauce. Cook it until the sauce reduces to a thick consistency.
5. After about 10 minutes, add in the half-cooked prawns, squid and duck. Then, add in your vegetable stalks and let it cook for another 1 minute before adding in the rest of the vegetables.
6. Once your vegetables have wilted, remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with the fried duck skin.
Tip: Serve this yummy noodles with some side of pickled green chillies or cut red chillies for an extra kick!

For more delicious recipes like this, check out Dish by Ili’s website.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Malaysian food
recipes
Malaysian chefs
cooking
Hokkien Mee


Beauty
Alexander McQueen’s first fragrance under Sarah Burton available in stores this December
An enigma

03.11.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Back in March early this year, news broke on the launch of Alexander McQueen’s first fragrance under the creative direction of Sarah Burton, mysteriously titled McQueen Parfum and McQueen Eau de Parfum. Made for the woman who’s always #owning it with inexhaustible confidence, elegance and raw power, the fragrance combines rare essences via contemporary extraction techniques.

“I wanted these fragrances to come from night flowers, the kind that exude an eternal freshness once the day is gone,” says the brand’s creative director Sarah Burton. “To make up for their lack of colour, the scent of the Sambac Jasmine, Tuberose and Ylang Ylang are most powerful at night to attract their pollinator. People forget that these flowers become newly modern every day; that even as they’ve faded, they soon regenerate and flower, shaping the air with their scent.”

If you thought that these above mentioned ingredients spell archaic and/or traditional, McQueen Parfum and Eau de Parfum will prove you wrong with its reinterpretation of these vintage star ingredients. By extracting pink pepper and vetiver in a unique method (using carbon dioxide), the floral notes now take on a mellower stance that’s mysterious at the same time. Top notes include a combination of spicy peppers (black pepper, clove and pink pepper), while sambac jasmine and tuberose’s powerful essence is encased with the exotic ylang ylang. To ensure the scent’s aesthetic is in line with the house ethos, the Parfum flacon is made of enigmatic glass in black and gold teemed with a polished facetted cap. An oustanding feature is the gold feather embossed area around the crown—a detail that’s synonymous with the house’s penchant for ethereal beauty. The Eau de Parfum packaging, on the other hand, is the fine contrast to the alluring dark Parfum, with a clear bottle and white and blushed embossed feather box.

McQueen Parfum and McQueen Eau de Parfum will be available at Parkson Pavilion from December 2016.

Related stories:

What you need to know about Louis Vuitton’s first fragrance collection
Bulgari Rose Goldea: An olfactory symbol of sensuality

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fragrance
Perfume
Alexander McQueen


Beauty
Run hard, train harder with adidas AlphaBounce Beyond
Level up

16.04.2018
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

It doesn’t matter if you are a professional athlete or an avid runner; chances are, with every training you strive to take your game to the next level—to be better, faster, stronger. Building upon that notion, adidas Running introduces the AlphaBounce Beyond, a cross-training shoe designed for athletes who incorporate running in their training to up their game.

The distinctive silhouette of AlphaBounce Beyond is engineered for power, speed and conditioning. You’ll find a superior fit thanks to the one-piece Forged mesh upper, designed to provide support for dynamic movements. Like all adidas high-performance shoes, it is also equipped with a Continental Rubber outsole for excellent traction. At the heart of the shoe is a Stretched Bounce midsole combined with an Extended Heel Support system to ensure enhanced comfort and stability—all important elements in taking your training to the next level.

Tennis player Caroline Wozniacki can attest to that. “Running is central to my movement and it’s what gives me the advantage when I compete,” says the Australian Open 2018 champion. “Through incorporating more running into my training off the court, I have seen the different in my form on game day. With the AlphaBounce Beyond I feel confident that I have trained in ways that will help me take control of the game when it matters the most.”

Adidas AlphaBounce Beyond retails at RM450; it is available online and adidas Sports Performance stores in Suria KLCC, Pavilion KL, and The Gardens Mall.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

adidas
Running Shoes
Training shoes
AlphaBounce Beyond


Beauty
Beauty Advent Calendar: Kiehl’s x Peter Max Refuel & Power Up Set
Whimsical at best

05.12.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

One for the boys this season, Kiehl’s x Peter Max Refuel & Power Up Set in a limited edition packaging is a travel-worthy skincare kit that you can pack along for your year-end vacation. Kiehl’s has a long-standing heritage of working with artists every holiday season, and this year’s artist of choice is German-born, New York-based Peter Max, whose prominence in pop culture and use of bold colours and whimsical imagery make him one of the world’s most celebrated, living inspiration to artists and designers of today.

One of the many sets from this line, the Refuel & Power Up Set includes Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash, Facial Fuel Heavy Lifting Cream, Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub, and Powerful Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate—adorned in a design inspired by the beauty of nature and accented by his iconic “Holiday Flyers” that dance across the sky through his signature vibrant color palette.

Kiehl’s x Peter Max limited edition gift collections are now available in all Kiehl’s stores nationwide.

Related stories:
Beauty Advent Calendar Day 4: L’Occitane x Pierre HerméBeauty Advent Calendar Day 3: Bulgari Aqva Amara and DivinaBeauty Advent Calendar Day 2: La Mer The Renewal Oil

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Buro Loves
Beauty
kiehl's
Men's


Buro Loves
9 Super cute beauty gifts and ornaments to deck out your Christmas tree

16.11.2018
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

We’re a little over a month away from Christmas but who says you can’t load up on stocking stuffers and presents ahead of time? If you’re stuck in a rut on what to gift your closest friends and family members, our beauty compilation below might help you out. Get your hands on makeup and skincare sets that come in the cutest packaging—just what you need to deck out your Christmas tree and to fill up the empty spots beneath it.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Christmas Beauty Stocking Stuffers” rid=”6728″ order=”a_tstamp”}

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Buro Loves
Beauty
#BuroHolidayGuide
Christmas
Holiday Guide


Lifestyle
If you haven’t been to Vivid Sydney, this is the year to go
See Sydney glow

07.05.2018
By Su Fen Tan

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

If you’ve ever wondered what is the biggest event in Australia—this is it. From 25 May to 16 June, Vivid Sydney is set to illuminate the city with dazzling light installations, music performances and progressive ideas. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, you can certainly expect it to be bigger, better, and more vivid than ever.

VIVID LIGHT
This is when you’ll get to see Sydney in a spectacular new light, as some of the city landmarks are bathed in captivating light installations and projections. The Sydney Opera House’s sails will be transformed into a series of kinetic digital sculptures by Australian artist Jonathan Zawada, while the massive light art sculpture Aqueous, last seen at Burning Man, and the immersive Nautilus Forest find home in the Royal Botanic Garden.

VIVID MUSIC
The music line-up is also looking very exciting, with a list of international acts that includes the likes of Ice Cube, Iron & Wine, Hiatus Kaiyote, St. Vincent and Solange—Ice Cube will actually be the first rapper to perform at the Sydney Opera House! X|Celerate, on the other hand, places the spotlight on grassroots and emerging local music talents, with shows to be held across selected bars, pubs and clubs.

VIVID IDEAS
Get inspired by some of the leadings minds in technology, creativity and science through a fascinating program of talks, workshops and debate. We’re talking about people like renowned filmmaker James Cameron (Titanic, Avatar), founder of Deus ex Machina Dare Jennings, legendary Nike sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield, and Wired editor-in-chief Scott Dadich. This is where you’ll get the inside scoop on these game changers and the various industries they’ve played a part in shaping.

For more information and the full festival line-up, visit www.vividsydney.com.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Installation
Vivid Sydney
Travel
Sydney


Lifestyle
7 Things to do this weekend: 13 & 14 August 2022
Out and about

13.08.2022
By Marissa Chin

PHOTO: KLoe Hotel | PHOTO: KLPAC | PHOTO: Tumi

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

1. Pop by The Messy Club’s Re~Love Market for some vintage finds and handmade goodies

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Awegallery (@awegallery)

When: 13 & 14 August 2022 | 11am to 8pm
Where: Awegallery, PJ
Fan of The Messy Club’s weekly markets? Here’s another one you can check out this weekend at Awegallery! There’ll be 22 vendors selling a range of products such as thrifted clothing, vegan kombucha and even a temporary tattoo pop-up.
For more information, follow @themessyclub_ on Instagram.

2. Discover and support local businesses at the LokaFest Bazaar

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KEDAI (@kedai.kl)

When: 13 & 14 August 2022 | 11am to 6pm
Where: Kedai KL at MAHSA Avenue
Don’t just stop at one market though, another local bazaar you might want to check out over the weekend is LokaFest. Spread over the next two weekends, LokaFest is your chance to check out and support local businesses this Merdeka month! You’ll find home decor items, handmade jewelry, hearty bites, and everything in between.
For more information, follow @kedai.kl on Instagram.

3. Shop Tumi’s new Fall 2022 collection for your next trip

1/4

2/4

3/4

4/4

Get into the mood to travel by with Tumi’s Fall 2022 collection that explores the concept of “Future Earth”. In this collection, the lifestyle and travel brand looks to bring even more functionality, sustainability and innovations to its best-selling designs. This includes their iconic 19 Degree collection, which features a new ombre colorway and a special sustainable 19 Degree travel edition in a polycarbonate material, with shells and linings made with recycled materials.
Tumi’s Alpha Bravo collection also sees new additions with new colors and fabrications that come with even more protection for your belongings. For go-getters on the fly, Tumi has also debuted its most compact backpack yet, the Harrison William using upcycled leather. In the women’s department, Pink Metallic, Zinc and Beetroot are just some of the colorways introduced this Fall— arriving with new silhouettes and prints in three new leather bags: The Liv Backpack, Adrian Carryall, and The Helena Crossbody.
For more information and to shop the collection, visit this website.

4. Shop, eat and play at the Sunny Days Festival

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sunny Days Festival (@mysunnydaysfest)

When: 13 & 14 August 2022 | 10am to 10pm
Where: Sentul Depot, KL
In the mood for a family-friendly day out or a place to lepak with friends all day? Head over to the Sunny Days Festival—it’s 60,000 square feet of pure sunny fun with tons of activities such as surf skate zones, bubble playtime for the kids, live graffiti, fashion catwalk auctions, shoe cleaning and customisations, and more! There’s also going to be over 15 local music acts performing, 30 F&B vendors, and over 50 thrift stores present so you can eat and shop all day long. Psst, admissions are completely free!
For more information, follow @mysunnydaysfest on Instagram.

5. Groove to tunes by the pool at KLoe Hotel

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KLoé Hotel (@kloehotel)

When: 13 August 2022 | 3pm to 7pm
Where: KLoe Hotel, KL
If you’re feeling like getting your groove on, head over to KLoe Hotel for some Saturday Night Fever vibes with their courtyard pool as your disco dance floor. There’ll be drinks and bites from Monroe KL and Lucky Coffee Bar; a selection of wines and cold beers, and ice cream from Licky Chan—all enjoyed while jamming to the funky nu disco tunes from Dangerdisco. Admission is free, so just turn up (but don’t forget to mask up)!
For more information, follow @kloehotel on Instagram.

6. Shop for all things vegan at the One Kind Market

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 𝗥𝗘𝗫𝗞𝗟 (@hellorexkl)

When: 14 August 2022 | 12pm to 6pm
Where: RexKL, KL
Go green this Sunday at RexKL’s One Kind Market to learn and discover sustainable vegan goods ranging from fresh produce, skincare to bath and body products. Vendors include @themineraw, @sunwayxfarms, @thegoodcacao, and more.
For more information, follow @hellorexkl for more information.

7. Double your entertainment with these two music shows in KLPAC

1/2

2/2

Support Malaysia’s performing art scene by checking out not one but two music shows happening at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre this weekend! The first is Kaleidoscope, an eclectic portrayal of friendship, love and coming of age—performed in seven plays and two dance works by students of The Actor’s Studio by Taylor’s University. The second, An Uncommon Journey, is a special feat for KLPAC’s Symphonic Band as they gather with over 50 musicians aged 16 to 22 to perform together on stage after two years of the pandemic. The programme will include Thomas Doss’ ‘A Princess Tale’, Jacob de Haan’s ‘Ammerland’, Yeo Chow Shern’s ‘Celebration and Dance’, and more.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit this website.

Find more things in our Buro Weekend Guides here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Things to do in KL
Local brands
things to do
Buro Weekend Guide
Events in KL
Markets in KL
Weekend Guide


Lifestyle
7 Things you can do this weekend: 5–6 August 2017
Shop, eat or learn something

26.07.2017
By Rachel Au

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

1. Sunny Side Up Market: Merdeka Edition at Slate at the Row, 11am – 6pm, 4 – 6 August
Give some love to our homegrown brands and businesses at this local-focused market. There’ll be more than 35 of them so make sure you bring enough money cos we foresee you might see more than a few things you’ll like.
For more info, visit the event page.

2. Selangor Food Mega Festival at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam, 10am – 10pm, 5 – 6 August
One of the biggest food festivals in the state is back and hoping to be even more epic than before. Discover new food trucks and vendors or head straight to the familiar – it’s your choice. (There’ll also be a durian buffet.)
For more info, visit the event page.

3. Korean Language Beginner I Class at Iloha Culture Centre, Bangsar, 3pm – 4.30pm, 6 August
Annyeong haseyo! This 8-week language course begins this weekend and upon completion, you’ll be able to speak basic Korean expressions for everyday conversation, recognise Korean vowels and consonants, and more.
RM280 for eight lessons. For more info, visit the event page.

4. Nikon I Am FX Experience camera workshop at Nikon Centre, Federal Arcade, 2pm – 5pm, 5 August
Looking to pursue your interest in photography? Check out the full range of FX DSLRs and FX lenses with the Nikon technical team on hand to let you try the equipment and answer any of your questions. In addition, there will be a guest speaker who is a Nikon photographer.
Free admission (includes light refreshments). For more info, visit the website.

5. Introductory to Botanical Painting at Stickerrific, Jaya One, 2pm – 5pm, 6 August
Artist Ratna Rashidi will be teaching simple techniques for watercolour painting to create a beautiful rose from scratch.
RM190 per person (includes materials and light refreshments). For more info, visit the website.

6. TREC Craft Army #4 at TREC KL, 7pm – 1am, 4 – 6 August
Instead of shopping at a mall, why not check out this artisan market? There are tons of restaurants to eat at after and if you stay long enough, there’ll be live music performances from 10.30pm.
For more info, visit the event page.

7. Boozy Brunch at Drift Dining and Bar, Jalan Bedara, 12pm – 4pm, 6 August
The menu includes freshly shucked oysters, cured meats and champagne.
RM250++ (food and free flow) or RM120++ (only food) per person. For more info, visit the event page.

Related stories:
Cool cocktails: 6 interesting bars to check out in KL
#BuroDiningGuide: New food haunts to check out around town
Farm-to-table: What does it really mean and which restaurants in KL are doing it

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Going out
things to do
Events in KL


Technology
How to improve air quality at home and get better sleep
Minimalistic luxury

29.12.2022
By Sarah Hani Jamil

IMAGES: COWAY MALAYSIA

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Two things immediately made me say yes to a review of Coway’s Noble Air Purifier. Firstly, I have extreme allergies that even five minutes in a poorly ventilated room can make my eyes itch and water, so I was keen to see how it would fare. Secondly, I’m a huge BTS fan, and since the members are Coway ambassadors, I jumped at the idea, but of course.
I’ve always been a Coway customer and have used other air purifier models for many years in my home—the latest being Lombok III—so I have first-hand experience of their effectiveness. However, with Noble being marketed as a luxury upgrade with a world-class design, I had to put it to the test.

Nature-inspired
Standing at 80.5cm tall, the Noble comes in a minimalistic, rectangular design, underscored by clean lines or ridges that encircle the whole device. Featuring a modern Pebble Gray case, which makes it look like a speaker at first glance (I feel you, Jungkook), the Noble is sleek enough to look just like another intentional piece of furniture in your room (unlike the white and boxy Lombok III). One design feature I particularly loved is the hidden wheels at the bottom of the device that allow you to move it from room to room conveniently and effortlessly.

360-degree purification
You’ll notice that the Noble has a flat, raised air panel that can move at different angles. This allows for the custom setting of airflow direction and circulation. In its standard state, the airflow panel sits horizontally while the wind gets discharged from the top. When the panel is tilted to the back, the wind only moves forward to the front of the device. Meanwhile, air comes out from the back of the device when the panel is tilted forward.

Multiple modes
When you have cats and a child running around in your home as I do, you’ll realise the need for versatility or adaptability in whatever you purchase. Thankfully, the Noble has four different modes that adjust to your personal needs. In Smart mode, it can automatically purify the air based on the pollution level sensor. In Eco mode, the fan automatically stops for 30 minutes to save electricity after being on for 10 minutes. In Sleep mode, the device runs low-air speed and makes very minimal noise, which is excellent for usage throughout the night. Finally, the device operates at a higher speed in Turbo mode to maximise airflow. This one is great if you’ve got pets or a dusty area that you need to neutralise and decontaminate quickly.

Six-step filtration
Speaking of pets, the reason why the Noble is really effective is because of its 4D, six-step purification system that comprehensively reduces the level of pollution in any area. It comprises a pre-filter to remove larger dust particles and pet hair; a smoke filter to remove harmful gases; an allergen filter to get rid of dust mites and animal allergens; a deodorisation filter that’s great at removing odour and hazardous gas; and four high-performance double HEPA filters, which have been proven to inactivate 99.99 per cent of harmful viruses, including the Covid-19 Omicron variant. Finally, UVC Sterilisation inactivates up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria such as E.Coli. Talk about thorough!

Instantly see the level of pollution
Sometimes, I can be lounging comfortably in a room and suddenly have my allergies flare up, making me feel highly uncomfortable. With Noble, I’m able to see the quality of air in real-time thanks to the LED light indicators at the top of the device. Blue signifies that air quality is good, green for normal, yellow for poor and red for bad, which means I’ll need to remove myself from the area until the air has been properly circulated. Isn’t that convenient?

Do you need this upgrade?
Well, if you’re a fellow Army (the BTS fandom), I’m pretty sure you won’t need much convincing to get the Noble air purifier but if you’re still on the fence, consider these bonuses that I feel will help you make the decision:

The device costs RM4,700 outright. However, you can purchase it for a monthly instalment of RM140.
Get complimentary servicing (depending on your contract), so you don’t have to worry about the upkeep of your device on your own.
Get quality rest and sleep thanks to better air circulation.
Significantly improve your family’s overall health thanks to the refreshed environment the Noble creates.

For more information on the Coway Noble Air Purifier, click here.

For more tech reviews, click here.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

technology
BTS
Home decor
Tech Reviews
home
Air purifier
tech gadgets
Coway


Technology
#SupportLocal: 8 Malaysian NFT projects that are making waves in the metaverse
Beyond digital art

05.04.2022
By Natalie Khoo

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

The local NFT scene has grown leaps and bounds in the past year as people become more acquainted with the metaverse and blockchain technology. It’s not uncommon to hear of new NFT projects and collaborations by small and big brands and artists alike—pushing the boundaries of the physical and virtual world to create novel experiences for consumers today.
With that said, here are eight Malaysian NFT projects that have generated much buzz among local and international adopters. From apes and tigers to pixel art and even chap fan (economy rice), the future of NFTs in Malaysia looks promising and we’re here for it!
Metaverse Marvels Tarot

To start off the list, the team at BURO Malaysia is proud to share our venture into Web 3.0 with the launch of the Metaverse Marvels Tarot collection in collaboration with leading NFT creatives and distribution platform, NFKings, which launched last May. Inspired by the mystical world of tarot, the collection comprises a tarot deck of 11 cards featuring the Major Arcana (Super Rare Tier) and Minor Arcana (Rare Tier), as well as a one-of-one Wheel of Fortune that was available exclusively via auction on Brytehall.

Each card is carefully handpicked and designed in partnership with British tarot reader and medium Anna O’Brien, with a total of 5,000 Mystery Boxes up for grabs. All of them are now sold out from launch, with some (opened and unopened) available for auction or purchase at a fixed price on Binance. Collectors of all 10 tarot cards from the deck qualified to receive a personalised online reading with O’Brien, whilst the lucky owner of the one and only Wheel of Fortune card earned an all-expense paid trip to London for a face-to-face reading. These Tarot NFTs can also be used in the upcoming Tarot Card Reading Game which will be released in the fourth quarter of 2022. Stay tuned!
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Binance
Apes R Us

Swinging its way into the metaverse in early 2022, Apes R Us features 8,444 unique polychromatic primate NFTs inspired by everyday traits and familiar pop-culture characters. Each ape is created based on hand-drawn illustrations by local graffiti artist Katun, who previously made headlines for selling two of his NFT collections for 127.6 ETH (that’s about a whopping RM1.6 million!) in just 24 hours. He has also worked with celebrities including Dua Lipa and Post Malone, as well as brands like Vans and Footlocker.

The NFT project’s roadmap focuses on brand-based collaborations, where it will incorporate Apes R Us avatars into exclusive merchandise, collectible 3D figures and toys, games, and augmented reality artworks shown in galleries across the globe. The team has also partnered with WWF Malaysia to create 100 WWF-themed NFTs that will be minted and sold via an auction to raise funds for the organisation.
Website | OpenSea | Discord | Twitter
Global Citizen Club (GCC)

Global Citizen Club (GCC) is an exclusive luxury lifestyle club, boasting a collection of 8,888 NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain. Each GCC NFT is a one-of-a-kind minimalist artwork generated from over 220 possible traits, including expression, headwear, clothing, background, and more. While no two Citizens are alike, some possess traits that are rarer than others. The mint price of each NFT is 0.08 ETH.

Owning an NFT from the GCC Classic collection automatically grants membership into the club, where $GCCMILE can be used to redeem premium NFT collections, special rewards, real-life utilities, and other member-only benefits. The club features a membership tier depending on the number of GCC NFTs owned, which generates a certain amount of $GCCMILE per week.

Hey GCC Fam! We are ecstatic to share some exciting surprises in the bag for GCC x BONIA!We will be releasing a limited supply of 333 GCC x BONIA Special Edition NFTs as part of our special collaboration!Details at Announcements: https://t.co/d37MWqGfD4#GCCNFT #BONIA #NFT pic.twitter.com/uDEAxRJGhV
— GlobalCitizenClub (@gccnft) March 25, 2022

Among the rich and famous members of the club include Malaysian rapper Joe Flizzow, Hong Kong actress Sharon Chan, and New York-based artist Young Paris. Recently, the club revealed a special edition collection in collaboration with Bonia comprising a limited supply of 333 NFTs—a significant step on its roadmap and a foreshadow of more releases to come.
Website | OpenSea | Instagram | Twitter | Discord
8sian

8sian is one of the first, if not the first, local NFT project to be founded by a woman—Nicole Yap. She prides herself as an early adopter of cryptocurrency and is passionate about bridging Asian culture with the metaverse. The project consists of 8,888 NFTs of Asian women, each digitally illustrated by a lead artist, known pseudonymously as MrHike, to represent the unique characteristics and traits of women across Asia.

Instead of the standard ‘roadmap’, 8sian adopts a fluid approach with a focus on building a close-knit community and educating new members on their journey in the NFT space. This includes virtual experiences such as accessories, wearables, and properties on virtual land in the metaverse (Decentraland and Sandbox). The team is also working towards developing the 8sian Foundation Museum, which will serve as an NFT exhibit utilising VR technology to support artists and showcase artworks that celebrate the beauty and history of Asian culture and heritage.
Website | OpenSea | Instagram | Twitter | Discord
The Tiger Archives

In conjunction with the Year of the Tiger, local streetwear brand Pestle & Mortar Clothing partnered with Tiger Beer to launch an NFT collection dubbed The Tiger Archives. The collection comprises 6,888 NFTs, each of which features a fully hand-drawn Lucky Tiger art piece that’s ingrained into the Ethereum blockchain. The Chinese archival tiger designs draw inspiration from Tiger’s beer bottles over the years and represent a lucky charm for owners to take on the year ahead.

All attending The Tigers’ Den in LA will receive a 1/1 custom tote bag! If you’re a Saber – we’re also giving you a limited edition A3 framed print of your Lucky Tiger. These items are to be collected at the party itself, and will not be shipped. Register on discord! pic.twitter.com/SMEKoXVI43
— The Tiger Archives (@pestlemortarSEA) March 23, 2022

Each NFT is unique and programmatically generated from over 86 possible traits, with some being rarer than others. Owners will be entitled to members perks throughout the year, including exclusive merchandise, free airdrops, as well as curated parties and experiences in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Metaverse. The road map details initiatives for every quarter, starting with the Tiger Uncaged Project where 30 per cent of NFT sales was used to support the local arts and music scenes through a series of grants.
Website | OpenSea | Instagram | Twitter | Discord
Punks

If you’re familiar with CryptoPunks—one of the hottest NFT projects in the world today—think of this project as its Malaysian tribute. Founded in March 2021, Punks Malaysia features 300 pixel NFTs with unique traits such as category (entertainment, sports, culture, and so on); gender; and race. Each pixel is optimised in the SVG markup to minimise storage on the Ethereum blockchain as part of its efforts to go green.

Punks NFT owners will be featured on the local NFT.my marketspace and gain access as well as exclusive perks for future projects. Profits will go towards NFXT, a Malaysian not-for-profit organisation that aims to support local artists in the NFT scene by providing educational materials, minting funds, and peer support.
Website | OpenSea | Twitter | Discord
Chapfans

Whilst the Metaverse is largely populated with NFTs of apes and pixels, one Singapore-based Malaysian designer by the name of Wan Tsau wants to introduce the humble chap fan (economy rice) to Web3 adopters. Cue Chapfans, the “most expensive cai fan (economy rice) in Singapore” (and by extension, Malaysia). The collection features 388 plates, inspired by back-alley street vendors and kopi tiam stalls in Malaysia and Singapore.

Each NFT is programmatically and randomly generated from 50 types of dishes, three types of gravy, five types of plates, and nine background colours on the Polygon blockchain. Minting price for a Chapfans NFT is 0.04ETH. Wan Tsau’s goal for the project is to rally the NFT community to support the cultural dish and kickstart a pop art movement, similar to Andy Warhol and his Campbell Soup cans. He’s also looking to expand into collectible prints and merchandise, and collaborate with different industries such as F&B, art collectors, and lifestyle brands in the future.
Website | OpenSea | Instagram | Discord
Guava Girls

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guava Girls NFT (@guavagirlsnft)

Co-founded by two mothers (one of whom is Vancouver-based Malaysian visual artist Arty Guava), Guava Girls is a new and upcoming NFT project underpinned by a simple concept: balance. Inspired by the struggles of mothers with full-time careers who juggle motherhood and many other responsibilities, the project is conceptualised as a retreat for women in the Web 3.0 space. You may be familiar with the “play-to-earn” concept with gamified NFTs, but this project aspires to build an entirely different “care-to-earn” community for members to learn about Web 3.0 together while promoting and practising self-care.

The Guava Girls Genesis Collection will feature unique generative NFT art pieces based on more than 500 traits hand-drawn by Arty Guava herself and reviewed by a diverse team of 10 community members. NFT owners will earn a unique Arty Guava artwork and gain early access to pre-sale lists for future Guava Girls collections, as well as activities, rewards, and events that focus on mindfulness, self-exploration through art, parenting, and career development. Pre-sale of the collection starts on June 28.

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

NFT
Art
technology
Malaysian artist
blockchain
Digital art
lifestyle
Metaverse


Fashion
Dressed up Fridays: How to wow at your Christmas party
Belle of the ball

14.12.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

For those of you who are already planning for your very own Christmas party this year, you might just forget to plan your head-turning outfit for this one night, especially after sorting out the food, drinks, music, guest list and etc. Be the belle of your own ball in an immaculately dressed getup, and remember to give your brightest smile in every #wefie (and in real life too of course).

Turn heads in an off-shoulder dress from Ellery—a brilliant red frock that isn’t too simple or complicating, thanks to its flattering satin-faced crepe material which allows it to fall loosely over the body. We love the deconstructed ruffles at the bell sleeves that cascade ever so slightly.

Sling this Jimmy Choo ‘Candy’ clutch so that you don’t have to hold your phone awkwardly as you make your rounds greeting your guests. Made of transparent antique-rose acrylic inlaid with hundreds of glittering paillettes, it comes with a pale-gold chain strap to go hands-free.

Clear crystal drop earrings are all you need to accessorise, as your bright dress is guaranteed to get all the attention. This asymmetrical pair from Maison Margiela is a modern touch you need for your getup.

Get your mani-pedi done with this shade of rose-gold from NARS to go along with the festive-coloured theme in your look. The metallic, foil-like finish complements your clutch perfectly as well.

A bright red lippie is always welcomed for dinner parties, and what better way to make a statement than with Dior’s Rouge Dior in 999—the quintessential classic red in a creamy and moisturising formula.

Lastly, put your best foot forward in a pair of Stuart Weitzman ‘Nudist’ sandals in platinum leather. As a clunkier shoe (like a wedge or pump) might weigh down your look, ensure that your footwear doesn’t compete with your dress for attention.

Related stories:
Dressed up Fridays: Get your pouf onDressed up Fridays: Sequin glory

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Buro Loves
Fashion
Dressed up Fridays


Beauty
Beauty buzz: Benefit Cosmetics co-founder Jane Ford dies at 73, Fenty Skin launches at Sephora

01.01.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

Happy new year! Ahead we have a wide array of news—from the good to the sad, find all the beauty industry headlines you missed out on from last month!
L’Occitane cuts back on over 40 tons of plastic packing this holiday season

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by L’OCCITANE Malaysia (@loccitanemy)

The beauty brand’s commitment to reducing waste has been well-documented, such as their recycling initiative. However, their latest achievement is a stride in the brand’s personal journey towards sustainability. As compared to last year, the brand has managed to cut down their consumption of over 40 tons of plastic packaging. We hear you ask: “How did they manage that?”
Well, according to the brand, when designing their holiday collection and gift sets, they kept their green factor in mind. By replacing certain parts of their packaging materials with more sustainable options, the company was able to reduce their environmental impact considerably as compared to last year.
Aman launches a new fragrance line

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The official Aman Shop (@theamanshop)

Perfume enthusiasts—prepare to treat your olfactory senses. Aman, the luxury resort brand announced its newest venture into the beauty world earlier this month. In collaboration with master perfumer Jacques Chabert, the brand has launched five gender-neutral scents that are guaranteed to titillate the senses.
Chabert, who was born in Grasse (also known as the capital of perfumery is a veteran of the industry with over 50 years’ experience in the fragrance industry. The five scents he has created are as follows: VAYU (inspired by Amanpuri, Thailand), AYOM (inspired by Amanjiwo, Indonesia), UMBR (inspired by Aman Venice, Italy), ZUAC (inspired by Amanjena, Morocco), and ALTA (inspired by Aman New York).
The chairman and CEO of Aman, Vladislav Doronin, says: “The Spirit of Aman is an emotion that can be felt at each of our hotels and resorts. The otherworldly locations, the unique experiences and the connection with the landscape play a role in this feeling that is difficult put into words. In launching Aman Fine Fragrance, I feel that we have answered the call of our most devoted guests who have personally expressed their desire for such a range, and I hope that in turn we can evoke contented memories of time well spent in our destinations.”
Find out more here.
Lush apologises to the trans community over donation to anti-trans UK pressure group

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LUSH UK (@lush)

The beauty retailer found itself in hot water earlier this month after anti-trans allegations were made against the company. The company admitted to donating a £3000 (approx. RM16,000) grant to the Woman’s Place UK (WPUK).
WPUK is known for its advocation for anti-trans measures; one of its five demands is that “the principle of women-only spaces” should be “upheld and where necessary extended”. Further, WPUK speakers have allegedly demanded trans women’s exclusion from all women’s spaces, which includes toilets, locker rooms, prisons, and hospital wards.
The money from the donation was supposedly sourced from the brand’s ‘Charity Pot’ sales. The proceeds from the product are typically distributed to small grassroots groups and campaigns, after a strict vetting process and background check. In light of this, the brand has received criticism for their apparent support of anti-trans groups.
However, Lush has released a statement to contradict the allegations. The brand states: “Over the last 5 years, Charity Pot has given grants to 514 LGBTQ+ groups totalling £1.6 million. Our intention is to continue to fund the many wonderful trans groups that come to us needing help to stay safe and fight for acceptance and we hope that this has not put you off applying. We never wish to let you down or to not be right there by your side during your struggles.”
Fenty Skin arrives at Sephora Malaysia

View this post on Instagram

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Fragrance
Perfume
Aman Resorts
L'Occitane
Aman
Environment
Beauty Buzz


Collections
Chanel Spring/Summer 2022 Haute Couture in photos

25.01.2022
By Kelly Lim

SHARE THE STORY

RECOMMENDED

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

SHARE THE STORY

Explore More

Couture Week
Runway
SS22
Fashion
Chanel
Haute Couture
Collections