Watches
#BuroGetaway: 4 Places to visit for exquisite Balinese jewellery
Silver and gold

08.06.2017
By Buro247

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JOHN HARDY
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Established on the island since 1975, John Hardy’s creations have made a name for themselves as the pinnacle of artisanal hand-crafted jewellery in Bali. In honour of the lush landscape that inspires the brand and rich Balinese tradition, the production of every piece of jewellery is entrusted to local artisans and utilises only reclaimed gold and silver. Exemplifying responsible luxury, John Hardy’s “Greener Every Day” project allows customers to help them plant bamboo by purchasing pieces from the Bamboo Collection. To date, the initiative has yielded 900,000 seedlings that half neutralise the company’s carbon footprint.

Visit the John Hardy Ubud Workshop and Kapal Bambu Boutique at Jl. Raya Mambal, Br. Baturning No. 1, Mambal, Abiansemal, Mambal, Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Website | Instagram | Facebook

MARU
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Founded by artist, Martina Urbas who has designed and produced handmade jewellery in Bali for the past 28 years, Maru is a line of jewellery that uses a rich and detailed art form to celebrate both the spirit of the maker and wearer. The makers are incredible Javanese and Balinese artisans who contribute traditional technique and craftsmanship to each creation such as exquisite gold filigree from Java, wire weaving from Sumba and Lombok, and world-renown Balinese granulation.

Find Maru Jewellery at Jl. Raya Pantai Berawa No. 15, Canggu, Bali and at numerous other stockists on the island.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

JEMME
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Unlike the ubiquitous metalsmiths on the island, Jemme’s specialty lies in opulent gemstones, as one might predict. At Jemme, a mix of both classic and contemporary pieces are made, reflecting the vibrancy and eclecticism of Bali. Led by Head Designer, the jewellery team crafts each piece by hand – imparting as much care and passion into a little memento trinket as they would a dazzling heirloom piece.

Jemme Bali is located on Jl Petitenget 28, Seminyak, Bali.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

TULOLA
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Tulola merges Indonesian heritage with fresh creative sensibilities. A luxury jewellery brand with humble beginnings, the studio has grown from operating out of the founder, Sri Luce Rusna’s garage to garnering a cult following with over 40,000 and 80,000 strong following on Instagram and Facebook respectively. The vision of the brand is to evolve the artisanal gold and silver craft by preserving ancient techniques and discovering historical motifs while incorporating modern ideas into designs.

Drop by the boutique on Jl. Cendrawasih, No. 2 Petitenget Kerobokan, Kuta, Bali.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Food + Drink
How to make a Steamed Japanese Sweet Potato & Pear Salad by Fittie Sense
Carb-e diem

29.05.2017
By Rachel Au

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Recently featured in our #BuroEats for May 2017, Fittie Sense is one of the latest additions to Bangsar’s ever-growing food scene with a keen eye for reinventing the term ‘healthy eating’. Hence we asked them to share with us one of their favourite and easy-to-make salads for our video series of the month (previous episodes are here and here). Their choice: Steamed Japanese Sweet Potato & Pear Salad with Pomegranate & Pecan.
Watch the video below on how to make it and scroll on for the full recipe.

METHOD
1. Lay a bed of your favourite salad leaves on a plate. We used rocket, romaine lettuce and watercress. Baby spinach is a good alternative. There are no hard and fast rules to the quantities, just as much or as little as you want.
2. Compose the salad with the rest of the ingredients. Arrange half a green apple, sliced.
3. Scatter fresh coriander leaves, 7 should be enough.
4. Arrange 1 steamed Japanese sweet potato – peeled and sliced. Roasted pumpkin will also work well.
5. Scatter some pecans, about 7 pieces.
6. Then half a pear, cubed.
7. Finish with some mint leaves (optional) and pomegranate seeds; 2 tablespoons should be enough.
8. A pinch or two of black pepper if you like.

Apple Cider Vinegar Cinnamon Honey Dressing
Put all the dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl or jug:
– 5 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
– 150ml extra virgin olive oil
With a handheld blender, whisk or blend till combined, i.e. the dressing thickens into one consistency, and does not separate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For more info on Fittie Sense, head over to their Facebook or Instagram.

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Lifestyle
Malaysia has clinched the first gold medal in the 2017 SEA Games
Score!

16.08.2017
By Rachel Au

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#MalaysiaBoleh! As expected by many, we’ve won a gold medal in the men’s chinlone linking competition—a first for Malaysia since the sport’s debut in the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar.
The national chinlone team beat Philippines 391-271 during the final at the Titiwangsa Indoor Stadium today.
Chinlone, a traditonal, national sport of Myanmar is similar to sepak takraw except it requires six players to take turns juggling the ball in a circle.
The competition was also participated by Brunei who walked away with the bronze medal.

Pingat sulung #KL2017 buat Malaysia, pingat EMAS hasil sumbangan skuad Sepak Takraw Chinlone kita! Berapa RT untuk mereka? #KamiTeamMalaysia pic.twitter.com/B03hPaQmJq
— Team Malaysia (@TeamMsia) August 16, 2017

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Dior Couture Spring 2016 Collection

Fashion
Dior Couture Spring 2016 Collection
Understated grandeur

26.01.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

Months after creative director Raf Simons stepped down from his position and with no one to fill his shoes just yet, we could only expect a pared back beginning and end to Dior’s Couture Spring 2016 collection. But in-house designers Lucie Meier and Serge Ruffieux successfully brought on Simons’ modern romantic aesthetic to the table, with details that were thoughtful and remarkably intricate.

Picking up where he left off, the collection saw the usual revisitation of the Bar jacket—this time in a myriad of silhouettes; off-the-shoulder pieces that seemed as though they were tugged rather purposefully, and plenty of 3D floral embroideries that resonated with the feminine aesthetic of the atelier.

We did, however, miss the requisitory jaw-dropping gowns towards the end—those that you could imagine Jennifer Lawrence or Marion Cotillard donning during awards season. But what the collection lacked in exquisite princess moments, it made up for with the team’s determination in carrying the former creative director’s vision forward.
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Features
Weekend street style inspo: Helena Bordon
Effortless Brazilian style

05.12.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Style blogger, entrepreneur and socialite Helena Bordon is a regular on the street style section of fashion sites, and it’s not hard to figure out why: her versatility in pulling off looks for all seasons makes her an inspirational style maven. Wearing leather in broad daylight (and we’re not talking about leather accessories) might be a tricky prospect, but here’s how you can pull it off like the Brazilian blogger:

A sleeveless leather top from Narciso Rodriguez is the way to go, if leather motorcycle jackets are a tad too uncomfortable to wear in a warmer environment.

Go edgy chic with a pair of wool-blend, tailored trousers such as Rag & Bone’s ‘Aggie’ pants—it’s always fun to mix and match materials and combine the unexpected.

Colourful accessories help play down the severity of your look, plus it’s a great way to add a dash of colour to your versatile outfit. This Isabel Marant ‘Colorado’ gold-tone brass necklace is detailed with a black-resin oval and burnt orange-resin drop.

How can one resist adding a Louis Vuitton Petite Malle to the equation? This Epi Leather version in Graphite Nacre is a beautiful statement-making piece that’s perfect for a day-to-night outfit transition.

Lastly, a pair of chic shades for every potential style star in the making—we love how Dior Abstract sunglasses in tortoiseshell and green plays with volume and masculine elements.

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Culture
K-pop idols who openly support the LGBT+ community
Love is love

26.06.2023
By Marissa Chin

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While South Korea has shown its reach and impact across various industries and communities such as fashion, beauty and music, the country has surprisingly remained conservative towards LGBT-related issues. In fact, Holland—one of the only few openly gay artists in South Korea—was physically assaulted in a homophobic attack in May 2022. While the social climate surrounding LGBT in the country has been slowly improving, the topic still remains taboo and controversial.
As K-pop idols who have been heavily media trained, they are taught to not comment on such divisive issues. However, there are K-pop idols who have gone against the grain and bravely spoken out in defence of the LGBT+ community, even if it invites hate and negativity towards themselves. As the LGBT+ make up a huge part of the K-pop fandom, it’s comforting to know that there are idols that fans can look up to and feel seen. Ahead, we gleaned some of the most LGBT-friendly K-pop idols who have shown to be proud allies. Happy Pride Month!

OnlyOneOf

Debuted in 2019, OnlyOneOf is truly a gift to the LGBT+ community for being the only current boy group actively promoting queer storylines. Consisting of six members, the group gained an international fanbase for releasing songs that have explicit (read: not queerbaiting!) references to same-sex love. The sextet’s main focus is on exploring non-heteronormative relationships and each of the members has released their own solo tracks that follow a BL (boy’s love) narrative.

The members partake in their own songwriting and choreography, and are even set to star in a BL-themed web series soon! As a group unabashedly embracing queerness, OnlyOneOf is a rarity in the K-pop industry and offers much LGBT+ visibility to fans around the world. Here’s a video of the members watching proudly as a proposal between a lesbian couple occurred at one of their American concerts—showing how much of a safe space OnlyOneOf has created for their LGBT+ fans!

A COUPLE JUST GOT ENGAGED AT ONLYONEOF MINNEAPOLIS?!?!;?, pic.twitter.com/RHorfYtHyQ
— president of the masaya fanclub (@ultmill) April 5, 2023

Mamamoo

Mamamoo is known in the K-pop industry as one of the most supportive groups towards the LGBT+. From donning Pride-themed clothes to using gender-neutral lyrics, the quartet are proud allies of the queer community. The leader of the group, Moonbyul, released Shutdown which is an erotic song about a lesbian relationship whilst Wheein’s Goodbye also explicitly depicts a sapphic relationship.

Further, Mamamoo has a fan project called Rainbow Moomoos, in which LGBT+ fans and allies can sponsor Pride festivals around the country on behalf of the fandom. As a result, they were the first K-pop fandom to sponsor Seoul Pride in 2017.
Read: 6 Badass female K-pop idols we should all emulate

2AM’s Jo Kwon

Jo Kwon is a veteran of the K-pop industry and has always been ahead of the curve when it came to self-expression and the concept of masculinity. He pushed the boundaries in South Korea long before the LGBT+ movement became mainstream, making him one of the original K-pop allies (and member!) of the community. His debut Animal in 2012 (which features a pre-debut J-Hope) saw him decked out in tight leather pants and sky-high Jeffrey Campbell heels which was unseen for a Korean male artist at that time. While the singer has been subjected to many hate comments from netizens, his love for the LGBT+, specifically drag culture, and high heels remain unchanged.

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A post shared by 조권 (@kwon_jo)

In an interview with Newsis, Jo Kwon identifies as genderless. “Being genderless is my weapon…I’m able to accept myself as I am. This is my long-lasting weapon in the future genderless age.” The multi-talented artist has continued to embrace his androgyny and starred in multiple queer musicals.

BTS

While the mega pop icons are known for their powerful performances and record-breaking hits, ARMYs know that BTS are also vocal supporters of the LGBT+ community. Leader and rapper, RM, has expressed his solidarity towards them numerous times. For instance, he tweeted about Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’s Same Love and shared, “This song is about same-sex love. It’s good when you listen without paying attention to the lyrics, but even better if you do.” Their music video for I Need U and Run also has an implied homosexual relationship between the characters played by Suga and Jungkook.

Further, RM and Jungkook have covered several Troye Sivan songs, who is an openly gay artist. A lot of BTS’ music emphasises self-love and acceptance. This was relayed once again during RM’s United Nations speech in 2019 in which he encourages tolerance “no matter who you are, where you are from, your skin colour, your gender identity.” V AKA Kim Taehyung also once recommended Call Me By Your Name, a love story between two men, to J-Hope as a movie that he really enjoyed—taste!

Shinee’s Jonghyun
Image: Guilty Pleasure
Probably one of the idols most known for his fervent support of the LGBT+ community is none other than Shinee Jonghyun. As a member of a second-generation K-pop group, social media platforms were beginning to become vital tools to communicate with fans. The singer had no qualms about posting to his nearly one million Twitter followers on current events, no matter how controversial they were.

when jonghyun sent a message to a transgender bisexual person and changed his profile picture in support of the “annyeong” protests for lgbt rights in korea https://t.co/iOPlwoGJ5Q pic.twitter.com/ga0BEeOSHz
— joseph (@bvmkii) March 16, 2023

The most notable was when Jonghyun tweeted in support of 2013’s Annyeong Protest which highlighted the discrimination the LGBT+ community faced in South Korea. The singer had actually privately messaged the transgender university student who sparked the protest and comforted her by stating, “I support you. As a celebrity, as a minority of a different type in front of the public, I also feel disappointment towards the world that does not accept our differences. Of course, I can’t compare that to what you feel.” His kind words advocating for LGBT+ rights still resonate 10 years later. Sadly, Jonghyun tragically passed away in 2017, but his kindness and acceptance towards the queer community will always be remembered by his fans as his shining legacy.

Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Tiffany

Out of the group, singers Taeyeon and Tiffany are the ones who have shown the most support for the LGBT+. The former, known for being straightforward and not one to hold her tongue, stood up for her drag friends in 2013 when her Instagram post with two drag stars was met with criticism. When asked to delete the image, the singer simply said, “no and respect them they’re my friends.” On 11 October 2016, Taeyeon celebrated National Coming Out Day with a subtle post of a rainbow.

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A post shared by TaeYeon (@taeyeon_ss)

Tiffany has also shown that she has nothing but love for the LGBT+. For Pride Month, she partnered up with Neon Milk, a queer creative collective, to release a special edition of Girls’ Generation’s iconic debut song, Into The New World, for LGBT+ fans all around the world. Being aware that many of her fans come from the community, the California-raised singer also wrote a touching love letter on Billboard to them. She shared, “I’m thankful and blessed to be able to work with and love so many amazing individuals in the LGBTQ+ community that have contributed so much love to my art and my life.”

Le Sserafim’s Yunjin and Sakura

For a group that is barely a year old, it’s not often you see fresh-faced K-pop idols comment on taboo topics from the get-go. Embodying their group’s concept of living fearlessly, members Yunjin and Sakura are bold supporters of the LGBT+. Yunjin posted on the group’s Instagram with the caption “Little throwback for Pride 🙂 I love you. Unconditionally.”

little throwback for pride 🙂i love you. unconditionally.#LE_SSERAFIM #HUHYUNJIN #허윤진 #ホユンジン pic.twitter.com/LO7ueLuBQl
— 르세라핌 (@IM_LESSERAFIM) June 2, 2022

Japanese member Sakura also expressed some poignant views on same-sex love in a movie review for Close Knit which was published in Weverse magazine. In it, she mentions how her country needs to have a better understanding of queer community and its many forms of relationships. “Love between men, love between women, it’s fine that they exist…People who are referred to as transgender, they live life while being true to their hearts…Even myself, there isn’t a right timing or encounter yet but there’s a possibility for me to fall in love with a woman too.”

For more K-pop reads, head here.

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Features
Milan Fashion Week SS17: Day 1 Street Style
Numero Uno

22.09.2016
By Buro247

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Milan or as the New York Times dubbed it, Micheleville, has brought us the fanciest first day of fashion week yet. It could be attributed to the contagious Italian zest for life, but the more likely explanation would be the Michele touch.
Seeing as the roster for day one in Milan had the combination of Alessandro Michele at Gucci, Peter Dundas at Roberto Cavalli and Fausto Puglisi at well, Fausto Puglisi; it was a day where neither restraint nor rules applied. All kings of expression and extravagance in their own right, it is no wonder that their ethos for excess would spill over onto their audience.
Showgoers trickled in, donning whimsical getups ready for a dive down the rabbit hole. The frenzy of elaborate embroidery, fancy frocks and playful prints lifted moods in a jiffy. If anything, this is a reminder to always keep the fun in fashion.
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Fashion
3 Reasons why supermodels love Virtus, Versace’s AW19 handbag collection

12.09.2019
By Joanna Pinto

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If there’s one thing we’ve learned in fashion, it’s that supermodels are always on-trend with their choices of clothing and arm candies. After all, they’re the first ones strutting down the runway in each season’s new arrivals. This time around, we’re spotting some our favourite supermodels—namely Kaia Gerber, Gigi Hadid, Irina Shayk and Stella Maxwell—carrying a range of bags from Versace and turns out, it’s none other than the brand’s latest Virtus handbag collection that debuted on its Autumn/Winter 2019 runway show.
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In case you didn’t know, #VersaceVirtus has its own set of values (strength, courage and excellence) which the designer envisioned would define a new age of femininity. Learn more about these values and the three reasons why supermodels are loving the Versace Virtus handbag collection, below.
1. The name & its core values

If you look up the Versace handbook, the name is actually taken from the Roman deity and it symbolises three important values. Check out what Chief Creative Officer Donatella Versace has to say about them:

Strength: Where a woman cultivates her ambitions and knows that nothing worth having comes easily.Donatella says: “For women to have credibility, they have to work three times more than a man.”

Courage: A woman who is not afraid of making mistakes, and is brave enough to fail and try again.Donatella says: “(While) fashion is not something that can change the world… it can change the woman. It can empower the woman. It can make her strong, in herself, and to believe in herself more.”

Excellence: Curious and thirsty for knowledge, she is always open to learning and moving forward with change.Donatella says: “If you don’t open your mind, you’re going to stay in the past. We’ve got to chance the future.”

Back then, Virtus may have been adorned on armours and mosaics to show the importance of excellence as something attainable but today, these bags act as a chic modern-day armour for the confident woman who oozes character and substance.
2. The iconic V hardware from SS92
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Taking centrestage on the front of the bag is Versace’s signature letter V hardware that’s further embellished with acanthus leaves. FYI, this golden motif is inspired by Versace’s signature Barocco print which first appeared on the runway of its Spring/Summer 1992 show. Fast forward to today, this bold symbol is now synonymous with the aesthetic heritage of the brand.
3. The variety of styles and silhouettes

Not a fan of one-trick pony collections? You’ll be glad to know that the Virtus arm candies come in countless variations through an assortment of hues, shapes and workmanship. Silhouette wise, you can take your pick from a top handle, shoulder bag, tote, belt bag, or evening bag that’s either rendered in a magnetic flap over closure or shiny jacquard inserts with the letter V motif in metallic thread.

In terms of palette, there’s something for everyone because it’s available in both bright, striking colours (fuchsia, turquoise and coral red if you like it loud) as well as monochromatic, neutral tones (black, white and camel if you like it subtle). As for the workmanship, each piece is crafted from the finest quality calf leather where you can have your tote feeling buttery-smooth or textured with a quilted design outlining the pattern of the letter V.
Versace’s Virtus bag line is now available at all Versace stores nationwide.

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Technology
Tech-in-colour: Gadgets to brighten up your life

25.05.2021
By Natalie Khoo

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Beauty
9 Irresistible stocking stuffers to grab before they’re gone
Wishlist-toppers

26.09.2015
By Terry Saw

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RECOMMENDED

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

Deluxe Cheek & Lip Palette, RM318

This beautiful two-tiered palette featuring two shades of blush and eight flattering eye shadows is all you (yes, you!) need to go from desk to drinks. Bonus: these carefully picked shades flatter all skin tones so you won’t have to worry about making dents in only one or two squares!
Mini Lip & Eye Palette, RMwatches-and-jewellery-mens

Ultra-glam or naturally pretty, this pocket-rocket ensures you get the best of both worlds. Bonus: clutch and purse-friendly, it’s perfect for quick touch-ups in between New Year’s Eve parties.
Lip Gloss Trio, RM175

We all have that one friend who’s absolutely lovely, but can never decide what she’ll have for breakfast, let alone the shade of lippie she’ll wear that day. Solution: a lip-gloss trio in Sequin, Pretty and Pink Oyster to be used on rotation for every other day of the week!
Art Stick Trio, RM198

For the aspiring makeup artist friend, we recommend this lipstick-meets-liner set, which is all about precision, definition and intense colour – all things you’re guaranteed she’ll love.
Eye Shadow Palette, RM220 (in Greystone)

This sleek eye palette with six standout shades and textures is perfect for the dramatic best friend. Nothing says look at me better than a little shimmer and shine, wouldn’t you agree?
Shimmer Brick, RM174 (in Pink)

Next up, the shy cousin who doesn’t realise how pretty she is. This shimmer brick gives a natural, lit-from-within glow for the eyes and cheeks, subtly enhancing what’s already there.
Mini Brush Set, RM208

Downsize your beauty ammo without compromising what you need. This features four of Bobbi’s must-have brushes (face blender, cream shadow, eye shadow and ultra fine eyeliner brush) that get the job done – no questions asked.
Travel Brush Set, RM294

For the best friend who is always on-the-go, happily fights the jet lag by staying up to get her makeup done way before the day begins. An extended series of eight brushes (face blender, sheer powder, dual-ended concealer and eye blender, eye shadow, eye liner, ultra fine eye liner and brow brushes) will keep her happy, and makeup on point.
Beauty Case, RM495

Lastly, reward your favourite sibbling (read: your only sister) this uber luxe leather embossed beauty case, which makes storing beauty essentials super easy and more than makes up for all the times you accidentally borrowed an item or six from her beauty stash!
Bobbi Brown Holiday Gift Collection 2015 is now available at all Bobbi Brown counters and boutiques.

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Style
Kimono or #KimOhNo: The internet reacts to Kim Kardashian’s new shapewear line

29.06.2019
By Joan Kong

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Kim Kardashian has been on a roll with her business ventures this year, from an eyewear collaboration to her KKW Beauty brand which recently released a hot-selling body foundation and more. On Wednesday, the star took to Instagram to announce the launch of her new business—a shapewear brand, dubbed Kimono Solutionwear. In her caption, she shared that the project is something she’s been passionate about for 15 years, and the collection will feature sizes XXS to 4XL in nine shades. It didn’t take too long for the internet to react.
While Kim is no stranger to giving her brands catchy names that are a riff of her name (her Kimoji line, for example), she was quickly under fire for cultural appropriation. Kimono, which dates back to 15th Century Japan, is the country’s traditional clothing, typically worn to “celebrate health, growth of children, engagements, marriages, graduations, at funerals. It’s celebratory wear and passed on in families through the generations,” as stated in an interview in a BBC story. And for the name of a sacred cultural piece to be disrespectfully and ignorantly misused—especially when it’s related to undergarments—needless to say, it didn’t sit well with the public. #KimOhNo was trending on social media not long after, and the Japanese, in particular, have expressed their anger and condemned the star on social media. Even the Mayor of Kyoto, Daisaku Kadokawa, issued a statement asking Kim to drop the trademark for her brand. In the letter, he writes, “Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress fostered in our rich nature and history with our predecessors’ tireless endeavors and studies. It is a culture that has been cherished and passed down with care in our living. Also, it is a fruit of craftsmanship and truly symbolizes sense of beauty, spirits and values of the Japanese.”
Amid the backlash, Kim Kardashian is standing by her decision to move forward with the brand name. She issued a statement via The New York Times saying, “I understand and have deep respect for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture and have no plans to design or release any garments that would in any way resemble or dishonor the traditional garment. I made the decision to name my company Kimono, not to disassociate the word from its Japanese roots but as a nod to the beauty and detail that goes into a garment. Filing a trademark is a source identifier that will allow me to use the word for my shapewear and intimates line but does not preclude or restrict anyone, in this instance, from making kimonos or using the word kimono in reference to the traditional garment. My solutionwear brand is built with inclusivity and diversity at its core and I’m incredibly proud of what’s to come.”
Below are some of the internet’s reactions towards the #KimOhNo controversy:

This is #kimono I wore to my wedding. I’d like Kim to imagine how she’d feel if someone treated her wedding, prom or baptism dresses as lingerie. “Kimono” are not just clothes but are a symbol that evokes precious memories and important life events. #KimOhNo pic.twitter.com/gD2KrTzsLR
— Misako Oi (@misakohi) June 26, 2019

“Enhances the shapes and curves”This is the exact opposite of what a true kimono (着物) does. Also, to name underwear after traditional garments (often worn in formal situations)… I can only imagine how insulting this is for Japanese people. #KimOhNo #KimonoBody #kimno https://t.co/arc8E12u2H
— ホトトギス (@hototchan) June 26, 2019

Absolutely tasteless and awful. You have ZERO respect to the Japanese culture, do you. What’s wrong with you.
I’m from Japan. For us, Kimono represents the beauty & elegance of the country’s tradition. Your spandex underwear brand has nothing to do with it. I’m offended.
— TrinityNYC (@TrinityNYC) June 25, 2019

My culture is not your underwear. #KimOhNo pic.twitter.com/JIPsKy5SQX
— Mishamusic (@Mishamusic1216) June 26, 2019

Kimono: has a centuries long rich history and is deeply embedded in the traditions and culture of a country.
Kim Kardashian: OMg It hAs mY nAmE iN iT!#Kimohno
— Kyla Hsia (@kylahsia) June 26, 2019

I feel very sad that the name “Kimono” is being used to something completely different from what we Japanese know about it. Kimono is Japanese traditional clothes and we are very proud of its history and culture. I’m sorry but I feel this name choice is simply ignorant. #KimOhNo
— ヤス＠BUNKAIWA(ブンカイワ) (@bunkaiwa) June 26, 2019

What are your thoughts on this?

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Culture
Lucy Hale: The ‘Ragdoll’ star unpacks her love for dark and twisty tales—and what terrifies her

11.12.2021
By Adelina Tan

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Lucy Hale’s latest television project is intense and not for the faint-hearted, but it’s not a surprising twist in her career. A look through her filmography reveals that some of her most well-known projects—Pretty Little Liars, Fantasy Island, Truth or Dare—are rooted in heart-pounding thrills, nail-biting fights for survival, and a rising body count.
In Ragdoll, an immersive thriller based on the novel by Daniel Cole, six people have been murdered, dismembered and sewn into one grotesque body nicknamed the ‘Ragdoll’. Hale plays DC Lake Edmunds, a former LAPD officer who works with  DI Nathan Rose (Henry Lloyd-Hughes) and his boss-slash-best-friend DI Baxter, to solve the case by catching the ‘Ragdoll Killer’. Time is also their enemy as Rose, who returns to the field after a two-year court-mandated psych ward stay, turns out to be the main character and the last name on the kill list. This darkly funny and pitch-black thriller is from Sid Gentle, the makers of Killing Eve.

Over Zoom, we caught up with Hale (who was cheerful and fun to talk to, in case you’re wondering) to find out more about her Ragdoll, from her role in it to the atmosphere on set, and her insights on showbiz after many years in the industry.
Lucy, what attracted you to Ragdoll?
Lucy Hale: “I knew that I wanted to do something a little different when I took on my next TV character. Creatively, I was itching to do something a little darker, a little edgier. So that was sort of on my radar and I read Ragdoll and immediately loved it. I think I read it three times on the first day. I love shows like it and the whole genre.
“Ragdoll also seemed unique in the sense that it has a really dark, disturbing element but it’s also really funny. I think a lot of crime shows often forget that (element of humour). People have to make jokes about things, it’s how we cope with life and how the characters within this show cope with all the absolutely insane things happening around them. So, I thought that this mixture bends the genre in a way; it’s almost like having two genres in one.”

Image: AMC+ on Instagram

What was it about the role of DC Lake Edmunds, specifically, that called out to you?
LH: “I loved (playing) Edmunds. Upon meeting her, she seems very new to the game; a new kid on the block trying to find her way and find her footing. She talks a lot about her feelings but what was so interesting is that I knew there would be a lot of layers to peel back, to get to who she really is at the core of her being.
“We definitely get to explore that a little later in the season. (DI Nathan) Rose, the main character, is also layered. He deals with a lot, but I think all the characters, in general, have this element of just being really flawed and really human.”

Could you relate to your character and how did you prepare for the role?
LH: “I could relate to Edmunds purely in the sense of being new to a job and not knowing where you fit in or belong. I could also relate to wanting to do the right thing and speaking my mind. I definitely am a girl who wears her heart on her sleeve.
“With any character I play, I start with what I have in common and can draw from (my life). For what I don’t necessarily have in common (with the character), I make sense of it in a different way. For instance, I’ve never seen a dead body but I can relate to feeling disturbed or really scared, so I just drew from those emotions. But I actually ended up having more in common with Edmunds than I initially thought.”

Image: AMC+ on Instagram
Was it hard to switch out of character and to come back from the dark themes that the show ventures into?
LH: “In my experience, that’s probably the biggest misconception about shooting TV shows and films. For the most part, I can sort of leave my work at work and leave my home life at home. There were a couple of moments where the show was very physically demanding and we talked about heavy subject matters, but we also had so much fun making this show.
“What’s so funny is that behind the scenes, we were laughing and having a good time, whereas on camera we’re all distraught and in turmoil. I think that’s good. You don’t always have to be laughing, but I think that you have to get a lot of enjoyment out of it. Personally, I”m pretty good at compartmentalising.”
Speaking of enjoyment, true crime is something that you’re really passionate about. What draws you to it?
LH: “I do love true crime. I love the dark, the bad and the gruesome—a little too much, probably. I think, as humans, we are all fascinated by death or what happens to us when we die. The one thing that’s certain, for all of us, it’s that we’re all going to die. That’s really dark, I’m sorry, but it’s true. The whole psychological element is very interesting to me too. Why do people hurt other people, or what happens to someone that makes them a complete monster who takes it out on others: these are the questions that draw me towards true crime podcasts, documentaries and all that’s available.”

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A post shared by Lucy Hale (@lucyhale)

It’s interesting that you mentioned the psychological element. You started acting when you were in your teens. Has your perception of acting and being in showbiz changed over the years?
LH: “Yeah. I think, with what I do, there’s always an opportunity to grow and get better and to learn from those around me. I feel infinitely better after working on Ragdoll as I was constantly around people and seeing how they work. So, I think what’s really cool about my job is that there’s always an opportunity to try new things. There are no right or wrong answers.
“I’ve been doing this since I was a kid and the way I navigate the business side of things is a little different now. As I said before, I can compartmentalise the Lucy Hale that people think I am and my personal life, so I know how to keep both separate.
“As for acting, I think I’ll always be nervous and a little uncertain of whether I’m making the right decisions, but that is because I care about what I do and get really emotionally invested. It does sometimes bite me in the butt, I’m not gonna lie. I’ve found that I get my heart broken a lot by my job because things don’t always do well or work out. When they do, then it’s really great.”
Lucy Hale also gamely took on a round of ‘This or That: What’s More Terrifying’. Find out her answers below:

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READ: 7 Spooky places in Malaysia known for myths, murders, and mysteries
‘Ragdoll’ premiered Saturday, 13th November. Catch it now on Unifi TV channel 481 and BBC Player | Astro GO.

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Fashion
#Trendspotting: The waist-bag is the new backpack
Bum-ming around

27.07.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

First spotted during Spring/Summer 2016, hip-resting bags are making a comeback since its glory days back in the 1980s. Made popular by tourists, grandparents and The Rock, the once-deemed-unfashionable fanny pack is now reinterpreted by designers into various shapes and sizes. Whether the hip pack, waist/belt bag or bum bag, this silhouette is now taking the fashion world by storm—as seen on celebrities below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Belt bag trend 1″ rid=”5296″ order=”a_tstamp”}
If you still aren’t convinced, note that these bags come in a pretty handy size that’s useful to keep your essentials in, as opposed to pint-sized mini bags (trending a season ago) that could only fit a lipstick and some cash if you’re lucky. For days you need to dress down, opt for a street-style worthy picks from Alexander Wang, Stella McCartney, and Versus. For a dressier getup, look to sumptuous materials such as velvet, leather and lambskin for an elevated aesthetic. Check out our top picks from this season here:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Belt bag trend” rid=”5295″ order=”a_tstamp”}
1. Padlock belt bag by Alexander Wang
2. Lambskin waist bag by Chanel
3. Bow Crosspack by Fenty Puma
4. GG Marmont matelassé leather belt bag by Gucci
5. Benny belt bag by Hayward
6. Géronimos by Louis Vuitton
7. Velvet belt bag by Prada
8. Belt bag by Rebecca Minkoff
9. Faux nappa fanny pack by Stella McCartney
10. Logo belt bag by Versus

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Lifestyle
7 Things to do this weekend: 11 & 12 June 2022
Culture, arts, and dining

10.06.2022
By Phyll Wu

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

1. Try The Chow Kit X Mizukami’s new cocktail menu

Stroke of Orange

The Great Colada

A Currant Affair

Breakfast of Champions

Not Your Regular (A&W Order)

TCK After Dark

When: 10 June 2022, Friday onwards
Where: The Chow Kit – An Ormond Hotel, 1012 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur
Price: Cocktails range from RM35 to RM50
The Chow Kit and Shawn Chong of The Mizukami Collective have announced the next phase of their ongoing partnership since February 2021 with the unveiling of a new cocktail menu. Launching today (10 June), the menu comprises six unique cocktails that promise to evoke nostalgia, especially for Malaysians who grew up drinking beverages like Vitagen, Ribena, Milo, and Sarsi during their childhood.
“I wanted the menu to celebrate imagination and the way that taste memories can be triggered by familiar flavours,” Shawn explains about the inspiration behind the drinks. He says these memories can be good or bad, and might we add that they serve as a great conversation starter among friends too. The cocktails also take inspiration from classic drinks like the Pina Colada, Gin Rickey, and Boulevardier, while complementing the proudly Malaysian identity of The Chow Kit, a homegrown hospitality brand.
BURO Recommends: Have a sip with fellow locals for a walk down memory lane or invite non-native friends to try the cocktails and exchange childhood recollections!
Follow @bar.mizukami and @thechowkitkitchenandbar on Instagram for more updates.

2. Experience French culture at Le French Film Festival

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When: 9 to 26 June in Kuala Lumpur
Where: Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu
After a two-year long hiatus due to the pandemic, the much-anticipated Le French Film Festival is back with more programmes lined up to commemorate its 20th anniversary. Presented by the Alliances Françaises together with the Embassy of France in Malaysia, the festival aims to share the French culture with Malaysians through a variety of immersive programmes for all ages including performing and visual arts, music, gastronomy, and, of course—films!
Cinephiles across Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu can look forward to 21 award-winning French films curated under the theme ‘Bewitching Outsiders’. The theme this year especially honours women through films like Proxima, which tells the story of a single mother chasing her dreams to be an astronaut while struggling to balance her family and career. The film also shines a light on the challenges of surviving in a male-dominated industry as a woman—a common struggle that women face in reality. Additionally, the festival will also be screening Aline, a touching biopic on the household name, Céline Dion, played and directed by French stand-up comedian Valérie Lemercier.
For more information, visit the Le French Film Festival website.

3. Discover the wine for you at Lavo Gallery

Where: Lavo Gallery, Menara Lien Hoe, 8, Persiaran Tropicana Petaling Jaya
Indulge in the finest of wines at the largest underground wine cellar in Malaysia and the first-of-its-kind built with carefully calculated conditions to preserve fine vintages. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to embark on a wine journey, the gallery is a haven to enjoy the finer things in life with over 2,000 professionally-curated wine labels to suit every palate.
While the wide selection of labels may seem daunting, a team of professional sommeliers led by Mr. Dibin Chin, the Second Runner Up for Malaysia’s Best Sommeliers in 2021, will be at your service to help guide you to find the perfect match for your preferences.
For more information, visit the Lavo Gallery website.

4. Satisfy your cravings at Alta Café

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When: Thursday to Sunday | 5pm until late
Where: REXKL
Alta Café has finally settled into their permanent home, nestled in the cultural hub of REXKL. Loosely inspired by European wine bars and their ventures afield, Alta Café serves an array of mouth-watering delicacies along with unique refreshments from Australian producers who practice honest, low-intervention winemaking.
For more information, follow @alta_cafe on Instagram or visit their website.

5. Support local self-taught artists at Rumah Tangsi

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When: 11 & 12 June 2022 | 11am to 10pm
Where: Rumah Tangsi
In conjunction with Indah Market, Rumah Tangsi is hosting an art exhibition for local self-taught artists who ventured into art without any formal education in the industry. Thi

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Motoring
Mercedes-Benz: The new AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan has arrived in Malaysia and it’s impressive

26.09.2019
By Ronn Tan

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What comes to mind when you think of luxury cars? Ingrained in our minds are some of the most prominent automakers of the zeitgeist. These brands aren’t just symbols of wealth and opulence, but are also known for their designs as well as performances. One such example is Mercedes-Benz. In 2018, the Mercedes-Benz Cars division sold a total of 2,382,800 vehicles—an increase compared to 2,373,500 in 2017. This includes the Mercedes-Benz brand with the Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes me sub-brands, as well as the new EQ brand. Numbers say a lot and it’s apparent that the German car manufacturer is still among the higher echelon in its industry.

It also important to not be complacent and the recent launch of the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan in Malaysia is proof that the company is forward-looking. The new option expands the current AMG line with an attractive entry-level model that comes with the following notable features.

With a two-litre four-cylinder turbo engine at the heart of the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan, benefits to the vehicle include spontaneous response to accelerator pedal commands, high tractive power, a lively response, and an engine sound typical of the range. Moreover, the A 35 accelerates from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in just 4.8 seconds when combined with Mercedes-AMG specific 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

On the outside, the vehicle comes with the powerful proportions of a dynamic and compact sedan. Clearly noticeable are radiator grille with twin louvres, the AMG Line front apron with flics on the air intakes, a front splitter, and silver chrome trim elements—all distinguishing features of the AMG design. In addition to that, turn your attention to the sides and you will see 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels as well as illuminated door sill panels.

There are some new features exclusive to the A 35, such as the AMG centre console with touchpad and Artico man-made leather seats (with Dinamica microfibre in black and red seat belts). That isn’t all as the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan also has the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system. It provides maximum-resolution 3D graphics.

Furthermore, the A 35 comes with AMG Dynamics—a new feature in the AMG Dynamic Select drive programmes. This allows the vehicle to steer precisely and spontaneously. The AMG Ride Control suspension brings to the table an adaptive adjustable damping system. Drivers are able to change between three different configurations from comfort-focused to sporty.
The Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC Sedan is priced at RM348,888. For more information, visit this website.

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Features
24 Minutes with Swarovski creative director, Nathalie Colin

17.07.2018
By Cai Mei Khoo

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Season after season at Paris Fashion Week, I drop by the Swarovski head office where Nathalie Colin, creative director for Swarovski consumer goods business and executive vice president of communication, will be on hand to take me through the array of shiny, new season accessories in a myriad of colours she’s planned for the months ahead. So it was a real pleasure to meet Nathalie here in Kuala Lumpur, on her first official visit to Malaysia, where the brand was hosting their ‘Brilliance For All’ annual gala that saw some 200 guests in attendance. I sat down with Nathalie to find out a little more about Swarovski’s Autumn/Winter 2018 collection, where she finds inspiration, and future plans for the brand.
Cai Mei Khoo: You’ve been creative director at Swarovski since 2006, and you’re also executive vice president of communication. How do you strike a balance in your work?
Nathalie Colin: Creative direction of the brand is the heart of what I do. Being part of the management board is important as that’s where we define the strategy of the brand, how we will bring that strategy to 2022 and beyond, how we ensure the business continues, how it will grow, how to search for the right talent, how to be an employer of choice, amongst other things—it’s a mix of creative, and important topics. It’s left brain and right brain. It can be hectic but it’s not repetitive—it keeps things exciting.

Speaking of keeping things fresh, Swarovski continues to excite season after season. Where does that creativity come from?
I’ve always loved telling stories since I was a little kid. When I was about 9 years old, my family would travel out to our house in the countryside in the east of France for the weekend. I was away from my friends so I had to make up stories in my head to keep myself entertained. I would people watch from the car during the journey; I would see someone hanging out the laundry or opening a window in their homes and would create stories about their lives. In the countryside, I had to make friends with nature—I created my own world with fairies and animals. In this area (in the east of France, near Lorraine), there’s a tradition of fairy tale. There are a lot of forests here, and their names were fantastic, like the ‘Lake of the Fairies’ and so forth. When I was a kid, I was convinced they existed, and that if we went there often enough, I would see them.

To me, nature is the best designer in the world. When you look at flowers or spider webs, every single creation is outstanding—I’m never bored. It’s an endless source of inspiration, and when I travel I discover new shapes, new flowers, new foliage, and more. At the same time, I appreciate the fragility of our environment. Civilisation is destroying it—so in a way, my work is to preserve these memories.

Travel is your biggest inspiration then?
Yes, there are so many things that fill you with new emotions and inspiration for life. It makes you realise that you’re not the centre of the world, which I think is very important: not to be self-centred in your life.

What specific things do you seek out when you travel?
I love to observe people. I go to the local supermarkets, and systematically scan all the aisles to see how it’s structured, what products are carried. These things tell me a lot about the lifestyle of the locals. I also love sitting on a terrace or in a crowded place and people watch. I love observing different people, how they dress, and also love talking to people. Other sources of inspiration include exhibitions, contemporary art, and understanding the history of the land. A lot of a country’s historical past, influences people’s behaviour or preferences.

What’s a recent exhibition that inspired you?
I went to the Gustav Klimt exhibition in Paris at the Atelier des Lumierès where they had digitised his paintings and made it an immersive experience. It is within a huge space and you feel like you’re part of the painting and you see different elements of the paintings taking shape. What was great is that it appeals to people of all ages; there were 3-year-old kids who were dancing away—everyone was part of it. It was an incredible experience.

Can you please tell us about the new collection?
The Swarovski AW18 collection is called Crystal Tales. With crystals, it’s an invitation to dream, to be inspired, to escape to a fantasy land, wandering through a forest, where you meet squirrels and foxes, scarabs, spiders, and where you can wrap branches with gold leaves around your fingers. It’s a magical walk through this enchanted forest. The Holiday collection has a similar inspiration but it’s frosted, almost as if the snow has covered the entire collection, all icy and white.

Sound enchanting alright. Do you have any favourite pieces from the collection?
Yes, there’s a lot of attention to detail, from the back of a jewellery piece, or a mix of techniques used. I love the fox ring, and also the double ring with the squirrel who’s capturing a pearl. He’s a glamourous squirrel that eats pearls, not nuts.

What are some key trends for the season?
Oversized pieces; asymmetric earrings continue to dominate, mismatched earrings, which we started last season, layering of symbolic motifs like evil eye, good luck charms, personalised charms. We see a lot of cocktail rings coming back; and layering is still key. You can mix two pairs of earrings in a very personal way.

You’re right. The trend for jewellery pieces with protective or good luck charms and symbols continue to grow.
I think we all need different elements of reassurance in our lives. There are many things that provoke a lot of stress and people are looking at things that give them confidence, comfort, and protection.

What’s one piece of jewellery you wear all the time?
I love cocktail rings. It could be in different designs but I always wear one. I like combining a big cocktail ring with a very dainty ring to create a duo. I created a few duos like that in this collection; for example, a statement ring featuring a large crystal, with butterflies and scarabs surrounding it almost like they’re overlooking a pond, worn together with a very simple, delicate double ring with just one butterfly and a pearl. I love the story that pairing creates.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Swarovski AW18 – Nathalie Colin” rid=”6384″ order=”a_tstamp”}
How has social media changed the perception of Swarovski?
It makes the brand less static. It becomes more accessible, more interactive, and our followers can comment, and engage with the brand. We’re also working with more local influencers and that helps us to become closer to our local audience. Here in Malaysia, Neelofa, or Venice Min, would be more relevant to the market than say, Karlie Kloss.

What’s one app you use on a daily basis?
I love Instagram. It’s very visual and helps me keep connected, and see what’s on people’s mind.

How do you keep pushing the brand forward?
It’s something I constantly think about: how to keep Swarovski fresh. We have more than 120 years of history, but that does not mean that we can sit back and relax. We have to constantly push boundaries, challenge ourselves to be inventive, and push creativity. It’s what I’m making myself and my team do. To think ahead, and not just look at the past. We’re looking at how to link social, digital with the drive to store or our online platform. It’s a 360-experience.

Has your in-store experience changed at all?
We are currently working on a new store concept. I’ve just briefed an architect on what will come next—it’s still very early stages of brainstorming right now.

Can you tell us a bit more about the starting point for your next collection?
It’s about light. I was thinking about the properties of crystal, and how we can build a story around that, how light changes in different regions around the world, and how it evokes different emotions.

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Watches
Hublot celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month with pretty, pink timepieces
Bang, bang

10.10.2016
By Buro247

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

If you have never been the type who would don a pink watch, the Big Bang Pop Art ‘One Click’ range will change your mind. Celebrating its eighth anniversary with a new design, the now iconic Big Bang 38mm now boasts a diameter of 39 mm, featuring a stone-set bezel and no chronograph. Designed for women, the new look adopts the design codes of its male counterpart, the Big Bang Unico launched in 2013.
With a feminine hue teamed with a masculine silhouette, the 39 mm is the perfect accessory for any mood and outfit. Bar Refaeli, the first female face of the Swiss luxury watch brand commented, “When it comes to style and fashion, the key thing for me is to feel comfortable. Jeans paired with a white t-shirt, a pair of heels and some accessories. Flowing, diaphanous dresses, fabrics that fit like a second skin. I love items which match my outfits: timeless, iconic pieces; simple and beautiful. One of my favourite accessories is my Big Bang. Now, thanks to its interchangeable straps, I can choose colours and fabrics to complement my style. ” Did we also mention that the 39 mm is paired with the ‘One Click’ strap? The patented attachment system allows the strap to be changed quickly and easily, elevating its versatility.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Hublot Pink October” rid=”4483″ order=”a_tstamp”}
In addition, the screws, crown, indices and numerals have all been restyled as well as the HUB1710 automatic manufacture movement with the date at 3 o’clock. So whether it is the bold 42 Orange Sapphires or girlie 42 Pink Sapphires bezel or the Hublot gold (King gold) or steel case, the multifaceted and creative style of the new Big Bang Pop Art “One-Click” is a must-have for the everyday woman.

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Lifestyle
12 Best places to eat, drink, play, and shop in Petaling Jaya

24.02.2020
By Zoe Yang

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RECOMMENDED

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

Looking for things to do on a weekend or in search of never before ventured places? Peep our guide for fun things you can do in Petaling Jaya—you might just go back to one of these hidden gems for more!
Where to eat and drink:
1. The Hub, SS2:

Little Pig

Headed by Chef Yu Khim, the team over at Little Pig is committed to providing guests a gastronomic delight, and by doing so, they have their produce sourced mainly from Spain and Europe to get the best quality. Moreover, only recently opened in 2019, the team has already made quite a name for the Spanish eatery (especially their tapas) within a short span of time.
The cosy dining has been getting rave reviews for its range of flavourful Spanish dishes—some of their house signatures include Crispy Pork Belly Eel Bao, Squid Ink Paella, Roasted Cauliflower, Acorn-fed Iberico Jamon 5J, Patatas (Potato) Bravas, and their must-try Iberico Pork Ribs. Do note that portion may be little since the word, tapas, means appetisers served in small portions.
Tip: Make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: Lot B1-06 ,The Hub SS2, 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Monday & Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm | Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 016-222 2708
Website | Facebook | Instagram

 Kooky Cream

If you’re looking for places to get your sugar cravings fixed, this hidden gem can definitely cater upon your sweet tooth needs. With everything made fresh on the daily and in-house, a few of the their most sought-after treats (and crowd favourites) are Rose Lychee Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, Earl Grey Mille Crepe, and Japanese Sweet Potato Invisible Cake.
If cakes aren’t exactly your thing, they have an assortment of palatable desserts such as berry pavlova, meringue pie, shaved ice and more. Lastly, don’t forget to pair your treats with the highly recommended handcrafted drink, Hōjicha Latte.
Tip: Visit earlier as seating is quite limited here.
Address: Lot A-G-02 The Hub SS2 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 2pm – 11pm | Friday & Saturday, 2pm – 12am | Sunday, 2pm – 10.30pm | Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 016-773 7358
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Pints & Putts @ The Hub, SS2

Pints & Putts is the first mini golf restaurant and bar in Malaysia—it offers nine differently themed mini golf courses with numerous levels of difficulty, from sci-fi to horror to Lego. This is a decent spot to visit if you’re looking for a fun place not too far off to wind down after work, or a chill weekend with your family.
If you feel like you could use some delicious bits during your mini golf session, you can opt for their highly praised Asian fusion dishes such as rice bowls, Soft Shell Crab Burger, SWINGS (Korean spicy fried chicken), Pulled Pork Burger, and Pavlova.
For an extra good time, a few sips of cocktails never hurt—if eating your desserts are too basic for you, you can opt for one of their recommended cocktails, Strawberry Cheesecake; other beverage include Frozen Margarita, Classic GNT (Gin and Tonic), Classic Old Fashioned (bourbon). This restaurant bar is also praised for its decent food, drinks and entertainment—all at a reasonable price.
Tip: Make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address:  Lot A-G-05, The Hub SS2 Retail 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 3pm – 12am | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 012-399 7271
Facebook | Instagram
2. Collective

Good news for all coffee enthusiasts and self-proclaimed coffee connoisseurs out there—you can geek out about coffee and experiment with a slew of specialty coffee—all at this hidden gem tucked away in an industrial area located in Petaling Jaya. Highly praised for its wide range of quality coffee blends and single origin coffee, this is the perfect roastery to get your coffee fixed, especially those who are fuelled by good coffee and can’t go about the day without it. A few of their best-selling items are Haaraz Peaberry (coffee beans sourced from Yemen), Huye Mountain, black espresso and latte. Meanwhile, you can have their pastries to go with your coffee too; perfect for your day of indulgence.
Tip: We heard that the cafe’s peanut butter brownies are to-die-for!
Address: Unit 3, Ground Floor, Wing A, Lot 5, Bangunan Basic Eight, Lorong 19/1A, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday, 8.30am 5pm | Saturday, 8.30am 6pm | Closed on Friday
Contact: 017- 205 5644
Website | Facebook | Instagram
3. GRUB by Ah Hong & Friends

Previously a struggling chap fan store, restaurant owner h Hong gave a full revamp to his failing business, turning it into a modest (not fancy) steakhouse and now doing exceptionally well, better than ever. Over at GRUB, foodies can look forward to having a sinful, hearty feast and satiate gobsmackingly delicious meat servings of well-seasoned, juicy steaks including wagyu, New York striploin, T-bone steak, tomahawks, and more.
If you don’t want any beef, that’s fine too—their grilled lamb, seafood bouillabaisse, and grilled chicken chop also received favourable reviews. Not only that, this eatery is commended for its affordable prices for the variety of steaks, which is the reason why the restaurant functions on a self-service basis, able to keep their food prices down.
Although usually packed with large crowds, the ambiance of the restaurant still manages to ooze cosy vibes amongst the busy setting—definitely a trendy spot to chill with your loved ones or old friends for a memorable night. Don’t forget to read GRUB’s cheeky menu introduction for a good laugh before dinner.
Tip: Make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: 608, Jalan 17/10, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday, 6pm – 11pm | Saturday – Sunday, 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 014-607 2983
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4. Kwong Wah Ice Kacang

While there are many trendy cafes serving your favourite Korean or Japanese shaved ice desserts, it is time we go back in time and embrace our love for these iconic local desserts—the ever lusciously sweet ais kacang (also known as ABC; ais batu campur) and cendol. Over at Kwong Wah Ice Kacang, these two sweet treats are doused in authentic (and really aromatic) gula melaka.
The 81-year-old family recipe seems to remain as people’s favourites, never fail to attract long queues under the hot sun, even when some guests stood to savour a bowl of dessert when the store ran out of seats! Surely, there is nothing more Malaysian than queuing up under Malaysia’s sunny climate, and quenching one’s thirst with a cooling, sweet treat! Other local delights you can find there include Nyonya kuih, assam laksa, nasi lemak, mee siam, and more.
Tip: Visit earlier to avoid long waiting time.
Address: No. 5, Block C, Happy Mansion, Ground Floor, Section, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 012-550 0975
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5. The Passenger Bar

Photo credit: The Passenger Bar | Facebook
If you’re in search of a quiet, fancy place with quality booze to chill at, this might just be your next go-to spot in town. The Passenger Bar is a newly opened concept bar designed in a luxury train themed environment. With guidance from six wine enthusiasts manning the bar, guests can savour a selection of their fine wines as well as their charcuterie board for an exquisite experience. You can also opt for the bar’s Australian craft beer or delicious cocktails if you’d like.
Address: Kota Damansara, 5-2, Jalan PJU 5/12 Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 5pm – 12am | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 03-7498 1956
Website | Facebook
Where to play and shop:
6. Party Room Malaysia

Outdoor activities too overrated for you? We got you covered—situated at Atria Shopping Mall, Party Room hosts an array of fun and interactive indoor games ranging from Human Whack-A-Mole, Rainy Bike, and 3D Twister to Giant Jenga, board games, Lego wall, and many more. These family-friendly activities have been vouched by many for its incredible fun and pleasant experience.
In case you’re wondering, you can also organise private parties and corporate team-building events, given that Party Room also functions as an event space, able to accommodate up to 120 guests. With this one-of-a-kind recreational spot in town, you’re bound to make some of the funniest memories over at the Party Room with your family and friends.
Address: T22, Atria Shopping Gallery, 3rd Floor Lot, 23 & 23A, Jalan SS 22/23, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Opens daily, 10am – 10pm
Contact: 019-200 0861
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email: [email protected]
7. Workshops at Stickerrific

This cosy spot epitomises heaven on earth for all the arts and crafts aficionados out there. The craft store supports many creative local brands as well as international brands, such as Bingka, Loka Made, Mossery, Whimsy Whimsical, Clairefontaine, Van Gogh, La Dolce Vita, J.Herbin, and many more.
Aside from wandering around the creative space, Stickerrific also holds various workshops on a monthly basis, offering classes on watercolour, calligraphy, bullet journaling, lettering composition and watercolour brush lettering. Head over to their website to see which one in particular you’d like to catch this March!
P/S: If you’re lucky, you might even get friendly visits from the store’s purrfect cats—Luke, Leia and Chewie.
Address: F-85-3.1, Level 3, PJ Live Arts, 72A, Jalan Universiti, Jaya One, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday | 12pm – 7pm
Contact: 03-7931 4092
Website | Facebook | Instagram
8. NUDE The Zero Waste Store

Photo credit: NUDE The Zero Waste Store | Facebook

While adopting a zero-waste lifestyle can be quite costly, this store comes highly recommended for its reasonable pricing. Whether you’re interested or only a beginner in this lifestyle, check out the store’s entirely package-free goods, featuring an assortment of everyday items from wet and dry foods to personal care to household liquids. Before you pay them a visit, make sure to bring your very own trusty bottle or container to store your goodies!
Address: 11A, Jalan 19/29, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 7pm | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 011-3773 9639
Facebook | Instagram
9. Flow Dive Center

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary to do, you might want to consider investing in this hobby/sport. Over at the PADI-certified dive school, a team of professional (and extremely passionate) diving instructors caters to different learning styles as they take students’ learning experiences seriously, ensuring their students make the most out of it.
Rest assured that they have all your diving needs sorted out at their world-class facilities—you don’t have to worry about getting your own equipment! If you’re keen on taking up this activity, this center is recommended by many for its reasonable pricing, too. Other than that, they also organise a range of community events such as underwater photography trips (and workshops), conservation projects, scuba diving trips around the world, and more. One thing to tick off your bucket list, on to the next!
Address: Lot G, PJ Palms Sports Center No1, Lorong Sultan, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Opens daily, 10am – 10pm
Contact: 012-522 9257
Website | Facebook | Instagram

10. ILAIKA

A joint lot with a coffee shop, One Half, visitors can first take a look around the space, then order a cup of Joe to chill out for the day. The store offers an array of random (and beautiful) pieces ranging from fashion pieces to interior furnishings to personal care—all sourced from local designers and consignors. Spend your weekend here and you might just come across some interesting artisanal finds to treat yourself; or if you’re on a hunt for a unique gift for that special someone, this would be a decent spot to visit.
Address: 17, Jalan 20/13, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 11am – 10pm daily
Contact: 016-353 4727
Facebook | Instagram

11. Canyon Paintball

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled activity to do over the monotonous weekend, this is your shot. A game of shooting with friends or family sounds like a day of fun already. All you need to do is prepare a strategy, trust your gut according to the situation, and win the battle as the last man/person standing on the battlefield.
Address: Changkat Bukit Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Saturday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm | Closed on Monday – Friday
Contact: 012-201 3454
Website | Facebook | Instagram

Nothing works? You can plan a short and sweet getaway:
12. The Villas @ Sunway Resort & Spa

Photo credit: Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa | Facebook
In desperate need of a deserving retreat? Take a spontaneous trip down to Sunway and make the most out of your weekend. This is the perfect spot for those who don’t want to travel far. For a luxury hideaway, guests can opt for a stay at any one of the resort’s three massive private villas: The Villa, Deluxe Villa, and Premier Villa. Each villa comes with a private plunge pool, private balcony as well as butler services, and more. A whole villa to yourself is a blissful way to wind down and recharge your batteries before another busy week begins.
While there, you can opt for a relaxing massage session at the resort’s in-house wellness spa, Mandara Spa. Other perks include a five-minute walking distance to one of the largest shopping malls in Malaysia, Sunway Pyramid, and a day of fun at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, to slow down the day all within one strategic destination.
Address: Persiaran Lagoon Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 24 hours
Contact: 03-7492 8000
Website | Facebook | Instagram

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Culture
Top 13 costumes from Beyoncé’s Formation Tour we hope to catch at Coachella
#SheWokeUpLikeThis

06.01.2017
By Buro247

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

The hype from the Formation Tour that spanned 49 shows and 46 cities, grossing over $250 million US dollars, had barely cooled down when Coachella revealed that Queen Bey will headline the 2017 festival.

Beyoncé is set to perform on both Saturdays, April 15 and 22, alongside acts like Bon Iver, Martin Garrix, Future and DJ Snake. Radiohead takes the stage on Friday to open the weekend with their headlining performance on Friday while Kendrick Lamar wraps things up on Sunday.

Aside from being the first solo female headlining at Coachella in the past 10 years—the last was Björk in 2007—Beyoncé is bound to make history with the most fabulous set of costumes to grace the stage at a music festival. Bey’s elaborate get-ups come from an all-star cast of fashion design mavens—Peter Dundas of Roberto Cavalli, Alessandro Michele of Gucci, Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy and Julien Macdonald, to name a few.

Here, we’re rewinding time to relive moments of the Formation Tour and picking out 13 snapshots that prove why Queen Bey will remain forever seated on her throne.
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Coachella 2017 will be held over two weekends between April 14 and 23. Tickets (unfortunately) are already sold out.

Related stories:
Beyoncé dabbles in athleisure with her new collection, Ivy Park
This is the actual recipe for Beyoncé’s lemonade
#StyleInspo: The best of Coachella 2016 Weekend

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Lifestyle
Cara Delevingne fronts the ‘I’m Not a Trophy’ anti-poaching campaign
Visually stunning

09.06.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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

Known to be an animal lover, Cara Delevingne has a lion tattooed on her index finger and, together with TAG Heuer, helped raised funds for Cecil the Lion last year. And now, the British model and actress extends her involvement in a good cause by being the ambassador of the ‘I’m Not a Trophy’ campaign. The organisation, founded by artist and photographer Arno Elias, aims to create greater awareness for the rapid extinction of endangered species around the world by creating visually unique campaigns to captivate a wider audience, drawing their attention to the cause.

By working with Cara, who has an influential voice in the world of social media, Elias hopes to bring recognition to the issue of diminishing wildlife population. “Cara is the genuine personification of ‘I’m Not a Trophy’. Truly a woman who plays by her own rules. Cara’s enthusiasm and vivacity are an integral part in bringing light to our message of wildlife protection,” said Elias.

The campaign was spearheaded by Elias himself. The photographs depict Delevingne with images of endangered species printed on her skin—a series of visually striking imagery. Take a look at the campaign here:
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Related stories:
Cara Delevingne: “I made it in modelling because I didn’t give a sh*t”
TAG Heuer reveals the Carrera ‘Cara Delevingne’ edition

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Watches
3 Personalities take on the Longines Flagship Heritage – 60th Anniversary 1957-2017
A new classic

24.11.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Every classic has a story. The Longines Flagship collection’s story dates back to 1957, when the Swiss watchmaking brand launched its first ever Flagship watch. Armed with a clean, white dial, thin profile and leather strap, it is arguably one of the most recognisable wristwatches of its time.

Six decades on, Longines celebrates a milestone anniversary of the Flagship collection this year with a new timepiece: the Flagship Heritage – 60th Anniversary 1957-2017. Inspired by a Flagship model from the Longines archives, the commemorative watch bears a minimal and classic dial, complemented by a brown alligator leather strap and a stamped flagship caravel to the back—a signature feature that is also sported by the original timepieces. Available in steel, yellow gold and rose gold, the steel one is limited to 1957 watches, while the gold versions are limited to just 60 watches. It exudes elegance with its brushed silvery dial and 38.5mm case, a size that will appeal to both genders.

Here, to highlight the heritage-inspired timepiece, three personalities share the stories of their personal favourite classics with us.

Debbie Goh | Actress
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“Luther Vandross’ ‘Dance with my Father’ holds a special place in my heart. For Vandross, the song is a tribute to his father, who passed away due to complications of diabetes. Vandross was only seven when his father died. I recently got to sing it in my latest movie Before We Forget, and dance with my on-screen father (Ti Lung)—it was a beautiful moment that I will always remember.”

Cliff Leong | Co-founder of The Alphabet Press
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“When I first came across letterpress printing, I was really amazed by its whole process. It has its own sound, movement, and rhythm; and every card war printed one colour and one piece at a time. Although it is a labour-intensive process requiring a high degree of craftsmanship, the quality and feel of the end product is something that really sets it apart from modern printing.”

Jason Choong | Co-founder of Flycycle
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“My favourite drink is the Old-Fashioned cocktail—it’s one of the first cocktails ever made. I like that it’s not too light, and it has just the right amount of fruitiness. It’s whiskey-based, whish is my preferred spirit. The very first memory I have of the Old-Fashioned is with my father. I enjoyed it with him when we were on holiday, and it always brings me back to that time.”

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Art + Design
A familiar name will be part of Sotheby’s inaugural street art dedicated auction
No Fly Zone

03.12.2017
By Buro247

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8 Best art galleries to visit in the Klang Valley

On the 8th of December, Sotheby’s will be hosting its first ever street art dedicated auction in collaboration with Hong Kong Contemporary Art (HOCA) Foundation, a non-profit organisation devoted to bringing art to the city outside the context of a gallery.

“Take it to the Streets” will feature 32 works generously donated by 29 international artists to raise funds for HOCA’s future exhibitions, events and educational programmes. Alongside pieces by renowned names like Invader, Vhils, Shepard Fairey and José Parlá, one by an artist who is no stranger to our local art scene will be up for auction. Ernest Zacharevic presents his fourth and final original of the year, titled “No Fly Zone”.

In conjunction with the occasion, a hand-finished silkscreen print version of the artwork has been released by the artist. The image depicts a boy playing dress up; aviator cap atop his head and holding a paper plane. The face and hands are built up through 21 layers of transparent inks and silkscreens, a process which produces a more faithful representation of the colour blends present in the original canvas. The body is hand finished with spray paints in his signature style, leaving each work a unique rendering. The finished piece is varnished with deckled edges. Limited to a run of 100, interested buyers can visit www.ernestzacharevic.com for more information.

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Fashion
Accessory of the day: Prada’s AW19 dangly floral earrings

22.02.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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

To quote the fictional fashion legend Miranda Priestly, “Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.” But florals for winter? Genius. Miuccia Prada balanced the muted colour palette of the collection with bright florals seen through digital print, embroidery and 3D appliqués embellishing the pieces. From the neck up, intricate floral ornaments hung prettily grazing at the shoulders. Daisies, daffodils and carnations in bright yellows and pinks are sure to lift spirits during the cold and sombre seasons. Dangly floral earrings may not be revolutionary but we do appreciate that the flowers are close to being anatomically accurate as possible. The stem and leaf details add a more realistic feel to the accessory, giving the appearance of freshly picked flowers. We’d wear the accessory as a single earring — the perfect statement piece!
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Fashion
Coachella 2023: All the stylish looks from the splendid extravaganza
Bringing the heat to the desert

17.04.2023
By Benedict Unang

Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella

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

Coachella—the biggest music and arts festival in the desert—has returned and festival-goers have been flocking to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, since last Friday to catch the thrilling occasion, which features mega headliners Bad Bunny, Blackpink and Frank Ocean. Like most music festivals, Coachella has evolved into a fashion playground for many celebrities, fashion moguls, and content creators.
That leaves us with the next question—what were the trends spotted on Weekend One? As always, there’s the classic bohemian style, like Emma Roberts’ fringed cream dress, Alessandra Ambrosio’s Siedres drawstring top paired with burnt orange Raisa Vanessa flared trousers and Charli D’Amelio in a flowy white maxi dress that’s perfect for the windy weather.
Not to be missed is Sara Sampaio, who nailed the Barbiecore aesthetic with her bubblegum pink crochet bralette by Lovers + Friends and lime green high-waisted shorts with sequins by Majorelle. In the thick of it all, some opted for a more minimalistic approach, such as Hailey Bieber with her white ribbed tank teamed with a pair of faded Acne Studio denim, and Kendall Jenner, who wore a black tank top and low-rise black slacks.
Of course, we couldn’t leave out the star-studded lineup. To kick off the show, Bad Bunny wore a custom patchwork puffer jacket by ERL with stacked giant chains, while Becky G served cowgirl style with a blue Western hat, rhinestone-studded bra top, and denim cargo pants. Blackpink, on the other hand, was decked out in a Dolce & Gabbana ensemble, complete with corset-style bodices and pink tulle accents. Keep scrolling to see more looks from the electrifying annual affair so far!

Emma Roberts

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Alessandra Ambrosio

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Charli D’Amelio

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Sara Sampaio

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Hailey Bieber

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Becky G

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Rosalia

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Jasmine Tookes

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Blackpink

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Bad Bunny

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A post shared by BAD BUNNY | FANPAGE (@badbunnyrm)

Christinna Kuan

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For more fashion reads, click here.

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Watches
Longines makes a splash with its latest additions to the HydroConquest collection

22.02.2019
By Su Fen Tan

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Introduced back in 2007, the HydroConquest marked Longines’ solid foray into the world of dive watches, keeping true to the traditional aesthetic and requirements of the sport without forgoing the brand’s innate sense of elegance. The emblematic sports line saw an expansion recently with new models fitted with a ceramic bezel insert, rendering it more resistant and functional.

First unveiled in Baselworld last year, the reimagined variations feature ceramic bezels that match the colour of the dials, giving the sporty silhouette a contemporary update. As with the rest of the collection, the timepieces sport a unidirectional rotating bezel, screw-down crown and case back, and water-resistance to 300 metres. The new models are available in three colours—grey, black and blue—and two sizes, with the option to be paired with a stainless steel bracelet or matching rubber strap.
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The photos probably don’t do them justice, but the sunray dials catch the light in all the right ways—particularly in the blue and grey versions. Longines Ambassador of Elegance Aaron Kwok is pictured here wearing the three hands and calendar model in blue, which comes in 41mm and 43mm sizes. A chronograph model is also available in 41mm.

Here, Kwok shares his through on the new HydroConquest models: “As a watch lover, I really appreciate the bezel’s ceramic insert. These watches have a sporty silhouette and an elegant style, making them suitable for daily wear and appropriate for all occasions.”

The new Longines HydroConquest collection is now available in stores.

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Style
3 Reasons why the bags from the third Dior Lady Art project are must-haves

09.01.2019
By Joan Kong

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The ultimate wedding shoe guide for the bridal party

Since its inception, the Dior Lady Art project has been all about championing one of the Maison’s most classic bag through different artist collaborations. Design maestros of different origins and generations internationally are invited to reinvent the piece by giving their own interpretation, resulting in one-of-a-kind designs that both bag and art lovers can’t seem to get enough of. It’s truly a work of art, and we’ve got all the reasons why this year’s collection is one worth getting.

1.     Remember the “Why have there been no great women artists” slogan T-shirt from Dior’s Spring 2018 show? As per creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s request, all eleven artists who were tapped for the third edition of the project this year are all women. They are Olga de Amaral from Colombia; Polly Apfelbaum from USA; Burçak Bingöl from Turkey; Lee Bul from Korea; Isabelle Cornaro from France; Haruka Kojin from Japan; Li Shurui from China; Mickalene Thomas from USA; Janaina Tschäpe from USA; Morgane Tschiember from France; and Pae White from USA. Although the silhouette remains the same, all of them were given the total freedom to reimagine the exterior of the Lady Dior bags, which leads to our second point.
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2.     From fabrics and materials, to colours and charms, and embroideries and appliqués, when it comes to the designs, there’s no doubt that they’re a standout. If you’re a fan of all things metallic, Olga de Amaral—whose known for her artwork using gold and silver leaf—had 24-Carat gold leaf hand laid on the bags, alongside two mini versions with bugle bead embroidered all over. For that added texture, opt for the bag that was inspired by nature, with green moss embroidered by hand on silk threads, or the blue-and-white faux fur piece that was inspired by Chinese porcelain, with handles made of Plexiglas—by Turkish artist Burçak Bingöl, which is one of our favourites. Some of the more eye-catching pieces go to the work of Morgane Tschiember, who drew inspiration from the Japanese culture. Echoing the art by the samurai, ropes were used to bind the leather carriers, and accented with ruthenium and coppery gold charms. All in all, regardless of their designs, they’ll warrant a double-take, for sure.
Below, all the designs from the collection:
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3.     The Dior Lady Art #3 collection will only be sold in 23 stores worldwide, but here’s a piece of good news: for the first time ever, the Dior Starhill boutique is one of the chosen ones to host the bags. The limited edition pieces will be available in-store from January 10th onwards. What are you waiting for?

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Culture
The 12 types of driving behaviour you’ll find in KL
Ah, Malaysian culture

25.02.2016
By Buro247

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Traffic makes or breaks our days. Most of us spend a relatively big chunk of time stuck in it, just going about our day-to-day activities. So as frequent road users of the Klang Valley, we often get stuck in just about enough traffic to make plenty of observations.

Thus, we’ve profiled the 12 of the most common types of driver behaviour you’ll typically find on the roads and highways of Kuala Lumpur (and the surrounding Selangor districts, of course), illustrated by our very own incredibly talented digital designer.

So, have you encountered any of these?

1)   Light Utilisers

These drivers know their cars come with plenty of accessories, and make full use of them, most particularly their lights. They’re very easy to spot: you’ll find them in panic mode with their hazard lights blinking furiously away when it’s raining, and it doesn’t matter if it’s raining heavily or not. At night, you can spot them from far away because they’re probably driving behind you – blinding you – with their high beam in full force. And in the daytime… yup, you guessed it: day lights!

2)   The “Chicken” player

The one who plays “Chicken” on the road. Balls of steel. You usually encounter this driver in your direct vicinity (you may sometimes be a passenger in one of these cars). The “Chicken” Player only brakes, turns off and changes lanes at the very last second. They are usually the cause of phantom jams… and heart attacks. They may sometimes be the cause of collisions that you only have yourself to blame for, because you’re the one who swerved in order to avoid The “Chicken” Player.

3)   The Express Entry

The Express Entry are the entitled individuals on the road. Their time is important, because they simply do not just sit in traffic like everybody else. No, they usually take pleasure in cutting to the front of long queues, because queuing up is simply beneath them. The Express Entry can often be found speeding past you on the emergency lane in heavy traffic.

4)   Stationary Hazards

Probably the most frequently cursed people on the road, Stationary Hazards tend to anger people, mostly when they’re not in their cars. This breed is quite diverse, but share the tendency to park like general a**holes on the road. There is the breed that is derived from the Express Entry, who park in convenient “OKU” spots when they’re really fully able-bodied; the breed that double park, are hard of hearing, and leave no contact number behind; and the “senget” parking breed, who also happen to not be very good at colouring within the lines.

5)   The Bulldozers

Closely related to The “Chicken” Player, Bulldozers swerve effortlessly in and out of traffic, or simply pressure other drivers off the road. These are the breed you can never rely on to give you way on the road. They have, however, forgotten how to use their brakes, and are often very confident that no other small vehicle would dare step in their way. The Bulldozers usually comprise vehicles of the bigger variety… but then again, you know what they say about men who drive big cars…

6)   Small Balls

The ultimate candidates for anger management. This type of drivers not only get really, really unreasonably angry with just about anyone on the road; they take cold, hard revenge too. This mostly happens when you overtake them on the road, or if you happen to honk or flash them for doing something dangerous, like nearly crashing into you.

7)   The Magnet

Champions at tailgating, even when there’s nowhere else for you to move. When you do move to give them way, they immediately swoop behind the next car. There is a special way to attract The Magnet: just use your indicator light to try to cut in front of them, and before you know it they’re charging towards where you want to go. The Magnets have special wizard-like powers, very similar to that of Gandalf; in traffic, they make the extra effort NOT to let you pass.

8)   The Serial Braker

Serial Brakers, usually found driving directly in front of you, test your patience… and your brakes. Their frequency of braking averages on one or two brake-tapping exercises every five seconds. This is how their thought process generally goes: “A car 100m in front of me? Brake! A car beside me? Brake! A car on the emergency lane up ahead? Brake! A car on the opposite lane? Brake! Taylor Swift on the radio? Brake!”

9)   Panic Attack-Prone

The Panic Attack-Prone may sometimes be mistaken for The Magnet, or the Serial Braker except that they’re mostly stuck behind lorries, busses or slow vehicles, or sometimes even road dividers, simply because don’t know how to change lanes. You may be inclined to help out the Panic Attack-Prone when you see one on the road by slowing down to give them way, but unfortunately, this does not always give them the courage to cut in front of you. In such cases, you may just move on, and wish them well.

10)   The Road Hog

The Road Hog is generally a person who’s content with their lives, without a care in the world. They are also very strong-willed, because just about nothing can make them budge. They usually comprise drivers of smaller cars who feel that they’re going really, really fast; or other general vehicle drivers who are just SO delighted that the road in front of them seems SO clear today (news flash: that’s because all the traffic is building up behind them). Could also sometimes be the victorious Panic Attack-Prone, who finally managed to overtake that tractor, and is now on the fast lane. They worked hard to get to this position, so they’re sure as hell not budging.

11) The Horse Blinders

Born with blinders at either side of their eyes (that are invisible to less gifted people) the Horse Blinders can only see what’s in front of them. That said, they never look around them before changing lanes (and they tend to be the swervy types too). All the mirrors on their vehicles are in really good shape as they are hardly used, and have been accepted by the Horse Blinder as strange accessories to their cars. All that exists, in their world, are the windscreen and the road in front of them.

12) The Multi-Tasker

Talented and efficient at getting stuff done, the Multi-Tasker only lacks in one area: paying attention on the road. Sure, you can rely on this breed to always text back promptly, but on the road, the Multi-Tasker is quite the hazard. Sometimes combining the attributes of the Road Hog and the Horse Blinder, the Multi-Tasker can often be found on the road, pissing everyone else off while they’re chatting happily away on their phone, texting, eating, drinking, dancing, or doing whatever the heck they feel like doing.

Illustrated by Chong Yi Suen.

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