Features
Christian Louboutin talks his signature red soles, and making shoe fantasies come true

08.08.2018
By Buro247

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As soon as I have promised that I won’t Me Too him, Christian Louboutin is pushing me up the circular stairs in his Parisian apartment by the derriere. “You see? It’s a fantastic thing,” exclaims the 54-year-old shoe designer who, incidentally, has a long-term boyfriend. “You get elevated immediately. You don’t feel any pressure. You just go very, very quickly.” Well, yes.

And: yes, I know. Rewind. We have been talking about how Louboutin’s love of shoes began. Turns out it started when he was six and would push his 18-year-old sister up the stairs to their sixth-floor apartment. “She had these cork wedges, and I loved looking at her going up in them as I was pushing her on the ass.”

I imagine it’s clear that Louboutin is not your typical shoe designer. Yet if you know his shoes — and the queues often to be found outside his boutiques are the testament to how many people do — you will already have apprehended this.

Here is a man who has porcupined with spikes everything from 100mm heels to trainers. A man who has fought and — finally, last month — won the battle to copyright his red soles, of all the unlikely trademarks. (What started as an act of creative whimsy — some red nail polish added at the last minute to the sole of a pink and purple shoe, “so that it looked more like the original drawing” — has proved to have game-changer commercial clout. “You feel part of a club.”) And here is a man who has attracted not only fame but notoriety for his so-called hidden platforms, a raised footbed combined with a spindly stiletto that to some women — and men — are ecstasy, but anathema to others.

What is his riposte to those who say that these shoes are too sexy, if not porn-star? “I agree,” he exclaims, as is to be expected of a man who is flogging pumps by the name of Fetish Peep. “Some of my shoes could absolutely be seen as a porn thing, or a bed thing, but there are lots of other shoes in my collection. And it also depends on your perception. I was in one of my shops a while ago and this woman arrived who was very classical, and she tried on this high pump, and she said, ‘Oh my God, I look super sexy!’ Then later the same day another woman comes in who is very opulent, sexy with a lot of breast.” He gestures spectacular bosoms. “And she tried on the same ones, and said, ‘Oh, I look so chic!'”

Louboutin is in the business of making shoe fantasies come true, of enabling every woman to have her Cinderella moment, even if Prince Charming is nowhere to be seen. Yet, like all the best fantasy factories, he knows his audience. He is something of a shop-stalker, always watching, watching, watching how his customers interact with his shoes. That’s also how he noticed that “when a woman looks in the mirror, she doesn’t look at the shoe. She looks at herself. Her posture.” (Men look at the shoes, apparently, not at themselves.)

His job, he readily proffers, is to sell us things we don’t need. “Who needs another pair of black shoes? Probably everyone has one. It’s about desire, not functionality.” More of his boutique-based anthropology. “This woman arrived and said she wanted coloured shoes as she had so many black ones. An hour later she left with two black. I said, ‘But you said you didn’t want black?’ She said, ‘Yes, but they are just so beautiful I can’t resist. I’m privileged, I know that. I don’t need things. I want them. My need is coming from my desire.'” That, sums up Louboutin, “really is the core of my work.

“You have different types of designers,” he continues. “You have designers who are true to their vision without including anyone else in it. And there are others who take into consideration that they are working for others. I don’t think one is more creative than the other. It’s a different way to be. I have always taken into consideration that it’s for women. That’s important. For me.”

It turns out that even his “bed shoe” has a practical origin. At the age of 17 he worked at the Folies Bergère —  “sewing sequins, gluing things, making coffee, delivering the love letters to the dancers” — and it was there that he started to examine “silhouette”, “posture” and the shoes that could finesse both.

“Those dancers are like birds of paradise, in a way. They told me they didn’t really want to look like they were wearing shoes at all. Their feet needed to look like the tips of their legs.” Hence the hidden platform, which is, he explains, a means of delivering “maximum visual height with minimum arch height”. And hence two other Louboutin signatures: low toe cleavage and nude leather. “With a showgirl, you calculate the length of her legs from her maillot to the front of her shoes, or, if they are nude, all the way.” Louboutin’s influence in this regard stretches from a Saturday-night high street near you to Kensington Palace.

Yet the designer’s other footwear obsession couldn’t be more different. Flats. Yes, shoes with absolutely no heel whatsoever also get his pulse racing. It’s the shoes in the middle he can’t be doing with. “Mid-heels . . .” he begins, then pauses, pulling a face as if I have just presented him with one of those pavement turds in which, alas, the French capital still specialises, and which —  I speak from experience —  can play havoc with one’s “Loubs”. “I have a hard time breaking the functionality when I am designing a mid-heel,” he continues. “High heels have a really strong aesthetic. Flat shoes also. Think of Brigitte Bardot in the Sixties. She was always in ballerinas and she looked fabulous. It’s the attitude of the person.”

Anyway, the point is that Louboutin does great flats. These, after all, were the first shoes with which he was up close and personal. Before the cork wedges of his sisters —  there were three of them — came the flats worn by his mother. “My mother was always in flat shoes and pants. Though I don’t really remember her shoes exactly. There are very few pictures of my mother because of the velocity of her.”

Velocity? Does he mean she was always moving? “Yes. I remember her shoes by the speed. I can totally imagine what shoes someone is wearing by the way they move. Still now, if I hear someone coming, it’s a bit of a game for me. I hear the sound and I think, ‘OK, she is definitely on high,’ or ‘She’s on flat.’ Then I can say if it is a boot, or a slide, what kind of sole it has.”

There speaks an obsessive, albeit one who also says he would have been just as happy as a landscape gardener —  instead he is in a relationship with one —  a choreographer or a scriptwriter. Above all, he would have loved to have been “a performer. When I see a great performer I feel happy but also very sad, and I realise it is because it is something I am missing. Not to be a singer, because I sing like a . . .” cue fabulously French pronunciation, “CASS-E-ROLE. And I would have been the worst actor. I was in three movies and I was bad, bad, bad. But I can tap dance.” (There is footage on YouTube to prove it.) “And I did trapeze.” (He has one rigged up in a studio elsewhere in Paris. “I wanted one here, but I was missing a metre,” he says. “You need 6.5.”)

What Louboutin has never had any interest in is designing clothes. I ask him if it is true that he was once offered the chance to head a big —  nameless —  ready-to-wear brand. The caca de chien is evidently back in the room. Grimace. “Yes. It was terrible. I was infuriated. I really insulted the guy. I was like, ‘What?! What?! What and why?!’ I felt so bad afterwards. But I have no passion for . . .” another genius mouth-rolling Gallicism “CLOTHES-IS. I would be bored in five minutes.” Why? “You are carried by your shoes,” he says, “whereas you simply carry your clothes.”

Shoes change people, in other words, be they showgirls or Christmas party-goers, two genres that on occasion —  and largely thanks to Louboutin —  are apt to be confused. “There’s something that always makes me laugh. Occasionally a girlfriend will tell me, ‘I fell over in the street. I twisted my ankle.’ And I say, ‘What sort of shoes?’ And it’s always flat. Because when you wear flat shoes you forget about your shoes, the way you are going to walk. In shoes with a heel you are conscious, which means you are probably not going to trip.”

The years that Louboutin has been in business have coincided perfectly with the rise of what can only be described as a widespread shoe fetish. Footwear has become not an add-on but a profit-fuelling phenomenon, even at fashion houses where the main attraction supposedly lies elsewhere. Why this —  er —  step change? “Because fashion has become so basic, so standardised, that it’s the details that make the difference,” Louboutin says. “No one has a problem with a T-shirt from Zara, jeans from wherever. In the end it’s going to be about what you look like physically, and the finishing parts. You know, the jewellery, but first the shoes.”

No wonder then that Louboutin has had immense success, with the global property portfolio and the famous friends to prove it. Yet it has never been about anything other than the shoes, he insists. “I was not into building a company. I just wanted to do pretty shoes for girls. I am still the same actually.” The brand he founded in 1991 has become rather different. Last year UK turnover alone was £52.7 million.

Has it not all been something of a head-spin for the boy who grew up “fully working class”, the son of a cabinet maker and that flats-wearing housewife? “Things have moved organically. So I have been able to digest what has happened to me. And also, you know what? If you are brought up with a lot of love, it is not problematic. My parents were very working class, but they never missed anything. They were never jealous or trying to be something they were not. I was never brought up, like, ‘We never have any money. We would do better if we have money.'”

He also enjoyed what he has come to recognise as a remarkable latitude. There was that Folies Bergère gig while he was still a teenager. But five years before that his “very loving” mother allowed him to move in with a school friend. “She really trusted her kids. I could do anything. It ended up that I was always quite careful. I could stop. I took drugs and stopped it in a second because I was a bit tired.”

If he has long recognised his debt to his “solaire” mother, it was only after his “solitaire” father’s death that he became aware of his due. “I always thought you were influenced by the sun in a way, not by the moon. I credited my personality, my influences, to my mother, but I took a lot from my father. The attention to detail. My mother was a mess. A big laugh. A big smile. My father could be, not dark, but shy. Very precise and into his own world. Looking at objects. I have that.” And shoe-lovers everywhere are grateful for it.

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Beauty
BURO Beauty Stash: Age backwards and erase dark spots with February’s launches
Skincare madness

23.02.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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

If you’re struggling with acne, premature ageing, temperamental skin, or any other minor skin affliction, realistically, there’s probably a product out there for you. The only issue is finding The One.
It takes countless hours of trial and error to really sus out whether a product suits you, which—let’s be real—isn’t feasible for the average person. That’s why we’re here with another round of BURO Beauty Stash to do all the hard work for you. Ahead, our reviews cover all the latest launches from February.
From SK-II’s comprehensive starter pack to Caudalie’s new power-packed Vitamin C Serum and Clear Start’s intense post-breakout anti-dark spot formula, you won’t want to miss this month’s highlights!

SK-II
Skin Power Kit

“I’ve had a couple of months to really sit with the new SK-II Skin Power Kit and track my skin’s progress, and I’m pleasantly surprised. For SK-II newbies like me, the set is an excellent introduction to the brand, including four key products—the PITERA Essence, the Skinpower Essence, the Skinpower Eye Cream, and the Skinpower Airy Milky Lotion.
“Currently, my favourite product from the set is the iconic PITERA Facial Treatment Essence (RM759). I must admit that I do find it somewhat unpleasant-smelling (it’s only to be expected with anything fermented), but it works. If you’re looking for instantly hydrated skin that looks plumper and boasts a naturally dewy finish, look no further. I typically apply the essence to my clean, dry skin in the evenings, pat it in with my palms, let it absorb, and follow up with a moisturiser. I tend to keep it to my nighttime routine but, while it’s not the first thing I reach for in the morning, I have found that on no-makeup days it’s a great way to keep my combination skin happy and hydrated throughout the day under my normal sunscreen (no moisturiser needed!).
“As for the Skinpower Essence (RM525), it has become a go-to for days where I am wearing makeup. It has a thicker, more viscous texture with a silicone-y finish that I think looks and feels amazing under my foundation. It just creates a nice, smooth canvas for my base to glide and stick onto—not to mention, the addition of niacinamide is perfect for my breakout-prone skin. I also just love the chic and practical packaging. It’s a definite go-to for my everyday beat.
“Another product that has quickly become a staple in my routine is the Skinpower Eye Cream (RM328). Recently, I’ve experienced more dryness within my skin, particularly in my undereyes. Put simply, I’ve noticed a few fine lines cropping up around my eyes, so I’ve been looking for a new eye cream to address these. Now, the issue is that, while I need a lot of moisture (particularly of the occlusive kind as my skin just cannot retain hydration), I also struggle with milia. As such, I need a formulation that isn’t too heavy and rich nor too light. Fortunately, this airy texture really hits the spot. It plumps my undereyes and irons out the fine creases while soothing the area and treating my perpetually dark circles.
“Finally, the Skinpower Airy Milky Lotion (RM541) is the perfect companion to the routine above. Lightweight, quick-absorbing and packed with great plumping and moisturising ingredients, it’s the best way to wrap up my evening routine.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer

Guerlain
Orchidee Imperiale Complete Care Cream, RM2,352

“Did you know that the orchid is able to bloom for years as it possesses prodigious cellular longevity mechanisms? Guerlain’s research has also revealed that the roots of two species of orchids, in particular, contain exceptional regenerative powers. This duo power the brand’s cutting-edge Orchid Totum technology effective in regulating cell respiration, optimising skin regeneration and—for the first time—targeting the skin’s longevity enzyme at the root to tackle the visible signs of ageing.
“In the fifth and current generation of Guerlain’s Orchidée Impériale Cream, its renowned sensory qualities have been retained in a new formula containing 96 per cent naturally-derived ingredients. I love the ultra-fine and soft texture that feels as if my skin is enveloped in a protective, hydrating film throughout the day. The beautiful packaging is also a work of art that has found a spot on my dressing table. Another win in my books: it’s refillable and designed to minimise impact on the environment.
“Touted to make the skin look three years younger after just seven days, I’m happy to report that my skin does look younger. I find the results are more dramatic when the cream is used together with the Orchidée Impériale Micro-Lift Concentrate, a firming and tightening serum with 7,000 micro-sculptors that works like a series of micro-lifts on the skin. The bottle is also gorgeous to look at!” — Adelina Tan, Deputy Editor
The Orchidee Imperiale Cream (RM2,352) is currently available at Parkson, Isetan and Sogo department stores where Guerlain is sold.

Caudalie
Vinergetic C+ Vitamin C Energy Serum, RM210

“As you know, our skin constantly changes and sometimes what has worked for me in the past might not work when I experience a change in environment. I have been under a lot of stress lately and with that, I’ve noticed a huge difference in my skin texture that my current products have not been able to get rid of. Recently, my skin looks noticeably dull with some dry patches here and there. To make matters worse, I’ve been subconsciously peeling on my dry skin, not allowing it to heal properly. It’s not on purpose, I swear!
“I’ve always looked to Vitamin C serums whenever I feel like I’m in a skincare rut. Thankfully, the launch of Caudalie’s Vinergetic C+ serum couldn’t have come at a better time. Dubbed an ‘anti-fatigue cocktail’ this serum contains a potent type of Vitamin C that has been stabilised four times for preservation, as well as hyaluronic acid and polyphenols high in antioxidants to revitalise tired skin.
“This serum comes in a super-light texture that instantly absorbs into the skin and because of that, I need about three pumps to feel like I’ve covered all my bases. For such a small bottle, it is quite pricey. However, for the results it has provided, I’m not complaining. After using it for a week, my skin looks noticeably less tired in the morning and my dry skin patches are almost gone!” – Sarah Hani Jamil, Editor
SHOP HERE

Filorga
Skin-Unify Intensive Serum, RM356

“If there’s one thing I’m wary of about ageing skin, it’s got to be pigmentation spots. As a teenager, I’d never taken an interest in beauty products, let alone sun protection. I did try to make up for it in my 20s, however, all those earlier years when my skin was exposed to the sun has caught up with me. I’m seeing dark spots popping up more and more, and while it isn’t too noticeable (for now), I want to at least try to get rid of them while I still can.
“Inspired by aesthetic medicine techniques—such as laser, peel and medical strobing—Filorga has come up with a range of skincare called Skin Unify that works to restore an incomparably even skin tone. From the collection, I’ve taken a liking to the Intensive Serum. Its formula contains a biomimetic peptide that mimics a specific type of polyphenol, found abundantly in green tea, and contains potent antioxidant properties that are effective in blocking the toxins responsible for dark spots and a dull complexion.
“Its fragrance, while pretty strong and aromatic, is neither bothersome nor irritating to my skin, although, I could see how it might be a concern for others. Light to the touch, its creamy texture melts instantly as I massage it onto my face, leaving a comfortable, silky finish. I’m not convinced enough yet to completely say that it has reduced the appearance of my pigmentation, however, I do feel that it makes for a nice everyday serum that leaves your skin feeling supple and looking healthy!” – Sarah Hani Jamil, Editor
SHOP HERE

Skin Regimen
Polypeptide Rich Cream

“Targeted at tackling the deficits in skin hydration and moisturisation that come with age and stressful conditions, Skin Regimen’s Polypeptide Rich Cream is enriched with firming biomimetic peptides, dandelion extract and the brand’s Longevity Complex. These firm up the skin’s tissues and stimulate the synthesis of new collagen—a plus now that I’m starting to notice a slow down in my skin’s natural reparation process, no doubt also caused by my fondness for a daily caffeine fix and late nights. There’s no escaping stress and pollution too, which is why the cream’s optimised formula of organic superfood extracts and high-tech molecules is much appreciated. It is designed for more mature skin and to reduce wrinkles, which is reflected in the texture, so I find it works best on my acne-prone skin when I’m indoors where there’s air-conditioning. Upon application of the pink-hued cream (so soothing to look at!), it evens out my skin and gives it a healthy glow.
“In support of Fugeelah by Dhani Illiani, an initiative to raise awareness of Imposter Syndrome, Skin Regimen is also giving out a special-edition tote as a gift with purchase, while stocks last.” — Adelina Tan, Deputy Editor
SHOP HERE

Clear Start by Dermalogica
Post-Breakout Fix

“If you know me, you’ll know that I’ve been massively struggling with my skin for the last year. Out of nowhere, I went from having a pretty clear complexion to having huge clusters of hormonal breakouts around my jaw and neck—all in the span of a few months (thanks, PCOS). Needless to say, while I’m lucky with regards to puckered or textured scarring, the dark marks on my face are aplenty.
“I’m already a big fan of Clear Start’s Breakout Clearing Booster, and this product is the perfect complementary addition to my routine. It has plenty of great ingredients like carob seed extract and squalane to hydrate and restore the skin’s appearance, hexylresorcinol to help fade dark spots and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), as well as salicylic acid to gently exfoliate the skin, even out the skin tone, and prevent (and treat) new clusters.
“The product applies very nicely—it has this lightweight, creamy texture that absorbs into the skin beautifully, leaving the area soft and soothed. In fact, there wasn’t any kind of burning sensation with this product, even over the raw spots on my face (FYI, I didn’t apply actives over them intentionally, most of the spots on my jaw are just quite close together). With just one night of use, I’ve noticed that my complexion is a lot brighter overall, and any spots that hadn’t come to a head will have done by the morning. It’s a new must-have in my everyday lineup!” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
The Clear Start Post breakout Fix will be available on the Sephora website from 1 March onwards.

Find more beauty reviews here.

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Film, TV + Theatre
Best new K-dramas you can catch on Netflix and iQiyi in September 2021

14.09.2021
By Deanna Cheah

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It’s a star-studded September when it comes to Korean dramas, with some well-known names coming to your favourite device or TV screen. There’s Korea’s first actress to win a Cannes acting award (Jeon Do-yeon), a few Blue Dragon Film Awards winners, and two faces that will be instantly recognisable by fans of K-pop. These shows are perfect for weekends and late-night binging:

Lost

When: Now streaming on iQiyi, with new episodes premiering every Saturday and Sunday at 9.30pm
If you love: Relatable dramas about second chances
Bu-jeong (played by Jeon Do-yeon) is a middle-aged woman who has accomplished nothing. Feeling like a failure, she goes through phases of emotional breakdowns in her pursuit of success and happiness. Kang-jae (played by Ryu Jun-yeol), who’s 13 years younger, is facing a similar problem. Constantly feeling worthless, he thinks he has hit a dead end in life and is afraid of what’s to come. Together, they find a way to heal their personal heartbreaks and fight their inner demons. With life seldom going according to plan, this series explores how we each find our way when we’re lost.
Watch it here
High Class

When: Now streaming on iQiyi, with new episodes every Tuesday and Wednesday at 12pm—you can also follow it via Astro K-Plus (Astro GO Ch 396 HD)
Watch if you love: Suspenseful stories about dangerous lies and high society, such as Sky Castle
The uberwealthy women of South Korea are expected to be proper and polished. However, behind all that wealth hides secrets, lies, mysteries, and hypocrisy. Cho Yeo-jeong plays Song Yeo-wool, a lawyer who is framed for killing her husband and loses everything overnight. Unexpectedly, the truth and answers she seeks may be found at her son’s ultra-luxurious new school located on an island paradise. There, she encounters rumours and judgment from the elite; a woman who is supposedly her husband’s mistress; as well as deception and tribulation of the richest.
Watch it here
Yumi’s Cells

When: From 17 September, with new episodes every Friday and Saturday at 10.50pm
Watch if you love: Charming office romances—or K-pop heartthrobs
Adapted from the eponymous webtoon, Yumi’s Cells is a K-drama starring Kim Go-Eun as Yumi, an ordinary office worker. The series is narrated by her brain cells—after a major heartbreak, Yumi’s cells try to heal from the emotional and physical trauma it has caused her, but she has no clue this is going on. Her cells—love cells, to be more specific—work hard to ensure Yumi falls in love again; this time, perhaps, with her colleague Goo Wong (played by Ahn Bo-hyun). Will the efforts of her subconscious and autonomic nervous system be enough to carry a heavy heart? Got7’s Jinyoung and Shinee’s Minho also have roles in this heartwarming series!
Watch it here
Squid Game

When: From 17 September on Netflix
If you love: Thrillers set in terrifying dystopias
Winning 45.6 billion won (around 162 million ringgit) is anything but child’s play. When an innocent children’s game played in neighbourhood alleyways becomes a fight for survival, how far will the 456 participants go? The stakes are high as they face early disqualification—death. This thrilling series depicts societal pandemonium and a nuanced sense of humanity amidst an uncertain future. Do you dare to play watch?
Watch it here

That’s not all, as here’s a bonus movie to check out if you’re in the mood for love:
Waiting For Rain

When: Now showing on iQiyi
If you love: Romance
Kang Ha-neul seems to be a jack of all trades—effortlessly portraying every character brilliantly, including the expressive Hwang Yong-sik in When the Camellia Blooms. In Waiting For Rain he plays Young-ho, who has failed the college entrance exam three times and tries desperately to pass. Serendipity strikes when he remembers his elementary school classmate So-hee (played by Chun Woo-hee), whom he hasn’t seen for years. They begin to exchange letters and find a spark, but there’s a catch: She wants him to never request to meet or visit her. After much persuasion, she gives in and they agree to meet on New Year’s Eve. This is the moment he has been waiting for, but will she show up or will their letters turn into nothing but ashes?
Watch it here

For August’s K-Drama guide, click here

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Motoring
Lexus UX 200: 6 Things you need to know about Lexus’s first compact SUV

10.12.2021
By Rachel Au

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Did you know that Lexus only launched its first compact SUV in 2020? Easily one of the most anticipated car launches in recent times, the Lexus UX 200 was designed and built from the ground up to combine the best innovative traits of an SUV with the sporty elegance of a hatchback, complemented by several other “firsts”. Not to mention, it was creatively engineered by a team spearheaded by Lexus’s first female Chief Engineer. Here’s everything you need to know about the Lexus UX 200, which comes in three variations: UX Urban, UX Luxury, and UX F-SPORT.

1. Performance
Right off the bat, the Lexus UX 200 houses a newly-developed 2.0L normally-aspirated engine, delivering 169 hp and smooth acceleration with an in-line four-cylinder 16-valve petrol engine and 10-speed Direct-Shift CVT gearbox. Despite that powerful performance, the cherry on top is that you still get fantastic fuel efficiency with lower emissions.
2. Driving dynamics
There’s a saying that the power is in your hands, and in the case of the Lexus UX 200, that power feels almost effortless to use as the compact SUV is built on the latest Global Architecture-C Platform with refined dynamics and handling. For example, thanks to Active Cornering Assist and the low centre of gravity of the Global Architecture-C Platform, sharp corners are easy to manoeuvre with less body roll. This experience is even more elevated in the UX F-SPORT with front performance rod and rear performance damper, thus increasing chassis rigidity for better control, safety and comfort.

3. Comfort and convenience
No one spends more time in a car than the driver so, with that in mind, Lexus has designed the UX 200 to be as convenient as possible for the person behind the wheel. Adapting the ‘Seat-in-Control’ concept from the LC 500 Coupe, the driver has the best view of his/her surroundings and is assisted by the upper section of the instrument panel to get a better sense of the car’s dimensions and positions. Plus, the most critical vehicle functions are literally at the driver’s fingertips (or within easy reach, at least). If you opt for the UX Luxury, this sense of control extends further thanks to the Panoramic View Monitor, which is especially helpful when parking or driving on narrow streets.
Passengers aren’t forgotten either as the Lexus UX 200 is equipped with an auto dual-zone air conditioner with a rear air conditioning duct for better rear passenger comfort. In the UX Luxury, the driver and front passenger seats come with ventilation and a heater, which will benefit long drives. Plus, if anyone has their hands full, the UX Luxury and UX F-SPORT have a kick-open sensor for smart entry and back door without needing to take out the key.

4. Multimedia features
All three variants of the Lexus UX 200 offer the Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI), which gives you a similar feeling to using a smartphone thanks to its haptic interface. The UX Luxury and UX F-SPORT, on the other hand, are fitted with a 10.3-inch display with a split-screen that’s conveniently placed within the driver’s field of vision for easy access. A further upgrade in the form of a Head-Up Display exists in the UX F-SPORT, projecting driving data and navigation on the windscreen to allow the driver to better focus on the road, and thereby reducing fatigue.
5. Safety features
The Lexus UX 200 comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), which is a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems, utilising multiple sophisticated sensors and cameras. These safety systems include Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go Function—particularly useful during traffic jams or cruising down the highways—and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), as well as Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

6. Sporty yet chic design
The Lexus UX 200 was designed following an ‘Urban Explorer’ concept to ensure its form remains sporty and functional, but still stylish. The exterior gleams with fluid lines, crisp, prominent sculpted surfaces and a distinctive spindle grille with its sleek aerodynamic profile that is extended by a sexily-sculpted combination tail lamp. That architecture draws to a close with flared wings and large wheels for a definitive muscular and agile stance.
On the other hand, the interior takes most of its inspiration from Japanese hospitality, craftsmanship and traditions. The trim finish alone is inspired by washi (a type of Japanese paper found on shoji doors in traditional homes) to set up a calm, cosy vibe within the Lexus UX 200. Comfort-meets-luxury for both the driver and passenger is at the forefront of the cabin’s design. The seats have been given the full quilted leather treatment, decorated with perfect perforation patterns made possibly by skilled Takumi craftsmen. The touch-and-feel is especially luxurious in the UX 200 Luxury as sashiko quilting—a traditional Japanese quilting technique that’s widely used for judo and kendo uniforms—was used for the smooth leather upholstery.

Overall, as a result, the driver receives the ultimate driving pleasure and confidence. As the brand’s first compact SUV, the Lexus UX 200 shines as both a game-changer as well as an all-rounder.
Test drive the Lexus UX 200 for yourselfDate: 11 & 12 December | 18 & 19 DecemberStand a chance to win the lucky draw when you take the Lexus UX 200 for a test drive at the brand’s Christmas showroom weekender.
The Lexus UX 200 starts from RM236,443.50 (without insurance, with sales tax exemption) with a comprehensive warranty of five (5) years with unlimited mileage.
 For more info, visit Lexus Malaysia’s website.

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Culture
10 Dr. Seuss quotes on life and learning
Whimsical and wise

02.03.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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1. The importance of learning
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
From I Can Read With My Eyes Shut! (1978)

2. Just go with the flow
“And when things start to happen, don’t worry, don’t stew. Just go right along, and you’ll start happening too.”
From Oh, The Places You’ll Go! (1990)

3. You can make a difference
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
From The Lorax (1971)

4. A bit of fantasy is key
“Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, it’s a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope.”

5. Always try new things
“If you never did, you should. These things are fun, and fun is good.”
From One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish (1960)

6. Embrace oneself
“You are you. Now, isn’t that pleasant?”
From Happy Birthday To You! (1959)

7. Open your eyes and take it all in
“You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut.”
From I Can Read With My Eyes Shut! (1978)

8. To never give up
“Don’t give up! I believe in you all! A person’s a person, no matter how small!”
From Horton Hears a Who! (1954)

9. Everyone should have rights
“I know, up on top you are seeing great sights. But down at the bottom we, too, should have rights.”
From Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories (1958)

10. Don’t let the good times stop
“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”
From One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish (1960)

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Five local jazz acts you need to know

Music
Five local jazz acts you need to know
For those itching for live music

28.01.2016
By Buro247

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Jazz is a funny genre. Play it at a hotel lobby and it makes passing background music, but perform it live and its observant spectators would wonder how a human being could comprehend and master such a jumble of keys and time signatures. Needless to say, it’s easy to consider jazz musicians highly technical and talented, but it also takes a certain kind of oomph and passion to deliver the music honestly.

Those familiar with the local music community would probably already be aware that Malaysia has its very own pool of world-class talent. But who are they? Many local artists seem to be quite elusive, doing jazz as one-offs, or rarely play live gigs. While you can rely on your local jazz venues to provide such live music (from both international and local artists), these five artists are the ones you can rely on when it comes to more consistent forms of jazz:

The Bassment Syndicate
Founded in June 2010, The Bassment Syndicate comprises qSound on the vocals, Hiran on the keyboards, Fook on the Bass and Omar on the Drums. They made their way into the spotlight playing instrumental jazz, but have now expanded to include R&B, soul, funk and hip-hop into their tunes. You can generally find them performing live at popular local live music venues, such as Alexis Bangsar (Alexis Jam Sessions) and The Bee, Publika.
Head to their website or Facebook page for some punchy, feel-good tunes, and to find out where they’re playing live next.

WVC Trio+1
For your dose of more traditional forms of jazz, funk, blues and soul, WVC Trio+1 are your guys. The band is made up of Tay Cher Siang on the piano, Julian Chan on saxophones, AJ Popshuvit on the bass, and KJ Wong on drums. The group has performed pretty extensively, including jazz festivals around Asia, not to mention the regular cosy gig at some of Kuala Lumpur’s live music venues such as No Black Tie.
Follow the band’s updates on their Facebook page.

Fazz
Although the band doesn’t describe themselves as “jazz,” but rather, “musical pop,” Fazz easily captures our attention with their quirky blend of pop, blues, swing… and cabaret. The result is a rather sassy musical attitude, but that just makes for really fun, energetic live performances. The group consists of Kevin V. on vocals, Grace C. on keyboards and vocals, R.F.B. on the electric double bass and vocals, and Jone Y. on skins.
Check their music out on Soundcloud, and stay tuned for updates on live performances on their Facebook page.

Evelyn Feroza
Vocalist Evelyn Feroza – more fondly known as “Evie,” – has steadily making rounds in the local music scene recently. And it’s easy to see why she dishes out applause-worthy live performances: her vocals are rather staggering, with a kind of Amy Winehouse vibe mixed with those huge vocals that you get with classic old soul singers.
Find out where you can catch the songstress live at her Facebook page.

Hady Afro Trio
He may be a classical guitarist, but Hady Afro puts out some darn good classic latin jazz tunes when he performs live with his trio. Naturally, Hady takes on the guitar with some mighty impressive classical latin licks that is quite a rare find in Malaysia. Hady Afro and his crew have an upcoming show at No Black Tie on 24 February.
Follow him on Facebook for updates.

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9 Things you didn’t know about IGTV

Technology
9 Things you didn’t know about IGTV

23.06.2018
By Rachel Au

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Instagram’s IGTV is the talk of the Internet since the social media platform announced the launch of its new long-form, vertical-only video feature a few days ago in lieu of reaching one billion users. It’s been called similar to a TV network as well as a potential rival to YouTube and Snapchat Discover.

Either way, Instagram, as well as parent company Facebook, has always shown an interest in extending its video platform. Well, that’s for them to figure out and for the rest of us, we’ll just have some fun with it. Read on what you need to know about IGTV, how to use it, what apps that allow vertical video editing and more.

1. How to get IGTV
You’ll find it within Instagram on the top right corner of the app. A little button will also pop up if the people you follow have posted something new.
On another note, IGTV is available as a standalone app as well. However, it will only be “rolling out globally over the next few weeks on Android and iOS” so some users might already be able to download the app.

2. Unlike Instagram Live, you’ll be able to resume watching from wherever you left off
If there are going to be one-hour long videos, chances are you won’t always be able to finish them in one sitting. Luckily, IGTV allows you to pick up where you started previously.

3. Not everyone can upload an hour-long video
Currently, only users who are verified or have a huge number of followers have the ability to upload videos up to the full 60 minutes. For everyone else, it’s capped at a maximum of 10 minutes, and a minimum of 15 seconds.

4. You can’t shoot videos within IGTV
Unlike Instagram Stories, you can’t piece it all together within the app, add stickers, add GIFs, add text, squiggle some lines — you get what we mean. If you want your video to have all these overlays, it has to be pre-edited. Also, it should be in a vertical format.

5. Videos shot in horizontal mode are accepted too
However, note that it will only show the centre portion of your video. Hence, if you choose to shoot or edit it in horizontal mode, make sure the subject is in the centre.

6. Apps that allow vertical video editing
With the introduction of IGTV, it won’t be long before most video editing apps allow vertical formats too. Until then, there are already apps available for the job. On desktop, there’s Adobe Premier Pro and Final Cut Pro. On the phone, there’s Quik (made for GoPro but great for editing videos in general) and Vue (which allows you to shoot videos within the app, in portrait orientation).

7. How to upload from desktop
Uploading long-form videos on IGTV is made even easier by doing so on Instagram’s web interface. Just go to your profile on the web browser and you’ll find a new ‘IGTV’ button between ‘Posts’ and ‘Saved’.

8. There’s a size limit for the videos
IGTV limits the upload size of the videos to 5.4GB. Understandably 4K videos produce great quality as well as a huge file size. As IGTV is meant to be watched on a smartphone, Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is just nice.

9. Cross-posting
Have a great Instagram Live video? Unfortunately, you can’t cross-post it to IGTV. You’ll have to download that video and re-upload it to IGTV. But from IGTV, you can cross-post any video there to Facebook.

How do you feel about IGTV? Take the poll below to let us know!
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Features
Milan Fashion Week SS17: Day 5 Street Style
Panache for prints

25.09.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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While monochromatic and minimalist madness have had its field day (and still do) on the streets during fashion week, it’s always invigorating to spot snazzy printed ensembles that are bold as they are unpredictable. Print on print always work in our books, and the motif mania that’s sweeping the runways as of late have translated loosely on the streets this Milan Fashion Week. In the spirit of Dolce&Gabbana’s always decadent offerings that toe the line between extravagant and glamorous, some of our favourite looks from day five include sleek feline-printed pajamas, leaf motifs on mesh overlays, khaki jackets with botanical embroideries, and sequin checks of varying shades. This is how you work a myriad of prints without letting it swallow your frame:
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Don’t forget to check out:
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Features
Paris Fashion Week AW16 Street Style Day 8
Head-turning heart-stoppers

09.03.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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There’s no stopping the fashion force when they came out to play yesterday at Day 8 of Paris Fashion Week. The streets were filled with heavyweights in the street style category, be it Leigh Lezark and Caroline Issa to Sofie Valkiers and Candela Novembre decked in textured coats and luxe numbers. Feast your eyes on a galore of spiffy accoutrements here:
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Lifestyle
WATCH: National figure skater Julian Yee’s journey in Samsung’s new short film
Do What You Can’t

05.02.2018
By Rachel Au

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As a country that often, and only, lists sunny, cloudy or rain (or the not-so-occasional haze) in the weather forecast, not many would have considered doing winter sports competitively. And even if one did consider it, it won’t be a surprise if few would believe in that dream. For Julian Yee, he broke that assumption, that stereotype. The national figure skater is one of two Malaysian athletes to represent Malaysia’s debut at the upcoming 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang.
Unlike the sleek surface of the ice, Julian’s journey was not as smooth. Inspired by the rising star’s perseverance which matches the Do What You Can’t campaign, Samsung Malaysia prepared a short feature film based on his story called Julian and His Magical Skates, which you can watch below:

“My story is a tale of Do What You Can’t because I really did, and I want to remind everyone out there that young or old, you can achieve your dreams and you will be surprised that you can actually do what you never thought you could,” said Julian.
In a similar attitude of pushing the boundaries, Samsung Malaysia, together with Ensembled Worldwide Malaysia, produced the video entirely from scratch with a Galaxy Note8 and S Pen.

“With innovations and advanced technology in today’s world to help make things easier, none of us should be held back by “ifs”, “buts”, or “maybes”. We should all have that burning spirit to achieve the impossible—and from here on out, it should be “yes”, “can”, and “Do What We Can’t”!” he added.
These are the words that should ring true in each and every one of us. All the best for the Games, Julian!

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Beauty
Level up on your nightly skincare with the La Crème
Get pampered!

23.03.2017
By Gwen Ong

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As we age, it becomes more and more important to treat ourselves and pamper our skin. One can never be overly cautious with the daily onslaught of stress and environmental aggressors coupled with poor diet and imbalance hormones. Thus, night-time is the ideal time to take a break from the battle and indulge in a little bit of self-pampering.

Clé de Peau Beauté’s La Crème gets us back on track by enveloping our face in luxurious moisture and natural glow. The La Crème is a high performance cream that is designed to re-texturise, moisturise and liberate skin from various cutaneous stressors while increasing its vitality, reduce visible sagging and promote optimal natural conditions. In short, this helps you to achieve a more youthful look.

La Crème is fortified with the brand’s exclusive Illuminating Complex EX—a key ingredient featuring platinum gold silk and Japanese pearl to give skin an abundance of moisture and nourish its radiance from within. As such, you will feel the most luxurious texture in the La Crème that is beautifully encapsulated in a shiny polygonal packaging.

Clé de Peau Beauté’s La Crème is available in 30ml (RM2,210) and 50ml (RM2,950). Also come this May 2017, the brand is launching the limited edition 10ml (RM670); just the perfect size to pop into your luggage for your travelling needs.

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Beauty
The best Vinotherapie spa in town beckons
Bringing Bordeaux to you

01.08.2015
By Terry Saw

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Husband-wife team and Caudalie founders Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas envisioned a dreamland when they launched Les Sources de Caudalie, the first Vinotherapie Spa within the stunning compounds of their family’s vineyards at the Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux.

“I designed each of my spas to ensure they offer guests an out-of-the-ordinary experience in unsual places. Our Vinotherapists lavish the only treatments of their kind in the world based on the exceptional ancient powers of the vines.”
Now, bringing Bordeaux to the heart of Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, you too, can experience a deluxe selection of Vinotherapie-inspired treatments sans the hassle of taking more than an hour out of your busy schedule, which is about all the time it takes for each treatment.

The Vinoperfect Radiance Facial is a quick pick-me-up for fatigued skin, and incorporates the following steps to correct an uneven complexion:
1. A sculpting massage coupled with the use of the Regenerating Concentrate and warm and cool basalt stones instantly awaken’s your skin’s luminosity.
2. An Enzymatic Peel Mask then follows to rid off dead skin cells in exchange for a clearer, more youthful complexion. This is a gentle peel so you won’t have to worry about post-facial redness if you’ve got places to go and things to do after your treatment.
3. Your skin will also be treated with the Vinotherapie Radiance Serum, which is generously massaged onto your skin as a finishing touch for a natural glowing complexion and skin that stays fresh and supple for the rest of the day.
And the good folks at Caudalie think of everything – if you absolutely cannot spare an hour out of your busy day, you can opt for a 30-minute boost for your skin. The Express D-Vine Facial restores your skin’s condition in less time than it takes for you to get through Friday traffic – perfect for pre-date night fix too.
Caudalie Vinotherapie Treatments are available daily at Caudalie, Bangsar Shopping Centre, KL by appointment only. T: +603 – 2095 0001

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Watches
Tiffany & Co. Blue Book 2017 brings the wonders of the wild to life
A sparkling expedition

14.03.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Put the unbridled beauty of a tropical island with unparalleled watches and jewellery craftsmanship and you will get Tiffany & Co.’s 2017 Blue Book Collection, the Art of the Wild. The name offers an inkling of what you can expect from the collection, comprising six themes—Whispers of the Rain Forest; Miracle Berry; The Falls; Leaves of the Sun; Feathered Cloak; Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.

The Blue Book Collection highlights Tiffany’s gemstone heritage through the gems used in this range. Standouts from the collection include the first theme: The focus is on handcrafted gemstone-covered fronds that are stitched together with an intricate diamond rope—a detail to allow for subtle, slight movement in tandem with the wearer. This is translated to a diamond collier with 200 baguette diamonds and exquisite pair of earrings with yellow diamonds that graduate in colour for a mesmerising effect. Another highlight is a sizable cocktail ring from the Miracle Berry range, featuring a 20-karat cabochon rubellite that boasts an alluring, intensely saturated red hue.
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The sheer force of waterfalls and the cascading motion from the water was also cited as an inspiration for one of the themes, The Falls—perfectly captured with a necklace made with baguette, pear-shaped and round diamonds with strands in varying lengths. But the design team also alluded to nature’s ability to regenerate for the Art of the Wild. A sense of openness and zeal for life was recreated in the Leaves of the Sun designs, specifically a pair of palm leaf earrings in tsavorite, yellow sapphire, and South Sea black pearls for a harmonious design.
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The Feathered Cloak theme takes on the vivid colours and forms of exotic birds, with gemstone-coated “plumage” that simulate the movement of actual feathers. The last design theme, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, harkens back to the company’s history of creating floral shaped jewellery. Ombré gemstones were used for this leitmotif to cast a progressive colour change—noted in a bracelet with a stunning 54-karat cabochon rubellite in the middle, enclosed with a woven lattice of baguette and round pink sapphires.
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Men's
Meet the grandpa influencers who are more stylish than you

14.06.2020
By Joan Kong

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Mention ‘male fashion influencers’ and the likes of Nick Wooster, Bryanboy, Adam Gallagher, and Mariano Di Vaio will most likely come to mind, but we’ve got new style stars on our radar that’ll give these names a run for their money—trust us when we say that they’re rocking the hottest brands and trends better than all of us. Enter Alojz Abram, Irvin Randle, Silver Tetsuya, and Günther Krabbenhöft—the four grandpas who are taking the internet by storm thanks to their personal style. Like nonagenarian fashion icon Iris Apfel, they prove that true style really has no age.
Below, four of the most stylish senior fashion influencers on the internet:

Hypebeast grandpa: Alojz Abram
Instagram account: @jaadiee
Follower count: 857k

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74-year-old Alojz Abram shot to fame last year when his Instagram account made the rounds on the internet, and with 857k followers and counting, he’s definitely one of the most popular senior influencers around.
His grandson Jannick first started taking pictures of Alojz in his outfits as a hobby back in 2016, but in an interview with LadBible, he assured that those are the clothes his gramps wear in his everyday life. His signature look usually comprises of a sweater, jeans, and a pair of eye-catching kicks sneakerheads would approve. One thing’s for sure: This streetwear grandpa rocks Supreme harder than you.

Suave grandpa: Irvin Randle
Instagram account: @irvinrandle
Follower count: 343k

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Fashion
Cara Delevingne and Matt Smith are the stars of Burberry’s festive ads
Holiday season

02.11.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

Put two charming English personalities together and deck them in heritage-rich threads and you’ve got Burberry’s latest holiday collection campaign. British actors Cara Delevingne and Matt Smith were tapped by the luxury fashion house for their new range which debuts in stores and online today. Shot by renowned British photographer Alasdair McLellan, the campaign boasts three visuals along with a 30-second video of the dynamic duo having their fair share of fun to the 1988 hit, ‘Always On My Mind’ by the Pet Shop Boys—all while decked in cushy knits and the iconic Burberry trench coat.
This campaign marks a couple of firsts for Smith—it is his first ever fashion campaign and first project with Burberry. Seasoned veteran Delevingne has had a longstanding affiliation with Burberry that go way back in 2010. “Burberry has always been a brand that I have admired. From the football stands to the macs on the runway. The chance to work with Christopher, who with his design and vision, has contributed so much to a brilliant British brand and indeed left a footprint not only on fashion but British culture itself, is a huge privilege,” said Smith in a press release. “Working with both Alasdair McLellan and Cara Delevingne, two fashion and creative heavyweights, was also very appealing, and made partnering for this campaign an easy choice for me.”
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The new collection from the brand celebrates the best of British heritage and charm with a mishmash of fabric, motif and colour. Expect laminated trench coats in tartan and check (definitely waterproof!), Fair Isles knits and a new scarf in a supersized silhouette, the Burberry Bandana. Other highlights include the reversible Giant tote catered to both men and women, the DK88 that now comes in new colourful combinations, and the new Doodle tote that is made from printed canvas and leather trim.
Watch the campaign video here:

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Beauty
Get excited for: M.A.C x Charlotte Olympia
Oh yes, it’s happening!

24.09.2015
By Terry Saw

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Christmas came early for us this year! M.A.C Cosmetics is quite the genius when it comes to rolling out some of the best collaborations in the business, but the big reveal of its upcoming partnership with British luxury shoe and accessories brand Charlotte Olympia is the icing on the cake!

THIS IS MY DREAM COLLECTION! THE INSPIRATION FOR THE COLLECTION COMES FROM MY LOVE OF A BYGONE ERA THAT MANIFESTS ITSELF IN MY DAY-TO-DAY BEAUTY LOOK AS WELL AS FEATURING MY DESIGN AESTHETIC. I HAVE ALWAYS ENJOYED THE RITUAL OF DRESSING UP AND WANTED TO UNLEASH MY INNER MOVIE STAR!
“Charlotte Olympia Dellal is not only a true talent in the design and fashion world, but also a timeless beauty whose products – infused with whimsy, colour and fun – speak perfectly to the M·A·C aesthetic.  Her playful and stylish accessories are the ultimate inspiration for makeup; the playfulness and variety in the M·A·C Charlotte Olympia collection is one we can’t wait to share with the world.” – M∙A∙C Senior Vice President/Group Creative Director James Gager

Inspired by pin-ups, silver screen sirens and the bygone era of old Hollywood glamour, make way in your beauty stash for an unapologetically nostalgic collection of retro-glam colour. Collection hits our shores in March 2016: watch this space for sneak peeks and updates.

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Travel
These are the countries fully vaccinated Malaysians can now travel to

13.10.2021
By Natalie Khoo

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Last Sunday brought news many Malaysians have longed to hear: international travel is now open for fully vaccinated individuals. But before you jump at the opportunity to tame your travel bug, here’s a gentle reminder to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your trip and to take note of the SOPs and guidelines imposed by the Malaysian government.
If you’ve checked both boxes, here’s a non-exhaustive list of countries that have reopened borders to international tourists (including Malaysians) and their respective requirements for your consideration.
1. United Kingdom

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The United Kingdom has opened its borders to all green list countries, with exceptions for UK residents and British or Irish nationals from red list countries, namely Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. Fully vaccinated travellers, individuals under 18 years of age, and individuals who cannot receive a Covid-19 vaccination for medical reasons who are bound for the UK are required to:

book and pay for a day 2 Covid-19 test to be taken after arrival in England
complete a passenger locator form 48 hours before arrival
no quarantine is required

However, do take note that the UK does not currently recognise Sinovac and Sinopharm out of the seven vaccines administered in Malaysia, so you are not considered fully vaccinated if you have received these vaccines.
For more information, read the UK travel advisory here.
2. Thailand

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Thailand launched the Phuket SandBox programme in July 2021, allowing vaccinated foreign tourists or unvaccinated individuals under 18 years of age to fly into the island without quarantine requirements. However, Malaysia was excluded from the programme until the beginning of this month (1 October). To enter the resort island, travellers must:

provide a vaccine certificate/proof of a full vaccination at least 14 days and not more than 12 months prior to your departure to Thailand
apply for Certificate of Entry (COE)
have Covid-19 travel insurance
present a RT-PCR negative test result issued no more than 72 hours before departure time at the airline’s check-in counter
pre-purchase RT-PCR COVID 19 tests in Phuket
stay only at a SHA+ Hotel

The Thai government has also announced plans to open up the rest of the country in the coming months, although there’s no further details yet as to whether Malaysian travellers will be included in its plans. Rest assured, we’ll update this article when we hear word.
For more information, visit the Thai Embassy website.
3. United States

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As with pre-Covid times, Malaysians will need to apply for a visa to travel to the United States. All travellers aged two years and above must provide a negative Covid-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel regardless of vaccination status, or be prepared to show documentation of recovery (proof of a recent positive viral test and a letter from your healthcare provider or a public health official stating that you were cleared to travel). The test result/documentation must be presented to the airline before boarding the flight.
For more information, visit the US Embassy’s website here.
4. Sri Lanka

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Lifestyle
Checking out ‘Women: New Portraits’ by Annie Leibovitz
A must see!

23.09.2016
By Gwen Ong

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

With the current spotlight on Milan (see our Milan Fashion Week 2017 highlights here), there is another creative display taking place in this fashionable city. Over at the Fabbrica Orobia, Annie Leibovitz’s exhibition titled ‘Women: New Portraits’ is now showing until 2 October 2016.

The travelling exhibition is the continuation of the renowned photographer’s 1999 collaboration with the late writer/filmmaker Susan Sontag, in which the roles of women are explored through photographs.

Annie Leibovitz is famously known for her intimate portrayal of women from all walks of life through the lens of her camera. This year, she was chosen to record the portraits of the British royal family in conjunction with the 90th birthday of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

A photo posted by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) on Apr 20, 2016 at 4:01pm PDT

For the exhibition, the new portraits, which were commissioned by financial company UBS, were unveiled in London earlier this year. From artists to musicians, CEOs, politicians, writers and philanthropists, the images reflect the changes in the roles of women today and their outstanding achievement.

The Annie Leibovitz’s Women: New Portraits exhibition will be moving on to Frankfurt, New York and Zurich next.

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Location:
Fabbrica Orobia 15
Via Orobia, 15
20139 Milan, Italy

Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm (last admission 5pm)
Friday: Late until 8pm (last admission 7pm)

Entrance: Free admission

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Film, TV + Theatre
10 Chinese New Year specials the whole family can watch together
Gather ‘round the screen!

12.01.2023
By Marissa Chin

FEATURED IMAGES: @sakra_themovie / Instagram | @somedayoneday.movie / Instagram | @whattheheist19 / Instagram

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

Chinese New Year festivities may be known for bountiful feasts and bright red decorations, but there is arguably one other thing that is the most important above all—quality time spent with loved ones. Whether it’s far-away relatives or long-lost friends you haven’t seen in a while, the Lunar New Year is a time to gather around and have a joyous time full of laughter and life.
As the Year of the Rabbit rolls around, consider watching a Chinese New Year special while you have everyone together. These feel-good TV shows and films are lighthearted and humorous, making them ideal for all ages. Further, they remind us of important values that we should prioritise in 2023, such as family and health. With that, here are upcoming CNY movies and shows to keep your spirits up!

Śakra

When: 16 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
Starting out the list on a high note is Sakra, which is the latest film adaptation of the popular wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by Jin Yong. Not only does it feature top actor Donnie Yen as the protagonist, it is also directed and co-produced by the international star. The plot follows Qiao Feng (Yen), the leader of the ‘beggar clan’, who is labelled as a traitor. He soon meets Duan Yu, a pacifist young prince with no martial art skills; and Xu Zhu, a Shaolin monk torn between two clans. Join their kung-fu-filled action adventure this CNY!

Little Sunshine

When: 19 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
Parents watching this film will very much relate to the troubles of child-raising in this heartwarming family movie. Little Sunshine sees a kid named Xiao Pang who has an insatiable appetite and no interest in school. To combat this, his parents promised they would reward him with a mobile phone if he can get his grades up. This method worked…until Xiao Pang developed a cell phone addiction instead. His parents arrange for him to see a child psychologist, but before their first session, their son had chosen to run away. This touching tale will make you appreciate the loved ones in your life more as you gather together this Chinese New Year.

What! The Heist

When: 19 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
Here’s a fun action-comedy full of slapstick shenanigans starring household names such as Mark Lee, Henry Thia, and Jack Lim that will have your little cousins and grandparents laughing the whole way through. The plot starts with the jail escape of a criminal genius known as the ‘Godfather’. He is entrusted with a mission from a powerful gang leader only dubbed as ‘Big Boss’ to steal a RM100 million lottery grand prize. Cue elaborate criminal schemes, a ragtag group of bumbling convicts, a hilarious battle of wits and you have yourself a must-watch this Chinese New Year!

The King of Musang King

When: 22 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
The legendary Singaporean trio is back this festive period with another side-splitting comedy since their collaborative film Money No Enough in 2008. Starring Henry Thia, Jack Neo, and Mark Lee, The King of Musang King follows Mao Shan (played by Neo), an ambitious durian farmer who wishes to expand his sales overseas against pressures from the ‘Three Heavenly Kings’ of the business. Considering how much Malaysians love their durians, this should not be missed!

The Wandering Earth II

When: 22 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
For something more action-packed this Chinese New Year, how about a sci-fi film with intergalactic travel and colossal stakes? Following the success of The Wandering Earth in 2019, this film is a prequel set in a time when humanity has constructed massive engines on the earth’s surface to discover a new home. In a bid to save their original home, catch stars such as Andy Lau and Wu Jing in this high-octane action film to protect the earth from total extinction.

Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration On Earth

When: 21 January, 5.20pm to 8pm and 22 January from 3.40pm to 6.25pm
Where: Unifi TV channel 501, Astro channel 554 and BBC Player
Chinese New Year is one of the biggest events on the planet and every year a sixth of the world’s population travels home to celebrate with their families. If you’ve ever wondered about the history and traditions behind this ancient celebration, BBC’s newest series is one you should check out. Based in the heart of Beijing, each episode will explore a different side to this celebration, from Xinfadi food market where families and businesses stock up for the all-important New Year Feast to the stunning Temple of Earth, where thousands of families visit to pray for prosperity and good luck.

Celestial Animals Gone Wild
Photo: Gary Bendig / Unsplash
When: 21 to 22 January 2023, 8.30pm
Where:  Astro Channel 550
Looking for something to watch with your little cousins? The story of the Chinese Zodiac Race is a tale as old as time, but that doesn’t make it any less fun to watch it again! Tune in to Nat Geo Wild’s CNY special as they feature the 12 celestial animals of the Chinese zodiac out in the wild.

Ma, I Love You

When: 22 January 2023
As part of Astro’s CNY campaign, you will be able to catch the film, Ma, I Love You in cinemas nationwide! Starring both a local and international cast including Hazell Siow, Phei Yong, and Ong Ai Leng, this film is directed by award-winning director Chiu Keng Guan. It follows the relationship between a single mother, Ling and her daughter, Qiqi. Conflict arises when Ling finds out Qiqi’s plan to secretly leave Malaysia in a bid to escape her mother’s overbearing clutches.

Jason Daily’s Eats Season Two – CNY Special

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A post shared by Axian 杨佳贤 (@axian.my)

When: 22 January 2023, 10pm
Where: Astro AEC Channel 301
If food is your love language, then perhaps a dining show is more up your alley. Be sure to tune in to chef Jason’s popular culinary show where he reinterprets nostalgic and festive Chinese New Year dishes that are perfect for any gathering. If you’re hosting your own reunion dinner, then all the more reason to learn from Jason on how to recreate crowd-pleasing dishes!

Someday or One Day

When: 26 January 2023
Where: Selected cinemas
Based on the hit Taiwanese drama of the same name in 2019, director Huang Tien Jen returns to direct the movie adaptation of it with the drama’s original cast of lead actors starring Alice Ko, Greg Hsu and Patrick Shih. The time-travel romance drama tells the story of Huang Yu Xuan, who while grieving the death of her boyfriend, receives a mysterious cassette that allows her to travel back to the past. Will she be able to change the fate of her lover’s past?

For more ideas on how to get CNY-ready, head here.

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Fashion
The Fashion Awards 2017: Winners of the night
Big names

05.12.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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In its second year running, the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Awards was held last night at the Royal Albert Hall, where fashion’s finest from across the globe were extolled for their talent, creativity and sheer brilliance alongside throngs of A-listers. Highlights of the night include Calvin Klein’s Raf Simons taking home the Designer of the Year, Adwoa Aboah solidifying her status as the Model of the Year, and a touching tribute to the late Azzedine Alaïa; not forgetting recurring winners who upheld their accolades such as Jonathan Anderson clinched the British Designer of the Year for Womenswear along with Accessories Designer of the Year for his work at Loewe. Below, take a look at who brought their best foot forward on the red carpet that night:
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Full list of winners and honorees of the Fashion Awards 2017 here:
Model of the Year: Adwoa Aboah
Urban Luxe Brand: Virgil Abloh for Off-White
Business Leader: Marco Bizzarri for Gucci
British Emerging Talent for Menswear: Charles Jeffrey for Charles Jeffrey Loverboy
British Emerging Talent for Womenswear: Michael Halpern for Halpern
British Designer of the Year for Menswear: Craig Green for Craig Green
British Designer of the Year for Womenswear: Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson
Accessories Designer of the Year: Jonathan Anderson for Loewe
Designer of the Year: Raf Simons for Calvin Klein
Swarovski Award for Positive Change: Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior
Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator: Pat McGrath
Outstanding Contribution to British Fashion Award: Christopher Bailey
Special Recognition Award for Innovation: Stella McCartney
Fashion Icon Award: Donatella Versace & House of Versace

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Features
Exclusive: Sandro’s Evelyne Chetrite and Louis Barthélemy on their latest collaboration and how it empowers Moroccan women
Moroccan flair

09.05.2023
By Benedict Unang

Featured images courtesy of Sandro

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ICYMI, Sandro’s Evelyne Chetrite, the brand’s founder and artistic director, has joined forces with French artist and designer Louis Barthélemy, to create an exclusive capsule collection.
‘Sandro x Louis Barthélemy‘ is a womenswear collection built on their mutual desire to celebrate Morocco. From embroidered Kasbah bags to silk scarves and printed shirts, the series whisks us into a universe where traditional craftsmanship is preserved in modern silhouettes. One of the highlights is the bucket bag, which is crafted together with the ‘Doum for Women’ cooperative, one that empowers women in rural communities of Morocco.
Ahead, we caught up with the fashion duo on the inspiration behind the line, their experience working with the women’s collective, and a quick itinerary of what to do in Marrakech.

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How did the collaboration come about, and how has it developed into the capsule collection we see today?
Evelyne: I was born and raised in Morocco. This country is dear to my heart, and I always want to celebrate its craftsmanship, art of living, light, and vibrations. I have seen Louis’ work many times before and found that his colourful and poetic way of portraying Morocco resonated with my vision. My instincts guide my creative choices, and I knew there was something we could do together. I didn’t want a literal presentation of Morocco, but rather something more subtle, discreet, but still joyful.
Louis: When Evelyne and I first met in Paris, we had a fruitful and inspiring conversation. She told me about her childhood in Rabat, the Moroccan capital and her move to France. She kept the memories of her country of origin through a generous, enveloping and sophisticated art of living, which I am familiar with since I chose to settle there. This collection celebrates our respective attachment to Morocco and its magnificent craftsmanship, which has been woven into the country’s dynamism and identity.

The collection is alive with beautiful prints and colours—what is the main inspiration behind it?
E: It is all about celebrating Morocco. It brings me back to my childhood and many happy memories, such as the time when my grandfather worked as a shirt tailor. Handmade goods are valued in Morocco, whether they are baskets, ceramics, or textiles, and I am particularly fond of them. I also wanted to create a collection that explored Morocco’s silhouette from an angle other than mine.
L: I was inspired by the pictorial universe of Moroccan figurative artist Mohamed Ben Ali L’Rbati when designing the silk scarf. He became well-known for his unique and distinctive painting style, characterised by vibrant colours, intricate details, and complex compositions that often incorporate traditional Moroccan architecture, geometric patterns, and graphic borders. It’s a colourful nod to a Moroccan artist whose work I particularly love that can be found in the joyful designs decorating an optimistic wardrobe.

Could you sum up the collection in three words?
E & L: Optimistic, festive and responsible.

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For the bucket bag, you partnered with ‘Doum for Women’— a women’s basketry cooperative based in Marrakech. Tell us about the experience.
E: Working with these golden hands was an emotional experience for me because this cooperative allows rural Moroccan women to be independent and autonomous. To me, we must defend their freedom to work because this organisation protects ancestral craft heritage, especially basketry.
L: I have been experimenting with ‘Doum for Women’ for a year now, and I love spending days in the workshop with these craftswomen, observing how they work. When Sandro approached me, I tried to be the link between the women’s cooperative and the ready-to-wear brand, and I feel the merger of the two entities was a real success.

Which piece from the collection is your favourite, and why?
E: It is difficult to choose only one, but I think the shirt—the long-sleeved shirt. While the shapes are masculine, the colours and materials are ultra-feminine. At Sandro, we love mixing genres and contrasting silhouettes.
L: I would say the bucket bag in natural straw and leather with the printed pouch. I love this item because it engages with the Marrakech-based ‘Doum for Women’ cooperative, which aims to preserve traditions in modern ways and share Moroccan crafts with the rest of the world. This is also a means for these women to be empowered and financially independent.

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Since the collection is all about celebrating Moroccan culture, what is it about this nation that fascinates you the most?
E: Everything in Morocco inspires me: the colours, the vibrations, the light, the warmth of the heart.
L: I am fascinated by the intricate and colourful geometric patterns used in Moroccan architecture, textiles, and ceramics, which are a captivating fusion of Islamic, African, and Mediterranean influences. I love its timelessness and modernity!

What should one do in Marrakech if given only a day to spend there?
E: Enjoy the Jardin Majorelle, stroll around the souk, and discover local craftsmen. Then, have the best mint tea ever at a local coffee shop before sleeping in a unique Riad in the medina.
L: Visit the Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent museum in the morning, then jump in a horse carriage and eat lunch at +61, followed by a stop at Galerie 127 to see a photography exhibition. Afterwards, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa for freshly squeezed orange juice and take a walk around the bustling souks for handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy an aperitif on the terrace of Dar Yacout, before enjoying a magical dinner on the patio. Lastly, sleep the night away at La Mamounia or Riad Mena & Beyond in the medina.

For more fashion reads, click here.

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A sign of luxury: Orchids

Travel
A sign of luxury: Orchids
Exotic blooms

18.09.2015
By Buro247

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Since the Victorian era, orchids have been a symbol of opulence and class. Here are 3 dining spaces that can testify to that.

1. The Orchid Conservatory

This glass atrium filled from wall to wall with a stunning array of orchids is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. The Orchid Conservatory showcases a hanging garden that features a seasonal range of orchids that changes as the seasons progress. As diners enjoy the afternoon tea served here, they can feast their eyes on the exquisite setting that is bound to make them feel fancy.

2. Orchid Tea Lounge

With a selection of exceptional world-class teas, the newly opened Orchid Tea Lounge is set within a modern glasshouse. The centrepiece of this sleek greenhouse is a wooden table made from recycled sailboats. The humble furnishing is transformed into an impressive one with the exotic collection of potted orchids placed on top of it. Guests can enjoy a premier selection of green, black, flavoured, herbal and oolong teas from Dilmah in this idyllic venue in Bali.

3. Kasara Lounge

This luxurious lounge, located on the 37th floor of Anantara Bangkok Sathorn hotel overlooking Bangkok’s impressive skyline, is only accessible to exclusive Kasara guests. Aligning with the theme of luxury and prestige, each table at the Kasara Lounge is ornamented with a clear vase of orchids. At the Kasara Lounge, guests will be able to enjoy breakfast, light snacks, and canapés through out the day and enjoy drinks at the large balcony with a mesmerising view of the Bangkok sunset.

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ICYMI: #BestofBuro (21 – 27 Aug 2017)

Lifestyle
ICYMI: #BestofBuro (21 – 27 Aug 2017)
Weekly highlights

26.08.2017
By Gwen Ong

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Buro 24/7 Malaysia: In the spirit of KL2017, our team took on the SEA Games 2017 athletes and challenged them in their own sport. Catch our special series and mini interviews with the Malaysian representatives in synchronised swimming, bowling, triathlon, discus throwing and badminton.

Buro 24/7 Singapore: News dropped this week that Korean cult eyewear brand, Gentle Monster will be opening a store in Singapore. It marks the brand’s first flagship boutique in the Southeast Asian market and will feature the full eyewear range including the Tilda Swinton collaboration.

Buro 24/7 Australia: Have you heard of the new diet called ‘flexitarian’? Well, now you have. The new food movement is fast gaining popularity in the land down under and our counterpart tells us five reasons why. Dietician Georgina Moore dishes on why everyone should flex.

Buro 24/7 Malaysia: Come away with Editor-in-Chief, Cai Mei to the perfect hideaway in Katamama, Bali. Located in the bustling strip of Seminyak, the beautiful resort is an oasis of calm with plenty to offer. She shares good reasons why you should head to the hotel for an experience of luxury Balinese living at its finest.

Buro 24/7 Middle East: Gucci has upped the ante with an accessory that is sure to appeal to anyone who calls him or herself a student of fashion. Get first look at the limited edition Jane Austen book Juvenilia that features a series of short stories re-designed into the Frame Print leather top handle bag.

Catch last week’s #BestofBuro here.

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Style
Watch now: Kylie Jenner’s bag closet tour

20.08.2018
By Joan Kong

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Set to be the youngest self-made billionaire thanks to her makeup line, Kylie Cosmetics, Kylie Jenner brought her followers on a little tour of her other pride and joy—her bag closet. An entire room dedicated to her purses only, if that doesn’t make you green with envy, we don’t know what will. From a collection Hermès Kelly and Birkins (she revealed the one bag that she’ll save if there’s a fire) to all the latest It-bags, trust the youngest Kardashian-Jenner clan to have them all housed in her not-so-little room. There was also a sweet moment in the video, as she showed some bags that were given to her by her mom, Kris Jenner, when she was young, such as a Prada nylon coin pouch and a mini Louis Vuitton tote. Similarly, she’s also passing down the “bag tradition”, and revealed some of the bags that her baby, Stormi, will be carrying as soon as she starts asking Kylie for it. Can we borrow them in the meantime?

Watch the video here:

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Travel
7 Stunning ‘Emily in Paris’ Season 3 locations you should visit in France
Un petit plaisir

27.12.2022
By Natalie Khoo

Photos: Netflix

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Emily Cooper has done it again. After the cliffhanger ending in Season Two, the Chicago marketing executive cum social media influencer from the Netflix rom-com hit series, Emily in Paris, has once again whipped us into her rose-tinted glasses perspective of Paris in the third season, released on 21 December 2022.
To nobody’s surprise, the global phenomenon is currently (as of the time of writing) the no. 1 top trending series on the popular streaming platform. And like the past two seasons, Emily in Paris Season Three has no lack of flamboyant outfits, complicated relationship tropes, and dreamy set locations that have become the talk of the town for fans and critics alike.
Just in time for the holiday season, here are some of the most scenic locations to visit in Paris (and Provence) according to our favourite marketing girl, Emily. Warning: Minor spoilers ahead!

The Eiffel Tower

This world-renowned landmark is probably already on your must-visit list regardless of Emily in Paris, but we had to include it for good measure. After all, the season opens with Emily being confronted by Sylvie and Madeline at the top of the Eiffel Tower. Sure, it was just a dream, but we all know how things turned out by the end of Episode One (assuming you’ve watched the show). With that said, the ‘Iron Lady’ is a true symbol of Parisian culture, economy and industrial strength—making it an enviable location for visitors hoping to bask in the city’s glorious beauty and history.
Take it from Collins herself, speaking to Netflix: “It was wild and magical to be up there just with our crew and cast. In the scene where Emily goes up in the Eiffel Tower elevator, it was apparently just her, director Andrew Fleming, a camera operator, and a focus puller in the exclusive space.

Musée des Arts Décoratifs

Who can forget the scene where Sylvie and Madeline have an epic showdown in Episode Two at the Pierre Cadault fashion retrospective? The show’s creator, Darren Star, said a similar real-life exhibition by Dior at Musee des Arts Decoratifs was what inspired the scene. Occupying the north-western wing of the Louvre, the modern museum houses over 500,000 decorative artworks dating from the Middle Ages to the present day.
“In my wildest dreams, I didn’t think we’d ever actually be here: the actual place where they did the [Elsa] Schiaparelli show, the Dior show—and now we’re doing the Pierre Cadault show,” Star told Netflix.

Hôtel Molitor Paris

Remember the scene where Emily and Mindy are lounging by the pool and claiming free samples of Soleil de Paris in Episode Five? This is none other than Hotel Molitor Paris. Designed by architect Lucien Pollethe, the hotel first opened as a Parisian bathhouse named Piscine Molitor in 1929. It quickly turned into a popular beach club-like hotspot where Parisians came to swim and socialise. However, a brief stint as an ice skating rink led to its closure in 1989. After a restoration in 2014, the historic building reopened as a hotel with minimalist interiors that pay homage to the building’s Art Deco heritage and reputation as a global street art landmark, thanks to architectural designer Jean-Philippe Nuel.

Provence

Just like how the second season of Emily in Paris whisked us away to Saint-Tropez, the latest installment takes us to Provence during the region’s lavender season for the unveiling of an equally stunning purple McLaren Artura. This typically takes place during the summer months between mid-June to mid-August, with July being the perfect time to go for peak bloom.
According to Lucas Bravo, who plays Chef Gabriel, Provence is the “best location” he’s ever visited for a project. This figures, especially since Gabriel and Emily enjoy the most enviable meal of the season (Episode Six) at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the countryside destination. “That view is everything,” he says of the restaurant scene. “I was not facing it. I was trying to be a gentleman and leave it for Lily, but I just felt very privileged to have the opportunity to be in such an inspiring place.”

Musée d’Orsay

In Episode Nine, Gabriel and Camille plan a date at Musée d’Orsay to recreate the first time they went out together. Built between 1898 and 1900, the national museum of fine and applied arts holds mainly French art dating from 1848 to 1914, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography. Some of the most revered works of art in the world grace its halls, including Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Renoir’s Bal Moulin Galette and Monet’s Nymphéas Bleus.
Interestingly, director Andrew Fleming has been dreaming of filming at the museum since Season One. “I was able to come here and walk around the museum by myself when it was closed and pick where we could shoot and what paintings we could feature,” Fleming told Netflix.

Le Mur des Je T’aime

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Translated to mean the Wall of Love—or more literally, the “I Love You Wall”—Le Mur des Je T’aime is a must-visit for couples visiting the City of Love. It’s no wonder why Emily pitched this spot as one of three romantic locations (and her personal favourite at that) as part of a marketing campaign in Episode Nine. Located on the square at Place des Abbesses in Montmartre, the famous mural features more than 250 ways of saying “I love you” in different languages on blue tiles.

Château de Montpoupon

The hot air balloon scene for the “Love is in the Air” campaign was shot at Château de Montpoupon, a castle located in the Touraine region of the Loire Valley. The private, furnished property features a dining room, King’s chamber, kitchen and other unique rooms which visitors can explore by purchasing tickets. There’s also a museum consisting of 30 rooms dedicated to the craft of hunting. Alternatively, you can also explore the grounds and take a pleasant stroll through the forest.
READ: ‘Emily in Paris’ Season One: Where to visit in Paris according to Emily Cooper

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