Beauty
#BeatTheHaze: 5 Ways to amp your skin defense
Gunning for perfect skin

13.10.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

With the current state of the weather looking like it isn’t making a turn for the better just yet, it’s no surprise that your skin might just be affected by air pollutants such as smoke particles, leading to dryer, more irritated skin. Here’s how you can take extra care of your skin with these few beauty products that were made to boost your skin defense.

Red and itchy eyes can be a pain, especially when you have to go sans eye makeup while attempting to recover from it. But Benefit Cosmetics Air Patrol BB Cream Eyelid Primer could help protect and hydrate your eyes while locking on and colour-correcting your eyeshadow with SPF 20 and shea extract. Its gel-foam inspired Cushion Calm Tip makes for a gentle, pressure-free application upon your eyelids, instead of using your fingertips.

‘
A perk-me-up is always needed throughout the day, especially when the haze is an absolute gloomer these days. Stay refreshed with L’erbolario Flower of the Wave Body Mist, a light scent with toning and moisturising extracts of Blue Water Lily and Alga Nori. There’s nothing as reinvigorating as a whiff of the deep blue sea reminiscent of (clearer!) summer days.

Moisturise and nourish your skin with some much-needed protective active ingredients, such as Melvita Nectar Supreme The Cream‘s potent combination of Kniphofia nectar and royal jelly for energizing and nourishing properties, along with repairing benefits from the complex of 3 organic honeys. For your eyes and lips, Melvita The Eye & Lip Contour Cream includes Chlorella extract that can help smooth wrinkles and fine lines while reducing eye puffiness around your eye area.

Another star product that can improve your eye area’s skin resistance for the weather (and for the long run) is Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Eye Concentrate. Go skin deep with the eye concentrate’s unique ImuMoisture Extract to shield your skin against heat and UV rays, along with white birch extract for moisturising benefits.

Lackluster complexion can result from the dreary weather as well, but that’s where SK-II Enamel Radiant Cream Compact Foundation comes in handy. With a new formula comprising of Pitera and SPF30 for ultimate skin hydration and protection, the foundation gives full face coverage while maintaining your skin’s glow and radiance.

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Fashion
Editor’s picks: 11 Beach-style essentials for your next getaway
Sky, sand, sea and your stylish self

21.04.2022
By Sarah Hani Jamil

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

Going to the beach can pretty much cure any stressed state of mind. Being out in nature with the sea air, ocean views and warm weather can help lessen tension and anxiety. If you’re like me, and it’s been ages since your last trip seaside, now is the perfect opportunity to plan your holiday. With some of these popular neighbouring beach destinations already open to the world—Thailand, Indonesia, The Philippines, and Australia to name a few—along with our country’s very own crystal-clear waters, your next holiday is just a booking away.
Before you take that trip though, make sure you’re stocking up on some of this season’s must-have summer pieces. After all, you want to feel good and look good too. And what’s a holiday without posting some pictures or videos up on social media, eh? Ahead, see my picks for looking effortless and fabulous on your summer getaway.

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The Chanel 22 Small Handbag
“Roomy, light, functional and oh-so-chic, this luxurious bag is the perfect companion to stash your travel essentials in. Its magnetic closure and drawstring handles make it easy to access your items.”

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Gucci GG Jacquard Denim Bucket Hat
“The bucket-hat trend is still going strong and I love it. What better way to keep your face shaded from the sun than with a casual-cool piece like this?”

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Victoria Beckham Open Back Cut-Out Jersey Maxi Dress
“Bright maxi dresses are made for summer holidays and this sexy, stretchy jersey number will feel comfy on a fun night out.”

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Dior Dway Slides
“You’ll need easy slip-ons for the sandy beach and this multi-coloured pair with the Christian Dior emblem screams fun and effortless.”

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Versace Greca Swimsuit
“The one-piece suit is a timeless item and is great for doing beach activities without worrying about how your tummy looks. The neon pink colour with blue Greca-print straps is to die for!”

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Chloé Ruffle Sleeve A-Line Denim Dress
“For a day of sightseeing in a new town, I’d pick this stylish A-line denim dress that’s comfortable and appropriate for entering museums or sacred places.”

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Loewe Paula Ibiza’s Anagram Basket Bag
“The perfect stylish summer accessory. The spacious size and sturdy shape make it a top pick. Pair it with the denim Chloé dress for the ultimate holiday look.”

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Fendi Multicolour Lycra Bikini
“This is a piece you’d want to show off! The electrifying print of the Rainbow Girl taken from iconic fashion illustrator Antonio Lopez is a joy to look at.”

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Louis Vuitton OnTheGo PM
“Coming in a new spring gradient pastel shade, this roomy tote is not only versatile but will look great in your vacation photos!”

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Tory Burch Stripe-Print Strapless Dress
“Classy, low-maintenance, and easy to slip in and out of when at the beach.”

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Balenciaga Women’s Pool Crocs Slide
“I know there’s a lot of dismay for Crocs, but I personally think the pink ones in collaboration with Balenciaga are really cute. Breathable, lightweight and comfortable, they’re great for all the walking you’ll be doing!”

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For more shopping stories, click here.

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Fashion
10 Alternative head accessories to wear at Good Vibes 2019

09.07.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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

Good Vibes 2019 is right around the corner! Do you have your outfits all lined up yet? If you haven’t, fret not—we’ve got more than a dozen ideas for you to choose from. Based on our festival guide, your outfit for the two-day music festival may already be in your closet! So you won’t have to worry about spending more bucks on last-minute outfits. Next item on the to-do list is locking down your statement accessory. If you’ve got a flower crown in your suitcase or plan to get one when you arrive at the festival, we’re here to change your mind. Hang up the laurel wreath this year and try these alternatives for a fresh take.
Cowboy hat

 With the recent rise in popularity of Lil Nas X‘s catchy ‘Old Town Road‘, the ‘Gram has been blowing up with Western wear. Got an ‘ol cowboy hat that’s been collecting dust since that costume party way back when? Time to take it out for a spin!
Hair slides

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Enter the hair accessory trend that took Instagram by storm. These embellished slides are heavent-sent and keep your locks in check as you weave your way throught the crowd.
Bandana

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Fold and wear across the forehead, or keep the fringe and flyaways at bay by knotting it at the top as a headband. Here’s an idea: head accessory on Day 1 and neck accessory on Day 2.
Bucket hat

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The hipster favourite makes a daring yet sensible statement piece. The wide brim hat provides extra sun protection while looking super fly.
Straw hat

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Resort chic to a music festival is fair play. Tip an exaggeratedly wide brim hat to your fellow festival go-ers, though we recommend taking it off when you’re in the middle of the crowd.
Tiara

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Grace your royal subjects with a glittering crown fit for a queen. Secure with bobby pins to keep it in place.
Turban

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It can get pretty windy up in Genting Sempah. Keep your hair in check with a turban to keep those tresses under control. Not sure how to tie yours up? Try these quick tricks!
Sun visor
<

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 Sporty visors will do just the trick. Translucent neons look great against the sun, but remember to pack on the sunscreen.
Body art and glitter

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Take it up a notch and get ready to sparkle! Customise a rhinestone design that accents your best features,and pour on the glitter.
Headband

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 Blair Waldorf would be proud. Follow suit and emulate Prada’s Spring/Summer 2019 look with a wide-set satin headband in a shocking hue for the ultimate fashion statement.

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Fashion
All we want for Christmas: Hermès edition
Jolly up!

27.11.2017
By Joan Kong

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It’s that time of the year again; while most of us enjoy shopping for our loved ones, there are definitely some who could use a little help. From homeware to cute leather accessories, Hermès’ Christmas 2017 collection has got you covered with its range of goods this season, and we’ve segregated them into different styles for different personalities. For those who have an artsy flair, take your pick from the variety of beautifully printed accessories; girly girls should opt for sweet hues and feminine scent—the Twilly d’Hermès perfume is an ideal pick; eye-catching separates make the perfect choice for the fashionistas who are no afraid to be bold; and for those who are inclined towards less-is-more aesthetic, muted hues and sleek pieces are the way to go.

Shop the Hermès Christmas 2017 collection here:
For the artsy:
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For the girly:
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For the stylish:
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For the minimalist:
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#CheatDayEats: Cupcakes

Food + Drink
#CheatDayEats: Cupcakes
Sweet little devils

21.11.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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Some may say that the heyday of cupcakes is long over, but for some, these fun-sized treats remain a dessert staple that is not going anywhere. This week, we round up some of the best places in town for a cupcake fix:

1. A Slice Of Heaven

The ‘little brother’ of Just Heavenly Cafe, A Slice Of Heaven finds its home in the humbler abode of a kiosk, but the desserts up for grabs are just as (pardon the pun) heavenly. For those who find the usual cupcakes too sweet for their liking, give the White Velvet a go—light and tangy, the delightful treat is made of lemon cake batter and topped with cream cheese frosting.

2. Wondermilk

A veteran in the local cupcake scene, Wondermilk has come a long way since its online establishment days. Find freshly baked cupcakes at their cafes, with flavours ranging from classic Blueberry Cheese to the signature Superainbow. We especially love their customisable cupcake collections, with pretty and charming designs that make them perfect for special occasions.

3. Twelve Cupcakes

A Singaporean brand established in 2011, Twelve Cupcakes’ sweet confections are freshly made-from-scratch with love each day. Cupcakes here are less sweet (in a good way), and strike the delicate balance between a moist interior and fluffy texture. As its name implies, there are 12 daily flavours, with monthly specials featuring a more creative twist to the usual suspects.

Related stories:
#CheatDayEats: Milkshakes
#CheatDayEats: Cakes

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Food + Drink
For a feast to remember: Celebrate Christmas Eve at Marble 8
A hearty festive fare

19.11.2015
By Su Fen Tan

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

Christmas is inching closer by the day. Aside from the beautiful festive decorations, quality time with loved ones, gifts, who could forget the food? Ah yes, a good ol’ hearty feast should definitely be on the cards.  The Christmas Eve menu at Marble 8 is a delectable international affair, with an exquisite take on classics. If you’re planning for a nice evening out about town (with an incredible view to dine to, might we add), here is what to expect at Marble 8:

For appetisers, we were presented with a plate of pan-fried Hokkaido scallops with chaterelle mushrooms and green peas purée. The choice of purée was a nice touch, both visually and taste-wise. Coupled with the juicy scallops, it provided a nice balance of flavours to the palate. Next up was the potato and leek soup, topped with shaved winter truffle. Soup is always a good idea, in my books. Warm and hearty, it served as the perfect intermediate leading up to the next dish: sous vide turkey medallion with giblet ragout and cranberry sauce. The generous portion got me just a little worried that I might be filled up to the brim before the main course was even served, but once I started, there was no turning back—the turkey medallion was delectably tender, and paired with cranberry sauce, it was a flavourful match that was gladly devoured.

Then came the highlights of the menu—the main course is served. Guests are to pick from either the roasted 45-day aged prime rib with Yorkshire pudding, pont neuf potatoes and beef jus, or the pan-fried lobster tail served with sautéed spinach and capsicum velouté. Marble 8 takes pride in providing one of the finest steakhouse dining experiences in town, importing only the best beef from the globally renowned Menegazzo family. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the prime rib was most tastefully done. The process of being dry-aged to 45 days gave the succelent meat excellent texture and rich flavour. If beef doesn’t tickle your fancy, the lobster dish will most likely do the trick. The capsicum velouté was a flavourful accompaniment to the beautifully pan-fried lobster tail.

Finally, dessert made its entrance. The chocolate and ginger bread mousse with house-made nougat did not disappoint—a side of charcoal sugar was lighted to compliment the dessert with impressive visuals to fuel the Christmas spirit. A delicate balance of sweet flavours, the dessert was a real treat, hitting all the right spots while invoking a sense of nostalgia with the ginger bread element.

What we love about Marble 8 is they have incredible passion for their food, and it shows. The dish presentations were exquisite, with the taste to match. If you are looking to have a feast to remember, paired with an amazing view of the iconic KLCC twin towers this Christmas Eve, we would say this is the place to be.

The Christmas Eve menu is priced at RM480++ per person. For reservations, call +603-2386 6030.

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Food + Drink
Mandarin Grill: A classic steakhouse experience
Symphony of flavours

18.02.2016
By Su Fen Tan

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As you step into the restaurant, apart from the spread of elegant table setting, you’ll notice the unique inbuilt fireplace feature to one side of the room, and contemporary works of art that provide a tasteful finish to the modern décor.

“We decided to reestablish Mandarin Grill as a traditional Steakhouse concept as patrons long for a refined yet approachable and unpretentious experience. The new Mandarin Grill emphasises on traditional, well-known starters that people can connect to, quality steaks, some hearty and approachable non beef dishes, rewarding desserts and a variety of great wines from the Old and New World,” said Michael Groll, Director of Food and Beverage.

My last dining experience at the restaurant was just before Chrismas, where I got to indulge in their festive 6-course dinner. This time around, me and my colleague Jasmine were invited to savour their 4-course set menu over lunch, and our verdict? It is a fine symphony of flavours by Chef de Cuisine, Benjamin Halat, for those seeking a gastronomical delight.

Starters:
There are two options to kickstart your appetite with: the beef tartar or the Mandarin Grill salad. The former is presented by way of a hand-chopped beef tartar patty topped with the glorious sight of egg yolk confit and homemade pickled cucumber—a savoury treat for the senses.

Meanwhile, the salad served as a refreshing alternative, with crunchy vegetable chips on top of a bed of quinoa, lettuce, heirloom tomato, sprouts, and cress. The light flavours are punctuated nicely by zesty pops of mango caviar and lemon dressing. An interesting thing to note is that Chef Benjamin seeks to source local ingredients locally whenever possible—the vegetable used in the salad came from an organic farm in Genting.

Soup:
A bowl of lobster bisque accompanies the menu with finesse. Infused with a hint of cognac, the smooth, creamy broth satisfies the palate without over-empowering on flavour.

Mains:
If you are feeling like red meat, go for the hearty charcoal grilled Sher Wagyu tenderloin MBS 8+. True to Mandarin Grill’s stand as a refined steakhouse, the succulent steak was cooked to a perfectly tender medium-rare state. Don’t be fooled by its seemingly petite proportion—coupled with the generous side of MO’s signature tempura fries and broccoli with cheddar cheese crust, you’ll be filled up to the brim by the end of it.

The other option for main is the grilled black cod served with creamy spinach and a side of potato gratin, which I loved. It comes with two dressings for your tasting delight, namely white wine sauce and olive oil. The white wine sauce is a winner for its slightly creamy texture and flavour that goes down perfectly with the smooth cod slice.

Dessert:
Alas, dessert. The saying “there is always room for dessert” is definitely no lie. Even after all that, the Valrhona chocolate melt was too good to refuse. The delectable Valrhona concoction is paired with kumquat compote for a tinge of citrusy bittersweet notes, and a very subtle tang courtesy of the accompanying mascarpone crème. The hearty meal is wrapped up with coffee, tea, and a quaint presentation of Mandarin Grill petit fours.

Are you tempted for a gastronomical experience at Mandarin Grill yet? If your answer to that is yes, we’ve got great news for you. We are giving away a complimentary dining experience for two at the Mandarin Grill to one lucky reader! The winner will receive a gift voucher that will entitle two to the 4-course menu (worth RM458 per person) as above.

Here is how you do it:1. Follow @buro247malaysia on Instagram and Facebook.2. Find the Mandarin Grill post on Instagram and tag 3 friends in the comment section.3. Fill up the form below. Following the confirmation email, you will automatically be subscribed to our mailing list.4. Fingers crossed!

Enter details here to join the competition
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Email Address *
First Name
Last Name

– This competition ends 11:59 pm, GMT+8, 28 February, 2016 and the winner will be announced on 29 February, 2016.
– Winner for this contest will be chosen at random and notified via email.– The winner will be entitled to bring a guest along to the dining experience and receive a 4 course set meal worth RM458 each.
– All information must be entered to qualify for this competition.– Inability to contact a winner in 3 months of notification will result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner.
– This event and contest is only open to residents of Malaysia.

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News
7 Fun things you can do in KL this weekend: 10 & 11 August 2019

07.08.2019
By Ronn Tan

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

1. Chocolate Factory buffet at Vasco’s, Hilton Kuala Lumpur, 6am onwards, 10 & 11 August 2019
The chocolate buffet features a regional tasting menu with an array of high quality chocolates such as Valrhona from France, Felchlin from Switzerland, Callebaut from Belgium, and Kondima from Germany. Accompanying them are a selection of cocoa-infused desserts including verrines, profiteroles, Mille Feuille, truffles, and many more. The spread is available until 31 August 2019. Prices are RM188 nett per adult and RM68 nett per child.
For reservations, call 03 2264 2264 or email [email protected].
2. Nostalgic Sunday brunch at Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery, The RuMa Hotel and Residences, 12pm – 3pm, 11 August 2019
This Sunday, savour Malaysian favourites with a contemporary twist. The menu pays homage to local produce and familiar flavours. What to expect? You will get to feast on a scrumptious selection of reinvented local favourites such as the Hainan French toast with kaya and chicken floss, fried prawn bao with tamarind chutney or salted fish sticky rice with coconut, as well as signature items such as the jasmine rice salad accompanied with slow cooked young banana curry. Priced at RM160 nett per person, the brunch will take place every second Sunday of the month. Hence, this weekend will be its debut.
For bookings and inquiries, call 03 2778 0888  or email [email protected].
3. Food and Tuak Pairing & Tuak Making Workshop at Borneo Restaurant and Bar, 7pm & 2pm onwards, 10 & 11 August 2019
Get tuak-ing this weekend. On Saturday, enjoy the food and tuak pairing consisting of roselle tuak with umai, 3-grain tuak with ayam pansoh, black pepper tuak with linut and Dayak eggplant belacan, as well as pineapple tuak with kuih lapis ice cream sandwich. It is priced at RM108 per pax. For the tuak making workshop on Sunday (priced at RM380 per session), learn how to make tuak with Maynard Keyne Langet, owner of Bad Cat Tuak. There will be two sessions—riced-based (2pm – 4pm) and fruit-based (5pm – 7pm).
For bookings and inquiries, call 010 250 2255  or email [email protected].
4. Peaceful Morning Ritual: Mindfulness at Dawn at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, 6.30pm – 8.30pm, 10 August 2019
Priced at RM122 per person, this event with Dr. Buathon Thienarrom aims to awaken your mind and enrich yourself with peace and stillness—through meditation, breathe-work, and positive affirmations. Learn how to take care of your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
For more information, call 03 2380 8888 or visit this website.
5. “Malaysiaku: A Reimagined Malay Heritage” menu at Crystal, St. Regis KL, 8 August 2019
Do you consider Thursday a weekend? Well, this six-course culinary journey through all 14 states of Malaysia is an extension of their popular “Warisan Melayu” dinner. The degustation menu commemorates the country’s gastronomic ingredients, flavours, and legacy. Priced at RM322+ per person, 8 August will be its debut, to be followed by 30 August, 12 September, and once a month thereafter. Savour Wagyu Beef Kerabu Top Hat (Terengganu), Lobster Umai-Umai Daun Kaduk (Sarawak), Sup Mamak Ayam Kampung (Penang), Mambau Smoked Lamb (Negeri Sembilan), and Honey Jackfruit Mousse (Pahang) among others.
For bookings and inquiries, call 03 2727 6690 or email [email protected].

6. Try new cafes and restaurants in Klang Valley
We have compiled a roundup of spots you should try in August here.

7. Into art and plays? Klang Valley is never short of options!
Check out this list of exhibitions and plays for August 2019.

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Fashion
Kaia and Presley Gerber are the new faces of Calvin Klein’s latest campaign
A familial bond

06.01.2018
By Wei Yeen Loh

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The Gerber siblings have officially landed their first fashion ad campaign together for Calvin Klein Inc., starring in the latest series of images for the Calvin Klein Jeans global multi-media ad campaign. Shot by renowned photographer Willy Vanderperre, this instalment features both Kaia and Presley Gerber donning the latest denim (from cutoffs to vests) while sprawling on a traditional American quilt on the ground in a barn. With a focus on family ties and the importance of unity between families, the three images are part of the #MyCalvins campaign rollout that was launched last November.

If you thought you spotted a similar theme before from these shots, you aren’t wrong—the A$AP Mob and Solange Knowles alongside Kelela, Dev Hynes, Caroline Polachek and Adam Bainbridge of Kindness have previously starred in this campaign. According to the press release, “This campaign captures these bonds and brings to life different ways we can inspire families—both born and made—to connect with one another, and celebrate the things that unite us.”
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Calvin Klein SS18 campaign” rid=”5816″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The campaign runs through the Spring 2018 season and will feature the crossover between multiple generations across cultures as the main theme, be it stylistically or musically. Don’t miss out on the full project here.

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Fashion
Call it nostalgia but 10 years after high school and I’m finally starting to appreciate the pinafore dress

05.06.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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

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Technology
Review: Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G flipping good for a foldable smartphone?

20.09.2021
By Natalie Khoo

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To be honest, I’ve never really paid much attention to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series. There was that one time I saw it on a K-drama (see: It’s Okay Not To Be Okay) and thought that it looked pretty cool and trendy; but in terms of hype, it always seemed to be overshadowed by its big brother—the Galaxy Z Fold series.
With that said, the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G made a me do a double take when I first saw it at the recent Galaxy Unpacked 2021 event. As far as first impressions go, I was intrigued. Now that I’ve spent two weeks with it, I can safely say that there’s more to the device than just good looks or bragging rights to a flagship foldable smartphone.
Watch the video below for my quick 60-second take on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G and read on for my full review.

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DESIGN
I know I said there’s more than meets the eye with this phone, but the design actually has a lot to do with it. Samsung is clearly targeting a style-savvy crowd with the phone’s two-tone colour scheme that immediately distinguishes it from all other foldable smartphones. We all know it’s marketing, but it’s good marketing, if you ask me.

The clamshell form factor feels very sturdy, with a solid hinge that holds well at any angle between being folded and fully unfolded. This is owed to its Armor Aluminium body, which Samsung says is its “strongest aluminium frame yet”, complemented with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for a smooth yet durable glass back. Given that the phone case I ordered had not arrived in time for this review, these features gave me at least some peace of mind while using the phone case-free.
Thanks to the smooth hinge mechanism, using the phone in Flex Mode—a feature that automatically optimises content to fit the folded screen—is such a breeze. I can easily flip it open and place it on any flat surface to operate the phone single-handedly (or with just the touch of a finger). Here’s where the foldable design really gets practical for me—I can now read the news, browse the web and social media, and take photos or videos sans phone stands or accessories. Full points for convenience.

What’s more, the Z Flip3 5G is IPX8-rated for water-resistance—an industry-first for foldables alongside the Z Fold3 5G. However, it’s not dust-resistant, so a little bit of care is needed to keep the hinges free of dust (although users of the previous model found no serious issues with this).
DISPLAY
Samsung has also upgraded both screens on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. The main screen features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 2640 x 1080 resolution, 425ppi, and now a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. It’s smooth, bright, and has good sunlight legibility. No complaints here.
Well, actually, I do have a minor one—the crease is noticeable, even when the phone is fully unfolded. I’ll probably get used to it with time, but if Samsung manages to offer a completely flat bendable screen in future, that would be endgame.

On the other hand, the cover screen gets a 1.9-inch Super AMOLED Display with a 260 x 512 resolution and 302ppi. This is a huge jump from the previous 1.1-inch display, which means users will get to see more than just the date and time and if you have a notification. It works almost like a smartwatch, where you can swipe to read notifications, add widgets (including calendar, alarms, weather, Spotify, and so on), and customise the background to fit your preferences. Since I don’t have a smartwatch on me 24/7, I do appreciate having quick access to these frequently used apps without having to unfold the phone or unlock my screen.
CAMERA & AUDIO

In short, the cameras are good, but they’re not the best. While the design and display had significant improvements, Samsung kept the camera hardware more or less the same. It comes with rear dual cameras including a 12MP Ultra Wide Camera and 12MP Wide-angle camera, as well as a hole-punch 10MP front camera.
I find myself using the front camera mostly only for video calls, since I can make full use of the cover screen to check out how I look behind the higher quality rear cameras (a plus point for selfie addicts). If the camera is a priority for you, this might fall short compared to class-leading flagships from iPhone and Huawei or even Samsung’s own Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, especially in low-light conditions. Otherwise, it’s pretty decent for most smartphone users. Judge for yourself from my snapshots below.

The fine root hairs on these water lettuce plants are captured beautifully under bright daylight

The fine mist from KL’s River of Life are not lost even under low-light conditions, although there’s some noticeable noise

Selfies with the rear camera prove clear in indoor conditions (pores, wrinkles, and spots are captured too—notice even the telltale marks on the wall behind me from an old DIY project)

Check out the details on a friend’s pet shrimp on the 2x zoom mode

Or perhaps the 4x zoom might provide a clearer picture? (Don’t bother with the 10x zoom though)

As for the audio experience, the stereo speakers provide loud and clear sound quality. The earpiece now doubles as a second speaker, which is a welcome improvement from its single-speaker predecessor.
BATTERY & PERFORMANCE

Performance-wise, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is on par with other non-foldable flagship smartphones. It comes with a Snapdragon 888 processor with 8GB RAM and either 128 GB or 258GB internal storage, and runs on a Samsung-customised version of the Android 11 called OneUI 3.1. I experienced zero lags while loading apps, gaming, or taking photos and videos with the device. This alone makes it a serious contender for users looking to get a new phone, as the foldable element comes as a plus instead of a compromise.
However, one downside I experienced with the phone is the battery life. It packs the same 3,300mAh dual battery as before, which isn’t quite adequate to support the 120Hz display. On average, I get about 11 to 12 hours of use and 3 to 4 hours of screen time, which means I’ll have to bring along a power bank when I’m heading out and relying on mobile data or charge it halfway through heavy use days. In other words, it’s not ideal for power users. Using the power saving mode (which changes motion smoothness to the standard 60Hz) adds up to an hour of usage, so that’s one way to work around it at least.
On the bright side, the phone supports 15W fast charging, so I can easily get up to half the battery charged in 30 minutes to last me another good few hours. It also supports 10W fast wireless charging and 4.5W reverse-wireless charging (though I don’t see myself charging other phones with its small battery size).
FINAL VERDICT
All in all, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is flipping good of a flagship smartphone with a solid built and display, decent cameras, and smooth performance—plus the convenience and versatility of a bigger cover screen and foldable display. If you can excuse the battery life and the lack of a telephoto camera lens (or two), this is arguably the best (and most stylish) foldable phone you can get for its price range.

There are four colour ways available at launch, including Cream, Green, Lavender (my personal favourite), and Phantom Black. Three additional options will be available exclusively on samsung.com. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G starts from RM3,999 and you can pre-order it from the official Samsung website.

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Food + Drink
#BuroEats: 4 Places to get amazing smoothie bowls in KL
Trending now

09.03.2016
By Rachel Au

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You’ve seen all the salivating photos of smoothie bowls on Instagram. You might have tried making your own version at home. You probably have visited that one or two cafes that sell them. But if you’re looking for a wider variety to choose from, we’ve spotted three cafes (and a juice bar) that offer these superbowls of superfoods.

1. Rubberduck, Plaza Damas

Possibly the first cafe in town to introduce smoothie bowls to their menus, Rubberduck has a lot to quack about—in a good way. At RM18 a bowl, they currently have two flavours: Berry Smoothie Bowl (with fresh fruit, granola, Hawaiian coconut flakes and organic flaxseeds) and Sunshine bowl (with banana, mango, granola and chia seeds).

2. Goodness Greens Cafe, TTDI

Brought to life by the same people from La Juiceria, you can expect Goodness Greens Cafe to know their fruits and they have whipped up two types of smoothie bowls that are jam packed with the best nutrients. One is the Acai Berry Bowl—topped with shredded coconut, banana coins, strawberries, chia seeds, cacao nibs and bee pollen—and the other is the Pittaya (also known as dragonfruit) Bowl with similar toppings. Both choices are priced at RM24 each.

3. Impressed, Nu Sentral

Let’s just say you’ll be impressed by Impressed’s wider selection of smoothie bowls as they have four types (RM18 each), a classic acai bowl (RM22) and the option to ‘Make Your Own’ (starts from RM12). All of them are made from frozen fruits and a dash of fresh coconut water, topped with seeds and fresh fruits. There is no added sugar, water or even ice. For a more indulgent bowl, give their Choco-nana flavour a try. It uses sugar-free homemade peanut butter.

4. Pickle & Fig, TTDI

The latest cafe to jump on the bandwagon is Pickle & Fig with four types of smoothie bases for their bowls: dragonfruit, avocado, honeydew and peach. The last three is certainly interesting and prices range from RM17 to RM20. As for toppings, the combination of toasted muesli and a colourful arrangement from fresh fruits will surely not disappoint.

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Music
‘The Internet’s Favourite Sadboi’ Conan Gray is paving the way for more Asian representation in the USA’s music industry

11.09.2020
By Buro247

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Meet Conan Gray: The Internet’s Favourite Sadboi. Known for his candid lyrics, the singer-songwriter has made a considerable mark both on and off social media with the release of his debut album, Kid Krow earlier this year.
Since his debut, the Texas-based pop sensation has garnered an impressive following, claiming the likes of BTS, Brendon Urie, Billie Eilish and The 1975 as ardent fans. You’re likely to recognise his hit single ‘Maniac’—a high-energy bop that has made rounds on TikTok and earned Gray a gold certification.

Here’s a refresh, in case you forgot. Psst: For any of you The End of the F***ing World fans out there, it features a very familiar face.
Don’t let his unofficial title fool you, though—he’s not actually very sad. In fact, he’s quite the contrary! Behind the sombre words penned to catchy tunes is a bubbly personality with a disarming disposition. So, where do the lyrics come from?
According to Gray, his more morose lyrics are born as a “coping mechanism”—they reflect the most pertinent emotions he’s feeling at the time. It’s been the same since he was twelve years old: “I grew up very fast; I moved around a lot as a kid so there were a lot of friends that I’d lost at that point. So, I’d been through a lot by twelve. I thought I was very deep, and I had a lot that I wanted to say.”
“I just try to write about what I’m going through, and apparently, if you listen to Kid Krow I’ve been through a lot of sad things the past couple of years. I’m perfectly fine, though! I wrote a song about it so now I’m over it,” he laughs.

 View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Conan Gray (@conangray) on Jan 9, 2020 at 10:42am PST

His songwriting journey started a lot earlier than his 12th birthday, though. In fact, Gray has always had a knack for composition, with the first song he wrote actually having been about losing all of his save progress on a beloved Pokémon game (a feeling we can all empathise with). And if he couldn’t think of a melody? He’d simply “change the words to other songs” to make them more relatable to him.
Can you blame him, though? Indeed, as a mixed-race kid it’s difficult to connect with lyrics when you don’t identify with the songwriter; when you don’t see yourself ever sharing their experiences. It comes as no surprise that Gray had turned to improvisation then and that he continues to find inspiration for many of his lyrical ventures in his personal experiences now.

 View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Conan Gray (@conangray) on Mar 2, 2020 at 11:26am PST

If you ask him to describe his experiences growing up mixed, the word he’d use is “difficult”. “I grew up in an area that was predominantly white, so it was just confusing for a long time. I didn’t know where I belonged—it’s hard to really understand where your place is when you’re growing up. I always felt like a bit of an outsider—it’s like I spent my whole childhood observing people and cliques while not really participating.”
It’s all in the silver linings, though. Gray credits his growing passion for songwriting to his complicated background. In fact, he reckons that if not for the hardships he faced as one of the only Japanese kids in Texas, he may never have started writing music in the first place.

 View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Conan Gray (@conangray) on Jul 5, 2020 at 11:57am PDT

So, you’ll have heard him sing about the feeling of isolation, or even the savage feeling of losing a love you never even had. However, one thing you won’t have heard him describe in his music are the blissful highs of actually being in love. The way he describes it, it actually explains a lot about why his music sounds the way it does; he’s “never fallen in love before”, so as he puts it, ”prior to falling in love, a lot of the strongest emotions you feel are along the lines of pain, or sadness.”
That’s not to say that he thinks he won’t ever experience love, though. In fact, he’s banking on it: “One day when I do [fall in love], it’ll probably be all I ever write about because love seems incredible.”

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Watches
Attention guys: Tiffany & Co. is launching its first full jewellery collection for men

27.08.2019
By Joan Kong

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Think of Tiffany & Co. and these two things will most likely come to mind: Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the brand’s signature Tiffany blue box. But not for long now, as the brand is adding a men’s collection into the mix that will leave an equally lasting impression. While the luxury jeweller has always had bracelets, cufflinks, rings, and pendants for men, it’s set to diversify its customer base even further by launching its first-ever comprehensive collection for guys, and let’s just say that the baubles will make the perfect borrowed-from-the-boys pieces.
The new range—scheduled to launch in October—will see almost 100 new designs, and you’ll be able to check them out on its own floor space in 300 stores globally, as revealed by chief artistic director Reed Krakoff. In an interview with the Associated Press, he explained, “Men all over the world are wearing jewellery and more accessories as part of a wardrobe. You started to see it on the runways, in social media.” Aside from jewellery, Tiffany & Co. will also sell home accessories including cocktail shakers, beer mugs and ice tongs, designed with men in mind.
Take a closer look at some of the Tiffany Men’s jewellery below:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Tiffany Co mens” rid=”7536″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Features
Stuart Vevers: Coach is set to redefine luxury for a new generation
From "Accessible Luxury" to "Expressive Luxury"

28.09.2022
By Rachel Au

PHOTO: COURTESY OF COACH

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Coach’s Spring 2023 collection was the start of a fresh chapter—not only did it mark the official debut of Lil Nas X as the new global ambassador for Coach, but it was the first step towards the house’s new global brand positioning. Leaping the evolution from “accessible luxury” to “expressive luxury”, one might wonder what the difference was, especially when the brand has presented a more youth approach for a few years already.
That being said, Coach’s Creative Director Stuart Vevers has never been shy about his vision of adapting the house’s heritage with today’s lens for the younger generation. “Expressive Luxury” caters to the same crowd, with a more explicit focus on the true values close to the heart of Gen Z and Millennials—a group projected to take over 70 per cent of the consumer group by 2025. Self-expression is one; status and exclusivity are another two. On top of that, keeping everything on a sustainable fashion path is equally important.

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A post shared by Coach (@coach)

As such, expressive luxury will be all about “creating emotional connections with consumers at key life moments, instilling confidence and the courage to be themselves as they explore and define their identities,” so goes the press note. So, in some ways, it hasn’t changed much. Instead, it has synergised.
“I don’t think it has necessarily changed. It shows that the creative vision and the business strategy have really come together. For me, the idea of expressive luxury is inspiring and liberating. We’ve come together to create something that is, hopefully, meaningful,” Vevers tells us backstage of the Spring 2023 show.
Ahead, the Creative Director shares more on Coach‘s new direction, what American style looks like today and his tête-à-tête with sustainability.

On the next generation:
“I always find them leading the conversation because they’re discovering things in a new way, and it influences all generations. I’ve always been personally drawn to them because they’re setting the tone for the rest of us. It inspires me and is an important way of approaching my design work.”

On circular innovation and applying it to upcoming collections:
“I’ve been using the runway as a place to experiment and explore style and creativity, as well as to experiment and learn about sustainability and circularity. We’ve been doing that for a few years now, but it’s more apparent in this [SS23] collection. Towards the last few looks, we see rugged leather pieces—patchwork!—and they’re actually all made from repurposed vintage garments that were essentially coming to the end of their life.
“What’s interesting is that it shows how leather can be desirable as a circular material because of its longevity. Many of those materials could be 30 to 50 years old, and we’re giving them a new lease of life because it shows that they have staying power.”

On the concept of the #CoachSpring23 show
“I started the season drawn to something quite beachy—but it’s different for a Coach collection, so I wanted to ground it to how young people in New York City often approach the beach. You jump on the subway, go to Coney Island or Rockaway Beach, and hang out by the pier. That was the idea that set the scene to transport us to a different world and became a backdrop for new ways of approaching Coach leather outerwear. The accessories were also a high point of self-expression—the necklaces and jewellery were almost like you had pick things up from a souvenir shop or off the beach. There were a lot more personal details coming through there.”

On today’s American style:
“Whether it’s workwear or blue collar references, the starting point is always a sense of ease. Be it the humble white T-shirt, denim, sneakers or a biker jacket; they often come from a place of function. I find it projects a real everydayness, imbued with a certain coolness.”

On changes in fashion, post-pandemic:
“I think we’re all still learning. Initially, I thought there would be a stronger reaction in fashion, against comfort, sweats, and comfortable shoes—seeing as many of us were working from home—but it turned out we have gotten used to that comfort. However, we also want to have a bit more fun with it.
“When the pandemic first hit, I thought, why would anyone be interested in fashion when there seemed to be bigger priorities in people’s lives. But in fact, it was interesting how important it was to people because fashion made people feel better. It reminded me what I love about fashion—it has the power to make your day brighter and cheer you up.”

From powerful stories that stir up meaningful conversations to collaborations that offer an alternate creative perspective to deeper roots in circular fashion, Coach knows what the community wants, and they’re here to deliver.
Join the conversation and get the latest updates at @coach on Instagram.

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Beauty
#KLFWBeauty: 2 Amazing looks to steal before anyone else
Brushes at the ready…

08.08.2015
By Terry Saw

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

Tick-tock: Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week Ready to Wear 2015 takes off in less than 24 hours. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is buzzing with a mix of nerve-racking excitement and adrenaline from hundreds of models, makeup artists, designers and backstage crew making sure every detail is honed to nothing less than perfection for the opening day.
We make a beeline to speak with lead Bobbi Brown makeup artists from various shows to discuss statement makeup, standout looks and how to recreate some of the best offerings you’ll see tomorrow at KLFW Day One.
The designer/show: Kittie Yiyi, 12th August @ 3.00pm

The look: Fresh & playful
Lead artist: Pei Yan

What is the biggest misconception about pastels?
“That you can’t pull it off, hence, not embracing them. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a pop of colour – try with one colour and facial feature to ease into the trend.”

Your tips to recreating the lip stain seen here?
“You need a clean slate to work with so you’ll need to ‘wipe out’ your lips with foundation. After that, use your fingers to dab on lipstick, starting from the center of your lips – you don’t need a clean precise line here.”
The best pastel shade to start with is…
“A pop of pink because it’s really easy to play mix and match with, and it’s a colour that not just easily accepted but works well with most skin tones as well.”
The designer/show: Cassey Gan, 12th August @ 3.00pm

The look: Gold and glory
Lead artist: Pei Yan

What inspired the use of gold, glitter and shimmer here?
“To complement the collection (which you’ll see tomorrow), I was inspired by contradictions, where I whipped up a selection of warmer tones and gold shimmer to create little ‘heat’ to the look, while also staying completely neutral at the same time.”

 Tell us a little about the moodboard for this look.
“I was out running one day and to my delight, I caught this most beautiful sunrise in the outdoors. I absolutely fell in love with the amber tones and the warmth it conveyed, and decided to inject that bit of inspiration into my makeup creation for this show – really focusing on a strong eye as the key feature.”
Three words that best describes this look?
“Energy, strength and glory.”

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Makeup
The best Raya-ready makeup looks to wear this season

28.04.2020
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

Hari Raya is just around the corner (less than a month now, for anyone who’s counting) and if you’ve already got your Raya outfits prepped, don’t forget to get your beauty look in check for the festive season.
Keep your skin looking refreshed and makeup look on point for a barrage of pictures—crossing fingers that the MCO will be lifted in time for the holidays, that is.
Ahead, we’ve compiled a list of standout makeup looks and tutorials to ensure you look your best this Raya:
A peek of colour

Want a subtle look that involves colour without trying too hard? Makeup artist Ummi Nasir has a trick for you: use turquoise liner on the lower lash line and keep the rest of your colours neutral, such as this mix of mauves. Full tutorial here.

Halo peepers

A surefire way of letting your eyes pop (and to make it look larger and rounder) is with halo eye makeup. This mini eyeshadow trend is all about strategically placing a light eyeshadow shade in the middle of the lids and in between two darker shades. Check out the above tutorial by makeup artist Noriana Mohamad Nazuir on how to make this look work.

Subtle smoke

Go for a cat-eye but with a subtle twist this Raya. Makeup artist Att Yusof’s smokey flick is likely easier to ace than a graphic winged liner, especially for beginners and those looking to up their everyday look.

Full-face glam

Turn it up a notch with a bold eye and lip—but be sure to toe the line between glamorous and OTT. Beauty influencer Sabina Hannan shows us how to look chic while flaunting two features at one go—a stunning smokey eye and matte red lip for those who can’t resist a traffic-stopping look.
Lilac haze

The monochromatic makeup trend has never looked this good—wear shades of lilac, mauve, and dusty purples like makeup artist Lateesha Rahaman here. Tip: keep your lip colour in the same tonal family as your eyeshadow colour(s) to pull the entire look together.
No Monday blues

Feeling brave enough to take on colour with aplomb? Wear one vivid shade allover your eyelid and gently blend the edges well to let it pop. Makeup artist and esthetician Asha Gass shows you how in a nifty tutorial here.
A floating wing

But if adventurous is your middle name, pull off a floating crease in the same colour as your Raya outfit. Keep your complexion flawless, lashes and brows full, and let your liner do all the talking. Watch the full tutorial here.

A face full of radiance

Need an extra boost of radiance for your skin? Take a leaf out of this makeup artist’s book and massage facial oil on your skin for a smooth canvas before applying foundation. Another tip: mix a few drops of highlighter with your foundation for an understated glow. Dab a touch of glitter in the centre of your eyelids to match the luminosity of your skin, and you’re good to go.
Pink on pink

Wear your lipstick as your eyeshadow colour like beauty influencer Manal Chinutay here. The trick is to blend the edges out before the product sits on your skin, and apply a thin layer of a shimmer/glitter eyeshadow above to give it dimension.
For more Raya-ready content, click here.

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Fashion
Just in: Manolo Blahnik to open first store in Malaysia by late 2016
"Two loves and lots of shoes"

29.05.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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RECOMMENDED

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

Shoe lovers who enjoy nothing more than a full-on footwear splurge can rejoice, for iconic shoe brand Manolo Blahnik finally lands in Malaysia this year. In line with its expansion plans in selected Asian countries including Japan and Singapore, Manolo Blahnik has partnered up with Bluebell Group to open its first stand-alone store in Malaysian shores come this Autumn/Winter season. The new store will span 95 square meters in Pavilion Mall’s Level 2 Specialty Retail area, featuring the brand’s dynamic and immersive experience that its standalone stores are known for. This adds to the brand’s repertoire in 33 countries worldwide with 11 existing standalone stores, including two in Hong Kong and one in Seoul. If you’re more of an online shopper, you can soon shop for a pair of Manolos on FarFetch, all thanks to its e-commerce partnership with the luxury fashion online retailer to create the first mono-brand marketplace.

“We are delighted to now be working with the Bluebell Group in Asia. Manolo Blahnik is a global brand but with comparatively small distribution in Japan, Malaysia and Singapore,” says Kristina Blahnik, CEO of Manolo Blahnik International. “With Bluebell now as our partners we are excited about exploring and building the business in these regions and further territories … We look forward to a successful relationship.”

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Beauty
Get your fill of the latest in Korean beauty trends and MCO skincare tips

22.04.2020
By Wei Yeen Loh

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RECOMMENDED

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

Got an unwarranted blemish rearing an ugly head despite going without makeup during this MCO period? If your skin’s been acting up and you have no clue why or how, worry not!
Laneige Training Manager Camiellia Choo gives her two cents on skincare steps you should keep up with while staying home, along with divulging the best Korean skincare and makeup trends that are making its way to our shores:
What are the bare necessities of an MCO skincare routine?
“A popular question I’ve been getting whether it is necessary to double cleanse at home, even though we go without a stitch of makeup on our faces.
“Here’s the thing: if you skip double cleansing or a makeup remover or micellar water, you may get clogged pores with blackheads, tiny bumps, and even blemishes. Our skin can get clogged from all the buildup of sweat and oil when we’re at home doing house chores, cooking, video conferencing and the like. It doesn’t help that the current weather is pretty hot, especially if you work at home without air conditioning for the entire day.
“Of course, it is important to keep our daily essentials like toner, essence or serum, eye cream, moisturiser and sunscreen. These are basic steps that we should do to maintain our skin health but without proper cleansing or deep cleansing, the products applied will not be easily absorbed.
“When our skin gets congested, thick layers of dead skin cells will block the products from getting absorbed into the skin, thus it gets evaporated easily. Therefore, keeping up with your usual beauty routine i.e. cleansing daily, regular exfoliation or clay masking is important to keep our skin clean and breathable.

There’s a general assumption that we don’t need to wear sunscreen while staying indoors. What are your thoughts?
“Never miss out on applying sunscreen during this MCO period. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate through windows, even though you are staying indoors. Remember to put on SPF especially when you are hanging your laundry outdoors, receiving your food/groceries delivery, cleaning your porch, bathing your pets, or even when you are watching TV at home.
“Besides harmful UV rays like UVA and UVB, please be cautious of blue light as it also damages the dermis layer of the skin and causes skin redness, micro dark spots and skin ageing. I’d recommend Laneige Multi Deep-Clean Cleanser, Laneige Cream Skin Refiner and Laneige Light Sun Fluid as the most basic essentials for your everyday skincare routine.”
What are the summer K-beauty skincare trends on the rise?
“The natural/clean and vegan beauty trend which originated from the west is quickly making its way into Korea as well. Laneige recently launched a clean line called Cream Skin and it contains minimal ingredients for skin soothing, calming and moisturising.
“An interesting product from the clean-beauty trend is also sheet masks. More companies are releasing sheet masks made from plant-based cellulose which can be biodegraded when buried in soil after a certain period of time. The biodegradability has become a marketable feature for the clean-beauty brands. Our Perfect Renew Regenerating Mask is also made with bio-cellulose materials.

“Another increasingly popular trend in the K-beauty scene is the importance of self-care with the help of multi-tasking products, DIY home facial kits or even binge masking at home. People are investing in the process of keeping themselves happy and healthy at the same time. We want to achieve a balance of mental and health well-being by spending more time on ourselves to feel more relaxed and less stressed. We seek holistic happiness and want to feel good inside and on the outside. There are many ways or methods of self-care, whether it’s keeping up with a healthy diet, reading uplifting books, exercising, getting enough sleep, perfecting your skincare routine or even staying active.”
Are there any new techniques we need to know that have arisen with the trends?
“We are living in a world where AI (Artificial Intelligence) meets human touch. Everything is advanced and improvised with new technology and scientific research. At Amorepacific, we have a brand called Makeon that offers effective skincare treatments through energy—light, heat, ion, and motion. These four energies will make your beauty routine easy, effective and enjoyable.

“There is a Thermowave Eyelift that uses light and high-frequency thermal energy to improve firmness; Skin Light Therapy that uses light and microcurrents to improve skin moisture, skin tone and firmness; and Gem Sono Therapy to boost the absorption of skincare products deep into the skin with an ultrasonic massaging effect, and many more.
“Taking care of your skin can be a convenient, daily home ritual that is as pleasant and effective as a day at your favourite spa or aesthetic salon. Self-aesthetic devices now allow facial cleansing and massaging at anytime, from anywhere.”
Are there specific skincare ingredients in Korean beauty that are trending right now?
“Skincare ingredients trending in Korea now are active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin B5 (panthenol), vitamin B3 (niacinamide), peptides, retinols, AHA, BHA, amino acids—all these are very popular especially when it comes to skincare customisation.

“Laneige’s new Radian C Cream has a modified, safe and stable type of vitamin C, namely EAE 8.5%. This cream is clinically-proven and tested to lighten micro dark spots in just three days. We also launched a customisable ampoules recently—Laneige Focus Active Ampoule, with three versions made of panthenol, amino acids and soy peptide ingredients. These ampoules are very versatile and you can use to mix them with your favourite products at home such as essence, cream or sleeping masks. Alternatively, you can use it before your sheet masks or mix it with your makeup base or foundation for a natural glow.”
Makeup wise, what’s currently trending in Korea?
“Some of the trends we are observing is that a glowy/glossy finish will be making a huge comeback this year. More Koreans these days have been using glow foundation to create a glowy skin look. In the previous years, skin coverage with a semi-matte finish was really popular, but now you’ll start to see healthier, bare skin and a lit-from-within glow.
“Tip: Create the look with a moisture-filled foundation, and don’t forget to use hydrating skincare and makeup primers.”
What would you recommend that we use to recreate all this look?
“The first rule to glowing skin in our hot and humid weather is to never overdo it. The most important secret to bringing out a glowing makeup look is to prep the skin well and use gloss-inducing products sparingly by focusing on one or two areas of the face.
“It’s difficult to highlight the luminosity of healthy skin if your skin is dehydrated and prone to oiliness. Therefore, always pat extra layers of Water Bank Hydro Essence for properly-moisturised skin and a fresh glow.

“Choose a suitable cream-based moisturiser for your skin as it creates a better glassy effect compared to lotion-based moisturisers. My pick would be the Water Bank Hydro or Moisture Cream. Also, get a mattifying primer for your T-zone or areas that are high-shine to keep excess sebum at bay.
“For your makeup, pick either one: a glowing complexion, a glossy lip, glowing cheeks, or shimmering eyes to pull off this trend nicely. If you choose a foundation that gives a dewy glow, set your T-zone with finishing powder and match it with a matte blusher. If you’re going for a matte-finish foundation, you may use a cream-based blusher for a subtle glow on the cheeks.”

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Food + Drink
Food review: Burnt & Co brings diners on a flaming gastronomic journey
Turn up the heat

06.07.2022
By Phyll Wu

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If there’s one thing the KARLS Group of restaurants know, it’s taking familiar flavours to the next level. The well-deserved popularity of Beta and Skillet shows us that they can successfully take on any challenge to turn both Malaysian and European dishes into culinary works of art with a unique spin that will surprise you with every bite. With the launch of Burnt & Co at Artisan’s Playground, a new challenge arises in the kitchen—cooking with charcoal and wood-fire.
Unlike its sister restaurants, Burnt & Co introduces an open-flame kitchen concept that offers diners a chance to engage with the chefs and catch them in action. Their Chef’s Table menu showcases a variety of smoking hot dishes brought to you by an honourable machinic head chef: the Josper charcoal oven.
I recently had the opportunity to experience the new concept in person and let me just say, it was an *experience* indeed. Read my full review below!

Hokkaido Scallop Tartare, Winged Beans, and peanut butter

To kick off the meal, I was served a bite-sized serving of scallop—placed delicately in a pool of fermented tomato consomme and garnished with coriander—presented on a fan shell. The fresh scallop tasted as if it was served right from the ocean minutes before, complemented by the sweet notes of the tomato consomme. At first glance, I would’ve never guessed there was peanut butter. However, as I continue to take in the flavours, I was surprised by a hint of saltiness from the peanut butter which was a brilliant addition to the refreshing scallop.

Clams with broth and cheese toast

The second dish introduced more savoury flavours with clams and broth topped with crispy fried onions and sweet cherries with a side of cheese toast and seaweed butter. It was quite an interesting pairing, but I knew I was in for a treat. The clams offered light, salty flavours along with the miso-like broth, followed by explosions of blissful sweetness from the cherries. The crispy onions were a good choice of garnish, adding texture to the dish. Meanwhile, the slightly burnt edges of the cheese toast added a pleasant charred flavour to the buttery toast, giving a familiar scent of a local bakery with pastries fresh out of the oven. When accompanied by seaweed butter, each bite made me crave for more.

Tiger prawn with smoked paprika and garlic

As someone who loves prawns, I was ecstatic when this dish was served. Especially after tasting how fresh the scallop was, I couldn’t wait to dig in! Without wasting any time, I squeezed a few drops of lime and went to work. As expected, the prawns were tender with hardly any hassle when separating the shells. The citrusy tang of lime combined beautifully with the smoky flavours of paprika butter, like a match made in heaven. Perhaps I sound a little dramatic, but personally, this dish was godsent.

Kailan with wild garlic oil and ‘Special Sauce’

To round off the appetizers before heading into mains, I was served a simple dish of char grilled kailan seasoned in wild garlic oil and garnished with garlic chips along with a squeeze of budu aioli. Incidentally, kailan has been my favourite vegetable since childhood and it is an essential dish to order when I dine at tai chow (read: Chinese stir-fry) restaurants. To some, this dish might seem plain; but to me, it brought back many comforting memories. As I proceeded to take a bite, I was reminded once again of all the reasons why I love this particular vegetable—its crunchy stalk and charred leaves had a slight hint of bitterness, which was a splendid pair with the salty aioli. Although it was a modest dish, it served as a great example of perfectly cooked kailan.

Smoked duck with salad, Szechuan pepper, and bao

Next up, mains! A smoking claypot arrived along with a platter of salad, Szechuan pepper dipping sauce, and two adorable baos. Inside the claypot were slices of smoked duck, and hidden beneath was hot charcoal that intensified the smokiness. Each bite of the juicy smoked duck burst with savoury smacks and had faint hints of charcoal. When combined with bao and salad dipped in Szechuan pepper sauce, it resulted in a firework of sweet, salty, bitter, and spicy flavours that felt like a party in my mouth. Alternatively, diners can also opt for the Australian Wagyu Striploin M7 as an upgrade for an additional RM90.

Smoked chocolate with coffee foam and soil

And finally, we arrived at dessert. This dish, in particular, was definitely one I looked forward to as the idea of smoked chocolate and soil sparked my curiosity. When the dish was served, it presented a scoop of chocolate mousse placed on top of chocolate crumbs (AKA ‘soil’) and coffee foam. The chocolate mousse had a rich and creamy consistency with a good balance of sweet and bitter flavours accentuated by the coffee foam, while the chocolate crumbs added just the right crunchy texture to complete the dish—making it a delectable end to the meal.
If this new concept is something you’d like to experience, drop by Artisan’s Playground and let Burnt & Co take you on a fiery gastronomic journey. Not a curated course meal? Fret not! You can also choose from their regular menu that features dishes similar to Chef’s Table such as Wagyu Beef Burger.

Burnt & Co
Address: Artisan’s Playground by Cookhouse Level 1, Block H, Plaza Riverwalk. 1, Jalan Selvadurai, Off, Jln Sultan Azlan Shah, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm
Phone number: 010-212 1280
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Features
Style lessons to learn from It-girl and model Irene Kim
A healthy dose of kitsch

11.03.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Street style regular and IT girl Irene Kim is no stranger to the industry, taking the fashion world by storm with her rainbow locks and quirky ensembles. The Korean-American model has been tapped by Estée Lauder to become their newest Global Beauty Contributor, and recently was featured by MyTheresa in a short fashion film sporting Stella McCartney. We can’t help but to admire the way she has fun with fashion while never taking herself too seriously. Here are some street style lessons to learn from the social media influencer:
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Beauty
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Debunking the most common misconceptions with a professional
Mythbusters

30.10.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome—or, PCOS, as it is more commonly known—is a condition that often manifests as a mild menstrual disorder or as a severe disturbance of reproductive and metabolic functions. The cause behind PCOS hasn’t yet been established, but it has generally been attributed to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Globally, the disorder affects around 2 to 25 per cent of women, but a study published in 2018 estimated the prevalence of PCOS amongst Malaysians to be at 12.6 per cent. Now, in case you’re worried you may have the condition, the symptoms to look out for include: Irregular or infrequent periods (or no periods at all), difficulty in conceiving, acne and oily skin, male pattern baldness, being overweight, and hirsutism (having excessive hair over the face and body).
READ: I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) this year—here’s what I’ve learnt

Why are there so many symptoms?
Put simply, the symptoms seen in PCOS are all attributed to the hormonal imbalance caused by the condition: Specifically, women with PCOS often have elevated levels of insulin, androgens (male hormones), and luteinising hormone, as well as depressed levels of follicle-stimulating hormone.
This may sound like there is too much going wrong all at once, but it’s actually a bit of a ‘butterfly effect’ situation—you see, your endocrine system is incredibly complex (and cool, for the record!), and these hormones are all intrinsically linked to one another. More on that later, though.

How is PCOS treated?

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The first course of action in treating PCOS is to implement some lifestyle changes. For instance, changing your diet to include foods with a low glycemic index has been shown in studies to reduce symptoms. Further, exercise has also been shown to improve menstrual cycle regularity and decrease the symptoms associated with too much testosterone.
Aside from lifestyle changes, there are also treatments that address specific symptoms. Firstly, hormonal birth control is often prescribed for irregular menses, with the added benefit of improving acne and reducing excess hair.
On that note, excess facial and body hair can be treated with the help of anti-androgens, laser therapy and electrolysis, or you could go old-school and opt for home remedies such as shaving, waxing, plucking, epilation, and bleaching.
Thirdly, insulin-sensitising agents may be prescribed to help with the high insulin levels and prediabetic state of women with PCOS. Finally, in the case of infertility, your doctor may prescribe medications such as Clomid, letrozole, and FSH injections to stimulate ovulation.
That said, though PCOS is relatively common, there is still a lot of misinformation surrounding it (which is the reality of most women’s health conditions, really). That’s why we’re debunking a few of the major misconceptions with Dr Wong Yen Shi, the consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at SMC Velocity.

Misconception #1: If you have PCOS, you definitely have polycystic ovaries

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This is probably the biggest misconception about PCOS floating around out there, and it’s by far the most understandable. However, despite the misnomer, women with PCOS do not necessarily have polycystic ovaries.
According to Dr Wong, the actual diagnosis only requires two of the following criteria:

Irregular, infrequent or no menses
Presence of excessive facial or body hair, and/or blood results that suggest excess male hormones
Ultrasound showing polycystic ovaries

So, if your only symptoms were menstrual disturbances and hirsutism, you would still be diagnosed with PCOS, even if you did not have polycystic ovaries.
Similarly, having polycystic ovaries by themselves does not automatically mean that you have PCOS—there are several other explanations for polycystic ovaries that are completely unrelated to the disorder.
Don’t take this as a sign to DIY your diagnosis, though—it’s always best to get a professional’s opinion. This is mainly because though the criteria for PCOS are pretty specific, there are other conditions that present similarly, such as hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing’s syndrome, hyperprolactinaemia, and certain tumours of the ovary or adrenal glands.

Misconception #2: PCOS is only an issue if you want to get pregnant

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 This misconception is probably the most ignorant one out there. Unfortunately, the reality is that fertility issues are just the tip of the iceberg for women with PCOS.
Dr Wong explains that while the hormonal imbalances associated with the condition affect the appearance, menstrual cycle and fertility of a woman, it also puts them at risk of developing long-term health issues, including:

Endometrial hyperplasia (a premalignant condition of the womb)
Uterine cancer
Metabolic syndrome
Diabetes
Hypertension
Obesity and its associated complications (type 2 diabetes and heart disease)

Not to mention, the effect that the condition has on appearance can greatly contribute to a decline in a patient’s mental health.
READ: Why is depression is more common in women than men?

Misconception #3: There is no way to avoid the long-term health issues associated with PCOS

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It is true that adopting the “perfect lifestyle” and treatment plan does not necessarily mean that you will definitely resolve your symptoms and regulate your cycle entirely. However, it should be noted that being proactive is instrumental in improving your quality of life.
“As PCOS women are more prone to diabetes and womb cancer, it is advisable to eat a healthy balanced diet, exercise regularly and maintain a normal weight,” says Dr Wong. “For women who are overweight, it would be beneficial to lose weight to achieve a BMI of 19 to 25.”
NOTE: It’s well known that BMI isn’t the best indicator of a healthy weight, but it is still widely used so just go with it.
Further, on top of your treatment plan, you should also be scheduling regular health and medical check-ups. “Regular check-ups would also aid in detecting the early onset of diabetes, hypertension and endometrial hyperplasia (a precancerous condition of the womb),” she adds.
In addition, with regards to uterine cancer and endometrial hyperplasia, it is important to ensure that you’re having a period (or a ‘bleed’) at least once every three to four months. “PCOS women are exposed to unopposed estrogen—an outcome of anovulation—increasing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and uterine cancer,” says Dr Wong. “Menstruation aids in the shedding of the uterine lining, preventing its continuous thickening. With PCOS, hormonal medication is typically prescribed to initiate menstruation, but it’s best to speak to your own gynaecologist about your options.”

Misconception #4: If you have PCOS, you’re definitely infertile

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While infertility is certainly a major issue, it should also be noted that having PCOS doesn’t guarantee that you will never have a family.
Infertility arises with PCOS because women with the condition do not ovulate regularly. If you’ll think back to your school biology classes, you’ll know that ovulation is kind of a necessity in the whole fertilisation process.
Therefore, it certainly won’t be as easy to get pregnant as it would be for someone without PCOS, but rest assured that two-thirds of women with the condition have been able to conceive without any medical intervention or procedures. However, if you have been trying to conceive for 6 months but have been unsuccessful, you should consider seeing a doctor.
Speaking of ovulation…
Misconception #5: You can use ovulation tests to plan your baby-making

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Unfortunately, for those of you with PCOS who are looking to conceive, it’s unlikely that ovulation tests will work for you. The reason behind this boils down to the mechanism by which these ovulation tests work.
Basically, ovulation tests measure the amount of luteinising hormone in your system—just before you ovulate, your body releases a spike in the hormone to tell your ovaries to release an egg. The issue is that with PCOS your baseline luteinising hormone levels are perpetually high, and you may have several different surges throughout the month. Ergo, these tests do nothing.
Luckily, there are plenty of fertility options you can explore with your doctor—don’t give up hope just yet!

Misconception #6: You don’t need to use contraception if you have PCOS

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We cannot stress this enough—if you don’t want a baby, you need to use birth control! You may not ovulate regularly, but you could still be ovulating. Therefore, there is still a risk of getting knocked up if you’re sexually active.
Plus, the pill can be useful in improving the symptoms associated with PCOS. According to Gynae Geek, the pill has been shown to increase the expression of a protein called ‘sex hormone-binding globulin’, which effectively decreases the potency of testosterone—this can help with acne and hirsutism.
However, while this sounds great, it is also important to remember that though the pill can be a very good way to improve your symptoms, 1) it isn’t a cure and 2) it doesn’t work for everyone. Further, it can indeed help with establishing a regular bleed, but it won’t ‘reset your hormones’. So, if you start the pill but don’t adopt any lifestyle changes, you are still going to experience symptoms even after going off the pill.

Misconception #7: All women with PCOS are overweight

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While it’s true that PCOS is typically more common in women who are heavier, it is possible to have PCOS and be a ‘normal’ weight. That said, it is always important to address weight when talking about PCOS.
From a scientific standpoint, having more adipose (fat) tissue increases your insulin resistance. Further, your adipose tissue is effectively its own hormonal powerhouse, so it can produce testosterone and other androgens. These two factors are major contributors to the symptoms seen in PCOS sufferers, from weight gain to menstrual disturbances.
It’s why weight loss and lifestyle management are always the first courses of action when treating PCOS. Dr Wong asserts that even a reduction in just “5 per cent of body weight has been shown to regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation and symptoms”.
However, it should be acknowledged that it is objectively more difficult for women with PCOS to lose weight because of their hormonal imbalances. So, don’t be discouraged if you’re struggling with your weight loss journey.

Misconception #8: The fertility struggles end once you finally conceive

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Unfortunately, the road to motherhood is rough for women with PCOS. According to Dr Wong, the condition is associated with “a higher risk of miscarriage as a result of insulin resistance, obesity and even genetic abnormalities of the embryo.”
However, with the help of regular check-ups and the support of your doctor, a healthy, full-term pregnancy is definitely possible. Plus, for those seeking moral reinforcements, there are plenty of support groups in Malaysia filled with other women in the same position who can help to ease your mind.

Find more women’s health stories here.

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Culture
What goes on behind the scenes of running a successful event

11.07.2019
By Gwen Ong

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Every successful event requires a bit of luck, a dash of creativity and a whole lot of planning to make it work. Of course, it helps when you are equipped with the knowledge and skills to put the plan into motion too. There are many steps to be taken in order to throw a memorable party but one important component is the end goal. Who else better to take us through the process of event planning than the man behind Bravo Events & Entertainment?
As the founder of Bravo, Cyrus Chin is the go-to man for events of all scale, budget and theme. Ain’t no mountain is high enough for Bravo—this company has bowled us over with its attention to detail and creativity through the years. You might have come across elaborate events set up by Cyrus and his Bravo team at the malls, hotels and more, including Chanel Coco Flash, YSL Beauty Hotel, The House of Jo Malone, Kiehl’s Nature Playground and even our very own #BuroTurnsThree. The events wizard took time off his busy schedule recently to school us on the art of planning and executing a memorable party:

Hi Cyrus! Tell us what do you do at Bravo.
As the owner of the company, I’m involved in the event management process from start to end. Most days, my tasks involve strategising as well as managing the processes and approvals on different projects – in essence, doing everything from A-Z.
What is the most memorable event you’ve planned this year?
I have to say it’s the Mickey Mouse’s 90th anniversary celebration that was held at Pavilion KL. That was a memorable event as I was glad to celebrate an iconic character, who was part of my childhood (and many others!) while growing up.
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What is the weirdest party request you’ve ever received?
There isn’t one that particularly stands out, thankfully! (Laughs)
Having organised so many large-scale events, name three things that are key to throwing a good party—and why.
I think the key is to be creative, resourceful and have a good eye for details. When you have these three elements, you can throw any party you want.
What are three mistakes people often make when it comes to throwing their own party?
I think it would be misinterpreting the theme and coming up with a décor that is not relevant. On top of that, people also tend to work with an unrealistic budget and do things at the last minute—all recipes for failure.
Can you share a step-by-step party-planning checklist for our readers who would like to throw a party but don’t know where or when to start?
Firstly, set a theme to ensure that everything else will follow from there. After that, get the important details out of the way e.g. base your event planning on the number of guests and a venue that will suit the crowd. Next, it would be looking into the décor and getting items such as a cake to match to the theme.

Photo booths are always fun. But what’s currently a popular trend when it comes to hosting parties?
Yes, photo booths have been a hit for a while now and will continue to be. Piñatas are currently a hit at kids’ parties right now.
What about music? Are there tips on making a great event soundtrack?
This is pretty subjective and it really depends on the crowd and theme of the party. I suggest a really good Spotify list with 100 songs of different genres—that will do the trick.
How should our readers plan the food and drinks menu to make it more enjoyable?
I think matching the food to the theme always helps. Whenever we run events for our clients, we always make sure to customise the food. Canapés are a good idea as people tend to eat less nowadays and prefer a variety!
Any other party planning tips you’d like to share?

Always have a theme to keep everything coordinated
Be realistic about your timeline and budget
Have a lot of fun and passion doing it. Your event will turn out perfect because it was crafted with love!

To find out more about Bravo Events & Entertainment, head over here.

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