Innholdsfortegnelse for September 2020 i Her World Singapore

Maybe it’s the fashion enthusiast in me, but I always get excited by the September and March issues of women’s magazines – that’s when the Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer ready-to-wear collections hit the stores. I’ll eye the pieces I’m keen on, bookmark them, and strategise which ones to get once they drop so I can get more mileage throughout the season. This Fall, however, is not quite the same as the ones before. You’ll see in The Season-less Season FW ’20 (page 32): Designers are more mindful of the times and feel the need to provide a more timeless wardrobe that we can wear for FW ’20, SS ’21 and beyond. Perhaps, finally, fashion is coming to its practical senses and realising that this is really how modern women dress anyway.…

Designers are returning to the core foundation of fashion – the original art form of dressmaking, while stripping off the pomp of decorative elements. But don’t just call it “back to basics”. It’s really more of a concerted effort to reiterate the staples of a modern woman’s wardrobe, but always with a side of fun (see fringes on the runway). Another salient point to emerge this FW ’20: the relevance of fashion in today’s world. In these troubled times, being trapped in the cycle of trends seems to be, well, out of fashion. So what does this all mean? For a start, buying less, but better – because the real trend now is being thoroughly informed. And that is, fundamentally, what being fashionable truly means. The White Start When in…

Imagine going from copying music video dance moves on MTV as a child, to winning a national dance competition on TV – that’s not some feel-good movie storyline, but Rachel Lee’s life story. The 31-year-old, better known as “Racheezels” (a portmanteau of her name and favourite snack), is now a professional dancer and one half of popping duo “Scrach Marcs”, formed with her husband Marcus Tan in 2008. The petite dancer has a penchant for vintage clothes, and is always decked out in accessories. “There’s no such thing as too much accessories! They really take your outfit to the next level. Vests, statement belts, hats are my best buddies and I wear them almost every day.” And brands adore her: She has appeared in campaigns for Uniqlo, Asics, Spotify and…

What she wears every day Happy Hearts (Chopard’s signature design with moving diamonds) sautoirs and bracelets – they’re versatile and come in a variety of vibrant colours to match any outfit seamlessly. I like to mix and match pieces and wear different shades of gold. Right now, I’m wearing the Alpine Eagle Large model in Lucent steel with the dark blue dial. Her favourite jewellery “The Queen of Kalahari” is a very rare and exceptional 342-carat rough diamond of perfect D colour and absolute purity, and it gave rise to a set of 23 diamonds: “The Garden of Kalahari”, unveiled in 2017, of which five weighed over 20 carats. It turned out to be the most precious jewellery set ever manufactured by Chopard. When I touched this incredible rough stone…

You’ve heard of micellar water – tiny balls of oil suspended in water that draw out dirt and makeup without drying out skin. Now, there’s micellar milk, which works the same way, but is even better for dry and sensitive skin. It’s more hydrating and comforting on skin, and is enhanced with strengthening and reparative ingredients. Vichy’s Mineral Micellar Milk, for instance, contains white tea polyphenols for antioxidant protection. Dior’s Hydra Life Micellar Milk uses nourishing rice milk in place of water, while Drunk Elephant’s new E-Rase Milki Micellar Water packs in vitamin E, ceramides and plant oils to soothe and moisturise. With many women now opting for light to no makeup, a micellar milk ensures an effective cleanse. Use it for daily removal of sunscreen and light makeup, and…

The original: 1982 – Night Repair Cellular Recovery Complex The first anti-ageing serum at the time to focus on skin repair, and the first skincare product to use hyaluronic acid. The formula works with skin’s natural renewal process to help it recover from environmental aggressors, improving its appearance. #2: 1991 – Advanced Night Repair Protective Recovery Complex Reformulated to include the brand’s proprietary antioxidant technologies to support skin’s nighttime renewal functions and daytime protective capabilities, to reduce the signs of ageing. #3: 2009 – Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex Introduces the now-signature Chronolux Technology for the first time. What the updated formula does: optimises night-time repair by working even more in sync with skin’s circadian rhythm. It also includes over 20 patents. #4: 2013 – Advanced Night Repair Synchronized…

Nanopore Micro Needling uses tiny needles that rapidly puncture the skin to induce a natural healing response in the body. The new layer of skin that forms after the treatment is firmer, more even and toned. There are also other benefits: It reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, heals acne marks and mild scars, clears up blackheads, reduces hyper-pigmentation, and treats sun damage. For best results, four to six sessions are recommended. Scan the QR code below to find out more.…

Ever find yourself standing at a beauty counter, feeling intimidated and confused – which product does what, exactly? And what works best for your skin? There’s a solution: smartphone apps that help you navigate the wide array of skincare in the market. These diagnose your skin issues, educate you on ingredients that may work for your skin, recommend products, and dole out advice. The newest one is Picky, designed to simplify skincare science so it’s easier to understand. Developed by a Singapore-South Korean pair of skincare enthusiasts in the land of K-beauty, it started when co-founders Rachel Lee and Lee Jihong wanted to make K-skincare more accessible to an international audience. “There was a lack of information about these products…and there was no go-to platform for comprehensive ingredient information in…

SELL TO THE WORLD, EVEN WITH A TIGHT BUDGET If you want to start a small online business but lack the funds, drop-shipping is a relatively low-risk and fuss-free way to start a side hustle. Basically, there’s no need to fork out any money up front to invest in an inventory of items. Instead, you can trawl websites like Alibaba.com and Amazon.com (through its Fulfillment by Amazon programme) for drop-shipping manufacturers, and choose what you want to sell from their catalogues. All you have to do is to set up a website with an e-commerce store and promote the things that you’re selling online. When a sale is made on your website, you simply act as a middleman to transfer the customer’s orders and shipment details to the manufacturer, who…

Popular dating app Coffee Meets Bagel conducted a survey this year among its users, and found a shift in the dating trends among singles. With many choosing to connect digitally, the new norm is seen as a silver-lining for online dating. Daters have more time to get to know each other, and there’s time to be more intentional, going deeper with one person at a time. Instead of quickly going from matching to meeting in person, 39 % of users planned to text their matches more. 29% planned to call. 28% wanted to video chat more.…

Netflix Party Couples can catch a movie from a distance – together – with this free downloadable extension. It synchronises users’ video playback so you can stream the same movie on Netflix in real-time. It comes with a chat function with emojis and GIFs so you can share your comments while watching the movie. What you need: a Google Chrome browser and a Netflix subscription. Next, install the extension on Netflixparty.com on your computer or laptop. Airtime The free mobile app lets you video chat with your other half while watching movies and YouTube videos on the same screen. You can even share photos from your phone. Parsec If you’re looking for some action, this free games program can be downloaded from parsecgaming.com on your computer. It can be used…

We’ve all been there. You’re discussing the new curtains with your partner and next thing you know, it becomes a knife fight – as if the curtains have the power to save the world. There’s the old adage: happy wife, happy life. Some guys live by this… shrugging and moving along. But is that really a solution? The truth is, if you apply that same mentality to a child, the child would learn that throwing a temper tantrum means he gets his way. And temper tantrums are not the best solution. What’s really needed is understanding from both sides that you can discuss just about anything, even dreaded curtains. Disagreement helps you see another point of view. It doesn’t mean that every difference in opinion is a hill to die…

So the new flex among fashion houses seems to be zhooshing up archival favourites. At British house Burberry, Riccardo Tisci’s latest is the Pocket bag, a functional luggage-style tote with leather details. First sold between 1981 and 1990, it was originally known as the “Michelle shopper”, but has now been renamed to highlight its key update: a distinctive front pocket. We love the vintage vibes and how it literally wears its functionality on its sleeve (large pocket = better organisation and extra space). Plus, it’s versatile too – carry it by its reinforced top handles or detachable shoulder strap. It comes stamped with the graphic TB print inspired by founder Thomas Burberry, designed by Tisci in collaboration with famed British graphic designer Peter Saville. Choose from more than 15 colourways…

There’s no better time to add some colour to your life than now, according to Yoon – one of the coolest girls in fashion – with her rendition of Bvlgari’s capsule collection. The co-founder of Tokyo-based cult streetwear label Ambush, who also lent her street cred to the success of Dior Homme jewellery, is the latest guest designer for Bvlgari’s Serpenti Through The Eyes Of... series. Inspired by the vibrant colours of the South-east Asian tree python, Yoon serves up three key new styles for the Serpenti Forever range: a shoulder bag, belt bag and minaudiere, all in striking hues like bright magenta and electric green. She further injects her youthful twist by giving the bags’ multiple styling options. The shoulder bag comes with a top handle and a detachable…

POPPING – a street dance style that originated in the late ’60s and ’70s in California, characterised by the sudden tensing and releasing of the muscles. “Through popping, I fell in love with tailored wear like suits, hats, and dress shoes like oxfords. Zoot suits and Chicano clothing are some of inspirations because of how smart and badass they are! The genre is also very influenced by illusions and robots (which translates to) sleek, geometric and futuristic clothing.” WAACKING/ WHACKING – originally known as “punking”, the style originated in the ‘70s in Los Angeles and is known for striking arm movements, as if one is whacking something. “Waacking takes me into the disco world with bold colours, ’80s vibes, all the glitter and big costumes. I’m into the whole Studio…

Modern, dynamic and unisex – that’s the LV Volt jewellery collection (pictured above) in a nutshell. Designed by Francesca Amfitheatrof, Louis Vuitton’s artistic director for Watches and Jewellery, the minimalist yet impactful pieces have an almost architectural sensibility, and are simple and great for stacking. Inspired by movement, pulsating energy and vibrations, the collection includes 36 pieces ranging from rings and earrings to bracelets and necklaces in yellow and white gold, and some with sparkling diamonds. Taking centre stage are the letters L and V, creating dynamic, angular forms – most evidently seen in the most expensive item in the collection, the mesh bandana necklace. The LV Volt collection is available now and priced from $2,140.…

Say hello to the new cult skincare product that women in Asia are raving about. Dual Essence is barely eight months old and already a bestseller in Singapore, Taiwan, Japan and China. In Singapore, the exfoliating essence is second only to the brand’s Advanced Genifique Serum. In Japan, it won the grand prize at beauty website @cosme’s The Best Cosmetics Awards 2020 Mid-Year New Products, which covers launches from December 2019 to April 2020. Why the success? Dual Essence was launched just as the world was plunged into lockdowns and increased mask wear. The latter means your skin has to deal with trapped moisture, sweat, dirt and sebum that can result in clogged pores and acne. And that’s how Dual Essence quickly became a women’s essential skin bestie – it…

Toner is vastly underrated “Many people see it as the second step in cleansing as opposed to the first step in skin treatment. Toner helps restore hydration, balance skin’s pH and, depending on the formula, micro-exfoliate. I can’t imagine applying serum without first applying toner.” The “sponge technique” helps skincare sink in better “This press-and-release way of applying a product works for most skincare, except cleansers. When you press, your skin opens up microscopically; when you release, it sucks in what’s on the surface.” It’s worth doing DIY cryotherapy “Anything that’s cold is anti-inflammatory. Heat is actually a huge factor in hyperpigmentation. My favourite way: Wrap ice cubes in lens cleaning cloth. It’s so soft it won’t scratch your skin, and it prevents the ice from burning it. Run it…

SELLING ARTS & CRAFT Etsy is probably the biggest online craft marketplace. Other popular platforms are Artfire, Shop Handmade, Hyena Cart, and Handmade Artist’s Shop. Some charge sellers a monthly membership fee, while others don’t. Etsy has no membership fee but takes a 3.5 per cent cut from the sale of items. IF YOU’RE OFFERING CREATIVE SERVICES Upwork is one of the largest gig portals for freelancers online. It offers services like graphic design, animation, content creation, writing and editing, and video-making. Other platforms include Fiverr, Freelancer, Guru, Freeup and SolidGigs. Some take a commission from freelancers’ earnings. IF YOU WANT TO TEACH ONLINE Coursera is a popular platform for professionals who want to upgrade their skills. The classes are structured like college courses with set start and end dates.…

As kids, some of us were taught to work on our weaknesses. I had Chinese tuition because I struggled with the language. I was told by netball coaches to build strength and bulk so that my smaller frame would be “sturdier” on court against bigger built players. I was advised by my hairstylists to have bangs, and I wore this look throughout my childhood (and much of my adulthood) to minimise my high forehead. There is a lot of talk about self-love and self-care in the pursuit of happiness, but it seems that feeling good about ourselves is a huge factor in contributing to our happiness. My studies in the science of positive psychology has taught me that one easy, practical way to make up for our shortcomings is to…

KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY Pick pieces with complementary tones, like citrus hues or gem colours. FROM HEAD TO TOE The foolproof way to pull if off: Go monochrome, starting with the Pantone Colour of the Year 2020, Classic Blue. WORK IT WITH BASICS Offset pinks with blue jeans, black shorts or a pussy-bow blouse to tone it down.…

It’s time to swop out your favourite pants for a pair of comfortable culottes that allows greater ease of movement. Culottes + boots + blazer is a fashion-forward formula that’s hard to beat. But if you’re wearing culottes in Singapore’s balmy weather, be realistic and forget the boots. Instead, pair it with pumps or thonged heels for a contemporary look. Short suits are still trending and totally office appropriate: Simply dress it up with a high collared blouse and throw on a vest with a nipped waist. After work, just add pearl and croco accessories and you’re all set for a night out. For weekends, ditch the formal tops for a graphic tee and play with arty accessories, but keep the tailored blazer to look like a boss. WORK DINNER…

What do Netflix and whisky have to do with fashion? Plenty, for Shannon Lee, founder and designer of homegrown womenswear label Shirt Number White, known for its crisp, white sculptural shirts. The 33-year-old is a proponent of letting his ideas “fester”. To design his concept shirts, Shannon not only does lots of sketching and sampling, he also makes sure there’s time for ideas to “ferment” – by binging on cooking shows while sipping on his choice drink. Shirt Number White’s latest launch, The Chrysalis, is no exception. This time, his inspiration came from a photo series of butterfly cocoons by British lensman Adam Fuss. He says: “One image of a white cocoon caught my eye. It’s not just the crystalline appearance; I was moved by the strength needed to emerge…

NAMED AFTER THE ICONIC FIRST LADY OF FASHION, JACQUELINE KENNEDY ONASSIS, THE PERENNLAL FAVOURITE GUCCI JACKIE BAG IS BROUGHT BACK BY THE ITALIAN LEATHER HOUSE IN NEW SIZES AND STRAP LENGTHS, READY FOR ITS NEXT LEASE OF LIFE IN THE MILLENIAL AGE. WITH ITS CHIC DESIGN, GUCCI’S JACKIE BAG IS LAUDED AS THE FIRST HOBO SHAPED BAG THAT LAUNCHED A THOUSAND IMITATORS SINCE ITS FIRST INCEPTION.…

1. Her World x Nodspark nail wraps, $15 each HW celebrates 60 years with this collab with home-grown nail wraps brand Nodspark. Self Love (top) features rose quartz for emotional healing and love + howlite to let go of unnecessary attachments. Power Boost (bottom) features moonstone for patience and trust in your intuition + malachite to inspire leadership and confidence. At nodspark.com 2. Hera Shadow Duo, $48 My challenge with eyeshadow is that it invariably looks different on my skin than in the palette. These Hera duos – 12 in all – claim that WYSIWYG. The colour in the palette looks exactly the same on your skin, so there’s no need to guess. Even less guessing is needed as the eye duos all come in wearable neutral shades. 3. Clarins…

The 2013 iteration of Estee Lauder’s iconic anti-ageing serum was my best friend after late nights, because it made my complexion supple and bright in the mornings. The 2020 version works faster: One dropper claims to make skin radiant and plump, with up to 72 hours of hydration, and eight-hour antioxidant protection. After one night, I was surprised to find my skin plump with a soft lit-from-within glow. And this was despite heading to bed after 2am. Over the next five days, I used the new Advanced Night Repair every morning and night, and started to notice that the lines on my face were less obvious, while my skin was slowly getting a youthful bounce too. It’s still early days but I’m liking what I see, especially how my skin…

One of the best ways to tighten sagging skin is using radio frequency treatments. Dr Karen Soh, medical director of Prive Clinic, explains how it works, the pain factor, and how long the results last. What’s the best skin tightening treatment for someone in their 30s. I’m seeing the first signs of sagging and lines. Patients between 30 and 60 years, who are looking for a non-invasive facelift will benefit from having Thermage and/or Ultherapy done. What’s RF? It radio frequency energy sent deep into the skin to tighten and give a lift. Thermage is a non-invasive radio frequency (RF) treatment which lifts and smooths skin. When RF energy is sent deep into the skin, it heats up the collagen in it to create a tightening effect. At Prive, we…

Bio Lifting Serum+, $460 A silky serum infused with plant stem cells, peptides and brightening botanicals to lift and tone skin while softening the look of lines and wrinkles. Also protects from blue light damage from digital devices. Bio Lifting Cream+, $578 A supercharged velvety cream that helps lift, firm and redefine the face contours, with the help of five plant stem cells. Bio Lifting Mask, $273 Dubbed “Botox in a jar”, this cream mask uses plant extracts and peptides to soften the look of expression lines, tone and hydrate the skin. Skin looks radiant and youthful, without the needles and discomfort.…

1 Reset Your Budget Before you slash your expenses, place them in two categories: essential and non-essential items. Essential items include housing, food, Internet service, handphone, transport and healthcare expenses. A new wardrobe and handbags are non-essential. Organise the items in an Excel sheet or Word document so you can see how much you spend on each item monthly. It'll help you to cut non-essential items first, say experts of this budget-honing strategy. Sure, it may be painful to cut back or give up some luxuries like monthly spa treatments. Giving them up isn’t going to make you financially secure, but overhauling a bunch of habits in one effort – even a forced one, to simplify your life – will mean savings that are much greater than a few dollars…

With her hair coiffed up in a bun, lips glossed to the shade that matches her pink lantern-sleeve blouse, Catherine is all set for her third date. The 26-year-old has arranged an evening of cocktails, followed by a Netflix party with a guy whom she got to know via Bumble, a dating app, a month ago. By their second virtual date, the marketing executive says she felt some chemistry brewing between them. “I wish we could meet in person… it’d be nice to hold hands,” she laments – before her more intellectual concerns rein in, “But that’s a risk to take.” “There’s more time to get to know someone better before deciding to meet up in person.” – Nicolette Fernandenz, Gaigai’s head dating coach The idea of being arm-locked within…

I’m starting to get serious with a guy I’ve met online. Am I cheating on him if I continue to chat with other guys on dating apps? I want to be sure he’s really the one, in case I find someone better. The roving dude in me says, of course it’s not cheating to keep on “Tindering”. Who knows, he could be doing the same (#justsaying). Methinks what’s more worrying for you is that you think you can find someone better. Ahh.. here’s where the problem lies. While you’re developing a relationship with a guy, you’re also getting to know other guys. You’re actually developing more than one relationship at the same time, and someone could get hurt in the end. Perhaps it’s better to get serious with only one…

Reduce the look of dark spots The frustrating thing about dark spots: as soon as one fades, another seems to surface. That’s where Clinique’s new and improved Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter comes in. The concentrated serum is suitable for all skin types. It uses a patented CL-302 Equalizer Technology to weaken the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, salicylic acid to gently slough off the uppermost layers of skin, and yeast extract to break up large clusters of pigment into smaller particles so they’re less visible. The “interrupter” part refers to keeping skin calm and helping it better resist darkening. This is achieved with Gyokuro extract, which helps quell irritation. A self-assessment of 101 women revealed that 93 per cent saw dark spots reduced…