Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2025 i Her World Singapore

From Christmas to welcoming the new year and the Lunar New Year, the December to February months always feel like one non-stop celebration where time just seems to meld together. By the time Valentine’s Day rolls around on the 14th, it’s easy to roll one’s eyes and say, “Who’s going to be suckered into shelling out hundreds of dollars just for an expensive dinner, anyway?” Well, many people actually do, but I digress. Instead of merely offering you a listicle of the best places to visit for a romantic evening (P.S. you’ll find our top picks on Herworld.com), the team was challenged to think deeply about the notion of love. The conclusion we arrived at? Beyond the rose-tinted lenses of romance, love takes work. Anyone who’s fallen in love could…

Fresh off a rejuvenating trip to Norway, Thai-Belgian singer-songwriter and actor Violette Wautier, 31, radiates a calm confidence during our Zoom call. Now back in Bangkok, any trace of jet lag seems to have vanished, leaving her with a radiant smile and a palpable sense of ease. She reveals that she had spent a good amount of time chasing the Northern Lights with her boyfriend, Jirayu La-ongmanee, a fellow actor and lead singer of the Thai band Retrospect, as well as their respective mums. “Just the mums and kids,” Violette laughs. “It’s our mums’ dream to see the Northern Lights so we did that, and it was a really fun experience. It was also Jirayu’s first time, and that was really special.” Violette’s eyes light up as she describes Jirayu…

DOWN TO THE DETAILS The fastest and easiest way to pull off this trend and look office appropriate is by way of a shirt and tie. GOOD OL’ NAVY As the preppy style is characterised by its distinct colour palette, the best way to incorporate this trend into your workwear is by mixing and matching colours. One of the most popular combinations is navy blue and white. TOUCH AND FEEL For a more grown-up take, a textured pairing – such as an embellished skirt or a pair of brocade print trousers – will do the trick. A HERO PIECE Pick one statement collegiate piece – a polo shirt, pleated skirt, track jacket – and pair it with anything tailored. Do you have a fashion dilemma? Send your questions to Lena…

“Shared investments often symbolise a commitment to building a future together,” acknowledges Ivan Cheong, a partner at Withers KhattarWong and head of the Singapore Family Team. Whether it’s pooling resources for a home or launching a business, these investments can foster wealth and a sense of unity. However, the same assets that unify during good times can become contentious during a split. Ambiguity is a major risk in shared investments – who owns what, and how much should each person contribute? “Emotional biases and the fear of difficult conversations can also prevent couples from addressing these issues early,” adds Jeremy Tan, CEO of Tiger Fund Management, which is why he emphasises the importance of proactive planning. In addition, Ivan suggests implementing prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, which can define asset division…

The first thing Maddie* (not her real name) bought for her new apartment was an ink painting by Singapore Nanyang artist Tan Chin Boon. The 35cm by 40cm artwork, depicting a pair of goldfish swimming in a pond, caught her eye while she was casually browsing at Artualize, a boutique art gallery located at High Street Centre. “I like how the derpy expression of the goldfish reminds me of the quirky panda sculptures at Haw Par Villa. It really speaks to me,” shares the media professional, who is in her 30s. While Maddie had previously bought lithographs by local creatives, this was her first purchase of a work by an established artist of Chin Boon’s calibre. The fact that the 71-year-old won the Gold Award in the Established Artist category…

If you think revenge porn couldn’t happen to you because you’ve never allowed anyone to take photos or videos of yourself in intimate situations, think again. Search “remove clothes app” or similar terms online, and you’ll find a dizzying array of free and paid image editing tools promising to undress anyone in a perfectly innocuous photo quickly and realistically. This is the era of deepfake porn, where generative AI is being used by many around the world to create pornographic images so real that the subjects – typically women – find it difficult for others to believe that it isn’t really them. In November last year, students from the Singapore Sports School came under police investigation for creating and sharing deepfake nude photos of their female schoolmates. In the same…

1. Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturizer, $69 Loaded with not one, not two, but three collagen-supporting peptides, this gel-cream formula works overtime to plump and hydrate skin to help you achieve a smooth, youthful-looking complexion with consistent use. 2. Augustinus Bader The Rich Eye Cream, $310 If you’re a fan of Augustinus Bader’s cult favourite The Rich Cream, you’ll love the brand’s newest addition: The Rich Eye Cream. Powered by the same patented Trigger Factor Concentrate Technology found in all of its products, this ultra-nourishing formula deeply hydrates, plumps and lifts the eye contours. 3. Bio-essence Moisture Plus Water Burst Serum Body Lotion, from $8.90 Packed with pure hyaluronic acid and marine algae extract, this wallet-friendly lotion works to quench thirsty skin, and promises to keep skin hydrated for…

COLOURED EYESHADOW + NUDE LIPS Swop your go-to neutral eye look for a wash of uplifting pastel blue shadow on the lids. Balance out the look with a nude pout and lightly contoured cheeks. The doe-eyed look wouldn’t be complete without inky black lashes. INNER CORNER HIGHLIGHT + GLASS-LIKE, GLOSSY LIPS A dab of highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes can instantly perk up your peepers and enliven your complexion. Follow up with a swipe of high-shine gloss to take your look to the next level. DEEP RED LIPS + ARTFULLY SMUDGED EYES Embrace your dark side with a moody maroon pout. Wear your blackened red lip with lived-in, smoked out eyes for a daring, edgy look that’s perfect for a night out. BRONZED SKIN + ICY, PINK…

As a millennial, my expectations of romance no longer entail grand displays of affections, or falling madly in love like protagonists do in the movies. When one has to juggle work, chores, and the general administration that adult life demands, remaining in a heightened state of infatuation is not sustainable. This, however, is not disillusionment. It is just that a clearer picture of reality has set in. A partner can be a great complement to one’s enjoyment of the world if the bond evolves into something transcendental. However, romance is not limited to an experience shared between two individuals. It can be a never-ending affair to make the ordinary, extraordinary. When I asked millennials around me what being romantic means to them, a resounding number of responses ran along the…

Synonymous with ballerinas and dancers, tulle has long been a symbol of femininity. Fashion designers have always had a love affair with this soft-textured material, which is named after a town in central France where it was first made. Tulle took flight in its conventional graceful form of dresses and skirts, envisioned by fashion heavyweights such as Giambattista Valli and Viktor & Rolf, as well as younger designers Molly Goddard, Simone Rocha and Cecilie Bahnsen. But the material also has a grunge alter ego, thanks to avant-garde Japanese designers Yohji Yamamoto’s Red Bustle coat in 1995 and Rei Kawakubo’s “Biker + Ballerina” Spring/ Summer 2005 collection. This Spring/Summer 2025 season, designers continue to use tulle in a less conventional form – infusing menswear tailoring sensibilities, such as the oversized green…

A LITTLE BIT OF DRAMA The iconic Dynasty television series comes to life on the runways as tulle, bows, polka dots and strong-shouldered jackets take centre stage at Bottega Veneta, Acne and Louis Vuitton. YOUTHFUL ENERGY Designers remain inspired by the 2024 Olympics, continuing their sportswear streak on the Spring runways with an interesting interpretation fusing sportswear and femininity, as seen at Miu Miu and Loewe. A BOHEMIAN AFFAIR Chemena Kamali set a precedent at Chloe with a heady concoction of frills, suede, denim and chiffon, but this ’70s trend is also championed beautifully this season by brands such as Saint Laurent and Valentino.…

A piece of jewellery is considered vintage if it’s at least 20 years old, but less than 100 years old. Anything more than a century old is considered antique. If these pieces are well looked after, they can last many more lifetimes, and be passed down generation after generation as family heirlooms. They often carry a rich history and story, which can add sentimental value and interest for collectors. Each piece is a conversation starter and reflects the era it comes from. Other than nostalgia, vintage jewellery can hold significant value because many of the best pieces are set with rare, untreated gemstones and diamonds from old mines that are now depleted, such as Golconda diamonds, Burmese rubies, Kashmir sapphires, and Colombian Muzo emeralds. “Appraisal values for unsigned vintage pieces…

For many women in Singapore, the pressure of proving their worth goes beyond excelling at work. It often involves the constant balancing act of juggling one’s ambition with the demands of caregiving and motherhood, while navigating workplaces where toxic cultures and subtle biases remain pervasive. There’s also the fear of falling behind. Taking a career break often feels like an unconventional choice in a society that emphasises hustle culture. However, the mental health impact of not prioritising oneself is far greater. In 2024, Employment Hero’s Wellness at Work Report found that 61 per cent of Singaporeans felt burnt out, with millennials making up the majority. However, a shift is occurring as more millennial women choose to pause their careers. For some, burnout is only part of the story. Others seek…

Tying the knot in the 21st century is taking on a new form. Instead of splashing out on traditional ceremonies and wedding banquets in Singapore, it looks like many younger couples are moving away from the norm, and embracing elopement as a way to celebrate their love. Cyndi Hui, Travel Trends and Destination expert at Skyscanner, says that, according to a recent survey, 14 per cent of respondents have either opted for or are considering elopement weddings. This highlights a shift in how younger couples view nuptials – not just as a traditional milestone, but as an opportunity to create deeply personal and meaningful experiences. The same survey also revealed that many couples are leaning towards destination weddings, with 39 per cent prioritising a more intimate experience, 38 per cent…

UNDERSTANDING INTIMACY With sex, there is an added vulnerability of being naked – not just physically but emotionally – and not all friendships achieve that level of intimacy. Complications arise when both parties have different ideas of what the friendship should entail, or whether the friendship has entered the space of dating and/or a romantic relationship. Bumble’s 2024 Dating Trends reveal that a majority of men (76 per cent) and women (83 per cent) in Singapore believe it is essential for their romantic partner to understand both emotional and physical intimacy. This highlights how easily people can question the status of their relationships when the element of sex is introduced. SETTING BOUNDARIES Sex changes the dynamics of how both parties interact. If you’re considering a more intimate relationship with a…

RARE BEAUTY PERFECT STROKES MATTE LIQUID EYE LINER, $36 With its flexible brush tip (made up of over 1,000 tiny vegan bristles) and inky, waterproof formula, this Rare Beauty eyeliner glides on smoothly and is easy to manoeuvre, even if you’re new to makeup. For best results, shake the liner before each application to activate the colour pigments. KVD BEAUTY EVERLASTING HYPERLIGHT VEGAN TRANSFER-PROOF LIQUID LIPSTICK IN MIDNIGHT PHLOX, $35 This cult classic packs a serious pigment punch, and once it sets, there is barely any transfer. Despite its staying power, it doesn’t dry out your lips, thanks to the addition of nourishing raspberry stem cells. JUNG SAEM MOOL ARTIST KOHL PEN LINER, $28 With just one swipe, it imparts a rich, pigmented colour that stays in place all day.…

Break the ice A winter getaway can offer some much-needed respite from the scorching temperatures in Singapore, but the biting cold coupled with indoor heating can take a toll on your delicate skin barrier. A compromised barrier can result in tight, irritated and itchy skin. It can also exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea. This is why it’s so important to winterproof and make simple adjustments to your skincare routine. During winter, the cold weather often leads to increased skin sensitivity, which can trigger acute flares of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The drop in humidity and exposure to harsh elements can also result in dry, chapped lips, medically known as cheilitis. For some, cold temperatures may even induce hives or urticaria. Understanding these potential effects…

The other day, I caught up with a friend who had just started a new relationship after ending a five-year one. As we tucked into a spread of Balinese cuisine with her new partner, she casually asked, “So, are you seeing anyone?” It’s a question I’ve heard a thousand times, and one that never fails to trigger internal eye rolls and awkward pauses. Conversations with my family aren’t much different either. My aunties and uncles have their own version: “When’s your turn?” I’ll never forget the time one of my aunts raised both hands in prayer, asking God to send me a partner because apparently, my love life was some kind of divine emergency. Of course, the question is not malicious – it’s just their way of catching up and…

1. Stella Ryder suede shoulder bag, Stella McCartney The Alaia Le Teckel bag has been dominating the street style set for the past few months now, but we have yet to see a slowdown when it comes to the east-west bag trend. How do you define this style of bag that just screams effortless elegance? Look out for thin, long straps in the bag’s middle section, and a stretched-out silhouette (it can fit a ton of things). This season, we’re crushing on a new iteration from Stella McCartney: the Stella Ryder. Reminiscent of a vintage '60s style purse, it is handcrafted by artisans in Italy from cruelty-free alternatives using recycled and grape-based innovations. 2. Trench coat with oversized padded shoulders, Duran Lantink This Dutch designer was awarded LVMH’s Karl Lagerfeld…

And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side Of my darling-my darling-my life and my bride, In her sepulchre there by the sea, In her tomb by the sounding sea.-Edgar Allan Poe…

If United Women Singapore president Tan Ching Ne had not chosen accountancy as her career path, she might not have discovered her second calling as a women’s rights advocate. The chatty, self-described “accidental accountant”, who is a tax partner at PwC Singapore, shares that she initially wanted to pursue a degree in Business Administration. “My elder sister advised me to consider a professional course like accountancy, which was shorter (three years) and one that came with scholarship opportunities,” says Ching Ne. The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) alumna received a tax scholarship from Price Waterhouse (now PwC Singapore), which set the course for her career trajectory. “I’ve stayed the course since graduating from NTU, and have not stopped working, even while raising my two kids,” she adds. In 2016, through an…

While these remain at our core, we’ve grown to offer experiences that go beyond what is expected at traditional luxury hotels. “We strive to take our guests closer to the unique stories of each locale we call home, to allow them to discover each destination’s culture and heritage,” shares Yngvar. Also tapping on Sentosa’s heritage as a way to connect with their guests, the team at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa and Raffles Sentosa is creating a special drink that they hope to share with other establishments on the island. Cluster general manager, Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, reveals a cocktail that will debut during the launch of Raffles Sentosa this year-end. The inspiration for the Sentosa Sling, he says, is rooted in the tropical nature of Sentosa. Featuring an Amaro,…

Keeping your hair short can be a wise – and comfortable – choice, especially in Singapore’s sweltering weather. The latest hairstyle embraced by celebrities, including Gigi Hadid and Greta Lee, is none other than the kicked bob. As its name suggests, this style sees the ends of your tresses “kicking” or curving upwards. While it’s a haircut that works perfectly for oval face shapes, those with long face shapes should avoid this style as it could emphasise the face length further, according to Eri Su, founder of Eri Su Salon. To get this look, you’ll need more than a pair of straighteners and bending it upwards at your hair ends to achieve a flipped-up effect. Eri recommends first applying the Color Wow Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer spray on your tresses…

When you think of the 1980s, what usually comes to mind are big hair, leg warmers and shoulder pads. Another thing that was popular in that decade: perfumes that were powerful, bold and intoxicating – think Opium from Yves Saint Laurent or Dior’s Poison. Now, this trend is back, in the form of elixirs. According to Aura Prestige, a distributor of beauty products in South-east Asia, elixirs are highly concentrated perfume compositions designed to be long-lasting. Their richness and depth make them perfect for those seeking an intense, statement-making fragrance – those who want their scent to linger and last throughout the day. Elixirs are more concentrated than Eau de Parfums (EDP), with richer compositions. While EDPs provide a balanced fragrance, elixirs are crafted for greater intensity, extended longevity and…

Guerlain’s iconic L’Art & La Matiere collection unveils an enchanting new fragrance with Peche Mirage. Masterfully crafted by perfumer Delphine Jelk, this scent highlights the luscious notes of peach, opening with a bold mix of saffron and blackcurrant. The fruity sweetness evolves into the leathery warmth of osmanthus, blending sensuality with depth. Finally, notes of sandalwood and amber create a rich, lasting trail. In collaboration with artist Charles Petillon, the collector’s case features white “balloons” – symbolising fragrance molecules – against an azure sky, with a white ceramic plate adorning the top of the cap. From $440 for 50ml to $858 for the 200ml collector’s case, available at Guerlain boutiques and stores.…