Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2025 i Her World Singapore

I don’t know about you, but there’s something about travel that excites me. Weeks before boarding the plane, I’m watching Youtube vlogs, bookmarking shops and cute cafes, and scoping out the walking route from my hotel to the nearest metro station on Google maps. Let’s not even talk about packing or the, ahem, pre-trip shopping. Those who know me, know that I literally make lists of all the daily outfits I plan to wear while travelling, a habit I’ve had since I was a child. Yes, I admit I can be kind of insufferable with the amount of planning I do, but hey, at least all the confirmed reservations to the most popular restaurants on my recent trip to Japan meant breezing past snaking queues and never having to wait…

“Oh my goodness, Zul! You’re going to Paris for two press trips!” I remember my former boss exclaiming with excitement. She wasn’t wrong to be thrilled: luxurious stays at The Peninsula and The Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, an exclusive tour of LVMH’s Helios centre, and a dreamy stroll through Schiaparelli’s exhibition at the Musee des Arts Decoratifs were among the highlights. For most magazine writers, it was a dream assignment. I smiled, feigning excitement, but in my head, I was already spiralling. What if I lost Wi-Fi and couldn’t reach anyone? What if I got robbed – or worse, abducted? What if the plane crashed, deadlines piled up, or I ran out of money in a city of strangers? FEAR OF FOREIGN LANDS This fear didn’t come from a traumatic experience.…

POSH IT UP Here’s how you can take a sheer dress from the beach to a glamorous night out: Layer it over a bodycon slip dress and cinch the outfit with a belt. A pair of statement earrings and heels are the perfect finish to the ensemble. THAT WINNING BLAZER A sheer feminine dress or skirt instantly turns powerfully elegant with a beautifully tailored blazer; strong shoulders and oversized silhouettes preferred. STRUCTURE IS KEY A lesson in weekend chic: Secure yourself a structured tunic, and wear it with a sheer skirt and a pair of slides to turn heads. MAXIMISE THE VERSATILITY OF A SCARF A pretty, sheer dress can take on different forms with creative styling. For a touch of modesty, slip a bodysuit underneath and cover your lower…

Once a niche pursuit, watch collecting has found a new generation of female admirers. Within this realm, there are those who actively seek out limited edition watches as a subtle (or not so subtle) flex. But in a world overflowing with drops, exclusives and countdown timers, one question keeps ticking: Are limited edition watches worthy investments, or just clever packaging for manufactured desire? For sure, scarcity is seductive. It’s practically hard-wired in our DNA. There’s power in knowing you own something that few others do. And then there’s the thrill of the hunt, the rush of acquisition, and the bragging rights that follow. Watch brands understand this well: Limited editions trigger our inner collector as much as our fear of missing out. But when everything is “limited”, does it still…

Since Dec 28, 2024, adult commuters in Singapore have been paying 10 cents more per journey. This was announced by the Public Transport Council last year to collective groans all across the island. Before the increase, an MRT ride from Tampines to Raffles Place on the East West Line cost $1.92, but this is now $2.02. For someone who commutes daily (60 rides a month), that’s about $6 monthly or $72 annually – and that’s a conservative estimate. For those who are already spending $140 on public transport a month, this increase may push them past the $150 mark. A family with two adults or more will see a higher household expenditure. For around two million concession card holders in Singapore, the fare increase is lower – just 4 cents…

Some travellers still downplay the importance of travel insurance, especially for short getaways. However, emergencies can happen any time and anywhere. Without proper coverage, a medical crisis overseas – especially in places with limited healthcare – could require costly evacuation or repatriation. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MEDICAL COVERAGE AND TRIP PROTECTION Medical coverage addresses health emergencies – from hospitalisation and treatment to evacuation and repatriation. Some plans even cover urgent dental care, which can be crucial. In countries like the US, where healthcare costs are steep, solid medical insurance can prevent huge out-of-pocket expenses. Trip protection, on the other hand, offers peace of mind against cancellations, delays or disruptions. It covers lost baggage, missed connections, and even travel agency insolvencies. For trips involving non-refundable bookings or destinations prone to natural disasters,…

In a world dominated by ever-shifting micro-trends on social media, one timeless beauty ideal endures: the effortlessly chic French girl look. This aesthetic conjures images of a woman with tousled hair, minimal makeup, a bold red lip, and a sun-kissed glow – a highly coveted style that continues to captivate both social media and popular culture alike. To understand what makes the French girl beauty routine so distinctive, we speak to several leading experts and explore why this classic style remains so enduring. Mathilde Thomas, founder of French clean beauty brand Caudalie, believes the appeal lies in more than just appearance. The French girl aesthetic, she explains, is a way of life. “In France, we enjoy the finer things: delicious food, breathtaking surroundings, and culture at every corner. You’re constantly…

Whenever we’re travelling by plane, the in-flight air generally feels dry due to low humidity. Coupled with reduced air pressure and fluctuating temperatures, our skin and body can feel fatigued and dehydrated in the cabin. That’s why it’s common for our skin and hair to turn drier and frizzier, making it tough to look and feel fresh during long-haul flights. To combat that, we turn to a few frequent fliers for insider advice on how to look and feel our best while soaring through the clouds. GERMAINE CHIA Head of APAC, Augustinus Bader Specialising in luxury skincare branding, Germaine jets off to the markets that she manages thrice a month, and to Europe for meetings with the founders of Augustinus Bader. HER ULTIMATE IN-FLIGHT SKINCARE ROUTINE “I have combination skin…

In 2025, Skyscanner predicts a major travel trend: letting astrology guide your must-visit destinations. “For some, this belief in astrology goes beyond just casual interest, with 55 per cent interested in taking astrology into consideration while planning their travels,” says Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination expert. “There are certain [planetary] placements in a natal chart that can indicate whether travelling [to certain destinations] would be beneficial,” says Pearlyn Siu, founder of holistic wellness practice Transmission Wellness. Cyndi adds that the trend is especially popular among millennials, with 44 per cent believing that planetary or lunar activity can affect their holidays. Travelling during Mercury retrograde, for instance, is often discouraged due to the higher likelihood of mishaps. But Pearlyn cautions against generalising: “While astrological events can affect travel plans,…

Christian Dior may have been famously known for his bar jacket, but did you know that his 1947 “New Look” collection helped introduce leopard print into the fashion lexicon? It has since risen in popularity, with brands like Roberto Cavalli and Balmain making it a key print in many of their collections. For the Pre-Fall season, Balmain’s creative director Olivier Rousteing had one mission when it came to this feisty print: Go big or go home. His head-to-toe leopard look was a congruent ensemble featuring a trench dress, knee-high boots and a shoulder bag. Cavalli also got the full leopard memo, pairing an eye-catching trench coat with matching pants. But what if the leopard print took the sweet, girly route? You can trust Valentino’s creative director Alessandro Michele to execute…

SHAPE SHIFTERS After seasons of shoulder-cramping carryalls and east-west totes, the drawstring bag returns as an intentional step back. No structure, no bulk, and no overpacking. Once a wardrobe staple before women’s fashion sported pockets, these bags are reimagined with tourist-shop irreverence at Loewe, and fashioned like wearable embroidery at Valentino. For those with It bag fatigue, this one is worth holding on to. THAT ’70S GIRL The boho dress revival may have kick-started the trad wife trend, but this season’s designers are leaning into a modern, put-together look reminiscent of a lady of the manor. Think sweeping sleeves at Roberto Cavalli, maximalist floral prints at Etro, and silhouettes in lace and chiffon at Ulla Johnson that demand a space of their own. When the estate gives way to tropical…

Being constantly on the move as a digital nomad can be fun, but at times, it is a lonely experience. For Ho Ming Xia, 30, who has been working remotely since 2021, that changed when she found a sense of belonging among other female digital nomads. Her previous employer, Draper Startup House, started as a community for digital nomads and travelling entrepreneurs. As head of community, she helped launch communities and offered a space for them to connect and host events at its shophouse location on Ann Siang Hill. That was how she got to know the co-founders of Asian Wander Women (AWW), a community connecting women who travel and work remotely. “We recognise that even remote workers need community; a sense of belonging and human interactions when they are…

Intan Augustina is living the suite life. Over the past two weeks, the 41-year-old enjoyed a string of suite upgrades at the hotels she’s stayed in, part of a growing trend of mixing remote work with downtime. As a senior director at a digital marketing firm, Intan frequently travels to cities like Dubai, Riyadh and Shanghai to meet clients and colleagues at her company’s regional offices. “In Dubai, I usually stay at Millennium Place Barsha Heights Apartments when meeting with agencies – the whole building knows me, which helps make it feel like home. In Riyadh, I prefer going with a local chain, but my favourite is Joudyan Olaya; I love that I can walk to the mall and explore Tahliah Street. “As for Shanghai, I usually stay near the…

Cherry red is the colour to look out for this year. Thanks to its sweet and slightly sour vibes, this bold hue is a versatile choice for women going for both a girl-next-door or sultry goddess look. Keen to try out this shade? Jenny Goh, makeup artist and founder of Makeup Studio, suggests focusing this colour on one part of your face to avoid looking too over-the-top. Plus, if you already own a creamy-textured cherry-tone lipstick, it can also double as a blush. Set it with powder and you’re ready to hit the town. Fenty Beauty Hot Cheeks Velour Blushlighter in Cherry Pop, $46 Infused with hyaluronic acid, this compact combo relieves dryness while adding colour, ensuring that skin looks hydrated, glowing and plump. Benefit Cosmetics Benetint in Dark Cherry,…

Packing for a holiday can be a mix of fun (cute outfits to pair!) and stressful (am I bringing enough clothes?). Just like how you'd choose different types of clothes based on the kind of getaway you’ll be on, your sunscreen choice should also be dependent on where you’ll be going. The fact is, not all sunscreens are created equal – and we’re not just talking about coverage either. For example, you might want a lightweight formula if you’re going to take part in adventure activities, and a water-resistant one if you’ll be spending a lot of time in the pool. Dr Evelyn Tay, founder and consultant dermatologist at Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, says your choice of sunscreen depends on the amount of sun exposure on the holiday, which…

Tay Ying is six weeks away from her wedding, yet is a picture of calm. She takes a sip of her warm kopi-o and shrugs nonchalantly when I question how she feels leading up to her big day. “Everyone’s asking me if I am nervous, but what’s there to be nervous about?” Hers is a traditionally large Asian wedding, and everyone who has watched her grow up is coming, she says. Tay Ying thinks just about everyone she knows – from her own family to clients to friends from the entertainment industry – is going to show up. She is working on the unenviable task of seating arrangements at the moment, adding casually that the final numbers haven’t been fixed. I draw a breath, and she laughs. “Scary, right?” Yet…

1. Highgrove x Burberry silk print dress, Burberry This season, Highgrove teams up again with Burberry for its fourth exclusive collaboration, inspired by the stunning gardens of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. British artist Helen Bullock’s vibrant nature-based artwork is beautifully translated across silky dresses, button-ups, scarves and hats. Sales from this collection go towards supporting The King’s Foundation, which aims to create sustainable communities through placemaking projects and transform lives through education programmes. 2. Women’s slide sandals with Horsebit, $1,300, Gucci Gucci transports us to the Mediterranean coastline for its latest Gucci Lido collection, where coveted items include new Gucci Eyewear styles and plush monogram towels. Signature handbag lines like the Gucci Softbit, GG Marmont and Bamboo 1947 also get a raffia or wicker makeover, while…

LEADING WITH PEOPLE-FIRST PRINCIPLES LEE SZE YENG,MANAGING PARTNER,KPMG SINGAPORE KPMG Singapore’s first female managing partner, Lee Sze Yeng, is shifting perceptions of leadership in the profession by placing trust, innovation and people at the heart of her approach. With over two decades at KPMG, Lee Sze Yeng has steadily risen through the ranks – from her early specialisation in the financial services and real estate sectors to leadership roles such as risk management partner and audit quality leader. Her appointment as head of audit at KPMG Singapore marked a pivotal step toward her eventual promotion to managing partner. Along the way, she also gained international experience through the firm’s global mobility programme, with stints in the London and Perth offices. Throughout her journey, she’s witnessed the firm expand from a…

We’ve been reading about the sweeping tariffs that the US has imposed on trade – including a 10 per cent blanket duty on all US imports, and a 125 per cent tariff on Chinese goods. Retaliatory measures from China and the EU have followed, fuelling tensions that are already reshaping global trade flows and broader economic conditions. So what exactly are tariffs, and why should you care? For starters, here’s how they could shape your 2025 travel plans – and what you can do to stay one step ahead. WHAT DO TARIFFS HAVE TO DO WITH TRAVEL ANYWAY? A tariff is a tax placed on imported goods. Governments typically use them to protect local industries or to retaliate against other countries’ trade practices. When tariffs are introduced or raised, the…

1. Fenty Beauty Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara in Let’z Be Blunt, $33 Thanks to its tapered fibre brush, this mascara effortlessly adds volume and length while resisting sweat, transfer and humidity. Now available in a rich brown shade, it enhances darker eyes and is perfect for achieving a natural, no-makeup makeup look. 2. Esprique Lasting Serum Liquid, $34 Embracing a skin-first approach, this J-beauty tint delivers dewy, luminous coverage while evening out the complexion. Infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane, it also shields skin from blue light and pollutants. A temperature-responsive polymer prevents creasing for up to 15 hours of comfortable wear. 3. Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking and Setting Powder in Ube Birthday Cake, $62 This finely milled non-comedogenic powder brightens skin, neutralises redness, and…

SPF is a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine, especially in sunny Singapore where temperatures often soar above 30 deg C. With UV exposure at an all-time high, effective sun protection is more important than ever. While many of us are well aware of the consequences of inadequate protection – think dryness, discolouration, fine lines and wrinkles – finding a formula that ticks every box is easier said than done. Ideally, you want a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while caring for your skin, stands up to heat and humidity, glides on effortlessly, and leaves no white cast or greasy residue. So you can imagine our interest when we heard that Shiseido has unveiled its upgraded Global Suncare Range, featuring four versatile SPF formats to suit different preferences: Perfect Sun…

Hair porosity simply refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. Every strand of hair is porous to an extent, but the degree of porosity – whether low, medium or high – varies from person to person. This depends primarily on how tightly or loosely the cuticle layer, which is the outermost layer of your hair shaft, is arranged. People with high porosity hair have hair cuticles that are open or raised, which tend to absorb moisture quickly, but also lose moisture just as fast. This means their hair is particularly vulnerable to external stressors such as chemical treatments, excessive heat styling and environmental exposure. It often lacks shine, elasticity and strength. Many of my clients with highly porous hair also struggle with rapid colour fading and styling…