Innholdsfortegnelse for April 2016 i Singapore Women's Weekly

Pleats To Meet You! This season we say bring on the crease! Bonus: You’ll be able to skip ironing your skirts as these concertina cuts are meant to stay all through the day. Learn from Doona who looks très chic with a flared patterned skirt combi, or go for all out glamour in a metallic finish a la Kate and Sarah. Want to keep up with your leg game? Opt for a thigh split like Ciara does. Wrap And Roll There’s a new twist on geisha dressing, and it looks fresh while still remaining oriental and sophisticated. Style benefits? Voluminous kimono sleeves make your waist look smaller. Win! Tilda puts a modern cool-girl spin in the original kimono frame, while Jemima goes all out for drama in her extended sleeves.…

Coco Chanel said, “A girl should be two things: Classy and fabulous.” And that’s the motivation behind our April issue. We know fashion doesn’t exactly rule your life, but we also know how the right clothes and makeup can help you look good and feel more confident. For us, it’s about empowerment. Knowing what’s in for the new season is one thing. Knowing which pieces to pick up and which will be wearable (even when spring/summer has faded) and become classy wardrobe staples is another. That’s why our beauty and fashion editors have trawled through the many trends that ruled the latest runways, threw out the fads and fit into 10 concise pages the looks you’ll wear again and again. And if you just want the quickest, snappiest edit, turn…

NICHOLAS SPARKS CHANGED HIS LIFE Filming The Choice made Benjamin feel emotional: “I definitely came away thinking I need to call the people I love and tell them I love them. We take precious relationships for granted so often,” he shares. HE REVERES HIS MOTHER-IN-LAW Benjamin was married to actress Mamie Gummer – daughter of screen queen Meryl Streep. He says, “The only thing more intimidating than a huge international film star is your mother-in-law.” The couple split amicably after two years of marriage in 2013. HE LOVES KAYA Last Christmas, he married English actress Kaya Scodelario-Davis. Kaya was over the moon when he proposed and wrote on her Instagram: “Thank you for making me the happiest woman in the world”. HEALTHCARE IS IMPORTANT Ever the practical thinker, Benjamin works…

LESS IS MORE Charlize favours the minimalist look with sleek lines to play up her lithe figure. You’ll seldom see her in frilly frou frou frocks or wildly-printed dresses. She weaves her spell via monochromatic magic, and understands that cut is key. When dolling up for awards season, she sticks to her guns, in no-fail black, complemented by intense black eyeliner and a matching clutch. FLAUNT YOUR ASSETS … But practise restraint. If you want to bare some skin, Charlize shows just how. The actress loves to play up her waist with form-fitting dresses, but at times, she may choose to flaunt her gams, shoulders or cleavage – but never all at once. SEXY STRAPPIES When it comes to shoes, Charlize still prefers black but chooses toe-baring styles. Strappy stilettos…

Aarika Lee 32, Musician, Copywriter & Marketing Director “The Fresh Rose Hydrating Eye Gel Cream, $65, smells great and works to instantly refresh tired eyes. I also switch between it and the Shiseido Ultimune Eye Power Infusing Eye Concentrate, $98 (15 ml), which has a great formula.” “A face oil I love is the Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil, $82. It’s packed with nourishing omegas for the skin.” “The SK-II Signs Eye Mask, $116 per box, really helps to brighten and reduce the fine laugh lines around my eyes.” “I prep my face with the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, $104 for (215 ml), or Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Radiance Lotion, $63, which is great for my very dry skin.” “For noticeably softer and smoother skin the next morning, I…

VDL Beauty Radiance Fix Mist Look your best even on warm, humid days with this powerful oil-control ally. The VDL Beauty Radiance Fix Mist is infused with extracts from chamomile, plum, centella asiatica and scutellaria baicalensis root to not only avoid a makeup meltdown, but also soothe and heal skin from environmental irritants, while giving your look a dewy finish. It’s also ideal for sensitive skin as it’s free from harsh chemicals such as mineral oil and petroleum based surfactant, and contains no animal derived ingredients or artificial pigments. The bottle is specially designed with a wide angle spraying mechanism to ensure each mist particle is evenly spread onto the skin and that your makeup looks matte and just-applied for hours. Spritz it before or after your makeup regimen and…

Ahead of healthy hair is one of the best assets in a person’s appearance, but this changes when hair loss or thinning sets in. Many factors can trigger hair problems (see “Did You Know?”), and these can in turn affect a woman’s emotional well-being, confidence and quality of life. So having hair problems is not uncommon, but that does not mean you cannot do anything to rectify or control them. Getting professional help is your first step, and you want the best expert help you can get. With more than 50 years of trichological experience, Svenson Hair Centre has built comprehensive hair and scalp care programmes to provide effective and innovative hair loss solutions using the most advanced technologies. Professional trichologists are on hand to give your hair and scalp…

Did you know that spotless skin can subtract over a decade from your age? According to an Austrian study, facial discolouration can make you look up to 12 years older. The good news is, with skincare and aesthetic advances today, hyperpigmentation can be easily treated. SPOT PREVENTION Excessive sun exposure, pollution, inflammation and hormonal imbalance may cause cells known as melanocytes to become damaged over time. This results in excess and uneven melanin in the skin, and consequently, skin discolouration, freckles, dark spots and even melasma begin to surface. Since sunlight is the key culprit for pigmentation, minimising exposure to direct sunlight is top priority. Also be sure to invest in a broad-spectrum sunscreen and slather on a coin-sized amount daily, even when indoors. Besides shopping for a sunscreen with…

WACOAL BOUTIQUES: Plaza Singapura #02-25, Ang Mo Kio (AMK) Hub #B1-45/46, Jurong Point #03-21/22 (JP2), The Clementi Mall #03-35, Lot 1 Shopping Mall #02-20A, Suntec City #02-370, Bedok Mall #01-19. DEPARTMENTAL STORES: BHG Bugis Junction level 2, BHG Junction 8 level 2, CK Tang Orchard Tangs Plaza level 2, CK Tang Vivocity level 1, Isetan Scotts Shaw House level 2, Isetan Tampines Mall level 2, Isetan Marine Parade level 1, Isetan Nex level 2, Isetan Westgate level B1, Metro Paragon level 3, Metro Causeway Point level 2, OG Albert Complex level 2, OG Orchard Point level 2, OG at OG Building level 2, Metro The Centrepoint, Robinsons Raffles City level 2, Robinsons Jem Mall level 1, Robinsons The Heeren level 3, Takashimaya Ngee Ann City level 3.…

“Make someone’s day” “Whether it’s dispensing practical advice, offering practical help in his or her work, or simply being a listening ear, it makes me feel good about myself when I know I’ve helped or blessed someone today.” – Shirley Chua, 37, teacher “Hang out with my kids” “Just doing simple tasks together like baking cupcakes, drawing pictures or taking a walk in the park makes the day feel extra special.” – Joyce Goh, 35, HR manager “Head outdoors” “Taking a walk with my baby and dog and taking in the fresh air and green scenery takes my mind off any unpleasant or stressful thoughts. Seeing my dog run freely makes me feel carefree too!” – Elaine Tan, 29, teacher…

“When it comes to transforming our beloved space, or giving it a seasonal refresh, consider working with soft furnishings like the area rug, curtains, and covers of the throw pillows on the sofa, and even the sofa’s upholstery itself,” suggests Arjan. CHANGE THE COLOUR SCHEME with Soft Furnishings Add a FRESH TWIST On-trend, playful and stylish – these unique items are simple, practical ways to add interest to your home and make it look cool and contemporary. Try: Dragon playground door stopper, $10, from HipVan. LIGHT Showcase A feature light, like a pendant light, a table lamp or wall sconces, will draw attention. “Adding a statement light fixture will inject some drama. It’s usually done over the dining table, but you can also have…

Please Your Palate Always at a loss of where to eat for a special occasion? This well-curated book of dining havens is here to help. Psst… you can also enjoy exclusive privileges when you dine with the book! EATSingapore 2016, $65, is available from eatsingapore.sg. Skin Food Do your skin health a favour by giving it a daily dose of the new TruLife Collagen Manuka Max – a collagen drink with a boost of 100 per cent pure manuka honey. Each bottle contains 7,000 mg of marine collagen peptides to repair UV damage and restore a clear complexion. At $58.80 (10 bottles), from selected pharmacies and supermarkets. Nostalgia Refreshed Kaya lovers take note! Exciting flavours – Sea-Salt Caramel, Vanilla Pandan and Calamansi Citrus – are coming your way from Kayamila.…

KINGFISH WITH TOMATO SAUCE Prep 10 mins • Cook 1 hour • Serves 4 4 thick slices sourdough bread •4 cups water •750 g roma tomatoes, chopped •¼ cup olive oil •3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced •1 long red chilli, sliced •4 x 200 g kingfish or mackerel fillets •¼ cup parsley leaves or micro herbs •French fries, bread, to serve 1 Preheat char-grill on high. Spray bread with olive oil. Char-grill 1-2 mins each side. 2 In a large saucepan, combine water, tomatoes, oil, garlic and chilli. Bring to boil. Simmer, covered, 30 mins. Remove lid, simmer a further 10 -15 mins until liquid has reduced by half. 3 Place fish over sauce, skin-side down. Cover and simmer a further 6 -8 mins until fish is cooked when tested…

Enjoy a cart ride to the top of the Kouri Ocean Tower where a panoramic ocean view awaits, followed by an al fresco lunch at the restaurant. Visit www.kouri-oceantower.com/en/index.html A stunning vista greets you at the famous “Heart Rock” on Kourijima Island which a local legend of Adam and Eve is based on. Visit www.mapitokinawa.com/2014/11/the-heartrock-kouri-jima.html At Taabaa-ya, you get private pampering at this quaint spa located in an olden Japanese house. Book ahead as this spa accommodates only two people at one time. Now this is what we call the ultimate couple spa! Visit www.shimaspa.com/en/taabaaya A romantic walk through the serene Bise Fukugi Tree Road is an experience both of you will never forget. We found this lovely opening (left) that leads to the sea! Visit http:// okinawatravelinfo. com/sightseeing/ bise-fukugi…

Say hello to fresh dewy complexion each morning with IOMA’s state-of-the-art skin care. The IOMA White Revelation Brightening Night Cream is enriched with Edelweiss Extract to inhibit melanin production and reduce pigmentation, plus vitamin B3 for deep hydration and maximum moisture retention. It helps improve skin desquamation to shed away dead skin cells while you sleep so you wake up with bright, luminous skin. To enhance skin’s radiance further, treat it to the Constellation IOMA Revelation Lumiere Facial Treatment which is designed to lift dullness and even out your overall skin tone to reveal a more translucent and brighter complexion. We have 13 to give away. Each giveaway includes: •IOMA White Revelation Brightening Night Cream, worth $170. •Constellation IOMA Revelation Lumiere Facial Treatment (90 mins), worth $235 HOW TO WIN…

Durian Fans Assemble! Fabulous durian treats await you at Goodwood Park Hotel’s Durian Fiesta, as it returns this year to wow durian lovers again with new creations. Look out for amazing ice-cream treats like the Durian Rainbow Ice Cream Cake (above) joining the signature offerings. Durian Fiesta is now on till July 17 at Goodwood Park Hotel. Visit www.goodwoodparkhotel.com. Bond Over Nature Sign up your kids for this free workshop organised by National Parks to encourage them to appreciate nature through various art forms. It makes for a fun bonding time together with them. I heART Nature Workshop is on April 9, 9 – 10.30 am, at Bukit Batok Nature Park. Suitable for children five to seven years old, with parental supervision. Visit www.nparks.gov.sg/ events to register. Run With Snoopy…

Prep 20 mins (plus chilling) • Cook 5 mins • Makes 12 150 g dark chocolate, melted 12 roasted hazelnuts, skins removed, plus 2 tbsps crushed ¼ cup Nutella 2 chocolate cream wafer biscuits, crushed 1 Line a 12-hole mini muffin pan with foil or paper patty cases. 2 Pour 1 tsp melted chocolate into each paper case. Top with one whole hazelnut and 2 tsps Nutella. 3 Sprinkle with 1 tsp wafer biscuit. Spoon remaining dark chocolate evenly between each to fill. Sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts. Chill until set. TIP: You’ll need about 1¼ tsps melted chocolate to top up each patty case, depending on size.…

Prep 30 mins • Cook 10 mins • Makes 14 1½ cups self-raising flour ¼ cup plain flour ¼ cup cocoa ¼ cup caster sugar ½ cup brown sugar 100 g dark chocolate, chopped 100 g white chocolate, chopped 150 g butter, melted 1 egg, beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 50 g milk or dark chocolate, melted, to drizzle FILLING 200 g butter, room temperature 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 3 cups icing sugar mixture 155 g packet Maltesers, crushed 1 Preheat oven to moderate. Lightly grease and line 3 oven trays with baking paper. 2 In a large bowl, sift combined flours and cocoa together. Stir in sugars. Add both chocolates, butter, egg and vanilla. Mix well. 3 Roll heaped tbsps into balls. Arrange on trays, 4 cm apart.…

JACKET REQUIRED “Both these lovely ladies are having a major boxy moment, but a see-through pants pairing makes the jacket Poppy’s only saving grace. Gigi’s smarter choice of going for a more relaxed vibe with leather paperbag waist flares is genius!” VESTED INTEREST “We love how both these little rays of sunshine perfect their yellow vest games. But Olivia scores a style win with her tailored vest and a pleated skirt worn as a dress. Now that’s creative! SHOULDER SMOULDER “All eyes are on the clavicles this season, as Rooney reveals seamlessly in a simple yet edgy frock. Chloë, on the other hand, gets left out in the cold with disproportionate separates that equal a flamenco frill fail.”…

E-MAIL of the month From Jade Nunis – “I’ve always wanted to be fitter and have a healthier body, but due to work and family commitments, it’s always so difficult! That is until I saw your 10-page “Sexy Body Special” in the March issue. I’m so inspired after reading how fitness changed the lives of three women, and also the simple tricks to trim down the belly (the arch-nemesis of all women!).” POST of the month YongYong Xin shares how she keeps fit at home on The Weekly’s Facebook page: “I own a running and cycling machine at home, so I make it a point to use either one regularly. During my free time, I make cleansing juices, soy bean milk, and prepare healthy fruits and food for my meals.…

JENNIFER GARNER After ending her marriage to Ben Affleck last June, the actress, 43, has gone on to make two films and continues to care for their children Violet, Seraphina and Samuel. MIRANDA KERR Three years after her split with Orlando Bloom, the Aussie beauty has appeared on more magazine covers and debuted her new line of jewellery with Swarovski. KALEY CUOCO The 30-year-old posted a lot of happy photos lately, without a hint of disappointment from her recent split from tennis star, Ryan Sweeting. But not DEMI MOORE… Poor Demi! It’s been almost three years since she and Ashton Kutcher divorced, but the 53-year-old is still hung up over her ex-husband!…

Best Face Forward Want a beautiful sheer glow? Look for powders and bases infused with a soft iridescence. The Guerlain Meteroites Base, $107 (30 ml), is a colour-correcting primer which uses encapsulated Stardust Technology that releases radiance powders to blur imperfections. The weightless Stila Aqua Glow Serum Concealer, $46, is made from ionized water and offers buildable coverage to effortlessly conceal dark circles and blemishes. For a flawless complexion, the Diorsnow Compact Foundation SPF30 PA+++, $96 ($72 for refill), is perfectly matte, yet lightweight enough to sit beautifully on skin. Want a selfie-ready glow? The Too Faced Candlelight Glow Highlighting Powder Duo in Rosy Glow uses Photolite technology in its sheer powders to diffuse lighting for a lit-from-within luminosity. Bright Idea Got 15 minutes or the whole night? These intensive…

ONE OF THE MAIN TOPICS on the lips of beauty insiders is how to reverse sun damage and in turn, the best SPF-loaded potions for future prevention. We’ve learnt that too much sun exposure is harmful to our skin but exactly how bad is it? Unknown to most people, nearly 50 per cent of UVA rays is considered to be “Deep UVA”. The term is given to UVA rays with a wavelength of 370 to 400 nm that extends to the deepest layer of our skin and causes photo ageing. Even if you’re often working indoors, it doesn’t mean you’re safe as UVA rays can penetrate glass with relatively equal intensity during daylight hours. It doesn’t take long with that knowledge to realise that an efficacious sunscreen is mandatory in…

Estetica OptimaLift A+ Eye Contour Mask Your eyes suffer daily, no thanks to our modern day lifestyle. There’s the constant application and removal of makeup, which tugs at the skin, plus those nights when you don’t get enough sleep. Estetica’s OptimaLift A+ Eye Contour Mask answers the distress call your eyes have desperately signaled for. Packed with Regu-Age PF, Haloxyl and Eyeseryl, the mask will combat those pesky wrinkles, eye bags and dark circles. This impressive combination protects and strengthens the connective tissue under the eyes, banishes dark circle pigments and prevents fluid retention. Made from nano-grade bio-cellulose material, this innovative mask adheres snugly to your skin to ensure optimum absorption of the powerful serum. In no time, all eyes will be on you as all you need is to…

LipHop Ultra Whitening Sun Protection Lotion Whether you’re heading to the beach with the brood or brunch with your girl friends, don’t leave home without LipHop’s Ultra Whitening Sun Protection Lotion. Its high SPF count of 80 with PA +++ defends your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays and protects your skin against photoageing. Easily absorbed, the non-greasy texture is power packed with antioxidants such as Acai Berry extract to protect skin from damage due to free radicals and Hawthorn Berry extract to soothe and relieve skin after a day under the sun. Ideal for both the face and body, the lotion also contains Melavoid™ , a whitening ingredient that helps you achieve a bright and radiant complexion with regular use. At $12.90 (100 ml). Visit www.guardian.com.sg/liphop for more…

When it comes to skincare and makeup, it’s always good to try them out before buying. With that in mind, we created a Beauty Pop-Up Truck to give readers the chance to test the winning products from our Best of Beauty Buys awards 2016. A total of 23 brands came on board for this year’s Beauty Pop-Up Truck event. Held for the second year running on January 21 and 22 at One Raffles Place, the main highlight at the Beauty Pop-Up Truck was a special subscription offer – everyone who subscribed to The Weekly at the truck received a bag of winning products from this year’s Best of Beauty Buys awards. What’s more, readers who subscribed on site entered the truck to select another product of their choice. The truck…

Never leave home without applying sun protection. A study by the National Skin Centre has shown that the number of skin cancer patients has risen by about 60 per cent in the past decade1 . This places skin cancer as the 6th most common cancer2 on our island. “I am protected from the sun as long as I stay indoors.” Ever wondered why dark spots or fine lines still appear on your skin even if you stay indoors? Your skin is the unfortunate target of multiple factors. Life’s daily stresses, environmental pollution and harmful UV rays not only affect your health, but damage your skin too. Staying indoors will not eliminate the exposure to UV rays as they can pass through clear glass in buildings and bounce off surfaces. Daily…

DO THE KNIT SLIP Commit to the layering trend in our city’s climate without breaking a sweat. The rules are to keep your inner layer lightweight and the outer layer sleeveless. Score! KEEP IT IN A BOX Sling this striped boxy beaut over your shoulder and you’ll be all set to conquer the streets, hands free! Proenza Schouler bag from Club 21. ADD A POP OF RED Day or night, a bold swatch of red lipstick can instantly make you look runway ready. Lipstick, $49, from Chanel. GET TIED UP You will definitely make an entrance in laced-up heels. Opt for a pair with a striking block heel and you’ll be all set to strut effortlessly in style. Heels, $149, from Zara. COLLAR UP Put a power spin on any…

1. Love Mae dinner set is made from biodegradable and BPA-free quality bamboo. At $29.90, from HipVan. 2. Butcher table and stool made from recycled rubberwood and are customisable. From $365, from Comfort Design. 3. JANSJÖ LED work lamp has built-in LED lamps to shine for 20,000 hours. At $49.90, from IKEA. 4. Philips PerfectCare Elite Silence Steam generator iron 9642/60 has an ECO mode that reduces steam to save energy without compromising ironing results. At $899, from major electronic stores. 5. Nippon Paint Odour-less Premium all-in-1 is specially formulated with a solvent-free resin and limits air pollutants. From $97 for five litres, from authorised dealers. 6. Driftwood round side table is composed of pieces of driftwoods collected from beaches. At $779, from Crate & Barrel. 7. Three-seater bamboo couch…

The impact that nutritious fresh fruits and greens have on our health cannot be emphasised enough. But many of us still don’t get the required servings each day (two servings of fruits and vegetables according to the Health Promotion Board), no thanks to a busy lifestyle or fussy eating habits. But if you are the proud owner of a Philips juicer, meeting the minimum requirement is easy. EVERY LAST DROP Thanks to its 1,000 W motor and a XXL feeding tube, juicing with the Philips Avance Collection Juicer HR1871/10 is a breeze. Let it handle juicing without any pre-cutting – whole fruits like oranges and pears or vegetables like carrots and beetroot can fit into the XXL feeding tube. Choose from two speeds for soft or hard fruit and vegetables,…

Speckled Egg-Cake Prep 30 mins (plus chilling) / Cook 45 mins / Serves 12 250 g butter, softened 1½ cups caster sugar 2 tsps vanilla extract, plus 1½ tbsps extra 4 eggs 4 cups self-raising flour 1²/ ³ cups milk 1 tbsp cocoa powder Speckled eggs, to serve 1 tbsp coconut rum (optional) 300 ml tub thickened cream, whipped ICING 250 g unsalted butter, softened 3 cups icing sugar, sifted 1 tbsp milk 1-2 drops blue food colouring 1. Preheat oven to moderate, 180 C. Lightly grease and line 2 deep 20-cm round cake pans. 2. In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter, sugar and vanilla together until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in flour alternately with milk. 3. Divide…

1 It’s fresher Any food which is free from preservatives is fresher and this also means it tastes fresher. Most organic products are made without preservatives so you can expect it to be kinder on your palate. 2 It’s gmo-free Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are found in many non-organic processed foods. Even though this is FDAapproved, it is still not known if GMOs affect our bodies adversely when consumed regularly in the long run. Organic products offer a safer option as they are free from GMOs. 3 It’s ethical Since it’s produced from organic farming with ethical practices, you can be sure that you are contributing to sustainable farming practices which are friendly to our environment when you choose organic products. 4 It’s free from chemicals No pesticides and herbicides…

SMILE SPOON www.smilespoon.net FOOD: Yummy French-Japanese fusion cuisine with affordable prices. SCENERY: Located in a quaint house surrounded by lush greenery, plus a small retail corner in the restaurant. ASHIBIUNA http://okinawahai.com/ ashibiuna FOOD: Try the authentic Okinawan soba, served in a very nice meal set, here. SCENERY: Book a seat facing the most charming zen garden you’ve ever seen. BEACH TERRACE BLUE DIAMOND CAFE http://okinawatravelinfo.com/gourmet/diamond-blue FOOD: We simply love the hamburg steak here, and the free flow of soup and salad! SCENERY Dine facing azure beach waves and crystal clear skies that will make you go trigger happy on your camera.…

MONKEY YEAR OF BIRTH: 2004•1992 •1980•1968•1956•1944 The lucky stars are shining on you this month and all the obstacles in your path will be cleared easily. Conflicts will be resolved and your work will allow you to push through and move ahead. Wealth luck is very strong in all aspects, direct and indirect. If you are single, expect romance to come your way! ROOSTER YEAR OF BIRTH: 2005•1993 •1981•1969•1957•1945 Look forward to constant progress; it’s a good month to shine at work and go full steam ahead. Great opportunities will be presenting themselves, so be prepared for them. Your wealth luck is superb! You may encounter an attractive potential new partner in the middle of the month. DOG YEAR OF BIRTH: 2006•1994 •1982•1970•1958•1946 Work will present itself with many difficulties.…

BEAUTY AGNES B. Raffles City Shopping Centre, #01-26, Tel: 6334 4910 ALBA BOTANICA www.albabotanica.sg ALBION sg.cosme-de.com ALLIES OF SKIN https://alliesofskin.com ASTALIFT #B3-66 ION Orchard, Tel: 6238 6386 AVEDA Ngee Ann City, #B1-32A, Tel: 6735 0091 AVEENO www.aveeno.com AVENE Available at Watsons and Guardian B.LIV www.bliv.com BARE MINERALS Available in Sephora BELIF #01-61 Plaza Singapura, Tel: 6884 8662 BENEFIT www.benefitcosmetics.com BIODERMA Available at Watsons BIORE Available at Watsons BLISS Available at Sephora BOBBI BROWN ION Orchard, Tel: 6509 6576 BURBERRY Level 1 TANGS Orchard, Tel: 6836 5516 BROWHAUS http://www.browhaus.com CAUDALIE Available at Sephora CETAPHIL Available at Watsons CHARLOTTE TILBURY www.net-a-porter.com CHANEL #B2-43 ION Orchard, Tel: 6634 5500 CIATE #01-05/06 ION Orchard, Sephora, Tel: 6509 8255 CLARINS #01-01 Robinsons Raffles City, Tel: 6216 8388 CLE DE PEAU BEAUTE Takashimaya, Tel: 6735 2996…

Since my teenage years, I have always been obsessed with skincare and cosmetics. From the latest moisturiser-infused lippie to the trendiest shade of eyeshadow, I would buy every new product on the market that I could possibly afford. Even now, as a married mother-of-two, my interest remains. I have amassed a collection of products so large, that our flat’s extra storeroom was even converted to become my personal powder room. None of my family members were allowed near “The Queen’s Walk-in Powder Room” (as my husband called it jokingly) without my permission. I was very protective of my “treasures” and thought of my family members as too plebian for me to even bother talking to them about my beauty addiction. Imagine the distress I felt when a newly-bought lipstick went…

Prep 20 mins (plus chilling) • Cook 25 mins • Makes 18 250 g packet Arnott’s Choc Ripple biscuits, crushed 125 g butter, melted, plus 125 g extra, chopped 395 g can sweetened condensed milk 1/3 cup golden syrup 1/3 cup caster sugar 150 g milk chocolate, chopped 150 g dark chocolate, chopped 2 tsps vegetable oil ½ x 200 g box original Oreo biscuits, roughly chopped 1 Lightly grease and line an 18 x 28 cm slice pan with baking paper. 2 In a medium bowl, combine biscuit crumbs and butter. Press firmly into base of pan. Chill. 3 In a medium saucepan, stir condensed milk, extra butter, syrup and sugar on low 12-15 mins until caramel in colour. Pour over biscuit base. Chill 1 hour until set. 4…

Prep 30 mins (plus cooling) • Cook 10 mins • Serves 6 1 cup salted peanuts 1 cup caster sugar ¼ cup water 250 g cream cheese, softened ½ cup pure icing sugar, sifted 1 cup crunchy peanut butter ½ cup thickened cream, whipped ½ x 300 g store-bought mud cake, icing removed, chunked 1 cup chocolate sauce 100 g pretzels, roughly broken 1 Spray an oven tray with olive oil. Spread peanuts over tray. 2 In a medium saucepan, heat sugar and water on medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and boil without stirring until deep caramel in colour. Pour peanuts over, set aside to cool. Break into pieces. 3 Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and icing sugar together until smooth. Add peanut butter,…

Prep 30 mins (plus cooling) • Cook 50 mins • Serves 8 -10 220 g dark chocolate, chopped 90 g butter, chopped ¾ cup brown sugar 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2/3 cup plain flour, sifted 1/3 cup sour cream 395 g can caramel Top ‘n’ Fill 150 g chunky sea salt chips GANACHE 200 g dark chocolate, chopped 1/3 cup thickened cream 1 Preheat oven to moderately slow, 160 C. Lightly grease a 20-cm springform pan. Line base and sides with baking paper. 2 In a saucepan, combine 150 g chocolate and butter. Melt over a low heat, stirring until smooth. Cool 5 mins. 3 Stir in sugar and eggs. Fold through flour, sour cream and remaining chocolate. 4 Pour into pan, smoothing top. Bake 40 - 45 mins until…

An Exclusive Gift For Five Readers As this month’s cover girl Charlize Theron is the face for Dior J’adore, we are delighted to be able to present five readers with this beautiful gift. It comprises the J’adore Eau de Parfum, $115 (30 ml), and the 5 Couleurs shadow palette in 646, 30 Montaigne, $102. Valid from March 16 to April 15, 2016. Visit http://bit.do/swwapr16 to take part. The five readers selected will be notified via email by end of May 2016. This giveaway is open to all residents of Singapore, other than employees and their families of SPHM Pte Ltd and its associated agencies.…

FACE THE FACTS The Korean actress could impersonate the Taiwanese sexy siren Shu Qi if not for Fala's baby cheeks and dimples.…

The brazen attitude that the statuesque South African actress brings towards life is every bit a match for her striking beauty and independent streak. In fact, Charlize Theron gives the impression that she could take on any man. Her performance in last year’s critically-acclaimed blockbuster Mad Mad: Fury Road gave further proof that she’s a female road warrior on and off the film set. Charlize makes her way to Singapore this April to meet fans and promote her new film, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, along with costars Chris Hemsworth and Jessica Chastain. This movie is the anticipated follow-up to 2012’s Snow White and The Huntsman. Charlize returns as Queen Ravenna in the film. Charlize, who turned 40 last August, celebrated that birthday by adopting a baby girl, August, to join…

ASTALIFT White Perfect UV Clear Solution SPF 50+ PA++++ If you’re a time-starved woman who doesn’t have time to layer on different bases every morning, look no further. ASTALIFT’s White Perfect UV Clear Solution SPF 50+ PA++++ is a versatile beauty essence and makeup base offering five-way protection from the sun. Infused with D-UV Guard, it ensures advanced UV cover against “Deep UVA” to prevent incidental sunburn. “Deep UVA” are UVA rays that have penetrated right into the dermis and are the cause of severe photo ageing such as wrinkles and sagging skin. What’s more? This lightweight formula features a UV Action Capsule that bursts when exposed to UV rays – releasing a host of beneficial ingredients including a Vitamin C & Vitamin E. Upon application, the innovative product’s whitening…

Heliocare Gel SPF 50 Navigating the sunscreen aisle can be a tricky task. While you know the protective benefits of sunscreen against long-term sun damage like the back of your hand, picking one that sits comfortably on your skin and doesn’t cause a breakout is easier said than done. Enter Heliocare Gel SPF 50 – this exclusive gel formulation absorbs well, is water-resistant and leaves no unwanted white residue. Perfect for oily, combination and acne-prone skin, apply before makeup and after cleansing and moisturising. This lightweight gel contains patented fern extract Fernblock® and a green tea extract, which both act as powerful antioxidants to prevent cell damage, pigmentation formation and signs of ageing. Its Photosomes® technology repairs damaged cellular DNA while Sunspheres® technology increases the probability of its physical and…

THE HISTORY OF WHOO Gongjinhyang Seol Whitening & Moisture Cream For years, Gongjinhyang Seol Whitening & Moisture Cream’s ancient recipe has been helping women in their quest for a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion. Amongst its repertoire of herbal ingredients that have stood the test of time are white ginseng, sandalwood, deer antlers, asparagus root, wild thyme and Chrysanthemum extracts. When combined, these ingredients improve blood circulation and skin tone, encourage lymphatic drainage of unwanted cellular impurities. The specially formulated Chrysanthemum extracts work to effectively prevent the first stage of melanin formation. The cream also provides intense moisturisation while creating a protective layer over your skin to prevent moisture loss. Apply it as the last step of your skincare routine for maximum whitening and anti-ageing results. At $205 (60 ml).…

8 am: After a good night’s sleep, skin should be well-rested. If you’re fresh-faced in the mornings, that’s probably because your complexion appears smoother, firmer and plumper. 9 am: Keep skin looking rejuvenated with the Avène PhysioLift Day Smoothing Emulsion, $89.90 (30 ml). Its lighter texture is great for our humid weather and it’s suitable for normal to combination skin. Packed with a collagen replenishing ingredient called Ascofilline and hyaluronic acid, it helps to smooth over the look of any fine lines. It also contains Pre-Tocopheryl, an antioxidant that will boost skin’s luminosity. 11 am: You’ve probably been sitting in front of the computer for the last two hours. Get up to walk about, drink a glass of water and correct your sitting posture. Doing this helps to improve circulation…

Say yes to more closet space by recycling your old and worn out bras through Wacoal’s Bra Recycling campaign. A survey conducted by them showed that most women were hesitant to throw away their bras due to privacy and prudence issues. Hence, their unique campaign involves sealing your bras into a Bra Recycling Bag. These bags of bras will then be sent to recycling factories without ever being opened throughout the process. Rest assured that your personal pieces will never be tampered with, much less any breach of privacy. These bras will then be processed into renewable fuel called RPF, which stands for Refuse Paper & Plastic Fuel, a new source of environmentally-friendly energy offering combustion efficiency and 30 per cent less carbon dioxide emissions compared to coal. This campaign…

Stand Up For Positive Thoughts If you spend a lot of time sitting, a few moments of standing can boost your mood. Experiments at San Francisco State University showed participants struggled to recall negative memories when standing up. Instead they remembered more empowering past events. When they spent long periods sitting down, negative thoughts came to mind more easily. Beat Headaches By Pulling Faces Our facial muscles work hard as we laugh and frown. When the cranial nerves that control these muscles get overworked, it can cause headaches. Beauty expert Fiona Embleton says facial yoga can help ease the strain. Tilt your chin up and stick your tongue out as far as you can to release tension. Fight Eye Strain With Exercise Long periods staring at the computer screen can…

Dr Christopher Chong, urogynaecologist and medical director of Chris Chong Women’s and Urogynae Centre, shares about laser treatment “After menopause, SEX has been PAINFUL!” “My vagina feels DRY and ITCHY!” WHAT CAUSES VAGINAL DRYNESS? Dr Chris Chong: The vagina is moist as long as you have this hormone called estrogen. Estrogen is released by the ovaries during ovulation. When you reach menopause stage, there are no more eggs, hence no more estrogen, and your vagina becomes dry. Young women too can experience vagina dryness during pregnancy and breastfeeding and laser treatment can benefit them as well. WHAT ARE OTHER WAYS TO TREAT THIS CONDITION? Dr Chong: Doctors normally recommend local estrogens. They do improve the quality of the vagina tissues but we are uncertain about the long term effects of…

TRUE STORY When Pamela discovered her husband Adrian was watching porn on his iPad when she wasn’t around, she was horrified. Didn’t he find her attractive anymore? Wasn’t she good enough in bed? How could he watch such “dirty” stuff? And worst of all, she thought, had their whole marriage been a big fat lie? It’s hardly surprising that more couples are struggling with issues around pornography today. Pornography is more accessible than before. Unlike pre-millennial times, when you needed to purchase X-rated videos from the black market, you can now stream them anywhere, anytime, especially with your smartphone. The World Wide Web is heaving with content: 12 per cent of all websites are pornographic; 25 per cent of all search engine requests are pornography related; and 35 per cent…

Fast Teriyaki Chicken With Rice Prep 15 mins / Cook 15 mins / Serves 4 ¼ cup rice-wine vinegar ¼ cup soy sauce 1 tbsp honey 2 tsps grated ginger 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 BBQ chicken, cut into 8 pieces 1 onion, finely chopped 1 carrot, cut into batons 1 Lebanese cucumber, sliced 3 green onions, sliced Cooked rice, toasted sesame seeds, to serve 1. Preheat oven to moderate, 180 C. Line an oven tray with baking paper. 2. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, ginger and garlic. Add chicken and onion, tossing to coat. Transfer to tray. Bake 15 mins, turning twice, until sticky and crisp. 3. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine carrots, cucumber and green onions. 4. Arrange chicken on a platter with rice…

Prep 45 mins (plus chilling) / Cook 35 mins / Makes 8 200 g plain chocolate biscuits 2 tbsps chopped toasted hazelnuts 75 g butter, melted 500 g cream cheese, softened ¾ cup caster sugar 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 tbsps cocoa powder, mixed with 1 tbsp hot water 100 g milk chocolate, melted 1/3 cup cream 200 g dark chocolate, chopped Mini Easter eggs, to decorate Preheat oven to slow, 150 C. Process biscuits with hazelnuts until fine crumbs form. Stir in butter. Press evenly over base of 8 muffin pan recesses. Chill 20 mins. In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until well combined. On low speed, beat in cocoa, followed by chocolate…

IT’S A GOOD MONTH FOR: Rats like Scarlett Johansson. The first half of the year isn’t even over yet, but this blonde bombshell has already starred in three of the most anticipated movies of the year! She was also revealed to be 2015’s second most paid actress, bringing home a cool $35 million from all her projects. IT’S A BAD MONTH FOR: Goats like Zhang Ziyi. The actress snapped a happy shot of her new husband and step-daughter on Valentine’s Day. The sweet photo of the three smiling and donning matching bags was not so well-received by Ge Huije, the biological mother of her step-daughter.…

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Prep 20 mins (plus chilling) • Cook 10 mins • Makes 9 200 g dark chocolate, chopped 1/3 cup thickened cream, plus extra to thin for drizzle 1 litre chocolate ice-cream, softened 4 x 50 g Crunchie bars 300 g pack milk chocolate digestive biscuits 1 In a small saucepan, stir chocolate and cream on low heat 4 - 5 mins until smooth. Set aside 5 mins until thickened slightly. 2 In a medium bowl, combine ice-cream and 2 chopped Crunchie bars. Swirl through half-melted chocolate mixture. Transfer to a freezer container. 3 Line an oven tray with baking paper and place in freezer. Spoon1/3 cups ice-cream onto non-chocolate side of 1 biscuit. Sandwich with a second biscuit, pressing so ice-cream reaches edge. Run a butter knife around edges. 4…

Prep 20 mins (plus chilling) • Cook 5 mins • Serves 4-6 150 g dark chocolate, chopped 75 g butter, chopped 1 tbsp golden syrup 2½ cups Rice Bubbles ¼ cup desiccated coconut Easter eggs, chocolate, to fill 200 g milk chocolate melts, melted 1½ tbsps hundreds and thousands 1 Lightly grease a 1.25-litre, 16-cm wide round bowl. Line with plastic wrap. 2 In a large saucepan, stir chocolate, butter and syrup together on low heat until melted. 3 In a large bowl, combine Rice Bubbles and coconut. Pour over chocolate mixture, stirring. 4 Press mixture into base and sides of medium bowl, ensuring edges are level (flatten out with palette knife). Chill 1 hour to set. 5 Using plastic wrap to lift, remove shell from bowl, fill with chocolates…

Prep 25 mins • Serves 8 1 tbsp instant coffee powder 1 tbsp just-boiled water 500 g cream cheese, softened 300 g chocolate sauce 2 tsps vanilla extract ½ cup thickened cream, whipped 380 g packet double unfilled chocolate sponge cake 200 g Vienna almonds, chopped Chocolate curls, to serve 1 In a small bowl, combine coffee with hot water. Set aside. 2 In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, sauce, vanilla and coffee together until smooth. Fold in cream. 3 Split sponge cakes in half horizontally. Spread ¼ chocolate cream over. Top with other cake half. Repeat with remaining cream and cake, finishing with cream. 4 Scatter top with almonds and chocolate curls. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. TIP: To make curls,…