Innholdsfortegnelse for July 2017 i Singapore Women's Weekly

The Bling Ring Forget sequins and run-of-the-mill crystals; the new way to command attention is with statement multi-dimensional embellishments. If you dare to wear, take a page from Rita’s book and mix different-sized stones for an eye-popping effect. Vitamin Chic A strong show of orange dresses is turning up the heat on the red carpet. Starlets in the know are showcasing the zesty colour in refreshing ways, in a myriad of textures. Zoe, Leslie and Hailey have all chosen to texturise their looks with a flurry of fringe, feathers and ruffles, while Kiernan and Dua have added shots of white for a sleek finish. Period Drama Time travel back to the age of petticoats and puffy sleeves with these celebrities, who are reinventing Victorian fashion for a modern age. Channel…

“My son is my priority... Being a mum fills my heart with so much joy” Miranda Kerr is a force of nature. Whether it’s attending a UNICEF ball in Hong Kong, rocking the red carpet in the latest designer dress, or strutting the catwalk at the latest runway shows, the Australian supermodel brings an extraordinary level of enthusiasm and positive energy to every aspect of her life. This includes raising her six-year-old son, Flynn, from her former marriage to actor Orlando Bloom. “I’m a proud mother and my son is my priority,” Miranda reveals. “Being a mum fills my heart with so much joy – my son is my world. I want to be very present in his life and enjoy all the time we spend together, because whenever I’m…

From top: • The innisfree Cica Balm, $35 (40 ml), is made with 90 per cent natural ingredients, including the key ingredient Centella Asiatica 4X, which works by strengthening skin barrier function and boosting skin resilience. • The Suu Balm, $19.90 (75 ml), relieves dry, itchy skin, especially for those suffering from eczema. Its main ingredients, menthol and ceramides, simultaneously cool skin down, repair damaged skin and lock in moisture for stronger and healthier skin. • Formulated with pawpaw and calendula, The Gentle Label Organic Healing Balm, $22 (25 ml), can be used to treat a variety of skin ailments ranging from scalds, cuts, sores, insect bites and dryness. Besides promoting healing, the Organic Healing Balm can also be used to tame flyaway hair, soothe chapped lips and nourish dry…

1. Formulated with powerful lifting ingredients, the Clinique Sculptwear Lift and Contour Serum for Face and Neck, $105 (50 ml), targets three different zones simultaneously – it firms and sculpts cheeks, contours the jawline and reduces wrinkles and fine lines on the neck. 2. The Strivectin NIA Tech Neck, $69 (30 ml), comes with a roller applicator to smooth out lines on the neck, especially useful if you spend long hours tilting your head downwards to look at your phone and laptop screens. 3. The Estée Lauder New Dimension Tighten + Tone Neck/Chest Treatment, $170 (50 ml), comes with its own massage tool to boost skin elasticity and collagen synthesis for a firmer, and more lifted décolletage.…

The new Listerine Healthy White, from $5.50 (250 ml), claims to improve your teeth’s natural whiteness in just two weeks. It is formulated to help kill oral bacteria and strengthen tooth enamel. The iWhite Instant Whitening Kit, $49.90, contains 10 wearable trays filled with whitening gel designed to remove stains and polish your teeth. SHOULD I TRY WHITENING? Not everyone’s teeth are suitable for whitening. For many people it poses no serious risk if done correctly. But if you choose the wrong treatment or it is applied incorrectly, then some damage can occur. “The most frequent side effects include tooth sensitivity, gum irritation and ulceration. Sore throat and headaches have also been reported,” says Dr Tey. Plus, crowns and fillings will not change colour, so you could end up with…

When it comes to ageing gracefully, Japanese women have it perfected to an art form. Get the ageless appearance of a Goddess with Megami no Lifty Lifty by RBP, a lifting cream that makes anti-ageing skincare a veritable breeze. Wildly popular in Japan, this cream is formulated with a potent blend of peptides, botanical stem cells, and minerals to give your face a visible lift. A godsend for sagging skin, it combats lines and furrows around the eyes, nose, and jaws. Find out how you can combat these signs of ageing with these simple steps: Bright Eyes The skin around our eyes are especially thin and delicate, and crow’s feet are usually amongst the first signs of ageing to appear. Reverse these effects with Megami no Lifty Lifty: Simply apply…

You may not feel like the most dazzling person in the office – perhaps you’ve been feeling a little tired and are struggling to focus. But if total career domination is on your to-do list, help is on the way – just follow these key pointers that will bring out your inner girl boss! HAVE A GOOD MINDSET Do you ever wake up, remember all the work you have to do, and feel like you just want to hide under the covers and not come out? That feeling can be overwhelming, but having a “me” moment in the morning to set your intention for the day can help with work stress. It will shift your whole mindset. VISUALISE SUCCESS Successful women don’t wait for an opportunity to present itself: They…

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Natalya Molok SENIOR FEATURES WRITER “I count a pair of flared jeans as one of my most-loved fashion tricks to making my legs look longer!” Arissa Ha SENIOR BEAUTy WRITER “I’m always looking for a pair that’s got a bit of stretch and push-up capabilities: It helps make my bum look perkier.” Atika Lim DIGITAL WRITER “Because of my busy schedule, I rely on a pair of girlfriend jeans, which I will cuff up and match with a pair of pumps.”…

1 BUY FOOD WELL IN ADVANCE Shopping for what you want to eat long before you plan to consume it encourages you to choose lower-calorie foods. That’s because when you’re making food-related decisions for the future, you’re less tempted by those instant-gratification treats. 2 DINE IN WELL-LIT RESTAURANTS You’re more likely to order healthy meals containing fewer calories if the room has bright lighting because well-lit spaces can help you feel more alert. 3 AVOID SNACKING WHEN YOU’RE DOWN When you’re in a bad mood or feeling stressed, you’re more likely to look for a fast way to feel better (explaining why you’ll head for that bag of chips). Try to distract yourself by painting your nails or going on Facebook.…

Light And Sound Choose bedside lamps or dimmer switches. Bright overhead lights, LED lights on electronic equipment and ambient light from outdoors can wreak havoc with the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep well. Make your room as dark as possible after lights out, which may mean investing in some heavier window coverings. To minimise noise try using earplugs, white noise generators or a fan. Change Your Sheets Three out of four people agree that their overall sleep quality improves when they get to sleep on sheets with a clean, fresh scent at least a couple of nights a week. It’s probably because it improves how comfortable the bed feels to sleep in. For the biggest benefit, wash your sheets in hot water that’s at least 60…

It’s not just the haze you should be worried about. If you want fresh, healthy air at home, you first need to consider what you’re bringing in through the front door. “Indoor air can be between eight and 100 times more toxic than outdoor air, with things such as cleaning products, air fresheners and synthetic candles adding to the toxic load,” explains herbalist Danielle Shirley. Detox and improve your home air quality with these seven easy strategies: 1 Let Some Fresh Air In Good ventilation is one of the most effective ways to purify the air at home. “It allows the chemicals from things like furniture, mattresses, paint and varnishes to air out, and helps in reducing mould growth and flushing out airborne bacteria and viruses,” says Danielle. The only…

Chocolate Doughnut & Cookie Trifle Prep 15 mins / Serves 4 ¼ cup chocolate hazelnut spread, melted •¼ cup crushed peanuts • 8 mini doughnuts •¾ cup thickened cream, whipped •¼ cup smooth peanut butter, warmed slightly • 2 choc chip cookies, crushed, plus 2 extra, halved • 4 scoops vanilla ice-cream • 2 tbsps dark choc bits 1. Place chocolate spread in a shallow bowl. Place nuts on a flat plate. Dip rims of 4 x 1-cup straight-sided jars or glasses in chocolate spread, then nuts, to lightly coat. Divide doughnuts among prepared glasses. Drizzle with any remaining chocolate spread. 2. Fold whipped cream and peanut butter together. Dollop half the cream mixture over doughnuts. Top with crushed cookies, then remaining cream mixture. Serve the trifle topped with ice-cream,…

Kuang Si Falls Don’t miss visiting this beautiful waterfall, which has wonderfully clear waters for a day of swimming. Take a picnic there, and have a splashing good time with the little ones. Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre This social enterprise offers classes in weaving, natural dyes and making batik art, so the kids can participate and take home their works of art. Mount Phou Si For a spectacular 360-degree view of Luang Prabang, visit this sacred mountain at sunrise or sunset. The climb is an easy one for little feet, with rest stops along the way. Tamarind Restaurant & Cooking School Learn the basics of Lao cuisine at this popular restaurant, which uses fresh local ingredients to introduce guests to the joys of Lao food.…

Objects of her affection Wear a sheer bustier over a white tee for a sultry day look. Bustier, $40, from asos.com. Throw on an embellished skirt for a megawatt finish. No. 21 skirt, $2,230, from Club 21. Keep your arm party modern with an architectural cuff. Cuff, $35, from sheshops.com. Fresh florals are perfect for staying chic in the heat. Dress, $135, from asos.com. A black base helps your floral top to really pop. Top, $49.90, from Topshop.…

We’re not sure if they’re still buddies as Selena has broken every girl code in the book by hooking up with her friend Bella’s ex. Gwyn and Drew have been friends for decades, so it’s no surprise that they both have the same taste in men. Nikki and Ian are going to be parents soon. Will his ex, Nina, become their kid’s godmother, seeing how close this threesome are? Best friends Cameron and Kate have supported each other through everything, even breakups with the same guy. These girlfriends are so close they both had spells dating Counting Crows frontman, Adam Duritz, in the early 90s. Besties who date together, stay together? That certainly seems to be the case for Taylor and Ellie, who were both linked to Calvin Harris. Long…

TRY: Garnier Light Complete Yoghurt Sleeping Mask, $19.90 (50 ml). With brightening ingredients like vitamin C, lemon essence and soy yoghurt probiotic extract, this sleeping mask exfoliates and brightens skin. Antioxidants neutralise free-radicals and protect skin against pollutants. TRY: LANEIGE Eye Sleeping Mask, $46 (25 ml). The telltale signs of fatigue are most apparent around the eye area, but you can fake a good night’s rest with the new LANEIGE Eye Sleeping Mask. This lightweight mask comes with a ceramic ball applicator to boost circulation, hence reducing puffiness when you wake up. TRY: Biotherm Aquasource Everplump Night, $75 (75 ml). Tap on the power of nocturnal microalgae to replenish skin while you sleep. This gel mask forms a cooling layer to hydrate skin – best for warm, humid nights. Coffee…

1. Containing a day cream and night cream in a dual-canister bottle, the La Prairie Line Interception Power Duo, $570, works in tandem to stimulate collagen production and remove fine lines. 2. The Avène Eluage Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate, $71.30 (15 ml), targets expression lines around the mouth, nose and forehead for younger-looking visage. 3. Formulated with 10.5 per cent vitamin C, the Kiehl’s Powerful Strength Line Reducing Serum, $98 (50 ml), improves skin texture and radiance without irritating sensitive skin. 4. The Guerlain Abielle Royale Honey Smile Lift, $95 (15 ml), stimulates skin repair and plumps the lips.…

1. Elizabeth Arden Whitening Melanin Control Night Capsules with Advanced MI Concentrate, $151 (50 capsules), reduces the appearance of dark spots for a more even skin tone. 2. Albion Intensive Spots, $197 (4 g), is a concentrated serum which targets dark pigmentation. 3. Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum Complexion Correcting, $91 (30 ml), improves dull skin to give it an overall glow and radiance. 4. SK-II GenOptics Spot Essence, $274 (50 ml), breaks down melanin for a lit-from-within glow. 5. Derma-Rx Intensive Lightener, $199 (30 ml), is a brightening serum which suppresses melanin production.…

Have you heard of It’s Skin? A clinical skin solution brand from Korea, It’s Skin is the first Korean brand to introduce snail creams. Made with snail mucin, a mucus protein secreted by snails that contains amazing regeneration properties, it’s a super effective anti-ageing ingredient. It’s Skin is known for its Prestige D’escargot range that contains 21 percent snail mucin – the amount needed for optimal results. All products are formulated to solve various skin concerns – from anti-ageing to dehydration – and have passed clinical skin safety tests. Here are their best-sellers. 1 Prestige Crème D’escargot Suitable for all skin types, the Prestige Crème D’escargot is a multi-functioning 5-in-1 face cream. The snail mucin extract is rich in chondroitin, which reduces signs of stress and skin troubles. Not only…

Protein is about more than building muscle than staving off hunger. Our skin, hair, teeth, nails, brain cells and bones are all protein-based. If we don’t consume enough, our skin can’t produce the collagen to keep it supple and we can end up weak, tired and with thinning hair. So it’s no wonder the health and beauty industry is embracing this anti-ageing saviour. And consuming lots of protein doesn’t have to mean a diet packed with meat. Protein is found in a surprising number of foods, which are rich in anti-ageing nutrients. Recipe: Peel 4 ripe bananas and slice into thin rounds. Place on a lined baking tray and freeze. Meanwhile, combine ¼ cup of chopped, roasted almonds with 2 tsps of maple syrup and a pinch of salt…

Change The Conversation “When you hear yourself or someone saying ‘I feel fat today’, say ‘I love your smile’ or ‘You’re great at bringing people together,’” says Christine Morgan, chief executive of the Butterfly Foundation for Eating Disorders. Recognise Your Triggers What starts fat talk for you – is it listening to a friend berate herself or hearing a loved one being critical about your body? Tell people how fat talk makes you feel. Remember there are many body shapes and sizes, and no one shape or size is better. Celebrate Your Body Appreciate the many things your body does. Don’t compare it to others, and when you finding yourself saying something negative about your body, turn it into a positive. Instead of saying “I’ve got fat thighs”, think, “I…

“Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe both of us are still here” Christina Skaros and her younger son Samuel have an unbreakable bond – they have both beaten cancer, inspiring and supporting each other through the toughest fight of their lives. “I was just recovering from a gruelling year-long battle with breast cancer when Samuel became sick,” Christina shares. “When doctors diagnosed him with leukemia, it was the beginning of a living nightmare.” Christina, Samuel, now seven, and his older brother Kristopher, nine, were playing in the garden in their Sydney home on a cool day four years ago, but even while he was all bundled up, Samuel was shivering. Christina checked his temperature and couldn’t believe it when the thermometer read 40 C. “He was red-hot and…

Sleep deprivation affects many of your body’s essential functions and hormone balances. The obvious effects of short-term sleep deprivation are sleepiness, poor memory, lack of concentration and irritability. But there are also hidden consequences, with poor sleep linked to cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and metabolic syndrome disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Here are some highly treatable sleep-related disorders that can affect your snooze time. Snoring A person who snores can disturb their partner’s sleep as well as their own. Many regular snorers also suffer from sleep apnoea. Sleep Apnoea This can cause you to stop breathing freely for a few seconds or longer, over and over while you sleep. It is caused by a narrow, floppy throat. Most people who have sleep apnoea…

Your dining space is where family and friends gather over delicious food and hearty conversation, so it’s important to create a cosy and relaxing environment. A blue and white palette never fails to conjure tranquility. For a more striking look, team moody blue hues with white accents, then highlight the drama with modern metallics or wood finishings. Here are more tips: Oversized artwork with a moody vibe will set the tone for the whole space. Pegboard is a particularly trendy material at the moment and the subtle pattern adds visual interest to the room. Leather, wood, copper and inky blues are a match made in style heaven. Add warmth and textural detail to any dining space with a chunky knit rug. A deep blue one here makes the space feel…

Cocoa Vs Cacao Cocoa is processed cacao roasted at high temperatures, while cacao is made via the process of cold-pressing unroasted cacao beans which preserves all the antioxidants. Milk, Dark or White? Dark chocolate contains the highest cacao content, while milk chocolate contains about 20 per cent less cacao in general because of milk solids added. White chocolate, on the other hand, is a chocolate derivative which does not contain any cacao at all. Choose Your Per Cent The higher the percentage is, the more bitter the chocolate will be, so it’s all a matter of individual preference and liking. But a good number to start with is 75 per cent, which is not too bitter for most people. Aphrodisiac of the Aztecs Chocolate contains tryptophan – a building block…

MANGO RUM CAKE Prep 15 mins • Cook 1 hour 10 mins • Serves 6 125 g butter, softened •¾ cup caster sugar • 2 eggs • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 cups self-raising flour, sifted • 1/3 cup milk • 1/3 cup rum • 1 mango, peeled, finely chopped, plus extra sliced, to serve PASSIONFRUIT RUM GLAZE • 40 g butter, softened •½ cup caster sugar • 2 tbsps water • 1 tbsp dark rum • Pulp 2 passionfruit, plus extra, to serve • Whipped cream, to serve 1 Preheat oven to moderate, 180 C. Lightly grease 20 cm round spring-form pan with baking paper. 2 Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Beat…

The Grand Luang Prabang offers the Family Fun Package from US$235 ($325) a night, which includes accommodation in the Mekong Suite for two adults and two children under 12, daily breakfast, complimentary airport shuttle service, bicycle rental and a half-day family zip-lining activity. For bookings, visit www.grandluangprabang.com. We’re giving away a 3D/2N stay for two at the Executive Mekong Room at The Grand Luang Prabang, worth US$320 (S$443)! Visit www.womensweekly.com.sg.…

US$ 5,000 During the Royal Tour to Canada, the duchess wore a two-tiered dress by Alexander McQueen. She paired it with Russell and Bromley red pumps and a Miu Miu clutch. US$ 3,320 The regal royal stepped out in this gorgeous Erdem silk gown at the 100 Women in Hedge Funds Gala Dinner in London. US$ 2,500 We’re green with envy at this Dolce & Gabbana number that she wore to a visit to the University of British Columbia. But she isn't afraid to recycle looks Kate is a connoisseur of fashion repeats. The princess loves this L.K. Bennett blue poppy print dress so much, she has worn it multiple times.…

Get Naked 1. Turn up the heat with the new Urban Decay Naked Heat, $83. This new iteration of the Naked eye shadow palette has 12 new shades in warm browns, brick reds and burgundy to create stunning eye looks. 2. Kat Von D Liquid Lipsticks, $31, are known for their vivid colours and comfortable matte finish, and they’ve added some nude shades to the collection – perfect for those who love the my-lips-but-better (MLBB) look. 3. The NARS Angel Pride Cheek Palette, $110, comes with four blush shades, a highlighter and a bronzer to give you the freedom of creating an ethereal glow or chiselled cheekbones.…

The last few years have seen a huge improvement in the technology of aesthetic procedures, and also their popularity. Dr Siew Tuck Wah from Radium Aesthetics shares, “I see more of an increase in numbers asking for injectables now – reflecting an increased acceptance of injections for facial enhancement and rejuvenation.” Dr YZ Tan of Mizu Aesthetics chimes in, stating that “[It is] definitely much more acceptable now that people realise that aesthetic procedures are safe when done by a licensed and experienced doctor.” No longer do people shy away from minimally-invasive procedures like injectables and laser treatments to maintain a youthful visage. Here are the newest in aesthetic procedures that can help delay the signs of ageing. THREAD LIFTS The thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure, where threads…

Song Ji-Hyo “Song Ji-Hyo is likely to have buccal fat removed so that her cheeks appear more chiselled. These results can also be replicated with HIFU. Her jawline also appears softer, which may be achieved through the use of botulinum toxin A on the masseter muscles.” – Dr YZ Tan, Mizu Aesthetics Kim Go-Eun “Kim Go-Eun most likely had cheek fillers done to soften her facial features. It’s quite possible that botulinum toxin injections were also used to define her jaw line so as to achieve her V-shape visage. She might also have skin tightening done.” – Dr Karen Soh, Prive Clinic Fan Bingbing “If you compare Fan Bingbing’s old photos, you can see that her face is more chiselled with higher cheekbones - she is likely to have had…

A beautiful smile doesn’t just project a friendly image, it can make you look more youthful too. But the older you get, the more your face changes, which can affect your smile. If you’re looking to slow down or even reverse the effects of ageing, your dentist may be able to help fix problems like an uneven gum line or discoloured teeth. Here are eight common dental problems that can be easily resolved in the chair: PROBLEM: Age-Related Discolouration, Gaps or Overcrowding SOLUTION: VENEERS As you get older your tooth enamel may become thinner, leaving the yellowish dentine (the living tissue inside each tooth) more visible and resistant to whitening treatments. “Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells made of tooth-coloured plastic resin or porcelain designed to cover the front side…

Don’t let wrinkles and fine lines reveal your age – it’s vital to give your skin comprehensive protection against the effects of ageing so you can look younger, for longer. Repair and reconstruct tired skin from within with a regenerative product such as the Royal Age Defying Serum by CLAIR® Skin Solutions: This ultra-light serum is formulated with an innovative blend of Argireline – a type of peptide also found in botulinum toxin (Botox) injections – and absorbs quickly into your dermis to perk up drooping skin and smoothen wrinkles. Other potent ingredients like hydrolyzed soy fibre, oats and palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, work together to boost collagen synthesis, increase hydration levels and improve skin structure for less visible lines. Massage a thin layer of this comfortable serum into your skin for…

“I tend to go for quality pieces that won’t go out of style” Ivy Choong 40s, Senior Art Director Ivy’s role as a senior art director often means she has to balance form and function, and she takes the same approach when it comes to fashion. “I look for pieces with interesting details, such as an embroidered collar or a basic tee with a flared hem, but they still have to feel comfortable,” comments Ivy. “Cut is also very important to me, as some clothing tends to look heavy on me due to my petite frame.” PRINT PARADE Step up your off-duty look by mixing classic stripes with a colourful pattern. MARCHING ORDERS Give your midi skirt a utilitarian treatment for an easy edge. Fresh Updates Bright prints help make…

1800-HAPPINESS! Life’s too short to be carrying a boring phone case around, especially when there’s a plethora of options that explode with quirk, colour and personality! Whether it’s got eye-catching details, an odd shape or is wrapped in an unexpected fabric, your phone case is now an extension of your persona. Eschew the boring rectangle cases, and pick from one of the shapely designs available. Whether it’s a rose to symbolise love or a rainbow to remind you to always look forward, your phone case is more than just an accessory. EXTRA CHARM! Make it wholly yours with your initials spelt in phone charms. Charm, $70, from chaos.club. Polo Club Polo shirts get a luxe update this season with intricate details and unexpected fabrics, making them the perfect top to…

Hey, Girlfriend! Forget the boyfriend jeans: It’s all about girlfriend jeans now. You still get the same comfort from your old boyfriend jeans, but overall, a pair of girlfriend cut jeans will fit better. Its legs are slimmer, and it flatters your hips so you can look amazing from both front and back. Style Your Size Be it cropped, cuffed or languidly cut, there’s a pair of jeans for every shape this season BOYISH For boyish figures, rely on a pair of tapered jeans to help you create some shape. Non-stretch fabrics that come in light washes are also ideal for you. PEAR-SHAPED A pair of straight-cut jeans in a mid-to-dark wash should be your best bet. When trying jeans on, look for a pair that skims over your thighs…

Mastering new skills is not optional in today’s cutthroat business environment. In a fast-moving, competitive world, being able to learn a new competency is one of the keys to success. Continual self-improvement is often necessary for getting and staying ahead at work. But how do you start to upskill when you have a full-time job to contend with? Or what if you actually happen to love your current job? Quest for Self-improvement Imagine this: You’re a high-flying corporate aficionado with a covetable job at a Fortune 500 company. But after a few good years making good money, you subsequently decide to leave the comforts of your stable executive position to become, of all things, a yoga instructor. This was the scenario Audrey Ling Seah, 28, found herself in. With a…

PORTABLE COMFORT Support your neck or lower back with the comfy Neck Cushion, $33, which you can carry with you wherever you go. REST EASY Sink into the soft Beads Cushion & Cushion Cover Set, from $189, which conforms to your body shape for ultimate comfort. SPILL PROOF The lightweight Acrylic Water Pot, $10.90, has an airtight lid, so you won’t have to worry about spills even when the bottle is on its side. BREATHE BETTER Inhale the pure aroma of 100 per cent natural Essential Oils (UP from $13) and Blend Essential Oils (UP from $26) with the Aroma Diffuser (from $89), which bathes the room in a relaxing, fragrant mist. SLUMBER PARTY The springy yet firm Bonnel Coil Mattress (Single), $309, features a changeable cover and inner coil…

Wonder Cooker When cooking weeknight meals seems impossible, turn to the Philips Viva Collection All-in-one Cooker HD2137/72 – this powerful multi-cooker can help you whip up almost anything. At $399, from leading department stores. Mix Master Baking can be tedious, but with the super-versatile Bosch OptiMUM Kitchen Machine MUM9GX5S21 handling all your blending and mixing needs, you’ll enjoy the process! At $2,099, from leading department stores. Perfect Sear To cook a slab of steak nicely, you need even heat distribution from the pan. The WMF Speed Profi heats up fast and gives you even cooking so every dish comes out perfect! From $199, from selected WMF Concept Stores.…

Prep & Cook 1 hour 45 mins / Serves 12 2 large (400 g) apples, peeled, cored, chopped 1 cup (150 g) finely chopped, seeded dried dates 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 cup (250 ml) boiling water 125 g butter, softened 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup (220 g) caster sugar 1 egg 1½ cups (225 g) plain flour COCONUT TOPPING 60 g butter, chopped ½ cup (110 g) firmly packed brown sugar 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk 1/3 cup (50 ml) shredded coconut 1. Preheat oven to 180 C (160 C fan-forced). Grease a deep 22-cm square cake pan; line base and sides with baking paper. 2. Place apple, dates and bicarbonate of soda in a large bowl, stir in the water. Stand for 10 mins. 3. Meanwhile,…

ROOSTER YEAR OF BIRTH: 2005 • 1993 • 1981 • 1969 • 1957 • 1945 You are very lucky this month, and all obstacles will clear up easily. Act fast and fulfill your promises promptly, and you will see good results. Investments are doing well, but be careful when handling cash in public. Relationship luck is at its peak, so treasure your moments with loved ones. DOG YEAR OF BIRTH: 2006 • 1994 • 1982 • 1970 • 1958 • 1946 It’s an emotionally stressful month, so set time aside to recuperate. Be meticulous at work, and focus upon completing your work at all times. Avoid new investments, and keep an eye on your expenditure. Don’t pick on your partner, and be more tolerant towards each other. PIG YEAR OF…