Do you want to experience a new and innovative way to shop for your beauty needs?
Well, there’s a new shopping experience in town that we’re sure you’ll enjoy!
From now till 20 October, popular Japanese brands under the Shiseido family Anessa, Senka, and Tsubaki have partnered with personal care chain Watsons Singapore to open the world’s first My Japanese Beauty Pop-Up Store.
Image Credit: Shiseido
Held in the heart of Orchard Road outside Takashimaya, the pop-up will allow visitors to discover the secrets of Japanese beauty and soak in Shiseido’s rich heritage while embarking on what could be described as a “multi-sensorial journey”.
Visitors can look forward to admiring eight historical products from Shiseido Corporate Museum, flown out of Japan for the first time with special escort and white-gloved treatment.
Highlights include Tsubaki’s Classic Shampoo and Conditioner, Anessa’s Sunscreen Milk, and Senka’s Perfect Whip.
A Museum-Like Shopping Experience
The pop-up is unique in the way that it integrates high-tech digital touchpoints that are triggered by footsteps to deliver sound, music and animation to further enhance the immersive nature of the experience.
At the entrance, get a personalised greeting by a digital pixie and be guided through the space via the pop-up’s microsite, accessible via the Watsons app, website or a QR code.
Navigate the space while completing interesting tasks – it’s almost as if you are visiting a museum!
Image Credit: Shiseido
Take a break and enjoy a theatrical tea-brewing experience before sipping on a special collagen tea that will make you feel beautiful inside and out!
Image Credit: ShiseidoImage Credit: Shiseido
See The Three Brands In A Brand New Light
Image Credit: Shiseido
Enter a magical garden and learn about the brand history and features of Tsubaki line of shampoos.
If you’re uncertain about which shampoo best suits your haircare needs, take a sensor-powered quiz to match your hair to the right products so you can make the best choice.
Image Credit: Shiseido
If you’re more into skincare, stroll over to Senka’s exhibition and discover how to achieve clear, moisturised bare skin at an interactive product bar.
The importance of an effective sunscreen can never be emphasised enough, so learn more about Anessa’s suncare secrets at an immersive learning bar.
For those of you who live for IG-worthy shots, take envy-inducing photos at the animated wall projection that shuffles through images of the four seasons!
Check (The Exhibition) Out, Then Checkout!
Remember the Watsons app that we talked about earlier in the piece? It’s also an offline-to-online shopping app which allows users to scan QR codes to read product descriptions and add items to their carts.
Acting like your personal shopper, simply checkout on the app, and Watsons will deliver your shopping purchases to you within the next few days!
If you’re someone who prefers to shop on the spot, you can also purchase products from a cashless vending machine, or an on-site store at the showcase!
And good news for all you bargain-hunters – you can get to enjoy discounts of up to 30% at this pop-up too.
So if you’re in town, why not check out the My Japanese Beauty showcase and experience a new way of shopping?
And good news for all you bargain-hunters – you can get to enjoy discounts of up to 30% at this pop-up too.
Get up to 20% off Anessa products, 25% off Senka products, and a whopping 30% off Tsubaki products!
What’s more, you get a further $20 off with every $100 spent!
So if you’re in town, why not check out the My Japanese Beauty showcase and experience a new way of shopping?
Shiseido My Japanese Beauty Pop-up Store
Opening Hours: 11am to 9pm (Weekdays), 11am to 10pm (Weekends)
A watch is more than just a time-telling device. They’re a great way for you to stand out from the crowd and express your personal style. It’s no wonder a lot of men enjoy collecting them – picking out different styles to go with different outfits, changing straps to suit specific occasions, and so on.
It used to be nigh on impossible to get a men’s watch that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. And honestly, not all of us can afford a Rolex Submariner or an Omega Speedmaster.
However it seems like Singapore has hit peak sharing economy. From taking a GrabShare ride to work to riding an ofo bike over the weekends, it seems like you can practically lease or share anything now – even a $18,000 Rolex watch.
There are already 2 subscription watch clubs – Acquired Time and TenTwo who have been offering watch rental services, with a third – Specter One, set to launch in October, according to CNA Lifestyle.
People in Singapore are resorting to renting expensive watches to wear that they cannot afford yet or ever. Just like how there are designer bag rental services for the women, it seems like subscription watch clubs is going to become a thing for men in Singapore.
For as low as $6 a day, you could be sporting a luxury watch on your wrist for that upcoming black-tie event or a night out with your bros.
Renting Over Buying
If you fear buyer’s remorse, then renting a luxury watch before sinking a hefty amount of money into it is always a smarter option.
The founders of Acquired Time and TenTwo believe that renting watches is a first step for some before plonking down tens of thousands of dollars for an expensive timepiece. They founded their respective platforms with the idea that they could provide a service where users could lease timepieces and wear it on their wrist before making a purchase decision.
How It Works
All three firms rent their watches on a tiered membership subscription.
Essentially, users will pay a flat monthly fee for a stipulated period – say 6 or 12 months.
All you have to do is to choose a watch from your chosen tier, wear it for a month and return it at the end of the 30 days in exchange for a different timepiece.
Acquired Time has the most tiers – four, with the lowest (Nomad Tier) priced at $125/month, equivalent to $4.16/day. And the highest (Wayfarer Tier) prices at $375/month, equivalent to $12.15/day. All four membership tiers has a minimum of a 6 month subscription.
Some of the watches included in the highest tier includes the Rolex Daytona, which retails for upwards of $18,000 and the Audemars Piguet ROO, which retails for a whopping upwards of $25,000.
With Acquired Time, you’re essentially paying a fraction of the actual retail price of these luxury timepieces.
The Flagship collection gives you access to popular watches such as the Rolex Submariner, Tudor Black Bay, Omega Speedmaster and Cartier Santos
Specter One:
The details of their membership are still being finalised. The firm is planning on offering a “Reserve Membership” tier for those who do not want to commit to a long-term membership subscription.
Users are able to rent watches daily or weekly, depending on how long you’ll need it for.
So whether you need a watch for an important meeting, black-tie event, night out or just to wear something new and exciting, you can look into watch rental services and subscriptions to make it happen.
When it comes to sprucing up your new home, IKEA is typically the first place that pops into mind. There’s no doubt that it offers cheap furniture at decent quality.
However, this option is sometimes not ideal, because you’ve got to put the furniture together yourself (which can go terrible). Also, when friends and family start spotting the same furniture as you, it gets a little too predictable.
From online to brick-and-mortar (or both), these shops will be your new go-tos, serving up an array of stylish furnishings that won’t break the bank because who says you have to be rich for your home to look like a million bucks.
1. Second Charm
Going for a vintage or retro-style for your living space? Look no further with Second Charm!
Carrying vintage-retro furniture including antiques and collectibles, this is the perfect place to source for one-of-a-kind pieces that is bound to induce envy amongst your home visitors. Additionally, Second Charm also carries customised furniture and has even ventured into Scandinavian and Danish-inspired furniture.
With antique chairs looking like these, you will almost get a nod of approval from the old folks! These chairs will certainly create a tinge of nostalgia and homely feel to your living space – which is exactly how a home should be!
[caption id="attachment_36400" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Second Charm Facebook[/caption]
Alternatively, incorporate some quirkiness into your bedrooms with these century bedside cabinets. Only available in this particular mixed blue and white colour, these bedside cabinets definitely scream quirky, eccentric, and retro!
[caption id="attachment_36401" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Second Charm Facebook[/caption]
Do note that you will have to drop Second Charm an email on the specific measurements for your furniture in order to receive a quotation from them. Though it might seem troublesome, perhaps the thought of knowing that most of your furniture pieces are exclusively customised for YOUR home might make you think otherwise!
[caption id="attachment_36402" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Hip Van Facebook[/caption]
Browse through HipVan’s extensive range of designer-inspired furniture which comes in quirky colours and designs.
With sturdy dining tables starting at just S$59.90, gorgeous plush sofas from just S$39, as well as bean bags and many more, home products here are undoubtedly a steal!
Infuse some Scandinavian-inspired furniture designs to your living room with this Avery Coffee Table (SGD199).
Avery’s stylish look is further enhanced with the natural oak varnish to give it a fresh and organic look. Furthermore, if black is not a colour you fancy, this coffee table comes in white as well.
If you envision an industrial modern-chic interior as your ideal dream house, HipVan is the place to consider.
If you love laid back, wooden Balinese style kind of home decor and furniture, then Elements Concept is right up your alley.
Get that laid-back Jungalow vibe at home without making a soul trip to Bali. Hailing from Indonesia, you can find beautifully handcrafted furniture and home accessories made from only the very best materials, like rattan, teak, marble and brass.
[caption id="attachment_36475" align="aligncenter" width="730"] Image Credit: Team Curious[/caption]
Each piece is handcrafted by local artisans in the brand’s workshop (or from home). The slight imperfections give each piece its human touch and is therefore, in our view, just perfect. Their prices starts from $125 for a stool and $104 for a side table.
You can choose to buy their products online, but you can also visit The Attaby Collective to see and feel their items before you purchase!
Elements Concept
Address: 420 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427641
Opening Hours: Tue – Sat: 10am-6pm | Sun: 12pm-5pm, Closed on all Public Holidays Website
4. FortyTwo
FortyTwo is yet another online furniture retailer that sells appliances as well.
With an extensive range of furniture that boasts low starting places, FortyTwo also sells home decorations such as lightnings, mirrors and many more.
You can get an entire dining table set with FortyTwo’s Vincente Medium Ash Veneer Dining at just SGD245.
This dining table comes with blue and yellow chairs – a replica of the popular Eames design.
FortyTwo holds regular clearance sales, offering jaw-dropping offers on their furniture. Do remember to check in regularly to snag superb deals for your home.
On top of the affordable furniture pieces, FortyTwo also provides great customer service. They offer lowest price matching – which means that if you find a merchant selling the exact item but at a lower price, FortyTwo will refund you the difference!
It is no surprise that children spend a lot of time in their bedroom. Used for sleeping, playing and crafting, it follows that their space should be a reflection of their little personalities.
The only time you can get away with cutesy stuff is when you’re decorating your baby/kid’s room. 3LittlePicks might just be the bane of your decorating fantasies – stocked with insta-worthy furniture, arts and picks for the little ones.
The Ballerina Sheer Canopy ($192.80) is perfect over beds, cribs, and as a reading or play nook. Pair it with a play mat and a selection of cushions and pillows to complete the look.
3LittlePicks also offers adult-sized furniture so you can add in a bit of fun and cute into your home!
3LittlePicks Address: 39a Jalan Pemimpin #07-07B, Singapore 577183 Website
6. Primero
If you love everything Scandinavian but don’t want your house to look like an IKEA showroom, then Primero is the best place to get all your furnishing needs.
From dining tables and chairs to bed frames and sofas, Primero offers an entire range of designer-inspired furnishings at an affordable price.
Looking for a sleek and clean coffee table? The Elsa Coffee Table ($139) is made with strong and durable materials that are coated with solid oak veneer that gives it a clean and elegant look. The coffee table also has a shelf that comes with a striking black frame that gives it a bold and modern look.
Sprucing up and decorating your home need not be an expensive affair! With these cheap furniture retailers offering a diverse range of designer and unique furniture pieces, you’ll have your home looking like a million bucks without breaking the bank!
Now that you’ve said yes to the dress of your dream, it’s time to start on your next gown shopping journey: the quest for the perfect bridesmaid dress.
Finding the “perfect” bridesmaid dress that looks good on everyone in your bridal party, sort of never happens.
We understand the struggle of finding THE bridesmaid dress to match the entire bridal party, but it doesn’t always have to be this tough.
No matter your wedding style or size of your bridal party, we’ve got everything you need to know to find the right dress for your girls.
Here’s our tip on how to make bridesmaid dress shopping a breeze.
Begin By Browsing
Start of by doing some research. Browse through wedding lookbooks, bookmark your favourites and share them with your friends. Who knows, they might just give you the best advices.
If you’re flipping through magazines or browsing online, tear out pages or save images to your inspiration board to help zero in on the colours and styles you like best.
Find physical or even online stores that carry the dresses you love.
Keep Costs In Mind
Unless you’re paying for your bridesmaid dresses, then you’ll have to be considerate of your friends’ lifestyles.
If you’re concerned your wedding might be a financial burden for one or more of your bridesmaids, focus your search on dresses in a more affordable range.
Love, Bonito’s LYLAS Bridesmaid Collection creates dresses that are curated from quality fabrics at price points that are wallet-friendly. Prices start from as low as SGD$36.90 for a top and SGD$63.90 for a maxi dress.
Best part, the collection are suited for formal and semi-formal occasions so your bridesmaids can recycle their outfits once the wedding is over.
Finding The Right Fit
We can all agree that one feels most confident in the clothes that make them look and feel good.
Never trust “Free Size” or “One Size Fits All” dresses because we know that’s not how our bodies are designed.
It’s important to dress to your body type in order to bring focus to the part where you want to accentuate and divert attention away from parts you do not.
For all my thick girls out there, you know how exhausting online shopping can get. Finding a dress to fit you in all the right places can be almost impossible. However, the LYLAS collection expanded their size range from XXS to XXL, so they’ve got all the best friends covered.
Take Note Of Different Styles
Not everyone has a similar taste in style. Some of your friends may dress more androgynous than feminine.
If you have friends who prefer pantsuits to midi skirts, no problem. The LYLAS collection is designed for bridesmaid to mix-and-match — with separate coordinates that pair well in any combination.
Even if there is one bridesmaid wearing an “odd-one-out” pantsuit with a lace top amongst the other midi dress, they’ll still look cohesive as a power-packed bridal party. Talk about having your very own Spice Girls at your wedding.
Let’s be honest, not all of us are suited for pink, blush or baby blue. Think about choosing a shade that goes well with a variety of skin tones.
If you have a wedding theme that includes specific colours, then bridesmaid dress colours will be pretty easy to pick.
If your colour options are more open, you can go with a shade that will flatter your wedding gown or complement your flower choices. You can also choose colours that reflect the year’s wedding trends.
Designed to allow the flexibility of the bride to choose and pick her colour palette, the LYLAS collection currently offers six key colours (and counting)!
The new May 2018 Launch will introduce three new colours to the current palette of Blush, Lavender and Navy:
Dusty Blue
This colour signifies femininity reworked. The hint of grey elevates the blue with a modern edge.
The theme for LYLAS May 2018 Collection is “A Celebration Of Sisterhood”. So if you want your girls to turn up at your wedding looking hotter than Taylor Swift’s Squad, Love, Bonito’s LYLAS Bridesmaid Collection is the one stop place for all your bridesmaid needs.
Still haven’t got your mum a gift for Mother’s Day this Sunday? Well, don’t panic. We’ve all been there.
If you’re still cracking your brain on what to get for your mum, don’t fret, we’ve compiled a list of gifts that you can get at the very last minute – no shipping involved.
We’ve got you covered so your mum won’t be disappointed this Mother’s Day.
1. For The Foodie Mum
With the lazy, sunny days truly upon us, what better way to feel a little bit more fancy by hitting up one of Singapore’s many amazing high tea spots with your mama!
If your mum loves food, then book an afternoon at her favourite high tea spot. Anti:Dote is known for their jewellery drawer chest tea set.
Situated in Fairmont Hotel, their high-tea selection consists of various creations including gourmet sandwiches such as Smoked Salmon with Lemon Cream Cheese and Ikura Roe, Mini Strawberry Cake, and Warm Chia Seeds Scones.
If your mum enjoys spending all her time baking in the kitchen or whipping up a hearty meal for the family, then TOTT is the answer.
From cookware to kitchen tools and accessories, TOTT is THE culinary dream.
If you’d like to get your mum a new set of baking tools so she has an excuse to spend all day in the kitchen baking, then she’ll love Jamie Oliver’s Measuring Stack ($48.90).
This measuring set makes getting the right amount of ingredients super quick and easy. She’ll definitely thank you for this one! You can also get it online here.
Jamie Oliver Measuring Stack Where to buy: Find your nearest TOTT here Price: $48.90
3. For The Organised Mum
I know I got my super neat freak genes from my mum. She loves organising the house and making sure everything is spick and span.
In fact if she could colour coordinate the clothes in my wardrobe, she would be happy to do so.
If your mum sounds a bit like mine, then she’ll definitely love Kikki.K. You can get everything from notebooks and journals to organising folders and storage folders.
This Mother’s Day, choose from a selection of Kikki.k’s products and personalise them with their monogramming service.
Add a sweet personal touch you know your mum will love and appreciate.
Kikki.K Where to buy: Find your nearest outlet here Price: Planners (From $59.90)
4. For The Mum Who Loves Cake
This is the easiest and safest option by far. You can never go wrong with cake, especially if your mum has a sweet tooth.
This Mother’s Day, BreadTalk has got you and Mummy covered.
Yams of Love ($34.80) is a beautiful soft chiffon cake layered with pudding and luscious yam paste made with yam imported from Taiwan.
[caption id="attachment_34376" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Yams Of Love ($34.80)[/caption]
From 1 May to 13 May, this cake will be available at all BreadTalk stores island wide (except Singapore Cruise Centre and United Square).
If Mummy loves anything yam, then this is the perfect cake for her on this special day.
Yams Of Love Cake Where to buy: Find your nearest BreadTalk here Price: $34.80
5. For The Beauty Guru Mum
If your mum religiously sticks to a routine to maintain her youthful look, then she’ll most definitely love any skincare products.
Give mum the gift of pure, natural beauty with Innisfree this Mother’s Day from 1 to 13 May 2018. From everyday essentials for radiant-looking skin to powerful nourishing treatments, there’s definitely something for her.
Give her the extra treat she deserves with a complimentary Jeju Pomegranate Revitalizing Special Care Kit when you pamper her with either the Jeju Pomegranate Revitalizing Essence ($46) or Jeju Pomegranate Revitalizing Cream.
Jeju Pomegranate Revitalizing Essence Where to buy: Find your nearest Innisfree outlet Image Credit: Sephora Singapore[/caption]
All you have to do is go to Sephora’s online store, choose a design and enter your gift amount. Write a special message for her and wait for a confirmation email for your gift card purchase.
Here’s a quick and easy way to make your mum feel truly special this Mother’s Day.
Sephora Online Gift Cards Where to buy: Head on to Sephora’s online store here Price: $20 – $100
7. For The Yogi Mums
You look at her and wonder how in the world does she manage to go to work, care for the entire family and even squeeze in time to stay healthy.
She’s not just a regular mom, she’s a cool mom.
She downs a bottle of protein shake for breakfast, eats kale and quinoa for lunch and squeezes in a yoga session after work.
If that’s your mum, then she’ll love these fashionable tights from Lululemon for her next yoga class.
Taking her from street to yoga, cruise through the day with this light weight and buttery-soft, All You Do Tights in Nulu fabric.
She’ll definitely rock these tights at her next yoga class.
All You Do Tights Where to buy: Lululemon Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, B1-11, Singapore 238801 Price: $150
8. For The 9 – 5 Office Mum
All mighty mothers deserve a spa session at any time of the year. Hence for Mother’s Day, Auriga Spa is offering two treats throughout May to thank the caring figures in your life.
Mum’s month ($250 per person) includes a Body Massage and a Rose Facial, both 45 minutes long. The self-explanatory Spa Date with Mum ($550 for two) includes a 30-minute Body Scrub, a sixty minute Body Massage or Rose Facial, and afternoon tea for two. Both packages come with an Aesop Travel Set to take home.
Auriga Spa Address: Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098297 Price: From $250 Website
9. For The Ice Queen
Thank mum for her love and devotion with beautifully crafted sterling silver charms. Give your mum something special this year to celebrate what she means to you.
Pandora is known for their collection of charm bracelets and what better way to show your love for her than getting her charms that represents the both of you.
Breathtaking in design, expertly crafted and intricately hand-finished, this limited edition Flourishing Hearts Silver Bangle ($149) is the perfect gift for her.
Hand-finished in sterling silver, this limited edition bangle features a detachable clasp with a tree of love motif she can mix and match with other clasps.
Flourishing Hearts Silver Bangle Where to buy: Find your nearest Pandora outlet here Price: From $149
Mothers wear so many hats at any given point of the day. Spend time with your mum this Mother’s Day, after all, it’s the thought that truly counts right?
Proposing to the love of your life can feel like an overwhelming task. You’ve got the girl, you’ve asked her father for her hand in marriage, now it’s time to pick the perfect diamond engagement ring.
What is considered “perfect”? Why do diamonds have different cuts? Princess or cushion shape? Do I spend $500 or $3000 on a ring?
Here’s a guide on how to pick out the perfect engagement ring for the person you’ll spend the rest of your life with.
Sound Steady
Find Your Stone
Here’s a simple tip on finding the perfect stone. Just remember the 4 C’s: Cut, Colour, Clarity, Carat.
1. Cut Most people will confuse cut for the shape of the ring (emerald, cushion, princess etc). The cut refers to the diamond’s ability to reflect light. The cut of a diamond affects the diamond’s brilliance; this means if it is cut poorly, it will be less luminous.
2. Colour The colour evaluation of most quality diamonds is based on the absence of colour. The colour scale begins with the letter D – colourless (most expensive) and continues, with increasing presence of colour, to the letter Z.
3. Clarity Diamond clarity is graded using letter grades, which indicate how many visible flaws can be detected in a stone. The closer it is to being “pure”, the higher the value.
4. Carat Diamond carat weight is the measurement of how much a diamond weighs. Diamond price increases with carat weight, because larger diamonds are more rare and more desirable.
It’s important to remember that the overall diamond’s value is determined by the 4Cs and not just the carat weight alone.
This is a useful guide on the different shapes to think of when picking out the engagement ring. You want to pick out a ring that fits her style and preferences.
If she has no preferences and you have no idea which shape to pick, then you can’t go wrong with the popular round shape or the traditional princess shape.
Or perhaps if you know she’s a huge Beyonce fan, Queen B received a gorgeous 18-carat emerald shape diamond engagement ring.
The prong setting is perhaps the most classic and recognisable setting for most engagement rings.
Of the prong settings, the most common would be the solitaire setting which draws all attention to the stone with little to distract us like other stones or fancy metalwork.
How Much Should I Spend?
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend three months’ salary on your engagement ring. There’s nothing romantic about going into a major debt after buying your ring.
Establish a budget before you step into a jewellery store. This helps your jeweller narrow down rings that are within your price range.
The 4Cs will determine the damage done to your bank account. You can either end up with a $800 or $3000 ring. So budget accordingly and never feel obliged to pay for premium.
After all, love cannot buy right?
Where Do I Shop For Rings?
You can browse for ready-made options at a local jewellery store or chain retailer (Tiffany & Co., Lee Hwa, Harry Winston etc.)
You can also design a custom ring with a private jeweller or find the perfect ring online from reliable sources like Blue Nile.
As we all know, nothing beats heading down to the store and physically handling the ring so you know where your money goes to.
Here are several wallet-friendly jewellery stores to find the perfect ring.
1. ORRO
If you’re looking for a diamond ring that won’t cost you over $1000, then ORRO will be your best friend.
ORRO certified diamond simulants are often known as the “World’s Best Diamond Simulants”. A diamond simulant is a stone that looks similar to a real diamond and shares some of its characteristics.
Searching for the perfect ring is fun; you just need to decide on your approach. As with any major purchase, it pays to do research when buying a diamond engagement ring.
Most importantly, keep everything within or under your budget. You don’t want to overspend on a ring!
If your Insta-feed is filled with picture perfect snaps of fashion bloggers, Gentle Monster is a brand you’ll be no stranger to. After all, nothing makes a better accessory (or prop for the ‘gram) than a stylish pair of shades.
A Korean designer eyewear brand, Gentle Monster has grown a cult following from its experimental – and sometimes, over the top – line of eyewear.
A brand that’s been worn by stylish Hollywood-folk the likes of Miranda Kerr, Gigi Hadid, as well as fashion blogger Aimee Song of Song Of Style, Gentle Monster will be opening its first flagship store in Singapore – and Southeast Asia – in Ion Orchard come mid-September.
If you’ve been eyeing a particular pair of Gentle Monster’s stylish frames, you’ll be excited to know that you can shop its full eyewear range at the store, which includes Gentle Monster’s recent collaboration with Tilda Swinton.
One of the most recognisable frames at Gentle Monster is Love Punch, a wire rimmed style that you’ll surely have seen while scrolling through your Instagram.
[caption id="attachment_29238" align="alignnone" width="1348"] Love Punch (Image Credit: Gentle Monster)[/caption]
Right on the coloured lenses trend, Gentle Monster also has multiple styles with lenses tinted yellow and pink.
Fans of KFC, now you’ll be able to wear your love for the finger lickin’ good fried chicken on your sleeve – and in fact, the rest of your body.
KFC has just released a whole bunch of merch, so KFC lovers can pledge their allegiance to their favourite fast food chain in the country!
As part of a collection called KFC Limited, KFC’s line will include clothing, jewelry, and home items. We’re talking fried chicken socks, a fried chicken sweatshirt and blankets, pillowcases and prints to embellish your homes with!
With the exception of one very pricey Zinger Meteorite that comes with a USD$20,000 price tag, the rest of the items range from USD$1 to USD$80 – pretty affordable for some fun, charming pieces of clothing that truly speak to your soul.
Check out some of the items in the collection below:
Only available for purchase online, make sure to check out their website ASAP! Some of the items are already sold out, and we’re sure it won’t be long before the rest of the stuff goes off the shelves too!
If you own a Tumblr or a Pinterest account, you’ll probably have seen picture of glamping – large, spacious tents furnished with stylish bedding, cushions, and accessories.
For those of you who are coming across the term ‘glamping’ for the first time, it’s a combination of two words that typically don’t go together: ‘glamourous’ and ‘camping’. Like the term suggests, glamping is camping with a chic twist.
Now, this Instagram-worthy trend is available on our very own Singaporean shores!
With Glamping Society, you won’t have to move a muscle – all the heavy lifting is done for you. Everything is set up nicely for you, so all you have to do is bring your own clothes, toiletries, and entertainment.
Here’s what went down during our 2 day 1 night glamping experience at East Coast Park.
Our 2D1N Experience At East Coast Park
[caption id="attachment_27728" align="aligncenter" width="635"] Three tents with a gorgeous sea-facing view[/caption]
Because a total of 20 of us were glamping, Glamping Society gladly accommodated our request to have 3 tents. While each of the bell tents can accommodate up to 6 people, we felt that the main tent (the most spacious tent) was big enough to fit 2 or 3 more people comfortably – you just need to bring your own extra sleeping bags.
When we saw the tents fully set up, we were impressed by how pretty it was.
[caption id="attachment_27729" align="aligncenter" width="635"] The main tent[/caption]
The plush cushions, fairy lights, buntings, and overall bohemian look provided the perfect setting for hipster Instagram photos that’ll make your friends green with envy. There was even a big flamingo float in the main tent! While it was pretty random, we have to say it made for some pretty cool photos.
[caption id="attachment_27730" align="aligncenter" width="634"] One of the smaller tents[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_27731" align="aligncenter" width="634"] Another one of the smaller tents[/caption]
While the two smaller tents didn’t match up to the main tent in terms of decorations, it was still comfy and welcoming with amenities like airbeds, cushions, a fan, a mini bar, and a cute picnic basket.
We were pleasantly surprised by the snacks and chilled drinks provided. Unlike the mini bar of a hotel, you won’t have to pay extra for consuming the goodies they’ve provided. Another treat we didn’t expect was the working fan – a clever touch that ensures it doesn’t get stuffy in the tent!
Thankfully, it wasn’t as hot as we thought it would be. The only thing some of us were really bummed out about was that no towels were provided, so we couldn’t bathe. (Glamping Society has stopped providing towels due to the constant damage.)
[caption id="attachment_27733" align="aligncenter" width="476"] We brought our own card games like Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity, etc.[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_27735" align="aligncenter" width="635"] We also had a BBQ at the nearby BBQ pit, which we booked here[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_27734" align="aligncenter" width="635"] We also brought a guitar and sang songs![/caption]
In all, we had a lot of fun barbequing, playing card games, and lounging on the airbeds as we stayed up all night talking.
The location of our tents offered pretty views of the sea and this was the beautiful view we woke up to:
[caption id="attachment_27737" align="aligncenter" width="635"] Are we still in Singapore?[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_27736" align="aligncenter" width="635"] The morning skies[/caption]
Verdict
Taking into consideration factors like comfort, aesthetics, space, amenities, and cleanliness, here’s what we loved, what we didn’t love as much, and a couple of tips for you to keep in mind for your own glamping adventure!
Things We Loved
[caption id="attachment_27738" align="aligncenter" width="635"] Romantic lights when night fell[/caption]
What we loved most about our experience had to be the pretty decorations. They made for pretty photos and gave the tents a romantic, cosy atmosphere at night – great for heart to heart sessions with friends and even better for cuddling with your partner!
We also loved that the main tent was spacious enough to fit all 20 of us. A refreshing alternative to a hotel staycation, it was definitely a unique experience for all of us. We also liked that snacks were provided – these came in very handy when we were hungry in the middle of the night!
Things We Didn’t Love As Much
While our experience was great for the most part, we wish the two smaller tents were jazzed up a bit more. A flashlight would have been a handy addition to the amenities, especially since it was quite dark out at night. Another issue we had was that the air beds deflated with time, but at least they provided us with air pumps that made it easy to re-inflate them.
Tips To Make The Best Of Your Glamping Experience
1. Check out the map before deciding where to set up camp
We stayed at Area G, which is very far away from the main hub of East Coast Park.
While this might mean peace and quiet away from crowds, you won’t be able to find any food near you. If you pick this location, make sure you bring plenty of snacks and drinks to avoid going hungry or thirsty!
Also, consider where the public toilets are when picking your tent location. You don’t want to have to walk a distance when you need to take a leak in the middle of the night. So, make sure you check out the map before deciding on where to set up camp to ensure you get the most ideal glamping spot!
2. If you intend to have a BBQ, book pits in areas D and G
If you intend to have a BBQ party while glamping, you can request for your tent(s) to be pitched near certain BBQ pits. Just note that the official camping sites are areas D and G, so be sure to book the BBQ pits in those areas.
[caption id="attachment_27739" align="aligncenter" width="635"] BBQing with a view[/caption]
3. Zip up your tents before settling in for the night
If you’re not a fan of bugs, zip up your tents fully before settling in for the night. You don’t want to have to deal with a cockroach entering the tent at 3am in the morning like we did.
4. Bring your own entertainment
While Glamping Society provides plenty of luxurious amenities, you’re in charge of creating your own fun. Bring card games, portable speakers to blast your favourite songs (Glamping Society also no longer provides speakers due to constant damage), a guitar, and good company for a truly fun time!
[caption id="attachment_27726" align="aligncenter" width="635"] We had fun![/caption]
In all, we had a blast glamping. The tents were pretty, clean, spacious and sleeping arrangements were comfortable – at least for most of us. A totally unique experience, this is definitely something you should try at least once in your life!
To book a tent for yourself, check out their website here.
Can’t seem to find the perfect fragrance to complement your style and personality? Or simply looking to switch things up?
Whichever it is, we’ve got the solution!
As part of its pop-up store promo this month, up-and-coming fragrance and mixology specialist Oo La Lab has launched Chemistry of Oo, a sensorial workshop where you can not only learn all about fragrance design, but also create your own personalised fragrance.
Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? The DiscoverSG team attended one of these sessions with our ambassadors just last week, so here’s a whiff of what to expect at Chemistry of Oo:
[caption id="attachment_27646" align="aligncenter" width="4032"] Oo La Lab (Image Credit: Vivienne)[/caption]
A Scent-sational Experience
[caption id="attachment_27648" align="aligncenter" width="4752"] Image Credit: Oo La Lab x Mandarin Gallery[/caption]
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s imperative that you identify 5 to 7 notes (from over 25) you like best to ensure you love your final product. For those unacquainted, ‘notes’ is fragrance terminology for the basic building blocks of scent. Because your fragrance is going to be uniquely you, you’ll need to take note (pun intended) of what you like and have an idea of what fragrance you want to end up with.
Notes vary in intensity and type. They can be fresh, floral, oriental or woody. From the subtle and fresh Citrus and Tea scents to the more intense and complex Musk, Chypre and even Leather, there’s something for everyone!
[caption id="attachment_27650" align="aligncenter" width="4032"] With over 25 basic notes, there’s something for everyone (Image Credit: Vivienne)[/caption]
Getting It Just Right
[caption id="attachment_27651" align="aligncenter" width="4032"] Building your own fragrance 101 (Image Credit: Vivienne)[/caption]
After you’ve identified your favourite notes, it’s time to try out the various combinations to see what works best!
Since you’ll be combining about 5 notes, you’ll need to experiment with various proportions to see how they turn out. This is where the fun really starts!
Participants will each receive a mini chemistry set of sorts, complete with a test tube, beaker, vials and more. Instructions are clear and easy to follow, and should you have any questions (e.g the ideal ratio), simply ask the staff at Oo La Lab and they’ll be more than happy to give you some tips.
[caption id="attachment_27653" align="aligncenter" width="4898"] Image Credit: Oo La Lab x Mandarin Gallery[/caption]
Don’t be afraid to make as many attempts as you need to get your fragrance exactly right!
Mixing Your Fragrance
[caption id="attachment_27652" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] DiscoverSG Ambassadors Chelsea and Cheryl hard at work (Image Credit: Cheryl)[/caption]
Once you’re happy with your concoction, it’s time to actually build your fragrance and bottle it up!
All you have to do is mix the notes in the ratio that you want, but at a much greater volume. This is made easy with the measuring cylinder provided. A checklist will also be provided so you can keep track of all the notes that will go into your bottle.
[caption id="attachment_27654" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Image Credit: Oo La Lab x Mandarin Gallery[/caption]
You will be provided with a pretty bottle to keep your fragrance. The default size is 20ml.
Crimp, Label and Seal The Deal
[caption id="attachment_27655" align="aligncenter" width="4898"] Image Credit: Oo La Lab x Mandarin Gallery[/caption]
When you’re done mixing your fragrance, you’ll need to bring your bottle to one of the staff, who will then add a dash of ethanol and finally seal – or crimp – your bottle. You’ll also get to name your own custom-made fragrance, which will appear on the label! Name it whatever you want and once your bottle is sealed, voilà,you’re done!
Alright dear readers, we bring you good news – Oo La Lab is currently having a smashing 2-for-1 promotion for its Chemistry of Oo workshop!
For just $98 (i.e $49 per person), you and a friend can create something unique together–that’s half the usual price. It’s an informative, engaging, not to mention fun experience! Whether you are new to fragrance or a fragrance connoisseur, you’ll have a scent-sational time here. Simply quote “Oolalab@mandaringallery” when you visit the store and you’re good to go!
Promotion ends after 30 June 2017, so hurry and make a date with Oo La Lab!
Chemistry of Oo
Address: Oo La Lab pop-up store, Mandarin Gallery, #03-24, 333A Orchard Road, Singapore 238897 Duration of workshop: 1.5 – 2h
Image Credit: @acquired.time[/caption]
Rolex Submariner | Image Credit: @acquired.time[/caption]
Image Credit: Acquired Time[/caption]
Image Credit: TenTwo[/caption]
GIF Credit: giphy.com[/caption]
Image Credit: Second Charm Facebook[/caption]
Image Credit: Second Charm Facebook[/caption]
One of the smaller tents[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_27731" align="aligncenter" width="634"]
We had fun![/caption]
