We are SO EXCITED about this year's musical line-up. | Image: ©AFP PHOTO/ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ

The American singer will appear at the top of the bill, with Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande and Hozier also performing during the underwear brand's show in London early next month.

According to a post on the company's Facebook page the 24-year-old singer is one of this year's star performers at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, set to take place in the UK capital on December 2, 2014.

Previous years have seen the show feature musical performances by Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, Katy Perry and Maroon 5, among many others. This year the models will be soundtracked by Swift (who returns for a second year running), alongside her friend and occasional co-performer Ed Sheeran (who will be waving the Union Jack no doubt),

American singer Ariana Grande, and rising Irish star (the very appropriately named, with all those stockings around) Hozier.

Swift made headlines last week by removing all her music from streaming service Spotify, but that didn't stop her latest album 1989 becoming the best-selling record of 2014 so far.

 
Michael Kors takes online shopping to the next level by making clothes, accessories and shoes instantly available to Instagram users who "like" it. | Images: Michael Kors

American designer Michael Kors has launched a new Instagram feature where you can shop your favourite looks by doing a simple double-tap. 

If you're a follower of the Micahel Kors brand's Instagram account you might have noticed a new #InstaKors hashtag cropping up. It's part of a new project which will allow you to sign up with your e-mail and Instagram handle and have the brand send you an e-mail with a shoppable link every time you "like" a shoppable post indicated by the hashtag #InstaKors. It's a tactic that was also unveiled by Marc Jacobs Beauty earlier on in November 2014.

“I’ve said it before, but we really do live in a 'selfie' world,” says Michael Kors. “Everyone is on Instagram. It’s inspirational, aspirational, and now, with #InstaKors, it’s attainable.”

Now you can shop, I mean, "like" away! 

Follow Michael Kors on Facebook at www.facebook.com/michaelkors, on Twitter at @michaelkors or on Instagram @michaelkors. Follow the hashtag #InstaKors to view all the shoppable posts.

Get the most out of your party clothes without having to repeat your looks! | Images: KATE SPADE SATURDAY, CHARLES & KEITH, COS, DAUGHTER, H&M, NANA AND BIRD, NET-A-PORTER, PEDRO, PINWHEEL JEWELS, ROBINSONS THE HEEREN, SANDQVIST, THE OUTNET, TOPSHOP, UNIQLO, ALICE & OLIVIA, ASOS, BERSHKA, BY INVITE ONLY, NEW LOOK, OROTON, ZALORA, ZARA 

Year-end bashes are on the horizon. These three key pieces are so party-worthy and here's how you can get the most mileage out of them.

KEY PICK 1: THE GOLD SKIRT

$270, from Kate Spade Saturday at B1-27 Ion Orchard

This pleated metallic midi skirt is ready to groove, but its elegant silhouette and length keep it classy.

FOR WORK

Style tip: Pair the gold skirt with neutral basics to tone it down for work. A navy collared top, black pumps and cognac-coloured tote are all classics which go well with the statement skirt. An architectural cuff with a single pearl adds a modern finishing touch.

1. Navy top $225, from Cos at 03-23 Ion Orchard

2. Bracelet $272, from Faux/Real at www.nanaandbird.com

3. Cognac tote $389, from Sandqvist at Kapok at National Design Centre

4. Black pumps from H&M at 1 Orchard Building, available from December 2014

FOR LEISURE

Style tip: A grey sweater immediately makes the glam skirt more cosy-looking. Purple mid-height heels and a quirky blue clutch add colourful points of interest. The swallow studs are interesting accents which subtly reflect the gold of the skirt.

1. Grey sweater $39, from Uniqlo at 03-27 313@somerset

2. Ear studs $180, from Alex Monroe at www.daughterthestore.com

3. Quirky clutch $406, from Matter Matters at www.nanaandbird.com

4. Purple heels $79, from Pedro at B1-32 Wisma Atria

FOR A NIGHT OUT

Style tip: A white lace top tucked into the pleated skirt lets the gold colour shine. The red pointy-toe heels add a great pop of colour, while the bronze box clutch and sparkly drop earrings further enhance the fun, party-worthy magpie effect.

1. Lace top $250, from Iris & Ink at www.theoutnet.com

2. Sparkly earrings $228, from Anton Heunis at www.pinwheeljewels.com

3. Bronze clutch $580, from See by Chloe at Robinsons The Heeren

4. Red heels $133, from Topshop at www.topshop.com

KEY PICK 2: THE EMBELLISHED TOP

US$164 (S$212), from Needle And Thread at www.net-a-porter.com

Sequins and beading add a festive flair to a simple blank tank, elevating the whole look.

FOR WORK

Style tip: Work the top into a black ensemble to reduce the party effect. The blazer and culottes create a fashion-forward smart outfit, while the strappy metallic heels add colour without going over the top. The open neckline is the perfect setting for the delicate gold necklace.

1. Gold necklace $140, from Meredith Hahn at www.pinwheeljewels.com

2. Black blazer $429, from A.L.C. at www.theoutnet.com

3. Culottes $150, from Cos at 03-23 Ion Orchard

4. Metallic heels $56.90, from Charles & Keith at 02-46 313@somerset

FOR LEISURE

Style tip: A drape-y black vest gives the sparkly tank a casual feel, while the dark red trousers add a touch of holiday feeling without being too on the nose. The leopard heels are a classic neutral and the small crossbody bag allows your hands to hold a flute of champagne and plate of hors d’oeuvres with ease.

1. Black vest $109, from Zara at B2-03 Ion Orchard

2. Leopard pumps $180, from Steve Madden at www.zalora.sg

3. Red cropped pants $22.90, from Zalora at www.zalora.sg

4. Crossbody bag $355, from Oroton at 03-10 Ion Orchard

FOR A NIGHT OUT

Style tip: Tuck the embellished top into the subtly striped grey-and-black pencil skirt for a chic but body-conscious and cocktail-appropriate look. The crystal headband and beaded heels add night-time bling, while the envelope clutch gives the outfit some much-needed colour.

1. Striped pencil skirt $29.90, from Uniqlo at 01-382 Suntec City Mall

2. Sparkly headband $29, from Asos at www.asos.com

3. Pink clutch $355, from Oroton at 03-10 Ion Orchard

4. Beaded heels $59.90, from New Look at B2-34 313@somerset

KEY PICK 3 : THE JACQUARD DRESS

$720, from Alice and Olivia at 03-17 Ion Orchard

The jacquard material gives this dress a fancy look and the jewel-tone colour looks right at home at Christmas parties.

FOR WORK

Style tip: Layer a white collared shirt under the green dress to make it more demure and in the vein of schoolgirl chic. The gold-tipped black brogues and belt add classic elements with a hint of cool, while the smart black tote fits all your work necessities.

1. White shirt $79.90, from Zara at 02-02 Liat Towers

2. Black bag $99, from Pedro at B1-32 Wisma Atria

3. Black belt $6.90, from New Look at B2-34 313@somerset

4. Gold-tipped brogues US$366 (S$472), from Thakoon Addition at www.net-a-porter.com

FOR LEISURE

Style tip: The gold polka-dotted sweatshirt can be worn over the dress to make it look like a skirt. The ankle booties with mesh panels and beige box bag are both fun, yet daytime-appropriate. Add the floral headband if you are feeling whimsical.

1. Flower headband $19.90, from H&M at 1 Orchard Building, available from December 2014

2. Polka-dotted sweatshirt $150, from Kate Spade Saturday at B1-27 Ion Orchard

3. Box bag $66.90, from Charles & Keith at 02-46 313@somerset

4. Ankle booties $109, from Bershka at B2-09 Ion Orchard

FOR A NIGHT OUT

Style tip: Let the green racerback dress take centre stage for a glamorous party look. Strappy rose gold heels and a druzy agate cocktail ring add points of sparkle, while the embellished box clutch – complete with long, festive tassels – acts as a conversation starter.

1. Cocktail ring $85, from By Invite Only at www.byinviteonly.info

2. Embellished clutch $97, from River Island at www.asos.com

3. Rose gold heels $106, from Topshop at www.topshop.com

This article was first run in The Straits Times newspaper on November 14, 2014. For similar stories, go to sph.straitstimes.com/premium/singapore. You will not be able to access the Premium section of The Straits Times website unless you are already a subscriber.

1.EARL GREY CAKE
From $30 (550g), from Little House of Dreams, #B1-27E The Central, tel: 6222-2972
This drew ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ all around the table as we savoured moist sponge laced with the delicate flavour of Earl Grey tea. The non-greasy Swiss buttercream rosettes truly were the icing on the cake.

2.CARIBBEAN LEMON SLICE
$70 (1.8kg), from The Fabulous Baker Boy, #01-15 The Foothills, 70 River Valley Road, tel: 6694-8336
This mammoth cake coated in coconut shavings cuts open to reveal a super-moist crumb that lures the taste buds with a zingy hit of lemon. It’s impossible not to keep diving back in for more.

3.TIRAMISU
$170 (1.8 kg), from Quarter to Three, 88 Tanjong Pagar Road, tel: 6222-2214
This doesn’t come cheap, but here’s what you’re paying for: generous amounts of liqueur, coffee and mascarpone assembled in just the right ratio, so every bite is simply phenomenal.

4.STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DECOR
From $38 (800g), from Patisserie Glace, #01-16 Republic Plaza, tel: 6536-0169
Cottony clouds of incredibly soft sponge plus a layer of fresh cream embedded with strawberries – we’d be happy to dig into this on our birthday… and any other day.

5.BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE
$58 (1.3kg), from The Dispensary, 69 Tiong Bahru Road, tel: 6536-0225
There’s something very satisfying about the way the plush cream cheese cake melts in the mouth, with spurts of juice from whole blueberries to cut through the richness. Resistance is futile.

6.EGGLESS CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE CAKE
$48 (1kg), from Cedele, #03-14 Wheelock Place, tel: 6732-8520
Built on a crumbly base, the chocolate mousse is highly satisfying with its smooth, ultra-luscious texture. An indulgent birthday treat, indeed.

7.RAINBOW CAKE
$35 (500g) or $58 (1kg), from The Bakery Chef, 161 Bukit Merah Central, #01-3711, tel: 6273-9211
Not just another saccharine rainbow cake, this mascarpone-layered one is subtly tinged with passionfruit syrup for a refreshing surprise. Plus, it uses the prettiest of pastel colours – we couldn’t help but feel happy just looking at it.

8.STRAWBERRY SOUFFLE
$44.90 (800g), from Flor Patisserie, 2 Duxton Hill, #01-01, tel: 6223-8628
So much texture in every bite, from the plump strawberries crowning the pillowy cheese souffle cake, to the grainy crumble of buttery almond biscuits – yum!

9.LADY M SIGNATURE MILLE CREPES
$50 (750g) or $80 (2kg), from Lady M, #02-103 Marina Square, tel: 6822-2095
We can only attempt to describe how dreamy this stack of 20 silky, thinner-than-paper crepes layered with light pastry cream under a caramelised veil really is. A must-try!

10.CARROT CAKE
$40 (1.2kg) or $70 (2.5kg), from Lynn’s Cakes & Coffee, 11 Eng Kong Terrace, tel: 6314-2886
The walnuts in this cinnamon-spiced carrot cake appear in little studs, so you get the crunch without it getting in the way of the moist, fluffy crumb, and velvety cream cheese frosting.

This article was originally published in Simply Her November 2014.

Chris Hemsworth is the world's sexiest man.

The honour was announced on the late night US TV show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel on ABC and in People magazine itself.

With his face at first masked and his voice digitally modified, Hemsworth, 31, speaking from Australia, toyed with playful yes-or-no questions from the American TV audience.

Kimmel's instructions and teasers to his crowd: "If you guess correctly, the sexiest man alive will make love to you, so this is big. I will give you three clues. He is sexy, he is a man, he is alive."

Is he in a band? No. Over age 35? Wrong, again.

"Are you hairy?" a bearded, balding man in the audience asked, smiling.

"Just up here," the still unknown masked person asked, gesturing to his head.

Fast forward: the audience zeroed in on the guy as a non-American, buffed dude who is an actor that has played a superhero in the movies, wielding a hammer: Thor in the Marvel Studios superhero movies? Bingo!

Hemsworth's award was a small facial mirror.

"Anything you would like to say to the men who lost, specifically Matt Damon?" Kimmel asked, referring to the popular American actor.

"I like everything there is about being sexy, to pursing the lips the right way to squinting at the essential time. Thank you, Matt, and all the other previous intelligent men. This is based on an IQ test, not just the physical appearance," the actor said.

Asked if there was anyone he wanted to thank, Hemsworth said, "my parents, I guess, for putting this together."

In this week's People cover story, Hemsworth told People he thought it was "pretty funny" when he first heard word of his new status. He is married to Spanish actress Elsa Pataky and they have three children.

"I think you've bought me a couple of weeks of bragging rights around the house," he told the magazine.

"I can just say to her, 'Now, remember, this is what people think, so I don't need to do the dishes anymore, I don't need to change nappies. I'm above that. I've made it now.'" -- AFP RELAXNEWS

Car designers draw their inspiration from many different places -- nature, sci-fi novels, the works of Picasso or Matisse. And in the case of the concept car currently gracing Toyota's LA Auto Show stand, the popularity and peculiarities of a certain Nickelodeon cartoon character.

Still, like Sylvester Stallone or Jackie Chan, SpongeBob SquarePants is one of the world's few truly global and instantly recognisable cultural icons and Toyota has done everything it can to bring the character to life in vehicular form.

The windshield is adorned with his eyes and buck-toothed grin and the roof even features his Superhero Incredibubble mask and blows real bubbles.

Inside, the car has a blue, wood-grain dashboard and a ship's rather than a car's steering wheel and each of the seats references one of SpongeBob's friends. Even the flooring mats get a sand-coloured and textured finish.

Following its LA Auto Show global reveal, the one-of-a-kind car will be heading off on a US promotional tour to publicise the next SpongeBob SquarePants film, due out in February. -- AFP RELAXNEWS

Recipes by Jean-Charles Dubois, executive chef of Balzac Brasserie & Bar in Singapore

1 PEANUT BUTTER
Makes 1 cup

Blend 300g roasted peanuts, 50g unsalted butter and 50ml water in a food processor for 10min until a paste forms. Stop to scrape the mixture down the sides of the bowl occasionally.

2 HERB BUTTER
Makes 250g

Blend 10g chopped rosemary, 10g chopped thyme and 250g softened butter in a food processor for 10min until the herbs are well mixed in. Transfer to a jar and chill.

3 COCOA-HAZELNUT SPREAD
Makes 1 cup

Toast 180g raw hazelnuts* for 10min in an oven preheated to 160 deg C. Blend the toasted hazelnuts, 140g icing sugar and 140g cocoa powder in a food processor for 10min, until a paste forms. Stop to scrape the mixture down the sides of the bowl occasionally.

*Raw hazelnuts are available at most Phoon Huat outlets (including #01-270, Block 107 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, tel: 6353-9136), but you can also buy toasted hazelnuts at stores selling dried fruits and nuts.

Balzac Brasserie & Bar is at #01-01 Rendezvous Gallery, 9 Bras Basah Road, tel: 6592-0548.

This article was originally published in Simply Her's October 2014 digital edition. For more exclusive stories found in our digital magazine, click here to subscribe: http://bit.ly/1xx3IAP
 

Would you wear these 'smart' bracelets? | Images: ©Intel, Opening Ceremony

Technology never looked more fashionable. Finally, here’s a bit of wearable tech that actually looks like a serious fashion accessory you’d want to wear.

This “smart” bracelet is being touted as "a feminine fashion accessory with communications capabilities”. It displays displays SMS messages, Gmail and Facebook alerts on a curved sapphire glass touchscreen, and it can also be charged wirelessly.

Called the “MICA” (which stands for “My Intelligent Communication Accessory”), the wearable tech accessory was engineered by tech giant Intel and designed by fashion brand Opening Ceremony.

The MICA bracelet vibrates gently to indicate incoming notifications and includes a two-year data plan – this means there is no need to be fully dependent on Wi-Fi or smartphones!

The design comes in two styles, one in black watersnake skin, with Chinese pearls and Madagascan lapis stones, while the other is in white watersnake skin, South African tiger's eye, and obsidian from Russia. I’m sold on the exotic finishes already.

Sadly though, unless you’re making a trip to the US in early December 2014 when the MICA bracelet is slated to drop, it will only be available at select Barneys and Opening Ceremony stores at S$642 (US$495). 

Would you wear it though? I’d give it a go.

Work woes begone! | Image: © Cover Media

Whether you're desperate to get a new job or just feeling a bit stir crazy, there have been times when we've all been dissatisfied at work. It's a tricky thing too, because the more you dwell on being unhappy the worse it can make you feel. And then suddenly a role which isn't actually that bad seems like the most terrible thing in the world. So what to do? Here we look at some easy ways to boost your mood when you're in a difficult period at work.

TAKE TIME OUT

We're not saying you should start surfing the net when you should be filing a report, but make sure you take the breaks owed to you. Use them wisely, too; try fitting in something you love during your lunch break. Whether that's going for a posh coffee, meeting a friend, heading to the gym or just having a walk, time away from your desk will become something to look forward to.

FRIENDS

This is two-pronged advice. First up, make time for your pals no matter how down you're feeling. When you're fed up it's easy to retreat to the sofa with a tub of ice-cream and a box set, but actually you need to spend time with the people you love. Even just meeting for a chat will remind you there's more to life than your job. Or maybe you could convince a friend to start an evening class with you, so you get a new hobby too.

Also try building on any friendships you have at work. It's very rare that there won't be even one person you get on with, and getting closer could make things more fun. Ask if your friend would like to go for lunch or borrow your book – anything to forge a bond.

WORK HARD

Yes it's difficult not to get sucked into apathy when you're bored at work, but you wanted this job once. Working hard can make the time go quickly, plus it'll get you noticed. As soon as you mark yourself out as someone who gets things done, people will start to offer you different projects. You never know; it might lead to a new path you enjoy more.

Also, try thinking about whether something could be changed to make the work better. Maybe a process is too long-winded or you can think of a better way to do a task. Once you know your boss well enough, make some suggestions. It'll mark you out as someone who thinks outside the box.

PERSONALITY

Of course everyone has to temper themselves a bit at work, but don't go too far. If you never have anything interesting to say, people won't want to talk to you; it's harsh but true. A discussion about last night's TV or a news story you've read can spark something bigger, so don't be afraid to speak up. © Cover Media

Heaven in a Wild Flower

This boutique event-styling company stands out because of its romantic vintage style. The sweet treats – macarons, tarts and cupcakes – from their cafe arm, the ever-popular Carpenter And Cook, are already dreamy on their own, but the finishing touches to the dessert display are the most beautiful we’ve seen. Their collection of vintage props and trinkets is also available for rent.
From $1,000 for a small dessert table (for 40 people). Visit www.heavenwildfleur.com for bookings in Singapore.

Marble Slab Creamery

This live catering service provides sugary fun by letting guests choose toppings for their ice cream, then watch as the service crew mixes them all on the spot on a marble slab (packages start from $950). But if “static” ice cream is all you want, the Basic Serve-it-yourself package (from $500) will suffice – it serves 120 people with four basins of ice cream and includes cups, spoons and napkins.
E-mail catering@marbleslab.com.sg for bookings.

Sip’ The Bar Concierge
If you can’t take all your partygoers to the bar, bring the bar to the party. This mobile bar comes stocked with premium alcohol, mixers and champagne, and has bartenders to concoct bespoke cocktails – served to you by hired models. Choose from three packages, from $1,500 for 10 people to $5,000 for 45 people.
Call 6338-6406 or e-mail ask@sipbarconcierge.com for bookings.

Eatzi Gourmet Catering

For a truly gourmet addition to any catered buffet, order the Spit Roast Baby Lamb with Mint Sauce ($750) or Roast Beef with Black Pepper Sauce ($650), cooked and carved on location by chefs in spiffy whites. Each serving is good for 50 people.
$50 transport fee applies. E-mail catering@eatzi.com.sg or call 6858-0111 to order.

The Prata Place
Hire a prata man to fill guests’ tummies – they can pick from 11 varieties like paper, egg, cheese, and chocolate prata. The package includes biryani, masala chicken, mutton curry, fish curry, fried lady’s fingers, pappadum, honeydew sago, lime juice and teh tarik.
Minimum of $450 for 30 people, $15 for each additional person; service and transport fee: $120. Visit www.theprataplace.com.sg to order.

Saybons

Add a little French flair with a mobile crepe station, where a chef will whip up made-to-order sweet and savoury crepes with toppings like chicken ham, mushrooms, Nutella and strawberries. Each person gets two crepes.
Minimum of $300 for 30 people, $10 for each additional person. The transport and set-up fee is $90. E-mail catering@saybons.com to order.

The Ice Cream & Cookie Co.

Choose between a pop-up pushcart and an ice cream scoop bar – the latter gives guests the option of having ice cream in cups or cones ($3.50 each), or wedged between cookies ($5 each). You can request as many of their available ice cream flavours as you like, although they recommend a maximum of three.
Minimum order of 50 ice cream sandwiches ($250) or 70 scoops of ice cream ($245); additional $250 for rental, set-up and one-hour service. Visit www.icecreamcookieco.com to book.

Spring Ocean
This is an on-site barbecue service that comes with a satay man and charcoal pit set-up. It specialises in pork, chicken, mutton and beef satay (from 40 cents a stick), and otah (40 cents a piece), although it also caters chicken wings, sambal stingray and prawn skewers.
Minimum order of 300 satay sticks and/or otah ($120); additional $110 service and transport fee. Visit www.cmyfood.com to order.

This article was originally published in Simply Her November 2014.

All product and pricing information was correct at the time of the magazine's publication. We advise readers to check with the caterers for the latest pricing information.

 
Images: ShesShops, ASOS, Topshop, The Outnet, Nana & Bird

Now that the festive holiday season is approaching, there’s no better time to play with splashes of silver in your wardrobe (it’s totally on-trend too).

I’ve scoured the web for silver bags, shoes and accessories so that you can instantly glam up your party and holiday wardrobe. Check out pictures (with shoppable links!) below, and they’re all under $200!

Layer your serums right, look like Song Hye Kyo

Beauty people, I’m going on the assumption that you’re already accustomed to serum application (after cleanser and softener, before emulsion and moisturiser, for the record) but what about the subtler art of layering multiple serums effectively?  

Advanced-level beauty students, pens and notebooks at the ready. To decode the serum sequence, we need to figure out what goes where. This is a gross simplification, of course, but we can divvy up the skin into three sections, starting from the innermost layer: The dermis, the basal layer and finally, the epidermis.

RULE #1. ANTI-AGING BEFORE BRIGHTENING

Next, we’ll have to sort out the precise properties of the serums in question. For the purposes of this story, we’ll stick to two types: Anti-aging and brightening. Josephine Lim, Sisley Singapore’s PR and training manager, says we should always apply the former right after cleansing and softening: “Anti-aging serums come first as they usually target the dermis, which is of course the deepest part of the skin.”

Product recommendation-wise, Sisleyouth is a superb entry-level product if you’re navigating that awkward transitory phase between oily pubertal and dry aging skin. Meant for use from the age of 25, this silky salve is shot through with pea and soy peptide extracts said to sop up stress-induced free radicals and ward off early wrinkles. 

Alright, so we should apply anti-aging serums first. Got it. What next? If you’re also battling blemishes and sun spots, now is the time to smooth on a brightening serum. Here’s Josephine of Sisley again: “Follow up with a whitening serum, as whitening products work on the pigment-creating melanocytes found in the basal layer, which is above the dermis.”

Translation: Let anti-aging products work their magic on the innermost layer of the skin, then top up with a spot corrector aimed at the pigment cells in the layer above. Incredibly intuitive if you think about it, yes.

That’s all fine and dandy, but because I’m an unabashedly kiasu Singaporean, I like to take it several steps further and apply two brightening serums at once. Try warming up two droplets each of Laneige’s White Plus Renew Original Essence and Sulwhasoo’s Snowise EX Whitening Serum, both of which are absolutely stuffed with botanical brightening boosters the likes of green tea, truffle yeast and white ginseng. Very Korean, very effective, at least for yours truly!

Bonus: Josephine also recommends bridging the gap between serum and moisturiser with an emulsion courtesy of Sisley’s Ecological Compound. Billed as a “balancing treatment for all skin types”, this comfortably creamy concoction comes with a potpourri of plant extracts to prep and prime your skin for the thicker-textured night ointments to come.

RULE #2. LIGHTER BEFORE HEAVIER TEXTURES

Not sure how to actually apply your product? To get the most bang out of your beauty buck, try this technique courtesy of Alyssa Ng, Estee Lauder Singapore’s senior field education executive: “Dispense five drops of a serum like the Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II into your hands, then trace a heart radiating from the centre of your face out towards your ears.”

“Finish by ‘closing’ the heart at your chin and sliding your fingers down the sides of your neck.” This massage method aids in draining excess fluid from your face, and makes for a seriously relaxing ritual at the end of the day.

If all of this sounds like much too much, guess what? You may be right. Alyssa says she’s of the less-is-more school of thought: “At Estee Lauder, we recommend using just one serum tailored to your specific skin concern.”

Her one concession? If you have multiple skin concerns and insist on using more than one serum, Alyssa recommends starting with the lightest textured out of the lot and working your way up.

#RULE 3. STICK TO ONE SERUM, FOR GOODNESS’ SAKE

Or really, use one do-it-all superhero serum like the ridiculously rich-sounding Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Sculpting Refinishing Dual Infusion. This is a double-barrelled beauty of a contraption comprising a vial each of an anti-aging black truffle extract and a radiance-enhancing 24K gold blend, which you pump into your palm before massaging into your face. Easy-peasy, if more than a little posh.

So, to recap. Two competing approaches to follow here: First, if you must layer your serums, start with an anti-aging (or silkier) formula before proceeding to a brightening (or creamier) one. Alternatively, simply select a single serum that addresses all your needs. Not too hard, yes. Bookmark this story for future reference, and good luck. Beauty class dismissed!

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II, $150, and Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Sculpting Refinishing Dual Infusion, $720, are available at all Estee Lauder counters. For more information, visit www.esteelauder.com.sg and follow Estee Lauder Singapore on Facebook.

Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence, $78, is available at all Laneige counters. For more information, visit www.laneige.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.

Sisley Sisleyouth, $240, and Ecological Compound, $275 for 125 ml and $166 for 50 ml, are available at all Sisley counters. For more information, visit www.sisley-cosmetics.com/sg-sg.

Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Whitening Serum, $268, is available at Sulwhasoo counters. For more information, visit www.sulwhasoo.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.

Image: © AFP PHOTO / BERTRAND GUAY

Nineteen-year-old Kendall Jenner looks set to be the latest face of the German fashion legend's namesake Karl Lagerfeld line.

Model-of-the-moment Kendall Jenner has reportedly been snapped up for a new campaign for Karl Lagerfeld according to a report published in WWD.

The teenage model, sister to Kim Kardashian, will feature in the brand's Spring 2015 campaign, for which, as usual, the images were shot by Lagerfeld himself, who captured Kendall at his studio in Paris. Fellow stars include Russian Sasha Luss, Chinese model Ming Xi and regular Lagerfeld muse Frenchman Baptiste Giabiconi.

The news follows the announcement at the weekend that Jenner has signed as the new face of cosmetics brand Estée Lauder. She has previously walked for Lagerfeld in his ready-to-wear shows at Chanel, and has also starred in major fashion campaigns for fellow French luxury houses Givenchy and Balmain. -- AFP RELAXNEWS

Ditch those bad postures ASAP! | Image: © Cover Media

Having good posture is about more than just walking with your head held high; it can also mean the difference between good health and bad. Basically, correct posture means your bones are properly aligned and your muscles, joints and ligaments can work as nature intended. Furthermore, your organs are also in the right position and can function at their best. And lastly, good posture helps contribute to the normal function of the nervous system. Pretty impressive right? We bet you're even sitting up a little straighter as you read this.

On top of research that has already found that poor posture can lead to bodily systems not working as effectively as they should (such as digestion, breathing and muscles), there is also evidence to suggest that a person with bad posture may be more tired and unable to work efficiently.

Slouching at our desks is a habit we are all guilty of, as it's just so easy to sink into yourself. But new research has also highlighted the dangers of texting on our phones and what it does to the spine.

Published in Surgical Technology International, the study suggests that looking down at a mobile phone is the equivalent of placing a 27-kilogram weight on your neck. To put it in real terms: this is equivalent to an eight-year-old child.

"As the head tilts forward the forces seen by the neck surges to 12kg at 15 degrees, 18kg at 30 degrees, 22kg at 45 degrees and 27kg at 60 degrees," Kenneth Hansraj, a New York back surgeon, explained in the paper.

His conclusion came after assessing computer models of how gravity affects the human spine, assuming that the average weight of the human head is 5.4kg.

So now is the time to put down your phone and try some of our top posture tips:

Keep the body in alignment while sitting in an office chair and standing.

This means distributing body weight evenly to the front, back and sides of feet when standing, and sitting up straight, aligning the ears, shoulders and hips in one vertical line when sitting.

Get up and move

Getting your muscles moving will help stave off the dreaded slouch, as tired muscles can cause a slump. Taking a few minutes' break when at your desk will do your back the world of good.

Increase awareness of posture

Just thinking about your posture can cause you to sit up a little straighter. Be aware of your position when standing and sitting, and make improvements there and then.

Use a back cushion or pillow

This can be used at your desk, at the dinner table and even in the car.

Easy exercise

Snow angels aren't just for kids - and doing one on your bedroom floor is a great exercise to start and end the day with. Lie down and make the snow angel movement with your arms slowly, for two to three minutes, for a nice stretch. © Cover Media

High time for a #BabyZed update. Hit it!  

In case you’ve forgotten why Zed’s the – dare we say it – Prince George of Singapore, here’s a twee little Insta-video to jog your memory. And that cloying caption by Duchess K – sorry, Fann Wong? I just can’t.

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The beautiful boy has famous friends falling over themselves in adulation. Here’s the chubby-cheeked cherub being cradled by a fawning Auntie Jeanette Aw. Aside: That enigmatic smirk on his mug? Priceless.

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Lest you start to think the boy’s social calendar only involves an endless procession of immaculate ingenues from Caldecott Hill, here’s a picture of Daddy nibbling on his son’s tiny tippy toes.

Who would have pegged Christopher Lee as the protective paternal sort? (He does look like he needs some shut-eye, that and a good eye cream, poor guy.)

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Speaking of Chris, here’s his better half looking … well, let’s just say this is proof that even Fann makes a beauty boo-boo every now and then. Indelible lesson learnt: K-Brows are not for everyone! The desserts do look delish, though.

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Ah yes, order is restored. All is well in the world again. Our yummy Mummy’s looking particularly pretty with the powdery pink lips – very on-trend, if I may point out myself.

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Such a Fann-tastic family portrait. Here we have Zed catching some Zzzs, but my eyes are fixated on Fann. The good woman is positively emanating light like some period-drama fairy maiden. And that’s one slick snapback cap, Chris.

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Moving along quickly before I fall into one of my Fann-induced revelries, here’s the rightful boy of the hour rocking a monochrome onesie. Geeky bonus: Who knew Facebook sold kiddy #merch?

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Two key takeaways. First, Fann is a master at subtle digital embellishments: See the tastefully understated butterflies flitting around the flower boy? Nicely done.

Second: Zed’s going to be one dapper dandy, if his succession of unbelievably chic ensembles are anything to go by. This posh Petit Bateau sailor’s outfit? #Flawless.

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Lips pursed and toes curling from a surfeit of saccharine sweetness? There, there, the ordeal’s almost over. Here’s a #random serving of sexy studliness to cleanse your palate.

This right here is male model of the moment Sean O’Pry shutting it down in a spiffy Breton sweater. A vision of Zed in 20 years? We’ll be waiting, little fella!

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You can follow Zed and his exploits by proxy via Fann Wong’s Facebook, Twitter, Weibo and Instagram accounts.

Us at our office cubicles, every single day. #Sad

Certain blusher shades may cause you to break out more than others. Say what? Absolutely mindblowing … but could it possibly be true?

Before we tackle that unbelievable bit of advice, let’s circle back to the critical issue at hand. We’ve all heard of that old chestnut about cosmetics causing acne, but can it really?

SO, CAN MAKEUP CAUSE ACNE?

It’s an ugly truth, but the answer, unfortunately, is yes. In one disquieting study, 45 percent of the women tested reported adverse skin reactions to their everyday makeup, with 14 percent developing full-blown acne. Makeup-induced acne even has its own medical monicker: Say “acne cosmetica”.    

How to tell if your spots are acne cosmetica or “merely” of the garden variety sort? For starters, you may have a case if your pimples present themselves as pale lumps (sort of like whopping whiteheads) clustered around your chin and cheeks. These breakouts also tend to linger on like an unwanted ex-lover; the result, it seems, of a vicious cycle of slapping on ever more makeup in a desperate attempt to camouflage said acne.

Okay, so now you’re thinking that yes, makeup might be to blame for your blemishes. What next? Here are some proactive steps you can take right now:

#1. STEER CLEAR OF THESE AMBER ALERT INGREDIENTS

Here’s the thing. There’s no such thing as “acne-proof” cosmetics, so the only recourse we have, really, is to do some skincare sleuthing of our own. Sure, it’s a pain to peruse the labels of everything you purchase, but with practice it’ll become second nature.

With that said, go ahead and memorise these alien-sounding names: Butyl stearate, isopropyl myristate and sodium lauryl sulfate.  Avoid this terrible trio as much as possible, particularly if they pop up in the first five ingredients on the label. Why? They’re proven pore-cloggers and will dramatically increase the likelihood of your makeup breaking you out.

#2. LIGHT IS RIGHT, AND PINK IS FOR PIMPLE (!)

Regardless of brand, my personal advice is to always gun for lighter formulas that explicitly advertise themselves as fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (that is, they don’t clog pores).

I have experts backing me up on my light-is-right approach, too. Take it from Teri Tay, Dermalogica Singapore’s education manager, who warns that glitter-festooned festive products are crummy for your complexion: “Generally, makeup that provides ‘full’ or heavier coverage will have a higher chance of causing breakouts.”

Look at these blusher swatches. One of them is more apt to cause acne

Now for a real doozy of a revelation. Remember how I said some blusher shades are badder for your skin than others? It turns out that – drumroll please – pink hues may produce pimples, at least according to Teri of Dermalogica, and I quote verbatim: “For blushers, the pinker the tone, the higher the chances of breaking out as well.” Wow, just wow.

Why on earth should that be? Teri can’t say for sure, but my hunch is it has to do with the particular pigments used in the concoction. Better safe than sorry, I suppose. Cosmetic chemists out there, feel free to reach out if you have a laboratory-backed answer!

#3. SKINCARE TRUMPS MAKEUP, ANYTIME

I know this story is ostensibly about makeup, but you really do need to get your skin fundamentals down pat if you want your face paint to stick. Asked for the single best tip for acne prevention if we “die-die” must wear makeup, Teri Tay offers just one: “Invest in a good cleansing oil to thoroughly remove all makeup residue before going to bed.”

To that end, try Goodal’s Oil to Foam Cleanser. This hero product from the newbie in the K-Beauty scene is so easy to love, with its silky glide courtesy of seven botanical oils specially fermented to coax out their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory abilities. Beauty bonus: The magical oil-to-foam transformation injects a modicum of fun into an otherwise tiresome chore.

Top up with DHC’s Salicylic Acne Face Wash to get rid of any residual gunk on your face. This gel cleanser comes chockfull with the acne-alleviating superhero salicylic acid, supported by an all-star cast of calming aloe vera and green tea extract.

Finally, do as I do and dab on the thinnest layer of Dermalogica’s Overnight Clearing Gel all over the face. Sequence-wise, I slot this baby in after my softener and serums as a sort of preventative measure, even when I’m enjoying good skin days. The gel contains all manner of good stuff, from the usual suspects like tea tree oil and salicylic acid (again), niacinamide (otherwise known as Vitamin B3) and skin-tightening caffeine.

Voila! Your three-step cheat sheet to spot-free skin. To recap: Scan your labels for comedogenic culprits; opt for lighter formulations where possible; and always address acne at its source via a tailored skincare regime.

As for that bit about pink blusher … well, it’s your call. No harm giving pink the pink slip and monitoring your mien for improvements. Good luck, guys!

Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel, $96, is available at all authorised Dermalogica Skin Treatment Centres, AsterSpring and exclusive Dermalogica salons. . For more information, visit www.dermalogica.com.sg and follow Dermalogica Singapore on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

DHC Salicylic Acne Face Wash, $32, is available at all Watsons stores. For more information, visit www.dhccare.com.

Goodal Oil to Foam Cleanser, $32.90 for 100 ml, is available at selected Guardian stores and BHG Bugis.

ARE ASIAN EYES REALLY DIFFERENT?

Tried everything and the kitchen sink to hide and heal unsightly undereye bags? As I’ve noted before, the whys and wherefores of puffy peepers are vexing and varied: Anything from allergies and alcohol to food and fatigue can cause swollen eyes.

There is, however, one last and very fascinating factor to consider: Are you Asian?

Take it from Dave English, international skincare expert for The Body Shop, who says that Asian eyes are fundamentally different from Caucasian ones.

First, the good news: Because Asians boast denser, more collagen-rich skin, we’re better able to forestall the first signs of aging. Hurrah.

Now for the bad. Because our eyes tend to be elongated in shape, Dave English says we’re also more susceptible to sagging and bagging: “[Asian lids are] more prone to show a loss of shape with age; for example, they may appear to sag more than Caucasian eyes.”

Translation? Our quite literally “thick skin” is good – up to a point. Pass a certain threshold in time and our skin’s scaffolding starts to fall apart. Remedy? A gentle rub-down is of the essence: “The compact epidermis of Asian skin reduces the adsorption of substances applied onto the skin, which is why properly massaging an eye care product into the skin is important,” says Dave English.

Entirely welcome beauty bonus: A good under eye massage is an excellent depuffing exercise. Here’s The Body Shop’s Dave English again: “Eye bags can be due to poor drainage and liquids pooling beneath the skin. Massaging away from the nose helps stimulate microcirculation and remove any settled liquids.”

THE TRICK TO DEPUFFING EYE BAGS

Here’s how. Use your middle or ring finger to tap on the tender tissue directly under the eye, starting from the inner corner and tracing an arc under your lower lash line and up to your brow bone so that you end up back at the inner corners.

 

A video posted by herworldsingapore (@herworldsingapore) onNov 11, 2014 at 12:01am PST

Repeat this circular tapping motion several times to free up accumulated fluid lodged under your eye; all told, the entire shebang should take no more than three minutes, tops.

Pro tip: Be sure to focus on the pressure points at the brow bone as well as on the inner and outer eye corners, which are the key areas for the drainage of toxins.

Oh, here’s a crucial caveat: If your eyebags are due to an excess of fatty undereye deposits; that is, if you were basically “born” with baggy eyes, this enterprise is essentially useless. Sorry!

THE EVEN FASTER TRICK TO DEPUFFING EYE BAGS

Can’t spare the extra three minutes in the morning? A rollerball applicator makes for a fab quick fix that both maximises microcirculation and rids you of water retention. Try The Body Shop’s Drops of Youth Eye Concentrate, which comes with a really cool (and really cooling) metal tip that dispenses an emollient enriched with Edelweiss extracts said to even out signs of stress-related fatigue.

Other tools in my anti-aging arsenal? I adore Boscia’s new Super Cool De-Puffing Eye Balm, a soothing salve shot through with plumping peptides and a depuffing agent that gets straight to work at ironing out lumps and bumps. Then there’s Sephora’s Instant Depuffing Roll-On Gel, which I love for its thoughtful three-pronged applicator – terrific for flattening bags in a jiffy.

Purse-friendly DIY hack: Rinse out the applicator when the product proper has run its course, and stash for use as a massage tool. Ingenious, yes. I trust this has been an enlightening exercise. Here’s to “smoother” days ahead!

The Body Shop Drops of Youth Eye Concentrate, $49.90 for 10 ml, is available at all The Body Shop stores. For more information, visit www.thebodyshop.com.sg and follow The Body Shop Singapore on Facebook and Instagram.

Boscia Super Cool De-Puffing Eye Balm, $36, and Sephora Collection Instant Depuffing Roll-On Gel, $26, are available at all Sephora stores.  For more information, visit www.sephora.com and follow Sephora Singapore on Facebook and Twitter.

You might want to get your credit cards in order. Singapore-based online cosmetics retailer Luxola is offering huge deals for its range of 6,000 products on the last weekend of November 2014. | PHOTO: LUXOLA.COM

Festive cheer is starting as early as next week for consumers here who are eager to net the best buys online for their year-end shopping.

Several online retailers in Singapore are dangling discounts of up to 80 per cent, hoping to rival the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales of their American counterparts like Amazon.

1. LAZADA

Asian e-tailer Lazada, which launched its online shop here in May 2014, will start its month-long promotion from November 11, 2014. It will be offering hourly flash sales and daily deals for everything from consumer electronics to clothes and cookware.

"We have worked hard with our partners to offer shoppers a wide range of products (and) some of the best deals online," said Mr Martell Hardenberg, chief executive officer of Lazada Singapore.

Consumers can expect up to 76 per cent off the price of popular items like digital SLR cameras and high-definition LED TV sets.

2. ZALORA

Another local e-tailer Zalora will be running a Black Friday sale during the last weekend of November 2014, offering discounts of up to 80 per cent for 6,000 items, or half of its entire online inventory.

The online fashion store carries brands such as River Island, Material Girl, Lola Skye, H.E. by Mango, Burton Menswear, as well as its in-house label Zalora.

3. LUXOLA

During the same weekend, Singapore-based online cosmetics retailer Luxola will also be offering heavy discounts for its entire range of 6,000 products.

They include hot favourites like the Alpha-H skincare range from Australia and the Sigma Beauty make-up series from the United States.

For 24 hours on November 28, 2014, Luxola will be offering e-mail subscribers a 35 per cent storewide discount. For 12 hours on Dec 1, there will be a 40 per cent discount storewide.

Pre-school teacher Jasmine Kaur, 30, said local websites have the advantage of faster goods delivery, compared with overseas websites.

"But it all boils down to price and variety," said Ms Kaur, adding that she will compare local fashion finds with those from her favourite British e-outlets.

Marketing director Michael Lim, 36, said he would browse around for cheap consumer ealectronic goods. He normally shops at Amazon but said: "The lack of product warranty is often an issue, especially for big-ticket items like a computer."

The year-end shopping spree is expected to contribute to the more than $1 billion that consumers are expected to spend online this year, said British- based market research firm Euromonitor International.

This article was first run in The Straits Times newspaper on November 8, 2014. For similar stories, go to sph.straitstimes.com/premium/singapore. You will not be able to access the Premium section of The Straits Times website unless you are already a subscriber.

 
Now you can't complain about boring workout clothes. See the full collection of sporty chic prints by Mary Katrantzou for Adidas. | All images: Adidas 

Fashion's Queen of Prints, Mary Katrantzou, has launched her collaboration collection with sportswear giant Adidas.

The collection of shoes, T-shirts and dresses have Katrantzou's signature technicolour prints stamped all over it. Architectural pieces, such as neoprene pullovers and mesh dresses, are also true to her style.

Prices are a fraction of what Katrantzou charges for her main line from $129 for a logo T-shirt to $699 for a dress.

It is available now at the Adidas Originals store at Pacific Plaza and online at shop.adidas.com.sg.

Footwear from the collection are stocked at the Limited Edition store in Marina Bay Sands.

This story was first published in Urban, The Straits Times, November 21, 2014. To read more from Urban, go to sph.straitstimes.com/supplements/urban. Please note, if you are not a subscriber you may not be able to access this page.