GEMA Magazine Issue 01

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

Escapism Through Simplicity

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

The Perfect Skin's Shield Sunscreen pg 179

From Chic To Punk Rock! pg 054

It's Time to Kick Back in Socks and Sandals pg 145

A Stylist Behind the Artists pg 098

Creating Serenity & Beauty At Home pg 159

Avant-Garde Fashion Dump pg 223

The Lost LA LA LAND pg 024

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Cheif Presha Sashigaran

FASHION Fashion Editor Kong Yeen Yue Style Editor Catherine Lim Fashion News Aung Jie Shuang Editorial Stylist Putri Nurshahira Khan

BEAUTY Beauty Editor Siti Maimunah Rashid Beauty Writer Lau Ee Hui Product Writer Jazlynn Lee Jia En

CULTURE Culture Editor Nabilah Bt Abdullah Culture Writer Lau Shi Yann Editorial Stylist Muhammad Razeq Irfan Bin Jeffry

ART DIRECTION Art Director Hearte Designer Ashley Laureisha Marsh Photo Editor Low Kah Wei

INSTAGRAM: @gemamagazine FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/gemamagazine WEBSITE: www.gemamagazine.com EMAIL: info@gemamagazine.com All rights reserved.

Published by Raffles Students in Diploma of Fashion Styling 62, Lorong Damai 3, Kampung Datuk Keramat, 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

pg 001 Editor's Note

FASHION pg 002 Covid-19 vs Creatives pg 008 Function Over Fashion’ Is Taking Over This Post-Pandemic World pg 012 Fashion Influencer Spreads Positivity During The Pandemic! pg 017 A Breakout Trend We Can't Live Without: Mask On pg 021 Double Masking pg 024 The Lost LA LA LAND pg 030 Bella Hadid's Broadway Takeover pg 032 A Tribute to the Red Women Warriors pg 037 The Colours Of The Year 2021 Remind Us To Be Tough and Optimistic pg 049 Bright Fruity Tones Are The Colour You Need For This Summer! pg 051 The “Laboratory Of Fun” of Fall/Winter 2021 pg 054 From Chic To Punk Rock! pg 059 The Head-Turning Culture of Punk Rock pg 064 Magic In The Movement With A Trio of Digital Presentations

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

pg 066 Matching Sweatsuits, We're Slaying It pg 069 Escaping through Cottagecore pg 074 Phone Cases are The New Shoes pg 076 Oversized Tee is Becoming the Go-To Fashion Choice pg 079 Accessories Are SAVIOUR For Outfits pg 088 The 90's Hair Accessories Is Back To The Fashion Game, Stronger And Ever! pg 093 Bringing Back the 90's pg 098 A Stylist Behind the Artists pg 105 At Prada, Simplicity Is Back pg 111 Never Over Pay For Overcoats pg 113 The Best Shoes in 2021 pg 116 Never Have Mondayblue with Pop of Blues pg 118 FEELING GUCCI! pg 124 Best Disposable Versatile Face Mask For All Styles and All Occasion pg 126 In The Footsteps Of Aaliyah pg 131 Wide-Leg Jeans Are About To Be Your Favourite Denim

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

pg 133 How To Look Stylish with White Shirts and Rock Them with Trendy Pants pg 135 Pomelo and TikTok Team Up to Inspire Creativity pg 137 Flare It All Out, Flared Pants Are Back This Season pg 140 The Unlikely Fashion Stylist pg 143 Leather Boots For More Fashionable Looks pg 145 It's Time to Kick Back in Socks and Sandals pg 149 Was NOT Born To Please

BEAUTY pg 154 Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder pg 159 Creating Serenity & Beauty At Home pg 167 Your body is UNAPOLOGETICALLY Itself pg 173 All for 1 for All pg 175 The Future is Fluid pg 179 The Perfect Skin's Shield - Sunscreen pg 183 Sunscreens - Bodyguard for the Skin pg 185 Passion drives Art

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

pg 188 Girls All Time Favourite - Lipstick! pg 193 My Skin but Brighter-Glowy Skincare Routine pg 196 Toners are the Sponges of Skin pg 198 Neutral for Newbies

CULTURE pg 200 Midnight Soju Party With K-Dramas pg 205 Cared for some Kimchi? pg 208 The News Are Rods, And We Are Just Puppets. pg 214 Malaysian Artist, Venice Foo Spreads Positivity with Needlework pg 216 A Day In A Life.. pg 221 The Rise Of Thrifting Community Amongst Gen Z's pg 223 Avant-Garde Fashion Dump pg 227 Steal the Look pg 229 Introverts & Extroverts are the Yin and Yang for a Better Universe pg 235 Raving In Bodysuits pg 237 A Hare’s Magical A-Fair

GEMA Issue 01 ⎜August 2021

pg 244 Tattoos of You on You pg 249 Malaysian Escapism pg 254 Photoshopped Travel pg 261 6 Minimalist Furniture Inspired by Culture pg 263 To Brother with Love pg 268 Sheena Liam, Self-Reflection Through Embroidery pg 271 Break Trends, Put on Traditional. pg 277 An Open Mind Leads To Open Doors pg 285 Is Laughter the Best Medicine? pg 289 Beers to Careers pg 293 Hearte's Pandemic Diary

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Editor's Note Growing up as an individual who enjoys pouring out my feelings and experiences on a piece of paper is all too familiar for me. Writing onto small notes that were slipped under my pillow waiting for the note fairy to stop by every night to ready about my day and my feelings were a form of expression for me from a young age. Magazines have allowed me to experience what it's like being a note fairy for others. From personal stories to well-written fashion news articles, magazines are one of the best ways to express yourself through writing and visuals to the world.

Having the opportunity to design and run my very own magazine with an amazing team is a dream come through. Gema is a local magazine that caters to fashion and non-fashion lovers in the Malaysian youth community. With the theme of escapism through simplicity, Gema aims to cater interesting and knowledgeable information to its readers in the simplest form. From trendy fashion to hidden cultural gems, Gema is here to answer all your questions while broadening your perspectives in multiple sectors. So sit back, and open up your mind to prepare yourself for this crazy adventure through exceptional visuals and writing that you are about to experience.

Take care and stay safe,

Presha Sashi Presha Sashigaran (@estilobypresha) Editor-in-Cheif, Gema Magazine

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COVID-19 vs

CREATIVES Creatives are meant to express, explore and build pathways for others to follow in the footsteps towards building an innovative community and universe. The outbreak of the covid-19 virus may have affected most industries in the world, but creatives are not letting this beast of a virus affect their passions and dreams to innovate and express. May it be limiting creatives to only express themselves in the radius of 10 kilometers within their homes, creatives will NOT let anything get in the way of their passions. The limitation and boundaries that have been implemented for the sake of the community's safety may be a hard pill to swallow for most people, but creatives are yet to pop the bubble of boundaries and limitations.

Dear Covid-19, you might have won your battle against most, but the war is yet to be won over creatives.

creative & styling by Kong Yeen Yue

assisted by Presha Sashigaran

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’Function Over 'Function Over Fashion’ Fashion’ Is Taking .

Over This PostPandemic World .

Function still holds sway over fashion after a whole year we spent in ultracomfortable and shapeless clothes.

Jshuang

05/08

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SELANGOR, MALAYSIA - Covid-19 pandemic has affected us for more than a year and a half, and by now we have truly settled into our loungewear such as sports bras, sweatpants, and cycle shorts.

However, as we slowly return to a world outside of our homes, we are starting to team up our loungewear with blazers and chunky jewelry. We can call this particular style, sport-chic which emphasizes more on the comfort of the clothing but also being fashionable. Even though we're not quite ready to leave our comfy clothes behind, we're ready for a compromise where we mix in some casual or formal statement into our loungewear.

According to the latest report from the global fashion platform Lst, sport-chic fashion is very popular during this post-pandemic world, with a renewed interest in sports bras(+108%), and biker shorts (+95%), but also blazers, cardigans, and sweatpants to add that chic touch we’ve missed so much in recent months. We have forgotten how a sparkly super tight bodycon dress and 5 cm heels feel in our body. What we’re used to is everything ultra-comfortable and shapeless clothing in this lockdown situation.

As the months go on, people not only wear makeup-less and less but have also done away with proper clothes and living this “function over fashion “ look which social media makes this sportychic style go viral. It’s the newest trend that mostly every influencer posted their outfit pairing their fascinating accessories as a bold statement with their loungewear, taking this specific style to another level. Steal the look and keep up the trend!

Malaysia’s influencers are slaying this “function over fashion“ trend as their everyday look or even street style shoots.

@janechuck

@jestinna

@juweiteoh

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Fashion brands who emphasize “ function over fashion “ during this post-pandemic time might be the winner for future growth within the fashion industry because we might still call and focus on the comfortability of the apparel. As we’re willing to spend more on a product that is versatile, functional, and comfortable, fashion brands are taking advantage of this opportunity. Apparel in this fashion industry during this post-pandemic session has become more versatile than before.

Sport chic aesthetic is going all in and full out these 2 years because of the pandemic. According to NPD data, sales for all the apparel markets fell in 2020 due to this pandemic but the sales for activewear only fell 2% which means 1 dollar out of every 3 dollars spent on the apparel market in 2020, was spent on activewear. Activewear was maintained throughout this pandemic session if we compared it with non-active wear apparel.Industry experts are expecting the market for activewear to grow during this post-pandemic situation or even after the pandemic without any social distancing. Allied Market Research is predicting the market for activewear will increase to nearly $547 billion by the year 2024 globally.

“Function over fashion” still has a bright future ahead of it and for now it’s being boosted by adding chic, elegant, or punchy accents to it. We have built a strong relationship with this comfortable and effortless look during this hard time session . Therefore, as we emerge from our post-pandemic in reality, we seem to be not quite ready to take our loungewear off but we are sure willing to style them with a pair of heels, some chunky jewelry, and the ultimate fashion accessories of all, a nonvirtual friend after months of playing in lockdown. In a nutshell, we are ready to wear our loungewear more fashionably.

Top 5 Sport-chic Trend 01 Matching Sweatsuits

@jeanettemadsen

@emmaleger

@sofiamcoelho

@nitsanraiter

02 Blazer With Bra Top

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03 Sports Wear With Chunky Accessories

@lauralabee

@emmaleger

04 Sweat Shorts

@emmaleger

@nitsanraiter

@jeanettemadsen

@lauralabee

05 Biker Shorts

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Fashion Influencer Spreads Positivity During The Pandemic!

Kong Yeen Yue & Nabilah Abdullah

10/08

Fashion Influencer Chong Yee Vun is great at staying positive, and she is spreading it through her clothing brand, SundaysFitMy that was born during a pandemic.

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With the Covid-19 pandemic, the lockdown is challenging us in many different ways that are affecting our well-being, physically and mentally. As we are going through the second year of the pandemic, we realize that keeping our bodies and minds in check is important. Especially with all the heartbreaking and terrible news that is coming in, it is mentally draining for most. Fashion influencer content creator, Chong Yee Vun, also known as @Von115 on Instagram, keeps a positive and content lifestyle to survive these hard times. She used her lockdown free time to plan her clothing line, Sundays Fit that was recently launched. What we find interesting about this clothing line is that all of the t-shirts have positive descriptions on them and we think it fits perfectly to the current situation. These descriptions give people a spark of hope to look forward to better days for all we know. We talked with Von to get to know more about her and asked some questions about her new brand - here’s what she says;

Q1. Tell us a bit about yourself. Who are you?

I am Von. I am currently in the last semester of my Master program in cultural studies. I am also a fashion content creator on Instagram and Tiktok. I create content related to fashion, beauty and sometimes lifestyle. Content creating has been my part-time job for a year. Also, recently, I have just launched my clothing line (@sundaysfitmy).

Q2. As a digital creator, how would you describe your work?

@von115

It is a creative career that requires a lot of ideas and hard work. It is all about photo shooting, editing, connecting with people, looking for new inspiration and most importantly keeping up with the latest trends.

Q3. Who/ what are your style inspirations?

I am more into trendy fashion style and I reinvent my wardrobe as the season changes. Currently, I am obsessed with the all colourful summer pieces! My style can be described as feminine too where I find myself wearing flattering feminine silhouettes like bodycon dresses. Most of my outfits inspo are from Pinterest! Besides that, I also get some outfit inspirations from fashion content creators like @itsyuyan and @isaasung.

Q4. Has the lockdown affected your personal style? If yes, how?

@sundaysfitmy

My personal style still remains the same. It is just the photography style has changed from outdoor to indoor.

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Q5. What are your favourite fashion brands?

Zara has always been my top pick! But there are also other brands that I have been obsessed with recently like PrincessPolly, Pomelo, Cider, PrettyLittleThing and so on.

@von115

Q6. When did you first launch your brand, Sundays Fit? I launched Sunday’s Fit on 11th July 2021 which is a Sunday!

Q7. In the heist of the pandemic, you launched your brand Sundays Fit, what’s your inspiration behind it?

The pandemic has changed a lot of things here. We used to dress up glamorously to hang out the whole day out there before the pandemic hits but now the places we are allowed to go are restricted to probably only the grocery stores or restaurants for takeout. We spend most of the time at home. Thus, I feel like creating pieces that are casual enough to lounge at home and chic enough to wear out for a quick grocery or coffee run. Just to be honest, I will not dress up like I used to be for a 5 minutes food takeout or coffee run (unless I am planning to create some content with it), it would be much more comfortable to put on a cute tee and maybe a pair of shorts and I am ready to go! So, I designed unique tees with some positive reminders to create an effortless but chic look.

Q8. Would you share with us what’s different about Sundays Fit compared to other brands out there?

There are so many awesome brands out there that amazed me! Every brand has its own beauty. I would just like to highlight the beauty of Sunday’s Fit. Every Sunday’s fit tees are attached with self-care quotes and reminders. Sunday is meant to be a day of rest and relaxation. Thus, the main concept of the brand is about feeling comfortable, relaxing and prioritizing your rest time. We all deserve a good rest.

Q9. All your T-shirts have positive statements, why was that important to you?

In my opinion, it is important to strike a balance between work and life. We have been busy chasing our dreams without realizing that we have actually missed those pretty little moments in our lives. Those moments include making yourself a gourmet breakfast, pampering yourself with your favourite skincare routine, taking a morning stroll and listening to birds chirping. We have been so busy with our daily commitments and I think it is really important to take our time slow at least one day a week.

@sundaysfitmy

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Q10. How are the messages from this brand related to you, were you experiencing personal struggles?

These messages are reminders for me to not over push myself all the time. I used to feel guilty for taking a nap in the afternoon or even watching my favourite Netflix series. I have the mindset of thinking that I will not achieve my goal if I keep on taking a break. However, I realize I was wrong when I feel really exhausted and stressed at a point where I feel like giving up. The lesson learnt from my experience was no matter how strong or determined I am, I am still human, I need to rest and recharge. This makes me realize that taking the right amount of break is the best way to sustain my journey in long term. I always tell myself that it is okay to rest but make sure we come back stronger.

Q11. What has the support been from the audience for your collection?

We are almost sold out in a week! I have received overwhelming supports from everyone and I am so grateful for that. They really made my dream comes true.

Q12. Will you be producing more products in the future for Sundays Fit? Of course! I have started preparing for the second drops. I am hoping that it will be ready by the end of August!

Q13. You started your brand during the lockdown and it is a one-man show, how is the process for you (ie: from modelling to shooting products to packaging)?

Actually, my boyfriend has helped me a lot in developing websites and doing the inventory task. We are doing this together but he would prefer to be in behind the screen. While, I am in charge of modelling, product shooting, social media content and packaging.

Q14. Share with us a regular day in your life as a content creator/business owner during this lockdown.

Basically, the main part of my usual day is photo shooting and video shooting followed by editing. I spend most of my time on the screens. Apart from that, I also reply to emails and connect with brands that I work with. I spend some time browsing through Pinterest every day to get some inspiration for my Instagram and Tiktok content.

Q15. Share your top five self-care tips on how to better pamper yourself in quarantine regular day in your life as a content creator/business owner during this lockdown.

I start off by drinking a big glass of lemon water every morning to keep myself hydrated. I do my daily morning skincare routine after breakfast. I work out for an hour every three times a week. Then, I also do my own manicure since we can’t go to the nail salon at the moment. I eat different fruits every day! I love fruits especially passion fruit. Last but not least, I put on a face mask at night while watching my favourite Netflix series once in two days.

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@von115

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@von115

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@sundaysfitmy

"Fall in love with the process of becoming the very best version of yourself" Chong Yee Vun

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Conclusion Doing masters, creating content, running a clothing line, all that and Von is still spreading positivity.

What an inspiration! Not only is she simply multitasking but she is playing all these roles during a pandemic and we know how tough that is. Von also still manages to consistently post and keep her Instagram feed aesthetically pleasing. We recommend you to go on Instagram to check out Von for style tips as she posts a lot of her OOTDs as well as her brand, Sundays Fit to get your hands on the cool tees when she does her second drop.

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A Breakout Trend We Can't Live Without: Mask On Ashley Laureisha Marsh

04/06

“Face Mask? More like sunglasses that we try in different styles to see what fits best.”

By Rickie De Sole

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

According to a statistic report released by CTV News which estimated by Oceans Asia, more than 1.56 billion face masks used in 2020 will be joining literal tonnes of other plastic pollution’s way into the ocean. The Covid-19 pandemic - Every single one of us in this world is very familiar with it now.

“Please wear a face mask, sanitize and wash your hands regularly, social distancing, stay at home!”. All these being repeated every day to remind us to consistently follow standard operating procedures to stay safe. It brought back memories of how Asian parents constantly nagged to remind us of something, “Ah girl, Ah boy! You better study hard, why you always surfing on the internet, don’t eat fast food, not good for your health!” Apparently, they are concern about us just like people around us reminding each other to follow SOP rules. And yes, due to the pandemic, wearing a face mask has become a habitual practice for self-protection and as a result, became an accidental trend. Unlike most fashion statements, it was born out of necessity but it doesn’t change the fact that for the most part, all of us now have to wear face masks when we venture outside.

Hence, it’s not surprising that face masks have made a fashion statement.

Tie - Dye

Plaids

Geometric

Floral

Words

The spread of the Delta variant became dominant around the world. CDC recommended a solution on double masking to help curb the Covid-19 pandemic. One mask is not enough anymore and the double masking trend is taking over the fashion world. People started to use them for aesthetic and fashion-related reasons by putting on the surgical face mask as the first layer and stylish reusable face mask as the second.

As it is seen, the printed mask which is in versatile styles and maximalist delights is popular nowadays. Designers came up with printed designs like the tie-dye which is on-trend now, the plaids which are the classics, fun and weird geometric shapes, floral prints, face mask design with interesting words and etc.

Hanya

Innai & Co.

The Batik Boutique

Whimsigirl

Jovian Mandagie

Local fashion brands also took oppportunities coming out with reusable face masks in style for us.

Designers replacing the disposable face mask materials with unique textiles and prints. For instance, local brands like Hanya, Innai & Co., The Batik Boutique, Whimsigirl and Jovian Mandagie came up with stylish reusable face masks in prints. Besides that, The Batik Boutique added the elements of traditional batik prints into the face mask design. It became as a part of matching outfits with the Malays batik costumes. Even the Whimsigirl also has plaided face mask in matching outfits as well, while Jovian Mandagie has came up with a collection of reusable printed face mask designs.

In a nutshell, face masks can be trendy, stylish and we can use them to make bold statements. The “face mask trend” is here to stay as more cautious people will opt for face masks even after the outbreak. Snag the face mask trend like how you grab the last straw in life. In the meantime, the face mask is now a new matchy-matchy social accessory to embellish our outfits and should be folded into our wardrobes.

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Why should we wear double masks?

According to a study from US CCDC, double-masking using a fabric mask on top of a medicalgrade mask can significantly reduce the wearer's exposure to Covid-19, especially in crowded or high-risk public spaces, such as vaccination centers and hospitals.

Double Masking Hearte

25/07

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In recent months, the Covid-19 pandemic has severely affected the way of dressing and lifestyle.

Significantly the current pandemic situation is deteriorating drastically, and the Delta variant is already widely affected most areas, this has resulted into most Malaysians turning towards the usage of double masks. It is no doubt that most of us are losing the desire to dress up with the current situation, but believe it or not, we could elevate our outfit with all the available face mask options to add style into our daily double masking requirements. Double masking with stylish face masks provides us double protection while looking put together and fashionable at the same time.

Here’s a list of fashionable face masks by Malaysian homegrown designers that are best suited for the double masking requirements.

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Farah Khan (@fkbyfarahkhan) Lace Face Mask in Light Green and Lilac, MYR88.00

02

Khoon Hooi (@khoonhooi_official) Alice Face Mask in Calla, MYR96.00

03

Khoon Hooi (@khoonhooi_official) Junior Face Mask for Kids in Crocus, MYR23.00 (on sale)

04

Jovian Mandagie (@jovian.essentials) Classic Series Hijab Mask in Magenta, MYR38.00

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Melinda Looi (@melindalooirtw) Louise - 5 Layer Mask with Ear Loop, MYR47.60 (on sale)

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Batik Boutique (@thebatikboutique) Batik Face Mask -Navy Cloud, MYR45.00

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FiziWoo (@fiziwoo) Face Mask Bliss In Blue, MYR47.90

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The Lost

LA

LAND

L A

The pre-covid life was a form of escapism from reality; even though it was simple things such as going to amusement parks, it was a form of escapism. Somewhat of a realization as we didn't take that into consideration when Covid-19 did not exist but now since that Covid-19 exists, we know the preciousness of going out and socializing. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, we took things for granted that we now regret. The Covid-19 pandemic has made us appreciate the little things in life such as dining-in and going to amusement parks. Now that that's all faded and gone, there is nothing left to do but cherish the lost moments.

photographed by Joiurl

styled by Hearte

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In conjunction with the long and historical decades of the brand, Michael Kors celebrated its 40-year anniversary with an iconic and memorable collection of apparel for the fall-winter season, that got to shine brighter than a diamond at the historically artistic streets of Broadway, New York. The collection celebrated the signatures of the brand over the past 4 decades of being an American brand that is centered around the art of timeless glamour and sumptuous simplicity. The entire collection was filled with light-reflecting fabrics with blinding colors and prints that gave the streets of Broadway life again after being as dead as a dodo due to the pandemic in the recent year. Many wellknown faces strutted confidently and with full of grace down the tar-filled roads that were painted with traffic instructions and lined with parked cars and led signs; a runway that was manmade in 1735. Bella Hadid, a force to be reckoned with in the modeling industry, was an absolute show stopper at the FW21 Michael Kors show; as she eases through the runway with skyhigh confidence that blessed the streets of Broadway. She was clad in a figuring hugging turtle neck crimson red dress that wrapped her neck, body, and upper thigh. Paired with an oversized candy red polished leather knee-length overcoat structured with long and huge sleeves and big collars; that mirrored the lights of the broadway streets and shined like it was the brightest star in the galaxy. The entire look was paired with crimson redpointed closed-toe heels that complimented Bella Hadid's legs and faced, that glowed as if she was coal in a fireplace. She had hair that was slit down the side and gathered into a lustrous low polished bun that was placed right above her crimson red turtle neck figure-hugging dress. The glamourizing look was pulled together with an ombre nude-tone glossy subtle lip shade, complemented by a natural smokey eye that consisted of shades of browns that went hand-in-hand with Bella Hadid's deeply seductive and mesmerizing blue-green eyes.

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Bella Hadid brings life to the streets of Broadway at the Michael Kors F/W21 show

Bella Hadid's Broadway Takeover Presha Sashigaran

08/07

Photo Courtesy of Vogue

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A Tribute To The

Red Women Warriors For decades, women in the past had fought hard to be able to give the privilege and freedom to women today. The color red was a big taboo in the 1900s due to social conditioning. Since then, women had marched, protested, and fought hard for their rights to change the perception towards the color red. Now, red is associated with strength, power, and courage. The color red now has a deeper meaning, all thanks to our red women warriors.

photographed & styled by Presha Sashigaran

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The Colours of The Year 2021 Remind Us to be Tough Tough and Optimistic Optimistic Hearte

25/07

A better understanding of the reason behind both colours.

Let's delves into the key colour trends of the year, as well as their significance and relevance to the times we live in. Grey is as sturdy and trustworthy as a rock, while yellow is like a warm sun, making people feel warm, considerate, and friendly. The grey sensation of authority combined with the yellow sensation of energy soothes unsettled emotions and encourages us to remain tough and hopeful in uncertain times.

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01 Why is it Yellow?

Sunlight, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, daffodils, yellow peony, canna, and tulips are all examples of yellow in nature. Pantone colour 2021 is Illuminating. It’s similar to cobalt yellow and maize yellow. Yellow has slightly different meanings in different cultural beliefs. For example, in Malaysia, the colour yellow represents Malay royalty in the Malaysian flag. In fact, most people have developed their feelings about yellow at a very young age. After countless sunny days, yellow has been closely related to people’s spiritual needs. It means optimism, positivity, something worth looking forward to, and an exciting sense of hope.

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Sunflowers, Vincent van Gogh (1853 - 1890), Arles, January 1889

Yellow is also a favourite colour of Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890). “Now, we are in delightfully warm and windless weather, which is very excellent for me. I can only describe the sun as golden, brilliant sulphur, light lemon gold due to a lack of better terms,” he wrote to his sister in 1888, after renting a tiny cottage in Arles, southern France, to paint.

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Kenzo

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Alberta Ferretti

Yellow is widely used in the fashion industry, including apparel, handbags, and footwear. Yellow fashion pieces are accessible throughout the year and may be worn at any time of day or night. The colour yellow also widely used by many fashion labels in the Spring/Summer 2021 runways.

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Prada

The yellow coats and dresses on the Prada runway are embellished with black patterns or buttons, which deliver a little calmer mood than enthusiasm.

Gucci

Gucci released their Spring 2021 Ready-to-Wear collection in the form of short films. There are also many yellow pieces featured such as T-shirts, coats, suits and accessories.

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Valentino

The yellow looks on the Valentino show are decorated with large vibrantly-hued flower prints, the revival of the archive dress worn by Anjelica Huston famously in 1972, which Giampaolo Barbieri photographed.

Miu Miu

Yellow jackets, belly pockets, and short skirts appeared on the Miu Miu show, using the colour combination of yellow and black or brown.

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Jamie Lee Curtis

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Ni Ni

On the red carpets in 2021, the yellow look from celebrities such as Zendaya, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ni Ni, provided a good inspiration.

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02 Why is it Grey?

Grey, in contrast to yellow’s bright visibility, is more low-key and modest. Like yellow, grey is also common in our daily lives, such as dark clouds, concrete, and cement. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of Pantone Color Research Institute, said, “From the perspective of nature, extreme grey is the colour of pebbles on the beach. It has existed for millions of years and will not disappear anytime soon. It represents perseverance and something that you can rely on.” In the animal kingdom, grey is the protective colour for countless birds, fish, and rodents. Their grey fur provides camouflage and allows them to blend in with their surroundings. For the same reason, before the emergence of camouflage uniforms at the end of World War II, the army of many countries wore grey uniforms.

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In the late 1930s, grey became a symbol of industrialisation and war because many industrial facilities and weapons were grey. In the middle of the 19th century, grey suits became an essential member of male wardrobes. Dark grey suits were worn in autumn and winter, and light grey suits were worn in spring and summer. No matter how the suit style changes, this dressing rule is still valid today for more than a century.

Today, celebrities are commonly styled in grey on the red carpet.

Rosie Huntington

Fan Bingbing

Alicia Vikander

On the Spring/Summer 2021 runways, the grey suits and coats from Hermès, Jacquemus, and Fendi are remarkable.

Hermès

Jacquemus

Fendi

Gema Magazine

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046 The Prada Spring 2021 Menswear show exhibited looks with shirts, coats, pleated skirts, and sweaters in grey.

Prada

Balmain’s Spring 2021 Readyto-Wear runway’s oversized and high-shoulder padded suits are mighty.

Balmain

Gema Magazine

Fashion

047 The sloping shoulder top, offshoulder dress, and puff sleeves jacket from the Brandon Maxwell Spring 2021 Ready-to-Wear runway have a sleek, clean-cut.

Brandon Maxwell

Sacai Spring 2021 Ready-toWear runway showing grey suits, dresses, and long skirts that are colour-coordinating, which creates an avant-garde and charming impact.

Sacai

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03 Why is it Yellow + Grey?

As we all know, since the outbreak of the corona pandemic in early 2020, it is far from over until the end of 2020. In such an uncomfortable season, due to isolation and lack of companionship between each other, Pantone chose two colours for the upcoming 2021 epidemic. The colour echoes the mood of this period. Yellow represents optimism and hope, and grey symbolises perseverance and tenacity. Regardless of their rich connotations, as two mutually independent things, they express the need between individuals in an uncertain period when they appear together. Deepening the connection with each other when people are unable to be together due to the corona pandemic.

Ultimately, the Pantone colours of 2021, as well as the fashion trends, are hoping to restore optimism to not just the runway but also into people's lives.

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Bright Fruity Tones s Are The Colours s You Need For This s SSummer!

Kong Yeen Yue

03/08

Move over dusty nudes, this summer is all about the bright fruity tones!

This summer is all about bright fruity hues, from citrusy orange tones and eye-catching raspberry pink to lilac, baby blue, and lemon. Many childhood memories of candy, clouds, and soft dreaming are inspired by the fun, serene color scheme. Fashion was obsessed with Millennial Pink not long ago, and now pastel is making a comeback this summer to calm home disruption, especially during the pandemic. These bright and optimistic colors are a big hit during the summer season and were spotted on your favourite celebrities, street styles, and runways. According to WGSN, these colors can provide a sense of security or promote comfort and have been trending all over social media.

Pastels are quickly becoming associated with self-care, which is a necessity with the current pandemic, as pastels have created a connection to the desire for wellness and comfort in reaction to the pandemic's anxiety and a cycle of tragic events. Dressing up in bright colors does not only lightens up our mood but is also a form of "escape" from the harsh reality and busy schedules for a moment. Its vibrant quality makes it ideal for classic summer items, such as halter tops, mini dresses, sun shorts, etc. Influencers including Alexis Sue Ann, Olivia Liew, Kon Wen Wei, and Nana are embracing the fun pastel and fruity hues for this season. Follow the footsteps of these influencers and jump on board with the bright fruity hues trend and look as fashionable as ever!

01 @oliviaxliew was spotted wearing a two-tone lilac outfit matched with cute purple hair clips and pearl hoops to complete the super sophisticated and chic look!

02

03 @nanbwincess looking super chic in her baby blue monochromatic look!

@alexissueann rocking the perfect shade of yellow lemon in a dress that is perfect for a picnic in the garden look to take our mind off our hectic schedule.

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The “Laboratory Of Fun” of FALL/WINTER 2021 Nabilah Abdullah

21/07

Off-White Fall/ Winter 21 runway show titled “Laboratory of Fun” was filled with the fun of structures and colors, and M.I.A ’s performance.

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Photo Courtesy of V Magazine

Photo Courtesy of V Magazine

On a Sunday afternoon of the head of couture week in Paris, Virgil Abloh presented his Off-White Fall/ Winter 2021 collection. The name “Laboratory of Fun” was titled after architect Cedric Price’s 1961 “Fun Palace” as Virgil was inspired by his times in architecture. “The collection speaks in part to my roots as an architect,” he says in his program notes. Both the womenswear and menswear collections featured structures, sophistication, bold but subtle, and that perfectly suits the season. The color palettes range from neutrals to vivid colors of blues, oranges, and yellows.

Some of the outstanding looks had fabrics of velour, leather, wool, and nylon. This season’s collection shows a lot of creative clothes making and it offers a variety of fabrics and ample options of colors, this truly reflects the name “Laboratory of Fun”.

A few hours before the Off-White Fall/ Winter 2021 show, Virgil was seen adding some of his last graffiti art touch up.

These touch-ups are for the graffiti art that was painted on the bleachers of the setting of a school gym-themed stage for the show. Some types of graffiti art that were seen are blockbuster and fat cap which is to create a reference to an actual setting of a school. The line of guests who were present at the show are friends of Virgil and people who are known in the industry, one happens to be the one and only Anna Wintour who was seated in the middle of the first row.

Gema Magazine

Photo Courtesy of V Magazine

Photo Courtesy of V Magazine

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As guests were sitting down, an announcement was made to tell the show was about to start, an introduction of the theme was given by an emcee who was self translating his English words to french. “Shit is about to get crazy or as they say in french “ça va être folle” he giggled. “Get your iPhones ready; the vibes are about to be immaculate,” and then comes Bella Hadid who opens the show with an electric shade of cobalt blue to a velour mini tube dress with matching knee-high boots. As if on cue what the emcee warned earlier, guests really took their iPhones out to snap and record that iconic scene of Bella Hadid strutting down the long runway right before their eyes. This moment was considered special because it is as though no other human in the world would have pulled off that look.

Seconds later, familiar faces such as Joan Smalls, Amber Valetta, Honey Dijon, and Candice Swanepoel continued to feed the eyes of the audience in bold, very structured-like cuts of dresses and suits. The whole collection featured sophisticated tailoring on different fabrics, trending cutouts, precision silhouettes, and industrial detailing on monochromatic looks.

As soon as the audience thought the show could not get any better, Bella Hadid had her spotlight moment once again as she made a comeback with a show-stopping final look. She transformed her look to a more elegant lengthy dress that had a boxy silhouette and in the same shade of blue and the same fabric of velour to her first look of the show. The surprises just kept coming, as soon as Bella Hadid had blessed the eyes of the audience for the second time, the emcee announced a special performance by M.I.A. A group of Indian female dancers in bra tops and cargo pants then came up on stage and got into formation with a DJ on the decks. The performance commences with the dancers creating a human wave in a row. The choreographer explains that the wave concept was inspired by M.I.A’s own music video of her song “P.O.W.A” in 2017. M.I.A then came out wearing an Off-White cream oversized suit performing a live mini-concert. In an interview with WWD, Virgil explains that he wanted to make a safe space for M.I.A to execute her art and connect it with what Off-White stands for as she is known for sharing her thoughts on global concerns. There was a part when she was performing ‘Borders’ and she shouted “Britney, what’s up with that?” as a form of supporting Britney Spears who was going through a conservatorship court case. This shows that she is paying tribute to the “hashtag free Britney”. She also performed her hit; “Paper Planes” as she invited Virgil and the models to come up to join her on stage. The models had their final walk, greeted the singer, and continued walking down to return backstage. M.I.A then greeted Virgil who stayed back and was hanging around by the DJ’s decks until she sang her last lyric of her song. As soon as the song finished, the show ended.

Virgil sure has a knack for putting on a show. The staging gives the vibe of industrial innovation meets culture with his architecture inspiration and M.I.A’s culture focus performance. It was definitely a good one and sure is a representation of fun at a laboratory.

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Photo Courtesy of Chanel

From Chic To

Punk Rock!

Kong Yeen Yue

08/08

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Chanel meets punk rock with Virginie Viard's latest graphic cruise collection 2022

Over the years, Chanel has held many magnificent fashion shows with incredible architectural achievements, alongside elevating and setting new benchmarks for the fashion world. There is something about Chanel's set designs that puts everybody in awe and has become an iconic moment in the fashion world for years. The Chanel Cruise 2021/2022 show was no different- set against the backdrop of the old limestone quarry of Carrières de Lumières in the picturesque hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence, the show brought the audiences on a spectacular visual journey.

Virginie Viard created the show with the inspiration drawn from Coco Chanel's long-time friend and director Jean Cocteau's movie, Testament of Orpheus. Virginie Viard fell in love with the film, and the film was shot at the exact location. “In particular this magnificent scene: a man with a black horse’s head descends into the Carrières de Lumières, his silhouette cut out against the very white walls.” Viard said. Just the visuals of having the colour black against white was what inspired Viard to create this monochromatic collection with dramatic punk rock elements in the Chanel Cruise 2021/2020 runway show.

She brought out the best features from her collection by choosing fabrics with darker shades so that the collection stands out in contrast with the bleached rock walls of Carrières de Lumières and providing a jaw-dropping backdrop to the collection. “The precision and the poetry of Cocteau’s film made me want to create a very clean collection, with a very distinct two-tone, made up of bright white and deep black,” Viard explained. She contrasts tough, modern punk style with soft and bright tones. “Lots of fringes, in leather, beads and sequins, t-shirts bearing the face of the model Lola Nicon like a rock star, worn with tweed suits trimmed with wide braids, and pointed silver Mary-Janes. A look that recalls as much the modernity of the 60s as that of punk.” Viard added. She completed the look with fishnet stockings, torn edges, and a heavy black eyeliner with face studs to create the overall punk-ish vibe.

Photo Courtesy of Vogue

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As the models start to walk down the quarry's steps and strut through the courtyard, many wore tulle miniskirts and dresses layered over fishnet stockings and coupled with white patent leather ankle boots - a different take on the usual Chanel's ladylike dress code. Some of the taffeta skirts were printed with Cocteau's famous illustration patterns, and some of his actual star illustrations were hand-painted onto the leather trousers. There were also waffle-knit sweaters with Pablo Picasso's signature doves of peace imprints as well as sparkling lions, fauns, camels, and sphinxes embroideries which were all borrowed by Virginie from Coco's famously preserved home. Some of the models were seen wearing the Chanel logo lip piercings, a heartfelt tribute to Stella Tennant, Chanel's late muse, inspired by archive photos of her. Other pieces, such as airy caftans, matching patterned sets, and white dresses, were also spotted on the runway heavily as it is more appropriate to the "resort" theme for the collection. Chanel did it again and again, as Janet Flanner explained in a New Yorker profile: "She has put the apache's sweater into the Ritz, utilized the ditch-digger's scarf, made chic the white collars and cuffs of the waitress, and put queens into mechanics' tunics."

Photo Courtesy of Chanel

Virginie has been perfecting her new vision of Chanel since taking over for the late Karl Lagerfeld in 2019. And it is clear that this punk-themed collection may not be recognized well by the elegant and chic branding of Chanel, no matter what type of style you are - soft, casual, rock - Chanel will always cater to your needs as Virginie continues to grow in confidence and leadership, leaving a tremendous memorable impression for each collection. To end the show, the models gathered onto the steps and released a flock of doves for a dramatic finish for the collection.

Gema Magazine

Editorials

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The Head-Turning Culture of

Punk Rock creative and styled by Razeq Jeffry

Punk rock is a subculture that has existed in Malaysia since the 80s. What used to be an underground scene has now been recognized as a mainstream culture that impacted the fashion and music industry. Thanks to the young generation who have adopted the punk rock trend and made it current and relevant with their new and customized style. The punk culture is now known to be a strong form of expression through fashion and music. Bold fashion statements such as handmade leather jackets adorned with studs, chains, and even boys in eyeliner have given punk rock culture a sense of uniqueness. This mainstream culture that was mostly known for its music is becoming an anti-mainstream culture that focuses on individuality, all thanks to the Malaysian youth culture.

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"Saturday nights the boys, and I hang out to paint the town red."

Razeq

−

"Handmade leather jackets is the favorite choice."

−Razeq

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Magic In The Movement With A Trio of Digital Presentations Catherine Lim

03/08

Creative Director of Hermes presents an impressive 2021 A/W collection in three countries New York, Paris, and Shanghai, that includes a runway show and two performances.

Photo Courtesy of Hermès

New York

Paris

Shanghai

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Hermes is a luxury goods company based in France, founded in 1837. It is known for its leather goods and ready-to-wear collection. The Hermès women's collection for Autumn/Winter 2021 was conceived as a live show film in three acts in New York, Paris and Shanghai, which were stitched together to create a masterpiece. The film begins with the opening ceremony, shot in New York and accompanied by a choreographed performance. It then moves to Paris, where the Autumn/ Winter 2021 collection is shown on the runway. Finally, the film ends with another choreographed performance in Shanghai. The idea for the performances and the runway show came from Hermes creative director Nadege Vanhee-Cybulski. She explained that men and women are unable to travel together during this pandemic, which is why the collection will be in motion. But more importantly, Nadege Vanhee - Cybulski also said that this is not a film about fashion or dance, but a film about us and how we can always reinvent ourselves.

The film begins with the opening ceremony in New York. It was a Madeline Hollander choreographed performance. Dancers moved through the space without interruption, blending seamlessly into one another. Orange curtains glided and ascended throughout the performance, framing the dancers while simulating the movements that were being incorporated into the performance. The pleated skirts that were styled onto each dancer highlighted their freedom of movement. The movement allowed the clothing to create unique and interesting shapes while emphasizing emotions and moods. Apart from the wonderful performance, the Hermes waist belt and leather accessories worn by the dancers have attracted attention as they are seen to be designed with great skill in a more modern way.

After the opening ceremony, the eyes of the audience were blessed with a scene of the runway show that was filmed in Paris. The entire Autumn/Winter 2021 women's collection was beautifully showcased on the Paris-themed runway. The theme of the runway was created by VanhéeCybulski after the shock of the lockdown. In her view, life would revert to the way it used to be and the women's collections offered simplicity and sophistication in the form of unique pieces that no wardrobe should be without. The Hermesway stood out among the women's collections on the runway. Hermesway is a versatile case that holds Rouge Hermès, a lipstick designed by Hermès jewelry creative director Pierre Hardy, a card pocket, a phone clip, and a pocket for AirPods - pretty much everything we need during the day. The Hermèsway holder was seen on the runway in three leather colors: black, Bordeaux and saffron. Models on the runway were wearing the Hermesway as an oversized pendant over the shoulder, across the body, and even around the neck with a thin, adjustable strap attached to it. It can also simply be held between the fingers, as seen on the runway. Each piece in the collection stood out for its exceptional craftsmanship and elegance as it reflected and represented the true meaning of Hermes.

The film ends with the closing ceremony with a performance choreographed by Gu Jiani in Shanghai. During the performance, the performers are seen to be balancing on orange boxes that are constantly moved. Every movement had such calculated precision and was supported by the other performers. The performance portrayed the idea that women should help each other navigate the world by offering support. Gu Jiani views clothing as a source of inspiration for choreography rather than a tool. She also mentioned that this is very different from her usual way of working, where the costume is rarely the starting point for a new creation. The position of women in today's world is represented in the performance.

All in all, it was an excellent way to conclude a women's fashion collection designed by a woman for women. With the thoughtful performances and beautifully showcased looks on the runway, there is a sense of togetherness that Hermes brings to all. From the show, Hermes is increasingly interested in creating attention-grabbing video formats that not only tell a compelling story but also place the collections in a visual context that reflects the company's vision and identity.

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Matching Sweatsuits, We’re Slaying it Jshuang

31/07

The perfect combination of street style in comfortness, it’s what we need now in this postpandemic season.

@heymotherchuckers

@nanabwincess

@juweiteoh

Living in comfortability is our comfort zone now after a year and a half of staying in our cozy beds. Has this pandemic season affected our daily fashion lives? The answer is surely a big YES! The street-style fashion vibe has taken over our daily wear. The emergence of matching sweatsuits is essentially pairing sweatshirts with sweatpants in the same pattern or color is stronger than ever. These cozy pieces have become a staple in everyone’s closet. We've already reconsidered this work-from-home attire to our daily outfit.

We are currently in the year of sweats; due to this pandemic, we have cut off our needs for clothing, which are uncomfortable and nonfunctional. People are reaching out for more comfy and stretchy materials during this season. Moreover, loungewear has been upgraded and became more cohesive, and it has become more than just homeware. People are pairing their matching sweatsuits with their chunky accessories, fancy sneakers or slippers, and even with designer bags. This makes us look more put together for running errands without sacrificing the comfort that we have adapted to in the past year and a half.

The emergence of matching sweatsuits has been unexpected, after a long time of being couch potatoes and attending digital parties., we can’t really seem to avoid comfy clothes. The trend is far from basic in 2021, and it has become fancier and has been elevated to new heights.

The trend has become huge on social media, all thanks to influencers and fashion brands. Scrolling through our social media, Malaysia's influencer ain’t taking this trend lightly; we can see it everywhere.

@shopfondest

@heymotherchuckers

Retailers are starting to see that sweatsuits are a best-selling item during this pandemic season, along with loungewear and knitwear, emphasizing comfortability and functionality. Thus, the value of sweats in 2021 has its scenery. Besides, fashion brands based in Malaysia, such as Heymotherchuckers and shopfondest, are taking the trend to another level by launching their collection of matching sweatsuits. It sold out immediately, this shows that people are obsessed with this trend and also supporting local brands. Thus, we’re expecting a bright future for matching sweatsuits because it has brought together the two worlds of comfortability and being fashionable to feed all our fashion needs during difficult times as such.

After some time of staying in our loungewear, we’re not ready to take them off. Sweats are loosefitting tops and pants, whether it’s long or short made from soft and stretchy materials which give us the comfort and coziness that we used to in the season of the pandemic. Matching sweatsuits will be perfect for us after going back to our normal daily lives, mixing in the street style chic with the element of comfort. Make sure to get your matching sweatsuit; if you are bored with basic single-color pieces, you can get them in patterns such as tie-dye, animal prints, and many more.

Keep up with the trend, and be the fashionista that is rocking your matching sweatsuits!

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Escaping through

COTTAGECORE _ photographed & styled by Ashley Laureisha

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Encourages people today to live a simple and happy life just like how Cottagecore was meant to be, live your life in a simpler way and it will make you more positive and happier.

As we observe during this pandemic, health is more significant than wealth. Before the pandemic struck, everyone was too engrossed in their daily life but when the pandemic came, people started to value their own health instead. This pandemic is a wake-up call as more people began to realize life is short and begin prioritizing what is more important to them. As the phrase goes “Less is More” means, adding some simplicity to life can make it more powerful, and providing yourself with a short getaway from this chaotic world is making it good for you.

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Phone Cases is The New Shoes Low Kah Wei

03/08

The trend of matching phone cases with your entire look is just as important as having the perfect pair of shoes that compliment your look When phone cases first came about, they were viewed only as something to be used functionally, but now they've evolved into a proper fashion accessory and a way of expressing one's self. Phone cases are slowly becoming the main eye-catching fashion accessories on us after a pair of shoes. It is all about matching a perfect outfit, and being picky is inborn. Selfie enthusiasts are elevating their mirror photos with cult phone cases, and are especially enhanced their overall outfits, accessories, and nail colors. Phone cases are now seen in various types of colors, prints, and patterns that follow the footsteps of the yearly color trends.

@p_yinggg

@p_yinggg

@debbyyong

01 The Basics The basic plain colour goes well with any outfit. A simple colour without a design is a selling point to simplicity. They are going to purchase them in different colours, especially when they are super cheap and high-quality. The basic plain colour phone cases are actually the longest-used compared to the others. Many local fashion influencers are using plain colour phone cases as they are easy to style with and have good colour looking. The medium-light shade of cyan-blue brings out the coolness of the black blazer and jeans @p_yinggg wearing. @p_yinggg chooses a beige color phone case to match her girly outfit. Green is trending in these two years, especially the avocado green is a big trend, while we can see @debbyyong is also wearing shorts and styling a shoulder bag in light green also a pair of socks in dark avocado green. Adding another phone case in vines green, you can say it is such a perfect matching.

Gema Magazine

@98.yennis

Fashion

@ceciboey

075

@98.yennis

02 The Quotes and Prints

The matching of nails colors and phone cases is always conscious by girls, so the quotes and prints type is favoured by most of the girls. In recent years, it is seen that many brands are starting to offer phone cases that include mental health-related quotes to empower individuals as mental health cases are on the rise. The transparent ones with quotes and prints are chosen frequently as they are easy to match with our nail colours and rings.

@chenhui____

@98.yennis

03 The Cute Furry The cute furry type has more design on it as it can be a print pattern as well as a cute one with a whole doll on it and of course that they are all washable to keep them clean and cute. A plain color outfit is easily paired with cute furry phone cases as they are big and colorful and can protrude them at the same time. People actually like using them during winter as it is easier to match with the outfit.

Gema Magazine

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OVERSIZED TEE is Becoming the GO-TO Fashion Choice Low Kah Wei

03/08

Turning a shapeless oversized tee into a fashionable piece is one of the best ways to delight boredom.

Gema Magazine

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

The lockdown has, among other things, taught us to prioritize comfort over everything else, making us choose a comfortable, easy silhouette over body-hugging clothes even when returning to the workplace. This summer, oversized tees are having their moment. However, oversized tees and other baggy clothes can be hard to wear which is a nice way of saying those voluminous garments can be super unflattering. So now, people are now pulling towards oversized tee while creating more styles with it due to the influence of the pandemic. Today, styling an oversized tee is a fun process that results in something extraordinary. Oversized tees are a must in anyone's closet.

They're a great option if you're looking for a low-key vibe, but you can also dress them up too.

Remember that buy oversized, not big. Purposefully oversized pieces provide the additional structure you need to avoid looking like all your clothes have stretched on the hanger which just looks scruffy. We want the items to be oversized in the correct places, like the shoulders and the waist. Oversized tees may not be the newest fashion item in the market, nevertheless, oversized tee lovers are stepping up their game as this simple and comfortable piece of clothing is being styled in the most creative and unique ways to give them more of an edge. From fishnets to skirts, oversized tees are being styled in multiple ways that bring out one's personality.

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The oversized aesthetic, however, isn’t simply about buying two sizes up.

Elegant, well-tailored, and structured clothes are the trend. Hailey Bieber gives an oversized tee a try with fishnet tights and combat boots. The fishnet tights brought the common oversized tee into another style. What if we add a belt to it? No fashion rule prohibits modifying a trend to suit your shape. If you can’t handle all the bulk that comes with a big top, add a belt to define your waist.

Hailey Beiber

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Jas Sagu "Dressing in comfier silhouettes does have a psychological effect because you recognize and know your comfort zone and ease. It gives me a lot of confidence when it comes to everyday movement, it helps me stay at ease and be more productive when I am creating content. And now, even with people venturing out, that has become a part of our style."

Comfort comes first but, girls are never lazy for dressing up. Styling oversized tees with a mini skirt is a good option to pull towards too when wanted to look stylish but comfortable. It makes an individual looks younger and playful in this style. The mini skirt is also one of the best ways for us girls to expose more skin, the combination of exposing skin and an oversized baggy tee will give an illusion of a proper balance overall look that has the right ratio.

In conclusion, comfort and style can coexist. After all the bleak news of the past year, people just want comfort over anything else. In short, personal aesthetics are for everyone and people place more importance on the comfort of their clothes, so why not put the two together. This pandemic is a great period for us to create more at home, start experimenting with an oversized tee and it is ensured that it's a choice that will not be mistaken! During this pandemic, some people are taking their time to learn different skills, we can also make use of time by styling our oversized tee to delight our boredom. Being simple is too boring as everything can be in various looks by having better style.

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Accessories are

SAVIOR for Outfits.

The ongoing fashion accessories trend in 2021 is here to take your outfits to the next level.

Ashley Laureisha Marsh

02/08

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Have you ever wondered what is the purpose of accessories? An accessory is an add-on thing that can be added to compliment something else to make it stand out and enhance its beauty. Even though you are not an accessory type of person, I am very sure that you will still have one or two accessories on your wardrobe list. It might be an all-match accessory with simple designs or strong designs for special events or occasions. Undeniable, the accessories trend continues to be a strong element and statement in fashion these few years, a simple chain with different pendant patterns is the past now. As it is seen on runways, the fashion accessories trend from 2021 to 2022 is moving towards the big and loud look, from heavy chains to strong and bright colors. They are moving away from the old and boring. It is the time for accessories to shine and bring joy to us. Therefore, if you are not good at matching accessories, go for the safest way; one will do.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

01 Pearl Necklace Pearl is a queen of gems and gems of queens. The pearl accessories went from traditional to classic and modern. If you’re still holding the thoughts that pearls are a thing of the past, it’s time to be reacquainted with it and step up your game. Pearl accessories underwent a renaissance of sorts in the last decade and they are back in trend now! Pearl accessories display the feel of luxury and elegance. Pearl necklaces are showing up in a wide range of jewelry styles instead of just a string of pearls like in the past. Jewelry designers incorporate pearls with unique shapes, chains, colors, different elements, shiny metal accents, and more into their jewelry designs. And the outcomes are surprisingly matchable. In the perceptions of many people, a pearl necklace can only be worn with traditional costumes. No, it's wrong!

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Fashion

082 People nowadays wear pearl necklaces in different styles for instance streetwear, casual wear, athleisure wear and Y2K style. Rihanna wore a black Alexander McQueen jumpsuit and lace gloves with a layered pearl necklace at the London premiere of the Quentin Tarantino film “Inglourious Basterds.” The layered pearl necklace was the main point and most eyecatching item of the overall look. It brings us back where ladies of nobility and royalty wore elaborate pearl accessories, by the 19th century. If Rihanna did it, you know you need to do it too, get yourself a pearl necklace now if you are a pearl lover.

Rihanna at the London premiere of the Quentin Tarantino film “Inglourious Basterds.”

Y2K - the monochromatic futuristic approaches to fashion. There are probably a few specific things that come to mind when you think of the Y2K aesthetic. And yes, the must-have early aughts trends are like baguette bags and baby tees in bright hues.

Undeniable, the pearl necklace still blends in well with the playful and futuristic outfit styles as the pearl necklace seems to be more vintage.

Y2K Reference

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

02 Chain Necklace If you have made it this far, you are going to love this next trend! The beaded necklace, known as the beachy necklaces is a fun option for jewelry lovers because it can be layered over existing jewelry and can be worn alone or with a bracelet. They also come in a variety of dazzling colors and patterns, making them a great choice for all. Do you know that the beaded necklaces add fun and joyful pops of color and texture to your wardrobe?

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Fashion

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

If you want a cohesive look, you will need a chunky chain necklace to match your outfits. A simple chain necklace will do its work to embellish your overall look. Matching in athleisure wear with sweaters, blazers, leather jackets are good choices too. People usually go for the medium size of the chain as it is just right in size. It is good to go on special occasions like fashion-related events or weekend nights out with friends. It gives bold and elegant statements.

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

03 Beaded Necklace If you have made it this far, you are going to love this next trend! The beaded necklace, known as the beachy necklaces is a fun option for jewelry lovers because it can be layered over existing jewelry and can be worn alone or with a bracelet. They also come in a variety of dazzling colors and patterns, making them a great choice for all. Do you know that the beaded necklaces add fun and joyful pops of color and texture to your wardrobe?

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Anna Sui Spring Summer 2019

Christopher Kane Spring Summer 2017

Many runways for instance Anna Sui and Christopher Kane were bursting with colorful jewelry.

Models were dressed in a printed and plain hat in knitted tops, cardigans and see-through glammy tops. Many also open up small businesses specializing in handcrafted beaded accessories on their social media platform. And yes, you can make it yourself if you are passionate. You can even design it in the shapes, colors or patterns of your choice!

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

On the other hand, the Y2K style has a staple of beaded accessories too. The style is back and many Y2K lovers start to dress up with beaded accessories with their colorful outfits. As you can see, the apparel in bright hues blends perfectly with the colorful beaded accessories and brings up the scenes of how early 20s movie characters were styled.

Grab yourself either one of the accessories above in your wardrobe now as they are an allmatch item. Accessories are always there to save you by looking put together. It also embellishes your overall outfits at the same time. Give the accessories trend a try and give yourself a try too. Who knows, you might fall in love with the accessories trend.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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The 90’s 90’s Hair Accessories Hair Accessories Is Back To The Fashion Game, Stronger And Ever !

Jshuang

03/08

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Hair accessories, we need this wistful fashion statement to spice up our street style during this hard times.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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In times of crisis, we need nostalgia feel to make us feel more comfortable. Whether it’s in this lockdown session or when life is back to normal , hair accessories are that specific category on which everyone feels the necessity to always have an upgrade on. Recently, the 90s’ hair accessories trend came back with a blast, it’s cool again within these years. As seen from street style “ootds” photos posted on social media, hair accessories have become strong fashion statement pieces that adds a touch of retro into the overall aesthetic of the outfit.

Hair accessories such as scrunchies, hair clips, and wide hair bands were really popular in the 1990s but they made a return to the fashion game with the inclusion of more interesting elements and varieties such as trendy prints and patterns. The trend has become bigger not only on social media, but also on high-fashion runways, on celebrities, and also seen spotted in street style looks. We can see this 90’s hair accessory everywhere during this pandemic season , this trend is even seen to be applied with loungewear looks. Let's look back into this nostalgic trend and see how it has been elevated in the year 2021 while looking into the fashion icons that have rocked this trend in their street style looks.

01 Scrunchies is the big daddy of 90s accessories, everyone loves scrunchies. It is seen in the past that its functionality's more towards fashion accessories on the wrists instead of actually using it to keep hair out of our faces. Scrunchies have evolved to a variety of patterns and materials to contribute to the trend.

Now, we can even see the trending usage of scrunchies as more of a functional fashion piece as they are now looped around the low or high ponytails or half updos of street-style stars, celebrities, and Instagram influencers alike.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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02 Headband is one of the hair accessories that 90’s teenagers are crazy about. From the iconic 90’s movie “ clueless” the main characters always had headbands on which made headbands have their very own recognition spotlight in the fashion world. Headbands has become more elegant in 2021, “Wear your headband like you were born with it!” is an outspoken fashion rule in the world we live in today . This season we see a lot of headbands that are embellished with pearls and in styles of being wide and chunky spotted in street style looks .

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

03 Hair Clips The coolest 90s inspired hair accessories are still one of the hottest trends even today. In 2021, some of the commonly seen hair clips that are in style are pearl-embellished hair clips and hair clips in the shapes of butterflies. Cool kids are completing their street style looks with their fancy hair clips which as a bold fashion statement.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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The old-school hair nostalgia is back and people are crazy over it. It is seen in this pandemic season, we still can’t leave our hair accessories behind as it is even paired with loungewear. These 90s classic hair accessories trends have been the pieces that fashion lovers can’t stop wearing even when they're locked up at home . Without a doubt , this trend of hair accessories will appear stronger once the pandemic season is over and individuals are able to rock their street style looks in the open world once again. Without a doubt, hair accessories were rooted in 90’s throwbacks and are becoming more and more timeless. Make sure to add these hair accessories to your 2021 collection to become fashionable.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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Bringing Back the

90’s Baby!

The 90's, the years of fun and color - 90's fashion trends have helped shape the world of fashion.

From trendy hair clips to trendy headbands, hair accessories that remind us of that nostalgic feeling makes a bold statement in expressing one's fashion personality. May it be wanting to bring back the vibes of '90s fashion trends or spicing up your outfits with hair accessories. The bright and bold 90's accessories trends are made to get us thinking about the good old years!

art direction & styled by Kong Yeen Yue, JShuang, Catherine Lim

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A Stylist Behind

the Artist

Zulvanny Andiny has developed herself a field of expertise in the fashion industry and she has full of passion for her jobs as a fashion stylist.

Ashley Laureisha Marsh & Lee Jia En

14/07

@thezulvanny

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"I am a stylist and a go-getter."

Zulvanny Andiny

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Background Zulvanny Andiny – a fashion stylist, graduated from London College of Style and focus on styling and hands-on experiences. She joined Sony Music UK, part of Little Mix's team and online magazine team as a stylist and writer as well as in ErrorDigital.com for her internship. After graduating from college, she works as an assistant stylist for the senior stylist, Haida Yusof for two years.

Zulvanny dropped into the Malaysian scene with her eclectic yet elegant personal style, exuding all the confidence of someone who knows exactly how she wants to be seen. A veritable millennial Patricia Field, her humble demeanor and determination will see her far in this ever-changing industry.

We have the chance to get to know more about the fashion stylist behind the artist, Zulvanny Andiny. The story of how she becomes a stylist behind the artists and creates an aesthetic look for a music video.

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@thezulvanny

Q1. What do you like the most about styling as a profession?

@thezulvanny

I think what i like the most about styling as a profession is that it’s never boring. Everyday is different. Different look, different people, different challenges. You’re not stuck on your desk the whole day and you get to experience things along the way. And of course, you get to play with pretty clothes, shoes and accessories! That’s probably what I like about my profession.

Q2. As stylists have themselves become celebrities and the profession comes in spotlight, have the various ideas and definitions of what this job really is about. How would you describe your profession?

I always believe my job is to bring out the best version of a person through their outfits. It’s not always easy but it’s rewarding.

Q3. What kind of misconceptions do people have about stylists?

That they make clothes or we own unlimited sources of clothes and shoes! Haha

Q4. What kind of style do you usually use in your work?

Is there a particular creative direction that is your signature?

I’d like to believe my style evolve throughout the years, but I always make sure that the look would have some edge to it. I think that’s my signature.

Q5. You style a lot of people in the public eye; do you consider yourself to be a trendsetter?

Not at all! haha Trendsetter or not, it depends on the people who look at it from the other side.

@thezulvanny

Q6. Do you style the artist differently for each new album or do you try to keep a consistent look based on their personal style and brand image?

Most of the time we would stick to their brand image or who they are at the artist. But as time goes by their style would evolve too and we’re just kind of following the flow. Although, there are circumstances where we changed their image completely, just because we feel like it’s the right thing to do.

Q7. A lot of your work is styling musicians and artists for their videos, tell us about the process.

There’s a lot going behind the scenes. It involves conceptualising, ideation, sourcing, fitting, and the shooting itself. Everything needs to be well-prep in case of anything happen on stage or during the shoot. The most important thing for me is the process of getting to know the artist and their music, so that we can present it well.

Q8. How much input into the styling of artist do you have versus how much do they get to decide?

I’ve been lucky to have clients that trust my judgment. As long as I take note on their personal style and restrictions, most of the time they give me freedom to decide.

Q9. How do the songs influence your styling work and creative process?

It really plays a huge role in kicking off the mood to start creative process, stays inspired and lifting off the stress!

Q10. Is it more difficult to design a look for a music group than for a single artist?

Definitely. I think the biggest challenge in styling a group is to bring out each of the member’s personality while at the same time make them look cohesive as a group.

Q11. How do you source the clothes and accessories for your styling projects?

In every places basically! hahah from designers showroom, stores, vintage store and even online. I go high and low to get the pieces I want.

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Q12. Which celebrities or artists that you have collaborated with are your favourites and why?

Truthfully, I enjoy working with most of my clients. I sat with all of them and exchange ideas. I gotta say, Yuna always set the bar very high and that motivates me to do better every single time.

Another one would be Simon Webbe from Boy Band, BLUE, just because I listened to his music growing up!

Q13. What do you need to pay attention to when handling the artist's album sleeve, music video and concert look respectively?

For album sleeve, it’s important to pay attention of what message they want to convey through the album and represent that. For music video and concerts, it’s mostly concept, the set,the lights and the performance. It’s important to know that to make them stand out in the camera or at the stage.

Q14. Which project you are most satisfied with and why?

It’s really hard to choose one. Every project is a hardworking and a bittersweet journey. My projects are my babies, and I have no favourite child! Haha

Q15. What future projects are you looking forward to?

With covid, i think it’s hard to plan for the future. But at the moment, I’m working on my personal development and looking forward to improving myself.

Q16. What is the most unusual experience you’ve had on set?

Having the director disappear midway through the shoot.

Q17. If you could pick one celebrity with excellent style and one whose style you don’t like, who would they be?

Style is really subjective so what’s not to like, right? hahah. If i have to choose one celebrity with excellent style, it’d be Solange Knowles and Zendaya.

Q18. As a member of the industry, what advice do you have for newcomers to the styling industry?

Just make sure you have the passion and ready to dedicate your time to commit to it. It’s not as easy as it seems but the passion will keep you going and DO your research.

Monochrome Campaign Styled by @thezulvanny

1st AJL Styled by @thezulvanny

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@thezulvanny

Conclusion Being a fashion stylist is not as easy as we think it is. Through the interview with Zulvanny, we have known that styling as a profession never gets boring. Compared to other jobs, the days of a stylist are always different. Different looks, people, challenges, etc. Getting opportunities to experience new and fresh things along the way. A fashion stylist doesn't make clothes or own unlimited sources of apparel. Fashion stylists go high and low to get pieces they want in every place. For instance, from designers' showrooms, stores, vintage stores, and even online stores.

The responsibility of a fashion stylist is to bring out the best version of a person through outfits. Most of the time fashion stylists will style their clients based on the brand image or who they are as an artist. Therefore, as time goes by their style would evolve too and just kind of go the flow. Although, there are circumstances where fashion stylists changed the client's image completely, just because it’s the right thing to do. Besides that, a lot is going behind the scenes of styling a music video. It involves conceptualizing, ideation, sourcing, fitting, and the shooting itself. Everything needs to be well-prep in case of anything happens on stage or during the shoot. The most important thing is the process of getting to know the artist and their music, hence fashion stylists can present it well. At the same time, the biggest challenge in styling a group is to bring out each of the member’s personalities while making them look cohesive as a group. According to Zulvanny, paying attention to what messages the clients want to convey through the album and represent is extremely significant in the stylings of the album sleeve. For music videos and concerts, it’s mostly concept, sets, lighting, and performance. It’s important to make artists stand out in the camera or on the stage.

Who says a fashion stylist can only do styling jobs; a stylist can own a brand, merchandise jobs, etc.

Besides, Zulvanny mentioned being a fashion stylist needs to do more research on the client’s perspective and the sourcing of apparel and accessories for styling purposes before styling your clients or brand. Most importantly, have faith and passion in everything you do, be ready to dedicate your time to commit to it. It’s not as easy as it seems, but suffering will keep you going; that’s what Zulvanny said.

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At Prada , Simplicity Is Back

Jshuang

07/08

The minimalism roots in Prada are still growing strong, discovering how the brand embodies the timeless aesthetic into their collection.

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Prada Resort 2020 Advertising Camapgin

In our current world, everything feels too much and too exaggerated. During these difficult times, the need for simplicity arises. Looking back into the history of fashion, we can see a handful of styles that reemerge through time. Minimalism, one of the outstanding entries on the list that is never out of the vogue. Regarding fashion, minimalism isn’t a momentary trend representing a singular item or an accessory. It’s about cutting down the unnecessary and leaving only the basics that provide us the real value and also bring us joy. A good example that can be used in a topic like such is the all so famous Prada. Their pieces aren't always attractive or sanitized, but it still creates a desire for us that makes us think that although we don’t like them, we want to have them.

Scrolling through the history of Prada, we can find the similarity through each collection. Although simplicity is not the main motive for the brand, the brand includes touches of minimalism in most of its collections, advertising campaigns, and runways.

Prada Resort 2020

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The minimalist root is still growing strong in Prada and it doesn’t have to be boring. It's been a year and a half going back to basics, whether in our daily lives or in fashion, which makes perfect timing for the brand to embrace a style inspired by our necessity. The clothing had become more straightforward, unostentatious, machines for living and tools for action and activity. In this pandemic session, simplicity is much needed and Miuccia's concept of simplicity falls into her bags mixing in with classicism. It’s always a must-have for each season and collection. From the newest Nappa bag, Cleo shoulder bag to the Re-Nylon Re-Edition 2000 bag. Although the designs are always plain and simple, they become objects of desire for individuals to keep up with the latest trends. As seen from the trending Prada bags, ‘less is more’ really hits differently and we have been attracted to something simple but fashionable in a way. This is an ideal way to accentuate the minimalist ensemble of the brand.

@juweiteoh with Prada Re-Nylon bottle pouch

@vanessahong with Prada Galleria bag

@suesasha with Prada Cleo bag

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In Miuccia's vision of minimalism, she hopes that fashion can be more humble as there are so many other problems in the world. Pieces from Prada were distilled to their purest possible form, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t as rigorous or just as considered as the richest embroidered cape. For example, Prada S/S 2021 collection is the first collection collaborating Miuccia Prada with Raf Simons. The collection is uniform-inspired and full of monochrome and simple designs. Their first collection went back to their trademark minimalist style. The palette for the collection is black, white, and pastel colors. “Clothes are pared-back, refined, focused, without superfluous decoration: shell tops, straight pants, overcoats in industrial re-nylon [regenerated nylon],” the brand said in a statement. “The clothes are simple, but with the concept of simplicity as an antidote to useless complication,” Miuccia Prada said, in a statement that spoke eloquently of the time in which we live. During this pandemic season, who has the time to spend hours thinking about what clothing they should wear every morning?

Prada S/S 2021

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In fashion terms, minimalism focuses more on the form and the fabric of the clothing more than the function. Minimalist designers often play with lines and geometric shapes in monochrome palettes and designs. It has become a responsible way of fashion consumption and aesthetic that persuades the current fashion consciousness. As we first think about Prada the brand, the first idea that comes to mind is ugly chic but for a lot of times, ugly is attractive, ugly is also exciting, mixing in the element of simplicity, this is why the brand reached success and fame. Simplicity became essential during our pandemic world, which the brand had taken advantage of and changed the minimalism game to another level. Prada keeps fashion in its purest form: minimalist clothes and accessories are to enhance, not dominate. The simplicity in the brand transits seamlessly between different occasions, taking you from virtual meetings to real-life interaction to elegant events. The minimalist roots will keep growing in the future and it’s always the sprout of the brand.

Prada A/W 2021 Advertising Campaign

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pay OVER coats 03/08

Say bye-bye to designer items! Affordable overcoats are taking over the world. Overcoats or as some may call them jackets are one of the most versatile and staple pieces when achieving the perfect OOTD. They are made to elevate your looks to further bring the element of interest to an outfit. They can be layered or even worn on their own, making them one of the easiest pieces to style when it comes to fashion. It is seen today that fast-fashion brands are strengthening their offering of overcoats and jackets to the public as they are they come in uncountable types of styles and colors. This brings difficulties for the public to select the right one. Worry less! here are 5 of the must-have styles of overcoats that would make a perfect addition to your closet.

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A bold-colored structured blazer is perfect for a day in the office or a night out with friends. A blazer like such gives the overall look a perfect ratio especially when paired with casual clothing. A bold blazer is made to stand out from the crowd.

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A basic neutral-colored rolled-up sleeve blazer that is slightly oversized is perfect for pairing with all kinds of looks and colors. An all-rounder staple piece to have you in your wardrobe.

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Leather overcoats instantly transform your look into a fashionista look. Leather overshirts are ideal as you are able to layer them or even wear them on your own.

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A bold oversized printed shirt is perfect for pairing with solid colors. A layered printed oversized shirt can bring interest and balance to the eyes of others.

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Baby blue oversized blazer MYR157.95

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Pull&bear faux leather overshirt MYR179.00

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Pull&bear basic rolled up sleeve blazer MYR199.00

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Cotton on twill shirt jacket MYR157.95

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Monki oversized denim jacket MYR200.00

A black oversized denim jacket instantly brings an edge to an outfit. It is a versatile and comfortable piece to incorporate into your daily looks that will bring you one step closer to looking and feeling like a fashion guru.

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The BEST Shoes in 2021 Low Kah Wei

06/08

16Arlington

The unique shoe trends in 2021 is every footwear lovers dream

Emilia Wickstead

A shoe is an item of footwear intended to protect and comfort the human foot. There is a total of 64 types of shoes and footwear for both men and women. Shoes are also used as an item of decoration and fashion. The design of shoes has varied enormously through time and from culture to culture, with appearance originally being tied to function.

No look is complete without the right shoe.

Different individuals like different types of designs of shoes and so it embodies an individual's fashion sense and personality. The unique design of shoes can catch the eyes of people. Recent runways have offered a promising footwear future that we're already stepping into.

This fall and winter are having many unexpected designs and trends. From the metallic boots to the loafer, from the very new silver to a common black. Other than that, the durable high black leather boots are still going on-trend and the hot pink kitten heel is grabbing attention. Many novel shoes like the ribbon-tie ballet slippers are new to us. They are the most outrageous and lustworthy shoes in this fall and winter.

The whole boldness and uniqueness of this metallic boot from Balenciaga are impressive. With how fast this trend has picked up, we're calling silver the new neutral.

Balenciaga

The high leather boots from Etro. It's called leather weather for a reason. This boot is sky-high and super fitted. While dressing in a dress is a fun way for us girls to expose more skin.

Etro

Sweet ribbon-tie ballet slippers from Erdem have given a subversive twist on the runway. Every girl has a ballerina dream and this is a good idea and great chance to the girls.

Erdem

The satin platform pump from Versace. Look over the crowd in a double-layered platform pump. Kitten heels can be fun, but embrace your inner drama queen by matching this platformed pop of pink with your monochrome outfit.

Versace

Chain loafer from JW Anderson. Nothing can better prepare you for a smooth transition into fall than a loafer/mule hybrid. Chunky gold features and shiny leather will make it stand out in a crowd.

JW Anderson

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Never Have Mondayblue Monday blues with Pop of Blues Loh Kah Wei

05/08

Why blend in when you were born to stand out with the new trend of adding pop of blues in your street style looks

We’ve had heatwaves and thunderstorms and everything in-between, but we’ve certainly been getting used to some amazing hot days this summer. One way to guarantee a "feeling blue" vibe for the foreseeable is by taking the relaxing shade into your everyday looks. An outfit is boring for just having a single colour, so add a pop of blue to your monochrome outfit to update your go-to outfit!

It can be matched easily, it is therefore reassuring against all expectations. Not only for the youngsters, but the elderly can also be mastering with the blue fashion item easily.

The beauty behind this trend is the unlimited amount of options you can try throughout the season – from a duck egg blue handbag by Dior to a chic Marine Serre bucket hat, you can try it all. When styling these items, opt for all black or grey outfits. The bright hue will stand out amongst the deeper shades. Mix and match your accessories and discover a new favorite way to rock your key pieces. This season, blue accessories stormed the runways, and then the streets in various shades of blue, and the colour instantly became one of the biggest trends. Many local fashion influencers are also adding a pop of blue into their outfits and posting on social media as it is a current big trend.

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A local DJ and tattooist, Ashley Lau matches with a lace blue pantyhose in her outfit during her shoot for Gucci. The lace blue pantyhose became an eye-catching item in the whole outfit.

@ashleylauuuu

The local fashion influencer, Juwei Teoh was pairing with blue socks in her whole monochrome moonwalk outfit.

@juweiteoh

Juuwei Teoh matching her whole cool black outfit with a mini blue shoulder bag from materialipstick. The blue vivid mini bag is prominent in her all-black outfit.

@juweiteoh

The local fashion influencer, Junees Teoh style her whole white outfit with a baby blue pair of shoes. The baby blue slippers match well when they are putting together with soft tones.

@juneesteoh

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FEELING U C C I !

Having time to connect with our inner self, take care of yourself from inside out during this lockdown session. I felt great about myself!

COVID-19 had a major effect on our lives. During this hard session, our mental health is being emphasized because we faced a lot of challenges that made us feel stressed and overwhelmed. In this scenario, selfcare is extremely important, it’s crucial to put in the effort to make sure our mind, body, and soul are capable of handling our day-to-day challenges. As we’re having more time to stay in our cozy bed, make sure to use the time efficiently to communicate with yourself and build a stronger self. Feeling Gucci although we’re still in our post-pandemic session, we can go through this together, you’re not alone! Always stay active ! Connect with nature! Every little step you decide to make is a part of your progress, and your brain will be thankful for the extra endorphins. Don’t be afraid of getting help from professionals when needed. I know it’s not easy to go through this hard session, but believe in yourself! Positive mental health allows us to realize our full potential, cope with stress in life, work productively and make our life become more meaningful.

photographed by Jshuang

styled by Jshuang

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“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”

John Lennon

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Best Disposable Versatile Face Mask For All Styles and All Occasion Putri Nurshahira Khan

07/08

KN95 is one of the best disposable face masks, it can be wear for all occasions. KN95 is a disposable face mask that is regulated by the Chinese Government. KN95 face mask filter out 95 percent and offer a superior level of protection from the Covid-19, it also way protected for those who need to take public transport or go grocery shopping. Moreover, KN95 face masks are also used by the hospitals, this will gain other people's trust in wearing the KN95 face mask. With what has been mentioned before, since KN95 offers a superior level of protection, it suits everyday wear and any occasion such as events, fashion shows, works, colleges, or even schools. These are the places where we should be wearing a face mask that can be trusted and give us protection since the virus is not only when we have close contact but also airborne.

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Colours KN95 Face Mask (10pcs) MYR141.00 (Available at Etsy.com)

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Tie-Dye KN95 Disposable Face Mask (30pcs) MYR76.23 (Available at swaggrabber.com)

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Color-Nature KN95 Disposable Face Mask (30pcs) MYR76.23 (Available at Amazon.com)

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In The Footsteps Of

Aaliyah Presha Sashigaran

07/08

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

90's oversized baggy jeans trend started by the late Aaliyah is stronger than ever in 2021 and it's taking over the fashion world by storm!

The 90's baggy boyfriend jeans trend started by the late Aaliyah is back in 2021 and taking over the fashion world by storm! Aaliyah was an iconic individual that highly influenced the fashion culture in the '90s. She is known for her unique mixture of marrying the two worlds of hip hop music and fashion. One of her most iconic and memorable fashion statements was her extremely baggy boyfriend jeans that have changed the world of denim ever since. Her signature style of baggy boyfriend jeans has shaped the perception of baggy denim ever since. Boyfriend jeans are pants that are slouchy and very lose fitting that is usually made out of denim. Thanks to Aaliyah, baggy jeans have pulled away from what it was originally known for; ugly and only worn by workers in the industrial sector. In the 21st century, baggy boyfriend jeans are known to be fashionable and stylish!

Aaliyah has given baggy boyfriend jeans a fashion moment that has never completely faded away ever since!

In 2021, it is seen that the baggy boyfriend jeans are paying great tribute to the person that started it all, the late Aaliyah. Today, it is seen that the baggy boyfriend jeans have stepped up their game as brands are now offering this style of jeans in wide ranges of colors, fits, styles, and even sizes.

This nostalgic fashion piece has been elevated to new heights by brands and influencers who have the next step when it comes to styling their baggy boyfriend jeans. This fashion piece is seen to be more versatile and flexible in 2021 as well-known faces are now applying this denim trend to their everyday lives and even to special events and occasions. Fashionistas are not throwing the serotypes of jeans being uncomfortable out the window as this denim trend is said to be one of the easiest pieces to style on all body types. Fashion newbies, we've got you covered! Following are some of the well-known faces in 2021 that have utilized this trend immaculately according to their personalities and personal fashion identities in hopes that it will help you master this trend on your own! And some of the best baggy boyfriend jeans that are currently available on the market that would make a good addition to your existing wardrobe.

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@thenictionary

@dixiedamelio

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Nicole Chen, one of the leading fashion influencers in Malaysia has taken this trend and made it her own. Nicole is known for her strong fashion identity of expressive dressing and only dresses for her own and not for anyone else. Early 2021, Nicole was spotted wearing a light-blue high-waisted pair of baggy boyfriend denim pants that was paired with a white sleeveless crop top layered under an oversized purple, blue, and yellow plaid oversized button-down shirt. Accessorised with a blue mini cotton hobo bag and white air force 1's that were just slightly peeking through under the baggy denim that laid over her shoes. Nicole has elevated the baggy boyfriend jeans trend to new heights by adding her own personal touch of completing the look with hints of sexiness from her cop top and ruggedness from layering her plaid overshirt. A high-waisted pair of baggy denim jeans gives an illusion of accentuated curves and it helps complement all the right areas! The color of denim that has been chosen by Nicole has also helped with further bringing interest into the overall look and helps bring brightness to her overall completion. A color like such is also one of the easier colors to match with other fashion items as it does not overpower other fashion elements that are incorporated into a look.

American TikTok star and pop singer Dixie Damelio shows us how versatile the baggy boyfriend jeans trend can be!

Early in the year, Dixie uploaded an Instagram image of her pairing her blue mid-rise acid-washed baggy boyfriend jeans with a simple and plain black round neck tee tucked in while she completes her look with a pair of black platform Dr.Martens and silver medium-sized hoop earrings. Dixie gives us the real definition of "fashion is so easy" with this look! Her baggy boyfriend jeans were the star of this look at it was greatly contrasted with her black top and shoes. The pair of jeans that Dixie chose for this look reflects the traditional style of the baggy boyfriend jeans that were first spotted on the late Aaliyah. However, the detailing of the rips in the denim and the effects of the discoloration due to the acid-wash has given the pair of jeans a more "worn-out" look that is well suited to the styles and trends of denim in the 21st century. The baggyness and length of Dixie's boyfriend jeans have given her an element of balance in her overall look as the gathered fabrics of denim on her gave the illusion of ruggedness and masculinity. Baggy boyfriend jeans like Dixie's are meant to be a strong fashion statement had will have heads turning!

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@itsjovynn

Jovynn who is one of the biggest Malaysian TikTiok stars that sees the beauty in creativity and art has recently been spotted rocking the baggy boyfriend jeans trend.

Known for her crazy prints and immaculate unique fashion sense, Jovynn has taken a different approach towards this trend as she wears a pair of light-blue low-rise baggy boyfriend jeans with white wide stitches that lined the seems of the pants and created patterns of flames on both sleeves of the legs. She pairs this unique pair of baggy jeans with a loose-fitted bubblegum pink crop top with safety pin details that ran through the middle of her top that sat right above her waist. Her entire look was pulled together with a furry zebra print shoulder bag and a fully off-white bucket hat. The color streaks in her hair that were in the colour of pink and blue complemented and matched her top and bottom.

Her approach towards styling the baggy boyfriend jeans was different, unique, and definitely one of a kind! Baggy jeans with prints or patterns are currently on the rise as they make more of a fashion statement and bring strong elements of interest and uniqueness to the garment and overall look. Low-rise baggy jeans such as Jovynn's is better suited for individuals who would want to give the illusion of having a curvier and fuller body as low-rise baggy jeans allow more exposure of the torse and hip area. Baggy boyfriend jeans that have longer prints such as the long flames that can be seen on Jovynn's jeans also give the illusion of being taller and having longer legs!

The baggy boyfriend jeans trend in 2021 is stronger than ever! From all the different styles and colors that we have spotted on familiar faces in recent months, we are surely excited to see what else does this trend of baggy boyfriend jeans has left to offer in the near future. Hop onto this baggy boyfriend jeans trend bandwagon and contribute to this world-famous trend!

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SHIEN Cut Out Waist Chain Detail Baggy Jeans MYR70.00

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SHIEN High Waisted Distressed Baggy Jeans Without Bag MYR86.00

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SHIEN Ripped Detail Boyfriend Jeans MYR91.00

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SHIEN Slant Pocket Ripped Baggy Jeans MYR81.00

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Wide-Leg Wide-Leg Jeans Jeans Are About To Be Your Favorite Denim.

Putri Nurshahira Khan

03/08

Wide-Leg Jeans for comfortable, effortless, and chic looks.

Wide-Leg Jeans in 2021? A big yes, they are hot, popular, and trending now. Everyone should go and get the wide-leg jeans to add to their closet since it is the most comfortable denim that everyone could ever have.

Why wide-leg jeans? This is because wide-leg jeans can easily be matched with any kind of top. Not only that, but they are also alluring to match it with boots, any kind of boots from cowboy boots, leather boots, chunky boots, or anything. Wearing wide-leg jeans with heels will make the outfit look classy and expensive. If you are scared to style the wide-leg jeans, just remember these wide-leg jeans are comfortable and flattering, these jeans can pull up any looks, from chic, to classy, to cool looks, and most importantly, the jeans leave a room to breathe.

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We can see how popular wide-leg jeans are now, almost everyone is wearing them and most likely to have them in their closets. Looser fit has been gaining popularity over the past few years. Wide-leg jeans were largely a trend in the early 1990s and have stopped being popular in the mid-1990s, they became popular again in the late 90s to mid-2000s.

Currently, the young and old shoppers are into wide-leg, loose-hanging, or flared jeans because they balanced between classic and modern. Plus, the wide-leg jeans are moving away from slick silhouettes to more relaxed and loose-fit denim. Not only that, wide-leg jeans work well with other trends and there are various ways to style with wide-leg pants because their biggest asset is their versatility to blend with other trends. Wide-leg pants can be dressed up or down, we can wear them as a professional outfit for our internship or just for a fashion trend, it can be both. Other than that, it can be casual as well. We can look stylish by pairing the wide-leg jeans with normal T-shirts like how Vanessa Hudgens styled the wide-leg jeans.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Vanessa Hudges

How To Look Bella Hadid

Stylish

with Hailey Bieber

White Shirts.

White Shirts and Rock

Them

Trendy

with

Pants Kendall Jenner

Putri Nurshahira Khan

03/08

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The go-to outfit of a white shirt paired with jeans and any kind of trousers or skirts is taking the world by storm.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

White shirts have been popular since the 18th century, and even now, they are still popular. White shirts are super easy for non-fashion people to rock.

As everyone knows, white shirts can mix and match with absolutely any style and look, from jeans, skirts, tailored trousers, print pants, and even sweatpants. People have been wearing white shirts for such a long time because it is the most simple yet stylish fashion piece to ever have. The white shirts are a must-have because they are known for their simplicity, versatility, and enduring style, the white shirts are easy to style with any kind of look, they can be oversized as well where it is inspired by menswear. Moreover, since the shirts are just plain white, people decided to match the shirts with print pants other than plain denim.

A more stylish way to rock the white shirts is to wear them with a corset or a tube on the outside. We have seen how are well-known models such as Bella Hadid, Gigi Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, and many other celebrities rock white shirts with corsets. It gives the classic and chic look when matching them both, also back in the '80s.

Nowadays, many designers recreated white shirts to make them different than usual since white shirts are pretty known to be fitted but currently, most designers make them oversized, with puffed, etc. With oversized white shirts, it can be matched with a mini skirt underneath, or maybe short pants and paired with high knee boots. Recently, Kendall Jenner was spotted wearing the white shirts without fastening each button of the shirts instead, she left it completely open and layered it over a basic white T-shirt. Not only Jenner is the one who rocks them but other models such as Irina Shayk and Lori Harvey and celebrities such as Jessica Alba demonstrated a refreshing look to wear the trending white shirts over a bralette and mini dresses.

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Pomelo Pomelo and TikTok TikTok

Team Up to Inspire Creativity Catherine Lim

09/08 A perfect collaboration for all the women out there.

TikTok Iconic Reflective Cropped Jacket

TikTok Long Sleeve Bodysuit

TikTok Logo Print Crossbody Bag

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Pomelo, a leading international online fashion company based in Bangkok has teamed up with TikTok for a fashion collaboration. The brand Pomelo is also a women's high-street fashion business with an online presence. All of their clothing is sourced from Seoul, Asia's fashion capital.

Fabrics from Korea are used to express design ideas that are inspired by the same fashion trend in New York, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Seoul. The prices, which generally range from RM75 to RM200, are quite reasonable for such stylish designs and high quality. TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create, share, and discover short videos. Since we all spent more time in our homes since 2020, TikTok has undoubtedly permeated every aspect of our lives, from music to fashion.

Many people downloaded the social media app and began scrolling through an endless stream of bizarre dance moves, viral challenges, and other addictive content.

To mark this exclusive collaboration, Pomelo and TikTok create 13 unique pieces with the theme " Be Bold, Be You". From the 13-piece of the collection, Pomelo included TikTok logo prints. TikTok's logo is a quaver music note in four different colours: black, red, light aqua or blue, and white. The 13-piece collection includes tops, bottoms, dresses and bags. With this collaboration, Pomelo and TikTok aim to inspire young women to show their unique personalities by expressing themselves in a way that exudes creativity, confidence, and originality. The Pomelo x TikTok collection embodies both the creative diversity of TikTok and the authenticity of the people who make up the community.

Clothing printed with the iconic TikTok logo, from bodysuits, crop tops to jackets. TikTok iconic reflective cropped jacket and TikTok long sleeve bodysuit are two of the iconic pieces in this collection that are impossible to overlook. The reflective top has a high mock neckline, snap buttons, and a zipper closure, giving it a fierce look for women. TikTok Long Sleeve Bodysuit with a heart-shaped neckline and sheer sleeves add allure without being too revealing, and the bodysuit emphasizes curves will also ensure that women are the center of attention. In addition to the logo print, the collection also includes crossbody bags that feature TikTok's signature colors of red, light aqua, and white. It's adding a playful element to the design aesthetic. The TikTok Logo Print Crossbody Bag is an accessory essential to enhance and complete any streetwear style. It is ideal for those who want to stand out without being too obvious. The crossbody bag has three compartments, allowing for more than just a wallet and phone to be carried. With such a fun and eye-catching selection of streetwear-inspired pieces, the brands hope to encourage the youngest teenager to openly express themselves via a mix and match of the apparel.

To make this iconic collaboration even more exciting, a TikTok contest titled #BeBoldBeYou was also launched. Pomelo x TikTok believes that anyone and everyone can create content on TikTok. All fashion enthusiasts are invited to create video content by customizing their favorite outfits to showcase their special style. The outfits used for the video content must be from the collection.

There are no specific guidelines for creating the video. However, creativity from all individuals is encouraged. The mission of this contest is to inspire creativity and spread joy by showcasing TikTok users who are fearless, unique, and proud to share their originality and true selves with the world, both online and in person. The most creative entries can not only win prizes up to RM1000, but also the entire collection. Those who wish to purchase the collection can do so on Pomelofashion.com, on the Pomelo app, and in stores in Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. With this collaboration, the two brands aim to get women around the world to show off their style by combining unique and contemporary pieces. The brands also encourage women to stands up straight and speak their minds when it matters. Women will be braver if they're able to step out of their comfort zone.

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Flare Flare Flared Flared

It All Out, Pants Are Back This Season Kong Yeen Yue

08/08

Say goodbye to boyfriend jeans, Time to step up your OOTD because the 70s staple flared pants are this season's favourite fit!

The rumors are true; flared pants are making a comeback this season. As of the beginning of the lockdown in 2020, sweatpants have become the norm, but we're ready to dress up a little more this year. Flared pants were seen all over the Spring/Summer 2021 runways are an equally comfortable alternative for anyone wanting to revamp their style for the new season. This flattering silhouette takes over the boyfriend jeans and other styles, from elegant suits with extra-wide trousers to retro-inspired wide-leg denim. Designers such as Gucci, Max Mara, and Chanel have showcased their spring/summer 2021 collection and emphasized the flared fit for early summer. Alternately they can be worn stretched low at the hips for a more casual look or high-waisted and fitted for a more formal look. In addition, brands like Bershka, I Am Gia, Shein, and more reintroduce their own style of flared pants for the trend, and they come in a variety of colors, textures, and cuts.

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Shein

Their slight bell shape adds a distinctive and fun element to your favorite outfits, even if they are as simple as jeans and a T-shirt. There's also the cropped mini flare for a more modern look that matches with everything from trainers to your most dazzling party heels. These flared pants came in a variety of designs and were quite fashionable in the 1960s. Throughout the late 1900s, flared pants were a symbol of disco culture and liberty in fashion. The flared pants have always adjusted their style to remain in the fashion cycle one way or another. These cultural and musical celebrities opened the path for major designers to adopt a bold look. Flares are still closely associated with rockstar culture today, but they still play a part in our everyday styling. While Miley Cyrus and Harry Styles sing popular songs in many flared pants versions, your favorite fashion icons such as Bella Hadid, Emma Chamberlain, and Hailey Bieber's street style moments have embodied the trend this season. Flared pants are so versatile that they can transform every look, from yoga pants to vintage denim. So get your flares out of the closet and check out how your favorite celebrities and influencers styled their looks below for this season.

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@typicalelenaa

@urfavmen

@shakiraidora

01 Flared Jeans

02 Flared Leggings

03 Prints & Patterns

Flared jeans are super versatile and easy to pair with anything from your closets, such as crop tops, sweaters, or even your favorite oversized t-shirts.

Complete the look with your favorite pair of shoes and a cute shoulder bag, and you're good to go!

Flare leggings are comfortable to wear and are super casual and they can help to elongate your legs and create a flattering and nice silhouette for your outfit.

Pair them with a crop top, cardigan, or layered over a sweatshirt. You can also wear them on a night out by layering a more structured garment on top, such as a fitted shirt or an oversized jacket/blazer.

When you're ready to venture out of your comfort zone, add patterns to your basic flared trousers. Try out bold and colourful prints such as checkerboard, zebra prints, and swirly lines to create a fun and loving vibe for your wardrobe. Play around with different colours and mix and match with different popular shades and prints.

@ethanchuchu

The Unlikely Fashion Stylist Putri Nurshahira Khan & Razeq Jeffry

14/08

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Facing hardship and adversity including depression never derailed Ethan Chu to be a master in the field of his choosing.

Ethan advice to young and new fashion stylists is to use and leverage social media intelligently as it can build one's portfolio, attract a new audience including influential people in the fashion industry.

@ethanchuchu

“It has been a long journey for me to reach here. A lot of ups and downs, but that’s what makes us stronger right?”, Ethan Chu said reflecting on his past. He continued with a smile, “I almost didn’t make it. My parents almost disowned me,”.

Ethan Chu, one of Malaysia’s popular fashion stylists presently comes from a conventional family with a strict upbringing and traditional views that to be successful in life, one needs a professional job. Needless to say, he did not attend a fashion school, nor did he have any fashion background.

And to make it more complicated, he did not even finish college, much to the chagrin of his parents.

“It was not something that I wanted to pursue, to begin with. My passion lies in fashion. I love dressing up and looking at beautiful things,” he quipped. He then decided to enroll himself in a fashion design school that was run by Malaysian designer Carven Ong. The Malaysian education system then was different in that there were only a handful of fashion schools and the only course offered was fashion design. Courses like fashion styling or fashion journalism were scarce in the 90s. Reluctantly he pursued fashion design at the school which only lasted for six months. He realized he could not sketch nor sew. “I was miserable most of the time as I don’t see myself as a fashion designer. That said I also don’t know how to start again, or venture into new areas. I was lost. It was one of the darkest periods of my life”, he recollected. Ultimately, what broke the camel’s back was the financial problem he encountered which forced him to drop out of school.

As the saying goes, what does not break you makes you stronger is true in the case of Ethan Chu. Even though life threw a curveball, he took it in stride. He pursued the fashion world from a different angle by working as a part-time staff in a fashion boutique in Sungai Wang shopping mall. And that’s when his journey as a stylist started. After a few years of working there, he met Victor Goh who was a senior fashion stylist. Ethan shared, “ I thank God for Victor. He saw my passion for fashion styling and discovered my talent. Also, I’ve always had this motto of dressing up and looking stylish in whatever I do, even going to work. I guess he saw and liked my style”. Ethan became an assistant stylist to Victor, a prominent name in the tv commercial industry in the late 90s whose clients included big brands such as Petronas, Proton, and Maxis. During his tenure with Victor, Ethan learned a lot about fashion styling in the commercial industry. He also discovered that a fashion stylist designs and custom-made clothing for each and every talent and not just the celebrities. He gained a lot of experience in fashion styling for tv shows, tv dramas, movies, and tv commercials.

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Ethan have showed that we should never give up on something that we really love and something that we believe in.

@ethanchuchu

“It got to a point where it became a mundane routine for me. I think I got bored and I wanted to explore other aspects of fashion styling. That’s when I turned my attention to magazine and journalism”, said Ethan. It was at this point he uncovered street fashion after stumbling upon streetthing.com which is a Southeast Asia streetwear online portal akin to a mini hype-beast.

Ethan shares “I have so many ideas and visions for street fashion which I shared with the company. We service a lot of brands which have a regional footprint in the Asia Pacific like Converse, New Balance, Nike, and Adidas”. He was made the Creative Director of the online company. This spurred him to be more creative particularly in localizing campaigns to suit the local people and environment.

Now that Ethan has made a name for himself, one would think that his presence on social media would be prominent. On the contrary, he personally does not believe he has a strong social media image. He quipped “My social media platform is for me to experiment with my styling especially when I receive a product from certain brands to feature. I’ll produce a different kind of visual or possible ways of styling like mix and match. I’ll have fun with it and don’t really think so much about my strong personality or whatever because it is like my playground”. That said, his advice to young and new fashion stylists is to use and leverage social media intelligently as it can build one’s portfolio, attract a new audience including influential people in the fashion industry.

With the COVID-19 pandemic dominating thoughts and minds, the fashion industry has not been spared from its devastating impact. The effect is felt by everyone including Ethan Chu. Whilst he is no stranger to facing adversity, he admitted this is by far the toughest faced by the industry. He lamented, “We cannot survive if this is prolonged. There is no production work even though we have had meetings with clients on upcoming events as there’s no certainty if an event can take place or not. It’s very challenging”. Having gone through some dark times early in his life, Ethan Chu’s never-give-up attitude has taught him to be positive and agile. He is currently focusing on his personal styling business with key clients. He has also ventured into online classes offering fashion styling courses and ever thinking about what to do next.

“Everyone’s affected. We need to be innovative in facing the challenges. Be flexible. When you are given a lemon, made lemonade out of it”, he said ending his interview with a confident smile.

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Leather Boots for more Fashionable Looks Putri Nurshahira Khan

05/08 Knee High Boots and Ankle Boots are what everyone needs.

Boots have been popular since the 19th century but they were not recognized as a fashion item until the 1960s and they became well known in the 1970s and since then they became one of the fashion items that everyone must have.

Today, leather boots are what everyone needs despite the weather of the country they are living in.

Leather boots are now considered a versatile wardrobe staple. People are not wearing them due to the weather anymore but instead, they wear them as everyday footwear. Nowadays, leather boots come in various colors such as red, pink, green, orange, neon colors, and patterns, and even shapes for people to wear as a fashion item. Some of the commonly seen trendy boots today include colored boots, printed boots such as green smoke print, and red flame print from Vetements. Boots is one of the fashion items that everyone must-have because it can be easily paired with everything from wearing it with dresses, or pants, or skirts, even kebaya, and far more. These days, most of the high-end designer brands such as Bimba y Lola, Vetements, Eytys, and many other designers offer leather boots, and even knee-high boots, and ankle boots. We can clearly see what everyone is looking for to be their current fashion items.

Footwear News spoke to one of the biggest buyers of Mytheresa, Tiffany Hsu about the trending footwear in 2021 which is knee-high boots. "The midcalf and the knee-high boot is going to be bigger than ever, with designers focusing on this height," Hsu said. The point of the trend was about boots that were worn under midi skirts. At present time, we have been seeing everyone incorporating knee-high boots into their street style looks as it is currently on-trend. With this, we are not saying that other footwear is not as popular as knee-high boots and ankle boots but if you want to be a part of the trend in 2021, you should get yourself a pair of those beautiful knee-high boots and not forget ankle boots as well.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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It's Time to Kick Back in Kick Back Socks and Sandals Catherine Lim

06/08

It's time to relax in our sandals and socks, enjoying the most comfortable footwear setup possible.

Fendi Spring 2020

Anna Sui Spring 2020

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The socks and sandals have gained new popularity in recent months. With most of us staying at home as part of the global effort to stop the spread of COVID -19, the trend couldn't be more timely.

Working from home is a great opportunity to find the combination that suits you best. Whether you want to spruce up your favorite sandals for summer or upgrade your simplest slippers. When it comes to trends, the past generally repeats itself. Socks and sandals are living proof that despite their intimidating appearance, the trend can be executed well.

This trend might not be everyone's cup of tea, but some like to think otherwise. Fendi, Anna Sui, Dior, and Gucci are a few of the leading fashion brands that have given this trend a new appreciation in recent months. Even celebrities like Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Kenya West agreed it's a trend worth trying. Those who wear socks with sandals aren't alone as major celebrities are into this trend as well. It is seen today that there is a wide range of colors, fits, and patterns of socks and sandals that greatly contribute to this trend. And the good news is that the socks and sandals trend can range from totally casual to relaxed luxury. From oversized tees to red carpet dresses, the socks and sandals trend has been seen on a variety of occasions in recent months. Malaysian influencers such as May Ho, Juwei Teoh, and Jane Chuck have also styled the socks together with sandals. Let's discover more of the socks and sandals trend.

01 Heeled Sandals with Sheer Socks Sheer socks are available in two styles: shiny and matte. They go best with dressier sandals, such as a suede platform heel or a ladylike slide, because they add an elegant touch to the overall look.

During Milan Fashion Week, Katie Holmes, an American actress, and producer dressed up the look by wearing sheer polka-dotted socks that matched her heeled sandals. Holmes also wore a printed red dress that hit just below the knee with a red leather blazer on top. From her look, it's bold, it breaks the rules, and it's cute. Kendall Jenner's most iconic look: wore socks with heeled sandals on the red carpet. It was a surprise to see her wearing semi-sheer socks with Jimmy Choo heeled sandals as it's totally out of her comfort zone based on what we have seen from her in the past.

Instead of focusing on her floral printed dress with a long train, her socks gave her heeled sandals a new look.

Katie Holmes

Kendall Jenner

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02 Sandals with Tube Socks Tube socks are a type of long socks that are shaped like a tube and have no special place for the heel. In the socks and sandals trend, it can be seen that most people wear athletic slides and Birkenstocks with tube socks; moreover, since these styles of sandals are heavier, they go well with socks that provide more coverage. Instead of sweatpants, option for a pair of tailored Bermuda shorts to elevate the look. Bermuda shorts, also known as walk shorts or dress shorts. We can see Malaysian influencers Juwei and Junees wearing tube socks with black sandals and styled with neutral-coloured sweatsuits. Overall, their look gave off a very comfortable feel. Whether staying at home or going out, socks and sandals are always on-trend.

@juweiteoh

@juneesteoh

03 Sandals with Colorrful Socks Colourful socks come in a variety of color options. When worn with neutral-colored sandals, such as one in silver, white, or brown, brightly colored socks will pop! It's also fun to use colors that contrast with each other, such as yellow and red, as the colors, create a unique effect. Kitieyiyi, a fashion designer from Malaysia, paired her mint green socks with pink rubber sandals from Gucci.

She also wore a pink t-shirt, light green shorts, and a green bucket hat to style with her socks and sandals. At last, she completed her look with a pink shoulder bag. In Kitieyiyi's look, green and pink are the best combination because the colors work so well together. Another stay-at-home look by Nana, an influencer from Malaysia and co-founder of Lolagown. She styled her white crop top with green shorts and wore forest green socks and beige slide sandals with it. Nana's look proves that you can be fashionable even when at home.

@kittieyiyi

@nanabwincess

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04 Sandals with Patterned Socks Sandals with patterned socks are one of the most difficult looks to pull off because they come in different textures and patterns. But there is a simple trick that can help to match the patterned socks and sandals well. Whenever possible, choose patterned socks that match the details of the shoes. May Ho, a Malaysian influencer with a tasteful fashion sense, styled her orange patterned socks with an oversized orange t-shirt and beige Bermuda shorts. The orange patterned socks look outstanding with her styling. Although she styled everything in the way of simplicity, the outfit still looks stylish. Rita Ora, a singer, and songwriter wore a sporty jacket and leather skirt with black patterned socks and black strappy sandals. The socks were printed with a white logo and certainly served as a barrier to prevent blisters. The black t-strap sandals match the socks perfectly and create the illusion of a sock boot look.

@mayho10

Rita Ora

05 Sandals with Neutral Socks A neutral sock has a color that appears to be beige, ivory, taupe, black, and grey. Especially when paired with jeans and a t-shirt, this is a great way to keep the look subtle. Kaia Gerber an American model and actress is known for her stylish athleisure look. Her love for socks and sandals executed this trend by wearing a blue jean jacket with a grey crop top and paired it with black leggings.

Malaysia influencer May Ho's styled the grey socks and black sandals with her white jacket with a prints cami top. We can see that her overall style looks more stylish. But both of them show that socks in neutral colors can go with any outfit, it can turn a sporty look into a stylish look.

Kaia Gerber

@mayho10

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Was

NOT Born To Please

creative by Putri Nurshahira Khan assisted & art direction by Presha Sashigaran

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No one was born to please people, everyone is free to do whatever they want, they are free to dress up the way they want without thinking about what others may say. In the present time, people tend to express themselves through fashion or art. By expressing themselves through these two, it is easy for others to understand one's personality. This editorial is a short message for everyone and to remind them that people are not robots or dolls. They are not meant to satisfy anyone else's needs. At the end of the day, we are just human beings, we are not perfect, we have flaws. Loving yourself for what you are is all that truely matters.

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Beauty is all about self-confidence and faith in one's ability. Every individual defines beauty in their terms and words. Internal and external beauty are the two basic definitions of beauty. The physical appearance of oneself is considered to be our outer beauty. However, the person's inner beauty exists. Although it might not be visible, inner beauty hold a strong role in defining one's self. Inner beauty is often only felt or sensed by one true self and others. People truly believe that the definition of beauty varies from one another. This individualized beauty definition makes the world a better place not just for ourselves but for everyone around us.

photograph by Ashley Laureisha art direction & styled by Catherine Lim

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Creating

Serenity & Beauty at Home

Avoid boredoms and find ways to be creative in life.

Ashley Laureisha Marsh

02/08

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Beauty

160 A restricted movement order has been imposed to curb the pandemic, people are spending more time at home which has resulted in an ample amount of free time on everyone's hands. Hence, what is the best way to prevent boredom and find ways to be creative in life? Here you go, creating serenity and beauty at home. It doesn't mean you need to refurbish or redesign your whole house. The actual meaning of it is by adding small elements into white spaces of your home corner or small changes in the position of placing the furniture.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Good lighting is everything and choosing a calming color palette for your home is significant. Engage the senses, emphasizing spaciousness and avoid seeking perfection promotes serenity. Remember functional spaces are serene spaces. There are so many ways to create serenity and beauty for your home without spending tons of money. Here are some ways of creating serenity and beauty at home suggested for you to refer to.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

01 Art Painting Painting is a very interesting and fun activity that you can do at home. You don’t have to be a good painter or artist; you can use your imagination and play with the colors. You can have your personal space or even invite your family members to paint with you, this will help the relationships between you and your family grow deeper. As the saying goes, one stone kills two birds. Getting to know each other more and spending your time wisely on meaningful things at the same time. Besides that, take inspiration from the internet like Pinterest, Google and more.

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Fill up the spaces with paintings.

Paint a minimalist abstract art with your favourite elements and hang it on the wall of your home.

A painting or photo frame is the soul of the house. There will be different feelings and aesthetics when you hang up a painting on the wall.

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

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@nightfruiti

02 DIY Claycrafts Handcrafting with acrylic clays is popular on social media platform recently. Scroll through the Tik Tok platform to take inspiration from the designs you want or you can design it your own. As seen on social media, some crafted the acrylic clays into rings, mirror frames, clay trays, accessories holders, etc. The possibilities of what you can make with clay is endless! Handmade yourself with acrylic clays now as they can be decoration items for your home corner.

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Beauty

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Clay trays can be an accessories container, a saucer for your plants, etc. Besides that, you can craft it into shapes or designs like ceramic pottery or anything you like. The ceramic pottery can be a flower pot or just a deco item. It helps in creating serenity at home and boosts your creativity at the same time.

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

03 Beauty of Indoor Plants We should embrace the power of plants. Keeping a few plants indoors to create a welcoming mood for an indoor setting is one of the best things you can do by creating serenity in your home. Placing a plant at home also helps to eliminate the toxins from indoor spaces and purify the air you breathe.

Plants don’t just provide us oxygen and re-oxygenating our house; they also have a way of warming up a room and adding green life to empty spaces. When you feel the need to recharge after a stressful day, your little green potted friends are there to save your day!

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

If you find planting is troublesome, snake plants are the best choice for you to plant at home, it only requires little maintenance for serene effects. It is known for its ability to help remove toxic air pollutants. Though in small contributions, snake plants can absorb cancercausing pollutants, including CO2, benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene. On the other hand, you can even replace the greeneries with simulation plants. It is more convenient for owners who are busy with work but at the same time, it still provides serenity effects.

There are various interesting ways to create serenity and beauty at home other than these three suggestions above. Get your hands busy on creating serenity and beauty at home now. Pick up a new hobby during this pandemic as I am sure you will like the outcomes and progress if you give it a try. No harm trying new kinds of stuff in life, right?

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Your Body Is UNAPOLOGETICALLY

styled by Presha Sashigaran

photographed by Presha Sashigaran

Itself

The size of your body does not define the real you nor does it make you any less of a human being. Your body is your protector, your body is your home. Your body is the reason for the eternal love that you are able to bring to this world. Your body deserves the same love you give to others. Take a break beautiful; there's no reason to hate your body when it is unapologetically its magnificent self.

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"Your weight does not define your worth", Rachel l Pete

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1 for All

In the fragrance world, the type of scent you choose defines who you are as a person and sets your signature identity and personality. However, today it is seen that individuals are pulling away from fragrances that are made specifically for him/her and made only for certain occasions. Instead, they are turning towards genderless, unisex, and versatile scents that are not categorized to target certain types of individuals and can be worn for all occasions. With the fragrance industry reaching its peak innovation stage in 2021, versatile fragrances that are made for everyone and anyone are taking over the fragrance world by storm!

Presha Sashigaran

02/08

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Mojave Ghost

by Byredo

A worship scent for the ghost flower that only grows hard rocky ground of Mojave, Mojave Ghost by Byredo is the definition attractive. Suited for all occasions and all individuals, Mojave Ghost will leave passers-by hypnotized.

Smoked Vetiver

by Clean Reserve

One of the most hyped versatile fragrances in the market currently that is suitable for all individuals for all occasions. Smoked Vetiver is designed for individuals to feel a boost of cleanliness just with a few sprayss

Santal 33

by Le Labo

Combination of timeless and unisex. Santal 33 has hits of Iris, violets with musky and leathery notes that make it perfect for all individuals of all kinds. This fragrance balances both worlds of feminine and masculine making it one of the best vertitile scents in the market.

Molecule 01

by Exentric Molecules

Molecule 01 is the ultimate definition of versatile.

Molecule 01 carries the secret formula of Iso E Super. The Iso E super formula is known to change and curate the scent based on the individual who wears it, making this the perfect fragrance for everyone and any occasion

Replica

by Maison Margiela

Marrying the words of grounded and aquatic, Replica by Maison Margiela is best defined as a world beyond versatile. This fragrance is perfect for a hot sunny day and a rainy day with notes that prioritize freshness despite any occasion.

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The Future is fluid

Fluid

creative and styled by Razeq Jeffry

Today we have observed men breaking the boundaries by wearing a dress to formal events. Gender boundaries are becoming increasingly blurred in the fashion industry as genderless clothing grows in interest, especially amongst new consumers. People were traditionally set in their thinking, including gender codes of how a man and a woman should dress. However, as consumers are more open-minded now, they are more receptive to gender fluidity, especially in fashion. What used to be taboo then is now a booming trend. These are familiar sights now, whether celebrity couples sharing wardrobes or men in dresses on red carpets. Fashion is a tool shared in common by all, may it be boys in crop tops or girls in heavy chunky boots; fashion no longer dictates genders.

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The Perfect Skin's Shield - SUNSCREEN Lau Ee Hui

10/08

For years, people do not take skin protection seriously. That is, until people realize the harmful of sunray and the importance of sunscreen.

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Skin conditions of William McElligott after 28 years of sun exposure without the protection of sunscreen.

Quick. Name one skincare that works immediately and keeps your face looking healthy, and youthful for years. The majority of you, do not wear it all year long. I'm referring to sunscreen - the most popular skincare product acceptable by all people is used to protect their skin from the sun's damaging rays.Have you experienced your skin starts to get irritated after being exposed to sunlight for a long time? If you have, you would realize that your skin starts to peel and itch through the following days. That scenario happens due to the lack of protection of the skin on your face. Even though many of you wear sunscreen during the summer, the truth is that you need to use it every day of the year, rain or shine. Ultraviolet radiation that causes sun damage and skin cancer is constantly present, says Dr. Shilesh Iyer, M.D. What's the worst that can happen if exposed to sunlight for a long time? Let's look through the real scenario that had happened to-William McElligott.

One faces two different sides of a woman caused by the destructive power of the sun without proper protection. William McElligott - a truck driver who reminds everyone how important sunscreens are. The 66-year-face old's is severely wrinkled, scarred, and drooping on the left side after 28 years of sun exposure via the side window of her truck. The taut, flawless face of an apparently much younger woman may be seen on the right-hand side, obscured by the taxi while McElligott carried milk throughout Chicago. McElligott went 15 years without seeing the asymmetry and only sought treatment after her grandchildren inquired about the "bumps" on her face. Her photo was published in the New England Journal of Medicine as a dramatic case of photoaging, caused by extended UV exposure.What is your thought after realizing the harmful of exposure to sunlight? For me, I think It is horrible to Imagine your skin's state becoming worse and you getting skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate skin protection. The fact that people seem to become older is the only factor that makes them more aware of skin cancer and more likely to take action. It's important that you use sunscreen every day, since our skin protects you from dangerous ultraviolet radiation, therefore you should use sunscreen to protect us against harmful UV rays. Your skin is easily harmed by sunlight even on cloudy days, leading to skin cancer, discoloration, and wrinkles over time.

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Schematic of structure of human skin and penetration of different UV wavelengths.

Sunscreen is essential for all skin types and all skin tones. It protect all types and shades of skin.

Some individuals think that they don't have to use sunscreen if they have a darker skin tone and don't burn quickly as they reduce the risk of sunburn. This is not true! Even if your skin doesn't suffer sunburns, it's still prone to UV damage. While it is more prevalent among individuals with lighter skin complexion, skin cancer may also afflict people with darker skin tones.Sunscreen is also essential for avoiding skin aging as sun damage is one of the most frequent reasons for premature aging. The UV rays of the sun can also result in sunspots, discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Discolored and leathery skin is usually due to excessive exposure to the sun over the years. Wear SPF every day to prevent these symptoms of aging and appear younger.According to Ahmad A. Al Robaee from the Qassim University of Medicine, sun exposure carries UVA and UVB that can pass through our skin surface and cause skin cancer. The number of cases is increased worldwide. “The reason why the rate of sunscreen use was low is that people lack awareness and they do not understand the importance of sunscreen.” Said Dawn M. Holman, a Master of Public Health from the centers of disease control and prevention.

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An experiment of wearing a sunscreen daily after two months

Kirsten participates in an experiment in which she wears sunscreen daily. "My skin felt smoother and fresher all day long than before. I believe it's also partially mental — knowing that you're trying to preserve your skin, particularly when it looks beautiful!" Kirsten said. She also said the sunscreen helped lock hydration into her skin. Her skin was drier and tighter without the sunscreen, making it a little unpleasant and not a suitable basis for its little make-up. There are some useful tips for you to choose a proper sunscreen. First, choose a sunscreen with a “broad spectrum” protection label.

Then make sure you have sunscreen (SPF) 30 or greater. Besides, "water-resistant” does not mean “waterproof.” If you are a swimmer, you need to choose a waterproof sunscreen. Finally, shake well, apply enough and apply to all the sun-exposed areas of your skin. After reading the benefits of sunscreen and the story, you have the opportunity to step back and reflect on the importance of wearing sunscreen daily, especially you have a high chance exposed to sunlight without proper skin protection. Sunscreen naturally protects from harmful UVA and UVB rays, skin darkening, sun allergies, sun tanning, and reduces oiliness on your skin."No matter how far you have gone on the wrong road, you can still turn around". REMEMBER that, if you look after your skin, you need to use sunscreen in your daily routine. No one can help you to recover your skin!

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SUNSCREENS - bodyguard for the skin

Sunscreen is a significant thing that helps to (with physical appearance) the appearance and overall health of our skin. Applying sunscreen is also an essential part of our skincare routine, especially in a country with hot weather such as Malaysia. Medical aestheticians will always recommend that everyone should wear sunscreen even when indoors. Ever wondered why? It's because we are constantly being exposed to harmful UV radiation at all times. UV rays can even penetrate the clouds and creep into our skin even during cloudy days, serving as a weapon for developing skin cancer lesions later. Therefore, insisting on applying sunscreen should become a good habit that we should cultivate when we go out every day.

Lee Jia En

05/08

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*RAVE REVIEWS*

*BEST STICK SUNSCREEN*

*BEST ALL-IN-ONE SUNSCREEN*

(Available in Watson Malaysia)

(Available in SunBum.com)

(Available in Threebs.co)

04

05

*BEST FOR NO WHITE CAST* (Available in Sephora)

06

*BEST POWDER SUNSCREEN*

*BEST VALUE*

(Available in Cosmetic Now MY)

(Available in Neutrogena.com)

07 01

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 MYR110.61

02

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick MYR50.59

03

Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 MYR130.00

04

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 MYR155.00

05

Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen SPF 30 MYR264.00

06

Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55 MYR67.46

07

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 MYR231.00

*BEST OVERALL FOR ALL SKIN TYPES/TONES* (Available in OZ Cosmetic.com)

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PASSION Drives ART

Our conventional interpretation of the term "passion" has traditionally been a desirable trait. Desire acts as an inside force and an inner agent to inspire oneself. It is one's inner sentiments or personal needs that cause one to express themselves in various ways. Passion drives one to have dedication, desire, creativity, and uniqueness for what one wants to accomplish or have. Passion and art have had a very close relationship of allowing one to truly express themselves to the rest of the universe.

Passion has driven art to be more meaningful, exciting, and emotional with a sense of strong determination and motivation Passion has given art the opportunity to be a prominent nonverbal way of communication between humankind.

art direction by Lee Jia En & Lau Ee Hui

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Girl's All Time FAVOURITE - Lipstick!

Lee Jia En

08/08

The lips are the most attractive part of a woman's appearance, and lipsticks may make a girl more confident. A beautiful lip may help a girl gain a good impression on others, even become hacks that change her life!

Gema Magazine

Beauty

@kyliejenner

What is lipstick to a girl, an object? A pigment? Or is it a symbol of their character? This summer, even we can only stay at home, but still able to be exquisite girls. As we know, summer is the warmest season of the year, and it symbolizes happiness, positivity, and freedom. The summer in 2021 is indeed different from the usual due to the pandemic. Many people who have to work from home only wear natural makeup on their faces, most times even no makeup at all. This year, the trend of lipstick's shade headed towards a different route, colours such as bright oranges, nudes, berry hues, are some of the emerging colors that cater to the summer trend in 2021. What we can see is, there are some influencers and celebrities who influenced the trends of 2021 with their lip makeup.

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@kyliejenner

Two-Tone Lip Kylie Jenner can be considered a goddess of fashion and makeup, from her nails to her makeup to her clothes, everything is just immaculately fashionable on her. Every little detail she has done can influence the direction of the fashion industry. Recently, Kylie Jenner uploaded a new post on her Instagram. Her eye-catching makeup is fancy and classy. The glossy lip she's wearing is perfect, and she did an outline for her lip to make a contrast and show the perfect lip shape.

Besides Kylie Jenner wearing this lip makeup, Mollie Gloss and Mariah Leonard share their two-tone lip makeup on Instagram. The new trend of lip liner is surfacing little by little, and more and more people are starting to use lip liners to portray the shape of their lips. The contrasting color of lipstick and lip liner creates a beautiful lip shape and makes the lips appear more attractive and plump.

The Two-Toned Lip is inspired in the '90s makeup and it transforms into a new version today. Lip liner uses to be a supporting character in the past. But for now, it's more like a core, shaping, highlighting, and reflecting perfectly shaped lips in our makeup.

@mariahlleonard

@molliegloss

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@gracemargaretha

Berry-Hued Lip Stain Recently, Tiktok and Instagram have seen different makeup looks with natural lip color on them. Ever thought about how they create the look? Zendaya, Rina Sawayama, and Grace Margaret had shared their new post on Instagram, and the makeup seems simple but super fresh looking. There is one common thing they have, which is a berry-hue lip stain.

Lipstain is a liquid form of lipstick that is similar to lip tint, but it lasts longer and can be applied evenly on the lips without feeling dry or sticky.

It is even lighter and not as saturated compared to matte lipsticks. It is also longer lasting than lip gloss, which is also a trendy item currently. The effect of lip stain is natural thin on the lips, some users also use it as a blush to apply on their face to add color while perfectly matching their makeup. When it has discoloration, it goes evenly without ruining the look. If want it to have a higher saturation, apply more to get a different effect.

Why berry hue? A berry-hued lip stain could make the lips looks more healthy and natural.

The shade is rich, sultry, and versatile for all skin tones. It is a color that everyone should have from the luxury brands, such as Bryedo, Dior, and YSL.

@zendaya

@rinasonline

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@khelan.mh

High-Wattage Lip Gloss How to create a glistening and attractive lip?

Just use lip gloss! People nowadays prefer to have a glossy lip that makes their lip looks shiny and highly reflective with hints of sparkles. The texture of lip gloss is heavier and more sticky than matte lipstick, but it has a better effect on the lip's appearance. Glossy lip makeup is getting popular on social media in both Asian and western communities. It is because it helps us to achieve a healthier lip's look.

Fenty Beauty has launched a new lip gloss, name GLOSS BOMB HEAT, their slogan state, "For the full effect. Plumper-looking lips, irresistible shine." Karent Rueda, the beauty photographer has created a stunning makeup look with lip gloss. Just like the name, it's "GLOSS BOMB HEAT", the lips look attractive and bold in the photography. That's what a lip gloss can do is enhanced visual effects for the lips. It is essential to have it to create a beautiful and shiny lip.

@karent_rueda

@hwa_jii

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My Skin

but Brighter-Glowy Skincare Routine

Nothing compares to the sensation of having bright, beautiful skin. You know how it feels when your skin looks so fantastic that you can't stop taking selfies and checking yourself out in every mirror you see. Anyone can get dewy skin by following a basic skincare routine and staying hydrated. Here are some skincare items that may assist us in achieving glowing skin.

Lau Ee Hui

14/08

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01 Double Cleansing

Curél Foaming Facial Wash - 150ML Curél Makeup Cleansing Gel - 130G MYR51.98 MYR45.90 Available in Watsons Available in Watsons

Double cleansing is a two-step cleansing procedure that involves using two distinct types of cleansers one after the other. First, use Curel Makeup Cleansing Gel to dissolves makeup and sebum and second, use Curel Foaming Facial Wash to removes any residue.

02 Exfoliate

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution - 240ML MYR87.00 Available in Zalora

Exfoliation is a procedure that aids in the removal of dead skin cells. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution provides a mild exfoliation for increased skin brightness and clarity.

03 Facial Mask

DR.JART+ Dermask Vital Hydra Solution Facial Mask - 5 Sheets MYR100.00 Available in Sephora

The facial mask allows the serum to stay on your skin for a bit longer and it also offer to brighten your skin. DR. JART Dermask Vital Hydra Solution Facial Mask is formulated with natural ingredients to deliver essential moisture to your skin.

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04 Toner

Cosrx Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner - 150Ml MYR50.00 Available in Shopee (Galmstory)

Use a toner that helps serums and other treatments you use to your face to penetrate deeper, ensuring that you get all of the benefits. The Cosrx Fit Propolis Synergy Toner contains a rich, essence-like texture leaving your skin light and non-sticky, and absorbs faster the more you tap.

05 Serum

BIODERMA-Hydrabio Serum - 40ML MYR103.50 Available in Watsons

Another essential component of any glass skin regimen is the use of a serum that is lightweight yet high in antioxidants.Bioderma Hydrabio serum contain moisturising ingredients that helps to mosturizes and nourishes your skin.

06 Moisturizer

Dr.G-Clear Soothing Cream - 70ML MYR149.00 Available in Sasa

Moisturizing your skin aids in the restoration of the skin's barrier and the prevention of water loss. Dr.G clear soothing cream is a recovery cream formulated with sica complex to instantly soothes sensitive skin with a moisturizing finish.

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Toners are the SPONGES of skin

Toner is the most commonly forgotten step in regular application. Many individuals believe that toners are unnecessary. In reality, the procedures for using toner is crucial! Do You know how difficult it is for dry skin to absorb essence and cream completely? The idea is similar to how a dry sponge has a hard time absorbing powder. Toner softens the skin's stratum corneum, allowing the subsequent essence and cream to absorb more easily! Here are 6 Korean brands toners that help you achieve the ultimate Korean skin that is available on Shopee .

Lau Ee Hui

10/08

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Cosrx Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner - 150ML MYR50.00 Available in Shopee (Galmstory)

It is a Non rich, Non heavy essence-like toner.Toner containing maximum content of propolis extract without water

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner - 150ML MYR34.90 Available in Shopee (Galmstory)

It also contains real tea tree 10,000ppm, AHA BHA and PHA act as effective exfoliants.Effective skin care, skin tone improvement, pore management, hydrating, low Ph value

Round Lab Dokdo Toner - 200ML MYR58.00 Available in Shopee (roundlab.my)

It consists of 74 natural derived minerals from deep sea waters.Suitable for all skin type, even sensitive skin

ONE THING Centella Asiatica Extract Toner - 300ML MYR62.50 Available in Shopee (onething_official_my)

It is a toner that contains Centella Asiatica which is a raw material for wound healing, with excellent effect on skin regeneration.It can be used on all skin types and is effective for acne or sensitive skin.It helps collagen synthesis, improves skin elasticity, promotes blood circulation, and eliminates swelling.

Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Toner - 200ML MYR49.30 Available in Shopee (cosko.my)

A toner that contains 5-cica complexes which are various types of centella asciatica & madecassoside as well as aloe vera.It Calms skin irritations and it Improves the skin barrier.It Leaves skin fresh and moisturized.Soothes troubled skin and hastens treatment of acne

Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Toner - 200ML MYR49.30 Available in Shopee (wynora)

It is a product that combine benefits of both cream and skin in a single bottle to satisfy your skin’s hydration needs.It also filled with mild and safe ingredients which provides moisturizing effects for dry,sensitive skin.It is light and moist like a cream so it hydrates skin from the first step of base care

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NEUTRAL for Newbies

The struggle of finding a well-suited eyeshadow pallet for makeup beginners is real! Despite the fact of availability of thousands of eyeshadow pallets with uncountable shades of colors. Finding the perfect one that is versatile enough for you to start your makeup journey is by far the biggest obstacle faced by makeup newbies. Thanks to some considerate cosmetic brands, the new emergence of all-neutral eyeshadow pallets are every makeup newbies' dream! From full glam to a subtle day makeup look, neutral eyeshadow pallets are the starting point for all makeup lovers.

Lee Jia En

15/08

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04 05

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NYX, Ultimate Warm Neutrals Shadow Palette MYR75.00

02

HUDA BEAUTY, Nude Eyeshadow Palette MYR300.00

03

Sephora Collection, Eye Love Eyeshadow Palette MYR75.00

04

Etude House, Play Color Eyes #Caffeine Holic MYR112.00

05

Milani, Most Wanted Eyeshadow Palette 110 Partner In Crime MYR57.85

06

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS, Soft Glam Eye Shadow Palette MYR215.00

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Midnight Soju Party With K-Dramas

Lau Shi Yann

05/08

K-dramas that might get you hooked, drink at your own risk and don't stay up too late.

If you are new to Korean Dramas, not knowing which drama to start on, then you must not miss out on these K-Dramas. Also, if you are into fashion and want to know more about them, we have chosen 3 K-dramas that consist of enjoyable storyline, amazing cinematography, and stunning outfits to keep an eye on.

Hotel Del Luna (2019) Hotel Del Luna is a television series with a total of 16 episodes. It is under the genre of dark fantasy and romantic comedy. The show is about the female lead (Jang Man-Wol) who committed a huge sin a thousand years ago and in the end, had to be condemned to be the owner of a hotel that serves ghosts/spirits. The staff has been there for decades and some even centuries as they have not settled their incomplete tasks such as grudges will work at the hotel until they moved on for their reincarnation. In addition, Jang Man-Wol who lived for 1300 years showcases her styles in the drama are mostly inspired by tradition. Therefore, her looks are mostly vintage style and paired with accessories such as hairpins called binyeo. The colors of the outfit and the cinematography of the show that makes everything stunning and aesthetically pleasing.

Crash Landing On You (2019) Crash Landing On You or Love's Emergency landing is a television series. It is a romantic comedy with a total of 16 episodes available on Netflix. The show started with the female lead (Yoon Se-Ri) who is independently wealthy and also owns a fashion and beauty business called Seri's Choice.

One day, she goes out paragliding to try out her latest sportswear collection but got caught in a sudden tornado that galed her into the Korean Demilitarized Zone and North Korea. The outfits worn by the female lead and the supporting female character have various prints and patterns such as checkered, big floral prints, and some laces. The hairstyles are usually let down to be straight or wavy curls. Furthermore, the female lead (Yoon Se-Ri) is known for being a demanding boss so her outfits mostly have shoulder pads that make her look fierce, but other times, she would wear tight fitted or floral dresses not only emphasize her good figure but also make her look sweet and elegant. Overall, the show is quite fun to watch, I would rate the show 7.5 out of 10 as it has funny and sad moments.

It's Okay To Not Be Okay (2020) It's Okay To Not Be Okay is a television series available on Netflix with only 16 episodes. It is under the romance genre but not the cheesy romantic type of k-dramas. The drama is a little bit dark as it tackles mental health, not only fashionable outfits to look for but also life lessons that we can learn from this drama. The drama is about the male lead (Moon Gang-Tae), a caregiver working at a psychiatric ward and does not have the time for love as he had to take care of his brother (Moon Sang-Tae) who has autism, whereas the female lead (Ko Moon-Young) who has an antisocial personality disorder but she is a famous children's book author. Throughout the series, it will slowly reveal the back story of the male lead and female lead's pasts that have been haunting them.

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Hotel Del Luna

Crash Landing On You

It's Okay To Not Be Okay

These are the k-dramas available on Netflix that are binge-worthy during the pandemic with friends or family. K-dramas have nice cinematography, great original soundtracks that match the storyline, and remarkable fashion elements. Do give it a chance and take some time to bingewatch it!

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Cared For Some Kimchi Kimchi ?

Razeq Jeffry

26/08

Korean culture and lifestyle have influenced many Malaysians including its food offerings.

People enjoy and crave Korean food. It’s interesting to learn how this phenomenon came to be and what triggered it. And while at it, discover what types of Korean food are popular amongst Malaysians.

Korean culture has influenced many South East Asian countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. As the Korean wave hits Malaysia, it is no surprise that Korean food is all the rage now.

Malaysians love Korean food and the spicier the better. From Korean bibimbap (hot rice with meat and vegetables), bulgogi (stir-fried beef), and spicy instant noodles, the delicious and diverse offerings of Korean cuisine keep people going back for more.

Bibimbap

Bulgogi

Spicy Instant Noodles

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Why is this so? This is due to the influence of Korean pop culture which encompasses various genres such as music, fashion style, film, and TV programs. Korean music or commercially known as K-pop has boomed in popularity worldwide including in Malaysia. If one can still recall, an influential worldwide K-pop hit in 2012 by K-pop singer, PSY was a cultural reset, known to many. However, this did not singlehandedly establish the cultural influence. Long before, boy bands and girl groups from Korea had already slowly begun making their way to our shores through the music industry.

Names like Big Bang, Girls’ Generation, and Super Junior have massive Malaysian fans. And quite sure most Malaysians have heard of at least one of them, not unless he or she lives under a rock. The introduction of Korean culture in Malaysia had been established then which brought about awareness on various aspects like lifestyle, values as well as its gastronomic offerings too.

Over the years, a boy band called BTS emerged as one of the most well-known artists in the world. Undoubtedly, this not only reinforced but augmented the grasp Korean music had over their fans in Malaysia. As a result of their fame and mighty influence over many, giant food chains such as McDonald’s and KFC have taken advantage and jumped on the bandwagon, riding off their backs to introduce Korean influence in their offerings. McDonald’s debuts the Korean Spicy burger in their menu, while KFC introduced the new Korean Soy Garlic Glazed Drumette. This helps to create awareness of Korean food to the new generation of Malaysians.

Big Bang

BTS for Louis Vuitton F/W 2021 Men's show

PSY

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And let’s talk about Korean drama, or better known as K-drama. Some may argue that in Malaysia, K-drama is bigger than Hong Kong and Japanese drama or Bollywood or even Hollywood. Ask the next average Malaysian and she or even he might just be a K-drama fan. The Korean wave in Malaysia is said to have begun with the airing of Winter Sonata on TV3 in 2002 and Dae Jang Geum on TV in 2003. Apart from the interesting plots, creative storylines, beautiful scenery and not to mention beautiful people too starring in the drama, there are lots of mouth-watering foods featured in K-drama too. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t be tempted to try the dishes after watching their heroes feast on mouth-watering food on TV. There’s also the highly popular Korean variety show "Running Man," which features interesting places and authentic food around the country. From Ramen to Kimchi to Kimbap and Soju, it helps to create awareness amongst the viewers and the craving for those who are already familiar with the dishes.

Winter Sonata

Dae Jang Geum

Running Man

Hence to fulfill this craving and demand, it is no surprise that many Korean restaurants are mushrooming in Malaysia nowadays. From fast-food restaurants to fine-dining eateries, the choice is endless. Walk into a mall and chances are, we will run into many Korean outlets. Amongst the popular one is Kyochon 1991 which serves yummy chicken in various traditional Korean sauces.

Next is Pocha, a restaurant that serves a lot of authentic Korean dishes such as cold noodles, pancakes, and teokbokki with ramen. Guide And for the adventurous ones who like to cook, they can go to supermarkets which offer a dedicated section of authentic Korean ingredients for them to prepare these dishes at home. Recipes and Korean cooking shows on Youtube have been popular amongst Malaysians too.

KyoChon 1991

Pocha

Cold noodles

Korean pancakes

Such is the popularity of Korean cuisines amongst Malaysians now. Is this just a phase or is it here to stay? With the strong bilateral relations between Korea and Malaysia and the ever-rising K pop culture influence here, the fixation on all things Korean will remain at least in the foreseeable future.

The News Are Rods Rods, And We Are Just Puppets.

Puppets

Living in a world that technologically advanced has resulted in humans turning towards robotic behaviors as what we read and see is what we do and become. From fashion to health, humankind takes too much consideration towards wanting to follow and adapt to the footsteps of others around the world. Without the realization that this behavior is resulting in the limitation of selfexpression and creativity. With the availability of news everywhere, how much longer do we need to realize that the beauty of humanity is slowly fading away?

photographed by Presha Sashigaran

styled by Presha Sashigaran

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Malaysian Artist, Venice Foo Spreads Positivity With Needlework Lau Shi Yann

09/08

A mural artist, Venice Foo showcases the journey of being a full-time artist and the beauty of nature through self-taught embroidery.

Venice Foo is a Malaysian born in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. She started her art career as a full-time mural artist in 2017. A mural artist produces artworks of decorative designs such as abstracts, landscapes or portraits. The artworks are usually painted directly on a permanent surface including walls and ceiling. After one year of painting murals, she started exploring different mediums such as embroidery, crochet and cross-stitching. Most of her artworks are inspired by her hometown, Sabah. A place with natural landscapes such as stunning beach views and hills. Her embroidery caught the audience's eye after she posted a few memorable pieces on Instagram.

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"Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! That’s how I got most of my painting jobs when I first started working as a full-time artist." Venice Foo

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Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are perfect for passionate artists to showcase their artworks. And of course, Venice Foo chooses Instagram as her main place to show most of her artworks, it is not only to create awareness for herself but also to spread positivity and the beauty of embroidery. Besides, Venice Foo does enjoy her artworks installed and displayed in physical locations such as art exhibitions and art markets where people can have a closer look and appreciate her works. Her first episode showing her artworks was in an art market conducted in a shopping mall back in 2015. It was an achievement and satisfying event for her, she loves the feeling to share and talk about the meaning behind the artworks in person.

However, one of the challenges she faced for a short period of time is when she finds making art is more a duty than just a passion. When Venice started as a full-time artist, she accepted most of the jobs and could not be picky on the projects as she had to make a living. Therefore, she challenged herself by making art in different ways to fulfil and satisfy every client's objectives.

Explore different ways of making art will unravel the creativity in yourself. Be creative and never be afraid of taking opportunities that could make you shine. Follow Venice Foo on Instagram (@chauxhien) to catch up on her latest works and developments!

@chauxhien

"Be patient, kind and open-minded throughout the journey."

−Venice Foo

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A Day A Life..

In

During hard times like such, it's hard for many to stay motivated. But that should not stop anyone from reaching for their dreams and pursuing their passions. As for me, I have taken this hard time as a learning milestone. I started to live life to the fullest by incorporating my dreams and passions into my everyday life. Fashion has allowed me to see the light in the darkest of times, may it be when I'm out gardening or taking out the trash, fashion has never made me feel like the world is crumbling down on me even when it actually is. Fashion has allowed me to see my worth as an individual, no matter the circumstances.

styled by Putri Nurshahira Khan

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The Rise Of

Thrifting Community Amongst Gen Z's Kong Yeen Yue

06/08

One man's trash is another man's treasure as thrifting, and upcycling fashion reminds young consumers of the early 00s Y2K fashion.

@ghostboy.club

@reviveyourclothes

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For many generations, people believed that thrifted or second-hand clothes are unsanitary or that they bring us bad luck. Even with that being said, such stigmas are slowly fading away as young fashion lovers, known as Gen Z's, have become more sustainable and conscious in the fashion world. As soon as the lockdown has slightly lifted at the beginning of the year, many people are looking for new ways to shop, and thrifting has become popular ever since. Gen Z's prefer shopping at the thrift store not only because they are wallet-friendly and sustainable, but because they are all about the experience. To experience the thrill of hunting for the perfect piece while holding your breath in anticipation and not having high expectations that you'll find an amazing piece in the dusty air environment with overloaded clothing racks everywhere stuffed with unique and one-ofa-kind pieces. It's no surprise that Malaysia's thrift culture has boomed over the years; being able to score a unique item at the thrift store today is probably one of the most joyous feelings ever to experience and feel. It even appears to be fate, which happens to make your shopping experience even more amazing at an affordable price.

The nostalgic feeling of wanting to relive the Y2K fashion era amongst the Gen'Zs is either because they were too young to experience it or they could hardly remember it the first time around. Trendy items such as bucket hats, flared pants, corsets, mini skirts, and baby crop tops are key pieces for the Y2K trend. The younger consumers have learned to embrace vintage shopping at local thrift stores such as JBR Bundle, and Ok Go Store are some of the other popular ones that are known for their immaculate choices of vintage clothing. Some retailers have even taken to Instagram to sell their pre-loved or reworked items during the pandemic, such as Darimari Vintage, Feelings Not Dead Thrift Store, Asehole Clothing, Ghostboy Club, and Revive Vintage, who went viral for their unique designs.

@bellahadid

@seriminazi

@oliviarodrigo

As thrifting fashion culture floods the world of social media, your favourite celebrities and influencers such as Bella Hadid, Sheryl Ng, Seri Minazi, Deanna, Olivia Rodrigo, Shauna Liang, have hopped onto the trend, which has impacted the thrifting community while encouraging them to look for certain styles that are mostly only achievable through the act of thrifting. This has resulted in many young fashion lovers that have showcased how they keep up with the Y2K trend with their thrifted pieces on their social media. While thrifting is chic and hopefully will remain so for a long time, It is a good way to keep up with the current fashion trends while still keeping to the sustainable choice! You never know what treasures you'll discover when helping the environment.

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Avant-Garde FASHION Dump Lau Shi Yann

13/08 Is Avant-garde and Haute Couture the same?

Avant-garde is a French word that essentially means advance guard or vanguard. Avant-garde is a style that defines a unique or strong personality, the style can be mysterious, striking, sophisticated, and more. Some of the well-known creators of avant-garde fashion include Yohji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo, and Martin Margiela. Other notable fashion designers and brands include Viktor & Rolf, Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood, Rick Owens, and Jacquemus.

Yohji Yamamoto (Look 27) SPRING 2021 READY-TO-WEAR

Yohji Yamamoto (Look 33) SPRING 2021 READY-TO-WEAR

“My role in all of this is very simple. I make clothing like armour.

My clothing protects you from unwelcome eyes.”

- Yohji Yamamoto -

Throughout the years, designers choose Avant-Garde as the medium to be different and avoid mainstream fast fashion and produce their own recognizable style in clothing. Some designers worked on the silhouettes, experimented with future possibilities in fashion, and even a few designers produced clothing that was never understood by common audiences.

Avant-Garde fashion originated from Japanese designers and has a claim to begin as early as the 1920s. Yohji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo, and Junya Watanabe are iconic Japanese designers whose designs have been a great inspiration to many other avant-garde designers and fashion enthusiasts. Of all avant-garde designers, the most well-respected is Yohji Yamamoto. Yohji Yamamoto is one of the few avant-garde designers that create garments that are far from the current fashion trends. His signature designs are oversized silhouettes that often have drapery in various textures, although they are always in black, we can still discover the beauty in them.

Comme des Garçons (Look 13) FALL 2016 READY-TO-WEAR

Comme des Garçons (Look 17) FALL 2016 READY-TO-WEAR

“I was thinking that there had to be women in the 18th century who wanted to live strongly. So I designed what I imagined this type of woman would have worn, and called it ‘18th-Century Punk’.”

- Rei Kawakubo -

There is often confusion between avant-garde and haute couture as they look similar. The difference between avant-garde and haute couture is that haute couture means high-end dressmaking, which is often produced by big fashion houses with complicated designs as they only produce garments that are created especially for special occasions or special events. It is a level above prêt-à-porter (Ready-To-Wear), Haute Couture seamstress can spend up to 700 hours creating a single Haute Couture garment, which is only designed for exclusive clients of about 2,000 buyers.

Meanwhile, avant-garde fashion challenges and goes against the mainstream through continuous experimentation and regeneration. Avant-garde fashion tends to be more versatile and attainable, which frequently revolves around menswear-inspired designs, with a remarkable amount of layering using monochromatic colors. Hence, black is the main color in Avant-garde fashion, although all black garments lack vivid colors, however, they show style and simplicity, especially its asymmetric hemlines which are designed and cut into interesting shapes.

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226 A great example that defines avant-garde fashion is Comme des Garçons by Rei Kawakubo as the collection includes colourful garments that feature daring ruffles, volume, and patterns that drags away from the traditional approach of the inclusion of the color black. Based on the collection, it is safe to say that Rei Kawakubo never fails to surprise the runways with its quirky designs.

Just as importantly, avant-garde fashion takes courage, boldness, and time to explore and discover the best fit that speaks personal style. Some people choose avantgarde as their fashion style because they want to escape daily expectations. They want to define themselves and be different from the social expectations on how we should present ourselves. All in all, while discovering and trying out avant-garde styles, think of big ideas, you can go for bold colors or creative fabrics.

But most importantly, enjoy oneself.

"Object/Subject" designs from Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, part of the show "Art of the In-Between" at the Costume Institute.

A view of the gallery of designs by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, "Art of the In-Between."

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Steal The Look

Lau Shi Yann

10/08

Fashion is for everyone, and of course, there are no set rules in achieving the avant-garde look. We have the freedom to mix and match a variety of materials, textures, and accessories to complete that desired avant-garde look. Experimentation is one of the ways to let us explore and be creative to pull off the bold and inventive style combinations. If you are curious about where to achieve simple avant-garde pieces as a startup, you are in the right place. However, avant-garde accessories are unique pieces that show the key elements of your outfit, it speaks your personality and fashion sense. Hence, everyone needs a pair of good quality shoes and Dr. Martens's footwear will be the key piece in our avant-garde outfit. Dr. Martens could be known as Doc Martens, Docs or DMs. It is a British footwear and apparel brand, and they are known for its durability and comfort using high-quality material such as real leather. Avant-garde styles would often be paired with leather shoes and they are usually the most important part of the entire look. The shoes definitely must be comfortable, so that we will wear them frequently. The designs could be chunky or fitted, with shoelaces or with a zip, and be the key avant-garde piece in many of our outfits.

1914 Smooth Leather Tall Boots MYR822.50

Fulmar Smooth Leather Buckle Shoes MYR616.90

Chesney Leather Flared Heel Lace Up Boots MYR776.80

Clarissa II Women's Leather Strap Sandals MYR594.00

1460 Fenimore Bex Moto Boots MYR822.50

Vegan Sinclair Platform Boots MYR913.90 Photo Courtesy of Dr. Martens

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Introverts Introverts & Extroverts Extroverts are the Yin Yin and Y Yang for a Better Universe

The power of the global pandemic has managed to split the people of the world into two different sides, introverts and extroverts. The two distinctive personality traits have been carried across aspects of an individual's life may it be in form of fashion or imagination. Most introverts might want to lock themself us in a glass box while most extroverts would want to spend the night away in a social gathering. Nevertheless, both introverts and extroverts express themselves in unique and different ways to make this world a balanced space for us all.

photographed by Joiurl

styled by Hearte

photographed & styled by Presha Sashigaran

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"I'm a big personality. I walk into a room, big and tall and loud."

Adele

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"Quiet people have the loudest minds."

Stephan Hawking

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Raving In Bodysuits Nabilah Abdullah

Rave culture posses one of the most distinctive and prominent styles in the fashion world. From bodysuits to harnesses, rave outfits never fail to serve stunning looks with the inclusion of blinding colors and shimmery sequences. The emergence of rave bodysuits is set to take rave fashion culture to new heights with its comfortability and functionality. Despite them being a staple comfortable fashion piece in rave fashion culture, rave bodysuits are giving the rave culture a fashion moment with their immaculate colours, styles and even designs.

17/08

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Zaful Ribbed O Ring Cutout Contrast Binding Bodysuit MYR35.00

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Noisy May Benan Long Sleeve High Neck Mesh Bodysuit MYR89.00

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Zara Cut-Out Jacquard Bodysuit MYR 159.00

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H&M Sequined Bodysuit MYR129.95

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A Hare’s Magical

MAGICAL A-Fair Funfair features attractions that mainly cater to children and youths. It is a place that exudes a very magical power that will bring out the inner child of everyone. It's the best place to bright out genuine happiness because of the nostalgic feelings we all get with neon lights, teddy bears as gifts, etc. As the Y2K fashion trend is coming up, the Y2K aesthetic goes well with the vibes how funfair gave out. The colors, the shapes, the aesthetic, etc. It's just so fantasy and dreamy. Hence, escape the hustle and bustle city by having a short getaway in the funfair. Get yourself dressed up with fun, colorful elements and get ready to have fun without any thoughts in mind is just the best thing ever in life.

creative & styling by Ashley Laureisha

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Tattoos of YOU on

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

The fashion world has gained a new statement, thanks to the tattoo trends in 2021 that are centered around self-expression.

Presha Sashigaran

12/08

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Emerging from as early as 3100 BC, tattoos have always been known as a form of body art that captures uniqueness. Besides the fact tattoos look aesthetically pleasing, Egyptians who first discovered the art of tattooing have given a more significant meaning to this unique form of body art. It is believed that tattoos were not just a form of art in the past, instead, it was used as a way of marking the body to represents ethnicities, belives and spirituality. However, that has all changed in the 21st century as tattoos are now known to be an element of fashion that adds to an individual's self-identity, aesthetic, and self-expression. Individuals are now using tattoos as a form of letting the world know who they are and what are they about based on their appearance. Today it is seen that tattoos have looked past the point of having the need to be meaningful as body art lovers are pulling towards tattoos that are meant to make a statement, grab attention and add towards their own fashion styles. For years now, tattoos have played a major part in shaping the fashion trends of the world, which has resulted in the new emergence of tattoo styles and aesthetics, making them more significant to fashion rather than traditional beliefs. As the tattoos styles and aesthetics begin to broaden up year by year, it is seen that in 2021, the tattoos trends are some of the strongest ones yet, making them a fashion statement on their own.

The tattoos trends seen in 2021 pushes boundaries of society as they are seen to be louder and bolder, and drags away the stereotype of only having tattoos that can be easily covered up with clothes or makeup. May it be in our very own Malaysia or The United States, female or male, the tattoo trends seen today seems to make a statement as it is being adopted by individuals of all races, religions, and even ages. Tattoos are seen to be shaping individuals to be unique and one of a kind, while breaking down all social expectations of where or how a tattoo should be worn or placed on one's body. Tattoos are now strengthening its relationship with fashion as tattoos are now a major part of the fashion community and even industry. From finger tattoos that are completely visible to neck tattoos that are highly attention-grabbing, let's take a look at the tattoo trends that are popular today and how have they become their very own fashion statement.

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@prettyokaypokes

Hand Poke Tattoos

@carpenter_tattoo

Hand Poke tattoos have finally gotten the appreciation it deserves! Hand poke tattoos are a form of tattooing that is executed by manually penetrating a needle that is dipped in ink onto the skin. It is by far one of the most difficult tattooing jobs to execute, but the hype and trend of hand poke tattoos have given us a reason to believe otherwise. In 2021, it is seen that hand poke tattoos are done in various styles and colors. It is seen that this trend focuses on intricate designs such as dotting and line work while still giving it an edge of rawness and imperfection. Hand poke tattoos have gotten their very own fashion moment because of their unique attention to detail. Hand poke tattoos in 2021 include artsy and edgy words such as "cool" and "baby" or any other words that best describes your personal identity and/or style. This trend is perfect for individuals that prefer font tattoos over portrait tattoos and would want to portray their personal style and identity through words!

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@itsjovynn

Chest Tattoos

@gajenchandra

Chest tattoos have become significantly popular in 2021. From short quotes to portrait of faces, chest tattoos are definitely a form of body art that makes a bold statement. It is also seen that chest tattoos are becoming a major trend in the youth community as chest tattoos can play an important role towards the fashion appearance and aesthetic of an individual as it provides edginess and sexiness. It can be seen that in this trend the placement of the tattoo on the chest is well taken into consideration as most individuals are pulling towards a tattoo that is placed on the center of the chest right below the collar bone, as it is highly visible when paired with most styles of tops. With that being said, this tattoo trend has a close relationship with fashion as it requires the help of fashion to receive its very own spotlight.

Chest tattoos are meant to stand out and showcase bravery and strength. This tattoo trend is perfect for individuals who would want to make a bold statement and add interest and uniqueness to their overall fashion aesthetic!

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@michelle.otp

Patchwork Tattoos

@williwhye

Patchwork tattoos got their fame all thanks to TikTok! Adopted by most youth tik-tokers, patchwork tattoos focus on bringing out one's true self through body art. Patchwork tattoos are small to medium-sized tattoos that are placed all over the body while leaving spaces between each other. The whole idea of patchwork tattoos is for it took like stickers in a journal. Today it is seen that the patchwork tattoo trend is being adopted by individuals who have strong selfidentities through fashion, as patchwork tattoos allow individuals to get art that best represents their personality and fashion aesthetic. In 2021, patchwork tattoos are being elevated to new heights as body art lovers are applying this trend to their entire arms and legs to form a patchwork tattoo sleeve. Patchwork tattoos are emerging in all forms and shapes - from mini portraits of animals to cool quotes. However, one commonly seen element from this trend is that the patchwork tattoo is best suited in black ink as the intricate lines and shading work done with black ink has the best contrast on all skin tones.

Patchwork tattoos make a really bold fashion statement as it tends to have its very own spotlight that overpowers any form of outfits in any style. Patchwork tattoos are most suitable for individuals who want to portray their strong personalities and fashion identities, as patchwork tattoos pull away from the traditional form of tattoo art and its best looked as a fashion element. If you look at your body as a canvas, patchwork tattoos are the stickers you need to add to your very own canvas!

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Escapism

Nabilah Abdullah

16/08

4 breathtaking escapes available in our very own Malaysia

Just the thought of us who had the freedom to travel around the country and even the world once, makes us feel sad. Now, Malaysians are not even allowed to cross districts if there is no valid reason. With the country being in an on-and-off lockdown since last year, Malaysians have been longing for a holiday. A holiday that lets people travel abroad to ease their urge of wanting a change of scenery. However, the number of cases in Malaysia is still high and, the country is still fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. Hence, there is still no news that Malaysians can go abroad for holidays. Until we are allowed to travel abroad for a holiday, traveling around Malaysia is the best option for now. While we wait for the inter-district and inter-state travel restrictions to get lifted, here are some ideas for you to plan your next travel local destinations.

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Photo Courtesy of ZuBlu

01 Mabul Island, Sabah Malaysia has over 40 islands that is accesible. However, people tend to forget the ones in East Malaysia. Out of all the islands on Sabah’s east coastline, Mabul Island is a must-visit. It is known for its sandy beaches and clear waters. Apart from that, Mabul is popular amongst divers around the world as it is rated one of the world’s top diving areas thanks to its abundance of wildlife, including green sea turtles, sharks, and schools of barracuda. If you are a beginner, you can opt for snorkeling instead and you will still be able to enjoy the beautiful marine life. If you are not a fan of the ocean, there is still something for you at Mabul Island like lazing around at the sandy beach or catching the sunset/ sunrise. Furthermore, it is no coincidence that when tourists come to visit this island, they are enlightened by the culture of the Bajau Laut tribe (sea gypsies) who are locals of the island village. You get to enjoy bits of everything when at Mabul Island.

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Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

02 Kundasang, Sabah While we are on the topic of East Malaysia, let’s head to another destination in Sabah called Kundasang that is referred to as the “Scotland of Borneo”. This quiet little place is a town located in Ranau district of Sabah, Borneo at the foot of the majestic Mount Kinabalu. It was just last two years when a photo of herds of Holstein Friesian breed of cattle went viral over social media. Everyone who saw the photo was astonished at how there were also that breed of cattle here in Malaysia as people usually think they would only be in countries like New Zealand or Australia. The Holstein Friesian cattle can be seen at the Desa Dairy Farm at Mesilau in Kundasang. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions as people simply enjoy overlooking a panoramic view of the dairy farm with black and white cattle grazing in the fields at the foothills of the majestic Mount Kinabalu.

Other than the Desa Dairy Farm, tourists can also visit the Kinabalu National Park, Sabah Tea Garden, or shop for fresh produce at the Kundasang market. We can say that Kundasang is the perfect destination for the ones who want to be surrounded by natural beauty, lush greenery and for those who want the feel of being abroad

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@zed.photography.zone

03 Bukit Tinggi, Pahang Another destination that makes you think you’re in another country is Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. Bukit Tinggi has breathtaking scenery and is suitable for those who are looking for inner peace while engaging with nature. It is said that the scenery in Bukit Tinggi might make you think you’re aborad.

One of the few reasons is the Colmar Tropicale French village that will transport you to a little town of Colmar in Alsace, France. This French-themed village was inspired by the streets and buildings of the real town, making anyone who walks here feel as if they are in a classic European movie.

Flying you from France to Japan, in our very own Malaysia is the Japanese Village located on top of the hills will give you the real vibe of being at a peaceful traditional Japanese village without having to actually fly there. Visitors can rent and get dressed up in kimonos while exploring the area and taking photos of the beautiful traditional village. They can also head to the Japanese Tea House to learn how to prepare and serve Japanese tea the traditional way. Other than that, Bukit Tinggi also has Colmar Adventure Park, Horse Trail Rides, Tatami Spa, and many more activities for you to do to fill up your time with.

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Photo Courtesy of Tiny House Lifestyle

Photo Courtesy of Uniq Hotels

04 Sekeping Retreats, Selangor For the people who prefer staycation, Sekeping Retreats should be saved on their list. Sekeping Retreats is a series of private retreats or for some like to call, getaway guesthouse, for those who would also want to pleasure themselves with a tropical gateway placed in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Sekeping Retreats is well known among local millennials as the place was featured a lot on Instagram as it was gaining popularity a few years ago. It has several different retreats located around the city of Kuala Lumpur which are, Sekeping Tenggiri, Sekeping Jugra, Sekeping Sin Chew Kee, and Sekeping Backlane. Their first retreat, Sekeping Serendah is located in Selangor and another one in Ipoh is called Sekeping Kong Heng. All of the retreats have a concept of naturefocused with simple, and rustic design that gives off the contemporary vibe. The retreat encourages people to live and share the space with others to make it interactive and to create more sustainable spaces. The retreat offers a wide range of exciting activities to do with your family and friends such as jungle trekking, fishing along the lake, or simply even spending time together at the retreat space. Escaping the city and staying at the Sekeping series of beautiful minimalist retreats nestled within nature is definitely a good idea and a must for those who would want a nature-themed getaway without having to leave the busy city of Kula Lumpur.

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Photoshopped Travel

photographed by Joiurl

styled by Hearte

Express yearn for traveling after nearly two years of the covid-19 restrictions — and optimism that the skies will soon open up again. Teleporting during the break of WFM to random places all around the world for our travel soul in the conservative yet bold power suits with vintage statement sunglasses and handbag.

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6 Minimalist FURNITURES Inspired by Culture Nabilah Abdullah

16/08

When it is interiors with culture-inspired at the same time, minimalist; the interior styles one could think of are from the Japanese and Scandinavian. The Japanese design is often minimal with a strong focus of functionality which is very similar to the simple Scandinavian style. The importance of simplicity cannot be overstated as the styles are minimalist and clean for the Scandis. Here are some home furniture that is inspired from both cultures that are known for it's minimalistic touch.

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Ruma - Brenna Oiled Oak Spindle Chair MYR199.00

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Cassa - Wayne Extendable TV Cabinet Entertainment Unit Scandinavian(Inspired) MYR899.00

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Fella - Flynn Armchair MYR1107.90

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Fella - Grady Lady Chair MYR1709.10

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Cassa - Futon Japanese Style Chair Modern Tatami Cushion Sofa Seat Chair Pad MYR199.00

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Ruma - Haru Table MYR1390.00

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To Brother with love

Love

creative and styled by Razeq Jeffry

Mio Miyasaka, a female Japanese designer, suffered the significant loss of her beloved brother, Yuki, in 2013. And what's tragic is that the cause of his passing was a mystery until today. Nevertheless, not a single day passes that Mio does not think of her late brother with fond memories. And as a tribute, she dedicates this collection called Resurrection to the late Yuki, the founder of the brand; 3RQL Mio said, "His creations inspire this collection during his time on earth. It is about giving him justice, proving that he did not die in vain, and bringing his brand to light.3RQL is a philosophy that alludes to the fundamental respect of humans from different social classes understanding each other and conspiring to form a solution for peace."

The designs are influenced by the underground indie scene, mainly focusing on skateboarders. The collection consists of breathable, durable, and stretchable fabrics such as neoprene, micropolyester rayon, and cotton. The garments are technically designed to serve purposes like protection, practicality, and functionality. In addition, they are minimizing side seams and adding quilting pads to maximize comfortability and movement.

Mio elaborates, "My brother left us with a brand that has potential, and I didn't want it to die, so I went and studied fashion design so that I can continue his legacy bringing it to another level. A 90s underground indie scene inspires the collection and my brother being my muse." The storyline of the shoot features a boy trying to skateboard. At the same time, two boys are having a great and fun time together while toying with a VHS player trying to record each other. These were two activities that the late Yuki enjoyed doing during his lifetime. Mio hope by featuring her late brother's passion in the collection, she can share a piece of him with the world and keep his memory alive.

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Sheena Liam , Sheena

Self-Reflection Through Embroidery Lau Shi Yann

10/08

Sheena Liam expresses herself using the signature green thread in her figurative embroidery.

Lockdown Portrait #1

Lockdown Portrait #2

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Sheena Liam was born and raised in Malaysia, an artist and a model who won in the second season of Asia's Next Top Model. Sheena Liam is the embroidery artist behind the Instagram account (@times.new.romance). Most of her artworks are figurative pieces that captured moments of selfreflection, and the subject's hair is the main eye-catching point in her embroidery. She has embroidered several hairstyles such as braids, messy buns, fringes, and more. What makes her embroidery unique is that she would sew the 2D subject with 3D hair and let them fall loosely around the embroidery hoops. Sheena Liam learned basic embroidery from her mother but found it boring and repetitive. She did not like the imagery that came with pre-made cross stitch packs, she finds them extremely restrictive until she was older and realized she could do anything she wanted including embroidering her own sketches. Hence, she had the idea for an embroidered piece with the braids hanging out of the frame and continue making them as people were really excited about it.

"The best way to learn is to just start. It´s not about beauty, followers, or being good; it´s about doing, creating. Embroider whatever you like, use the colours that make you happy." Sheena Liam

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Sheena Liam made her artistic debut at a solo exhibition titled 'Times New Romance' in the year 2018, which took place at Item Gallery in Paris, France. It was a great experience and a successful event for her as she did not expect the huge amount of attendees that showed up. Moreover, Sheena Liam's artworks are primarily women-focused as she has always visually sketched girls since she was a child. She loves portraits and faces, bodies, and hands. She hopes her work can inspire other women to explore and create their own art in whichever medium they are interested in and passionate about. Sheena Liam finds that the best thing about being an artist is to have the freedom to create something of her own. Nevertheless, Sheena Liam is one of the talented individuals that inspire others through her creativity and passion. It is certainly that Sheena Liam has broken the ice for other creatives to speak their minds with a flaming passion.

Follow Sheena Liam on Instagram (@sheenaliam) if you are curious about her daily lifestyle, and also don't forget to follow (@times.new.romance) to have a closer look at her artworks and work progresses!

"People write themselves off before anyone else. Don’t do that to yourself. Anyone can say no to you, but as long as you don’t say no to yourself, that’s what’s important."

Sheena Liam

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Studio Scene #1

Studio Scene #2

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Editorials

BREAK Trends, Put on TRADITIONAL.

creative & styling by Ashley Laureisha

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Traditional clothes represent culture and identity. The importance of wearing traditional clothes is to value cultural traditions. Wearing traditional clothes on festive occasions is not only to show respect and love but also reflects traditional values of the family. Cheongsam and Tang Suit are two of the most popular traditional clothes which modern individuals will put on. It has simple lines and looks elegant. It is suitable wearing all year round for both young and elderly groups.

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An Open Mind Leads to Open

Doors

Presha Sashigaran & Hearte

12/08

Natasha Pea Talks About Open Minded Fashion as The Best Form of Expression

@rotten0ppai

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Introduction Being a youth in a conservative country such as Malaysia is a struggle faced by many individuals who have their own thoughts against what fashion is said to be by others. Especially with the current pandemic, expressing yourself through fashion seems impossible with the boundaries we all are to follow. Being able to express yourself through fashion and being whoever you want to be is a big taboo in Malaysia. However, there is always a light at the end of a tunnel. The generation we live in today has adapted to be more open-minded with the fast-moving phase of the world. People are turning against taboos, rebelling against old ways, and creating a new world and society of open-minded individuals. They are shapers of the world, moulding and opening up the world to a more creative and open-minded space.

In some cases, some individuals look at being open-minded as a source of opening new doors for new discoveries and explorations. Being open-minded has not only let individuals explore fashion but has allowed them to explore and look at the world from different perspectives. In today's world, it is commonly seen that people use fashion as a getaway to let the world know how they feel and what they are. Expressive fashion is a strong form of communication by humans. It is strongly related to topics such as gender, identity, and race which often circles the youth community of the world. An individual in the Malaysian youth community that sets the perfect example of how an open mindset is the best form of showcasing yourself to the world is Natasha Pea. Natasha Pea focuses on having an open mind when it comes to her views as an individual. From fashion to gender, Natasha believes that with an opening minded approach, you are able to grow and learn as an individual.

"The Biggest Accesorie Is Your Fashion Sense" Natasha Pea

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Background Natasha Pea, the girl that does it all. Natasha is a 24-year-old Malaysian who continues to inspire others through her open-mindedness shown through her immaculate style of expressive fashion.

Why immaculate? You may ask, Natasha is literally a girl that does it all. Well, you see, she doesn't only dress expressively. She uses writing and dance as a form of expression. and she cares about the planet. Being only 24 years of age, most youths would not be able to handle that much weight on their shoulders. But Natasha still finds ways to express and show her true self without worrying about what the world might say. "Fashion is a form of expression for me. It's fun," said Natasha during the interview while she had the brightest smile on her face. She has an interesting take on fashion, something out of the ordinary, something we don't get to see often in Malaysia.

Natasha is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to being open-minded and using fashion as a form of expression in a conservative country. She is an individual that the youths would want to look up to and turn to themselves and say, "it's okay to be me, it's okay to explore, it's okay to dress the way I want to."

We are sure by now, and you may have many questions and curiosities on how Natasha does it?

What are her inspirations? Worry less, we have conducted a virtual interview with Natasha, and we have gotten all the tea! Yes, we have taken into consideration that our minds are not processing at total capacity during the lockdown, but we have made it simple for you. Just a 5-minute read of an interview session with Natasha will answer all your questions as well as make you feel as inspired as ever!

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Q1. Introduce yourself, let us know your passion and hobbies.

Hi, I'm Natasha, and I'm 24 this year. My hobbies are dance and writing. My passions are also intertwined, so I am passionate about dance, writing, human rights, and the planet.

Q2. What does fashion personally mean to you in your words or in your perspectives?

Fashion is essentially self-expression for me. I think it is fun just dressing up to face the world for the day, right? and depending on the mood and what colour you're feeling. It's just the biggest accessory is your fashion sense, and you can do anything with it.

Q3. What are the aspects that influenced your personal views on fashion?

I grew up watching many 90S HONG KONG MOVIES, so I think the fashion from like Hong Kong movies. Like I love 90s silhouettes like the puffy shoulders and stuff. So that's something I incorporate into my dressing a lot. I do wear a lot of essentially 90s silhouettes and also like 90s mangga. Aside from that, I don't limit myself; I just want to try everything if I see it, i like it, I try it.

Q4. Who are some of your fashion icons?

This is a hard one, there are so many, but there are none. I do think Rihanna is just everybody's fashion icon in general. She looks good every day, and I aspire to go out and walk around with that mad drip. You know I want to look like that. She looks like she's ready for a picture to be taken at any point, and that's what I'm trying to be. You know I don't try sometimes. I don't know. I don't particularly think anybody is like an icon to me, but it's like a mixture of everything I have consumed on Instagram. It is just like everybody is so fashionable. My inspirations are super diverse as well, I would say.

Q5. In 3 words, how would you describe your fashion style?

Eclectic for sure, tomboyish, last word colourful? I wear a lot of colours.

Q6. Does that includes patterns, prints and stuff like that as well?

Yeah, just like LOUD.

"If you like it then just do you."

Natasha Pea

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@rotten0ppai

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Q7. We have gone through your Instagram, and we think you have a unique sense of style, and we don't get that in Malaysia. We feel like cause everyone is so conservative, they follow the rules and stuff like that. So, we think you have a very open mind when it comes to fashion but of course, correct us if we are wrong. What encourages you to have an open mind when it comes to fashion and dressing the way you want to?

I think having an open mind, in general, helps with that. I think a lot of it has to do with not caring for some degree, like if you like it; you wear it, and it also helps that I'm not religiously bound to look a certain way, I mean, I am a Malay passing so when people do look at me, and I'm like dress the way, I do get looks, but it's like I don't care. What influences me is, yeah, you've got to be brave, man! If you like it and you, then do you. Sometimes dressing the way you do, I think you should go for it. I also feel for your safety. Consider where you are going and stuff. I think people sometimes stare just because they don't know any better, not because like have like intentions, so that's that, but yeah, essentially gotta grow a thick skin, I guess. But don't get me wrong, I'm also not always comfortable wearing whatever I want. Or like sometimes I bring a jacket anywhere, you know stuff like that just in case. You have to work smart with it.

Q8. With that being said, was there any specific moment when you realised that you approached fashion with an open mind and went against all taboos of what fashion is said to be?

No, I don't think so. I have always been very experimental with the way I dress like. Even as a kid, I was always into fashion, always dressing up, always try on my mom's makeup and like her clothes and all that. So, yea. I don't think that there's ever been a moment, but I generally think it's always been this way for me.

@rotten0ppai

"As long as you don't limit yourself, you tend to go bigger!"

Natasha Pea

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Q10. Have you ever have major success because of your fashion style?

I think I have gotten many opportunities and features because people thought the way I dress was lucky for me like interesting. So I've been very grateful for that. I can't pinpoint one specific thing because I don't think there's been one major like wow. I think the way I dress has resulted in a lot of my features and stuff. I think, yeah, Converse approached me because they like my Instagram and how I dress like everybody else I have featured. Yeah, I say Converse, I guess, but I think it's a lot of the things I've done.

Q11. Was it the one where Converse posted a short clip of you dancing?

Yeah, that one is one feature, but there was another one as well. But it was Converse x. It's like they have this group of us from each country as a part of the Converse community. They pick interesting people. The video feature was like I got the main feature.

Natasha X Converse

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Q12. Based on your experience, do you think not being able to express yourself through fashion takes a toll on your mental health?

I think not being able to dress the way I want affects my mental health. You going to feel worse, you know what I mean. If you feel like shit, if you're going through a breakup or something, it feels like all hell is breaking loose on your life, and then you mastered up all energy you have in your body, take a shower and look cute when you look at yourself like you know what- I'm going to be okay.

Yeah, so dressing up affects my mood like if I look like shit, I'm going to feel like shit. I mean, you don't have to look made up and dress up all the time. You look cute either way, but I like going out, and the whole process of dressing up is also cathartic and therapeutic. You know? and if you like the end product, it's even better, and then you feel good about yourself the whole day. So, personally, for me, it affects.

Q13. What struggles do you face, like what you mentioned before, like having the stares and stuff? What are some other struggles you face while being an open-minded individual in Malaysia in general, not only in fashion aspects?

That's a good question. I think amongst the Malaysian men or whatever, they have this preconceived notion like when a girl presents the way like she's open-minded, she is like down to do whatever like hyper-sexual. It's like they may be that, but it doesn't mean they want to engage in anything with you. It's just so gross and weird. Men assume things about you, and that's not fun. I don't like that at all. It's like I'm not for your consumption either way like I dress because we all dress for ourselves- let's be real. We dress for other women. They are like sexualizing you, and it's like as women, most times we appreciate other people, the approach is different, it's gross. That's one. And also, obviously like older people they always just like, ugh, you know? Sometimes when I meet my family, like my instant family and I have to go out afterwards, I have to bring and change the clothes, like I'm not even going to lie. I even top up my makeup in the car before I go for drinks. If they happen to see me outside with a completely different outfit, then I'm fucked, but yea, you do what you have to, you know?

@rotten0ppai

I want to add one more answer. In an educational institute, I think I've got discriminated against by male lecturers because of the way I look. I may not even be in a revealing outfit, but just because I like to wear makeup like I don't know, people just hate on pretty girls that's the tea! They see you, and you look like you have your shit together, and they're assuming you spend more time on yourself than you do on anything else, but it's like- I can beat with my face for two hours every morning, I don't, I will be with my face for 15 minutes, first of all. If I wanna, I can be with my face for two hours in the morning and then spend the rest of the day studying. It doesn't affect anything.

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Q14. Based on your experience, what advice can you give to fellow Malaysian that are also struggling with dressing expressively and just being the way they want to be?

At the end of the day, it's your life, and this is just general advice, not just for dressing. It is just your life, and if it's going to make you happy, do it. Even means dressing the way you want or expressing your gender the way you want. Take a count on safety. I always say that, but yeah, at the end of the day, it's your life, and you're looking for yourself. Life is so short. The world is already in flames, so you should do what makes you happy.

Q15. As an individual that has an open-minded approach towards fashion, how do you see the future of open-minded fashion in Malaysia?

I think it's bright because people dress so well these days rather than I was like maybe ten or something, I mean obviously, I was a kid, but people dress so well, and kids dress so well, and I think we can thank the influence of Instagram especially TikTok these days. People dress so well, and I see all these Malaysian kids, not kids but like adolescence on TikTok, and they're all so cute, and I'm just like, oh damn, I want to be your friend you all dress so cute. Yeah, I think the future is bright. It's only going to get better from here!

Q16. Is there anything you would like to add that you think might help us write this feature about you in more detail?

I think I've been struggling with feeling like I want to dress up. I don't know if everyone else feels that way within the last year, especially since we've been in lockdown. I don't feel like looking good anymore, WHICH SUCKS!. Because every day you know you look like shit, and you see yourself in the mirror, and you're just at home with your pj's every day and feels horrible. Personally, it made me so sad. I think I was going through something in the last two months when I was constantly at home, and I was looking at myself in the mirror and constantly in PJs. It was just like the worst thing, and it took a toll on my self-esteem. Honestly, I have been struggling to wanna dress up in the past two years. But I have made new friends recently who dress well, so I've been inspired by them and feels refreshing and just like, oh, okay, I forgot how fun this is! That's been nice.

"I have made new friends recently who dress really well, so I've been really inspired by them and just feels refreshing and just like oh, okay I forgot how fun this is!"

Natasha Pea

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@rotten0ppai

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"Human beings do not wish to be modest: they want to be as expressive- that is, as modest as fear allows; fashion helps them solve that paradoxical problem" Edward Sapir

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Conclusion Understandably, most individuals or, to be more specific, youths are afraid of breaking the rules and expressing themself through fashion as it may come with consequences. Nevertheless, the world is already in flames, do what makes you happy but always take account of your safety, as Natasha would put it. Natasha sees a bright future of expressive fashion in Malaysia; people are becoming more open-minded, which has led to individuals inventing and creating new and unique fashion styles away from the old. This has given youths the hope of further opening up the world of fashion in a conservative country to lead the way for the upcoming generations. Expressive fashion takes guts and confidence, but when you make that first step of putting yourself out there for the world to see, your perspectives towards the world, in general, will change to become better.

Fashion is a true form of communication even from the olden days, and that has never changed.

Instead, it has only become more robust. Today, we don't just dress as a form of communication, but we have started dressing for ourselves because it makes us feel good. When we feel good, we allow ourselves to communicate with others better is something Natasha strongly believes. We are all blessed to have a community and platforms to express how we are as unique and creative individuals. Fashion is something that everyone can relate to in this world; Natasha has used that as an advantage as a form of seeing the beauty of how fashion is something all humankind share in common. Despite gender, race, culture, and age, we are all one when it comes to fashion. Natasha is a strong believer in an experimental fashion that is not retrained by boundaries but should be based on who you are as an individual and how you feel. Fashion is to be explored. Fashion is what you define it to be. Fashion is you, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

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Culture

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Is Laughter the BEST Medicine?

Muhammad Razeq Irfan Bin Jeffry

14/08

Discussing sensitive issues like racial unity and culture can be a difficult feat that requires tact and diplomacy. One man successfully tackles these subjects with flair and a whole lot of laughter.

As we prepare to celebrate our upcoming National Day and Malaysia Day, it is time that we talk about a topic that is close to our hearts that is Malaysian culture and unity. It is a topic which is interesting as is sensitive especially in today's age.

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We used to listen to our parents and grandparents who often talk of the golden days of Malaysian unity. They consistently talk about how when they were kids nobody thought often about race, and everyone seemed to get together so much better than they do today. They share numerous stories constantly, about a feeling of solidarity that Malaysia once had and has now since deteriorated. The stories often revolve then around integrated culture, food, lifestyle, art to name a few which were enjoyed by many from all walks of life regardless of race or religion. And when they reminisce about these elements, there's one name that always stands out who can deliver these poignant messages impactfully which transcends religion or race. Enter Datuk Mohammad Nor Bin Mohammad Khalid or better known as Datuk Lat, Malaysia's very own cartoonist who is a Malaysian icon in his rights.

Mat

Born 5 March 1951 in Kota Bharu Perak, Datuk Lat is known for his cartoons which draw on the 'Malaysiana' element. He has captured the often funny, heart-warming, and bittersweet scenes of Malaysian life, from the daily routines of multiracial kampung communities to the fascinating life in the big cities.

Having spent his early childhood years in Kampung, Datuk Lat drew on his personal experience to create the popular Kampung Boy series about Mat, a young boy living in a village that experience growing up in the countryside of Perak in late 1950 before the Merdeka. Kampung Boy features many multiracial characters to bring togetherness about Malaysia through images of village life. He attempts to unite Malaysians through humour which is a clever strategy for a sensitive subject as people are more receptive and accepting. In addition, he was also promoting "cultural intimacy" which is a microcosm of the Malaysian world.

Datuk Lat's works made an impact not just from a creative standpoint. In the period before his debut as a New Straits Times cartoon columnist, there were racial tensions following the racial riots of 1969. He used his work to help allay the pressure by drawing a crowd of multiracial Malaysians talking to one another in a friendly and nondiscriminatory, yet humorous way. Sure he was just doing his job as the racial and cultural mediator of the newspaper, but Datuk Lat himself possessed the necessary qualities which are the intimate knowledge of various races and cultures from his personal experience.

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It is little wonder that Malaysians love and relate to his work so much. Even after he started slowing down several years ago, the characters he created such as Mat, Mrs. Hew, Opah, Ana, and Yap are still on posters today, particularly during the New Year and festive seasons.

To Datuk Lat, it is significant to include the element of racial diversity in Malaysia in his works. This, to him, is a way to casually educate the masses about the value of the differences in race and religion. In striving to foster interracial harmony, folks would need to have a profound and healthy curiosity about the different cultures in Malaysia.

"You see, because of the varied and different backgrounds of people in this country, we are from different tribes, different clans, and different races — but that is actually what makes us very attractive. The more we understand each other, the more we will be interested in each other. All my work in the New Straits Times was about understanding each other," he said.

Learning each other's cultural background, especially coming from a different race or religion is important. He believed that it should not be one-sided. It helps people to be more tolerant and understanding. And this should start from a young age.

Chinese Mother

Indian Mother

Malay Mother

American Tourists

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The first time he drew a cartoon on the wedding rituals of another culture was in 1974, with a heartfelt depiction of a Sikh wedding. Curious, he attended the wedding ceremony at the Gurdwara Sahib in Kampung Pandan.

"I was glad that I did that because the series went on for many days and the response was very good," he said, adding that the paper was inundated with calls praising his work and asking for more of such themes.

It's no surprise to anyone that Datuk Lat has received many recognitions and accolades for his meaningful artistry. His works have been used by academics in their teaching. His insights into different cultures have also been acknowledged by foreign embassy officials when they invited him to their countries to experience their culture and share it with the world in a humorous way.

We need more of Datuk Lat's artistic vision and creativity to subtly educate and integrate the communities in today's Malaysia. Since these are sensitive topics, they need to be tackled creatively. Malaysians, when left on their own, very naturally build genuine and meaningful relationships with people of different races and religions – as they did in the early years of Malaya.

They just need a little nudge and reminder occasionally, one that comes from a non-threatening and welcoming party such as Datuk Lat.

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Beers to Presha Sashigaran

Features

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Careers 05/07

The combination of parties and Asian parents is a recipe for disasters, in my case it turned out to be a recipe of success just like one of Gordon Ramsey's strangely combined signature fine-dining desserts.

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THE SLIPPER. Any Asian kid who grew up in an Asian household is no stranger to a "slipper" concept. The "slipper" is whipped out by Asian parents as a form of punishment towards kids that rebel or disobey them and their set of rules.

Ever wondered why they are many Asian track runners? the "slipper" plays a HUGE contribution as it gets kids running for their lives as soon as parents reach for it! I fell into the category of having to run for my life when I was a kid.

However, being a mixed Asian or as some may call it "rojak" kid that has the best of both worlds only means one thing, faster running with the threat of the right, and the left slipper! Thow a dash of "divorced parents" into the mix and voila! you have me. A rebellious 16-year-old kid that will do anything to go against her parents even if it means having them whip out the allso-famous slipper!

My parents are criminals for dressing me up this way when I was a kid. CALL THE FASHION POLICE!

As a curious and adventurous kid, I have always wanted to explore the world beyond my imaginations, far more than just what I am able to see with my own eyes, away from these walls that were set up as high as the sky by my parents. The curiosities continued to haunt and grow with years. In a blink of an eye, I was a teenager and introduced to the forbidden world of clubbing. Although I tried my very best to follow and fit into the "life plan" that my parents had laid out for me, I could not get over the fact that I knew that an exciting world outside of that existed. I was torn between the two worlds of obeying my parents and feeding my curiosity. But, little did I know an experience filled with spicy juices, cigarettes, and loud music that was going to get me in major trouble by my parents, finally opened up my eyes to a world of new opportunities and future career paths.

Because clubbing led me to fashion.

"Introduced to the forbidden world of clubbing"

Here's an embarrassing story of the moment I realize I LOVED fashion. Nightlife, or as most of us Malaysian youths would refer it as "clubbing" or "jom trec tonight" is a hot topic in most youth households as most Malaysian parents despise the act of their kids drinking and dancing the night away in a confined space filled with loud music and strangers. Not just that, as we know clubbing clothing is another aspect that Asian parents seem to hate. Young girls dressed for the clubs in revealing short skirts, dresses, and bodycon tops that seem like they are meant for 5-year olds, only result in Asian parents giving you death stares into your soul while screaming at the top of their lungs saying "AIYO! I BUY FOR YOU SO MANY CLOTHES WHY YOU NEED TO WEAR SHORT-SHORT AND TIGHT-TIGHT UNTIL CAN SEE EVERYTHING AH!? Though it might not sound all bad to us as young people, clubbing is definitely an experience for us best suited for the youths. Well, to say the least, it was a hell of an experience for me as a first-time "clubber".

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"Garment proportion and color theory are key!"

Getting back to my embarrassing story... back in 2016 I rebelled against my parents' set of rules and decided it would be a good idea to have a fun night at a club in Kuala Lumpur with my friends. Red Room in Trec to be more specific, you know the one where all the underage teens go to have the ultimate clubbing experience? And let me tell you, I had the most ridiculous outfit on. Let me describe this ridiculous outfit I speak of; faded purple super tightly fitted sweat pants that were way too long for my little legs that they lumped up at my ankle, a red oversized Nike collared shirt that was well faded after being heavily worn in the past years and it had a rip at the seam of my left armpit! Paired with a pair of my Asics court shoes that were a combination of neon green and black of color with lines on the side of the shoe and beige-brown gel sole. A DEFINITE FASHION DISASTER! I mean what was I thinking!? I wish I am able to yell at my 15-year-old self: "GARMENT PROPORTIONS AND COLOR THEORY IS KEY IN FASHION!" Anyway, the night started off good with laughter and alcohol. I mean, what else could you possibly need besides the best combination of great friends with a questionable sense of humor and alcohol to help digest the lame jokes that were being thrown out on the table. Not keeping track of the time and the number of drinks I had downed by 1 am, I suddenly started to feel buzzed. I know you might be thinking at this point, 1 am and you are already buzzed? what a lightweight!

We teens know that our surroundings start to feel like a combination of multiple whirlpools and scary roller coaster rides once the alcohol starts kicking in. Not to mention, the flickering disco dancing lights that were one of the highlights of the club did not help in making my head feel like it was less than 2000 pounds. Despite the fact that I felt like I had an elephant on top of my head, I suddenly got a realization on how well all the girls in the club were dressed. From bell-bottoms to skinny jeans and from crop tops to black bras. I genuinely remembered that it was the most amazing and eye-opening experience to a whole new world of non-conservative fashion that I was suddenly introduced to. Surrounded by what suddenly looked like Paris Fashion Week rather than a club, I could not restrain my curiosity and had to go up to some girls and ask them in these specific words "how do you dress so well?" Of course, most girls ignored a weirdly dressed drunk teenage girl randomly asking for fashion tips in a club. I mean what else was I expecting? But I was so eager to get answers! I felt defeated but I was not ready to give up, so I had to rethink my game plan. I had a few more drinks in hopes that it would heal my ego bruises but not defeated courage to approach a few more girls before it was my time to leave the club. Suddenly, a kind 24-year-old girl with great taste in fashion approached me with a smile showing 14 pearly whites. And let me tell you, I know a great set of teeth when I see one!

Her name was Rain, she was dressed in an all-black mini-sequence dress that had a plunging neckline that sparkled away like it was one of the lights of the club. Her dress was layered underneath a black stylish and gothic tailored leather jacket that fitted her like a glove. Her black long ultra-straight 70's hair was gathered into a low ponytail that reached the bottom of her spine.

She wore 5-inch black heels boots that complimented her petite height while having the perfect shade of ruby red on her lips, leaving a picture of a perfect scarlet pout in my mind. I had never seen someone look so stylish and put together as Rain did. As she stood next to me, I was instantly hit by strong scents of roses and amber. And I immediately thought, this girl does not only look great but she smells like an absolute goddess too OMG! She had mentioned to me that her mom was a former underground fashion designer.

After carrying on the conversation with her for a few minutes and constantly attacking her with all the fashion-related questions that were running through my curious 16-year-old drunk mind, she ended off the conversation by mentioning to me that "looking at the world through fashion gives you a different perspective towards the human nature in general, fashion is a passion that is truly based on expressiveness and creativity." I gave her a big hug and thanked her over and over again before we went our separate ways. Words are not enough to describe the feeling I was feeling after the conversation. I felt a rush of adrenaline of inspirations and motivations that was displayed on my face in the form of the brightest smile.

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Me in the year 2020; slipper threat-free and a full-time fashion student looking to inspire the world through fashion.

I continued to dance the night away while knowing that I have just discovered a whole new world of fashion from a different perspective, a world I never even knew existed! As the saying goes "time flies when you're having fun", not long later gleaming white lights were turned on in the club and it was my time to leave and head back home. The day after, I could not help but replay those words that Rain had told me the night before. Little did I know, a first-time club experience would lead me to years of being fascinated by fashion. From then on, my understanding of fashion grew and so did my personal identity and style. I dumped the awful and ridiculous outfits, just like how I dump my exes but I kept the drunken club nights just like how I keep my family. And before I knew it, I was the girl that other younger girls would look at for fashion inspiration. Now I am a straight-A student in the second year of a Diploma in Fashion Styling. I must say despite the threats of the "slipper", which I can gladly say I am a survivor of, I never looked back and regretted that I broke the rules and followed my curiosities instead. Because clubbing led me to fashion.

"I dumped the awful and ridiculous outfits, just like how I dump my exes but I kept the drunken club nights just like how I keep my family."

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Editorials

Hearte's Pandemic Diary

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"It will be over soon," said everyone. Its been two years, this pandemic has taken the lives, emotions, and self-identities of almost every individual there is. For most, this situation has become overwhelming, frustrating, and lonely as they start to truly turn towards the littlest things in life that are worth fighting for. Friends, families, and dreams are now on pause, while being optimistic, keeping sane, and trying to not lose hope for one's self is the only way to get through these difficult times.

directed by Joiurl

text by Presha Sashigaran

styled by Hearte

References

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