The_Singapore_Women_s_Weekly__February_2018

A SUBSIDIARY OF SINGAPORE PRESS HOLDINGS 

MEET the team 

CNY’s best and worst bits revealed 

Chan Siew Boon 

Head of Digital Imaging 

Best things about CNY? 

“1) Going back to my 

hometown: Ipoh, Malaysia. 

2) Eating a lot of traditional 

local delicacies. 

3) Rest and relaxation, 

because it’s a public holiday.” 

What does Chinese New 

Year mean to you? 

“Family gatherings. There’s 

nothing better than spending 

well-deserved quality time 

with my loved ones.” 

Ivy Goh 

Senior Digital Imaging Artist 

Kenneth Ong 

Contributor 

Eileen Chia 

Head of Product & Partnerships – 

Women’s Network 


“1) Catching up with family 

and extended family members. 

2) Dressing up my boys in 

matchy-matchy auspicious 

outfits (much to their dismay). 

3) Two words: Pineapple tarts!” 

What do you hope relatives 

will not ask you this year? 

“If we are going to try for a girl, 

or kid number four (we already 

have three boys!)” 

Best things about Chinese New Year? 

“1) Gambling. 

2) Drinking. 

3) Flirting with eligible bachelorettes.” 

What does Chinese New Year mean to you? 

“Bonding with family – it’s also a time to 

catch up with friends. We’re always so busy 

working throughout the year but during CNY, everyone’s got a 

day off so it’s an opportune time to reunite and reconnect.” 

Assistant Editor Lisa Twang 

Fashion Director Janice Pidduck 

Associate Editor Sean Tan 

Senior Beauty Writer Arissa Ha 

Senior Features Writer Natalya Molok 

Fashion Stylist/Writer Aaron Kok 

Content Writer Elizabeth Liew 

Digital Writer Atika Lim 

Senior Art Director Ivy Choong 

Senior Designer Christina Lim 

Designer Xu Mei Yan 

Head of Digital Imaging Chan Siew Boon 

Senior Digital Imaging Artist Ivy Goh 

Digital Imaging Artist Angela Chan 

Chief Photographer Veronica Tay 

Executive Photographers Frenchescar Lim, Tan Wei Te 

Photographers Darren Chang, Vee Chin, Vernon Wong, Zaphs Zhang, Angela Guo 

Videographer Gong Yi Min 

Assistant Photographer Phyllicia Wang 

Photography Assistant Sherman See-Tho 

Group Editor Tara Barker 

Head of Consumer Magazines & Publishing Services Sue Tjong 

Advertising Director Chelsea Lam 

Senior Account Manager Kevin Sim 

Account Manager Rachel Lee 

Key Accounts Director Gwendolyn Ho 

Head of Business Development, Women’s Network Angela Lok 

Director, Marketing and Circulation Lin Shao Mei 

Marketing Manager Imelda Koh 

Marketing Executive Jasmine Chua 

Sales and Marketing Administrator Cynthia Ong 

Head of Product & Partnerships – Women’s Network Eileen Chia 

Campaign Manager Shireen Ho 

Head of Publishing Services Hesta Foong 

Senior Publishing Services Executive Li Danlin 

Publishing Services Co-ordinator Vivian Lee 

Executive, Editorial support Wendy Wong 

Admin Support Executive Joreen Tan 

Editor-In-Chief Barbara Koh 


“1) Travelling overseas with 

my family members. 

2) Eating festive goodies. 

3) Spending time with my 

two wonderful sons.” 

What does Chinese New 

Year mean to you? 

“Surprisingly, it’s a great 

time for me to relax and be 

completely stress-free!” 

What do you hope relatives 

will not ask you this year? 

“There’s nothing in particular 

that I hope they won’t ask 

me, because I actually like 

catching up with my elderly 

relatives. They can ask me 

anything at all.” 

Shireen Ho 

Campaign Manager 


“1) Twinning in new clothes with 

my daughter, Hannah. 

2) Visiting Chinatown for yummy 

snacks and pretty decorations. 

3) Family reunion dinners. My 

parents are amazing cooks, so I 

look forward to stuffing my face!” 

What do you hope relatives wil 

not ask you this year? 

“When I’m going to start planning 

for a second baby. Every year 

since my daughter was born 

they’ll predictably ask me this, so I 

have a standard answer ready for 

all those curious relatives!” 

Chief Executive Officer Loh Yew Seng 

Managing Director Maureen Wee 

Group Editor-in-Chief Caroline Ngui 

Publishing Services Director Leong Tscheng Yee 

Director Of Strategic Planning Foong Seong Khong 

Vice President, Human Resources Irene Lee 

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COPYRIGHT of SPHM 

MICA (P) 048/09/2017 

ISSN 0219-0974 

february 2018 | 6 | www.womensweekly.com.sg

Editor’s Letter 

Wow, there’s so much in store as February springs 

upon us. With the Lunar New Year falling mid-month, 

The Weekly is here to get you ready and feeling fab 

in less time, and with less stress. 

We’ve got easy, stylish home-organising 

startegies (page 120) to get your space all ready for 

guests. And do you really need that dress hanging in 

your closet for the past three years? Fashion stylist 

Aaron Kok tells you what to dump (or donate), keep, 

or invest in to look chic this year (page 66). 

I like what self-care educator Eleanor Brownn 

says, “Clutter is not just physical stuff. It’s old ideas, 

toxic relationships and bad habits – anything that 

does not support your better self.” How true! Make 

this your best year yet by dumping old thoughts, and 

making new habits for huge payoffs – be it for your 

mind (page 82), body (page 86) or career (page 90). 

Talking about tweaks, we helped three real 

women look gorgeous in under 3 minutes (page 38) - 

really. We know you will be time-challenged this CNY, 

so these beauty tricks will get you set – fast! 

My Granny taught me that the Lunar New Year 

is about love through food. Whip up these delicious 

dishes (instead of the standard steamboat) for 

reunion dinner (page 104), and three yummy Nyonya 

goodies (page 112) to wow friends and family. As we 

enter the Year of the Dog, may your year be blessed 

with happiness, good health and success! 

Barbara Koh 

Editor-in-Chief

Contents 

February 2018 

ON THE COVER 

Jesseca Liu on why 

she has a newfound 

respect for mums 

pg 16 

Inform 

10 Love Me Again 

Meet the celebs who 

got back together 

with their exes 

16 Blossoming Bride 

Newlywed Jesseca 

Liu shares her hopes 

and dreams for 2018 

20 Let’s Get Hitched 

How these three 

husbands popped 

the question 

Lookbook 

27 C The Light 

The best vitamin 

C skincare to 

perk up your 

complexion 

Perk up your skin with 

vitamin C 

pg 27 

30 Ultra Violet 

Make a splash with 

the latest trend: 

Purple makeup! 

32 Luscious Lips 

How to wear your lip 

colours this season 

38 Hit Refresh 

Transform your 

makeup with just 

one tiny tweak 

42 Budget Beauty 

How to look great 

for $30 or less 

44 Stay Hydrated 

Why moisturising is 

the most important 

skincare step 

48 Skincare On 

Schedule 

How to care for your 

skin round the clock 

The freshest, hottest 

lippie looks to try 

pg 32 

50 Colour Me Beautiful 

Change your look in 

a jiffy with these hair 

colour ideas 

52 Fabulous Tresses 

Hair resolutions 

you need to make 

for your best 

hair, ever 

54 Zhang Ziyi 

The Cloverfield 

actress works the 

Old Hollywood look 

56 Lucky Gems 

Make a quirky 

statement with 

gemstone earrings 

Gold is the 

key to every 

woman’s heart! 

pg 68 

58 Floral Fusion 

Mix floral prints with 

other details for an 

unexpected twist 

66 Closet Revamp 

Reorganise your 

wardrobe in style: 

Here’s how! 

68 Gold Rush 

Do a modern take 

on classic gold 

jewellery with these 

fab finds 

70 Man Makeover 

Three husbands plus 

a stylist equals three 

brand-new looks! 


Inspire 

75 Cut Loose 

Why letting go of 

your possessions can 

set you free 

78 Begin Again 

How one woman 

married her husband 

a second time 

82 Art Attack 

Unleash your own 

creativity today! 

Update your look with 

the latest florals 

pg 58 

86 Stay Slim Secrets 

Kick-start your diet 

today with these 

expert tips 

88 Health Is The Word 

‘Lagom’ and new 

health concepts 

Lift your spirits in the 

Year of the Dog 

pg 75 

90 Confidence Booster 

Beat impostor 

syndrome for good 

92 Spender, Saver or 

Dreamer? 

Take our money 

quiz to find out your 

finance personality 

94 New Year Fortunes 

How you’ll fare 

in the Year of the 

Dog, according 

to your zodiac sign 

Living 

101 Lovely Lanterns 

Make these 

beautiful backdrops 

104 Reunion Dinner 

Winners 

These traditional 

Chinese dishes will 

be new family faves 

112 Kuih Party 

Mouthwatering kuih 

recipes for dessert 

116 Healthy Bites 

Kuih treats your 

guests will love 

pg 112 

JUST 

FOR 

YOU 

Easy, nutritious 

comfort food 

119 Drink Up 

With energyboosting 

vitamins 

and minerals 

120 Declutter In Style 

Handy home 

organisation tips 

124 Heart Of The Home 

The kitchen rules for 

a healthier space 

Usher in the New Year 

with Chinese dishes 

pg 104 

Every issue 

7 Editor’s Letter 

14 Cover Style 

94 Horoscopes 

115 Food Notes 

128 Get-it Guide 

129 Browse & Buy 

130 Share A Secret 

PLUS Cookcards 

To Collect: 

Some Like It Hot! 

STAYCATION 

GIVEAWAY 

Win hotel stays worth 

over $2,000! 

pg 93 


THE BUZZ 

What we’re all talking about this month 

LOVE 

Takes Time 

These stars just couldn’t get enough of 

each other, so they’ve rekindled their 

romances: Looks like second helpings 

are twice as nice! 

JENNY SLATE AND CHRIS EVANS 

Jenny and Captain America himself 

are giving love another try! The stars, 

who previously broke up a year ago, 

have started seeing each other again 

after a short break. 

MEGAN FOX AND BRIAN 

AUSTIN GREEN 

Despite calling it quits in 2015, 

Megan and her hubby reconciled 

following news that they were 

expecting their third child together. 

FAYE WONG AND NICHOLAS TSE 

These Hong Kong pop stars got back 

together in 2014, a whopping 11 years 

after going their separate ways, proving 

that true love never dies. 

MILEY CYRUS AND 

LIAM HEMSWORTH 

Miley and Liam are back 

on after breaking off their 

engagement in 2013. The 

pop star has been wearing 

her Neil Lane engagement 

ring again, too. 

ADAM LEVINE AND BEHATI PRINSLOO 

It took dating someone else for the Maroon 5 

frontman to realise Victoria’s Secret model Behati 

Prinsloo was the one. After a brief breakup, he 

promptly proposed to the blonde bombshell. 

SELENA GOMEZ AND 

JUSTIN BIEBER 

Things are looking up for Selena 

and Justin. The pair went 

separate ways more than 

five years ago but recently 

reunited, to the delight of 

#Jelena fans everywhere. 

JERRY YAN AND 

CHILING LIN 

Are things back on 

track for Taiwanese 

actors, Jerry and 

Chiling? Rumours 

that they’ve kissed 

and made up have 

been circulating 

since they were 

spotted together 

last November. 


THE BUZZ 

Oscar 

Swag Bag 

Jennifer 

Lopez with 

Nubbins. 

With goodies packed into burstin 

gift bags, the Academy Awards 

attendees never leave 

home empty-handed, 

even when they miss 

out on a gold statue. 

the outrageous to the 

simply luxurious, here’s 

a compilation of 

the best ones. 

$54,000 

Private 15-day 

walking tour of 

Japan 

Barking 

$45,000 

$1,900 

Vampire 

breast lift 

A year’s worth 

of Audi car 

rentals 

Don’t pick a bone with thesee famous faces! Not 

only were they born in the Year of the Dog, they 

are also big-time puppy lovers. It’s little 

wonder celebs like Mariah Carey and J.Lo 

are so drawn to their furry friends: 

Those born in the Year of the 

Dog are said to be loyal and 

have a strong sense of 

responsibility, much 

like their canine 

companions. 

$1,400 

Fitness training 

sessions 

From bottom left: 

Prince William, 

Duchess 

Catherine and 

Prince George 

with Lupo. 

Mariah Carey 

with Jackson P. 

Muttley. 

Kelly Clarkson 

with Joplin. 

Fifty Shades 

Frenzy 

Once, a typical Valentine’s Day would consist of a fancy dinner 

and a bouquet of roses, but women have racier expectations now. 

Industry experts say they have seen a boost in adult toy sales since 

the first Fifty Shades Of Grey film hit our screens in 2012. Since then, 

mainstream retailers like Amazon regularly stock up on blindfolds, 

whips and more to satisfy their customer’s needs following each 

new movie release. The sexy franchise’s third instalment, Fifty 

Shades Freed, hits screens on February 8. 

$300 

Personalised 

M&Ms 


BALI 

THE BUZZ 

Fantastic 

Beasts 

It’s a zoo 

out there, 

as animal 

motifs 

prowl the 

red carpet 

on these 

celebs’ 

outfits 

Swallows 

swoop 

onto Fan 

Bingbing’s 

cape, 

designed by 

Christopher 

Bu. 

Emily Blunt is 

on a flight of 

fancy with her 

Sarah Burton 

for Alexander 

McQueen 

dove dress. 

A panther 

flashes 

its fangs 

on Hikari 

Mitsushima’s 

Gucci gown. 

Colourful 

parrots 

give Nieves 

Alvarez’s 

Gucci dress 

a whimsical 

feel. 

Mary J Blige 

lets a gold 

dragon take 

centrestage 

on 

her Temraza 

dress. 

Honeymoon 

Hotspots 

Margot 

Robbie 

flutters in a 

butterflyprinted 

Versace 

dress. 

IRELAND 

The only thing more extravagant than a 

celebrity wedding? A celebrity honeymoon, 

of course! Here’s where our favourite lovedup 

couples headed after saying “I do”... 

SEYCHELLES 

BORA BORA 

SPAIN 

Kanye 

West & Kim 

Kardashian 

TANZANIA 

George 

Clooney & Amal 

Alamuddin 

Keith Urban 

& Nicole 

Kidman 

Song Joong- 

Ki & Song 

Hye-Kyo 

Jessica Biel 

& Justin 

Timberlake 

Channing 

Tatum & Jenna 

Dewan

THE BUZZ 

Whose 

Gown 

Will Meghan Wear? 

Now that Prince Harry’s put a ring 

on her, we take bets on who Meghan 

Markle might wear for her wedding 

6:3 

ERDEM 

The English label 

is known for their 

hyper-romantic 

dresses that 

celebrate English 

design traditions 

and femininity 

– perfect for a 

blushing bride! 

4:5 

TOPSHOP 

UNIQUE 

Wouldn’t it be 

refreshing if a 

royal wedding 

dress came from 

a high street 

brand? It’s unlikely 

to happen, but 

you just never 

know. 

8:1 

ALEXANDER 

MCQUEEN 

Given that her 

sister-in-law 

to-be Kate 

Middleton wore a 

Sarah Burton for 

Alexander McQueen 

dress, it’s safe to 

say there’s a high 

likelihood that 

Meghan Markle 

will follow suit with 

another angelic 

creation from the 

British brand. 

7:2 

OSCAR DE LA 

RENTA 

An American herself, 

Meghan might look 

stateside to an 

American designer 

for her dress, and no 

brand can create a 

more showstopping 

gown than Oscar 

de la Renta. 

1:8 

SIMONE 

ROCHA 

Simone Rocha’s 

girlish tendencies 

could prove too 

coquettish for 

Meghan’s tastes, 

unless the bride 

wants to match 

the flower girls. 

Wildcard 

COMME DES GARÇONS 

If Meghan shows up in a Comme des 

Garçons gown, not only would she 

turn heads, she’ll go down in history 

as the bravest royal bride ever. 

2:7 

CHRISTOPHER 

KANE 

It’s a bit of a reach 

here, but we’d love 

to see Meghan 

embrace a dress 

less ordinary, and 

go for something 

conceptual, like this 

futuristic design from 

Christopher Kane. 

5:4 

MARCHESA 

On the red 

carpet, Meghan 

is often seen 

in clean and 

structured 

separates, so we 

3:6 wouldn’t put it 

past her to wear 

VICTORIA a suit for her 

BECKHAM wedding. 

Maybe Meghan will 

depart from the 

usual frou-frou frock, 

in favour for a more 

minimalist design. If 

that’s the case, Victoria 

Beckham’s clean 

aesthetic might suit her. 

COMPILED BY: AAROK KOK & NATALYA MOLOK / 

PHOTOS: TPG NEWS, 123RF.COM, SHOWBIT 


COVER STYLE 

FASHION DIRECTION: JANICE PIDDUCK / PHOTOS: WEE KHIM, ASSISTED BY CHONG / STYLING: SHAUN CHEN, ASSISTED BY XIANG QIYUAN / HAIR: GARY 

LOW/PASSION HAIR SALON / MAKEUP: SHAUN LEE, USING SULWHASOO / LOCATION: MITA KELDER PHOTOGRAPHY/ COMPILED BY: AARON KOK 

Aurélie Bidermann earrings, 

$590, from NET-A-PORTER. 

Shoes, 

$1,290, 

from 

Gianvito 

Rossi. 

Ring, 

$16,280, 

from 

Piaget. 

Actress Jesseca Liu 

blossoms in this season’s 

best floral fashion. Here’s 

how you can get her look… 

Isabel 

Sanchis 

gown, 

$7,489, 

from 

Farfetch. 

WIN! 

THE COVER LOOK 

Get Jesseca Liu’s radiant, flawless 

complexion with skincare from 

Estetica ést.lab. We are giving away 

five Estetica ést.lab hampers, worth 

$302 each, consisting of the Estetica 

ést.lab VitaLift A+ OPC Antioxidant 

Cream (50 ml), VitaLift A+ Skin Revive 

Cleansing Milk (150 ml) and VitaLift A+ 

Skin Revive Lotion Essence (150 ml). 

TO TAKE PART, VISIT 

www.womensweekly.com.sg 

Alternatively, scan this QR Code to 

participate in this promotion. 

Promotion valid from January 16 to 

February 15, 2017. Enter code: ES#0218 to 

increase your chances to win. Winners will 

be notified via email by end of March 

2018. Promotion is open to all residents of Singapore, 

other than employees and their families of SPHM Pte Ltd 

and its associated agencies. 

WIN 

a Marc Jacobs 

Eau So Decadent 

EDT (100ml)! 

FLIP TO PAGE 126 FOR DETAILS. 


CELEBRITY 

OUR COVER STAR 

Bloom 

Recently-wed actress Jesseca Liu talks 

romance, good fortune, and the possibility 

of babies with The Weekly 

BY LISA TWANG

Gathered tulle 

gown, $1,340, from 

Whole9Yards. Silk slip, 

$240, from La Perla. 

Earrings in white 

ceramic and rose gold, 

$2,490, from Damiani. 

Ring in pink gold and 

diamonds, $12,800, 

from Bulgari.

CELEBRITY 


alice McCALL 

open-back 

ruffled gown, 

$1,015, from 

NET-A-PORTER. 

Ring, $17,390, 

and earrings, 

$17,490, both 

in white gold; 

blue sapphires 

and diamonds, 

from Damiani. 

resh from her 

honeymoon to Europe, 

where she and fellow 

actor husband Jeremy 

Chan traversed Italy, 

Spain and Portugal, 

Jesseca Liu wistfully 

recalls how she misses the 

beauty and architecture of 

the Mediterranean. 

“Europe is so romantic,” she muses 

during our cover shoot at Mita Kelder 

Photography’s sprawling home studio, 

in between sips of bird’s nest soup from 

her flask. “I loved Florence best; just 

walking through the cobbled streets is 

so enjoyable and relaxing.” 

It was also in Florence that a bird 

unexpectedly pooped on Jeremy’s head, 

just as they were contemplating whether 

to enter a restaurant. 

“It was so funny because a huge flock 

of birds flew by suddenly, and before we 

knew it, there were bird droppings on 

Jeremy’s head,” Jesseca recalls with a 

chuckle. “Of course I had to laugh before 

helping him clean up!” 

It’s clear that Jesseca is deeply 

in love: She married Jeremy in her 

hometown of Langkawi last July after a 

three-year courtship, and the couple has 

a rock-solid bond, though she jibes that 

Jeremy was “actually more romantic 

before we got married”. 

“Last Valentine’s Day, he took me 


CELEBRITY 


FASHION DIRECTION: JANICE PIDDUCK / PHOTOS: WEE KHIM, ASSISTED BY CHONG , MEDIACORP CHANNEL 8 / STYLING: SHAUN CHEN, ASSISTED BY XIANG QIYUAN / 

HAIR: GARY LOW/PASSION HAIR SALON / MAKEUP: SHAUN LEE, USING SULWHASOO/ LOCATION: MITA KELDER PHOTOGRAPHY 

on a romantic date where we had a 

wonderful meal at a rooftop restaurant 

in Thailand, and he left me a flower and 

gift in my room. He also proposed to me 

at a beautiful restaurant in Japan, and 

presented me with a cake with a ring on 

top. Nowadays, I don’t get that kind of 

treatment,” she jokes. 

“To be fair, we’ve both been busy 

filming since we were married, so we 

haven’t had lots of quality time together 

aside from the honeymoon.” 

TV Royalty 

Describing herself as a “kampong girl” 

at heart, Jesseca is unassuming and 

humble. The doe-eyed beauty arrives 

dressed in a casual white tee with 

ripped jeans and sneakers, but exclaims 

in delight when presented with a dreamy 

lilac creation from Whole9Yards. “This is 

my favourite dress today,” she confesses 

as she gathers her skirt and twirls 

around like a fairytale princess. 

Born and raised in Langkawi, Jesseca 

is one of Mediacorp’s Seven Princesses: 

A bevy of young actresses who rose to 

fame in the early 2000s, which includes 

Jeanette Aw, Rui En, Joanne Peh and 

Felicia Chin. A former beauty queen 

and model, Jesseca was talent-scouted 

by a Mediacorp producer in 2004, who 

offered her a role in popular swimming 

drama The Champion. 

The rest, as they say, is history: 

Jesseca went on to win Most Popular 

Newcomer at the 2005 Star Awards 

for her role in family drama Portrait 

Of Home, and starred in hit series like 

Secrets For Sale, The Oath and feature 

film Lost And Found, opposite Taiwanese 

stars Xiao Xiao Bin and James Wen. An 

ambassador for Mazda and homegrown 

beauty brand Estetica, she also stars in 

this month’s Channel 8 psychological 

drama Mind Matters, where she plays a 

tailor who is obsessed with cleanliness. 

“I have been very fortunate in my 

career to have had lots of opportunities 

for good roles, where I could prove 

myself as an actress. Everything just fell 

into place,” says Jesseca. 

Jesseca is also a shrewd 

businesswoman: She owns Bellis Spa, 

with three outlets in Langkawi, a café, 

and an Airbnb apartment, with her 

family helping to run the businesses. 

“Still, acting will always be my first love, 

and it suits my character because I 

relish the chance to try new things.” 

Maybe Baby 

Jesseca is currently filming Channel 8 

drama Babies On Board, in which she 

plays a gynaecologist who is struggling 

with infertility together with her 

husband, played by Tay Ping Hui. 

“I talked to real-life ob-gyns and 

IVF specialists to see what it’s like to 

work with pregnant women and deliver 

babies,” said Jesseca. “One thing that 

really struck me is how hard it is to be 

a mother. The doctors told me mothers 

risk their lives to bring babies into this 

world, and sometimes, delivery is a lifeor-death 

situation. I never considered 

this, because my sister had three kids 

and it seemed like such a natural thing. 

“For a while, I thought I didn’t 

want to have kids because I saw it as a 

burden. But when I see a well-behaved 

child, I think, ‘Maybe it won’t be so bad; 

I should have one too’. Because of my 

age, I don’t think I’ll wait too long to 

have kids. If we are trying for a baby, 

we’ll do it in the next couple of years.” 

Jesseca may dream of babies in the 

future, but for now, she says she’s happy 

spending time at home with Jeremy and 

their two beloved cats. This Chinese 

New Year also marks Jesseca’s first as 

a newlywed, and she is excited to start 

new traditions and go on family visits 

with Jeremy as a couple. 

“I usually spend the Chinese New 

Year season with my family in Langkawi, 

but this year, I will be with my in-laws 

in Singapore first, then visit Langkawi 

afterwards. I always look forward to 

my family’s home-cooked dinners back 

home; it’s the only time of the year when 

my mum cooks. This year, my sister is 

also making my grandfather’s Chinese 

New Year biscuits in the shape of a 

flower, which are really festive. 

“My wish for the Year of the Dog is 

ultimately for good health, and to enjoy 

married life.” 

She Lost 7 kg For 

Marry Me! 

And other fun facts you may 

not know about Jesseca 

1 

She’s a bona fide 

bikini babe 

Famous for 

donning a bikini for 

scenes in Mandarin 

dramas The Champion 

(2004) and Marry Me 

(2013), there’s no doubt 

that Jesseca dares to 

bare. To look perfect 

in her bikini scenes for 

Marry Me, Jesseca lost 

7 kg – but the weight 

loss came at a price. 

She frequently felt 

cold and weak on set, 

and said her bust size 

also decreased. 

You can 

rent her 

2 apartment 

If you need a place 

for the night in 

Langkawi, Jesseca 

recently listed an 

apartment on 

Airbnb. Her sister 

helps manage 

the property and 

guests. “So far, 

we’ve had a few 

tourists book the 

place – but none 

of my fans have 

yet,” she said with 

a laugh. 

She once 

considered 

3 gaslighting 

her ex-boyfriend 

“I thought of 

messing with his 

mind by stealing his 

key and going to 

his house to mess 

up his things, like 

trading his shoes 

for a bigger size, or 

putting things in his 

shampoo – like the 

main character in 

Amelie,” she told 

The New Paper. “It 

was quite childish, 

but I didn’t do it in 

the end.” 

5 

She’s 

religious 

4about her 

skincare routine 

Jesseca clearly 

doesn’t believe in 

skimping when it 

comes to beauty. 

“It’s tempting to 

just put one or 

two products on 

before you go to 

bed when you’re 

exhausted, but the 

more tired you are, 

the more effort you 

need to put into 

for your skin,” she 

says. After a long 

day, she swears 

by Estetica’s ést. 

lab OptimaLift A+ 

Eye Contour Mask 

as her secret for 

radiant skin the 

next morning. 

She’s recorded a 

duet with singer 

Olivia Ong 

Jesseca teamed 

up with the local 

songstress to sing 

ballad Warm Current 

for the Silver Tribute 

Charity Night show 

in 2011, but says she 

won’t quit her day job 

to become a singer. 

“Singing is not my 

specialty,” she says. “I 

enjoyed the experience 

of recording, but 

I’ve realised I prefer 

acting much more. I’d 

rather have fun with 

singing and keep it as 

something that brings 

me joy. I used to think 

about recording an 

album, but that was 

before I realised how 

challenging it was.” 


I N F O R M 

LOVE STORIES 

THE 

PROPOSAL 

Love is in the air in the lead up to 

Valentine’s Day, so get your tissues ready 

as these well-known personalities share 

their journey to the wedding aisle 

BY NATALYA MOL0K 

“He really 

upped his 

game when he 

asked me to be 

his wife” 

Teh May Wan 

35, Model-Host & 

Professional Baker 

It’s the little quirks that 

make people lovable. 

No one knows this better 

than May Wan’s husband 

Audric Haryadi, who 

was enamoured by a 

wrinkle under the model’s 

eye when he first saw a 

snapshot of her laughing. 

Eight years of wedded 

bliss and two adorable 

daughters later, the 

affable May still likes to 

joke that her significant 

other picked his bride out 

of a photo line-up. 

WHITE MESH DRESS BY LONGCHAMP; RING & BRACELET BY SWAROVSKI; AND MAY’S OWN HEELS.

HOW WE WED: 

“We still have friends who tell us to this day 

that ours was one of the most beautiful 

weddings they’ve ever attended, and this 

was eight years ago. We got married at 

the amazing Villa Atas Ombak in Bali, and 

we had great food and great drinks. We 

hosted friends and family from faraway, 

and there were tears. A lot of tears! I 

remember crying so much that my fake 

eyelashes fell off twice, but most of all, I 

remember feeling really contented and 

extremely, extremely happy.” 

GEOMETRIC DRESS BY BIMBA Y LOLA; RING & BRACELET BY SWAROVSKI. 

HOW WE MET: 

“I got an offer for a modelling job in 

Jakarta in 2005. Some other models were 

approached too, and when they compiled 

everyone’s composite cards, the client 

asked his friend – my husband – to help 

him choose the best person for the job, 

and he chose me! He thought I was the 

cutest one. So, I always like to tease him 

and say that he chose his wife from a 

bunch of photos. When I flew to Jakarta 

afterwards, he picked me up at the 

airport, but sparks only flew after we had 

been friends for a year.” 

The couple seal their vows with a kiss. 

A black-and-white portrait captures their love. 

HOW WE CELEBRATE: 

“We’re not Valentine’s Day people; we’re 

more anniversary people. We’ve started 

this new tradition where we go to a hotel 

and have a staycation. It’s just me and 

him: Room service, sleeping in, no kids, and 

no housework. We actually hit a moment 

in our marriage recently where we felt 

like we loved each other more than ever 

before. It took a while to get there, but I 

feel like if you put the work and effort into 

your marriage, you will reap the rewards. 

Don’t let your marriage die. You have to 

keep on working at it, always.” 

Both her 

father (right) 

and stepfather 

were 

there for May 

Wan on her 

big day. 

HOW HE ASKED: 

“He took me to Banyan Tree in Bintan 

to celebrate our first year of dating. We 

were having a private candlelit dinner at 

this beautiful outcrop of rocks with waves 

crashing around us, and he pulled a book 

out of this plastic bag. Our photos were in 

it, as well as our love story. Then I got to a 

page that said, ‘Let’s take the next step’ 

and when I flipped the page, there was a 

ring. I burst out crying and said ‘Yes, yes, 

yes!’ through my tears. He really upped his 

game when he asked me to be his wife.” 

february 2018 | 21 | www.womensweekly.com.sg 

May finds a quiet moment to reflect at her wedding.

“He popped the 

question after just one 

month of dating” 

Winnie Chan 

In her 40s, Founder of Bynd Artisan 

When it comes to cultivating 

power, sometimes it takes 

two. Winnie Chan and James 

Quan are so perfectly matched 

in attitude, influence and wit 

that Bynd Artisan – their custom 

bookbinding and leather craft 

atelier – could not have reached 

the heights it has without the duo 

at its helm. Theirs is an example 

that true love can truly lead to 

magical things, including a new 

collaboration with Art Outreach. 

WHITE DRESS AND OVERLAY BY COS; RING & BRACELET BY SWAROVSKI; AND WINNIE’S OWN EARRINGS & WATCH.

INFORM 

LOVE STORIES 

Winnie and James at their 

wedding tea party. 

HOW WE MET: 

“We were match-made by one of my 

girlfriends, who was seated next to him 

at a wedding. Everyone came with a plus 

one except James, so she asked him why 

he was alone. He mentioned he was single, 

and my girlfriend immediately got to work 

setting us up. The rest, they say, is history! 

Imagine this; we were introduced in 

January 1996, he proposed a month later, 

we registered for marriage in June and 

then had our wedding ceremony by the 

end of the year.” 

RED BLAZER AND PANTS BY IRIS & INK; AND WINNIE’S OWN RING & WATCH. 

Making their debut as 

husband and wife. 

HOW WE WED: 

“We held our tea ceremony and wedding 

dinner 21 years ago at the ‘tallest hotel in 

the world’ then – the Westin Stamford. 

For our honeymoon, we went to Spain and 

visited Madrid, Seville and Barcelona. Just 

one year later, we welcomed our daughter 

and three years after that, our son, so 

we’ve been busy ever since. In a way, we 

didn’t know each other that well when we 

first got together. Even today, there are 

still things about him that I’m finding out 

for the first time, but that just adds to the 

mysteriousness and fun of marriage.” 

Relaxed in each other’s company on a date. 

HOW HE ASKED: 

“In his car, with a ring. I saw it coming, to 

be honest, because a few days earlier he 

was playing around with my rings trying to 

figure out my size. He did this by putting 

them on his pinkie and seeing which 

part of his finger the ring would fit. Even 

though we had only known each other for 

a month at that point, I knew he was the 

one. His charisma was infectious, and I’m 

sure he would’ve charmed the next girl if I 

didn’t say yes and chope him first.” 

All smiles while registering for their marriage in 1996. 


“We’re celebrating Valentine’s Day a 

little early, in January. We’ll be heading 

to Tokyo, Japan to ring in James’s 50th 

birthday, too. It’ll be our first time in the 

city without the kids, so I’m really looking 

forward to it. For me, as long as we’re 

together, every day is Valentine’s Day. I feel 

blessed that we can continue to create 

memories, discover new things about each 

other and be there for one another even 

after more than two decades.” 


“I’m still waiting for 

him to propose to 

me properly” 

Kate Pang 

34, Actress 

It wasn’t love at first sight for 

mum-of-two Kate Pang when 

she laid eyes on husband, 

Andie Chen. In fact, in hearing 

her describe their relationship, 

many people would assume they 

weren’t meant to be at all. But 

as with many great romances, 

Kate and Andie’s love didn’t 

spread like wildfire. Instead, it 

grew steadily over time, like a 

slow burn. 

ART DIRECTION: CHRISTINA LIM / PHOTOS: TAN WEI TE & VEE CHIN / STYLING: DEBBY KWONG / HAIR: DEXTER NG AND KENNETH ONG / MAKEUP: CLARENCE 

LEE, RIE MIURA & AUDREY WEE / SUEDE DRESS BY LONGCHAMP; RING & BRACELET BY SWAROVSKI; AND HEELS BY KATE SPADE NEW YORK. 


INFORM 

LOVE STORIES 

Andie and Kate at their wedding banquet. 

The couple 

were 

friends 

before 

becoming 

lovers. 

Kate strikes a pose for a bridal magazine. 

HOW WE MET: 

“Andie was one of the first people I got 

to know when I came to Singapore, but 

we weren’t close. We only really became 

friends when we filmed Joys Of Life 

together a couple of years later. We 

weren’t attracted to each other initially 

because he tended to date sexy girls, 

and I’m not like that at all. He wasn’t my 

type either; I used to date boys with very 

fair and smooth skin. But somehow, after 

working together, we realised that our 

thoughts and ideals were in complete 

harmony with each other.” 

Andie and Kate always find time for date nights. 

HOW WE WED: 

“I have a complicated family background, 

so I was intimidated by marriage. In 

Singapore, we simply went to the Registry 

of Marriages dressed in plain clothes. In 

Taiwan, we had a small dinner with a total 

of four tables. I didn’t put much thought 

into our wedding: I just wanted it to be 

over quickly because it brought back bad 

memories of when my sister had to have 

three huge wedding banquets to appease 

my divorced parents and her husband’s 

family. Marriage really wasn’t a big deal to 

me, but I was surprised at how touched I 

was by Andie’s speech at our dinner, where 

he likened me to a gift from heaven. He 

changed my mind about what it means to 

be bonded to another person for life.” 

On their honeymoon in picturesque New Zealand. 

PINK DRESS BY KATE SPADE NEW YORK; CUFF BY SWAROVSKI. 

HOW HE ASKED: 

“He didn’t ask! We had a civilised 

discussion about it. We both decided 

that we needed to take the next step in 

our relationship together, because I got 

pregnant. So he just unromantically said 

to me that we should get married. He did 

try to plan something later on involving a 

song and a guitar, but it didn’t work out. 

I’m still hoping that one day he’ll propose 

to me properly!” 


“We don’t usually go out for Valentine’s 

because it’s crowded everywhere. Now 

that I think about it, we’ve never even 

celebrated Valentine’s Day! We do make 

it a point to have a date night at least 

once a week though. We’ve been married 

since 2013, and I’ve sometimes felt like our 

feelings of love for each other have faded. 

So this year, I hope we can reignite the fire 

we had for each other during our dating 

days, and go from strength to strength 

every year.” 


@womensweeklysg 

@thesingaporewomensweekly 

EVERYWHERE 

for women 

who want 

it all 

www.womensweekly.com.sg

LOOKBOOK 

Luscious Lipsticks | Hair Colour Tips | Gold-Buying Guide 

Citrus 

Splash 

Vitamin C does more than 

keep you healthy. On skin, 

it can protect against free 

radical damage, while 

reducing the appearance of 

fine lines and pigmentation 

From left: 

Containing L-Ascorbic Acid, the Jyunka M+ 

Fluid, $344 (30 ml), penetrates deep into skin to 

stimulate collagen and elastin production. 

The Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing 

Concentrate, $105 (50 ml), is reformulated to 

increase its vitamin C concentration from 10 to 

12.5 per cent, making it one of the most potent 

formulas in the market. 

The Andalou Naturals Probiotic + C Renewal 

Cream, $39.90 (50 g), is packed with fruitderived 

stem cells and vitamin C to promote 

skin cell renewal for visibly healthier skin. 

Mix two drops of the potent Clinique Fresh 

Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%, 

$99 (8.5 g x 4), with your moisturiser to boost its 

anti-ageing benefits. 

Formulated with encapsulated active 

ingredients, the Skin Inc Vitamin C Serum, $68 

(10 ml), is suspended in lightweight hyaluronic 

acid for quick absorption. 


L O O K B O O K 

BEAUTY KNOW-HOW 

High In Potent-C 

Vitamin C is the hero ingredient everyone 

needs in their skincare regimen 

Formulated with Trisodium 

ascorbyl palmitate phosphate, 

a vitamin C derivative, the 

IDS Skincare C-Plus, $150 (50 

ml), penetrates skin deeply to 

deliver antioxidant and antiinflammatory 

effects. 

The Fresh Vitamin Nectar 

Moisture Glow Face Cream, 

$77 (50 ml), is enriched with a 

blend of vitamin C, E and B5 

to revitalise fatigued skin, and 

improve skin radiance. 

Containing the proprietary 

Anti-Cell Burn-Out Complex, 

the Caudalie Vine[Activ] Glow 

Activating Anti-Wrinkle Serum, 

$65 (30 ml), has a potent mix 

of antioxidants and botanical 

extracts to strengthen skin 

cells and boost collagen 

production for a healthy glow. 

With a high concentration of 

active ingredients, the IOMA 

Vitality Sleeping Mask, $80 

(50 ml), repairs skin damage 

accumulated during the day, 

so you can wake up with 

radiant skin. 

The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic 

serum, $248 (30 ml), has a 

patented formula which 

ensures the right potency and 

pH levels of L-Ascorbic Acid, 

for maximum anti-ageing and 

brightening effect. 

TEXT AND STYLING: ARISSA HA / PHOTOS: ANGELA GUO 



BEAUTY NEWS 

shu uemura 

Rouge 

Unlimited in 

Purple, $38. 

MAKE UP FOR 

EVER Aqua Matic 

Waterproof 

Glide-on Eye 

Shadow in I-90 

Iridescent Pop 

Purple, $36. 

Chanel 

Rouge Coco 

Gloss in 764 

Confusion, 

$48. 

MASCULINE 

SCENTS 

Clueless on how to 

pick a fragrance for 

your man? We help you 

make sense 1of it 

2 

Olivia Culpo 

Purple 

Reign 

Embrace the Pantone Colour of 

the Year on your face with these 

gorgeous ultra-violet hues 

Urban Decay 

Eyeshadow in 

Vice, $30. 

Sephora 

Collection 

Cream Lip 

Stain in 

Polished 

Purple, $19. 

3 

1. For the sophisticated 

man, pick… Tom Ford Oud Wood 

Intense, $359 (50 ml). 

2. For the charming man, 

pick… Giorgio Armani Code 

Colonia, $159 (125 ml). 

3. For the sporty man, 

pick… Guerlain L’Homme Ideal, 

$148 (100 ml). 

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH 

If you could bottle up youth, this is 

probably what it would look like 

The new SK-II R.N.A. Power 

Airy Milky Lotion, $228 

(80 g), is a lightweight cream 

which contains the brand’s 

proprietary Pitera and the 

Radical New Age Complex. 

This moisturiser improves 

skin firmness, texture and 

radiance for glowing skin 

without any sticky after-feel. 

The La Prairie 

Platinum Rare 

Cellular Night 

Elixir, $1,890 

(20 ml), contains 

the highest 

concentration 

of their Exclusive 

Cellular Complex. 

Just one drop 

of this serum 

before bed will 

help diminish the 

appearance of 

wrinkles so you 

look refreshed in 

the morning. 

Restore youthful 

radiance to your 

eye area with 

the Sulwhasoo 

Timetreasure 

Renovating 

Eye Serum and 

Golden Eye Care 

Massager, $348 

(20 ml). The 24K 

gold-plated 

massager boosts 

circulation and 

helps the serum 

penetrate deep 

into skin, improving 

its texture. 

The 111SKIN 

Celestial Black 

Diamond Emulsion, 

$895 (50 ml), 

contains rare 

black diamond 

particles which 

act as a carrier 

to deliver active 

ingredients along 

with Argireline and 

NAC Y2, which 

work together 

to prevent the 

formation of 

expression lines 

and brighten skin. 

TEXT: ARISSA HA / PHOTO: SHOWBIT.COM 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY 

Usher in prosperity 

and fortune this 

Lunar New Year with 

luscious lucky lippies 

BY ARISSA HA 

SUNRISE KISSES 

Bright orange lipstick draws 

attention to the centre of the pout 

and helps it appear fuller. Not a fan 

of orange? The same effect can 

be achieved with a burgundy base 

coupled with a bright red accent. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY 


Watercolour Tint 

A little goes a long way when it 

comes to lip stains – they give lips a 

light wash of colour, without wearing 

off even after food and drinks. 

From left: Aprilskin Fixing 

Tint in Bloody Mary, $16; 

BECCA Beach Tint in Papaya, 

$38; Fresh Nude Tinted Lip 

Treatment Sunscreen SPF 15, 

$33; K-Palette 1 Day Tattoo 

Lasting Lip Tint in 04 Noble 

Red, $19.90; and Mamonde 

Highlight Lip Tint in No 7, $18. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY 

Fuchsia Fever 

For the bold: This bi-colour look 

not only elevates your lip game, 

but gives the illusion of a balanced 

pout. Use the brighter colour on the 

thinner lip to plump it. 

From left: Dior Rouge Dior 

Liquid in 862 Hectic Matte, 

$50; MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist 

Rouge Light in L204, $35; NARS 

Audacious Lipstick in Fanny, 

$46; Sephora Collection Cream 

Lip Stain in 16 Cherry Nectar, 

$19; and Yves Saint Laurent 

Beaute Rouge Pur Couture The 

Mats in 221 Rose Ink, $51. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY 

Colour Coded 

These juicy, good-luck hues are 

perfect on Asian skin tones 

ORANGE 

From left: Moonshot Lip Feat in M210 

The Fall, $29; LANEIGE Silk Intense 

Lipstick in 220 No More Orange, $36; 

and Anna Sui Lipstick in F602, $40. 

RED 

From left: Marc Jacobs Beauty 

Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayon in How 

Rouge, $38; Hourglass Girl Lip Stylo 

in Icon, $48; and M.A.C Liptensity 

Lipstick in Mulling Spices, $39. 

BURGUNDY 

Tender (Lip) Loving Care 

With the thinnest skin on your body, lips are the most susceptible to dryness and fine lines. 

Here’s how you take care of them 

From left: Nudestix Magnetic Matte 

Lip Color in Burgundy, $37; 3INA 

The Chubby Lipstick in 112, $16; and 

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in 

Notte, $32. 

Dry, flakey lips aren’t 

the most attractive, 

especially if you put 

on matte lipsticks. 

Peeling them is 

definitely not an 

option, but you can 

get rid of them with 

a lip scrub like the 

Sephora Collection 

Honey Lip Scrub, $9, 

which hydrates and 

smooths as it gently 

exfoliates. 

When regular lip balms won’t 

cut it, try using the Clarins 

Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil 

in 05 Tangerine, $36. Infused 

with 100 per cent pure 

plant oils, it nourishes dry 

lips, lending a healthy shine 

without that sticky feeling. 

As we mature, 

collagen levels 

deplete and lead to 

the thinning of lips 

and the formation 

of fine lines. The 

Dermalogica Nightly 

Lip Treatment, $108 

(10 ml), contains 

botanical extracts 

which help firm and 

hydrate your puckers 

while you get your 

beauty sleep. 

PHOTOS: SNAPPER MEDIA 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY UPDATE 

REFRESH 

YOUR LOOK 

IN UNDER 

MINUTES 

These women tried one 

simple tweak each to 

their regular beauty 

routines, and discovered 

that small changes can 

make a huge difference 

BY CANDY LIM-SOLIANO 

MICHELLE ANG, 31 

A former cabin crew member, 

Michelle is all about good skincare. 

In addition to her daily beauty regime, 

she also does facial gua sha to detox 

and reduce water retention. This sales and 

marketing executive likes wearing her makeup 

light, sticking to just eyebrow pencil, eyeliner, 

bb cream, blusher and tinted lip balm. When 

she’s not meeting clients, Michelle prefers 

to let her skin rest by foregoing makeup 

entirely. “This also means that I can 

wake up slightly later in the 

morning as I need less prep 

time!” she quips. 

Transformation doesn’t 

always require a 

major overhaul: For 

a new look without having 

to undergo dramatic change, 

these beauty tweaks and 

makeover tips will make you 

feel like a new woman. 

BEFORE 

THE ONE-TWEAK TRANSFORMATION: 

A STATEMENT LIP 

A self-professed fan of famous beauty blogger Park Hye- 

Min (aka @ponysmakeup), Michelle embraces Korean 

beauty trends. We updated her go-to tinted lip balm look 

with a bold lip. “A strong jolt of colour is an instant way to 

refresh any look,” makeup artist Ginger Lynette explains. 

Inspired by Pony’s love of colour experimentation, 

Ginger also swapped the usual black or brown eyeliner 

for a navy-blue version – which played up Michelle’s 

peepers beautifully. “Don’t be afraid to try new colours,” 

she encourages. “Be adventurous!” 

THE HOW-TO: 

Step 1: Bright colours tend 

to emphasise cracks on 

flaky lips, so prep them 

well with a gentle lip scrub, 

followed by the application 

of lip balm. 

Step 2: Lightly blot off any excess 

lip balm with a tissue, then apply 

lipstick as usual. 

Tip: 

With your 

mouth closed, 

smile a little and 

stretch your lips slightly 

during application. This 

helps to fill in all the lip 

lines, ensuring a full 

colour coverage. 

Step 3: “A good lip pencil is key,” 

says Ginger, who prefers to apply 

lipstick before using a lip pencil to define lip 

contours. She then colours in the rest of the lips 

with the pencil. “This is crucial for lip definition, 

and it also helps to extend the life of your lip 

colour,” she explains. 

Top and earrings both from H&M.

LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY UPDATE 

REGINA LIU, 34 

Regina keeps her skin looking 

radiant with an intensive day and 

night-time skincare routine, leaving 

her with a natural glow, even as she goes 

about her day wearing just loose powder, 

eye liner, lip balm and blusher. When dressy 

events come around, the stay-home mumof-one 

heads to a salon to get her hair and 

makeup done professionally. “I totally have 

no clue about how to level up my makeup 

for special occasions,” she shares with 

a chuckle. “I usually go to the salon 

wearing my dress – and leave 

the stylist to create 

the magic!” 

BEFORE 

THE ONE-TWEAK TRANSFORMATION: 

3D CONTOURS 

There are different levels of contouring, but you’ll want to 

keep it elegant and subtle for an everyday look. We used 

highlighting and contouring techniques to enhance and 

gently shape Regina’s facial structure. The result? 

A sharper nose, slimmer-looking jawline, 

and more chiselled cheekbones. 

THE HOW-TO: 

Step 1: Create a uniform 

base by evening out 

your skin tone with 

foundation, then map 

your face with a bronzer. 

Trace your temples, and 

focus on the hollows 

Tip: 

If you’re unsure 

just underneath your 

of how to map your 

face, find your natural 

cheekbones. “This creates 

roadmap by looking at 

yourself in the mirror while 

the illusion of depth,” Ginger standing under the overhead 

noon sun (or a strong 

explains. “You can also apply 

overhead light). Notice 

bronzer to both sides of your where the shadows fall, 

and accentuate those 

nose.” Next, apply a highlighter natural contours! 

to your T-zone, down the centre 

of your nose, the middle of your chin, 

and along the contours of your cheekbones. 

Step 2: Seamless blending is pivotal to avoiding 

the harsh, overdone effect. Ginger recommends 

using a damp beautyblender for the job. “Dab 

repeatedly in small, circular motions over the 

contour colours and blend them beautifully into 

your foundation base,” she says. 

Step 3: Dust a translucent loose powder over 

the entire face and finish off by adding a sheer 

pop of blusher. Take it up a notch with pearly 

luminescence for special occasions by dabbing 

a spot of shimmer to the inner corners of the 

eyes and along the cheekbones. 

Top from H&M. Necklace from Bimba Y Lola. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY UPDATE 

SOH LAY WAH, 41 

With two young sons to tend 

to full-time, school runs and family 

errands take up the bulk of Lay Wah’s 

days. The dedicated mum keeps her style 

chic and functional, preferring a natural 

look. Lay Wah keeps her everyday makeup 

fuss-free, with just BB cream and a spot 

of concealer to cover dark eye rings. “I 

seldom put on elaborate makeup,” she 

shares, “But I really like the dewy, 

flawless look which Korean 

celebrities embrace.” 

PHOTOS: VERONICA TAY/ STYLING: LAUREN ALEXA CHAN / HAIR: ASH LOI @ ATELIER HAIR & BEAUTY USING KEUNE HAIRCOSMETICS SINGAPORE / MAKEUP: GINGER LYNETTE USING MAKE UP FOR EVER 

BEFORE 

The One-Tweak Transformation: 

A THREE-MINUTE SMOKEY EYE 

Who doesn’t love a captivating smokey eye? Busy women 

like Lay Wah often avoid it, thinking that it’s tedious and 

time-consuming to achieve – but the good news is, it 

doesn’t always have to be an arduous process. 

An easy and speedy smokey eye is something 

you can do when you’re in a rush, but still want 

to look chic and put together. 

THE HOW-TO: 

Step 1: Make your eye 

makeup last longer by 

applying eye shadow 

primer onto your eyelids. 

Start near the inner corner 

of your eye by gently dabbing 

outwards toward the brow bone 

and outer corner of your lid. 

Tip: 

Illuminate 

your brow bone 

by applying a 

highlighter under 

your brows. The 

effect? Eyes that 

look bigger and 

brighter! 

Step 2: Eye shadow sticks are an incredibly 

efficient alternative to regular eye shadows. 

Apply the eye shadow close to your upper lash 

line, working outwards and upwards. The trick 

here is to quickly blend the colour in before 

it sets, so work on one eye at a time (sparkly 

shades tend to be easier to blend than matte 

versions). A dome-shaped brush is perfect for 

blending eye shadow. 

Step 3: To really make eyes pop, define them 

with a pencil or liquid eyeliner in a darker shade 

like taupe. Lightly line your upper and lower 

lids, working outwards from the inner corners. 

To elongate the shape of your eyes, line them a 

little heavier towards the outer ends. Then soften 

the eyeliner by gently smudging with a blending 

brush (this will give it a smokier effect). Seal the 

smoulder by curling your lashes and coating 

them with a volumising mascara. 

Top from Iris & Ink. Earrings from Excluniqueeee. 


Going for the fresh-faced look? 

Eleanor products, which are made 

in Japan, will help you exude that 

feminine charm. Here are two dreamy 

looks you can create with products 

from this dainty range 

2 

7 

1 

3 

5 

6 

This 

gorgeous 

lipstick not only 

gives your lips 

lustrous colour, 

but also all-day 

moisture. 

8 

This 

creamy lip 

gloss has a buttersmooth 

texture and 

leaves a high-shine 

finish. It’ll keep 

your lips wellnourished. 

4 

Strawberry Sherbet 

This pretty look is perfect for a dinner 

date. It’s not too heavy, but still draws 

attention to your eyes and cheeks. 

1. Creamy Lip Gloss in Strawberry Sherbet, $35. 

2. Extend&Curl Lash in Black, $40. 

3. Blusher in Blossom Time, $55. 

4. Sheer Veil Loose Powder in Honey, $75. 

Peaches ‘n’ Cream 

Get the perfect day look with this combo. 

The light eye makeup nicely complements 

the pop of colour on your lips. 

5. Hydra Cream Foundation in Natural, $80. 

6. Serum Concealer in Linen, $45. 

7. Satin Lipstick in My Valentine, $40. 

8. Attractive Eyeshadow Palette in Peach Blossom, $60. 

Exclusively available at

LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY BUZZ 

20 Beauty Buys 

UNDER $30 

Stock up your vanity table without breaking 

the bank with these amazing beauty picks 

BY TAN GIN YEE 

$18.90 

softymo Lachesca Water 

Cleansing (360 ml). 

Gentle and hydrating, this 

micellar water removes 

makeup and impurities 

effectively without the 

need for rinsing – perfect 

for busy women. 

$20.00 

NYX Professional 

Makeup Lip Lingerie 

in Exotic. 

With 24 nude shades 

to choose from, the 

Lip Lingerie glides on 

creamy and smooth, 

and lasts all day 

without transferring. 

$6.00 

innisfree Auto 

Eyebrow Pencil. 

At only $6 a piece, 

you’ll thank yourself 

for having multiples 

of this brow pencil 

in your purse or on 

your desk for brow 

emergencies. 

$22.90 

ETUDE HOUSE Fix & Fix 

Primer (30 ml). 

Get your complexion ready for 

the rest of your makeup with 

this primer. With two formulas, 

the Tone-Up Primer helps to 

colour correct skin according 

to your needs, while the Pore 

Primer helps smoothen out skin. 

$19.90 

K-Palette 1 Day 

Tattoo Real Lasting 

Waterproof Eyeliner 

24H. 

The K-Palette 24H 

Tattoo Liner is 

more than just a 

waterproof eyeliner. 

Formulated with 

hydrating ingredients, 

this liquid liner 

nourishes the lash line, 

so eyelids and lashes 

don’t feel dry. $24.90 

La Roche-Posay 

Serozinc Spray 

(150 ml). 

The La Roche- 

Posay Serozinc 

simultaneously 

moisturises skin while 

keeping it looking 

matte and hydrated 

all day. 

$14.90 

L’Oréal Paris Pure Clay Mask 

- Anti-Pores (50 ml). 

Infused with natural charcoal 

actives, this clay mask 

removes impurities in the skin, 

leaving it feeling refreshed. 

$18.90 

Sunplay Skin Aqua 

UV Super Moisture 

Essence SPF 50+ 

PA ++++ (80 g). 

This gel-based 

sunscreen absorbs 

into skin quickly 

without leaving any 

white cast – ideal for 

use under makeup. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY BUZZ 

$29.90 

Bourjois Healthy 

Mix Anti-Fatigue 

Foundation (30 ml). 

With an improved 

formula, this highcoverage 

foundation 

is infused with a blend 

of vitamins C, E and 

B5, providing skincare 

benefits while imbuing 

skin with a beautiful, 

natural finish. 

$9.90 

NIVEA White 

Oil Clear Super 

Mousse (150 ml). 

This mousse 

cleanser dispenses 

a rich, luxurious 

foam, which wicks 

away excess 

sebum without 

drying skin out. 

$20.90 

Revlon Colorburst 

Balm Stain. 

This lip stain is 

formulated with 

hydrating ingredients 

to give lips a natural 

flush that stays, 

without drying it out. 

$22.90 

Hada Labo Super 

Hyaluronic Acid 

Hydrating Lotion 

(170 ml). 

Revitalise dry and tired 

skin with this gentle 

moisturiser from Hada 

Labo, which deeply 

hydrates and balances 

skin moisture. 

$22.90 

Browhaus HD Lengthening 

Mascara. 

This lengthening mascara 

features two types of bristles on 

its wand – short ones to reach 

lashes on the lower lash line, 

and longer ones to coat and 

lengthen upper lashes. 

$25.00 

ORBIS Powder 

Wash + (50 g). 

Formulated with 

enzymes to break 

down keratin within 

pores, this powder 

cleanser clears 

blocked pores and 

promotes healthy, 

flawless skin. 

$17.90 

Bioré Cleansing Oil Cotton 

Facial Sheets (44 sheets). 

This soft and hydrating cleansing 

facial sheet effectively removes 

even waterproof makeup, 

without tugging on skin. 

$5.90 

Handmade Heroes 

Cocoa Friggin’ Fantastic 

Moroccan Mint Lip Balm. 

Made with peppermint 

and coconut oil, this 

handcrafted lip balm helps 

to soothe and soften your 

lips for a healthy pout. 

$15.50 

Bio-Oil (60 ml). 

This multi-purpose oil 

improves the appearance 

of existing scars, hydrates 

dry skin, and even lightens 

stretch marks with 

continued use. 

$24.90 

Curel BB Cream - 

Brightening (35 g). 

Specially formulated 

for sensitive skin, this 

lightweight BB cream 

covers redness and 

imperfections without 

feeling cakey on skin. 

$21.00 

Aprilskin Fixing Eye Shield 

(8 ml). 

The Fixing Eye Shield forms an 

invisible layer over your eye 

makeup to prevent it from 

smudging or sliding. 

$22.00 

Sephora Colorful Blush in 10 

Oh My Gosh!. 

Instantly revive dullness and 

fatigue by brushing on this 

highly-pigmented blush on the 

apples of your cheeks. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY INSIDER 

Why Hydration Matters 

Dry skin means a dull complexion. Here’s why 

keeping your skin moisturised is so important 

We’ve all heard the sage advice to 

drink at least eight glasses of water 

a day. That is because our bodies 

are made of 60 per cent water, so we need to 

keep sufficiently hydrated in order to stay in 

the pink of health. 

In the same vein, our skin is the largest 

organ we have, so it needs moisture regularly 

to keep it young and blemish-free. Using a 

moisturiser is not just about aesthetics; your 

skin needs it every day in order to maintain 

its youthful longevity. 

Stay Younger-Looking 

If you’ve noticed wrinkles appearing 

prematurely, it could be that your skin’s 

structure has been affected by dryness. 

Without enough moisture, your skin barrier 

gets dehydrated and compromised, which 

leads to a breakdown of collagen and results 

in premature ageing. 

That is why it is so important to choose 

the right skincare that nourishes without 

drying out the skin. Understanding this, 

Eversoft Skinz Hydra Nature skincare range 

is specially formulated with a host of natural 

ingredients, to care for your complexion 

gently yet effectively. 

Nature Knows Best 

Developed in South Korea, this new hydrating 

range is made from bamboo extract water 

that is drawn out of fresh bamboo leaves from 

Damyang, South Korea. Containing enriching 

elements such as amino acid, polyphenol, 

organic acid as well as vitamins B1 and K, 

bamboo extract water does wonders to 

soothe and moisturise delicate skins. 

In addition, this revitalising range also 

contains INFLAX, a patented formula that is 

certified organic and includes persimmon 

leaf, licorice, opuntia coccinellifera and 

morus alba bark extract. These act as 

antioxidants to promote healing while 

infusing skin with hydration, to keep your 

complexion in tip-top shape. 

REDISCOVER 

RADIANCE 

It takes an arsenal of helpers to 

give your skin the best care. The 

Eversoft Skinz Hydra Nature range 

is formulated with natural bamboo 

extract water and organic plant 

ingredients to replenish lost moisture 

and keep your skin glowing. 

It includes: 

From left: Nourishing Cleansing Foam, 

$18.90 (100 ml), Hydrating Toning 

Water, $43.90 (150 ml), Revitalising 

Essence, $49.90 (40 ml), Moisturising 

Emulsion, $43.90 (125 ml), and Radiant 

Lullaby Pack, $41.90 (100 ml). 

TEXT: ANNABEL MIDDLETON / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM 


BROUGHT TO YOU BY 

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are in. However, as we grow older, 

our skin starts to sag and wrinkle. This 

is because our bodies stop producing 

natural collagen and elastin – the 

essential building blocks that keep our 

skin firm and supple. Through the natural 

depletion of collagen and elastin in our 

bodies, our skin grows more dehyrated 

over time, causing fine lines and wrinkles. 

COLLAGEN BOOST 

Did you know you can replenish your 

collagen stores with a beauty drink? 

The ASTALIFT Pure Collagen Drink 

contains 10,000 mg of pure collagen to 

supplement your natural stores. This lowmolecular 

high-purity collagen is easily 

absorbed and boosts skin moisture from 

within, so lost radiance is revived. 

Using a rare “first extraction” method 

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technology, the ASTALIFT Pure Collagen 

Drink contains a purer form of collagen, 

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human body. 

This delicious drink also contains 

vitamin C, moisturising ceramide and 

400 mg of highly concentrated beauty 

ingredient ornithine, which is found in 

freshwater clams. It rejuvenates your skin 

from the inside out, and reduces fine 

lines while improving overall skin health. 

TASTY AND LOW IN CALORIES 

The ASTALIFT Pure Collagen Drink’s 

peachy yoghurt flavour makes it a 

delicious treat. This award-winning antiageing 

antioxidant booster contains zero 

fat, as well as a low calorie count. 

ASTALIFT Pure Collagen supplements 

are available in bottles and powdered 

sachets for convenience. Give your 

complexion a boost and replenish lost 

collagen with a sip of this yummy elixir: 

With the ASTALIFT Pure Collagen Drink, 

you can drink your way to better skin. 

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Available at ASTALIFT Boutiques: Wisma Atria #03-30, NEX #01-70 and JEM #01-20. For more information, 

visit www.astalift.com.sg or check out their Facebook page at ASTALIFT Singapore.


BEAUTY SECRETS 

Skincare 

Around 

The 

Clock 

Sync your beauty 

products with the 

best time of day for 

your complexion 

6.30 am 

Cleanse Your Skin 

Cleansing our faces 

properly in the morning 

can seem like a chore, 

especially when we 

are still half asleep. But 

cleansing before we start 

the day is important in 

preventing excess oil 

production. Overnight, 

your skin repairs itself, 

which means there will 

be a layer of dead skin 

cells to wash off when you 

wake up. Merely rinsing 

with water is not enough 

to emulsify excess sebum 

and dislodge the dead 

cells: Use ORBIS Powder 

Wash +, $25 (50 g), to 

clean more effectively. 

It contains protease 

and lipase, which help 

to remove stubborn 

keratin plugs formed from 

hardened sebum, which 

normal cleansers are 

unable to remove. 

6.40 am 

Tackle Puffy Eyes 

Waking up with tired 

eyes seems inevitable 

sometimes. But did 

you know you can help 

prevent under-eye bags 

by tweaking your daily 

habits? First, get a good 

night’s sleep – it’s crucial 

to ensure your skin repairs 

itself. Also avoid excess 

salt, reduce your alcohol 

intake and quit smoking. 

Next, try a few de-puffing 

tricks. To help decrease 

the fluid that makes eyes 

appear puffy, turn to an 

early morning eye patch: 

Pop it on while you’re 

having breakfast. 

6.45 am 

Protect Against 

The Sun 

Make it a daily habit to 

apply sunscreen to your 

face before you leave the 

house. Sunburn doesn’t 

just happen at the beach, 

but incidental UV damage 

can contribute to your 

risk of skin cancer and 

premature ageing. Always 

apply sunscreen before 

you leave the house, even 

if it is just for a little while. 

7.00 am 

Boost Your 

Complexion 

Applying products on 

the skin surface may be 

important, but getting 

great skin comes from 

within, too. As we age, 

collagen levels in our body 

decreases. By age 25, 

collagen levels decrease 

at a rate of 1.5 per cent 

a year. By the time we hit 

40, collagen is depleted 

faster than it is produced. 

Collagen is vital in our 

body as it contains amino 

acids that reduces the 

signs of ageing. It helps 

improve skin moisture 

levels, reduce the 

appearance of wrinkles 

and keeps the skin supple. 

Get your collagen boost 

with a supplement like 

ORBIS Collagen 12,000, 

$74 (10 x 50 ml bottles), 

which has a deliciously 

sweet pineapple taste 

and provides a hearty 

dose of 12,000 mg of 

micro collagen peptides 

derived from fish, helping 

to improve skin’s elasticity 

and texture. 

9.30 am 

Screen-proof 

Your Skin 

Claimed to be as 

damaging as UV rays, 

high-energy visible (HEV 

or blue) light omitted 

by our screens has the 

potential to prematurely 

age your skin. While the 

jury is still out on its exact 

effects on skin ageing, 

if you want to lower 

your risk, apply a cream 

packed with antioxidants 

to fight off free-radical 

damage to your skin. 


LOOKBOOK 

BEAUTY SECRETS 

11.30 am 

Deflect The Sun 

Heading outdoors for a 

lunchtime stroll? Since the 

sun is at its strongest from 

10 am to 2 pm, you need 

to reapply sunscreen. 

Make sure it’s labelled 

broad spectrum, so you’re 

protected from both UVA 

and UVB rays. 

1.00 pm 

Clean Up Oil 

Got a big meeting 

coming up? A deadline 

looming? It could be 

the reason behind your 

midday oily nose. When 

stress hits, your cortisol 

level rises, which can 

cause an increase in oil 

production. Instead of 

piling on powder that 

can make your face look 

too dark or light, go for a 

liquid blotting formula in a 

cushion compact. 

3.00 pm 

Cool Down 

Feeling a bit hot and 

flustered as the afternoon 

starts to wear on? Your 

body’s temperature 

changes as the day 

progresses, and starts to 

rise from the morning until 

late afternoon. Give your 

face a spritz with a mist 

to help chill out. Hold the 

bottle at least 10 cm from 

your face and spray to 

refresh your skin as well as 

your makeup. 

7.00 pm 

Deep Cleanse 

Dermatologists agree: 

You need to cleanse 

your face twice daily to 

remove bacteria, makeup 

and grime collected 

throughout the day. Do it 

as soon as you get home, 

so you can’t use tiredness 

as an excuse not to do it. 

Use one that will exfoliate 

at the same time to give 

your face a deep cleanse. 

7.30 pm 

Stay Slim 

Metabolism naturally 

slows down at night when 

you are sleeping, or when 

your activity levels are 

lower. So if you tend to 

eat more during dinner, 

there is a higher chance 

of excess carbohydrates 

and fats being absorbed 

into the body. This could 

lead to the formation of 

skin cellulite along the 

thighs or hips. Consuming 

a weight-control 

supplement like the 

ORBIS Slim Keep, $22 

(60 tablets), before 

meals can help control 

your weight gain. It 

acts as a barrier to 

inhibit absorption of 

carbohydrates and fats, 

is made entirely of natural 

ingredients like mulberry 

leaves, tea blossoms and 

Terminalia Bellirica fruit, 

and comes in tablet form 

for convenience. 

10.00 pm 

Repair Your 

Complexion 

Nighttime is the optimal 

period for your body to 

repair itself and better 

absorb ingredients from 

masks. Dry or wrinkled 

skin will benefit the most 

from an overnight mask 

that delivers potent 

ingredients to address skin 

issues. Overnight masks 

tend to pack intense 

moisture and anti-ageing 

ingredients that will help 

to heal your skin. ORBIS 

Night Time Pack Koubijin, 

$48 (65 g), contains white 

strawberries with a rich 

amount of polyphenol 

and vitamin C; these work 

together with fermented 

Chardonnay extract to 

brighten the skin. 

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU, ADDITIONAL REPORTING: TAN GIN YEE / PHOTO: 123RF.COM 


LOOKBOOK 

HAIR EXPERT 

What’s Your Hair 

Colour Character? 

Looking to refresh your hair in time for your CNY 

visits? Take our mini quiz (with expert tips!) to help 

you choose your dream dye job 

Shiga Lin 

1. Who is your hair icon? 

A) Someone who always keeps up with the latest trends, like K-pop star So Hee. 

B) The Duchess of Cambridge, no question! 

C) I love Chrissy Teigen’s natural, beachy look. 

2. What’s your hair colour history? 

A) My hair’s been every colour of the spectrum. 

B) I do my roots myself but refresh my hair colour occasionally. 

C) I’m a highlights and foils kind of woman. 

3. How much do you spend on your hair every month? 

A) Between colour, cuts, blowdries and my styling tools, I daren’t add it up! 

B) I’d say around $100 for a trim every six weeks, plus a root touch-up. 

C) I stretch out my cut and colour probably longer than I should, but 

spend quite a bit on styling products. 

4. How frequently do you wash your hair? 

A) Every single day. 

B) As soon as it starts to look dull, or every other day. 

C) Twice a week. I like that lived-in look and texture. 

5. How often do you change styles? 

A) I get bored easily so I’ll change up my cut or 

colour every few months. 

B) Never. I’ve pretty much looked the 

same since my early 20s. 

C) I tweak my hair twice a year, 

or once my highlights have 

really grown out. 

THE 

RESULTS 

You scored mostly 

As: 

You’re a colour 

chameleon 

You’re high-maintenance but 

brave when it comes to trends 

such as ashy tones or bold, 

monotone hues (that is, a 

single colour application from 

root to tip). “Smokey matte 

colours are very much on 

trend, such as pink and purple,” 

reveals leading stylist Yumi of 

COVO Hair Salon. To minimise 

damage and colour fade, Yumi 

suggests using a shampoo for 

colour-treated hair that also 

helps moisturise and soften it. 

So Hee from ELRIS 

TRY: 

Shiseido Professional 

The Hair Care 

Luminoforce 

Shampoo Colored 

Hair, $36 (250 ml); 

and Be Color After 

Color Mask, 

$60 (500 ml). 


Jung Si-Ah 


Bs: 

You stick to a 

classic style 

You treat your colour like your 

wardrobe – safe, classy and 

elegant. Ask your stylist for 

delicate babylights that give 

hair dimension while still being 

office-friendly. “Choose shades 

that are within two to three 

levels of your natural hair 

colour, such as caramel and 

chocolate,” advises Director of 

Kimage Hair Studio Monica 

Tan. All that dye means you 

need gloss-giving and deep 

conditioning products. 

TRY: 

KMS Colorvitality 

Conditioner, $36 

(250 ml); and Hoyu 

Promaster Color 

Care Outbath 

Treatment Shiny, 

$36 (50 ml). 

FANCY A CUT OR 

PERM, TOO? 

Here are four of this 

season’s most chic 

styles to try 

Girls Generation 

Yoon Ah from 

BLUNT BOB 

“It’s all about the blunt, 

short- to medium-length 

cut”, Yumi says. This 

one-length style helps bulk 

up fine, wispy tresses, and 

can suit various face shapes. 

“A longer version (below 

chin) is ideal for those with 

broader faces, while the 

shorter version (above chin) 

will suit those with slenderer 

face shapes,” Monica says. 

Kate Middleton 

Kim Ga-Eun 

Natalie Portman 

TRY: 

Kevin.Murphy 

Shimmer.Me.Blonde, 

$50 (100 ml); and 

HASK Blue Chamomile 

& Argan Oil Blonde 

Care Shampoo, 

$16.90 (355 ml). 

Chrissy Teigen 


Cs: 

You love the 

sun-kissed look 

Embrace your inner beach 

babe with a balayage, which 

essentially features strobes of 

colour painted on. These 

multi-tonal highlights create 

the illusion of thicker hair, can 

instantly brighten up your 

visage and work well on 

virtually any length. A good 

stylist will also tailor the 

highlights to flatter your 

features. Keep brassiness at 

bay with a toning product or 

blue shampoo that’s 

formulated to hydrate and 

protect your colour. 

CURTAIN BANGS 

“This wispy, face-framing 

centre-parted fringe 

perfectly complements 

Asian face shapes that tend 

to be broader,” Monica says. 

Whether worn short to your 

eyebrows or longer to your 

cheekbones, it’s relatively 

low-maintenance. 

Jessica Biel 

NATURAL WAVES 

“Nowadays the trend is 

toward more naturallooking 

waves that can be 

easily achieved with a hair 

iron,” Yumi says. Monica 

agrees: “Gone are the 

well-defined curls like 

ceramic perms – instead, 

go for soft curls that 

impart body, texture 

and movement.” 

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU/ADDITIONAL REPORTING: ELIZABETH LIEW / PHOTOS: TPGNEWS 


LOOKBOOK 

HAIR KNOW-HOW 

Here’s To 

Great Hair 

All Year! 

Break out of that rut 

and make these 10 hair 

resolutions to help you look 

fabulous every day 

Double Up 

On The 

Defence 

UV rays from the sun 

are notorious for 

wreaking havoc on 

skin and causing 

premature ageing, but they can also 

damage your hair cuticles, leaving them 

dry and weathered. Meanwhile, 

airborne pollution can also cause hair 

to become brittle and dull-looking. 

Protect your precious hair from these 

environmental stressors with products 

specially formulated with SPF or 

anti-pollution in mind. 

Schwarzkopf Extra Care Purify & 

Protect Hair Sealer Spray, $18.90 

(150 ml), forms a lightweight screen to 

protect hair against dust and pollution 

for up to 72 hours. 

Phyto Phytoplage Protective Sun Veil, 

$52.90 (125 ml), shields hair with a UV 

filter while nourishing it. 

Head For Regular Trims 

For hair to grow well and stay healthy-looking, it’s vital to 

visit your hairdresser every six to eight weeks to snip off any 

accumulated damage like split ends, which can weaken 

hair fibres and make them more prone to breakage. Make 

your appointments in advance, to prevent putting them off 

and forgetting your trims entirely. 

Blitz 

Dandruff 

For Good 

Never scratch your scalp – it 

will only encourage the dandruff to 

multiply. Instead, shampoo hair in 

circular motions to help gently lift flakes, 

and follow with a scalp treatment to 

detox and prevent the formation of 

pesky flakes. 

Give your scalp some extra TLC with the purifying 

L’Occitane Revitalizing Fresh Cleansing Scrub, $40 

(150 ml), which is made with five essential oils and 

removes build-up. 

Use the tea tree essential oil-infused L’Oréal 

PhytoClear Anti-Dandruff Scalp Rebalancing 

Spray, $17.90 (100 ml), twice a week to rebalance 

scalp and reduce itchiness. 

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / ADDITIONAL REPORTING: 

ELIZABETH LIEW / PHOTOS: SHOWBIT, 123RF.COM 


LOOKBOOK 

HAIR KNOW-HOW 

Ask 

Your 

Stylist 

For 

Babylights 

Forget balayage: Make fine 

and subtle highlights your new 

go-to colour. This officefriendly, 

low-maintenance 

colouring technique looks 

natural and adds real 

dimension to fine hair. Even 

better, babylights are 

incredibly versatile and suit 

both light and dark tresses. 

Redemption 

Touch-Up Roots 

From Home 

No time to pop into the salon for a refresher? It can be embarrassing if 

you’ve got a big presentation or event the next day. Thankfully, there are 

now a myriad of temporary hair colouring solutions that help you conceal 

regrowth of greys easily and discreetly, such as the KEVIN.MURPHY Retouch. 

Me, a lightweight spray that uses microfine pigments to blend naturally into 

your hair. 

Seek 

Professional 

Help 

It’s time to nip your hair woes in 

the bud. Whether you’re dealing 

with problems like hair loss, over-processed and 

brittle hair or simply need a detox, treat yourself 

every few months to a pampering session at a 

hair spa or salon and let skillful hands tend to 

your tresses – you know you deserve it! 

Strengthen 

From Within 

Besides having a healthy 

balanced diet, keep an eye out 

for products that help restore 

your hair fibres at a molecular 

level, such as protein 

treatments. These can breathe 

new life into limp, lacklustre 

hair that had been eroded or 

lost fullness due to a variety of 

reasons such as illness, poor 

hair care habits and general 

wear and tear. 

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Core 

Restore Advanced Protein Volumiser, 

$19.90 (60 ml), penetrates each 

strand to reinforce hair’s internal 

structure and boost its fullness. 

HASK Biotin Boost Thickening 

Shampoo, $18.90 (355 ml), uses a 

combination of biotin, collagen and 

coffee to volumise, strengthen and 

fortify your locks. 

Get 

Out 

Of 

Your 

Comfort 

Zone 

This is the year to finally 

get that hairstyle you’ve 

been dreaming about. 

Reinvent your look with 

bangs that can take years 

off your face, a fresh 

colour, or dare to go for 

the chop with a trendy 

bob haircut (or something 

even shorter!). 

Erin Fetherston 

Step Up Your 

Styling 

Instead of limiting your usage 

of heat tools like hair dryers and 

curlers, improve your styling 

technique. Use a heatactivated 

spray that shields 

your hair from heat damage 

while locking in curls and shine, 

such as the KMS Thermashape 

2-in-1 Spray, $40 (200 ml). 

Clean Your 

Hairbrush 

(Or Chuck It!) 

Let’s be honest: When was the last time 

you gave your hairbrush a good 

scrub? It’s important to clean 

right to the root of the bristles 

and dislodge accumulated 

dirt, dust and debris. 


LOOKBOOK 

STEAL HER STYLE 

Zhang Ziyi 

As she returns to the screen in Cloverfield 3, Zhang Ziyi showcases 

showstopping looks that splice Old Hollywood glamour with 

modern silhouettes and textural clashes 

Shirt, $420, 

from Alice + 

Olivia. 

Ring, $249, 

from Swarovski. 

Maki Oh top, 

$2,186, from 

Farfetch. 

Earrings, 

$489, 

from 

Pandora. 

Facetasm skirt, $760, 

from NET-A-PORTER. 

Ziyi in Giorgio 

Armani. 

MAC Retro 

Matte Liquid 

Lip Colour 

in Feels So 

Grand, $39. 

COMPILED BY: AARON KOK & ARISSA HA / PHOTOS: TPG NEWS 

Ziyi in Ralph 

Lauren. 

Three Floor 

Fashion skirt, 

$495, from 

Robinsons. 

Urban 

Decay Brow 

Tamer in 

Neutral 

Brown, $30. 

Jacket, $89.90, 

from Zara. 

NARS 

Highlighting 

Blush in Hot 

Sand, $50. 

Shoes, $850, from 

Ralph Lauren. 

Ziyi In Elie Saab. 

Hairclip, 

$699, from 

John Nollet 

x Atelier 

Swarovski. 

february 2018 |54| www.womensweekly.com.sg

LOOKBOOK 

FASHION NEWS 

STYLE O’CLOCK 

Get up to date with these 

trend-inspired tickers 

CHANEL 

THE TREND 

Space-Age 

Aim for the stars 

with a watch 

that mirrors the 

night sky. 

Watch, $158, 

from Esprit. 

Earrings, 

$999, 

from Mary 

Katrantzou 

x Atelier 

Swarovski. 

MARNI 

THE TREND 

Purple Reign 

Pick a rich plum 

colour in various 

textures for a 

luxe look. 

Watch, $212, from 

Michael Kors. 

Earrings, 

$1,400, from 

Burberry. 

Isabel Marant 

earrings, $637, 

from Club 21. 

Rock 

Steady 

Here’s a bright idea: Put some 

light and colour into your clothing 

with a pair of gemstone earrings. 

Not only will they be the instant 

fix of glamour that you’ll need for 

the dullest outfits, they’re a great 

conversation starter. Shine on! 

LANVIN 

THE TREND 

Gentlemen’s 

Club 

Settle for nothing 

less than a classic 

dress watch to 

match your suit. 

Watch, $249, from 

Daniel Wellington. 

YOU WILL 

EXPERIENCE 

A WINDFALL SOON. 

Bag, $6,490, from Loewe. 

LUCKY BAGS 

Find your fortunes stashed safely in this season’s 

Chinese fortune cookie-inspired carriers 

STELLA MCCARTNEY 

Bag, $2,550, from Nina Ricci. 

NOW IS THE 

TIME TO TRY 

SOMETHING NEW. 

RALPH LAUREN 

THE TREND 

Cruise Control 

Red, navy and white 

stripes imbue a 

linen jacket with 

nautical vibes. 

Watch, $1,020, 

from Gucci. 

COMPILED BY: AARON KOK / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM, SHOWBIT 


LOOKBOOK 

FASHION 

Celebrate CNY with a fresh crop of 

fashion inspiration (pun intended)! Our 

money’s on pretty petals and vivid bursts 

of botanical colour to attract happy 

vibes this Lunar New Year. Huat ah! 


Fresh 

Delivery 

Score a style trifecta 

with the mixed 

mediums of floral 

prints with actual 

fresh flowers and gold 

botanical-inspired 

jewellery pieces. 

Earrings from H&M. Blouse, 

$59.90, from Zara. Skirt from 

Maje. Hair garland from Poppy 

Flora & Nature Studio.

LOOKBOOK 

FASHION 

Swipe White 

Channel the innocent allure of fresh 

lilies with a crisp white shirt. Tip: Bold 

sleeves win extra style points! 

Oscar de la Renta earrings, $340; and Caroline 

Constas top, $690, both from NET-A-PORTER. 

Trousers from Maje. Cuff, $299, from 

Atelier Swarovski. 


Birds Of Paradise 

Add texture with nature prints 

and delicate embroidery. 

Earrings, $760, from Marni. For Love & 

Lemons dress, $565, from Eclecticism. Ring, 

$299, from Atelier Swarovski.

Print Recognition 

The key to mixing multiple patterns in one 

outfit? Make sure there is one common 

colour that runs through all the pieces. 

Shirt, $1,090, from Dries Van Noten. Pants, $249, from 

Kate Spade New York. Shoes, $990, from Bally. 

Bag, $3,070, from Gucci.

LOOKBOOK 

FASHION 

Roses Are Red 

Stand out and make a 

statement in scarlet. 

Earrings, $19.95, from H&M. Talbot 

Runhof dress from POIS. Ring, $490, 

from Dior. 


. 

LOOKBOOK 

FASHION 

La Bohème 

Allude to your inner wild 

child with a ’70s-inspired 

wrap dress, plus 

flower crown. 

Dress, $229, from Zara. Choker, 

$690, from Dior. Ring, $699, from 

Swarovski. Boots, $1,530, from 

Bally. Hair garland from Poppy 

Flora & Nature Studio. 

FASHION DIRECTION: JANICE PIDDUCK / PHOTOS: JOEL LIM/CALIBRE PICTURES / FASHION STYLING: SHAUN CHEN, ASSISTED BY XIANG QIYUAN / HAIR: MICHAEL CHIEW/HAIRLOOM, USING KMS / MAKEUP: MANISA TAN/PALETTEINC, USING NARS/ 

MODEL: QIWEN/NOW MODELS / LOCATION: POPPY FLORA & NATURE STUDIO. 


That ’70s Show 

Channel the best of the disco era 

with pops of paisley-print flowers. 

Earrings, $1,300, from Chloé. Blouse, $3,050; 

and trousers, $1,970, both from Gucci.

LOOKBOOK 

FASHION OVERHAUL 

Closet Tales 

Revamp your closet and your clothing 

before the new season kicks off 

Future Five 

Add these five underthe-radar 

labels to 

your shopping list 

1 2 

1. WRIGHT LE 

CHAPELAIN 

The London-based 

label reinvents closet 

staples – think 

reworked shirts 

and deconstructed 

blazers – and 

menswear-inspired 

fabrics for the 

working set. 

Shirt, $1,325, from 

Wright Le Chapelain. 

4 

6 

3 

8 

2. GANNI 

Hailing from 

Copenhagen, 

this is the label 

that has all the 

It-girls hooked. As 

a family-owned 

label, their pieces 

feel contemporary 

and urban, 

without losing 

their effortlessly 

cool vibe. 

Visit ganni.com 

9 

5 

7 

10 

11 

12 

3. LEIGH MILLER 

Having chalked 

up more than a 

decade’s worth of 

experience working 

in the industry, 

Leigh Miller struck 

out in 2014 to 

launch her own line 

of jewellery to a 

thrilling response, 

thanks to her organic 

forms, hand-finished 

work and natureinspired 

designs. 

Earrings, 

$285, from 

Leigh Miller. 

SPRUCE UP YOUR SPACE 

Give your wardrobe a fresh start with these easy tips 

1. Winter items are rarely used, so 

pack and arrange them on the top 

shelf in boxes. 

2. Bulky items such as bags and 

boots, as well as lesser-worn 

items, should also be stowed in the 

overhead shelf. 

3. Longer length items need a 

higher hanging space, so delegate a 

tall rack for your midi skirts, dresses 

and trousers. 

4. Match your hangers, so it looks 

less cluttered and frantic. 

5. Closet dehumidifiers eliminate 

odour and prolong fabric life. 

6. Do not cram jackets and shirts 

together. Rather, hang them with 

a 1-cm gap in between to avoid 

creasing. And whatever you do, 

never hang more than one article of 

clothing on each hanger. 

7. Display your shoes on sloped 

shelves, and don’t forget to air your 

shoes before putting them back into 

the closet. 

8. Knits and sweaters should not be 

hung on hangers. Instead, fold them 

and store them neatly in a pile. 

9. Mini storage shelves are a 

great investment to help keep your 

jewellery neatly stored. 

10. Sunglasses, coiled belts and 

scarves should be kept in a shallow 

drawer, so you get a bird’s-eye view 

of everything you have. 

11. Allocate this drawer for your 

pyjamas, underwear and socks, and 

use a drawer divider to keep them 

all separate. 

12. Cloth tote bags can be placed in 

the bottom drawer, so they remain 

neat and uncrumpled. 

HELPING 

HANDS 

Remedy those 

style headaches 

with these tools 

Sewing Kit For those 

annoying moments 

when a button pops 

out, or when you need 

to repair a small tear. 

Lint Roller Especially 

useful for those dark 

wool jackets that tend 

to attract dust. 

De-Piller Save your 

knits from all those 

nasty fuzz balls. 

Handheld Steamer 

For a quick fix to iron 

out those annoying 

clothing creases. 

Suit Bags Keeps 

your precious pieces 

protected from 

unsightly fabric snags. 

Unpicker Particularly 

nifty at opening up 

those jacket pockets. 

4. STAUD 

Romantic, 

wearable and 

sensual, Staud 

is a brand that 

comes from the 

sunny boulevards 

of Los Angeles. 

Founded by Sarah 

Staudinger and 

George Augusto, 

its collections brim 

with tropicalfriendly 

pieces that 

stay eternally stylish 

many seasons later. 

Visit staud.clothing 

5. LITTLE LIFFNER 

This Stockholm-based label has 

been quietly amassing a loyal 

following of stylish fans, thanks to 

their Insta-worthy bags that are 

not only functional, but priced at a 

relatively affordable level. 

LITTLE 

LIFFNER 

snakeskin 

effect 

shoulder 

bag, $745. 

COMPILED BY: AARON KOK / PHOTOS: SHOWBIT 


LOOKBOOK 

FASHION OVERHAUL 

Toss Or Take 

Make room in your 

wardrobe for 2018’s 

trending pieces 

2017 2018 

TAKE 

TOSS 

Jeans, $89.90, from Topshop. 

THE PRINTED DRESS 

Level up your prints by 

wearing them with a pair of 

printed sandals. 

THE TRENCH 

You can’t go wrong when 

sporting a classic trenchand-jeans 

combo. 

THE CIGARETTE PANTS 

Rather than your boring 

white shirt, colour-block with 

a boxy jacket. 

BRING IT BACK 

Hit refresh on pieces you already own by 

taking your style cue from the street style set 

THE COMFY KNIT 

Update your cashmere with 

slouchy silk pants. 

FRAYED & 

FLARED JEANS 

TOSS 

WIDE LEG 

JEANS 

TAKE 

Sandy Liang shirt, $465, 


OFF-SHOULDER 

SHIRT 

DECONSTRUCTED 

SHIRT 

Simon Miller bag, 

$687, from Farfetch. 

THE PINSTRIPE PANTS 

Get creative and pair stripey 

trousers with a back-tofront 

jacket. 

At $920, 

from Gucci. 

1 Weather-proofing 

sprays don’t just 

repel rainwater: 

They protect your 

shoes from dirt too. 

THE SKINNY JEANS 

Wear them with Jane Birkinapproved 

separates. 

THE POLO TEE 

Dress up a sporty polo with 

statement pants. 

THE CULOTTES 

Wear them to work with a 

statement blouse: Matching 

jacket optional. 

Skin Saviours 

Master these easy tips and save your leather from the weather 

At 

$79.90, 

from 

Zara. 

Stuff your 

2boots with 

shoe trees to 

help them retain 

their shape. 

At $106, 

from 

Topshop. 

Pop a small 

3 sachet of 

silica gel into your 

shoes to combat 

the humidity. 

At $2,700, from 

Prada. 

4 Regular 

cleaning 

for your bags 

will prolong 

their life cycle. 

At $710, from Furla. 

Keep them in 

5 their dust bags 

when not in use, to 

protect the leather 

from the elements. 

At $360, from 

Elizabeth & James 

at Robinson’s. 

6 Moisturise 

your leather 

bags every few 

months to keep 

them supple. 

TOSS 

SOFT BUCKET 

BAG 

TOSS 

BERET HAT 

TOSS 

BOMBER 

JACKET 

STRUCTURED 

BUCKET BAG 

BAKER BOY HAT 

TRENCH 

COAT 

TAKE 

TAKE 

TAKE 

Coat from Stella McCartney. 

Manokhi hat, $405, 

from Farfetch. 


LOOKBOOK 

FASHION KNOW-HOW 

WE ENDORSE: 

A chain necklace 

with gold hardware 

dresses up your neck 

for both day 

and night. 

GOLD 

CLASS 

Put a little glamour back into your 

Spring wardrobe with the best 

gold jewellery 

Forget your misconceptions that gold is old-fashioned. New-season 

gold accessories tick all the fashion boxes with on-trend designs that are 

perfect for elevating your style and bringing everyday drama. Shop our 

edit of this season’s key trends that’ll help you stay bold and stay gold. 

18k yellow gold necklace, $18,800, from Tiffany & Co. 

EARRING AID 

Filled with panache and drama, try these three earring trends to help you stand out 

ROKSANDA 

MARC JACOBS 

ALEXIS MABILLE 

GRAPHIC CONTENT 

Shape up with these geometric danglers 

SHOOT SOME HOOPS 

Updated hoops are bang on-trend 

FLORA & FAUNA 

Take a leaf from these botanical-inspired pieces 

18k rose 

and white 

gold 

earring 

with pearl, 

$3,493, 

from 

Kova. 

18k rose gold earrings with yellow 

sapphires, pink tourmaline, 

aquamarine and diamonds, $5,100, 

from State Property. 

18k rose gold earrings, $1,160, 

form Carolina Bucci. 

Ilena Makri 18k rose 

gold earrings with 



18k white gold 

earrings with 

diamonds and 

mother-ofpearl, 

$5,725, 

from Gucci. 

18k white gold earrings 

with diamonds, 

$25,000, from Poh 

Heng Jewellery. 


LOOKBOOK 

FASHION KNOW-HOW 

POWER PENDANTS 

Stay classy with a simple gold necklace. We love to see these 

peeking out of a crisp white shirt. 

18k yellow gold 

necklace with 

diamonds, 

$4,000, from 

Tiffany & Co. 


necklace with 

diamonds, 

$1,650, from 

Poh Heng 

Jewellery. 

18k yellow 

gold necklace, 

$6,160, from 

Spinelli Kilcollin. 

18k yellow 

gold and 

diamond 

necklace, 

$2,789, 

from Sophie 

Bille Brahe. 

SHAPE 

UP 

Forgo your 

usual dainty 

bracelets in 

favour of bold 

cuffs: Wonder 

Woman would 

surely approve! 

18k yellow gold cuff 

with diamonds and 

black jade, $212,900, 

from Hermès. 

18k yellow gold bangles, 

$3,120, from 

Charlotte Chesnais. 

Delfina Delettrez 


and sapphire 

bangle with 

diamonds and 

rubies, $7,700, 

from Dover 

Street Market. 

Mateo 14k gold cuff with pearls, 

$10,880, from Moda Operandi. 

MICHAEL KORS 

18k yellow 

gold bangle, 

$11,555, from 

Ileana Makri. 

ZUHAIR MURAD 

COMPILED BY: AARON KOK / PHOTOS: SHOWBIT 

TYPES OF GOLD 

Yellow gold is the most common type of 

gold you’ll find. It is the most hypoallergenic 

type of gold, and requires the least amount 

of maintenance. 

White gold is an alloy and is more durable 

than yellow gold, thanks to its consistency 

and composition. 

Rose gold is the more affordable option 

on the market, because it gets its blush 

colour from inexpensive copper metals. 

Green gold is a mixture of gold and silver, 

and it’s the latter metal which lends it its 

green colour. 

Purple gold was created by Aspial-Lee 

Hwa Jewellery, and is often faceted and set 

as a gem substitute rather than sold on its 

own, due to its malleable qualities. 

ORO22 was created by local jeweller Poh 

Heng Jewellery. It makes use of 22k gold, 

and is known for its Moonlight Glow. 

18k red gold 

‘Lotus’ ring with 

diamond, 

from $2,200, 

from Niessing. 

LOUD RINGERS 

Cocktail hour just got even more fun with these flashy rings 

Delfina Delettrez 

18k white gold ring 

with sapphires and 


from Dover 

Street Market. 

Shaun Leane 18k 

white gold ring 

with amethyst, pink 

tourmaline and purple 

sapphires, $23,500, 

from Farfetch. 

18k white gold 

double ring with 

green tourmaline 

and diamonds, 

$2,900, from 

State Property. 


LOOKBOOK 

FASHION UPDATE 

GIVE HIM 

A 

Transform- 

Three guys, three new looks. Get tips on how to help your 

husband dress better and feel better with these simple steps 

Jon Teo 

37, IT Manager 

HE SAYS 

“Since I work in a regular desk job, 

it's a challenge to keep things 

interesting when it comes to 

workwear. I tend to favour 

deeper colours, but I’ve 

also wanted to try 

incorporating more 

prints into my 

daily outfits.” 

SHE 

SAYS 

“That pocket 

square is the perfect 

accessory to top off the 

whole look. Jon doesn’t 

own a single pocket square, 

so I’ll be sure to get him some 

so he can personalise his outfits 

more.”– Assistant Editor Lisa Twang 


LOOKBOOK 


Find a grey blazer 

that's nipped in 

at the waist for a 

slimmer look. 

STYLE 

EXTRA 

A printed 

pocket square 

helps to add 

some subtle 

texture. 

Layer a 

burgundy 

sweater 

under your 

jacket for a 

pop of colour. 

Blazer, $179, from Zara. 

WANT LES ESSENTIALS bag, 

$400, from Pedder On Scotts. 

Shoes, $395, from Massimo Dutti. 

A thin wristwatch slides under 

your sleeve, eliminating a 

bumpy-looking cuff. 

Tie, $169, 

from Paul 

Smith. 

Invest in a good pair of 

black oxford shoes for 

everyday comfort. 

Glasses, $295, from Burberry. Pocket square, $90, from Paul 

Smith. Suit blazer, $799 for a set; and Belt, $129, both from 

Suitsupply. Sweater, $45.90, from Zara. Shirt, $189, from 

Tommy Hilfiger. Jeans, $59.90, from Uniqlo. Watch, $269, 

from Daniel Wellington. Shoes, $179, from Aldo. 


LOOKBOOK 


Nicky Loh 

36, Photographer 

HE SAYS 

“Because of my job, I have to go 

from shooting in the heat to 

a meeting with potential 

clients. Usually I meet them 

in a T-shirt and shorts, 

but I want to see how 

I can spruce up my 

look while staying 

comfortable and 

functional.” 

STYLE 

EXTRA 

Jacket, $3,580, 

from Saint 

Laurent. 

Shirt, $34.95, from H&M. 

Boots, 

$179, from 

Zara. 

SHE 

SAYS 

“Nicky 

usually dresses 

very simply, so 

this outfit is quite 

different and a really 

stylish look. It definitely 

makes him look more 

‘aunty-killer’!” – Vivi Yeh 

Timex 

watch, 

$159, from 

Benjamin 

Barker. 

A well-fitted 

denim jacket 

is a hardier 

alternative to 

a blazer, but 

still keeps you 

looking smart. 

Details 

matter, so 

strap on 

a sporty 

timepiece to 

complement 

your outfit. 

Instead of stiff 

trousers, ease 

into a pair of 

dark jeans for 

extra comfort. 

Jacket, $59.90; and Jeans, $59.90, both from Uniqlo. Shirt, 

$229, from Tommy Hilfiger. Watch, $199, from G-Shock. 

COMPILED BY: AARON KOK / FASHION STYLING: ASRI JASMAN / PHOTOS: ZAPHS ZHANG, ASSISTED BY SHERMAN SEE-THO / MAKEUP: BENO LIM, USING TOM FORD / HAIR: BOSCO ENG/HAIRLOOM USING KEUNE HAIRCOSMETICS SINGAPORE. 


LOOKBOOK 


Arnold Gay 

51, Kiss92 DJ 

HE SAYS 

“I’ve worn suits for most of my working 

life, but since becoming a DJ, I’ve 

swung the other way with really 

casual pieces. I’d like to 

find a middle ground 

between looking 

too formal 

and too 

casual.” 

SHE 

SAYS 

“Arnold’s 

gotten a bit 

sloppy in recent 

years, so this is a 

refreshing reminder 

about how good he can 

look with some effort. The 

look suits him!” – Deborah Chia 

STYLE 

EXTRA 

Eschew the 

boring business 

jacket for a 

more casual 

parka jacket in 

military green. 

A pop of navy 

blue grounds 

your look, and 

helps spruce 

you up for work. 

Jacket, $880, from Polo 

Ralph Lauren. 

White is a 

great antiageing 

colour, 

especially in the 

form of trendy 

white jeans. 

Polo shirt, $69.90, from Zara. 

Go for that 

‘sockless’ dandy 

look with some 

low-cut socks. 

Common Projects shoes, 

$480, from Pedder On Scotts. 

Parka coat from BOSS. Cardigan, $59.90, from Uniqlo. 

T-shirt, $54.95, from H&M. Trousers, $239, from Suitsupply. 

Watch, $230, from Swatch. Shoes, $189, from Aldo. 

Glasses with clip-ons, $228, 

from O+. 


Here 

For You 

24/7 

Stylish New You 

We help you achieve your fashion resolutions with practical and 

affordable buys you will not regret. 

Fresh 

Decor 

Ideas 

Looking for new 

ways to spruce 

up the home? We 

compile the best 

ones here for 

your next 

reno project. 

Be Inspired 

Local celebrities share what they are up to in 2018, and 

how they plan to deal with the challenges ahead. You’ll 

learn useful tips to inspire your own life goals! 

Back-To-School 

Success 

Ease the young ones back into the 

new school year with our expert 

tips and parenting advice. 

Creative Food Hacks 

Learn fun new ways to use pantry staples you never 

thought possible, in our easy-to-follow videos! 

Royal 

Updates 

Like everyone else, 

we’re really excited 

for this year’s Royal 

Family wedding – 

catch the latest news 

on the Harry-Meghan 

marriage here! 

Find us anytime at www.womensweekly.com.sg 

PHOTOS: TPG NEWS, 123RF.COM, BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU 


INSPIRE 

Weight Loss Tips | Health Buzzwords | CNY Horoscopes 

LIFT YOUR 

SPIRITS 

What do we lack that’s stopping us from being happy? According to 

scientific studies, the answer definitely isn’t more stuff. Even Roman 

emperor Marcus Aurelius knew that “very little is needed to make a happy 

life”. Read on for more ways to simplify your life and find inner joy. 


INSPIRE 

MIND & BODY 

Flying High 

Is your daily happiness eluding you? Here’s how to cut loose 

unnecessary clutter in your life, so your spirits can soar 

We’ve all gone looking for 

happiness at some point 

and found it, only to feel it 

drift away again. In the hamster wheel 

of the modern age, we often want more 

possessions than we have, which creates 

a cycle of discontent. 

“Our attempts to live well are today 

governed by a logic of expansion, in 

which happiness is the frequency, rather 

than the intensity, of pleasant moments. 

Those who only look for the best can 

waste their entire lives trying to find it,” 

says social psychologist Daniel Gilbert. 

He believes a radically simplified life 

is the best way to be happy in a multioption 

society. 

Here’s how to make your life easier, 

so you can rediscover your priorities and 

what truly makes you happy. 

Be Content With 

What You Have 

We all know accumulating money and 

stuff doesn’t necessarily make us happier. 

A relatively unknown fact, however, is 

that striving for more possessions can 

reduce our state of well-being. Studies by 

psychologists Tim Kasser and Richard 

M Ryan revealed people who strive for 

material things suffer chronic pain and 

psychological problems more frequently 

than people who place emphasis on good 

relationships or contributing to society. 

Science has concluded that growing 

discontentment results from false ideas of 

happiness. The secret to a good life does 

not lie in quantity. “If we don’t learn to 

apply the motto of ‘good is enough’, we 

run the risk of letting happiness pass us 

by our entire lives,” says Daniel. 

Rethink How Much 

You Need To Be 

Comfortable 

Modern-day happiness research is now 

examining just how much we need in 

order to be content. Most of us have 

more than enough money, clothes, 

shoes and living space. “For many of 

us, a comfortable bed is essential. But 

how many extras does the bed need 

in order to be comfortable?” asks 

psychologist and author Ed Diener. 

If we examine our idea of comfort and 

identify what’s crucial to it, we see 

that, actually, few things are required 

for us to feel content. 

Recent studies have shown being 

truly happy is about recognising the 

beauty of simplicity; not depriving or 

denying ourselves, but discovering our 

inner wealth. A simple life enables us 

to focus on the essential and teaches 

us the art of enjoyment from the heart 

– by practising serenity, learning to let 

go, allowing dreams to drift in and out, 

and enjoying time as it passes. 

Stick To Not-Great 

Expectations 

“What I gain in years, I take off in 

expectations – as if it had been needs, 

not time, I had been using up,” wrote 

Greek philosopher Epicurus. Not 

expecting too much from life may be the 

secret to true serenity, along with having 

a life motto that allows us to experience 

more surprises than disappointments. 

When we have desires, we know 

we can continue to live well, even if 

they’re not fulfilled. But if we can expect 

something that doesn’t happen, we can 

get frustrated, and feel annoyed and as if 

we’re the victims. 

“The main problem is that we often 

expect others to help satisfy our needs 

and that they’ll make us happy,” says 

Stefan Klein, author of The Science of 

Happiness. “But our personal happiness 

is our responsibility, because we can 

only expect life to give us what we 

ourselves are prepared to put in.” 

Realise That Happiness 

Is Quite Simple 

Gratitude is the feeling that tells us 

things are good just as they are; a feeling 

of no longer wanting more money, more 

attention or more variety. To make 

gratitude a habit, we need to learn to 

look inward more, and place more of a 

focus on small moments of joy. It’s all 

around, in friendly encounters, games 

played with children, the first signs 

of spring in the garden, a warm hug, a 

genuine compliment, the morning sun. 

The Japanese have a self-reflection 

ritual called naikan, or ‘looking inside’. 

It involves asking three questions 

everyday: ‘Who has given me something 

today?’ ‘What have I done for others?’ 

‘Who did I make life difficult for?’ 

Answering these questions and 

reflecting on the answers helps you put 

things in perspective, and focus on the 

simple but important things in life. 

TEXT: HELEN FOSTER/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM 


INSPIRE 

REAL LIFE 

I married 

my 

husband 

twice, & 

had our 

miracle 

baby at 45 

Usually, when 

a couple gets 

divorced, they 

don’t end up 

remarrying 

each other: 

But sometimes, 

it happens 

because 

second time’s 

the charm 


INSPIRE 

REAL LIFE 

Actress Elizabeth Taylor was famously 

married eight times, but she only had seven 

husbands. That’s because Richard Burton 

was both husband number five and six. While the 

rule book always gets thrown out when it comes 

to celebrities, the act of marrying, divorcing and 

getting hitched to a former spouse certainly isn’t 

limited to public figures. 

“I Do” Times Two 

Founder of Kew Organics and Sugar K Organic Peel 

Bar, Lily Kew, was only 25 years old when she first 

met David Ong, and their subsequent love story is 

one that is worthy of the screen. “I was at a disco, 

and you know how people say you’ll know exactly 

when you meet ‘The One’? Well, I really did have 

that moment because when David walked into the 

club that night, a beam of light fell over him and I 

knew instantly we would marry,” she reminisces. 

Luckily, they had a bunch of mutual friends who 

introduced them, which resulted in a whopping 

seven years of courtship before they decided to tie 

the knot. Shortly after, she started her first beauty 

business. The year was 2004, and the toil of keeping 

her company afloat put a strain on her relationship. 

“My business was in its infancy stage, so I 

put a lot of time into building it up from scratch, 

sometimes even sleeping at the shop. At the time, 

I assumed my husband was okay with 

this arrangement because he didn’t 

object,” Lily explains. 

“My business eventually became 

a success, but little did we know that 

cracks were starting to form in our 

marriage. Before I could do anything 

about it, we had drifted apart, our 

relationship had broken down and our 

bond as a couple was beyond repair.” 

Lily and David did have a go at 

mending their divide but by then, they 

weren’t communicating as effectively 

as they should, and decided it was best 

to revert to being just friends. Sadly, 

just five years after saying “I do”, the couple signed 

their divorce papers. But as fate would have it, their 

story did not end there. 

“We didn’t divorce on a bad note. We kept in 

touch after separating and because we attended 

the same church, we saw each other often. Over 

the years, we both changed in a positive way and 

became better people, in my opinion,” she recalls. 

As they matured and grew as individuals, both 

came to the realisation that they were better off 

together. So at the age of 42, Lily walked down 

the aisle once more and remarried the man she 

previously divorced. 

From top: Lily and David with their 

daughter, Uli; the couple’s first wedding 

in 2003; and then their second in 2012. 


INSPIRE 

REAL LIFE 

“THE TRUE MEANING OF 

LOVE IS SELFLESSNESS, 

AND BEING PATIENT AND 

KIND. TRY TO PUT ASIDE 

PRIDE, AND DON’T SWEAT 

THE SMALL STUFF.” 

Lily says her faith has kept her on the straight path towards marital bliss. 

Happily Ever After 

“Actually, the true meaning of love is selflessness, 

and being patient and kind towards each other. This 

time around, we’ve both put aside our pride. We’re 

not as self-seeking as before, not as easily angered 

by the small stuff and we don’t keep a record of 

each other’s wrongdoings.” 

She cites her faith in helping her to reconnect 

with her former husband, which she also says helps 

to guide them onward in the path towards wedded 

bliss. “Marriage takes three is my motto now. Me, 

him and God,” she says. 

While the couple managed to uncover a formula 

for marital success, they then faced another hurdle 

in a bid to make their union stronger: Children. 

Initially, Lily was sceptical of expanding their family; 

not only were they already in their forties, the 

ex-beautician admits herself that she didn’t have a 

particularly strong maternal instinct. 

Slowly but surely, and with her persuasive 

husband egging her on, the now-46-year-old 

changed her mind on the topic. 

While the couple’s desire to bear a child was at 

an all-time high, plans to conceive naturally didn’t 

come to fruition so the couple decided time was not 

on their side and turned to in-vitro fertilisation, or 

IVF, instead to speed up the process. 

“I remember telling David that if IVF didn’t work 

for us after one try, then we could just forget about 

having kids,” she recalls. “Luckily, we were blessed 

with a viable embryo after the very first round of 

treatment.” The couple welcomed a daughter, Uli 

Seven Ong, just over a year ago, and now say that 

parenthood has brought them closer than ever 

before. Uli means ‘noble leader’ in German, and 

her middle name Seven was given as the Chinese 

character for seven (‘qi’) sounds like the word for 

‘hope’, representing the fulfilment of the couple’s 

hope that they could conceive. 

“Even though we’re older parents, I can’t think 

of any negatives of having a child a bit later in life. 

I actually think it’s a blessing because we wouldn’t 

be as patient as we are now, compared to if we were 

younger,” she admits. 

TEXT: NATALYA MOLOK / PHOTOS: VERONICA TAY, ASSISTED BY SHERMAN SEE-THO / ART DIRECTION: CHRISTINA LIM / STYLING: DEBBY KWONG / HAIR: ASH LOI / MAKEUP: AUDREY WEE 


Unleash Your 

Creativity 

It’s not just child’s play – making time for art 

can keep you on top of your mental game 


INSPIRE 

WELL-BEING 

Creativity is the art of turning new and 

imaginative ideas into reality – but it’s also 

about finding unique solutions to problems. 

Thinking in an original way is imperative for highlevel 

health and wellness, as it can make life’s 

challenges more manageable, bring order to chaos 

and help us gain control over our lives. 

Many of us don’t see ourselves as ‘creative 

types’, simply because we weren’t naturally good 

at art, music or writing growing up. But the reality 

is, creativity is a developable, trainable skill and it 

has many positive life benefits. And Singaporeans’ 

interest in art is growing: 78 per cent of us 

acknowledge that arts and culture help to foster 

a sense of belonging, community and identity, as 

well as inspire creativity and innovation. This was 

a key discovery in the National Arts Council’s 2015 

National Population Survey on the Arts. 

Here we look at the ways in which art and 

creativity can benefit our health, and why it’s 

important to nurture our artistic sides. 

WHY WE LOSE OUR ABILITY TO 

THINK CREATIVELY AS ADULTS 

“While as children we’re naturally creative, as 

we mature we become very self-conscious of not 

getting things right, we begin to judge ourselves. 

If we don’t have a specific talent we feel we’re not 

good enough to make art, we push it aside, and this 

affects our capacity to think creatively in the face of 

life’s challenges,” explains artist and art therapist 

Yvonne Kiely. 

“Under the increasing pressures of everyday 

life, we also default to a goal-oriented style of 

thinking, and this constrains our capacity to see 

possibilities,” adds associate professor Muireann 

Irish at the Brain and Mind Centre from the 

University of Sydney. This is why training ourselves 

to remember how to think in unconstrained ways is 

extremely important if we are to thrive in our lives. 

RE-IGNITE YOUR CREATIVE 

BRAIN 

Since we can’t solve our problems with the same 

thinking it took to create them, by embracing 

deliberate creativity – a means of exposing the brain 

to stimuli to ‘spark off’ new ideas – we can enhance 

our ability to see more solutions and experience 

life in more colourful ways. And although creative 

thinking takes many guises, the most important 

aspect is to organise the mind and to balance the 

brain networks through following a simple threestage 

process. 

STAGE 

ONE 

Brainstorm a wide range of ideas 

New research published in the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement has 

shown that taking a short course (as brief as one-and-a-half hours) that 

encourages you to use a variety of thinking styles can have a big impact on 

creative performance. Participants also found their problem-solving skills 

improved thanks to the shifting of perceptions, mental blocks and fixed points 

of view that came about while they were thinking creatively. 

So how do we engage in different thinking styles? According to Meg 

Welchman, psychologist and creator of e-course Creative Mindfulness at 

Purple Cords Press, a good one to try is divergent thinking. This forces the 

brain out of a purely analytical state in which it tends to focus on one solution 

and ignore other options. “This way of thinking has no right or wrong answer; 

therefore, we’re allowing inspiration to come and go,” explains Meg. 

To begin, use your imagination and freely write down as many ideas as 

you can connected to the problem you want to solve. If you need a creative 

nudge, take an everyday object, like a plastic cup, and scribble down as many 

different uses in two minutes, Meg suggests. “This will retrain your brain to see 

how there isn’t just one fixed solution to something, and not to discount any 

ideas at the start of a problem-solving experience.” 


INSPIRE 

WELL-BEING 

CALLIGRAPHY IS 

LIKE THERAPY 

FOR ME 

STAGE 

TWO 

Set the platform for creative insight 

After writing as many ideas as possible, don’t actively attempt to solve the 

problem, but rather take your focus off it and creatively stimulate the mind. A 

good way to do this is to take part in expressive therapies such as art therapy. 

“What the arts do is relax and unblock the mind to express and interpret 

challenges in a visual form, and this helps you ‘see’ alternative solutions,” 

explains Yvonne. Murieann agrees, “This will allow related solutions to 

eventually form in a loose and unconstrained manner.” 

A new study published in The Arts In Psychotherapy further confirms this: 

After a three-minute art-making session, participants indicated they felt 

more like they had good ideas, and could solve problems 

better than they had before participating in the activities. 

Even though art therapy is best practised with a therapist, there are things 

you can do at home to foster creativity – and they don’t require you to be 

artistic. Yvonne suggests if you are very left-brain or analytical-oriented in 

thought, use your non-dominant hand to draw; this will shift the brain away 

from creating lists. Placing an object upside down and drawing it will stop 

the argument of the brain to get things right, while dipping a piece of string 

in paint or ink and making random marks on paper will encourage relaxation 

as you become unable to control what’s coming out. When the ‘eureka’ 

moments come – silly or serious – jot down those ideas. 

Naomi Anneliese is living her dream: She runs 

her own calligraphy business Nehohmee, which 

offers calligraphy workshops as well as art 

supplies. It started when she left her corporate 

role in a business development company, to 

pursue a truly meaningful hobby. Now in her 20s, 

Naomi creates stunning calligraphy creations 

for brands like Sulwhasoo, LANEIGE and Tangs. 

“Calligraphy allows you to express your 

thoughts and feelings with the stroke of a 

brush,” says Naomi. “I took up calligraphy to 

have a creative outlet to express myself, and it’s 

amazing how a lifelong skill like calligraphy has 

given me the opportunity to meet new people 

from different walks of life.” 

Naomi looks forward to passing on the joys 

of calligraphy to others through her workshops. 

“One of my most memorable students is 

Helen, a senior in her 70s who registered for my 

workshop and inspired everyone in the class 

to continue to have lifelong learning. For her 

graduation card, she wrote ‘Life is a journey’, 

which is so apt!” 

For those who feel apprehensive about 

picking up art later in life, Naomi urges them to 

give it a shot. “Like Helen says, it’s never too late 

to pick up anything; all you need is the will to 

try,” she says. 

“Calligraphy trains your determination and 

patience. It’s honestly not that hard: All you 

need to do is to focus on the foundations, and 

you can do it anywhere, without any fancy 

equipment. It can even be done with a pencil! 

For more on Nehohmee’s calligraphy workshops, 

visit www.nehohmee.com. Get $10 off with the 

promo code TSWW10OFF, valid until March 31. 

TEXT: ELLI JACOBS, BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU/ ADDITIONAL REPORTING: LISA TWANG/ PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEHOHMEE & 123RF.COM 


INSPIRE 

WELL-BEING 

STAGE 

THREE 

Fine-tune your idea 

The next step is to try convergent thinking. This involves narrowing down 

ideas into smaller chunks to bring you towards a single solution that you feel is 

the best way to solve the problem. 

Positive result 

If you feel stuck, listening to classical music that is happy and high in 

arousal (psychologists call this ‘positive valence’) can help. Try the Spring 

movement of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. 

“The more we practise and develop our creative problem-solving skills, 

the more confident and cognitively flexible we become, which enables us to 

adapt to unexpected events or new challenges in our workplace or home but 

also learn new skills,” says Muirean. 

A creative life is a healthy life 

Apart from solving problems, creativity has numerous and widespread 

health benefits conducive to healthy ageing. According to Associate 

Professor Nagaendran Kandiah of the National Neuroscience Institute, there 

are an estimated 40,000 people in Singapore with dementia, 

10 per cent of whom are under 65. 

A study published in the Neurology journal discovered that people who 

participated in artistic activities, such as painting, drawing and sculpting, in 

both middle and old age, were 73 per cent less likely to have memory and 

thinking problems, such as mild cognitive impairment, that lead to dementia. 

The study also revealed that those who participated in craft-based activities 

such as sewing, woodworking and ceramics in middle and old age, were 

45 per cent less likely to encounter cognitive issues. 

“When those with early onset dementia make art, even though their ability 

to complete simple everyday tasks is diminishing, the part of the brain related 

with artistic abilities is not affected, so it becomes a skill they can keep 

building on indefinitely,” explains Yvonne. “Other studies have linked taking the 

time to make art, no matter your skill level, to reducing stress hormone levels 

and contributing to better heart health; increasing control over physical and 

emotional pain; and reducing symptoms of depression including boosting 

feelings such as joy, excitement and enthusiasm. 

To sum it all up, using creativity as the basis to solve real-life problems 

can make life much more enjoyable – and bring significant long-term 

psychological benefits that contribute to well-being and an overall better 

quality of life. So what are you waiting for? 

Did You Know? 

A 2014 survey 

found that 

72 per cent of 

people reported 

having creative 

insights in 

the shower. 


INSPIRE 

SMART DIETING 

EASY WAYS 

TO LOSE 

WEIGHT 

FAST 

Need some new ideas on 

how to shift those kilos? 

Here are some surprising 

tips that work 

When it comes to losing weight, 

you don’t have to do a 

complete diet overhaul to get 

results. Even the smallest change that 

sees you cutting calories will help. Try 

one or all of these fabulous ideas. 

Drink three more glasses 

of water a day 

This simple tweak can see you 

consuming 205 fewer calories a day. 

Drinking more water makes you less 

likely to consume sugary drinks 

packed with calories, and helps control 

feelings of hunger and the desire to eat, 

says Professor Ruopeng An from the 

University of Illinois. 

Set a food curfew 

People who changed nothing about their 

diet except the fact that they only ate 

during a 10-hour window each day (say 

8 am to 6 pm, or 10 am to 8 pm) cut their 

calorie intake by 20 per cent, and lost 

three kilos in 16 weeks. 

The reason is simple – the average 

person normally eats during 15 hours of 

the day, say doctors at the Salk Institute 

for Biological Studies, so losing five 

hours of potential eating time cuts out a 

lot of food and calories. 

Only ever eat 

sitting at a table 

This cuts out those ‘drive-by’ calories 

you consume as you wander past the 

fridge and grab a snack. “When you 

sit at a table you’re less likely to be 

distracted and can eat more slowly – 

this means you can focus on chewing 

food properly,” says trainer Ethan Hyde 

from Fully Loaded Fitness. 

This is important, as people who 

chew well can consume 30 per cent less 

food than those who eat too quickly. 

Start every meal 

with a salad 

“I suggest my clients make a huge 

colourful salad and have it in the fridge, 

and eat one or two cups before lunch 

or dinner. It helps fill you up before you 

start eating foods with more calories,” 

says Justine Guest from online fitness 

plan the Smart Body Project. 

The best thing about this tip: You 

don’t have to make the salad every day 

– if it’s in a sealed container it’ll last two 

to three days. 

Order takeaway early 

If you already know you can’t face 

cooking tonight, don't wait till you're 

TEXT: HELEN FOSTER/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM 


INSPIRE 

SMART DIETING 

hungry to order – do it at least an 

hour before you want to eat, and you’ll 

order at least 109 kcal less food than 

if you order at meal time. When you’re 

hungry you tend to focus on short-term 

pleasure, but order early and you’re 

more likely to focus on long-term goals. 

Have a protein-packed 

breakfast 

People who do so eat about 97 fewer 

calories at lunch than those filling up on 

carbs first thing. Eggs are a good choice, 

but there are other options. 

“I also love a protein-packed chia 

pudding,” says nutritionist Rick Hay, 

author of The Anti-Ageing Food And 

Fitness Plan. “Add two teaspoons of chia 

seeds to a small serving of coconut or 

organic Greek-style yoghurt and soak for 

10 to 15 minutes. Mix in some berries 

and to boost things further, maybe add 

some sunflower or pumpkin seeds.” 

Other protein-rich breakfast ideas 

include bananas, oatmeal and peanut 

butter: Have them on toast, or blended 

into a power-packed smoothie. 

Only eat wholegrain carbs 

It’s not just the healthiest option, it’s 

also the most slimming. New research 

says that wholegrains increase 

metabolism and reduce the number of 

calories we take in from other foods. 

This combination means wholegrain 

eaters take in about 100 fewer calories 

daily than those eating the same amount 

of refined carbs like white bread. 

Eat in a quiet room 

When you hear yourself chew, you 

become more aware of how much food 

you’re eating – people munching on 

pretzels in a noisy room ate four, while 

those in a quiet room ate only three. 

“One extra pretzel might not sound 

like a lot, but over the course of a 

week, month or year, it adds up,” says 

Professor Ryan Elder from Brigham 

Young University. 

Find your ‘Adele’ food 

Singer Adele attributes her recent 

weight loss to giving up tea – she was 

drinking 10 cups a day with sugar, 

and decided the extra calories had 

to go. “Using a food diary app like 

MyFitnessPal that shows the calorie 

count and nutritional breakdown of a 

food is a good way to spot foods that are 

giving you plenty of calories but little 

nutrition,” says trainer Carlos Elysee. 

Once you spot your ‘Adele’ food, quit 

it completely, cut your intake in half, or 

find a lower calorie swap and watch that 

number on your scale start to fall. 

Try Reducetarianism 

This is the hot new name for the idea 

of cutting back on the amount of meat 

we consume in a meal and replacing it 

with vegetables – and it’s an easy way to 

reduce calories. For instance, you can 

simply decide to eat a plant-based lunch 

every day or every other day, or just go 

vegetarian one day a week. 

“Another good idea is to make some 

simple rules for foods you eat often,” 

says Brian Kateman, author of The 

Reducetarian Solution. “Decide you’ll 

only order a burrito with veggies, or 

choose vegetarian Thai dishes instead 

of meat ones.” 

Decide on your high point 

So you really want a high-calorie food? 

Then have the thing you truly want, 

but skip any extras. “If you really want 

a burger, for example, have it but don’t 

order the fries and soft drink too – just 

have some water,” says Carlos. Other 

examples might be skipping naan with 

your curry and rice, or the spring rolls 

with Chinese food. Because you get the 

thing you’re really craving, you won’t 

feel deprived, but nor will you overeat. 

Buy a new plate 

“Eating from a smaller plate or bowl is 

the simplest way to cut calories,” says 

personal trainer Alia Steglinksi. And to 

minimise the calories that come from 

drinks, only ever use a tumbler style 

glass or a 125 ml wine glass. 

Cut your carb intake 

Most of us serve far bigger carbohydrate 

portions than we actually need. “Fill 

the rest of your plate with veggies and 

protein, and you'll usually find weight 

loss follows,” says Ethan. 

Have a coffee 

before you eat 

Willpower is strongest when you’re 

alert. You can boost your resolve by 

turning up the lights or, if you’re dining 

in a dimly-lit room, break convention 

and order a coffee before you eat rather 

than after dessert. 

“Caffeine can help to counter the 

effects of dim lighting,” says researcher 

Professor Dipayan Biswas from the 

University of South Florida. 

Leave three to four 

mouthfuls on your plate 

We often serve more food than we need, 

so practise serving less or leaving a little 

on your plate. This will be easier if you 

start to feel full during your meal, so eat 

slowly and adjust your eating order. 

“Eat most of the vegetables in a meal 

first, then fill up on the protein – the next 

most satiating ingredient. Reach for the 

carbohydrates last – you’ll probably be 

too full to eat all of them,” says Ethan. 


INSPIRE 

GOOD TO KNOW 

Do you take a myriad of 

medicines – at least five types a 

day? Deprescribing is the term 

doctors are using to assess if 

all those pills you take are still 

working effectively for you, and 

helping you safely come off any 

you don’t need anymore. 

“Your health and medication 

needs change over time, so 

it’s definitely beneficial to 

reassess your medication with 

your GP regularly,” says Dr Jill 

Thistlethwaite, medical advisor 

to NPS MedicineWise. 

These words and phrases are 

causing a stir in health circles 

right now: Here’s why! 

So you’re all caught up on last year’s hip health buzz words and 

phrases like HIIT (high-intensity interval training), or hygge 

(a Danish term meaning cosiness)? Well, there’s a new wave 

of must-know words out there, like lagom, poke and deprescribing. 

Here’s what they mean – and how they can help your health. 


INSPIRE 

GOOD TO KNOW 

This buzz phrase has come from the US, where body neutrality workshops are 

the new way to boost self-esteem. “Being body neutral is the bridge between 

body shaming and body positivity – simply learning to accept your body for 

what it is,” says Christine Morgan from The Butterfly Foundation. 

A good place to start is to acknowledge your body for what it helps you 

do, rather than how it appears. Try spending a few minutes each day thinking 

of three things you couldn’t have done without the body you have. 

This word comes from Sweden, 

and it’s been called the next big 

trend after hygge. Lagom means 

‘not too little, but not too much’ 

in Swedish; in fact, its literal 

meaning is ‘enough is as good as 

a feast.’ It’s suggested that we 

apply this concept to everything 

in life – from eating to spending 

to how we work and play. 

According to the principles of 

lagom, it’s okay to have a piece 

of cake every day (as many 

Swedes do), but only a very, very 

small one. Ditto alcohol – it’s not 

bad to have a drink every day, 

but limit it to just one small glass, 

which is enough. 

You may have heard of white 

noise, which helps screen out 

background noise and aids 

sleep. Pink noise is a similar idea, 

but uses a slightly different 

frequency, which experts 

claim is more relaxing. 

That’s not why it’s a buzz phrase, 

though – that’s come about as 

it might also boost brain health. 

One new study shows that older 

people sleeping with pink noise 

in the background actually 

improved their memory by 

33 per cent the next day. Try the 

Pink Noise app, which can be 

downloaded for free on the 

App Store and Google Play. 

It’s claimed that no more than five per cent 

of our daily calories come from ‘free sugars’: 

According to the World Health Organisation, 

they are any sugars added to a food (either 

by a manufacturer or by you when you’re 

cooking or eating), and the sugars in honey, 

fruit juice and syrups like agave. These are the 

sugars we need to cut back on. 

Free sugars don’t include those found 

naturally in milk and whole fruit and 

vegetables. These are ‘intrinsic sugars’, and 

don’t need to be limited. 

This healthy food concept from Hawaii is 

springing up in cafes and restaurants all over 

Singapore – just look at A Poke Theory, Alter 

Ego and Poke Lulu. It includes raw chopped 

fish (usually marinated in a soy-based sauce), 

served with ingredients like avocado, carrot 

and sea vegetables, all served on a bed of 

sushi rice. It makes a great light meal, and is 

packed with healthy omega-3 fats. 

To make it yourself, try recipes in The Poke 

Cookbook by Martha Cheng, or Poke by Celia 

Farrar and Guy Jackson. 

ITEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / LLUSTRATIONS: 123RF.COM 


INSPIRE 

CAREER ADVICE 

How To Beat 

Impostor 

Syndrome 

Even the 

formidable 

Meryl Streep 

admits she suffers 

from negativity, 

self-doubt and 

feeling like a fraud. 

Here’s how to 

access confidence 

and boost your 

self-esteem 

for good 

Does your subconscious 

constantly whisper you’re not 

good enough at work and you 

will get found out – and soon? That 

insidious voice is a confidence drain, yet 

it seems far too many of us aren’t able 

to dial down its volume or even switch it 

off completely. 

Even Meryl Streep says she 

sometimes feels like a fraud. “I have 

varying degrees of confidence and selfloathing,” 

the 20-time Oscar nominee 

has said. “You can have a perfectly 

horrible day where you doubt your 

talent – or that you’re boring and they’re 

going to find out that you don’t know 

what you’re doing.” 

So why is the inner mean girl voice 

getting the better of so many of us? 

“We’re simply too hard on ourselves,” 

says Dr Vesna Grubacevic, a clinical 

hypnotherapist and trainer in neurolinguistic 

programming (NLP), “Some 

women strive for an unrealistic or 

unattainable perfection. It’s known as 

Imposter Syndrome – the inability to 

recognise accomplishments, and a fear 

of being exposed as a fraud.” 

Here’s how to switch off the negative 

inner monologue, face the “I’m not good 

enough” fears and instead plug into “I’ve 

got this” confidence. 

REWIRE YOUR THINKING 

Dr Grubacevic says the first step is 

a mental reboot. “It can be hard to 

‘unlearn’ thought patterns we’ve 

held onto for years, even if they sap 

confidence,” she says. “Force yourself to 

think the positive opposite of a negative 

thought. So think “I can” rather than “I 

can’t” as a retraining exercise.” 


I N S P I R E 

CAREER ADVICE 

SIX STEPS TO SELF-CONFIDENCE 

Clinical hypnotherapist Dr Vesna Grubacevic suggests 

these self-worth boosters 

1. Improve self-talk “Beating up on ourselves reduces confidence, while acknowledging and 

appreciating our successes can help to improve self-esteem. Silence your inner critic and start 

self-appreciation instead.” 

2. Value success and celebrate your wins “Think about and focus on a successful outcome before 

an event. This will boost your confidence. When you do achieve a goal, celebrate it.” 

3. Instant calm “By putting yourself in a calm frame of mind – meditation and relaxation 

techniques can help – you can manage your emotions and silence negative self-talk.” 

4. Seek a mentor or professional help “Learning from a mentor is a great way to boost 

confidence. If issues are deep-seated, it could be worth investing in professional help.” 

5. Positive affirmations “Using a personal mantra that you can tell yourself every day is great, be 

it ‘I am good enough’ or ‘I can do this’. Make sure you believe it because beliefs affect behaviour.” 

6. Love yourself “Be your own best friend. Shut down limiting beliefs, make time for things that 

boost your self-esteem and talk yourself up to feel good.” 

Catch Meryl Streep as Katharine 

Graham, the first female publisher 

of The Washington Post, in Steven 

Spielberg’s The Post. It opens in 

cinemas on January 18, 2018. 

A real-life example who actively 

addressed her confidence issues is 

Annette, 47. “I lost my mojo during my 

childhood. I’m from a single-parent 

family and I was bigger than other kids, 

so I got bullied relentlessly.” 

Despite her lack of self-esteem, 

Annette forged a successful career in 

corporate communications. But when 

she was headhunted for her dream job 

in 2013 – only to be made redundant 12 

months later – Annette hit rock bottom. 

“It was proof, after all, that I was no 

good,” she says. 

She was tempted to wallow in selfpity, 

but the redundancy forced Annette 

to address her confidence issues by 

attending self-esteem workshops. “One 

of the speakers said, “Everyone in this 

room is an expert on something, it 

doesn’t matter what it is.” 

Two years on, Annette has launched 

her own PR business, Publicity Genie, 

and recently won an international 

industry award. “Working on myself 

gave me the confidence to launch my 

company,” she says. “I still have bad 

days, but now I don’t dwell. It’s very 

empowering to value yourself.” 

LEARN TO LOVE YOUR BODY 

Body confidence issues can also 

sap self-worth. While a few wrinkles 

or extra kilos can lead to personal 

dissatisfaction, Debra, 39, had to live 

with a facial issue that severely affected 

her confidence. 

“In 2012, I had an operation to 

remove a 4.5-cm brain tumour. The op 

and subsequent stroke I had damaged 

my facial nerves,” explains Debra. 

“The left side of my face was affected, 

which meant I couldn’t blink, so in 

order to preserve my eye, my doctor 

recommended it be sewn shut for a year. 

It was so visible, I really hated it.” 

After the procedure, Debra didn’t 

want to look in the mirror. Despite the 

low confidence, she returned to work at 

the Subway franchise she’d purchased 

with her husband when she was well. 

“Customers flinched, stared or openly 

asked what was wrong with my eye. 

That drained my confidence.” 

It was a comment by her teenage 

stepdaughter, Kiara, that began 

rebuilding Debra’s self-esteem. “She said 

to me one day, ‘You know what? Those 

that matter don’t mind, and those that 

mind don’t matter’, and that became 

my mantra. I also chose to not let this 

break me. So I’d get up every day, go to 

work and smile. Did I always feel great? 

No, but I also learned to ‘fake it until you 

make it’ – another mantra I swore by. If 

I projected confidence, it actually made 

me feel better.” 

MOVE AHEAD IN SMALL STEPS 

Whether your self-confidence issues 

stem from the personal, professional 

or physical, practical steps can help 

improve the situation. Pam Brossman, 

an executive coach, mentor and the 

author of Confident Chicks, says: “I tell 

my clients to figure out what is holding 

them back and take ownership of 

wanting to change,” she says. 

Pam advises breaking confidence 

goals down into smaller steps. “If you 

fear public speaking, practise in front of 

the mirror, then in front of friends. Build 

up to your target and reward yourself 

for each step you achieve.” 

Seeking out mentors or support 

groups can also help, Pam says, 

whether that is an exercise class to 

help you realise your physical goals or 

a networking group for career support. 

“Knowledge and being proactive about 

helping yourself are great confidence 

builders,” she explains. 

Improving your self-talk and 

giving yourself feedback can help 

too, according to Dr Grubacevic. She 

also suggests visualising success as a 

confidence motivator and practising 

calming techniques, such as meditation. 

“We’ll feel more confident when 

we learn to be our own best friend,” 

says Dr Grubacevic. “Celebrate your 

successes and move on when things 

don’t go so well.” 

TEXT: HELEN FOSTER/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU, ADDITIONAL REPORTING: TAN GIN YEE / PHOTO: UIP 


INSPIRE 

MONEY MATTERS 

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PENDER 

How do you handle your credit cards? 

I usually pay the minimum payment – 

but then again, I have missed a 

few lately. 

I have one, but I pay the entire balance 

due every month. 

I don’t believe in credit, so I don’t 

use them. 

I use them to juggle my finances, 

and they frequently see me through 

thin financial weeks at the end of 

the month. 

D 

REAMER 

S 

AVER 

S 

TASHER 

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What’s Your 

Money Personality? 

Spender, saver or totally out of control? 

Our financial personality quiz could be your 

first step to mastering your finances 

Saving your hard-earned dollars 

or sorting them into smart 

investments can help you achieve 

your goals sooner. But we all know that’s 

easier said than done. The first step to 

living your dreams is realising what type 

of spender you are. 

“As a wealth advisor, I meet all 

types of financial personalities,” 

says Leah Oliver, CEO and founder of 

Minnik Integrated Financial Solutions. 

“However, the majority of people will 

spend everything they earn and then 

reach for debt, particularly credit cards 

IF YOUR 

ANSWERS 

ARE… 

Mostly A 

You’re a Spender. You spend 

all you earn – sometimes, 

more than you earn. You 

often buy frivolous or luxury 

items you can’t afford. 

“A financial advisor can help 

you implement strategies 

and guide you on how to 

maximise surplus, fast-track 

your debt repayment and 

direct spending more wisely,” 

Leah says. Formulate a 

savings plan, and stick to it. 

and asset finance.” 

Answer these five questions for 

Leah’s tailored advice on managing your 

money, and sorting out your finances. 

You have been unexpectedly gifted 

$10,000. What would you do with 

this windfall? 

Buy a new car. 

Put it in your savings account. 

Invest it to make more money. 

Hit the shops and blow it all on a 

new wardrobe. 

Mostly B 

You’re a Saver. You are good 

with money and regularly set 

some of your income aside 

to create a cushion in case 

an emergency crops up. 

“Savers are a step ahead,” 

says Leah. “They will reach 

their goals faster, especially 

if they direct their savings to 

the right places and achieve 

a return on investment.” Well 

done manging your finances 

– keep up the good work! 

Mostly C 

You’re a Stasher; an extreme 

saver who worries too much 

about money in the future to 

enjoy what they earn. 

“Money is like a drug to 

a stasher. Once they feel 

the euphoria of wealth 

starting to accumulate, 

they can’t stop,” Leah says. 

“Unfortunately, they work 

so hard they forget to invest 

time in relationships and life 

in general.” 

If your car breaks down or your washing 

machine gives way, you… 

Freak out – your money is so tight that 

you can’t afford any extra costs. 

Stay calm – you always keep some 

money aside for such emergencies. 

Mildly panic – you’ve got more than 

enough money to cover the costs, 

but you worry about seeing your 

savings dwindle. 

Think positive – you would be in a 

terrible financial bind, but you tell 

yourself things will work themselves 

out somehow. 

What annual salary would you need to 

feel completely satisfied? 

At least $1 million – the more money, 

the merrier. 

Double what I’m earning now, so I could 

save half. 

It’s hard to pinpoint a figure. 

Enough to pay someone else to do my 

work – and cover my lifestyle, too. 

How often do you worry about money? 

Monthly, when my credit card 

statement arrives. 

A bit, but I know if I keep saving I won’t 

worry at all one day. 

Constantly: It always seems to be on 

my mind. 

Why worry? The future will take care 

of itself. 

Mostly D 

You’re a Dreamer, with big 

dreams for a successful 

financial future, but you’re 

reluctant to put in any hard 

work. You expect money to 

flow to you, but that’s not 

how finance works. 

“It’s never too late to make 

smart financial choices, 

so if you’re feeling the 

pinch, speak to a financial 

counsellor or advisor, 

pronto!” Leah says. 

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / PHOTO: 123RF.COM 


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Contest closes on February 15, 2018. 


THE YEAR OF 

THE DOG 

Career, relationships, health… 

here’s what your Chinese 

horoscope has in store 

for you in this new year 

DOG 

(2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934, 1922) 

2018 is a mixed bag with a fair share of 

personal and professional problems, 

even as you attain success. Matters from 

one aspect of your life could spill over 

into others – which is why the sudden 

surge in confidence in your work life 

may be one of the reasons you have 

problems in your personal life. However, 

your ability to summon the strength you 

get from your work to overcome these 

challenges will determine how successful 

you are at coming out on top. 

Career 

Your job could get tougher with a lot 

of work-related pressure and harsh 


HOROSCOPES 

YEAR OF THE DOG 

superiors bearing down on you, which 

may in turn result in a decrease in 

productivity. Endeavour to remain 

consistent and determined to deal with 

the tough work year ahead; it is better 

to look on the brighter side of things 

instead of changing jobs. 

Relationships 

It will be a trying time for couples, 

but as long as both parties are willing, 

challenges can be overcome. Married 

couples should practise tolerance, 

because simple misunderstandings could 

weaken your bond. For those who are 

still single, you will have to contend 

with a largely isolated social life – 

focusing on other aspects in your life 

could help lift the loneliness. 

Health 

Health this year is not so good for 

you. Diet and exercise more to ensure 

you stay healthy to avoid digestive 

complications. Be very cautious on the 

roads, whether you’re on the sidewalks 

or driving, as a moment of carelessness 

could lead to severe injuries. Avoid 

metallic objects that might contain 

rust or other harmful materials, as these 

could cause you to fall sick easily. 

PIG 

(2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935, 1923) 

This year is your time to shine. 

It is a great chance to showcase 

your capabilities to clinch the 

career advancement and business 

developments you’ve been eyeing. You’ll 

acquire heightened popularity, from 

easily making friends to giving great 

business proposals that could lead to 

thrilling investments. However, being in 

the spotlight can be draining, so make 

sure you schedule some time for yourself 

away from work and people every week 

to relax, and prevent negativity from 

burning you out. 

Career 

Career luck is looking good for you 

this year. Strong alliances with your 

colleagues will help you overcome 

resistance that could undermine 

your productivity, thus letting you 

showcase your talents to highly 

appreciative superiors. 

Relationships 

Luck in relationships is at its peak for 

you. The presence of the Sky Happiness 

Star ensures love comes to your 

doorstep, as opposed to last year’s 

dull forecast. This new year will be filled 

with joyous events – long-term couples 

should begin marriage plans before 

the year ends. Those who are single 

might be able to finally start a romantic 

relationship, so keep an eye out in 

social circles! 

Health 

Your health this year will not be at its 

peak. Unknowingly participating in 

events that are ill-fated could lead to 

physical and psychological issues. As 

long as you exercise diligently and avoid 

extreme activities, the Sky Happiness 

Star can protect you from harm. 

RAT 

(2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936, 1924) 

Thanks to the support of the Eight Seats 

Star, you’ll be able to take your personal 

development to the next level this year. 

You can look forward to an increase 

in fortunes and an enhanced ability to 

learn – consider picking up new skill sets, 

improving current skills or even enrol in 

courses to add value to your abilities. 

Academics, scholars or students will 

benefit especially from this powerful 

boost in luck. 

Career 

Your career this year will be off to a 

rocky start. Focus on advancing your 

career instead of being distracted by 

petty people. The noise from these 

people will soon fade out and you can 

start reaping the benefits, such as a 

promotion and pay raise. Embrace the 

kindness of others if they offer help to 

maintain a stable career in 2018. 

Relationships 

2018 is a good year to get into a romantic 

relationship if you are single. Stay alert 

in social events to find that special 

someone. Couples do not fare too well in 

the health department, and it is possible 

for one of you to be hospitalised. 

Encourage each other to engage in 

sports and compound your earnings to 

invest in a healthier diet. 

Health 

Watch out for your health this year, as 

the Blood Knife Star appears in your 

midst. Avoid taking part in extreme 

sports like skydiving or mountain 

climbing to avoid serious injuries. 

However, the Nobleman Star’s presence 

will ensure that aid is nearby should 

you encounter a health problem. 


HOROSCOPES 


OX 

(2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949, 1937, 1925) 

General luck this year is looking good 

for you. Explore opportunities whenever 

possible, as they offer a chance to 

improve your financial standing. Femaledominated 

industries have a higher 

chance of prospering this year, and 

you will receive timely assistance from 

the women in your life, so be open to 

their generosity. Keep a level head and 

practise self-restraint, as your good luck 

could be tainted if you indulge too much 

in the excess of wealth. 

Career 

Your work life will remain stable; 

however, the presence of the Broken 

Star could cause disruptions between 

you and your colleagues. Stay composed 

around your peers and work diligently 

and you will gain the respect and help 

of your colleagues. 

Relationships 

Luck in love may not be at its peak for 

those who are single; however, you 

should still try to socialise as you might 

discover your romantic partner in 

unexpected places. Couples who have 

been together for a long time should 

move forward with their wedding plans. 

Health 

The presence of an inauspicious star 

in your Palace implies a negative turn 

of events is coming your way. Invest 

more time in taking care of yourself and 

consult a doctor if you contract a serious 

illness so that it won’t fester. Try taking 

up a sport to mitigate these issues. 

TIGER 

(2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938, 1926) 

Luck is pretty balanced out this year, 

and both positive and negative events 

play out evenly for you. You will see a 

boost in success in business and work 

aspects, but you have to put in the hard 

work. Malicious lies and rumours about 

you could lead to misunderstandings 

between you and the important people 

in your life, so be wary of who you 

trust. Take care when mingling in social 

events, or you might get into legal 

entanglements. Having to deal with 

so much could lead to emotional 

volatility, but try your best to not let 

it consume you. 

Career 

In terms of relations with colleagues, 

expect disputes stemming from 

misunderstandings to happen so be 

watchful of your interactions. Be wary 

of certain malicious colleagues who 

are looking to double-cross you. The 

presence of the Three Stages Star should 

help to reduce hostility in the workplace, 

but you should also do your part in 

improving your communication skills to 

avoid future work disputes. 

Relationships 

The presence of the Three Stages Star 

signifies togetherness; hence, unmarried 

couples in a loving relationship should 

strongly consider marriage to solidify 

their bond. If you are single and seeking 

a relationship, continue searching 

despite the absence of Peach Blossom 

Luck, as the Three Combination Star still 

brightly shines upon you. 

Health 

Be extra vigilant over your health this 

year, as inauspicious stars in your 

Palace indicate a decline in well-being. 

Be prepared for any diseases that may 

attack your body by maintaining good 

hygiene, a healthy diet and consuming 

more vitamins and minerals. Consider 

asking some friends to join you in 

physical activities like team sports, and 

seek treatment immediately should you 

fall sick. 

RABBIT 

(2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 

1963, 1951, 1939, 1927) 

Luck this year is 

good for you. Expect 

to be surrounded 

by an abundance 

of love and support 

from kind and 

generous people. 


You will easily find experienced mentors 

willing to guide you to success in your 

career. You will forge new connections 

which could lead to advantageous 

collaborations. All this success could 

distract you from your loved ones, so 

don’t forget to spend some time with 

them and pay extra attention to senior 

family members who might have minor 

health risks. Avoid engaging in flings, and 

spend more time with your spouse to 

strengthen your bond. 

Career 

Thanks to the presence of the Grand 

Duke Combination Star, there will be an 

abundance of auspicious tidings. You will 

build a blossoming rapport with your 

superiors, leading to more chances to 

showcase your abilities at work. Make 

sure you still leave time to rest, as you 

run the risk of overworking yourself. 

Relationships 

Things could be rocky when it comes to 

romance. Disagreements ranging from 

trivial to weighty matters could easily 

lead to quarrels between you and your 

loved one. Don’t fret, 2018 brings a lot 

of peace-making opportunities for you 

that could help stabilise the relationship. 

Newer couples should try to be more 

tolerant of each other and consider 

their partner’s feelings more or the 

relationship could end early. 

Health 

This year, more illnesses and injuries 

may enter your life. Lessen your chances 

of contracting ailments by having 

sufficient exercise and maintaining a 

balanced diet. This will give you a chance 

to boost your overall well-being. 

DRAGON 

2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928) 

You will have many opportunities to 

grow this year. Your ability to turn 

challenges into a chance for personal 

growth will come in handy when facing 

setbacks. When considering a business 

expansion or large-scale projects, 

ponder all possibilities and ensure you 

have sufficient resources to be properly 

prepared. Make sure the goals you set 

this year are practical, so you do not 

face unnecessary stress. The unexpected 

changes might be hard for you to deal 

with, but do your best to make the best 

out of them to gain better opportunities. 

Career 

At work, you might face massive 

pressure that will cause you to feel 

seriously fatigued. Constant conflicts 

and a negative work space could affect 

your work competency. Keep motivating 

yourself and build on your strengths to 

push through these obstacles. Although 

you feel like your career is stagnant, this 

may not be the best time to change jobs. 

Try to keep a more positive view on this 

situation and remain tolerant. 

Relationships 

Romance is not really in the books for 

you this year. Weak Peach Blossom Luck 

means unmarried couples should focus 

more on maintaining their relationships, 

while married couples should be more 

considerate towards each other as it is 

easy for misunderstandings to lead to a 

heated argument. Single people will have 

to deal with being lonely for now, and try 

to focus on improving other aspects of 

their lives. 

Health 

Health luck this year could take a turn 

for the worse if you are not careful. Be 

wary of physical threats on the road, 

such as when driving or 

walking on sidewalks, 

as you could incur 

minor to fatal injuries. 

Handle metallic 

objects carefully, as 

rust particles carry 

a potential health 

hazard. Make sure you 

follow healthy nutritional 

and dietary practices to 

prevent intestinal issues 

from occuring. 

SNAKE 

(2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, 1929) 

This year is set to be a generally good 

year with some minor issues, but you 

will overcome occasional obstacles 

easily, and your social and personal life 

will flourish. Unexpected events could 

still take place at inconvenient times, 

however, so try to adapt quickly to any 

unforeseen circumstances. Arguments 

stemming from accidentally insulting 

someone could lead to trouble, so 

interact carefully with people and keep 

a calm and clear mind. Don’t worry too 

much, as you can expect good news to 

come in frequently and look forward to 

more happy occasions. 

Career 

The first half of the year might be 

confusing for you. Begin by reshuffling 

career priorities, such as considering a 

change in job scope or company. Once 

you get your work life under control, 

start making grander plans and you 

will be able to execute them slowly but 

surely. The second half of the year will 

sharply boost your luck prospects – use 

this period to re-energise your work 

performance for the rest of the year. 

Relationships 

If you are single, this year will be a 

good time for you to search for a 

potential partner as it could lead to 

a fruitful relationship with the right 

one. Unmarried couples in a devoted 

relationship should try to get engaged 

as soon as possible, to have a long 

and prosperous marriage. Married 

couples should stay away from possible 

extramarital affairs, as this will definitely 

lead to a marital breakdown. 

Health 

It is very important for you to look after 

your health this year, especially for 

senior citizens. The elderly could be 

visiting hospitals 

more often than 

usual, so heed your 

doctor’s advice and 

take prescribed 

medication to 

maintain your 

health. See a doctor 

immediately if you 

experience stomach or intestinal 

problems so you can seek 

treatment right away. 


HORSE 

(2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930) 

This year, you will be surrounded by 

supportive people that will lend you 

strength and assistance when you 

feel dragged down by rapid changes 

happening. Chances to accumulate 

wealth this year will arise, so look out 

for lucrative investments in property 

or shares, and reliable tips from your 

social circle, to lay a good foundation 

for your fortune. However, make sure 

you think thoroughly about any deals, 

to avoid financial loss due to impulsive 

decisions. Don’t hold back from pursuing 

your goals. Watch out for accidents 

and communication difficulties; try to 

prepare well before you travel or do any 

physical activity, and be considerate 

when you speak. Look out for the health 

conditions of family members as well. 

Career 

Conflict in the workplace is inevitable 

this year. A difference of opinions with 

colleagues could be disadvantageous 

to you, leading to you being isolated. 

Attend social events and practise open 

communication to strengthen your bond 

with your colleagues, to prevent negative 

situations from happening. 

Relationships 

Despite the absence of Peach Blossom 

Luck this year, you should still consider 

professing your affection to that special 

someone as there is a good chance of 

getting into a romantic relationship. 

Couples that are still unmarried should 

get married this year to boost their 

companionship strength. 

Health 

This year has a high risk of road 

accidents for you. Ensure you stay safe 

by following traffic rules. Take care 

when using metallic objects, as they 

could bring you serious harm. Make 

sure you maintain a balanced diet and 

exercise regularly to prevent the onset 

of digestive problems. 

GOAT 

(2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931) 

This year will be filled with positive 

events for you. There will inevitably be 

some trials, but these are not enough to 

dampen your year as you will receive 

help and opportunities to overcome 

them. Mentors or random individuals 

in your life will make the troubles you 

face more manageable. You will have 

ample opportunities to display your 

talents at work, which could lead to an 

increase in wealth. However, you may 

have to deal with malicious lies and 

existing relationship conflicts. Ignore 

them and focus on your work. Disputes 

among your family may arise, but remain 

reasonable for a peaceful resolution. 

Your family and friends will still come 

to your aid when you need it, despite 

differing opinions. 

Career 

Your diligence and persistence will be 

rewarded this year, so motivate yourself 

to strive for more career achievements 

and showcase your talents to your 

superiors. You will definitely reap the 

rewards in the long run. Be open to 

ideas and collaborative opportunities 

from the opposite sex to receive highly 

favourable work prospects. 

Relationships 

Due to weak Peach Blossom Luck this 

year, you will experience weaker love 

prospects. Thus, try to focus more on 

developing other aspects of your life, 

instead of focusing too much on the lack 

of romance. Unmarried couples should 

start planning for marriage, while those 

who are married should watch their 

feelings towards people outside 

of their marriage to 

avoid complications. 

Health 

In 2018, your mind and 

body are in prime condition 

to tackle the year ahead. 

Perform physical activities, 

learn a new sport and watch 

your diet and personal safety 

to equip yourself for a year 

that is free of major diseases 

and physical afflictions. 

TEXT: JOEY YAP / ILLUSTRATIONS: 123RF.COM 


HOROSCOPES 


MONKEY 

(2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932) 

This year will be a trying year in both 

your professional and personal lives; 

thus, maintaining the right mind-set 

and finding the strength to persevere 

is key to handling this. Your career 

can be boosted in terms of a fortunate 

job-related travelling stint, so embrace 

it to gain an advantage in advancing 

your career in the long run. If you are in 

an academic-related field like learning 

and researching, you will find that your 

endeavours yield results in the form of 

significant breakthroughs. It is advisable 

to refrain from attending funerals as 

there are prevalent negative energies 

that could have a noticeable negative 

impact on your well-being. 

Career 

You will encounter a stream of obstacles 

during work, such as overwhelming 

deadlines and difficult superiors, 

which could stunt your career progress 

through the year. Rectify this by 

remaining diligent in work assignments, 

and maintain good interactions with 

colleagues and superiors to make 

progress in your work. 

Relationships 

Relationship luck is not at its peak 

for you. For singles, there is a bad 

relationship outlook, so try to adjust 

your romantic expectations to avoid 

being disappointed. Couples that are 

married or unmarried are prone to 

illnesses and injuries this year, so a team 

effort is needed to maintain each others’ 

health. However, you can take this as a 

chance to foster intimacy between the 

two of you. 

Health 

Your health is at risk this year, so obey 

traffic rules as road-related injuries 

could affect your physical well-being. 

Unless you are well-prepared for them, 

avoid doing extreme sports. Watch out 

for work hazards that could present a 

physical risk, to reduce their negative 

effects on your health. 

ROOSTER 

(2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933) 

Last year has been an eventful year, so 

you may be feeling exhausted. 2018 will 

provide the good breather you need, 

letting you have a chance to recharge, 

re-examine your life and improve your 

overall well-being. While you have the 

tendency to be anxious in your work, it 

is important to maintain a good worklife 

balance so you do not get worked 

up over small things. You might have 

feelings of isolation and loneliness, 

but they are not a reflection of your 

current state. Go out and mingle with 

people close to you to get a positive 

reality check, instead of letting a fear of 

abandonment take over you. 

Career 

This year, a huge workload could put 

you in an undesirable position, so hold 

off planning new projects for career 

advancement and focus instead on the 

current tasks given to you. Welcome 

job-related travel opportunities, because 

the lessons learned there will help you to 

produce better work results. Extra help 

from your friends will also contribute to 

a smoother career outlook this year. 

Relationships 

The presence of the Peach Blossom 

Luck this year means that single people 

should start mingling in their social 

circles to find a romantic partner. 

Unmarried couples should take this 

chance to start executing wedding 

ceremony plans, while married couples 

will experience multiple joyful occasions, 

possibly welcoming a new child. 

Health 

Be vigilant about your health, as fatigue 

and illnesses will plague your calendar 

year. However, don’t worry about it too 

much, as you will meet a person in the 

medical field who will guide you back 

to health should you fall ill. Try to 

keep to a healthy routine and engage 

in regular physical activities to help keep 

your well-being in tip-top condition. 

Your Chinese Horoscopes... 

…are brought to you by Joey Yap. Joey is the founder of the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics and Chief Consultant 

of the Joey Yap Consulting Group. He is a renowned expert in Chinese Metaphysics, and a prolific author of over 162 books 

on subjects of Classical Feng Shui, BaZi, I-Ching, Qi Men Dun Jia and face reading. Visit www.joeyyap.com for more. 

Visit www.womensweekly.com.sg to see your wealth luck in 2018! 


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LIVING 

Easy Reunion Recipes | Nyonya Delights | Declutter Solutions 

HAPPY 

Lunar New Year! 

Paper lanterns add a stylish festive touch to your living room or 

balcony. If you prefer something more traditional, look for paper 

in red and orange hues. Or, pick colours that suit your home’s 

decor, and you can choose different prints to add interest. Go 

with a central colour scheme to tie them together. 


L I V I N G 

FESTIVE DECOR 

Light Up 

Your Home 

Use our step-by-step guide to create 

these pretty decorative paper lanterns. 

Even better, make it a festive family 

activity with the children 

WHAT YOU’LL NEED 

Coordinating scrapbooking 

papers – two different 

patterns per lantern 

Sheets of vellum 

Matching ribbon 

24-gauge silver wire 

6 

Scissors, art knife, cutting 

board, ruler, craft glue, 

double-sided tape 

Tealight candles 

Hole punch 

All available at Spotlight stores. 

7 

8 

1 

9 

2 

10 

3 

11 

4 

5 12 

WHAT TO DO 

STEP 1: To make the inner 

vellum cylinder, cut a rectangle 

130 mm x 190 mm. Cut two 

small strips, 15 mm x 70 mm 

each. Attach double-sided 

tape along the length of one 

shorter end of the rectangle 

and both ends of each strip. 

Roll the vellum into a cylinder. 

(see 2, left). Rolling around 

a glass helps. Then secure 

with the tape. Attach strips 

in a cross to one end of the 

cylinder. This will provide a base 

for the candles (you won’t need 

this base if you don’t want to 

use candles). 

STEP 2: Select two sheets of 

coordinating papers and cut 

one rectangle, 160 mm x 195 

mm. from each. On the back 

of each rectangle, rule a pencil 

line 20 mm in from the longer 

sides at the top and bottom. 

Then, starting 15 mm in from 

the shorter sides, draw vertical 

lines (3) across the rectangle 

and cut with the craft knife at 

15 mm intervals (4). 

STEP 3: On the patterned 

side of one of the rectangles, 

attach a strip of double-sided 

tape halfway along and 5 mm 

in from the top and bottom 

edges (5). Lay the second 

rectangle, patterned sideup, 

across this rectangle (6) 

and attach to the tape strips, 

bending the rectangle to 

create a gentle curve. 

STEP 4: Turn the rectangles 

over and attach double-sided 

tape along the full length of 

the overlapped pieces (7). 

Starting with the bottom 

rectangle, roll it around the 

vellum cylinder (8), attaching it 

firmly. Continue rolling around 

until the second rectangle 

overlaps the bottom one and 

joins the other end (9). 

STEP 5: Using craft glue, 

attach a strip of matching 

ribbon around the top and 

bottom edges of the lantern 

(10). Line up the ends of the 

ribbon with the seam of the 

papers, so all the joins are at 

the back. 

STEP 6: Make two holes on 

either side of the top of the 

lantern, just below the ribbon, 

using a decorative hole punch 

or large needle (11), and thread 

200 mm of thin wire through 

the holes (12). Make a curved 

handle and bend the ends up 

to secure. To insert the candles, 

put the tealight in the lantern 

unlit and light once in place 

with extra-long matches – or 

light the candle out of the 

lantern and use tongs to 

carefully place it inside. 

NOTE: Be careful of any hot 

wax that could drip onto the 

table or your guests if the 

lanterns are disturbed. 

TIPS: 

• Use clear, tacky craft glue as 

it dries quickly and neatly. 

• If you don’t want to use your 

lanterns with candles, you 

can make the inside cylinder 

from paper or cardstock. 

• Using sheer vellum paper or 

one with a pretty pattern will 

allow the glow of the tealight 

candles to shine through, and 

cast interesting shadows. 

PHOTOS: ROBERT REICHENFELD/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU 


Be part of The Singapore Women’s Weekly’s 

Domestic 

Diva Circle 

• Enjoy Exclusive Giveaways 

• Get The Latest Updates On Food & Home 

• Receive Invites To Special Events 

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PHOTO: JJOHN PAUL URIZAR/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU 

Find out more on

EAT! 

Instead of the usual 

steamboat, we 

show you how to 

impress the family at 

reunion dinner. These 

surprisingly easy 

recipes will be a hit 

STEAMED DUMPLINGS 

Prep 20 mins | Cook 10 mins | Makes 15 

200 g pork mince 

2 green onions, finely chopped 

1 tbsp soy sauce 

1 tbsp toasted sunflower kernels 

2 tsps sesame oil 

1 tsp grated ginger 

½ tsp cinnamon 

½ tsp white pepper 

15 gow gee or steamed dumpling 

wrappers (round) 

VINEGAR SOY DRESSING 

2 tbsps soy sauce 

2 tbsps red wine vinegar 

2 cloves garlic, crushed 

1 small red chilli, finely sliced 

1. Line a bamboo steamer basket with 

baking paper. 

2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients 

except wrappers and mix well. 

3. Top each wrapper with a heaped 

teaspoon of filling. Brush edges 

with water and pleat around filling, 

leaving a 1-cm gap in centre. 

4. VINEGAR SOY DRESSING In a bowl, 

combine all ingredients. 

5. Working in 2 batches, place dim sum 

in a single layer in basket. Place over 

a wok of gently simmering water 

and cover tightly with lid. Steam 5 

to 7 mins each until cooked through. 

Serve hot with dressing.

L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 

To save time, use readymade 

satay sauce. 

SATAY PRAWNS 

Prep 20 mins | Cook 15 mins | Serves 6 

2 tbsps peanut oil 

1 kg green prawns, peeled, deveined, 

tails on 

1 onion, thin wedges 

2 cloves garlic, crushed 

2 tsps grated ginger 

1 red capsicum, seeded, thinly sliced 

200 g green beans, trimmed to 4-cm 

lengths 

Steamed jasmine rice, to serve 

SATAY SAUCE 

400 ml can coconut cream 

½ cup crunchy peanut butter 

2 tbsps sweet chilli sauce 


1. In a wok or large frying pan, heat half 

oil on high. Stir-fry prawns in 3 batches, 

for 2 mins each, until they completely 

change colour. 

2. In same wok, heat remaining oil on high. 

Stir-fry onion, garlic and ginger 1 min. 

Add capsicum and beans. Stir-fry 2 mins 

until tender. 

3. SATAY SAUCE In a saucepan, combine 

coconut cream, peanut butter and 

sauces, stirring over low heat until satay 

sauce is smooth. 

4. Return prawns to wok with satay sauce. 

Stir-fry 1 min to heat through. Serve with 

steamed rice. 


L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 


L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 

BEST FRIED RICE 

Prep 15 mins + Chilling | Cook 10 mins | 

Serves 4 

1½ cups long grain rice, rinsed 

2 tbsps shao xing rice wine 

2 tsps sesame oil 

2 eggs, lightly beaten 

2 tsps peanut oil 

2 dried Chinese-style lup cheong pork 

sausages, thinly sliced 

4 green onions, white part sliced, green 

ends shredded 

100 g small cooked prawns, peeled 

1 cup frozen peas, thawed 

2 tbsps soy sauce 

1. In a saucepan, cook rice in boiling water, 

following packet instructions. Rinse 

under cold water and drain well. Spread 

over a large tray. Chill, uncovered, 

2 hours or overnight to dry out. Drizzle 

cooking wine over. 

2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat half 

sesame oil on high, swirling to coat base 

and sides. Pour in egg, swirling. Cook 

1 min until almost set. Slide from pan. 

Roll up and thinly slice. Set aside. 

3. Add remaining sesame oil and peanut 

oil to wok. Stir-fry sausages and sliced 

onions 1 to 2 mins. Add rice and stir-fry 

for3to4mins. 

4. Toss prawns, peas and soy sauce 

through. Stir-fry 1 to 2 mins until heated 

through. Serve topped with omelette 

and remaining onion. 

MIXED GREENS IN 

OYSTER SAUCE 


1 tbsp vegetable oil 

2 cloves garlic, sliced 

2 long red chillies, sliced 

1 bunch broccolini, trimmed, chopped 

1 bunch cai xin, washed, trimmed, cut into 

3-cm lengths 

10 oyster mushrooms, sliced 

6 green onions, sliced 

¼ cup oyster sauce 

1 tbsp light soy sauce 

Toasted sesame seeds, to serve 

1. In a wok or large frying pan, heat oil on 

high. Stir-fry garlic and chilli 1 min. Add 

vegetables. Stir-fry 2 mins. 

2. Toss sauces through. Stir-fry 30 secs. 

Serve sprinkled with sesame seeds. 

To remove 

the floury 

taste from 

the sauce, 

simmer for a 

few minutes 

after it 

comes to the 

boil. 

LEMON CHICKEN 

Prep 25 mins + Chilling | Cook 15 mins | 

Serves 6 

½ cup plain flour, plus ½ cup extra 

⅓ cup chilled water 

4 egg yolks 

Vegetable oil, for shallow frying 

500 g chicken breast fillet, 3-cm cubes 

1 green onion, shredded 

Steamed rice, Asian greens, to serve 

LEMON SAUCE 

1½ cups water 

½ cup lemon juice 

2 tbsps brown sugar 

2 tbsps cornflour 

2 tbsps honey 

½ tsp finely grated ginger 

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, water and 

egg-yolks together until smooth. Cover 

and chill 20 mins. 

2. LEMON SAUCE In a small saucepan 

combine all ingredients. Cook on 

medium, stirring, until sauce boils and 

thickens. Reduce heat and simmer 

3 mins. Keep warm. 

3. In a wok or large saucepan, heat oil on 

high to 170 C. Toss chicken in flour, then 

dip into batter. Shallow-fry in 2 batches, 

3 to 4 mins each, turning once, until 

golden and cooked through. Drain on 

paper towel. 

4. Drizzle with sauce and top with green 

onion. Serve with rice and greens. 


L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 

SWEET & SOUR PORK 


½ cup plain seasoned flour, plus 

⅓ cup extra 

½ cup water 

4 egg yolks 

Vegetable oil, for deep-frying, plus 

1 tbsp extra 

500 g pork fillet, 2-cm cubes 

1 onion, chopped 

1 green capsicum, seeded, chopped 

1 carrot, peeled, thinly sliced 

1 clove garlic, crushed 

225 g can pineapple pieces in natural 

juice 

¼ cup brown sugar 

2 tbsps tomato sauce 

2 tbsps white vinegar 


1 tbsp sherry 

⅓ cup water 

1 tbsp cornflour 

Steamed rice, to serve 

Use chicken thigh fillets 

or green prawns in place 

of pork, if preferred. 

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, water 

and yolks until smooth. Cover and 

chill 20 mins. 

2. In a large pan, heat oil on high until 

a little batter sizzles when added. 

Toss pork in extra flour. Then dip into 

batter, draining off excess. Deep-fry 

pork in 2 batches, 3 to 5 mins until 

golden. Drain on paper towel. 

3. In a wok or large frying pan, heat 

extra oil on high. Stir-fry onion, 

capsicum, carrot and garlic for 2 to 

3 mins until just tender. 

4. Add pineapple with juice, sugar, 

tomato sauce, vinegar, soy and 

sherry. 

5. In a jug, mix water with cornflour 

until smooth. Stir into wok. Stir-fry 

until mixture boils and thickens. 

Reduce heat to low. Simmer 1 to 

2 mins. Serve with rice.

L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 

To achieve even thinner 

slices, partially freeze 

beef then slice across 

the grain. 

GINGER BEEF 

WITH SNAKE BEANS 


¼ cup peanut oil 

750 g rump steak, trimmed, thinly sliced 

450 g packet fresh thin Hokkien noodles 

1 onion, thinly sliced 

1 tbsp finely grated ginger 

1 bunch snake beans, trimmed, cut into 

4 cm lengths 

½ cup unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped 

2 cups beansprouts 

¼ cup salt-reduced soy sauce 

¼ cup oyster sauce 

1 tbsp chilli sauce 

Coriander leaves, to serve 

1. In a wok or a large frying pan, heat 

1 tbsp oil on high. Stir-fry beef in 2 

batches, 2 mins each, until browned. 

2. Place noodles in a bowl of hot water. 

Separate with a fork. Drain. 

3. In same wok, heat remaining oil on high. 

Stir-fry onion and ginger 2 to 3 mins, until 

tender. Add beans and peanuts. Stir-fry 

2 mins. 

4. Return beef to wok with noodles, sprouts 

and sauces. Stir-fry and toss for 2 mins 

to heat through. Serve topped with 

coriander leaves. 


L I V I N G 

ENTERTAIN 

SPRING ROLLS 


150 g thin egg noodles 

1 cup finely shredded wombok 

2 small carrots, grated 

4 green onions, sliced 

12 snow peas, trimmed, chopped 

12 button mushrooms, chopped 

½ red capsicum, seeded, finely chopped 

¼ cup finely chopped bamboo shoots 

1 tbsp oyster sauce 

2 tsps soy sauce 


300 g packet spring roll pastry wrappers, 

thawed 

Peanut oil, for deep frying 

Soy sauce, for dipping 

To freeze, wrap rolls 

in plastic, separated 

by baking paper. 

Cook from frozen 

1 to 2 mins more. 

1. Cover noodles with boiling water. Soak 

5 mins until soft. Rinse under cold water, 

drain well. Using scissors, roughly chop. 

2. Mix veggies and sauces through 

noodles. 

3. Pile 1 tbsp of mixture onto corner of each 

pastry facing you. Fold over filling. Brush 

opposite corner with cold water. Roll up, 

folding in sides, and place seam-sidedown 

on a tray. Repeat. 

4. In a wok, heat enough oil to 170 C to 

deep-fry, until a small piece of pastry 

sizzles when added. 

5. Deep-fry spring rolls in 4 batches, 3 to 

4 mins each, until golden and crisp. Drain 

on paper towel. Serve with soy sauce. 

PRAWN TOASTS 


200 g peeled green prawns, tails removed 

1 rasher rindless bacon, roughly chopped 

1 green onion, finely chopped 

1 tbsp chopped coriander 


1 clove garlic, crushed 

6 slices wholemeal bread, crusts removed, 

halved diagonally 

¼ cup sesame seeds 

Vegetable oil, for shallow frying 

1. In a food processor, combine prawns, 

bacon, onion, coriander, ginger and 

garlic. Process until finely chopped. 

2. Spread prawn mixture onto each piece 

of bread. Dip into sesame seeds to coat. 

3. In a wok, heat enough oil to 170 C to 

shallow-fry, until a small cube of bread 

sizzles when added. 

4. Working in 2 batches of 3, lower bread 

into oil, prawn-side-down. Cook 30 secs, 

each side. Drain on paper towel. 

PHOTOS: JOHN PAUL URIZAR/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU 


BROUGHT TO YOU BY 

Fish For Good Fortune 

Symbolising abundance, it’s no wonder 

that fish is a staple at Chinese 

New Year. Here’s why you 

should eat more fish 

this CNY! 

new year marks the time for new beginnings and new 

fortunes. That is why we all love to wish each other 

well with yu sheng, a celebratory custom known as the 

Prosperity Toss. As we mutually mix up a salad comprising raw 

fish and shredded vegetables, we also shower blessings upon 

each other for the new lunar year. 

Ironically, while fish is the star of yu sheng, Singaporeans 

do not eat sufficient fish on a regular basis. In fact, compared 

to neighbouring countries Southeast Asia, we rank among 

the lowest consumers of fish in Asia Pacific, according to 

Euromonitor International. 

The Chinese also like to wish each other “nian nian you yu”, 

which means abundance year after year. Why not kick off the 

new year with a healthy start, by including more fish in your diet? 

Here are three reasons why you should. 

1. It’s Lucky 

The word ‘fish’ in Mandarin is ‘yu’, which also represents 

‘prosperity’. The more ‘yu’ you eat, the more prosperous and 

blessed you will be. 

2. It’s Nutritious 

Oily fish such as sardines, mackerel, tuna and salmon contain 

omega-3 fatty acids, ‘good fats’ that support overall heart 

health. The Health Promotion Board recommends consuming 

two servings of fish per week. 

3. It’s A Mood Booster 

Did you know eating fish can make you happy? Besides 

boosting brain health, omega-3 fatty acids also help to stave off 

depression, making you both healthier and happier. 

MUM’S 

SARDINES 

RECIPE 

Packed 

with hearthealthy 

fatty 

acids, this 

classic comfort 

food is both 

tasty and 

nutritious 

MAKES 4 SERVINGS 

INGREDIENTS 

• 425g Ayam Brand sardines in tomato sauce • 1 tbsp cooking oil • 1red 

onion, chopped • 1 long red chilli, chopped • 1 small lime, quartered 

METHOD 

1 Slice onion and chilli, and put aside. Cut the lime 

into wedges. 

2 In a heated pan, stir fry the onion and chilli 

until fragrant. 

3 Add sardines with the tomato sauce. Simmer until 

the sauce bubbles. 

4 Remove from heat, then squeeze lime juice over. 

5 Serve with rice or bread. 

READERS’ 

SPECIAL 

Stand a chance 

to win one of 

50 Ayam Brand 

Prosperity Sets, 

worth $18 each! 

For more details, visit 

ayambrand.com.sg/SWW. 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY.

L I V I N G 

FESTIVE TREATS 

Delicious 

Nyonya Delights 

With their vibrant colours and 

aromatic flavours, these recipes by 

Peranakan chef Philip Chia will be 

guaranteed crowd pleasers 

KUEH BELANDA 

Coconut Egg Roll 

Makes 75 rolls 

4 eggs 

300 g castor sugar 

350 ml coconut milk 

300 g plain (all-purpose) flour 

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs 

with castor sugar and gradually add 

coconut milk. 

2. Once sugar dissolves, add flour into 

mixing bowl, a little at a time, mixing 

well with each addition. 

3. Grease kueh belanda mould. Heat 

mould on both sides over charcoal grill. 

4. Using a ladle, pour batter over heated 

mould. Allow excess batter to drip back 

into the mixing bowl. 

5. Close mould tightly immediately and 

place on grill. Flip mould to ensure both 

sides are evenly cooked. 

6. Release mould and flip crispy pancake 

onto a cutting board. Roll pancake into 

a small wrap while still hot. Repeat steps 

for remaining egg rolls. 

7. Allow kueh belanda to cool before 

storing in an airtight tin container. 

In the old days, we would store 

kueh belanda in a cream-crackers 

rectangle tin and seal with Scotch 

tape. It takes a lot of patience and 

endurance to roll the kueh belanda 

when the pancake is still hot. 

– Chef Philip Chia 


KUEH SARLAT 

LEPAK KACHANG 

Steamed Coconut Egg Custard With 

Glutinous Rice And Black-Eyed Beans 

Makes 1 x 18-cm Square Cake 

GLUTINOUS RICE LAYER 

Pandan leaves, as needed, rinsed and 

knotted 

400 g glutinous rice, soaked for 2 hours 

and drained 


325 ml water 

½ tsp salt 

80 g black-eyed beans (lepak kachang), 

rinsed, soaked for 1 hour and drained 

2-3 dried blue pea flowers (bunga telang), 

rinsed in water, as needed 

1 banana leaf, oiled 

PANDAN LAYER 


150 g sugar 

10 pandan leaves, mixed with 100 ml 

water, blended then strained 

½ tsp salt 

5 eggs 

100 g rice flour 

3 tsps cornflour 

A few drops green food colouring 

1. Prepare glutinous rice layer. Fill cake tin 

with pandan leaves. 

2. Spread drained glutinous rice in cake tin. 

Add coconut milk, 225 ml water and salt. 

Stir well to ensure that glutinous rice is 

evenly coated. Add black-eyed beans 

and mix well. 

3. Place dried blue pea flowers in a bowl 

with remaining water. Leave to soak for 

15 mins. Strain colouring. 

4. Steam glutinous rice for 30 mins over 

high heat, then drizzle blue pea flower 

colouring over rice. Gently mix rice with 

a fork until blue colouring coats rice 

evenly. Steam for another 15 mins until 

rice is cooked. 

5. Allow rice to cool a little, then press 

down with an oiled banana leaf or 

spatula to flatten and compact rice. 

6. PANDAN LAYER In a saucepan, cook 

coconut milk, sugar, pandan juice and 

salt over low heat until mixture dissolves 

and there are no lumps. Set aside. 

7. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs. Add 

coconut milk mixture and stir well. 

8. Add rice flour and corn flour gradually, a 

little at a time, and mix well. Add green 

food colouring and mix well. 

9. Sift pandan mixture, then pour over 

glutinous rice layer. 

10.Steam for 20 to 25 mins over high heat 

until pandan layer sets. 

11. Allow kueh sarlat to cool completely 

before cutting into serving slices with 

an oiled knife. 


L I V I N G 

FESTIVE TREATS 

For more texture, add 

50 g crushed roasted 

almonds to the batter. 

ALMOND SUGEE COOKIES 

Almond Semolina Cookies 

Makes 40 cookies 

200 g plain (all-purpose) flour 

50 g semolina flour 

100 g icing sugar 

1 tsp baking soda 

1 tsp baking powder 

50 g ground almonds 

¼ tsp salt 

150 ml corn oil 

1 tsp vanilla essence 

1. Preheat oven to 175 C. Line a baking tray 

with parchment paper. Set aside. 

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift plain flour, 

semolina flour, icing sugar, baking soda 

and baking powder together. Add 

ground almonds and mix well. 

3. Add corn oil and vanilla essence and 

knead to get a smooth dough. 

4. Roll the dough out to 1.5-cm thickness. 

Cut out the cookies with a 2-cm 

square mould. 

5. Place cookies on prepared tray, spaced 

apart. Bake at 175 C for 10 to 12 mins. 

6. Remove cookies from oven and leave to 

cool on a wire rack before serving. Store 

in an airtight container. 

Peranakan 

Celebration 

Philip Chia began 

his love affair with 

cooking at age 

six when he was 

taught to pound 

spices for sambal 

belacan using the mortar and pestle. 

Delightful Nyonya Treats, at $16.80 (before 

GST) by Marshall Cavendish, features 

30 sweets and desserts perfect for the 

Lunar New Year. Chef Philip is also the 

author of Peranakan Heritage Cooking 

and Party-Perfect Peranakan Bites. 

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF MARSHALL CAVENDISH 


L I V I N G 

FOOD NOTES 

Huat ah! 

The Lunar New Year brings an 

abundance of festive foods and 

snacks – here are the top foods 

which can help bring you luck, 

prosperity and happiness 

DUMPLINGS Commonly known as 

“jiao zi” in China, dumplings signify 

“bidding farewell to the old and 

ushering in the new” and should be 

eaten on the first day of the new year. 

Tip: If you have no time to make dumplings 

from scratch, you can buy ready-to-eat 

versions from the supermarket that are easy 

to cook and taste just as good. 

NOODLES In traditional Chinese 

culture, noodles represent longevity. 

Tip: Make sure not to cut the noodles after 

cooking, as they are meant to bring blessings 

of a longer, healthier life. 

FISH The last word in the CNY 

greeting, “Nian Nian You Yu”, 

represents wealth and is also the 

homonym for fish. Hence, eating fish 

brings good tidings of prosperity. 

Tip: It is important to buy fresh fish from the 

wet market for your dish. Get the fishmonger 

to descale the fish to make prep work easier. 

NIAN GAO The Mandarin name of 

this traditional glutinous rice cake 

translates literally to “higher year”, 

and represents higher income. 

Tip: Nian Gao can be kept at room 

temperature for about five days, and in 

the fridge for up to 10 days. 

TANGERINES The Chinese word 

for tangerine sounds like “luck” in 

Chinese, and the word for orange 

has the same sound as “wealth”. 

Tip: When buying tangerines, look for those 

with a deep orange colour that are firm to 

semi-soft to the touch, with a good weight. 

The Weekly’s 

New Finds 

Chicken Floss Cake 

Hot on the heels of their popular 

castella cakes featuring various 

local flavours, Ah Mah Homemade 

Cake has released a special Chicken 

Floss flavour. At $15, available only 

till February 28 from all Ah Mah 

Homemade Cake outlets. 

Tsum Fun 

Attention Tsum Tsum fans: The cute 

little characters from Disney are 

now jumping onto MAGNOLIA 

drink packages. Plus, redeem 

collectible tote bags with every 

purchase of two packs, from 

major supermarkets and 

convenience stores. 

ON THE PULSE 

If you love pasta, but are worried 

about the carbs, try an alternative 

to wheat pasta. San Remo’s Pulse 

Pasta range is made using pulses 

– with 25 per cent less carbs, 65 

per cent more protein and four 

times more fibre, these glutenfree 

pastas allow you to indulge 

guilt-free. Available from Redmart 

and selected major supermarkets. 

1,000 

That’s how much calcium 

you need daily if you are below 

mg 50 years old, and 1,200 mg if 

you are above. Hit your minimum daily intake by supplementing your 

diet with lactose and dairy-free alternatives. The UFC Velvet Almond 

Milk is made using whole almonds from Australia for a smooth, 

creamy taste. This heart-healthy, low-calorie and nutritious beverage 

also contains added ‘Aquamin’, a 100 per cent natural marine plantbased 

calcium to help your body absorb and store calcium better. It 

is also suitable for vegans. Available in original and unsweetened, at 

$5.50 (1 L), from major supermarkets. 

Chickpeas: Good 

source of protein 

necessary for 

tissue building 

and repair. 

Lentils: Great 

source of iron 

to help fight 

tiredness and 

fatigue. 

Peas: Low in fat, 

and a good source 

of vitamin B1 to 

support a healthy 

nervous system. 

Borlotti Beans: 

Good source of 

dietary fibre, 

important for 

healthy bowel 

functions. 

Rendang Party 

Whether as a fast snack or a side 

dish to accompany rice, Yeo’s new 

Chicken Rendang with Potatoes 

makes for a real satisfying meal. 

At $3.60, from major supermarkets. 

COMPILED BY: SEAN TAN / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM 


Some Like it Hot! 

Pork Salad With Nahm Jim Dressing 

Sweet-Chilli Jam Noodles 

Cut out and keep 

✂ 

Mexican-Spiced Turkey 

Harissa-Rubbed Chicken

SWEET-CHILLI JAM NOODLES 

Prep 15 mins / Cook 1 Hour 40 mins / Serves 4 

3 red capsicums, seeded and chopped 

6 long red chillies, seeded and chopped 

5 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 

1 lemongrass stalk, chopped 

1 tsp shrimp paste 

1 tomato, chopped 

1¼ cups caster sugar 

¾ cup red-wine vinegar 

2 x 250 g beef sirloin, thinly sliced 

440 g fresh ee fu noodles 

1 bunch choy sum, chopped 

Shredded green onions, to serve 

1. Mix capsicums, chillies, garlic and lemongrass in a food processor 

until finely chopped. 

2. In a saucepan, gently toast shrimp paste 1 min, stirring until fragrant. 

3. Add capsicum mixture, tomato, sugar and vinegar. Stir over low heat 

until sugar dissolves. Simmer 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until thick 

and jam-like. 

4. In a large wok, heat oil on high. Stir-fry beef in 2 batches, 2 mins 

each, to brown well. Add noodles, choy sum and ⅓ cup of sweetchilli 

jam. Stir-fry 2 mins until noodles heat through and choy sum 

wilts. Sprinkle with onions to serve. 

TIP: Keep leftover jam in the fridge in a 

sterilised sealed jar for up to a month. 

PORK SALAD WITH NAHM JIM DRESSING 

Prep 20 mins / Cook 3 hours / Serves 4 

2 cups chicken stock 

¾ cup apple-cider vinegar 

¾ cup brown sugar 

1 chopped onion 

1 kg forequarter pork chops 

200 g snow peas, sliced 

2 eschallots, finely sliced 

2 green onions, finely sliced 

1 Lebanese cucumber, seeded and sliced 

1½ cups coriander leaves 

1½ cups mint leaves 

½ cup unsalted peanuts, roasted 

NAHM JIM 

4 long red chillies, seeded and chopped 

2 cloves garlic 

1 bunch coriander, roots chopped 

2 limes, juiced 

¼ cup palm sugar 

¼ cup fish sauce 

1. Preheat oven to slow, 150 C. In a deep ovenproof dish, combine 

stock, vinegar, sugar and onion. Add pork and submerge in liquid. 

Cover tightly with foil and bake 3 hours until pork is tender. Remove 

pork from liquid and shred. 

2. NAHM JIM In a mortar and pestle, pound 

chillies, garlic and coriander roots to a rough 

paste. Add lime juice, sugar and fish sauce, 

stirring to dissolve sugar. Taste dressing to test 

the balance of sweet, sour, salt and heat. 

3. In a large salad bowl, toss pork in dressing. 

Toss through remaining ingredients to serve. 

FEBRUARY 2018 

FEBRUARY 2018 

HARISSA-RUBBED CHICKEN 

Prep 15 mins + Soaking / Cook 40 mins / Serves 4 

MEXICAN-SPICED TURKEY 

Prep 15 mins / Cook 10 mins / Serves 4 

3 dried chillies 

1 tsp coriander seeds 

1 tsp caraway seeds 

½ tsp cumin seeds 

1 tsp salt 

4 large red chillies, finely chopped 

2 cloves garlic 

2 tsps olive oil 

4 x 250 g chicken marylands (drumstick and thigh cut), skin removed 

COUSCOUS SALAD 

1½ cups cooked couscous 

2 tomatoes, seeded and diced 

1 bunch mint, leaves chopped 

1 preserved lemon, finely sliced 

1 tbsp olive oil 

1. In a small bowl, cover dried chillies with water and soak 30 mins. 

Drain and finely chop. 

2. Toast all seeds over medium heat 1 min, stirring often, until fragrant. 

Transfer to a mortar and pestle with salt and crush well. Add all 

chillies, garlic and oil. Pound to a smooth paste. 

3. Preheat oven to moderate 180 C. Line an oven tray. 

4. Rub paste evenly over chicken pieces. Place on tray and bake 

35 mins until cooked through. 

5. COUSCOUS SALAD Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Toss well 

and season. 

TIP: Store any leftover harissa paste in a 

sterilised jar, covered with a little oil, in the 

fridge up to 3 weeks. 

3 tsps cumin seeds 

3 tsps paprika 

2 tsps dried oregano 

1 tsp coriander seeds 

1 tsp garlic powder 

½ tsp cayenne pepper 

¼ tsp ground cinnamon 

3 dried chillies, finely chopped 

2 onions, chopped 

500 g turkey mince 

1 red capsicum, seeded and chopped 

2 tbsps tomato paste 

250 g cherry tomatoes, halved 

⅓ cup coriander leaves, plus extra to serve 

2 baby cos lettuces, leaves separated 

1 avocado, sliced 

Sour cream, corn chips and lime wedges, to serve 

1. Toast cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, garlic powder, cayenne 

and cinnamon in a dry saucepan over medium heat for 1 min. 

2. Transfer to a mortar and pestle with chillies. Pound to a fine powder. 

3. Saute onions in a deep pan 4 mins until tender. Increase heat. Add 

mince and cook 4 mins, breaking up lumps, until evenly browned. 

4. Add ground spice mixture with capsicum and tomato paste. Saute 

1 min. Toss tomatoes and coriander through. 

5. Spoon into lettuce cups to serve. Top with avocado, sour cream and 

extra coriander. Accompany with corn chips and lime wedges. 

TIP: Make a double quantity of dried spice 

mixture and keep in an airtight container in a 

cool, dark place for up to a month. 

FEBRUARY 2018 FEBRUARY 2018 

PHOTOS: ROB SHAW/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

Healthy Bites 

Give dinner time an overhaul with 

these light, fresh, flavourful recipes 

CAULIFLOWER PIZZA 

Prep 50 mins | Cook 20 mins | Serves 4-6 

1 head cauliflower, in florets 

½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese 

1 egg, lightly whisked 

1 tbsp, white chia seeds 

1 tsp Italian dried herbs 

1 tbsp olive oil 

1 chicken breast fillets 

1 tbsp sun-dried tomato pesto 

1 bunch asparagus, sliced & blanched 

100 g bocconcini cheese, torn 

¼ cup walnuts, chopped 

Grated zest of ½ lemon 

Mint, micro herbs, to serve 

1. Preheat oven to hot, 200 C. Line an oven 

tray and a 25-cm round pizza tray with 

baking paper. 

2. Process cauliflower until it resembles 

rice. Transfer to oven tray and bake for 

15 mins. Cool. 

3. Place cauliflower in a colander doublelined 

with clean muslin. Enclose in a ball 

and squeeze out excess liquid. Transfer 

to a bowl. Combine with parmesan, egg, 

seeds and herbs. Mix well. Season. 

4. Spread mixture onto pizza tray, 

flattening it with your hands to make a 

large pizza crust about ½ cm thick. Bake 

for 15 to 20 mins. 

5. In a frying pan, heat oil on medium. 

Cook chicken 6 to 8 mins, turning. Set 

aside for 5 mins, then thinly slice. 

6. Spread pesto over pizza base. Top with 

asparagus, chicken, bocconcini, walnuts 

and zest. Bake 8 to 10 mins. Serve with 

mint leaves and micro herbs.

L I V I N G 

SMART COOKING 

GREEN MANGO & 

SQUID SALAD 


1 green mango, peeled & shredded 

250 g baby cucumbers, sliced 

200 g grape tomatoes, squashed 

1 bunch Vietnamese mint, leaves picked 

1 bunch Thai basil, leaves picked 

½ bunch coriander, leaves picked 

3 green onions, shredded 

¼ cup roasted, salted peanuts, chopped 

500 g cleaned squid tubes 

2 tbps fish sauce 

2 tbps peanut oil 

Fried eschalots, to serve 

PEANUT DRESSING 

¼ cup lime juice 

1½ tbsps fish sauce 

1 tbsp peanut oil 

1 Thai red chilli, finely chopped 

1 garlic clove, chopped 


1 tsp soy sauce 

1. In a large bowl, toss mango, cucumber, 

tomatoes, herb, green onions and 

peanuts. Set aside. 

2. PEANUT DRESSING In a jug, combine all 

ingredients, mixing until sugar dissolves. 

3. Split squid tubes open and score in a 

criss-cross pattern. Slice into strips. Toss 

in fish sauce. 

4. In a wok or a large frying pan, heat oil 

on high. Cook squid in three batches, 10 

to 12 mins each, until tender and starting 

to brown. 

5. Toss salad with dressing. Serve topped 

with squid and eschalots. 

If green mango is unavailable, use 

an under-ripe mango or papaya. 


SPICY PRAWN 

ANGEL HAIR PASTA 


375 g angel hair pasta 

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 

set aside 2 tbsps extra 

1 red onion, finely chopped 

2 tbsps parsley, chopped 

3 garlic cloves, crushed 

2 tsps smoked paprika 

500 g peeled green prawns 

150 g snow peas, shredded 

150 g sugar snaps peas 

½ cup green peas 

½ cup vegetable stock 

½ bunch mint leaves 

½ bunch parsley leaves 

Finely grated zest of 1 lemon 

1 green onion, finely sliced 

1 long red chilli, finely chopped to serve 

(optional) 

L I V I N G 

SMART COOKING 

1. In a large saucepan of boiling, salted 

water, cook pasta to packet instructions. 

Drain and toss oil through. Keep warm. 

2. Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, heat 

extra oil on medium. Saute onion, 

parsley and garlic 3 to 4 mins until 

tender. Add paprika. Cook, stir for 1 min. 

3. Add prawns. Cook, stirring for 3 to 

4 mins, until prawns change colour 

completely. Stir in snow peas, sugar 

snaps, green peas and stock. Cook 3 to 

4 mins until peas are just tender. 

4. Toss herbs, zest, green onions 

and prawn mixture through hot pasta. 

Serve sprinkled with chilli, if liked. 

PHOTOS: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

L I V I N G 

NUTRITION 

Drink Up 

For Energy 

Feeling tired and in need of a 

boost? These vitamins and minerals 

will help restore your body 

TEXT: TAN GIN YEE/ PHOTO: 123RF.COM 

If you constantly feel lethargic, 

chances are that you’re lacking 

important vitamins and minerals. 

In addition to vitamins B and C, amino 

acids are also what your body needs to 

stay healthy so that your mind is alert. 

While drinking water is necessary for 

keeping you hydrated, and essential for 

a healthy body, it’s also vital that you 

get additional vitamins and minerals. 

Here are some which are commonly 

found in vitaminised drinks, and why 

they’re beneficial for your overall health 

and well-being. 

VITAMIN C 

Also found in: Oranges, broccoli, red 

peppers, kiwi fruit, tomatoes 

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that 

is essential in repairing and regenerating 

body tissues. Consumption of vitamin 

C enhances the immune system, thus 

preventing you from falling sick often. 

It is also great for tired complexions, 

as it reduces wrinkles. People at risk 

of hypertension should consume 

more vitamin C as it helps lower blood 

pressure. Symptoms of a vitamin C 

deficiency include muscle weakness, 

joint aches and fatigue. 

VITAMIN B 

Also found in: Fish, poultry, eggs, milk, 

clams, sardines 

Vitamins B6 and B12 are water soluble, 

so they cannot be stored in your body 

and must be obtained from your diet 

regularly. A combination of the two 

vitamins controls the production of 

homocysteine in your body, which, 

when present in high amounts, increases 

the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

Vitamins B6 and B12 are important 

in helping your body maintain blood 

glucose levels, and in producing of red 

blood cells, which transport oxygen to 

all parts of the body to combat fatigue. 

AMINO ACIDS 

Also found in: Watercress, avocado, 

chia seeds, wheat, quinoa 

Proteins are made of amino acids, and 

they are essentially the building blocks 

your body needs to function. Amino 

acids help to make new muscle. and 

together with vitamin C, they also help 

to strengthen your immune system, 

reducing flu symptoms. They can help 

you combat insomnia and stress as well, 

by strengthening neurotransmitters in 

the brain. 

Vitamin Boost 

A bottle of Pink Dolphin Peach Flavour Vitaminised Water, 

or Pink Dolphin White Grape Flavour with Amino Acid Drink 

helps fulfil your daily requirements of vitamins and amino 

acids. Endorsed with the Healthier Choice logo, these two 

drinks contain 25 per cent less sugar than regular sweetened 

drinks, and give a quick energy boost. Available from $1.35 at 

all major supermarkets, convenient stores and retail chains. 


LIVING 

DECOR IDEAS 

STYLISH 

WAYS TO 

DECLUTTER 

Streamline your home and keep 

stress levels low with these chic 

storage solutions 

Want your home to look spick and span? An 

untidy living space can increase your stress 

and anxiety, so take some time this month 

to reorganise and clear the clutter that’s accumulated 

over the past year, and freshen up your home to receive 

guests. Follow our handy storage guide with helpful 

tips to get you started: 

Shelving Units 

Shelving units maximise upright 

space, come in vertical and 

horizontal designs, and can 

sit against the wall or act as a 

freestanding room divider. Consider 

the space available, the size of the 

items to be stored and the style that 

best suits your décor, then have fun 

artfully arranging objects. 

1 

3 

1. PLAYplay gridlock bookshelf, $1,850, 

from Journey East. 

2. M rack in teak, $2,045, from Ethnicraft. 

3. Edge Amondo bookcase, $2,180, from 

King Living. 

4. Dwell acacia bookcase display shelf, 

$1,099, from Born In Colour. 

5. Cliff shelf, $849, from Castlery. 

2 

4 

TOP TIP: Haven’t 

used something 

in a year? Throw it 

out or donate it. It’s 

more important to 

have meaningful 

items than lots of 

possessions. 

5 


L I V I N G 

DECOR IDEAS 

Ladders 

Ladders are a clever 

design tool–acreative 

display solution that looks 

contemporary and saves 

space. Modern designs, with 

moveable lightweight frames, 

add style and dimension to 

dark and unused corners. Use 

them to hang towels in the 

bathroom or throws, linens 

and even magazines in a living 

room or bedroom. 

7 

9 

6 8 

TOP TIP: Engage 

in regular upkeep. 

Scan your bathroom 

cupboards and 

drawers for products 

past their use-by 

date or are no 

longer used. 

6. Umbra hub 

ladder, $149, 

from HipVan. 

7. Towel ladder, 

$890, from 

Maissone. 

8. Teak ladder, 

$429.95, from 

Crate & Barrel. 

9. Ladder by 

Charlie Styrbjörn 

Design, from 

$1,090, from 

Space Furniture. 


L I V I N G 

DECOR IDEAS 

Hanging Racks 

The thought of an exposed 

wardrobe would freak most 

people out, but if you’re an 

organised sort with a small space, 

this urban solution looks great. 

If you have a regular wardrobe, 

allow as much hanging space 

as possible. Racks allow you to 

see items at a glance, shaving 

minutes off your getting-ready 

time in the morning, and 

improving your outfits! 

17 18 

16. Toj clothes rack, from 

$822, from Danish Design. 

17. Leather clothes rack 

in black, $273, from Ferm 

Living. 

18. Steel hanger rack, $89, 

from MUJI. 

19. Dualtone standing mirror 

with hanging rack, $699, 

from Commune. 

16 

19 

ellow, 

m 

from 

e. 


L I V I N G 

DECOR IDEAS 

Organisers 

Home office organisers eliminate piles of 

paper and help avoid missed bill payments. 

Trays, baskets, stationery holders and 

vertical files clear your desk of clutter while 

storage cubbies, pockets and pinboards 

make use of walls. 

28 

25 

27 

TOP TIP: 

Start a system - an 

inbox basket for 

unopened mail, 

another to file bills to 

pay and a recycle bin 

for junk. Save even 

more space by going 

electronic! 

29 

26 

25. VAGGIS noticeboard, $9.90, 

from IKEA. 

26. Nomess office box, $135, from 

Edit Lifestyle. 

27. Oki tray, $145, from 

BoConcept. 

28. Happily Ever Paper 

desktop organiser no. 1, 

$59.90, from Salt & Sweeter. 

29. Cloth magazine holder, 

$19.90, from kikki.K. 

30. FJALLA desk organiser, 

$9.90, from IKEA. 

3 


LIVING 

INTERIORS 

10 New Healthy 

Kitchen Rules 

Boost your health and well-being by making these 

surprisingly simple tweaks without breaking the bank 


L I V I N G 

INTERIORS 

From refrigerator to countertop, a 

well-organised kitchen is the first step 

to better overall health. Begin with 

these 10 easy changes that will make living a 

healthier lifestyle so much easier to achieve. 

TO AVOID FOOD 

POISONING 

1Stick a “wash your hands” sign on the 

fridge. Seeing a written reminder makes 

you much more likely to wash your hands at 

important moments when you’re preparing 

a meal, which can help to prevent food 

poisoning. But the drying process is just 

as important to prevent lingering bacteria 

transferring to other surfaces, so dry your 

hands thoroughly using a paper towel. 

2Fill a drawer with clean tea towels. This 

makes it easier to reach for a clean, dry 

one, which matters because damp tea towels 

are a breeding ground for germs. It’s one 

reason why 60 per cent of tea towels fail the 

hygiene test, with some even “growing” E coli 

bacteria. Experts recommend replacing tea 

towels after every use, but 21 per cent of us 

use the same one for a week or more. 

3Buy two thermometers – one for your 

fridge and one for cooking. Refrigerators 

that aren’t cold enough only encourage food 

poisoning bugs to multiply. And only 25 per 

cent of people use a thermometer to cook 

chicken or reheat leftovers, despite that being 

the most effective way to judge when food 

is properly cooked – particularly under LED 

kitchen lights, which make meat appear more 

well done than it is. Ensure your fridge is 5 C 

or below, and that chicken and leftovers reach 

75 C during cooking or reheating. 

TO EAT A HEALTHIER DIET 

4Leave a weekly meal plan on the 

countertop. People who plan their meals 

for the days ahead are more likely to meet the 

healthy eating recommendations by the Health 

Promotion Board. Leave the plan somewhere 

visible, and you’ll be more likely to stick to it. 

5Store your vegetables strategically. 

Place produce that omits large amounts 

of ethylene gas as they ripen (like apricots, 

avocados, zucchini, pears and stone fruits) 

away from produce that’s sensitive to the gas 

(like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce and 

spinach), to preserve nutrients in the ethylenesensitive 

produce for as long as possible. 

6Bulk-buy the foods you’re trying to 

eat more of. You’ll eat twice as much of 

the food you’ve bought in large quantities, 

because it becomes more visible in your fridge 

or pantry. And stash that food on the eye-level 

shelves – we naturally eat more of the foods 

that are positioned there. 

7 

TO REDUCE YOUR 

EXPOSURE TO CHEMICALS 

Load your fridge with organic produce. 

Stick to an organic diet for just seven days, 

and your body’s level of pesticides will fall by 

almost 90 per cent. If going fully organic isn’t 

practical, focus on buying organic versions 

of the “dirty dozen” (see ewg.org), the foods 

identified as being highest in pesticides. 

8Invest in a water filter jug. They remove 

traces of chemicals and tiny contaminants 

from tap water, such as ammonia and copper, 

which can cause significant health issues. 

Household plumbing, like taps and pipework, 

are the main source of the contamination, 

although tap water in Singapore is generally 

potable. Check out StarWellness for high 

quality crystal water pitchers. 

TO MANAGE YOUR WEIGHT 

9De-clutter your countertops. A messy 

kitchen makes you stressed, which can 

lead you to eat twice as much food as you 

would in a tidy space. But don’t get rid of the 

fruit bowl. Since we tend to eat the first thing 

we see, women who always have fruit in sight 

weigh nearly 6 kg less than those who don’t. 

Buy smaller storage containers. When 

10 you’re eating everything from leftovers 

to cereal, you’ll dish out a smaller portion 

of food when you’re serving from a smaller 

container. In fact, using a larger container 

leads to eating 129 per cent more food, which 

adds up to 800 kJ (or 190 calories) to a meal. 

You can get small, airtight containers from 

Tupperware, IKEA and supermarkets. 

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / ADDITIONAL REPORTING: ELIZABETH LIEW / PHOTO: CHRIS WARNES/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU 


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YOUR GET-IT GUIDE 

SHOP THE PAGES HERE 

A 

ALDO SHOES #03-10 

Paragon Tel: 6736 3382 

ALICE + OLIVIA #03-17 

ION Orchard Tel: 6238 

7911 

ANNA SUI BHG Bugis 

APRILSKIN available 

at selected Guardian 

stores 

B 

BALLY Level 1 

Takashimaya 

Department Store Tel: 

6735 4029 

BECCA available at 

Sephora 

BE COLOR 

available at www. 

glamoursalonsystem. 

com.sg 

BENJAMIN BARKER 

#B1-30 11 Capitol 

Piazza Tel: 6384 6755 

BIBLIOTEK available 

at bibliotek.co 

BOCONCEPT #04- 

01/02/03 Paragon 

Orchard Tel: 6736 0777 

BORN IN COLOUR 


bornincolour.com.sg 

BOSS #B2-222 The 

Shoppes At Marina 

Bay Sands Tel: 6634 

6297 

BOURJOIS available 

at Watsons 

BROWHAUS #03-18 

ION Orchard, #05-10 

Paragon, #04-08A 

Plaza Singapura 

BURBERRY BEAUTY 

Tangs at Tangs Plaza 

BURBERRY #01-32/33 


C 

CASIO G-FACTORY 

#B3-65B ION Orchard 

Tel: 6509 8582 

CASTLERY #01- 

03A Delta House, 2 

Alexandra Road Tel: 

6744 5333 

CHANEL BHG Bugis, 

Isetan (Katong, 

Scotts, Serangoon 

and Tampines), Metro 

Paragon, #B1-134 The 

Shoppes at Marina 

Bay Sands, Robinsons 

(The Centrepoint and 

Raffles City Shopping 

Centre), Takashimaya 

D.S., Tel: 6735 1339, 

Tangs (Orchard and 

VivoCity) 

CHLOÉ #B1-118 The 



0281 

CHOPARD #01-03 

Ngee Ann City Tel: 

6733 8111 

CLARINS Tangs at 

Tangs Plaza, #B2- 

35/36 ION Orchard, 

Robinsons Raffles City, 

Metro Paragon 

CLUB 21 #01-07 Forum 

The Shopping Mall Tel: 

6304 1459 

CRATE & BARREL 

Orchard Gateway @ 

Emerald, 218 Orchard 

Road Tel: 6634 4222 

COMMUNE #02-52 9 

Raffles Boulevard Tel: 

6338 3823 

CUREL available at all 

personal care stores 

D 

DANIEL WELLINGTON 

#01-K31 VivoCity Tel: 

6252 0801 

DANISH DESIGN 

#06-03 Century 

Warehouse, 100e 

Pasir Panjang Road 

Tel: 6270 8483 

DEER INDUSTRIES 

#07-05 Tan Boon Liat 

Building Tel: 9485 4430 

DERMALOGICA www. 

dermalogica.com.sg 

DIOR #01-22/#02-12 


8828, Isetan (Katong, 


and Tampines), Metro 

Paragon, Robinsons 

(The Centrepoint and 

Raffles City Shopping 

Centre), Takashimaya 

D.S. and Tangs at 

Tangs Plaza 

DOVER STREET 

MARKET 18 Dempsey 

Road Tel: 6304 1388 

DRIES VAN NOTEN 

#02-26 Hilton Hotel 

Tel: 6304 1355 

DR MARTENS #02-17A 

Wheelock Place Tel: 

6737 6278 

E 

ECLECTICISM #01-07 

Wisma Atria Tel: 6732 

0938 

EDIT LIFESTYLE 137- 

139 Tanglin Road 

Tudor Court Tel: 6836 

5686 

ENVIE DE POIS #03- 

07/08 ION Orchard Tel: 

6732 8395 

ESPRIT #01-08/09 

Plaza Singapura Tel: 

6339 0948 

ETHNICRAFT available 

at www.ethnicraftonline.com.sg 

ETUDE HOUSE #B1- 

20/21/22 Wisma Atria, 

#01-107/108 Bugis 

Junction, #B1-26 Plaza 

Singapura, #01-098 

Suntec City, #01-K3 

VivoCity 

F 

FARFETCH available 

at www.farfetch.com 

FERM LIVING 


fermliving.com 

FRESH available at 

Sephora 

FURLA #03-26 ION 


G 

GUCCI #01-38/39 


H 

H&M Orchard Building 

Tel: 6235 1459 

HADA LABO available 

at all personal care 

stores 

HANDMADE HEROES 

www.handmadeheroes.com 

HASK available at 

Guardian, Watsons 

and Cold Storage 

HERMÉS #01-02A Liat 

Towers Tel: 6738 9807 

HIPVAN available at 

www.hipvan.com 

HOURGLASS available 

at Sephora 

HOYU available at 

COVO hair salons 

I 

IKEA 60 Tampines 

North Drive 2 Tel: 6786 

6868 

INNISFREE #B2-34/35, 

Ngee Ann City 

J 

JOURNEY EAST 

#03-02 Tan Boon Liat 

Building Tel: 6473 1693 

K 

K-PALETTE available 

at all personal care 

stores 

KATE SPADE NEW 

YORK #B2-17 The 



7229 

KAT VON D available 

at Sephora 

KEVIN.MURPHY 

available at selected 

salons 

KIEHL’S #01-66 Plaza 

Singapura Tel: 6454 

3457, #01-13 Bugis 

Junction 

KIKKI.K #B2-53 ION 


KING LIVING #01-11 

Hong Aik Building, 22 

Kallang Avenue Tel: 

6805 4198 

KMS available at 

selected salons 

L 

LA PRAIRIE Metro 

Paragon; Robinsons 

(Centrepoint 

and Orchard); 

Takashimaya D.S.; 


LA ROCHE-POSAY 

available at all 


LANCOME Tangs at 

Tangs Plaza 

LANEIGE #01-31 

Tampines Mall; #B3-53 

ION Orchard 

LOEWE #01-22/12 


L’OREAL PARIS 

available at all 


M 

M.A.C #B2-32 ION 


MAISSONE available 

at www.maissone.com 

MAJE #B2-109 

The Shoppes @ Marina 


7124 

MAKE UP FOR EVER 

available at Sephora 

MAMONDE #B1-34 

Ngee Ann City 

MARNI #02-17/19 


MASSIMO DUTTI #B1- 


6509 9081 

MICHAEL KORS #B2- 

21/22 The Shoppes At 

Marina Bay Sands Tel: 

6723 7252 

MOONSHOT available 

at Sephora 

MUJI #01-10 to 17 

Plaza Singapura Tel: 

6264 5838 

N 

NARS #B1-53 Ngee 

Ann City Tel: 6235 1537 

NET-A-PORTER 

available at www.neta-porter.com 

NIESSING #01-10 

Scotts Square Tel: 6443 

2871 

NIVEA available at all 


NUDESTIX available at 

Sephora 

NYX PROFESSIONAL 

MAKEUP available at 

Sephora 

O 

O+ #01-07 OUE 

Downtown Gallery Tel: 

6224 2277 

ORBIS #03-76 Plaza 

Singapura 

P 

PANDORA #B1-25 


6131 

PAUL SMITH #02-24 

Hilton Hotel Tel: 6304 

1354 

PEDDER ON SCOTTS 

Level 2 Scotts Square 

Tel: 6244 2883 

POH HENG 

JEWELLERY #01-03 

Orchard Shopping 

Centre Tel: 6884 9339 

PRADA #01-45/46/47 


R 

RALPH LAUREN #B1- 

72 The Shoppes At 


6688 7161 

REVLON available at 

all personal care stores 

ROBINSONS 

Robinsons The Heeren 

Tel: 6735 8838 

S 

SALT & SWEETER 


saltandsweeter.com 

SAINT LAURENT #B1- 

35 The Shoppes At 


6688 7400 

SEPHORA #B2-09 ION 

Orchard; #01-59/60 

Great World City; 

#B2-32 The Shoppes 

at Marina Bay Sands; 

#B1-05/06/07 

Takashimaya S.C. 

SHISEIDO BHG (Bugis, 

Bishan, Clementi and 

Choa Chu Kang); 

Isetan (Katong, 


and Tampines); 

Metro (Paragon and 

Woodlands); OG 

(Albert Complex, 

Orchard Point 

and Peoples’s 

Park); Robinsons 

(Centrepoint 

and Raffles City); 

Takashimaya D.S. 

SHISEIDO 

PROFESSIONAL 

available at selected 

salons 

SHU UEMURA #B2- 


6509 8931 

SK-II Tangs at Tangs 

Plaza Tel: 6737 5500 

SOFTYMO available 

at Watsons and 

Guardian 

SPACE FURNITURE 77 

Bencoolen Street Tel: 

6415 0000 

STATE PROPERTY 81 

Mcnair Road Tel: 6803 

8005 

STELLA MCCARTNEY 

#02-19 Hilton Hotel Tel: 

6304 3576 

STILA available at 

Sephora 

STYLODECO available 

at www.stylodeco.com 

SUITSUPPLY #03- 

14B/15 ION Orchard 

Tel: 6634 0080 

SULWHASOO 

Robinsons Orchard; 


SUNPLAY available at 

all personal care stores 

SWAROVSKI #B1-17/18 


9293 

SWATCH #B2-37 ION 


T 

TANGS Tang Plaza Tel: 

6737 5500 

TIFFANY & CO #01- 

05/06 Ngee Ann City 

Tel: 6735 8823 

TOM FORD BEAUTY 


TOMMY HILFIGER 

#B1-27/27A ION 


TOPSHOP #B2-01 ION 


TUPPERWARE 

available at leading 

supermarkets 

U 

UNIQLO Orchard 

Central Tel: 1800 886 

4756 

URBAN DECAY 

Sephora; #01-16 Bugis 

Junction; #01-13 

VivoCity; #B1-32 

Takashimaya S.C. 

V 

YVES SAINT LAURENT 

BEAUTE ION Orchard 

#B2-34 Tel: 6735 7378 

Z 

ZARA Liat Towers Tel: 

6733 0029 

111SKIN Robinsons The 

Heeren 

3INA #B2-67 ION 

Orchard 

3 LITTLE PICKS 

available at 

3littlepicks.com 


BROWSE & BUY 

WHAT’S NEW IN STORE 

BRIGHTEN UP 

YOUR SKIN 

Combat brown spots and uneven 

skin tone with the Placentor Vegetal 

Corrective Cream. Apply it under the 

eyes to reduce the appearance of 

dark circles, or discolouration on other 

parts of your face. With a new formula 

for reinforced efficiency, it contains 

liquorice extract to target skin 

pigmentation, and plant placenta to 

encourage skin regeneration. 

At $69.90 (30 ml), from Guardian. 

SOOTHE THOSE ACHES 

Seek relief from persistent back or neck aches with these soft traction 

belts from Disk Dr. Choose between the Cervical Traction Belt, Double- 

Lumbar Traction Belt and the Traction Knee Brace for Sports. From $399, 

at euronicmedical.com. For more information, call 6100 2366. 

GO BEYOND LANGUAGE 

Interested to learn a new language? Berlitz offers a range of language 

courses, including Korean, Japanese, French, Italian and more. Short 

courses are available for those who are interested to learn language 

basics. Visit Ngee Ann City Tower B #16-01 for a free demo lesson and 

level placement, or contact 6733 7472 or study@berlitz.com. 

INTENSE 

HYDRATION 

Winner of the Best Sleeping Mask 

(Save) in The Weekly’s Best Beauty 

Buys 2018 awards, the Eversoft Skinz 

Hydra Nature Radiant Lullaby Pack 

uses antioxidant ingredient INFLAX 

to deliver rich nutrients to repair skin 

cells. Bamboo extract water and 

vitamin capsules also provide further 

nutrition for your skin. At $41.90 

(100 ml), from leading supermarkets, 

hypermarkets, selected beauty stores, 

Lazada and Qoo10. 

SKIN BALANCER 

The gentle and refreshing Aromatica 

Tea Tree Balancing Emulsion 

moisturiser helps to balance moisture 

and oil production of sensitive and 

oily skin. It contains aloe vera extract, 

which helps to calm and soothe red 

and irritated skin. This non-sticky 

formula is suitable for daily use, 

to combat uneven skin tone and 

provide essential moisture to your 

skin. At $59, from Watsons. 

STRENGTH 

THROUGH PILATES 

Refresh your mind and energise 

yourself this year with PowerMoves 

Pilates. Build up endurance and 

flexibility to improve your posture, 

and enhance coordination and 

balance with Pilates Control, which 

is great for beginners new to Pilates. 

For more intense workouts, try their 

energetic Cardio Pilates classes, 

which help burn more calories. 

For more information, visit 

powermoves.com.sg. 

PERFECT SCENTS 

The doTERRA introductory kit is a great way to start with essential oils. 

The Lavender scent helps induce a peaceful sleep, Lemon helps purify 

surfaces during household cleaning, and Peppermint helps promote easy 

breathing. At $47, from doTERRA at Suntec Tower 3, #04-01. 

READ MY LIPS 

Get a prettier pout this Chinese 

New Year with Eleanor TMK Crystal 

and Satin Lipsticks, which keep 

your lips well moisturised. Choose 

between the Crystal Lipsticks, 

with a tint of natural colour, and 

Satin Lipsticks, which come in 

richer hues. From mid-February to 

mid-March, purchase any three 

lipsticks for $70 (U.P: $40 each). 

From Sasa stores and sasa.com. 


SHARE A SECRET 

READERS REVEAL ALL 

put away your 

toys! Sara*, stop 

Instagramming and 

start cleaning up your 

“Ben*, 

room! And dear, can 

you stop wearing your torn shorts and 

socks, and throw them away? Some have 

holes so big that you’re flashing the 

neighbours when you walk the dog.” 

Two years ago, this would have 

been part of a typical day in the Chong* 

household, where I am a one-woman 

organising-managing-cleaning company, 

helping my three family members sort 

out their affairs. I like cleaning, and I like 

to think I do a good job. That was until I 

made a mess of their lives! 

I really dislike untidiness. Like a 

laser-sighted drone, I would hover 

around at home, and when I spotted 

areas that looked unkempt, I would 

zoom in and start a clean-up operation. 

My friends think I’m a Martha Stewart 

gone wild, but I do believe everything 

has its place – all drinks need coasters, 

all pens have their pen covers. 

I’m also a huge fan of decluttering. 

It is my alternative to a yoga workout: 

Clearing away unwanted stuff at home 

is akin to sweeping away the cobwebs 

of my mind, leaving me feeling cleansed 

and restoring balance to my life. Every 

couple of months, I would push my 

husband and two kids to join me in my 

favourite spring cleaning ‘hobby’. After 

all, a family that cleans (while grumbling 

and groaning) together, stays together! 

Last year, however, I took things a 

step too far. After the annual Lunar New 

Year spring-cleaning, I felt a sense of 

accomplishment, but also empty and 

unfulfilled. I resolved to upkeep our 

home’s state of cleanliness. 

I started operation TIDY – Throw It 

Daily, (Not) Yearly. Every day, I made it 

a point to dispose of a few items, like 

old dresses or makeup past their expiry 

My decluttering frenzy 

drove my family 

absolutely crazy! 

dates. My advice to my husband and 

kids to do the same fell on deaf ears, so 

like a spy agent, I targeted their personal 

items to ‘eliminate’. I bid good riddance 

to my husband’s tattered undergarments 

and yellowed clothes. Stuffed Mr 

Bear-Bear and plastic Princess Dress- 

A-Lot met their ends in a black garbage 

bag. I was merciless, and did not ask 

permission from the rest of my family. 

Every day, I would become anxious 

if there wasn’t anything to bin. I started 

throwing away usable glassware and 

cutlery, just because they didn’t fit our 

home’s decor. I bought more things to 

replace old ones if anybody made a fuss, 

which undermined operation TIDY… but 

I didn’t care – it was throwing away old 

stuff I cared more about. 

Then I moved from junking physical 

items to virtual ones – I took to trashing 

badly-taken family photos on the family 

laptop and online platforms, if there was 

nothing physical to clear! 

Through it all, I would make up lies 

that I did not know where missing things 

were, or pinned the fault of losing things 

on someone else if anyone asked for the 

binned items. At the back of my mind, I 

knew that it was all wrong, but I refused 

to admit that I was the one responsible. 

Towards the end of the year, I finally 

realised that I had gone overboard. 

My husband kept hounding me about 

missing shirts and boxer shorts while 

packing for a last-minute business trip; 

Ben was screaming for his old figurines 

when he could not find them in his 

toy storage box; and Sara became her 

teenage surly self, texting me ‘sad face’ 

and ‘annoyed face’ emojis instead when 

she couldn’t retrieve our family holiday 

photos for a school project. 

All the while, I was getting frustrated 

figuring out what items went where, 

and which boxes they were in. I was left 

exhausted, as operation TIDY ended up 

becoming a cleaning catastrophe. 

At the end of the day, I felt stressed 

and drained, not because of the 

housework, but because of all my lying, 

thoughtlessness and selfishness, that 

had ultimately caused my husband and 

kids unhappiness. The house was spick 

and span, but we missed the warmth, 

laughter and love we had when things 

were still a little chaotic. Those were the 

things that made up a home, I realised. 

What is a little clutter like ugly family 

photos and household keepsakes? After 

all they show how a house is lived in, 

and contains precious memories. For 

this coming Lunar New Year, I have 

decided to get my three loved ones to 

go on a short family holiday, and forget 

about cleaning for once. 

*Names changed to protect privacy. 

Got a secret you can’t tell anyone? 

Share it with us – anonymity guaranteed. The sender of each published story receives $100. Send your letter to SWW/ Share 

A Secret, 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre, Level 8, Annexe Block, S318994. You can also email your story to sww@sph. 

com.sg. Include your address, NRIC and telephone numbers so we can contact you about your fee.

The_Singapore_Women_s_Weekly__February_2018

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