funk
fusion
new year
new look
take your
evening a
level up
effortless
places
to snap
your ootd
4 stop
movie
mix
in with
the old,
out with
the new
looking
feb-ulous
on a
budget
F
ebruary is a very
special month for me.
I think I’ve always
been smitten with the idea
of thoughtful festivities
like Chinese New Year and
Valentine’s Day because they
remind me to show love to
the people close in my life.
It is always easy to care for
others but we as humans
tend to neglect ourselves in
the process. In this month’s
edition, I decided to focus on
the aspect of self-love and
self-acceptance. This means
being able to flaunt our spe-
cial, irreplicable selves. We
all have our own
unique traits. The more
people we engage with,
the more open we are in
exploring with our tastes
and styles. As such, in
this journey, we get to
appreciate others and also
ourselves. Therefore, I was
very inspired by people -
the films, books and music
they enjoy, the different
perspectives, their lifestyles
- all the little things that
make us who we are. I hope
that through reading this,
you will be able to not just
accept yourself, but to also
elevate the essence of who
you are. Rock on!
human highlight:
denise yeo;
miao shi fu
Instagram: @miaoshifu
Denise yeo; miao shi fu, in practice for her latest dance. Taken by: E-Vyn T
6
funk fusion
This February, we bring to you an
uprising dancer who uses her craft to
unapologetically express herself.
By: Toh E-Vyn
19-year-old dancer Denise Yeo has made
her mark in Singapore’s dance scene with
her fusion of street style Break Dance and
funk style genres like Locking and Pop-
ping. To break further boundaries, she
brings this unique flair of hers to greater
heights with the use of retro music from
the 70’s. In an exclusive interview con-
ducted with Denise, she explains the birth
of her distinct artistry.
“Breaking makes me feel free. I’m amazed
by the whole background of it, how it was
used back in the 1970’s as a form of rebel-
lion. And then of course I love funk styles!
So quirky, always allowing me to be my
weird self.”.
Famously known as Miao Shi Fu, Denise
started dancing at the hvumble age of 13.
She entered the scene doing Hip-Hop
but fell in love with the strength and vigor
of Breaking after partaking in an under-
ground dance battle. Denise then started
going for more of such battles.
“I love to explore. Every time I meet new
dancers and learn new genres, I feel like I
have something to fall in love with over and
over again. It’s a constant honeymoon.”
Dancing In The Moonlight by King Harvest
is the song that first hooked Denise into
old-school music. She used the iconic 1972
single to choreograph for her first ever
concept video that she then uploaded on
Instagram. Other favourites of hers include
Move on Up by Curtis Mayfield and Hang-
ing On The Telephone by Blondie.
“People always tell me that I was born in the
wrong era. I can’t help it! I just love how
old songs make me feel. The vibes and the
groove is something that current pop music
can never replicate.”
While there are many other dancers taking
inspiration from Denise’s unconvention-
ally tantalizing movements, she notes that
the credit belongs to the originators of the
genres and the music. Beautifully putting it,
Denise says that if not for them, she would
not have found herself.
yn Toh
7
new year, new look
8
Show the world the new,better,you!
By: Toh E-Vyn
At last,Chinese New Year(CNY) has come around again. This cues for precious family gatherings,loud lion danc-
es,and a whole lot of tasty goodies. But let’s face it,what most Singaporean youths look forward tois the buying
of new clothes – or at least the excuse todoso.
fun-fun-funky hues
In lieu of the new year, you too should try something
different. Do away with the usual reds and the
expected golds, it’s time to introduce the new and
improved hip version of yourself. As the saying goes,
‘fortune favours the brave’, so get loud and funky with
some bold colours! One bright colour absolute to
shine a spotlight on you would be yellow. This primary
colour is not just fun and youthful, but it is also this
season’s it colour. Along with yellow, try incorporating
a touch of orange in the outfit. Aside from the witty
fruit and colour puns you can make on your Instagram
captions, orange is also representative of creativity and
happiness. When paired together, this yellow-orange
combination becomes an analogous blend. This simple
coordination happens when you match shades that are
next to, or near each other on the colour spectrum. To
give a clearer idea, more examples of analogous colours
include green and blue as well as red and purple. Be
careful though, reds and pinks may be near on the colour
wheel, but they are tricky to mix due to the difference
in cool and warm tones. The yellow-orange duo is safe,
these colours work well because they naturally fuse into
one another. That’s right, now you’re a fashionista, and
an artist!
Kaiting, in a bright orange pullover with dangling hoop earrings.
Shot by: E-Vyn Tohv
9
is black all that bad?
By E-Vyn Toh
Chinese New Year is a time of celebra-
tions and prosperity, it is understandable
why black has been seen as a taboo colour
to wear during this period. It is believed
that the colour black is ominous and will
bring in bad luck to the family. Then, why
are so many youths okay with wearing it?
Numerous youths today are less inclined
to keep up with traditions and supersti-
tions. While sticking to personal beliefs,
it is tough to appease the older relatives at
the same time. Rebecca Seng, 19, student,
belongs in team black and believes that the
times have changed, “if you do not believe
in it, it does not count.”. She adds that she
remains polite and hospitable when speaking
with older company to prove that wearing
black does not make her a devil.
Dang Keshane, 18, student, also resonates
with Rebecca. She mentions that she breaks
the black in her outfit by adding pops of
colours or patterns. She also uses textures
like who you’re visiting. sequin or suede
to take the attention away from the colour.
“I play it by ear, if I’m visiting my family,
I’ll just wear black since they’ll tolerate it.
If I’m visiting a friend’s family then I’ll try
to avoid it,”, said Joelin Koh, 19, student,
“it really depends on your family culture.”
There is no wrong or right side to take. As
long as we live in harmony with our family,
there will be no spiteful judgements in the
decisions we make.
accessories, please!
If you prefer donning neutral tones in
your outfit then fret not, for your colour
palette is not the only thing that can
be bold. Like the garnishing of a meal,
accessories add flavour to a look. These
adornments say a lot about one’s style,
adding just a pop can really help a person
deviate from the norm. So, if you are
here to make an impression, then scream
it out loud with some statement pieces.
Interesting hats like berets are a great
cover up for bad hair days, and they also
give off a je ne sais quoi* vibe.
In fact, there’s a world of headwear just
waiting to be explored. Ranging from
street-style bucket hats to vintage baker
boy caps, there’s a hat for every mood.
While you’re off styling your new caps,
don’t forget to show some love to your
ears. Get into the CNY festivity with
some chinoiserie-inspired earrings that
can be flashy and elegant at the same
time. The chinoiserie trend is based
on exotic Asian cultures, and has been
seen all over high fashion runways. The
perfect balance of culture and stylishness
for CNY,
Your relatives and your Instragram feed
will both be pleased.
*je ne sais quoi – an indescribable quali-
ty that makes something attractive.
filled in fila
10
FILA bucket hat in paper white:
SGD$35. Inspired by Harajuku fash-
ion, the FILA bucket hat is the perfect
accessory that can spice up even a
plain look.
FILA Sheri windbreaker in white:
SGD$72.90. Designed with comfort
in mind, this windbreaker provides the
right balance of fashion and function-
ality.
Grace Chan, dressed in Fila apparel. Shot by E-Vyn Toh
take your evening a
level up
By Grace Chan
Whether it’s a Valentine’s date or just an evening out with
friends, Level Up is bound to make your evening a blast.
Not just any blast, a blast from the past! Level Up is the one and
only Retro and Arcade Bistro Bar in Singapore. Situated right
at the heart of Clarke Quay, this retro themed bar definitely
stands out amongst the other dozens of bars within the vicinity.
Level Up’s motto; “Eat, Drink, Play” does not go unnoticed.
You’ll see it emblazoned in warm LED lights over the bar
counter as well as at the entrance of the bar in strixking neon lit
Chinese characters. By now, you probably know that the latter
has become a hotspot for that mandatory Instagram photo-
graph. Strike a pose and that’s it, your next Instagram update
is settled!
Brace yourself for the flood of memories as you enter Level
Up. Flashing bold and vibrant neon lights, ever-blinking arcade
screens and walls of old school cartoon graffiti illuminated by
the warm tungsten bulbs. Everything screams vintage. While
90s music played by the local live band and shrieks of laughter
and victory fill the air. You’ll be able to feel the excitement in
your bones.
On one end of the neon-lit premises is a row of four old school
arcade machines. A joystick on the right and four buttons
on the left of each machine, 80s and early 90s kids are most
definitely familiar with them. X-men vs Street Fighter, Puzzle
Bobble, King of Fighters and the classic all-time fave, Metal
Slug. These games are bound to get you high on nostalgia. Is
the child in you excited yet?
But no worries, if you aren’t feeling old school, opposite
the mentioned arcade machines are tables of beer pong and
contemporary games like Air Hockey and Basketball Machines.
Challenge bae or family and friends to a game, loser pays for
the next drink! At Level Up don’t you fret about the conse-
quences of drinking and driving. But of course, this applies
solely to the Racing Machines.
Every Sunday is a Family Day for Level Up. So yes, they are
pretty family friendly. Level Up welcome kids with free entry
and free play every Family Sunday. Do away with the traditional
family gatherings at Chinese restaurants and visit Level Up for
a change this Chinese New Year!
Whether you’ll be at Level Up for a memorable Valentine’s
date or a family gathering, one thing’s for sure is that you’ll
have a great time, just like the good ol’ days!
Level Up bar on Friday night. Shot by: Grace Chan
effortless places to
snap your #ootd
3
Taking great photos can be challeng-
ing, especially if you’re new to it. But
don’t worry, here are three easy places
that will turn your selfie session into a
glorious mini-photoshoot!
By Charlene Ang and Joey Chew
Chinese New Year(CNY) is right
around the corner and this means
an influx of the annual CNY Outfit of
the Day (OOTD) shots on Instagram.
Three scrolls down the screen and you
can find over five pictures shot at lift
lobbies and corridors. At the same
time, taking pictures against a white
wall won’t bring justice to the look
you painstakingly prepared for.
parking lots
Car parks cast great shadows that com-
plement and accentuate your clothes.
Make use of pillars to create an
illusion of a well planned out shot by
providing a frame for your pictures.
Other structures like ladders and
lamp posts can be used as props. Sim-
ply grab or lean onto them as you pose
andbam!You’llbeamazedathowpro-
fessional your photos will look.
Pastel-coloured walls of the parking
lot can bring softness to your pictures.
The words and signs on the walls also
add interest to the scene.
While you’re glamming up in your
zone, do keep a look out for cars and
be alert.
Stand out from the crowd and stop the
fingers from scrolling pass your posts
by taking your OOTD shots at these
interesting but accessible locations!
12
Hannah Tan donned in a cherry bomb retro dress
striking a pose at her place’s carpark.
Shot by: Charlene Ang
vintage cafes
We all know how the weather in Singa-
pore can be, but cafes are the perfect
solution for that. Ivn the comfort of
the cool air, it is easier to move about
without the worry of sweat patches.
If you wish to take a full body shot,
try sitting on a chair and capturing a
low-angle shot. The low angle creates
depth and sets the illusion of longer
legs.
Though cafes can be pretty and
comfortable to shoot, remember to
purchase something from the cafe as
you are using their space!
alleys
Alleys are intriguing locations that
make your shots more rugged. The
trick is to pick your background and
lighting wisely.
Some alleys are lined with garbage
bins and lack proper lighting. On the
other hand, some are filled with vin-
tage-looking doors and greenery that
can transform your pictures.
With the scene of your shoot settled,
the next hack we can give is to pose
with confidence. Remember to have
fun and enjoy the process!
13
Joey Chew, donned in vintage adidas track pants paired
with a pair of tinted glasses.
14
All ready for CHinese New Year, Hannah Tan does a mandatory OOTD shot at her neighbour-
hood’s alley.
Shot by: Charlene Ang
Charlene Ang in retro vintage gingham print, posing for her next Instagram post at her place’s
carpark.
Shot by: Joey Chew
Ah, Valentine’s Day – a blissful time for confessions and
compliments, the season of love and affection. However, this
is the same period where couples fret over creating the perfect
rendezvous. For the lovers out there bored of predictable trips
to the standard cinema, we have four options that can help you
put the extra in extraordinary.
By: Toh E-Vyn and Mariah Egalon
4 stop movie fix
4 stop movie fix
the projector
Located at the 5th level of the long-standing Golden Mile Tower, The Projector
adds a fresh juxtaposition of old and new. The quaint cinema screens an inter-
esting selection of indie films that are mostly unfamiliar to the public. Wes Ander-
sen is one classic favourite commonly played in the 230-seater hall. So, if you’re
looking for a unique film experience, The Projector is the right place to be.
Remember that scene in Grease where Sandy and Danny went on a charmingly vin-
tage outdoor cinema date? You can do it too with your significant other. Grab your
popcorn and perk yourself up for the night as we guide you through three options
for your romantic movie under the stars.
films at the fort
Films at the Fort, which hosts yearly film sreening festivals, is one of the originators
of the outdoor cinema concept in Singapore. The films screened here are stellar
- typically of Oscar-winning and art house standard. There are also scrumptious
gourmet food options to keep you satiated throughout. In short, it’s our idea of
perfection.
18
movie mob
Movie Mob is a roving cinema with regular film screenings across different locations
in Singapore ranging from Marina Bay to the Singapore Art Museum. It screens
mostly blockbuster hits like Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Here’s the catch:
Movie Mob also hosts occasional drive-through cinema events for you to relive that
classic Sandy and Danny date scene.
popcorn
Hosted by local movie timings app, Popcorn, the weekly screening typically features
action pictures like Thor: The Dark World, Transformers: The Last Night, and
more. It takes place every Tuesday at Sentosa, making it a great option for you busy
bees looking for date options earlier in the week.
Now, enjoy your favourite flick and get cozy with your boo!
19
in with the old,
out with the new
20
By Mariah Egalon & Hannah Tan
return of the gloss
Gloss is back in town - and it has been
given an upgrade. This trend that
once was slathered onto the lips now sees
an array of creative individuals applying
it on the eyelids.
In the past, bright and bold pigments
were favoured for all the maturity and
confidence that they imbued. Looking
back, we now know to better improve on
these glosses because they can appear
thick and messy. Thankfully, with the
use of modern technology, these gleam-
ing magic are now formulated different-
ly to suit current-day consumer needs.
The result is lustrous lips that don’t stick
together.
With this glossy revolution that’s
back and better than ever, jump onto
this jelly-look trend for your ultimate
makeover!
a pop of colour
As mentioned, bolder colours were
preferred back in the 90’s. This doesn’t
mean that we can’t rock it today. While
it’s true that vibrant shades can be trick-
ier to apply on the face, we have some
ways to style them. One safe way to pull
off any vivid colour is to keep the rest
of your makeup light. Of course, there
are no hard and fast rules to fashion so
don’t be afraid to explore with colours
because they’ll certainly make you stand
out from the crowd. Not only will you be
in the spotlight, but bold looks will give
you an air of confidence too.
If you missed the chance to jump on
the bandwagon in the past, then now’s
the time to do so. Above all, stay true to
yourself. Makeup is truly an expressive
extension of who you are!
Mariah Louise Egalon rocking the glossy come-back trend.
Shot by: Hannah Tan
the traditional silhouette
Besides tracksuits and Von Dutch
Trucker hats, let’s take this throw-
back with a traditional twist. Former-
ly, many Chinese women in China,
Hong Kong and Singapore had
cheongsams as part of their wardrobe
necessities. However, time has caused
Cheongsams to fade out of fashion as
more women found these tight-fitting
silhouettes unsuitable and impracti-
cal for everyday life.
Hannah Tan, 18, decked out in her mordern Chinese New Year outfit.
Shot by: Mariah Louise Egalon
In order to bring Cheongsams back,
many agree that the silhouette has
to change. This has led to the up and
coming generation giving their fresh
take on the tired stereotypes of Chi-
nese clothing. Layering can further act
as a refresher to the already exotic out-
fit. Don’t be afraid to whip out your
scissors as well, crop your Cheongsam
to switch up its’ shape. This is your
time to show your creativity and wear
out your very own artwork.
Now, you’re finally ready to time
travel. In with the old and out with
the new!
looking feb-ulous on a budget
Want to look stunning without splurging too much this February? There are several must-haves for you to look your best during
Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day - and they don’t have to cost a fortune. At affordable prices, everyone has a chance to look
good.
By Charlene Ang
enliven your eyes
As the saying goes, one of the most powerful tools a woman
has is her eyes. Pro-tip: enhance them with the use of the
right eyeshadows.
The Yes, Please (SGD$21) and Give It To Me Straight
(SGD$21) eyeshadow palettes from Colourpop Cosmetics
are great options that spoil you with an array of choices for
an affordable price. For less than SGD$40, which is the
average price of eyeshadows, you get to enjoy high quality
and pigmented colours on one single palette.
The Give It To Me Straight palette consists of more purple
and burgundy hues. Use this palette when you’re prepping
for a date with your Valentine! These romantic colours will
form a sultry look that no one will be able to resist.
The Yes, Please palette mainly houses bright and cheerful
shades like yellow, orange and red. This is the perfect palette
to use for those celebrating Chinese New Year. The lively
colours scream festivity and will help keep lady luck on your
side for the whole year!
pucker up
A sexy red lipstick is an essential in every girls’ makeup
collection. A University of Manchester study found that a
woman wearing red lipstick captures one’s gaze over three
times longer than a woman wearing no lipstick at all.
We suggest the Real Fit Velvet Lipstick (SGD$19.47) in
shade 5 from Innisfree. A lipstick must prove itself worthy
of the hype on several counts. First, it must have the ability
to glide smoothly onto the lips. Then, it should be trans-
fer-proof with a comforting, clean finish. Most importantly,
it should be long lasting for you wouldn’t want half of your
lipstick gone in the midst of your Chinese New Year visiting
or your Valentine’s date.
The Real Fit Velvet Lipstick has passed the test and is also
available in 10 other shades and colours.
all about that base
The current trend has been fresh and dewy, also known as
the no-makeup-makeup-look. We all have little blemishes
here and there but don’t worry, Etude House’s Big Cover
Concealer Tip has got you covered. For just SGD$7, you
can cover up those imperfections and leave your skin looking
healthy.
BB creams are also great to give you natural-looking skin
while still providing solid coverage. Etude House’s Precious
Mineral BB Cream (SGD$25.90) is recommended for every-
one out there in search of an A-grade BB cream. Grab yours
today, and let the compliments roll in!
smell good, feel good
While you’re dolling yourself up, don’t neglect your scent!
If you like subtle aromas, then The Body Shop’s body butters
are an excellent choice. Not only do they give you a fresh
scent, they also moisturise your skin, leaving it soft and
bouncy.
For stronger scents, you can go for perfumes and body mists.
A high-end perfume can easily cost up to SGD$70. On the
other hand, Victoria’s Secret sells a whole range of body
sprays at SGD$16 or less! Just a little fragrance is enough to
sweep the people around you off their feet.
confidence is key
By: Charlene Ang
Having confidence makes the world of a difference. You can
look glamorous in the most perfect dress and makeup but if
you do not believe that you look beautiful, all that would go
to waste. It’s not easy, but here are some tips for you to hype
yourself up.
posture, posture, posture!
Stand tall. Roll your shoulders back and keep your spine
straight. People who minimize their bodies are often viewed
as uncertain.
articulate
peak slowly and clearly. Speaking too quickly can make you
seem nervous and erratic. It also gives rise to the probability
of you tripping on your tongue and saying things you don’t
mean.
engage with eye contact
Maintain eye contact when speaking. This gives you an
illusion of credibility and assures others that they can trust
you. However, a strong eye contact is different from an
offensive stare.
22
Magazine Production Group Assignment
Magazine Production Group Assignment

Magazine Production Group Assignment

  • 4.
    funk fusion new year new look takeyour evening a level up effortless places to snap your ootd 4 stop movie mix in with the old, out with the new looking feb-ulous on a budget
  • 5.
    F ebruary is avery special month for me. I think I’ve always been smitten with the idea of thoughtful festivities like Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day because they remind me to show love to the people close in my life. It is always easy to care for others but we as humans tend to neglect ourselves in the process. In this month’s edition, I decided to focus on the aspect of self-love and self-acceptance. This means being able to flaunt our spe- cial, irreplicable selves. We all have our own unique traits. The more people we engage with, the more open we are in exploring with our tastes and styles. As such, in this journey, we get to appreciate others and also ourselves. Therefore, I was very inspired by people - the films, books and music they enjoy, the different perspectives, their lifestyles - all the little things that make us who we are. I hope that through reading this, you will be able to not just accept yourself, but to also elevate the essence of who you are. Rock on!
  • 6.
    human highlight: denise yeo; miaoshi fu Instagram: @miaoshifu Denise yeo; miao shi fu, in practice for her latest dance. Taken by: E-Vyn T 6
  • 7.
    funk fusion This February,we bring to you an uprising dancer who uses her craft to unapologetically express herself. By: Toh E-Vyn 19-year-old dancer Denise Yeo has made her mark in Singapore’s dance scene with her fusion of street style Break Dance and funk style genres like Locking and Pop- ping. To break further boundaries, she brings this unique flair of hers to greater heights with the use of retro music from the 70’s. In an exclusive interview con- ducted with Denise, she explains the birth of her distinct artistry. “Breaking makes me feel free. I’m amazed by the whole background of it, how it was used back in the 1970’s as a form of rebel- lion. And then of course I love funk styles! So quirky, always allowing me to be my weird self.”. Famously known as Miao Shi Fu, Denise started dancing at the hvumble age of 13. She entered the scene doing Hip-Hop but fell in love with the strength and vigor of Breaking after partaking in an under- ground dance battle. Denise then started going for more of such battles. “I love to explore. Every time I meet new dancers and learn new genres, I feel like I have something to fall in love with over and over again. It’s a constant honeymoon.” Dancing In The Moonlight by King Harvest is the song that first hooked Denise into old-school music. She used the iconic 1972 single to choreograph for her first ever concept video that she then uploaded on Instagram. Other favourites of hers include Move on Up by Curtis Mayfield and Hang- ing On The Telephone by Blondie. “People always tell me that I was born in the wrong era. I can’t help it! I just love how old songs make me feel. The vibes and the groove is something that current pop music can never replicate.” While there are many other dancers taking inspiration from Denise’s unconvention- ally tantalizing movements, she notes that the credit belongs to the originators of the genres and the music. Beautifully putting it, Denise says that if not for them, she would not have found herself. yn Toh 7
  • 8.
    new year, newlook 8 Show the world the new,better,you! By: Toh E-Vyn At last,Chinese New Year(CNY) has come around again. This cues for precious family gatherings,loud lion danc- es,and a whole lot of tasty goodies. But let’s face it,what most Singaporean youths look forward tois the buying of new clothes – or at least the excuse todoso. fun-fun-funky hues In lieu of the new year, you too should try something different. Do away with the usual reds and the expected golds, it’s time to introduce the new and improved hip version of yourself. As the saying goes, ‘fortune favours the brave’, so get loud and funky with some bold colours! One bright colour absolute to shine a spotlight on you would be yellow. This primary colour is not just fun and youthful, but it is also this season’s it colour. Along with yellow, try incorporating a touch of orange in the outfit. Aside from the witty fruit and colour puns you can make on your Instagram captions, orange is also representative of creativity and happiness. When paired together, this yellow-orange combination becomes an analogous blend. This simple coordination happens when you match shades that are next to, or near each other on the colour spectrum. To give a clearer idea, more examples of analogous colours include green and blue as well as red and purple. Be careful though, reds and pinks may be near on the colour wheel, but they are tricky to mix due to the difference in cool and warm tones. The yellow-orange duo is safe, these colours work well because they naturally fuse into one another. That’s right, now you’re a fashionista, and an artist! Kaiting, in a bright orange pullover with dangling hoop earrings. Shot by: E-Vyn Tohv
  • 9.
    9 is black allthat bad? By E-Vyn Toh Chinese New Year is a time of celebra- tions and prosperity, it is understandable why black has been seen as a taboo colour to wear during this period. It is believed that the colour black is ominous and will bring in bad luck to the family. Then, why are so many youths okay with wearing it? Numerous youths today are less inclined to keep up with traditions and supersti- tions. While sticking to personal beliefs, it is tough to appease the older relatives at the same time. Rebecca Seng, 19, student, belongs in team black and believes that the times have changed, “if you do not believe in it, it does not count.”. She adds that she remains polite and hospitable when speaking with older company to prove that wearing black does not make her a devil. Dang Keshane, 18, student, also resonates with Rebecca. She mentions that she breaks the black in her outfit by adding pops of colours or patterns. She also uses textures like who you’re visiting. sequin or suede to take the attention away from the colour. “I play it by ear, if I’m visiting my family, I’ll just wear black since they’ll tolerate it. If I’m visiting a friend’s family then I’ll try to avoid it,”, said Joelin Koh, 19, student, “it really depends on your family culture.” There is no wrong or right side to take. As long as we live in harmony with our family, there will be no spiteful judgements in the decisions we make. accessories, please! If you prefer donning neutral tones in your outfit then fret not, for your colour palette is not the only thing that can be bold. Like the garnishing of a meal, accessories add flavour to a look. These adornments say a lot about one’s style, adding just a pop can really help a person deviate from the norm. So, if you are here to make an impression, then scream it out loud with some statement pieces. Interesting hats like berets are a great cover up for bad hair days, and they also give off a je ne sais quoi* vibe. In fact, there’s a world of headwear just waiting to be explored. Ranging from street-style bucket hats to vintage baker boy caps, there’s a hat for every mood. While you’re off styling your new caps, don’t forget to show some love to your ears. Get into the CNY festivity with some chinoiserie-inspired earrings that can be flashy and elegant at the same time. The chinoiserie trend is based on exotic Asian cultures, and has been seen all over high fashion runways. The perfect balance of culture and stylishness for CNY, Your relatives and your Instragram feed will both be pleased. *je ne sais quoi – an indescribable quali- ty that makes something attractive.
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    filled in fila 10 FILAbucket hat in paper white: SGD$35. Inspired by Harajuku fash- ion, the FILA bucket hat is the perfect accessory that can spice up even a plain look. FILA Sheri windbreaker in white: SGD$72.90. Designed with comfort in mind, this windbreaker provides the right balance of fashion and function- ality. Grace Chan, dressed in Fila apparel. Shot by E-Vyn Toh
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    take your eveninga level up By Grace Chan Whether it’s a Valentine’s date or just an evening out with friends, Level Up is bound to make your evening a blast. Not just any blast, a blast from the past! Level Up is the one and only Retro and Arcade Bistro Bar in Singapore. Situated right at the heart of Clarke Quay, this retro themed bar definitely stands out amongst the other dozens of bars within the vicinity. Level Up’s motto; “Eat, Drink, Play” does not go unnoticed. You’ll see it emblazoned in warm LED lights over the bar counter as well as at the entrance of the bar in strixking neon lit Chinese characters. By now, you probably know that the latter has become a hotspot for that mandatory Instagram photo- graph. Strike a pose and that’s it, your next Instagram update is settled! Brace yourself for the flood of memories as you enter Level Up. Flashing bold and vibrant neon lights, ever-blinking arcade screens and walls of old school cartoon graffiti illuminated by the warm tungsten bulbs. Everything screams vintage. While 90s music played by the local live band and shrieks of laughter and victory fill the air. You’ll be able to feel the excitement in your bones. On one end of the neon-lit premises is a row of four old school arcade machines. A joystick on the right and four buttons on the left of each machine, 80s and early 90s kids are most definitely familiar with them. X-men vs Street Fighter, Puzzle Bobble, King of Fighters and the classic all-time fave, Metal Slug. These games are bound to get you high on nostalgia. Is the child in you excited yet? But no worries, if you aren’t feeling old school, opposite the mentioned arcade machines are tables of beer pong and contemporary games like Air Hockey and Basketball Machines. Challenge bae or family and friends to a game, loser pays for the next drink! At Level Up don’t you fret about the conse- quences of drinking and driving. But of course, this applies solely to the Racing Machines. Every Sunday is a Family Day for Level Up. So yes, they are pretty family friendly. Level Up welcome kids with free entry and free play every Family Sunday. Do away with the traditional family gatherings at Chinese restaurants and visit Level Up for a change this Chinese New Year! Whether you’ll be at Level Up for a memorable Valentine’s date or a family gathering, one thing’s for sure is that you’ll have a great time, just like the good ol’ days! Level Up bar on Friday night. Shot by: Grace Chan
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    effortless places to snapyour #ootd 3 Taking great photos can be challeng- ing, especially if you’re new to it. But don’t worry, here are three easy places that will turn your selfie session into a glorious mini-photoshoot! By Charlene Ang and Joey Chew Chinese New Year(CNY) is right around the corner and this means an influx of the annual CNY Outfit of the Day (OOTD) shots on Instagram. Three scrolls down the screen and you can find over five pictures shot at lift lobbies and corridors. At the same time, taking pictures against a white wall won’t bring justice to the look you painstakingly prepared for. parking lots Car parks cast great shadows that com- plement and accentuate your clothes. Make use of pillars to create an illusion of a well planned out shot by providing a frame for your pictures. Other structures like ladders and lamp posts can be used as props. Sim- ply grab or lean onto them as you pose andbam!You’llbeamazedathowpro- fessional your photos will look. Pastel-coloured walls of the parking lot can bring softness to your pictures. The words and signs on the walls also add interest to the scene. While you’re glamming up in your zone, do keep a look out for cars and be alert. Stand out from the crowd and stop the fingers from scrolling pass your posts by taking your OOTD shots at these interesting but accessible locations! 12 Hannah Tan donned in a cherry bomb retro dress striking a pose at her place’s carpark. Shot by: Charlene Ang
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    vintage cafes We allknow how the weather in Singa- pore can be, but cafes are the perfect solution for that. Ivn the comfort of the cool air, it is easier to move about without the worry of sweat patches. If you wish to take a full body shot, try sitting on a chair and capturing a low-angle shot. The low angle creates depth and sets the illusion of longer legs. Though cafes can be pretty and comfortable to shoot, remember to purchase something from the cafe as you are using their space! alleys Alleys are intriguing locations that make your shots more rugged. The trick is to pick your background and lighting wisely. Some alleys are lined with garbage bins and lack proper lighting. On the other hand, some are filled with vin- tage-looking doors and greenery that can transform your pictures. With the scene of your shoot settled, the next hack we can give is to pose with confidence. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process! 13 Joey Chew, donned in vintage adidas track pants paired with a pair of tinted glasses.
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    14 All ready forCHinese New Year, Hannah Tan does a mandatory OOTD shot at her neighbour- hood’s alley. Shot by: Charlene Ang
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    Charlene Ang inretro vintage gingham print, posing for her next Instagram post at her place’s carpark. Shot by: Joey Chew
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    Ah, Valentine’s Day– a blissful time for confessions and compliments, the season of love and affection. However, this is the same period where couples fret over creating the perfect rendezvous. For the lovers out there bored of predictable trips to the standard cinema, we have four options that can help you put the extra in extraordinary. By: Toh E-Vyn and Mariah Egalon 4 stop movie fix 4 stop movie fix the projector Located at the 5th level of the long-standing Golden Mile Tower, The Projector adds a fresh juxtaposition of old and new. The quaint cinema screens an inter- esting selection of indie films that are mostly unfamiliar to the public. Wes Ander- sen is one classic favourite commonly played in the 230-seater hall. So, if you’re looking for a unique film experience, The Projector is the right place to be. Remember that scene in Grease where Sandy and Danny went on a charmingly vin- tage outdoor cinema date? You can do it too with your significant other. Grab your popcorn and perk yourself up for the night as we guide you through three options for your romantic movie under the stars. films at the fort Films at the Fort, which hosts yearly film sreening festivals, is one of the originators of the outdoor cinema concept in Singapore. The films screened here are stellar - typically of Oscar-winning and art house standard. There are also scrumptious gourmet food options to keep you satiated throughout. In short, it’s our idea of perfection. 18
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    movie mob Movie Mobis a roving cinema with regular film screenings across different locations in Singapore ranging from Marina Bay to the Singapore Art Museum. It screens mostly blockbuster hits like Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Here’s the catch: Movie Mob also hosts occasional drive-through cinema events for you to relive that classic Sandy and Danny date scene. popcorn Hosted by local movie timings app, Popcorn, the weekly screening typically features action pictures like Thor: The Dark World, Transformers: The Last Night, and more. It takes place every Tuesday at Sentosa, making it a great option for you busy bees looking for date options earlier in the week. Now, enjoy your favourite flick and get cozy with your boo! 19
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    in with theold, out with the new 20 By Mariah Egalon & Hannah Tan return of the gloss Gloss is back in town - and it has been given an upgrade. This trend that once was slathered onto the lips now sees an array of creative individuals applying it on the eyelids. In the past, bright and bold pigments were favoured for all the maturity and confidence that they imbued. Looking back, we now know to better improve on these glosses because they can appear thick and messy. Thankfully, with the use of modern technology, these gleam- ing magic are now formulated different- ly to suit current-day consumer needs. The result is lustrous lips that don’t stick together. With this glossy revolution that’s back and better than ever, jump onto this jelly-look trend for your ultimate makeover! a pop of colour As mentioned, bolder colours were preferred back in the 90’s. This doesn’t mean that we can’t rock it today. While it’s true that vibrant shades can be trick- ier to apply on the face, we have some ways to style them. One safe way to pull off any vivid colour is to keep the rest of your makeup light. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules to fashion so don’t be afraid to explore with colours because they’ll certainly make you stand out from the crowd. Not only will you be in the spotlight, but bold looks will give you an air of confidence too. If you missed the chance to jump on the bandwagon in the past, then now’s the time to do so. Above all, stay true to yourself. Makeup is truly an expressive extension of who you are! Mariah Louise Egalon rocking the glossy come-back trend. Shot by: Hannah Tan
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    the traditional silhouette Besidestracksuits and Von Dutch Trucker hats, let’s take this throw- back with a traditional twist. Former- ly, many Chinese women in China, Hong Kong and Singapore had cheongsams as part of their wardrobe necessities. However, time has caused Cheongsams to fade out of fashion as more women found these tight-fitting silhouettes unsuitable and impracti- cal for everyday life. Hannah Tan, 18, decked out in her mordern Chinese New Year outfit. Shot by: Mariah Louise Egalon In order to bring Cheongsams back, many agree that the silhouette has to change. This has led to the up and coming generation giving their fresh take on the tired stereotypes of Chi- nese clothing. Layering can further act as a refresher to the already exotic out- fit. Don’t be afraid to whip out your scissors as well, crop your Cheongsam to switch up its’ shape. This is your time to show your creativity and wear out your very own artwork. Now, you’re finally ready to time travel. In with the old and out with the new!
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    looking feb-ulous ona budget Want to look stunning without splurging too much this February? There are several must-haves for you to look your best during Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day - and they don’t have to cost a fortune. At affordable prices, everyone has a chance to look good. By Charlene Ang enliven your eyes As the saying goes, one of the most powerful tools a woman has is her eyes. Pro-tip: enhance them with the use of the right eyeshadows. The Yes, Please (SGD$21) and Give It To Me Straight (SGD$21) eyeshadow palettes from Colourpop Cosmetics are great options that spoil you with an array of choices for an affordable price. For less than SGD$40, which is the average price of eyeshadows, you get to enjoy high quality and pigmented colours on one single palette. The Give It To Me Straight palette consists of more purple and burgundy hues. Use this palette when you’re prepping for a date with your Valentine! These romantic colours will form a sultry look that no one will be able to resist. The Yes, Please palette mainly houses bright and cheerful shades like yellow, orange and red. This is the perfect palette to use for those celebrating Chinese New Year. The lively colours scream festivity and will help keep lady luck on your side for the whole year! pucker up A sexy red lipstick is an essential in every girls’ makeup collection. A University of Manchester study found that a woman wearing red lipstick captures one’s gaze over three times longer than a woman wearing no lipstick at all. We suggest the Real Fit Velvet Lipstick (SGD$19.47) in shade 5 from Innisfree. A lipstick must prove itself worthy of the hype on several counts. First, it must have the ability to glide smoothly onto the lips. Then, it should be trans- fer-proof with a comforting, clean finish. Most importantly, it should be long lasting for you wouldn’t want half of your lipstick gone in the midst of your Chinese New Year visiting or your Valentine’s date. The Real Fit Velvet Lipstick has passed the test and is also available in 10 other shades and colours. all about that base The current trend has been fresh and dewy, also known as the no-makeup-makeup-look. We all have little blemishes here and there but don’t worry, Etude House’s Big Cover Concealer Tip has got you covered. For just SGD$7, you can cover up those imperfections and leave your skin looking healthy. BB creams are also great to give you natural-looking skin while still providing solid coverage. Etude House’s Precious Mineral BB Cream (SGD$25.90) is recommended for every- one out there in search of an A-grade BB cream. Grab yours today, and let the compliments roll in! smell good, feel good While you’re dolling yourself up, don’t neglect your scent! If you like subtle aromas, then The Body Shop’s body butters are an excellent choice. Not only do they give you a fresh scent, they also moisturise your skin, leaving it soft and bouncy. For stronger scents, you can go for perfumes and body mists. A high-end perfume can easily cost up to SGD$70. On the other hand, Victoria’s Secret sells a whole range of body sprays at SGD$16 or less! Just a little fragrance is enough to sweep the people around you off their feet. confidence is key By: Charlene Ang Having confidence makes the world of a difference. You can look glamorous in the most perfect dress and makeup but if you do not believe that you look beautiful, all that would go to waste. It’s not easy, but here are some tips for you to hype yourself up. posture, posture, posture! Stand tall. Roll your shoulders back and keep your spine straight. People who minimize their bodies are often viewed as uncertain. articulate peak slowly and clearly. Speaking too quickly can make you seem nervous and erratic. It also gives rise to the probability of you tripping on your tongue and saying things you don’t mean. engage with eye contact Maintain eye contact when speaking. This gives you an illusion of credibility and assures others that they can trust you. However, a strong eye contact is different from an offensive stare. 22