Regina Chow – Page 16

Travel, Uncategorized

Travel: Elk Espresso Cafe in Gold Coast

June 16, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

I was under the impression that cafes in Gold Coast pale in comparison to those in Sydney and Melbourne, but my recent trip to this sunny city proved me wrong.In fact, JW and I came across quite a number of good cafes thanks to recommendations from Urbanspoon, now known as Zomato (the Australian equivalent of Hungrygowhere) and Elk Espresso at Broadbeach was one of our favourite spots. If you ever visit Gold Coast, you have to come here for breakfast or brunch.

Why Elk Espresso? In a nutshell, the casual, laid-back Australian vibe and friendly service at Elk Espresso go hand-in-hand with its unpretentious yet absolutely delicious food to give you an experience that you’ll never forget. No wonder it is so popular with the locals!One of the most popular items on its breakfast/brunch menu is the very photogenic French Toast which comes with a medley of poached pears, salted caramel and dehydrated berries with vanilla bean mascarpone (A$17.50). Its prepossessing appearance is bound to brighten up any instagram feed.

The salted caramel sauce adds just a hint of sweetness to the french toast while allowing the natural flavours of the fruits and berries to shine through. I loved the refreshing touch of vanilla bean mascarpone which further enhances the party of flavours in your mouth, giving a new dimension to the overall taste.

To complement the comparatively sweeter french toast, we ordered a savoury breakfast favourite – Potato Hash with bacon, avocado, rocket, free-range eggs, hollandaise sauce, garlic, thyme and mushrooms (A$17). What a mouthful, literally, but this makes such a hearty and satisfying breakfast.

Aside from seasoned chefs, there is just something special about the eggs in Australia. They are always perfectly poached,with bright orange yolks that ooze out like liquid gold when you cut into it.

The portions are very generous and despite the temptation, we were way too full by the end of the meal to add anything else to our order.

Well, except that a cafe experience is never complete without a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and he had to have his coffee and me, my hot chocolate.

The cafe latte (A$3.60) is good by Australian standards (usually much higher than Singapore’s) but in comparison to the hot chocolate that I tried at Lindt Cafe in Sydney, I felt that the Lindt Hot Chocolate (A$5.50) here could be richer. Don’t get me wrong though, it was gratifying nonetheless.

We had such an enjoyable experience at Elk Espresso that we headed over to the owners’ new restaurant, Sparrow Eating House at Nobby Beach for dinner during our stay.

If you were wondering, yes, we gave two thumbs up for both establishments, and I can assure you that you wouldn’t want to miss them for the world.

*****

Elk Espresso

Address:

16 Chelsea Avenue

Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia

Tel:

+61 7 5592 2888

Website:

http://www.elkespresso.com

Instagram:

@elkespresso

Opening Hours:

6am – 4pm

Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion Fridays: Fashion Steps Out 2015 @ Orchard

June 12, 2015 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

Encapsulating vibrancy, bustle, and an intoxicating mix of fashion, cuisine and action, world-renowned Orchard Road was host to traffic-stopping style at the Fashion Steps Out @ Orchard event.

Singapore’s renaissance has been 50 years in the making, and the fashion mecca of Singapore was the hotbed for fashionistas, celebrities and models as the entire road was transformed into a giant catwalk showcasing some of the best Asian designers.

Presented
by Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA) and supported by Singapore Tourism
Board and MasterCard, well-known Singaporean celebrities such as Paige Chua (in
white), Belinda Lee (in black) and Ya Hui (in yellow) graced this exciting
annual fashion affair that is into its sixth year.

“With 2015 marking Singapore’s Jubilee year, Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA) rounded up some of our nation’s most celebrated designers and curated a visionary SG Next50 collection for Samsung Fashion Steps Out 2015. The SG Next50 collection was presented at Singapore’s longest catwalk, the iconic Orchard Fashion Runway, together with a showcase of Spring/Summer 2015 collections, which will be available in our Orchard Road stores,” said Mr Mark Shaw, Chairman of ORBA.

“ORBA remains committed to making fashion accessible to all, and our six-week long fashion extravaganza offers something for every visitor to Orchard Road,” he added.

The six-week fashion season encompasses a whole host of activities and shopping rewards to celebrate fashion. Regina and myself were excited to attend the exclusive Fashion Party set within a garden at ION Orchard prior to the glitzy Runway show. The garden featured whimsical swings, a gorgeous swan feature and even a real butterfly garden!

Regina’s outfit matched perfectly with the garden swan theme, hence these beautiful photos of her OOTDs. You can also check out her full OOTD in her previous post here.

As the evening set in, we made our way to the unique lighted stools that lined the road catwalk. All vehicular traffic was stopped specially for this event, and a record number of 176 models showcased the stylish creations along the length of Orchard Road, including the grand opening segment presented by Samsung.

Large poster trucks drove down the road and then stopped in front of the VIP guests, and models stepped out to ambient music as celebrity host and model Junita Simon announced the start of the fashion show.

Said Eugene Goh, Vice President, IT and Mobile, Samsung Electronics Singapore, “Samsung.. believes in finding the perfect blend of beautiful craftsmanship and purpose, similar to how the designers are pushing the boundaries of fashion.”

This year, the thematic catwalk display featured the latest designs from 13 brands: Aimer, Ashley Isham, DEPRESSION, FOX Kids, Francis Cheong, Germain, Mary Katrantzou, max.tan, Moiselle, PAUL, PAULINE.NING, Pleatation and Sean & Sheila.

These included 50 special looks created by acclaimed local Singaporean designers to commemorate SG50, and five celebrated local designers with diverse styles – Francis Cheong, Max Tan, Chiang Xiao Jun of Pleatation, PAULINE.NING and Kenny Lim of DEPRESSION – presented a forward-looking collection representative of their outlook of SG Next50 years.

The looks incorporated show-stopping concepts into wearable pieces (I would definitely wear quite a few of the pieces for work and after-hours!), showcasing the versatility and modernity of the SG Next50 interpretations. I was also impressed with the thought-provoking sharing by the designers on the inspiration behind their collections.

Clean lines, flowy details and minimalistic designs are the essence of PAULINE.NING’s SG Next50 Fashion Futurism Collection. (FashionStepsOut)

“We’re inspired by the key dates in Singapore history. We want to look forward but at the same time, not forgetting the past.” – Kenny and Andrew, the creatives behind the local brand DEPRESSION (FashionStepsOut)

“My collection is to reflect the nation’s even more sophisticated brighter future in fashion and beyond,” says Francis Cheong – the soul behind the modern and dreamy designs in the SG Next50: Fashion Futurism collection. (FashionStepsOut)

“I feel humbled by this opportunity to be able to celebrate SG50 with my own creative discipline together with other creatives. My home has provided me with opportunities to grow the brand.” – Max Tan on his creations with his own label in the SG Next50: Fashion Futurism collection.(FashionStepsOut)

“My collection is drawn with inspiration to a reflection of an individual’s inner self. I believe that how one portrays himself on the outer self, may be different from his inner self.” – Chiang Xiaojun on her creations with Pleatation in the SG Next50: Fashion Futurism collection. (FashionStepsOut)

The many beautiful fashion creations by the designer maestros were a gorgeous concoction of concept fashion and wearable fashion, and the catwalk was complemented with a touch of whimsy as the Road burst into color during numerous segments, such as when models sashayed down with balloons….

and when models showed the audience what living in the tropics was all about!

This year was also the first time that children’s wear was featured, and the cute child models for FOX Kids aged four to eight years old took to the streets in multi-coloured fashion and balloons, eliciting squeals from the adoring audience. The 40 child models were in fact chosen for a fun-filled taste of modelling through a contest ran by FOX Kids in March.

Ashley Isham, world-renowned Singapore designer, has indeed been one of the key fashion maestros in putting Singapore onto the fashion world map, and his Fall / Winter 2015 collection was showcased to much anticipation, hot off the runway from the recent London Fashion Week.

The catwalk had some stunning pieces, and the tongue-in-cheek signages with traffic references such as “Give way to models” and “Look out for fashion police” added to the impact of the entire “road show” (pardon the pun!)

After the show, we were also treated to a special extended time of shopping at the Mandarin Gallery, with special shopping and dining privileges for that evening. Deborah Heng, Group Head and General Manager of MasterCard Singapore said, “MasterCard data show that over sixty percent of consumers do shop offline despite the popularity of online shopping, which shows that the in-store experience is still strongly valued… we are pleased to cardholders offer even greater rewards for shopping along Singapore’s iconic Orchard Road.”

As Ms Tan Yen Nee, Director, Lifestyle Precincts Development, Singapore Tourism Board, shared, “The sixth edition of Fashion Steps Out @ Orchard looks set to enliven Singapore’s iconic shopping belt, with a variety of lifestyle experiences to enjoy.. and in commemoration of SG50, FSO will feature even more local designers and fashion this year.. (including) the Merlion as fashion muse. These element will certainly add another dimension of authenticity and fun for visitors and locals.”

It was an impactful evening, from the scale and scope of the entire event, to the magnitude of the concept and ideology driving the showcase of Singapore as an iconic and cosmopolitan destination. Thank you once again to STB, ORBA, Samsung and MasterCard for the invite, and cheers to great success!

[This post was written by Isabelle, a permanent writer on Shopping Queen’s Haven.]

****

About the writer Isabelle:

An MBTI
personality profile that believes in making the world a better place
(one starfish at a time), Isabelle is a communications professional who
enjoys creating good memories for others, and balances realism with a
healthy dose of joie de vivre and can-do positivity.

****

Beauty, Uncategorized

Beauty: mdd COSMECEUTICAL Skincare Review

June 10, 2015 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

In our relentless quest for beauty, we need to be mindful not to subject our skin, which also happens to be our body’s largest organ, to harsh chemicals that actually do more harm than good. This is the reason why scent-free and paraben-free skincare always tops my list of beauty must-haves.

mdd COSMECEUTICAL skincare falls right into this category. Established over 7 years ago, mdd COSMECEUTICAL aims to create skincare products that suit the ever-changing needs of consumers today through rigorous research and development. Its skincare line is formulated without fragrance and parabens, combining Japanese cutting-edge technology with breakthrough research to ensure that active ingredients penetrate into the deepest layer of our skin to deliver optimal results.

Did you know that Stella Leung, Hong Kong celebrity make-up artist for A-mei and Jacky Cheung, is also a huge fan of MDD products and claims that the brand saved her skin?

Well, it is not hard to understand why. I have been using some of their best-selling skincare products for close to a month now, and I am in love with the brand’s fuss-free approach to achieving good skin in just one step. Now, you can happily bid farewell to the multiple serums or essences and say hello to a simple, effective routine that not only saves you time, but actually works.

1. SKIN PERFECT BRIGHTENING NANO GEL (S$68.95, 60ml)

If you desire brighter skin that glows from within, the Skin Perfect Brightening Nano Gel would be your best friend.

This all-in-one multitasking product contains the following skin-loving ingredients:

1) Vitamin C and Pearl Essence to brighten your skin

2) Seaweed Extract to keep your skin thoroughly moisturized

3) Ceramides to calm down and prevent skin irritations

I have been using this product as a moisturizer twice daily. It repairs, tones, hydrates, primes and protects your skin all at once, and is a life-saver especially when I need to rush out of the house early in the morning.

Its lightweight, gel texture makes it perfect for our humid weather as it absorbs readily into your skin and keeps it plump, hydrated and glowing all day. You may not observe the brightening effects immediately upon usage, but give it about 2 weeks and you’ll notice a brighter, more luminous complexion.

If you are prone to oil seeds (like me!), this would work well with your skin as anything too rich and creamy would lead to an onslaught of oil seeds.

2) SKIN PERFECT CC CREAM (S$31.55, 20ml)

I have tried several CC creams but most pale in comparison to mdd COSMECEUTICAL’s Skin Perfect CC Cream.

Yet another multitasking product, this CC cream is formulated with Marine Collagen and Ceramide complex and acts as a sunscreen (SPF 30), make-up base, anti-aging cream and moisturizer all rolled into one to give you perfect skin without the hassle.

I use this every morning, after the Skin Perfect Brightening Nano Gel and I absolutely adore how it provides full coverage without clogging my pores. It also does a wonderful job of smoothing out fine lines and concealing imperfections such as pigmentation, giving you flawless, air-brushed skin instantly.

I typically dab on an additional layer of CC cream on my upper cheeks to conceal my pigmentation and was pleasantly surprised when some of my friends told me that it seemed like my dark spots had vanished miraculously!

Besides its excellent coverage, I am particularly impressed by its featherlight texture. Good coverage and light, weightless textures usually do not go hand in hand, hence this CC cream is definitely a gem.

Don’t be fooled by its seemingly thick consistency when you first squeeze it out of the tube. It glides on like a dream, gives you the coverage you need and imparts a healthy glow to your skin without any sticky after-feel. This is one product that I highly recommend and would personally purchase when it runs out.

3. HYDRA-INFUSION OKINAWA MASK (S$78.95, 50ml)

Hydrating masks are my favourite as my skin is perpetually dehydrated, all thanks to late nights, frequent traveling and constant exposure to air-conditioning.

The Hydra-infusion Okinawa Mask is the latest addition to my range of hydrating/sleeping masks and I find myself reaching for it at least twice or thrice a week because it hydrates, clarifies, brightens and boosts cell renewal simultaneously, leaving me with soft dewy skin every time. I also love its ultra light gel texture and how it energizes my dull, tired skin and restores radiance.

The active ingredients include nourishing Okinawa deep-sea water and Hyaluronic Acid to lock in moisture, as well as soybean extract to effectively brighten your skin.

You can either apply a thin layer to your skin for 30 minutes and wash it off thereafter or leave it on overnight as a sleeping mask, which is my preferred method. A little goes a long way, and I can foresee that this tub of goodness will last at least six months, even with regular usage.

OVERALL IMPRESSION OF mdd COSMECEUTICAL SKINCARE

I only recommend products that I have personally tested on my skin for an extended period of time, and this time was no exception. What are my overall thoughts on mdd COSMECEUTICAL’s skincare line? Would I recommend this brand?

It is hard to come by multitasking one-step skincare products that suit both our humid climate and our hectic lifestyle. More importantly, mdd COSMECEUTICAL products are scent-free, paraben-free and fuss-free, yet remarkably effective, hence I would highly recommend this skincare range for all the reasons that I have stated above.

After all, who doesn’t love hassle-free skincare that delivers optimal results?

All products are available at www.skinbalance.com.sg, the distributor of MDD Cosmeceutical products.

Enter the code “MDDC Social Launch 6” upon checkout for a special store-wide discount of S$7 valid till 31 July 2015!

For more information on my beauty routine with mdd COSMECUTICAL, watch the video that was filmed in collaboration with Karen below:

mdd COSMECEUTICAL

Website:

http://www.skinbalance.com.sg

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SkinBalanceSG

Personal Thoughts, Uncategorized

Part-time Jobs & Internships in Singapore

June 7, 2015 by Regina Chow 1 Comment

What are you doing during the school holidays? It is a good time to take a break after the exams, go for a short holiday, or even take up a part-time job or internship to make full use of your time before school reopens.

Why should you take up a part-time job or internship?

Good grades may be important, but practical working experience and testimonials from past employers will set you apart from the sea of fresh graduates seeking job opportunities as our job market becomes increasingly competitive.

I remember grabbing every opportunity to take up part-time jobs and internships to build up my resume and make some extra pocket money when I was still schooling eons ago. On hindsight, I realized that besides monetary remuneration and invaluable working experience, I gained a deeper understanding of myself, my strengths and weaknesses and most importantly, what I was looking for in a career upon graduation.

It was an eye-opening experience. I learned that desk bound jobs were not my cup of tea and I really couldn’t sit down for hours on end facing a computer screen or filing documents. On the contrary, I really enjoyed marketing and sales promoter roles where I got to meet and interact with people from all walks of life. It was challenging having to deal with difficult customers from time to time, but being able to put a smile on their faces and turn things around gave me a tremendous sense of satisfaction. Fast forward to today, and yes, if you were wondering, I am currently still in customer-facing role.

What about you? Do
you know what you want to do with your life upon graduation? Some of us
do, but most of us don’t. The fastest and easiest way to get an inkling
of what you would like to do and develop the relevant skills in the process is to embark on a journey of self-discovery
through part-time jobs and internships.

What is the difference between part-time jobs and internships?

The key difference between part-time jobs for students and a Singapore internship is that the latter is generally in line with your field of study and serves to supplement your academic learning. Part-time jobs on the other hand, have less stringent requirements when it comes to hiring students from a certain field, but this doesn’t make them any less challenging or meaningful.

Through part-time jobs and internships, you will also get to assess if a particular industry or corporate culture gels with your personality and career aspirations. With a better understanding of yourself, your environment and the necessary skills required to succeed in an industry of your choice, you will certainly get a head start when it comes to securing your dream job later on.

More importantly, if you take the initiative to do well in your job, connect with your bosses and co-workers and leave them with a positive impression, be it in a part-time job or internship, there’s always a good chance that opportunities would come knocking on your door when full-time positions need to be filled.

Where should you start looking for part-time jobs and internships?

Thanks to technological advancements, information on anything and everything is readily available at the touch of your fingertips these days. A quick desktop research on “part time jobs singapore” and “internship singapore” would give you a better idea of current opportunities in the market and what potential employers are looking for.

Remember, first impressions count, so I thought I would leave you with 5 tips to secure that job/internship:

1. Customize your resume to highlight skills and experiences that are relevant to the job that you are applying for (most candidates tend to omit this critical step.)

2. Highlight your strengths and experiences that are relevant to the job that you’ve applied for in your resume and at the interview

3. Do your due diligence on the company that you’ve applied to prior to the interview

4. Dress appropriately for the interview

5. Go in with a positive attitude. Employers are always on the lookout for people who are eager to learn and contribute.

Hope you found this post useful and here’s wishing you all the best in your job search!

Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion Fridays: Review Australia in Singapore

June 5, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Those of you who have been following my blog may have realized that I have a penchant for Australian designer labels. Their unrivaled quality, workmanship and classic designs that never go out of style ensure that their apparels are worthy wardrobe investments.

If you have an appreciation for the finer things in life, Review Australia is another Australian label that you cannot miss, especially since you can now get hold of their beautiful designs from their Singapore-based website. Plus, free shipping is available for all Singapore orders (limited time only)!

A big thank you once again to Review Australia for dressing me up for my recent Gold Coast trip. The Addie Royce Top and Hanna Skirt are perfect for traveling as they require no ironing and are completely crease-free. When paired together with wedges and a quirky book clutch, both pieces create a casual chic holiday look that exudes femininity and elegance. You could also swap the book clutch for a tote bag, such as the Valentino Rockstud tote pictured above for a more work-appropriate yet fun look.

To complete my holiday look, I added some gold accents in the form of a skinny belt and comfortable diamonte wedges (I always love a touch of bling!). You can also easily mix and match these versatile pieces with other wardrobe staples to recreate various looks for different occasions.

Did you know that there is a story behind every design? The inspiration for every design comes from the design team’s travels around the world, as they relive the romance of a bygone era through Parisian flea markets and vintage stores in London and New York. It is an amazing feeling to be able to indulge in your sense of wanderlust and adventure through their captivating designs.

My first encounter with Review Australia actually took place several years back when I was living in Sydney. You cannot believe how infatuated I was (and still am) with their feminine vintage-inspired designs, complete with their signature bow, lace and jewel embellishments. Review Australia is the epitome of romantic, eclectic style, a style that I absolutely adore. Needless to say, I never looked back.

Addie Royce Top & Hanna Skirt c/o Review Australia // Earrings from Chanel // Bangle from Hermes

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful weekend ahead! In case you were wondering, this set of photos was taken at Marina Mirage in Gold Coast. I’ll also be sharing more about my Gold Coast trip soon, so do keep a lookout for more updates!

Review Australia

http://www.review-australia.sg

Travel, Uncategorized

Travel: Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai Pudong Dining & Spa Experience

June 3, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai Pudong is one of the most beautiful hotels in Shanghai in my opinion. It has the perfect combination of old-world charm with contemporary features and modern finishes, not to mention the killer view of Pudong’s iconic skyscrapers from its infinity pool, made world-famous by the latest James Bond movie, Skyfall 007.

Infinity Pool featured in Skyfall 007

During my recent trip to Shanghai, I had the privilege of dining at Shang-Xi, hosted by the lovely team from Four Seasons Pudong. Located on the second floor of the hotel, Shang-Xi offers fine Chinese cuisine in an exclusive and luxurious setting.

I found myself attracted to the
opulent decor reminiscent of old Shanghai and the intimate ambiance
resulting from just 22 seats for public dining, which affords a
wonderful balance of privacy and interaction.

The highlight of Shang-Xi lies in its five private rooms, each of which is designed to represent a semi-precious stone. The cozy yet elegant rooms are ideal for hosting VIPs or even just a private get-together with family and friends.

Ambience aside, I had one of my most enjoyable dining experiences in China to date. The food was exquisitely prepared and artfully plated, but what struck me most was how the restaurant gave iconic Shanghainese and Chinese dishes a unique twist.

Amuse Bouche

Top-Bottom (Clockwise): Chinese Evergreen Salad with Fresh Crab Meat, Pan-Fried Dough Cake with Spring Onion in Foie Gras, Marinated Chicken in Fragrant Soy Sauce, Jelly Fish Marinated with Aged Vinegar

One of the four appetizers that we had was the Pan-Fried Dough Cake with Spring Onion in Foie Gras, a popular Shanghainese delight that combined both eastern and western elements.

Pan-Fried Dough Cake with Spring Onion in Foie Gras

While you may be
able to find pan-fried dough cake with spring onion on the streets,
Shang-Xi’s Foie Gras version was a refreshing change. The smooth and
creamy foie gras was a wonderful accompaniment to the light and fluffy
dough cakes which were pan-fried to golden perfection.

Double-Boiled Fish Maw Soup with Matsutake and Lycium

Double-Boiled soup is a must-have for me at Chinese restaurants as it is both nutritious and very flavourful. As I had just touched down from a long flight before the meal, a bowl of piping hot soup was a nourishing and comforting way to wind down after a long day. I could taste the savoury goodness of the fish maw and matustake mushrooms with every sip.

The Garoupa fillet, which was up next, was very fresh, tender and aromatic. The citrus notes from the preserved mandarin peel balanced out the fermented garlic flavour beautifully. I loved it as the beauty of this classic Chinese dish lies in its simplicity.

Steamed Star Garoupa Fillet with Fermented Garlic & Preserved Mandarin Peel in Bamboo Red Basket

I would highly recommend the braised pork in brown sauce layered in crispy tofu sheet and if I had to choose my favourite dish for the night, this would probably be it. The braised pork was already delicious on its own, but that delightful crunch from the crispy tofu sheet was the icing on the cake and truly sealed the deal for me.

Braised Pork in Brown Sauce with Layered Crispy Tofu Sheet, Stewed Vegetables with Green Peas and Walnuts

The last dish before dessert was fried rice, and if you are familiar with Chinese cuisine, I am sure you would have heard that fried rice is the true test of a chef’s culinary skills. I was feeling quite full by the end of the meal, but this bowl of fried rice was so addictive it took my breath away. Topped with a dash of flying fish roe, it was bursting with flavours and textures with every bite.

Shang Xi Fried Rice with Shredded Abalone, Conpoy and Seafood

To cleanse the palate after my hearty meal, a light and refreshing dessert in the form of osmanthus jelly with chilled yogurt was served. I was told this dessert is wildly popular with ladies and health-conscious patrons due to the health benefits of osmanthus jelly (including beautiful skin!) and the creative pairing with chilled yogurt. It tastes sinfully delicious, but you can rest assured that this delicious concoction will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Looks like killing two birds with one stone isn’t that challenging a task after all!

Osmanthus Jelly with Chilled Yogurt

After my sumptuous meal, I was invited to the hotel’s stylish FLARE spa for the Orchidee Imperiale Signature Facial.

Entrance to FLARE Spa

A welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the place to indulge in a pampering facial or massage, or a relaxing dip at the infinity pool as you disconnect from the world.

If you need to head out right after, private make-up counters well-stocked with Guerlain beauty products are readily available for use to ensure that you always look your best.

I am always thrilled at the prospect of indulging in a pampering facial after a flight or a long day of meetings and travelling. After a quick change of clothes and a soothing foot bath, I settled comfortably under the covers and let my therapist work her magic as I drifted off to slumberland. What a wonderful way to recharge!

Guerlain’s Orchidee Imperiale range of products which contains orchid extracts to boost cell longevity were used during the facial, accompanied by a gentle massage to improve circulation and aid relaxation.

You can expect to wake up to a smoother, brighter complexion with redefined facial contours immediately after. I felt absolutely refreshed and all ready for my week-long meetings in Shanghai.

Refreshed after the relaxing facial

While I stayed in Puxi this time, I would definitely head back to Four Seasons Hotel Pudong on my next trip, be it for business or leisure, as I came to realize that it took me just under 10 minutes to get from Puxi to Pudong even in peak hour traffic.

I couldn’t be more grateful for the warm reception and hospitality at Four Seasons Hotel Pudong. The immaculate service and attention to detail and aesthetics only made my dining and spa experience all the more memorable. I can’t wait for my next trip to Shanghai, but till then, I thought I’d leave you with a breathtaking view of Pudong from Four Seasons Hotel Pudong’s infinity pool. Isn’t it beautiful?

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai at Pudong

Address:

210 Century Avenue

200120, Pudong District

Shanghai

Tel:

86 21 2036 8888

Website:

http://www.fourseasons.com/pudong/

Beauty, Uncategorized

Beauty: Mermaid Nails by Dazzlette Nails

June 2, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Mermaid nails in pearly, iridescent pastel shades have always been a fascination of mine. There are numerous designs on the internet, but most come in bright turquoise shades and are heavily encrusted with crystals. A little too over the top for work, if you ask me.

When it comes to nails, dainty, feminine designs are right up my alley. Nothing too loud (no turquoise blue) or gaudy lest it risks looking unprofessional, but yet it can’t be plain and boring. This delicate balance is generally hard to achieve, but Koji from Dazzlette Nails literally nailed it with this set of beautiful mermaid nails.

Skills and experience aside, good manicurists have a keen eye for detail and aesthetics. I sent Koji a couple of photos before my manicure to give her an idea of the design that I desired, but instead of replicating it, she gave it a fresh spin with her own interpretation based on my preferences and personal style. The results? Nothing short of fabulous.

I couldn’t stop marveling at how intricate the details were. The inlay method was used to encase the gems and seashells to prevent them from falling out easily. Don’t my nails resemble a work of art? Even JW and my parents, who usually do not pay any attention to my nails, gave the nod of approval.

I love that Dazzlette Nails is centrally located at Bras Brasah Complex, so if you work around the area, you can always pop in for a pampering session during lunch or after work and then bounce back into your schedules.

To give you an even better excuse to pamper your nails, quote my name “REGINA” and you’ll receive a 20% discount on nail art services from now till 30th June!

Dazzlette Nails

Address:

231 Bain Street

Bras Brasah Complex

#01-71

Singapore 180231

Tel:

9099 9928/ 6333 4221

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dazzlette

Instagram:

@dazzlette_nails

Beauty, Uncategorized

Svenson Trichology Hair Products Review

May 25, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

[This post was written by Isabelle, a permanent writer on Shopping Queen’s Haven.]

Isn’t it true that hair completes a look? Perhaps that’s why we always bemoan bad hair days, as we instinctively feel the difference that great hair makes us look and feel.

It was therefore a pleasure to learn more about hair care and hair health from Svenson, the leading expert in solutions in hair and scalp problems with over 40 years of trichological expertise and knowledge. The scalp is actually an extension of our skin, so just as we spend lots of time and effort on our facial care and body care, we should not neglect our scalp. And indeed we’ll be thankful for it later when we do not need to battle hair loss problems, but enjoy the benefits of luscious, healthy, shiny hair!

Debunking Hair Myths

During the Svenson expert talk, they did a careful analysis of my hair and scalp, and also shared many professional tips that debunk hair myths we might have believed in.

Did you know that it is recommended to use combs with wooden bristles, as plastic bristles cause greater static and frizz? When applying styling products, you should also avoid getting them onto the scalp. Also, always wash your hair daily, especially in our hot and humid weather.

I have to admit that many years of hair dye and perms have inevitably caused damage to my hair. More importantly, I also need to continue to take care of my scalp to ensure my hair follicles can grow healthily.

That explained why I was really excited to try the treatments and shampoos, and immediately tried the entire regime as soon as I got home after the Svenson event.

Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment

Firstly, I applied the Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment to unwashed scalp, section by section. Then I used my fingertips to gently massage it into my scalp, left it for 2 minutes, and rinsed it off. So simple!

During the 2 minutes, what did I do? I was reading the label (I really like reading up on products): Svenson products are a concentrated blend of carefully selected botanicals and protective herbs combined with advanced bio-chemical technology, designed to help you achieve healthy scalp and strong beautiful hair. Sounds promising.

Svenson Volumizing Shampoo

Next, I started my hair wash. All it took was a small amount (around 50 cent size) of the Volumizing Shampoo rubbed in palm to create a very nice lather that I massaged through from scalp to ends, then washed.

I loved how the rich lather thoroughly cleansed my hair and scalp without stripping my hair of its natural oils.

Svenson PLGA Total Solution

And finally, the crowning jewel : Svenson’s PLGA Total Solution!

It is one of Svenson’s best-selling hair care treatments, and is a breakthrough Do-It-Yourself home treatment that combines remarkable properties of the rare Loquat leaf and nanotechnology to produce noticeably thicker, fuller-looking hair for those suffering from thinning hair.

The key active compound extracted from the Loquat leaf is Corosolic acid, traditionally used as a herbal medicine. It encourages better blood circulation and manages testosterone level, often the primary cause of hair loss.

The PLGA Total Solution is to be applied daily after hair wash using a light head massage on problem areas, and a typical complete treatment process will take six months of consistent application. But the great news is, from as early as two months, a gradual increase in fine hair growth at alopecia neurotic areas might start to appear.

Do the products work?

Every time after I wash my hair, I experience a huge amount of hair fall. When I shared my concerns with the Svenson Expert, I was assured that hair fall after each hair wash is normal. We should not be afraid to wash our hair daily simply because we are worried about the amount of hair fall each time. After all, as they shared, the hair would fall, regardless of wash or not. Instead, washing daily and then applying the treatment is the proper way to treat and regain healthy scalp and hair. This was indeed reassuring to hear!

And the results speak for themselves. After I finished washing my hair and treating my scalp that night, I did my daily blow dry (remember not to sleep with a wet scalp), and I was so excited with the results that I immediately texted my friend to say it was amazing how my hair felt so light and bouncy. I could truly feel the difference. It was such a pity that night to sleep with my happy-looking hair (or rather, I was happy, haha!). I have been faithfully using the products these 3 weeks, and I can attest to the great results.

Besides using these products, I have been religiously following the Svenson 5-Step Massage to increase circulation, facilitate absorption and release tension.

Remember, do not hesitate to kick-start a good hair and scalp regime. You will certainly reap the benefits for a long time to come!

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About the writer Isabelle:

An MBTI personality profile that believes in making the world a better place (one starfish at a time), Isabelle is a communications professional who enjoys creating good memories for others, and balances realism with a healthy dose of joie de vivre and can-do positivity.

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Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion: 5 Female Celebrity Styles with a Backpack

May 23, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Think
backpacks are only for students? Well, the memo is out: backpacks are back and
they are more chic than ever. You’d be surprised at how many ways you can wear
your backpack with style.

No
longer just meant to carry heavy textbooks, backpacks are now making a
statement as an accessory for the out-and-about girl on the street. With so
many textures, fabrics, prints and colour palettes available for
experimentation, designers are flexing their creative muscles to produce
stylish backpacks worthy of every occasion.

If
you’re aching to switch your handbags or clutches for something comfier, take
your pick from the array of backpacks for women online. But first, check out what the stars are wearing.
Here are 5 celebrities who are also feeling the trend:

1.
Olivia Wilde

Olivia
Wilde’s style has always been utilitarian chic. The brainy and beautiful
actress does not waste time on pointless accessories, and prefers pieces that
are practical yet stylish instead. Here, she carries a limited-edition army
canvas backpack she helped design with Alternative Apparel to fund the Academy
for Peace and Justice in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. At the launch event of the
collection, Olivia teamed her backpack with an A.L.C. printed maxi skirt, a
black racer-back tank top, and brown ankle-strap sandals.”

2.
Bella Thorne

I know,
what a crazy outfit, right? Especially for Bella Thorne, who is usually seen in
sweet dresses and heels. But somehow, this outfit is so outlandish it works.
From the checked sneakers to the bright green jeans to the pink-heart-shaped
sunglasses and bright red Boohoo Natalie backpack, Bella is doing quirky cute
right. Bonus accessory: an adorable puppy.

3.
Mary-Kate Olsen

One
half of the trend-setting Olsen twins, Mary-Kate Olsen flaunts her avant-garde
style here with an embroidered emerald jacket by Dries Van Noten, a loose black
top, dark wash skinnies and a Pendleton leather and fabric backpack. The
backpack lends a touch of laidback earthiness to the elaborate outfit and tames
down the eye-catching jacket for a more casual vibe.

4. Kate
Bosworth

As a
lover of all things pink and girly, I’m in love with Kate Bosworth’s ensemble
here. That furry Isabel Marent sweater is all kinds of cute when matched with
pastel pink shorts and a white backpack from Alexander Wang. To avoid going
overboard with the sweetness, she slipped into a pair of brown ankle boots and
a pair of Ray Ban aviator shades that look sleek with a high ponytail. The
effect is ladylike and smart-casual.

5.
Selena Gomez

Another
proponent of the boots and shorts trend, Selena Gomez goes for a boho-inspired
look with an oversized oatmeal-coloured Free People top and brown knit scarf,
cutoffs and brown ankle boots. The black backpack casually slung from her arm
adds a touch of edginess to the laidback outfit.

Which is your favourite style?

Thanks for reading and have a good weekend ahead!

Fashion, Uncategorized

Singapore Fashion Week OOTD: White on White

May 21, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

May has been a busy month for me but by some stroke of luck, I managed to make it down for one of the shows at Singapore Fashion Week. Here’s what I wore to the Star Creation: The Winners’ Collection fashion show.

The white-on-white trend seems to be here to stay, and it is easy to see why. Clean, sharp and chic, standing out from the crowd with an all white ensemble is a breeze. It also provides the perfect canvas for accessorizing, but if you prefer to keep things simple, go for the minimalist look with just a touch of accessories. If you think the outfit is too white for you, you can always jazz it up with a pop of colour, like I did with my bag and strappy gold heels.

Dress from Keepsake // Cape Blazer from Love Bonito // Heels from Vera Wang // Bag from Hermes

The white geometric tube dress I have on is yet another quality classic piece from Australian label Keepsake. I love how the structured silhouette and asymmetrical hemline add a dose of edginess to the otherwise feminine dress.

Speaking of Australia, I am looking forward to my Gold Coast getaway that’s happening in just a bit. I seem to have so many things on my plate these days and I just need my precious “me” time to relax and recharge.

If you’re interested in what I’ll be up to in Gold Coast, you may wish to follow me on instagram (@reginachow_sg) and snapchat (@reginachow_sg) as I will be sharing instant updates on these two platforms when I’m away!

Have a great weekend ahead!

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About Me

Hi! My name is Regina and I am a style, beauty and travel enthusiast who enjoys writing, photography and letting my creative juices flow.

My blogging journey has been nothing short of exciting. I was recently named the winner of Her World Magazine’s Estee Lauder Style Superstar Awards 2016. My blog was also awarded Best Fashion Blog (Grand Winner) at the Singapore Blog Awards 2014. The year before that, it won Best Online Shopping Blog at the Singapore Blog Awards 2013.

Additionally, it is listed as one of the 10 interesting blogs on Singapore by AsiaWeb Direct (http://www-singapore.com/blogs.htm). I was also featured on both local and international mainstream media for my views on style, fashion and online shopping:

The Straits Times (14 Oct 2014)

The Business Times (14 Oct 2014)

My Paper (13 Oct 2014)

CNBC ("Pricey Singapore: Savvy shoppers go online" - 28 Dec 2014)

For advertorials/partnerships, feel free to contact me at regina.chow@gmail.com.

Thank you!

About Me

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