https://www.scmp.com/rss/16606/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Does Olivia Rodrigo only write hits? If what we’ve heard so far is anything to go by, the answer is a resounding yes. We probably should have suspected as much when the Filipino-American teenager released her first single, Drivers License, a heartbroken ballad with a bridge that demands to be felt. The song had such an impact on pop culture that US comedy skit show Saturday Night Live devoted a whole skit to it. The vocals are full of emotion, buttery smooth, but still retain an element of... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3134351/sour-album-review-olivia-rodrigos-debut-more-lives?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3134351/sour-album-review-olivia-rodrigos-debut-more-lives?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 May 2021 08:29:57 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Ever since Taylor Swift announced that she was going to re-record her first six albums, fans have been going wild on social media, speculating changes she would make to her songs, and decoding Easter eggs like there was no tomorrow. (Swifties have no chill. They pay attention to, and look for hidden messages in, everything! From the number of letters in her tweets, and the earrings she wore, to even how her hair was styled.) Well, today’s the day, and Fearless (Taylor’s Version) is sending those... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3128906/fearless-taylors-version-review-swift-taking-back?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3128906/fearless-taylors-version-review-swift-taking-back?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Apr 2021 07:31:05 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan “Well, she’s not named Taylor Slow” might just be one of the best tweets to come out of 2020. So far, I’ve woken up TWICE this year to the news that Taylor Swift is releasing a surprise album. well, she's not named taylor slow — Cohen is a ghost (@skullmandible) December 10, 2020 To be real with you, I still wasn’t done processing Folklore, and out of the blue, I have to make room for Evermore,” the sister album? What a year! Before diving into the album, I watched the music video for the lead... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3113584/evermore-album-review-taylor-swifts-second-surprise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3113584/evermore-album-review-taylor-swifts-second-surprise?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 11 Dec 2020 08:41:39 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan If you watched the recent Netflix documentary In Wonder, you already know the songs on Shawn Mendes’ fourth studio album are about his frequent collaborator and girlfriend, Camila Cabello. Mendes is madly in love, and Wonder is all about that inescapable feeling. If you’re feeling it, you’re feeling it, and he can’t help but share this joy with the world. The title track begins with ethereal harmonies and has lyrics that even touch upon toxic masculinity. The tender lyrics – “l wonder why I’m... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3112891/wonder-album-review-shawn-mendes-love-camila?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3112891/wonder-album-review-shawn-mendes-love-camila?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 07 Dec 2020 09:39:21 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan The beginning of Shawn Mendes: In Wonder comes straight out of a K-drama - yes, there was a gratuitous shower scene (!), as if you needed a reminder that Shawn is literally the male beauty standard. Have you seen him? He is BEAUTIFUL and has no physical imperfections. HD footage can’t lie. From the trailer and hype surrounding this documentary, the premise of In Wonder was to recap his rise to stardom, and give viewers a glimpse into his relationships (both familial and romantic), his... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3111182/review-shawn-mendes-netflix-documentary-shows?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3111182/review-shawn-mendes-netflix-documentary-shows?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Nov 2020 09:59:32 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan BTS has come to save the day, again! To say 2020 has been bleak is the greatest understatement, – no large gatherings with friends, no travel, no concerts … but on the bright side, we have a tonne of BTS content this year! Nine months after they released Map of the Soul: 7, they have blessed us with another album, BE. It’s astounding how much the K-pop megastars have done this year: TWO albums, several online live concerts and music videos, and all of their usual social media campaigns. Do... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3110812/be-album-review-bts-officially-save-2020-second?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3110812/be-album-review-bts-officially-save-2020-second?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Nov 2020 06:55:16 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Blackpink is Kpop’s biggest girl group right now, so their Netflix documentary Light Up The Sky has a lot to live up to. Not only does it need to satisfy hardcore Blinks who already know all there is to know about the group, but it must also inform casual viewers hoping to understand what all the K-pop fuss is about. The beginning of the film definitely caters to the latter, which makes it a bit boring for anyone with the vaguest idea that the industry exists. There is one moment from this... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3105700/blackpinks-light-sky-review-netflix-documentary?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3105700/blackpinks-light-sky-review-netflix-documentary?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Oct 2020 13:00:15 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan It’s been a long time coming – Blackpink’s debut album has been in the works since the four members met as trainees in 2011. While it has definitely been worth the wait, it has not always been smooth sailing – fans (known as Blinks) have been clamouring for crumbs from their record label YG for the last two years. Last December, Blinks rented a van equipped with a large screen to play Blackpink music videos and tdsplay various demands to drive around YG’s headquarters. That said, Blinks don’t... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3103935/blackpinks-album-album-review-k-pop-stars-bring?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3103935/blackpinks-album-album-review-k-pop-stars-bring?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Oct 2020 13:43:36 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan The seven members of K-pop supergroup SuperM come from some of South Korea’s hottest bands: EXO, Shinee, NCT 127 and WayV. Their first studio album, Super One, came out on September 25 – and it’s almost everything K-pop stans could wish for. The record features 15 tracks, two of which – 100 and Tiger Inside – were released ahead of the album drop, and gave a taste of what was to come: high-energy, feel-good vibes. Opening track One (Monster & Infinity) NCT 127’s Mark is the main rapper in the... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3103678/super-one-review-k-pop-supergroup-superms-debut?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3103678/super-one-review-k-pop-supergroup-superms-debut?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Sep 2020 23:00:24 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Blackbear has bottled the adrenaline rush of going to a concert and distilled it into his latest album. His fifth full-length release, Everything Means Nothing, opens with the iconic Hot Girl Bummer. You’ve heard it before - the first line “Forget you, and you, and you / I hate your friends and they hate me too” is instantly recognisable. The first few bars get your heart racing every time and you're almost always tempted to fist pump. On the surface, this album might come across as a break-up... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3098894/everything-means-nothing-latest-release-blackbear?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3098894/everything-means-nothing-latest-release-blackbear?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:23:21 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan When Ophelia Liu appears on the screen, you pay attention. Is it her artistic talent, her flawless application of make-up, her sense of humour? Maybe it’s because she’s so comfortable in her own skin, you can’t help but wonder what it would be like to be unapologetically yourself. Liu is currently a finalist on the second season of the BBC TV show Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star, where 10 aspiring make-up artists compete for a prestigious three-month contract working under a professional... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/tv/article/3090984/meet-your-new-muse-bbc-glow-finalist-and-make-artist?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/tv/article/3090984/meet-your-new-muse-bbc-glow-finalist-and-make-artist?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Jun 2020 06:23:34 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan To prepare for the release of their latest album, All Time Low revisited their roots by playing a series of intimate, underground shows – with US $5 tickets. Lead singer Alex Gaskarth says he wanted to give back to fans, and to reconnect “on a core level and rekindle the flames to get people buzzing.” Young Post spoke to Gaskarth on Skype following the release of Wake Up, Sunshine. Like many bands from the MySpace era, All Time Low came from humble beginnings. They began as a high-school cover... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/article/3080635/pop-punk-band-all-time-lows-leader-singer-alex-gaskarth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/article/3080635/pop-punk-band-all-time-lows-leader-singer-alex-gaskarth?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Apr 2020 02:54:20 +0000 In his latest single, Kids, Indonesian rapper Rich Brian gamely tells Asian youths that they can do what they want: “Might steal the mic at the Grammys just to say we won/ That everyone can make it, don’t matter where you come from.” At face value, these lyrics offer words of encouragement to Asians wishing to break into the (predominantly white) American entertainment industry. But if you look closer at the songs on his new album, The Sailor, you’ll see just how far this 19-year-old artist has... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3020484/rich-brian-grows-indonesian-rapper-formerly-known-rich?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3020484/rich-brian-grows-indonesian-rapper-formerly-known-rich?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Jul 2019 14:00:14 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan 2018 has been a big year for Asian-American representation in Hollywood, thanks to Asian-led films like summer blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians. However, it ought to be remembered that this recognition is more than simply a “moment”. The push for mainstream representation has been something that Asian Americans have been working on for a long time. Take Wong Fu Productions, for instance: they are one of the most notable names when it comes to representing Asian Americans online. “[Crazy Rich... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3058969/wong-fu-productions-wants-asian-american?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3058969/wong-fu-productions-wants-asian-american?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Dec 2018 07:17:38 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan For their stunning work in their latest album, Identity, Far East Movement was dubbed the Top International Group of 2017 by Billboard Radio China last month. This award is merely the latest in a long list of achievements for the group. They were the first Asian American group to top the US Billboard charts with Like A G6 in 2010. They’ve paved the way for Asian American artists, in an industry that hasn’t always been receptive to Asian talent. The group’s accolades prove they have disrupted the... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3069596/why-far-east-movement-are-so-much-more-asian?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3069596/why-far-east-movement-are-so-much-more-asian?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Feb 2018 23:00:00 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Right off the bat, Sam Tsui’s new album, Trust, is much more daring than anything he’s come out with so far. If you’ve seen the music video for Impatience, then you know exactly what I mean. There’s quite a bit of anticipation and longing in the lyrics, and it’s delightfully catchy and synthy. The only downside is that it’s impossible to sing along to it in its entirety, because Sam’s range is really that impressive. There are quite a few sides of Sam we haven’t seen before as most of us know... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3069599/former-youtube-star-sam-tsuis-new-album-trust-sheds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/music/article/3069599/former-youtube-star-sam-tsuis-new-album-trust-sheds?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Feb 2018 09:53:13 +0000 Glance at the Billboard Hot 100 and you’ll notice that a lot of those hits have something in common: guest appearances. Combining artistic talent and fan bases now seems a sure-fire way to gain publicity. Hip-hop/EDM trio Far East Movement are used to working with musicians from all genres. Justin Bieber, Pitbull, Tyga and Snoop Dogg are among the many household names who appear in their discography. This Asian American trio, which consists of Kev “Kev Nish” Nishimura, James “Prohgress” Roh, and... https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/2042002/far-east-movement-want-be-bridge-between-global-cultures?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/2042002/far-east-movement-want-be-bridge-between-global-cultures?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 02 Nov 2016 00:00:45 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan After four years of writing this column, I can’t believe that I can finally write those two magical words: I’ve graduated – and with both college and departmental honours, I might add. Yes, your girl is finally done with university ... for now at least. To celebrate, I went on a trip to California with my boyfriend and a couple of friends. We spent a full day hiking at Yosemite National Park (where I finally got to see the sights associated with new Mac OS in person!), and then we drove down the... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3066206/letters-dorm-woo-hoo-ive-graduated-now-what?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3066206/letters-dorm-woo-hoo-ive-graduated-now-what?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 25 Apr 2016 07:52:34 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan It’s my last week of school! Yes, you read that right. After four years of whining about the course load to you here in Young Post, the finish line is finally around the corner. It’s very bittersweet. For the first time in a while, I don’t have a set timeline – I won’t have a list of graduation requirements to refer to, or classes to sign up for. But instead of talking about how much work I have before I graduate next Friday (I will say that I am making progress and will be able to complete all... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3058512/letter-dorm-saying-goodbye-special-friend-i-left?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3058512/letter-dorm-saying-goodbye-special-friend-i-left?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 21 Mar 2016 03:03:47 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan College has been a wild ride. I'm graduating in 10 weeks and am nowhere near prepared. In fact, I just fixed up my CV last night and am going to start applying for jobs later this month. It's weird. I actually have to get my act together and be a functional adult. I can't be a "college kid" forever. Classes this quarter are also a lot tougher since they're not exactly the subjects that I'm best at, but, well … it's my last quarter. I've survived three years of college, so I know I can do it. It... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3056812/letters-dorm-your-health-more-important-your-grades?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3056812/letters-dorm-your-health-more-important-your-grades?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 24 Jan 2016 22:00:55 +0000 Candace Kwan Candace Kwan Fall Quarter is nearly over, and it's almost too good to be true. One final exam, paper, and project, and I'll be done. It's that time of the quarter where it's cold, rainy, generally miserable, and the lack of sunlight isn't doing me much good - but I just have to remind myself that salvation is nine days away. I can't wait to get back home to Hong Kong for Christmas. I always feel that Fall Quarter is the most difficult, because it's hard to get back in the swing of things after three months... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3055425/letters-dorm-ill-be-home-christmas?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3055425/letters-dorm-ill-be-home-christmas?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 13 Dec 2015 22:01:13 +0000 I put off schoolwork to see the band All Time Low late last month, and it was 110 per cent worth it. Not only did All Time Low play a killer set, I even bumped into Jack Barakat, the lead guitarist, in the parking lot … and I have the selfie to prove it  I met him briefly two years ago when I interviewed lead singer Alex Gaskarth and drummer Rian Dawson before their show in Hong Kong. Barakat didn't stick around for the interview because he wanted to go back to the dressing room to nap. Going to... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3054523/blowing-some-steam-can-help-clear-your-mind-more?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3054523/blowing-some-steam-can-help-clear-your-mind-more?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 22 Nov 2015 22:00:44 +0000 The Fault in Our Stars is yet another boy-meets-girl flick based on a bestselling novel. It could - rather crassly - be summarised as "Twilight with cancer". Both were adapted from novels with similar fan bases. Shy, slightly cynical and Converse-sporting Hazel (Shailene Woodley) literally bumps into Augustus (Ansel Elgort), at a church support group her mum forces her to attend. He stares at her until she blushes, and calls her beautiful. Sound familiar? Both Hazel and Augustus have had cancer,... https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3056362/fault-our-stars-gorgeous-cliched-review?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/entertainment/movies/article/3056362/fault-our-stars-gorgeous-cliched-review?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 Jul 2014 22:01:07 +0000 Bare beauty BareMinerals' new Ready Makeup Series uses cutting-edge technology and natural ingredients in its new formulations that render chemical binders, fillers and synthetic elements unnecessary. Caffeine and cucumber extracts in the Eyeshadow 2.0 Duos (HK$210) - there are 22 to choose from - reduce puffiness and gently smooth the eye area to promote even application. The Blushes (HK$230), in 10 shades, are water-resistant. Available at bareMinerals counters. Ooh la la chic Nail polish... https://www.scmp.com/article/1014612/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1014612/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Aug 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Keep those lips smokin' hot Sometimes all you need is a subtle touch of glam, Jill Stuart style. Think classic, but with a dramatic twist. The lipsticks (HK$240) in the Jill Stuart Romantic Smoke autumn/winter make-up collection come in five shades (from pale shimmery pinks to a luscious red), are long-lasting and have a light, floral fragrance. To complement defined lips, line your eyes with Stuart's gel eyeliner (HK$200) - the soft, smooth texture ensures a clean line. It is sweat-resistant... https://www.scmp.com/article/1008577/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1008577/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Aug 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Summer in a bottle Summer is the time for water sports and having fun with friends. Carolina Herrera Men has bottled the essence of East Coast elegance in new scent Sport (HK$525/50ml). With warm base notes (sandalwood and oak moss), slightly spicy heart notes (Sichuan pepper and juniper) and light top notes (grapefruit and sage), this is perfect for the young or young at heart. Available at Sogo. All the trimmings It might be time to get out of your haircut rut - a little change never hurt... https://www.scmp.com/article/1008060/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1008060/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Jul 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Superhero polish nails it The Amazing Spider-man OPI Limited-Edition Lacquers are inspired by the superhero. The range of colours (HK$132 each) is a feast for your eyes - as if Andrew Garfield didn't already do the job). The collection comprises six lacquers - white, coral, pink, blue, nickel and yellow-green - and one shatter polish, Shatter The Scales, a deep green shimmer). 'Into The Night' is a standout - it's the perfect shade of midnight blue...not too light or dark. Available at nail... https://www.scmp.com/article/1007492/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1007492/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:00:00 +0000 A smooth natural-looking finish Credit goes to Za for providing hydration without lengthening our morning routine. Their Total Hydration Collection BB Cram (HK$95/20g) creates a smooth, natural-looking finish, moisturises and even protects your skin from the sun (SPF43, PA+++). For added moisture after make-up application, go for the Total Hydration Energy Mist - a spritz or two is like giving your skin a drink. Cheers! Available at Watsons. The only things your nails need Missha's The Style... https://www.scmp.com/article/1006870/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1006870/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 14 Jul 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Natural protection Sunscreen is essential all year round, but most especially during the summer. BareMinerals' New Daily Defence SPF 30 PA++ (HK$260/30g) provides protection from the sun's UVA and UVB rays, facilitates cell turnover and reduces dullness. It's formulated without parabens or synthetic fragrance, so it's super kind to your skin. Wild thyme extract prevents oxidation while birch extract enhances your skin's defence mechanism. Available at bareMinerals counters. Squeaky clean and... https://www.scmp.com/article/1005598/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1005598/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 30 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Summer heat The heat is on in Hong Kong, too - and that calls for products that won't slip and slide under pressure. Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Cream Shadow comes in four summer-ready colors: Copper, Bronze Sugar, Candlelight & Nude Beach (HK$220/3.5g), and can be applied with your fingers. They don't crease and are sweat-resistant - no more smudging! Available at Bobbi Brown counters. Pro-style at home At-home mani/pedis are fun, but store-bought treatments never seem to match up to those used... https://www.scmp.com/article/1004269/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1004269/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Dermagram Blemish Control For deep-cleaning without that dry, taut feeling, consider trying Dermagram's Blemish Control Solution Vacuum Gel Cleanser (HK$170/115ml) - coconut oil promotes rapid purification while removing oil and even tightens pores. The Clarifying Toner from the same line (HK$160/120ml) prevents excess oil secretion, while providing the appropriate amount of moisture for the skin. This ensures a natural matte finish. Available at Dermagram counters. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Wet... https://www.scmp.com/article/1003590/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1003590/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Brush away blemishes Sometimes just washing your face with cleanser isn't enough to get rid of all the impurities - Kanebo's Brush Cleanser Pen (HK$290/6ml) offers a little extra help. The pen-like brush makes application - swirling the essence in circular motions on the nose and chin - easy, and it's a no-brainer addition to your morning and night routines. With vitamin B and other natural extracts, this little pen can unclog and refine pores while providing light hydration. Available at Kanebo... https://www.scmp.com/article/1002906/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1002906/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 02 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Into battle against oily skin L'Oreal's new line promises Pure & Matte skin during the summer. The Bright Charcoal Black Foam (HK$79/100ml) helps stop sebum rebounding after washing and contains salicylic acid to cleanse skin efficiently. If you want a little more oomph, their Charcoal Black Scrub Deep Action (HK$79/100ml) contains beads to deep-cleanse pores. Available at Mannings, Watsons and Sasa. A New York state of mind Carolina Herrera's Body Spray is inspired by New York and comes in a... https://www.scmp.com/article/1002151/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1002151/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 26 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Scent of memories Missha's new perfume collection, L'eau De Missha, features two distinct scents (both HK$432/30ml). Always Be Mine evokes memories of an early morning floral garden with notes of lilies, orchids and violets. Stay Beside Me is fruitier, and the magnolia notes are intended as a reminder of first love. Available at Missha counters. Nature's protection Nature-conscious make-up giant Origins recently made its first foray into BB creams. Its new VitaZing BB Cream (HK$270/50ml) is... https://www.scmp.com/article/1001518/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1001518/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Nude and natural Simple is best - Burberry's Iconic Nudes collection is proof of this. With their four shades of reformulated Lip Mist - Pink Heather, Nude Honey, Nude Peach and Field Rose (HK$245) - this line is sure to be a hit. A sheer wash of colour that enhances the existing pigment in your lips, they're moisturising, lightweight and creamy - what more could you ask for? Available at all Burberry counters. Barely there BareMinerals' face powders have been all the rage for a while now, and... https://www.scmp.com/article/1000923/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1000923/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Put on a happy face Concealer is a quick-fix for blemishes as it temporarily covers imperfections. Fancl's Spot & Clear (HK$198/12g) does a better job - not only does it soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness, but it also helps refine your pores, thus improving the overall condition of your skin. Use with the T-Zone Masks (HK$134/4pc) which are infused with green tea and kiwi extracts to tighten pores and leave skin feeling refreshed. The masks are designed to ensure a snug fit for maximum... https://www.scmp.com/article/1000278/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1000278/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Add glamour with gum When a hair product has the word 'gum' in its name, it's already an indication of its staying power. For a long-lasting yet subtle hold, look no further - L'Oreal Professionnel's play ball working gum (HK$152/100ml) is the hair product you always wished you had. With a fresh scent, gum-like consistency and bright orange packaging, this little tub is sure to bring a bit of fun into your morning routine. Despite its strength, it washes out easily and leaves no residue.... https://www.scmp.com/article/999612/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/999612/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Look good on a budget Need a quick fix for your skin? Leader's Clinic has a new line of masks to meet your needs. There are four types: Collagen Lifting, Vita Bright, Aloe Soothing, Teatree Relaxing, all made with a silk cellulose material to guarantee a snug fit. Dermatologist-formulated face masks at a pocket-friendly price (HK$22.9/pc)? Tried-and-tested with no-frills packaging? Count us in. Available at Mannings. Chic scent oozes class Every girl needs a little black dress...and a pair of... https://www.scmp.com/article/998916/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/998916/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Handy packs for all hands Hand creams are a must-have for every handbag - with The Body Shop's Rose & Almond hand care collection, we're definitely spoiled for choice. Both hand creams come in the same size (HK$59/30ml), and while the Wild Rose Hand Cream contains SPF 15, the Almond Hydrating Cream contains panthenol, a nail-strengthening agent. The Almond Target (HK$139/1.8ml) is a pure oil treatment, which with a fine-tip applicator can help soften cuticles and whiten nail tips. Available at... https://www.scmp.com/article/997735/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997735/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Even coverage, even when it sizzles With Hong Kong's hot and humid weather, foundation may easily slip and slide, or, worse, look caked on. Cue Bobbi Brown's new Long-Wear Even Foundation (HK$420/30ml), which offers high coverage and long-lasting staying power. Its gel base ensures a natural finish and is ideal for normal/combination skin. Available in 10 shades and formulated with SPF 15, this is the must-have skin product for the summer. Available at all Bobbi Brown counters. Make-up's... https://www.scmp.com/article/997115/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997115/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Re-mini-scent of the country Travel-sized editions of classic perfumes - what's not to like? Crabtree & Evelyn's Floral Miniatures Collection is perfect for spring travels. With the Mini Eau de Toilette set (HK$425/ 15ml x 4), you have all four scents (Lily, Lavender, Rosewater and Iris) handy. Available at all Crabtree & Evelyn stores. Spring (facial) cleaning Shu Uemura has released a new line of cleansing oils, reminiscent of Japan's four cherished spring flowers, as a gentle reminder of the... https://www.scmp.com/article/995744/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/995744/wow-factor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Say 'Canto-pop' and most people will turn up their noses. But please, don't try to squeeze the whole genre into a small mould: a mould that screams TV drama tie-ins, sporadic guest appearances or even worse, an over-packaged image that seems to be even louder than the music. While this stereotype of Cantopop may prevail, at least make note of one exception - in the form of newcomer Phil Lam. And he isn't just another pretty poster-boy (and I interviewed him in person - he is pretty) destined to... https://www.scmp.com/article/994460/poster-boy-breaks-mould?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/994460/poster-boy-breaks-mould?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000