This founder of stationery studio Paper Tiger Press constantly traipses between her homes in Singapore and LA, and has built a 500-product collection of cult and luxury beauty favourites in the process. The pièces de résistance are shimmery palettes that she puts to the test for her readers online.
What sparked this obsession?
Being a creative person and quite a girly-girl, getting into makeup was just a natural progression from crayons and paint. I think of makeup as an extension of my art supplies.
It also doesn’t help that we have such great access to makeup here in Singapore, and online. And there’s a Sephora just across from our home in Los Angeles.
Any storing tips?
House everything in clear, acrylic drawers with moisture-absorbing sachets in each compartment. I regularly disinfect my powder products with an alcohol spray, wipe down all lipsticks and cream products, and sharpen my pencils to prevent bacterial build-up.
If anything smells off or shows signs of any mold—this is a reality in the tropics—toss it immediately, no matter how new, or how much it costs.
What are y our current loves?
Japanese brand SUQQU for its eyeshadow quads.
They’re finely textured, incredibly complex and perfect for an understated elegant look that personifies Japanese beauty.
Also, Burberry’s Fresh Glow. I’ve used it every day since I got it.
It makes my skin look unbelievably fresh and healthy, as if I’ve been living in a spa. I’m fanatical about skincare as it is, but this has been a game-changer and I’m constantly fighting the urge to rub it all over my body.
What can’t you live without?
Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Powders and illuminating blushes.
What’s your most special piece?
My Guerlain Météorites Voyage Enchanté compact, which was a recent out-of-the-blue gift from my mother.
She’s not into makeup at all, so for her to hunt down this ultra-limited edition compact was just the sweetest gesture.
What are your beauty benchmarks?
A great lipstick that’s hydrating, but not too slippery; a good eyeshadow that goes on pigmented, blends like a dream and doesn’t fade; and the perfect highlighter that gives you a glow visible from space. Subtlety is overrated!
