Buying Guide

There's diffierence between looking like a hot mess, and looking hot and messy – our sunny weather doesn’t help.

Apirl 2017

1. COOL EFFECT

There’s a difference between looking like a hot mess, and looking hot and messy – our sunny weather doesn’t help. Cue CNP Laboratory’s Aqua Soothing-Gel Cream, which promises to keep you looking fresh. Created with the brand’s patented CNP Aqua Holding System, it helps to keep in skin’s moisture and supply hydration. With allantoin and portulaca plant extracts to relieve skin irritation, this mineral oil-free formulation is easily absorbed, so you get a smooth, dewy complexion instantly. $48.90, from all Guardian outlets and cnpcosmetics.com.sg.

2. DO THE QUICK STEP

Hiking can lift your mood, plus give you back-to-nature feels and strong gams. And getting the right gear starts with your shoes. The North Face’s Ultra series is perfect for fast hikes (short-distance with light loads, accompanied by your besties), with three models that boast special features. The Ultra Fastpack II GTX ($266) is super lightweight – great for brisk walks. Ultra Fastpack II Boa GTX ($296) has a rotatable button that allows for easy tightening of laces, while Ultra GTX Surround ($336) features a breathable, “windowopening” design to keep your feet cool and dry, even when the terrain is wet and muddy. Available from all The North Face, Liv Active, and Running Lab stores, as well as authorised retailers.

3. CARRYING ON IN ROME

The Italian capital brings to mind romance, quality leather and classic design – all the elements that make up Bonia’s Fall/Winter 2016/17 collection. Creative director Pepe Torres also took inspiration from leather brogues, incorporating the perforated pattern into the brand’s Annelise and Dreamer collections. The standout is the Annelise Sling Bag ($435), crafted from calf and Beluga split leather, then dyed in three colours. Gorgeous looks aside, it’s also super-functional with plenty of compartments and pockets. Available at all authorised retailers.

4. BALLET HOUSE COMBO

The whole shoes-must-match-bag style debate can be rather polarising, but it’s all cool when one pairs the latest additions to Repetto’s S/S ’17 leather goods collection with the French house’s famous ﬂats. Carolyn (pictured, $1,990 for the large) has the makings of a classic (it’s softly curved and crafted from ﬁne grain leather), yet comes with an element of fun (it has a detachable bow that can be worn as an accessory). The Royal ($1,290) on the other hand, is great for casual days – it’s a marriage of function (lightweight, soft, two-tone leather) and style (comes in three colours, with a leather tie, reminiscent of silk ribbons worn by ballet apprentices). Available at Repetto boutique at Marina Bay Sands, and The Shoe Salon at L2, Takashimaya D.S.

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