Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
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Fashion
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Beauty
Lifestyle
Personal Thoughts
Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
  • About Me
  • Fashion
  • Travel
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  • Lifestyle
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Hair Trends for Spring 2013

October 15, 2012 by Regina Chow No Comments
Here’re some of the latest trends for Spring 2013. It’s surprising to see that most of the hairstyles, which are hot off the runways by the way, are actually very wearable and relatively easy to style.
Knots
 This sleek and sophisticated chignon was seen at Ralph Lauren. Personally, I would wear this look to work. All you have to do is tie your hair into a bun and tuck in the ends at the nape. Such a quick and easy way to get your hair off your face.
Braids
Need I say more? Braided styles are everyone’s favourite. This particular style here was seen at Herve Leger. This reverse braid (dutch braid) style makes a statement without going over the top. I’m going to try this one of these days!

Low Ponytail
I think the low ponytail style only works for ladies with very long, light coloured hair.  My hair is pretty dark now and no it just doesn’t cut it for me. It makes my hair look like a broom for some reason.
 Slicked Back Hair
The slicked back style was seen at Carolina Herrera, Rodarte and Loewe. Frankly, I am not a fan of this wet look. I think it looks greasy and dirty. It makes everyone look like they haven’t had their hair washed in days! It would have been a different story if less hair product was used and more teasing was done at the crown. 
Rock & Roll Waves
This popular style was spotted at Diane von Feurstenberg, Calvin Klein, 3.1 Philip Lim and the likes. I love center partings (click if you haven’t read). Paired with tousled waves, this style channels a sexy, out-of-bed look that makes you look naturally glamorous. 
I’m tempted to get my hair permed like this, but I figured the easiest way to achieve this is to sleep with your hair bunned up. You’ll have voluminous curls when you wake up! Remember to spritz on some hair spray for longer lasting curls. πŸ˜‰
Which is your favourite style?
(picture credits: Harper’s Bazaar)
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What’s in My Handbag?

October 11, 2012 by Regina Chow 3 Comments
Recently, I decided to reorganize the contents of handbag because it was getting way too heavy for my petite frame and I was starting to get backaches. You know how some girls like to bring their entire bedroom (excluding clothes) out with them? Erm, yes I was guilty of that.
So, after a massive cleanup, I thought I’d share what’s in my handbag now. I can do without a mobile phone (yes I’m serious!), but not without these. These are my absolute must-haves.

(Clockwise from top)
 1) Watsons Baby Wipes – Singaporeans would exclaim at how “auntie” I am, but honestly, I can’t live without wet wipes! It cleans everything and this particular type that I have has the most amazing floral scent.
2) Chanel wallet – I am generally more accustomed to long wallets and have gone through a couple of Prada ones (I still use a long Prada wallet when I’m in Singapore) but this Chanel wallet is so compact and durable, I love using it when I’m overseas.
3) Blink Intensive Tears eyedrops – The climate in Australia is pretty dry, and since I use contact lenses, eye drops are a must for me.  

4) Duo adhesive eyelash glue – I carry this around for emergency touch-ups as I usually have falsies on.

5) Loccitane Cherry Blossom Hand Cream – This was a gift from Felicia because she knew I can’t live without hand creams. I like the light texture, which absorbs into your skin instantly. Comes with a sweet cherry blossom scent too!
6) Jurlique Lavender Hand Cream – I carry 2 hand creams with me in case 1 runs out. I know, I think of everything! Haha. The Jurlique hand cream is richer than the Loccitane one. It’s my holy grail, especially during the cold and dry winter months. It’s probably the best hand cream I’ve ever used and I’m planning to buy another tube soon. 
7) Lucas Pawpaw Ointment – This is one of the best multipurpose balms that you can ever find. I use this as a lipbalm because my lips are perpetually chapped but this works as an ointment for boils, burns, chafing, cuts, cracked skin, gravel, rash, splinters, open wounds, insect bites and nappy rash. Yes I just copied that off the back of the tube. I’ve actually tried it on cracked skin and it works!
8) MAC Angel Lipstick –  I hardly use lipsticks but I carry two around just in case I need that extra perk-me-up on days when I’m tired. This is my favourite nude lipstick as the pinkish undertones ensure that I don’t look pale and sickly.

9) YSL Rouge Volupte #8 – This is a creamy blue-based pink hue with an opaque finish that glides onto your lips effortlessly. I like that it is highly pigmented and one stroke is all you need. The Rouge Volupte range has a very creamy formula which keeps your lips moisturized the entire day. The colour also stays so incredibly well that there are times when I don’t need to touch up even after a meal. I use this on days when I want a stronger lip to lend a touch of colour to my face.  
This is what it looks like on me (I dabbed on the lipstick instead for a more sheer finish):
Hope you enjoyed this post! πŸ™‚
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Coffee and Snacks at Common Ground Cafe

October 10, 2012 by Regina Chow No Comments
Tucked in the corner along the streets of Katoomba is a gem of a cafe waiting to be unraveled.
I’ve heard so much about the beautiful decor of Common Ground Cafe from JW and friends. Coupled with the fact that it is ranked #2 on Tripadvisor’s list of restaurants in Katoomba, it was only natural that I had high expectations of this cafe.

And now for the moment of truth. I was enthralled by my surroundings the moment I stepped foot in this cozy cafe. The rustic decor and folk music wafting through the air reminded me of the set of Lord of the Rings. At that instant, we felt almost like hobbits returning to our humble abode!

We were led to a corner seat by one of the friendly owners (this cafe was set up by a group of friends). The story behind the setting up of this cafe is a meaningful one. The owners envisioned the cafe to be a place where human beings can all see beyond our own differences (wealth, rank etc.) into the hearts of others and eventually find a common ground where our hearts can find peace.

A common misconception that most people have about this place is that it is a Christian cafe. Instead, this cafe is operated by members of a Messianic community called The Twelve Tribes (they believe in Jesus too). Some articles claim that it is a cult that advocates female submission and disciplining children with canes, but from the looks of it, the people here seem more peace-loving and kind than anything else. 
For those of us who grew up in Asian societies, didn’t your parents use the cane on you when you were young? I for one, remember my mum using it on my brother and I when we were naughty, and while I don’t endorse this method of disciplining a child, I knew my mum did it entirely out of good intentions. Caning and lectures usually went hand in hand. But at the end of the day, I guess what matters is that both my brother and I turned out well! πŸ˜‰

 The food here is lovingly made with wholesome ingredients. I had the cheese and tomato melt (A$5.00) while JW had the BBQ Chicken Burger (A$11.50). All in all, I would say the food is very reasonably priced, tasty and not to mention healthy!

According to JW, who’s now a hardcore coffee addict, the coffee here is the best he has tried thus far in the Sydney and Blue Mountains region.  So coffee lovers, now you know where to go.

We liked the cafe so much that we took Felicia there on our next trip during the Leura Festival. More on that in a separate post. πŸ˜‰

 Remember to visit this quaint cafe if you’re planning to visit Katoomba at the Blue Mountains. It’s certainly an experience that you’ll never forget. πŸ˜‰
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How to create a Hair Bow Half Updo

October 7, 2012 by Regina Chow 3 Comments
You can probably think of this post as a continuation of my “How to create a Hair Bump (without hairclips)” post. I love half updos, and this time, I drew inspiration from Pinterest yet again on how to create a hair bow. 
 
I thought I would share this tutorial with everyone because it really works and is incredibly easy to pick up! All you need is a clear elastic band and some bobby pins. πŸ˜‰
Credits: http://blog.hairandmakeupbysteph.com/2012/07/how-to-hair-bow.html
The amazing thing about Pinterest is the wealth of information and pictures that you have access. There’s something for everyone, regardless of where your area of interest lies, be it fashion, interior design, photography, food, inspirational quotes or hair and make-up. 
The list goes on! 
 

Follow Me on Pinterest
 

You can also click on the links below to follow me on:
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Have a wonderful Sunday!
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My Top 3 Picks for Food and Desserts in Sydney

October 5, 2012 by Regina Chow 4 Comments
The food in Sydney is wonderful in general, but if I had to pick my top three favourites, Bills would most certainly take the number one spot.

I have been to Bills on countless occasions and they’ve never failed to impress with their all-day breakfast. Karen is a huge fan of pancakes, hence the moment she arrived in Sydney, we whisked her off to Bills’ Darlinghurst branch for their delectable ricotta hotcakes. We were not only the earliest, but also the only customers there at 7.30 a.m. on a weekend!

It was such a joy to savour these pipping hot fluffy hotcakes topped with honeycomb butter and maple syrup, especially on a chilly Saturday morning.

Just last week, JW and I headed there again, with the aim of trying another popular item on the breakfast menu, the sweetcorn fritters. Crunchy on the outside and bursting with flavours on the inside, the corn fritters are fried to golden perfection and so delicious they leave you wanting more! I wish I could have packed some back to Singapore for Karen because both of us are hopelessly in love with corn fritters. This is one dish that cafes in Singapore should put on their menu!

My second favourite is probably Jeans Chilli Chicken at Eastwood.
A delightful yet potent concoction of spicy chicken and melted cheese, this is one of the most interesting dishes that I’ve tried. Accompanied by a hint of sweetness amidst all the spiciness, I love the crunchy texture of the chicken and the thick stretchy layer of cheese.
My stomach can’t handle spiciness very well, but after mixing the chicken with rice and moulding them into little rice balls, I can eat a few of these at one go!

 
Please excuse JW’s serial killer expression here. Even I find it slightly disturbing.

Finally, my favourite dessert place in Sydney is Adriano Zumbo Pattisier at The Star.

The chef Adriano Zumbo, of Masterchef fame, is the genius behind Zumbarons. For the uninitiated, Zumbarons are the chef’s unique rendition of macarons. These Zumbarons come in the most unusual and unexpected flavours, such as salted butter popcorn, pancake and maple syrup, and peach ice tea, just to name a few.

Unlike its saccharine sweet counterparts, the savoury flavours like salted butter popcorn as well as pancake and maple syrup are what set these lovely confections apart. These two flavours are a breath of fresh air and definitely my favourite of the lot. To me, Zumbarons are perhaps more similar to molecular gastronomy. To be able to taste salted butter popcorn or pancake and maple syrup with each bite is just absolutely amazing! This gets 2 thumbs up from me!

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How to create a Hair Bump (without hairclips!)

October 4, 2012 by Regina Chow 2 Comments
I have been growing out my hair for a while now and it has finally grown past my shoulders! I had permed hair for years (even when my hair was short, I did body perms) and I’m really not used to styling straight hair. In fact, I’m contemplating perming it soon. Straight hair is so flat and limp, which irks me, but at the same time, it has proven to be completely hassle-free. Decisions decisions…
Anyway, besides braiding my hair and tying it up into a pony tail, I’m going to show you my go-to hairstyle on lazy days when I still want to look sufficiently groomed. It’s a half updo which involves a hair bump. I actually learnt how to create a hair bump without using any hair clips at all through this tutorial on Pinterest and it’s such a life-saver!

Are you on Pinterest too? πŸ™‚

Follow Me on Pinterest
 

I posted the link to this tutorial previously, but for your easy reference, I thought I’ll just post the pictures here (including other easy-to-do styles too). πŸ™‚  For the half updo hair bump style, refer to the last 5 pictures below! 

Note: I use clear elastic bands instead of thicker rubber bands shown. They’re softer and make styling so much easier.

Source: cdn.duitang.com via Regina on Pinterest

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Composure and Composition

July 19, 2012 by Regina Chow No Comments
I love the final set of photos taken by KC from Tinydot Photography (Click here for the Facebook page). The mood of these photos evoke a calm, contemplative vibe, which is very reflective of my personality.

It’s incredible how KC has the ability to not just frame a picture, but also capture your personality and emotions on film with such impeccable ease.That’s the trademark of a seasoned photographer with an acute sense of what makes a picture perfect while keeping it real.




Everyone, even the people closest to me, has the impression that nothing can rock my boat because I tend to be calm and composed, even in the most dire of situations. I guess that’s because my head usually rules my heart and when the worst happens, my immediate reaction is to rationalize and think about how to mitigate the negative factors.

If that doesn’t work, it always helps to have a positive attitude, and for this, I have JW to credit because he’s always full of positive energy and appreciative of the little things in life.

I always believe that life is too short to sweat the small stuff, so I try my best not to agonize over something that cannot be changed. That’s the easiest way to stay happy! πŸ™‚

To view the previous series of photos by KC, click on the following links below:

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Vintage 60s &Tiny Dot Photography
The Art of Photography
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Emirates Singapore Derby 2012

July 13, 2012 by Regina Chow No Comments

I’m back in Sydney! While I’m really happy to be back, I am also rather disappointed that I can’t attend the Emirates Singapore Derby 2012 which takes place this coming Sunday. I’ve been looking forward to this event!!

I tried rescheduling my flight the moment Jessie from the Singapore Turf Club invited me. Although I wasn’t able to confirm my attendance then, she still went ahead to send over the invitation which came with a pair of lovely binoculars. Thank you so much, Jessie!


I was thrilled to receive the invitation package as it came beautifully designed, a reflection of the glitz and glamour that awaits you at this high signature event!

The Emirates Singapore Derby is one of the most prestigious and stylish events in Singapore. The event epitomizes the best of racing fashion, with ladies donned in their most extravagant, eye-catching gowns and fascinators! This is certainly an event that’s not to be missed!


Fashion aside, the race will also feature Singapore’s top horses in action. This fun-filled, action-packed event is set to get your adrenalin pumping! So, be sure to get your binoculars ready and soak in the excitement at the Singapore Turf Club this Sunday!

To attend this event, you may wish to purchase the Marquee Package which is now on sale!

Emirates Singapore Derby Marquee Package

Price: $88 per person or $108 with free flow wine and beer

Date: 15 July 2012, Sunday


Venue: Marquee, Singapore Racecourse (air-conditioned)

Time: First race starts at 12.50p.m.

Package includes:
Package includes: Admission to the Marquee, buffet lunch, Racebook, exclusive Emirates souvenirs and complimentary charm bracelet for ladies.
Click here to book your package now!

Quote “SGDerby” upon booking and you’ll receive an exclusive horseshoe gift!


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Sugar Lips

June 30, 2012 by Regina Chow 4 Comments
I’ve been on the lookout for aztec pants for some time now, so you can imagine how happy I was to receive this pair of Cheyenne Aztec Pants, courtesy of Sugar Lips!


Sugar Lips is a California-based online fashion store that manufactures some of the trendiest outfits at pocket-friendly prices. Their products can also be found at major department stores such as Macy’s and Nordstrom’s Dillard’s.

Check them out for more great finds and fashion inspirations!

They are also one of the few online stores that have extensive collaborations with bloggers. Naturally, I was thrilled to be invited to be part of their bloggers affiliate programme!

This set of photos are completely unedited. They were taken at Watson’s Bay, an eastern suburb near Double Bay, where you’ll be treated to breath-taking paranomic views of the coastlines.

I’ll post the scenery photos separately soon. πŸ˜‰

Cheyenne Aztec Pants from Sugar Lips
Metallic silver sweater
Navy fur coat from Zara
Silver pumps from Rubi
Detachable collar from Eternity Loft
Sunglasses from Glebe Markets
Idylle Speedy from Louis Vuitton

I’m currently back in Singapore for work and I foresee that I’ll be crazily busy the next 2 weeks before I head back to Sydney again for some peace and quiet. I hope I’ll have time to meet up with friends before I take off again!

Time to get my engines cranking! Meanwhile, enjoy your weekend guys!

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Surry Hill

June 28, 2012 by Regina Chow No Comments
We visited Reuben Hills, one of Sydney’s most popular cafes last Saturday. Don’t let the shopfront fool you. The moment the door opens, the cafe instantly springs to life!

Reuben Hills is located at Surry Hill, home to most of the hippest cafes in town. As we stood in line for our turn, we realized this is also where the dressiest and most fashionable crowd hang out in Sydney.


Let’s take a peek at the menu, shall we?


The cafe is famous for its coffee, which is rich and potent. Another popular favourite is the salted caramel milkshake. It comes in a gigantic tin cup and one sip is enough to blow your mind.


We shared a table with 2 friendly Australian ladies who not only offered to take a couple shot for us, but also gave us recommendations on places to visit.

The potent concoction. In general, the coffee in Sydney is much better than that in Singapore.

JW had the spice grilled chicken fillet burger. The food here is surprisingly good!

I had the soft baked eggs with shaved jamon. If you’re familiar with Wild Honey in Singapore, this is the equivalent of Tunisian on their menu. I like Wild Honey’s version, but sadly, it pales in comparison to Reuben Hills’.

Reuben Hills
61 Albion Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010
(02) 9211 5556


After filling our tummies, we drove further down the street where all the vintage shops are situated!

Grandma Takes a Trip and Cream on Crown (http://www.creamonline.com.au/) are 2 of the most popular vintage shops in Sydney.


Besides vintage clothes, you’ll also find a record store (http://www.recordstore.com.au/) that specializes in vinyl records.


One of the guys from the store saw how captivated we were by the wall paintings outside and promptly invited us in for a visit.


Here’s what the store looks like.

Thus far, the people whom we have come into contact with have been extremely kind, courteous and friendly. The service staff always serve with a smile and most (if not all) of the time, you can genuinely sense their sincerity when they strike up a conversation with you.

Even the drivers on the road are polite and always ready to give way when you signal. Everyone’s graciousness is so infectious, it’s no wonder Australia is crowned the happiest country in the world!

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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!

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