Harper's Bazaar

MAKEUP: WEE MING USING CHANEL BEAUTY NURSYAZANNA SYAIRA Fluff Bakery What is one lesson you’ve learnt through failure? We opened a Fluff Bakery branch in Kuala Lumpur in 2017 and we closed it in 2019 when the lease was up for renewal. The business was doing okay but the stress of handling two outlets in two countries was too much for me. At that time, it was very crushing but in hindsight, it was a blessing in disguise because if we had to get through Covid-19 in that situation, it would have been very tough. The lesson is that there’s always a silver lining; things happen for a reason. Sometimes, you just need to take a step back to be able to see it. Because of that, I was able to focus more on the business here and grow it. We’ve expanded to a bigger store with a savoury range, and offer cooking and baking classes. What excites you about the industry today? That there are a lot more options for Muslims. Growing up, our best options for cakes were the fast food or supermarket kinds—which were good, don’t get me wrong—but we didn’t have the kind of flavours we now have in the bakery. It excites me that today, there are more young and entrepreneurial Muslim bakers—who went to culinary and pastry schools, who know the right techniques— with exciting visions and who are doing new things. They may be my competitors but I welcome them for [the sake of] the industry. What is a look that makes you feel powerful? I’m in a fitness phase right now so I work out about three or four times a week, and when I put on my Lululemons or my Sweaty Bettys, I really feel like: Yes, I’m ready—let’s crush this workout and take on the world. Blazer; matching vest; matching trousers, COS. Shoes, Roger Vivier. Top; headscarf, Nursyazanna Syaira’s own

STYLE MAKEUP AND HAIR: KEITH BRYANT LEE USING OUAI AND FENTY BEAUTY NAADHIRA ISMAIL Mother Dough Bakery Why do you do what you do? I love seeing things being made from scratch. In the process of making bread and pastries, all of your five senses are activated in the kitchen. The feeling of having a freshly baked croissant or baguette in the morning with coffee, creating a business around that, watching it and the team grow, is a chaotic process. But I enjoy carving out a system from the chaos. What is your first visceral memory of food? As a kid, watching my mother make soft-boiled eggs in the mornings and having my grandmother’s creme caramel for tea. The memories of how they made these simple foods— through acts I find delicate and precious—are forever ingrained in the actions and decisions made in my kitchen. What excites you about the industry today? Firstly, I’m excited that people are now open to new flavours and are bold enough to try out new things. Secondly, in this expansion of flavours in the industry, people are digging deeper into their personal history and heritage to find greater meaning and appreciation for the different tastes they are creating and experiencing. These two things hand-in-hand definitely excite me both as a business owner and a food lover. Top; vest; trousers, Longchamp. Sneakers; ring, Naadhira Ismail’s own

SERINA BAJAJ Kind Kones MAKEUP AND HAIR: KEITH BRYANT LEE USING OUAI AND FENTY BEAUTY. STYLING ASSISTANT: CRYSTAL LIM Blazer; jeans; top; bangle, Serina Bajaj’s own Why do you do what you do? brand, they will come back. It’s important to stick to First and foremost, I want to leave a mark. It can be big what you’re good at, offer products and implement or little, as long as I leave one. This, together with a changes that are feasible, and always take into desire to share my story and the essence of who I am, consideration your team’s input. led me to start a vegan ice cream brand. I also want to set an example for my two little girls—that with a lot What excites you about the industry today? of hard work, enough passion, and a little spunk, There has been a drastic shift over the last few years and the possibilities are endless. I am personally excited about two aspects. First, the explosion of the sustainable food trend. Conscious What is a lesson you have learnt through failure? consumption on a global level is dictating how we’ll be A big lesson I learnt on this journey is that it’s generally eating—we have been and will be shifting even more impossible to please everybody. I used to get so carried towards plant-based foods. The second thing has got to away with each and every request from our customers. do with ethics. As an industry, we must now connect with By offering too much too soon, I got to a point in the consumers differently. Our customers are looking beyond business where I lost focus, was overloading my kitchen products and are increasingly demanding transparency. staff, and even compromised the business operationally. They are willing to understand brand value, and we If your products are good and the customers like your need to be able to communicate that to them. 51 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

FABULOUS Artful knots and playful twists add volume and definition Channel the cool, nonchalant noughties with casual dressy mashups. 20s 30sVividprintsandstrategicallyplacedknotsmakeforfun,party-readylooks. Dress, $39.95, H&M Wallets, about Bodysuit, $529 for a $4,330, Saint set of two, Laurent by Jacquemus Anthony Vaccarello Bag, Salvatore Earrings, Ring, Ferragamo $1,450, Boucheron Givenchy Bag, $4,550, Louis Vuitton Ring, Tory Dress, Stella Sweater, $1,600, Burch McCartney Dolce&Gabbana Cap, Dior iPhone Bracelet, $295, T-shirt, case, Swarovski $990, Kate Gucci Spade New York Watch, Necklace, Cartier Burberry Trousers, Burberry Socks, Skirt, Diesel Skirt, $288, Luiza Versace about $332, Prefall Botto at Farfetch Jacquemus 2022 Skirt, Necklace, $2,850 FRED CELINE Blumarine Scarf, $350, LOEWE Prefall Sunglasses, 2022 $500, LOEWE Boot, Stella Boot, McCartney Versace Cuff, Chanel EASY DOES IT Not worrying about being perfectly done up is key to the Y2K vibe. You do you. WOW FACTOR Turn up the glamour with a sexy edge, but keep it a class act by leaving something to the imagination. 52 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

atEVERY AGE Exude elegance in soft hues and figure-flattering drapes. 40s 50sFluidshapesincoolbluetakeyoufromdaytonightwithease. Headband, Necklace, $940, Saint $1,046, Laurent by Anthony Oscar de la Vaccarello Renta Necklace, Ring, Watch, $1,375, GRAFF $2,120, Gucci Jil Sander Trousers, about $738, Dress, Jeans, $3,020, $1,030, Valentino Tibi at Net-a-Porter Headband, JW Scarf, about $392, Anderson $200, Hair clip, Gigi Burris at Givenchy $615, Net-a-Porter Prada Skirt, $932, Rick Dress, Bikini set, $265, Watch, Dress, Owens Lilies at CELINE Brigitte at Jaeger- $1,372, Farfetch Farfetch LeCoultre Michelle Mason at Top, Farfetch $1,900, LOEWE Brooch, Ring, Marni $1,940, Miu Miu Bag, $4,370, Bottega Veneta Cardigan, Necklace, $29.95, Bvlgari H&M Earrings, Earrings, $1,590, $900, Gucci Bottega Veneta Top, $1,660, Bag, Tory Burch Versace Chloé Prefall 2022 Sandal, Stella Slide, $390, McCartney Dior Kate Spade Prefall 2022 New York BY GRACIA PHANG COOL & COLLECTED All it takes is one knot to lift the look from basic to beguiling. Go for a resort feel with pastels and wicker elements. ONE HIT WONDER Switch from comfy to chic mode by swapping slides for a pair of fancy stilettos. 53 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

FABULOUS AT EVERY AGE HOW TO LOOK EFFORTLESS in PLEATED SKIRTS Adding movement and volume, this classic silhouette only gets better with time PRETTY ROCK FLIRTY CHIC Skirt, $1,365, Chanel Rosie Balmain Skirt, Prada Monse at Farfetch Prefall Assoulin Prefall 2022 2022 Prefall 2022 CUTTING EDGE URBAN SAFARI FULL ON Skirt, Salvatore Burberry Skirt, about $1,789, Sacai Prefall Skirt, $8,200, Ferragamo Prefall 2022 Christopher Kane at 2022 Louis Vuitton Net-a-Porter IN FULL SWING We have Miu Miu to thank for bringing back the pleated skirt— aesthetic, while Chanel kept it easy breezy with an accordion- BY GRACIA PHANG albeit a super-abbreviated version—last season. For the Prefall pleated mini paired with a fitted cardigan that channelled elegant 2022 collections, pleated skirts, which usually conjure up visions yet playful French girl vibes. Rosie Assoulin showed us how to of prepsters or school uniforms, have shrugged off their prim and take corporate wear up a notch with a tonal ensemble of a brick proper reputation. Whether it’s sassy minis or sweeping maxis, a red coat over a peach-coloured plissé maxi. An asymmetric variety of pleated skirts have been spotted on the runway. number from Sacai gets the grunge treatment, teamed with Balmain took the short and sassy route with a houndstooth mini, oversized sweaters, one worn on top and another wrapped complete with a matching coat and bra under an open-knit top. around the waist, completed with combat boots. With the At Burberry, a more modest, knee-length knife-pleat skirt worn plethora of options ranging from short to long, elegant to avant with a cargo jacket and knee-high boots hinted at an urban safari garde, this season’s pleated skirts are primed to please. 54 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

No need for The old-world other bracelets glamour of OPERA or bangles with these GLOVES lend CHAIN-LINK a sexy yet EMBELLISHED GLOVES that sophisticated put the finishing flourish to a touch on a fashion-forward minimalist look. dress. Wrist-length ALL Pair ribbed SUEDE GLOVES HANDS ARM WARMERS add an elegant ON DECK with a matching accent in a tonal tank dress and Crafted in a smorgasbord of ensemble. materials, lengths and styles, let sneakers for a gloves take centrestage in your sportif feel. Opt for boldly accessory arsenal this season COLOURED Delicate LACE SHOP THE GLOVES GLOVES deliver LEATHER an ultra-feminine GLOVES to counterpoint to punch up a sharp tailoring. simple outfit. BY GRACIA PHANG. PHOTOGRAPHY: SHOWBIT Suede gloves, about Lace gloves, Coloured leather Embellished gloves, Arm warmers, $163, Opera gloves, about $536, Manokhi Gucci gloves, LOEWE $1,650, Dolce&Gabbana Nina Ricci at Farfetch $305, Marine Serre 55 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

EDITED BY CHARMAINE HO OFFICE HOURS The brightest sparks to zhuzh up your nine-to-five attire. Photographed by Gan. Styled by Donson Chan 56 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

From top: Pink gold, sapphire and diamond Lucky N°5 necklace; bracelet; ring; white gold and diamond N°5 Drop ring; white gold and diamond N°5 Signature Bottle brooch (on table), Chanel. Dress; bag (on table), Chanel OPPOSITE: (From top) Trinity bangles in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold and diamonds; gold Pasha de Cartier watch; platinum and diamond Cartier Destinée Solitaire ring, Cartier. Dress; boots, Balenciaga

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE: (From top) Rose gold, sapphire and diamond Brume de saphir necklace; white gold, rose gold, sapphire and diamond Two Butterfly Between the Finger ring; rose gold, sapphire and diamond Brume de saphir bracelet, Van Cleef & Arpels. Dress, CELINE

59 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

60 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

From top: Gold and diamond Tiffany HardWear Large Link bracelet; platinum and diamond Tiffany Victoria Mixed Cluster necklace; gold Tiffany HardWear Link necklace; gold, platinum and diamond Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger Paris Flames brooch; Rope Two-Row ring; Sixteen Stone ring; gold Elsa Peretti Bone cuff (medium), Tiffany & Co. Jacket; matching vest; matching trousers, Dolce&Gabbana OPPOSITE: (From top) White gold, chalcedony, black diamond and white diamond Animal Kingdom - Zebra necklace; ethical white gold, sapphire and diamond High Jewellery ring; Ice Cube bangles in ethical white gold; ethical rose gold; ethical white gold and multigem Happy Sport – Animal World watch, Chopard. Blazer; matching trousers, Gucci Model: May Siu/Basic Models Makeup: Wee Ming using Dior Beauty Hair: Aung Apichai using Kevin Murphy

JEWELS & WATCHES Steel and ceramic WANT IT NOW J12 Wanted de Chanel watch, Ever the purveyors of $8,550, Chanel desirability, Chanel has launched a new capsule collection of monochrome Park watches that places its Soo Joo six-letter logo at the centre of their designs. Aptly named Chanel Wanted, the capsule contains watches taken from across the Chanel Horlogerie universe for creations that span the fun-loving charm bracelet watches of Première to the pixel-patterned dial of Boy.Friend, to the steel and leather bangle of Code Coco. For those looking for something even more elevated, the J12 Highly Wanted de Chanel presents a black-lacquer wood box containing six 38mm tone-on-tone J12 watches discreetly set with 35 diamonds (on the rotor and crown). Just five sets are available. HAUTE From left: Wanted de BIJOUX Chanel steel, leather and diamond Code Coco, The latest and most talked-about collections $9,000; steel Boy.Friend watch, $5,650, Chanel MAKE IT FASHION White gold and diamond Tilda’s Zenith has found itself a comfortable bedfellow in Bow earrings; fashion. At the beginning of the year, the Swiss necklace; ring and watch, GRAFF watch brand teamed up with Nona Source—an COLOUR IN THE ITY GRAFF online resale platform that re-values excess fabrics C and textiles from high-luxury fashion captures the White gold and Maisons under the LVMH group—on a versatility of its diamond diamond range of straps for its DEFY Midnight jewellery in a colour-infused Butterfly “Summer in the City” campaign that Silhouette provides plenty of style inspiration. From dual finger women’s watch line. Now, it’s the the carefree stacking of bangles from its ring, Chronomaster that has its turn. There Laurence Graff Signature and Spiral GRAFF collections, to the pairing of the filigree are three colours available: a water- dual-finger rings and sautoirs of its Butterfly repellent “Deep Dive” strap; a cotton- and Wild Flower collections, the results are fun, glamorous and feminine to a T. Add linen blend “Rifle Green” strap and GRAFF’s breadth of designs in each range to the mix and you’ll be a slightly shimmery gold cotton-blend sure to find a design (or two) that speaks to your The Chronomaster “Pale Marigold” strap for more sensibilities. Sport gets dressy with straps made from excess hypebeast occasions. White gold and high fashion fabrics diamond Tilda's Bow necklace, GRAFF 62 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

From top: Titanium, Steel TAG Heuer Monaco rose gold and diamond Purple Dial Limited Edition watch, $10,100, TAG Heuer Tiffany HardWear necklace, $33,500, LOVES... Tiffany & Co. Brand ambassador Rosé … TAG Heuer’s new TAG Heuer fronts the campaign Monaco Purple Dial Limited Edition watch. A rich NOW IN BLACK aubergine-tone gradient dial In the five years since Tiffany & Co. completely transforms the introduced the Tiffany HardWear emblematic 39mm watch’s collection, the chain-link creations have come to be regarded as a sporty looks, while hands with signature of the American jewellery white Super-LumiNova and house, beloved for their artful blend of punk and polish. The two latest two black opaline sub-counters editions in the collection continue to complete the picture. Just 500 deliver on that front but with an unexpectedness that is worth a pieces of this automatic double take. Forged from stark chronograph are available and black titanium, the new bracelet and necklace each it’s sold exclusively at the bear a single diamond pavé brand’s boutiques. rose gold link for a big punch of sophistication to the The YVY straps designs’ street-edge vibes. come in the three colours of brown, beige and black BY CHARMAINE HO THROUGH STRAP THESE ON TIME Sometimes it’s the most unlikely Gucci’s third chapter of its Hortus pairing that results in magic. And Deliciarum high jewellery collection sees that’s precisely what happened when Longines (known for its Creative Director Alessandro Michele timeless, elegant watches) journeying through time and space with influences teamed up with edgy Zurich-based fashion leather that reach back to the mid-19th century and the brand YVY for a fresh take on 1970s; and inspiration coming in the form of Roman its Longines DolceVita. architecture and landscapes to the beauty of the gems Presenting the best of both itself. It’s an esoteric range (more so than the previous worlds, the new watches now chapters) with the jewels almost playing the part of come with an interchangeable double strap in brown, black ‘souvenirs’ gathered from Michele’s mental and beige that’s secured and expeditions—but all with the distinctive look adorned with metal details. Overall, the look recalls the that marks them as being of the House of equestrian world that’s so a Gucci at a glance. part of the Longines universe, while making them utterly right This gold, tanzanite and diamond necklace at home on any city street. features the micro-mosaic technique White gold and multigem cuff, Gucci Gold and Steel Longines multigem DolceVita x YVY watch, $2,390, Longines Hortus Deliciarum – Lionhead earrings, Gucci 63 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

JEWELS & WATCHES Power of Magical Three Lights White gold, yellow White gold and gold, mother-of-pearl, diamond Solstice – onyx and diamond Dazzling Swirl B Blossom bracelet, watch, Piaget $27,300, Louis Vuitton Beauty and the Beasts White gold, mother-of-pearl and diamond Arceau Hermès Story watch, $95,040, Hermès Grey Area White gold, crystal quartz and diamond Chakra earrings, about $8,643, Ananya at Net-a-Porter Glimmer MISH-MASH Between and Glitter MAGIC the Lines White gold and Create your own urban revival with a sports- Rose gold and diamond Tiffany T1 and-sass combo and a whole lot of diamond Lien earrings, $5,600, baubles thrown on Évidence ring, Tiffany & Co. Chaumet Colour Block City Chic White gold, ruby and diamond Ceramic and pink Intertwin ring, $13,940, gold Royal Oak Gemella Jewels Selfwinding Carolina Bucci Limited Edition Double the watch, $78,300, Impact Audemars Piguet Rose gold, carnelian BY CHARMAINE HO and diamond Perlée Couleurs Between the Finger ring, $11,000, Van Cleef & Arpels 64 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BY CHARMAINE HO MUST HAVE HEART-RACING Encased within 689 diamonds is an ultra-thin hand-wound movement and a minute repeater for the ultimate in prestige. Add a sporty twist with hints of red and traffic-stopping checks to perk up the look. White gold, sapphire and diamond Divas’ Dream Finissima Mosaica watch, $596,000, Bvlgari. From top: Cropped top, $3,500, Louis Vuitton. Bag, $5,760, Valentino Garavani. T-shirt, $740, Alexander McQueen. White gold, sapphire and diamond ring, Chopard. Socks, $720, Dior. Skirt, $2,300, Etro at Farfetch. Scarf, $290, Hermès. Heeled sandal, $1,510, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello 65 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

JEWELS & WATCHES Clockwise from left: The Cartier Libre – Morphosis watch features three sides and allows you to choose which to show. Cartier’s Creative Director of Watchmaking, Marie-Laure Cérède. White gold and multi-gem Coussin de Cartier watch, $105,000, Cartier If this year’s showing is an When it comes to indication of anything, its watches, Cartier it’s that Cartier is bent on has a reputation for winning the hearts of being somewhat of a women—not least with crowd-pleaser. Not only its watches. Creative is the Maison known for the generous number Director of Watchmaking of references it unveils each year, the inclusive Marie-Laure Cérède breadth of creations offered also tells of its “a little something for everyone” mentality, with speaks with Charmaine Ho good-looking everyday watches being offered about its 2022 offerings, alongside technical, design-centric numbers. which includes the launch of a brand new collection Panthère de Cartier saw new colours being introduced into the ranks of its small, quartz THE models. Pasha de Cartier was reinforced with new flying tourbillon, moon phase and skeleton WONDER editions alongside new Pasha de Cartier Grilles OF IT ALL with removable protective grids. The Santos now comes in blue PVD; the Santos-Dumont with lacquered bezels; the Ballon Bleu with a graphic sunburst dial design, complete with a number of diamonds thrown on. In this respect, it was business as usual at Cartier this year, with existing collections being revitalised and expanded with new executions and complications. What did come as a surprise, however, was the debut of a new mainstay collection in its already rich stable of timepieces for the first time in many, many years: The Coussin de Cartier, a cushion-shaped watch with a distinctive bezel that acts as a reminder of Cartier’s immense skills as a jeweller. The two limited edition gem- encrusted editions (of just 20 pieces each), for instance, feature a fractal-like bezel—made all the more amazing through a complex construction of intertwining gold 66 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

links that allows it to flex and bend with the wrist. IT’S PART OF MY ROLE AT CARTIER As for the regular Coussins, their distinctive spiral TO INTRODUCE NEW SHAPES FOR bezel uses a new gem-setting technique, the THE VOCABULARY OF TOMORROW, triangular setting, invented for the purpose. AS A WATCHMAKER KNOWN If anything, the Coussin is exemplary of FOR ITS SHAPES. Cartier’s ability to blur the lines between jewellery and watchmaking, and blend its heritage for —MARIE-LAURE CÉRÈDE standout shapes with modernity. Cartier’s Creative Director of Watchmaking Marie-Laure we wanted to offer something [like that] but with Cérède shares what to expect from the Maison more modernity. The watch reminds me of the this year. little bracelets that I used to wear when I was a girl, you know? There is no clasp at all and the Can you please tell us about the new time is hidden away like your own little secret. collection, Coussin de Cartier? We took years to develop and achieve the watch’s Coussin features a new Cartier watch shape elasticity. After that, the challenge was to have that’s inspired by the cushion-cut in jewellery. these [components, each with] three planes with And this is very important to me because a different combination of colours and stones. it’s part of my role at Cartier to not only It was quite difficult to achieve the harmony revive and electrify icons, but to also because two planes [are always showing at any introduce new shapes for the vocabulary given time]. So you have to work on that and of tomorrow, as a watchmaker known for its shapes. It comes from an idea we had at the same time, have each telling a a long time ago about how to introduce different story. innovation into our watchmaking for women and one of my considerations was What is the elastic material that’s having the innovation on the case instead connecting the individual parts? of just the dial. For the jewellery versions, we worked with 3D printing to create a mesh that It’s a very secret recipe; I cannot tell is incredibly flexible and supple, but one that you [laughs]. It took like three years to still lends a strong architecture. It introduces a imagine the right techniques to do this dialogue between the wearer and the watch, and have it still remain fluid and sensual. and speaks of the intimacy of jewellery. But I can’t wait for you to try it on and test it. How does this collection add to the Cartier narrative? From top: Out of all the watches for the year, The introduction of new shapes is The dial of the which excites you the most? very, very important to us—not just as a Métiers d’Art What I like about my job is that there is decorative shape but one that will become – Louis Cartier a balance between everything. I like very a signature of Cartier. The intention was to Zebra and much, for instance, the [Cartier Privé] Tank [leverage] on our uniqueness as a jeweller Giraffe watch Chinoise, because it’s very elegant and and to work the watch as a jeweller. The features reminds me of the Art Deco pillboxes that are volume has been sculpted in a three- mother-of-pearl very much a part of the Cartier universe. It’s the dimensional spiral and the stones are and onyx Tank Chinoise’s 100th birthday [this year]; and it set as we do it in jewellery: Some of marquetry was originally created as a homage to Chinese them have an inverted setting like in our and gold temples. So, this time, when we were looking to jewellery and we have invented a triangular granulation. introduce a skeleton watch, we decided to create setting to integrate [the gems] into the case. Platinum and a tribute to Chinese culture by imagining a kind of diamond Cartier Chinese ideogram in red and black lacquer. I also This year’s Cartier Libre collection seems Privé – Tank love the Indomptables de Cartier collection. What to share the same philosophy. Chinoise watch, I like the most is the humour, as the different I think the Morphosis [of the Libre $133,000; gold animals—the zebra, tiger, crocodile—are face-to- collection] is a very interesting piece. We and multi-gem face as if they’re speaking to each other; and you were at the high jewellery atelier in Paris, and Indomptables don’t know what they are talking about. It’s also we saw really detailed pictures of the very de Cartier very French; like the animal fables of Jean De La famous rock crystal bracelet of Gloria Swanson. watch, Fontaine. So there’s this touch of humour, And really, when we saw it, we were mesmerised $309,000, which is very important, and something that by its elasticity and crystalline nature—I’m sure Cartier you know, that it’s very strange to find elasticity in everyone needs. ■ our high jewellery pieces. The inspiration comes really from that iconic [Cartier] masterpiece, and 67 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

JEWELS & WATCHES B E A D S O F G L O R YHow a humble supportingKeanctnsettehppGeodhinretopothretssftraormrinNgicroe,leFirnanthcee land of gold. I’m standing at the top of a hill facing From top: Gold and Clockwise from top: the beautiful vista of the French lapis lazuli Perlée Gold and diamond Riviera. Expansive (and expensive) Perlée Diamond views of this famous coastline Couleurs necklace, earrings, $17,500; stretch out far as the eye can see— $3,600, Van Cleef & Perlée Couleurs gold, and then some. The calm turquoise Arpels. On the model coral and diamond blue ocean is littered with superyachts is the new rose gold ring, $16,000; gold, and the odd speedboat crossing and Perlée Pearls of Gold lapis lazuli and breaking little white waves across this blue large hoop earrings diamond cuff, ($10,900); medium $31,300; gold, lapis ring ($1,790); small lazuli and diamond ring, $14,500; gold, ring ($1,090); turquoise and Signature ring diamond ring, ($3,600); bangle $14,500, Van ($9,350); and Cleef & Arpels Pearls of Gold bangle ($6,650) Van Cleef & Arpels President and CEO, Nicolas Bos expanse. It’s all very chic and idyllic. And then my view goes downwards into the home of late French fashion designer, Pierre with diamonds, precious stones such as rubies, emeralds and Cardin. Called Palais Bulles, it looks like a sapphires, and materials such as coral, onyx and mother-of- mass of pink rabbit holes clumped together in odd shapes Gold, lapis pearl. They are fun, modern yet feminine, which is in keeping and sizes, spread out across the side of a hill. lazuli and with VCA’s design aesthetic. diamond Inside this pink circular palace of tunnels and Born in 2008, the Perlée collection draws its golden beads rooms, almost like a little Hobbit Land, Van Cleef Perlée from the Maison’s history. These precious spheres have gleamed & Arpels (VCA) have created a night of splendour Couleurs in VCA’s creations since the 1920s, first to emphasise a design for the relaunch of their iconic range of jewels, the or border a stone, before becoming a motif in their own right. Perlée. The reason for the choice of venue is clear— cuff, From 1948 onwards, they increased in size and spread through $31,300, Van Cleef & Arpels the circular enclave of tiny circular rooms gives the Couscous and then Bagatelle collections. Necklaces, bracelets, space-age Barbarella vibes which tie in with the earrings, rings and watches revealed golden beads of various golden beads that form the Perlée. Aiming to be sizes, sometimes associated with precious stones. They also gave as iconic as the brand’s Alhambra four-leaf clover rise to charming animal clips in the “La Boutique” collection, which design, the modern versions of Perlée come combined offered more accessible and playful pieces from 1954 onwards.  68 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

In the 1960s, the jewellery emphasised fluid and flexible shapes, notably thanks to these golden beads. They rolled themselves playfully into braids in the Twist collection, combined with coral, turquoise and cultured pearls. From 1968, they also took their place in the Alhambra collection, surrounding From top: The new VCA’s iconic symbols of luck with a delicate golden contour. Today, Perlée creations the Maison is regularly enriching the Perlée collection with new jewellery shown at the Palais creations through the Perlée Pearls of Gold, Perlée Couleurs, Perlée Bulles in Nice, Diamonds, Perlée Clovers and Perlée Signature lines, and now, watches. France. A vintage Twist necklace from But to get to know the true significance of these golden 1964. The model beads, I spoke to Nicolas Bos, President and CEO of wears the white gold VCA, who explains it so vividly: “Perlée comes from and diamond Perlée a true jeweller’s approach. There’s a strong Diamonds earrings connection between the gold bead design ($46,500); ring of Perlée and Etruscan or ancient Greek ($33,200); and cuff ($545,000). The Little Doe brooch from 1956 jewellery from 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. The granulation details are what SOMETIMES,THE make Etruscan jewellery very interesting. Gold is a fantastic SIMPLEST DESIGNS material to work with as it becomes more sophisticated and attractive ARE MORE COMPLEX if you don’t just use it as a flat surface or in a straight line. These THAN THE MOST beads make the gold react to the light, especially yellow gold. We ORNATE ONES. always had that tradition in our jewellery. It’s also an element of – NICOLAS Alhambra. When we were working on BOS these pieces, we thought it would be interesting to take this decorative element and make it the centrepiece of the design. Geometric and abstract shapes are worked into our designs because our designs, such as the Alhambra, are often figurative. We wanted to create something abstract while still staying true to the aesthetic of Would you ever create a line just the Maison. This is how we started to develop for men? these pieces. It has become a signature collection.” Perlée is more unisex than our other lines. It’s difficult for us to create pure men’s jewellery. We create jewellery Consistency or creativity—what would you choose? that is relevant and whoever wants to wear it, does. In the last five to Everything with Van Cleef is quite consistent though 10 years, we’ve seen some hip-hop celebrities and guys like LeBron some might say there’s a lack of creativity. I would James wearing vintage Alhambra because it is considered an rather say it’s a choice of continuity. It’s not like fashion icon. In the evolution of society and taste, men and women where you need to have novelty. In jewellery and hard today wear what they like. They wear them regardless of whether luxury, you need continuity but you enrich them so you they’re defined as masculine or feminine. develop new designs and pieces. Sometimes, the simplest designs are more complex than the most ornate ones. How did VCA cope with the lockdown and the end of It’s a very important aspect of our philosophy that international travel for a good two years? continuity prevails. I’m quite happy with the results. Van During Covid-19, the main thing was to survive. Our clients were Cleef was the brand that made ornamental stones interested in creativity and reassurance. Within that stability, we appreciated. I’m talking about onyx, mother-of-pearl, wanted to offer a different story. We’re in a world of luxury that is malachite... There is no rule about preciousness. What so global and international, that when you do an event in the US or we call ornamental stones are those that are not faceted and can be Asia and that suddenly stops, you realise how strong you need to be used flat, like in Alhambra, but they’re also precious in their own way locally. Historically, we’ve built this brand slowly and with integrity. We’ve and some of them are very rare. You can’t have a diamond without the invested in countries like Japan, where we’ve been for 50 years. If we facets but you can, with these stones. We contributed to introducing do something, we do it for the long term. In times like this, you realise colour into daywear jewellery. Twenty years ago, daywear jewellery was the importance of the connection with the local customers. You need mainly gold with maybe some diamonds, often low quality diamonds. to keep a one-to-one, respectful discussion with them. In places like We provided an alternative with Alhambra, something colourful but still Europe where success with international travellers is so important, our sophisticated. We wanted to reintroduce coloured precious stones like connection with the locals was not as strong as in countries like France rubies, sapphires and emeralds in this Perlée collection, pairing them and Italy. So we built on that. You need to be global and consistent but with the Perlée beads. also keep that anchor within the local community. ■ 69 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

HOROSCOPE VIRGO LIBRA SCORPIO 24 AUGUST – 23 SEPTEMBER 24 SEPTEMBER – 23 OCTOBER 24 OCTOBER – 22 NOVEMBER You’re growing tired of hearing As a series of mishaps leads you to lose Go out of your way to reassure the whinging of people who feel confidence in somebody else’s skills and family or friends that your latest hugely disadvantaged by their judgement, you’ll wonder whether to seize control adventure needn’t threaten your financial set-up. They also have of any area in which the same mistakes could closest relationships. But also be trouble parting with their cash— occur time and again. But that’s not the answer. honest with yourself about how and as a result, you’ll be tempted Insist on bringing ongoing concerns to a head, to pick up all the bills. Don’t. easy it would be to become You’ll end up feeling resentful and however risky or scary it might seem. distracted by all that’s rare and be on the slippery slope to rifts and ructions. LEO exciting coming on offer. Will you be able to integrate the old S A G I T TA R I U S 24 JULY – 23 AUGUST with the new? You must. 23 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER Rather than keep quiet about an ongoing grievance linked to work or CAPRICORN Someone injecting radical money, voice your objections. And if ideas into a long-term plan others respond with caustic answers, it 22 DECEMBER – 20 JANUARY will infuriate you. However, doesn’t mean you must accept the situation around 11 August, when the as it is and continue to put up with it. Irrespective of how willing Sun confronts Uranus, you Something has to change and you’re the you are to strive within a should be able to step back only one who can do anything about it. tough area, accept that and take a dispassionate there won’t always be view of whatever’s being suggested. Just remember solutions to the problems. raising objections on Also consider the possibility principle could lead to missed opportunities. Aim for balance that if you were to down and open-mindedness. tools to prove a point, you may bring about a good outcome. Sometimes, doing nothing is more productive than trying to do everything. AQUARIUS From top: Legend PISCES of Diamonds white 21 JANUARY – 19 FEBRUARY gold, emerald, 20 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH sapphire and Decisions around finances, diamond Draperie Try not to succumb to the property or the family set-up will Mystérieuse brooch; greed or cunning of others. And seem daunting. However, Mercury white gold, rose befriending Uranus and Pluto should gold and multi-gem certainly don’t compromise give you access to intuition and Double Ruban your own high standards simply insights with which you’ll gain clarity Mystérieux brooch, on even the most complex matter. Van Cleef & Arpels to keep the peace. You have Anyone opposing your views will a reputation to safeguard and eventually come round to your way unfortunate circumstances have of thinking, provided you persist firmly but politely. led you into territory where you don’t belong. If things are unlikely to change, perhaps you need to move on. ARIES TA U R U S GEMINI CANCER BY PETER WATSON 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL 21 APRIL – 21 MAY 22 MAY – 21 JUNE 22 JUNE – 23 JULY It may be time to accept The route to success in a Energy levels may have Differences of opinion the fact that a power particular area will seem become depleted, especially around property or battle exists between guaranteed until a Mars- yourself and somebody Saturn clash in early August within areas where you’re investments will sit uneasily close. Although the presents you with an ethical given little support. True, you’ll with you. And by late August, impact of it is quite subtle, dilemma. Momentarily, you when Saturn opposes Venus, it can make you feel might well be tempted to benefit from cosmic shifts awkward when it’s at its look after your own interests that are about to provide you your patience will run out. worst. Until you find a way rather than anybody else’s. Promise yourself not to to confront it in an open But not for long. You of all with more dynamism and and transparent way, the people know the difference focus than has been the case remain silent for so long that situation won’t improve. between right and wrong. for some while. But you must anger and frustration reach resist the temptation to push boiling point. Far better to speak your mind while you yourself so hard that you suffer from burnout. still sound sane and sensible. 70 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

MAN EDITED BY JEFFREY YAN EARTHLY DELIGHTS DANIEL MICHAEL IS THE PLANT SUPERHERO YOU NEVER THOUGHT YOU NEEDED. AND IF IT WERE UP TO HIM, YOU’D BE GROWING YOUR OWN PRODUCE TOO. BY AZHAR RAHIM. PHOTOGRAPHED BY NATSUKO TERUYA. STYLED BY GRACIA PHANG Jacket; shirt; trousers, Gucci. Ring (worn throughout), Daniel Michael’s own

BAZAAR MAN There are two types of plant people: Those who about commercialising it at all. It was just give a lot of love to their plants, and those who something I was happy to share.” can’t. Now, with travel restrictions mostly lifted, and more people heading out of the But the success of Sustenir, which he saw country for their long-awaited holidays, the first-hand as the Operations Manager and former have found themselves turning into the Head Grower, made him realise that it was latter—and their plants are suffering. That’s possible to turn his knowledge and passion where Daniel Michael comes in. into a business. So, in September 2020, “My friends used to call me about their dead or dying Michael left his role as ClassPass’s corporate plants, and it is mostly because they’ve just returned from sales manager for the Middle East and Asia their travels and their plants have not been receiving much Pacific regions, and in the thick of a global care the entire time,” he shares. pandemic, decided to bring horticulture to The good news is that Michael is always happy to help and the masses. Setting up shop at home, he freely dispenses plant care advice. It is a superpower, so to founded Sprout lab, an e-commerce speak, that has led to people calling him Plant Man Dan—a business that supplies entry-level plant moniker he has embraced since 2013 when he first joined enthusiasts with the tools they need to grow Sustenir, one of Singapore’s first urban farming start-ups. their own produce in the comfort of their “A lot of people used to make jokes about me and call me the own homes. plant man for fun. They’re not entirely wrong, so I have learnt to embrace that identity.” The opportunity, he expounds further, And embrace it he has. Even after leaving the company in came from the public’s growing interest in 2015 to join GuavaPass (a fitness and wellness club aggregator plants, led by the Monstera plant craze on which was later acquired by ClassPass at the start of 2019), social media during the pandemic. “I mean, the nickname stuck and the calls about plants continued. He there was nothing much to do during the says: “Hundreds of people still call or message me about various lockdowns so I think many of us were growing plants in their home. At that time, I never thought going through a spiritual awakening. The interest in plants grew so exponentially that you couldn’t scroll through your social media feed without seeing some sort of a house plant collection being shown.” MIchael’s know-how on growing plants and edibles didn’t come out of nowhere. Born in Melbourne, Australia, the 30-year-old comes from a long line of traditional farmers on both sides of his family. Before immigrating to Australia, his paternal grandparents had their own farm in Cyprus, while his Laos-born mother grew up on one before moving to Melbourne. It’s no surprise then that Michael spent much of his younger life surrounded by cattle and crops. “My paternal grandparents started their own small-scale farm in their backyard. And that is kind of like my roots: Growing up in their home and going through the garden or picking fresh produce like strawberries, tomatoes, oranges and mangoes,” Michael recalls. “They also had massive fig trees in their backyard, and I remember eating the most delicious food that was made from things we had on our farm. It was an amazing experience.” After graduating from RMIT University with a degree in general science, Michael strove to forge his own path. He joined the finance industry as a banking consultant instead of going into farming or following in the footsteps of his father, a chef who owns a couple of restaurants in Australia. Then, at age 21, a client of his, who owned a talent scouting agency, walked into his branch and asked if he wanted to be a model. “I thought about it for a while, and I figured it was a great opportunity, especially because at that 72 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

I WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT PEOPLE SEE WHAT WE HAVE AND UNDERSTAND WHAT THEY ARE BUYING. ANYBODY CAN GROW THEIR OWN PLANTS, AND WHEN 90 PERCENT OF WHAT WE HAVE IN SINGAPORE IS IMPORTED, I DON’T SEE WHY WE CAN’T START GROWING OUR OWN. IT IS A SURVIVAL SKILL. Coat; matching vest, Bottega Veneta OPPOSITE: Cardigan; ring (on right hand), Hermès 73 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN time, I really wanted to travel. So, she took some snaps of me In fact, he admits that he did not really care much about and within a week, I was entered into the Cosmopolitan Model fashion until a recent modelling job for homegrown company Search competition.” The Shirt Bar piqued his interest. “I learnt so much about fabric technology and how there are so many different types Needless to say, the handsome mixed race young man of cotton, for example. I used to have an allergic reaction clinched the male model title and scored a modelling contract when I wore certain types of clothes and had no idea what with CalCarries Models in Hong Kong. For the next three caused it. I finally found out through the gig that I was allergic years, with stints in Thailand and Singapore (which he now to wool.” calls home), Michael would grace the pages of magazines as well as advertisements. He also attributes his interest in fashion to his Hungarian wife, Boglárka Hornyák, or Bee, a fashion model currently While he no longer models full-time, he still does signed to Singapore’s Now Model agency, whom he married in commercial modelling every once in a while. But he is quick to 2020. “She has an extraordinary taste in fashion, and is always point out that he is not a very fashion-savvy person. Laidback game to experiment with different looks, while I’m always just in his approach to life and style in general, he prefers in a t-shirt.” comfortable clothes but can spruce up when the need arises. “I am a super simple guy and my motto is to always go with She did, however, convince him to get a hat. “We went to the flow,” he says. Hat of Cain and I was trying out the hats. I did not buy it in the end but she bought it for MAKEUP AND HAIR: WEE MING USING CHANEL BEAUTY AND SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL. STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: BRANDON CHIA me as a gift later. And, honestly, I love wearing it. Maybe because it reminds me of being a farmer—just not in a straw hat, of course.” Fashion aside, Michael is currently busy tending to his growing business. What started as a small “warehouse” in one of the rooms in his house is now a business that occupies a 1,000sqft space at Pasir Panjang, where he is excited to welcome people to experience starting their own gardens through one of the company’s popular hydroponic systems. “The back part of the warehouse is where the operations is, while the front part is a more experiential space,” he shares. “We are setting up hydroponic systems for people to visualise how they can grow their own plants because I am a big believer of seeing is believing.” Education, Michael adds, is very important when it comes to encouraging people to grow their own produce. “I want to make sure that people see what we have and understand what they are buying. Anybody can grow their own plants, and when 90 percent of what we have in Singapore is imported, I don’t see why we can’t start growing our own. It is a survival skill.” ■ 74 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Sweater, MCM. Ring, Hermès. OPPOSITE: Shirt; shorts, Hermès. Shirt (tied around waist), Brunello Cucinelli. Boots, Polo Ralph Lauren. Socks, stylist’s own

BAZAAR MAN MAKE DO & MEND GIVE THE HOMESPUN AN HAUTE UPGRADE WITH A RIOT OF PATCHWORK AND EMBROIDERY Ball & Marine Serre Chain fall/winter 2022 Necklace, Lizzie Patch Up Mandler Job Gilet, Palm Angels Happy Feet Sneaker, $825, Golden Goose Buckle Up Belt, $1,500, ERL at Farfetch On the Bead Bracelet, $215, Completedworks Suede Sensation Jacket, Gucci A Stitch Earn Your in Time Stripes Hat, about Jeans, $1,120, $380, Ahluwalia at By Walid Farfetch Precious BY JEFFREY YAN Cargo Bag, $4,800, Amiri 76 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BY JEFFREY YAN MOST WANTED TAG TEAM MIUCCIA PRADA AND RAF SIMONS TOOK A NEWLY ESTABLISHED PRADA ICON AND MADE IT TWICE AS NICE For the fall/winter 2022 season, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons took as their starting point the humble and the familiar, which they then exaggerated and elevated into something new. The duo trained their laser-sharp focus on two kinds of worker uniforms—corporate suits and utilitarian boilersuits. The former was given giant shoulders, nipped waists and plush bands of faux fur; the latter rendered in slick leathers and sweetly acidic colours. That train of thought was explored further in the accessories, with Prada and Simons twisting form and function in a way that enhances both. Best case in point: The Prada Triangle bag, turned into a double carrier this season—one in the House’s signature Saffiano leather and the other in smooth calfskin—with an additional detachable pouch looped through the strap like a utility belt. ■ The Triangle double bag is $5,100 and is available at Prada, #01-01 & #02-15, ION Orchard (tel: 6509 3113). 77 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN SLAM DUNK First launched in 2020 under the stewardship of Virgil Abloh, Louis Vuitton’s collaboration with the National Basketball Association has been reprised for the third time—this year’s edition is inspired by travel and dedicated to luggage. The capsule includes fresh reiterations of Louis Vuitton x NBA mainstays—the Christopher backpack, the Keepall 55 duffle, the Dopp Kit—as well as new additions like the Malle Courrier trunk and a watch case with capacity for eight timepieces. This season, the pieces come in electric blue Taurillon leather embossed with the monogram and a new basketball-shaped logo emblazoned with the NBA colours. A sharply From top: Backpack, $7,100; Dopp Kit, tailored blazer $2,620; trunk, $110,000, Louis Vuitton x NBA worn with retro flourishes IT’S A at Gucci HA HA HA MAN’S Suiting WORLD STEPPING with a THE BRANDS, THE TRENDS AND OUT IN STYLES playful THE BUZZIEST NEWS TO KNOW NOW twist is a Some of Harry Styles’ most memorable key look looks have been courtesy of Gucci’s Alessandro Michele. So the surprise isn’t that GARDEN VARIETY Sandals, $2,700, the pair have finally, officially collaborated Dior by Birkenstock but that it has taken this long. Presented during Christian Dior’s passion for gardening is the most recent Men’s Fashion Week in Milan, well-known—a love the designer Gucci HA HA HA is a collection born from the cultivated from his childhood in creative exchanges between the two friends— its name references both their initials (Harry Granville, at the family home by the sea. and Alessandro) as well as the textual This season, Kim Jones pays tribute to translation of the laughing emoji that peppers that passion with a Dior Men collection their WhatsApp conversations. The clothes are the kind Styles regularly sports—dandy that takes gardening as its starting point, with a dash of whimsy. There are plenty of resulting in functional, easy-to-wear ’70s-inspired tailoring with romantic flourishes pieces awash in the gentle hues of alongside treated denim, richly coloured velvets, printed pyjamas, and tartan kilts with nature. It also led to a collaboration with leather straps. The duo’s more playful side Birkenstock. Jones reinvented two of the comes through the prints which take the form German brand’s most classic footwear— of rabbits, hearts and teddy bears. the Milano outdoor sandal and the Tokio protective walking shoe—in felt or suede, Michele and Styles paired rendered in both seasonal hues and whimsical signature Dior Gray. The highlight of the prints with collaboration is a special version of the relaxed silhouettes Tokio model, hand-embroidered with delicate sprays of flowers. BY JEFFREY YAN 78 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

REI KAWAKUBO WALTER VAN BEIRENDONCK ICONS & ICONOCLASTS WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE MAVERICKS WHO HAVE ALWAYS MARCHED TO THE BEAT OF THEIR OWN DRUM—AND BROUGHT TO LIFE NEW IDEALS OF BEAUTY ALONG THE WAY. BY JEFFREY YAN In an industry obsessed with change and newness, sometimes the most daring thing to do is to stick to one’s guns. Some of the most visionary designers working today are the ones who have held fast to their aesthetic vocabularies and values for decades—unwavering in how they want to see the world regardless of the flow of time and trends around them. On the back of their singular visions, designers like Rick, Rei and Yohji (so influential that they are recognisable just by their first names) have built cult-status brands that are commercially successful, critically adored, and creatively uncompromising—all while remaining independent in a conglomerate-dominated industry. When they first arrived on the scene, these designers were a shock to the system. While their visual handwritings are by now familiar, their work still carries the thrill of something wondrous. Even today, the beauty they have championed their entire careers remains outside convention—though their conviction, and how it carries through in every aspect of their brands, is looking more and more compelling in an increasingly homogeneous market. Season after season, Rick Owens, Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto and Walter Van Beirendonck receive outsized attention. Their work might be bold and unapologetic, but they are not mere theatrics—the clothes are packed with meaning and emotional resonance, lending them not just relevance but urgency. Through the medium of cloth, these designers explore ideas of gender, fashion and beauty, as well as issues cultural, sociopolitical and personal. Their visions are all-encompassing—these designers don’t just think about how garments look on the body, but how those bodies exist, move and take up space in the world. In some cases, their visions are so fully realised that they have built entire universes in which to contextualise their clothes—such as Owens, with his furniture and objects for the home; or Kawakubo, with her global network of Dover Street Market stores. 79 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN RICK OWENS COMME DES GARCONS An American in Paris, Owens is a designer that one cannot fit easily, The arrival of Rei Kawakubo in Paris in the early Eighties ushered if at all, into a box. Like the best of American sportswear, his clothes in a look that went against every established fashion notion that are built with an innate sense of athleticism and movement. But prevailed then. While the likes of Claude Montana and Thierry Mugler instead of sunny and breezy, Owens’s vision is dark, twisted and were amping up colour, blowing up shoulders, cinching waists and severe—think techno club instead of country club. It is an aesthetic chopping off hemlines, Kawakubo—and later a cohort of her fellow he has honed since he started his brand in the early Nineties—part Japanese designers—presented silhouettes that were strange and silver screen glamour, part Brutalist edge; Madeleine Vionnet meets misshapen to the European eye, rendered in sombre, monochromatic Edward Scissorhands. In the noughties and early 2010s, Owens’ black. In the decades since, Kawakubo has, through her work at shrunken leather jackets, drop-crotch pants and mutant sneakers Comme des Garçons, questioned and erased the boundaries between were everywhere. Today, the designer has evolved his exploration fashion and art, male and female, past and present, garment and of volume to focus more on giant-shouldered coats that protect sculpture. Her latest collection sees leopard print laid over camo, the body; and kinky, slinky pieces that show it off. The throughline corduroys worn with silk fringe, and pyjamas hybridised with is Owens’ alluring blend of the primal and paganistic with the fetish leathers. futuristic and synthetic—peppered with a touch of the grotesque. Headed by his wife and partner, Michele Lamy, the Rick Owens line of furniture extends that aesthetic into the world of interiors. 80 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

YOHJI YAMAMOTO WALTER VAN BEIRENDONCK Yamamoto made his way onto the international fashion scene shortly Part of the Antwerp Six who gained prominence in the mid-Eighties, after Kawakubo, and like her, he was enamoured with the colour black Van Beirendonck—with his cartoons-meet-couture aesthetic—has and its infinite variations. Yamamoto was also interested in expanding been one of the most impactful outsider voices in fashion. His might society’s idea of masculinity and male beauty. Long before diversity not be a household name but his legacy burns bright in the designers became an industry buzzword, Yamamoto was already showcasing who came after him—whether it’s the ones he taught (at the Royal models of different ages, shapes and shades on his runways. He clad Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp) such as Raf Simons and Craig Green; them in cinematic clothes that were both rugged and romantic, at or the ones he inspired, like Charles Jeffrey and Virgil Abloh. Much once incredibly rich and impeccably restrained. Oversized suits may of what is trending today can be traced back to Van Beirendonck— have been the look du jour the past few years, but they have always the way classical codes can be turned on their heads by colour, cut been part of the Yamamoto oeuvre; in his hands, they are always and decoration; or the way serious subjects can be tackled through elegant, never comically exaggerated—which pretty much sums up idiosyncratic clothes. Till today, the designer’s work is defined by the designer’s approach to fashion. The designer’s fall/winter 2022 an electric tension—humour, whimsy and irony shot through with collection riffs on 19th-century menswear, but imbues it with the undercurrents of queer sexuality, fetish play and punk rock. In his nonchalance of 21st-century streetwear. latest collection, the designer melds sportswear with space gear, and menace with manga—to thrilling effect. ■ 81 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN THE LIMITLESS VISION OF VIRGIL ABLOH With a revamped retrospective set to arrive at New York’s Brooklyn Museum, the late artist and designer’s collaborators open up about why —and how—his work continues to live on E verything Virgil Abloh did—from his work designing Virgil Abloh for Off-White and as Artistic Director for menswear at Louis Vuitton, to his forays into art, music, film, and design, to his collaborations with brands like Nike and IKEA—seemed irrepressibly democratic and forward-moving. It’s a concept central to the new Brooklyn Museum edition of the touring exhibition “Virgil Abloh: ‘Figures of Speech’”, which opened on 1 July. “ ‘Figures of Speech’ ”, which debuted in Chicago in 2019 before travelling to Atlanta, Boston, and Doha, was originally conceived as a midcareer retrospective of Abloh’s boundary- breaking oeuvre as an artist, designer, and creative polymath. But following his untimely death from a rare form of cancer last November at the age of just 41, it now functions as a celebration of the work of a prolific creator who succeeded not just by bringing his own visions to life but by sharing the blueprint for others to do the same for themselves. Curated by Antwaun Sargent, the Brooklyn Museum iteration will feature items and artifacts arranged on tables instead of walls, and a new “social sculpture” for hosting talks—a literal and figurative manifestation of the sense of community Abloh strove to cultivate, where everyone was welcomed in. This is how Abloh worked too. Ideas came from dozens of lively, freewheeling WhatsApp group chats. It was a system that not only provided an alternative to the tedium of meetings and emails but also seemed to push everyone around him to a freer creative place where no time zone was a barrier and anyone with a good idea was in. Many of these chats are still going—and ideas that have emerged from them continue to be realised: Both the Spring 2023 Louis Vuitton menswear and Off-White collections will feature Abloh’s work, and a makeup launch, films, and other projects are also in the pipeline. From left: Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 sneakers (2022); Off-White Paperwork fragrance TEXT: ALISON S. COHN. PHOTOGRAPHY: (ABLOH) (2022); Louis Vuitton LV2 Keepall bag (2020); Virgil Abloh for IKEA “Blue” rug prototype (2018) BOGDAN “CHILLDAYS” PLAKOV; (RUG) VIRGIL ABLOH: “FIGURES OF SPEECH”, PUBLISHED BY 82 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CHICAGO AND DELMONICO BOOKS • D.A.P.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (PRESS PLATE AND CHAIR) VIRGIL ABLOH: “FIGURES OF SPEECH”, PUBLISHED BY Here, 16 of Abloh’s friends and creative compatriots discuss TAKASHI MURAKAMI, artist: We spoke on a panel together once, MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CHICAGO AND DELMONICO BOOKS • D.A.P. what it was like to make and do alongside the man they called and Virgil said, “When I saw Takashi’s collaboration with Louis “V”—and how they plan to keep it all going. Vuitton at the Chicago store, together with Kanye and others, TAWANDA CHIWESHE, Studio Director of Alaska Alaska: we wondered for the first time what art was. Back then, Chicago In hindsight, it’s funny that we managed to connect via email didn’t have places for people like us to experience art—and there because V hated email. Shortly after finishing a degree in it was, Takashi’s multicolour monogram, being displayed at an product design, I managed to correctly guess his email and write LV boutique.” I asked whether he would be up for a collaboration to express my interest in working for him. He replied, and we with me, and he said, “Sure, of course. When?” started texting. A month or so later, I remember waking up to NIGO, designer: When Virgil came to visit me at my atelier in a message saying, “I’ve got us a real project.” I was like, “Okay, Tokyo, he asked me, “Why don’t we do something together?” cool. What is it?” And he said, “IKEA.” That was the beginning The idea we hit upon was Louis Vuitton as thought of by the two of Alaska Alaska, V’s personal studio that oversees his design of us. So there is a repetition: Louis Vuitton, Louis Vuitton—and projects and collaborations outside of fashion—everything from that became LV2. a Mercedes G-Wagon prototype to packaging for Off-White’s KEVIN MCINTOSH JR., former Off-White publicist: What new beauty line, Paperwork. impressed me most about V’s approach to Off-White was that ANTWAUN SARGENT, Brooklyn Museum exhibition curator: he was making fashion inclusive and getting everyone’s point Virgil was a collaboration artist. He operated in what curator Hans of view. When we went to magazines to preview the collection, Ulrich Obrist calls a “post-medium condition”, which means that he didn’t want to meet just the Editor-in-Chief; he wanted to go he did not allow traditional boundaries—what an artist should be, into the fashion closet and talk to assistants about where they what an architect should be, what a fashion designer should be, were hanging out, what they were into. what an industrial designer should be, what a furniture designer CHLOE SULTAN, cofounder of Architecture and Architecture Films: should be, what a musician should be—to narrow his focus. In 2015, I was working at the Museum of Modern Art. There was a Yoko MAHFUZ SULTAN, architect and cofounder of Abloh’s creative Ono retrospective on, and I co-organised a reinterpretation of one of agency, Architecture, and film studio, Architecture Films: Virgil her performance pieces from the ’60s called Morning Piece. She gave was an artist first and ultimately a system builder. I often found an improvised performance at sunrise while Virgil DJed. The evening the different descriptions of him, like “creative director” or before the event, I ran into the show’s curators in the elevator, and “designer”, limiting. He studied civil engineering and architecture, they said, “Yoko’s very excited. How many people are coming? Is it like and he created entire operations that can output water bottles, 50?” Cut to 4.30am, and there are 1,500 kids lined up around the block films or sneakers as well as clothes. in storming rain. That’s the kind of power he had to bring SAMIR BANTAL, Creative Director of architecture research people together. and design studio AMO: One of Virgil’s favorite phrases was BENJI B, Louis Vuitton Music Director: For the Chicago opening “question everything”. As an architect, you begin by posing of “‘Figures of Speech’” in 2019, we all flew in from around the questions. If you’re building say, a library, you ask, “What is a world. We learned that all of these projects that V had done are library? And is this idea of a library that we currently are using all part of the same sentence. Not only are we all collaborating the right one, or is it outdated, and do we have to rethink it?” on each project, but all of the projects are in conversation with Virgil felt that the architectural process could be used almost like one another to create this one big vision. I don’t even talk about a universal language and applied to different fields. him in the past tense because these collaborations are well and HERON PRESTON, former Donda Art Director: At Donda truly alive and always will be. [rapper Ye’s creative agency, where Abloh served as Creative Director before launching his own projects], Virgil was in MICHAEL DARLING, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago charge of HR, in a way, just finding cool people that Ye exhibition curator: I wanted to show the different aspects should work with. Matthew Williams, Justin Saunders and of Virgil’s career: the music part, the design part, and the Jerry Lorenzo were all there, and we approached each of Ye’s requests as a team, whether it be “Hey, there’s fashion part. And I even wanted to tell a bigger and a new album coming out; what should the album cover deeper story of the fashion side, but Virgil really wanted be?” or “Hey, I’m performing at Coachella; what should the stage design be?” We would all jump on Photoshop and start whipping up some vibes. From left: Abloh, Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid, Off-White Fall 2019. Press plate for Kanye West and Jay-Z’s Watch The Throne album, for which Abloh received a 2011 Grammy nomination for art direction. Off-White Spring 2016. Abloh’s Color Gradient chair (2018). A flag featuring one of Abloh’s favourite catchphrases, Off-White Fall 2022 83 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN to flatten hierarchies between those categories and suggest that Vuitton show, “That was the best one because it was basically all PHOTOGRAPHY: (ABLOH) BOGDAN “CHILLDAYS” PLAKOV; (STILL) ARCHITECTURE FILMS; (TIMES NATURE) KEI OKANO, COURTESY OF GAGOSIAN they’re all equal. you.” That was the show inspired by childlike wonderment, with MAHFUZ SULTAN: The Brooklyn Museum presentation will the bouncy castle and the chairs so high that your feet didn’t take that idea further by reorganising the entire exhibit as a touch the ground. We arranged songs by everyone from Arca table show, where almost all of the objects are laid side by side. and Max Richter to Slum Village and some UK grime, and it was You can see a sneaker next to a garment next to a speaker he basically a DJ set performed live by a string orchestra. designed. The objects will be as contiguous as possible. CHLOE SULTAN: Film was such an inspiring part of Virgil’s TAWANDE CHIWISHE: They’re very long sanded plywood practice in the last year of his life. It’s of course something that he tables, metres long. had worked with on and off, but after he started doing collection ANTWAUN SARGENT: We’re putting it out there for people to videos instead of runway shows during the pandemic, I think a commune with the objects in a way that I think sort of defies light bulb went off. Mahfuz and I started Architecture Films with standard museum practice. Virgil to centre stories that we cared about and to nurture Black MAHFUZ SULTAN: There’s going to be a “social sculpture” in the and POC filmmaking talent. Our first project was Sub Eleven middle of the museum’s atrium. Virgil really wanted that centre Seconds—a documentary-short/conceptual-art film featuring space to be a place for his community to come in and hold court, runner Sha’Carri Richardson, which Bafic directed—and we hope so to speak. He planned to invite artists he was in dialogue with to make many more. to activate the exhibition through talks and other events. BAFIC, filmmaker: Sub Eleven Seconds is a meditation on time S.M., Off-White womenswear Design Director: I live in Milan, and from someone who is always trying to make the shortest amount Virgil was always around the world, so we actually didn’t meet in of time. We finished it while V was still here and it got accepted person for our first six months working together. We technically into The Sundance Film Festival. He was super happy about that. met prepping for the first Off-White Paris runway show, for Spring MAHFUZ SULTAN: WhatsApp started out first as a medium of 2016. We always worked in the same way: WhatsApp, WhatsApp, communication for us, and then it became a methodology unto WhatsApp, day and night, both always awake sharing ideas, itself—a methodology that we all use, even when he’s no longer images, and sketches—our own sort of “epistolary workshop”. in the chat. MAHFUZ SULTAN: WhatsApp is the preferred means of BENJI B: Virgil was an absolute master of curating combinations communication for the people in V’s orbit. We are based of people to create products or experiences. And thanks to him, everywhere. Take, for example, the team for Amen Break, I’m still collaborating with all of those people, so his work will a short film I directed for the Louis Vuitton Spring 2022 always live on through us. collection. Architecture, the creative agency my wife, Chloe, MAHFUZ SULTAN: I think when you work with him, you start and I cofounded with him, is in L.A., as are the set designers, to unconsciously make so many binary decisions at such a fast PlayLab. The graphic designer, Marco Fasolini of Studio Temp, pace. Once you get accustomed to doing that, working within is in Bergamo, Italy. Benji B, who did all of Virgil’s music, lives that logic, you can continue on for quite some time. in London. And of course the Louis Vuitton design studio is in DAVIDE DE GIGLIO, New Guards Group founder: Virgil was Paris. We’re able to just migrate ideas very quickly from chat to truly special. We called him the chosen one: A unicorn, the kind chat and add people as they’re relevant. I think at one point, I of polymath, creative mind that is born every 100 years. The probably had around 300 active WhatsApp chats. They’re these product was a consequence, a tool. The focus was always on the big, open, collaborative teams—very generous spaces to work in impact that could be made. and flat hierarchically. No one is anyone else’s boss. ANDREA GRILLI, Off-White CEO: My goal is to keep Off-White MICHAEL DARLING: I have never seen anybody work at that pace true to what V has created, to keep the agility to move between and never seem beaten down by it or tired by it or anything. And projects and stay real. One of the most interesting angles is whenever his wife, Shannon, would call, he would pick up. He just going to be “the Collective” of talents and creatives that will relished all of that activity, almost as if he was racing the clock. bring their knowledge and culture to nurture this brand that BENJI B: WhatsApp enabled hyperefficient creativity. V achieved has been founded, created, and developed with this concept of this by having a very clear vision of who the right actor was thinking 360 and always out of the box. for each scene in the movie. Empowering creative people that IBRAHIM KAMARA, Off-White Art and Image Director and Louis he had respect for was at the centre of his collaborative spirit. Vuitton stylist: Virgil was an incredible mind and the kindest I remember he said of the playlist for the Spring 2020 Louis person in the world. He ran so that some of us could walk. S.M.: My WhatsApp is a bible. Everything we need, Virgil already told me in the past seven years. Me and my team have no fear; we already have the “secret” in our blood. The design process is something that now arrives naturally. ■ From left: Abloh flies a kite before his Spring 2019 Louis Vuitton debut. A still from Sub Eleven Seconds (2022). Murakami and Abloh’s Times Nature (2018). Louis Vuitton Spring 2019 84 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BEYOND THE ORBIT Everything came full S creaming fans cheering from the ground floor of Bangkok’s circle at the Louis ICONSIAM mall could be heard eight floors up as South Vuitton Men’s Korean actor Park Bo-gum made his way to the Louis Vuitton Fall-Winter 2022 Men’s Fall/Winter 2022 spin-off show venue this past June. spin-off show This was a momentous night. The Bangkok spin-off show was in Bangkok. By a posthumous celebration, an extension of the original Men’s Fall/Winter Windy Aulia 2022 collection shown in Paris earlier in January and it also debuted nine additional looks by Louis Vuitton’s late Artistic Director. And the enthusiasm of the Korean star’s fans matched the excitement in the Clockwise from room, which was filled to the brim with 900 attendees. They ran the top: Kanyawee roster of local celebrities and influencers from the region as well as Songmuang and Abloh’s ardent fans, all bedecked in the brand’s signature luxe merch- Krissanapoom meets-attention-grabbing tailored pieces that Abloh established during Pibulsonggram. his tenure at Louis Vuitton. Yaya Sperbund. Park Bo-gum. Abloh’s democratic fashion blurred the line between street and Win Metawin. runway further, with youth culture underpinning it all. From art to music Desmond Tan to fashion, everything Abloh touched revolved around the spirit of youthfulness—as he himself was a kid at heart. He said: “We might go to India or Kansas or Cuba, but wherever we go the focus is youth: The stage in your life before you’ve been taught or programmed to do, think or wear certain things. And in that study, you realise that teenagers on opposite sides of the world are dealing with the same things. It reflects the fact that, fundamentally, we are all one.” The collection’s show notes highlights the idea of circularity as being Abloh’s main axis at Louis Vuitton. It talks about his arcs: The coming-of-age premise, the global perspective, and the cycle of creativity. It also draws parallels between the collection as an imaginary space and the scenography’s circle motif. One bright-lit orb moved around the set as models travelled in circular passages before the final parade where they weaved in and out of giant floating musical instruments and a lifesize house hung upside down. Everyone stopped, suddenly, as if the time was suspended. As the guests in attendance can attest, the moment served as a timely reminder: Virgil Abloh has left our orbit, but his spirit is with us forever. ■ The show’s riveting scenography aside, highlights include the floral parade, highly textured Keepalls and a multitude of details on the fall/winter 2022 looks 85 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

BAZAAR MAN CALL All Too Well: ADD TO CART THE TUNE The Short Film poster, about $28, “The last “If my life were taylorswift.com thing I bought a song, it’d were my Nura definitely be ‘All Too Well’ headphones. (10-minute The next on my version) by shopping list is a Taylor Swift. My girlfriend new phone.” made me listen and learn the Headphones, about entire song.” $557, Nura BY THE BOOK “My last read was As The Crow Flies by Jeffrey Archer.” Book, $22.10, Amazon.sg Tan on the INSPIRATION Moh Ee Jin is bike leg of SHANE TAN also co-founder a triathlon of Spades DREAM BIG FAVO U R I T E “My childhood dream was to DESIGNER compete in the Olympics.” “Moh Ee Jin. I was with him Spades Having spent six years in Singapore Sports School throughout the conception Room where he trained as a triathlete, Shane Tan now and growth of his label, Lasik, and the work and effort he juggles life as a business school student and model puts into Lasik constantly inspires me.” while concurrently running Spades, a multi-label PHOTOGRAPHY: SHANE TAN; 123RF collective which also offers a well-curated THIS IS HOME selection of vintage pieces. The 23-year-old “Singapore will always be my favourite place in the A NICHE IN THE MARKET entrepreneur credits “experience” as an invaluable world—everything I need is teacher, and hopes that Spades will create here. I’m happy to travel, “Spades’ clientele are mostly an impact on our local creative scene. but I always look forward university students and people to coming home.” who’ve just started out in the ONE AND ONLY An aerial workforce. They are usually looking view of our for something unique, and are “My most treasured item is my city skyline drawn to lesser-known labels.” Rick Owens’ Tractor boots. I KEEPING got it years ago and spent all IT FRESH my savings on it. With more responsibilities “Grooming- and commitments in wise, it’s quite life, I could never straightforward. afford them now.” Face wash from Kiehl’s, and Boots, $1,419, Morris Motley Rick Owens at for hair wax.” Farfetch Ultra Facial Cleanser, $38, Kiehl’s 86 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

EDITED BY CHARMAINE HO A LIFE OF BALANCE The key to building her home, says corporate lawyer Rebecca Hong, is having the right mix of tradition and modernity. By Azhar Rahim. Photographed by Lawrence Teo. Styled by Gracia Phang Rebecca Hong lounges on the stairs with the family’s beloved Goldendoodle, Ripley. She wears a Chanel jacket, Emporio Armani top, Alice+Olivia shorts, Gucci lace-up pumps, custom-made sapphire and diamond ring and earrings

A FASHIONABLE LIFE Clockwise from top: Architect W hen the renovation works Aamer Taher’s signature for their bungalow in Serangoon Gardens was curves draw the eye and set completed in 2016, then the character for the home. Hong Kong-based corporate Paintings by Hong’s eldest lawyer Rebecca Hong and her daugher take pride of place husband, Anthony, knew that it was to be a place they would retire to someday in the future. Despite above a display of family building their lives and career in the city-state for photos. A mixed-media piece more than a decade, the couple would visit that hangs in front of the stairs Singapore with their three children at least twice a year, staying in the house that is very different from is one of Hong’s favourite their Deep Water Bay property in Hong Kong. artworks. Her ring collection “Maybe it was because we lived in Hong Kong includes a diamond pavé for a long time, so we veered towards something Bvlgari Serpenti ring and an very different for this house,” Hong shares. The assortment of cocktail rings four-storey irregularly shaped bungalow, which is a with precious stones, such as playful departure from the conformist linear shapes of conventional architecture, sits on a Paraíba tourmaline, blue 5,000sqft piece of land. Yet, despite the rounded sapphire and emerald. The edges and soft curves of the exterior, the inside of great room in the basement the house feels airy, light, and, more importantly, where the family hangs out for very spacious. movie nights and where the To design and build the house, the couple couple entertains interviewed three architecture firms and design studios before deciding on renowned architect Aamer Taher, who is known for incorporating curvaceous forms in his designs. “Coincidentally, Aamer was also engaged by our next door neighbour at the same time. So he designed both houses together,” she reveals. “If you were to look from an aerial viewpoint, both houses look like the inside of an opened shoe box. Ours is one half of the shoe box, and theirs is the other.” 88 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Indeed, it is an interesting modern design that From top: A pair of Roger how this dinosaur, which can also be interpreted stands out from the rest of the bungalows along Vivier pumps and an Hermès as something old or as a representation of the street. Since its completion though, the house bag sit amongst a collection of tradition, is done in such a bright colour, which is had been mostly unoccupied until recently, when books. Hong, in a Longchamp typically associated with something more modern the couple decided to uproot and move the family dress, Hermès sandals, GRAFF and contemporary.” back to Singapore. necklace, custom-made bracelet, ring, and earrings, in Behind the dinosaur sculpture hangs a painting “Moving back here was the result of various front of her favourite painting, depicting a scene of Hong Kong in the 1990s. factors, to be honest. With the political unrest in Broad Strokes by Ma Desheng. Done by a Hong Kong artist and purchased at a 2019, coupled with the lockdowns due the global Hong’s travel must-haves charity auction, the artwork shows a plane, in pandemic the last two years, the current include a Charlotte Olympia x between buildings, landing at the old Kai Tak situation in Hong Kong was not ideal for Globe Trotter suitcase, airport. “For us, this encapsulates Hong Kong. You the family. We wanted a more stable Christian Louboutin heels and see all the buildings, you have the aeroplane, but environment, especially for the a Loro Piana poncho that she you also have this old lady who is pushing a cart in children,” says the mother of three calls her princess coat the foreground. I just love the representation of children, who are between the ages of 10 how modernity and the traditional can co-exist in and 15 years old. one space.” So, with 600 boxes filled with a Tradition, Hong further expounds, does not lifetime of memories and beautiful necessarily mean not modern. “There is so artworks collected through the years, much to be gleaned from tradition and culture. the family returned to Singapore and In fact, what is modern now can be said to have settled into their home in January. While been repurposed from what was once Hong is still building on the narrative for considered traditional.” the interior of the house, it is clear that there is a recurring theme of finding a It is the marriage of the two elements that balance between modernity, tradition perfectly describes the essence of how Hong, who and culture, by way of the many art pieces displayed in the house. One such artwork is a neon orange dinosaur sculpture with the words ‘Made in China’ stamped across the belly. Purchased from an art exhibition in 2009, the sculpture—Chinese artist Sui Jianguo’s commentary on high art and consumerism—is placed prominently at the reception foyer. “I love the message behind this piece because it calls out the incorrect Western notion that things made in China can never be good and cannot be considered as art,” she says. “Plus, it is interesting 89 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

A FASHIONABLE LIFE From top: The wine recently launched her own traditional cellar in the great room. Chinese herb tea brand called qìsane, lives her life. In an Hermès dress, Patek Philippe timepiece, Moving beyond the reception foyer, Cartier bangle, and René following the curvature of the house, one is led to the dining area which has Caovilla sandals, Hong an open concept kitchen. Floor-to- watches as her youngest ceiling glass panels allow light to flow into the space. A wooden door swivels child practises on out to a cosy sitting area with fluted the harp panelling that leads to a narrow lap pool at the side of the house that is hidden from prying eyes. “My children how the glass panels really open up the space, use the pool a lot and my husband making it bright even without any lights turned on. swims his laps in the mornings, but we It is a design feature that was important to Hong also have a small gym set up in the and her husband, whose previous home in Hong basement,” she says. Kong was perched on the side of the mountains, with a view of the water. Climbing the semi-spiral staircase to the second floor where the children’s “I suppose living where we are now, we have to bedrooms and master bedroom are, one notes make do with the view,” she says, with a laugh. “But the design of this house creates an openness THERE IS SO MUCH that was very much welcomed and needed.” TO BE GLEANED FROM TRADITION The third floor is one of the two spaces where AND CULTURE. the family gathers: At one side is the TV room, IN FACT, WHAT IS where they play board games and watch TV, while the other is where the outdoor rooftop terrace is MODERN NOW CAN located. Anchoring the two separate spaces, is a BE SAID TO HAVE chic bathroom the couple designed. “Anthony and BEEN REPURPOSED I designed it ourselves, and we call it our New York FROM WHAT WAS bathroom,” she shares. “We deliberately matched ONCE CONSIDERED everything, and the black-and-white nautical theme is very much like the Hamptons in TRADITIONAL. New York.” The other space the family gathers in is the great room right in the basement of the property. Walking down the flights of stairs and into the basement, one is greeted with an expansive space that belies the curvature of the above-ground dwelling. The basement occupies the entire area of the land the house sits on, and has a built-in wine cellar, a guest bedroom and bathroom that provides privacy for whomever that is staying with them, a sitting area for movie nights, as well as a game room that accommodates ping pong and mahjong tables, as well as the mini indoor gym set-up. Beyond that is the helper’s room with an ensuite bathroom and her very own spiral staircase to access the house from the back. The pièce de résistance of this expansive space is a larger-than-life pottery vase that sits in the outdoor area leading to the guest room. Recounting how she got the vase, which she purchased from Chiang Mai where she was 90 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

MAKEUP: TONI USING MAC. HAIR: GREGO USING KEUNE HAIRCOSMETICS. STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: BRANDON CHIA attending a wedding, Hong says, “We went to this From top: In the great room pottery place and I fell in love with this piece. I with her children, Hong wears asked if they could make it for me in the colour a Red Valentino dress, Ronald that I wanted. And they did.” What was more Abram necklace, Patek Philippe difficult, she says, was figuring out how to get it watch, custom-made diamond down into the basement. rings and earrings. A 1960s Hermès croc skin bag and Luckily, the open space above was big enough baroque pearl necklace on Sui for the vase to be lowered down. “It took 10 men Jianguo’s dinosaur sculpture. and a lot of ropes to bring this to where it stands The couple’s favourite bathroom now. There is really nothing to [the vase] but I love was designed to the casual chic its simplicity and how beautiful it is,” says the avid aesthetics of New York’s art collector who is a fan of contemporary Chinese Hamptons summer beach artists. houses. Hong’s collection of timepieces which she plans to The basement is also where her favourite hand down to her children in artwork in the entire house is located. The acrylic time to come painting by renowned Paris-based Chinese artist Ma Desheng spoke to her when she first laid eyes on it at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong a few years ago. Its title in Chinese translates to ‘Great Leap Forward’. “At that time, I suppose I was going through some ‘mid-life issues’, if you could call it that,” she says before breaking into a laugh. “So much was happening at that time in my life, especially with what was happening in Hong Kong, and figuring out my career. I suppose it resonated with me because it pushed me to make some bold moves.” And bold moves she has made, with the packing up of her family’s entire life in Hong Kong, and moving back to Singapore, and then deciding to launch her own tea brand. As she puts it: “I have been very blessed. But this is a constant reminder for me to not be afraid to take the next step forward, whatever that may be”. ■ 91 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Slow fashion A FASHIONABLE LIFE label, Lily & Lou #SHOPLOCAL From left: Espadrilles by To celebrate National Badt & Co. Cups by Day, print and textile Danish brand Rice studio Minor Miracles at 3LittlePicks has teamed up with not-for-profit women-focused social enterprise CRIB Society for a shop local- themed pop-up at its Takashimaya flagship store. Split into two editions, the pop-up consists of brands under the CRIB umbrella, categorised into two editions: A Home Edit with homeware, décor and furnishing brands like 3LittlePicks, Areli Designs and marshmalloh; and a Fashion Edit featuring brands like Badt and Co., Lily & Lou and Sette, among many others. Visit minormiracles.shop to find out more. GOING NATIVE TALKING POINTS For the second installation of its From the worlds of Art, Culture, Travel and Design #SGFASHIONNOW exhibition, Asian Civilisation Museum, together with IN PASTELS LASALLE College of the Arts’ School of Fashion and the Textile The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and Fashion Federation (TaFF), (MFA) has gotten into the NFT continues the exploration of what scene—all for a good cause. constitutes Singapore fashion Teaming up with NFT platform in context of our cross-cultural, laCollection.io, the museum is port city heritage. Themed to offering a collection of 24 NFTs of “Architecture of Drapes”, rarely exhibited Impressionist 16 fashion pastels by artists the likes of ensembles by Mary Stevenson Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Cassatt, Study Degas and Claude Monet—with designers such for the Banjo proceeds of the sales going (circa 1894) towards the study, treatment and as Harry Harlim, Max Tan, Thomas Wee and Latika Balachander, conservation of two Edgar Degas paintings: Edmondo & Thérèse are on display to offer DB bag by Morbilli (circa 1865) and Degas’s Father Listening to Lorenzo Pagans GINLEE an intriguing cross- Playing the Guitar (1869-72). Visit laCollection.io for more details on sectional look how to get your hands on an at the talent from Impressionist NFT of your own. these shores. Lucile platform Asmara dress by Jean François Millet, calf boots by Harry Harlim Dandelions (1867–68) Charles & Keith 92 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022 Edgar Degas, Dancers in Rose (circa 1900)

Pía León cao A VISUAL and Virgilio JOURNEY BY CHARMAINE HO Martinez From top: Wu “Wu Guanzhong: Travelling Guanzhong’s paintings Ca with the Master” is the such as Green National Gallery Singapore’s Sorghum (1995), In PERU PERFECTION first-ever exhibition that has Red and White (2003), been co-created with the and The Louvre Palace Here’s news to get gourmands docent community. From (1989), are a part of excited: For its third culinary now till 30 October, 47 of the exhibition residency, Mandala Masters is bringing the late artist’s works from Zapallo Macre y kañihuas demuch accoladed Peruvian husband-and- the National Collection and wife chef duo Virgilio Martínez and Pía León to Singapore for rare archival materials will MASL (read and pronounced “Meters Above Sea Level”), a be showcased along with gastronomy project that marks the first time that Martínez and the personal stories and León will be working together in this capacity outside of Peru. recollections of Running from 5 August until 30 October 2022, MASL will offer the museum’s multi-course tasting menus of dishes that have been created long-serving volunteer guides: exclusively for this experience. Gertrude Tan, Puno Expect Peruvian ingredients and Queenie Chow, Stella Rong and flavours that have been Tina Nixon, avid conceptualised according fans of Wu to altitudes—from the Guanzhong who have guided visitors Pacific Ocean to the Andes through his exhibitions at the Gallery for the Mountains and Amazon past seven years. The docents share insights rainforest. Visit mandala. into the life and art of an artist regarded as a founder of modern Chinese painting, club for more details. peppered with the docents’ personal anecdotes, reflections and photographs. From left: The exhibition THE MOTHER is organised according to landscapes. Giuseppe LOAD Arcimboldo, Summer (1563); Spring (1563) Les Beaux-Arts de Paris and Maison Chaumet’s “Botanical – Observing Beauty”, which runs till 4 September at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, is an ambitious exhibition that invites visitors to celebrate nature and flora through a new perspective. Presenting close to 400 works that span across five centuries of art and science, it’s a showcase made possible through the participation of more than 70 lenders that include private collectors, foundations and museums like Musée du Louvre, Victoria & Albert Museum, British Museum and Tokyo’s Albion Art Collection. Expect an impressive curation of paintings, sculptures, furniture and The exhibition textiles, with also has much nearly 100 to offer the jewellery lover jewellery objects from Chaumet and other houses rounding up the exhibit. 93 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

A FASHIONABLE LIFE TRAVEL NOTEBOOK In need for some travel inspiration for that next vacay? These stylish jet-setters let us in on their favourite destinations Amiera AMIERA RAUSHAN Ear cuffs, The town of Raushan about $3,330, Polignano a Mare The content creator on Jessie Thomas Dress, about Puglia, Italy Villa Sticchi $1,254, Erdem in Santa at Net-a-Porter Three words that describe Puglia Cesarea Beautiful people, beautiful architecture, Terme Hannah Jane Parkinson, The beautiful food. Beauty essentials Bag, Joy of Small Sunblock, bronzer, LOEWE Things, $20.10, A surprising discovery blusher and also Amazon.sg I’ve heard plenty of noise on how Italy Sunglasses, Hat, lip gloss! $470, $458, can be a little intolerant with hijabis. Miu Miu Emilio But once I got there, it wasn’t what A great holiday read Pucci at The Joy of Small Things, Jacket, Farfetch I thought it was going to be. by Hannah Jane Parkinson. $3,870, Everyone was lovely and didn’t Saint Picture Favourite holiday soundtrack Laurent perfect with stare at me oddly one bit. Anything ’90s! Best believe we blasted by her besties Anthony A treasured memory a lot of Backstreet Boys. Vaccarello Swimming in the middle of the ocean Never travel without… in Puglia with just my besties. … your camera. But never forget It was spectacular. to live in the moment, too. Where to go for an adventure Soak it all in! The best part about this trip were the road trips we had. I loved all the Best tip for relaxation Bring a book, pack your pitstops we had simply because favourite outfits, create a we got to see all the unplanned Spotify playlist specially for the trip and just do you! scenic views and we gobbled up a ton of gelatos as well. The town of Alberobello What’s in your carry-on luggage captures the My phone and camera chargers, azure waters of the region my skin care necessities to survive the long flight, a jacket. Sandals, $3,560, Bottega Veneta Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in 010 Holo Pink, $54, Dior 94 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Choker, Ring, Kavant Top, about $457, Jeans, $1,250, about $218, & Sharart Cara Cara at Alexander Elsie Frieda Net-a-Porter Mcqueen SIULI TAN The independent curator and art consultant on Bangkok, Thailand The SHONE What’s to love Siuli Tan PUIPIA studio Great food, an exciting art scene, at soi sa:m and there’s always a new neighbourhood Go for an adventure Earrings, Bag, about $250, Join one of my art tours! I will be Marlo Laz SHONE PUIPIA to discover! organising one during the Bangkok Art Biennale in October. Explore the The Bangkok Sandal, Best place to stay at Biennale’s riverside venues by boat, skyline at dusk Jimmy The Kimpton Maa-Lai is close to the action, enjoy a private dining experience in Choo but cocooned by a lush garden. There is also a 150-year-old lychee orchard and a fantastic Thai restaurant, Rongsi Pochana, visit artists in their ateliers. I will be Enjoying an introspective on its grounds. For a riverside option, releasing details soon on my moment it’s got to be The Siam Hotel Instagram account (I’m a Bill Bensley fan). (@the.itinerant.curator). A favourite restaurant I love street food, but If I had to choose Top insider secret a nice dinner place to bring family and Check out soi sa:m in the Suan Phlu friends to, it would be Le Du which neighbourhood, a gorgeous serves punchy Franco-Thai fusion food multidisciplinary space that houses in a chill and intimate venue. designer SHONE PUIPIA’s fashion atelier and archives. An unforgettable view Wat Borom Niwat is a little-known What to pack Eka temple, not generally open to the A fun tropical print top, denim shorts Kurniawan’s public, that houses fascinating murals Beauty is by painter Khrua In Khong (active in or jeans, a linen dress, and sandals. a Wound, the 1850s and 1860s). Rendered with $21.69, Western painting techniques, the A great holiday read Amazon.sg murals broke the mould of traditional Beauty is a Wound by Eka Kurniawan. temple murals, and heralded Don’t leave without… the birth of modern Siam. … making a wish at the Erawan shrine. And if it comes true, you’ll have to come Best tip for relaxation Visit the spa at the Como back to Bangkok to give thanks. Metropolitan Bangkok. Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace 95 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Nichapat A FASHIONABLE LIFE Suphap Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc Dress, Ear stud; $1,202, ear cuff, PatBo at Piaget Farfetch NICHAPAT SUPHAP Sandal, $1,230, Ring, Valentino Piaget The luxury brand and fashion Garavani consultant on Antibes, France Sunglasses, $890, Gucci Three words that describe Antibes Old-school glamour. Sun Drops Best place to stay A treasured memory SPF 50, Hands down: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc Too many to count! I usually visit twice $215, Dr and its accessibility to everything. You can a year: Once during Cannes Film Festival Barbara be secluded when you want, but also and the other in summer. And I always Sturm social when you feel like it. Hide inside have so much fun. Plus, Hotel du the hotel during the day before Cap-Eden-Roc is a destination in itself. going out to party at night. Bikini top, $780; A favourite restaurant Go for an adventure bottom, $685, Mamo Michelangelo, which offers a little bit While at the hotel, I usually jump Louis Vuitton off the cliff by the pool into the of Italy in the South of France. ocean and try to climb back up through the swing—even though An unforgettable view The salon room I’m not the best swimmer. at the hotel Head to Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc for the building itself and the views it offers of the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel’s Best tip for relaxation What to pack swimming pool Bikinis, summer dresses and Chill by the pool, soak in the sea, more bikinis. and laze under the sun. What’s in your carry-on luggage A lot of 111SKIN masks and Dr Barbara Sturm sunscreen. Don’t leave without… … Taking lots of pictures in the hotel! Walk through the village streets 96 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

Ko Tao Island Stephanie Chai Dress, STEPHANIE CHAI $1,050, Camilla at The CEO and Chief Nomad Farfetch of The Luxe Nomad on Koh Samui, Thailand Sunglasses, $2,140, What’s to love Cuff, Dior Supernatural Chanel Samui is home to some of Thailand’s most Vitamin A beautiful beaches. I love that it still feels ‘like An unforgettable view Face Oil, Bag, The ocean view villa of The View Samui $140 for $385.85, an island’. For instance, the airport is looks out to the famous Five Islands and 30ml, Emma Cult Gaia designed to have an island feel to it: The Lewisham at Revolve roofs are thatched and there’s a designated has the most amazing sunsets. Plus, tuk-tuk to pick you up when you disembark. it has floor to ceiling windows so you Necklace, literally wake up to panoramic views. FRED A villa at Best place to stay at Sangsuri My company manages 50 luxury Best tip for relaxation Jumpsuit, An in-villa Thai massage! It’s so much $970, villas in Samui, so I might be cheaper than in Singapore of course, so Camilla at biased to suggest one of our Farfetch villas! We have some beautiful spoil yourself with one every day. beachfront villas such as Go for an adventure Sangsuri, Akatsuki and Baan Spend a day sailing to Ang Thong Kilee. For an affordable family National Marine Park, where you can getaway, Baan Chang is an snorkel and kayak through lagoons. Ayutthaya-inspired beachfront villa that has some cool features What to pack like a 1.5m round rain shower! Sun hat, sunnies, Thai baht (Thailand is not cashless like Singapore), an island A favourite restaurant clutch, sundress, swimsuit and a kaftan. MyCafe for Thai and Art Café for something healthy. EDITED BY CHARMAINE HO. PHOTOGRAPHY: 123RF Soaking in Shorts, Beauty essentials the sun $1,390, I love NZ brand Emma Lewisham. Valentino The products are natural and backed by green science and innovation. It’s also the first fully circular beauty brand where you can buy refills and send back your bottles for recycling. Favourite holiday soundtrack Anything bossa nova. Swimsuit, $319, Hat, $447, Don’t leave without… Alexandra Miro Maison Michel … spending a day out on a boat. at Mytheresa at Mytheresa Panoramic views at The View 97 HARPER’S BAZAAR AUGUST 2022

EDITED BY ARISSA HA DISCO DIVA Intense shades and molten metals reignite the high gloss beauty looks of the ’70s. Photographed by Monika Lis BRONZE AGE Metallic lipsticks like NYX Professional Makeup’s Liquid Suede Metallic Matte in Exposed (about $10.50) lend a multifaceted dimension to your pout. Top with an iridescent cream like Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Colorfix Foils in Blossom (about $25.20) for a modern take on lustrous lips.