Buys – Treats for Soccer Widows

So, while the guys guzzle beer and watch their football, where does that leave us sweeties? Still with the school run, the kids and our day jobs, and possibly less help. That calls for a well deserved treat, and I have the perfect thing – a fun, easily ‘doable’ Casio Sheen.

 

Honestly, I haven’t taken a good look at this brand since school days when everyone poked around school with Casio watches, so Auntie here was quite fascinated by how much things have changed. What’s this ‘Sheen’ range? Recently launched by Casio, the new range of Casio Sheen are really rather pretty fashion watches that aren’t the least tacky – whimsical, cute, bold and just a little sophistication so people who are way past their teens and twenties can still wear them casually without looking like we’re trying too hard, if you know what I mean. And unlike the Franck Muller’s, Rolexes and Patek Philippe’s etc which are seriously desirable, these less up-market ones are so affordable you can get one in every colour….just for fun.

 

The Sheen 5010L is an elegant chronograph with big, faceted glass face and rhinestone (not diamonds, dear…) hour markers and comes in three colours: red face with red leather strap, white face with white leather strap (SHN-5011L) and white face with stainless steel strap (SHN-5010D) – my favourite. (S$164 – S$170)

 

I also like the the Sheen 5013 model, no facets but also a big faced chronograph ringed with cute rhinestones. It’s only available from June onwards, at $170. Other models under this range includes: SHN-5012LP (S$196) and SHN-5012D (S$159).

- EW

Buys – Flip Flopping Over the World Cup

The World Cup is round the corner. If you’re the nice supportive partner who would encourage your man’s footballing interests, or worse, share his passion of watching grown men running around a big field after a little ball, Havaianas (pronounced ‘ah-vai-yah-nas’) has the thing for him.

The inexplicably iconic Brazillian flip flop maker has rolled out a new limited edition collection of rubber slippers with 11 of the popular teams’ colours and flag emblazoned on its rubbers and straps. Gold stars on sole also represent the number of times the country has won World Cup and the year they won it. Pick the one representing the team he’s rooting for and let him wear his loyalty on his sleeve…..or sole, shall I say. If you think this is a must-have essential, pick it up at the all-havaianas store at ION Orchard, #B2-42. (Costs $39.90 for adults, $29.90 for kids and $26.90 for babies.)

Buys – Juicy Cherries this Summer

Summer has made its official debut. Beach wear is in, hoodies have been packed away well not quite. We love the short version of the track suit sans hoodie in delicious fuschia at Juicy Couture! 

And what does Summer look like in Hong Kong? Juicy and colourful!! Cheeky Cherries play the dominant role! Colourful, juicy cherries with bling to boot are all over the Asia-exclusive summer collection, from Tote Bag to Tracksuit in pink at Juicy Couture. 

This May, an Asia exclusive edition of their Cherries Tote Bag will be given upon any purchase of two items or above of the Juicy Loves Cherries collection, while the stock lasts. 

- Elaine

Buys – Loafing around!

There has never been a better reason and season to loaf around. New shoes abound and we show you what we’ve found (gee, that all rhymes)… 

From TIMBERLAND .. these  Earthkeeper boatshoes come in Navy and Brown Nubuck at S$179 and use environmental materials such as eco-leather and recycled rubber. An inside tag dismantles the shoe when pulled, and the various parts of the shoe can be returned to Timberland’s factory in Dominican Republic to be reused and recycled for future footwear. Imagine that in terms of being earth-friendly! 

The ever-adorable Castille Ballerina pump in Bone or Taupe shades at S$139 has an outsole made from 42 per cent Green Rubber specially recycled from used car tires to reduce global rubber wastage. These chic flats will allow you to be environmentally light-footed with a 50 per cent PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) lining, made from recycled plastic containers and bottles which can be further reprocessed after its product life. For both shoes see: www.timberland.com 

From TODS .. the Gommino and Marlin Hyannisport loafers from S$610 are perfect both for casual walks. See: www.tods.com

From HOGAN .. take a look at the brand’s new collection developed in conjunction with Karl Lagerfeld. See: www.hoganworld.com

From PUMA .. the brand has partnered first with Italian shoe maestro Sergio Rossi to launch this totally amazing collection of sports shoes gone chic.  

And also with the late Alexander McQueen for some seriously slick designer kicks. See: http://www.puma.com

- Elaine

Beauty – Lift, Roll and Recover, here’s your 10 minute facelift!

Picture this: 

1980 flashback: bored Secretary answers phone whilst filing nails with latest diamond head nail file

1990 flashback: bored Secretary answers phone whilst SMSing boyfriend on her new Motorola

2000 flashback: bored Secretary answers phone whilst on MSN chat with cute colleague in next cubical

2010 flashback: who says the Secretary is bored? The phone is on speaker and she gives herself a daily 10 minute facelift whilst talking, waiting at the same time for the office Aunty to bring her Nespresso over. And how is she giving herself a 10 minute facelift? With Oregon Scientific’s Platinum Beauty Roller of course!

Asked by the PR company in Hong Kong to try out Oregon Scientific’s latest little innovation, I was thrilled to trial this gadget for a week, just to understand how I could save a trip to the plastic surgeons in favour of this facial massage tool. Designed by the Japanese (of course) this ‘beauty massager/roller’ comprises two rollers made of Platinum and Ceramic Alloy, elegantly encased in a wine red plastic casing and is light and easy to carry. No batteries required, you are supposed to use it as part of your beauty routine and even with make up on in the middle of a busy day. The pamphlet instructs in Japa-english “Just make facial massage, part of your daily routine for that young and glamourous look!” 

How to use: 

In upward strokes, first use the platinum roller that is coated with a special Spa mineral, to lift and therefore rejuvenate and tighten the inner layers of your facial skin and neck. Apparently this action has a special rhythmic ‘piano touch’ effect that massages and imitates fingers springing lightly on the piano keyboards. The vibration coupled with the roller design, forms a balance force to enhance lymphatic flow and enlarges the blood capillaries that transports excess water, wastes and fat to be discharged from the body making the face firmer, smoother and more radiant. The coolant roller massages and smoothens the skins outer layers. The dual action facial treatment apparently combines nourishing minerals and unique massage functions to tighten the inner layers of the skin and “massage and smoothen” the outer layers with it. No electricity needed, you can do it anytime of the day. 

What it does: 

1) Gives you an instant facelift in minutes

2) Restores skin’s firmness and elasticity

3) Reduces fine lines and wrinkles

4) Use it with any water soluble beauty essence before you sleep at night for maximum absorption

At first, over the first few mornings and evenings, I kind of felt very silly using it and looking for effects which honestly are not instant as the benefits are actually internal. I liked the cooler as after 10 minutes of the massage and your skin warm and stimulated, it kind of feels nice to have something icy cool rolling over the skin’s surface.  

I got creative after a few days and one evening when I was particularly exhausted and in a horizontal position, lights dimmed and aircon at just the right temperature. With my moisture gel mask on and with the smooth cool Platinum roller massaging the product into my skin (for better absorption,of course) .. it was indeed a small slice of private heaven. A nice indulgence at HK $1,680 and a fun-to-have if you are a beauty fanatic with moments in the day that you can remember to lift and roll. Available at all Oregon Scientific stores. Have a look at the video  to  learn how to use: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO-O82zqS8A

- Elaine

Buys – Here come the Peep Toe Boots

Q: What does a boot become in Summer?
A: A Peep Toe Boot!

Have you noticed out there a whole new sure footed trend of people walking about in peep (open) toe boots. Yes the gladiators have marched on to bigger (and I dare say) queerer things. Here in Hong Kong where Spring is making way for a humid Summer, fashionistas have packed their boots in favour of these. 

Have a look at what we have found at Dorothy Perkins stores in Singapore. How people stand to wear this in 34 degree heat baffles me? But then again, fashion has victims and then again to beat the heat, I suppose thats what the peep toes do .. let your toes breathe! LOL!!! 

- Elaine

BTW – SATC 2 Movie Poster is the next cover for MAD Magazine!

Whether I win tickets or get invited to the movie preview (hint!), I will still catch our favourite angsty Manhatten babes on a movie date with my BFFs. 

But take a good, close look at the poster. Am surprised that the Producers of the movie let it fly. The movie poster almost looks like a parody from MAD magazine and I can actually imagine Alfred E. Neuman’s face superimposed over Carrie’s when that cover appears. All bets are on between my husband (MAD mag fan) and me that it will be the next Mad Mag cover come May 26 when the movie premiers in New York.  

Trawling the net, I found a hilarious commentary from the Guardian in UK which I am sharing about the hilarious airbrush efforts … note no wrinkles (and they are all past 40), all noticeably skinnier, Kim Cattral looks like Sharon Stone and why does Sarah Jessica Parker look possesed? 

… read on (below – click image to expand) or go to link: http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2010/may/03/sex-and-the-city-2-poster

- Elaine

Buys Hong Kong – Tods Charity Sale on Mothers Day Weekend

Pick up your croc bag this Summer from Tod’s and all for a good cause. If you are in Hong Kong or headed here for the weekend, here is your SimplyFab invite to attend Tod’s Special Shopping Weekend in benefit of Mother’s Choice, a charity that helps babies and children in need of permanent homes and single girls and their families facing crisis pregnancies. 

The sale takes place at all 5 boutiques (The Landmark, Pacific Place, Lee Gardens Two, Harbour City and Elements) on Mothers’ Day weekend – Saturday and Sunday, 8th and 9th May 2010. Special discounts await on that day and don’t forget to leave your silent auction bid for the Tod’s *D bag in emerald crocodile at The Landmark Boutique. Full proceeds for this go to Mother’s Choice.

*The D Bag was launched in 1997 and has remained one of the brand’s best selling signature bags. New and improved the Spring Summer 2010 version features an adjustable messenger strap, two top handles and the softest most supple leather. In Vachetta, Light Blue, Dark Grey and Brown n calf and goat skin leather. 

As seen on Princess Diana who was a fan! 

- Elaine

BINGE Hong Kong – Mothers’ Day a.k.a Family Day

Its turning out to be a full-fledged family affair with the kids, in laws, grandparents all neatly squeezed into the trusty Toyota Alphard MPV, Hong Kong’s choice vehicle for ferrying large extended families. If you are looking for dining options to enjoy as a group then consider Thai at Ayuthaiya, Indian at Gaylord or a Michelin star style Buffet spread at The Parlour. Thai and Indian, too spicy, you say? Well it IS Mum’s Day… save the bland for Children’s Day!

The Aqua Group’s latest venture is a Thai restaurant called Ayuthaiya, located on Hollywood Road in the heart of Soho. Family squabbles, quibbles and irritations come to rest as you enter this sultry, contemporary and stylish venue and immerse yourself its Buddhist temple zen. The menu focuses on light, modern cuisine based on authentic Thai cooking with all the pastes and sauces freshly measured, hand-mortared and minted in their own kitchen. Try the Por Pia Goong Sod, river prawn and asparagus roll with tamarind syrup (HK$48), Homok Talay, seafood steamed in banana leaves with red curry and Thai herbs (HK$85) and Salmon Miang Khem, salmon confit, peanuts, toasted coconut and shrimp sauce in betel leaves (HK$38). Thai desserts are the best and must tries are the Khao Niew Mamuang, sweet sticky rice with thick coconut milk and fresh mango (HK$48), Bua Loy Nam Khing, rice dumplings in sweet ginger and red sugar (HK$38), the Coconut and Pandanus ice-cream (HK$38) and the Black sticky rice and coconut ice cream (HK$38). Ayuthaiya is at 35 Hollywood Road, Central. There is seating for 50 so make that reservation early. Call (852) 3105 5055. See www.aqua.com.hk

Head with the gang to The Parlour at Hullett House where a Weekend Champagne Brunch awaits. What’s there not to like? Free-flow Veuve Clicquot, an outstanding spread of indulgent treats created by celebrated One Michelin star Executive Chef Philippe Orrico served in either the dramatic surrounds of the Dragon Bar, the evocative Chinoiserie lounges of the East and West rooms, or outside on the colonial-style terrace. Enjoy an impressive cornucopia of appetizers, cold cuts and à la carte mains with ex Dorchester (London) Hotel’s Pastry Chef Alexis Watrin creating a veritable feast of assorted and delicious desserts. Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday between 12 noon and 2.30pm at HK$528 (adults) and HK$368 for children under 12. Free for children under 3 years. The Parlour is at Hullet House, 2A Canton Road Tsim Sha Tsui. For reservations, call: +852 39880101. See: http://www.hulletthouse.com/#/theparlour/concept

If part of the reward ritual for Mothers Day is having the kid’s entertained then head to The Peak where if the view won’t entertain then a Semi-Buffet Meal at Bubba Gump’s will. For starters there are Onion Rings, Hush Pups, Chilled Shrimp cocktails, Suateed Cajun Shrimp, Yin Yang Salad, Traditional Stuffed Eggs. Main courses include a newly introduced Shrimp Rigatoni with fresh spinach in sun dried tomato pesto cream sauce, topped with parmesan, Lt. Dan’s Drunken Shrimp and Andouille Sausage with mashed potatoes and bourbon sauce, Char-grilled Shrimp and Veggie Skewers served with jasmine rice and lemon garlic cream sauce. The dessert buffet includes ‘Bubba’s Favorite’ key Lime Pie, Cinnamon and Currant Bread Pudding with bourbon vanilla sauce, and Chocolate Mousse cups. Unlimited soda and ice tea seal the deal. Kids can choose their own main course from Linguini with Tomato Sauce, Chicken Strips, Burger or Hot Dog, all served in a ‘Jenny Boat’ with fries and a slice of orange. The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Hong Kong is at Shop 304 and 305, Level 3, The Peak Tower, 12B Peak Road. Reservations at +852 2849 2867/2849 6650. See: http://www.bubbagump.com/locations/hong_kong.html

Get the gang to Gaylord’s! I must say that the name intrigued me. No guessing why. Never heard of it? Tsk tsk, its been around since the 70s and they have a special All-You-Can Eat Weekend Buffet from 12pm to 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays, starting 15 May. So yes, whilst this menu starts a week after the actual Mothers Day (8 and 9 May) at least you are almost guaranteed a seat rather than jostle with the world on the actual weekend. Try dishes that are more commonly served at home and along the street corners in India, rather than the usual restaurant fare. Chef S. Mohan Raj goes all out to impress and you can try South Indian Dosa, a crispy golden-brown crepe, eaten plain, or with a tomato based and potato masala filling served with coconut chutney and sambar, a tangy and spicy lentil curry. I personally like Appam, a soft steamed rce flour pancake served with a mouth watering vegetable stew, also on the menu. You can share classics like the Chicken Chettinaad and Fish Malabari. Dahi Vada, Saunth Papdi Chaat and Paani or Dahi Poori. For dessert, Rawa Kesari Halwa and Rasmalai will calm down the fiery flavours along with freshly cut Alphonso mangoes, subject to availability. HK$120 for adults and HK$78 for kids. Dishes change week to week. Gaylord Indian Restaurant is at 1/F Ashley Centre, 23-25 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Reservations at: (852) 2376 1001. See: www.chiram.com.hk

- Elaine

BINGE Hong Kong – Chi Chi Mothers Day Treats

Dutiful daughter-in-law wants to impress matriach mother-in-law in a spare-no-expense binge? These dangerously delightful venues will do the trick.

If she is a tai tai, she would have already been here for tea with her bling encrusted friends and will nod approvingly at the trouble you have gone though to book the chi-chi–ly chic SEVVA on the 25th floor of the Prince Building. If she is just hard to please, at least she will be wowed by the ambience and the menu for brunch between 11am and 4pm or dinner from 6pm to 10.30pm on both May 8 and 9. Three unique seafood treats await including the Bouillabaisse of King Scallop, Dover Sole and King Prawn with Golden Garlic Baguette (HK$420), Poached Salmon Coated with Black Truffle and Parsley (HK$320) and Stir-fried Boston Lobster and Egg White (HK$780). If she cries fowl, try the alternative a Crispy Duck Salad with Blood Orange, Beetroot and Arugula (HK$260). Also available a varied range of vegetarian dishes from the a la carte menu. If you run out of conversation, Sean MacFarlane one of the finest close-up magicians in Asia and a live band Cuban Pop entertain. See: www.sevva.hk, tel: (852) 2537 1388. SEVVA is at 25/F Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong

She says, “oh anything, its up to you”. Nerve gritting! She likes Japanese but no matter where you take her, she will say she has already been there. So go for bizarre – it can only be a hit or miss. In this case ‘hit’ we hear as Aqua Roma and Aqua Tokyo perched atop One Peking collaborate to come up with an innovative Italian Sushi menu in May and June. Imagine Italian Sushi, Sashimi and Maki rolls made Japanese style with a totally Italian taste. Think highlights like Adriatic scampi dipped in aromatic olive oil, topped with orange rind and fresh Pachino tomato foam, Sicilian red prawn with mint air, Scallops with lemon oil and sea salt, Fatty tuna and rosemary oil, Lobster buffalo mozzarella and mullet bottarga. Individual 4 piece nigri and sashimi platters are at HK$198 and 6 pieces at HK$258. For HK$488 get a mixed platter of sushi and sashimi or HK$788 get a premium platter selection. Aqua Roma, Aqua Tokyo and Aqua Spirit is on the 29-30F, One Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Call (852) 3427 2288 or visit www.aqua.com.hk

If her heart is set on Chinese, then the two Michelin starred Ming Court at Langham Place Hotel has a Vibrant Spring Cuisine promotion available through May. Executive Chef Tsang Chiu King has a spring harvest that includes fresh Lobsters prepared in three unique styles, Pan-fried wagyu beef rolls filled with matsutake mushrooms and fungus (HK$98 per person), along with fusion dishes such as Steamed spring chicken with sake (HK$188). Must try is the Baked flaming pork loin in red wine (HK$198). Call (852) 3552 3300. Ming Court is at Level 6, Langham Place, 555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok. See: http://hongkong.langhamplacehotels.com

- Elaine