Melissa Lim is a curious gen-yer who finds herself unwittingly challenging the status quo ever-so-often, questioning how things can be done better and bigger.
Here she archives snippets of her writing from other popular portals and talks about anything else in life that fascinates her, such as travel, wine and dine, entrepreneurship and business, fashion and beauty and other unique experiences. She also shares anything that inspires and motivates.
Her audience includes anyone, but particularly generation-y, who are seeking fuss-free but quality solutions for a better quality of life in career and lifestyle.
On the surface, it would seem that Mark Zuckerberg is gifted with omnipotent programming skills, but when you dig deeper, you'll realize that Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000 hours (or 10 years if you spend 4 hours a day) still rings true in Zuckerberg's case.
Zuckerberg started programming at the tender age of 10 which allowed him to clock in his 10 years faster than other programmers. In fact, by the time he was in college, programming became his intuition. This may surprise most people, but he didn't take Computer Science as a major - he took psychology which gave him a better understanding of human ecosystems. The intersection of psychology and programming leads to the groundbreaking innovation: Facebook. Frans Johnson describes intersection across different disciplines as The Medici Effect which he explains in his bestselling book.
Not everyone has heard of Benefit yet, but once you do, you won't just stop at one product, but go on to buy their whole range of goodies if your wallet permits. I'm not judging you, girlfriend, because I'm guilty as charged.
Even before Benefit hit the local Singapore stores a couple of years ago, some of my friends in Singapore were already asking me to purchase the BADgirl lash mascara for them while I was living in the States.
Can anyone really blame us for indulging in the best though?
Stereotypically, things that appear fun and fancy (think frivolous and cheeky names like dr. feelgood, sugarbomb, it's potent! eyecream, you rebel lite and stay don't stray) suffers in quality, but not so in Benefit's case.
"Who says makeup has to be serious to be good?" the founders, Jean and Jane Ford, would say to challenge that common notion. I was skeptical at first because I've been tricked too many times by sexy advertisements into splurging on pretty things, but soon be dismayed that quality is sub-par.
How does a beauty brand, founded by ex-models who were near penniless when they first moved to San Francisco 25 years ago - and who allowed their fate be decided by flipping a coin - built a beauty empire that reached such global success, with more than 2000 counters in over 30 countries, without spending on advertising at all? I find out over lunch at Shangri Hotel from Maggie and Annie, the two daughters of Benefit founders Jean and Jane Ford. Over our casual girly chat, I also found out what they thought of Singapore, if they have tried our local delights (especially our Hainanese Chicken Rice and infamous Durian), how a typical day at a dream job like theirs is like, beauty secrets and other hobbies!
After I tried BeneFit's products, including the wildly successful BeneTint, I have to say, I'm a convert. Fancy names and fun packaging aside, BeneFIT promises quality and delivers it to a T. This explains why the brand only have 200 products in their line compared to other cosmetic giants that have over 2000 SKUs as we learn from Annie, the younger of the two, who is in charge of product development.
Ever since the Annie and Maggie got started in the business in 2008, they have been very hands-on. The gorgeous six feet tall sisters travel to different parts of the world to listen to women's beauty woes and deliver quick fixes, which is exactly what every modern working woman need in their hectic lives. It is interesting to learn that the top bestsellers are similar throughout 30 over countries, which goes to show that their products transcends culture and trends which lasts 20 to 30 years. A prime example of such a Benefit product is their BeneTINT which I mentioned earlier.
They saved all their advertising dollars and spend it on product development. It takes alot of time and energy to perfect the shades, formula, components, packaging and even naming! For naming, it is not just one person doing it. It is a very collaborative task to get the word association right and also have an emotional appeal to it so that when customers see it, they'll build a story in their mind.
Wala! Such attention to details is the secret to their success. Easier said than done though. Once they decide on doing a product, their product development can typically take up to three years before it goes on the shelf but it is worth the wait right?
Meanwhile check out this super cute video Benefit has on the science of flirting:
Update: Thanks for all your support! I have won first place for Kotex Fresh Plus V-Zone Revolution Blogger Contest.
Ladies, it is time to address something we don’t often talk about but should:
How to keep your Vagagas in the pink of health.
We've been taught about breast cancer from young - how to test for lumps and detect anything unusual early- but what about our V-zones? It is equally as important, if not more! That's right, it is time to join in the V-Zone revolution with a much loved brand: Kotex.
It has not been said enough, but a happy vagina is a happy woman. An unhealthy and dirty vagaga means bacteria, allergies and yeast infection. Oooh, imagine… it is NOT just the discomfort and the itch, but the – gasp – smell! It doesn’t just make you unhappy, it makes everyone around you unhappy! Surely we can’t let that happen!
But how?
Things like yeast infection strikes at unpredictable moments such as when we’re stressed. Surely there has got to be a way to prevent such a smelly and unsightly cottage cheese occurrence? Of course there is! Your answer is Kotex’s latest range of pantyliners launched just few months back.
I know what you’re thinking. Pantyliners are uncomfortable and unsightly! You only wear it right before your period or right after and certainly not everyday. To wear it everyday would be too trouble!
Yes, that is most often the case, but not so with KOTEX® Fresh Plus Liners. Kotex, one of the world's leading brands in feminine hygiene products, outdo themselves again, this time by trying to start a V-Zone revolution. With their trademark COMFORT-FLEX* technology, their liners allows flexibility in movement and encourages air circulation around the V-Zone.
Ginette Chittick, is Kotex's brand ambassador. She is also aDesign Lecturer at Laselle, Lead vocalist of Astreal and Founder of Fashion Label FruFru and Tigerlily.(Photo Courtesy of Juice)
After trying out KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners for a month, Ginette says,
“I had the misconception that panty liners are bulky and unsuitable for the warm weather in Singapore. After using KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners, I find them very thin and comfortable and enjoy the feeling of cleanliness. I especially like KOTEX Fresh Plus Gentle Care Liners, knowing that my skin will stay protected throughout wear with the pH balance feature. The best part – KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners complements my fashion sense and don’t show through my skinny jeans and tights.”
KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners user, Kayla Duke, who is a fitness expert and Group Exercise Manager
Kayla is pleasantly surprised by her experience with KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners, having not tried liners prior.
“I like how thin and comfortable the KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners feel. With my active lifestyle, the barely there feel of KOTEX Fresh Plus Liners is important. Given my long hours in the gym, I appreciate the benefits of KOTEX Fresh Plus Ultra V-Care, keeping me fresh and clean throughout my dance and fitness routines. As a health and fitness advocate, I believe wearing liners with proven protective benefits should be part of women’s body care regime” says Kayla.
Dr Christopher Chong, advises, “The V-Zone is vulnerable to bacteria and yeast infections, which is why women should keep area clean and dry. Using pantyliners, feminine wash or wipes may help women who face these problems. As the V-Zone is a highly sensitive area, it is important for women be educated on various feminine care options available and select products that are suitable for them, especially in consultation with their gynecologist.”
Kotex Fresh Plus Liners comes in three different types:
1. Kotex® Fresh Plus Ultra V-Care – 1st Ever Bacteria Control
First liner that is tested to successfully inhibit the growth of yeast and bad bacteria, providing protection during use*.
Designed with KOTEX® Comfort-Flex to provide protection as you move.
Allows for air circulation around your V-zone.
*Not clinically proven to prevent infection during use
2. Kotex® Fresh Plus Gentle Care – 1st Ever Gentle Care
Dermatologically tested with pH Balance to match body’s natural pH level, and against allergies and irritation.
Designed with KOTEX® Comfort-Flex to provide protection as you move.
Allows for air circulation around your V-zone.
3. Kotex® Fresh Plus Designs – 1st Ever Designs on Liners
Draws inspiration from nature for its attractive colourful designs.
Contains mild and natural scent to help soothe your senses.
Designed with KOTEX® Comfort-Flex to provide protection as you move.
Allows for air circulation around your V-zone
Kotex® Fresh Plus Liners can be purchased at $3.95 per pack, available at all leading supermarkets and pharmacies.
From Left: GV Managing Director David Glass presenting the popcorn award to top movie reviewer, Golden Village Hall 6 @ Great World City and TV host Linda Black.
Waking up earlier than usual for this particular Monday has never been easier. Why? Because for the first time ever, Golden Village is partnering with Star Movies for the second screening of the Oscars live in Singapore at Great World City. The Moet and Chandon champagne and sumptuous buffet breakfast served for invited GV guests and media before the screening also wiped away the Monday blues. I know this whole live-streaming of the Oscars thing has been going on in Hollywood for almost a century and there is no big deal watching it live through local screens, but hey, whatever I can make a big deal out of in Singapore, I will. Besides, Google "Oscars" and you'll find real time updates increasing every second, so yeah, anything associated with the Oscars is kind of a big deal.
Enter the big screen. First-up, we have the red carpet and what is a red carpet moment without fashion mentions? How they look is all that matters at this point. Nevermind the fact that she might be serious actress, we'll still make fun of her dress and put her in the fashion hall of shame if she doesn't cut it. Here are some of my favorites, and well, not-so-favorite. Tell us what you think in the comments below!
Starting from my not-so-favourites. Come on ladies, you can do better than that!
From Left: Natalie Portman in Rodarte, Halle Berry in Marchesa, Sandra Bullock in Vera Wang, Nicole Kidman in Christian Dior, Mila Kunis in Elie Saab, Jennifer Hudson in Versace & Camila Alves in Kaufman Franco.
Now, that is what we call red-carpet worthy. Gaw-geous!
If I had to pick one dress and one dress only, that will be easy. Mila Kunis look dazzling in her lavender Elie Saab dress with feminine lace details. Rare combination of classy and comfortable.The Bottega Veneta clutch gave it an amazing touch as well! I'm in love. Let's take a closer look below shall we?
Despite what critics say about the two Oscar hosts, I thought James Franco and Anne Hathaway brought back the "real" in Hollywood and make it alittle less plastic. They maybe borderline cheesy, but they're undeniably spontaneous and natural compared to super models Lisa Selenser and Jason Godfrey who hosting the "Oscars Breakfast Chat" live from Hong Kong. Selenser and Godfrey were real life versions of Barbie and Ken, which means to say, they're good-looking to the point that you can't stop swooning at their faces, but they're too plastic for you to like them the way you like James Franco and Anne Hathaway. Selenser also appears to be trying too hard by switching into different dresses and mock-compete Hathaway. Not funny. She finally appeared in a dress that looked like a dragonfly.
As for Godfrey, as suave as he is, he is no match for Franco who, like Judd Apatow, Director of Pineapple Express says of him in the movie, makes every character three dimensional. Of course, it is not everyday you come across an Hollywood actor who have parents who are both Stanford grads and who attended UCLA, NYU, Columbia, Warren Wilson College, Yale University and Rhode Island School of Design. Oh, and who reads James Joyce on the set.
I still can't get why critics were lambasting Franco and Hathaway though. Perhaps because the two didn't take themselves too seriously and the Oscars is an event to be taken very seriously?
As for the awards, all I'll say is if it was a public voting, Inception and The Social Network would win hands down - especially in my books - because as much as I appreciate emotionally heart-wenching movies that tug at your soul, i don't watch them because I don't like to think that much while watching movies. Like we all suspected, the best pictures was awarded to The King's Speech, Best Actress goes to Natalie Portman and Best Actor goes to Colin Firth - in true Academy Award style. There is not much to be said about the winners or the red carpet fashion this year except that they were well-deserved and too predicatable.
I found the hosts the highlight of the evening, including Gyweth Paltrow's white microphone. Where did she get that from? Dang, it really stood out. What about her singing? I don't remember.
Maybe this can refresh my memory and give you some insights into how memorable her singing really is.
If you want to find out more about what went on in the Oscars:
“Hey! Hey you, do you know how to do the teapot dance?” a six-feet tall beefy tattooed man asked our unsuspecting female photographer with a cheeky glimmer in his eyes. She reacted strongly alright, by holding on even more tightly to her precious little cupcake. All the Singaporeans smiled along, not quite sure how to react to this sudden beefcake of energy and fun who appeared when we were chilling at the Sky Bar in Resorts World. Not satisfied with shy smiles, The Beefcake put away our photographer's half-eaten cupcake, got hold of her hand and taught her how to do the teapot dance. Kris Davis showing us some moves.
Our smiles loosened into laughter, finally making our corporate attire seem more in place by the exclusive pool side that is seldom open for public use.
There you have it ladies and gentlemen, that is how you spot a true blue Chippendale. The Beefcake is none other than Kris Davis, and he won’t stop until you’re having as much fun as he is. He is secure enough not to care about what anyone thinks and be himself, and I don't mean in an obnoxious way, but in an endearing way, with an intent to tease and please.
They just want to live life to the fullest and despite being in their 30s and 40s, they're still, in his words, "like kids, you know". Having fun "like kids" seem to be the trick to attraction, as Neil Strauss, best selling author of The Game, would agree. They treat the world like their playground, traveling to 25 or more countries a year. Women and men of all age, size, color and shape are drawn to that. We miss that, especially for those of us worn down by the grown-up responsibilities of corporate and family lives.
From Left: Kris Davis, Dave Abrams and Kevin Cornell
Just like how we stereotype a blonde chick with big bosoms as having not much of a brain until proven otherwise, Chippendales hunks also have their fair share of stereotypes - which are damaging enough for them to classify as occupational hazards - more so than dozens of female fans learning how to do the spider-man and climbing up their hotel rooms on high floors. Not surprisely, they're often stereotyped as being gay. That is, until they steal your girl from right under your eyes in front of a huge crowd and bring her up on stage and flunk her on the welcoming bed for all to see.
Contrary to their burly appearence, they're Mommy's boys - and their families - including their grandparents - have seen their show and loved it! In fact, as we learn from the 3 boys themselves, their Moms were the ones who told them they should go for the audition when they caught a Chippendales show. The boys reaction to that then? They felt insulted. They shouldn't be, because it is not easy being a Chippendale. Dave Abrams, who is nearing 40 but looks every bit 27, only got through after 3 auditions and is now a hot favourite of an elite group.
"There are only 250 actual Chippendales in over 30 years of existence. For alot of us, it is an honor to be part of that group." Davis mentions.
"Currently there is only 60 Chippendales in the world," Abrams adds, "real Chippendales".
I know what you're thinking. On paper, reading about how they're in their 30s and 40s and acting like kids sounds very much like over-aged wannabe loud and irresponsible fraternity boys, but if you had the chance to meet them, and see how good and fresh they look at 40 than you are at 23, and how good and fresh they make you feel at 23 than you are at 17, then you'll know what I mean.
Do they have girlfriends or wives? Some do, but most obviously do not. "It takes a very strong woman to be in a relationship with us," says Davis, "and it's not fair to let your woman wait for you when you're away for such a long time."
Dive beneath the devil-may-care moves on stage and you'll find angels sweeter than sugar. Interviews are always about the interviewee, but in their case, they make it all about the audience and the interviewer. Whenever we asked them a question, such as "What do you looked for in a girl?", they would answer the question and redirect the question back to me and get to know me better, by asking, "What do you look for in a guy?"
The boys are considerate and grateful, not forgetting to give credit to the crew who helped make the shows such success. One of the backstage crew was hanging a few stories high in Germany during a show and was up there for 15 mins or so before he could be let down, only to pass one of the Chippendales a bunch of bananas, arriving in tears and sweat.
There was once when a real snake appeared out of nowhere and Davis had to pretend that it was part of the performance. The crowd cheered on thinking that it was when Davis was panicking inside.
"It is the best job in the world!" Cornell says enthusiastically when asked how he felt about being an Chippendales. I'm sure it is, Kevin.
Watch as they try to fulfill every corner of a woman's fantasy by being in uniform from cowboys, firemen and soldiers. Expect lots of ripped shirts and barely there scenes. Catch them while they're in Singapore! Our 100 Inspiring Women for Cozycot's International Women's Day event will be doing so.
Which restaurants offer spectacular views in Singapore on top of the impeccable tasting food and service?
Forget our old favourite Equinox, or Marina Bay Sands new pride and glory Kudeta for a moment, because we now have another contender in the dine-high scene, which food connoisseurs should already be familiar with.
The restaurant in question is none other than Stellar, who had their grand opening on July 9 this year, and along with 282 & City Golf and world's highest rooftop bar, 1-Altitude (all of which occupies the top 61st, 62th, 63rd levels of OUB Centre respectively) have created waves of gastronomical curiosity amongst the Raffles Place office crowd, and beyond.
But don't just go there for the views, because the views are merely a small complement to the actual taste and artisanal presentation of the food, on top of the freedom to mix and match tasting portions to your liking - all of which Group Executive Chef Christopher Millar believes is what makes up "modern dining".
Chef Millar has an array of dining accolades under his belt from his stints in London and Melbourne, including being trained by British Celebrity Chef Antony Worrall Thompson. Some of you probably remember him for having founded the acclaimed Thai bistro, Sweet Salty Spicy at Rail Mall. With his penchant for the finest details, Stellar is set to offer a feast for the senses, with refined recipes that are artfully prepared and presented. Enhancing the splendor of this dining experience is their award-winning service and sommeliers, the hallmark of the One Rochester Group.
Stellar isn't just reserved for food snobs, as much as the place look very much like it does, with its celestial ambiance created by high ceilings and earthy-metallic furnishings juxtaposed with dimmed lighting. Indeed, you feel transported to another world of heavenly kingdom, but the price to pay for such a sky kingdom is very reasonable. Combine the affordable prices with the informal vibe (it is not a stuffy black-tie affair), communal dining and freedom of choice to mix and match tasting portions, you'll realized that Stellar caters to more than food snobs, extending it to anyone who appreciates value-for-money quality dining.
From left: Blue Fin Tuna, Sword Fish and Salmon Sashimi with Ponzu Jelly and Seaweed Salad. Pantry Taster. Black Cod Fillet with Chargrilled Fennel, Orange Pistachio Salad and Pinot Noir sauce. Truffle Risotto with Lobster Maine.
Going deeper into the menu, you'll think that the restaurant is having a case of confused identity, with choices that range from Italian, French and Spanish charcuterie to Japanese inspired dishes and sushi to Pantry, Oysters, Pasta and Grain and Patisserie. All done through various cooking methods like over the coal, roasting and braising. This is Stellar's way of catering to diverse tastes.
First to arrived for #ORTU was the Pantry Taster which requires an acquired taste, lest most diners would find the taste a tad overwhelming. This dish included a selection of breads, pissaladiere (a pizza-like dish without tomatoes made in Southern France), olives, radishes, fig tartlets, and last but not lest, the Foie Gras croustades (fattened goose or duck liver) that is rich, creamy and melts in your mouth.
The Charcuterie Taster arrived in a three-tiered serving tray with the best imported Jamon Iberico (Spanish Ham made from black Iberian pig),Jamon Serrano (Spanish Ham made from domesticated white pig and served raw in thin slices), Prosciutto de Parma (similar to Jamon Serrano, except it originates from Italy). They also have homemade charcuterie such as their game terrine (slow roasted pork shoulder), Foie Gras parfait, crepinettes and rabbit rillette, the last of which most of us didn't dare try. But can you blame us? I'm sure you have a friend whose friend's friend had a rabbit as a pet. I finally mustered up the courage to find that I like it, though the rabbit meat is a little too tough. Their signature of the lot would be the House-Cured Wagyu Bresola.
We never knew what good sushi sashimi was until we've tried Stellar's. Crisp, clean Japanese inspired dishes, which will provoke the palate with their simplicity in concept and complexity in flavour. Trained in the traditions of Japanese sushi artistry our sushi chef pushes the boundaries and perceptions of what defines modern sushi.
There are just too many marvelous dining deals here to bewilder you. Head down yourself and try them out! Remember to tell us what you think here.
Ice creams are almost all the same right? They're creamy, sweet, melts in your mouth, and makes you fat. So, what gives an ice cream brand the right to call themselves premium?
They have all the right in the world to call themselves premium, if first and foremost, they use the finest ingredients in their recipes, such as cream fresh from the diary, macadamia nuts from Hawaii, vanilla beans from Madagascar, chocolate from Belgium, green tea modeled from those that are found in Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries. Even choosing a fruit as common as strawberries, took them six long years to find ones that are sweet enough to be worthy of their high-quality collection. But using the finest ingredients is not the only thing needed in up-keeping the reputation of being premium - creativity, innovation, techniques and branding is need as part of the equation as well.
How else do you think Häagen-Dazs achieve their slow-melting creaminess that gives you a lingering taste? By gently blending these finest ingredients sought out from the best countries all over the world, so as to minimize air. Free of stabilizers, preservatives, artificial flavorings, colorings and additives and there you have it, Häagen-Dazs Premium Ice Cream.
Since being founded in 1961 by Reuben Mattus, there is no stopping Häagen-Dazs. They've gone on to introduce ice cream mooncakes in 1992 in Hong Kong that revolutionized modern gift-giving, and right now, in the fall of 2010 in Singapore, they're introducing 6 new Christmas ice-cream creations for dine-in or as a premium gifts to celebrate life moments.
Gift Hampers
These gift hampers are not just great for corporate gifts, but also a great way to buy over the stomachs of your parents-in-law.
From Left: All I Want for Christmas Gift Set ($50 for 3 white and 3 brown fully edible ice cream presents with chocolate wrapping), Classic Treasure gift set ($38 for 2 pints + $20 voucher), Royal Celebration gift set ($68 for 4 pints + $20 vouchers + Christmas bauble in box)
From Left: Christmas Celebration ($80+ for dark chocolate covered cake with strawberries and black berries), Let it Snow ($80+ for white chocolate glazed cake with strawberries) and Winter Blush ($19 only at their branch in Clarke Quay. Cocktail is blended with Pomegranate, white peach & orange blossom sorbet, tequila and strawberries
Dine-In Creations
From Left: Joyous Noel ($19 for 1 brown cookies & cream ice cream present wrapped with Belgium chocolate and 1 white cream raspberry ice cream wrapped with vanilla chocolate, Winter Wonderland ($15 for multi-colored platter of vanilla, mango sorbet, raspberry sorbet and green tea), 12 Days of Christmas ($48 for fondue with 4 ice cream flavours including caramel biscuit and cream, cookies chocolate, white chocolate raspberry and macadamia nut) Silent Night ($15 for rich Belgium chocolate and white chocholate raspberry).
Remember to share your experiences on their Christmas creations here.
Melissa Lim is a curious gen-yer who finds herself unwittingly challenging the status quo ever-so-often, questioning how things can be done better and bigger. 
