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5 Must-Experience Thai Fashion Brands, from GENTLEWOMAN to ASAVA

One of the most vibrant and trendy cities in Asia that captures the hearts of fashion-savvy Singaporeans is none other than Bangkok, Thailand. With its bustling streets and countless clothing stalls that remain open day and night, Bangkok has rightfully earned its reputation as a haven for fashion lovers. In fact, renowned personalities like Michelle Obama and Katy Perry have joined the chorus in praising Bangkok’s talented designers. It’s safe to say that Thailand truly embodies a paradise for fashion enthusiasts!

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok or simply want to explore the country’s fashion scene, here are five Thai fashion brands that deserve your attention:

#1: GENTLEWOMAN

Shop: gentlewomanonline.com

Have you noticed the ubiquitous black and white totes adorning the streets of Singapore, proudly displaying the words “GENTLE WOMAN” in a striking giant Serif font? The GENTLEWOMAN tote bag has become a symbol of contemporary fashion, featuring a sleek black and white design with the bold “GENTLE WOMAN” inscription. Its appeal lies in its blend of style and substance, appealing to individuals seeking confidence and minimalism.

In Singapore, these striking tote bags have become a pervasive trend, reflecting the city’s fast-spreading fashion culture. Originating from Thailand in 2018, GENTLEWOMAN is a vibrant brand with 15 stores in Bangkok. Apart from tote bags, their collection includes stylish pants, trendy tops, fashionable hats, and more. As Thailand remains a popular destination for Singaporean tourists, many have visited GENTLEWOMAN stores, bringing back coveted souvenirs like the iconic tote bags for their friends back home.

Image Credits: facebook.com/gentlewomanstore

#2: ASAVA

Shop:asavagroup.com

If you are in search of sleek and timeless pieces, look no further than ASAVA. With a strong emphasis on elegance and sophistication, ASAVA perfectly encapsulates the essence of modern Thai luxury. Their designs boast clean lines, impeccable tailoring, and the use of luxurious fabrics, all contributing to a refined aesthetic that resonates with fashion connoisseurs.

ASAVA is renowned for their notable works, including the creation of uniforms for Bangkok Airways and BTS, as well as a range of high-end retail and hotel staff uniforms. Another interesting aspect of ASAVA is their long-standing role as a prominent manufacturer, having designed clothes for Miss Thailand Universe finalists for many years.

#3: BOYY

Shop: boyy.com

Have you heard of BOYY? BOYY, the world-renowned Thai handbag brand, was co-founded by designers Wannasiri “Boy” Kongman and Jesse Dorsey. Initially introduced in New York and Copenhagen, BOYY eventually returned to its roots and established its presence in Thailand. Fashionistas from Tokyo to Paris have been spotted flaunting BOYY’s signature leather buckle bags. Launched in New York by Canadian designer Jesse Dorsey and Bangkok native Wannasiri Kongman, the brand’s aesthetic strikes a perfect balance between femininity and masculinity.

Fashion-forward individuals in Singapore can indulge in the allure of BOYY’s powdery pastel colors, where sand-colored marble provides a backdrop for a captivating range of leather bags, loafers, and sunglasses in a multiple hue.

#4: KLOSET

Shop:lazada.co.th/shop/kloset

Since its establishment in 2001, Kloset has held a special place in the hearts of countless women, evident from the long queues that form outside their shops during sales. Under the management of Mollika “Kam” Ruangkritya, Kloset has earned a reputation as a celebrated designer brand that embraces and exalts femininity. Customers of all ages can discover collections tailored to suit their specific occasions.

Beyond offering fashionable and feminine clothing, the brand goes the extra mile by providing accessories, stationery, shoes, and other items under the name Kloset & Etcetera. Kloset shops can be conveniently found in prominent locations such as Siam Center, Siam Paragon, and more, ensuring easy access to their offerings.

#5: GREYHOUND

Shop: greyhound.co.th

Attention, fashion-forward Singaporean trendsetters! Prepare to be captivated by Greyhound.

Would you believe that Greyhound started back in 1980? The name itself was chosen to evoke an image of elegance, drawing inspiration from the graceful and loyal Greyhound dog, known as man’s best friend. As a renowned Thai brand, Greyhound has gained international recognition for its minimalist and edgy designs. Even their website exudes an undeniable coolness!

Image Credits: facebook.com/greyhound.original

Greyhound’s sophisticated apparel predominantly embraces blacks, whites, and greys. With the use of creative fabrics, daring cuts, and a refined color palette, Greyhound’s contemporary collections showcase sleek silhouettes and experimental designs, making a bold statement in the fashion world.

Sources: 1 ,2, 3, & 4

Why Did I Develop Allergies as an Adult?

Imagine the nostalgia of taking a bite of your favorite childhood snack, the very one your mother lovingly packed in your school lunchbox every single day. You eagerly anticipate the familiar crunchiness, but instead, your mouth betrays you with an irritating itch, and your throat feels uncomfortably scratchy. It’s a disheartening moment, realizing that you’ve developed oral allergies, a phenomenon that haunts adults more frequently, especially those with a history of seasonal allergies.

Allergies, my friend, are the handiwork of our body’s immune system, a complex dance of defense mechanisms. They stand apart from food intolerance or sensitivity, which arise when our bodies struggle to digest certain foods or food chemicals. In the intricate realm of allergies, our immune system kicks into action, producing a special warrior called Immunoglobulin E, or IgE, to combat the allergy symptoms. IgE is a messenger, a chemical emissary that travels to our cells, urgently conveying the message that we need a chemical defense against these foreign invaders. It’s a fascinating process, really. Allergic individuals tend to have elevated IgE levels in response to seemingly harmless environmental exposures, like innocent pollen particles drifting on the breeze.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Now, let’s embark on a journey to understand how allergies come to life within us, mere mortals. Allergies can sprout forth at any stage of our existence. One factor that magnifies the likelihood of their emergence is the specter of family history. If even one parent carries the burden of allergies, their offspring face a 30-50% chance of walking the same thorny path. But wait, the stakes rise to a staggering 60-80% if both parents bear this burden.

Allergies can also develop later in life due to exposure to new allergens in the environment and changes in the immune system. This can happen anywhere from early adulthood, such as a person’s 20s, to their senior years, when they are in their 70s or 80s. The most common food allergies in adults include peanuts, fish, shellfish (e.g., shrimp and lobster), and tree nuts. Recently, sesame seeds have also emerged as a new allergen in some cases.

The most peculiar aspect of adult-onset allergies is that you can suddenly become irritated by an allergen that didn’t bother you yesterday. You may have been in contact with that allergen every day for years without experiencing any adverse effects. But now, you find yourself with a runny nose, itchy eyes, and uncontrollable sneezing whenever exposed to that allergen.

Some potential triggers for adult-onset allergies include:

1. Allergen exposure when your immune system is weakened, such as during illness, pregnancy, or a condition that compromises your immune function.

2. Limited exposure to an allergen during childhood. You may not have been exposed to high enough levels to trigger a reaction until adulthood.

3. Switching to a new home or workplace with different allergens. This could involve exposure to new plants and trees.

4. Owning a pet for the first time. Research suggests that allergies can develop after an extended period of not having any pets.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The good news is that allergies can diminish over time. Even if you develop allergies as an adult, you may find that they start to fade away as you reach your 50s and beyond. This is because immune function tends to decline with age, resulting in less severe immune responses to allergens.

Sources: 1 & 2

How to Cut Your Expenses in Half and Still Live a Comfortable Lifestyle

As you strive to keep up with the vibrancy and dynamism of the Singapore workplace to sustain your daily needs, being intentional with your budget is crucial. Cutting your expenses in half while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle is achievable. Here are some hacks to help you save money and reduce your expenses.

#1: PREPARE HOMEMADE MEALS

At the onset of the pandemic, I started learning how to cook. Eating out can be costly, and making my meals at home helped me to be conscious of my spending and what I put in my body.

You can create a weekly meal plan using the ingredients you already have and make a shopping list of any missing items. Shopping online can also help you reduce costs through store vouchers and occasional sales. Opting to include more veggies in your meals can also lower your food costs.

#2: SHOP SMART

When shopping for groceries and other essentials, keep an eye out for deals and promotions to save money. You can also consider buying toiletries in bulk to reduce costs.

Additionally, you can explore shopping at local markets instead of big chain supermarkets. Local wet/dry markets offer a greater variety of options and provide an opportunity to haggle for the best prices. Gain freedom of choice while sticking to your budget!

#3: APPRECIATE DIFFERENT ART FORMS

Singapore offers a wealth of free or low-cost entertainment options, such as museums, festivals, and parks. Take advantage of these options instead of costly activities like shopping or hotel hopping.

Furthermore, review your monthly expenses to see if there are areas where you can cut back. For example, you could cancel your cable TV subscription and retain your Netflix subscription only.

#4: COMMUTE WITHOUT CARS

With a reliable public transport system that continues to expand, you can easily ride buses and trains on a regular basis. Consider using public transportation instead of owning a car, which can be subject to high taxes and fees.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Not to mention, you would also have to maintain the vehicle’s condition and regularly purchase petrol.

#5: EAT THE LEFTOVERS

Don’t let your dinner leftovers meet a moldy end in the back of your fridge. Forgetting about them wastes both money and food. Instead, consider enjoying them for lunch the next day or incorporating them into a new dish, like egg fried rice. With a bit of creativity, you can spruce up your egg fried rice by adding leftover rice and other ingredients to make Uncle Roger proud!

#6: SWITCH TO REUSABLE ITEMS

Make a positive impact on your wallet and the environment by ditching disposable items like paper towels, sandwich bags, and single-use water bottles. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives.

For example, a pack of paper towels can cost around S$4.50 at FairPrice, while a hand towel from the same store is only about S$2.90. By switching to a reusable hand towel, you’ll save S$1.60 right off the bat and get many more uses out of it. Plus, using the hand towels you already have tucked away instead of grabbing a new paper towel sheet every time you make a mess means fewer trips to the store and less waste in the trash bin. It’s a minor change that will benefit you in the long run.

#7: STEER AWAY FROM COSTLY HOUSING

One of the biggest expenses for most people in Singapore is housing. To reduce your housing costs, consider living in a less expensive area or finding roommates to share the rent with. Downsizing to a smaller flat or house can also be a viable option.

Yes, you need shelter, and you want to live in a lovely place with amenities. While these factors are important, you don’t want to spend so much on your housing that you can’t achieve your financial goals.

#8: AVOID USING CREDIT CARDS

For everyday expenses, avoid using credit cards. Remember that interest rates can be high. Instead, consider using cash or debit cards to keep track of your spending and avoid accumulating debt. By being mindful of your spending habits, you can achieve your financial goals and avoid the burden of credit card debt.

#9: CREATE YOUR OWN THINGS

Don’t spend money on things that you can make yourself. Search for DIY tutorials on YouTube, Pinterest, and social media platforms to create your own soaps, household cleaners, ant killer, rugs, and face scrubs. The possibilities for home DIY projects are endless!

#10: OPT FOR CHEAPER ALTERNATIVES

Cheaper alternatives for products and services are readily available but finding them requires some research. For instance, you can save money on handphone plans or other service subscriptions by choosing more affordable plans or cancelling unnecessary subscriptions.

When it comes to cleaning supplies, medications, and groceries, opting for store or generic brands can help you reduce your expenses while still getting quality products. You can also choose to splurge on a few select items to treat yourself.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

With a dash of foresight and smart decision-making, you can enjoy the Lion City’s luxuries while staying within your financial means.

Sources: 1 & 2

How to Live Like a Millionaire on a Small Budget

Do you dream of living a luxurious lifestyle like a millionaire, but feel like your bank account just won’t cut it? The good news is that you can still enjoy the finer things in life without having to break the bank.

By adopting a few straightforward lifestyle changes, you can indulge in luxury without worrying about overspending or debt. Here are some of the smart financial choices that you can begin with.

TRACK YOUR SPENDING

One of the first things you can do to live like a millionaire on a shoestring budget is to learn how to budget effectively. By examining your expenses and prioritizing your spending, you can ensure that your money is going towards things that matter most to you.

Do you value childcare over new gadgets? Do you prioritize training or travel? Assessing your spending habits will result in cutting back on unnecessary expenses and focusing on things that bring you joy.

ADOPT A MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE

When you’re trying to live like a millionaire on a budget, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality items. This doesn’t mean spending a fortune. Instead, you must choose items that are worth the investment and will last a long time.

For instance, you could invest in a classic white button-up shirt that costs S$100 and wear it to different work events, rather than buying a cheap shirt that you’ll only wear twice and dispose of due to its poor quality. While you’re at it, consider building a capsule wardrobe to simplify your life. By cutting out clutter, you can create a more luxurious and clean-living environment.

GO FOR FREE OR LOW-COST EXPERIENCES

Take advantage of free or low-cost experiences. Look for free events in your community by browsing social media groups or marketplaces. You can also join DIY or home improvement projects initiated by your community.

Indulge in some free group activities, such as visiting ArtScience Museum‘s “Future World: Where Art Meets Science” exhibit. Guests can enjoy complimentary entry for up to four children under 12 years old on Fridays, except during Singapore school periods or public holidays.

You can also go to the Singapore Heritage Fest, which highlights the country’s rich history through a series of exhibitions, talks, and performances. Many of the festival’s activities are free. By being resourceful and creative, you can have fun and feel fulfilled without spending a lot of money.

WATCH OUT FOR PROMOTIONS

Expand your collection of high-quality goods and services by seeking out deals and discounts. Many luxury brands offer clearance events or seasonal promotions, so keep an eye out for those.

INVEST IN YOURSELF

Knowledge is an investment that yields the highest returns, as it is something that no one can ever take away from you. Take classes and learn new things to add value to your personal and professional life. When you have more skills and knowledge, you can negotiate better deals and increase salary. Sign-up for some classes today at SkillsFuture Singapore (e.g., Introduction To Personal Investing for S$20).

TRAVEL SMART

True luxury is often found in experiences and not in material possessions. Travelling can be a great way to experience luxury as perceived by diverse cultures. Don’t forget to travel smart! Instead of staying in expensive hotels or resorts, consider renting an apartment or house. This will give you more space and privacy for less money.

When it comes to dining out, eat like the locals or choose restaurants that offer good value for your money. Read online reviews to be guided, especially when you are in a place you have not been before.

GO YACHTING

Have you been on a yacht before? Yachting may seem like an activity reserved only for the wealthy elite, but at The Yacht Club, you can enjoy the experience at an affordable price. With one of the largest fleets of yachts in Singapore, The Yacht Club offers a variety of options to fit your budget. The most economical choice starts at S$635 and provides an elegant, powered single-hull that can accommodate more than 10 passengers in its spacious lounge area. Check out their website for special rates.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF REWARDS

Credit cards offer a variety of rebates and rewards, allowing you to purchase items on your wishlist for a fraction of the price. However, it’s important to use these cards with discipline and wisdom. You don’t want to end up in debt just to satisfy your lavish taste.

SPLURGE ON LUNCH OR BRUNCH

If you love eating out, opt for lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants and cafes offer lunchtime promotions or set menus at lower prices than their dinner offerings. The food is just as delicious.

MAKE ARTISINAL COFFEE AT HOME

For a coffee enthusiast, savoring a delicious cup of coffee is a luxurious experience. Fortunately, many grocery stores offer a wide range of high-quality coffee beans to choose from. By purchasing whole beans and grinding them at home, you can save a significant amount of money on your daily latte. Whiff the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the comfort of your own home while also being budget-friendly.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Living like a millionaire on a tight budget is all about adopting a mindset of abundance and focusing on the things that truly matter. By simplifying your life, being resourceful, and budgeting effectively, you can create a life of comfort without draining your savings!

Sources: 1 & 2

Extremely Drained from Work? Here are 5 Ways to Feel Less Tired

There’s something about working eight hours a day that leaves us feeling exhausted. Whether you constantly deal with difficult clients or completing an important project, a day at work can leave you unmotivated to do anything else. How are you supposed to meet up with your friends or to teach your child how to accomplish his homework?

Feeling depleted or burnout due to work demands can manifest in a variety of ways such as:

a. having negative, cynical, or pessimistic feelings about your job,
b. finding it difficult to be productive, and
c. feeling less confident about your work.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to start identifying the triggers that may contribute to your fatigue and consider making changes to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

WHAT IS STRESS-RELATED FATIGUE?

When you are heavily suffocated with stress in the workplace, you can experience stress-related fatigue. Feeling emotionally and physically down can be due to being sedentary at work, consuming too much sugar and caffeine, not taking enough breaks, and being in a stressful work environment. You may deal with this type of fatigue because of heavy workload, job insecurity, or other life and work stressors.

#1: SKIP ON CAFFEINE

We cannot deny the stimulating effects of caffeine, but if you do not want to spend the entire night scrambling around, drinking espresso after work is probably not a good idea. Try munching a banana instead.

You will be surprised by how a banana boosts your productivity! Bananas are a fantastic source of carbohydrates, natural sugar, and vitamins. All of these helps increase your energy levels.

#2: TAKE A POWER NAP

During your lunch break or after work, you can consider taking a power nap. If you can find a quiet space to rest, napping earlier in the day is better to avoid ruining your nighttime routine.

Even a 20-minute nap will help revitalize your body and make you feel fresh. However, be sure to set your alarm to prevent oversleeping. Otherwise, you’ll wake up feeling groggy.

#3: EXERCISE REGULARLY

After an exhausting day at work, you might feel that exercise is the last thing on your mind. Believe it or not, regular exercise will make you feel less tired in the long haul. Walking and physical activity can help manage stress and increase your energy levels.

Do this gradually. Build up your stamina over time until you reach the recommended goal of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (e.g., cycling, doubles tennis, or brisk walking) as well as strength exercises on 2 or more days a week that work all the major muscles (i.e., legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms).

#4: DRINK MORE WATER

You’ll likely notice a change in your mood, ability to concentrate, and energy level when you are dehydrated. In fact, studies have shown that being just half a liter dehydrated can elevate your cortisol levels. So, keep fatigue at bay by drinking water sufficiently. Drinking enough water can help reduce the negative psychological and physiological impacts of stress.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#5: CONSIDER TALK THERAPY

Research shows that talking therapies such as counselling or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) might help fight fatigue or tiredness, caused by stress, low mood, or anxiety. Ask for support from your trusted social circles or seek professional help.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5

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