Luxury Lifestyle

Adding seafood to your weekly meals is one of the easiest ways to improve your cooking while also keeping things nice and healthy – as well as exciting. After all, most people don’t eat all that much fish, do they? And the good news is there’s something for everyone, even if you don’t think you’re much of a seafood fan. Plus, incorporating seafood into your menu and weekly meals doesn’t have to be time-consuming, complicated, or expensive, which is often what people assume will be the case. With that in mind, let’s take a look at how you can do it – you’re sure to find a tip that will work for you, so keep reading to find out more.

Why Seafood?

Before we look at the ways you can add more seafood to your diet or what you can do to make it happen, it’s important to understand why seafood is so important and why we should all have more of it – especially if you currently don’t really have any at all (which isn’t as unusual as you might think).

The important thing about seafood is that it’s absolutely packed with crucial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, so that’s got to be a good reason to have more of it. But on top of that, it’s just so versatile that it can fit into basically any type of cuisine, from Italian pasta dishes to Asian stir frys, and that’s exciting – just think of all the new and delicious food and flavors you could be trying just be adding more seafood to the mix (literally in many cases). In the end, you’ll never run out of tasty things to try, so if you’re getting a bit bored with the standard meat and veg, it’s got to be time to try more seafood, hasn’t it?

Start With The Basics

If seafood feels a bit intimidating to cook with, which is sometimes how people feel, especially if it’s not usually a part of their diet, then why not just start with something easy and go from there? As we said, it really doesn’t have to be anything complex and tricky.

You could use ingredients like pre-cooked prawns, canned tuna, or frozen fish fillets to make prep easier, and if you’re using convenient items like these, a lot of the pressure will be off when it comes to cooking with seafood – and you’ll still end up with delicious dishes. Even tossing some shrimp into a salad or mixing tuna with some mayo, lemon, and pepper for a sandwich filling is better than nothing!

Make Seafood A Snack

Who says seafood has to be reserved just for main meals like dinner? It can actually make an ideal snack for any time of the day (or night, come to that), and things like smoked salmon and mackerel are perfect examples of the kind of fish you could use.

How’s this for a tasty idea? Spread some cream cheese on a cracker (ideally whole grain if possible as it’s healthier) and top it with a slice of smoked salmon sprinkled with dill. It’s so easy but it looks pretty fancy and it tastes amazing, plus it’s full of protein. Or what about making (or buying) seafood dips like crab or prawn to serve with some veggies? It’s all delicious and healthy – not to mention easy.

Elevate Your Dinners

When you think about the kinds of dishes you can make, it’s easy to see that seafood is something that can turn any dinner into something special, but it can do it without a lot of effort, which is ideal. A lovely seafood pasta tossed with garlic, olive oil, and a little squeeze of lemon, or a platter of grilled shrimps and vegetables are a lovely, quick, and ultimately lovely weekday meal, for example, but of course, if you want to be a little more indulgent, you can go for other ideas instead.

For example, if you want to make a special meal – perhaps you’re hosting a dinner party – something like garlic butter scallops or lobster tails would be perfect. Or how about exploring further? You might discover succulent king crab legs that can really impress your guests and take your dinner food to the next level – and you can prepare them in a variety of different ways to cater for all your guests, like steaming, baking, or grilling; they’re a fantastic ingredient.

Swap Favorites For Seafood

If you’re not sure how to get started when it comes to seafood or what type of seafood is really going to work, how about taking a favorite dish that you know how to cook really well and that everyone likes and swapping just one ingredient for seafood? In that way, you’ll already be most of the way there when it comes to preparing and cooking the food, and you’ll only have to learn how to cook one new thing, so it saves a lot of time and worry.

A good example is if your favorite dish has chicken in it, because that’s quite easy to switch and have fish or some other kind of seafood instead. However, you can also substitute fish for beef in tacos, or you can add scallops to a risotto, and so on. Don’t hold back and just see what happens – maybe it won’t work, but what if it does and you end up with a new version of a well-loved dish? In either case, you’ll get the confidence you need to keep trying and experimenting, and that’s the really important thing when it comes to cooking and improving your skills.

Freeze For Convenience

Although it might not be as expensive as you initially imagine when you start to look into it, it’s true that seafood does tend to be more expensive than meat and definitely more than vegetables.

However, the good news is that you can freeze seafood, so if you find it on offer or you’ve got a little more money to spend one month, you can stock up and then you’ll always have the perfect ingredient ready to make something delicious and healthy with. Why not see what’s around?

For more on the latest in luxury lifestyle and gastronomy reads, click here.

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Mastering document editing can significantly enhance productivity at a time when efficiency is essential. The hours spent managing files can detract from core business activities, leading to unnecessary stress and delays. Imagine handling reports, contracts, and presentations seamlessly without the frustration of incompatible formats or tedious editing processes. Streamlining these tasks empowers executives to focus on strategic decision-making rather than administrative burdens. This guide provides essential tips to help busy professionals harness the power of document editing tools.

Understanding the Importance of Document Editing

Documents are ubiquitous in business, serving as standard formats for contracts, reports, and presentations. However, many professionals underestimate the benefits of effective document editing.

Whether you’re correcting mistakes, adding annotations, or merging content, having the right tools, such as a reliable PDF editor, can streamline operations and enhance communication. For executives, the ability to edit documents efficiently means reduced turnaround times and improved collaboration with teams and clients.

Implementing effective editing practices can lead to fewer errors, clearer documentation, and better business outcomes. Professionals can position themselves and their organisations for greater success by investing time in understanding these tools.

Essential Tools for Effective Document Editing

Choosing the right editing tool is crucial for maximising productivity. Numerous options exist, catering to various needs and preferences.

Some popular tools offer unique features that simplify the editing process. For instance, an intuitive online interface allows users to edit, compress, and convert files seamlessly. Cloud-based solutions also offer the convenience of allowing documents to be accessed and edited from anywhere, ideal for busy executives on the go.

When selecting a tool, consider factors such as ease of use, compatibility, and specific features that best suit your editing needs. A robust tool should enable you to merge files, convert documents to different formats, and add comments or annotations easily.

Streamlining Your Document Workflow

Establish a streamlined workflow for handling documents to maximise efficiency. Begin by organising files logically. Use clear naming conventions and folders to keep everything easily accessible.

This practice reduces time spent searching for documents and enables quicker responses to client requests or internal needs. Incorporating editing practices into your daily routine can significantly impact productivity.

Familiarise yourself with the features of your chosen editing tool. For instance, learning to annotate directly on a document can facilitate clearer communication with your team. Highlighting critical sections or adding comments enhances collaboration and ensures everyone is aligned.

Additionally, consider integrating your editing tool with other software you use, such as document management systems or project management applications. This integration can automate tasks like file sharing and storage, reducing the time spent on manual processes.

Optimising Annotations for Better Communication

Effective annotations can transform your approach to collaboration. Clear and concise notes can prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications when working on documents with colleagues or clients.

Instead of sending emails back and forth, use annotation tools to highlight essential points and provide context directly within the document. Features like sticky notes, text boxes, or shapes allow you to convey your thoughts visually and textually.

Highlighting text sections and adding comments creates a dialogue within the document. This method makes it easier for others to understand your perspective, which is particularly useful during contract negotiations or project reviews, where clarity is crucial.

Moreover, consider establishing annotation standards within your team to ensure everyone uses a consistent approach. This may include specific colours for different comments, such as green for approval and red for issues needing attention. A standardised approach promotes a more efficient review process, allowing team members to quickly identify each document’s status.

Embracing Collaboration Through Document Tools

Collaboration is essential in any business environment, and editing tools facilitate this process. Features like document sharing, real-time editing, and commenting allow team members to work together more efficiently, regardless of their physical locations.

This capability is especially important in hybrid working models, where remote collaboration is the norm. When sharing documents, ensure all stakeholders have access to the necessary editing tools.

Allowing clients to annotate contracts can expedite the approval process and reduce misunderstandings. Utilising tracking features to monitor revisions and comments can help maintain clarity and accountability throughout the collaboration process.

To enhance collaboration further, consider setting up shared workspaces where team members can store and access documents. This centralises document management and fosters teamwork. Everyone can contribute to and view the latest versions of files, which promotes a cohesive working environment.

Best Practices for Document Security and Version Control

Maintaining the security and integrity of sensitive documents is paramount in business. Editing tools often come with features that allow you to secure your documents through password protection and encryption.

These security measures ensure that only authorised individuals can access sensitive information, safeguarding your company’s data. Furthermore, version control is critical when handling multiple edits and collaborators.

Regularly saving versions of your documents prevents the loss of important changes while helping to track the document’s evolution. Consider using cloud-based solutions that automatically manage version history. This feature allows you to revert to previous versions as needed.

Additionally, maintain a clear naming convention for different versions of the same document. A system that includes dates and descriptors (e.g., “Contract_2023_Nov_Initial”) can help keep track of the latest edits and prevent confusion.

Harnessing Analytics for Document Performance

Some advanced editing tools offer analytics features that track document engagement. Understanding how recipients interact with your files can provide valuable insights. For example, you can see which sections are frequently viewed or where users spend the most time.

This information can guide future document design and content strategies. If certain sections are consistently revisited, consider enhancing those areas to provide additional context or clarification.

Likewise, if you notice abrupt drop-offs in engagement, it may indicate a need to simplify that portion of the document. By leveraging analytics, you can continuously improve how you create and present documents, ensuring they effectively meet your audience’s needs.

Implementing these tips will streamline your document editing processes and enhance overall productivity within your organisation. By focusing on effective document management strategies, you can significantly reduce the time spent on administrative tasks. This shift allows for more attention to strategic initiatives that drive business success.

For more on the latest in business reads, click here.

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When people think of yachting today, sleek, modern vessels embedded with the latest tech may come to mind. But there’s something undeniably captivating about a yacht that carries a sense of history – enter Camara C, a timeless 1961-built ‘gentleman’s yacht’.

This 105ft beauty, crafted by Yarrow & Co in Glasgow, Scotland, stands as a living testament to a golden era of yachting, where elegance and craftsmanship were the name of the game.

Once known as Maureen Maur, she has long been an emblem of refined yachting, hosting royalty, celebrities and the world’s elite. While her origins may date back more than six decades, Camara C has been lovingly maintained and refitted to blend the best of classic design with modern comforts.

Most recently refitted in 2021, she’s one yacht in the Classic line of charters cruisers offered by Asia Global Yachting (AGY), which operates in southern Thailand and Indonesia. Sailing the waters of southern Thailand, she offers a rare mix of heritage, luxury and contemporary comforts.

A Legacy Restored

Camara C’s origins trace back to the drawing boards of GL Watson & Co, one of the world’s oldest yacht design houses, renowned for its studio in Glasgow. A grand example of traditional yacht building, from her steel hull to her teak decks.

Over the years, careful and precise refits have ensured that her vintage aesthetics remain intact while integrating the latest technology to cater to the needs of today’s luxury travellers. The 2021 refit restored much of her original grandeur, preserving her status as a symbol of mid-20th-century maritime artistry.

The Quintessential ‘Gentleman’s Yacht’

Affectionately referred to as an example of this genre – so-named in its era – Camara C exudes the character and understated charm of a time when yachting was less about flashiness and more about refined leisure. With her canoe stern and classic lines, she cuts a striking figure on the water.

The attention to detail in her design – both inside and out – illustrates the craftsmanship of her builders, who valued both aesthetics and seaworthiness equally.

Spacious Luxury On The High Seas

Her expansive deck areas are perfect for relaxing or socialising. The aft deck features fixed seating and a large dining table that comfortably seats 10 guests, ideal for alfresco dining while taking in panoramic views of the sea. The sundeck is another highlight, with its combination of sun loungers and beds, perfect for soaking up the tropical sun during your charter.

A standout feature aboard Camara C is her spacious accommodation. She can host up to 12 guests across six luxurious cabins, or the same number for day charters, making her an ideal yacht for family holidays or gatherings of friends.

Accommodation includes a master suite on the main deck, complete with a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room, while the remaining five cabins, each also equipped with an en-suite, offer a mix of double and twin bed configurations. The layout ensures both privacy and comfort, a hallmark of her design ethos.

Comfort Meets Character

While her vintage design remains at the forefront of her appeal, Camara C’s well-tuned mechanical reliability, and a host of on-board marine toys available are also part of the allure.

Powered by two 230hp Gardner engines from the UK, she can reach a cruising speed of 10 knots, with a top speed of 12 knots. This steady pace, combined with her 16,500-litre fuel capacity, gives her an exceptional range of 4,376 nautical miles – a feature that opens exciting cruising grounds across Southeast Asia and beyond.

For those seeking a little adventure on and below the water, Camara C comes equipped with a speedy Valiant 690 Sport Black Carbon tender and a wide array of water toys, including, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear.

These amenities ensure that guests can explore secluded bays and clear Southeast Asian waters, adding layers of fun and exploration to the serene luxury she offers.

An Icon In Southeast Asia

Currently based in Phuket, Thailand, Camara C welcomes her passengers to take in some of the most breathtaking cruising grounds of Southeast Asia, including the Andaman Sea. This region, known for its turquoise waters, vibrant marine life and pristine islands, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable yachting experience.

Waking up to the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay, exploring secluded beaches or diving into the vibrant marine life that surrounds Thailand’s islands are just a few possibilities while aboard. Whether it’s a family holiday, a romantic escape or a corporate retreat, this cruiser offers a unique combination of old-world charm and modern luxury that few yachts can match.

Camara C’s inflatable ‘floating beach’ is a favourite fun yacht extension across charter group types, swiftly installed at anchor against photogenic backdrops.

The Perfect Setting For Special Events

With her spacious sundeck and elegant interiors, Camara C is also an excellent choice for hosting intimate events.

Outdoor dining and drinks

The aft deck’s large dining table, which can be extended to accommodate up to 10 guests, makes her ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or milestone birthdays. Additionally, her timeless design lines and classic ambiance provide a picturesque setting for luxury photoshoots or film projects.

Camara C offers an experience that is rare in the world of luxury yachting: an alluring blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Her pedigree, combined with high-quality refits, ensures that guests experience the best of both worlds.

Images courtesy of Asia Global Yachting.

This story was first seen on Yachtstyle.Co.

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As the Spanish footwear brand launches its Manolo’s Silhouettes capsule, Kristina Blahnik tells us about her lifelong love affair with shoes and how she’s moving the Manolo Blahnik legacy forward.

“I really was born in a shoebox; one of my earliest memories is from when I was about eight years old, sitting on my uncle’s lap and watching him design shoes,” recounts Kristina Blahnik. While many of us have played dress up in our mother’s too-big-for-us heels, not many can say they’ve pranced around awkwardly in Blahniks—and certainly not in the presence of the iconic designer himself. To Kristina, the 81-year-old Manolo Blahnik is more than a fashion visionary — he is her uncle and a paternal figure who imparted to her the values of craftsmanship, tradition and creativity.

A former architect, Kristina unexpectedly pivoted into the family business when she took over its production logistics for one season. In this fortunate twist of events that sparked her passion for the industry, she proceeded to spend several years learning everything about the company, and eventually assumed the role as chief executive officer in 2013.

Equipped with a sharp business acumen and a bold collaborative spirit, she looks back on some of the most fulfilling projects she’s spearheaded since being with the company. “Opening the pop-up at Liberty’s in 2010 was one of the craziest things I’ve ever done. My architecture practice designed it, and we made lots of special products for it—and all in just 10 months,” she reveals. Other noteworthy partnerships over the years include a highly coveted capsule with pop icon Rihanna, as well as collections with Vetements and Birkenstock. Kristina has since steered the storied Spanish label into a novel direction— one that effortlessly fuses tradition and innovation. “We like to experiment with new shapes and fabrications alongside the classic styles that we offer. For me it is all about taking our time and trusting our gut feelings,” shares Kristina.

Just recently, the brand unveiled its Manolo’s Silhouettes campaign which shines the spotlight back on its most timeless designs. The edit features six signature styles: The BB, Maysale, Mary Jane, Chaos, Susa and Carolyne. When asked about her personal favourite, Kristina picked the sophisticated Maysale, a low-heeled mule that has been worn by icons ranging from Madonna to Marge Simpson. “I wear it pretty much everywhere—on walks, to work, to dinner. It just fits so nicely into my wardrobe,” she says.

This article first appeared on Elle Singapore.

For more on the latest in luxury watch reads from WOW, click here.

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From the novel to the covetable, LUXUO presents a curated list of desirable gadgets and gizmos to gift technologically savvy loved ones this festive season. From luxury home appliances to the most desired speakers, these gifting ideas are not just for home interiors but are ideal for those hosting holiday gatherings and evening parties this festive season. Look no further than this selection of tech gifts that seamlessly marry innovation and style.

Ruark Audio R-CD100 and the Revo SuperCD

You can tell it’s more than just a fleeting resurgence when well-known companies like Ruark Audio venture out to create their first CD player. Since the R-CD100 is an accessory for Ruark’s 100 Series of standalone music players, it represents a bit of a shift for the company. Because of their onboard digital and analogue radio tuners and support for the entire range of streaming services, these devices—which include the R410, R610, and R810—are typically kept as standalone units.

With ultra-high-end components for a silent playback system, the little R-CD100 is made from the same fused walnut and machined aluminium combination as the ample cabinets. The player uses USB to connect and power itself, and it instantly syncs with the 100 Series players’ operating system and display.
Ruarkaudio.com

Marantz Horizon Wireless Speakers

With premium materials, a striking, eye-catching design, and significant power, the new Marantz Horizon and Marantz Grand Horizon take the wireless speaker concept to the next level. The two spherical Horizon speakers immediately highlight sound quality using high-grade materials. The system is offered in three finishes—Midnight Sky, Moon Ray, and Marantz Champagne. The company has taken a cue from the automotive sector and developed its sustainable fabric, called “Marantz Radiance 360-degree Seamless Ecofiber,” which is derived from ocean plastics. It adds embedded gold lurex threads for a glistening, luxurious look that goes well with the three distinct finishes.

Additionally, the optional American walnut tripod floor stand (or wall brackets if that’s a better alternative) is included with the external hardware. Each colourway has a different natural marble base on which the circular devices rest. The Horizon line, overseen by Begüm Tomruk, the Industrial Design Director of Marantz, sets a new visual standard for the company. What about the actual technology? In addition to paying homage to Marantz’s “porthole” style, the circular shape functions as the central component of the subwoofer driver system. Interactive lighting around the circle’s edge indicates the volume level, and touch-sensitive technology lets you instantly select a volume from the dial.

The Grand Horizon’s subwoofer is 200mm (8in), whereas the Horizon’s is 165mm (6.5in). The bigger Grand Horizon model has four 76” midrange drive units, while the Horizon model has three 50mm (2 in) drive units. Marantz’s software, operated through its HEOS app, enhances the room-filling capabilities by allowing users to adjust the sound equaliser to their liking.
www.marantz.com

Satechi Mac Mini Stand & Hub

A new USB hub from accessory manufacturer Satechi is made to function with Apple’s most recent Mac mini. In summary, the new Mac mini has undergone a total overhaul. The latest Apple M4 and M4 Pro CPUs power the new model, which is significantly smaller than its predecessor. However, Apple has decided not to incorporate USB Type-A ports on the latest Mac mini because of its compact size. It’s not necessarily a deal breaker, but it’s a pain for people who still use USB-A devices, such as keyboards and mice. Satechi’s new Mac mini Stand & Hub with NVMe Enclosure is helpful in this situation. The aluminium hub sits perfectly on the Mac mini. It has an SD card reader and three USB-A connections on the front.

Up to 10Gbps speeds are possible with USB 3.2; two USB-A ports are also supported. The third can only handle rates up to 480 Mbps because it supports USB 2.0. Additionally, because the hub can support M.2 SSDs, it also functions as storage expansion. According to the manufacturer, the hub can accommodate M.2 2230/2242/2260/2280 SSDs with a maximum capacity of 4TB and support speeds of up to 10Gbps. According to initial observations, the Satechi Mac mini Stand & Hub with NVMe Enclosure solves the primary issues with the new Mac mini, namely its absence of an SD card reader and USB-A connections. Considering how much Apple charges for storage expansions, increasing storage is also helpful. Its design must surely be a key selling factor, given how well it works with the Mac mini.
https://satechi.net

Cassina Radio

Franco Albini created the design for the Radio in Cristallo in 1938. A radio that Albini had received as a wedding gift was disassembled and again reconstructed, but this time, the electrical parts were positioned between two panes of glass. Now manufactured by Cassina, the style is entirely contemporary and remains so to this day. In Cristallo, the radio draws the viewer in and creates a sense of lightness. You can get the wood and glass design radio with visible metal components in satin or white lacquered stainless steel. The radio is 72 x 66 x 28 cm in height. Stocked at W. Atelier, the FM and DAB radio in Cristallo now has built-in Bluetooth and an optional subwoofer for WLAN connectivity (Android and iOS).

Pro-ject Vertical Turntable

This futuristic-looking Pro-Ject VT-E turntable has fantastic features to enhance your listening pleasure. This model has a premium silicone belt that cushions vibrations produced by the TT’s engine while running. The low-vibration synchronous motor enhances the sound purity and playback quality. The Pro-Ject device has an 8.6” aluminium tonearm with an Ortofon OM 5E cartridge pre-mounted, unlike the Fuse record player with the Audio Technica cartridge. The tonearm traces the record grooves smoothly, and a threaded clamp and a unique tracking mechanism guarantee that the record is firmly fastened to the vertical platter. The turntable is already adjusted when it is first delivered. It doesn’t need any significant changes. The manufacturer has already set the tracking and anti-skating forces, so you don’t need to do it yourself. This turntable’s deck accommodates left- and right-handed users (two product variations are available). Additionally, it can be mounted on the wall or placed on a table. 33 and 45 RPM are the two-speed settings it offers.

This stand-up record player includes a phono preamplifier to enable wireless communication to speakers or headphones. The playback quality is stunning overall, and the player’s quiet operation will wow you. Second, the bass is deep without being boomy or overpowering, the highs are clear, and the audio is warm and precise. You will adore the sound of old records played on this table!
https://pro-jectusa.com/product/vt-e/

Dyson WashG1

The WashG1 is Dyson’s newest addition to the home cleaning market. It can clean up to 3,000 square feet of hard floors in a single charge and is designed to do so both wet and dry. It can run for up to 35 minutes on a single battery. It can eliminate stubborn spills, stains, and even dried debris. Two powerful motorised counter-rotating microfiber rollers are used to remove dry and moist filth simultaneously. Dyson engineers have advanced their inventiveness by enabling the rollers to clean themselves as they go. The rollers clean themselves with clean water from beginning to end by removing dirt during each rotation before being uniformly hydrated. You can change directions whenever possible because the device is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. Cleaning low, awkward, and difficult-to-reach areas is part of its design. The best part is that the innovative technology uses a clean, touchless disposal method to remove debris from the contaminated water automatically.
www.dyson.com

Bose 901 Speakers

Brooklyn furniture designer Mark Jupiter and American clothing brand Kith have refurbished Bose’s 1960 speakers, which are enclosed in elegant wood enclosures and metal bases. To commemorate the speakers’ 60th anniversary, Kith was entrusted with redesigning the speaker casing. The company collaborated with the audio engineering firm in Massachusetts to offer a modern interpretation of a design that has gained popularity since its 1968 release. As a result, just twelve pairs of the revised hardware were produced, making the collection small. This is important because it has speakers facing backwards, reflecting sound off of walls to create an illusion of surround sound.

This gear was positioned within wooden enclosures to emphasise the speakers’ potential as décor. Two distinct wood casings created the speakers: a natural air-dried walnut and white-washed ash. As they emerge from the wooden bases, they are supported by pronged pedestals made of hand-rubbed brass that give the product a modern appearance. Overall, the speaker system’s shape remains similar to the original, and Kith even sourced the fronts’ grey-tone fabric from the 1968 edition.
www.bose.com

Samsung The Premiere 9 and The Premiere 7 4K Laser Projectors

Samsung’s Premiere projector, first introduced in 2020, has finally received improvements. The 4K ultra-short-throw laser projector, which had a bulb life of more than 20,000 hours, amazed us back then. It was available in two models (the LSP7T and LSP9T, respectively), with screens of 120 and 130 inches, peak brightness of 2,200 and 2,800 ANSI lumens, and DCI-P3 gamut coverage of 83% and 147%, respectively.

The new Premiere 9 and Premiere 7 models offer a maximum brightness of 3,450 ISO lumens and 2,500 ISO lumens, respectively, and support HDR10+. According to Samsung, this brightness level is roughly 23% and 14% brighter than the previous generations and is based on International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requirements. The Premiere 9 has 154% colour gamut coverage, whereas The Premiere 7 has 100% DCI-P3 standard coverage. They have the same screen sizes as their predecessors.

The primary distinction between Premiere 7 and Premiere 9 is the laser technology employed. While the Premiere 7 includes Smart Laser technology, the Premiere 9 employs Smart Triple Laser technology. The two diverge most in colour accuracy. Because triple laser technology can directly produce the primary colours, it can create more accurate and bright images than single laser technology.

It is challenging to avoid AI upgrades these days, and The Premiere 9 and The Premiere 7 offer AI Upscaling and Vision Booster as examples. According to Samsung, Vision Booster intelligently modifies brightness and contrast in various lighting settings for the best possible image quality. At the same time, AI Upscaling guarantees that content is shown in 4K resolution regardless of its original quality.

Both models feature Dolby Atmos for audio; The Premiere 7 has 30W 2.2ch speakers, and The Premiere 9 has 40W 2.2.2 channel upfiring speakers. The Premiere 7 and Premiere 9 ship with Samsung Tizen OS Home, just like their predecessors. With built-in voice assistant support, users can easily control the projector and other connected devices with simple voice commands. They can also access streaming services like Samsung TV Plus (which might not be available in Singapore), Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Additionally, they can share content from their smartphones to the big screen using Tap View and Mirroring.

Additionally, Samsung’s own technological advancements are included with the projectors. There is the Samsung Gaming Hub for gamers, which allows users to access cloud-based games straight through the projector and play games without a console. Please be aware that Singapore may not have access to this service. Using Custom Ambient, you can make mood videos from your memories to play on the projectors. The SmartThings smartphone app allows users to blend images, videos, and widgets freely. Users control other Samsung smart home appliances from the projector by using the SmartThings app. Samsung’s online site in the United States sells The Premiere 9 and The Premiere 7 for US$5,999.99 and US$2,999.99, respectively.
www.samsung.com

JBL Modern Audio (MA) AV Receivers and Stage 2 Loudspeakers

With the launch of JBL Modern Audio (MA) AV Receivers and Stage 2 Loudspeakers, audio technology pioneer JBL Singapore elevates personal audio. This new JBL Home Theatre Solution, created for the upcoming generation of movie and music lovers, offers a unified audio system that balances cost, quality, and scalability.

These innovative devices simplify the home theatre experience by utilising JBL’s extensive knowledge of cinema sound, including patented loudspeaker technology and digital amplification. Many customers find buying a home theatre component scary and too complicated. This is not the case with JBL MA AV Receivers and Stage 2 Loudspeakers, which were intentionally created as straightforward, turnkey solutions that are easy to install and comprehend.

Customers can utilise the mobile app in a few minutes to adjust the system to fit their area precisely. Wi-Fi-enabled AVRs with “Works with SmartThings” integration let users set up automatic routines that control other IOT devices with a single button push. Numerous audio platforms are compatible with the system. Users can rely on a flawless and fluid audio experience whether they stream from Spotify, couple their phone with their device via Bluetooth, or connect their music using Apple AirPlay or Chromecast. The system is available at selected JBL authorised dealers, with prices ranging from SG$699 to SG$2,499 for JBL MA AV Receivers and SG$599 to SG$2,199 for JBL Stage 2 Loudspeakers.
https://www.jblonlinestore.com/

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In a notable departure from model-driven storytelling, luxury brands appear to be pivoting towards product-focused campaigns this holiday season. Instead of featuring high-profile personalities or being fronted by familiar-faced models, these campaigns centre the spotlight squarely on the items themselves — from luxurious handbags and shoes to intricately designed pieces. This approach not only simplifies messaging but also underscores the cultural relevance of understated luxury and pragmatic consumerism.

Product-Focused Festive Campaigns

Balenciaga’s 2024 Gift campaign exemplifies the power of highlighting “hero products”, by not only reintroducing Maison favourites like the Balenciaga Le City bag from 2001 but also connecting the consumer directly with their offerings and in doing so, they redefine the way luxury is perceived and consumed. By removing the inclusion of a model or celebrity, luxury brands could be making a marketing pivot by aiming to democratise aspiration without diluting exclusivity.

Similarly, Celine’s EOY 2024 Campaign features an array of the label’s classic pieces including the Celine 16 Bag, the Celine Triomphe Bag, the Celine Nino Bag and the Celine Clara Bucket Bag. These end-of-year campaigns highlight hero pieces while also affirming the House’s signature aesthetic and exceptional leather craftsmanship. One will find that the collection features canvas designs that celebrate Celine’s historic monogram — a link motif first revealed in 1972 inspired by the chain encircling the Arc de Triomphe — complemented by the now famed Triomphe hardware, which remains a hallmark of the brand’s identity.

While Balenciaga and Celine opted for a direct, almost minimalist approach to their campiagns, Roger Vivier’s 2024 Holiday Season Campaign embraced the festive season by showcasing both signature designs and new releases. Here, Roger Vivier exemplifies the art of emotional storytelling through objects. By focusing on the product set against an instantly recognisable vintage-inspired festive background, the brand encourage consumers to project their personal stories onto the item. The Maison’s Efflorescence jewel bags and shoes are a nod to celebratory winter evenings while the unveiling of a brand-new mule, featuring the classic crystal flower-encrusted buckle celebrates the joy of gifting.

LOEWE’s holiday campaign is a celebration of imagination and craft; handmade scenes will bring the collection’s whimsical characters to life in animated and transportive festive windows complete with twinkling lights. Creative Director Jonathan Anderson has collaborated once again with Kyoto-based ceramists Suna Fujita, creating original illustrations and ceramics inspired by childlike dreamscapes. Playful creatures, such as octopuses, squid, whales, bunnies, and hamsters, are featured on bags, ready-to-wear, and accessories, brought to life through intricate leather marquetry and vibrant colours. Mesmerising holiday facades and a handcrafted, mechanical puppet film, draw inspiration from fantasy, memory and the wonders of the natural world.

Accessibility Meets Aspiration

The fashion industry excels at marketing desire, and brands are increasingly weaving relatable moments into their storytelling, moving away from purely aspirational narratives. While Hollywood stars remain timeless symbols of cultural influence, many brands are shifting focus to more accessible, everyday scenarios. By striking a delicate balance with campaigns that feature models who are both beautiful and approachable — brand from Dolce & Gabbana to xx are walking the fine line between aspirational and relatable. Dolce & Gabbana’s glitzy holiday campaign saw models dressed in an imaginative assortment of Dolce & Gabbana’s recent holiday collection donning shimmering textures like lamé jersey, thermostrass mesh, sequins and exquisite details convey the magic of the festive season.

Golden Goose on the other hand, captures the essence of individuality and unapologetic togetherness with Golden Club — a dreamlike world where rebellious characters come together to embrace their wildest desires. Nostalgic references to the ’90s are seen with dazzling crystals and sharp tailoring intermingle with delicate knits and velvet sets, all punctuated by bold eyelets, metalware, and vintage silver detailing. Here, Golden Goose’s psychedelic campaign reimagines the festive season as a celebration of boundless togetherness and a sense of belonging that transcends time and space.

Valentino’s holiday campaign exudes opulence, set against a backdrop of shimmering light that captures a story of celebration and joy. The scene is filled with dazzling looks and signature Valentino Garavani accessories, evoking the magic of a memorable winter evening. The campaign, part of the #ValentinoAvantLesDébuts collection which showcases the Maison’s maximalist aesthetic under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele, with photography and direction by Glen Luchford. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a holiday-themed adventure, these narratives resonate more deeply when they mirror real-life experiences. By inviting consumers to see themselves within the “fantasy,” the fashion industry is embracing a marketing evolution that reflects not just strategic shifts but a broader cultural movement celebrating the beauty of the everyday.

Rise of Luxury Petwear

Pets are often seen as cherished family members and brands are capitalising on this emotional bond. By offering stylish, well-crafted home & decor and pet apparel, they appeal to consumers who want to pamper their pets and showcase their devotion. MCM and Burberry have both unveiled holiday campaigns featuring pets further strengthening emotional connections between the brand and the consumer.

If home is at the heart of festive moments, then Burberry’s curated gifts are guaranteed to to tug at heartstrings while capturing the seasonal mood with warmth and joy. Under the creative direction of Daniel Lee, the collection includes wool cashmere cushions and blankets woven in Scotland, adorned with the iconic Burberry Check. The festive offerings also feature cheerful wool stockings in a seasonal check, perfect for adding a touch of festive spirit. Embracing the tradition of gift-giving, Burberry has launched a tea towel set featuring hand-drawn illustrations of classic British dishes, from beef Wellington to Eton mess and mince pies. Crafted from linen cotton, these tea towels evoke the charm of family recipes passed down through generations, offering both practicality and nostalgic sentiment.

MCM also taps into the growing luxury pet market with offerings to ‘help’ humans pick out gifts for their four-legged companions. Men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, shoes and bags are all featured, as well as items from MCM’s permanent pet collection such as beds, food bowls, leashes and harnesses. These items play a key role in the broader narrative of holiday campaigns, often appearing in heartwarming, celebratory settings alongside pets. They also offer a taste of luxury at a relatively accessible price point, making them an ideal entry-level purchase for new consumers.

Pragmatic Luxury

One could argue that the focus on products rather than aspirational lifestyles in this season’s campaigns highlights a shift towards pragmatism and intentional consumerism. As luxury brands embrace relatability and authenticity, they are responding to the growing demand for meaningful connections over unattainable fantasies. By placing products and reality-driven at the forefront alongside crafting stories that resonate with real-life experiences, these campaigns not only reflect current consumer values but also redefine what it means to indulge and gifting in luxury during the festive season.

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As we have written more than a few times, it is difficult to find exciting watchmaking content that is also accessible. All too often, as novelty value increases, so too do price points – this is not unexpected given that watchmaking also operates on economies of scale. Take the forged carbon material, which was used exclusively by high-end watchmakers who charged a premium for it. The Tissot Sideral – subject of WOW’s cover story from exactly a year ago – changed all that in dramatic fashion. It turns out that this was not a one-off for the brand, as part of WOW’s Autumn Issue #74 cover story examines.

This year, instead of revisiting the history of material experimentation at Tissot, we thought we would check in once again with CEO Sylvain Dolla for his thoughts. As it happens, Dolla is now into his 20th year at Swatch Group – he originally worked on the Swatch Paparazzi watch – and is, by his own admission, a true watch afficionado. Prior to taking charge at Tissot, Dolla spent 15 productive years at Hamilton and we are tempted to lay the credit for that brand’s successes at his feet too. That kind of thinking is complicated by the fact that Swatch Group is, well, a group, meaning there is more than one chef responsible for any given dish.

The PRX that captivated us in 2021, and especially the automatic version that featured on the cover of the Autumn issue that year, might actually be called Dolla’s. This is because he discovered – or rediscovered – the original 1970s model that would inspire the PRX, as he has told a number of publications, including us, Time and Tide and WatchPro, most recently. It was most assuredly not a watch that emerged from a focus group, as Dolla memorably explained to Alexandre Lindz of WatchAdvisor.

Runaway Success

If you wonder what it is about the PRX that explains its commercial prowess, this probably goes some way to explain matters. Basically, a watch enthusiast discovered a hidden treasure in the archives of the brand he was leading and had a gut instinct about it. Sounds about right for a successful sports elegance watch in the 2020s.

This issue, despite the soloist on the cover, the story is really an ensemble performance, running the gamut from the PRX Forged Carbon piece to the PRX Grendizer, a couple of new dial variants and the PR516. That said, if this is news to you then perhaps you have not had the full introduction to the PRX itself. Well, at any rate, you may not have heard what we had to say about the collection.

If you are discovering the Tissot PRX for the first time here, you have missed out on one of the biggest stories in Swiss watchmaking in recent memory. The unassuming quartz version of this model, also called PRX, was so successful it sold out in several markets. In 2021, no less. A few years later, the collection has made its mark and leveled up a few times – it has become a sign of the times, in a way that Tissot could not have foreseen with the first watch. As we noted three years ago, that is not the original watch and there is interesting history here.

Colourful Ensemble

You can sum up what makes the PRX special in just one word: desirability. We recognised this in 2021 and we stand by it – retrofuturism is a powerful design force in watchmaking today, perhaps more so than ever before. Whether the 40mm time-only watch or the more diminutive 35mm follow-up; the quartz debutant or the automatic chronograph; and now the new colourful variants, at least one PRX seems to be on everyone’s to-buy list. Probably more than one, if we are being honest, and this is where the new dial options come in. There are six such watches (three 40mm automatic models, one automatic 35mm model, and two 35mm quartz PRX variants), with dials ranging from gradiant blue to brushed pink. See the pictures of the real watches accompanying this story for references, which work better than descriptions anyway.

To reiterate and reinforce what we wrote in 2021, by everyone’s to-buy list here, we actually mean the rare convergence between collectors and people looking for nice everyday watches. The proportions work out for daily wear, unless your wrist is very large, in which case the 13.5mm thick PRX Automatic Chronograph might work – do also see the PR516 manual-winder later in this story.

On the subject of lugs here, the integrated bracelet is important because how the watch wears depends entirely on it. The virtually non-existent lugs of this roughly barrel-shaped case ensure a great fit, even if you need it to fit under your sleeve. Exceptionally form-fitting sleeves will be a problem though, making the slimmer quartz model (as little as 9.6mm versus up to 11.2mm for the automatic) a more logical decision. The sapphire crystal is flat, top and bottom alike so the thickness measurement is accurate here. Now, this is a total watch design, as mentioned, and it has sporty connotations. Tissot recognises and references this directly in the name PRX, which stands for Precise, Robust and water-resistant to 100 meters (X means 10 bar, with bar being a gauge of pressure). All that aside, PRX is a pretty cool name.

Future Tense

Just as the PRX confronts us with a new view of Tissot, it also opens the door to entire chapters of the brand’s history that may have been neglected in recent years. Indeed, when Tissot began using automatic movements with the silicon balance springs that Swatch Group developed, we were tremendously excited. While these technically advanced mechanical components were, in 2018, still mainly in use at Omega, Blancpain and Breguet, we never thought that a balance spring should mark anything as high-end. After all, no one is going to see this, or recognise it even if they do see it. Yes, even the wearer. What mattered, and still matters, is the watch.

In 2018, this was the Tissot Ballade and it was a handsome watch that could have been yours for less than USD1,000. The market seemed more skeptical, especially given the necessary increase in prices. We were convinced there was interest in automatic watches from Tissot that went beyond the basic ETA variants. Bear in mind that Tissot makes gold wristwatches and pocket watches, and its history is marked by a desire to bring innovation to the largest possible group. This is the true starting line for the story of the Tissot PRX.

Now we get to the direct origins of the PRX in general. Tissot says the current model references a Seastar watch from 1978, but you might just as easily link it with the PR516 models from the early 1970s. To get the official perspective on the PRX and its place in Tissot’s history, we went directly to Dolla. “Since the PRX is a model originally released in 1978, our objective was to give a renewal to this piece that could suit today’s vintage craze. It shows Tissot’s desire to remain tied to its roots, while being able to adapt to current trends. Nowadays and more than ever, new challenges naturally drive new strategies, but it will never change our background and history nonetheless.”

PRX Grendizer

When news about the Tissot collaboration with the classic manga and anime UFO Robot Grendizer emerged, we could scarcely believe it. This is certainly a first for Tissot and marks possibly the first such collaboration between a Swiss watchmaker and the creators of a Japanese comic book, which is what manga is. We were so pumped for this that we were torn about not having it for the cover; the story here is very rich, but admittedly, for pure watchmaking content, the Forged Carbon model is the right choice. Nevertheless, since that watch gets its due elsewhere as well, we devote a bit of extra time to the Tissot PRX Grendizer.

Although this PRX Grendizer is just one model, it may yet herald more cross-cultural adventures for Tissot. The decision to go with the PRX model, an inherently 1970s proposition, and a manga popular in Switzerland in the 1970s is perhaps loaded with meaning. It probably had some impact on the childhood experiences of a number of high-ranking watch industry executives, the most famous and public of whom is, of course, Max Busser. In fact, it was the first MB&F watch that brought Grendizer into the headspace of editors because Busser began talking about how his childhood obsessions were feeding his creativity. Well, it turns out Dolla was a fan as a child too… More than 20 years later, a major force in Swiss watchmaking – part of the largest industrial group of watchmakers in the world – is embracing Grendizer just as a remake of the series, Grendizer U debuts.

On that note, the manga deserves a short introduction all its own. Created by the father-figure of the super robot genre, Go Nagai, the plot concerns an alien prince who flees the destruction of his world with his super robot called Grendizer. Finding shelter on earth, the prince and the robot he commands find themselves defending the world against the same enemy that laid waste to his home. In tribute, the dial also bears the original Japanese title of the series: UFOロボ グレンダイザー.

This is only the opinion of the editorial staff but Grendizer is a powerful symbol, even for those without any grounding in the world of the manga. The image of Grendizer, stamped onto the blue dial of the PRX UFO Robot Grendizer, is magnetic. You do not have to take our word for it – just look at it, and imagine it in low light, when the yellow SuperLuminova allows the bust of the robot to literally glow. In this situation, you will also notice that the hands and markers of the watch, also treated with Super-Luminova glow a different colour (blue). No doubt this was done for legibility reasons but it does provide the watch with a lively spirit, approaching a certain view of neon-drenched Tokyo. Finally, note that the second hand, with its Harken motif is not Super-Luminova treated.

PR516

The second and final watch we will get into is the PR516, which is a chronograph we have had awhile to consider since it debuted earlier this year. This is a significant chronograph by any measure, given that it is a manual-winder. We were speechless when we learned of this piece, which is unprecedented at Tissot – it also showcases the newly developed Valjoux A05.291 movement. Tissot says it is derived from the workhorse 7753 calibre that plenty of enthusiasts are familiar with. This move was so significant that Tissot sent out a technical press release for it, which itself is quite an event. For some context, remember that it is usually only the most traditional of watchmakers who make manual-winding chronographs, and they do so to honour the legacy of fine watchmaking.

Obviously, a manual-winder from Tissot was unexpected to say the least, and we will say that there is no meticulous hand-finishing to admire via the exhibition caseback. This is not the point though – what is interesting is that Tissot thinks there is an appetite for this sort of watch. On its website, Tissot makes a special place for chronographs, and the PR516 is the only one listed in the “mechanical” category. If an enthusiast finds this watch while looking for a PRX, for example, he will certainly be pleasantly surprised – it is always fun to watch a manual chronograph calibre in action, without the rotor to get in the way. At SGD 2,620, the PR516 offers a nigh unbeatable proposition from the value perspective too. It must be said here that Tissot is certainly leveraging the industrial capabilities of Swatch Group to offer a chronograph with up to 68 hours of power reserve and an antimagnetic escapement featuring precision laser regulation. Suffice to say that nothing like this exists at this price point.

Photography by ching@greenplasticsoldiers
Styling by Gregory Woo

This article first appeared on WOW’s Autumn Issue #74

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2024 saw luxury fragrances “bottle” the spirit of travel and wanderlust to diverse and captivating landscapes. As the year winds down and consumers prepare for the festive retreats, these fragrances offer a different kind of escape. From the sun-kissed plains of Morocco to the serene forests of Japan, these scents evoke nature’s raw beauty and its power to inspire the senses. LUXUO breaks down how each of these fragrances tells their unique geographical story alongside their corresponding campaign images to blend culture and craftsmanship to create new olfactory experiences. Beyond mere perfumes, these creations are an invitation to explore the world through the senses, merging the beauty of nature with the artistry of perfumery. This year’s releases offer not just a fragrance, but a journey — one that lingers long after the final notes fade.

Jo Malone London’s Hinoki & Cedarwood

For 2024, Jo Malone London unveils a striking addition to its Cologne Intense collection: Hinoki & Cedarwood. Crafted by master perfumer Anne Flipo, this fragrance draws inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing — a meditative ritual of immersing oneself in the serene beauty of a forest to reconnect with nature. This captivating scent evokes the tranquil majesty of hinoki trees, blending an aromatic clean accord as the top note with hinoki wood at its heart and grounding cedarwood at its base. Céline Roux, global head of fragrance at Jo Malone London, describes it as a fragrance that transports: “Hinoki & Cedarwood takes you to nature, to a serene escape. The hinoki note reminds me of a dry, clean sauna — absolutely beautiful.”

The Cologne Intense line is celebrated for its depth and intensity, and this new addition is no exception. Whether you’re drawn to the fresh, uplifting opening or the rich, woody trail, this scent offers a sensory escape into the wilderness.

Gucci Flora

The Gucci Flora collection unveils a new chapter with Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid Eau de Parfum, a scent that captures the luminous allure of Los Angeles. Encased in a vibrant yellow bottle adorned with Gucci’s iconic Flora pattern, this fragrance blends ozonic floral gourmand notes with creamy vanilla orchid, evoking the golden glow of California’s sunsets and the city’s boundless creative energy.

The campaign, starring Miley Cyrus, brings the fragrance to life amidst a dreamy garden set against Hollywood’s iconic backdrop. As she runs through a tunnel of flowers, Miley embodies the scent’s spirit of transformation and empowerment, reflecting the city’s essence — a place where dreams take root and flourish. Her Grammy-winning hit Flowers underscores the narrative, mirroring the fragrance’s themes of self-love and bold individuality. However, the scent is so much more than just a marketing gimmick to those enamored by the magic of Hollywood’s glamour — Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid Eau de Parfum is an invitation to live life on your own terms.

Guerlain Patchouli Paris

Guerlain’s Patchouli Paris captures the magnetic allure of Paris after dark, where the City of Light transforms into a stage of vibrant contrasts. From the Seine’s cool evening breeze to the sultry warmth of theatres and cabarets, this fragrance evokes the essence of a night in Paris — electric, sensual, and full of possibility.

Inspired by the glamour of Parisian stages and the storied neighbourhoods of Montmartre and Pigalle, Patchouli Paris is a bold and intoxicating tribute to the city’s creative energy. Its patchouli heart is layered with powdery iris and warm amber, conjuring the red velvet of theatre seats and the glow of neon lights. The scent unfolds like a journey through the capital, from the effervescent excitement of a first encounter to the lingering sensuality of a night’s final embrace. A new chapter in Guerlain’s L’Art & La Matière collection, Patchouli Paris pays homage to the city’s legendary connection with art, performance, and endless inspiration.

Tom Ford Soleil Neige Parfum

Soleil Neige Parfum embodies the “radiant majesty of an alpine peak bathed in golden sunlight”. This elevated interpretation of a citrus floral musk channels the crisp brilliance of high altitudes, where exhilarating freshness meets warming depth. The fragrance opens with an intensified burst of bergamot and mandarin, their zesty vibrancy captured through meticulous extraction techniques that reveal the fruit’s sunlit nuances. This radiant introduction mirrors the pure, dazzling light of a mountain summit in winter. As the scent unfolds, a bouquet of white florals and orange blossom emerges, enriched by a duet of rose absolutes that evoke the ethereal beauty of an alpine dusk — the moment when the sun dips behind towering peaks.

Anchoring this luminous profile is orange flower absolute, lending a velvety richness to the composition that contrasts the cool, floral brightness with a warm, seductive depth. Soleil Neige Parfum is a rarefied expression of nature’s splendour, offering an olfactory escape to a realm of breathtaking elevation and beauty.

Bottega Veneta

Under Matthieu Blazy’s creative vision, Bottega Veneta unveils its inaugural fragrance collection, weaving together the brand’s Venetian roots and its signature Intrecciato leather craftsmanship. Drawing from Venice’s legacy as a crossroads of cultures, the five fragrances unite natural ingredients from across the globe, forming a sensory Intrecciato that bridges continents and traditions.

Each fragrance tells a unique story of encounter: Colpo di Sole glows with French angelica oil and Moroccan orange blossom, evoking the warmth of the Mediterranean. Come with Me offers a fresh elegance with Italian bergamot and French orris butter. Acqua Sale recalls salt-kissed skin with Spanish labdanum and Macedonian juniper. Déjà Minuit seduces with the spice of Guatemalan cardamom and Madagascar geranium, while Alchemie dazzles with Brazilian pink pepper and Somali myrrh in a symphony of opulence.

True to Blazy’s emphasis on touch, the fragrances come alive on the skin, blending with the wearer’s natural essence to create an intimate, evolving experience. This tactile philosophy extends to the design of the bottles, which are masterpieces of craft and innovation.

The undulating glass bottles, inspired by the Venetian lagoon and the fluidity of Bottega Veneta’s leather forms, feature distinctive air bubbles — a nod to Murano’s glassblowing tradition. Paired with Verde Saint Denis marble bases and sculptural wooden caps reminiscent of Venetian palazzo foundations, each bottle is a tactile and visual homage to Venice’s artistry and architecture.

Henry Jacques’ Ulysse Men

Henry Jacques’ regional exclusive Ulysse Men captures the essence of a gentle sea breeze, taking users on a sensory journey that blends nostalgia with the promise of new memories to treasure. Renowned for its pure scents, Henry Jacques creates its perfumes using rare, exclusive natural ingredients sourced from all corners of the globe. With nearly five decades of expertise, Henry Jacques has mastered the art of perfume-making. At the core of their craft lies the purity of rare, natural essences, reawakening the timeless ritual of applying perfume directly to the skin. Ulysse Men evokes the spirit of summer by the sea by combining refreshing aquatic notes with the zesty brightness of grapefruit. A balance of youthful energy, sophisticated depth, and sporty character, this fragrance transports you to the invigorating freshness of coastal moments, regardless of where the wearer might be.

Acqua di Parma’s Luce di Rosa

Luce di Rosa is the latest addition to Acqua di Parma’s Signatures of the Sun collection. This gender-neutral fragrance combines the contemporary allure of rose with a “mineral sharpness”, creating a sophisticated chiaroscuro effect. The result is a multifaceted scent, much like a symphony that alternates between soft and intense, slow and fast, evoking a dynamic, ever-evolving experience. Inspired by the rich and varied beauty of Bulgaria’s Kazanlak region, where the Bulgarian rose is cultivated, Luce di Rosa transports the wearer to a place where nature’s raw, organic beauty meets the art of perfumery. At its heart, the Luce di Rosa blooms with Bulgarian Rose, renowned for its intense freshness. This rose, combined with verdant geranium, forms a core that is both floral and deeply rich, capturing the raw beauty of nature through vibrant, clean, and luminous notes.

The fragrance opens with a bright burst of bergamot and mandarin, invigorated by the spicy notes of black pepper and pink pepper CO2 extract, with a hint of cardamom. The base reveals a grounding combination of vetiver, guaiac wood, and cedarwood, wrapped in the sensual warmth of musk, offering a finale that evolves over time, revealing ever-changing sensations. The Bulgarian Rose used in Luce di Rosa is harvested from the Kazanlak region and distilled through a steam-water process, preserving its vibrant essence with floral, spicy, and honeyed notes, making it a prized ingredient in perfumery.

L’Artisan Parfumeur

L’Artisan Parfumeur brings its vibrant chromatic fragrances and luxurious gift sets to life, capturing the essence of nature through a kaleidoscope of bold and soft tones. Each fragrance is represented by a colour palette and a corresponding olfactory language that ties in to a sensory narrative. The Histoire d’Orangers is a fragrance by Marie Salamagne that encapsulates the essence of an orange tree, evoking the warmth of a Moroccan sunset in Taroudant. The brand describes the fragrance as capturing the essence of nature’s purity, stating “…as the sun sets, its golden light warms the weathered stone walls, while the cool evening breeze brings the sweet, heady fragrance of orange blossoms. This scent offers a sensory journey through Morocco’s vibrant, sunlit landscapes.

Byredo’s Desert Dawn

Byredo’s latest fragrance, Desert Dawn, is inspired by the desert as both a physical and mental landscape. This fragrance invites an exploration of new terrains, whether they be literal or metaphorical. Desert Dawn encapsulates the fleeting yet powerful nature of this moment of transformation, blending rich, spicy notes with wood and earth for an intensely evocative scent experience.

Opening with the warmth of cardamom and the delicate sweetness of rose petals, the fragrance evolves with the dry, woody essence of sandalwood and cedarwood. These notes conjure the arid heat of the desert landscape, creating a soft, powdery heart. The fragrance deepens with a base of smoky vetiver and silk musk, while papyrus adds a clean, crisp finish that lingers long after the scent fades. The fragrance reflects the intersection of humanity and nature, where self-expression is rooted in the land. The accompanying campaign, created by a team grounded in the natural beauty of their surroundings, brings this connection to life.

Brazilian photographer Rafael Pavarotti, who grew up in the Amazon rainforest, captures Indigenous model Cherokee Jack in a series of poignant portraits. Raised along the Mississippi River, Cherokee’s deep love for nature and dedication to environmental advocacy shine through in his work, as he continues to campaign for food sovereignty and mutual aid.

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Introducing Ginger warm yellow and deep Nautical blue – two striking seasonal colours inspired by Nordic aesthetics. These shades capture the harmonious interplay between light and dark. ​ ​

Crafted with RIMOWA’s signature polycarbonate shell, the Essential collection is lightweight, durable and backed by a lifetime guarantee.​

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Bullying has always been a painful trial for many, a shadow over formative years. But the bullying I experienced growing up in a small French town is nothing compared to what young people face today online. Back then, bullying had physical and social limits. Today, it has no boundaries and no end.

A Personal Experience of Bullying

As a child growing up in a small French town, I became the target of relentless teasing and bullying, even though I had done nothing to provoke it. My father’s sister had married the son of the casino owner — a prominent figure in the community. Despite the fact that this connection had nothing to do with my family directly, we were unfairly labeled as “the rich ones.” This misplaced judgment fueled resentment, ridicule, and, eventually, bullying.

Read more: Opinion: Why TikTok Deserves to be Banned

At school and in the community, I faced teasing, insults, and even physical confrontations. Yet, there was a key difference between bullying then and now: back then, there was a way to confront it. Every time I stood up to my bullies — even if I lost a fight — it sent a clear message that I wouldn’t be an easy target. And, in most cases, that was enough to put a stop to it. Bullying, though painful, had an endpoint.

Why This Is No Longer Possible

Today, online bullying eliminates the possibility of resolution. Social media platforms provide a stage where harassment can continue anonymously, relentlessly, and publicly. Unlike physical confrontations, which naturally end, online attacks are amplified with every like, comment, or share. The victim has no way to stand up and say, “Enough,” because bullies hide behind screens, and their audience only magnifies the cruelty.

The Unique Dangers of Online Bullying

Online bullying is crueler than what I experienced in two key ways:

1. Permanence: An insult or rumour on social media doesn’t disappear. It remains accessible, visible, and can resurface at any time, forcing victims to relive their humiliation repeatedly.
2. Amplification: Where a confrontation at school was witnessed by a handful of people, an online attack can reach thousands within minutes. The shame becomes public and global.

The Responsibility of Platforms and Legislation

Governments, like Australia recently, are trying to address the issue by introducing laws such as prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media. While well-meaning, these laws are challenging to enforce. Meanwhile, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat must also take responsibility by better moderating their content, protecting vulnerable users, and limiting abuse of their tools. They have a duty of care to ensure their platforms are not breeding grounds for harm.

What Can We Do?

To combat online bullying, we must adopt a collective approach:

• Governments: Strengthen laws to protect vulnerable users.
• Platforms: Develop robust tools to detect and eliminate toxic behaviours.
• Parents and Schools: Teach children how to protect themselves online, while fostering empathy and understanding of consequences.

Conclusion

The bullying I faced was harsh, but it had limits. Today, with social media, those limits are gone. Tackling online bullying requires a global effort where everyone — lawmakers, platforms, educators, and parents — plays a vital role. Together, we can transform these digital tools, designed to connect people, into safe spaces where cruelty has no place.

The author Rene Philippe Dubout is a Swiss lawyer specializing in providing support to Fintech companies. He can be contacted at insight@fintechlex.com – www.fintechlex.com – www.fintechsetup.com

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