Nth' No.2

Noth ing oth e r t h a n N t h’

nth [enth] – adjective 1. being the last in a series of infinitely decreasing or increasing values, amounts, etc.

2. (of an item in a series of occurrences, planned events, things used, etc., that is thought of as being infinitely large) being the latest, or most recent: This is the nth time I’ve told you to eat slowly.

– Idiom 3. the nth degree / power, a. a high degree or power. b. the utmost degree or extent: The new hotel was luxurious to the nth degree.

04 Nth’

Nth’ 05

06 Nth’

Nth’ 07

08 Nth’

Nth’ 09

Nth’ 11

12 Nth’

Nth’ 13

14 Nth’

Nth’ 15

16 Nth’

Nth’ 17

Nth’ 19

20 Nth’

Nth’ 21

22 Nth’

Nth’ 23

24 Nth’

Nth’ 25

26 Nth’

Nth’ 27

28 Nth’

Nth’ 29

30 Nth’

Nth’ 31

32 Nth’

Nth’ 33

34 Nth’

Nth’ 35

36 Nth’

Nth’ 37

Nth’ 39

mode \’mod \ a form of manner or expression: style

MODE GIRL! Photography: Joel Low Styling: Fumi Makeup: Rei Tan Hair: Yuki Ito (Monso Hair Design Tokyo) Model: Natalie

To Dream Forever Dress: $248 (Epitome), Fur: $169 (ZARA)

40 Nth’

Shirt: $149.90 (ELOHIM by SABRINAGOH), Denim Jeans: $209 (Epitome), Necklace: $69.90 (quinn at PARCO next NEXT), Shoes: $209 (Shito at PARCO next NEXT)

Nth’ 41

Nt h’ Vol . 2 2 8 S e p 2 0 1 1

RIE SD OM Vol .2

RIESDOM

FASHION JOURNAL IST

R I E M I YATA Starting as a sales associate of fashion brands, then being a buyer and PR, Rie became a fashion journalist with deep understanding of both consumers’ and producers’ points of view.

She writes articles for a great variety of media and is an instructor for fashion seminars and schools.

Continually widening her sphere of activities, she specialises in Tokyo fashion, international fashion trends, next season’s trends and celebrities’ outfits analysis.

DI S C OVE R R I E’ S FASH ION WISD OM

The Japanese style of dressing lightly without looking “cheap”!?

Even during a hot and humid period, there are still ways to enjoy fashion; it all depends on the technique. Of course, if you were to dress lightly, dressing would be simple. However, there are ways to coordinate and spice up a look to make it more sophisticated. One such method is to use sheer clothing, like an airy lace or georgette.

I believe that it would not be of any loss to anyone by knowing how to dress in a healthy and moderately sexy way.

Add accessories to revealing items

In order to withstand the heat and humidity, wearing loose airy clothes would be the most obvious option.

However, tank tops and sleeveless knits should not be loose, so that not too much skin will be revealed. To look less sloppy, a scarf can be used. Just by covering the front of the neck, you will look a lot more elegant. It’s also useful in preventing your neck from getting sunburnt. A noble wide-brim hat will complete a classy look.

A hot-weather item that has been a big hit and a runway favourite in recent years is shorts. Wearing it in a boyish style, with cuffs folded up, is suitable for summers. Denim cut-off shorts, with its pockets sticking out from beneath the cuffs, have also been a hit arrangement. The recent trend is to add a feminine touch to the boyish image

42 Nth’

that shorts portray. Similarly, culotte shorts have also made an appearance on the scene, and they can be worn dressily like a skirt. Match it with heels or wedge-sole sandals to complete a cool lady style.

In Japan, revealing too much of one’s bare feet is considered to be too sexy, and at the same time, unfashionable. So even during the hot summer, it is not favoured by most. There is a wide variation of legwear such as leggings and socks, and many young women use them to accentuate their outfit.

This year, matching ankle-length crew socks with sandals is a coordination that is gaining popularity.

Beach sandals, which European fashionistas have introduced into their fashion, are definitely cooling, but they are still not seen as fashionable amongst their Japanese counterparts.

However, sandals such as highly decorative gladiators, embellished thong sandals, platform sandals made from natural materials, and peep-toe sandals are, despite being “feet-revealing”, generally accepted as they do make the legs look gorgeous.

Airy and voluminous long bottoms

Maxi skirts and dresses have been classic summer fashion items for the past few seasons and are widely accepted. In recent times, wide pants

have garnered much attention as potential successors to them as a voluminous item.

These items, at first glance, do look unsuitable for hot weather. However, they are actually surprisingly cooling, because they are very airy and they do not stick to the skin. It is actually a common sight to see people wearing maxi skirts or wide pants elegantly at exotic resorts. These bottoms neither restrict your movements nor stick to your skin, so it is pretty comfortable wearing them. Choose one made from a thinner and airier material for a lighter look. The trick is to make your upper body look more compact, and if you wear a tank top or a camisole of contrasting colours, you can enjoy layering whilst maintaining a balance.

Cool colours and materials

Even while introducing lighter materials to your wardrobe, you do not want to let go of your fashion sense.

Lace is not only cooling, it also gives off a pure and innocent look, which is why it suits the tastes of Japanese women. Although lace does have the tendency to make one look too girly at times, the sweet look can be somewhat suppressed by matching a lace top with mannish pants, or a lace dress with a pair of flat sandals. These are popular coordinations in Japan.

Another way is to pick cool colours.

The first on the list is blue in a cold hue. Blue wouldn’t look out of place in summer because it portrays the sea.

Blue and white marine stripes will instinctively bring a cool feeling. A wide boat-necked Basque shirt continues to be a popular classic because of its airy and cooling nature.

Skillfully incorporating high-tech fabrics

Thinking that one should spend a day in an ordinary T-shirt, just because the weather is hot, is a waste in my opinion as it forfeits the chance to look fashionable. More people are enjoying the summer-layered style, which involves wearing several layers of thin and airy items. It is an old-fashioned (and untrue) notion that natural cotton fabric is the best material to wear for the hot summers. Textile processing technology has been evolving remarkably, and many high-tech fabrics not only disperse sweat, but also lower the body’s temperature.

Using undergarments made from these high-tech fabric is directly linked with comfort in particular. By preventing moisture from accumulating, it becomes a lot more pleasant and comfortable for the wearer. Besides those that disperse heat well, many other kinds of fabrics have been invented;

cold ones, smooth silky ones, just to name a few. Items that merge two different articles of clothing together are also gaining popularity; like a bra and a top that allows the wearer to wear one less layer of clothing. Summer dressing styles that completely upset fashion norms, as we know it, are appearing too.

Due to the March 11th earthquake, power saving is now encouraged all over Japan. As a result, it suddenly became a lot more important to know how to dress lightly. The cool-biz look, which was mainly men not wearing

neckties, has now evolved to the supercool-biz look, and it has even spread to women’s fashion. Simply wearing thin clothes tends to look cheap and casual, but by combining it with lacy or sheer materials, or choosing a top with collars and sleeves with elaborate design details, it will look even more refined and mature. Using high-tech fabric, the comfort level of these apparel will definitely increase. I believe it can be said that the Japanese way of dressing lightly has developed a lot more as a result of March 11th.

Photos: Martin Holtkamp www.apparel-web.com Translation: Nakaya Kouketsu

Nth’ 43

44 Nth’

Nth’ 45

Nth’ 47

Cony’s PROFILE

Cony’s BEAUTY LESSON

supermodels. 70% of the body

Since then, it has become very

is made up of water, so getting

popular as a beauty treatment.

rid of the body’s impurities

But don’t worry about going to expensive beauty clinics. You

IFA Aroma Therapist, CIDESCO/ CIBTAC/ITEC Beauty Therapist Born and bred in Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, Cony is a qualified beauty therapist who studied Aromatherapy, Beauty and Health in the U.K. She has also worked as a trainer for an exclusive spa in Bangkok. Currently residing in Singapore as a popular beauty and health blogger, the beauty guru has also produced her own brand of natural products using Chinese and Western herbs.

Lesson 2

slowing down the aging process.

As we all know,

routine at home.

constipation is one of our biggest enemies.

One of the basics of ‘detox’ is to improve your blood circulation.

exercising is the quickest way

So,

to do this. Even stretching and brisk walking works great too!

It’s a good sign if your body is covered in small beads of Here’s a tip for the busy bees: try mopping the floor at home for about 30 minutes, and you’ll be drenched in perspiration in no time!

One of the basics to beautiful skin is to have regular bowel movements.

Spread ‘carrier oil’ (Note: These are high quality plantbased oils that are used in aromatherapy, and not cheap alternatives found at supermarkets) and essential oils over your body as another way to detoxify yourself.

The combination of carrier and essential oils makes

We’ve been ushering in an

dark circles, puffiness, and acne.

So it’s no surprise that you start

unbelievably hot summer this

First up, I’ll explain to you why

to put on weight easily, or feel

year, especially with Japan’s

detoxing yourself is a must!

tired more often. Your body may

campaign to save electricity. It

Every day, your 60 trillion cells

start to swell, and your skin may

can take

be more prone to pigmentation

Just add two drops of your

it easier for your body to expel

are absorbed from what you eat

or wrinkles, and become dull.

favourite essential oil and a

waste more efficiently.

into our bloodstream, in order

There are cases when adults

pinch of sea-salt to a bucket

develop allergies suddenly,

of relatively hot water. Enjoy

I also recommend

to stay alive. Like the food you eat, it’s natural that these cells

and cannot eat specific kinds

your very own private foot

as well as waste produced by

of foods. This happens when

spa as your forehead starts

‘brushing’ your entire body with a

your body are passed out. While

there is a buildup of unhealthy

to produce small beads of

pig-hair body brush! Brush

our blood and lymph usually

substances from these foods.

perspiration. It probably takes

inwards on your body, towards

collect the waste as they flow

about 20~30 minutes for you to

your heart, in a single direction.

through your veins, as time

It’s really sad but our bodies

start perspiring, and you’ll find

Doing so allows your lymph

passes, the effectiveness of this

start to age once we hit our 20s,

yourself sleeping easier later

and blood to flow smoothly,

decreases.

and we can’t do anything to stop

that night. I’m sure you’ll wake

facilitating the detoxification.

So, come on girls, let’s make use

need oxygen and nutrients that

definitely seems

way hotter in Japan than in Singapore right now!

Cute and clever girls in Japan are using this great opportunity of a hot summer to detox their body, polishing themselves so that they glow from within.

Since it’s summer all year round in Singapore, there’s always a chance to ‘detox’, isn’t it? So let’s not waste it, alright?

So, today’s theme is

‘detox’!

I’ll introduce to you ways to detox your body; getting rid of the impurities from your body so that your skin becomes clear and beautiful. In fact, it’s the best way to get rid of dull skin, Translation: Alicia Tan 48 Nth’

water.

can easily replicate the ‘detox’

perspiration after a work out.

Summer is the best time for a detox!

works best with the ingestion of

Are you bad at sports? Don’t worry about it, because you

footbaths!

it. However, if we detox daily,

up refreshed the next day.

As a result, waste matter builds

our metabolism will increase

Oh, and don’t forget to drink a

of the summer heat to improve

up in your body little by little.

and in turn, aid in the

cup of water after your foot-spa!

our bodies!

Accumulated waste matter reduces your metabolism, and

skin and body starts to age. your

fight against aging!

It was about 10 years ago,

Water really is your best friend

in New York that ‘detox’ was

for detoxing. Drink at least 1 litre

first discovered as the key to

of water every day, just like the Illustration: Kolbee Nth’ 49

Introducing Tokyo’s unique & cool fashion street snaps

Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Yuya Nara/ Age: 31/ Occupation: Hair Stylist/ Hair salon: SHIMA

Area: MinamiAoyama, Tokyo/ Name: Kaori Shinohara/ Occupation: Hair Salon Bloc

/RED Drop Tokyo is a web magazine unveiling real cool styles of Tokyo. Catch the latest Tokyo street fashionistas!

Area: Nakameguro, Tokyo/ Name: Koz/ Age: 23/ Occupation: Human/ Hair salon: RADICAL

50 Nth’

Area: Aoyama Cay, Tokyo/ Name: KANTARO/ Age: 36/ Occupation: Hair Stylist/ Hair salon: LIM hair

Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Aya/ Age: 21/ Occupation: Creator Nth’ 51

Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Tatsuhiro Masaki/ Age: 22/ Occupation: Optician/ Hair salon: LIM CODE

/B&W

Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Remi Kato/ Age: 18

Area: Hiroo, Tokyo/ Name: Mina Nagamine/ Age: 24/ Occupation: EMODA Designer/ Hair salon: V alentine

(L) Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Eri Hasuma/ Age: 26/ Occupation: Hair Stylist/ Hair salon: FLOWERS (C) Area: MinamiAoyama, Tokyo/ Name: maU

http :/ / d rop tokyo/ street/

52 Nth’

(R) Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Miyazawa/ Occupation: Matsumoto Moriage-tai, Orosutoa/ Hair salon: Mag

Nth’ 53

(L)Area: Shibuya, Tokyo/ Name: Mai Takahahi/ Age: 19 (RT)Area: Aoyama CAY, Tokyo/ Name: Mai Hosomi, Kana Hosomi/ Age: 25/ Occupation: Hair Stylist/ Hair salon: LIM CODE

(L)Area: Shibuya, Tokyo/ Name: Mayu Sosogi/ Age: 25/ Occupation: Aquvii/ Hair salon: My friend (R)Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Midori Ishihara/ Age: 22/ Occupation: Hair Stylist/ Hair salon: ROSSO

(RB)Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: OKEI/ Age: 20 (BL)Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: Yui Mamada/ Occupation: CANDY Staff (BR)Area: MinamiAoyama, Tokyo/ Name: U/ Occupation: Faline Staff

h ttp:/ / droptok yo/ stre e t/

/BLUE (L)Area: Nakameguro, Tokyo/ Name: Peace (C)Area: Shibuya, Tokyo/ Name: Reina/ Age: 26/ Hair salon: Rie Shiraishi (R)Area: Harajuku, Tokyo/ Name: n/ Hair salon: praha

/YELLOW 54 Nth’

Nth’ 55

KANTARO

Vol.2

LIM hair General Director

DOB: 27 April 1975 Blood Type: B Managing and training LIM hair (11 locations, 80 people) in Tokyo, Osaka and Singapore.

A “missionary of beauty“ who moves and pleases his customers with his hairstyles.

Ahoi! Hey there, Singapore cuties, good to be here again!

This is my second appearance; do you remember me? What?

“It’s impossible to remember much after meeting only once”?

Please don’t say anything sad like this…★ I have a special skill that helps me to remember everybody’s name and face even if we’ve met only once (if they are cuties)! “I don’t remember ‘cause Kantaro is not that handsome,” Ooh, please, don’t say anything like that again...

Seriously now, I have a real special skill. Whenever I see somebody cute, I can immediately visualise what kind of hairstyle would really suit her. Better hairstyles, nicer colours...★ Thinking about cuties… I mean, CUTE HAIRSTYLES, day and night. That’s me, Kantaro, alright.

As I said before, in Japan, if you wear something weird or do something differently, you’ll be considered a weirdo. I wonder if it is the same in Singapore?

I think that if a city falls under this pathetic mindset with people disliking new things, fashion will develop backwards.

These narrow-minded people are suspicious of anyone doing things differently, which can be so annoying! ★ Take me, for instance. I have tattoos all over my body and as a result, I can’t get into places like gyms, hotels, and swimming pools.

I just spent a week in New York City (NYC); it was my second visit. The first time I visited NYC ten years ago, it was quite safe and peaceful, and it wasn’t dangerous at all. That was way too boring as compared to how I imagined NYC would be! It was too similar to Tokyo, and I felt somewhat cheated. Although I lost all interest in NYC after that, something was stirring within me; so I thought to myself, “Let’s revisit NYC.”

NYC is really cool!!!

However, even though new fashion is treated with suspicion in Japan, there was a huge wave of uniquely styled gyaru (Japanese transliteration of “gal”) girls a few years ago. For example, there was the “loose socks” (long socks loosely worn) trend, or the “ganguro” (pastel coloured make up on tanned skin) girls. Recently, I don’t see people with that kind of fashion anymore, but still I see some residual trends from that wave, such as the “mori-hair” (huge hair) that is still popular even now. Even though people tell these gyaru girls that they have a weird style, these girls still stick with it and say, “I like this look!”

And now, 10 years later…

How did this place become so cool, so great, and so fun?! I am constantly jetsetting to other big cities like Osaka, Tokyo, Singapore, and even Taipei, but NYC really knocked me out.

Why has it become so cool? Of course, it must be the people.

Their deeply style-infused soul. They have a zero-tolerancepolicy towards all uncool things. They immerse themselves in their outfits and they don’t care about age or what people might think. People from all age groups simply say, “I like this style!” and enjoy what they wear. That kind of atmosphere is terrific.★

I think that’s similar to the attitude in NYC, and now I tend to feel that

Anyway, as I always say, the important thing is to create an original style. No matter what people say about your style, you stick to a style that you like, and enjoy that! While I was in NYC, I realised that those are really the most important things.

On the other hand, I often hear Japanese saying: “I’m thirty, I can’t wear clothes that are too trendy.” or “You’re not at that age

It’s such a ridiculous stereotype.

anymore.”

The Japanese really do care too much about what other people think. On the other hand, there aren’t any stereotypes like that from New Yorkers. For example, an uncle in his 50s could pierce his nose and it’d still be a normal thing to do. A grandpa can wear a pink suit, and a beautiful lady with dreadlocks can still dress fashionably…

It really feels like everything and anything goes. There are plenty of people enjoying their style, and there are lots of people who dig that, which makes NYC so friggin’ awesome.

56 Nth’

gyaru girls are supercool.

Ultimately, embrace your fashion and go with your gut feeling.

For your hairstyle, my team at KIZUKI+LIM and I can definitely find the best hairstyle for you, satisfaction guaranteed!

Thinking back, NYC probably hasn’t changed much. It’s my perception that has changed instead. In fact, I was so stimulated by NYC that I got a nose piercing. I am now 36 but it was my kind of tribute to the 50-year-old NYC uncle.

Nevermind my age, I want to become even more of an extrovert!

Lastly, for those cuties who can read Japanese, please check out “Drop Tokyo”, the Harajuku fashion blog where I am the official blogger. ★ My Twitter ID is: kantaro0427 ★

Nth’ 57

58 Nth’

Nth’ 59

60 Nth’

Nth’ 61

Nth’ 63

64 Nth’

Nth’ 65

66 Nth’

Nth’ 67

BOYFRIEND MAKEOVER PROJECT CASE #2

COORDINATION: TRANSFORMATION! Do you face the situation where you are dressed to the nines for a date, while your boyfriend is wearing the usual tee, pants and slippers combo? Their typical “combo” doesn’t have to look blah if it’s done right! Together with stylist Fumi, be prepared for the birth of a wellgroomed style!

LOOKS

LOOK No.3 Advanced

Fumi said: “There are so many people wearing black here, I’d love to see Singaporeans be more creative with alternative colours!”

All you need is effort!

HAIR Set your sides and neckline first, then lay the bangs sideways naturally to avoid too much volume. Keep the parting loose!

LOOK No.1 Easy Instant Change!

Photography: Roger Chua Styling: Fumi Hair: Arakawa (monso hair design tokyo) Text: RICE Clothes Contribution: TANGS Orchard

LOOK No.2 Intermediate

CLIENT Huey Wen (23) He doesn’t pay much attention to what he wears. I would like him to get some advice from styling pros and give him a chance to dress up.

BOYFRIEND♥ Von Chee Ching (23)

The trick to colour!

The pants we used today are not the length I am used to! Usually, I’d wear pants from knee-length and below, so this style is a big change for me!

Attain a natural and easy day-time look with some stripes. The stripes and

BEFORE

boat-cut neckline compliments his physique, as it makes his shoulders look broader. A+ point for any guy!

HAIR by monso hair design tokyo Located at the Gallery Hotel at Nanson Road, Monso Hair Design Tokyo is the onestop destination for your hair and beauty needs. Hailing from Tokyo, these stylists and manicurists are in the know of what’s in and what’s not for your new look!

Hair stylist Arakawa-san gave him 3 different styles to match his outfit. First, she changed Chee Ching’s centre parting to the side.

A bit of wax to style the edges completes the look and it only takes 5 minutes!

I’m really impressed by how fast Arakawa-san can whip up a huge variety of hairstyles that make me look different! monso hair design tokyo #01-06, Gallery Hotel, 1 Nanson Road Tel: 6836 5585

68 Nth’

The slim pastel orange tie will spice up any shirt. A masculine

HAIR Use soft wax on your wet hair. This way you can keep a natural glossiness after your hair is dry.

Then spray to finish it.

look with the casual Singaporean vibe.

Unbutton the top button, loosen the tie a little; this is how they can match this pair of shorts.

Pick a mustard-hue blazer made from dry-tech material. Just choose a simple sleeveless top, and button up for a more formal look. The dry-tech material will still keep you cool. Perfect for our island’s climate!

The Shorts: Above-the-knee tapered pants are ultra-comfortable for any time of the day.

Shorts : $159 (SUNDAYS @TANGS Orchard) LOOK No.1 Striped T-Shirt: $69 (HOOKED CLOTHINGS @TANGS Orchard) LOOK No.2 Knitted Jacket: $159 (SUNDAYS @TANGS Orchard) Sleeveless Tank Top: $89 (SUNDAYS @TANGS Orchard) LOOK No.3 Shirt: $139 (WanderWonder @TANGS Orchard) Neck Tie: $38 (A.K.A Wayward @TANGS Orchard)

WHO’S NEXT? Girls, are you interested to see how your man will look after a full transformation by an experienced stylist? Contact us for an exciting makeover session now! magazine@designkloo.com • Couples’ names, age and occupation • A photo of you and your partner

I’m really impressed at how cool he looks now! I especially like the first striped shirt and will be bugging him to get it as soon as it hits the stores!

The third hairstyle is great for my job! I’ll learn from Fumi’s tips and put more effort in dressing from now on.

70 Nth’

Nth’ 73

SINGAPORE CREATOR CLOSE UP!

“I’ve learnt that pop... requires a lot of passion and courage.”

Not everybody gets to be colleagues with their one true love, but Olivia Ong has enjoyed that privilege for the past decade.

In 2001, the Singaporean crooner won a recording deal in Japan and received a kick-start to her singing career. Just a few years later, success found 19-year-old Olivia singing English covers of old bossa nova classics in the land of the rising sun.

Now, at the age of 25, the songbird boasts a stellar track record of more than a dozen albums in her repertoire and a dedicated horde of fans from all around Asia.

When she returned home to promote her new album last month, Nth’ jumped at the opportunity to speak to her about Romance, pretty boys, and her formative years in Japan.

Vol.2

©HIM International Music

Olivia Ong

74 Nth’

Olivia’s Romance with Music

First of all, congratulations on the release of Romance! Could you tell us more about the inspiration behind your new album?

Well, before we even entered production, I knew that I wanted to do something different, I wanted a breakthrough. Although this is mainly a pop album, it’s also a fusion of many genres including country, orchestral arrangement, and even rock.

The album wasn’t planned to revolve around a theme, but as my friends and I wrote more songs, it soon became clear that there was a concept- Romance.

A while ago, you did a duet with Aaron Yan (of Fahrenheit fame) for his solo album effort, and more recently, you were the recipient of Taiwanese idol Mike He’s affection in your music video: How did work-

ing in such close proximity to two teenage heartthrobs feel?

It’s nice. They’re nice. (Laughs) When I first saw them I thought to myself, “so that’s why all the girls like them!”

Although I knew that we had invited Mike He to work with me on my music video, I really didn’t know what to expect! The night before the shoot, I checked him out on YouTube, and knowing that we were going to act as a couple made me pretty nervous.

As for the duet, I was worried that Aaron and I wouldn’t have any chemistry. But as I was recording my part, Aaron casually strolled into the studio with a loaf of bread in one hand, and a slice in the other… and I realised that he was very down to earth.

(Laughs)

Let’s go back to the start. Why did you want to become a singer?

When I was 6 or 7, I caught a live performance of Mariah Carey on TV, and when I saw how everyone clapped and cheered for her, I thought that feeling must be amazing.

So I went to the balcony, opened the windows, looked up at the sunny sky and exclaimed, “I want to be a superstar!!” …then I looked down, and I saw my dad washing his car. (laughs)

You were only 17 when you moved to Japan! What was going through your mind then?

I was previously with the girlband Mirai, but we disbanded and my then-label encouraged me to go to Japan to further my career. I thought that it was a chance for me to keep singing, so I convinced my parents to let me go.

Just imagine being seventeeneverything was very new to me, and I was very impressionable. Realising that I was going to be studying and living there by myself made it a very emotional time for me. There was a huge cultural difference, and in a way, those four years were a maturing period for me.

What do you like most about Japan?

I really like how Japanese girls dress.

I love that there’s a theme built around “fantasy”. It shows in their hair colour, choice of colours for contact lenses, and even their nail designs.

It’s really amazing.

I understand that the bossa nova genre was something that you fell into. If you could do it over again, which genre of music would you have gone for?

I’ve always wanted to do pop. I grew up with idols like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and after doing so many covers over the years, I’ve learnt that pop isn’t actually that easy. It requires a lot of passion and courage.

What is Romance to you?

I think that if you use an optimistic view and a positive attitude to daily things in life, you’ll be amazed at how everything can turn into something romantic!

Olivia is currently preparing for her upcoming concert in Taipei, as well as her future appearances in China, Hong Kong, Korea, Thailand and Indonesia!

Romance is out in stores now!

Interview, Text: Lenne Chai

For more information on Olivia’s upcoming events, please visit http://www.him.com.tw/event2.asp Nth’ 75

76 Nth’

Nth’ 77

Nth’ 79

80 Nth’

Nth’ 81

82 Nth’

Nth’ 83

84 Nth’

Nth’ 85

MU S IC

SHOP

GO GO KAELA Stir in a dosage of exuberance along with a vat full of energy and mix it with a good dollop of quirkiness for a serving of Japan’s alternative It Girl, Kaela Kimura

Otherworldly Charm Text: Lenne Chai

ORICON SINGLE CHART TOP 10 in Japan

Ivana Helsinki

1 AKB48 - Flying Get 2 Kis-My-Ft2 - Everybody Go 3 KAT-TUN - RUN FOR YOU

e•pit•o•me 14C Kensington Park Road Serangoon Gardens Operating Hours: 12pm – 9.30pm daily

Bird by Rachel Bending

6th Album “8EIGHT8“ 12 Oct 2011 Release!

Ivana Helsinki

In a fashion landscape dominated by mass-produced fast fashion brands, the quirky Epitome is a breath of fresh air. Nestled in the heart of Serangoon Gardens, the carefully curated boutique is a celebration of niche international labels.

In the vein of other concept boutiques, Epitome showcases a range of under-the-radar brands, including the Australian label Bird by Rachel Bending. Combining style with sustainability, the eco-friendly label dispels the notion that fashion is one of the greatest perpetrators of our ever-growing carbon footprint.

Aside from Bird, Epitome carries a comprehensive selection of other labels from Down Under, such as White Suede, Kings of Carnaby, Fairground, House of Wilde and more. Another standout is the edgy Milk and Honey, a label dear to the young or young-at-heart.

If you’re looking for something more unique, check out Ivana Helsinki, a Finnish brand with a reputation for high quality and one-of-a-kind prints. This season’s collection revolves around the theme “Velvet Lake”, resulting in pieces, which invoke images of a dark, yet romantic 60’s-inspired woodland fantasy.

Epitome also carries a variety of whimsical accessories, including Kristin Ash from Australia. So, drop by Epitome for some fashion-forward pieces now!

©NIPPON COLUMBIA CO.,LTD

In Kaela Kimura’s world, it never rains and it never pours.

Instead, the sun is out, the flowers are in bloom and all is well – until you realise that the sun is smiling at you and the flowers are actually talking.

A mix of British and Japanese parentage, Kaela has displayed this Wonka-esque side since her very first showbiz endeavour, Saku Saku. Playing a petulant talking muppet, it was a matter of time before the former model trotted down the inevitable path of singing in the multifaceted Japanese entertainment industry.

Used in the closing credits of Saku Saku, “Level 42” was later released as her major label debut. This led to the release of her eponymous debut, which went gold after the third single, “Rirura Riruha” was used in a nationwide Vodafone campaign. The following year saw Kaela costarring in the movie, Custom Made 10:30, with J-rocker Tamio Okuda.

Fuelled by her wild popularity, her second album, “Circle” did similarly well and sparked the singer’s decision to leave Saku Saku in 2006. This marked the start of a frenzied period for Kaela as she embarked on a Budokan tour, a collaboration with the Sadistic Mika Band, as well as numerous tie-ins with commercials and TV series.

The third album, Scratch, eclipsed her previous successes, Kaela released its follow up, which featured a distinct electronica sound. Titled “+1”, it led to a tour and her first music video compilation.

A household name by then, Kaela celebrated her fifth anniversary in 2009 with her fifth album, “Hocus Pocus”.

A best-of album was released the following year before Kaela eased things up with an impending pregnancy and marriage to actor Eita.

Almost a year later, Kaela’s seventeenth single was released. Depicting the 27-year-old superimposed amidst graphics of rainbows and clouds, the cover indicates an undisputable fact: The alternative It Girl has returned.

Bird by Rachel Bending

Text: Chong Si Min

4 Kanjani8 - Tsubasa ni Koi 5 Keisuke Kuwata - Ashita e no March/Let’s try again ~kuwata keisuke ver.~/Hadaka DE Ondo ~Matsuri da!!! NAKED~ 6 Watarirouka Hashiritai 7 - Hetappi Wink 7 Kaoru to Tomoki, Tama ni Mook - Maru-Maru-Mori-Mori!

8 SDN48 - MIN MIN MIN 9 2PM - I’m your man 10 Mizuki Nana - Junketsu Paradox (August 2011)

86 Nth’

Nth’ 87

88 Nth’

Nth’ 89

GIFTS FOR Nth’ FANS!

IT’S TIME FOR Nth’ QUESTIONNAIRE!

Answer our questionnaire on the following page and stand a chance to win the gifts below.

Send in your answers to survey@designkloo.com, scan the QR-code or visit www.nthmagazine.com and answer the questionnaire online.

2 You’re in for a suprise!

?

You will find all the ‘IN’ items handpicked by stylist, Fumi. Get ready to be transformed into one of our Nth’/BGSG model with help from the mystery gifts (size ranges from S ~ M) in the bag!

winner

This photo book features a collection of the most exciting street style photos taken by top Japanese street style fashion blogger, Rei Shito.

90 Nth’

winners

MYSTERY GIFT from Nth’

1 STYLE FROM TOKYO PHOTOBOOK

Use QR-code scanner and you can answer our questionnaire online!

1 TRAVEL GUIDE TO AID JAPAN winner

A beautiful and handy travel guide book put together by 41 international celebrities to help raise fund for the earthquake disaster in March 2011. A meaningful gift indeed!

Important Note: Please include details of your name, age, gender, nationality and occupation together with your answers.

1. How did you know about us? (

)

7. Tell us your favourite Japanese fashion brand.

2. Where did you find Nth’ magazine? (

)

3. Where is your favourite shopping mall in Singapore?

(You may state more than 1 mall)

( And why? (

) )

)

And what makes you choose this/these magazine/s? ( )

10. Which is your favourite style in Nth’?

11. Let us know what you think about Nth’.

Like: ( Dont’like: (

) ) ) )

12. Where do you usually hang out?

5. Do you read Japanese magazine?

Yes No If yes, please specify.

(You may state more than 1 place)

(

(You may state more than 1 magazine)

)

And what makes you choose this/these magazine/s? ( ) 6. How often do you buy Japanse magazines?

once a month

once every 2 months

once every 3 months never

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

)

9. How do you feel about Japanese fashion compared to Korean fashion? ( )

( And why? (

(You may state more than 1 magazine)

(

(You may state more than 1 brand)

(

ex. Page 36 top right, the style with a long skirt, etc.

4. Do you read local fashion magazine?

Yes No If yes, please specify. (

(You may state more than 1 brand)

( ) 8. Tell us your favourite non-Japanese fashion brand.

Have To Have! 1,2,3,4, GO! Nth’ IT Collection Mademoiselle Yulia Feature Article Harajuku Street Style Misa’a Two Weeks Mori-Girl: Pei Ting Sae’s Bohemian Muse Mode Girl Natalie!

Riesdom Makeup Tips Cony’s Beauty Lesson DROPTOKYO Kantaro ★ The Beautiful Girls Singapore (BGSG) Stylist Fumi’s Free Drawing

)

13. Where do you think is Singapore most stylish place? ( ) 14. What is your top priority in life right now?

E.g. career, relationship, studies, passion etc.

(

)

15. What would you like to see in future issues of Nth’? ( ) 16. Please choose 3 things you like from the list below.

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Hair Arrangement Tips Vintage Shopping 101 Online Shopping Guide - Vintage Edition Boyfriend Makeover Party Fashion Party Snap Singapore Creator Close Up! Olivia Ong The Fitting Room: HACHI Sweet Sweets Dream Strictly Girls Only Blood Typing: From A To AB Music Recommended Shop Models’ Info

Nth’ 91

BEHIND THE SCENE Our talented creators!

Joel Low

Photographer “Congrats Nth’ for a great 1st issue!

Enjoyed being a part of your 2nd issue again. All the best!” www.joellow.com

Alex Soo

Photographer “Nth’, you’re a breath of fresh air to the local fashion scene, keep up the awesome work. We love working with you.”

Roger Chua

Photographer “It has been a great experience working with the Nth’ crew to deliver this issue of Nth’ to the growing number of readers in Singapore.”

Eddie Teo

Photographer “Fashion is for all. You don’t have to be a model to look fashionably good.

Anyone can. Great magazine which makes fashion easy.”

roger@monstrosity-studio.com

eddieteo83@gmail.com

Lenne Chai

Chong Si Min

aetienne.net

awsmawsm@gmail.com

Writer/Photographer “Lenne usually has a lot to say, but she has exhausted this month’s quota with Nth’ vol.2 (*´Д`)”

Writer “I have nth’ but praise for Nth’ Magazine. Lovely people to work with!”

www.methodimaging.com

Takao Hara

Photographer “Nth’ is the best free magazine in the world. I read Nth’ every day.” www.jflashstudio.com

Sandy Ng

Writer “Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart. ~William Wordsworth Delighted to be doing this as part of the Nth’ team.” thecookiecutterblog.blogspot.com

Kantaro

Satoshi

Ryu Oba

Arakawa

KIZUKI+LIM: 6221 6320

JERIC SALON @ ION Orchard: 6509 9709

KIZUKI+LIM: 6221 6320

monso hair design tokyo: 6836 5585

Ito

Wakamatsu

Yusuke So

Akiyo

Hair Stylist “Watch me show you the Japanese way of coolness and cuteness. I have my ways to do that ★”

Hair Stylist “Congratulations on the 2nd issue!

This book is packed with Tokyo fashion trends from places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, and Kichijyoji. I would love to be able to continue delivering this information from Tokyo to Singapore in future.”

Hair Stylist “I really enjoy Nth’. The photoshoot always gives me awesome inspiration & ideas.”

Hair Stylist “All girls who want to be pretty, please come to me for haircut!”

KIZUKI+LIM: 6221 6320

Hair Stylist “I felt that it is important to always have the thought and conscience to become beautiful.”

Hair Stylist “I will work hard to be entertaining, cute and beautiful today too!

Thank you very much!”

Hair Stylist “I’m very honoured to work with Nth’. Let’s enjoy more fashion together!”

Hair Stylist “Thank you very much! It was a really good experience for me.”

KIZUKI+LIM: 6221 6320

KIZUKI+LIM: 6221 6320

monso hair design tokyo: 6836 5585

We are looking for creative talents Tarandip Kaur

Writer “I always enjoy writing with possibilities and Nth’ magazine has just been amazing!” www.fashstash.tumblr.com

Elizabath Raisa a.k.a RICE

Writer “A brilliant creative platform for all Singapore girls and beyond the Asian borders! To cure all your blues, this is Nth’ for you!” xxx about.me/asiaraisa

92 Nth’

Kolbee

Fumi

mionacom@hotmail.com

fumikwg@gmail.com

Illustrator “Nth’ can make Singapore prettier.

And YOU, are going to complete it.”

Stylist “Be confident! Be beautiful! Be wonderful! Be loved!”

Jennifer.es

Rei Tan

jennifer.eswaran@yahoo.com

ihave1gigabyte@gmail.com

Makeup Artist “A fabulous privilege to have “Nth’” in our local scene - revealing the originality of the unique aesthetic of the Japanese way of dressing.”

Makeup Artist “No doubt Nth’ is pushing the limits of fun in every issue :) I can feel the passion and learning curve increasing... Yosh!”

photographers, fashion stylists, makeup artists, writers, editors and all other artists. if you are interested, please contact: creation@designkloo.com

IN COLLABORATION WITH: [LOCATION] Hachi: 6733 0108 (The Cathay) Massimo Dutti: 6235 8485 (LIAT TOWERS) Nostalgic Diva: 8388 1205 (Haji Lane) NOVUS: 6336 8770 (National Museum of Singapore) PS. Cafe: 9797 0648 (Ann Siang Hill)

[SHOP/ BRAND] COLLAGE: 6297 9886 (Haji Lane) Dip Drops: 6838 0690 (ISETAN Orchard) egg3: 6536 6977 (Erskine Road) ELOHIM by SABRINAGOH: 6634 2201 (Orchard Central) FOREVER21: 6834 4893 (Orchard Xchange) e•pit•o•me: 6280 7207 (Serangoon Garden) GUESS: 6509 9320 (ION Orchard) ISETAN Scotts: 6733 1111 Island Shop: 6734 8037 (TANGS Orchard) littleoddforest (Online Shop): http://www.forestprints.com Massimo Dutti: 6235 8485 (LIAT TOWERS) Mode La Vie: 6298 0639 (Haji Lane) NBC: 6733 1321 (Takashimaya S.C.) NINE WEST: 6735 6660 (Wisma Atria) PARCO next NEXT: 6595 9100 rosebullet: 6235 5756 (ISETAN Orchard) Samantha Thavasa: 6634 2880(ION Orchard) STEVE MADDEN: 6509 8322 (ION Orchard) escentials: 6737 2478 (Paragon) TANGS Orchard: 6737 5500 Wicked Laundry: 6298 9110 (Haji Lane) woodwould: 6836 2434 (The Cathay)

[HAIR SALON]

Find Nth’ fan page on

[HAIR SALON]

KIZUKI+LIM Raffles Shopping Arcade #03-03 LS Philosophy 15 Scotts Road #01-03/04 MONSO HAIR DESIGN TOKYO Gallery Hotel #01-06 [SHOP]

Join today and talk to us!

You can get the hottest news from Nth’ magazine and its creators.

You might also find yourself or your friends on our fan page ★

Backstage gallery of Nth’ photo shoots, interviews, styling tips, and many more!

Plenty of hidden information you must check ★

[SWEET SWEETS DREAM] Flor Patisserie: 6223 8628 (Duxton Hill)

WHERE TO FIND Nth’

To all fashionistas in Singapore.

We will snap★ a picture of you and introduce you on our Facebook page.

Be ready!

KIZUKI + LIM: 6221 6320 (Raffles Arcade) JERIC SALON: 6509 9709 (ION Orchard) MONSO HAIR DESIGN TOKYO: 6836 5585 (Gallery Hotel)

A Lodge Far East Plaza #03-94 beautifull Far East Plaza #04-28 Black Market No. 2 Orchard Central #02-10 blackclover Far East Plaza #03-17 Real Food The Central #B1-52/53 Carhatt Orchard Central #03-29 champagneadone Far East Plaza #04-113 COLLAGE 61 Haji Lane, Far East Plaza #04-138 Converse The Heeren #03-05 depression Millenia Walk Parco #P2-21 Dip Drops 313 Somerset #03-09/10, ISETAN Scotts L2, ISETAN Orchard L1 Dr. Martens Orchard Central #03-05 Dulcefig 41 Haji Lane egg3 33 Erskine Road, Mandarin Gallery #04-26, The Cathay #01-18, 85 Playfair Road #07-01 egg3 Café 231 Mountbatten Road Blk D #01-06/07 eighty two tales 78A Haji Lane ELOHIM by SABRINAGOH Orchard Central #02-11/12 e•pit•o•me 14C Kensington Park Rd Fashion 8aR Far East Plaza #03-41B First Day Far East Plaza #03-91 FOREVER21 Orchard Xchange , Orchard MRT fourskins The Heeren #04-25 green poppies 11 Haji Lane The hansel Shop Mandarin Gallery #02-14 HDLN 61 Haji Lane Far East Plaza #04-139 ISETAN Scotts 350 Orchard Road ISETAN Orchard Wisma Atria L1 Japan Creative Centre 4 Nassim Road Jason Quek 41A Haji Lane Joe Tham 16 Haji Lane LEFTFOOT Far East Plaza #04-108, Orchard Cineleisure #02-07A, The Cathay #01-19/20 m&m 67 Haji Lane mono Far East Plaza #04-140 NBC Bugis Junction #03-05A, Raffles City #B1-22, Ngee Ann City #04-20H, Parco Millenia Walk #P3-15/16. ninos felices45 45A Haji Lane ohm Mani 29A Haji Lane Parco next Next Millenia Walk Parco L2 praise Orchard Cineleisure #02-04, Bugis Junction #03-22A rockstar by soon lee Orchard Cineleisure #03-08 rosebullet Marina Bay Sands #B2-116, ISETAN Scotts L2, ISETAN Orchard L1

Shopaholic Far East Plaza #04-20 Skyroom 84 Haji Lane, The Central #01-49 SMUDGE Orchard Cineleisure #03-03A soon lee 73 Haji Lane STEIVE GENERAL STORE 99 Club Street STYLE:NORDIC Delfi Orchard Sup 34 Haji Lane Swatch The Heeren #01-08 TANGS Orchard 310 Orchard Road, STYLESPACE ON 4 The Black Chamber Far East Plaza #04-30 The blogshop Far East Plaza #03-93 The Vanipot Boutique 42 Haji Lane threadbare&squirrel 43 Haji Lane Tracyeinny Pickering Street Nankin Row #01-13/15, Junction 8 #02-36/37 UNITED LABEL 69 Haji Lane VICTORIA JOMO 47 Haji Lane Walk In Far East Plaza #04-45 WARPED Far East Plaza #03-119 WHITE ROOM 37 Haji Lane Wicked Laundry 76 Haji Lane woodwood Far East Plaza #03-88 Zhai 82 Haji Lane [Cafe/Restaurant] 15 Minutes 1 McNally Street Blk D AKB Café *SCAPE #03-02 arteastiq Mandarin Gallery #04-27 Black Coffee 111 Somerset Road #01-13 Broun Café 35 North Canal Road Hairloom and Caramel Café 100 Beach Road #01-50/52 Ice Cold Beer@SMU 50 Stamford Road #01-01 PS. Café Paragon L3 Skinny Pizza@House 8D Dempsey Road Trung Nguyen Coffee Liang Court #02-34, Marina Square #01-09, The Heeren #03-K1/06 [Club] Butter Factory 1 Fullerton Road #02-02/03/04 Home Club The Riverwalk #B1-01/06 Rebel The Cannery Clarke Quay #01-07/08 Zirca The Cannery Clarke Quay #01-02/05 [School] LASALLE College of the Arts 1 McNally Street Blk E Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts 80 Bencoolen Street Colors@ Singapore Management University 80 Stamford Road Basement of School of Information System

www.facebook.com/Nth.magazine

94 Nth’

Nth’ 95

No. 2

Creative Director Hiro Kawaguchi Executive Producer Celine Tan Fashion Director/Stylist Fumi Editor Angie Theonis Chong Si Min Lenne Chai Tan Yan Ping Designer Naomi Degenkolbe Everyday Girls Alycia Huey wen Tsuriki Special Thanks AIKO apparel-web Inc Jim Khor Roland Degenkolbe Ryoichi Takabayashi

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. The views expressed in Nth’ are those

Paper RJ Paper Pte Ltd • Hypack Brown Kraft • Maple White

of the respective contributors and are not necessarily

• Munkenprint Cream

shared by the magazine or its staff. The magazine

• Novoluxe Nordic White

welcomes new contributors but can assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Published by [kloo] Pte Ltd - 25 McNair Road, Singapore 328526 Tel: +65 6298 1257 Fax: +65 6298 1327 studio@designkloo.com

General Enquiry magazine@designkloo.com Creative Enquiry creation@designkloo.com Advertising Enquiry ads@designkloo.com

Printing Innotech Communication Pte Ltd