Publika, Lot 16 G2 Bangsar Village II, UGF-19 Empire Shopping Gallery, UG12 Pavilion KL, Level 4 Parkson dudeandtheduchess.com facebook.com/DudeandtheDuchess instagram.com/dudeandtheduchess
KLANG VALLEY & SELANGOR
MELAKA
Alamanda Putrajaya G50-51, Ground Floor +603 8889 4228
Melaka Megamall G032, Dataran Pahlawan OPENING NOV 2013
Bangsar Village II UGF-30, Upper Ground Floor +603 2283 1766
JOHOR BAHRU
Mid Valley Megamall G69 - G70, Ground Floor +603 2283 6593
Plaza Pelangi Lot K2-1D, Level Two +607 334 5882
1 Utama (New Wing) G317, Ground Floor +603 7724 1090
SARAWAK
Empire Shopping Gallery UG 10-11, Upper Ground Floor +603 5632 3266
and shoes that pull an outfit together
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SUNDAYS Great gifts to get
FEATURES
Suria Sabah, Kota Kinabalu Lot 1 – 64/65 +6088 487 202
50 INSPIRING LIVES Paris-based Malaysian
SINGAPORE
Isetan KLCC Ladies Wear Department Second Floor +603 2858 9041
The Centrepoint #02-30 Orchard Road +65 6735 7347 Metro Paragon Level Three, The Paragon, Orchard Road +65 6735 0182 Metro Woodlands Level 2, Causeway Point +65 6893 3322
www.msreadshop.com
SPOTLIGHT 56 62
Empire Shopping Gallery UGF12, Upper Ground Floor +603 5636 6266 D&D / SSS Publika Mall Lot 16, G2 +603 6730 4991 Pavilion KL Level 4 Parkson OPENING NOV 2013
www.dudeandtheduchess.com
FIVE MINS WITH…
www.sundays.my
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A (MOSTLY) TRUE STORE-Y Touring the dude & the duchess’ “home”
Bettie
HELEN’S NOTE
BITES The Gingerbread House ENTERTAINMENT Our best picks of 2013
LIVING
FASHION
48 58
8 24
MS. READ Holiday 2013
STYLE
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GET SVELTE… The illusion of slimming styles
TRAVEL Win a 3D2N stay at VillaNaBali HEALTH Taking care of your heart
R by MS. READ Holiday 2013
Cover: Model is wearing R by MS. READ: Gold Trimmed Sleeve Top (M3816-T) RM169, Zip Detail Skirt (L 3640-S) RM139
Bangsar Village II 1F-29, First Floor +603 2284 2308
designer Jonathan Liang
FOOD REVIEW Hit & Mrs
KLANG VALLEY & SELANGOR Bangsar Village II UGF-19, Upper Ground Floor +603 2284 3066
REGULARS 7 59 60
holiday 2013
SABAH
The Mines (Outlet) L3-2(P), Level Three +603 8943 8577
04
SHOP
22 FROM DRAB TO FAB Accessories
Bintang Megamall Miri Lot G51, Ground Floor +6085 413 615
KL SOGO First Floor +603 2698 0266
Gurney Plaza Lot 170-01-02, First Floor +604 226 3013
The Spring Kuching Lot 147, First Floor +6082 234 916
Pavilion KL Lot 4.25.13, Level Four +603 2145 5766
PENANG
Contents
Earrings: MIDI Necklace: MIDI Rings: ShoesShoesShoes (earring used as ring)
Founder and Editorial Director Helen Read Editor In Chief/ Writer Farah Shamin Design Director Benedict Read Photo Fashion- Chen Kim Mun Lifestyle- Priscilla Philip
Fashion Stylist- Nadia Tan Coordinators- Illa Hadi, Sencir Lim, Sabrina Tan Illustrators- Hazirah Mohamed Yazid, Melissa Leomar Sponsors: Shoes & Accessories: Bower Haus, Christy Ng, Kiss & Tell, ShoesShoesShoes, MIDI, Dipped Row, Zsiska & Nature Bijoux. Location (MS. READ Shoot)- Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
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INSPIRATIONS
HELEN’S NOTE
I COLOUR
CRUSH GILDED GOLD Rich and glistening, the colour gold has always been the essential allure as the king of metals, linked to the sun from the earliest of times, representing power and presence. This versatile hue, be it metallic or blindingly 24 karat bright, can be combined with other colours like navy, brown, purple, black, white, nude or beige to give an air of glamour to any outfit. It only takes a few pieces to add a new dimension to your wardrobe. From sequins to shimmer and sumptuous shine, gold is the eponymous colour to bring on the bling this Holiday season. .
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t’s been such an exciting time for us. This year The MS. READ Group has had the pleasure of working with a number of wonderful brands and people in seeing projects materialise. In the spirit of collaboration, you may have noticed that this is the first note I’ve written, where I’m sharing my ‘selfie pic’ with someone else. We worked together with illustrator, Jessica Wong, founder of Plasterdoll to capture the essence of the quintessential curvy woman. I’d like to introduce you to Bettie, our bubbly advocate for women with curves. You can get to know her better on page 62. This has been a year of ‘firsts’ for our cult fashion brand, dude & the duchess. We had our first collaboration with Parisbased Malaysian designer, Jonathan Liang to create a beautiful capsule collection of womenswear. (page 50)
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” ñ Helen Keller Bettie: Keyhole Peasant Dress (A 4007-D) RM 179; Helen:MS. READ Uneven Hem Chiffon Tunic, (L 3667-T), RM 189, Long Pants, (H 3202-P), RM 159 Shoes: MIDI
We joined forces with ShoesShoesShoes, a shoe and accessories brand to open a store in Publika with a “walk-in-wardrobe” inspired layout and in November, dude & the duchess will also be located at Pavilion KL (Level 4, Parkson, around the corner from the Zang Toi Café). MS. READ too is growing and evolving. We’ve relocated to a larger lot in Bangsar Village 2 and it’s our first store to have a dedicated R by MS. READ corner. This November we will also open our very first store in Melaka at Dataran Pahlawan, Melaka Megamall. As you’ll see in our second issue of thREAD, we’ve made it even better for you with a larger fashion spread, a health section and special promotions.
Our latest Holiday Collection 2013, themed The Golden Edge brings a touch of glamour to your wardrobe with eveningwear and cocktail outfits, perfect for the year-end holidays and festivities. In Sundays, we’ve curated a list of unique gifts to help you shop for the person who has everything. (page 54) And saving the best for last, we’ve also partnered up with luxury travel site, The Luxe Nomad. Find out how to win a free 3D2N stay in a waterfront villa in Bali! (page 48) Amidst all the hustle and bustle that’s going on, I would like to share an exciting piece of news with you about a personal project I’m working on with my childhood friend Abby. As you know, cooking is one of my passions and it’s always been a
dream of mine to write a cookbook with our family recipes and I’m finally doing it. We aim to have it in stores by November, but are now taking pre-orders in store and online. So again looking back, 2013 has been a year of collaborative efforts and new ventures for our brands and even for myself. I hope all of you have had just the type of year you wished for and that 2014 brings even more good things your way.
Happy Holidays!
Helen thREAD
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FASHION
R
by MS. READ brings on the bling and all things glamourous and exciting in its aptly named Holiday Collection, The Golden Edge. From details in gold embroidery and shimmery tops in sparkly black, opulent purple and rich burgundy to cleverly designed chic tops in metallic shades of gold and edgy colour block leggings with sparkling sequins it’s all about letting your hair down and embracing the high street fashionista in you. Minimalism is strongly carried through each design, carefully tailored to show your curves off in the best possible light. In trend keyholes and cold shoulders in a red dress gives you the option to change the silhouette, as you like. Belt it for a cinched look for dinner or without for a casual day in gold sandals. The black pencil skirt with gold zippered pockets is fashionably understated for women who prefer a little rebellious detail in an otherwise tailored design that can transit from day to night. So what better time is there to let the inner party girl in you out than the year-end, where rules are tossed aside to make room for next year’s resolutions.
Gold Trimmed Neckline Top (L3693-T) RM 189 Tapered Pants (L 3683-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: ShoesShoesShoes Bangles: Left: Dipped Row(necklace used as bracelet) Right: Dipped Row Rings: Left: Zsiska Right: ShoesShoesShoes(earring used as ring) Shoes: MIDI
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Sequin Trimmed Shoulder Top (L 3690-T) RM 159 Tapered 3/4 Pants (L 3703-P) RM 149 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: ShoesShoesShoes Shoes: MIDI
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Low Back Top (L 3698-T) RM 159 Chiffon Layered Pants (M 3776-P) RM 139 Earrings: MIDI Rings: ShoesShoesShoes (earring used as ring) Shoes: MIDI
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Ruched Detail Dress (L 3634-D) RM 169 Earrings: MIDI Panel Dress (L 3628-D) RM 169 Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes Bangles: MIDI Shoes: MIDI
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Necklace: Dipped Row Bangles: Left: Dipped Row Right: ShoesShoesShoes Rings: ShoesShoesShoes(earring used as ring) Shoes: MIDI
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Pleated Sleeve Top (M 3822-T) RM 149 Knit Biker Jacket (L 3624-J) RM 189 Sequined Panel Leggings (M3769-P) RM 139 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: MIDI Bangles: ShoesShoesShoes Shoes: MIDI
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Gold Sequined Top (M 3770-T) RM 129 Tapered Pants (L 3681-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: ShoesShoesShoes Bangles: ShoesShoesShoes Shoes: MIDI
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Sequin Sleeved Top (L 3689-T) RM 159 3/4 Pleated Pants (K 3504-P) RM 169
Lace Dress (L 3625-D) RM 259 Earrings: Dipped Row
Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes
Necklace: Dipped Row
Bangles: ShoesShoesShoes
Bangles: Dipped Row
Shoes: MIDI
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Shoes: MIDI
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Short Sleeve Peplum Top (M 3817-T) RM 139 Tapered Pants with Slit Pockets (M 3821-P) RM 179 Necklace: Dipped Row Bangles: Dipped Row
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Keyhole Peasant Dress (A 4007-D) RM 179 Shoes: MIDI Belt: Stylist’s own Shoes: MIDI
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D. R by MS. REA on t ou b a Hi there! s ht g ou th rvey our I’d love to hear y people to answer our short su line voucher on t Be one of the firs we’ll reward you with a RM d Facebook an sreadshop.com ! to shop at m earing from you Look forward to h
50
50
XOXO Bet tie
Like Step
1
Go to www.facebook.com/ msreadmoments
Step
3
Click on the and start the survey
tab
Step
2
Like our page If you have any ents or other comm you just or feedback, say “hi”, to t simply wan email at drop me an ord@ ew spreadth .my m co msread.
Grab that
POUCH 1 TO 30 NOV 2013
Spend RM500* and receive a limited edition MS. READ waterproof nylon pouch. There are three fun colours, each with a special message on it, so why not collect them all! INSTORES & ONLINE *in a single receipt, while stocks last
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holiday 2013
*
SHOPPING
Bowerhaus Bowerhaus was founded by two Aussie sisters, Shen-Tel and Elizabeth Lee. Inspired by their father’s vintage coins and mother’s pearls they design with materials that they source from all over the globe. Their latest collection ‘High Society’ is inspired by the old world glamour of American high society. Gold and silver-plated Hematite, known for its healing properties is used throughout this range of jewellery. Prices range from RM90 to RM1500. www.bowerhaus.com.my
Go from Drab to
FAB! OUR PICKS OF SHOES AND ACCESSORIES THAT PULL AN OUTFIT TOGETHER
ShoesShoesShoes This brand doesn’t believe that anyone should suffer for the sake of fashion. Self-confessed high-heeled addicts that they are at ShoesShoesShoes, they have developed the perfect mold to produce their towering 5inch platforms that are kind to the feet and are their “star product”. When worn, customers are assured that they will receive the additional boost in height but without the discomfort on their lower backs and knees. Materials for their shoes are hand selected and are on trend with the seasons. They also love to play around with exotic skins as it adds a beautiful texture to the designs. Prices range from RM219 to RM399. Check out their facebook page for store details. www.facebook.com/ShoesShoesShoes3
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Dipped Row Dipped Row was founded by a Malaysian-born trio who share a love for beautiful accessories. ‘Dipped’ or ‘celup’, as it is called in the Malay language is a term that fondly refers to kids of mixed parentage. Affordable luxury is Dipped Row’s overwhelming sentiment. The collection speaks to the style-conscious, fashion maven. Its designs combine playful and contrasting elements such as bold brights, crystal embellishment and edgy metallics. Prices range from RM35 to RM250. www.dippedrow.com
Kiss & Tell Kiss & Tell is an independent label based in Malaysia that emphasizes on the comfort of the shoes produced. Founder Michelle Soo started her own footwear line as she had trouble looking for shoes her size (she is a size 3!). Kiss & Tell plays with a lot of bright and bold patterns and also carries trendy apparels and accessories to complement their comfortable footwear. When asked why the name Kiss & Tell, Michelle always laughs it off with the reply “because it is a secret you can tell!” Prices for shoes range from RM89 to RM159. www.shopkissandtell.net
MIDI From flats to d’orsays, studs to glitter, and suede to patent, the collection is reflective of years of obsession over design and detail, culminating in a bold mix of strong, sleek silhouettes and the use of only the finest material, embellishment, lining and treatment. With “edgy” being the central theme, you’ll find each pair of shoes a refreshing surprise with a little twist and mixand-match alchemy such as contrasting detail, updated shapes, unexpected trimming, and bold colours, allowing you to effortlessly conjure up a chic and striking ensemble even when paired with the simplest garment. Each pair of MIDI shoes are made with leather upper material and leather lining material. Prices range from RM199 to RM399. Available on fashionvalet.com and also midishoes.com
Christy Ng Custom Made Shoes
Christy Ng Shoes is an online shoe company offering a wide range of women’s footwear based in PJ. Apart from ready-to-wear shoes and bags, Christy Ng brings you a solution to the shoe-sizing conundrum with special hand crafted custom-made shoes designed to fit feet of all sizes and shapes. Prices range from RM450 and above depending on material and design. www.christyng.com
Especially for MS. READ customers, Christy Ng is now offering RM50 OFF when you order a pair of custom-made shoes. Just key in MSREAD50 upon checkout.
Nature Bijoux & Zsiska The natural harmony between raw materials and organic forms is the creative essence of the Nature bijoux line of jewellery. No two pieces are alike as each style is handcrafted from raw materials such as shells horns and bones, which are all by-products of the food industry. Prices range from RM50 and above. www.nature.fr Zsiska is a brand of high quality fashion jewellery, each handmade of resin, combined with 24k gold leaf, pure silver leaf and Swarovski elements. www.zsiska.com
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THE GOLDEN EDGE HOLIDAY ‘13
F
rom short dresses to the MS. READ statement piece in the pleated long dress, layering looks allow curvy women to embrace their sensuality while still concealing their arms in barely there chiffon. Shimmery purple tops sizzle with gold embroidered shoulders, while the classic LBD is given a simple gold link for understated elegance.
Left Model:
Right Model:
Peplum Lace Top (L 3678-T) RM 229
Gold Shine Knit Cardigan (L 3638-T) RM 149
Wide Leg Pants (L 3675-P) RM 169
Gold Shine Knit Tank Top (L 3639-T) RM 109
Earrings: MIDI
Gold Shine Long Knit Skirt (L 3637-S) RM 169
Necklace, Bangles, Rings, Belt: Stylist’s own
Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes
Shoes: Christy Ng
Necklace, Belt, Rings: Stylist’s own Shoes: MIDI
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Pleated Long Dress (K 3457-D) RM 239 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: ShoesShoesShoes Bangles, Ring, Belt: Stylist’s own Shoes: ShoesShoesShoes
Gold Lace Shoulder Caftan (L-3622-T) RM 139 Long Pleated Skirt (L 3609-S) RM 169 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: MIDI, ShoesShoesShoes Bangles: Stylist’s own Rings: Stylist’s own
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Left Model:
Right Model:
Dolman Sleeve Top (L 3679-T) RM149
Printed Knit Top (L 3636-T) RM159
Tapered Pants (L 3681-P) RM 159
Wide Leg Pants (L 3675-P) RM169
Earrings: MIDI
Earrings: MIDI
Necklace: Dipped Row
Necklace: MIDI
Bangles: Dipped Row
Rings: Zsiska
Rings: Zsiska
Shoes: Christy Ng
Shoes: MIDI
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Inverted Striped Top (K 3520-T) RM 159 Leggings (K 3524) RM 99 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: Dipped Row Bangles: MIDI Rings: Zsiska Shoes: MIDI
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Short Raglan Sleeve Dress (K 3519-D) RM 179 Earrings: Stylis’s own Bangles: ShoesShoesShoes Rings: Stylist’s own Shoes: Christy Ng
Dolman Sleeve Draped Dress (L 3618-D) RM 239 Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes Necklace: MIDI Bangles: Bower Haus Rings: Stylist’s own Shoes: Christy Ng
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Left Model: Open Zip Blouse (L 3672-T) RM 169 Wide Leg Pants (L 3675-P) RM 169 Earrings, Necklace, Bangles, Rings: Stylist’s own Shoes: MIDI Right Model: Slanted Panel Blouse (M 3796-T) RM 159 Round Neck Jacket (L 3673-J) RM 269 Tapered Pants (L 3683-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI
Butterfly Blouse (M 3783-T) RM 149
Necklace: MIDI
Long Knit Pants (L 3632-P) RM 159
Brooch: Stylist’s own Bangles: ShoesShoesShoes Rings: Stylist’s own Shoes: Kiss & Tell
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Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes Bangles: Left: Bower Haus Right: Dipped Row Rings: Zsiska Shoes: Christy Ng
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Left Model: Low V Back Top (M 3824-T) RM 159 966 Pants (K 3532-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: Dipped Row Bangle: Dipped Row Rings: Nature Bijoux Right Model: Printed Caftan (L 3643-T) RM 159 5038 Pants (L 3700-P) RM 149 Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes Necklace: Dipped Row Bangle: ShoesShoesShoes Ring: Nature Bijoux
T
he MS. READ woman is classically glamorous in The Golden Edge Collection, with a more demure look in butterfly and kimono sleeves, giving this season’s silhouette a softer drape. Tops and blouses are more focused on the design of the back, so while appearing somewhat unassuming from the front, details from lower dipped backs to crisscross straps give playful peaks of a glimpse of skin Patterns and prints take on the more retro-glam look in geometric shapes and updated polka dots with flattering cuts in your favourite styles.
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Cross Back Detail Blouse (M 3781-T) RM 149 966 Pants (M 3824-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: MIDI Bangles: Dipped Row Rings: Nature Bijoux
Embroidered Chiffon Top (M 3771-T) RM 149 966 Pants (M 3824-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Rings: Nature Bijoux Shoes: MIDI
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Ruffle Neckline Top (M 3814-T) RM 159 966 Pants (M 3825-P) RM 159 Earrings: Midi Necklace: Dipped Row Rings: Left: Zsiska Right: Nature Bijoux
Left Model: Metal Trimmed Top (L 3647-T) RM 159 5038 Pants (L 3700-P) RM 149 Earrings: MIDI Bangle: ShoesShoesShoes Rings: Zsiska Shoes: Kiss & Tell
Right Model: Long Sleeve Shift Dress (L 3660-D) RM 179 Earrings: MIDI Bangle: ShoesShoesShoes Ring: Zsiska Shoes: MIDI
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Left Model: Peasant Top (L 3668-T) RM 169 966 Pants (M 3824-P) RM 159 Earrings: ShoesShoesShoes Necklace: Zsiska Rings: Zsiska Shoes: MIDI Right Model: Hooded Tunic (K 3484-T) RM 169 Earrings: MIDI Necklace: Zsiska Bangle: Bower Haus Shoes: Kiss & Tell
Left Model:
Right Model:
Boat Neck Top (A 4017-T) RM 139
Boat Neck Blouse (M3799-T) RM 149
966 Pants (M 3825-P) RM 159
Panel Leggings (L 3627-P) RM 159
Earrings: MIDI
Earrings: MIDI
Necklace: MIDI
Necklace: MIDI
Bangle: Dipped Row
Bangle: Dipped Row
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n d a y d n o u u o b e s u o h m o r u u o s e y e r ! ’ k c i u l c o , fI y know it e can t h ink of 10 g ood rea son s w t u b , n u o d hou seb o n t e r ’ y at ho me, surf t he net and shop online . u a o t s y o e b t ma y o s , k O
____ True fri endship i s when you andct e your Wi-Fi conny automati call ____
1) Shop w h 2) No tra enever you want. (our e-s ffic jam s (w hy wa ste tim tore s are open 24 hours) 3) Save p e e 4) Shop fo trol! (a definite dealma ?) ke r a s long a s you want. (w r) browsing sty e’ve all been le s onlin 5) No crow t here, ds or queue s e for hours on end) to g et t hroug h. t he sale (Especially 6) Get y s) during our purcha s e s d e li vered dir (it ’s li k e 7) Send g receiving pre sents to ect ly to your doorstep. yourself ifts to GET PERS friends and loved one s in t he mail) . (Lik e a ONAL 8) Eat, d rink , shop an shirt from dude & t he d u ch e s s ) d mayb TV shows at t he same tim e catch up on your favou you do t rite e. (now which store would le 9) Check hat ?) t out our twit ter. (Ju s Facebook / pintere st/ in t you can’t be cos you’re not g oing out stagram and s doe sn’t mea ociable) 10) And la n st but not le a st, after m sit back rela aking a x and let all your g oodie s ll your purcha se s, come to you.
Long Dolman Sleeve Top (M 3806-T) RM 159 966 Pants (M 3825-P) RM 159 Earrings: MIDI Bangles: Bower Haus Shoes: Stylist’s own
facebook.com/msreadmoments
facebook.com/dudeandtheduchess
twitter.com/msreadmoments
twitter.com/dudentheduchess
www.msreadshop.com
pinterest.com/dudentheduchess instagram.com/dudeandtheduchess
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www.dudeandtheduchess.com
facebook.com/shopatsundays
www.sundays.my
STYLE Round Neck Jacket L 3673-J/ L 3674-J, RM269 ... Sleek and slim, this jacket keeps everything in place while defining your waistline.
Panel Dress
Get
L 3628-D, RM169 ... Black panels running down both sides of the body of this dress conceal any extra pounds you want to hide. (As seen on Bettie)
SVELTE Shave inches off your figure in these clever silhouettes
Sequined Panel Leggings M 3769-P, RM139 ... Colouring blocking with these leggings give you the illusion of slim Dancing Queen legs. Ruched Detail Dress L 3634-D, RM169
Curve Panel Long Skirt
...
L 3629-S, RM169
Keep your curvy silhouette in check
...
while concealing your tummy with
Detailed curved lines have an
the ruched detailing in the mid
elongating effect, making legs look
section of this dress.
longer and slimmer aesthetically.
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TRAVEL
Much Ado About
Bali
The Luxe Nomad, shares their favourite things to do on the magical island of Bali.
DRINK
Get your friends, family and even stran g to vote for your ers photo because the en tr with the most vo y tes,
WINS!
#READyto Relax WIN a luxury 3D2N stay at
VillaNaBali
Show us your best chilled out photo, tag us @msreadmoments and hashtag #READyToRelax. You could win a luxury 3D2N family stay in one of the waterfront villas in Puri Tirta, VillaNaBali.
1
(it has to be one you’ve taken!) & post it on our FB contest page.
2 @msreadmoments on
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holiday 2013
Tag @msreadmoments & #READyToRelax Share your photo on Facebook
VISIT Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of the island’s nine key directional temples meant to protect Bali from evil spirits. Its location perched on a steep cliff 70 meters above the roaring Indian Ocean is what makes this place a sight to behold. Stay for the stunning sunset and the visually spectacular Kecak Dance (monkey dance) held daily between 6pm and 7pm.
PLAY It has a funny name, but Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak is where it’s at. Designed by acclaimed architect Andra Martin as a modern take on the Coliseum, you’ll need to get in early to book a sun lounger by the pool, or for one of their infamous parties featuring Snoop Dog, John Legend, M.I.A, Foster the People and more. Make no mistake; this is Bali’s official party central.
brought to you by
EAT
Head to facebook.com/msreadmoments contest page & follow these 3 steps. Choose your best chilled out photo
Ayana Resort and Spa Bali’s Rock Bar is considered one of the world’s best bars and it’s easy to see why. Innovatively designed by Japanese designer Yasuhiro Koichi, this 360-degree bar perches on a soaring cliff top 14 meters above the Indian Ocean. Perfect place for sunset cocktails and those special occasions.
Contest ends 30 November 2013
3
The photo with the most votes WINS!
Vote
Terms & conditions apply
Bali is fast becoming a mecca for foodies and chefs alike. The newest kid on the block is located in an expansive coconut grove on the grounds of Kayumanis Jimbaran Private Estate & Spa, Cuca. Chef Kevin Merkas (of El Bulli, Arzak, La Broche and Daniel fame) takes you on a culinary journey with signature dishes boasting bursts of fresh, vibrant flavours.
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INSPIRING LIVES
On
Pins &
1. How did you get your start in fashion design?
I grew up having a strong affinity with arts a lot, and as I reached different stages in life, I think that sort of affinity evolved with me. I started with a pencil and paper, I’d draw anything that comes to my head, then I had my sculpting years and then digital years. Finally I’m here with pins and needles and I won’t really say this would be my final stop in my development. I can only hope to grow more.
Needles
PARIS- BASED MALAYSIAN DESIGNER JONATHAN LIANG SHARES WITH US HIS INSPIRATIONS AND THOUGHTS BEHIND HIS FIRST COLLABORATION WITH DUDE & THE DUCHESS — THE D&D X JL CAPSULE COLLECTION.
With the amazing price point, beautifully tailored outfits and transitional pieces fit for every season, I believe it’ll appeal to every woman who endorses personal style well or perhaps just plain effortlessslip-on-get-me-to-work style. 9. What can we expect from the D&D x JL Collection?
2. What was the first item of clothing you ever made?
A beautiful clash between two labels that shares very similar views with different styles and infusing the best of both into one.
A very ‘failed’ version of a Givenchy S/S 08 couture inspired layered skirt 3. What made you decide to move abroad?
My mother always encouraged me to go abroad and explore the world before deciding where I wanted to be. In fact she also told me to never come back.
7. What were the key elements for you when designing the D&D x JL capsule collection?
“I can only hope to grow more” 4. What challenges/ obstacles did you face and overcome when you started out in Paris? A new country, away from home.
Language and the bureaucracy. I have a very short attention span and low threshold of patience and I don’t think that’s a good trait to have in Paris.
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5. What it’s like being a Malaysian designer in Paris.
Challenging. Everyday is a challenge but I like it. I’m a masochist like that. 6. How did this collaboration with dude & the duchess come about?
I got a surprise email from dude & the duchess to work on a collection together. They were very open to ideas and concepts, even willing to try new ideas. This for me was enough to get me started on this amazing collaboration.
It was the elements of folds that mimic the camouflaged insect, these folds are subtle and crafted to hide, almost as if camouflaged and only detected upon wearing the outfit. A little surprise is always good. I focused a lot on trying to create pieces that were able to complement anything in a woman’s wardrobe. In fact you can mix and match this whole collection with different outfits. I wanted to create something that provokes the creativity within a woman too. 8. How you see D&D x JL penetrating the market? What do you think the response will be like?
Predictions aren’t really my forte but I am pretty confident about this collection.
“A little surprise is always good” 13. Who and what inspires you? 10. Any stand out pieces?
All the outfits with snake emboss mocks and the embroidered pieces! 11. Who would you love to see wear it?
The everyday girl. Nothing makes me happier than to bump into someone donning the outfit in their own style, own portrayal and own story of that particular piece. 12. What do D&D x JL clothes say about the woman who wears them?
They would be either that cool girl or that effortless girl or that prim and sleek girl. It embodies a woman that adapts well to her surrounding.
At the moment, Luis Feito. Still not over him. 14. What’s the last thing you googled?
A Nasi Padang recipe. 15. What’s next in the pipelines for you?
A lot of great projects to come and the new F/W 14 that is already in sampling! Can’t wait for the next season to start and this one is barely even over!
D&D X JL in stores & online November 2013
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d
ude & the duchess is the story of a couple in love: an aristocratic duchess and a laid back, artistic dude. The brand’s analogy is carried through in its clothes, offering shirts for men and apparel for women, building on the popular fashion trends of the moment with a strongly recognisable personality. The cult brand is known for You can learn a lot about its themed concept of focusing people when you visit their home, on an area of the two characters’ based on the various knick-knacks home for each of its stores in they have like a vintage telephone Klang Valley; a loft in Bangsar on the wall by the cashier counter Village, the living room in Empire and a Get Personal trunk, replete Shopping Gallery and a walkwith an antique sewing desk. To in wardrobe in Publika, with keep the loft from appearing too ShoesShoesShoes as the footMORE THAN JUST A SPACE TO dude-ish, the duchess lends her wear and accessories element. SELL MERCHANDISE, THE DUDE touch with a dazzling art nouveau We decided “MTV Cribs” & THE DUCHESS STORY IS BROUGHT mirror hung above the mantle style to take a tour of the dude TO LIFE IN THEIR STORES. piece. Pewter globes and stacks & the duchess’ “home” and live vicariously through them. While all three stores carry the ready- of books tells us this couple enjoys collecting vintage items from to-wear dude & the duchess line and made-to-order Get Personal their various globetrotting adventures, while a couple of radiators shirts, we wanted to focus on the details and experience that each against the walls, French music and silhouettes of trees in the windows, gave us the feeling we were in Europe as opposed to a store had to offer. Our first stop was Bangsar Village. We were greeted by an store smack in suburban Bangsar. The changing rooms were a surprise, designed as the artistically haphazard hanging installation of gold frames, which we found out was part of the current Fall Winter 2013 theme “If bathrooms with floor tiling, a rain shower and towel racks instead of clothes hooks. you Mask”.
A (mostly) True Life STORE-y
...
Moving onto their living room in Empire Shopping Gallery, the tone and mood changes somewhat with raw timber flooring, brick walls and subdued lighting. There’s a more masculine vibe here with the dude’s bright red vesper parked near the cashier counter sink. Old suitcases are dotted around the place and animal shadow hands are used as clothes hooks in the dressing rooms. In keeping with the dude’s personal space, an artistic framework of a deer head hanging over the makeshift fireplace with a three-seater couch and casual throw-over makes this place an area for him to relax and unwind.
...
Our final stop was Publika, where we stepped into the dude & the duchess’ walk-in-wardrobe inspired layout. The vibrant Yves Klein Blue feature wall and light-bulb book installation injected more of a fun element compared to the other stores.
Walk-in-wardrobes are every girls dream come true, so it’s no surprise there’s a slightly more feminine feel here. Pink and blue neon lights glowed from within, beckoning us to browse the racks of clothes and accessories. Along one wall were rows upon rows of shoes in pops of colours, complementing every item the duchess clothing has to offer. Towards the back was the Get Personal corner. Resembling an atelier’s workshop, replete with its vintage sewing machine, this is where the dude can mix and match various cuffs, collars and fits to create his one-of a-kind made to order shirt. The brightly lit and spacious changing rooms here stray from the other bathroom inspired layouts, while a leather chesterfield sits in the middle of the space. A central element in each of the stores or “rooms” I should say is a giant wall mirror. After all who doesn’t like to check themselves out or take a selfie once in a while. Visiting each store and how it was replicated into different facets of a home gave us a glimpse into the lives of the dude & the duchess as a couple - with the added bonus of trying on their clothes and taking them home. Bangsar Village 2
Publika
UGF-19, Upper Ground Floor,
Lot 16, Level G2,
Bangsar Baru, Jalan Telawi 1,
Solaris Dutamas 1,
59100 Kuala Lumpur.
Jalan Dutamas 1,
+6 03 2284 3066
50480, Kuala Lumpur. +6 03 6730 4991
Empire Shopping Gallery UGF12, Upper Ground Floor,
Pavilion KL
Jalan SS16/1,
Level 4, Parkson (around the
47500 Subang Jaya.
corner from Zang Toi cafe)
+6 03 5636 6266 dudeandtheduchess.com
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Specials at Sundays
Living in the
PRESENT
With the festive season around the corner, here are some unique gift IDEAS for the person who has everything
Think Party Thoughts FOR THE HOME BODY
Aesthetically beautiful in design and completely functional in concept, these gifts would make any homeowner proud. Take your pick from soft cushions and pillows with cutesy images by Mimi Lou, a luxurious bamboo throw by Barefoot Dream and Zuny leather clad animals that serve as unique door stoppers, paperweights, bookends or simply as decorative pieces. Prices range from RM129 to RM599
FOR THE INNER KID IN EVERYONE
These colourful crocheted toys by Anne-Claire Petit are enjoyed as much by kids as by grown-ups. Made with organic cotton where possible, they bring back fond memories of the traditional handmade stuffed animals we had as a child growing up. Only now, the Anne Claire Petit Collection also includes modern objects such as a lobster for the avid seafarer, a sewing machine for the budding designer and a cuddly car, which brings a whole new meaning to boys who love their toys. Prices start from RM189.
20%
FOR THE BFF
Whether your best friend is your mum, your sister or a gal pal that sees you through thick and thin, there’s a range of pretty products to fit her personality. For the avid cook, there’s the Garlison recipe file or box for her to keep all her favourite recipes in one place. For the shopaholic, a sophisticated retro tote and pouch from Les Cakes de Bertrand, to carry all her retail therapy in. For the career woman, Bareford Downing clear glass business card holders for the office desk or glass photo frames by Eichholtz for the minimalist. Prices range from 149 to RM329.
FOR THE NOSTALGIC
DEMDACO specialises in artist-driven gift and home décor products that lift the spirit and help people connect in significant ways. Versatile magnetic boards serve as innovative photo frames, memo boards or even inspirational boards that will liven up any home. From meaningful words that sum up magical moments to all sorts of mini magnets like handbags, board shorts and candy canes, create a gift that will never be forgotten. Prices start from RM29 for the mini magnets and RM69 for the boards.
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It all starts with a happy thought. Think Party Thoughts was founded by two friends who share the love for art & craft, design and all things parties - one started drawing since she was a kid and the other found herself planning parties for friends since pre-teen. From handcrafted custom designs to carefully sourced party accessories, the duo aspires to make party styling fun and easy for anyone with Think Party Thoughts products. www.thinkpartythoughts.com
Set your gifts apart from the others under the Christmas tree with these vintage wrapping papers. RM12 per sheet.
for your thoughts
Purchase any Think Party Thoughts bespoke themes set and get a 20% discount. There are 6 collections to choose from: Pink for Baby Girl, Blue for Baby Boy, Pink Lingerie for Bachelorette party, Barnyard Animals and It’s a Carnival! Each set contains a pack of Fancy Bunting, Party Poster, Cake Toppers Set and Place Cards. Promotion is valid till 31st December 2013.
VOLUSPA
To burn a Voluspa candle is to be introduced to a world of excellence in fragrance and candlelight that delights the senses and adds luxe to everyday living, while its creamy coconut wax blend enhances fragrance throw and burns ultra clean.
e u l a V l a t n e m i SCENT
ucts in Sundays. t on Voluspa prod en sp 0* 15 RM er y 30 rebate for ev Get an instant RM
cher eipt; Original vou be in a single rec uar y 2014. *Purchases must valid until 31st Jan tion mo Pro ; ted must be presen
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SPOTLIGHT
Hit & Mrs A hidden gem in Bangsar
N
A lovely surprise was the pineapple and estled in the depths of the quieter part of the Bangsar suburbs is Hit spice jelly with coconut sorbet. Instead of & Mrs, an intimate little restaurant a usual frozen icy concoction, it was creamy located in one of the residential shop lots. and sweet which went very well with the It focuses on the art of slow dining, with slightly sour zest of the sliced raw pineapple the three basic elements needed for an soaked in passion fruit juice. The 5-course taster meal for RM128 is enjoyable night out: a relaxing ambience, just right if you’re in the mood good food and wine. for a 360-degree gastronomic My partner and I opted for “Personalisation experience. The menu changes the 5-course menu - that way on the 15th of every month, but we could experience a bit of is true luxury. if you have a special request, everything. Most notable was You need to get they can make it happen within the beetroot confit with orange, involved. If we a two-week time frame or so. As raspberry, pink radish and goat can do it, we will the Manager, Benoit Somerlad cheese. The amalgamation says, “Personalisation is true of different textures and tastes always do it.” luxury. You need to get involved. was exciting. Starting off tangy, ñ Benoit Somerlad If we can do it, we will always refreshing, then creamy and salty do it.” topped off with the satisfying At the bar upstairs, the crunch of the sliced croutons. The classic mushroom soup with a ambience and décor of rattan chairs, floral pinenut paste and truffle foam was hearty wallpaper and knickknacks around made us and creamy, while the black cod was feel like we’d accidently walked back into extremely fresh and flakey and went well the 1960s and straight into the private abode with the accompanying fennel risotto. The of Saloma and Pi Ramlee. As we sipped on beef cheek, slow cooked for 72 hours, full of our Malaysian Mojitos, we knew this was a beefy goodness and juices sealed in didn’t place we’d be coming back to with a lot more of our friends. disappoint my carnivorous partner. Hit & Mrs 15 Jalan Kurau, Taman Weng Lock, 59100 Bangsar KL Tel: 03- 2282 3571 Dinner (7pm -11pm | Tuesday - Sunday) Brunch (11am - 2.30pm | Saturday - Sunday) Bar (5pm - 1am | Tuesday – Sunday) www.thebiggroup.co
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TO EAT IS TO LOVE
BITES
HEALTH
Heart your HEART
THE GINGER BREAD HOUSE
We often neglect our health due to our busy daily routines that we tend to brush off little aches and pains, which are actually signs that our body is trying to tell us something. Did you know that the symptoms of a heart attack are different for women?
Here are seven signs to watch out for.
2. Unusual sharp pains in the upper body
1. Shortness of breath
3. Breaking out in cold sweat
INGREDIENTS: 125g butter, at room temperature 100g (1/2 cup, firmly packed) brown sugar 125ml (1/2 cup) golden syrup 1 egg yolk 375g (2 ½ cups) plain flour 1 tbs ground ginger 1 tbs chopped up fresh ginger 1 tbs mixed spice 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
4. Chest pain or discomfort
7. Sudden dizziness and light-headedness.
antioxidants. Use it as your salad dressing, drizzle it over vegetables or bread, add it to a marinade or baste fish or chicken with it instead of butter.
than mending a broken heart. Why not try treating your heart to these goodies? 1. Extra-virgin olive oil contains heart-healthy 2. Avocados provide the healthy kind of fat that our body needs. It contains oleic acid that improves cardiovascular health and omega-3 which helps to lower the risk of heart disease.
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ICING & DECORATIONS: 500g icing sugar 100ml water Smarties, gummy bears and any candy you like 50g icing sugar for dusting
Images and info taken from womensHealth.gov/HeartAttack
Speak to your doctor if you’ve experienced one or more of the symptoms mentioned above. 3. Blend five different colours of fruits and vegetables to make a full glass of caretonoids juice. Caretonoids are heart-protective antioxidants that can be found in many colourful fruits and veggies, such as tomatoes, papaya, oranges, broccoli, spinach, carrots, etc.
4. Berries are high in heartprotective antioxidants too. Add a handful of blueberries, cranberries, strawberries or even raspberries to your morning cereal.
BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS BY: ELIZABETH LEE
Keeping a healthy heart is better
6. Unusual or unexplained fatigue
5. Feeling nauseas
Method: • Preheat oven to 180°C. Place baking paper on 2 baking trays • Beat the butter and sugar in a bowl. Add the golden syrup and egg yolk and beat until combined. • Stir in the flour, ginger, mixed spice, fresh diced ginger and bi-carbonate of soda. • Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Press dough into a disc. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to rest. • Place the dough between 2 sheets of baking paper and roll out until about 4mm thick. Use a gingerbread house cutter to cut out shapes. • Place on trays about 3cm apart. Make gingerbread cookies with any excess dough. If you do not have a cutter, cut out four rectangles and two house shapes. • Bake in oven for 15 minutes or until brown. Remove from oven. Transfer to a rack to cool. • While house is cooling mix the icing sugar with hot water until it turns into a thick paste. • Once gingerbread is cooled, assemble the house with icing sugar and place in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set. • Decorate the house with candy, chocolates and all things yummy. • Dust house with icing sugar and make a Christmas wish.
Look out for more great recipes in Helen & Abby’s Cookbook
In stores and online: November 2013
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL RM99 (n.p. RM109)
Receive a signed copy of the cookbook and a surprise gift from Helen when you PRE-ORDER now in store and online at www.msreadshop.com
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ENTERTAINMENT The READing Room
Daily Rituals – How Artists Work by Mason Currey Look into the lives of some of history’s most inspiring minds and fascinating range of daily rituals.
Our
Yasmin How You Know? A compilation of Malaysian film director, Yasmin Ahmad’s apparent ridiculousness but which are actually gems of her wisdom and wit. The anecdotes here range from when she was a student right up to the day of her passing.
Big Questions from Little People: and Simple Answers from Great Minds by Gemma Elwin Harris A delightful compilation of weighty questions from precocious grade school children and answers from a notable crew of professionals.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green A soulful novel that tackles big subjects--life, death, love- with the perfect blend of levity and heart-swelling emotion.
Mark Twain’s Advice for Little Girls Mark Twain’s witty advice to little girls was originally given out by the in 1865 and retold through illustrations. Packed with humorous advice and charming pictorials, this how-to guide is as fun for adults as it is for budding young women.
— Sexy ideas for a better Malaysia
TOP discoveries of 2013 Great books and movies to feed your mind
READy-to-watch
Mademoiselle C A documentary focused on former Vogue Paris editor-in-chief and fashion stylist Carine Roitfeld as she moves to New York to launch her own magazine.
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Lee Daniels’ The Butler Based on the true story of Cecil Gaines who served eight presidents during his tenure as a butler at the White House, the civil rights movement, Vietnam, and other major events affect this man’s life, family, and American society.
A.C.O.D. A comedy about The Great Gatsby grown man caught An adaptation of F. Scott in the crossfire of Fitzgerald’s Long Island-set his parents 15-year novel, where Midwesterner divorce, who discovNick Carraway is lured into the ers he was unknowlavish world of his neighbour, ingly part of a study Jay Gatsby. Soon enough, on divorced children Carraway sees through the and is enlisted in a cracks of Gatsby’s nouveau follow-up years later, riche existence, where obsession, which wreaks new madness, and tragedy await. havoc on his family.
Black Fish The story of Tilikum, a notoriously aggressive orca that killed three people while in captivity. Shocking footage and emotional interviews are used to present a convincing case against keeping these wild animals for human entertainment
Look out fo Dude r & the D u c hess in the Nove mber issue of The B -Side
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FIVE MINS WITH...
A FASHIONISTA AT HEART, PEOPLE PERSON AND ALL ROUND BUBBLY ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN WITH CURVES, WE TALK TO OUR NEWEST MEMBER IN THE MS. READ GROUP. What do you do for a living? I freelance most of the time. Because I love people, customer service is what I do best. A happy customer is a repeat shopper. Getting that “wow” from them is job satisfaction indeed. Describe yourself. I’d like to think I’m quite a fashionista. I’m always pouring over magazines and surfing the net to find out the latest trends. Forums are kinda cool, cos I can get loads of info about styles, bags, make up and what celebrities are wearing…or doing… yes…I’ll admit I’m also a celeb gossip geek. Like I KNEW Kate and Wills were going to call their son George. I sent them a congrats card, I wonder if they’ve received it yet… What’s your take on fad dieting? I love my curves but I’m also a ‘diet-holic’. If there’s a new diet fad to get healthy and fit out there, I’m all up for trying it out, but that usually lasts until my next sugar craving for a milkshake or ice cream kicks in! After all, at the end of the day, there’s always a body shaper to help keep my bits and bobs in. But you know what? Big is beautiful. And as they say, if you’ve got it, flaunt it! I think all women and all body shapes are beautiful. How about exercising? I do try to exercise when I can, or at least I’m game for trying. I did Zumba for the first time the other day, but all that shaking about got my bits wobbling in opposite directions. I’m not sure if that’s what’s supposed to happen, but I felt like a giant Jell-O. Maybe yoga is more my thing. I like the ‘lying flat down on the mat’ part. Favourite food? It sounds corny if I say food is my passion, but then again I can be a pretty corny person. I also like eating corn. And popcorn. But really, I do enjoy good food. I believe
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in living to eat, not just eating to live. After all, where’s the fun in that? I can’t pinpoint my favourite food, as there are just too many dishes and types of cuisine to choose from. I do like my meat though. And seafood. Oh, I have to have my coffee. I’m like a well-groomed bear if I haven’t had my latte fix in the morning.
Ideal way to unwind? On weekends I like calling a couple of friends over and cooking for them. Good food, good conversation and a good ‘whine’ are therapeutic for the soul. I’m a people person. I like making new friends and hearing their thoughts on life and such. Plus it’s always good fun to have friends from different backgrounds as I get to learn so much from them. Reading or watching TV? Reading to me, is an easy getaway haven. I have my mum to thank for that. I love books. Non fiction, fiction, sci-fi, I’ll read just about anything I can get my hands on. Except that Fifty Shades stuff. I just couldn’t really get into that. What’s your plan for year-end? Have passport, will travel. That’s my motto. (I have a lot of mottos) Just call me Bettie, the undomesticated nomad. I try to travel at least 4 times a year to new cities or countries. I’m adventurous but I’m not really the backpacker type. As long as there’s a comfy bed and a hot shower available, I’m there!
Want to share something with Bettie?Email her at spreadtheword@msread.com.my
XOXO
Betti e
Bettie is wearing R by MS. READ (L 3693-T Gold Trimmed Neckline Top)
holiday 2013
KUALA LUMPUR | PARIS
dudeandtheduchess.com