In this candid conversation, Philippe opens up about his early dreams of car design, his transition into footwear, and the struggles and triumphs of building an experimental brand in Hong Kong. We talk about durability, sustainability, and how 3D Printing could one day make it possible to produce customised shoes anywhere in the world. What follows is an honest look into the mind of a designer who refuses to compromise, and whose creations are as provocative as they are wearable.

From product designer to footwear designer. How did this happen?

In my case, I became a footwear designer by first wanting to be a car designer.
I used to draw a lot when I was a kid. And I was obsessed with mostly science fiction, science fiction type toys. Sci-fi employs more design thinking than most other areas, because you have to imagine the entire world you’re representing, right? There’s a wide range of creative tasks employed, and if you’re a creator, there’s lots of areas you can work on.

For me, it was cars. I learned to appreciate cars from my father, or at least I understood why he appreciated them. The more you look at cars the more you start seeing them as a very interesting puzzle, because they have to be aerodynamic, and their outside shape translates a personality. It’s like a sculpture but it’s also a tool that moves you, your friends and your family around.

And mostly, I wanted to be a car designer due to the appeal of the outside bodywork aesthetics. It was really about the sculpture of it. But not as art in a garden, but art that moves and everybody can have.

I pursued a career in automotive design with that aim, but after some long years in different schools in the Netherlands and and Barcelona, I realised the only way to find a job in a car factory, was to abandon my entire social life and become hyper focused. Fighter-jet-pilot-like commitment.

After I moved back, I spent 6 years back in Amsterdam working as a Product Designer, but also doing motion graphics projects and 3D Animation while freelancing. At some point I really was looking for a change and I found a job offer for a 3D CAD designer for United Nude, a Dutch footwear brand but with their design studio in Guangzhou, founded and owned by Rem D. Koolhaas (nephew of famous architect Rem Koolhaas). That was the start of it.

Learning how to make a shoe is in some ways a lot like learning to design a car’s bodywork. Because again, you’re working with something very much like a sculpture.

How was it like to work in a new industry and next to a big name in the design world such as Rem D. Koolhaas?

It actually opened a lot of opportunities to both Rem and myself, because this company did things differently from traditional footwear brands. Rem had a very futuristic vision for his products, and I was his first 3D CAD designer, a software that easily allowed us to materialise ideas. We worked on shoes for famous Dutch designer Iris Van Herpen. We did a pair of boots for Lady Gaga when she was promoting her new perfume line. This is 2010 to 2013, back then the shoe industry and manufacturing was still very traditional so we made some strides. Traditional footwear designers worked mostly in 2D, from hand sketches to 2D design softwares such as Illustrator. Then they manually work out all the different views that get sent to the factory for production. In the factory, the designs would go through the “Sample Room” where they interpret the designers sketches.

There was very little 3D happening actually. Occasionally, there will be some weirdo with a hunk of clay molded to create actual 3D shapes. At that time, tech was quite rudimentary. There were barely any 3D printers or 3D scanners. That’s one of the things that helped United Nude to stand out. Because we were early with the technology and then factories started also upgrading and being able to prototype our designs easily. But back then, it was very hard for an individual to do this in their own studio. I think it was at United Nude that I’ve found an all encompassing life passion. Although I don’t think I realised it then.

Did you find any similarities between footwear and automotive design?

Learning how to make a shoe is in some ways a lot like learning to design a car’s bodywork. Because again, you’re working with something that is very much like a sculpture. Only that it also has to work with consumers and with the human body. It’s a much smaller scale than a car and it requires a much smaller team because there are a lot less parts to a shoe. No engine, no electronics. It’s a relatively simple product to design in a way and as a single designer you can be able to create a traditional shoe, as they have been doing for many centuries.

You also lived in Singapore. How did that come to be?

After 3 years working in the same environment, I felt I needed a change and that’s when I moved to Singapore. I was offered a job working for a brand whose owner also ran a factory that produced Dyson vacuum cleaner parts. This brand was focused on designer kitchenware. It was a bit of a reckoning and it made me understand how deeply passionate I had become about designing shoes. Because while I was the Creative Director of that brand, I was also responsible for managing photoshoots, liaising with publications, handling PR and Marketing, and getting to learn a lot of new skills. I never felt satiated in the same way I did designing shoes. But it did help me to work up my savings so I could invest in the next stage of my life.

And then Hong Kong. What motivated you to move there?

I had a friend with a 3D printing background, he had just sold his startup specialising in personalised phone accessories. He was in Hong Kong, and I was there at the time too, so we partnered up and put our skills to work. We didn’t have a clear plan, but we knew we wanted to do 3D Printing and footwear. So we went and did that. 

This was the first time you found yourself alone with the tools to produce your own shoes. How did that feel?

It was not perfect. Me and my partner actually ended up parting ways after an interesting year in which we both learned a lot. There was the expectation that we would quickly be able to produce shoes ready to market, but this is very hard to accomplish at scale within quality standards and with a very small budget. Meanwhile, I started doing freelance design jobs in Hong Kong as well, and I used to work a lot at a local co-working studio with an actual workshop. They had a 3D printer and I actually started to use the machine a lot on my own, something that hadn’t happened so often yet at that point.

I also felt challenged because at that time, there was a company in the US making 3D printed shoes. And in my opinion, they had really mediocre designs. I thought I could do better.

Let’s talk more about your brand FUSED. Can you describe it in three words?

I’d call it an eccentric, futuristic experiment.
I don’t really follow any trends. I can see what the market does, but I don’t want to make shoes that just appeal to trends. I want to make weird shoes that make use of my skills in 3D. Um, and they need to appeal to me. First of all, my designs need to have a certain level of eccentricity.

Futurism goes back to my childhood when I was reading American comics and watching Japanese anime. Also, all the famous 80’s and 90’s sci-fi blockbusters:  Alien, Terminator, all that stuff. I think there’s a whole generation of adults, then children and teenagers, that appreciate this.

The experiment comes from a point of view that it’s not a project that has come to full fruition yet, I don’t know if I’m gonna make it. There are 5 brands I know that produce 3D printed footwear. Nowadays, I’m the only one who is still a one-man show. Only one of these brands has reached a global scale and appears to be leading the segment. But the fact that it is an experiment also gives me freedom. I might seem like a starving artist, but I’m able to execute my designs with no constraints to my vision other than my imagination. And in a way, it makes this enterprise immediately sustainable because being experimental keeps production at a small scale generating zero waste.

Being experimental keeps production at a small scale generating zero waste, which in itself makes this enterprise immediately sustainable.

Nowadays the demand for sustainability increasingly challenges fashion. Are FUSED sustainable shoes?

FUSED’s sustainability lies in its small-scale, made-to-order 3D-printed footwear model, which avoids overproduction and waste. Unlike mass-market fashion that overproduces and burns unsold items, each pair is sold directly to customers. The 3D printers use minimal energy compared to traditional textile and footwear production. While the current material (TPE plastic) isn’t perfect, it is used thoughtfully as a mono-material, making recycling possible. Shoes can be returned for reuse, and customer feedback shapes improvements. Future scalability allows local production through distributed 3D printing hubs, reducing shipping impact while keeping production efficient and environmentally conscious. In the future, I can also offset transportation and packaging costs by partnering with local 3D printers around the world that can print and finish and post process designs and send them locally to consumers. Because they are single material products there’s no assembly process, which bypasses the need to use any sort of sweat shops which global brands use. So it’s a very simple, customisable, efficient and hopefully also elegant product that is also economically and environmentally sustainable.

How far can you go in customizing a shoe for a client? Is it possible to customize shoes to fit each consumer’s feet? 

You can scan someone’s feet and produce a shoe that fits them perfectly. It isn’t something we are currently able to do, but it’s a project I’ve been looking into, and I’m currently working on a solution with a startup. But there’s many things that go into making a shoe comfortable, and perfect fitting isn’t necessarily the most important aspect. Also each consumer will have their own preferences in terms of padding, or shoelaces. Our whole life influences how our feet are shaped and what is required to feel comfortable.

What about durability, how long can FUSED shoes last?

Let’s put it like this, you can compare them with an entry level pair of Converse All-Stars. If it’s your only pair of shoes and you wear them every day, they will last at least 6 months. If you rotate them with four other pairs of shoes or only wear them occasionally they’ll last as long as any other shoes.

I can tell you that, as the last 500 shoes I sold were shipped with a care card inside, that invites people to leave a review and I barely had any negative comments. In fact many of my customers returned and bought more shoes after their first.

Each FUSED model goes through hundreds of iterations, and I use them myself for periods, go back home, make changes, and repeat the process. There’s a long development process, and because it’s so easy to make changes, it’s never really over.

How has your process evolved over the years, now that you’ve been involved in shoe design for almost 15 years?

So, from that appeal for futuristic worlds from my childhood and teenage years, I felt that the future representations of those comics, anime and movies weren’t always rosy, in fact there was almost always some dystopia going on. But there was a representation of human ingenuity. Every movie has a design department where they think and ideate these concepts, these machines and create products that don’t exist in real life. Even movies like Mad Max, they repurposed a lot of stuff in their production design, but they created a style, right? For me most of my references were always visual, other creatives can have appeal for other stuff, such as music for example.

So this still influences how I approach a new design and it’s mostly about the creation or archetypes. There’s this model FUSED Kodo that contains a XXXL shoe lace, and the whole design works around that central concept. Another example is the Kaiju collection. It started with triangles, which in essence go back to the geodesic sphere shape, which gives it a very futuristic look. But then in a comment someone said the shapes reminded them of big teeth, so then it became Godzilla, hence the Kaiju collection, following the big japanese monsters. It also became clear how to create subgenres within the collection by removing the harness or the teeth.

What next? Where are you taking your designs?

I’ve been thinking about futuristic cowboy boots. Cowboy boots have such an iconic shape, so I’m finding ways to make an interesting iteration of that icon. I would also love to focus on women’s shoes, which is something I feel I’m not so good at, because in the end I always designed shoes primarily for myself. But women tend to have a greater interest in footwear and in some ways I also find it more interesting to design shoes for them, but also more difficult.

I’ve been reached by Backstreet Boys management for their 30 year millennial comeback tour. Their costumes designer got two pairs from us. There’s other artists and performers that also buy from us, but they actually never contact me, they buy them directly from my online shop and I go and figure out who they are later. Sometimes I see my shoes appear on a music video months later. So it would be great to develop that into something that can bring my shoes to a greater audience.

Can you share a piece of advice to young designers and creatives?

If you want to grow as a designer, focus on creating work that makes people happy, or moves them emotionally. Build a strong portfolio, craft products that surprise, and aim for projects that give people goosebumps. To do this, start by discovering what truly inspires you; let that guide your creative path and shape your unique style. Always remember: your personality as a designer comes from what moves you. Finally, decide whether you thrive best in a structured corporate setting or as an independent creative, both paths have value, but choosing the right one for you will define your growth and success.

FUSED isn’t about mass production or trends; it’s about exploring how customising a shoe can be done with imagination and sustainability. Producing fewer than a thousand pairs to date, Philippe’s work challenges the traditional footwear market by offering rare pieces that reflect both futurism and craftsmanship. For those wondering where to buy FUSED 3D printed shoes, you can find them here. Follow FUSED on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest news about the brand.

The post Philippe Holthuizen Talks 3D Printed Shoe Design, Fashion, and His Brand FUSED appeared first on City Nomads.

This guide is split into two parts, where firstly we dive into a description of your first bespoke experience, useful for those who are initiating themselves in the world of custom-made suits, followed by a curated list of the 10 top‑rated tailors. 

From Fabric to Fit: Your First HCMC Bespoke Suit Experience

The Journey Begins: Consultation & Vision

Your first step into the world of bespoke tailoring starts with a consultation, a chance to articulate your style, whether you’re drawn to the crisp structure of a British cut, the lean elegance of Italian slim fits, or the comfortable drape of American tailoring. Tailors in Ho Chi Minh City are generally familiar with all three, and can guide you based on body type, climate, and occasion.

Fabric selection is where the experience becomes tactile. You’ll encounter a range of materials from lightweight linens ideal for Southeast Asian’s tropical heat, to luxurious Italian wools from mills like Zegna and Loro Piana. Most tailors offer swatch books in-house, but the more budget-savvy often make a detour to An Đông Market in District 5, a bustling textile haven where you can bargain for premium cloth at a fraction of boutique prices.

Making the Cut: Measurements & First Fitting

Once you’ve chosen your fabric and design details (think lapel width, button stance, lining, vents), the tailor will take a comprehensive set of measurements. This is more than just shoulder width and inseam: it involves posture alignment, arm rotation, seat curve, and more. Based on these numbers, a custom pattern or “block” is drafted for your body alone.

At your first fitting, you’ll try on a loosely constructed suit, so the tailor can assess how well the silhouette matches your frame. Don’t be alarmed by the pins; this is where artistry and adjustment come into play.

The Refinement Stage

The second fitting is where everything tightens up, literally and figuratively. This is when the tailor refines finer details like sleeve pitch, trouser break, and collar balance. A third fitting may follow, especially if you’re requesting a more complex build or if the initial adjustments require further fine-tuning. At high-end tailors, this stage is seen not just as quality control, but a hallmark of mastery.

Final Collection & The Details That Matter

When your suit is ready for pick-up, take time to inspect the final product. Are the seams even? Are the buttons securely stitched and properly aligned? Is the lining taut and clean? A quality suit is defined by such detailing: working buttonholes, bar-tacks, hand-finished edges. If anything feels off, reputable tailors are happy to make final tweaks without extra charge.

Aftercare: Measurements & Modifications

One of the underrated perks of good tailors in HCMC is that they archive your measurements for future orders. That means you can reorder or request slight alterations months later, even from abroad. Some even offer digital consultations if you’re planning to re-up your wardrobe from Singapore or elsewhere.

What You Can Expect: Budget & Timing

Tailoring in Ho Chi Minh City offers exceptional value. A two-piece suit made with mid-range wool typically costs between USD 200 and 400. For higher-end pieces crafted from premium Italian or English fabrics, expect to spend upwards of USD 600. The sweet spot for many is around USD 250–300 for solid craftsmanship and quality cloth.

Turnaround time is generally 3 to 5 days for standard orders, though many tailors offer expedited 48-hour service for an additional fee. It’s best to plan fittings early in your trip so there’s time for necessary adjustments before departure.

As for fabrics, it’s tempting to save on tailoring and spend more on textiles, and in many cases that’s a smart strategy. High-end cloth transforms even a modest cut into something striking, while a poorly chosen fabric will dull even the most precise tailoring.

Choosing the Right Tailor

Not all tailors are created equal so it’s advisable to look for those with a track record. We suggest Google and TripAdvisor reviews with ratings above 4.5, ideally accompanied by recent photos and mentions of good communication. English fluency, while not universal, is common in the better-known shops and makes a big difference during consultations.

Transparency is also key. The best tailors will walk you through pricing, fitting stages, fabric options, and timelines upfront. Many also offer free alterations post-purchase and clear policies on emergencies or last-minute changes.

Lastly, consider whether you prefer the warmth of a family-run atelier, where relationships and craftsmanship go hand in hand; or the polish of boutique chains, which may offer consistency but sometimes lack the personal touch that makes bespoke tailoring truly special.

Below we created a list of the top 10 tailors in Ho Chi Minh City that fit these parameters. 

The 10 Best Tailors in Ho Chi Minh City

Phan’s Custom Tailor

Phan’s Custom Tailor is a perennial favourite, its TripAdvisor rating hovers around an impressive 4.9 from over 950 reviews, frequently praised for professionalism, speed, and exemplary fit. A two-piece suit here typically costs between USD 200-300, and many travellers have reported receiving fully tailored garments within 36 hours, without sacrificing quality. Their most appreciated service? Retaining clients’ measurements, ideal for follow-up orders or gifting suit packages. Strategically located in Central District 1, it’s ideal for those exploring the city’s central precincts.

📍 Saigon Pearl area, Bình Thạnh / District 1 (multiple outlets)
📞 +84 826 977 888
🔗  phanscustomtailor.com

H&D Tailor (New World Saigon Hotel)

Housed within the prestigious New World Saigon Hotel, H&D Tailor boasts a legacy of high-end craftsmanship under Mr. Ta Quoc Hung, a third-generation tailor with over 40 years’ experience. Known for using illustrious fabrics from Loro Piana, Ermenegildo Zegna, Scabal, and more, their suits typically fall in the USD 200-300 range, though prices climb with luxury textiles. Customers consistently speak of professional service tailored for entrepreneurs and executives. Appointments are encouraged given its hotel-based location.

 📍  Khách sạn New World Saigon, 5 Đường Phạm Hồng Thái, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
📞 +84 866 777 085
🔗   hdtailor.vn

Nhut Tailor

Crystallising elegance since 1965, Nhut Tailor operates outlets in District 1 and one in Sofitel Hotel, offering European-inspired slim fits praised on platforms like TheSmartLocal and TripAdvisor. A two-piece suit costs around USD 230, with fabric choices spanning global mills. They’re a versatile atelier, adept at suits, casual wear, and shirts. Turnarounds typically within three days.

📍Store 1: 106 Ly Tu Trong St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, HCM
📍Store 2: 232 Le Thanh Ton St, Ben Thanh, District 1, HCMC
📍Store 3: 523 An Duong Vuong St, Ward 8, District 5, HCMC
📍Store 4: Sofitel Hotel – 17 Le Duan St, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
📞 +84 857 882 595
🔗  eng.nhuttailor.vn

Antonio de Torres Bespoke

Antonio de Torres is a sleek, European-inspired boutique tailor known for luxuriously finished suits made with imported wool. Located at 22 Trần Quốc Thảo in District 3, its studio offers a refined salon experience focused on metrosexual aesthetic detail. Prices fall into the premium tier, reflecting high-grade fabrics and European-level craftsmanship.

 📍 42 Trần Quốc Thảo, Phường Võ Thị Sáu, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
📞 +84 283 930 6212
🔗  facebook.com/antoniodetorresofficial
🔗  adthitek.com

Pham Minh Tailor

A distinguished newcomer on the scene, Pham Minh Tailor has quickly earned top ratings for its keen wedding and formal tailoring. It keeps a mid-to-high-end pricing model and is commended for meticulous craftsmanship and hospitable service. Client stories frequently mention excellent suits and shirts, emphasising fit and finish.

 📍 132 Pasteur St, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
📞 +84 929 257 579
🔗  facebook.com/Pham-Minh-Tailor-109378567337455/

Tuyen Tailor

Tuyen Tailor is celebrated among expats for delivering excellent value, offering tastily constructed 100% wool three-piece suits for about USD 330. With around 280 reviews on TripAdvisor, they’re praised for professionalism, timely delivery, and full-spectrum fabric options. Additional perks: multi-channel communication via SMS and email, plus post-wear adjustment services.

 📍 129/4 Nguyễn Tri Phương, Phường 8, Quận 5, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
📞 +84 908 199 409
🔗  instagram.com/tuyentailor

Tie Men

Tie Men is a stylish boutique tailor known for polished Italian-inspired designs, particularly suited to weddings and power occasions. They craft everything from tuxedos to cufflinks, while emphasising precise fitting, wrinkle-resilient fabrics, and trend-forward silhouettes. Multi-city outlets (HCMC, Hanoi, Da Nang), and a reputation for elegance and craftsmanship.

📍 18/6A 41st Street An Khanh Ward Thu Duc City Ho Chi Minh City
📞 +84 703 977 977
🔗  tiemen.vn

Cao Minh Tailor

Established in 1948, Cao Minh is one of Vietnam’s oldest tailors and among the first to export suits to Japan. With two Ho Chi Minh City locations, they’re renowned for classic tailoring, fine linings, accessories, and tailoring consistent with traditional craftsmanship. Prices start around USD 160 for suits, climbing in mid-range tiers.

📍  74/6 Hai Bà Trưng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
📞  +84 819 481 948
🔗  instagram.com/caominh1948

Kim Bespoke

Kim Bespoke redefines tailoring as an experiential journey, complete with craft G&Ts during fittings. The boutique offers a playful, modern atmosphere and attention to sartorial detail. Suits typically run USD 250+, ideal for style-conscious clients who want more than fabric.

 📍 98CD Lê Lai, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
📞 +84 28 2215 5555
🔗  facebook.com/kimbespoke98

August Tailor

August Tailor strikes a balance between contemporary aesthetics and price transparency, offering online pre-quotation and catalogue access. Their mid-range suits (USD 200–300) are completed in 3–5 days, appealing for travelers seeking classic, ready styles without heavy customisation.

 📍 135/37 Tran Hung Dao Street, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
📞 +84 935 990 405
🔗  augusttailor.com

Insider Tips

• Book in advance, especially weekends. These shops fill quickly.
• Bring reference photos of fit, lapels, vents etc. to speed up styling.
• Fabric matters: choose suit fabric outdoors and avoid shiny blends.
• Make the most of An Đông Market (District 5) for great yarn prices before consulting tailors
• Shipping back: Many offer international shipping, ask for secure garment courier service.
  

And while you’re being suited and styled, why not see the city through a new lens? Explore our first-timer’s guide to experiencing Ho Chi Minh City through fresh eyes.

The post Feeling Dapper? How to get a Custom Made Suit in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam appeared first on City Nomads.

Pan-In-The-Box

The very first Cosplay store in Singapore, Pan-In-The-Box has been dressing cosplayers since 2003. Over the years, they have grown their repertoire to include costumes for themed parties and D&Ds. So, don’t judge a shop by its size; when you step in, you’ll be blown away by its huge collection. Don’t know where to start? Let the friendly and patient owners help you coordinate your outfit.

 Pan-In-The-Box is located at 1015 Geylang East Ave 3, #01- 129, Singapore 389730, p.+65 6221 3293.

CCM Costumes

Even if you don’t look like you, you’d still want to look your best. And CCM Costumes is here to help. Not only do they carry plus-size costumes, but they even have an in-house seamstress who’ll make sure your costume fits! Choose from their wide selection of props and accessories and opt for their two-way delivery service if you have a group.

CCM Costumes is located at 9 Kallang Place, #02-09 Singapore 339154, p. +65 9299 9064.

Absolute Costumez

Shop from over 2,000 costumes with 200 exclusive designs you won’t find anywhere else in Singapore! Express yourself at Absolute Costumez because you get to be anything from a superhero, to a character from a movie or book, or even a food or plant, if you wish! You can even go all out and ride on a T-Rex with inflatable costumes. Visit their store or shop online with options for express delivery.

Absolute Costumez is located at 62 Ubi Rd 1, #01-17, Singapore 408734, p.+65 6041 0635

Ministry of Costumes

For families or groups who want to make an impact at Halloween parties, the Ministry of Costumes has a curated selection of costumes where everyone gets to dress up as a different character to the same theme. Transform into the White Queen, Red Queen, or the Royal Cards in Alice in Wonderland or gather as The Addams Family with costumes for Gomez Addams, Morticia Addams, Uncle Fester and more. And if you want to keep the costumes for yourself, know that the costumes are available for purchase too.

Ministry of Costumes is located at 217 Henderson Rd, #04-04, Singapore 159555, p.+65  6270 1733.

Dimac Costume

With a background in arts and theatre, Dimac Costume leverages its expertise to create costumes and props for Halloween and themed events. They carry bold and captivating headdresses, masks, and costumes so you can still glam it out for your spooky soiree. Otherwise, reach for their cosplay-worthy outfits, uniforms, and period dresses for unique twists to your Halloween dress-up.

Dimac Costume is located at 50 East Coast Rd, #01-17 Roxy Square, Singapore 428769, p.+65  9452 3250. 

Costumes ‘N’ Parties

With a full range of costumes, accessories, wigs, and more, you can easily transform your look with Costumes N Parties. Its expansive selection of costumes is neatly categorised into different themes for convenient shopping. They even offer same-day delivery and corporate rates for group rentals. Since they manufacture their costumes and accessories, get in touch with them if you can’t find what you want. 

Shop Costumes N Parties here.

Miiostore Costumes/ DNA Costumes

Ever had costumes that smell like the gym? With Miiostore Costumes, you won’t have that problem because every piece of costume is laundered, pressed, and sterilized after each use. Now you can smell like you, and look like Harry Potter, Mario, or even Pikotaro (Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen)! Book at least three days in advance; may entertain last-minute requests via email.

(The company is the midst of rebranding to DNA Costumes)

Shop Miiostore Costumes/ DNA Costumes here.

Awesome Costumes

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Awesome Costumes (@awesomecostumes)

More than your run-of-the-mill costumes, Awesome Costumes offers bold and imaginative costume designs fit for the stage. After all, the founder designs and produces costumes for TV and stage performances. The NAFA Fashion Studies graduate adds her unique flair to the costumes, and together with masks, hats, and accessories, she’ll transform you into whatever you want to be.

Shop Awesome Costumes here.

Spotlight

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SPOTLIGHT (@spotlightstores)

Family-owned and operated Australian marketplace, Spotlight has been the home of arts and crafts for decades now. You’ll find everything here to make your own costume, if you’re in the mood to get handy. Alternatively you can also find pre-made costumes (for both kids and adults), ranging from generic characters like witches and vampires to specific film and tv show characters like Wednesday and Bettelejuice. Beyond costumes, you can also find festive decor here to set the spooky mood.

Shop Spotlight in-store or online.

Next-Day Delivery Costumes on Shopee

Last-minute party? We got your back! These local shops on Shopee offer Next Day Delivery so you won’t have to miss out on Halloween dress-up fun! Unleash your main character energy as your favourite Disney-inspired princess here. If being the ice queen is too cold for you, go with the tropical vibes of Moana or be magic carpet-ready as Princess Jasmine. Looking for family outfits? Reach for quick and easy pumpkin outfits that even come with headgear and a bag here. Look here for the accessories to spruce up your look or shop here for ghostly white capes with black cutout eyes, if you don’t want to cut holes in your bed sheet.

Daiso

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DAISO SINGAPORE (@daiso_singapore)

Although not everything at Daiso is S$2 (or S$2.18 to account for GST), they still give us a bang for our buck especially when it comes to fuss-free dress-up for Halloween. You’ll find everything from devilish headbands and cloaks to ghoulish masks and props like pitchforks and pumpkin buckets for trick or treating. They even have costumes for your furry friends! While you are there, be sure to grab some of their face paints and nail stickers to complete your look. 

Shop Daiso in-store or online.

All images courtesy of respective establishments. Top image: Deposit Photos.

The post Last-Minute Witch Hunt: Where To Shop For Halloween Costumes In Singapore appeared first on City Nomads.

SHAPE AND TINT

A boutique studio that prides itself on precision and style, SHAPE AND TINT is where modern design meets perfect execution. Located in Renon and Seminyak, this chic spot offers clean, minimalist interiors as well as nail art that’s very much on trend. Whether you’re after the classic French tip, or are delving deep into the depths of your Pinterest inspiration of playful colours and designs, be assured that you’ll walk away with flawless nails with a professional finish. They also do lashes for an all-in-one session!

SHAPE AND TINT has outlets in Renon and Seminyak. Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Closed on Sun. View the pricelist here.

Rosie’s Nail Bar

Rosie’s Nail Bar in Canggu is a fun, laid-back spot for those looking to experiment with colour and designs. Known for its funky vibe and creative spirit, Rosie’s is a favourite among travellers and locals alike. Whether you want something playful like whimsical art or something a bit more classic with a twist, their nail artists are up to the task. Their BIAB manicures also ensure that your nails stay strong while you rock those vibrant, eye-catching designs. At a lost for inspiration? Simply ask the nail artist, and they can whip up something custom made for your taste. The nail studio also use home-made natural scrubs, moisturisers and oils during the service, for a luxe feel.

Rosie’s Nail Bar is located at Inside & above Luna & Rose Store, 69x Jl. Batu Mejan, Echo Beach, Bali. Open Tue-Sun 10am–7pm. Closed on Mon. View the pricelist here.

Nü Beauty Cartel

Located in the heart of Bali, Nü Beauty Cartel is an ultra-chic salon with a minimalist, edgy aesthetic. Known for their modern designs and flawless execution, this salon is perfect for those who prefer a polished, understated look, as well as those who like to like to delve in nail art. Their BIAB manicures are particularly popular for clients who want to strengthen their natural nails while keeping things stylish, whilst Russian manicures and press ons continue to live up to the hype. Beyond nails, the salon offers hair services, like hair spa and treatments as well as colouring services.

Nü Beauty Cartel has outlets in Kerobokan & Living World Denpasar in Bali. View pricelist here.

House of Orange

This trendy hotspot has a reputation for bold, artistic nail designs. House of Orange is where you’ll find art, community and nails converging into an unforgettable experience. If you’re in the mood for a statement mani, this is your salon. Their BIAB treatments are perfect for maintaining nail health, but it’s the creative flair of their nail artists that really sets them apart—think tropical 3D nails, geometric patterns, and modern designs. All gel polishes are vegan, cruelty and 10-free. Don’t forget to try the matcha and coffee to champion you on through your appointment.

House of Orange is located at Jl. Pantai Berawa No.5, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia. Open daily 10am-6pm. View the pricelist here.

Lalunaa Nails

Hidden away in Ubud, Lalunaa Nail is all about soft tones, intricate floral patterns, and delicate detailing. Their BIAB manicures are designed to nurture and protect your natural nails, making them stronger and healthier over time. Lalunaa’s nail artists are masters of delicate, hand-painted designs that suit a more feminine, romantic aesthetic—think dainty flowers, soft ombré, and whimsical accents. If you’ve got the time, you can also get lash extensions done here for a full on pamper session.

Lalunaa Nails is located at Jl. Raya Mas, MAS, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia. Open daily 10am-5pm. View the pricelist here.

Nailed

Nailed is a small boutique salon in Canggu, offering a personalised approach to nail care. This studio specialises in custom nail art, which means you can bring your wildest nail dreams to life here. Their BIAB services are designed to give your nails a sturdy foundation while keeping them looking sharp. The nail artists at Nailed take their time to ensure each design is unique to the client, so you’ll walk out with a manicure that’s truly your own. To keep you fuelled and entertained through the nail care session, they offer a variety of drinks and also have films projected on the wall. If you do come into a problem with your nails after your appointment, you’d be glad to know that they offer a 7-day warranty for the service from the date of completion. To add on to the good vibes, they also have free parking.

Nailed is located at Tegalgundul square, Jl. Pantai Berawa, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia. Open daily 10am-7pm. View the pricelist here. 

Sacred Heart Club & By Nadhja Cosmetic Tattoo

Sacred Heart Club, paired with By Nadhja Cosmetic Tattoo, offers more than just a mani-pedi—it’s a full-on beauty experience. This luxe spot caters to those who want a little extra pampering with their nail services. Their BIAB treatments focus on nail health and restoration, perfect for anyone who’s looking to grow their natural nails. Sacred Heart Club & By Nadhja Cosmetic Tattoo is also the go-to for those keen on cosmetic tattoo services like lip blush, eyebrow microblading, and eyeline enhancement tattoo, and creating of natural face freckles!

Sacred Heart Club & By Nadhja Cosmetic Tattoo is located at Jl. Umalas II No.24, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia. Open Tue-Sat 10am-6pm. View the pricelist here. 

All images courtesy of respective establishments. Top image: House of Orange

The post Nail Salons & Studios In Bali For BIAB Manicures, Trendy Nail Art & More appeared first on City Nomads.

Jejari Nails & Salon

Jejari Nails & Salon is a haven for those looking for a good pampering – with services extending beyond nails to hair treatments and colouring as well. Located just 6 minutes drive away from the Johor Bahru checkpoint, this salon offers a wide range of nail services, from intricate nail art to soothing spa treatments like the Creambath. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and professional technicians, it’s no wonder that Jejari has a loyal following. Their dedication to hygiene and high-quality products also makes it a go-to for anyone looking to indulge in some self-care. The cherry on top are their frequent promotions, bundle deals and Happy Hour with discounted rates on weekdays (2pm-6pm). Price range for nails is between RM45-138.

Jejari Nails & Salon is located at No 8, 4093, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir, Taman Abad, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 2pm-12am. 

Sooyoung Nail Studio

Relatively new in Austin, Johor Bahru, Sooyoung Nail Studio promises a fuss-free mani-pedi session (without any hard-selling!). The studio itself is clean, stylish and modern, making it a perfect spot for a pampering session with your besties. Whether you’re into minimalist chic or bold statement nails, Sooyoung’s talented nail artists will ensure your nails are on point for the ‘gram. You’ll also be spoilt for choice here with many colour options, specifically if you’re one to go for the Cat-Eye designs. Price range for nails is between RM48-128.

Sooyoung Nail Studio is located at 17-01, 7/3, Persiaran Austin Heights, Taman Mount Austin, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 10.30am-7.30pm.

Fairy Nail

Already a trending spot on TikTok & Lemon8, Fairy Nail is where the magic happens. With a focus on whimsical and detailed designs, this studio is a favourite for folks who love to experiment with their nails. From glittering embellishments to hand-painted art, the options are endless. The best part is that Fairy Nail’s skilled and meticulous team who can transform your nails into miniature works of art, perfect for any occasion, and as per your reference photos. They also offer eyelash extension and facial services in their sister outlets in Holiday Plaza. Price range for nails is between RM25-130.

Fairy Nail is located at Holiday Plaza, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 10.30am-8pm. 

Catz Nailstudio

Another social media hyped salon – For those who love dainty, girly or quirky nails, Catz Nailstudio has got you covered. This studio is known for its unique designs, as well as the professional and experienced staff. Not to mention the prices which are much more inexpensive than compared to other salons at KSL Mall. The month-long retention is a pretty good bonus too! Price range for nails is between RM30-185.

Catz Nailstudio is located at Holiday Plaza, LG64, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Century, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 11am-6pm. 

Nobelle Nail House

Nobelle Nail House is all about luxury and elegance. If you’re after a sophisticated look, this is the studio for you. Their range of services includes everything from classic manicures to pretty avant-garde nail art, all executed with the highest level of craftsmanship. The salon’s chic and calming environment makes it the perfect spot to unwind while getting your nails done. Nobelle is also known for its top-notch customer service, ensuring that every client leaves feeling pampered and satisfied.

Nobelle Nail House is located at Holiday Plaza, G12, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Century, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 11am-8.30pm.

Sasa Nails House

The aesthetic, Sasa Nails House is a beloved spot in Johor Bahru, especially for those who appreciate a mix of trendy and timeless styles. The team here is skilled in everything from gel manicures to elaborate nail extensions. What sets Sasa Nails apart is their professional service and the ability to customise your nail designs to match your preference and style. Not to mention their creativity when it comes to nail art and 3D designs. Plus, you can also up the pampering ante with eyelash extensions, and keratin treatments, for an all-in-one experience. Price range for nails is between RM40-188.

Sasa Nails House is located a 3, Jalan Austin Heights Utama, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 11 am–8 pm.

Yumi By Sasa Nails

A sister branch to Sasa Nails House, Yumi by Sasa Nails offers a similar range of services with a more intimate, boutique vibe. This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded nail experience. The technicians at Yumi are a mix of experienced and inexperienced artists who offer both a simple polish or an intricate design. Amongst the favourite technician is Jing Jing, who always gets high praises. Price range for nails is between RM78-108. Something to take note is their extra 护理 charge on services. They are also currently offering a weekday (Mon-Thu) promotion of gel manicure and pedicure at RM160. 

Yumi By Sasa Nails is located at 18 7/7, Persiaran Austin Heights, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open Mon-Sat 11 am–10 pm & Sun 11 am–7 pm. 

All images courtesy of the respective individual establishments. Top Image: Sasa Nails House

The post Nail Studios in Johor Bahru: Top Trendy Spots To Get Inexpensive & Cute Manicures appeared first on City Nomads.

Oasia Spa

Oasia Spa at Oasia Resort Sentosa by Far East Hospitality is the first spa in Singapore to feature Swissline by Dermalab and its Signature Face Sculpt Massage technique, designed by the 2023 World Face Massage Champion, Anna Tsankov. The rhythmic and deep flow facial massage reaches into the skin’s layers to shape facial contours, relieve tension, and reactivate collagen. Its slow and deep movement not only improves lymphatic circulation, it also enhances the absorption of Swissline by Dermalab’s products to give us radiance and flow. Try the Swiss Lifting Infusion (S$300++), a 90-minute massage treatment  using the Swissline Cell Shock line to smoothen lines, boost hydration, and to firm up the skin. Otherwise, opt for the 60-minute Swiss Smart treatment (S$200++) which uses Swissline’s signature Age Intelligence Boosters to rejuvenate and de-stress your skin. 

Oasia Spa Sentosa is located at 23 Beach View Rd, #01-03 Palawan Ridge, Singapore 098679, p.+65 6818 3338. Open daily 10am – 8.30pm.

Body Inc

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by JacelynTay (@jacelyn_tay)

Led by Jacelyn Tay, former actress turned health and life coach, Body Inc is all about natural and holistic healing from within. Reach for the Meridian Facelift Therapy that enhances skin elasticity and promotes anti-aging effects by improving the flow of ‘qi’ (气) along the face’s meridian pathways. Using special massaging techniques, together with a patented magnetic physiotherapy tool, the therapy will unblock and improve the flow of energy, while an all-natural meridian cream will nourish and rejuvenate your skin. Besides tightening loose skin and reducing double chin, it can even relieve headaches, migraines and sinus conditions so you look good and feel good. Trial from S$98 for first time customers.

Body Inc is located at 391B Orchard Road #27-00 Ngee Ann City Tower B, Singapore 238874, p.+65 8818 5656. Open Mon – Fri 9am -9pm, Sat 9am -6pm, Sun 9am -1.30pm.

Sommar Beauty Spa

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sommar Beauty Spa (@sommarbeauty)

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sommar Beauty Spa offers the Pro-Revive Face Bojin treatment that is designed to release tension and address signs of facial ageing. Bojin is a specialised treatment where a trained therapist uses a smooth buffalo horn tool to gently massage along your facial meridian channels and acupoints. By stimulating the channels and acupoints, the treatment helps to release stagnant energy and improve blood circulation and as a result it contours your face while offering relief from those pesky neck and shoulder aches. Trial from S$68 onwards.

Sommar Beauty Spa is located at 9 Scotts Road, #03-04/05 Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210 and 7 Fraser Street, #B3-17/18 DUO Galleria, Singapore 189350. 

Yakson House

With K-skin and K-beauty raising the bar for beauty standards, Yakson House helps you get there with their signature Golki™ therapy. This Korean facial massage reaches deep down into the tissues to lift and slim your face, and it will even reset your bone structure. Its effects are so profound, it’s likened to having a facial reconstruction without ever having to go under the knife! Alongside slimming and lifting, complete your 60-minute K-Celebrity Face Care treatment (S$388+), with Head Golki™ therapy, Décolleté Care, and a mask

Yakson House is located at Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Rd, #05-12A, Singapore 238880 and The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green, #B1-24, Singapore 138617. Open Mon – Fri 10am -10pm, Sat- Sun 10am -7pm. 

Atelier Kogao

Combining traditional Japanese massage techniques with cutting-edge technology, Atelier Kogao offers non-invasive facial contouring treatments to give you that natural V-shape facelift and symmetry you’ve been dreaming of. More than just face correction, the Kogao Signature treatment (S$158) will also cleanse your pores, moisturise and provide brightening care, while stimulating skin and muscles for improved circulation. But if you are looking for something with more lift, the Bihada Plus treatment (S$128) seeks to address sagging skin and fine lines while draining your lymphatic system and providing relief from muscle tension.

Atelier Kogao is located at  402 Orchard Rd, #04-20 Delfi Orchard, Singapore 238876 and 6 Eu Tong Sen St, #09-20 The Central, Singapore 059817.

BONUS! Free face massage at Almora Botanica

With a strong belief in offering the purest and cleanest products of the highest quality, the founders of Almora Botanica combine Ayurvedic traditions with modern skincare science to harness powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties from its adaptogenic ingredients to bring us products that help manage skin stress and restore balance. Try their signature facial oils which are rich and hydrating, yet not too oily, making them the perfect oil for a Face Yoga routine. Experience the 15 minutes Face Yoga massage for free at Isetan Scotts, then bring home the Almora Botanica Skin Glow Set (S$148) which comes with the Radiance Day Face Oil and a pair of gemstone mushroom gua sha to DIY at home.

Almora Botanica is available online and on the first floor of Isetan Scotts, 350 Orchard Rd, Shaw House, Singapore 238868.

All images courtesy of the respective spaces. 

The post Face Massages in Singapore to Lift, Sculpt, and Get That Glowing Skin appeared first on City Nomads.

Tharo Clothing

With over 22k followers on Shopee, Tharo Clothing is all about effortless sophistication. Known for their minimalist designs, you’ll mostly find neutral shades here –  lucky for us, black never goes out of style! Some pieces that you can probably invest in are the Square Neck Spaghetti Strap Top, perfect for everyday styling, the elegant Square Neck Plain Top, and the Minimalist Pencil Cotton Skirt. All products are made in Vietnam.

Shop Tharo Clothing on Shopee here. 

Feyré

The perfect dress, calls for the ideal undergarments – or at least a good sticky bra. Founded in 2021, Feyré brings high-quality silicone products to the everyday consumer, so that we can wear our favourite clothes confidently. Their collections feature sleek designs that offer seamless edges that doin ruin your fashion statement. Not to mention, the waterproof, sweatproof, and long-lasting properties. Tried and tested, we recommend the Push-Up Silicone Adhesive Bra, whilst the U Plunge Bra is perfect for those who like to wear deep cuts, and the Adhesive Nipple Pasties are the crowd-favourite, available in 7cm, 8cm, and 10cm diameters.

Shop Feyré on Shopee here. 

Rona Studio

An Indonesian brand, Rona Studios, brings a chic twist to everyday wear. Their collections feature classic signatures with subtle distort for “thoughtfully designed clothing that emphasise how each piece might be worn, layered, and utilised.” They are also on the path to sustainability, focusing on responsibly sourced fabrics, which are also high quality. You can almost always catch us in the Aiden Top, whilst the form-fitting maxi Damu Basic Dress is also on our buy list!

Shop Rona Studio on Shopee here.

yourpafonbh

yourpafonbh focuses on modern, edgy fashion. Their collections are bold and avant-garde, perfect for those who love to experiment with their style. From statement pieces to everyday wear, yourpafonbh offers something for the daring fashionista. The one-shoulder Celie Dress in Moss Green is bound to turn heads, whilst the Babba Dress in Beige is perfect for everyday office wear. If you’re fan of dumpling bags, the Loulu Bag is simple yet stylish, with lots of room to store your tidbits.

Shop yourpafonbh on Shopee here.

Wet Avocado

Bring some quirky fun (and pink!) to your wardrobe with Wet Avocado. Their collections feature whimsical prints and unconventional designs that are sure to get you compliments. The fairycore Lata Long Maxi Dress is made up of high-quality light and airy Korean silk chiffon material, perfect for Singapore’s relentless heat. Alternatively, the scandalous BUTF lace mesh top and ruffled skirt set is perfect for sultry beach days. For a night out, the Felina dress effortlessly accentuates the female figure with its bodycon nature and ruffles. If you enjoy adding a touch of whimsy to your wardrobe, Wet Avocado is your brand.

Shop Wet Avocado on Shopee here.

Dear José

Dear José does fashion with a creative flair. A little bit on the expensive side, the innovative designs speak for themselves, often feature unique textures, delicate fabrics, intricate details, and flattering silhouettes. Although we dream about each piece the brand puts out, some highlights include the unique Bambi Off-Shoulder Top with polka dots, the romantic vibrant red Ling Ling Off-Shoulder Top, and the different from the usual Stella Denim Cargo Jeans. If you’re looking to add some artistic pieces to your wardrobe, Dear José is the place to start.

Shop Dear José on Shopee here. 

Shopatvelvet

Shopatvelvet focuses on creating stylish yet comfortable clothing. Their designs are versatile and easy to mix and match, making them a great addition to any wardrobe. We quite enjoy the tube Bellatrix Top paired with a flare pant, or the everyday white tank with the Rhonda Maxi Skirt, and the Daydream Bag in a Bottega Veneta shade of green. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual, they’ve got something for you.

Shop Shopatvelvet on Shopee here.

All images courtesy of the individual vendors on Shopee.

The post Shopee Singapore Fashion Finds: Everyday Wear, Evening Dresses & Chic Designs appeared first on City Nomads.

Rosé All Day Cosmetics from Indonesia

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rosé All Day Cosmetics (@roseallday.co)

For your all-day “no-makeup” makeup look, look to Rosé All Day Cosmetics, an Indonesian brand founded by three enterprising ladies. Their cruelty-free, paraben-free makeup line is all about simplicity and embracing natural beauty. Like the Lip and Cheek Duo, which comes in nine shades, glides on as a semi-matte lipstick and leaves a sheer stain on the cheeks. For that natural look, The Realest Lightweight Skin Tint offers a pore-blurring effect and is even touted as the “#1 Vegan Skin Tint with Anti Pollutant in Indonesia!”

Learn about Rosé All Day Cosmetics here.

Wardah Beauty Cosmetics from Indonesia

The all-inclusive Wardah Beauty makes our Asian skin their business. Not only are their formulations made for our climate, but they are alcohol-free, and cruelty-free, and are perhaps the only brand with a halal certification, earning them the title of Halal Green Beauty. Their products range from makeup to skincare, and fragrance, with their Colorfit Perfect Glow Cushion being one of their best-sellers. Its skin match technology with eight shades means you’ll find a closer fit to your skin tone and it even comes with SPF 30 PA ++. Their Everyday Cheek and Lip Tint filled with antioxidants is a convenient pop of colour for your face and lips.

Learn about Wardah Beauty Cosmetics here or find them on Shopee.

SILKYGIRL from Singapore

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Silkygirl Cosmetics (@silkygirlcosmetics)

Homegrown brand SILKYGIRL has been stocking its full range of cosmetics in Guardian and Watsons since 2005. Its fun and colourful brand personality offers vibrant eye colours like the Urban Pop Eyeshadow Palette, taking you from dressy to delicate all in one box. Use their 24-hr Flat Tip Brow Liner to evenly define and fill your brows; the best part, it stays on all day even in this tropical heat (and oil!). 

Learn about SILKYGIRL here or find them in Guardian or Watson’s stores.

PIXY from Malaysia

PIXY may be developed by Japanese company Mandom Corporation but the brand is formulated for Asian skin and is manufactured by Mandom Malaysia. So, you can expect the same high Japanese standards but tailored to suit our tropical climate. Their base makeup is well-received for its lightweight texture and long-wearing capabilities. Use their Concealing Base, a 2-in-1 lightweight foundation and concealer for quick and gentle coverage or their BB Cream to Powder for smoother and higher coverage. 

Learn about PIXY here or find them in retail shops in Malaysia.

4U2 from Thailand

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 4U2 Cosmetics (@4u2cosmetics)

Founded in Thailand in 2002, 4U2 Cosmetics makes high-pigment and long-lasting products designed for people living in hot and humid countries (that’s us!). Their affordable quality products, lively brand image and collaborations with Thai pop groups like BUS and 4EVE make them one of the most popular makeup brands in Thailand. Achieve dewy skin like the pop groups with their 4U2 Skin Hyaluronic Serum Cushion that provides coverage, sun protection, and hydration to last through the day. And pucker up with the 4U2 Harder X Liquid Lip in 19 colours.

Learn about 4U2 here or find them at Watsons or Shopee.

Happy Skin from the Philippines

Philippines brand, Happy Skin keeps your skin happy with their easy-to-use makeup that cares for your skin. The beauty brand uses skin-caring and cruelty-free ingredients from all over the world, ensuring quality in their products. Using an innovative colour-adapting technology, the Happy Skin Dew Cooling Color Adapt Stick gives you a natural flush, reacting to your body’s unique chemistry. The water-gel formula is buildable and transfer-proof and is infused with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin dewy and fresh. They’ve also got a range of contouring and highlighting sticks that are lightweight and blendable for whatever look you want to create. 

Learn about Happy Skin here or find them at Beaubit.co.

Kulfi Beauty from New York City

Although Kulfi Beauty was founded in New York City, it is specially crafted to meet the unique skin tones and undertones of South Asian skin. It’s all about self-expression and enhancing natural beauty, which is why the only coverage product they have is their Main Match Concealer, which comes in over 20 shades. The other constantly-sold-out item is the Free the Brow Brow Gel which embraces and keeps your eyebrows in shape.  Hop onto their website and take a quiz to Find Your Shade.

Learn about Kulfi Beauty here or find them at Sephora in the U.S. or Canada.

Sunnies Face from Philippines

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sunnies Face (@sunniesface)

Blending luxury and affordability, Filipino beauty brand Sunnies Face, with their minimalist vibes, has garnered a global cult following. Their well-formulated products comes in a variety of colours, tailored for our Asian tones and are known to be light-weight and long-lasting for a comfortable wear. Just like their Fluffmatte lipsticks, which offers a matte and pigmented finish, good enough for the day. The brand is committed to conscious beauty by making their products paraben-free, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free. Additionally, they give back 1% of all sales to environmental causes.

Learn about Sunnies Face here or find them in retail shops in Philippines.

Top Image: Happy Skin

The post Southeast Asian Makeup Brands Crafted For Our Tropical Asian Skin appeared first on City Nomads.

Jalan Jalan Japan

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jalan Jalan Japan (@jalanjalanjapanofficial)

This non-curated beloved store is a paradise for thrift lovers. Jalan Jalan Japan imports pre-loved items directly from Japan, offering an array of goods from kawaii clothing, collectibles, to household items. Not to mention, the store’s extensive collection includes unique Japanese brands that we may not get so easily in this side of the world. Fair warning though – with everything neatly organised and reasonably priced, it’s easy to lose track of time here!

Jalan Jalan Japan has various locations throughout Malaysia. 

KedaiDhobyShanghai

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by KedaiDhobyShanghai_ (@kedai.dhoby.shanghai)

Located in one of Johor Bahru’s historic areas, KedaiDhobyShanghai combines vintage charm with modern thrift. This quaint and rustic shop offers a curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories – think 70s bold colours and patterns galore, combined with unique Y2K aesthetic items. The nostalgic and unpretentious ambience and friendly staff make it a delightful place to browse for one-of-a-kind pieces.

KedaiDhobyShanghai is located at 53, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open Mon 11am-6pm, Wed-Sun 11am-7pm. Closed on Tue. 

LAB33L

LAB33L stands out with its focus on high-quality vintage and designer items. The store’s minimalist aesthetic allows the carefully selected merchandise to shine. From vintage tees to classic handbags, LAB33L caters to fashion enthusiasts looking for timeless pieces from brands like Carhartt, Stüssy, and Harley Davidson, amongst others. Prices might be a bit higher here, but the quality and unique pieces make the trip down worth it.

LAB33L is located at Bangunan Kerjasama, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 10am-8pm. 

Big Bundle

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kabilah Suria Selatan Group (@bigbundle_hq)

One of the biggest thrift store in Johor Bahru, Big Bundle is known for its massive selection and unbeatable prices. The store packed with everything from clothing and shoes to toys and electronics with a dedicated section for each. The thrill of the hunt is real here, as you’ll need to sift through piles to find the hidden gems like sport jerseys, Quicksilver and The North Face jackets and more. It’s a bit of a treasure hunt due to the huge space, but the rewards can be fantastic, if you put in the effort.

Big Bundle has various stores throughout Malaysia.

Nothin’ Fancy General Store

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by NOTHIN’FANCY (@noth1nfancy)

True to its name, Nothin’ Fancy offers a laid-back shopping experience with a fantastic selection of pre-loved items. The already curated store makes it easy to navigate through the various sections and find already hunted for gems for your perusal. Whether you’re looking for mens casual wear or unique accessories, you’re likely to find something that catches your eye.

Nothin’ Fancy General Store is located at 143, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open Tue-Sun 2pm-11pm.

Fara First

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by farafirst (@farafirst_bundle)

Fara First specialises in pre-loved and vintage fashion, with a focus on trendy and contemporary styles. The store’s collection is updated regularly, ensuring a fresh selection every time you visit. From chic dresses to stylish jackets, Fara First is perfect for those looking to add a touch of vintage flair to their wardrobe. If you look hard enough you might just be able to walk home with vintage couture pieces by Stüssy, Balenciaga, Comme des Garçons and more.

Fara First is located at 52, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 10am-11pm.

RedChilli Vintage Store

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 𝑅𝑒𝑑𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑖古着屋🌶️ (@redchilli.vtg)

For those who love all things retro, RedChilli Vintage Store is a must-visit. This shop boasts a wide array of vintage clothing, accessories, particular Y2K feminine wear. The eclectic mix and vibrant atmosphere make shopping here a fun and nostalgic experience. Whether you’re a dedicated vintage connoisseur or just a fashion lover  who can’t get enough of unique finds, RedChilli won’t disappoint.

RedChilli Vintage Store is located at 15C, Jalan Dhoby, Off, Jalan Pahang, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Open daily 12pm-7pm. 

Need other recommendations like the cafes and hair salons to check out whilst on your trip? Find out more on what to do during your Malaysia trip here. 

The post The Best Thrift Stores in Johor Bahru: Explore These 7 Vintage & Pre-Loved Shops appeared first on City Nomads.

Cutdomos

Although its name is a play on cut hair, ka-tao-mo, in Hokkien, Cutdomos offers the full range of hair services, from cuts to perms, colour, and treatments. Regular customers return for their warm and attentive service, and many love their aesthetic environment. They also offer targeted perms like Down Perm to keep stubborn hair down or Root Perm to boost hair volume. For more privacy, book the VIP room, which can accommodate up to two pax, and you can enjoy complimentary servings of fruits or snacks alongside a relaxing head spa.

Cutdomos is located at 171, Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 11-1331 7780. Open Mon, Wed – Sat 10am –8pm, Sun 10am -7pm. Closed Mon.

Style by Andy Chen (Mid Valley Southkey)

From RM300 onwards, you can have your tresses cut by award-winning stylist Andy Chen at Style by Andy Chen (Mid Valley Southkey). Beyond superior cuts and styles, the salon offers private rooms and is also a one-stop shop for your beauty regime. Pamper yourself with hair treatments, which range from two-step processes (RM120 onwards) to the Tokio Inkarami 6 Steps Treatment (RM380 onwards), while doing your nails (prices range from RM35 for Classic Manicure to RM88 for Gel Pedicure). Perk up your peepers with eyelash extensions and eyebrow embroidery. If you’d like, you can even get waxing done here. Talk about one-stop service!

Style by Andy Chen (Mid Valley Southkey) is located at S046, Mid Valley Mall Southkey, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 12-969 5613. Open Mon -Thu 10am –8pm, Fri- Sun 10am -9pm.

Saranghair Korean Salon

A salon run by Korean oppas with experiences in top salons in Apgujeong and Chungdam, Saranghair Korean Salon is the place for a true blue Korean hair salon experience – think cosy cafe vibes with complimentary snacks and drinks. With such an inviting ambience, you can rest easy as the attentive, experienced team works on your hair makeovers. Besides offering comprehensive hair services, with cut and perm starting from RM100 and cut and colour from RM250 onwards, the salon also provides nail services to complete your beauty regime. Their remarkable five-star reviews are a testament to their craft, with customers raving about their new style and commending them on being transparent in pricing and giving good advice. But what takes the cake is the two resident cats charming everyone with their playful antics.

Saranghair Korean Salon is located at 14, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3 Taman Sutera Utama Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p.+60 12 2023159. Open Mon-Tue, Thu- Sun 10am –8pm. Closed Wed.

Reds Hairdressing City Square

With over eight thousand reviews, Reds Hairdressing City Square is undoubtedly one of the more popular salons, and it is easy to see why. From their meticulous service to getting the colours right, the salon always ensures you leave looking your best. Whether you are looking to cut, perm, or colour, consult with experienced stylists who seem to have that magical touch for transforming your look. The best part is that it won’t break the bank. Haircuts run from RM60 onwards, with perms and one-tone colouring starting at RM148 and RM138, respectively.               

Reds Hair Salon is located at  Lot J4-10, Level 4, Johor Bahru City Square, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p.+60 7-222 1318. Open daily 10am –10pm.

Historia Hair Salon

Situated in the megamall Toppen Shopping Centre, you can leave your family and friends shopping while you get your hair makeover at Historia Hair Salon. The highly-rated hair salon is well-loved for its scalp treatments, with customers raving about the relaxing massage, which you can also enjoy in a hair wash. Besides giving you a flattering cut, the attentive and skilled stylists are happy to share hairstyling suggestions and tips, so make sure you ask them! The salon caters to Muslim women with a cosy private section. 

Historia Hair Salon is located at MY Johor Johor Bahru No. 33A Jalan Harmonium Taman Desa Terbau L2.81, Level 2, Toppen Shopping Centre, 81100, Malaysia, p. +60 17-718 8101. Open daily 10am –10pm.

 Studio M KSL

On the ground floor of KSL is Studio M KSL, which is not to be confused with the boutique hotel in Singapore, which prides itself on its six-star experience. Touted as a luxury salon with the best prices, you can get a wash and cut from RM80 and colouring from RM180 onwards. All stylists are trained in fashion capitals like Japan, Korea, and the UK and pay great attention to details when they work on your hair. Their attentiveness extends to the private area for Muslim customers. Your experience will always start with hair analysis and continue with stylists painstakingly explaining the process as they go along. According to netizens, there is no hard selling here. The well-loved salon has satisfied over 5,000 customers, leaving them 4.9 stars on Google reviews.

Studio M KSL is located at G-08, KSL City, Jalan Seladang, 80250 Johor, Johor Bahru Taman Abad, Malaysia, p.+60 7-289 4998. Open 10am –9.30pm.

Organic Mode Hair Salon

Embracing the latest in organic solutions, Organic Mode Salon is dedicated to using specially curated brands such as Nature’s Organic Hair Sense, Oway, O’right, and Davines to rejuvenate your hair and scalp naturally. The rich biodynamic ingredients in these brands provide an experience free from ammonia, parabens, SLES, SLS, and more. Besides the refined products, their experienced stylists have helped their customers achieve their perfect cut and colour, with over 2,000 happy customers leaving their five-star reviews. A simple wash and cut here starts from RM35, while organic hair colouring and perming services start from RM100. Soothe your scalp with their Botanical Scalp Therapy Treatment, which starts from RM150 and onwards. 

Organic Mode Hair Salon is located at Johor Bahru City Square, Lot J4-18, Level 4, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 12-930 0878. Open daily 10am –10pm.

Stay B

Ever since its days at Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Stay B has been delighting customers with its warm and welcoming service. Whether you are there for a simple cut and wash or a perm and treatment, the friendly stylists offer the same level of attention. The salon is best loved for its hair art and Korean perm services, alongside good reviews for its scalp treatment. Stylists often go the extra mile by showing customers different ways to style their hair.

Stay B is located at Lot 221D, Level 2, Komtar JBCC, Johor Bahru City Centre, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 7-277 8858. Open daily, 10am –9pm.

96 Hair Lounge

As an Aveda Flagship Salon, 96 Hair Lounge swears by AVEDA’s cruelty-free, plant-based products, which are gentle on hair and the planet. Step into their relaxing space and let their team of professional stylists help you design your next hair transformation. They’ll even teach you how to take care of your locks. From classic cuts to creative colouring and Korean perms, stylists display meticulous professionalism, which leaves customers with trend-setting styles, earning them a remarkable 4.9 stars on Google reviews. 

96 Hair Lounge is located at S021, Level 2 The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, p. +60 7-279 0060. Open Mon – Thu 10am –8pm, Fri -Sun 10am -9pm.

Urban Hair KSL

Offering an extensive selection of services, from haircuts to treatments, Urban Hair is committed to using natural and organic hair products. And from its striking reviews, the salon is known for its colouring and treatment services by experienced stylists who give the best advice. From choosing the right colour for their customers to designing a new hairstyle, they even leave customers with styling tips. Hair cuts by the Creative Director start from RM90 onwards (by appointment only), and organic hair colouring starts from RM120. Gentle Green perms and rebonding start from RM220, and you can also pamper yourself with scalp treatments to energise or calm from RM180. 

Urban Hair KSL is located at  L2-16, KSL City, 33, Jalan Seladang, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, p.+60 7-362 5030. Open 10am –10pm daily.

Top Image: Reds Hairdressing City Square

The post The Best Hair Salons In Johor Bahru: Where To Cut, Colour & Curl Your Mane In Malaysia appeared first on City Nomads.