Even with the panic epidemic over the novel coronavirus, the world continues to spin. The month-old outbreak has infected thousands and led to hundreds of deaths, and as of this weekend, the first coronavirus-related death outside of China was recorded in the Philippines. And then, Brexit finally happened. But here's a glimmer of good news: our favourite fashion brands are showing some love in the time of the coronavirus. For makeup lovers, take a peek inside Shiseido's new Beauty Innovation Hub outside of Japan. Finally, start the week right with Shakira and Jennifer Lopez's powerful number at the Super Bowl 2020 halftime show. Here's all you need to know for an explosive start of the week.
Industry giants battle coronavirus
The industry's biggest companies are coming together against the coronavirus outbreak. LVMH, the parent company of Louis Vuitton and Dior, announced last 27 January in a press release in Chinese that they are donating a whopping USD2.3 million to help alleviate urgent medical supplies shortage in Wuhan. Meanwhile, according to WWD, Kering Group, the parent company of Gucci, Saint Laurent and Balenciaga also donated USD1 million to the cause, while L'Oreal donated USD720,000; Swarovski donated USD430,000; and Estee Lauder and Shiseido donated USD290,000. If you've ever felt guilty of spending much on these brands, you should now have no regrets.
Brexit officially happened
Listen up, fans of British cosmetics. Not to be confused with Megxit, Brexit, or the exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union, officially happened on 31 January. According to The Fashion Law, this means our favourite British companies such as Charlotte Tilbury, Elemis, and Rimmel London may have to "abide by new rules" in terms of labelling and ingredients. But for us on the other side of the world, Brexit could spell good news for our own beauty and fashion industries. As the UK is eyeing Southeast Asia as a priority for increases in trade and investment, according to Tech In Asia, more Southeast Asian e-commerce merchants will enjoy greater access to UK consumers. Our own homegrown beauty brands in London? Sounds lovely!
Shiseido opens innovation hub outside Japan
In case you missed it, Shiseido just made another step towards the promotion of J-Beauty across the world. Shiseido opened its first Beauty Innovation Hub outside of Japan, within the walls of WeWork on Weihai Road, Shanghai. Featuring a dedicated consumer testing lab space called the Beauty Bar, interactive video displays, and a packaging exhibition, the hub will allow consumers to immerse in Shiseido’s spirit and culture. In addition, the place will foster "constant co-creation" and collaboration with exciting new start-ups. Sounds like J-Beauty is really having its moment, and we are so for it.
Super Bowl 2020 halftime show
Monday blues? Get your dose of inspiration from Shakira and Jennifer Lopez, who slayed it at the Super Bowl 2020 with a high-octane number celebrating dance and Latin pop. For her part, the red-clad Colombian singer performed her hit songs “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie,” while the Hustlers star took out her pole dancing skills as she performed "Waiting For Tonight." The JLo number couldn't be complete without “Love Don’t Cost a Thing,” “On the Floor” and “Let’s Get Loud” which she sang with a chorus of girls and her daughter. For the full performance, watch the video above. What better way to start the week than with an explosive dance party?
Missed last week's headlines? Catch up here.
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