Insider Roundup: Lorde Returns With ‘Solar Power’ & More

Catch the hottest drops

This week brought us a lot of pleasant surprises: Lorde just made an unexpected comeback with Solar Power; Chiara Ferragni, in collaboration with Nespresso, opened a dreamy pop-up cafe in Milan; Max Factor is going to have a big sale in the Philippines and more. Keep on reading for the deets.


Lorde is back in the scene



It’s been a while since we’ve heard from Lorde. The last time the Royals singer released an album was back in 2017 and from then on we only got some sporadic updates. By 2019, new music was in the works. However, she shared that its release will be delayed after the “incredibly painful” passing away of her beloved pet dog, Pearl.


In 2020, we found out that “a thing started to take shape” but there was still no news on a definite release date as the pandemic slowed things down. So it is a delight that Lorde has finally dropped a new song today. Unlike her previous works which have a somber tone, Solar Power is a lighthearted summer song about newfound joy. Some remarked that the music video is aesthetically similar to the cinematography of 2019 folk horror movie Midsommar sans the gore. It’s fun and chill — perfect for uplifting weary spirits, don’t you think?


Chiara Ferragni opens a temporary cafe in Milan



You may have already heard about Chiara Ferragni’s coffee machine and accessories collection with Nespresso which, by the way, is launching in Singapore this July and in the Philippines this August. But did you know that there’s now a NespressoxChiaraFerragni outdoor cafe, too? The pop-up space is located in Piazza del Carmine in Milan and will be open until 18 July. Visitors can have some quick coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner. Although visiting this pretty cafe is a pipedream for most of us given the travel restrictions, we still can’t help but be mesmerised by the sleek decor and feminine colour palette. Here’s hoping there’s gonna be one again in the future when we can already travel freely.


Dr. Dennis Gross launches its first sunscreen



Dr. Dennis Gross’ first sunscreen, All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF30, will be available in Sephora Singapore on 24 June 2021 for SGD64. Even though it’s an all-physical sunscreen (also called sunblocks and tends to be thicker than chemical sunscreens which are designed to partially absorb UV rays), the brand promises that its formula is easily blendable and won’t leave any white cast. It’s also cruelty-free, fragrance-free and reef-safe and includes natural ingredients like lingonberry and bearberry that are said to protect skin from sun damage. Who’s excited to try it? While we wait for its launch, check out this primer on sunscreen first.


Max Factor Philippines’ anniversary sale is here



Beauty lovers in the Philippines, here’s some news that will delight you. Max Factor Philippines will be holding a big sale from 14-30 June. On LazMall, there will be up to 50% off on all Max Factor products (18-20 June only). The sale will also be held on BeautyMNL where you can enjoy a 35% off promo (from 14-22 June only). You can also visit physical Max Factor stores at SM Stores, Robinsons Department Stores and The Landmark from 15-30 June to get 35% off on all Max Factor items. Not sure what to get? You may like some of their best selling products like the Facefinity All Day Flawless Foundation (a primer-concealer-foundation hybrid, PHP795) and Real Brow Fiber (a brow pencil with microfibers for a 3D effect, PHP495).


Robinsons Singapore has relaunched as an online store



Following its exit last January, Robinsons Singapore has reincarnated itself into an online store. The 163-year-old retailer that has become iconic in the country will be launching a “digital department store” on 24 June. As of today, registration for early access and exclusive offers is now available. The online space is teased to be an “easy-to-navigate, visually pleasing, perfectly curated” store featuring a mix of homegrown and up-and-coming brands. There will also be exclusive collaborations that will debut on the site. Stay tuned to their Instagram for more updates!


COACH is holding a virtual concert featuring Def Jam talents



Feeling cabin fever again? This upcoming virtual concert by COACH in partnership with Def Jam Southeast Asia will spice up your social calendar. Happening on 24 June at 9 PM, the concert will feature artists from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand like Yung Raja (SG), Fariz Jabba (SG), ALYPH (SG), Joe Flizzow (MY), Pradaa (TH), Ben Utomo (ID) and more. The event will also introduce the COACH Pre Fall 2021 pieces which includes an athleisure capsule collection. Access to the virtual concert will be given with a purchase of any COACH items from now until 17 June. If you’re interested, you can shop comfortably from home in Singapore with the help of Coach On Delivery services.


KEDS launches a sustainable collection


KEDS 2021 Spring Summer Collection

(Left) Chillax Organic Tropical Black/Multi, PHP2995/~USD62.76. (Right) Trio Eco Sandal Mauve, PHP2695/~USD56.47


KEDS pushes for sustainability with their Spring-Summer 2021 collection which showcases fashionable footwear made with organically farmed cotton and recycled materials. Some pairs that caught our eye are the iconic Champion Sneaker featuring floral “Ladies Print” and has Softerra™ footbed for maximum comfort and the Trio Eco Sandal which incorporates 100% recycled polyester webbing straps and 20% recycled rubber outsoles in its build. You can now shop these pieces online in the Philippines at keds.com.ph.


(Cover photo from: Lorde Youtube Channel)


Missed last week’s updates? Catch up here.

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