It’s a bit bold to ask a master perfumer what they’d be if they weren’t one—especially when that perfumer is Jacques Cavallier-Belletrud, a man responsible for some of the most renowned fragrance launches over the last four decades. But the Parisian gamely replies, “I would be the president of France, the mayor of positivity!”
“Perfumery is how I express myself, but I would’ve been an artist creating something anyway. Something that expresses the thoughts and feelings of others because I think what unifies people is emotions,” he muses. “My job today is to create perfumes and positive vibes. It’s a gift that I'm grateful I get to do every day.”
A third-generation perfumer from Grasse—the world’s perfume capital—Cavallier-Belletrud grew up surrounded by scent. One of his earliest memories dates back to when he was just five, watching his father sniff blotting strips. “I was quite surprised to see my father smelling things instead of eating them,” he recalls with a laugh. “He handed me a blotter, and it was the scent of roses from Grasse.”
Related article: Voice Of Angèle: Meet The Radiant New Face of Chanel’s Newest Fragrance, Chance Eau Splendide
Related article: Francis Kurkdjian On How To Create An Iconic Perfume
Cavallier-Belletrud spent his childhood summers working in perfume factories in his hometown. By the time he was 10, he had already begun building an encyclopaedic knowledge of fragrance. This deep expertise led him to roles at Charabot, Quest International, and PFW Aroma Chemicals B.V., before a pivotal chapter at Firmenich from 1990 to 2012. There, he created some of the most iconic perfumes of our time, including Issey Miyake’s L’Eau d’Issey (1992), Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium pour Homme (1995), and Dior’s Midnight Poison (2007), the latter in collaboration with François Demachy and Olivier Cresp.
Today, he captures the essence of Louis Vuitton’s savoir-faire as the House’s master perfumer—a role he’s held for more than a decade. When it comes to his creative process, he shares: “To be a creator, you need to be curious. It’s important to be inspired by everything around you. For me, anything that stirs the emotions, I capture it in my mind and translate it into scent.”
In a world as refined as haute perfumery, I was curious—are there any unspoken rules a veteran like him follows or enjoys breaking? “In my mind, I’m still 14 years old, so I’m always breaking the rules,” he jests. “But if you want to be in the luxury business, you must respect your clients. The first rule—one you can never break—is to use the finest and most beautiful ingredients nature has to offer, and to translate the vision in your mind as precisely as possible. The second is to never settle; always search for new ways to interpret and elevate artistic inspiration.” As for what breaking the rules looks like to him? “It means blending cultures, taking the best from each, and creating something unexpected—something I hope you’ll enjoy.”
Related article: Two Noses Are Better Than One: Quentin Bisch And Louise Turner On Creating Chloé’s Cedrus Intense Parfum
He’s chatting with me over Zoom to talk about the newly launched eLVes Louis Vuitton (pronounced Elle’s), which I had the privilege of smelling before everyone else. For this new creation which I can best describe as oriental-floral, Cavallier-Belletrud looked at using different materials to complement the modern woman. Opening with vibrant top notes of ginger, black currant, and cinnamon, the perfume reveals a heart of lily of the valley, violet, coconut milk, Bulgarian rose absolute, and CO2-extracted Centifolia rose—sustainably harvested and exclusive to Louis Vuitton. These luminous florals are grounded by a warm base of patchouli and Ambroxan, a dry, musky amber molecule.
Elegantly floral yet bold and perfect for day or night wear, this scent is a radiant celebration of femininity in all its multi-dimensional facets. “I’m obsessed with translating emotions into perfumes,” Cavallier-Belletrud adds. “I’ve created many scents over the last 40 years, but eLVes is my vision of femininity for today and for tomorrow—free, independent, and self-defined, far removed from the caricatures of 40 or 50 years ago.”
“This idea lived in my head for a long time; I had the time to mature it,” he continues. “The challenge was balancing the soft bouquet with the power, the strength, and the sillage (the trail of scent created by a perfume when worn on the skin). While not difficult, I paid a lot of attention to creating the right balance for it to be an attractive scent.” His tip on how to wear it? “However you like,” he says with a smile. Though, he demonstrates his own signature application—behind the ear and outer left hand.
Every fragrance has its specific muse, an embodiment of who the perfume represents and desires to attract. But, for Cavallier-Belletrud, eLVes Louis Vuitton is inspired by all kinds of women. “Through my journey of discovering different countries and people all over the world, I always found women possessing this touching, sensitive way of discussing and expressing themselves. There could be billions of muses as femininity is not one specific character—it’s eternal and universal.”
A constant request from his clients is for perfumes to contain a higher concentration of premium ingredients, ones that last all day. “All of them, specifically in Asia, demand much more in terms of the perfume's quality and performance. If the quality is there, money is no object,” he says. “We now have a mature market who are aware and want to understand what we're saying as well as experiment with scents. If it doesn’t deliver, they’ll be disappointed.“
He continues: “The success of a perfume depends on that partly because when others are smelling those perfumes on other people and asking, ‘What perfume is that?’ ‘It’s Louis Vuitton’ and they’ll go, ‘Oh, they do perfumes? Okay, I’ll go there.’ We have lots of clients coming to our stores and discovering our fragrances because of someone else. The best advertising is the perfume itself.”
With eLVes Louis Vuitton and the upcoming launch of La Beauté Louis Vuitton—the brand’s first foray into make-up helmed by none other than Pat McGrath—there is much to be excited about on the beauty front. As for what’s next in the world of Louis Vuitton fragrances, Cavallier-Belletrud simply replies, “Our quest is to go beyond and surprise every time. We intend to deliver new tones and perfumes with fantastic, high-quality raw materials. So, expect many projects ahead.”
eLVes Louis Vuitton EDP is available at Louis Vuitton stores and on its website.
Singapore offers a wealth of experiences to explore. From indulgent luxury encounters to fascinating exhibitions, here’s how to make the most of your March in the Lion City.
Tsubaki's Camellia Courtyard has bloomed into Plaza Singapura and is sleeker, shinier, and smelling like a good hair day bottled. Swing by to explore the brand’s refreshed collection of salon-grade shampoos, conditioners, and treatments, now housed in packaging as chic as the formulas are potent. Bonus: you’ll also get to sip on camellia tea (yes, the same ingredient behind your hair’s glow-up) and fold your way into serenity at their origami station.
Tsubaki's Camellia Courtyard runs till 20 April 2025 at Level 1 Atrium, Plaza Singapura.
Lancôme’s Idôle House returns with a bold back-to-school, Y2K glow-up, and you’re invited. This interactive fragrance playground lets you sample the new Idôle Power Eau De Parfum Intense (yes, the one Olivia Rodrigo wears), snap content in Olivia’s Music Room, and add a little sparkle with hair tinsels, bottle painting, and more like limited-edition gifts and samples with every purchase.
The Lancôme Idôle House pop-up runs till 27 April 2025 at Basement 4, ION Orchard.
Bimba Y Lola rolls up outside Mandarin Gallery this weekend with an ice cream cart that’s serving whimsy on wheels. To celebrate its spring/summer 2025 collection, the Spanish label is handing out nostalgic flavours like chocolate, raspberry pipple, yam, and red bean, plus a 15% gift voucher to cool down your next fashion splurge. Come for the treat, stay for the street style.
The Bimba Y Lola ice cream cart pop-up will be parked outside Mandarin Gallery on 18 and 19 April from 11am to 7pm.
This season, CapitaLand’s malls get a fashion-forward refresh with pop-ups, exhibitions, and runway-ready takeovers across town. At Bugis Town, explore the new Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild fragrance or get shade-matched at M.A.C’s Studio Fix activation. Over at Funan, Love Bonito, Oakley, and Modparade headline a rotating fashion showcase, while Plaza Singapura blends athleisure and luxe in a Daniel Boey-curated style edit featuring Hunter and LI-NING. Raffles City rounds it off with a fashion lineup that includes alice + olivia, Calvin Klein, and BOSS.
The City Edition: Spring/Summer 2025 is open daily at Bugis Town, Funan, Plaza Singapura, and Raffles City till 27 April 2025.
If soft florals, luxurious self-care, and Parisian elegance are your idea of bliss, then Chloé Fragrances’ Atelier des Fleurs Experience is your next must-visit. To celebrate the launch of Cedrus Intense Eau de Parfum, the brand is transforming the Mondrian Singapore Duxton into an immersive olfactory retreat. Think: an exclusive Atelier des Fleurs Afternoon Tea at Christina’s Duxton, and luxurious staycations infused with Chloé’s newest scented body care range.
The Atelier des Fleurs Experience afternoon tea set and staycation experience at Mondrian Singapore Duxton will be available till 18 April 2025.
Giovanni Leonardo Bassan’s first solo exhibition in Singapore isn’t here to play it safe. Non c'è Rosa Senza Spine (“Ain’t No Roses Without Thorns”) peels back the layers of beauty and brutality through raw, figurative works that feel as classical as they do confrontational. The Paris-based Italian artist, who’s worked with Michele Lamy and currently heads Rick Owens’ furniture division, knows a thing or two about duality, and it shows. Think sacred versus savage, softness versus severity, oil paint versus emotional gut punch.
Non c'è Rosa Senza Spine - A solo exhibition by Giovanni Leonardo Bassan will be running till 30 May 2025 at the LOY Contemporary Art Gallery, Tudor Court. For more information, visit their website.
The CLUB21 Four Seasons Pop-Up is set to transform into a monochrome dreamscape with the "Yohji Yamamoto Photo Exhibition". Expect a curated glimpse into the Japanese designer’s signature visual language of poetry in black, deconstructed silhouettes, and drama by way of drape. Alongside the images, the space will also feature the spring/summer 2025 womenswear and POUR HOMME collections, offering a rare chance to step into Yamamoto’s world.
The Yohji Yamamoto Photo Exhibition will be happening from 11 April to 21 April 2025 at the Four Seasons Hotel. For more information, visit their website.
The world of renowned fashion designer Iris van Herpen is here with "Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses". Her first solo exhibition in Asia, visitors will get to see over 140 of Iris' works up close and personal including pieces worn by the likes of Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Björk.
Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses is now on till 10 August 2025 at the ArtScience Museum. For more information, visit their website.
ArtScience Museum presents "Mirror Mirror: Journey Into the Mind". Created by Moment Factory, the exhibition puts art and science in focus with a series of interactive, experiential environments that stimulate the senses and explore the different facets of the human mind.
ArtScience Museum's "Mirror Mirror: Journey Into the Mind" is on till 6 July 2025.
Calling all Potterheads! The Wizarding World has arrived in Singapore with "Harry Potter: Visions of Magic". Step into 10 immersive environments from the beloved franchise, including thrilling new experiences like The Chamber of Secrets and The Trap Door. Magic awaits!
"Harry Potter: Visions of Magic" is happening at Resorts World Sentosa. For more information, visit their website.
Egg hunts are cute, but four courses of modern Middle Eastern sharing plates, a kids’ buffet, and bottomless Aperol Spritz? Now that’s how you celebrate Easter. The Prince is throwing a heartwarming brunch with all the trimmings—mimosas for you, unlimited juices for the kids, and a cookie decorating corner to keep little hands busy while you soak it all in.
Easter Brunch at the Prince is happening on 20 April 2025 from 12 to 3pm. For more information, visit their website.
Ma Cuisine ushers in the season with a refresh of its spring menu. Think French classics with just the right amount of creative rebellion. Expect confit Jeju abalone to replace lamb in a reimagined Navarin d’Ormeau Printanier, and milk-fed sweetbreads paired with morels in a silky veal sauce. The cellar-first bistro’s 1,000-label wine list is the real flex: rare vintages, cult producers, and bottles you’ll only find if you know someone who knows someone. Luckily, the sommelier knows just what to pour.
Ma Cuisine is located at 38 Craig Road. For more information, visit their website.
Moderation? Never heard of her. Bar Somma’s new happy hour offering, cheekily titled Nothing in Moderation, is unapologetically indulgent. Order any martini and enjoy unlimited Lampredotto Panini—think slow-cooked veal tripe with green salsa, red sauce, and homemade focaccina. Equal parts hearty and hedonistic, it’s the kind of pairing that makes restraint feel overrated.
Bar Somma's "Nothing In Moderation" is available from Tuesday to Sunday, 6pm to 7.30pm at Bar Somma. For more information, visit their website.
The city’s most decadent brunch is back. Manhattan’s famed adults-only Sunday Cocktail Brunch returns this April, this time with even more flair. Start with a Bloody Mary, boozy milkshake or spritz at one of the interactive stations, before diving into a New York-inspired spread featuring showstoppers like OP rib smoked in a Solera-Aged Negroni barrel—and yes, a whiskey chocolate fountain. Come hungry, leave a little tipsy.
Manhattan's Sunday Cocktail Brunch happens every Sunday, 12pm to 3pm at Manhattan, Conrad Singapore Orchard. For more information, visit their website.
SIRI HOUSE is dialling up the vibes this Easter with a sunshine-fuelled BBQ bash that has something for everyone—yes, even the family dog. Expect free-flow feasting, drink promos that are almost too good, and an all-female DJ lineup dishing out everything from Afro Beats to disco-drenched anthems. Little ones eat free (and get their own activities), while adults can hit the outdoor deck for an afternoon of funk, tech house, and probably one too many spritzes.
SIRI HOUSE's Easter backyard bbq on 18, 19 (11.30 am to 3.30 pm), and 20 April 2025 (11.30 am to 5pm). For more information, visit their website.
Singapore’s coolest campout is here. From 18 to 19 April, Sunda takes over Sarimbun Scout Camp (the opening night is on17 April at MDLR) for a weekend of alternative music, forest air, and stylishly rugged fun. Think: live sets under the stars, songwriting and wellness workshops for the whole fam (yes, it’s kid-friendly), and a chance for you to justify that cargo vest you’ve been saving. Stay overnight in fan- or air-con-equipped A-Huts (ideal for six pax), or go full wild and pitch your tent.
Sunda will be happening from 17 to 19 April 2025 at MDLR, #02-00, 62 Cecil Street (Thursday) and at Sarimbun Scout Camp, 70 Jalan Bahtera (Friday and Saturday). For more information, visit their website.
It starts with a playdate and ends in every parent’s worst nightmare. The Stolen Girl follows Elisa, a mother of two, whose daughter vanishes after what seemed like an innocent sleepover. But when the charming new friend’s home turns out to be an empty luxury rental, the truth unravels fast. Gripping, chilling, and disturbingly plausible, this thriller is your next must-watch if you like your weekend suspense served with a side of parental panic.
The Stolen Girl is streaming on Disney+ now.
Set in 1970s Rio de Janeiro, I’m Still Here (Ainda Estou Aqui) offers a deeply human portrait of one family living under Brazil’s military dictatorship. The Paivas — parents Rubens and Eunice and their five children— hold fast to joy and humour, even as the country’s political grip tightens. When a violent, state-sanctioned act rips their world apart, Eunice must find a way forward for her children and herself. Adapted from Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s acclaimed memoir, this poignant film is as much about political resistance as it is about love, loss, and survival.
I’m Still Here (Ainda Estou Aqui) is showing at both Gold Mile Tower and Cineleisure. For more information, visit their website.
Medical dramas are one thing, but Hyper Knife takes it to another level by injecting a dose of thriller, revenge, and high-stakes neurosurgery into its pulse-racing plot. Starring Park Eun-bin (Extraordinary Attorney Woo, The King’s Affection) as Jeong Seok, a neurosurgeon shunned from the medical world after uncovering a dark secret, and Sul Kyung-gu (Memoir of a Murderer, Oasis) as her former mentor, the series is a tension-filled masterpiece of skill, power, and retribution.
Hyper Knife is streaming on Disney+ now. Read the ELLE exclusive here.
Jennie's highly anticipated album Ruby is here. Fans of the Blackpink star will get the chance to listen 15 tracks including "Love Hangover", "ExtraL", and "Mantra" as well as highly anticipated collaborations with stars such as Dua Lipa, Kali Uchis, and Childish Gambino.
Ruby is now on all streaming platforms worldwide.
Matt Murdock is back in Daredevil: Born Again. Starring Charlie Cox, the series follows the lawyer, having hung up his vigilante horns, as he continues to fight for justice. At the same time, former crime boss Wilson Fisk (played by Vincent D'Onofrio) is elected mayor of New York City, leading them on a collision course.
Daredevil: Born Again is now streaming on Disney+.
If you thought you’d seen it all, think again. Golden Village is screening HYPERFOCUS: TOMORROW X TOGETHER VR CONCERT, a first-of-its-kind K-pop experience that drops you right into the (virtual) front row. Catch Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Hueningkai performing their biggest hits in surreal, otherworldly sets that blur the line between stage and dream. Bonus: The first 250 ticketholders score an exclusive limited-edition poster.
HYPERFOCUS: TOMORROW X TOGETHER VR CONCERT will be happening till 27 April 2025 at Golden Village at Bugis+. For more information, visit their website.
Choosing your wedding jewellery—be it an engagement ring, wedding band or other bridal pieces—needs careful thought, since it’s going to be something that will be worn for a lifetime. It needs to be timeless and yet reflect your personality, besides being a sentimental memento of this major milestone in life.
Related article: Boucheron’s Latest Histoire de Style Collection Presents Nature's Raw Beauty
Not all wedding jewellery is the same, of course, even if they typically veer towards classic and sophisticated styles. The best of them are distinguished by fine quality, refined design and craftsmanship—differences that will stand out to the discerning eye. And that’s where Graff comes in: The British jewellery house is known for its expertise in diamonds, having handled some of the finest in the world, and is synonymous with exceptional design and quality.
A Graff engagement ring is a bride-to-be’s dream and is available in seven signature settings. Among them, the Icon setting stands out for being the most eye-catching. This ring setting is named after the famous Icon diamond, a 90.97-carat flawless round brilliant diamond that was cut and polished by Graff, and is thus designed to honour the extraordinary beauty of the rare diamond and to emulate its mesmerising brilliance.
Related article: Jennie’s World Tour Era Is Here—And So Is Her Best Style Yet
The Icon setting features a pavé diamond halo, used to enhance the central diamond that comes in a variety of cuts, including round, oval, radiant and cushion. This design creates a visual illusion of a larger focal diamond and also intensifies the play of light from the precious stone. With no metal visible between the pavé diamonds, which extend to the gallery beneath and around the band, the Icon engagement ring is a truly scintillating sight to behold.
The Icon setting features a pavé diamond halo, used to enhance the central diamond that comes in a variety of cuts, including round, oval, radiant and cushion. This design creates a visual illusion of a larger focal diamond and also intensifies the play of light from the precious stone. With no metal visible between the pavé diamonds, which extend to the gallery beneath and around the band, the Icon engagement ring is a truly scintillating sight to behold.
As a representation of the bond between two people, the wedding band is much more than just a piece of jewellery. It needs to fit with one’s everyday style, but that doesn’t mean it has to be plain or boring. Looking for a ring that is timeless yet distinctive? Graff has a selection of designs that range from the simple yet unique to dazzling styles that are fully set with pavé diamonds.
Take, for example, the Spiral range, which features bands with a twisted, sculptural form, and the Laurence Graff Signature rings with faceted edges—two interesting options for couples who gravitate towards modern-looking styles.
Related article: Francesca Amfitheatrof Takes Us Into The World Of Louis Vuitton’s High Jewellery
For the bride who can’t resist sparkling jewellery, a Graff eternity ring can be a statement choice for a wedding band. Set all around with diamonds in one’s preferred shape—emerald-cut, round or heart-shaped—these eternity rings are each a classic design with high-wattage shine.
You can express your love for each other with more than just rings, and Graff has the perfect his-and-hers pieces that are a subtler representation of a special personal relationship.
The bangles from the Laurence Graff Signature collection—the house’s first unisex diamond range—can carry the sentiment just as well, made for the couple who’s looking for a pair of matching modern accessories. Bearing the same distinctive faceted design that runs through the line’s other pieces, they can be worn alone, stacked, or matched with bracelets that you own in other styles.
Available in white, rose or yellow gold, with or without diamonds, these bangles are a versatile and stylish alternative to traditional couple’s rings.
Lipstick has served as a personal armour ever since the first crushed pigment was applied to our lips thousands of years ago. That might now translate as having a powerful red lipstick on hand for an instant confidence boost, or knowing that your matte lipstick isn't going to quit on you before the night is out.
If you feel stuck in a perpetual search for your perfect shade, there are a few tricks that can help to speed up the process and save the back of your hands from myriad swatches. When it comes to finding the most flattering nude lipstick for you, "The trick is to work with your undertone and not against," explains Dominic Skinner, Global Senior Artist at MAC Cosmetics.
Related article: From The Flipped Bob To Soft Gourmand Highlights, The 5 Best Spring Hair Trends Of 2025
"If you have a warmer or richer skin tone, work with shades that have a pink to coral undertone. Whereas, if you have a cooler, more olive undertone, look for shades that have a beige to golden hue within them. Once you’ve worked out the undertone, you can use that to go as pale or as deep in the nude spectrum as you wish," he notes.
How to apply it right? It all depends on the desired finish. "For full colour payoff, apply lipstick straight from the bullet, then use a lip liner to prevent smudging and create a base for your lipstick. For a softer finish, you can diffuse the lipstick with your fingertips," shares make-up artist and VIEVE founder, Jamie Genevieve. "Always look at the formula and finish as this will also help ensure its longevity," she adds.
Aside from your personal preferences and that immediate 'I've found the one' feeling, there are also some practical things you want to ensure your lipstick has down before you invest. We're talking about comfort, longevity, and finish, just for starters. To help you on your journey of discovery to finding your perfect lipstick, we've rounded up the best lipsticks that tick all three.
Related article: Bottleneck Bangs: The ELLE Guide To Nailing The Look And The Styles To Save Now
Sported by no less than Nicola Peltz-Beckham and Lily-Rose Depp, this lipstick has an impressive clientele. And can we blame them? Transforming into a glossy oil, this ultra-hydrating lipstick gives the lips an enlivening flush of colour with a high-shine finish. Think your lips but so much better.
Chanel Coco Rouge Flash, $70, CHANEL BEAUTY.
Related article: Why You Should Try Ectoin, The Powerhouse Skincare Ingredient Derms Swear By
This matte lipstick, which was created by make-up artist Jamie Genevieve, brings to life the desire for ultra-pigmented yet nourishing lip formulas. Enriched with vitamin E, the smooth finish never flakes throughout the day; it feels comfortable for hours and has impressive staying power.
Modern Matte Lipstick, $44, VIEVE.
Uncompromising when it comes to colour payoff, this Sisley lipstick is all about creating a plumper-looking pout. Enriched with Padina pavonica extract and vitamin E, it nourishes and plumps the lips and also provides a long-lasting, velvet finish.
Phyto-Rouge Velvet, $75, SISLEY.
If the distinctive packaging and on-trend colour palette aren't enough to lure you in, the USP of this ultra chic lipstick lies in the subtle sheen and nourishing formula. You can build up the intensity or apply a thin layer for a subtle, barely-there glow.
Phyto-Rouge Velvet, $134, HERMÈS.
Forget drying, flaky liquid lipsticks of old, one swipe of Gucci Beauty's Rouge à Lèvres Liquide Matte Lipstick and you'll never look back. With a moisturising formula of black rose oil, vitamin E, rice powder and hyaluronic acid, the almost-whipped texture leaves lips feeling pillowy soft. Also, can we talk about the packaging...
Rouge À Lèvres Liquide Matte, $65, GUCCI BEAUTY.
Drawing inspiration from vintage sepia portraits and classic Rococo paintings, Lisa Eldridge is a make-up storyteller. Our adoration of these luxury lipsticks goes beyond a striking pigment or impressive wear time, they're captivating references tied up in a beautifully velvet bow.
True Velvet Lip Colour, UK$27 (about S$47), LISA ELDRIDGE.
This beauty girl-next-door strikes again. In an ever playful Glossier way, these au natural tint-gloss hybrids are totally effortless. Giving your pout a conditioning boost of colour that's oh-so-easy to build, this is the easiest lipstick you'll ever use.
Ultralip, $36, GLOSSIER.
Some might pin this pick as predictable, but we'd be lying if we said these pretty shades weren't worth the hype. 3D pigment that gives a visible fullness to your lips, paired with a comfortable matte finish? Straight to the lipstick hall of fame. The Pillow Talk collective is undeniably iconic, but we also rate Very Victoria and So 90's for their cool Autumn-ready undertones.
Matte Revolution, $55, CHARLOTTE TILBURY.
Fresh from Fashion Week, this stunning matte was everywhere this season. Not only is this pigmented lip colour a stylish staple, it also comes with a transfer-proof promise.
Powermatte Lip Pigment, $46, NARS.
Ruby Woo, Velvet Teddy... let's face it, MAC basically invented top tier lip colours. If you're fond of a softer-looking lip, this sleek long-lasting matte comes fitted with a feathered-edge applicator, giving your lips an effortlessly diffused finish that lasts all day and doesn't compromise on colour.
Powder Kiss Velvet Blur Slim Stick, $49, MAC COSMETICS.
With a 24-hour pledge, this brilliant shade is proof that a sophisticated red lip doesn't have to be high maintenance. Although this kiss-proof formula comes in an array of flattering tones, (bricks, mauves, berrys, we could go on...) 999 Forever Dior is uncut drama; the ultimate modern classic lip colour..
Rouge Dior Couture Colour, $66, DIOR BEAUTY.
From its soft pigment to its innovative design, this stylish Byredo bullet has long been a favourite of the ELLE beauty team.
Lipstick, $82, BYREDO.
This article was first seen on ELLE UK.
You've retired your shearling coat and reacquainted with your failsafe trench, and diligently swapped the heavy-duty moisturiser for dewier textures. Now, the last piece of the puzzle for the imminent arrival of spring — if you're asking the ELLE beauty team — comes in the form of a fresh, new hairstyle. Whether that's a dramatic, life-altering haircut or a softer, lighter take (think curtain bangs or soft balayage), below, ELLE spoke to leading hairstylists about the 2025 spring hair trends you'll be seeing everywhere in light of the sunnier climes ahead.
Related article: Gracie Abrams' Californian Bob Is Spring Coded—Here's How To Achieve It
Coined 'the halo cut', Cos Sakkas, the Global Creative Director for Toni & Guy, describes this hairstyle as "soft, face-framing curls that adopt a rounded shape". The term has been making waves online recently, and, according to Sakkas, the beauty of it starts with embracing the natural texture of your curls. "It adds distinct volume and definition and frames the face, but is the perfect way to show off your natural waves, curls or coils," he adds.
Related article: Voice Of Angèle: Meet The Radiant New Face of Chanel’s Newest Fragrance, Chance Eau Splendide
It's easy to see the appeal of a bob come spring. Whether undone or polished, blunt or choppy, the ubiquitous hairstyle is made for warmer weather. As for a fresh take on the trend, Maria Sotiriou, the co-founder of SILKE, says that the Sixties flipped bob (dubbed 'The Fob' on social media) will be coming up top this season. "The modern iteration of the classic 1960s flip bob, it has less volume on the crown with a subtle flick at the ends," she notes. "Use styling products such as a foam mousse or styling blow-dry spray to create the flick, and a nourishing balm to smooth everything into place," she adds.
Mocha mousse, golden honey, rich caramel—whatever you want to call them, the world of TikTok has been fawning over gourmand colour tones of late. For spring, the sugary sweet, somewhat saccharine hues are being superseded by more natural-looking tones. Instead of the viral 'butter biscuit' tones, Melanie McDonald, educator for Great Lengths and owner of Melanie Richards Hair & Beauty, suggests blending your blonde for a softer finish. "Try asking for two different blondes blended together to add extra warmth to your existing blonde," she notes.
Related article: The 411 To Achieving K-Celebrity Tresses & Spring's Hottest Hair Trends
Jam Blonde is another one that will be trickling onto our feeds, notes Christel Barron-Hough. "It's a bright, spring-ready golden blonde. As sweet and glossy as the name suggests, this look blends fun, zesty yellow hues with a dash of orange," she shares. Darker hair tones can also expect to see 'cacao' dominating this season, too. "Think of a deep, dark, rich and luxurious hue and the most intense version of a chocolate brunette," she notes.
"What ties all of these highlight trends together is the focus on muted, sophisticated tones with that high-gloss finish," hairstylist Tim Scott-Wright. "These hues aren’t loud or overwhelming; the looks are polished, wearable, and luxurious."
Inspired by Kiera Knightley and Sienna Miller, messy mermaid waves are having a moment in the spotlight. "I love an undone mermaid wave with great texture as opposed to making hair look and feel too strict," shares Luke Hersheson, Expert Hairstylist and CEO of Hershesons. "The messy mermaid is basically a flat wave that doesn’t look or feel like it’s been over-styled with a tong. Instead of tighter “Spaniel” waves, you get a softer, more relaxed finish that looks really natural," he adds.
"I recommend using the Mermaid Waver attachment from the Multi-Tasker tool through different sections of the hair to create a soft bend, then use the larger tong to add bigger waves through other sections and around the face. The key is to make sure it doesn't look too even," he shares. "Finish the look with some hairspray and the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream to separate the hair and create more of a 'lived in' texture."
Once the reserve of the runway, a cohort of famous faces are bringing fresh allure to the notoriously difficult-to-pull-off pixie cut, and as a result, it's fast becoming one of the most requested cuts in salons.
The latest iteration, as debuted by Emma Stone, is polished, soft and considered. "The monotone colouring gives strength to the pixie cut while the cut looks chic, polished and put-together," notes colour and trend forecaster, Zoe Irvin.
This article was first seen on ELLE UK.
Ruoning Yin, who also goes by the nickname Ronni, is a rising star in women’s golf. At just 22, the Chinese golf sensation has already claimed major championships, reached the pinnacle of the World Rankings, and secured a prestigious partnership with Rolex.
Her journey started in her hometown of Kunming, China, where she honed her skills under her father’s guidance before training with American coach, Jim Johnson. Turning pro in 2020, she made an immediate impact, winning her first three events on the China Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour.
Related article: Rolex’s Perpetual Mission: Protecting The Oceans, One Hope Spot At A Time
More victories followed in rapid succession, culminating in the pinnacle achievement of winning the 2023 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. In doing so, she became the second women’s Major championship winner from China. Last year, she enjoyed a successful 2024 season amassing five victories on the LPGA Tour—the Dow Championship, the Buick LPGA Shanghai, and the Maybank Championship.
Yin became a Rolex Testimonee last year—a testament to her incredible talent and her unwavering commitment to the game. Rolex, for the past 60 years, has been committed to supporting athletes. The watchmaker has also been a dedicated partner of the LPGA since 1980, and is the founding sponsor of the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.
Related article: Girl Chronographs: The Best Timepieces Below 40mm
Related article: Mastering Time: The Art of Rolex Dial Craftsmanship
ELLE caught up with Yin at the recent HSBC Women’s World Championship in Sentosa. To make things a little more interesting, we roped in our own national golfer Hailey Loh, 21, to conduct the interview. “I learnt quite a lot talking to her,” quips Loh. “I feel like I’m just as competitive as she is. It’s hard to feel any joy when you’re under these really pressuring circumstances.
Loh continues: "Ruoning kept mentioning how having fun helps her stay in the present—because not everyone gets the privilege to do this. And, honestly, you could be doing worse things than having a nice round of golf, right?”
Their conversation explores the triumphs, challenges and values that drive Yin.
Was there a specific moment when you realised golfing is what you want to do for the rest of your life?
I held my first club at four—accidentally hitting my dad on the head with it—and never played again until I was 10, when I attended my first summer camp in Kunming. Actually, my mum had to bribe me with movie outings to get me to go! I shot my first under-par round at 11 and broke par at 14. I started winning a lot and grew to love the game.
As the second Chinese golfer to win the 2023 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, what did it mean to you?
That is definitely one of my milestones. Winning a Major is really special, especially as I’m only the second woman from China to do so. It gave me a lot of confidence and made me believe that I’m capable of competing at this level against the big players.
How has your life changed since then?
A lot, honestly. When I won the KPMG championship—my fourth major tournament—I wasn’t expecting it. I focused on learning from the game, and then I won, which made me think I could achieve more. The increased media requests and recognition boosted my self-belief. When I played in Shanghai last year, many junior golfers came to watch, saying, “Ronni, you’re my idol!” That was special because I used to be in their shoes, and I still feel like a kid at heart. Hearing that inspires and motivates me to improve, so I strive to do my best both on and off the course, and to be a good role model.
What’s the biggest challenge you face as a professional athlete. How do you overcome it?
The biggest challenge is that golf has become a job, rather than just a fun activity. In the beginning, I felt stressed because I now had to perform well to make a living from it. You need to believe in yourself to succeed. Becoming the World No. 1 is always my goal but at the end of the day, that’s just a title. Winning is more important to me than the World Ranking. What I love about golf is that you can do everything right, yet things may not go your way. It’s similar to life: A good life can lead to a bad break, and a bad life can yield a good break. That’s just how the universe works.
Life on tour can be incredibly demanding. How do you balance competition, recovery and fun?
I believe that all three can coexist. Golf is difficult, but it can also be enjoyable. Maintaining a fun mindset while competing is good for your mental health. Last year, when I injured my hand, I knew I wouldn’t be able to make some shots. But instead of feeling down, I reminded myself how much I love the sport. When I focused on that, nothing else mattered; I was just happy to be there.
How do you like to unwind?
I train for four to six hours daily. On my weeks off, I enjoy playing basketball, tennis, badminton, and swimming—I did a lot of sports growing up. To unwind, I like to stay home and have tea with my mum. I think I have an old soul. I don’t like going out; I prefer being at home.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Enjoy the process. When I was younger, I would get incredibly upset when I lost. I would say, to enjoy the journey because sometimes, you learn more from failure than success. Golf can teach you many things, whether it’s physical endurance or remaining calm under pressure. Once you understand that, you will excel in the game.
How does it feel to be part of the Rolex family as a Testimonee?
When you think of Rolex, sporting names like Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler and Roger Federer come to mind. Being part of this community is a dream come true for me. Rolex represents excellence, precision and quality. The watches are incredibly accurate, and I love them. I have a list of watches I want, including the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona that I currently wear. It reflects my personality perfectly—just cool.
How do you view Rolex’s impact on women’s golf, both for the players and the development of the sport?
Rolex is very selective about its partnerships. Its support in women’s golf helps validate our sport and empowers players to pursue excellence. I hope to elevate and promote golf in China. I believe that if I keep winning, I can achieve anything. You can’t make an impact if you’re a nobody.
What are the biggest goals for yourself this year?
Right now, I’m focused on refining my golf technique and becoming more consistent. I’m a fairly good ball striker, but I need to improve my driving accuracy to hit more fairways. I just try to improve every day so my game will be on point. My approach is simple—do one per cent better every day, and by the end of the year, that progress will add up.
Mention TAG Heuer, and most people would undoubtedly think of the brand’s flagship Carrera collection. It represents the watchmaker’s deep ties with motor racing—named after the legendary Carrera Panamericana Road race — and the legacy of Jack Heuer’s dedication to precision. As the brand’s best-selling line, it has certainly come to be known for its sporty DNA and its fine quality, both on the technical and aesthetic fronts.
Related article: Exclusive: F1 Academy's Chloe Chong Makes Up Her Own Destiny With Charlotte Tilbury
Since its introduction in 1963, this iconic range of watches has come a long way, with TAG Heuer introducing a variety of unique, sought-after Carrera models. For 2025, the brand continues this tradition with a number of interesting new creations. They include the return of a notable historical model and a fresh, colourful take on the Carrera Date.
Since its introduction in 1963, this iconic range of watches has come a long way, with TAG Heuer introducing a variety of unique, sought-after Carrera models. For 2025, the brand continues this tradition with a number of interesting new creations. They include the return of a notable historical model and a fresh, colourful take on the Carrera Date.
This year, the watchmaker has revisited this celebratory model, bringing it back in a precious diamond-set edition. The latest release of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Glassbox comprises two stunning variations—one in the TAG Heuer Carrera signature blue and the other one in powdery pink—that are bound to again captivate those with a soft spot for diamond sports watches.
The new timepieces bear the same domed crystal of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Glassbox: It serves to enhance visibility of the dial, apart from being a distinctive feature that marks their connection to their vintage predecessors.
The new timepieces bear the same domed crystal of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Glassbox: It serves to enhance visibility of the dial, apart from being a distinctive feature that marks their connection to their vintage predecessors.
Related article: Exclusive: F1 Academy's Bianca Bustamante On Her Motorsport Journey And Representing The Philippines
Both variants of this new model are paired with a strap in hues that match their dial for a congruous look, although it can be easily switched according to one’s mood via the interchangeable mechanism. A case size of 39mm, along with the colour options of blue and pink, makes the watch a good fit for women as well as men who appreciate smaller-sized diamond-set watches.
Underneath its luxe exterior is TAG Heuer’s in-house chronograph calibre TH20-00, which features a vertical clutch, column wheel, bidirectional automatic winding, as well as an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The open caseback provides a view of the internal mechanisms, revealing the finishing on the calibre, the shield-shaped rotor and bidirectional mass.
With its wrist-friendly case size that suits both men and women, the Tag Heuer Carrera 36mm has always been a popular pick with anyone who looking for a versatile and elegant sports watch. Over the years, the model has received dial reinterpretations in various unique colours. This year is no different, as the brand takes the watch in a softly hued direction.
Feminine appeal is clearly the name of the game here: Those who cannot resist pastel colours are sure to be drawn to these latest Carrera 36mm releases. The two new hues of lilac and powdery pink give the watch a distinctly new feel and interesting look. While these pastel shades exude femininity, there’s nothing saccharine about them. The light tones play well with the silver hue of steel, creating a vibe of quiet sophistication.
Related article: LVMH Watch Week 2025 Sets The Pace For The Year In Horology
The pastel dials are given diamond hour markers for a sparkling accent, and feature a date aperture at the 6 o’clock position. The watches retain their sporty character via the gradient track around the dial—a detail that is a nod to the Carrera’s racing heritage. They also feature the iconic Carrera H bracelet in polished steel and are powered by the watchmaker’s latest Calibre 7 automatic movement that comes with a 56-hour power reserve.
If there was a poster child for ushering in the new age of corporate dressing, it would be New York-based designer Jane Wade. “Growing up in Portland, I was surrounded by diverse expressions of workwear. My mother, a hairdresser, often wore Etro and Comme des Garçons suiting, while my father, a contractor, favoured Dickies and Carhartt,” recounts Jane. The city’s outdoor culture also served as a strong influence in her design approach—sparking her penchant for blending tactile details and performance wear with traditional workwear silhouettes.
Related article: Kate Barton On Her Futuristic Clothes And How Taking The Path Less Travelled Paid Off
After graduating from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, Jane worked for New York designers like Alexander Wang and bridal label Danielle Frankel. As an employee, she wondered if the rules of work-appropriate dressing applied, even in the fashion industry. “I observed how dress codes can be both expressive and repressive. This led me to question: Can I be sexy and show a little skin at work? Or will no one take me seriously because I’m expressing myself, even though I’m equally excellent at my job?” muses Jane.
Related article: Celine Kwan On Creating Nostalgic Apparel And Her Enduring Love For Poodles
Since launching in 2022, Jane’s eponymous label has rapidly gained traction for its club-kid-meets-boss-woman creations. “My designs aim to bridge the gap between functionality and individuality, allowing wearers to express themselves authentically in professional settings,” says Jane. Her creations can be best described as a mash-up of technical elements and utilitarian silhouettes that stand out for their innovative construction and multi-functionality. In the short time since she started her brand, she has showed twice at New York Fashion Week, been shortlisted as one of 10 finalists for the 2024 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund and created custom pieces for pop stars like Tate McRae and Camila Cabello.
Related article: Chinese Designer Di Du On Why Breaking The Rules Has Been Key To Her Label's Success
Her fall/winter 2025 collection entitled ‘The Merger’—presented in February, with Lisa Rinna closing the show—was a commentary on today’s technology-fuelled surveillance culture, toying with the tension between personal autonomy and corporate environments. Apart from her signature deconstructed tops and sharp-shouldered blazers, Jane also experimented with integrating metal hardware into soft, handcrafted textiles this time—symbolising the dichotomy between the rigid workplace hierarchy and one’s personal identity.
Hailing from South Korea, this contemporary label redefines everyday staples by incorporating functional elements. Its best-selling trench coats are modelled after utilitarian raincoats, and skirts are deconstructed, with asymmetrical shapes. Meanwhile, the brand’s diffusion line Lc adopts a comfort-first approach with simple silhouettes that accommodate all kinds of everyday activities.
Founded by design duo Sarah Harris Gould and Lauren Tapper, the New Zealand-based label creates high-quality office wear staples. Adopting a refined yet offbeat design approach, the brand’s collections often blend subversive femininity with sculptural minimalism—delivering multifaceted pieces that include fluid wrap blouses and flared trousers.
This Los Angeles-based label creates conversation-starter pieces inspired by art and history. Its signatures include midi dresses and structured vests adorned with ethereal prints and dramatic nature-inspired imagery. The brand also abides by a slow fashion ethos, with garments made from natural fibres and created in small batches.
Beatlemaniacs, rejoice! Four separate biopics on each of The Beatles have been confirmed, and four of the internet's boyfriends will appropriately star as each member of the quartet.
The four Sam Mendes-directed films, which will be called The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, will tell the stories of the four members of the band, with Harris Dickinson set to play John Lennon, Paul Mescal playing Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan playing Ringo Starr and Joseph Quinn playing George Harrison.
Making a surprise appearance with the cast of the four films at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, the 1917 director told audiences: "We’re not just making one film about the Beatles—we’re making four. Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply."
Related article: Zendaya Says Acting With Boyfriend Tom Holland Is ‘Second Nature’
Related article: Exclusive: KiiiKiii Talks Debut EP ‘UNCUT GEM,’ Behind-The-Scenes Moments & Fan Predictions
Mendes also said that he had been trying to make a film about the Beatles "for years, but I finally gave up", the "story was too big for one film" and he didn’t want to make a television series. He also added that the film has the blessing of the two remaining living members of the Beatles, McCartney and Starr, and of the families of Lennon and Harrison.
It also marks the first time that the quartet, and the Beatles' rights holders Apple, have granted a full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
This isn't the first in the Beatles biopic canon, the most notable of which are Sam Taylor-Johnson's 2009 film Nowhere Boy, which told the origin story of John Lennon's childhood, and 1994's Backbeat, which focused on once-member of The Beatles, Stuart Sutcliffe.
The Beatles formed in 1960 and changed the course of musical history before breaking up in 1970.
This article was first seen on ELLE UK.