For Jiang Luoyi, summer in Singapore tastes like desserts and cold drinks shared on humid afternoons. “My concept, Taste of Summer, reinterprets Singapore’s dessert café and beverage culture through a beauty editorial lens,” she says. “The shoot transforms flavours, textures, colours, and atmospheres into a fashion-forward visual narrative.”
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Having lived here for more than five years, Luoyi explained that she grew up especially connected to the country’s dessert culture and tropical flavours. As such, her editorial revolves around four beauty looks inspired by iconic Singaporean desserts and tropical flavours: bandung, kueh lapis, bubble tea, and pandan cake. “Taste became my strongest association with Singapore,” she explains. “I was inspired by how visually rich they are—the colours, textures, and even the emotions and memories they create. Through glossy textures, vibrant tones, and tropical elements, the project aims to capture a sensorial and contemporary interpretation of the country.”
Being selected as one of the project’s three finalists was a particularly meaningful moment for the young Chinese creative. “Fashion and visual storytelling have always been something I’m deeply passionate about,” she reflects. “Being recognised by ELLE gave me even more confidence and motivation to continue creating within the fashion industry.”
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The experience also gave her a first-hand glimpse into the realities of editorial production. “I learnt how important it is to build a strong and cohesive creative direction—every detail, from the concept to styling and visual references, needs to connect clearly. I gained a deeper understanding of how makeup, hair, and lighting work together to shape the final visual outcome.” she shares. “It felt really different from the personal projects we usually do in school.”
When asked what advice she would give fellow students, she thinks for a moment before replying, “the most important thing is to never stop creating, learning, and staying curious. Creativity and imagination are essential in fashion, but continually improving your professional skills is equally important. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and develop your own perspective."
Bandung Blush
Inspired by Singapore’s iconic rose syrup drink, this look pairs flushed pink cheeks with softly stained lips and diffused rosy eyes. Keep skin fresh and luminous, concentrating colour high on the cheeks for a youthful, sun-kissed finish.
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Boba Lips
A glossy chocolate lip takes centre stage in this makeup look inspired by dark boba pearls. Define the lips with a deep brown liner before layering a rich espresso-toned lipstick and gloss for a dimensional finish.
Pandan Pop
Electric green eyes transform one of Singapore’s most beloved flavours into a bold beauty statement. Sweep vivid green shadow across the lids and lower lash line, keeping the rest of the complexion clean and understated.
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Lapis Lashes
The colourful layers of kueh lapis inspire this playful lash look. Use contrasting shades of mascara to create graphic definition around the eyes paired with a satiny red lip.
Creative Direction JIANG LUOYI
Photographer SHERMAN SEE-THO
Stylist JEFFREY YAN
Model SHEENA S/Mannequin
Makeup Artist CLARENCE LEE
Hairstylist KEN HONG/Evolve Salon
Photographer’s Assistants GOH CHIANG YANG; SHIRO KUAN
Stylist’s Assistant NAZIRA LUBIS