Fall season’s hottest accessories embrace classic sensibility
Though warmer climes are making a slow move away from the city, fall-winter trends are in full swing. Prep your wardrobe with the hottest accessories to add to your ensemble. From handbags to loafers to booties and more. Check out our carefully-curated selection of must-have haute couture items this autumn.
Look 1
Carasky mini bucket by Christian Louboutin; Micro Varenne shoulder bag by Jimmy Choo
Look 2
Cierra 100 boots by Jimmy Choo; The Studio tote bag by Salvatore Ferragamo; Chain bag by YSL
Look 3
Mini Kalimero Bucket bag by Bottega Veneta; One Stud Top handle Bag Valentino Garavani
Look 4
Desiree shoulder bag by Bottega Veneta; Moccasin mid heels platform by Gucci; Trifolio box bag by Salvatore Ferragamo
Look 5
Gancini loafers by Salvatore Ferragamo; Le 5 À Hobo bag by YSL
Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Venue: Casa Modernism Showroom, Horizon Plaza
Whet your appetite with these fine jewellery pieces
Looks so good, you could almost devour it. The delicate stands of diamond necklaces that twirl, wrap and drape decolletage, the scintillating earrings that frame the face and adorn the wrists, and the bubblegum pinks and blues that decorate the fingers, these are the latest of modern, elegant and mesmerising fine jewellery to style with for your next occasion.
Illa Starlight earring, Lorelei Lattice intensive bangle, Illa Starlight ring, and Illa Starlight necklace by Hearts On Fire Jewelry
Move 10th bangle, Lucky Move PM bracelet, Move Uno ankle bracelet and necklace, Move Romane mini hoops, Baby Move necklace, Lucky Move MM Onyx necklace, and Move Noa GM Pavè ring by Messika Paris
Fruit Hoops rings and bangle, Slinkee diamond ring and bangle, Marshmallow ring, Marshmallow ring by Boochier
Pain de Sucre ring , Force 10 ring and Force 10 bracelet by FRED
Schlumberger® V-Rope ear clips, Schlumberger® Bird on a Rock brooch with amethyst, Brooch, Bracelet, and Tiffany Enchant® dragonfly brooch by Tiffany & Co
Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Andy Wan
Style Guide: Choosing the right pair women’s shoes for your feet type
Every woman has known the struggle of wearing a pair of shoes that didn’t serve their comfort well. It would seem that blisters and sore feet were synonyms to being a lady. After all, “Beauty is pain”, isn’t that how the adage goes?
However, one thing that cannot be compromised when picking out the right footwear for your feet is comfort. Not only does comfort allow for a smooth stride and unrestricted mobility throughout the day, wearing the wrong pair of shoes for your feet can also adversely affect one’s posture, resulting in back pain, sore legs, and swollen ligaments.
Although the most comfortable shoes may not always be by the most coveted high fashion brands, if you pick the right shoes for your feet, your body will thank you for it. At Gafencu, our resident style experts offers a few pointers of what to avoid when picking out a pair of shoes, and hve created a list of comfortable but trendy footwear that will offer the right support and protection for your specific feet type.
Know your feet type The three most distinctive feet types are arched, flat and wide feet. These types require footwear that conforms to the distinctive shape and form of a person’s feet type to provide the most comfort — more importantly — protection.
Although the norm in any shoe store is to pick a style you like and ask for your size, podiatrists will advice you to pick out footwear according to feet type, and avoiding heals for a long stretch of time. This is because the style you like may not be fitting for the feet you have. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on your overall look and elegance though (thank goodness!). Below are our recommendations…
Flat Feet Those with flat feet are prone to ligament laxity and muscle weakness. Avoid shoes that offer little to no arch support, such as thin or flat soles, flip flops, and certain pointed or narrow fronts. Instead, pick footwear that offer more structure and support, cushioned insoles, stable design.
Photo courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
Bottega Veneta‘s Rubber Lido debossed leather mules are made in Italy from padded ‘Sea Salt’ leather. This square-toe pair is designed with thick straps and stiletto heels that offer 90mm of lift but a load of comfort from its padded soles.
Photo courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
Stuart WeitzmanNudistCurve leather sandals is a sturdy and elegant pair that features a very manageable block heel and slightly thicker two strap design for both comfort and support. This pair is made from smooth white leather and has square toes.
Something for the everyday stroll is a podiatrist-recommended VionicKit‘s Kitten Heels. Made from leather and suede, these elegant pair have a low 1.93-inch heel, and features an injected insole, enhanced contouring and padding to support the forefoot.
Wide Feet If you often feel pain in the arch, ankle, heel, along your legs or outside of the foot, it may be that you have flat feet. Avoid footwear with narrow toes like pumps and joggers. Instead, pick a pair shoes that have wider toes and platform sandals or open toed sling backs.
Photo courtesy of Steve Madden
Steve Madden‘s Lexi Multi Collection of opened toe block heels and wedges offers a wider breadth at the width of the toes that offers support for larger feet, and comfort with vegan leather, not to mention they come in a variety of colours to choose from.
Photo courtesy of Clarks
A popular favourite for both extreme comfort and affordable price is Clarks. From leather strap heels to platform sandals in suede, ladies will be spoilt for choice to select from its wide range of styles, height and finishes.
Photo courtesy of Hush Puppies
Hush Puppies is a great alternative choice to shop for more everyday walking. Offering D, E, and EEE width shoes in various styles, especially its ballerina flats fit comfortably on wide and fit wide feet.
Arched Feet
People with arched feet will feel more pressure and pain on their heels, resulting in bone spurs, calluses and are more prone to injuries. Avoid putting excessive weight on the heels and select footwear that have more support, a well-padded and / or shock-absorbing insoles for better protection.
If you thought you’d never find the perfect stiletto for your feet — think again! E’MAR‘s Raya Ankle Strap Pump is one that is specially designed by a podiatrist, so you know your feet will be getting the comfort it needs and deserves. Available in camel suede or gunmental leather, it features a dual-layer memory foam insole and an elongated arch incline for the perfect support.
The Magda Ankle Tie Platform is a strappy yet sassy platform sandal with laces that tie up above the ankle. Square-toed and 15mm in block heels, it offers a comfortable support in structure and feel, crafted in soft bovin leather. Available in four colourways including rhubarb, serenade, black and black leather, its style is one that the everyday modern woman would appreciate.
Photo courtesy of Sketchers
For a pair of runners, Skechers’ podiatrist-certified Arch Fit range is a collection of sneakers, slip-ons and sandals that are the ideal pair for everyday walking and atheltic activities. It provides support for high arches with maximum cushioning for long wear and sock-absorption.
These eyewear specialists go beyond vision with new tech, premium materials and modern designs
Choosing the right lens for your reading glasses is the first priority to consider. Factors such as grading (the magnification of the lens required for each eye) and weight of the lens, and of your spectacles overall, are also key. But reading glasses have come a long way since they first came into existence. Now, style is as much as of a selling point as substance.
(Photo courtesy of Blackzsmith Optical)
Fortunately, there are any number of eyewear specialists in Hong Kong that can give you both great advice on what you need to see clearly, as well as look great. Read on, as Gafencu takes a closer squiz at some of Hong Kong’s most promising eyewear specialists.
The Right Optics
Before you go picking out your next fashion statement, it’s important to feel comfortable with your glasses as well as ensuring your choice of eyewear is as much functional as fashionable. To ensure you choose the right lens for your eyes, it’s essential to make an appointment with a reputable optometrist to test and assess both your eyesight and the overall health of your eyes – determining if you are short sighted, long sighted or have some other issue that impairs your vision.
(Photo courtesy of Absolute Vintage)
A tip to picking the right optics is to note that each eye requires a different level of magnification. Choosing the right lens is essential to enable clear vision but to avoid health issues such as squinting, eye strain and headaches. Another factor to consider is the composition, and weight, of your lens. Generally, durable, high-quality, scratch-resistant plastic (also referred to as acrylic) lenses have the advantage over those made from glass, as the latter tends to be heavier and is easily cracked. In modern optometry, plastic lenses are preferred – ensuring the wearer has the most lightweight and comfortable experience when wearing their eyewear.
3D and Customised
(Photo courtesy of Blackzsmith Optical)
One of Hong Kong’s up-and-coming bespoke eyewear providers is Blackzsmith Optical – making a name for itself by applying cutting-edge technology to its spectacle-making process via 3D printing.
By obtaining facial data with 3D-scanning technology, the bespoke eyewear is created based on customers’ facial 3D models. The process identifies 72 key points on the face and with the data obtained providing a professional basis for the frame design. In excess of 20 different parameters of the 3D eyewear that can be adjusted, including frame size, nose bridge width and temple length and more – with all these parameters coming together to ensure the perfect fit and wearability of the frame.
(Photo courtesy of Blackzsmith Optical)
This label also prides itself on creating spectacles that are handcrafted by the technician with an eye for design and a passion for creativity. The luxurious sensibility of the brand’s collections focuses on traditional skills and immaculate craftsmanship. Blackzsmith is gaining appeal among local Hong Kong pop stars as well as key opinion leaders. Some of the eyewear brands it stocks include Matsuda – which is a favourite of the Japanese imperial family no less. As well as rising eyewear brand Ahlem – creating a buzz among the likes of Beyoncé and Kate Moss, who are apparently two of the French brands most ardent admirers.
Horny Eyewear
(Photo courtesy of Smith & Norbu)
For a spectacle specialist with a point of difference, look no further than Smith & Norbu. One of the key parts of a pair of the brand’s glasses design is the yak horn.
To tease out how this unlikely turn of events came about, we need to go back to 2007. This was when Belgian entrepreneur Benoit Ams – on a trip to Tibet – was transfixed by craft works made from yak horn. The germ of an idea was sown and from there the concept of creating high-end spectacle frames using this fit-for-purpose material was born and eventually found its place in modern eyewear designs.
(Photo courtesy of Smith & Norbu)
The manufacturer explains that natural yak horn is not only a lightweight and highly resistant material, it’s also a surprisingly vibrant natural product with subtle colour nuances that make genuine horn superior to other man-made materials. The use of natural horn makes the frame more comfortable to wear than synthetic alternatives and is also an anti-allergic product.
Manufacturing a piece of spectacles involves as many as 50 separate operations to create a single pair of frames and it takes meticulous attention to detail to produce durable, high-quality eyewear. The process of horn-based spectacle manufacturing is even more precise. First, the horn is cut and pressed into horn plates. Then, individual plates are carefully selected based on their colour pattern. Each finished product is then assembled with the brand’s signature rivet.
Vintage Chic
(Photo courtesy of Absolute Vintage)
But if you prefer to stick with a classic look, or something that’s a little on the edgy retro side, look no further than Absolute Vintage. Since becoming established in 2010, it’s a brand that prided itself on creating bespoke spectacles that are designed specifically to fit the contours of Asian faces. Absolute Vintage also incorporates unique Hong Kong themes and characteristics into its designs. So much so that it has even been featured as as a highlight on the Hong Kong Tourism Board website.
(Photo courtesy of Absolute Vintage)
Bengogh, the eyewear specialist’s chief designer, draws inspiration from the city’s surroundings in each of the brand’s designs, with many named after the streets of Hong Kong – capturing the essence of local culture in each pair of spectacles created. The brand also challenges the notion that reading glasses are just an optical aid, but rather promotes the idea that eyewear are a personalised accessory – and form an essential part of the wearer’s daily attire.
Focusing on classic spectacles and frames with an iconic visage, Absolute Vintage does away with cumbersome glasses by producing personalised, top-notch frames with a vintage aesthetic, while incorporating a range of styles, including round, cat’s eye and square, in a variety of bold colours and, of course, tortoiseshell.
Shades of Chic: Sunny summer must-haves
The right shade and shape of eyewear can frame the face and elevate a stylishly put together outfit. So, Gafencu has put together a hot edit of attention-grabbing sunglasses to pick up this season. Swipe right to see more…
Look 1
Oversized Tortoiseshell sunglasses by Chloe; Square acetate sunglasses by Saint Laurent; Heart sunglasses by Loewe
Look 2
Square-frame sunglasses by Bottega Veneta
Look 3
Round-frame sunglasses by Balenciaga; Cat-eye frame sunglasses by Balenciaga; Xpander sunglasses by Balenciaga
Look 4
Oversize-frame glasses by Alexander McQueen
Look 5
Rectangular frame sunglasses by Gucci
Look 6
Rectangle-frame tinted sunglasses by Bottega Veneta; Round-frame sunglasses by Gucci; Rectangle-frame sunglasses by Balenciaga
(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Andy Wan; Venue: Tamar Suite at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong)
Sneaker Revolution: Spotlighting Hong Kong’s custom sneaker artists
These days, it seems that sneakers carry more cultural weight than even the once most desirable and feted brand names. With luxury brands such as Loewe, Versace and Alexander McQueen now joining the line up of high-end sneakers and collaborations between the luxury world and the biggest name in sports footwear creating a cult following. Yes, we too are coveting the recent Gucci-Adidas and -Balenciaga tie-in.
Photo courtesy of 199xCustom
This generation of footwear aficionados might not be able to name a single Basquiat or Warhol masterpiece but they will tell you in a heartbeat how much a pair of Yeezy sneakers will resell for. The sub-culture of sneaker collection has risen to such heights that its fandom could possibly rival even Carrie Bradshaw’s undying love of collecting designer heels.
But as the hype of sneaker collection continue to rise, it’s no longer enough to get the rarest or most trend-setting pair of kicks. These days, customised sneakers are all the rage. Creatively conceptualised to reflect the wearer’s taste and style, custom-designed sneakers go above and beyond the range of what retail stores can offer. These unique creations give its wearers a personalised pair of sneakers that they can proudly walk in and call their own.
Photo courtesy of 199xCustom
Bridging the gap between designer shoes and bespoke footwear are custom sneaker designers. These artists turns run-of-the-mill canvas footwear into one-of-a-kind custom sneakers. Coming from a background in fine arts, graphic design and fashion design, the diversity of sneaker customisers add a youthful and modern style that many younger generations seek. Out of the box and statement-bearing, these custom sneaker designers are hand-drawn and -painted, each pair is matched to the style and personality of the customer, making no two designs ever alike – an appealing factor that many fashion enthusiasts and shoe collectors love.
Read on as Gafencu spotlights the sneaker revolutionaries in Hong Kong to turn to for your bespoke sneaker fix.
Creative Kicks
Photo courtesy of 199xCustom
Tapping into the niche market is Hong Kong sneaker illustrator 199xCustom, who specialises in animation characters and cartoons – particularly Japanese anime. She first tried her hand at sneaker customisation after a disappointing search for a design that was not available in the market. She subsequently turned to her passion for drawing to create her own, eventually turning fan art creations into an artistic interpretation of sneaker customisation.
“There are actually several different categories of customisation. I specialise in painting and using an airbrush, which generally requires a wide range of brushes, airbrushes, and pigments”, explains the artist.
Photo courtesy of 199xCustom
Anime characters and cartoons account for a large part of her work because it is a unique market not available at a retail level. However, her artistic flare and edgy style stretches beyond animation. Her original designs also range from incorporating elements of Japanese fine art, like ukiyo-e, to create an embroidered dragon and tiger pattern on the mesh body of a Yeezy 350 sneaker.
A pair of customised sneakers could cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of Hong Kong dollars. Depending on the complexity of each design, the tools and materials required – which often cost a few hundred Hong Kong dollars to purchase as well, (and ultimately) the time it takes to complete each project, prices can vary but the result will, more often than not, reflect in quality and creativity.
Back in Time
Photo courtesy of Simple Union
However, the service of sneaker customising isn’t simply picking up a paintbrush and stenciling a printout. It takes, creativity, skill and passion for art and the process it takes to create a unique concept that will set it apart from everything else already on the market. Other sneaker customisers such as Simple Union, a handcraft brand that customises shoes and other accessories, go beyond just painting and airbrushing. “‘Enjoy Simplicity, Enjoy Life’ is the motto the brand follows’’, says artist and founder FK.
Photo courtesy of 199xCustom
Putting a close focus on the materials is key to Simple Union’s unique designs, they combine traditional culture and craftsmanship with quality materials. The brand is also known for using Italian leather and rare fabrics from Japan, such as old Japanese Katazome, an ancient method of fabric dying, weaving and stenciling – often flowers and bird motifs – that dates back to the Meiji era of the late 1800s.
Photo courtesy of Simple Union
Each design is an original concept that adds a bespoke touch that off-the-rack shoes can’t offer. But Simple Union also accepts commissions by customers, if both the artist’s style and customer’s taste are a good match. On some occasions, the brand would be approached to customise products for other brands and stores as part of a workshop experience or event.
Sustainable Spirit
Photo courtesy of K!bo
Another brand that puts materials on the forefront of their products is pioneering sustainable sneaker brand K!BO. “The name K!BO means hope in Japanese”, says Natalie Chow, co-founder of the Hong Kong sustainable sneaker brand.
Adding a new line of products to their range, the footwear brand will be offering exciting new selections of customised sneakers to thrill fashionistas throughout summer. They will provide a range of limited-edition designs, as well as exciting customisation options that will allow customers the liberty to add their own touch of style to their bespoke footwear.
Photo courtesy of K!bo
Expected to start with a HK$1280 price tag, the initial stages of the new line of products will offer customised pre-order options that will allow customers to get closely involved in the design process, such as including unique and fun patterns and selecting recycled leather with graphic prints, as a way to personalise their #GuiltFreeKicks to show off this summer.
(Text: Roberliza Eugenio, Photos courtesy of 199xCustom, Simple Union and K!bo)
A fresh take on this season’s fashion accessories
Pastel is this season’s freshest colour palette. A touch of meadow green, a splash of cool aqua and a shade of soft peach, these are the hottest fashion accessories to add a sweet slice of style to your summertime sartorial ensemble.
The Fresh Squeeze
Paula’s Ibiza Original sunglasses by Loewe; F-Heel sandal by Salvatore Ferragamo; La Medusa Lilac shoulder bag by Versace
Beach Day
Sabot bag by Hermès; Flower Acid Yellow sunglasses by Loewe; Trifolio Fresh Mint shoulder bag by Salvatore Ferragamo
Summertime Party
Flap bag by Bottega Veneta; Varenne top handle tote with JC monogram by Jimmy Choo
Gold Star
Vlogo Chain Loafers by Valentino Garavani; Heather shoulder bag by Michael Kors; Sun Titanium 8907 sunglasses by LINDBERG; Light gold necklace by PORTS 1961; Gold and silver ring by PORTS 1961
Sunkissed Elegance
Rouge Hermès Shiny lipstick by Hermès; Toyin bag by Bottega Veneta; Bing 100 pumps by Jimmy Choo
Chic Chick
Earrings and Necklace by Bottega Veneta; Small Goya Tan/Lemon bag by Loewe
(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan)
Five best pocket-size cameras to take on your travels
Summer is out! Those who are itching to take a trip out of town or hankering for a thrilling off-road adventure or even an underwater deep dive will want to capture all their exciting moments on camera. Afterall, if you don’t get to show it off on social media, did it even happen at all? For that, we’ve listed the best compact, pocket-size cameras in 2022 that are perfect for vlogging your adventure on-the-go.
As substitute for bulky DSLR or mirrorless digital cameras, but notches ahead of your handy smartphone, these pocket-size cameras are perfect for those wanting to travel light, but still look for high resolution playback for any weather and occasion. Small enough to slip into your pockets and easier to fiddle with than your smartphone, these are the pocket-size cameras to get for your next travel.
Best Overall: GoPro HERO 10 Black
(Photo: Hero 10 Black, courtesy of GoPro)
The Specs: Starting at the top of the list is the Hero 10 Black by action camera specialists GoPro. Although we had hoped to find a worthy contender to trump the coveted Hero 10 Black, to the surprise of none, it remains at the top of the best action camera and pocket camera for travels. Versatile to the max, it can suit any occasion or situation, from high-intensity sports videos to underwater diving shots, or simply travel vlogs and day-to-day video journaling.
It shoots in 5.4k 23MP at 60fps and can dive underwater up to a depth of 33ft. It boasts an amazing HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization in all modes and performs brilliantly even in low light. It features a wide and extra wide angle lens that captures video and images in professional quality and also offers timpe lapse and slow-mo modes. It captures stills of 19.6MP videos as well as snap 23MP photos in its dedicated photo mode. It is also powered by a new GP2 processor that allows for smoother video playback, especially on its improved front-facing screen.
The Cons: Despite the impressively clear resolution of its specifications, the one flaw that we can point out is that its colour contrasts and range of colour profiles fall flat on details and its built-in microphone could have been made to sound more detailed.
The Verdict: With a shock-proof case that is mountable to a wide range of different accessories, and full-automatic feature, this action / pocket camera is the perfect companion for adventure-seekers and beginner vloggers. It even allows for cloud connectivity for easy and instant sharing.
Most Compact: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
(Photo: Osmos Pocket 2, courtesy of DJI)
The Specs: Ultra-compact and light weight, the Osmos Pocket 2 by drone experts DJI has put out a pocket-size vlogging camera perfect for capturing memorable moments on your travels or day-to-day. Despite its miniature size, it packs impressive specs. Most notably, its impressive image stabaliser, thanks to its built-in 3-axis stabilization and ActiveTrack 3.0 technology which captures clear and focused movements while on-the-go.
The device shoots in a 4K wide angle in 24fps with a pretty clear built-in microphone. It also features various shooting modes such as, time lapse, slow-mo, and even a story mode that offers video and music templates for short film compositions — simplifying video production and photography while on-the-go. It firmware technology also allows for users to seamlessly switch from video to photo mode with a simple click of a button, perfect for those who love collecting snapshots of their travels and experiences.
The Cons: Although the device offers a myriad of shooting modes to choose from, its quality and functionality can be limited depending on which mode you’re in. For example, active tracker and face tracking isn’t available in 4K mode and the ability to zoom in on slow-mo mode is absent.
The Verdict: There’s not a lot to complain about with the DJI Osmos Pocket 2, but if there are any drawbacks to this is, it would be that it does not compare to the image and video quality you would get from a DSLR, which isn’t surprising given the size of this pocket camera. Although there could be some improvements on consistency of quality throughout the different shooting modes, overall it is a great pocket-size camera to take on travels for day-to-day journaling, vlogging and easy editing.
The Specs: Never miss a shot because its 360 lens captures EVERYTHING, allowing for efficient, effortless, and stress-free video editing. It shoots in an impressive 5.7K quality in 24fps in a more dynamic range of colour profiles and modes, such as stable cam, 150-degrees wide angle, selfie mode, stable cam mode and of course 360-degree mode.
It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, and holds comfortably in the hand, and with instant connectivity to your smartphone and a dedicated editing app, sharing memorable adventures and amazing video content with friends and family is made even easier. Did we mention that this camera is also IPX 8 waterproof up to 8 meters underwater without a case?
The Cons: The only drawback is that its firmware can be a little laggy when switching from one mode to the other, and has been criticised for occasionally freezing in between modes. And although the battery life is a vast improvement from its predecessor it still only captures about 60 to 80 minutes of high resolution video. For this we suggest to pack extra batteries.
The Verdict: Nonetheless, the strengths definitely outweigh the drawbacks with this pocket-size camera. Making this a versatile action camera that boasts the unique feature of a 360-angle for an immersive throwback of every moment.
Best for Beginners: Akaso Brave 7 LE
(Photo: Akaso Brave 7 LE, courtesy of Akaso)
The Specs: The Specs: The Akaso Brave 7 is the brand’s most expensive model to date, but still it is one of the most affordable action cameras on the market that will still offer decent quality videos and photos. It shoots 4K videos in 30fps and 20MP photos. With a 6-Axis Image Stabiliser, its video quality isn’t the best on the market right now but it does score points above brands like GoPro and DJI in areas like battery life and convenience.
It is IPX 7 waterproof without a case, and can dive 1 meter underwater (farther with a waterproof case) and has the feature of switch shooting modes while underwater with its touch-screen dual screen, which most action cameras don’t. With this device you can also choose to shoot in time-lapse and slow-mo in 60fps HD mode for all those high impact action moments.
The Cons: A major drawback to the camera, especially for those who enjoy narrating their day-to-day and travels is that, although it is built in with an internal mic, the audio clarity and quality is not comparable to that of GoPros or Camcorders, and it does not support external mic.
The Verdict: Overall, the Akaso Brave performs well and comes complete with several accessories and mounts upon purchase, which makes it much more affordable than that of GoPro and DJI models, although it is the brand’s most expensive model to date. It will serve well for beginners and those who prefer convenience.
Best for Photos: Ricoh GR IIIx
(Photo: Ricoh GR IIIx, courtesy of Ricoh)
The Specs: For a compact substitute for a DSLR, Ricoh has put out a pocket-siz camera that makes one-handed shooting comfortable and effortles. It shoots 24.4MP through an APS-C sensor and 40mm high-resolution GR fixed lens.
It fits comfortably in the pocket and scores high for its portability, convenience and quality that serves street photographers and photography enthusiast a golden balance between high resolution cameras and mobile phones. Those who enjoy everyday photo journaling will find themselves reaching for this gadget more often their smartphone.
The Cons: Although its 24.4MP and APS-C sensor gives the camera great image quality, the auto-focus for video is not great, especially compared to the other action cameras presented on the list. Aside from that, the shooting modes and settings are pretty basic and the battery capacity doesn’t boast a very long lifespan, but like the Insta360, you can always buy extra rechargeable batteries.
The Verdict: Although the Ricoh GR IIIx is more limiting than most DSLRs, it is certainly more compact. It also boasts sharp images in high resolution and high contrast in 35mm format, although its auto-focus doesn’t perform well on video, which may be a deal breaker for those on the market for vlogging cameras.
Baggin Rights: Handbag couture you can be sure of…
You can slip into the hottest fashion number of the season but no outfit will ever be complete without the perfect bag to match it. More than just a vessel for our smartphones and nick knacks, handbags give women a boost of confidence and a sense of security. Whether these strapped numbers are studded or chained, crafted with the finest leather or adorned with oscillating tassels, this season’s handbags complement the bold, edgy and beautiful spirit of the modern-day young woman. See below which ones we’re coveting right now…
Look 1
Le Cagole XS shoulder bag and Le Cagole mini purse with chain by Balenciaga hanging from its Le Cagole 90mm boots.
Look 2
Marcie small saddle bag and Key medium shoulder bag by Chloé, complete its with Brass and cotton earrings and a Crepe de Chine silk and mother-of-pearl necklace.
Look 3
Classy yet brassy, these are the Carasky mini bag by Christian Louboutin and Givenchy’s Mini Antigona Sport bag in leather with chain and Mini G Tote shopping bag.
(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan)
Single lane swimming is tedious, especially if you’re lapping up for exercise. Just as music helps you lift harder and stronger in the gym, your favourite tunes have the same impact under water in every lap and tumble turn. And now thanks to refined technology, you can take a dip, dive or somersault in water with a slew of new waterproof headphones. Scroll below for our edit of the best underwater headphones, we’ve got purse-pleasing options as well.
Buyer’s Guide: What is IP and IPX rating?
(Photo courtesy of H20 Audio)
Not all waterproof headphones are made equal. As good as they are as sweat-proof and washable accessories, it might not always be the case underwater. Most waterproof headphones with a protective case rating of IPX6 or below are only able to withstand underwater conditions for up to 3-feet and 30-minute or less duration. However, if you are in the market for an audio accessory to enjoy music, audiobooks and podcast episodes in the pool or in open water, a pair of waterproof headphones with a rating of IPX7 (waterproof) and above or IP67 (waterproof and dust-proof) will serve as a reliable and durable option.
California-based portable audio manufacturer H20 Audio has put out a pair of all-in-one underwater headphones with MP3 player & Bluetooth capabilities. It is a hassle-free, compact accessory that comfortably sits underneath your goggles or swim cap and offers crystal clear sound quality through bone construction technology. Equipped with an 8GB MP3 player and built-in Bluetooth connectivity, users can switch between their downloaded audio files or stream their favourite playlist from their smartwatch or phones. Button designs are deliberately enlarged with extra raised markings for easier navigation down under.
Sony has long been lauded for its Walkman series and MP3 devices. But with its dust-proof and salt water-proof NW-WS413LM underwater headphones, you can now take your music from the hills to the sea. Built to withstand the elements in any weather or condition, the IPX65/68 rating allows its wearers to submerge up to six-feet underwater, as well as endure harsh temperatures ranging from -5° to 45°C. Available in several attractive colours, it is built in with an integrated Mp3 player with either 4GB or 6GB memory, and a battery life that lasts up to 12-hours.
Zygo Solo was introduced into the market in 2021 as an ambitious true wireless Bluetooth headphone. It stands out from many others in the segment for its Bluetooth connectivity, pretty uncommon in many other underwater devices, and an IP68 rating. It allows swimmers to stream music, podcasts, audiobooks and more from any device without compromising on sound quality. Built with its own transmitter, the device can be connected to any smartphone above water.
However, it does have its drawbacks. Compared to the other devices below, it can only dive up to two-feet underwater, but with an IP68 rating offers 3-hours of playtime, 8-hours on the transmitter and with the dedicated Zygo App, users can enjoy the added perk of guided audio workouts and live coaching as well.
Continuing to disrupt the traditional earphone industry with its OpenSwim headphones is New York bone conduction technology manufacturer Shokz (formerly known as AfterShokz). Encased within a protective casing and an IP68 rating, this one is waterproof up to 6-feet deep for two-hours, and pumps an impressive 8-hours of playback music. It can also store up to 4GB of audio files and is designed to sit comfortably on the cheekbones for all-day comfort.
An alternative bone conduction type is the Finis Duoby US swimming accessory brand Finis. Designed with distinct streamlined Duo™ to goggle straps that rest comfortably on the cheekbones with an integrated clip design – these come with an IPX8 rating, and can dive up to 10-feet underwater, while delivering clear audio for up to 7 hours. But unlike the OpenSwim, it caps at 30-minutes of continuous swimming and only reads MP3 and WMA files.
The Audioflood Hydroactive by Swimbuds, a pioneer in creating the first short-cord headphone designed specifically for swimmers. It has a rigid earbud tip that prevents water from slipping through, a rating of IPX 8, fantastic audio delivery system with duel-chamber earbuds that amplify sound even when submerged. It packs four interchangeable earbud styles in three different sizes for ultimate functionality – whether you’re running, biking or any aquatic activity – this will be your best ‘bud’.
Le Cagole XS shoulder bag and Le Cagole mini purse with chain by Balenciaga hanging from its Le Cagole 90mm boots.
