While things are slowly getting better, this year is no doubt deeply painful for many of us. For me, it was an emotional downward spiral during the start of the lockdown. Thankfully I was able to quickly get over it, seize the opportunity to upgrade myself, and even step out of my comfort zone for a better source of income through my skincare sideline while I am being put on unpaid leave by my company – and for everything that has happened, I am grateful it hasn’t been worse. This year has taught me to adapt, to be resilient, to press on and above all, to choose myself.  #selflove

Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world.

So when the guys from LeCaine contacted me for a bespoke moissanite ring product feature that is all about self-love, I agreed without hesitation. Sometimes, all we need is a gentle reminder that we are, indeed awesome and deserving of the best things life has to offer. And a custom gemstone ring is definitely a perfect way for us to remember and treat ourselves like the amazing being that we are!

Here we are at this product feature blog about my entire journey of creating a bespoke Moissanite ring.

A MOISSANITE 

LeCaine is one of the most reputable Moissanite jewellers in Singapore. If you haven’t heard of a Moissanite yet, it is a lab-created gemstone which is almost similar to a diamond. It exudes strong brilliance and fire, therefore appears almost identical, if not more brilliant than a diamond to naked, untrained eyes. More importantly, it is conflict-free, ethically and responsibly sourced, environmentally friendly and only costs a fraction of a diamond.

THE DISCUSSION 

Prior to the actual discussion, I had a brief discussion with the lady boss Ashley regarding the ring design and my preference through Whatsapp. For those who are interested in a bespoke ring, the priority is always to make sure that the ring reflects your style. I did some research and pinned some of the designs on Pinterest as my visual inspiration.

I love vintage rings. They are timeless, full of details, and exudes a unique elegance. But I’d also like a ring that incorporates my style and outfit — something that reflects my aesthetics.

We scheduled our first meeting at LeCaine’s new physical store at Millenia Walk. Ashley provides valuable advice in terms of ring design. We went through my inspiration board and nailed down the settings and some design elements of the ring.

CHOOSING A STONE & CUT

Next and the most exciting part – selecting the gemstone. LeCaine offers a variety of quality moissanite. From the top-notch colourless grade to a wide array of different shades of green and grey. Knowing exactly what I wanted, we went straight to picking the coloured gemstone.

According to Ashley, green and grey moissanite are the rarer finds in the moissanite family, with the grey moissanite being the hardest to procure. Typically, it takes about 3 months to create one grey moissanite, therefore explain its scarcity even in the lab-made moissanite market. LeCaine is the only moissanite jeweller in Singapore that produces grey moissanite in-house too.

At the end of the day, I set my eyes on a 2-carat round-cut grey moissanite that has a rainbow-like sparkle. The gemstone also changes from mystical grey to a beautiful shade of steel blue-grey under broad daylight like a chameleon.

SELECTING THE METAL & SETTINGS 

We also decided on a three-stone setting for a fresher look. The main stone will be flanked by two 0.8 carat colour grade D teardrop moissanite stones on an 18k yellow gold plated band. As the grey moissanite has a cool undertone, a yellow gold band would bring out the vintage look of the ring.

SKETCHING 

A week after the initial meeting, I received the mock-up sketch from Ashley, and It was exactly what I wanted.

Ashley suggested a basket-prong setting with a twist – and it worked so well with the vision I had in mind with this ring. Of course, at this point, you may also make any final tweaks before they start making your ring. You’ll need to wait for about two to four weeks for the ring, and the team will keep you updated. The entire process was fuss-free and gives me peace of mind that the ring will turn out well.

COLLECTION OF THE RING

I still remember vividly how my heart flutters when I collected the ring at the store. It was exactly how I pictured. The beautiful gemstone sits nicely on the prong, and from the side, you can clearly see the “V” that symbolises victory. I have always wanted to remind myself to look on the bright side, and this ring is a timely reminder.

The two teardrop moissanites around the main gemstone symbolises the hardships and adversity. We placed them at the side of the main stone, symbolises that the hardships will eventually be paid off.

I want to remind myself to accept the fact that storms will happen in life, and despite all that may be going on maybe going wrong, there is always something to be grateful for. A positive mindset is everything. I love that Ashley and her team managed to bring my vision to life, it definitely worth the one month wait.

Two weeks after collection of the ring – I must say this ring still makes my heart skip a beat every time I caught a glimpse of its sparkle. I like to twirl it around my fingers just to see the way it glittered from all angles.

The craftsmanship of the ring is truly commendable. The experienced gold workers are hailed from Hong Kong, and they pay absolute attention to the details and took pride in their work to create your one and only bespoke ring. The photo below is a comparison of LeCaine’s ring with a brand S’s diamond stimulant ring from Canada that costs about USD 220. You can definitely tell them apart in a glance!

The moissanites from LeCaine also comes with GRA certification, though the best way of verifying true moissanite is through a Moissanite or Diamond tester. Presidium produces the best testers in the market. So if you do not want to buy expensive cubic zirconia online, you may want to invest in a tester, or check in with the lovely people at LeCaine as they have the testing device in-store.

Looking for an alternative engagement ring or getting yourself a custom gemstone ring? A moissanite ring would fit the bill! Before you head down to LeCaine’s website to find out more, here is my FAQs regarding getting your ring customised at LeCaine!

FAQ 

Why Moissanite?

Because it is guilt-free, cruel-free and debt-free! A similar-sized diamond ring would have cost x 4 of the price of a moissanite ring.

Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia, how do we tell them apart? 

Admit it. We all have the fear of purchasing fake gemstones. However, it is pretty easy to tell the two apart. Put the real moissanite and Cubic Zirconia (CZ) next to each other. The Moissanite would have a diamond-like sparkle compare to the CZ. A moissanite also tends to have lasting sparkle than CZ overtime. You may also check the two stones from top-down. The CZ would look more like glass and tend to turn cloudy within a short period of time while moissanite is more reflective with its diamond facets.

What are the colour ranges available, if I’d like colourless moissanite? 

Most moissanites comes in a yellowish or brownish colour, similar to J-M colour diamonds. If you like a diamond-look-alike style, the trick is to go for moissanites that are equivalent to “Near Colourless” G-I range, and “Colourless” D-F range. LeCaine pride themselves as the moissanite jeweller that has the most similar cut and quality to a real diamond.

How do we make sure the quality? 

Always go to the trusted store, and preferably the ones that you can see the stone and make a comparison in person. LeCaine also uses Presidium tester so you can see them perform the test in front of you. Ashley is very knowledgeable and upholds a high standard for every piece of moissanite jewellery the store offers to its clients.

How long does the entire customisation process take? 

Depending on the design and the moissanite you choose, it may take 2 weeks or more to create your dream ring.

What’s the price range like?

A ready-made 0.5-carat moissanite ring would cost SGD 738 onwards, and a pair of ready-made 0.3-carat moissanite earrings on 18k gold would cost SGD 398 on their official website. There is no minimum budget for a custom piece. You can engage them for a quote of pricing depending on the carat size, colour, shape and design! For a custom ring similar to mine, you’d have to ballpark SGD 2,400 or more.

CONTACT INFO:

LeCaine Gems
9 Raffles Boulevard #01-32 Millenia Walk, 039596
https://lecaine.com/ 

Beara Beara is a responsible brand that upholds quality, style and humanity. What caught my eyes are their gorgeous design and luscious leather. I got their classic and bestselling backpack Mya in Brown. Initially, I was torn in between the Tan and the Brown as both colours are equally gorgeous. I picked the brown in the end as I feel it matches better with my entire wardrobe. Depending on the light, you may see black cherry or rich dark chocolate, which is absolutely gorgeous.

 

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I couldn’t get over the detail and quality of the bag. It is made of full soft leather, with an extremely sturdy frame. It measures 24cm x 31cm x 14cm, and fits my new Macbook Air perfectly. I love the secret zip pocket at the back which is the best pocket for passport and credit cards. It also has a zipped pocket inside and features a small pocket on the front with buckles.

 

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I love to travel. And when I travel, I do my best to make sure I look good and feel comfortable, which could be a struggle even to avid travellers. But this backpack has been a game-changer. The design and functionality are well executed while keeping that vintage British style alive. I matched it with casual dresses, tees and jeans, and even smart casual for business. The best thing? A (stylish) backpack keeps my hands free! Which is great when we are transiting at the airport, or exploring a new city.

If you are looking to update your travel bag, I think the bags at Beara Beara are worth considering. And if you are already looking for a leather bag, look no further because they are having a Black Friday Sale with 20% discount sitewide! I am so excited about this sale as it is a great time to grab your dream bag at the biggest discount ever. The sale starts on the 29th of November and ends on 2nd December so get ready!

What’s In My Bag When I Travel: 

I must say the size of the bag is not big. However, I have yet to feel that I need an upsize at my recent trip. It fits in my MacBook Air, wallet, a water tumbler, a book, my sunnies and even a thin cardigan. Not all items are captured in my photo here but here are my travel essentials I can’t travel without:

SUQQU Flawless Lipgloss 02 | This has become my favourite lippy this year. I suffered from cracking lip early this year and could not apply any lip products as they often resulted in a sharp pain at my lips except SUQQU. My lips feel hydrated and plump after one application and I am sold.

Giorgio Armani Essence-in-Foundation Cushion| Lightweight, amazing cover and dewy finish, perfect for my schedule.

Medication & Eyedrop | Axe Universal Oil (for the uninitiated, this is one quirky item most South-East Asian would have in our bag.) For all unpleasant moment from headache, nausea to a runny nose. Daily disposable contact lens, make up remover wipes, eyedrop etc.

SEABAND | A band to wear on each wrist to relieving nausea, travel and motion sickness by exerting pressure on the acupressure point (Nei-Kuan Point). I really recommend this as it works well on me and I can go drug-free!

MacBook Air | For work and connecting with the world.

Water Tumbler | I always make sure I carry a Thermo bottle with me whenever I travel. Age is catching up?

Beara Beara 2019 Black Friday SALE

Date: 29th Nov. – 2nd Dec.

Discount: 20% OFF all collections  (the biggest discount of the year)

Promotion Code: HIBLACK 

Website: https://bearabeara.co.uk/product-category/all-products/

The kind ladies behind Biker Starlet sent two of their bags from the latest collection, and it arrived right before Christmas. Just in time for the pre-Christmas brunch date with K at the newly revamped SKAI bar. To read more about the beautiful bar at the 70th level of Swissotel The Stamford and its offerings, click here.

I brought the Noelle Bag out for the day. It comes in two sizes, the small and the original. Being a small bags collector, of course, I chose the small one. This design debuted in Spring 2018, and now it comes with a brand new, sophisticated Khaki colour to suit the late winter mood. The deep and solid green colour complements the slip dress from Klarra so very well, it lifted the holiday mood almost instantly.

Speaking of the size of the small Noelle, I didn’t think it is an issue. It could be that I am used to mini bags. I usually wear mini bags on a date, attending a wedding or gatherings with one, which generally only lasted a few hours before returning home. This particular bag may look small, but it could load up my wallet, iPhone, house keys, lipsticks and a packet of tissue papers. I’d say the size is pretty decent – just nice to fill up the essentials that could last me for half a day.

The cow leather bag is soft yet sturdy – It feels soft, but the bag stays in its oval, elegant shape even when its empty. I love the flap design and vintage buckle opening. It ensures easy accessibility yet very secure.

The other bag I got was the Winnie bag from the latest collection. I like it because it is a timeless and classic sling bag that would fit almost everything from your wardrobe.

One thing that I think Biker Starlet should improve on is the quality of their buckle for Winnie. The vintage outlook certainly looks classy, but it doesn’t withstand the daily wear and tear. I barely wear it about 5 times and starting to see noticeable scratches at the buckle. I didn’t encounter any problems with my Noelle bag though. Probably it is just the closing mechanism that causes the scratches inevitably.

They have some terrific deal on their official website. Some of the designs are having a 50% discount, a great time to get a new bag!

Note to International Shoppers

I did receive some feedback about having problems purchasing their bag. I figured it is because you’ve visited their Korean site. They do have an English site cater to international customers. Head here to access their English site for international customers. All you need to do is to add the bag to the cart and select “check out all”  at the bottom of your cart page. If you do not wish to sign up as a member, you may select “Guest Checkout”, and continue to pay by credit card or PayPal. However, using guest checkout means you won’t be able to accumulate points for any future purchase.

Biker Starlet x Pheuron Tay – Exclusive Promotion

I’ve partnered with Biker Starlet for some awesome promotion only for you! Simply DM them the code “Pheuron2019” on their official Instagram right after you’ve done purchasing your bag and you will receive a Poppy Canvas Bag of your choice worth SGD 47++! For members who spend more than KRW 200,000 (USD 179++ or SGD 243++), upon DM them the code, you’ll be given a Poppy Canvas Bag of your choice and a super cute Champagne Clutch!  They’re having up to 50% sale on their site now so just click away!

Biker Starlet

2019 New Store: 13 Sangwon-gil, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours : Mon-Fri 9:30am-6:30pm / Sat 11:30am-6:30pm
Tel: 02-518-1446

http://en.bikerstarlet.com

When I first discovered the brand a few years back, the simple and stylish design struck me immediately. I went on to purchase my first Biker Starlet and became their enthusiastic brand advocate ever since. Over the years, it has become one of the top designer bag labels in South Korea and a star-studded brand in the local entertainment and fashion scene. So when they contacted me for a collaboration, I was thrilled.

I can’t wait to introduce these 5 versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create an endless number of ensembles for your wardrobe.

#1 Doctor’s Bag

Doctor’s bag (USD 373.91) remains as one of my favourite bags to-date. Be it work, play or travel, my regular sized black Doctor’s has followed me to almost everywhere in the past 2 years. I was surprised that it is still looking great, retaining its shape and form despite daily wear-and-tear.

So u think #commonground is cool? There’s a new #shippingcontainer cluster just 2.6KM away! It is a very local space to check out and support, if you are up to exploring a spanking new place in Seoul. I strongly recommend you to visit this place on a weekend or evening, as the evening sky is beautiful here! Check out my blog: bit.ly/understandAve . Or just click the link on my bio! #언더스탠드에비뉴 #understandavenue #seongsu #성수동 #서울숲 #seoulforest #newplaceintown #newplaceinseoul #seoultrip #koreawithpheuron #한국 #서울 #커먼그라운드 #lotd #ootd #trenchcoat #lacedress #layering

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Crumpled fashion. Lol 다림이 없어서 그냥 입었다 ㅋㅋ 뭐 구김이 패션이짘ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ . . . #스웨덴 #스웨덴여름 #한여름의밤 #스톡홀름 #現在就流行不燙衣 #ootd #lotd #패션피플 #여행스타그램 #바이커스탈렛 #bikerstarlet #nikeroshe #Nike #nudetw #maybebaby #메이비베이비 #linen #doctorsbag #닥터스백 #린넨자켓 #widepants #jumpsuit #점프수트 #streetfashion

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Duck egg blue x black kind of day. . . . #danishdesign #koreandesign #localbrand #ceciliecopenhageninSG #bikerstarlet

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The bag comes in regular and mini size and various colours, from the classic black and tan to the bright and summer-ry ones like blue or white, not to forget the quirky ones like forest green and coral pink. This bag has also appeared in many popular dramas. I remembered how effortlessly chic Hwang Jung Eum looked in drama “She Was Pretty”.

I also adore So Yi Hyun’s look with the wine red colour Doctor’s Bag in “Women’s Secret”- the perfect ensemble I’d wear during the year-end festive season. For those who’re looking for a summer bag, check out how Seo Hyun Jin style her girl-next-door look with a white Doctor’s.

#2 Alex Bag

Alex (USD 373.91) is another bag from the label that caught my eyes since the first day of its launch. Buckle bags are the ultimate classic that will never go out of style! This one in cow suede leather makes a good styling item for F/W season and will pack in everything you need on your daily commute.

Check out how actress Kim Go Eun and Red Velvet’s Seulgi style the tan brown bag respectively. Opt for the black version for a sophisticated look just like Kwon Yuri in her recent drama.

#3 Madison Bag

I am a huge, huge sucker for mini bags and I’ve been pondering to get myself a Madison (USD 452.17) for the longest time. I love the muted golden hardware at the top which screams retro. Although it comes in a compact size, it is definitely not so “mini” that you can actually fit in quite a few essentials.

This bag comes in different colours and I love their summer edition which features white, Cerulean blue or and red colours. The website currently features dust navy, mahogany and classic black which is so very in season.

Madison is also well loved by Korean celebrities. We’ve seen AOA’s Mina, Girl Friend’s Shinbi, DIA’s Ki Hee Hyun wearing them when they’re off the screen, and Lee Chung Ah styling the mini Madison in red perfectly with a red plaid dress.

#4 Lila Bag

Lila (USD417.39) didn’t really catch my eyes in the first place but things of true beauty stand the test of time. The design and colour selection is impeccable, making it very easy to work with your outfit. For those who believe size matters, this is the perfect bag – not too big, but not too small to contain whatever you need.

#5 Isla Bag

Isla is the latest addition to my Biker Starlet collection at home. It comes in two sizes and I got the mini one in beige (USD 417.39). Boy, it was love at first sight. The golden buckle, the slender top handle, the sleek dark lacquered edges as well as the slight A-line shape, this bag is in many ways, the perfect incarnation of my dream bag – a timeless classic piece with a contemporary touch.

Between pairing it with dresses or wide leg trousers on workdays or a pair of casual jeans on a weekend, you can’t go wrong with Isla. It also comes in regular size which Gong Minji (better known by her stage name Minzy) carries.

If you’re searching for a new arm candy, I cannot recommend Biker Starlet enough! They have English and Chinese version on their official website and order online was a breeze. They ship via EMS and the wait was short. I know I have preached about this brand for ages, but it really makes an ideal gift for her. (or even for yourself!)

If you end up picking one of these lovely cuties up, do let me know in the comments how you’re liking it!

Brand Details

Biker Starlet

2019 New Store: 13 Sangwon-gil, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: 02-518-1446

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Recently, I got a chance to visit their flagship store at Chungdam-dong personally and I thought of sharing this Korean designer bag that I adore with you guys!  (Update as of Oct 2019: Biker Starlet has shifted their flagship store to Seongsu-Dong, address updated as below)

So this brand has come into vogue, particularly these recent two years in South Korea. For those who are pretty updated on what’s happening in the Seoul fashion industry, you may have already noticed quite a number of socialites, fashion bloggers or models endorsed in this particular brand when they attended Seoul Fashion Week 2015 S/S.

Not only the K-pop idols are loving it, your favourite K-drama stars are appearing in different dramas with these bags. The visibility of these beauties has also increased in various variety shows. To name a few, KBS drama “Blue Bird” 파랑새 의 집, Blood 블러드, My Heart Shines 내마음반짝반짝, Birth of a Beauty 미녀의 탄생, Tasty Road, We Got Married’s Kim Soo Eun & Song Jaerim couple … you name it.

Their signature bag, the Anne City is one of their best sellers so far. I like the slightly thicker gold chain, which makes the bag a bold statement piece. Just wear something simple and let the bag shine! Easy wardrobe solutions!

Next, I am going to introduce several classic designs by the brand, which are my favourite. I am planning to get another Biker Starlet soon but, frankly speaking, I can’t really decide which one to get yet. I mean, look at their design, they are so versatile, the colours are all very basic which make them so easy to work with your daily outfit ensemble.

The first one is Manuella, very cute robot (?) face suitable for both formal and casual look. I really like the two gold studs, also the buckle of the bag which comes in muted gold colour and a square shape. It just look like the mouth of a robot. What a cutie!

Next design that I have been pondering to get is Misty in Grey colour. I really love this particular design as it is a very classic and stylish bag to carry to work! I especially love the “grey” tone of the bag, which, unfortunately, doesn’t really show up nicely in my picture. If you go to their site and search up “Misty” you’ll be able to see how pretty the colour is. It is not exactly in grey, but a lighter shade of grey, with probably muted indie pink ground. A very sophisticated (and special) colour to begin with for your first Biker Starlet bag I would say.

Introducing Libby in Black, a Daebak [means awesome in Korean] design from the brand. (Every Korean girls of my age love this!)  This particular shoulder bag has what it takes to be a popular item at the shopfloor. The rectangular body gives off the retro and classic look to the overall design. The bike logo, which was very different from the rest of the Biker Starlet bags, is probably the reason why this bag is a keeper for an avid Bikerstarlet collector. It is their only bag with this particular logo!  What is more, the bag is sturdy and could actually fit in more that you could imagine!

Next, Mia in green from their mini bags series. I am never a fan of mini bags, perhaps because I am quite a practical person when it comes to bags. But this one was exceptional. Look how it completes my look! If you are looking for a mini bag with a sense of detail in design, do head over to their official site and take a look at their mini bag range.

On the racks are the new 2015 S/S designs! We see some slight changes in the new 2015 S/S design: In conjunction with the breezy spring, a series of pastel colours we added to the collection, something we have never seen in Biker Starlet, a refreshing change! The signature metallic “eyes” aka two buttons on the bag is retained on most of their new designs, which is a plus in my book. I am totally in love with their new Taylor and Sadie bag, especially the small Taylor in off-white, and Sadie in Black, or Burgundy.

I tried on Taylor Small Red on my visit that day. The small size looks really cute but if you are looking for the functionality of the bag, I would suggest you to go for the normal size tailor, which look just nice for work and play! Oh well, but I do agree small shoulder bags do have their charm!

My Review on Biker Starlet Rider Bag:

I got my Rider bag some 2 years ago, probably the original version. Completed with a unique design and a huge body, it is a very practical bag, for both school and work. It is a very easy piece to work with — I wear it almost every season. It was also featured on Who Are You? The 2013 TV series starring Soh Yi Hyun.

The Rider bag is such a convenient daily bag in my wardrobe!  It  fits my Macbook air, water bottle, makeup pouch, and sometimes I even managed to stuff a scarf in! It is certainly a very sturdy bag made of heavy duty leather. After 2 years of wear and tear, it still looks quite perfect. It is also one of my go-to bags when I travel, particularly due to its size and the two very useful pockets outside. One downside: the bag is quite heavy I must say.

Tips To Get It Cheaper:

A Biker Starlet bag will cost about USD 300-500 or more, depending on the size and design. If you are residing in South Korea, you may want to sign up their membership. The company holds private sales every summer and winter, sometimes they offer up to 80% discount deals during the private sales.

If you are residing out of Korea, it is also advisable for you to sign up as a member on their English site to accumulate points and enjoy membership discount.

Contact Details:

Biker Starlet 바이커스탈렛 *Click* 

2019 New Store: 13 Sangwon-gil, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Tel: 02-518-1446

Myeong Dong Lotte Department Store
2F Between, 1, Sogong-dong, Junggu, Seoul
Tel: 02-772-3386

Jamsil Lotte Department Store 
2F between, 40-1, Jamsil 3-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Tel: 01-2143-7221

Please check their websites for other stores.

Directions:

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