A stitch in time for CNY

Not only was 2023 a rewarding year for Canto-pop singer Panther Chan, who won four awards at the Ultimate Song Chart Awards, she’s off to a flying start in 2024 too—but in a different way. Ahead of Chinese New Year, she’s leaning into her passion for knitting by designing red packets, and explained to Tatler how it became a relaxing outlet whenever things get a bit too stressful on the work front.

As we head into the Year of the Dragon, take inspiration from Chan—and others highlighted in this week’s newsletter—and embrace what makes you happy. For example, check out this all-female lion-dance group, who jumped boldly into a male-dominated scene, or if adventures make you happy, try planning your next travel destination according to your Chinese Zodiac sign. Or you can just sat down, relax and enjoy a bubble tea while learning about how Asia’s favourite drink has created success stories in the region. 

Other newsletter highlights this week:

Dear Tatler readers, as we get ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon, we hope you have plenty of time with your loved ones, and are eager to embrace new beginnings. Until next time, happy Friday and Kung Hei Fat Choy! 

Salomé Grouard
Deputy Digital Editor

 

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR

Wishing our readers a healthy and joyous Year of the Dragon!

Jessie Tang, astrologer

By reading the movements of the heavens, the Chinese and Western astrology experts from our Asia’s Most Influential list offer insights into various aspects of life to aid in self-discovery and provide comfort during challenging times.

Here, two of Asia’s foremost astrologers look into the future to shed some light on what the Year of the Dragon might hold.

READ HERE

MORE TO CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR

If you’re a pet parent, be extra careful about exposing your cat or dog to these house plants during Chinese New Year as they can be harmful. 

Instead of scrolling through multiple Instagram posts trying to pick your next travel destination, why not let your Chinese zodiac pick for you?

From Fat Choi Spirit to God of Gamblers, have a movie marathon this Chinese New Year and watch these iconic Cantonese films on Netflix.

 

LIFESTYLE

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your gal pals

Raise a toast to female friendships on Galentine’s Day (Photo: courtesy of Lush)

Move over Valentine’s Day! We’re raising a glass to female friendships the day before instead.

From afternoon teas to workshops, here are some ideas, inspiration and events happening in Hong Kong that can serve as the perfect way to spend Galentine’s Day.

READ MORE

MORE FROM LIFESTYLE

Meet Hong Kong’s female lion dancers, who have become a roaring success in a male-dominated dance scene.

Here’s what the next week holds for your star sign, according to Tatler’s astrologer Casey Chan.

Exploring Tokyo’s robust art scene with gallerist Atsuko Ninagawa and acclaimed artist Shinji Ohmaki.

 

POWER & PURPOSE

Bowie Lam and Siti Aishah Hassan Hasri on sex education and stigma

Siti Aishah Hassan Hasri and Bowie Lam

Bowie Lam, founder of Teen’s Key, and Siti Aishah Hassan Hasri, founder of Spot Community Project—and Front & Female Awards winners in Hong Kong and Malaysia respectively—have both faced challenges when it comes to providing their educational services to young people

Here they discuss why it’s high time we address the stigma around sex education and start having open conversations.

READ HERE

MORE FROM POWER & PURPOSE

For any woman who’s been asked, “oh, not married yet?” Here is your guide to navigating awkward questions at family gatherings.

Sportswear, athleisure and sneakers are big business, but they depend on fossil fuel-based materials and recycling them is tricky.

How did these beverage moguls made billions from bubble tea? These are their success stories from all over Asia.

 

STYLE

How Offgod and A. Society are pushing creative boundaries

A. Society x Offgod Collection (Photo: courtesy of A. Society)

All the cool kids in town know who Andrew Mok is. The Hong Kong-based artist, better known as Offgod has already created a buzz in the streetwear game with his 3D printed sculptures.

Recently, Offgod has entered into a collaboration with A.Society to introduce the brand’s signature character, Vern (a fictional supervillain) into the realm of sunglasses—or rather, future eyewear.

READ HERE

MORE FROM STYLE

From Mark Gong to Chris Habana, this is the next crop of Asian talent to watch out for.

Ahead of Lunar New Year, Tatler takes a closer look at what makes jade a favourite in Asian communities around the world.

NBA legend Tony Parker on his go-to Tissot timepiece, life after basketball, and the one sport he enjoys playing these days.

 

AROUND ASIA

SINGAPORE | Odette chef-owner Julien Royer talks about his culinary journey and tribe that has elevated and supported him.

PHILIPPINES | Tatler lists the lesser-known facts about the Chinese immigration and culture in the Philippines.

MALAYSIA | ‘90s Malaysian supermodel Ling Tan emerges as beacon of inspiration for aspiring Asian models who strive to redefine the conventional norms.