Celebrity Life

Buckling down for winter is the best excuse for copping a boatload of new sweats, and when Cole Buxton is expanding its color options just ahead of the holidays, the timing couldn’t be better. Scratch that – we never need an excuse to buy another set of sweatpants; another hoody, a set, or mismatched; either […]

Kayla Lau's collection of gym clothes, athleisure wear and accessories are designed for every woman in battle. Battling with self-esteem, body shaming, fighting online bullying. She hopes women feel empowered, comfortable - and on trend - while wearing her creations. 

As a popular fitness KOL from Hong Kong, the fit and fab young Kayla Lau has a faithful following on multiple social media platforms. With brands sending her products, wardrobe and accessories to flog on her influential account, it was just a matter of time before the young influencer launched her own label. 

She calls her brand Metanoia, which, by definition means "a profound transformation."  You'd think it is about the body's conversion, but as she reveals, its intrinsically about the outer and inner transformation she's attained after facing unwarranted online abuse from the strange and strangers. Trolling her for no plausible reason, she's had to battle anonymous demons - powered by fake profiles on Instagram. How she found empowerment in self reflection and blocking out the hate. At the same time, she forged ahead with her own business model, and life-goals.  

Name: Kayla Lau
Profession: Entrepreneur
Industry: Athleisure and Womenswear
Company Size: 2+
Startup Since: 2021

What inspired you to create this collection?

I've always wanted to create something that is unique and belongs to me. I wanted to create a community and to bring in like-minded people who believe in my three core values 1) Self awareness 2) Self love 3) Self confidence.

That's a lot of ambition sewn between the seams of an athleisure wardrobe!

Well, it has to do with my past experience with online hatred, troll comments I've been subjected to for the past few years. I realise that a lot of women are suffering from online bullying that causes them to lose confidence. It starts to build insecurity about their bodies, their appearance, their self-esteem.

The word empowered has been thrown around a lot when it comes to womenswear.

It has, but mine isn't PR spiel - this happened to me. The comments I get on my Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/kayla.lau/) or in my DM inspired me to create this line. But I really don't want to focus on the trolls and give them any more attention. This is about self confidence to forge ahead, not look back.

You don't want to address online bullying and all the unkind messages trolls sent you?

I can only remove their power over me by removing my attention over them.

Cool. Let's talk about the clothes. Tell me about your collection.

The first collection comes with three different designs and three different colours. The Bare Essentials set is in all black, for all the girls who need that one perfect set of black gym gear. You can wear it in your daily life, in and out of the gym.

The Self Love set comes in two shades of pink; light pink and rosy pink. The two shades act as a contrast, contouring to accentuate the body's natural curves. It’s an eye catching set. I hope my customers wear this set to feel good and confident.

The Self Care set (our best seller) is in baby blue which is my favorite colour. I realized most girls feel insecure about wearing lighter coloured leggings because they think it makes them look “fat or chubby” (which I've heard a lot). This set has the most body sculpting effects. It has double deep pockets on both sides, and a high-waisted 'V' cut which shows a smaller waist.

The second collection we will launch in the peak of summer, around the middle of May. I have designed a new set using a different fabric which is good for the summer heat, as it’s soft and thinner. You'll feel naked wearing those leggings! In terms of colors, I used a cool tone and warm tone for different skin toned girls.

I would say these two colors are quite uncommon. Like when you go into the shop, you wouldn’t really pick it up and try it on like others popular colors like black and navy blue.

Also, other new products in the offing are sweatshirts and hoodies, embroidered with quotes. They match with the set, but you can also buy them as separates.

You've worn gym gear all your life - what did you NOT want to do - and what did you want to do?

Wearing anything that makes me look good but feels awful was a NO! Workout gear cannot be uncomfortable. Its ridiculous when popular brands do it.

I really wanted to design something that is more relatable to women in terms of design, colors, fabric, i.e. knowing their needs and wants. Wanting to look good and feel good at the same time while embracing their authentic selves.

What has the feedback been so far?

As a small business owner, I love to receive feedback and comments from all my friends and customers. After years of sales experience, what I value the most is honest feedback to help my brand, to improve and achieve more. In fact, I used feedback when working on my second collection.

I have adjusted the measurements as some said it’s a bit too lose on the hip area. Some said the leggings should be slightly longer to cover the ankle. Some suggested to use different fabric. I took it all into consideration.

Did the pandemic inspire you to create your own brand - as many people were working out at home?

I actually wanted to work on this project for a long time but the pandemic gave me time to focus and work on it.

You and your boyfriend [actor and model James Wong] work out a lot together - is there a men's design in the works in the future?

I do hope that there will be possibilities where I can create a couple collection for all the gym "lovers".

I know its early days, but how have sales been so far?

Since the beginning, my friends have been supportive. Outside leads from social media page and referrals have been great. I’m picking up organic sales from the website.

What is the price range?

For gym wear / workout set, the price range is from $600-$800 a set. All the sweatshirts and hoodies are around $500 per piece.

Last but not lease, where can we buy your collection Metanoia?

You can buy directly from the web site www.metanoiathelabel.com and I'm thrilled that other retails stores like Decathlon and Marketplace, retail sites like Zalora is also carrying my label.

The post Startup Life: Kayla Lau on her Athleisure Brand Metanoia and Facing her Trolls appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Luxury Athleisure has never been more popular. From sunglasses, to sneakers and stylish co-ords, here are some of our favourite items to stay active in style.

Louis Vuitton

French luxury giant Louis Vuitton’s second collaboration with the NBA expands on the inaugural range of luxury athleisure, formal styles, casual-wear and men’s accessories — from sports outfits that work on and off court to a ’90s basketball influence. Think oversized logo shorts and graphic embellished leather bombers
that nod to the game’s hero jackets. The range of bags featuring basketball-net detailing and NBA insignia now includes ball pouches and basketball carriers. Men’s artistic director Virgil Abloh fuses LV trademarks with the NBA’s own inimitable style in a welcome celebration of pop culture, fashion and sport.

Coming soon to Hong Kong

Loewe

In buttery nappa leather, the Loewe Flamenco bag comes in sizes from Nano to XL. Red is our favourite colour, reminiscent of the Spanish dance attire from which the model takes inspiration.

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Sweaty Betty x Halle Berry

Perhaps the celebrity collaboration we’ve all been waiting for? Fitness label Sweaty Betty has launched a crossover with Bond girl and all-round goddess Halle Berry and her rē•spin wellness brand, inspired by boxing and jujitsu. Sculptural silhouettes, raw edging and modal slit detailing give an edge to fashion-forward lifestyle pieces aimed at busy, active and empowered women.

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A|X Armani Exchange

A|X Armani Exchange offers a selection of casual sporty outfits in multiple shades of blue. Run around town in these comfortable, wider athletic fits optimised for movement — an update on the label’s take on street-focused athleisure.

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Saint Laurent

Get summer ready and protect your eyes from UV rays, with these Saint Laurent ombre sunglasses, featuring a light, subtle frame.

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Hermès

A summer shoe that’s versatile enough for casual days out and evening events? Look no further than the Hermès slip-on loafer in a luxurious neutral shade of linen canvas.

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Mazu

Hong Kong men’s brand Mazu offers these delightful Distant Shores print swimming trunks made from recycled plastic bottles. They’re perfect for the beach and sustainable to boot.

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Mr P

Mr Porter’s own brand Mr P launches a 23-piece golf collection with ready-to-wear, accessories and footwear inspired by heritage golf styles, and emboldened with quality detailing, an easy attitude and enduring Mr P style.

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Christian Dior

Whether it’s surfing, wakeboarding or swimming, hit the sand in style with the latest collection of beach and activewear from Christian Dior. We love the sunshine-yellow logo print version — the sleek zip-up shorts, sports bikini top and zip-up jacket pair well with a matching floral headscarf.

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Zimmermann

Hit the pool or beach and channel some Ursula Andress energy with this Zimmerman contrast string bikini. The crotchet top works wonders paired with the pink floral bottoms and beachy seashell embellishments.

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Off-White

Show some skin, but still remain comfortable. There’s no need to compromise on stretch and movement with this body-skimming dress by Off White.

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Chloé

The light fabric logo straps and tan leather soles make Chloé’s wonderful designer summer sandal a perfect match for every outfit.

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Alexander McQueen

You won’t want to take off these Alexander McQueen statement sunglasses all season.

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The post Luxury Athleisure: Best Items to Shop This Summer appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Prolonged periods of working from home calls for a new wardrobe.

The post How the pandemic finally made our watch and fashion editor love athleisure appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

Prolonged periods of working from home calls for a new wardrobe.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

Loro Piana produces some of the world’s finest cashmere, but the heritage textile company’s expertise extends much further.

The post Luxury activewear from Loro Piana appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

Loro Piana produces some of the world’s finest cashmere, but the heritage textile company’s expertise extends much further.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

Ever since activewear became the new crossbreed of fashion and function in the name of athleisure, luxury is the most relaxed it's ever been. Some would even argue it’s the best thing to happen to fashion, making dressing easier and definitely more comfortable. Born from a trend and now a full-blown lifestyle, athleisure makes it possible to go from barre to bar with versatile pieces and just a few minor outfit adjustments.

We've scoped out the best pieces from the latest collections to get you from a business meeting to the city’s best gym studios and then to happy hour. Whether for work, play or just life in general, here’s a list of the best athleisure pieces that can get you through it all.

 

Graphic Tank by Adidas Originals by AW

Perfect for: the gym or the night club.

In a sports and fashion partnership, Alexander Wang teams up with Adidas to bring '80s retro style back into the gym. This athletic tank features bodybuilder graphics in the front and logo print in the back. The mesh fabric and deep racerback design is lightweight and offers maximum breathability. HK$599; buy it here.

 

Alphaedge 4D by Adidas by Stella McCartney

Perfect for: weekend wandering and light cardio.

Stella’s longstanding relationship with the sportswear brand has just seen a new launch for the world’s first 4D lattice sole footwear. The forge fibre reinforcement design offers stability without sacrificing breathability and stretch for maximum movement. Not to mention the cute logo internal socks that always match. HK$3,499; buy them here.

 

Laurel Embroidered Bra by Alala

Perfect for: intense or high impact workouts and your Instagram.

New York-based activewear brand Alala creates the perfect hybrid of sporty and feminine. The athletic cross back design of the Laurel bra offers high support while its delicate embroidery softens the feel with a sense of sophistication. HK$754; buy it here.

 

Icon Stripe Detail Swimwear by Burberry

[dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/76173e38c07b8ac9565571d23c926f25880eddc4.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/3c76bcc6702eb5a26d5129821748122a06aee747.jpg" right-caption="Icon Stripe Detail Bikini by Burberry" left-caption="Icon Stripe Detail Swimsuit by Burberry"]
Perfect for: poolside and beachfront lounging.

Just like the LBDs you have hanging in your closet, every girl needs the LBS (little black swimsuit, that is). Burberry takes a conventional silhouette and adds its personal touch with the Icon Stripe in its signature colours. The timeless design is available as a bikini with cut-out back panel or a one-shoulder one-piece. Bikini HK$3,000, one-piece HK$3,700; buy it here and here.

 

Pink Fabric Shorts by Fendi

Perfect for: kickboxing, Muay Thai and spinning.

With monograms making a comeback, Fendi has brought its classic print to its sportswear line this season. The lightweight, breathable exterior featuring the brand’s FF logo pairs against close-fitting undershorts for a unique colour contrast. HK$3,350; buy them here.

 

Floral Lace Track Bottoms by Gucci

Perfect for: off-duty, leisure and your Instagram.

Crafted from floral lace, these track pants are reworked into an intricate design with an intarsia weave. Using athletic-inspired shapes with soft, refined fabrics and delicate knits gives the classic sporty look a modern twist. HK$19,800; buy them here.

 

Sonic Boom Retractable Hood Track Jacket by P.E Nation

Perfect for: layering and wet weather.

Like the brand name suggests, P.E Nation is all about the throwback style that we remember from our physical education classes during our school days. The Australian activewear label’s track jacket comes in an oversized fit with a breathable mesh lining and optional hood, which comes in handy for our unpredictable summer weather. HK$2,150; buy it here.

 

Aura Seam and Seam Dream Leggings by Pure Apparel

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Perfect for: yoga, pilates, dance and stretching.

Once deemed the lazy girl’s pants, leggings are now the most essential staple in the wardrobe -- and why wouldn’t they be? Flattering and forgiving, they've become versatile enough for workouts and the workplace. These leggings from Pure Apparel are probably the closest thing to second skin you’ll find out there. The cut-seam detail enhances contouring and is super stretchy, allowing you to bend and move with the utmost comfort. Aura Seam Leggings HK$664, Seam Dream Leggings HK$695; buy them here and here.

 

VB Cropped Hoodie by Reebok x Victoria Beckham

Perfect for: going to and from the gym and casual weekends.

This season is the second year that sportswear and high fashion have come together in high-energy apparel inspired by the ex-Spice Girl’s journey as a trained dancer and her daily “no compromise workouts”. This cosy hoodie is made with premium French terry cotton and features an oversized embroidered Reebok x VB logo on the hood. HK$2,245; buy it here.

 

Willow Stretch Sports Bra by Vaara

Perfect for: weight and resistance training, spinning, everyday errands.

A Net-a-Porter exclusive, the Willow Bra is a twofer bargain. The longline silhouette of this sports bra also doubles as a crop top. The minimalistic design is accentuated with a contrasting terracotta and ivory stripe detailing in both the front (as a zipper) and in the back. HK$1,075; buy it here.

The post The Best Athleisure Pieces to Shop Online appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

As bold as they are, highlighter shades are not just for the flamboyant dresser.

The post How to introduce neon into your daily look appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

As bold as they are, highlighter shades are not just for the flamboyant dresser.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

Growth of athleisure in the retail sector has surpassed apparel as a whole, headed by brands like Lululemon and Under Armour. Is athleisure here to stay?

The post How Athleisure Is Saving The Fashion Industry appeared first on LUXUO.

Just kidding, if I had the answer to that I’d have flat 6 pack abs from a rigorous active routine, be juicing every morning, and actually be taking the time to do my hair on weekdays. Let’s face it, we all struggle with meeting the expectations that are put on us by friends, family, coworkers and worse – ourselves. And there’s no other time that’s more apparent than New Years. Somehow inspired by the unmarked calendar, people gaze steadily forward. Sure that this time, they’re going to follow through. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not discouraging you. In fact, New Year’s is one of my favorite holidays as it represents a fresh start, new beginnings and yes – New Years resolutions. I quite savor the time of year to look forward with an untarnished canvas laying before me. But it’s important to remember amidst your ambitions, not to get lost in trying to become someone whom we are not, or becoming discouraged when we fail. Though I can admit to often falling in line with …