Fashion

Gemma Chan on Self-Care and Being the New Face of L’Oréal Paris

The British actress on her skin-care and wellness routine—and how she’s finding ways to take care of herself during the pandemic….

Since bursting onto the scene following her 2018 debut in Crazy Rich Asians, Gemma Chan has quickly established herself as one of Hollywood’s leading ladies, as much for her lauded roles in the likes of I Am Hannah as her breathtaking beauty, so it should come as no surprise that L’Oréal Paris has tapped the 37-year-old British actress as their latest face.

It’s a full circle moment for Chan, who grew up surrounded by the brand’s hair-care saviors and bright red lipsticks. “I remember wandering into my mom’s room as a child and just walking into a cloud of Elnett [spray],” Chan, who is now partial to the their new glycolic acid cleanser, tells me over the phone from Los Angeles, where she is currently filming Olivia Wilde’s forthcoming film, Don’t Worry Darling. Products aside, however, L’Oréal Paris’s philosophy is one that resonates with Chan, who just last year founded her own production company, Long House, to share stories from marginalized voices, the ones that often go untold. “Their tagline ‘Because I’m worth it,’ is iconic,” she notes, “but I also think it still resonates [today] because it’s an expression of self-worth. It’s permission to take care of yourself, and that’s so important at the moment.”

Of course finding ways to take care of oneself in the midst of a pandemic is not without its struggles. “It’s been a strange time,” admits Chan, who spent the first months of lockdown stationed at home in London, a stark contrast from her life pre-COVID when she would trot around the globe for shoots and premieres alike. “I think what helped was trying to find some sort of structure to the day,” she notes before adding: “I say that, but I don’t always manage to achieve it!” Nevertheless, when she is able to carve out her own space, she begins her mornings with a 10-15 minute set of sun salutations and Pilates-based core work, and dives into escapist books, such as Carlo Rovelli’s Seven Brief Lessons on Physics and Richard Powers’s The Overstory. “Finding books to read that take you out of the present moment and give you a different perspective on things has been such an escape,” she says.

Her beauty regimen has also provided solace. “When we first locked down I stopped brushing my hair and plucking my eyebrows,” she recalls with a laugh. Now, though, she’s found a middle ground and prioritizes herself with an amped-up skin-care protocol, the occasional pick-me-up swipe of mascara, and long, epsom salt-filled soaks. “I find it can be quite meditative to go through that routine and really just look after your skin and your hair,” she says. “There’s so many things we can’t control, but we can do those things [for ourselves].”

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Fashion

Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup

Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.

He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.

Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.

But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.

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Fashion

Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer

In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.

Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.

As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.

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