You must be living under rock to not have read, heard or spoken about the Olympic Games that is taking place in Tokyo this month. It’s a momentous occasion—and one that is truly fraught with so many conundrums that there was talk of a cancellation (again!). But the human spirit shines on with the world’s athletes, who are focused on competing to be the best in their discipline, with their sights set on breaking records and winning medals. In salute of this steely determination to overcome any odds and carry on in that single-minded quest for excellence, we dedicate our July issue to Sports.
We wanted to celebrate the aesthetics and essence of the Games in all its forms. And who better to capture this kinetic energy than legendary photographer Ellen von Unwerth, who snapped image after winning image of cover star Cindy Bruna in a boxing ring with two hot athletes in Paris. Clad in pre-fall’s finest designs and dripping with diamonds, the camp-meets-cool shoot will inspire as well as intrigue with its contrast of glamour and grit through a distinct fashion lens. For an extra dose of eye candy right on home turf, turn to our BAZAAR Man cover story on rising national football player Harhys Stewart. Barely out of his teens, this lean and handsome player is driven by a passion and focus that transcends his young age. Find out about his goals on and off the field in this issue.
Fashion-wise, we have a ton of offerings that go well beyond the obvious confines of athleisure. Our Style pages show you how to style up everyday classics with football socks, cycling shorts and sports jerseys for a sexy, urban twist. (Brands such as Versace and Burberry have also upped the tracksuit game, turning the once-tacky polyester shell suit into something that’s de rigueur.) Even our precious Jewels & Watches section opens with a wet and wild theme that’s part sportif, part nautical to show how bling and sports can go hand in hand. And with all that work and dedication put in at the gym, it might well be time to flaunt those abs. Read Associate Fashion Director Jeffrey Yan’s report on the fashion designers who are bringing sexy back in a whole new and empowered way (hint: it doesn’t involve the male gaze). Plus, don’t miss our special on bags, where we showcase the very best arm candy to have and hold this season: Whether it’s for the beach or boardroom, these beauties guarantee you’ll be able to keep all of the day’s necessities in the chicest carryall. Then, to nourish the mind, body and soul, check out our story “Welcome to the New Age”, where we show you the best spots on this island to get some alternative, new-age healing—think tarot and aura readings, aromatherapy and sound therapy, mediation and float pods.
Oh, and don’t forget to read our special report on face yoga. This “mantra” for your mien just might be your new fountain of youth, taking years off your appearance and bringing about a natural inner glow just by pulling, tugging and massaging your face. However, if you, like me, have an RBF 24/7, remember to tell any onlookers that you aren’t angry or cheesed off. You’re simply doing the corpse pose—for the face. Om shanti to you too.
—Kenneth Goh, Editor-in-Chief
Download the digital edition from the App Store, Google Play or Magzter.
Photographer: Ellen von Unwerth
Sittings Editor & Stylist: Jiawa Liu
Model: Cindy Bruna at Makers by Metropolitan
Makeup Artist: Rafael Pita
Hair Stylist: Marc Orsatelli
Manicurist: Sylvie Vacca
Production by Beige Pill Productions: Stefania Barbagallo & Adèle Villers
Project Director: Michelle Ngadino
1st Assistant Photographer: Stan Rey Grange
2nd Assistant Photographer: Iris Guillaume
3rd Assistant Photographer: Noemie Defever
Post Production Studio Ellen von Unwerth: Aurore de Bettignies
Styling Assistant: Lise Breton