Browhaus x Shentonista — Pop-Art

Debra uses the Browhaus Bi-Liner in Bronze

If Debra looks familiar, it’s because she won our Shentonista of The Year 2014 contest, and each time we feature her, her style is consistently classic but outstanding. Working in the banking sector, Debra tries to be as disciplined as she can and not stay up too late at night as her work requires her to be very focused and meticulous. “My work entails number crunching, but it also requires a great deal of analytical skills.” she says. “The banking environment is also a very dynamic one, so I have to be very adaptable to change.” She still finds it important to maintain a balanced, active lifestyle, however, and goes spinning at the gym quite regularly, although she ideally hopes to exercise at least four times a week. We speak to her and find out about her beauty must-haves, and what else makes her tick.

1. How have your look and brow shape evolved over the years? 

A decade ago, the fashionable way to wear your brows was to shape them as thinly as possible. I was blessed with relatively thick black brows but I remember being very embarrassed about my bushy brows back in school! When I finally succumbed to peer pressure and got my brows shaped very thinly, my mother flipped. She reminded me that I would regret this look 10 years down the road. True enough, a decade later — I’ve learnt to appreciate my thick brows! I think brows are one of the most important features on your face, and they play a pivotal role in shaping your face. Brow Resurrection at Browhaus has got to be one of the best things I’ve done for my brows. Although I am blessed with a thick set of brows, Brow Resurrection has given my brows a stronger colour and a defined shape. Best beauty investment ever!

2. Do you think it’s important for women to be well-groomed, and why?

I firmly believe that it is important to always look presentable. Whether at work or outside, people tend to take you more seriously when you look well-groomed and when you dress presentably. Nothing describes confidence like a well, put together outfit! Personal grooming is not vanity, but a necessity. I think basic grooming demonstrates self-esteem and confidence, which are desirable qualities in a woman.

3. What is your usual look? What do you usually use?

On most days, I keep my make-up natural. My daily essentials are concealer, pressed powder and eyeliner. I usually stick to lip balm, but I always keep a red lipstick handy in my bag for the occasional after-work event. On days when I go without foundation or powder, my essential is a pore balm which gives my face a seemingly matt and flawless look even without powder.

4. What is your idea of the CBD and Shenton Way? Do you think a corporate mindset and creativity can go hand in hand? 

Shenton Way is the heart of Singapore’s business district, and the style around here is largely representative and iconic of the working Singaporean individual. I do believe that a corporate mindset and creativity can go hand in hand! It is important to infuse some creativity into any corporate environment. Corporate does not have to be synonymous with monotonous! I think it is possible to play around the confines of corporate work attire boundaries by adding a pop of colours. Every corporate work outfit could use a dash of colour or print, or can be personalised by accessorising. Accessories are the key to creating a personalised outfit because they add your own personal touch to things.

5. What are some items in your wardrobe/on your dresser that you can’t live without? 

My wardrobe necessities include a perfectly well-fitted black pencil skirt that has the versatility to carry me from a work day to an after-work party; a statement necklace that can elevate even the simplest of outfits; and a pair of good-fitted skinny jeans for the weekends! On my dresser, the one item I cannot do without is my GHD Hair Styler/Straightener which is the solution to my bad hair days.

6. What is important for you to have at work, both in a material and emotional/psychological sense? 

In any kind of job, it is important to have a set of goals to work towards. Setting goals help you to create purpose and meaning in your job. Psychologically, it is important to feel a sense of self-actualisation at work. My sense of satisfaction is derived from working towards realising my full potential at work and by working hard to accomplish as much as I can in my role.

7. Do you think Singaporeans have a sense of style, and do you think it’s changing/getting better/getting worse? What would you like Singaporeans to start embracing more? 

Singaporeans generally have an awesome sense of style. Style wise, Singaporeans have a lot of potential. I think the only thing that is hindering this potential is our weather! Layered looks with jackets and coats are not practical in this heat, which is really quite a waste. Singaporeans can try to embrace more colours and be more adventurous with prints!

8. What is one thing you’ve learnt from your work/life experience?

To always be kind. No one is perfect so we should always be tolerant and allow for some room for error. A small act of kindness always goes a long way.

Debra was last seen here and here.

Stay tuned to find out how you can be a part of the Browhaus #BrowHunt!

This is a Shentonista project for Browhaus.

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