Why Buying Second-Hand Luxury Items Benefits Your Wallet

Are you tired of feeling deceived by knock-off brands and paying exorbitant prices for fast fashion when shopping online? If that resonates with you, it’s time to delve into the world of luxury resale.

During my recent trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to explore second-hand outlet shops in Osaka and Tokyo. I was pleasantly surprised by the positive reception towards buying second-hand luxury items. The Japanese have an interesting belief that possessions acquire their own spirit over time, which can either bless or haunt their owners. To avoid any potential haunting, they choose to either discard or sell items they have owned for an extended period.

While the thrill of unboxing brand-new items is undeniable, many people overlook the fact that they can still enjoy a fantastic experience while simultaneously making an environmental impact by opting for second-hand goods. Join others in embracing the world of second-hand luxury and discover the incredible benefits it offers, including:

#1: HELP THE ENVIRONMENT

Is it possible to save the environment while you shop? Sustainability has become a key focus for everyone, and purchasing second-hand luxury items is a meaningful way to contribute. Excessive consumption has devastating effects on the environment, as buying new items leads to increased production and strains our resources. Opting for second-hand items indirectly reduces the demand for materials like leather, sending a message to the industry.

Choosing to buy second-hand products actively reduces waste and gives items a second life, lowering our carbon footprint. It’s remarkable how second-hand purchases rescue products that could have ended up in landfills. Contrary to common misconceptions, used items are often in excellent condition and fully functional. Many are sold simply because their owners no longer need or want them, making them valuable finds in the second-hand market.

#2: GET TIMELESS STYLE

The beauty of luxury products lies in their timeless appeal. A dear friend of mine owns a vintage Chanel handbag. Despite being decades old, the bag exudes an air of sophistication and elegance that never goes out of style. The bag’s enduring charm serves as a reminder that investing in second-hand luxury allows you to maintain a refined and fashionable look without the fear of appearing dated.

Whether it’s a beautiful bag, elegant jewelry, or high-end clothing, these items have the remarkable ability to transcend fleeting trends. By embracing second-hand luxury, you unlock a world of style possibilities that stand the test of time.

#3: REDUCE COSTS

Unless you have a well-paying job or exceptional personal savings habits, purchasing luxury consumer goods can significantly strain your finances. Luxury items often come with hefty price tags, but the good news is that buying them second-hand can lead to substantial savings.

It’s important to note that used items can still be in excellent condition. In fact, you can discover luxury brands that look brand new but are available at just half the retail price.

During my trip to Japan, I stumbled upon a pre-loved Gucci Abbey D-Ring Shoulder Bag priced at a mere S$250. Considering that it could easily cost around S$950 in online second-hand stores, this was an incredible deal. It’s quite astounding to think about the steep difference between the discounted price and its full retail value.

#4: SHOP EASILY WITH THE SECOND-HAND MARKET

In the past, one of the major hurdles faced by those interested in purchasing second-hand goods was the limited availability of certain items. This often resulted in compromises when trying to save money or contribute to the environment.

However, the game has changed, thanks to the Internet. Nowadays, you have access to expansive online markets that offer a diverse array of items, making it more convenient than ever to find exactly what you’re looking for.

While local thrift shops remain a viable option, searching through international online platforms presents you with the best saving opportunities and an abundance of options.

#5: DISCOVER NEW OPTIONS

Do you play it safe in fashion? By consistently adhering to safe and conventional choices when purchasing new products, you may inadvertently overlook distinctive items that could perfectly suit your needs.

Whether you have an affinity for luxury clothing or bags, you will be astounded by the hidden gems awaiting your discovery in second-hand shops. The alluring aspect of used items lies in their affordable price, as it enables you to explore beyond your comfort zone without incurring substantial financial burdens.

#6: ACCESS LIMITED-EDITION ITEMS

Buying specific, limited-edition items becomes significantly easier in the second-hand market, especially when it pertains to past limited-edition bags or accessories from your favorite brands. These sought-after items are often unavailable in stores but can frequently be found within the realm of second-hand shopping. Moreover, elusive treasures such as the highly coveted Birkin bag, typically beyond the reach of the average shopper, become more attainable when seeking pre-owned alternatives.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By wholeheartedly embracing the realm of second-hand luxury, you not only save money but also contribute to environmental preservation, all while unearthing unique treasures that bestow elegance and refinement upon your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Initiate your exploration into the boundless possibilities of second-hand shopping today!

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

How to Develop Trust in Your Financial Abilities

Managing money can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to build trust in your financial abilities. Even if you’ve faced financial struggles or made mistakes in the past, it doesn’t mean you’re destined for a lifetime of financial uncertainty.

By following these steps, you can start trusting yourself with money and pave the way for a brighter financial future.

Step 1: Set Small, Specific Goals

Breaking down your financial goals into manageable chunks increases your chances of success. By achieving these smaller milestones, you demonstrate to yourself that you’re capable of making sound financial decisions. Remember to be forgiving of any past mistakes you’ve made. Setting specific goals not only provides direction but also boosts your confidence as you see tangible progress.

Step 2: Regularly Evaluate Your Progress

Transforming your financial situation doesn’t happen overnight. It involves taking numerous steps along the way. Regular check-ins with yourself are vital to ensure you’re staying on track and to acknowledge your successes. Schedule monthly or quarterly evaluations to assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments. These check-ins are also an opportunity to celebrate your achievements, reinforcing your trust in your ability to manage your money effectively.

Step 3: Expand Your Financial Knowledge

Enhancing your financial literacy is an excellent way to improve your financial situation. There’s a wealth of resources available, such as books, websites, and podcasts, which can help you gain a better understanding of personal finance. If you need personalized support, consider seeking assistance from financial coaches or advisors. Ensure that you choose reputable sources and individuals whose advice aligns with your values and circumstances. By continuously expanding your knowledge, you empower yourself to make informed financial decisions and strengthen your trust in handling money matters.

Step 4: Celebrate Your Financial Accomplishments

It’s easy to get consumed by failures and overlook your successes. That’s why it’s crucial to keep a record of your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. At the end of each year, take the time to make a list of all your achievements. It doesn’t have to be solely financial accomplishments; include anything that makes you proud and excited. This activity can be enjoyable and motivating, reminding you of the progress you’ve made.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By following these steps, you can develop a trusting relationship with your finances. Remember that building trust takes time, patience, and consistent effort. Believe in your capability to make positive financial choices and shape a brighter future for yourself.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

Why it’s okay not to have a full-month/100-day celebration for your newborn

100-day celebration

You may have seen people on social media spending on full-month or 100-day celebrations for their newborns.

Cakes & decos, fancy photoshoots, and more, you name it, they have it.

But you know what, it’s okay not to have all that. There’s no need to stress yourself out and spend so much money just to “fit in” or impress.

Honestly, your baby probably just cares about milk and love, not fancy parties.

Just don’t get me wrong, I’m not asking you to not celebrate at all. You can still have a small gathering with friends and immediate family members that fits your budget.

But at the end of the day, what matters most is the love and care you give to your baby, not how “wow” the celebration is.

Save money for more important things

I’m sure you want to give your baby the best life possible, right?

But if you spend too much on unnecessary things, then where’s the money left for the more important things?

You would be better off using that money for milk powder, diapers, or even saving up for their (private) education in the future.

Avoid unnecessary stress

Having to take care of yourself and a newborn is stressful enough, why add to your distress?

With things to buy and prepare for the celebration, plus all the friends and relatives to come and kachiau you?

I would very much say, “No, thank you” and take the time to heal and spend time with my baby.

a person lying down with a baby

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Create your own meaningful event

Maybe you and your partner can take a weekend vacation to mark the occasion or do a simple photoshoot for a keepsake.

Then, when your kid grows up, at least there’s something left to look back.

At the end of the day, celebrate and cherish your newborn in a way that feels financially right for your family.

Don’t be pressured to follow what others do, just do what makes sense.

And if I’ve got that bit of extra money to spare, I would rather spend it on a ready-made baby food subscription plan to save myself some time daily.

Check out these options:

Yes, I know it’s hard to be “left out” seeing people spending effort and money on full-month or 100-day celebrations for their newborns. But you know what, it’s okay not to do all these things. Traditions are made by humans and you can tweak the trend. Most significantly, you would be far better off saving that sum of money for your baby’s future or spending them on baby essentials and more. Dare to take the road less traveled!

Read More...

Best Anime Stores in Singapore for the True Otaku

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of anime culture! Derived from a thought-provoking essay by Akio Nakamori in Manga Burikko back in 1983, the term “otaku” encompasses a deep passion for anime, manga, video games, and technology.

The widespread popularity of anime has paved the way for a multitude of adaptations that extend beyond animated series. From live-action films to video games, music, and a diverse range of merchandise, the influence of anime knows no bounds. True anime enthusiasts find joy in collecting intricately detailed figures of their beloved characters and proudly incorporating anime-themed apparel and accessories into their personal fashion statements.

In the bustling streets of Singapore, you’ll find an abundance of stores offering a treasure trove of anime merchandise. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of must-visit destinations that cater to all your anime needs. Whether you’re seeking the latest releases or nostalgic classics, these stores are sure to satisfy your cravings for the finest anime collectibles.

Let the allure of Singapore’s anime scene captivate you as you discover these six hidden gems.

#1: OTAKU HOUSE

Otaku House is one of the novelties stores that anime fans and enthusiasts in Singapore frequently visit. With three Otaku House branches across the city-state, you can shop for cosplay costumes and accessories, Japanese novelty items, and anime memorabilia in Bugis Junction, Suntec City, and Plaza Singapura.

Founded in 2006, Otaku House started as a small pushcart kiosk at Orchard Cineleisure. This anime store in Singapore is one of the first shops to supply ready-to-wear cosplay clothes for cosplayers in the city-state. They began their business at a time when cosplay outfits were not quite as popular as they are now.

Image Credits: facebook.com/otakuhouse

Aside from cosplay costumes, other exciting items you can score from Otaku House are action figures, jigsaw puzzles, posters, stationery, phone cases, shirts, pillows, plushies, and Lego-inspired bricks.

Location: Otaku House, 3 Temasek Blvd, #02-475

#2: LA TENDO

La Tendo is an anime and games retail store in Singapore that specializes in almost all types of Japanese-inspired collectibles like toys, books, accessories, apparel, and the like.

La Tendo’s toy figures come in a set of pre-painted statues, are very easy to assemble, and contain removable parts to customize the look of the character. They also sell fashion dolls in various shapes and sizes, complete with clothes, body parts, and accessories, so you can create your own style and add some personal touches.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Latendo

Aside from plushies and figures, the shop also has calendars featuring your favorite anime series such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Black Clover, and Demon Slayer. For fans of “Genshin Impact,” you should check out their collection of character badges, smartphone stands, plush charms, and keychains.

Location: La Tendo, 3 Temasek Blvd, #03-354

#3: PIKKU PLAY

Pikku Play is a small home-based business that has partnered with some of the leading anime distributors including Good Smile Company, Ichiban Kuji, Gachapon, Furyu Corporation, MegaHouse, and Medialink.

It offers affordable yet quality toys for customers who love to collect anime merchandise as their hobby. Just like other anime stores, it sells action figures, trading cards, convertible deck boxes, candy toys, and more in-stock items.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Pikkuplay

Location: Pikku Play, 1 Sophia Road (Peace Centre) #01-30

#4: SEIMON-CHO

Founded in 2007, Seimon-Cho is known for selling authentic Sanrio characters from Japan like Hello Kitty, Gudetama, My Melody, and Rilakkuma, among others.

Aside from their kawaii items, this shop in Singapore also has anime merchandise featuring famous characters from Demon Slayer, Pokemon, One Piece, Studio Ghibli, and more. Other gift items you can find at Seimon-Cho are stationery, towels, bags, kitchenware, figures, and socks.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Seimon.Cho

Seimon-Cho can be found in the IMM Building and Plaza Singapura.

Location: Seimon-Cho, 68 Orchard Rd, #03-03 Plaza Singapura

#5: SIMPLY TOYS

Simply Toys is the official distributor of Funko and Q posket, which creates movie thematic toys, statues, and collectibles.

Simply Toys brings Dragon Ball, Cardcaptor Sakura, Naruto, Demon Slayer, and more Q posket anime characters to its fans.

Image Credits: facebook.com/SimplyToys

Location: 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-32/33, Singapore 098585

#6: KINOKUNIYA SINGAPORE

If you’re a book lover in Singapore, then you’ve probably heard of Kinokuniya – the one-stop shop for all your reading needs. But did you know that they also have a massive collection of manga?

Image Credits: facebook.com/KinokuniyaSingaporeWeb

That’s right! Nestled in the heart of Ngee Ann City lies a manga paradise, with shelves upon shelves of manga titles in both English and Japanese. From the action-packed adventures of Naruto and One Piece to lesser-known gems, Kinokuniya has it all.

Location: 391 Orchard Road 04 – 20 / 20A / 20B / 20C / 21 Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

Singapore’s Popularity Soars as Taylor Swift & Coldplay Attract Fans from Southeast Asia

With Coldplay scheduled to perform at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024, and Taylor Swift set to have six shows from March 2 to 4 as well as 7 to 9, 2024 fans are eagerly seeking tickets.

The popularity of Taylor Swift and Coldplay concerts are attracting travelers to Singapore. However, limited availability has sparked disappointment among locals, who believe the concerts should prioritize Singaporeans.

POPULARITY OF TAYLOR SWIFT AND COLDPLAY CONCERTS ATTRACTS TRAVELERS TO SINGAPORE

The concerts of both Coldplay and Taylor Swift are drawing in foreign visitors from the Southeast Asia region to Singapore. Coldplay has scheduled shows at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift will be performing six shows from March 2 to 4 and March 7 to 9, 2024 at the National Stadium, situated in Singapore’s central Kallang area. With a maximum capacity of 55,000, there are abundant opportunities to catch her performance during her only stop in Southeast Asia.

However, due to limited availability, many individuals have expressed their disappointment at having to compete with foreign fans for tickets. Some argue that the concert should primarily cater to Singaporeans since it is being held in Singapore.

RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGNERS

Associate Professor Terence Ho, a practitioner at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, highlights the significant benefits that foreign demand for concert tickets brings to Singapore’s tourism industry. Hotels, food and beverage outlets, and other attractions all reap the rewards. Professor Ho emphasizes that implementing restrictions on foreign tickets could damage Singapore’s reputation as an events hub and reduce its appeal to top performers in the future.

PURCHASING TICKETS FOR TAYLOR SWIFT’S ERAS TOUR IN SINGAPORE

Ticketmaster Singapore sells tickets on a first-come, first-served basis until inventory lasts. Like other platforms, you will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your phone for verification. However, a Singapore SIM card is not required.

Interestingly, fans of Taylor Swift are rushing to sign up for UOB credit and debit cards following the announcement that pre-sale tickets for her 2024 show will exclusively be available to UOB cardholders. Within just 30 minutes of the concert promoter’s announcement, a Telegram channel was created to guide fans on obtaining these cards. Some fans even plan to visit bank branches to expedite the card application process.

Ms. Jacquelyn Tan, the head of group personal financial services at UOB, acknowledges the tremendous interest in Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert, given her international stature and the fact that Singapore is her only stop in Southeast Asia for the Eras Tour. UOB cardholders in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam will enjoy privileged access to the pre-sale and reserved ticket allotment during general sales. Pre-sale tickets for UOB cardholders will be available from July 5, with general sales on Ticketmaster commencing on July 7.

In contrast, fans have already purchased over 300,000 tickets for Coldplay’s concerts. Coldplay plans to release a limited number of cheaper “Infinity Tickets” at a later date, priced at approximately $20 each. These tickets will only be sold in pairs, with a maximum of two tickets per buyer.

TICKET RESELLING

Some individuals who managed to secure Coldplay tickets have resorted to reselling them on platforms such as Carousell and Viagogo. On Carousell, a seller is demanding $10,000 for an ultimate Music Of The Spheres World Tour experience ticket, which originally retailed for $1,098 on Ticketmaster. The seller mentioned receiving three offers within 15 hours, with the highest offer reaching $9,000. However, the seller will not sell the ticket until someone meets the asking price. More than 600 sellers have listed Coldplay concert tickets at prices twice or more than the original cost.

In Malaysia, scalpers demanded RM43,000 (S$12,600) for Coldplay concert tickets in Kuala Lumpur, while the original prices ranged from RM228 to RM3,088. It’s important to note that scalping activities, where tickets are purchased at retail prices and resold at significantly higher prices, are not illegal in Singapore.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Nonetheless, the police have warned against the risks of purchasing illegitimate or non-existent tickets. Concert ticket scams have resulted in music fans losing approximately $170,000 as of March 2023.

Thus, UOB emphasizes that tickets purchased by their cardholders are strictly for personal use and should not be resold.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...