The Year of the Snake means its time to shed the old and welcome the new. As unpredictable like life, we utilise the game of Snakes and Ladders; where the highs and lows are what every child of the Zodiac goes through. For added sparkles in getting through the new year—for yourself or a significant other—we’ve curated items tailored to each characteristic from from Raffles City Singapore, with illustrated
assist by thejontan
Chinese artist Wu Qiong’s interpretation of Guan Yu—a famed military general who served under the warlord Liu Bei—is what one wouldn’t necessarily associate with a fierce, deified warrior. Rounding out the facial features and immortalising an innocent expression, there’s a certain mysterious quality to the artwork that’ll sit rather beautifully in the home of the equally enigmatic Snake.
Ode to Art
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This quilted tote bag may look all glossy and precious, but it’s actually quite the workhorse. Crafted from a foundation of upcycled nylon with kappa leather trims, the CABaN by Patricia Urquiola piece is entirely
padded for both comfort and aesthetic. With a roomy interior, you’re able to lug just about anything, while its structure allows the bag to be relatively lightweight and sturdy at the same time.
LUMINE
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The first film in the planned Creation of the Gods trilogy was released in 2023 and is already regarded as one of the greats in Chinese cinema. BOSS references the epic film’s typography and patterns of bronzeware of the Shang and Zhou dynasties, creating a double-B monogram in a gold tone that’s affixed like a military badge of honour. In other words, perfect for future and upcoming GOATs.
BOSS
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Any man who’s smart and sharp (you know, like the Monkey) would know that a red lip is one of the sexiest things a woman could wear. Guerlain’s special edition of its customisable lipstick is a fiery combination of two contrasting shades, with a marbled bullet inspired by the undulations of a snake. And to top it all off, a collector’s jewel case is decorated with a textured finish that’s both artistic and luxurious.
Guerlain
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We can’t all be like the Rooster and rise at every crack of dawn. But with a little assistance, we can definitely be the proverbial early bird. Bacha Coffee’s gift set of six varieties of coffee ensures that your mornings will be off to a great start as your senses are awaken by the discovery of new smells and tastes of the unique harvests.
Bacha Coffee
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There’s a sense of prudence embedded in Givenchy’s Prisme Libre SkinCaring Glow Cushion. The liquid foundation isn’t just mere makeup; it also has skincare benefits. Promising 24 hours of glow, wear, and hydration, the formulation is also water-resistant and protects from daily UV exposure: a definite non-negotiable in today’s climate. And look, you could very well gift this to her, but it’s 2025, men wear makeup too.
Givenchy Beauty
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If golf is something you’ve recently picked up and intend on keeping diligent at, the right fit is needed. DESCENTE’s lightweight duo consisting of a golf cap and a polo T-shirt are the kind of golfing essentials you’d want to buy multiples of. The former is designed with side vents for better comfort and enhanced moisture-wicking, and the latter offers UPF100+ protection while you’re upping your game with each swing.
DESCENTE
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Nibble your way into the new year with a splendid assortment of 24 Venchi chocolates—including the brand's signature Chocoviar. Because you're kind like the Rat, gifting them to spread some much needed festive cheer is made easier with the vibrant gift box that they're packed in. But if you'd rather indulge in one for every single day of Chinese New Year, no one will judge too—they're that good.
Venchi
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Concocted by Dominique Ropion, HOPE is both a celebration of oud as an essence and the human emotion it’s named after. Smoky and leathery oud notes are balanced with the freshness of pink pepper, the warmth of vetiver, and the depth of incense. The fragrance truly unfolds over time, opening up to one who observes and is patient enough to discover its true intricacies—much like hope itself. This new year, be determined like the Ox to have hope in everything.
Editions De Parfums Frédéric Malle
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Like its namesake, there’s no telling what Onitsuka Tiger would come up with as a new interpretation of its beloved MEXICO 66 silhouette. A special edition has been rendered in cream-coloured calf leather with two-toned red accents. Traditional Chinese knot patterns are incorporated onto the insole as well as the Onitsuka Tiger Stripes as graphic nods to the occasion. With a pair, you’re stepping into the new year both with style and some extra confident energy.
Onitsuka Tiger
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The racing appeal of the TAG Heuer Carrera is universal. While it may be instantly recognisable, there’s also a quiet elegance (much like the Rabbit) to it that’s timeless. This particular iteration is a solid gold construction that adds a more luxurious edge while keeping to its sporty roots. Whether you’re intending on this year that you’re making or prioritising time, this is the timepiece for you.
TAG Heuer
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There’s a clever, almost ingenious, quality to this special duo of candles by Acqua di Parma. Both candles light up but if not in use, invert the yellow candle and place it over the regular one and it looks like it is wearing a hat. Chapeau!
Acqua di Parma
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Find out more about Raffles City's "Spring in the City".
Photography: Jaya Khidir
Art Direction: Joan Tai
Styling: Asri Jasman
Illustrations: thejontan
Photography Assistants: Nowo Kasturi and Tawfiq Ismail
