When Singapore entered Phase 2 a fortnight ago. I found myself in a state of limbo. On one hand, I could still go out with another person; on the other hand, I hadn’t realised until now just how much of my socialising usually took place over a meal. With dining-in now banned, my go-to cafes and bars for hanging out are no longer an option.
But Phase 2 also gave me the chance, or rather—the push, to spend time with loved ones in alternative spots. There are a surprising number of options still available, including museums, beaches, parks, and cinemas, which we have rounded up for you. And since stepping out of our houses feels like such a monumental occasion these days, here are some ideas on how you can dress up for your day of fun. Just don’t forget to bring along your TraceTogether token!
The show must go on
Cinemas are allowing up to 50 people (without COVID testing) and up to 100 people (with COVID testing) per hall. Even though the experience might not be quite the same without popcorn, there are still plenty of great screen options in the next two weeks. Learn the villain origin story of the titular character in Cruella, catch Jason Statham looking suave as always in the heart-pounding heist thriller Wrath of Man, or get hit by equal measures of sidesplitting comedy and tear-jerking heartfeltness in Hi, Mom, the highest-grossing film so far this year.
If you’re going to be sitting still for two hours, you definitely want to stay comfortable. A pair of lightweight pants will keep your legs warm in the chilly cinema and cool once you step back into the heat. Then throw on a cardigan that also doubles as a cosy blanket while you are immersed in the on-screen theatrics. Pro tip: a soft material will be great for soaking up your tears during Hi, Mom. A cinema excursion is also a great time to bust out those high heels or platform espadrilles—you’re going to be seated most of the time anyway.
Make waves in your hot girl summer
Life’s a beach. Corny, I know. But also very apt given the tightened restrictions we are now under. Still, swimming pools and beaches are open, so there’s plenty of opportunity to take a plunge in the waters and cool down in this summer heat. Or, you can simply lay out your towel, slather on some sunscreen, and sit back and relax with the entertainment of your choice (might we suggest Vogue?). Research shows that Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight can help lift our moods, and I argue that a dose of Vitamin Sea would be the perfect complement.
A comfortable swimsuit is the foundation of this outfit: bikinis, one-pieces, tankinis—whatever floats your boat. And nothing screams summer more than a gauzy cover-up billowing about in the breeze for when you’re out of the water. A pair of flip-flops, some oversized sunglasses, a straw hat and matching raffia bag would complete the look. And if you’re planning on showing some skin, it’s also the perfect opportunity to flaunt the less conventional jewellery in your collection: anklets, waist chains, body chains—those are sure to make a splash.
I spy with my little eye
I love my family (and isn’t it funny how many WFH articles start off with this disclaimer?), but I can only look at the same few people for that long. And while we still get exposure to other faces over video calls, seeing someone over Zoom just doesn’t quite compare to seeing them in real life. So if you’re getting tired of Netflixing all day and want to see real people in real life, take yourself to town to do a spot of people-watching.
First item on your OOTD agenda: a pair of tinted sunglasses—not just to protect your eyes from the sun, but also to prevent anyone from thinking you’re Joe from You. Since you’re going to be outdoors, wearing something light and breezy is the way to go. A fluttery sundress, a pair of strappy sandals, combined with a vibrant headband—très chic! Just because you’re doing the observing doesn’t mean you have to hide yourself away, so make a statement with an eye-catching summery print. The right outfit can make you feel like you’re people-watching at a quaint streetside café in Paris while nibbling on macarons.
State of the art
With global travel grounded amid the pandemic, the arts are more vital than ever before as a way for us to expose ourselves to diverse countries, cultures, and practices. You will be spoiled for choice with the plethora of exhibitions ongoing this month. The National Gallery of Singapore’s Picturing the Pandemic lets you confront the realities of our new normal through poignant visuals; Asian Civilisations Museum’s Life in Edo whisks you off to the Land of the Rising Sun; while Cuturi Gallery’s Reframing the Looking-Glass provokes reflection on the complexity of womanhood.
An afternoon spent admiring art warrants a dressier look. A jumpsuit is easy to throw on, but still delivers the elegance and glamour befitting your day out. If you don’t want to overshadow the artworks you will be admiring, opt for an outfit in neutral tones, then dress it up with some fun accessories. Since you will be wandering around the gallery for a few hours, you want to keep your bag light and your footwear comfortable. Low-heeled sandals fit the bill, and the slight elevation still elongates your leg line if you’re worried about your jumpsuit making you look cut off.
Green is the new black
After slouching in front of your laptop for an entire week, spend a day in the cradle of Mother Nature to give your eyes a break from screens and get your blood pumping. A stroll along the beach, a hike in one of Singapore’s nature reserves, or a tandem bike ride through a park is a good way to stay active while gyms and fitness studios are closed. Amid the hamster wheel of rushing from one Zoom meeting to another, it’s not a bad idea to pause, take a breath, and remind yourself that the world is so much bigger than working within your four walls. Life might not always feel like a walk in the park, but we can try to make it one.
And on the seventh day, God invented athleisure. A cool muscle tank layered over a sports bra and paired with leggings is perfect for working up a sweat and for hitting up a coffee shop to pick up a post-workout treat. Consider activewear in bright tones or cheery prints to psych yourself before a workout. But if you would rather keep your outfit in classic shades instead, you can always add a pop of colour with some bold-patterned sneakers. A cap or headband can help keep the hair out of your face, and a good pair of sunglasses will shield your eyes. Round off your look with a lightweight but roomy bag for all your refreshment needs.
