Former Miss Germany International 2006 Katrin Felton and her husband moved to Phuket in 2011 to realize her life-long dream of becoming a mermaid— yes, you read that right. Now she runs a Mermaid Academy where she teaches others how to become real-life mermaids like herself.
What got you obsessed with mermaids?
It happened 20 years ago when I watched The Little Mermaid at the age of five. I was so intrigued by the outfits and the way they moved underwater. Living in Germany, I wasn’t close to any body of water so it was hard for me. My father, who was a commander in the police, would never allow me to jump into a pool with a mermaid tail, so for a long time I couldn’t pursue my dream. After high school, I went into modeling then moved to Australia in 2010 and became a scuba instructor. I trained in free diving and practiced underwater modeling.
 
What makes you a mermaid?
I free dive in the ocean, and I’ve learned how to hold my breath under water for about three minutes. I am able to pose underwater and look attractive without a mask! It required a lot of practice but I can now open my eyes underwater without the salt water affecting me much. Once I could do that I got my first tail from the internet— and I knew I could be a real-life mermaid.
 
Do people think you’re crazy for opening a Mermaid Academy?
It’s silly. I get stupid looks from people. Even my husband; he supports me but even he says, “Honey you can’t become a mermaid.” I didn’t believe it either. I never thought three years ago I’d have my own academy or shop. But being an underwater model, it got people more interested. They see my photos, videos or performances and contact me. The more people see me, the more people contact me saying, “I want to be a mermaid.” I’d like to share my skills and knowledge with girls from all over the world to make their dreams come true.
 
What makes a good mermaid?
You should be able to hold your breath underwater for a long period of time, look good underwater without a mask and also have rescue skills. I cannot emphasize that enough. Having your legs tied into a tail can be dangerous if you don’t know what to do in emergency situations. I train my girls to know the ocean. We are not just pretty girls who swim; we are ambassadors of the ocean. I teach them to be role models, to not use plastic bags or participate in shark finning or overfishing.
 
Run us through one of your workshops.
We have different workshops for children and adults. The Mini Mermaid Workshop is a fun presentation for kids, about the environment, the ocean and also playing in the pool. The Real Mermaid Workshop [B10,000] is a two-day workshop for adults; I
only train those who can swim 200 meters without stopping. If you pass the qualifications, you get a certificate and become either a bronze, silver or gold mermaid.
 
Do you have other mermaid friends?
Yes! There are other mermaids around the world. We know each other and keep in touch through Facebook. “Mermaiding” is growing. I attended a mermaid convention in Las Vegas and they even had an award for the best mermaid! I have an online shop where I sell tails and the bikini tops to a lot of people from different countries. I’m still waiting to meet a merman friend, though!
 

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The latest scarves to add that edge to your dull winter wear.

Snoods: Replace your statement necklace with a soft snood which goes well with jeans, coats and even dresses.
MANGO Sequined Braid Snood, B1,790
 
Animal Prints: This timeless classic adds a touch of chic style to your look.
Zara Leopard Print Scarf, B1,290 
 
Bold Colors: Incorporate color-blocking to brighten up your winter wear. 
Pull & Bear Basic Foulard, B790
 
Tribal Prints: Aztec prints give texture to your outfit, so experiment with colors and patterns. 
Pull & Bear Jacquard Scarf, B1,290
 
Chunky Scarf: These add volume to your outfit and a soft touch to dark clothing.
Zara Chunky Knit Basic Scarf, B690
 
Essentials
Zara, 3/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd, 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
MANGO, 2/F The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Rd., BTS Phrom Phong.
H&M, M/F Terminal 21, Sukhumvit Soi 19. BTS Asoke.
Pull & Bear, 1/F Central Plaza Grand, Rama 9. 02-108-3345. MRT Rama 9.      
 
STYLE GUIDE Ways to tie a scarf

Double Trouble, Biker Chick, Style Guru, Barbie Doll, Audrey

 

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Blackened nails are the biggest trend this winter. From black-blue to deep plum, here are the rich formulas to nail the look. 

OPI San Francisco Collection Fall/Winter 2013

Incognito in Sausalito, B1,270
This delicious dark blue hue rocks a crème finish. As this collection is inspired by San Francisco’s icons, it’s fitting this dark nail lacquer takes its cues from Sausalito, a Bay Area city known for its moody and mysterious side. Natural light reveals the borderline navy-blue hue, while the color indoors appears jet black. 
Nail Type: This hue favors both short and long nails.

YSL Sepia City Drive Collection

La Laque Couture #40 Sepia 7EArt, B900
This deep aubergine purple has a crème finish, and achieves opaque results with just two coats. It appears black indoors but hints at purple and red hues in direct sunlight-ideal for winter. Lasts up till five days with no chipping. 
Nail Type: Better on short nails.

Revlon Brilliant Strength

020 Beguile, B199
Revlon’s Beguile is a blackened inky blue with hints of sea green shimmer. Revlon’s Brilliant Strength collection promises a smooth bubble-free application, with a built-in base and top coat so all you need is bottle of Beguile and you’re ready to rock this winter trend. For greater coverage, use two coats. 
Nail Type: Recommended on proper talons instead of short nails.

MAC Divine Night Collection

Gadabout Girl, B720
This deep burgundy lacquer shines with a slight purple undertone. Taken from their Divine Night collection, this turns opaque in two coats and has a glossy finish. This particular formula contains conditioners and UV protection. Give it the perfect top coat for wonderfully vampy nails. 
Nail Type: Enhances both short and long nails.     

Skinfood Jungle Fruits Collection

No. 7 Jungle Coconuts, B180
Among the neon hues this collection has to offer, Jungle Coconuts is the perfect shade of intense khaki green. This shade looks dark green indoors but appears a lighter shade of khaki in direct sunlight. It’s thick, so one evenly applied coat with a top coat should do the trick.
Nail Type: This color compliments short, round nails.
 
Essentials
 
OPI Boutique: Park Lane, 18 Sukhumvit Soi 61. 02-382-1122. Open Mon-Fri 10am-9pm
M.A.C.: try M/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd, 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.    
Y.S.L.: try Silom Complex, 1/F, Silom Rd., BTS Sala Daeng. 
Revlon: try The Emporium, G/F 662 Sukhumvit Rd., BTS Phrom Phong.
Skinfood: Mega Bangna 1/F Bangna Trad Rd. KM 8, room 1626. 02-1051708. 

 

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