Adam&Eve (a&e) Magazine Lebanon

FASHION - LUXURY - LIFESTYLE

DIOR HOMME SHOW - BEIJING

An exclusive with

Kris Van Assche JAZZ AGE GLAMOUR AT

Tiffany’s Blue Book Ball FASHION FILE

Pantone Colours

Forecast for the season!

Mrs.Rima EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

TRAVEL

Five Historic Places to visit this Summer Break TRIED & TESTED SPA

The Spa My Blend

by Clarins - Paris

Frangieh A Leading figure in the Autism Awareness Movement

IFC

PEND

CS

DING

1st D

PEND

Jessica Chastain

DPS

DING

yslexperience.com

2nd

PEND

DPS

DING

Dubai Deira City Centre • +9714 29 59 331 Mall of the Emirates • +9714 34 10 011 Mirdif City Centre • +9714 28 43 628 Beirut Downtown Solidere, EL Maarad Street +9611 97 60 60 Beirut City Centre, First Floor +9611-284191

Al-Khobar Al Rashid Mall • +9663 88 10 819 Jeddah Red Sea Mall • +9662 21 50 422 Tahlia Mall • +9662 26 34 638

4th D

PRA

DPS

ADA

3rd

PEND

DPS

DING

EDITOR'S NOTE FASHION - LUXURY - LIFESTYLE

DIOR HOMME SHOW - BEIJING

An exclusive with

Kris Van Assche JAZZ AGE GLAMOUR AT

Tiffany’s Blue Book Ball FASHION FILE

Pantone Colours

Forecast for the season!

Mrs.Rima EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

TRAVEL

Five Historic Places to visit this Summer Break TRIED & TESTED SPA

The Spa My Blend

by Clarins - Paris

Frangieh A Leading figure in the Autism Awareness Movement

Our Cover:

Mrs.Rima Frangieh Publisher Awraq Publishing - Beirut

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our June issue, where fashion makes a lifetime commitment and takes a trip with us to the most stylish cities in the world.

CEO Hisham Sawaya email: hisham@awraqpublishing.net Headpiece inspired by the The Great Gatsby for Tiffany & Co. 2013 Blue Book Collection

The long awaited Great Gatsby brought back to the fashion scene a style that exemplified the jazz era of the roaring twenties.

The 1920s is the decade in which fashion entered the modern era. It was the decade where women abandoned the conservative trends of past years for more comfortable clothes. Men also made more laid back fashion choices, and went from three-piece suits during the day to sporty and casual attire. Still, today’s formal menswear is strongly influenced by that of the 20s. The glitz and glamour marked by headpieces, feathers, trailing beads and abundant sequins crossed over continents; all the way from New York to Beirut. Tiffany & Co.’s Blue Book Collection was also inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s movie production, for which the talented Miuccia Prada designed 40 dresses. Unique craftsmanship was involved to also produce wonderful pieces of jewellery with timeless elegance.

From New York, Milan and Paris, to Venice and Beijing; we took a trip to the most wonderful cities to bring to you exclusive stories and personally fill you in on what’s buzzing in each location. Fashion runways, check. Food and dining, check. Art, check. Spa and relaxation, check. Festivals, check. This issue is an international one that might just drive you to book that indulgence trip you’ve been contemplating.

I invite you to read on our exclusive cover interview with Mrs. Rima Frangieh, a woman who believed in taking the initiative and responsibility as a member of this society to raise awareness on autism.

“A very small degree of hope is sufficient to cause the birth of love.” - Stendhal I won’t keep you waiting!

Managing Partner - Editor in Chief Lara Mansour Sawaya email: lara@awraqpublishing.net Senior Editor Mira El-Orr Bleik email: mira@awraqpublishing.net Editorial Assistant Houry Seukunian Editorial Assistant Ylova Hamdan Project Manager Fadi Antoine Nassar Business Development Manager Charbel Zaklit email: Charbel@awraqpublishing.net Media Sales Nathalie Khoury email: nathalie@awraqpublishing.net Design Luvin Santiago l Louie Carmona Contact:

LEBANON: Awraq Publishing S.A.R.L Kaline Center, 9th Floor, Fouad Chehab Street, Sin El Fil - Beirut - Lebanon Tel: +961 1 497910 / 20 Email : awraq.publishing@gmail.com Media Representative

Enjoy the Read, Lara Mansour Sawaya Editor in Chief lara.m@amedadvertising.com

10

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

UAE: AMED Advertising - U.A.E. Executive Tower D, Office 1301 Business Bay, Dubai - UAE Tel: 04 454 1566 Fax: 04 454 1522 email info@amedadvertising.com

Full Page Advert PENDING

TABLE OF

Contents 44

64

122

172

196

12

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Issue 09 | June - July 2013 JUST IN Honouring of Mr. Mazen Salha Mövenpick Hotel Beirut Retail Giant Spar World Fair Trade Day at Beirut Souks “The Roof” at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut opens for 2013 Summer The Jewellery Souk, Golden Years is exhibited at Beirut Souks Pandora Now in Beirut- ABC Achrafieh Phantom of the Opera… a Luxurious evening with Tony Breis Dior Homme Beijing The N°5 Culture Chanel Maison Louis Vuitton - Opens its doors in Venezia Tiffany & Co. Celebrates Jazz Age Glamour at The Blue Book Ball The MET Gala Punk: From chaos to couture Best of 66th Cannes Film Festival Stars Grace the Red Carpet in Cannes in Elie Saab Designs The Armani Group

14

ONE TO ONE An exclusive with Mrs.Rima Frangieh - A Leader in the Autism Awareness Movement

64

MEET MY OTHER FACE Wiam Wahhab Gaby Layoun

70

EXCLUSIVE - Lost in Venice a&e takes a trip on a Gondola with Louis Vuitton

74

PHOTOSHOOT - TIFFANY & CO. / BULGARI / DIOR FINE JEWELLERY / DINA JSR

78

FASHION - COLOUR/STYLE REPORT

90

EXCLUSIVE - Interview with Riccardo Sciutto, General Manager of Hogan

114

DESIGNER FOCUS - Rabih Kayrouz

118

EMERGING FASHION DESIGNER - Rami Kadi

122

JEWELLERY DESIGNER FOCUS - Nada G

144

BEAUTY - INTERVIEW - Bassam Fattouh

156

FRAGRANCE - Dior Addict Eau Delice

164

PHILANTHROPY PROJECT - Happiness Heroes

168

CELEBRITY - Nadine El Rassi

172

MUST READ - Top 10 Best-selling Books

176

HEALTH - Make Up Pros and Cons

180

INTERIORS

184

TECHNOLOGY - Vertu Enters new era with launch of Vertu Ti

190

AUTOMOTIVE - a&e talks Maserati and the new Quattroporte with Umberto Cini

192

TRAVEL - Five Historic Places to Visit this Summer Break

196

HOTEL REVIEW - A Sizzling Experience at Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand

200

a&e RECOMMENDS - Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris

204

TRIED & TESTED SPA - The Spa My Blend by Clarins

206

BEST FOR LAST - Product in-focus - Andy Warhol bag

208

Full Page Advert PENDING

| just in... beirut |

Honouring of

Mr. Mazen

Salha A remarkable Icon in

in the hospitality field Under the patronage of his Excellency the Minister of Tourism M. Fadi Abboud, La Sagesse Faculty of Hospitality represented by Mgr. Camille Moubarak, honoured Mr. Mazen Salha Chairman of the Board of “La Societe Des Grands Hotels “ & owner of both Phoenicia & Le Vendome hotels in Beirut, during a ceremony that took place at La Sagesse Faculty of Hospitality on their premises yesterday evening.

A large crowd of VIP’s in the hospitality field and media figures were gathered on the 18th of April to acknowledge the outstanding achievements that Mr. Salha has accomplished over almost 40 years to establish and enhance luxury tourism in Lebanon and positively promote the destination to the world with the reputation established through Phoenicia Beirut and Le Vendome. A trophy was presented to thank Mr. Mazen Salha for his support, highlighting his dedication to support preparation for a new sophisticated generation of Hoteliers.

This can only be done on the job training which will prepare the students to excel in the future.

14

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Full Page Advert DAVID MORRIS

| just in... beirut |

Mövenpick Hotel Beirut Voted Lebanon’s leading resort for second consecutive year

Mövenpick Hotel Beirut has been recognized as “Lebanon’s Leading Resort” in the World Travel Awards 2013 ceremony for the second year in a row.

World Travel Awards were established in 1993 and serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

During the World Travel Awards 2013 ceremony held recently in Dubai, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut was recognized as “Lebanon’s Leading Resort”, which is declared as the highest honour the industry can grant.

Commenting on this award, Jan Bundgaard, General Manager of the hotel stated:

“We are proud to receive this award, which recognizes the service excellence and performance of our entire team.

We are truly committed to exceed customer expectations and create delightful moments for our guests that result in everlasting memories”.

Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut is a haven for leisure travellers, where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of their daily routine and indulge in breathtaking views, relaxing resort facilities, dining options to dazzle the taste buds and a journey they will never forget.

Jan Bundgaard, General Manager, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut Mrs. Maha Bourachi, Director of Sales Marketing, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut

16

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

More information at: www.moevenpick-hotels.com/beirut

Full Page Advert PENDING

| just in... beirut |

Retail Giant SPAR To enter Lebanon

BMI is the first to bring the international retail concept to the LEVANT We are confident that they will find excellent locations and open quality stores to provide Lebanese consumers with an exciting new customer experience."

Also commenting on the occasion, Mr. Habib Wehbi, Chairman and CEO of BMI Holding, said "With the support of our long term strategic partners, Abu Dhabi COOP and SPAR International we are now able to bring global best practices and the strong positioning of the SPAR brand to Lebanon.”

He adds, “With BMI’s extensive experience combined with our partner’s strategic advisory, we plan that SPAR will be a full and frontal supermarket brand in Lebanon."

Business Management Integrated Holding (BMI) in partnership with SPAR’s principal partner in the Middle East Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society (ADCOOPS) is proud to announce the signing of a licence agreement to operate SPAR supermarkets in Lebanon.

The introduction of SPAR, the world’s largest co-operative of independent food retailers and wholesalers, with 12,331 stores in 35 countries was announced at an elegant dinner ceremony held at Sursock Palace Gardens on May 10, 2013.

With a vision to take a leading role in the food retail market in Lebanon, BMI revealed its ambitious plan of opening 10 SPAR stores within the coming five years to include: SPAR Hypermarkets, SPAR supermarkets and SPAR Express convenience stores, each of which has their own distinct customer offer built on the values of Freshness, Value, Choice and Service. The first SPAR outlet is set to open at the beginning of 2014.

18

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

SPAR operates a voluntary chain model, independent retailers and wholesalers working together for mutual benefit under the SPAR brand, sharing best practices and resources to offer customers world class service.

Speaking at the launch event Dr. Gordon Campbell, CEO of SPAR International, said "We are very excited at the expansion and development of SPAR in Lebanon and delighted to have BMI Holding on board.

At SPAR, value is delivered to customers through outstanding service, highest quality fresh foods, convenience, value and a comprehensive range of private label products, combining locally and regionally sourced ranges and internationally imported SPAR brands.

SPAR Lebanon has identified multiple locations across Lebanon ideal for opening SPAR Hypermarkets, Supermarkets and SPAR Express.

The opening of SPAR stores will provide employment to the local population. SPAR Lebanon will also venture into providing established independent retailers the opportunity of joining the SPAR Lebanon network as licensed partners.

SPAR promises international shopping standards at local prices; an unparalleled customer shopping experience, international food ranges, imported goods and ingredients for richly diverse regional cuisines.

See more colour with

PolarizedPlus2

®

Full Page Advert PENDING

Available in prescription.

©2013 Maui Jim, Inc.

| just in... beirut |

World Fair Trade Day at Beirut Souks

Philippe Adaime, Gabriel Debbane, Joanne Karkour, Joe Hatem

Deputy Selim Salhab, Me Chawki Boueiz, Dr Walid Kanaan

On the 12th of May, Fair Trade Lebanon and Fairtrade International organized a Fairtrade brunch, in partnership with We Initiative at BLC and Sofil catering at Al Ajami square, Beirut souks. In doing so, they joined thousands of others around the globe celebrating World Fair Trade Day. Thousands of people in more than 22 countries celebrate World Fair Trade Day annually by holding breakfasts, lunches and gatherings with fairly traded products to raise awareness about their cause: Supporting small producers and Lebanese farmers by offering them fair prices for their products and giving them the opportunity to improve their lives.

Around 450 members of the public enjoyed natural and fairly traded Lebanese products, as well as regional specialities prepared by cooperatives that had travelled specially from rural regions for the event. At the live cooking station, Sofil catering Chef prepared wonderful appetizers, lentils kebbe and

20

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

deserts using Fair Trade lentils, olive oil, jams and almonds.

Among the attendees were members of cooperative Les Coteaux d’Heliopolis, whose red wine recently attained the international FAIRTRADE Certification Mark and whose wine is sold today in Japan and the UK. “We are proud to see our wine on sale here today” says Chehade Maalouf, member of Heliopolis cooperative. “Thanks to Fairtrade certification we have reached new markets and have a sustainable crop that brings new hope to our region (Deir el Ahmar)”. The Fair Trade team was very proud to launch the first Fairtrade Town in Lebanon and a wide community of Menjez-Akkar attended the event with their president Mr.Georges Youssef who stated: “I’m so glad that Menjez has been selected to become a Fairtrade Town.

It’s a wonderful village with antique sites and a crusades’ fortress.” Fair Trade Lebanon

also created the surprise by launching its first Fair Trade Boutique located in Hazmieh with its door to door delivery services.

“Seeing all these Lebanese producers and cooperatives today, interacting with the people of Beirut and talking about their region is something very special,” said Philippe Adaime, CEO of Fair Trade Lebanon.

“The event was a great success thanks to the support of the attendance, all our partners and the great dedication of Fair Trade team and volunteers”. Chiraz Skhiri, Fairtrade International’s Regional Coordinator for the Middle East commented: "I and the rest of Fairtrade International are proud to partner with Fair Trade Lebanon for this event.

Lebanese Fairtrade products will soon be on sale around the world - now we hope more Lebanese consumers will buy them too and support farmers and workers who so badly need fairer terms of trade".

AL HOR TENT THE AUTHENTIC VILLAGERS WAY OF LIFE

Full Page Advert PENDING

KHAYMET EL HOR is one of the Region's most breathtaking venues located at the Intercontinental Mzaar Lebanon

Mountain Resort and Spaat The foot of the Refuge.

Al Hor Tent is an Agrotourism concept, reflecting the authentic villagers way of life, where traditional Lebanese mountain cuisine and music is offered around open-air fireplaces.

It Is Extremely Popular with Both Locals Looking for Authentic fare and tourists looking to experience a true taste of Lebanese culture.

An Authentically traditional menu can act as a major draw for tourists looking to experience some of a destination's culture.

Khaymet El Hor serves a variety of traditional Lebanese mountain specialties.

The whole theme is geared towards offering a "Traditional "experience, including the interior Layout.

Do you live an InterContinental life?

For information and reservations please contact: + 961 9 340100 or reservations.icmzaar@ihg.com or visit www.icmzaar.com Terms and conditions apply. ®2013 InterContinental Hotels Group all rights reserved In over 170 locations across the globe including •Bali •Fiji •Cyprus •French Polynesia •Mar Menor

| just in... beirut |

“The Roof”

at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut opens for 2013 Summer Open air rooftop oasis on the 26th floor offers sweeping views and a chill vibe.

Lebanon’s night life continues to reflect the city’s glamour and vibrance, and for the third year in a row, Four Seasons Hotel Beirut is marking the start of the summer season with opening of “The Roof” this coming end of May.

22

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Four Seasons Hotel Beirut boasts Lebanon’s highest rooftop lounge at 119 meters (390 feet) above sea level. “The Roof” is located on the Hotel’s 26th floor and is perfectly placed near the pool. Guests enjoy watching the sunset and later relaxing under a canopy of stars at “The Roof” with a breathtaking wraparound view of Beirut’s downtown skyline, mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The modish urban tapas lounge offers the perfect perch from which to enjoy sundowners and balmy summer evenings to the tune of the season’s hottest club tunes.

The soft, comfortable setting is perfect for an evening of mingling with fresh faces enjoying chill out tunes along with great company, and a live DJ.

“The Roof” comes into its own this year with an upgraded set up featuring elevated perches to make the most of the views, and sunset-facing seats. A floating oasis, the open-air lounge is designed to create a chilled out vibe, with trendy soft seating and live spun DJ music from 7:30 pm to 2:00 am Tuesday through Sunday. Complementing the spectacular setting is a simple yet suave menu of tapas and Asian-inspired bites, ranging from crisp salads to siu mai dumplings and satays. The beverage list offers an impressive selection of classic and reinvented cocktails, and smoothies made from the freshest ingredients.

“The Roof” is anything but flashy. It’s a place to relax with good company, great food and breath-taking views, and enjoy the feeling of being on top of the world.

Guests living it up during the long nights of summer can also enjoy leisurely afternoons and evenings by the water’s edge, with Beirut’s most happening new lifestyle destination Zaitunay Bay located just across the street from the Hotel. The lively promenade is home to an exclusive yacht club, outdoor dining outlets and stylish boutiques, bringing back to life the city’s heyday as a Mediterranean party town.

Full Page Advert PENDING

| just in... beirut |

Under the auspices and with the presence of the First Lady

“The Jewellery Souk, Golden Years” is exhibited at Beirut Souks

Combining history, heritage, art and modernity, Solidere and Events Production organized the “The Jewellery Souks… Golden Years” exhibition which was officially opened under the auspices and with the presence of the first lady, Wafaa Sleiman, on Wednesday the 3rd of April 2013 at the Jewellery Souks in Beirut Souks. Solidere held this exhibition, which will extended till the 7th of April 2013, with the hopes of both reviving the golden era of the Jewellery Souk and Beirut Souks and supporting this strategic and historic location that has been recently renovated and redesigned in a modern and special way.

The exhibition showcased various modern and valuable pieces of jewellery designed by renowned Lebanese jewellers. Special

24

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Lebanese collections that have had a remarkable historical background was also be presented during the exhibition to highlight the value and richness that this location has brought on to the history of Lebanon. Several pictures were displayed also to reflect this location’s richness and uniqueness, and this exhibition will hopefully revive this old perception.

To further highlight the Lebanese heritage, many other displays showcased rare and authentic Lebanese outfits from 17th century till now, was displayed in an old Lebanese house specially designed for the occasion.

The public also discovered the Old Jewellery Souks through a 3D maquette.

Full Page Advert PENDING

| just in... beirut |

Pandora Now in BeirutABC Achrafieh

Luxury Selections, the official distributor of Pandora Jewellery in Lebanon, announces the opening of the first Pandora concept store in Beirut at ABC Mall-Achrafieh.

Pandora, a Denmark-based company, is a leading Jewellery brand renowned worldwide for its unique, customized charm bracelets within a very wide selection of exquisite hand-finished sterling silver and 14K gold charms enabling customers to memorialize special and unforgettable moments of their

26

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

lives. The charm bracelet is complemented with the delicately crafted and genuine jewellery collection.

To celebrate this special occasion, Luxury Selections hosted a press & media event at the boutique followed by lunch in the presence of Pandora Founder Mr. Per Enevoldsen, Mr. Peter Mark- Pandora Jewellery President for CEE and Middle East, Mr. Steen BockPanmeas Jewellery LLC CEO/Chairman of master Franchise and official distributor of

Pandora Jewellery in the Middle East.

To introduce the brand’s unique universe of high-quality, accessible jewellery, the venue was magically transformed into a cherry blossom garden making this special moments of one’s life, while revealing the latest creation of the Spring/Summer Pandora collection.

The “Champagne statut” was offering drinks to all attendees under the melody of the saxophonist “Karno” making these moments unforgettable.

Carla Barakat & Marie Ange Frangieh

Zeina Maroun, Caline Jilwan & Jony Matta

Nadine Khalil & Michele Bozzo

Zeina Janbaih & Naji Irani

Alain Moumdjian, Karine Alam & Joe Zoghzoghi

Peter Mark, Joe Zoghzoghi, Per Enovodsen, Karine Alam & Jad Freiha

Alain Moumdjian, Maria Ziadeh, Nada Farha & Walid Doumiati

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

27

| just in... beirut |

Phantom of the Opera‌ a Luxurious evening with

Toni Breiss

Inspired by the imaginary story of the Phantom of the Opera, many politicians, businessmen, artists, fashion designers and social faces enjoyed an evening of luxury and glamour hosted by weddings and events planner Toni Breis at the castle of Chateau Rweiss.

Breis turned the entire place into a magical haven, where guests were welcomed on the red carpet in a glamorous atmosphere.

Toni Breiss Dinner

28

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Toni Breiss & his team

Christina Sawaya & Toni Breiss

Mr & Mrs Samer Hatab

Mrs Hajj Ali & Mrs Rima Abbas

Mr Ali Jaffal & Mr Joseph Houwayek & Youmna Sherry

Miss Romy & Miss Rima Chibany

Mr Zahi Wehbe & Mrs Rabiaa Zayat Wehbe

Mr Joe Raad & Miss Iman

Charle Edde & Fadia Warde

Rosy Boulos & Elie Abi Rached

Nicolas Gebran & Maya Diab

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

29

| just in... beijing |

Dior Homme Beijing

Dior Homme staged its first runway show in Beijing, on April 25th, at the Museum of the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA). The AW 2013-14 collection was presented through over forty looks, including three new outfits: tuxedos, specially made for the event. Bringing twenty models from Paris to the eastern capital, the iconic luxury brand reprised and re-adapted its autumn show for this new venue.

“The Dior Homme man now looks to the future, with optimism”, said Kris Van Assche, Creative Director of Dior Homme. “What I wanted to convey in the collection this season is rigor, calm and control. This is a confident, selfmade man in a multitude of ways. He's a self-made superhero”.

The show was followed by a party featuring a live performance by British band Hurts.

30

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

31

| just in... beijing |

Dior Homme AW 2013-14 Backstage - Beijing

32

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

“Now the Dior man works on who he can be and how to improve himself, both outwards and inwards. He is not nostalgic for the past, for an idea of lost youth, but is moving forwards into the future.�

Dior Homme AW 2013-14

Kris Van Assche

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

33

| exclusive |

An exclusive with

Kris Van Assche Dior Homme, Creative Director

34

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Where: Beijing When: April 25th 2013 This date will surely live in my memory through the years as it was the first time I visit China, not only to explore the richness of this unique and warm culture but, to be attending my first Dior Homme fashion show, taking place out of Paris.

I had the pleasure of meeting Dior Homme Creative Director, Kris Van Assche , the Belgian born designer, on the day of his long awaited Beijing show to tell us more about his latest Autumn-Winter collection and the sources of his inspiration.

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

“You’re only just as good as your next show.”

Dior Homme Fall Winter fittings by Gaetan Bernard

Kris, when did you discover your passion for design?

Well, I guess it was at a very young age. I was around twelve or thirteen years old. I don’t really remember. Since I was an only child, I was very much into being creative all the time.

I would always draw or sketch while in my room. It was not fashion at the time but just creativity. At one point, I realized that clothes don’t just fall out of the closet, somebody makes them and I wanted to be that person at that young age.

Who inspired you at such a young age?

I think at that age it was very much about the Parisian extravaganza that included brands such as Jean Paul Gaultier. They were really loud. At first I was only aware of such brands, but once I started reading and buying the right magazines, I quickly discovered that there was

a fashion scene in Antwerp that was very close to where I lived. It was a much more discreet and intimate view on fashion, and that was something I related to much more.

You graduated at a young age from The Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, you are now 36, and you come from a small town in Belgium.

The fashion industry can be very tough, tell us some of the obstacles that you faced along the way while attempting to be taken seriously.

Well, of course the fashion industry is indeed very tough! I was very conscious about it even before my studies. Before getting into the academy, I had an interview where one of the teachers asked me why I wanted to get into the Antwerp Academy and not some other school.

I replied that if I was going to attack the fashion world, I should at least start with the best school. I was very conscious about that.

I worked really hard but for me, there was nothing else that I wanted to do. The truth of it all is that, if you don’t have a second option – you go for it! Then, I was pretty lucky to get the internship at Yves Saint Laurent that really got me started.

To make it in the business, it’s a mixture of very hard work, good luck and meeting the right people. Once I started to surround myself with the right people, everything just started to fall into place. That is really the key but it is very tough! It still remains tough because you’re only just as good as your next show. It’s never something that will be established. Each show puts everything in question every single time!

Do you consider yourself a perfectionist when it comes to designing?

If you want to be the Creative Director of a house like Dior then you have to be! ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

35

| exclusive |

What about in your personal life?

Are you as meticulous?

Perhaps not as much as in my professional life but yes, I do like some order.

You were quoted saying that: “a Dior man looks to the future with optimism”. How do you interpret this in your latest collection for Autumn/ Winter ’13-14.

It starts from a very personal approach. I am always in a pretty good mood and positive vibe at Dior. I feel like things are going in the right direction, so I am optimistic for the way things are going. I also feel when things tend to get tough in the world around us, fashion steps in to brighten up daily life and to remain confident in the future. So it is a mixture of both.

What is the main inspiration of the collection?

I wanted the silhouette to be more body conscious. I wanted some sort of an athletic silhouette. The silhouette that I inherited six years ago was very skinny, but that was some sort of a cliché that I inherited that I had to push forward, so I have been working on loosening that and making it quite comfortable.

The starting point of the show was a look - an allure and then I saw the movie ‘Welcome to Gattaca’ again which I love very much for its aesthetic because it is very rigorous, clean and sharp – almost like a military look. It was about a group of men that were trying to improve themselves through hard work, education and sport. It included the optimism of becoming better persons by doing things and not waiting for them to happen. I really liked that so it became the general theme of the show.

In your own words, what do you think of as a timeless design?

That is a contradiction to my work; because I believe each season we improve what we do. Each season, I improve the suiting, the shirts, etc.. What you think is nice today will need some improvement in six months. That’s the whole point therefore I do not believe it is about being timeless.

Nowadays everybody is talking about being fashion forward and making bold statements in the fashion world.

What do you think is the best way to be a fashion forward person or to be called a fashion forward designer?

36

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

I was told in the academy that the only way to survive was to have a real personal view of things. If you try to do what other people do, it is never going to work! It’s really about adding something personal to what already exists.

That’s the only question that I constantly ask myself at Dior.

What advice would you give young designers to facilitate their journey?

Somebody once gave me great advice before I started my career, which was that I shouldn’t’ try to do everything right. I should just do what I do best and then find people to take care of what I don’t really know how to do.

I think it’s a very big pretentious mistake to think you can do everything. Fashion design is like a business and while the creative aspect is a big part of it, it’s not the only part. It’s also about recognizing what you don’t know how to do. That’s the challenge.

What inspires you?

Inspiration comes in two forms; the conceptual part which can be a movie, an art piece, a country or even a trip. That is the conceptual approach but then there is also the realistic approach, which is what I like to wear myself or what my friends would like to wear. So, inspiration is a mix of these two approaches.

There are moments where I actively go to libraries and look for inspiring things in books or archives.. And there are also moments where I’ll be on the street and have a stranger

pass by me with his coat floating in the wind and that could inspire me too. Inspiration is not something that you can turn on and off. It is a constant process.

If you were not at the atelier designing or sketching, where can we find you?

I work a lot! But when I am not, I do what everybody else does. I go out with friends, visit galleries and watch movies. I also try to fit in travel. My work is a big part of my life and all the free time I get, I indulge in personal education because every new thing that I discover is good for my personal culture, which is good for my professional work.

What message would you like to tell our readers about the latest Dior Collection?

Well, it is a collection where we managed to bring comfort into clothes with a very sharp and modern look. For me, it is a very well balanced collection in that sense. It is very body conscious but made for real men in the real world.

We wish you the best of Luck for the show.

Thank you.

Dior Homme AW 2013-14

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

37

| just in... paris |

The N°5 Culture Chanel

Exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo Paris

N°5, Extrait CHANEL - Daniel JOUANNEAU - Didier ROY

Earlier in May, 400 guests celebrated the opening of the N°5 Culture Chanel exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, in the presence of Jean de Loisy, President of the Palais de Tokyo and Jean-Louis Froment, Curator of the N°5 Culture Chanel exhibition.

It was a memorable event attended by many artists, VIPs and press, among them the egeries of Chanel N°5, Carole Bouquet, Audrey Tatou, the actresses and Chanel ambassadresses Vanessa Paradis, Anna Mouglais, Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, Zhou Xun, actor and Chanel ambassador Gaspard Ulliel, film director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Chanel Perfumers Jacques Polge and Christopher Sheldrake, artists Sophie Calle, Yi Zhou, Jean-Michel Othoniel, Fabrice Hyber but also Harumi Klossowski, Alma Jodorowsky, Gaïa Repossi, Estella Warren, Sigrid Agren, photographers of N°5 advertising campaigns Dominique Issermann, Jean-Jacques Bugat.

Centred on the longstanding ties between Chanel and the arts, N°5 Culture Chanel, imagined by Jean-Louis Froment, reveals the artistic, timeless and iconic essence of the fragrance Chanel N°5. More than 200 works of art, photographs, archives, books and diverse objects featured in the exhibition expose some of the multiple inspirations that fuelled the universe and imagination of Mademoiselle Chanel. N°5 Culture Chanel reveals a new vision, both intimate and diffuse of the birth of this unique fragrance.

The exhibition which started on May 5th will run until June 5th, 2013 as part of its Guest Program. Previous editions of Culture Chanel also entrusted to curator Jean-Louis Froment have been held successfully in Moscow’s Pushkin State Museum for Fine Arts, in Beijing at the National Art Museum of China and more recently in the Opera House in Canton.

Jean-Louis Froment

38

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Made up of subtle plays of correspondences N°5 Culture Chanel cracks the N°5 code to reveal the links which connected it to specific moments in time and to the avant-garde movements it spanned.

Richard Avedon, Catherine Deneuve for the CHANEL N° 5 ad campaign, only for the USA, 1972.

Chanel Collection, Paris (France) ©1972, The Richard Avedon Foundation

Anonymous, Gabrielle Chanel and the Grand Duke Dmitri Pavlovitch, 1920.

Colection Chanel © All Rights Reserved

1937 - Gabrielle Chanel in her suite at the Ritz hotel in Paris. Published in Harper's Bazaar in 1937, this photo was chosen for the CHANEL N°5 advertisement. For the first time, Chanel herself promoted her perfume.

Photo François Kollar © Ministère de la Culture Médiathèque du Patrimoine, Dist.

RMN

Anonymous, Boy Capel reading in his appartment, circa 1911.

Collection Edmonde Charles Roux © Droits réservés

Ed Feingersh, Marilyn Monroe putting on perfume at a photo shoot before the première of the play “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof“ by Tenessee Williams, 1955.

Chanel Collection, PqrisPhoto © Ed Feingersh © Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Man Ray, Noire et blanche, 1924-77 Black & white photograph, 18 x 23,5 cm FRAC Bourgogne, Dijon (France) © Man Ray Trust/ADAGP, Paris 2013

Anonymous, Gabrielle Chanel reading a newspaper at Royallieu, circa 1910.

Edmonde Charles-Roux Collection © All rights reserved

The following celebrities attended the event and wore CHANEL:

Vanessa Paradis

Carole Bouquet

Audrey Tautou

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

39

| just in... venice |

Maison

Louis Vuitton Opens its doors in Venezia

LV Painting Artisan

40

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

The Biblioteca Marciana

a&e assistant editor, Houry Seukunian, was amongst the privileged guests who witnessed the opening of Louis Vuitton’s latest Maison.

During the month of April, the event was celebrated with an exclusive cocktail in the store during which guests were able to admire savoir-faire demonstrations from Louis Vuitton craftsmen from Fiesso d’Artico. An interactive “Art of Packing” demonstration was available to tell the story about Louis Vuitton’s travel expertise and heritage and an artisan demonstrated live hand-painting and personalization services. French model

Clemence Poesy, Hollywood actress Diana Agron, Isabella Ferrari, Delfina Delettrez, Princess Alessandra Borghese and Anna Dello Russo, were amongst the notable people who were there to witness the opening. Most notably in a long checkered décolleté Louis Vuitton dress, was the beautiful Princess Deena Abdulaziz who was there with her husband Prince Sultan.

Guests were greeted inside “Sissi Rooms” of Museo Correr: the magnificent private apartments that hosted Empress Sissi for seven months during her stay in Venice.

The path continued through the exhibitions rooms of the Museo Archeologico where 6 stops presented Louis Vuitton historical to contemporary trunks continuing to the Salone Sansoviniano of the Biblioteca Marciana, where the dinner took place.

Venice has always been a city dedicated to the arts, so it was no surprise that the Maison Louis Vuitton was built on the site of Teatro San Marco, one of city’s oldest cinemas from 1908. Upon first arrival on the Calle San Marco, visitors encounter the sight of a rationalist and monumental palazzo, designed by architect Brenno Del Giudice in

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

41

| just in... venice |

Matteo Ceccarini, Eva Riccobono

Elisabeth Von Thurn und Taxis, Alexia Niedzielski, Michael Burke, Virginie COurtin, Clemence Poesy

“With this Maison, we wanted to pay homage to Venetians and lovers of the city by offering them our most beautiful designs, as well as a space for art and culture wholly dedicated to them.”

Michael Burke, President of Louis Vuitton.

Dianna Agron

Anna Dello Russo and Micol Sabbadini

Princess Deena Abdulaziz at The Marciana dinner

1936. This is followed by sculptor Napoleone Martinuzzi’s hautreliefs, among which sit a reel of film and the Venetian lions - also used by the Mostra - symbolic references to the building’s cinematic past.

dedicated to Venice in which art is everywhere. It features works by Candida Höfer, Jean-François Rauzier and Humberto & Fernando Campana. Once past the front doors, the visitor enters a vast lobby opening onto spaces dedicated to men’s and women’s leather goods. The design is based on a game of shadows and light, reminiscent of

Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier, a geometric symphony of Chiaroscuro. The final steps of the staircase lead up to the bookstore which offers art books and major publications from Éditions Louis Vuitton. With a comfortable reading space and a selection of prints, visitors can relax and enjoy a fresh doze of enlightenment.

In this city of aesthetes and artists, Louis Vuitton has realized a Maison entirely

42

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

a&e enters the magical world of Tiffany & Co. Since 1837, Love, happiness, tears of joy, surprise, appreciation, and many wonderful emotions have been synonymous with the famous Tiffany blue box.

What's the secret of this blue box?

The colour known as Tiffany Blue was selected by founder Charles Lewis Tiffany for the cover of Blue Book, Tiffany’s annual collection of exquisitely handcrafted jewels, first published in 1845. Also referred to as robin’s-egg blue or forget-me-not blue, this distinctive colour may have been chosen because of the popularity of the turquoise gemstone in 19th-century jewellery. Turquoise was also a favourite of Victorian brides who gave their attendants a dove-shaped brooch of turquoise as a wedding day memento.

Tiffany Blue was later adopted for use on shopping bags, as well as in advertising and other promotional materials. True to the founder’s vision, the Tiffany Blue Box® became an icon of luxury and exclusivity. As The New York Sun reported in 1906. (Charles Lewis) Tiffany has one thing in stock that you cannot buy of him for as much money as you may offer; he will only give it to you. And that is one of his boxes.

Charles Tiffany’s coveted box is today an international icon of elegance and sophistication. On a more personal level, it is a certain sign that a magical moment has arrived. The box may reveal a dazzling diamond ring that changes the course of love; or it may honour a personal achievement, a birthday or an anniversary. Glimpsed on a busy street or resting in the palm of a hand, the Tiffany Blue Box® evokes happy thoughts of the present that will be opened with the greatest pleasure.

"The Great Gatsby" , yes that's the movie that the whole world is waiting to see, but this time the name has a different flair as it was the main inspiration of Tiffany's Blue Book collection for this year.

We invite you to enter the enchanting world of Tiffany to discover this unique and marvelous collection and how it was celebrated at one of the most iconic landmarks in NewYork, The Rockefeller Center.

We had the privilege to fly to NewYork to discover closely the world of the famous Tiffany Jewels and go in-depth into its history through an exclusive one to one with John Loring, Design Director Emeritus at Tiffany & Co.

Report by Lara Mansour Sawaya

| just in... new york |

Tiffany & Co.

Celebrates Jazz Age Glamour at The Blue Book Ball The roaring twenties spring to life on an April night in New York City

Glittering with 1920’s pizzazz, the Jazz Age returned for one spectacular evening, summoned by Tiffany & Co. to ignite the Blue Book Ball. The champagne-fueled celebration was held in honour of the 2013 Blue Book Collection of Tiffany’s most breathtaking jewels, inspired by the Roaring Twenties that transformed fashion and culture.

The preeminent jeweler then and now, Tiffany designed the jewels that epitomized glamour and lit up posh Manhattan supper clubs. Blue Book overflows with diamonds reflecting the opulent fashion and surge of creative energy

44

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

that defined the period. The sheer exuberance of this magical moment in American life pervaded Rockefeller Center ®, scene of the Blue Book Ball that took place within a 31-foot-high Tiffany Blue Box® covering the center’s famous 15,000-square-foot ice rink.

In his remarks, Michael J. Kowalski, chairman and CEO of Tiffany & Co., said,

“The Jazz Age was a time of great energy and creativity. All eyes looked to New York for the latest in

music and style. As the city’s first great jeweler, Tiffany provided the diamonds for this nonstop party-and I am happy to say, we still do. So it is with pleasure and gratitude that we celebrate this memorable chapter in American life, in the city where it all beganand with our diamonds that are still the world’s most beautiful.”

Gwyneth Paltrow

The approximately 400 guests included celebrities and notables Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson, Jessica Biel, Sarah Jessica Parker, Carina Lau, Michelle Williams, Alice Eve, Poppy Delevingne, Peter and Harry Brant, Doutzen Kroes and Hilary Rhoda; along with Carey Mulligan (star of the upcoming film The Great Gatsby), Baz Luhrmann (director, producer, and co-writer of The Great Gatsby) and Catherine Martin (costume and production designer of The Great Gatsby).

Guests disembarked at Fifth Avenue and proceeded along the promenade, which was bathed in Tiffany Blue, toward a beribboned entrance to an elegant supper club tailormade for Jazz Age revelry. The seamless Art

Megan Hilty

Sarah Jessica Parker

Deco setting, designed in a palette of chic gray tones, was lined with luxurious velvet drapes and laid with carpeting in a striking starburst pattern. At the floor’s center, a towering tribute to the bubbly rose toward the ceiling on mirrored risers, with 240 glasses and 142 magnums of Moët & Chandon Imperial champagne. Surrounding it were elegant lounges and banquettes arranged for dining in the style of a supper-club buffet, served amid lavish arrangements of white flowers. And trays of iPads for posting images on social media circulated like the cigarette trays of a previous era.

Showcased in custom-designed vitrines were jewels from the 2013 Blue Book Collection that reflect Tiffany’s legacy of Art Deco

Jessica Biel

design. Among them were diamond necklaces and drop earrings shimmering like silk and champagne or contoured in homage to the city’s Deco skyscrapers; platinum and diamond bracelets set in the rhythmic patterns of a jazz composition or with great diamond fans unfolding on black enamel; a corsage suite of voluptuous diamond flowers; and the rarest fancy colour diamonds-pink, orange, blue and green. Gemstones Tiffany introduced to the world, including green tsavorite, pink morganite, lilac-pink kunzite and blue-violet tanzanite punctuated jewels of great length and movement; and Montana sapphires and luxuriant turquoise highlighted Deco’s geometric precision.

The bronze-gilded statue of the Greek Titan Prometheus, a fixture of Rockefeller Center, served as backdrop to the stage and a full-scale, 20s-style revue. Backed by an orchestra, dancers in fringed and spangled “flapper” costumes reprised classic songs (Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend), complete with raucous renditions of the Lindy and Charleston, and current pop hits (Rihanna’s Diamonds), followed by Broadway singer Megan Hilty with more standards from the American Songbook. The singer led the finale, accompanied by aerialists that descended from above, trailing feathered headdresses and dancing in mid-air. On cue, a blizzard of silvery fine confetti brought down the curtain on a simply fabulous evening.

It was a milestone in the history of New York and its legendary jeweler: the night Tiffany brought the Jazz Age brilliantly to life at the glamorous and euphoric Blue Book Ball.

Evening Hash tag: #TiffanyBlueBook ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

45

| just in... new york |

The 2013 Blue Book Collection

Featuring Jewels inspired by The Jazz Age The new Blue Book Collection draws on Tiffany’s legendary style, its tradition of beauty and excellence and its status as the world’s premier diamond jeweler to create an extravagant, euphoric, magnificent and magical celebration of the Jazz Age. Blue Book 2013 bursts with the energy and innovation of the Roaring Twenties that transformed fashion and culture and gave rise to American glamour.

The preeminent jeweler then and now, Tiffany created the diamond jewellery that adorned sleek new silhouettes and opulent supper club attire.

Empowered as never before, women reveled in the refreshing ease of it all, both at work and on the town. Hemlines rose and “flappers” with bobbed hair and fringed dresses danced with abandon at the summit of style-New York-where Tiffany was founded. The metropolis became Tiffany’s muse for diamonds that glittered like the city’s Art Deco skyline.

With the elite of gemstones for which Tiffany & Co. is renowned, Blue Book’s master designers illuminate this fabled period with brilliant creations that explore Tiffany’s Deco legacy, which favoured white diamonds and platinum punctuated with colourful gemstones in softly contoured settings. The

46

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

designers’ breathtaking jewels move with Jazz Age exuberance and flow with the current of modern times.

Necklaces and diamond drop earrings share the sublime grace of New York’s skyscrapers such as the Chrysler building and Rockefeller

Center. Bracelets drape the wrist with round and baguette diamonds hand set in the rhythmic patterns of a jazz composition.

A corsage suite of voluptuous diamond flowers is stylized with mixed-cut diamonds so discreetly connected they appear to float on the neckline. Sparkling stones contrast with hand-carved onyx and form dazzling fans on black lacquer; and pear-shaped diamonds lavish in size and setting strike a resplendent note amid jewels of sensuous motion that are

as effervescent as champagne and as sheer as silk.

Art Deco’s vibrant colour palette is reflected in rare, fancy colour diamonds, treasures of the natural world that can be found only at Tiffany. Pink, orange, blue and green diamonds of rich colour saturation combine with white diamonds in rings of pure s y m m e t r y ; and rings with yellow diamonds are bordered with sapphires, spessartites and pink diamonds.

The Blue Book Collection also c ele b r a t e s gemstones Tiffany introduced to the world.

Among these are green tsavorite in jewels of great length and movement; kunzite, a lilac-pink gem that accents scroll motifs, blue-violet tanzanite surrounded by a galaxy of diamonds; and pink morganite blossoming among diamond leaves. Gems that Tiffany brought to the forefront of fashion include Montana sapphires and luxuriant turquoise in jewels inspired by Deco’s geometric precision. Like a hypnotic refrain, the Jazz Age weaves through Blue Book, enticing connoisseur and collector into this totally chic-and outrageous-American moment. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

47

| exclusive |

It’s not a Myth It’s the Real Thing!

From Tiffany, with love

“Mother Nature is the best designer and it is through the observation of Nature’s movements, patterns and structures that you come up with the best designs.”

- John Loring, Design Director Emeritus at Tiffany & Co.In the 1961 movie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s - there was a phrase that caught my attention - “Nothing very bad could happen to you at Tiffany”. What is your input on this?

Tiffany is a place within a dream where everything is beautiful and well done. Nothing can go wrong. Nothing ever does and nothing has ever gone wrong at Tiffany & Co. John, you are the author of 21 books so far. With everything that you have written about – tell us, what makes Tiffany unique?

Tiffany is unique for more than a couple of reasons. Number one would be that it is the Great American Jeweller. It did not start off with hundreds of years of tradition such as other jewellers in Europe. It started off with building designs from basic things such as observing nature and rethinking design as well as rethinking what jewellery could look like.

In the beginning of America, everything was English colonial - nothing was really American. When Tiffany began in 1837, the country was still quite new. They saw America as a new paradise, as a country with unbelievable fauna & flora with so many wonderful things to be discovered.

At one point, there was a group of artists called the artists explorers that were discovering the extraordinary country of

48

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

America as there was so much to be learned especially when it came to design. The Tiffany artists began to look at things such as the artists explorers and the Native American Design along with what made this country different from Europe and other parts of the globe and obviously this took time to do because in the beginning everybody was used to colonial design.

To me, Tiffany is great because they were the first to have design schools and groups in America. They really thought of the American design. It was the only sort of art design school in the United States and it devoted a lot of time into developing designs drawn from nature. This lead to a sense of simplicity and designing things from basics. Tiffany had a simple vocabulary of things. They established a whole different style than what was seen in other places. The company has been turning basics into beautiful jewellery pieces useful in daily life through its 175 years of history.

Today, simple things are usually complicated when you get down to it. For example, when you look at Elsa Peretti’s heart necklace – she took the most basic female symbol that has been around for more than 10,000 years and made it feminine, sensual and organic through Tiffany’s DNA. By doing that, she made the most successful design in the history of design. Everybody all over the world is able to look at her design and completely understand it. She spoke globally by taking something basic and making it beautiful.

Art is a big part of Tiffany. Tell us more about that.

Tiffany is very aware of the decorative and fine arts. They have a lot to do with each other. Paloma Picasso went back to two of the most basic things in design; crossing two lines together and making an undulated line.

She started with those two basics and turned the Xs into something chic, fashionable and stylish by putting a gold scribble. It was extraordinary. Why didn’t anyone think of that? With just Xs and a few scribbles, a beautiful piece of jewellery was created from basics.

So simplicity does have a very high impact?

Yes, it comes from ideas that I say fall like rain on everyone. When you see it, you understand it. You don’t require an explanation. For instance, with regards to a watch I designed, I thought of basic ways that people told time in a village before there were any watches instead of trying to base it on a couple of years of Swiss watches, etc. This is why I used Roman Numerals - the way people counted on their fingers before numbers.

Even Arabic numerals are sophisticated and sort of complicated in its form.

The Tiffany way of doing things is quite simple. American Art is usually quite flat which is why we overlap on the Japanese and Chinese art as they are also flat, whereas European art is three dimensional.

a part of their daily life. It is feminine and flattering to them. It is also not complicated hence, they can wear it in many situations. It is important to us that a piece of jewellery is able to go out into the world and have many adventures. In various parts of the world, there are some jewellery which is elaborately designed which allows it to be worn on one occasion and not many. With such pieces of jewellery, they end up wearing the woman and not the other way around as it is supposed to be. That complicated piece will end up spending most of its life in the closet. Tiffany is very successful because the quality of the jewellery and design is superb but it has a simplicity and versatility allowing it to be successful in many situations and locations.

John Loring Nowadays, a lot of jewellery houses are designing fashion jewellery and a lot of people are investing in such pieces.

What are your thoughts on this?

Fashion jewellery and fine jewellery are two very different things. Tiffany is not a fashion jewellery house as we are the great dealers of diamonds and only deal with top quality gemstones. Fashion jewellery is fairly new in the world as it was invented in the 1930s.

This type of jewellery can be made of many materials and sometimes it is made of semi precious or even precious materials but it is definitely not fine jewellery.

In this part of the world, people refrained from investing in coloured gems. Nowadays, coloured gems like other diamonds are used a lot. It is not anymore about the perception of value.

Tell us your thoughts on this.

To begin with, the world started to become aware of jewellery through fashion in 1920s.

There was no coloured photography at that time and because of that, the magazines and advertising focused on white diamonds and pearls. So before coloured photography came along, it was just these two as there was no point of photographing such coloured stones because it could not be photographed.

It would just be a black stone. Even when colour photography came in, the quality of printing was not that great. In the books that I’ve written, “Tiffany Diamonds” was book number 20. People would ask me why I waited till book 20 to write about Tiffany Diamonds. It was for a very simple reason, photography and printing weren’t very good.

Nowadays, people have become very focused on the rarity of things such as blue diamonds or pink diamonds which are both very rare.

In Tiffany, you can have these rare items.

People are able to have these things and enjoy them as the world is a whole new one financially. The collections that we are bringing out now relating to The Great Gatsby are white diamonds and pearls which can be very valuable things.

There’s a lot of colour in the Blue Book Collection. We are seeing many new things. In terms of value, are they as important as other stones such as the amethyst or emerald?

We like to put in stones that we discover and popularize such as the Tanzanite. These are the best quality of Tanzanites so yes, they are very valuable gemstones. They have been around since the late 1960s and are beautiful blue gemstones. They’ve become quite a popular stone worldwide but of course the price is quite modest compared to a sapphire.

It’s nice to offer women a choice of colour and price point. They are able to have these beautiful pieces of jewellery that do not cost as much as blue diamonds.

How would you describe the American style developing across the years?

The American style is enormously successful because of the point I made earlier - it begins with simple ideas that everyone can understand. Because it is understandable, it travels around the world very easily.

Women around the globe recognize that it’s something they can wear and it becomes

Tiffany is also successful because our gemstones are the best ones. The craftsmanship is amazing. If you turn it over, it is as beautiful on the back as it is on the front. It becomes a part of your body as it is beautiful to wear and it feels good. The value is always present - you are not buying a myth, you are buying the real thing!

What advice would you give to our readers when buying jewellery?

Buy the one you like. You and the piece should look beautiful together. You should be happy together and you should be able to wear it on many occasions. Buy the piece of jewellery that is flattering to you. I think it is a sort of marriage between a jewellery piece and a woman.

Tiffany is one of the very few brands in the world where people buy the brand’s jewellery because it has emotion linked to it. Do you agree?

Of course! With Tiffany, you feel better and glamorous. No matter how many years have passed (I’m not exactly a teenager) but when I see a Tiffany Blue Box, I get a rush of excitement. I know it’s going to be beautifully made and designed with great emotional attachments! As I said before, it’s the real thing!

John, thank you so much. It has been an absolute pleasure chatting with you.

I wish we had more time!

Interviewed by: Lara Mansour Sawaya

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

49

| just in... new york |

The MET Gala

Punk: From chaos to couture This year’s Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute benefit ball saw A-listers from around the world walk the red carpet in punk themed numbers from head to toe. Some were more daring than others, who chose more understated looks with touches of punk here and there. Elements included golden fish scale, spikes, baby pins, studs, black tulle, gothic lace, black embroidery and the season’s cutout trend perfected by Alexander Wang at his first Balenciaga show. Hair was slicked back or side parted with spiked accessories, as styled on Jaime King, and the more daring ones even donned coloured strands. The makeup was mostly dark and gothic with vampy lips and black eye shadow extendeding well beyond the eyelids as seen on Lily Collins.

Jaime King wearing a Bulgari spiked and jewelled headband

50

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Jamie Campbell Bower and Lily Collins in Moschino

Gwen Stefani wearing a midrif revealing Maison Martin Margiela number and holding a white crocodile shaped minaudière

by Salvatore Ferragamo

Alberta Ferretti and Kate Beckinsale wearing the designer's dress

Elizabeth Banks wore a gold chain mail jacket enriched by gold studs and see through inserts from the Atelier Versace Spring 2013 collection.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

51

| just in... new york |

Sarah Jessica Parker's mohawk headpiece

Jennifer Lopez hones a windblown updo slicked tight on the sides

Miley Cyrus sports spikey blonde hair

52

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Nicole Richie rocks the short grayblue hair and an embellished TopShop dress

Anne Hathaway in vintage Valentino haute couture

Photo by Larry Busacca - Getty Images

Beyonce wearing Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci

Elle Fanning in Rodarte

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Gucci

Cara Delevingne in Burberry

Ginnifer Goodwin in Tory Burch sporting dark eye shadow

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

53

| just in... cannes |

Best of 66th Cannes Film Festival

Cannes Film Festival is above all a question of style and luxurious fashion. For ten days internationally renowned actors and actresses graced the steps of the Palais des Festivals in the most breathtaking creations or in those especially created for them. The red carpet literally turned into a catwalk of elegance and glamour with choices of great tastes‌

British actress Emma Watson in Chanel at the premiere of her new film, 'The Bling Ring'.

Actress Eva Longoria looked stunning on the red carpet wearing a Couture gown

by Zuhair Murad.

The long sleeve gown featured an intricate pattern of gold beaded embroidery and a sweeping train, and is from the Spring/ Summer 2013 Couture Collection.

Jennifer Lawrence dazzled in a simple Dior design at 'The Great Gatsby' premiere.

54

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Doutzen Kroes wore an Atelier Versace Fall 2012 peach coloured full length gown with intricate sequin detailing and tiny buckles throughout the bodice.

Julia Dietze wore a long Giorgio Armani bustier dress in green lace on light grey silk satin.

L’Oreal Ambassador Cheryl Cole graced the red carpet in a Zuhair Murad gown.

The long sleeve burgundy silk gown featured a beaded lace embroidery pattern, and is from the Fall/ Winter 2013 Readyto-Wear Collection.

Eva Longoria chose a mint green leather and beaded chiffon gown with sleeves and a side slit, from Atelier Versace Fall 2012 collection

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

55

| just in... cannes |

The Great Gatsby Premiere

Supermodel Cindy Crawford in a floor-sweeping, white gown by Roberto Cavalli.

Indian actress Freida Pinto wore a Gucci one of a kind coral silk chiffon halter gown.

Chinese actress Fan Bingbing wowed in a custom-made, duchesse satin gown by Louis Vuitton.

56

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Cara Delevingne showed off her Chopard jewels and Burberry dress.

The Great Gatsby actress Isla Fisher appeared in a bright red strapless Oscar de la Renta gown and Bulgari necklace.

Cannes jury member Nicole Kidman chose a style by Dior Haute Couture.

Actress Julianne Moore opted for a voluminous Dior design.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

57

| just in... cannes |

Bianca Balti wore a pink Chanel dress in silk crepe with sequins embroideries, and held a black satin clutch paired with black satin pumps.

58

Alma Jodorowsky wore a long chiffon black Chanel dress.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Ziyi Zhang wearing Chanel Fine Jewellery

Anna Dello Russo & Karolina Kurkova sparkled in Bulgari jewels at the AMFAR's 20th annual cinema against AIDS.

Nicole Kidman, member of the Official Selection Jury, wore a long dress by Chanel entirely embroidered in white sequins with ruffled silk tulle and a bejeweled black belt.

Angela Lindvall wore a black lace gown by Alberta Ferretti Fall Winter 2013-2014

Solange Knowles in Stephane Rolland at the opening of the festival.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

59

| just in... cannes |

Stars Grace the Red Carpet in Cannes in

Elie Saab Designs Elie Saab has always adorned the red carpet with the most dazzling designs and once again, he is crowned king of the red carpet style as numerous stars from all over the world decided to raid the red carpet at the 66th Cannes Film Festival in elegant dresses from his various collections.

AISHWARYA RAI

FAN BINGBING

60

CLOTILDE COURAU

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

DITA VON TEESE

NADINE LABAKI

ANHA O'REILLY

ROSARIO DAWSON

CARINA LAU

VAHINA GIOCCANTE

MONA ABOU HAMZE

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

61

| just in... cannes |

The Armani Group Celebrates its first Giorgio Armani boutique on La Croisette, in Cannes, and its new Armani / Caffè Concept The Armani group is pleased to announce the opening of its first Giorgio Armani boutique in Cannes, during the Cannes Film Festival, and its new Armani/Caffè concept.

To celebrate the opening, over 300 guests attended the cocktail party, hosted by Roberta Armani.

Amongst others, the following attended: MillaJovovich, Rosie Hungtington-Whiteley, Lea Seydoux, Alyson Le Borges, Eugenia Silva, Paolo and Daniela Sorrentino, Ornella Muti, Kat Graham, Will Forte, Micheal Cera, Colin Egglesfield, Stacy Keibler, Paul Wisley, Jasmine Warsame, Juno Temple, Petra Nemcova, Moran Atias, Serena Dandini, Laura Dern and Jon Kortajarena.

During the day, a new Armani Tweet Talks took place on the terrace of the Armani/ Caffè. The discussion, moderated by Peter Howarth (CEO of London creative agency Show Media), was focused on fashion and film and featured as panellists: Zachary Quinto (actor and film producer), Derek Blasberg (Harper’s Bazaar Editor-at-large and V Magazine editor), Kevin Maher (writer and Journalist at The Times), Greg Williams (photographer and film director) and Hilary Shor (producer).

The attached images are provided with rights for press usage, please credit Giorgio Armani if you choose to publish.

Milla Jovovich and Roberta Armani

62

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Alyson Le Borges - credit Stephane Feugere

Stacey Keibler

Lea Seydoux - credit Stephane Feugere

Kat Graham - credit Stephane Feugere

Eugenia Silva - credit Stephane Feugere | issue 09 | june / july 2013

63

| one to one |

64

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

An exclusive with

Mrs.Rima

Frangieh A Leading figure in the Autism Awareness Movement Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

You are known for your passionate commitment for creating better awareness on “Autism,” tell us more on how you initiated this matter and what was the first thing that inspired you?

What inspired me was a mother that has an autistic child and she was asking me for help for her son, it was honestly the first time I hear the word “Autism” and then I promised her that I will see what can be done.

I started asking around more and more and I realized that there were many people that were suffering from this challenge, but there was no one taking care of this matter in all of north Lebanon so I started my research about this subject and tried to do something about it. Finally we found a few people who helped to put together the NAC that is the North Autism center. Autism is not very known and understood as a case. People in Lebanon are still not very aware about autism so we have a double challenge to create awareness: what is autism exactly and how to deal with somebody who has autism and help them integrate into the society.

Did you face any obstacles and challenges?

Yes, we faced a lot of obstacles and a lot of challenges. To help somebody that is suffering from autism is costly because you have to create the right atmosphere in the right place and hire the right specialized team.

This is supposed to be a government issue but our work paid off and now we have a partial government support but the obstacles and the challenges will never end. It’s all about tackling those challenges with a positive approach and a spirit full of hope.

We have been in this center for two years and we have already done quantum leaps. We’ve had very positive effects on the children and on their surroundings so this is where you feel that all the hard work is really paying off. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

65

| one to one |

did in the Opera house in Australia, the Christ’s statue in Rio De Janeiro, Niagara Falls in Canada and the Golden Buddha statue in Thailand. Last year, we lit blue the Government house in Beirut. The second of April this year we lit the most famous 19th century Lebanese house that is considered a national heritage in Byblos, after having a conference about autism and a gala dinner. This house is actually a very special house for me personally; our NGO has already contributed to its maintenance and reconstruction. I feel that this house really somehow represents Lebanon and it was a really nice event that took place in Byblos. And hopefully every year we will light something very special in Lebanon in blue.

You head The North Autism Center “NAC,” tell us more about this center, its activities, and offerings.

The center is only two years old, we have now children who are in house and we have others who are already integrated in schools or in kindergartens, and we have a big team of around 30 young specialized persons.

Concerning the activities, it’s like a normal school we take the children to the zoo and to restaurants and enjoy all kinds of kids activities.

Autistic children enjoy being with pets so every now and then we do whatever is possible

66

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

to bring animals to them to be in contact with.

We have introduced a new program where we can benefit as much as possible from technology to help our autistic children- this a very new program in all of the middle east.

April was the World Autism awareness month. Tell us about the latest events that took place and about the campaign “Together we light Lebanon Blue”.

Blue is the colour of Autism and this is a tradition that started few years ago in many countries around the world they would light the symbol of the country in blue, like they

What can you tell us about your experience with interacting with Autistic children and adults?

Autism is a disorder of neural development An autistic person is somebody who might have very strong concentration abilities but the thing is that he or she will be concentrating on one and only one single thing. If we know how to unlock the potential or divert his or her concentration to a really constructive point we can see miracles. It is known that Mozart, Newton and Einstein used to have a kind of Autism or characteristics linked to autism spectrum disorders-ASDs so imagine what would happen if an autistic person’s attention directed towards on one major thing.

The challenge lays in channeling the energy, concentration and senses to a path that’s constructive. The earlier we start with somebody who has autism the better. If we start with somebody who is 2 or 3 years old they can learn languages so fast and they can become a genius in mathematics or in any other domain that they like.

The earlier the parents feel that their child’s behavior is unusually reserved and solitary, the better. Placing them in a specialized center like ours will help bring out their strengths and capabilities whilst easing their social interactions and generating the required skills.

How do you assess Lebanon’s society when it comes to the concept of “NGO”? Do you think you are on the right track or other communities and societies are way ahead of you?

I believe that we are on the right track. We, as a collectivist culture, have always been somehow dependent on the family and the community we are part of. This is an innate aspect in us as Lebanese people and when it’s placed in an altruistic context, such as an NGO, it its true value becomes visible. I will not compare our society with other societies since the role of the NGOs is to bridge the gap between governments and society.

Rima, who inspires you amongst the women in the world who dedicate their time to activism?

We can always be inspired by anybody around us, a woman, a man and a child, anybody who supports noble causes. For me anybody who really gives from themselves, their time and energy to help other people, is inspiring.

Can you tell us about Rima, the mother and wife?

I have the same challenge like most women in the world today, we are trying to juggle between being a mother, a wife, a career woman and a social activist. I try as much as possible to organize my days and weeks and give each and everything the time it deserves.

As women, succeeding in one or all of these roles is a celebration of our femininity.

Are you planting the seed of social responsibility into your young daughter’s discipline? If yes, tell us more...

For her to learn to give and to enjoy giving, is the most important thing for us. We are trying to give her an organic upbringing by keeping her as close as possible to nature and to be socially aware. I always take her with me to social activities that are suitable for her age.

When you are not working during the day, how do you spend your free time?

What relaxes me the most is the beach, I love the beach and I make time to be at the beach.

It’s not only swimming in the summer but also being near the water during the winter season. I also enjoy movies, reading different kinds of books and listening to good music. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

67

| one to one |

What is your ideal family getaway destination?

Every single place in the world has its charm; it’s really important and lovely to have a getaway and the good thing about a family vacation is that you get the chance to be far from your daily routine. It’s a time to really be together with your family. It can be anywhere; in the mountains, in the city or the beach. Every place has its beauty, its smell and its taste so anywhere is good for me as long as the family will be together.

What is one thing you would like to achieve that you haven’t done so yet?

A lot! I believe we are continuously evolving and so should everything around us.

In the summer of 2011, the “Ehdeniyat Festival” proved to be a big success and was talked about in all the social media platforms worldwide. What should we expect from this year’s festival?

In 2011 we had a really successful Ehdeniyat Festival it was international and was the

68

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

first time that Ehden welcomed international artists. The people’s excitement was incredible, especially the Lebanese people visiting from abroad.

Unfortunately, in 2012 the security situation in part of the North of Lebanon was not encouraging so Ehdeniyat was cancelled but this year we are very determined to have an even better and stronger festival with great variety. Surprises are the diversities; we have something for everyone. The official Launch will be in June and as we said our slogan this year is “Aa Ehden Sharfouna” or “you are welcome to Ehden.” The Ehdeniyat Festival is more than a festival, it’s an Experience.

Coming to Ehden and interacting with the people is really special, there are certain things that you can’t even express in pictures, you have to come and feel Ehden and its vibe, spirit and joy that it has to offer. Ehden is a village that is 1500m above sea level and almost 1 hour and a half away from the city.

It does not sleep and it is in a constant state of celebration!

In addition to all the activities and Ehdeniyat, the yearly Christmas Festival on the lake of Bnachii is highly anticipated by many. Tell us more about it.

“Christmas by the lake” is our yearly Christmas festival and every year we have a new theme. This year it was the well needed “PEACE” written in 6 different languages, and we do many family shows and Christmas spectacles, surrounded by beautiful Christmas decoration and the general Christmas spirit.

We are very proud to bring fun and joy to the hearts of thousands from all over Lebanon.

What message would you like to send to our readers?

I would like to wish them all a wonderful summer to enjoy with family and friends. Life will not get any easier, it just gets more and more challenging and we need to accept that and move on.

I always say that the problems will not get any smaller, we have to feel that we’re bigger than any problem that encounters us so that we can always have a positive attitude and be grateful for what we have. Good health being the most important of all.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

69

| meet my other face |

One to one with

Gaby Layoun Gaby Layoun born on November 1st, 1964, in Zahle, is the Lebanese Minister of Culture, announced as part of the new cabinet in June 2011. He represents the Free Patriotic Movement. Layoun is married with two children and holds a diploma in engineering, a Lebanese Baccalaureate in mathematics (1982) and a Sacred Heart of the city of Zahle.

Who is Gaby Layoun?

I come from a normal family from Zahle, studied Engineering and Economics, and was brought up politically in a place where I could fulfill my dreams in seeing my country free of religious, civil and regional feudalism which we suffered from for many years. I believe that Lebanon is still in the process of foundation, as we haven’t founded the country we believe in yet. After I finished school, I chose to work in the political field as an activist in the Free Patriotic Movement, until I was elected as a Minister.

How important is it to you to lead a luxurious life?

Not much actually, as I prefer leading a comfortable life instead.

What makes the public so fond of Gaby Layoun?

When a person loves himself, and satisfies his conscious, this is highly reflected in his work and therefore forms others’ opinions.

70

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

What is so interesting in politics that makes politicians so attached to their chairs?

Some have the love for power, which is a characteristic that I lack. Even in my career as an engineer, I work with my employees as if they were my consultants and listen to their opinions. Moreover, during a sincere conversation between me and General Michel Aoun, I asked him why he chose me in particular and his answer was: “because you are always available and you never ask for anything for yourself”. These words will never be erased from my memory.

Isn’t engineering safer and more secure to work in?

Of course it is, however, since I was an activist in the Free Patriotic Movement, I never searched for my safety and comfort, or for any financial profit.

Tell us about your childhood. How do you describe it?

What about your children?

My son is studying Economics at Saint Joseph University and my daughter is still in school.

I was born in 1964 and therefore the Lebanese war left a lot of traces on my childhood and it also created in me the desire for revolution to change the bitter reality.

What are the changes that your kids left in your life?

Were you rich then, and were you able to study in a private university?

They made a lot of changes, especially that fatherhood was a dream since I was a kid, and I wanted to have children the moment I got married.

I come from a small family and therefore I was able to study at a private university and I had my own car since my first year. I wasn’t wealthy, but I didn’t need anything.

What is the dream that you wish to fulfill?

Tell us about your own family.

I am married to Mai Nehme since 1991, she is a teacher at the Lebanese University, and we have two children. My mom lives with us too.

Is she happy with whom you turned out to be?

Very much!

How supportive are you with your wife?

She is the one who supports me a lot because I need all the support I can get at home. My wife has worked at the Lebanese University long before I became a Minister.

It is very wrong that some people live just to dream. When you are a middle aged man, knowing that I am in my early fifties now, you dream of having a happy family with sophisticated educated kids, who are able to rely on themselves, and have social awareness, so that you can be proud of them.

What changes have you made in your life and your family when you became a Minister?

Nothing changed; we still lead the same lifestyle. Being snobbish is not in our dictionary!

How important is fashion to you?

Don’t you care about wearing designer suits?

My wife cares about these things more than I do. I don’t see the importance of buying a 4000 dollars suit for example.

Did you make money out of politics?

I didn’t make a fortune.

Do you care for arts?

Of course.

Who are the stars that you favour?

I like Nicola Osta’s voice, and I listen to Wadih Al Safi and Fairouz. I also participated in honouring Al Safi and I visited him at his home because he gave this country a lot.

I also appreciate Karakala group which merges dancing with live music. I find that what they do is very sophisticated and they really touched me when I watched them in Beit El Dine last year.

When do you cry?

I am not an emotional man in general...

Interviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

I don’t have much time for fashion, for men, it is only a suit and a tie!

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

71

| meet my other face |

One to one with

Wiam Wahhab Wiam Wahhab born in 1964 is a Lebanese politician. He started off as a journalist, and then became former political advisor to Lebanese Prince Talal Arslan between 1991 and 2000.

Appointed as minister of the environment in October 2004 in the government of Omar Karami, Wahhab is extremely pro-Syrian and pro-Iranian. In 2006 Wahhab founded the Arab Tawhid party, which was involved in various feuds and fights against the Druze who support the Progressive Socialist Party of Walid Jumblatt.

Away from politics, he is well known for his honesty, sense of humour and kindness.

Wiam Wahhab the Leader or the Minister? what title is dearest to your heart?

Actually it is none of the above. My most preferable title is Abou Hadi.

You are well known for your courage.

How did you acquire this, or is it hereditary in your case?

Courage can’t be acquired but rather it is born with us.

Do you regard yourself as special case in the Lebanese political field?

At least I think I have maintained many citizens’ trust and they believe in my speech.

What I am well aware of, is that I am not a member of the political club, but rather a revolutional case.

72

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Is your authority greater at home among family members or in the political field?

In the political field; as dealing with family members requires a lot of discussions especially with the kids. Authority is used at home when necessary only.

What scares you?

Right now I am afraid of the chaos we are witnessing, especially since I believe that our country is moving towards a huge chaos for the next twenty years. In general, I hate religious, ethnic and political extremism.

What are you favourite hobbies?

Hunting, planting and raising animals. I make sure I spend a day with nature on a weekly basis if nothing urgent comes up.

Did politics lure you into doing things you are not convinced of?

Which of your kids resemble you the most in personality?

Who is the funniest politician in your opinion?

Yes, I did a few things I wasn’t convinced of, but sometimes the circumstances we go through force us to do so. These things bother me the most.

Each one of them resembles me in one way or another.

Elie El Ferzli has a great sense of smart humour.

And who is the most skilled speech wise?

Nabih Berri.

Is politics a part of you or are you a part of it?

I can’t separate myself from politics. We have become a part of each other.

Did you make a lot of money out of it?

On the contrary, I paid a lot of money for it.

I owe the bank a lot of money and that is not a secret. I built a huge house, but that was before I became a Minister. However, politics is costing me a lot of money because I believe it means helping people and not stealing from them and from the government.

How did you lose your extra weight?

I followed a diet, made sure I practice different sports on a daily basis, stopped all kinds of sweets, decreased my fruits intake, and boycotted white bread, rice and pasta.

How important is fashion to you?

I have loved fashion since I was young. I used to pick the best quality of clothes and the most special items and unique ties.

Do you encourage them to work in the political field?

I won’t stand in their way if they chose this path, and if they have the efficiency.

Did anyone make you cry before?

I cried several times, when I lost my mother, my father and some of my friends. I even cry because of the injustice prevailing in the Middle East…

What kind of music do you prefer?

Do you pick your suits from high end brands?

I usually like certain songs disregarding the singer. But I also love listening to Fairouz.

I have shopped for suits from the same boutique since 1988 until now. It’s called “Fratelli”. However, for casual wear, I shop from Paul&Shark.

Which singer attracts you with her looks more than her voice?

Does your wife play a role in selecting your outfits?

What do you think of the phenomenon of celebrities and models entering the political field?

No.

Are you against women being in charge of the political field?

On the contrary, I am not at all against it. I see that many women are more efficient than men.

Haifa Wehbe.

I don’t have a problem with it if they have the efficiency. However, in the Arab world, we have created cheap singers who model their bodies in music videos instead of their voices and songs.

Interviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

73

| exclusive |

Lost in Venice

takes a trip on a Gondola with

Louis Vuitton

When Christopher Columbus decided to embark on his journey to the Americas, his primary inspiration was a fellow traveller who opened the doors of Europe to the rest of the world. The Venice Marco Polo airport, where I recently landed, was famously named after a merchant called Marco Polo, who laid the business oriented groundwork for the famous floating city.

His travels introduced Europeans to Central Asia and China, and eventually the beautiful city of Venice became the commercial capital of Europe. The city’s traders went as far as the Middle East to bring with them our savoury spices which their European neighbors would soon be unable to resist.

In time, the act of travelling began to serve more than a commercial purpose and entered the realm of leisure and cultural enlightenment.

From boats, to trains and airplanes, new inventions facilitated the means of geographical relocation and for many travelling developed into an art de vivre.

This “way of life” became a marker of identity embracing a person’s whole way of being, from the way they dressed, to the way they spoke and even their perception of the world around them. Today’s fashion

74

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

This age old tradition was exhibited in person during the launching of the new Maison Louis Vuitton in Venezia, which is what brought me to this magical labyrinth. “A city on a lagoon at the crossroads of East and West, it symbolizes travel and an openness to new horizons,” as described by Michael Burke, the CEO of Louis Vuitton.

Museo Correr Piazza San Marco An immobile painting frozen in time, framed with an engraved golden contour; it came to life the minute I stepped inside its realm.

world constantly draws inspiration from the life led by jetsetters who travel from one fashionable place to another, carefully packing and unpacking the valuable outfits they purchased, in and out of their suitcases covered in Louis Vuitton’s iconic monogram.

Long before these items took the form of

Lost in Venice, I crossed over one bridge after the other and entered one alley after another, until I happily found myself in several dead ends left to admire the perfectly unmatching surface of the adjacent houses. The vitrines of the small boutiques lined up along the “calles,” meaning streets in Venetian, displayed the city’s finest creations.

modern day luggage, they came in the form of square hard body trunks, and sometimes even bore the initials of the aristocratic individual they belonged to. In the late 1800s’, the brand demonstrated the art of “emballage” by helping its high end clients pack their suitcases with the utmost etiquette it is still famous for today.

The smell of genuine leather dominated the atmosphere and reflected the city’s notability for high standard fabrics. Authentic journals and modern feather pens were also being sold as a sort of emblem of Venice’s history in literature and theater. From one Mascherari, or mask maker, to the next, I dug deeper into one of the city’s oldest traditions, the Venetian Carnival. I quickly learned to tell the difference between the real, authentic ones from the commercially mass produced or imported ones. From the initial face mold

The death of Othello by Pompeo Molmenti. This original painting from 1866 which was restored thanks to the Louis Vuitton and MUVE partnership, will be exhibited at the upcoming Venice Biennale

future. By partnering up with the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia,or MUVE, the House will finance the restoration of major pieces of Venice’s heritage, returning them to their former glory for the benefit of the city’s inhabitants. The looming threat of flooding, has increasingly posed a challenge in the preservation of this ancient city. Each time a high tide comes to stream through its streets, the inhabitants gear up with wooden planks and other temporary solutions to keep the water from invading their properties.

Throughout Venice, the unevenness of the ground is astonishingly apparent, even in the Basilica of San Marco square in which 20 million tourists step foot each year. Along with the infrastructure, the city’s infinite number of art pieces have fallen victim to its deteriorating state.›

made from papiér maché or ceramic, to the hours spent intricately painting and ornating with different fabrics and material including lace, glitter, sequins, feathers and much more, the mascheraris demonstrated the intricacy of their work. Their passion for the preservation of craftsmanship was similar to that of the artisan shoemakers who had found a home for their atelier, in the calles of Venice. Sewing everything by hand, each one of their creations had an element of originality, such as a plissé finish or a body entirely made of velvet.

Leather, goods, masks and Pistachio Frangollas stuffed with large pieces of dried fruits weren’t the only Venetian trademarks that caught my eye and tickled my taste buds.

In the words of Candida Höfer, “What always strikes me is the way Italians live daily, with a sort of silent pride, of course, but also so nonchalantly in such grand spaces… ”

When luxury meets art: Louis Vuitton helps restore Venetian heritage Venice is not only known as the city of canals, but the city of bridges. Since the structures float above the water, the only way to get across is by walking over one of the 400 bridges that connect them. The Bridge of Sighs, or the Ponte Dei Sospiri, connected the Doge’s palace to the prisons and offered prisoners a final opportunity to view the city before heading to the execution cells. Today, like the arched bridges of Venice, Louis Vuitton seeks to create a passage, but one that connects the past to the present and the Palazzo Ducale Venice Facade Monogram Inspiration | issue 09 | june / july 2013

75

| exclusive |

The MUVE, is a foundation that not only manages and helps develop 11 of the city’s most prominent museum, but also organizes cultural services including training, research and teaching with attention paid on social demand.

Today, the foundation has added one more duty to its list, and that is the restoration of ancient Venetian art. I personally sat down with Gabriella Belli, the director of MUVE, and asked her about the historical essence of the pieces and how they ensured that it maintained its spirit even after being restored. “This is our strength, she answered, and we are happy that we finally have the opportunity to show this part of our work to the public who is usually unaware that the piece of art they are admiring has been restored. Now we have the chance to put them on display, thanks to our collaboration with Louis Vuitton. The Venetian people can see for themselves the effort that we are putting into preserving our heritage.” The elegant Gabriella Belli has all the expertise to support her statements and an extensive portfolio that includes numerous directorial positions in art institutions and museums across her country. Her background is one of historical as well as contemporary art, and December 2011 saw her appointment as Director of the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia.

Gabriella Belli, Director of Muve

76

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

With 700,000 artworks to manage, the foundation is the only cultural foundation in Italy and one of the few in Europe, to be self-financing and operating without public contributions. Thus, the support of private institutions such as Louis Vuitton in the protection of cultural goods is fundamental, according to Belli. During my conversation with her, she drew a parallel between the luxury house and the foundation, noting the perception they share of luxury. In her opinion, luxury is not about the finished result but about starting with an idea and going through the process of putting it into creation. “Luxury is about quality, creativity,

imagination and innovation,” she describes.

MUVE’s director hasn’t held back from praising the Maison’s commitment in the promotion of culture, the protection and transmission of Savoir Faire, and its ability to set a dialogue with international Cultural institutions.

Each restored work will be featured in a temporary exhibition at the Maison’s Espace Louis Vuitton Venezia, “where it will be interpreted through the eyes of a contemporary artist in order to demonstrate how different eras are connected to one another,” comments Geoffroy Van

is incredible, and with it, it reinserts an emotion. This is the most touching part.”

This collaboration still continues today with the restoration of other liturgical gold and jeweled objects. Most notably, the house contributed in the architectural restoration of the Venice Pavilion in the Biennale Gardens, where the world renowned contemporary art exhibition, the Venice Biennale festival, is hosted today. One of the 11 civic museums run by the foundation is the Museo Correr, located in St. Mark’s square and named after Teodoro Correr, a passionate Venetian art collector.

Charm Masque Venise

Raemdonck, the director of Louis Vuitton South Europe. The partnership is about creating links between the art of yesterday and today, as well as reflecting Louis Vuitton’s core philosophy: to preserve, pass on and bring alive a heritage that is always looking to the future. During his speech following the launching of the Maison Louis Vuitton in Venice, Michael Burke, the president of the luxury house, referred to the city’s contributions to modern-day democracy. The Espace Louis Vuitton, where the restored art work will be displayed seeks to serve a reflective purpose. By taking the art and history of Venice outside the “private” context of a museum, the contribution seeks to encourage a cultural dialogue between different types of audiences. This is why the collaborators choose particularly odd, engaging works which could interest and connect people from different worlds, ages, origins.

Being engaged in the restoration of Venice’s cultural heritage has been at the heart of Louis Vuitton for more than 150 years. In 2010, the House supported Venetian Heritage, part of the UNESCO Private Committees Program, in the restoration of the altarpiece in Chiesa di San Salvador, a 16th century masterpiece of Venetian goldsmiths’ art.

“Before being renovated it had a certain shining factor that had faded away, tells me Van Raemdonck. I couldn’t see the depth of the details that are engraved on it. I was aware of the restoration process but couldn’t quite conceive the emotion that one would have looking at it. I think every renovation

The museum is divided into 19 rooms and boasts a large variety of artifacts including world-famous masterpieces, wartime armory and nautical maps and charts amongst many others. I had the privilege to be guided into a corridor-like room, which is normally closed off to the public, where the museum safely preserved old masterpieces, biblical paintings and portraits of Venetian aristocrats and officials who served the republic. Through this passage, I was led into a darkened room with spotlights illuminating two large paintings that were in the process of being restored. It looked as though the expert was performing a surgery with his equipment, which included syringes and other similar tools, all laid out on the table next to him.

He used a special lighting device to show the exact points of damage and how they had been filled in, or repainted.

The patient, in this case, was a painting of Jesus Christ with a conniving Judas on one side and an angel on the other. Being in this somber room in the presence of such valuable art pieces took me back to the enclosed crypt underneath the Basilica in San Marco square, which had flooded and been restored several times. Seeing how we, today, were so determined to pay homage to our human ancestors and keep their work alive, gave me a sense of pride. The advancement of our civilization relies on our knowledge and appreciation of the ones that passed. The collaboration between Louis Vuitton and MUVE seeks to do just that, by encouraging the public to be more and more involved in such efforts. I can now relate to Geoffroy’s emotional reaction to the restoration of an art piece, afterall, seeing is believing.

Venice was the first to open its doors to the Arab world, hence the arabesque elements found across the city; and MUVE has long

established a relationship with the Middle East, with which it regularly collaborates.

“We were recently in Dubai, says Belli, since we’re working on a project together with the museums in the region on Islamic art. We have very important furniture and objects of Islamic art in our foundation.” Knowing the ongoing appreciation that people in the Middle East, and the Gulf in particular, have for Italian craftsmanship and luxury goods, they can now draw a parallel between art and luxury fashion. Dubai, a city that has built a reputation around a culture of luxury shopping, can benefit from being aware of the social corporate responsibility that is sometimes the driving force behind a brand.

“Commerce needs vanity; but a healthy ego,” said Michael Burke, the CEO of Louis Vuitton during his speech.

When we buy into a luxury brand, we make a statement of identity because we see it fitting into our self-perception. We relate to the certain item we bought, the way it was designed, its colour, the shape of its body or strap, the flashy or demure details, the famous people it was or is popular amongst, and the specific era it was first produced in or historical reference, amongst others. Most of all, a “healthy ego,” would entail having an appreciation for luxury that goes far beyond a monetary value. Since our initial decision was based on identity, because the item represents who we are, then shouldn’t we know who the brand is?

Venetian hotel label collected by Gaston Louis Vuitton

Saluti a tutti, from Venice!

Houry Seukunian

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

77

| photoshoot |

Emma - Diamond Cluster Earrings - Diamond Cluster Bracelet - Tiffany Victoria Line Necklace - Shared-Prong Set with Half Circle Diamond Band Ring - Tiffany Setting速 Diamond Ring Dress : MONIQUE LHUILLIER

Brides at Tiffany’s In between the romantic lace, layers of tulle, shimmering sequins, and defining bow; was a little blue box. Their future came wrapped in a white ribbon, filled with a loving promise to last a lifetime.

Alessandra - Archival Diamond Butterfly Brooch set in Platinum - Tiffany Enchant Bangle in Platinum with Diamonds - Tiffany Enchant Scroll Band Ring in Platinum with Diamonds - Ribbon Round Diamond Ring Dress : MARCHESA

| photoshoot |

Alessandra - Archival Diamond Butterfly Brooch set in Platinum - Tiffany Enchant Bangle in Platinum with Diamonds - Tiffany Enchant Scroll Band Ring in Platinum with Diamonds - Ribbon Round Diamond Ring Dress : MARCHESA

Emma - Diamond Cluster Earrings - Diamond Cluster Bracelet - Tiffany Victoria Line Necklace - Shared-Prong Set Diamond Half Circle Band - Tiffany Setting速 Diamond Ring Dress : MONIQUE LHUILLIER

| photoshoot |

Alessandra - Tiffany Enchant Scroll Earrings in Platinum and 18k Rose Gold with Diamonds - Tiffany Enchant Bangle with Diamonds in Platinum and 18k Rose Gold - Tiffany Enchant Bangle in Platinum with Diamonds - Soleste Diamond Ring with Single-Row Pink Diamond Border - Three-Row Band ring in Platinum and Rose Gold with White and Pink Diamonds Dress : ROSA CLARA

| photoshoot |

Alessandra - Diamond Paisley Earrings - Diamond Paisley Pendant - Round Diamond Line Bracelet - Round Diamond Three-Row Melee Border Ring Dress : ZUHAIR MURAD for ROSA CLARA

Emma - Lotus Diamond Opera Necklace - Round Diamond Three-Row Melee Border Ring - Tiffany Garden Diamond Earrings Dress : MARCHESA

| photoshoot |

Emma - Yellow and White Diamond Feather Pendant in Platinum and 18k Gold - Yellow and White Diamond Earrings in Platinum and 18k Gold - Yellow Diamond Ring with White and Yellow Diamond Border Dress : ROSA CLARA

Emma - Tiffany Garden Diamond Earrings - Tiffany Garden Diamond Necklace - Tiffany Garden Diamond Bracelet - Soleste Diamond Ring

| photoshoot |

Emma ( LEFT ) - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Drop Earrings - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Necklace - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Bracelet - Band Ring with Channel-set in Platinum with Diamonds - Embrace Diamond Ring Dress : CAROLINA HERRERA Alessandra ( RIGHT ) - Tiffany Enchant Scroll Earrings in Platinum and 18k Rose Gold with Diamonds - Tiffany Enchant Bangle with Diamonds in Platinum and 18k Rose Gold - Tiffany Enchant Bangle in Platinum with Diamonds - Soleste Diamond Ring with Single-Row Pink Diamond Border - Three-Row Band ring in Platinum and Rose Gold with White and Pink Dress : ROSA CLARA

Emma - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Drop Earrings - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Necklace - Tiffany Circlet Diamond Bracelet - Band Ring with Channel-set in Platinum with Diamonds - Embrace Diamond Ring

* All dresses available at ESPOSA Bridal Boutique in Dubai Tel: +971 4 385 4477

Photographer : Fashion Director : Models : Hair & make-up :

Tina Patni Stuart Robertson Emma & Alessandra from Diva Models, Dubai Shin Desu

| fashion - colour report |

This issue, we bring you our popular colour report featuring the best looks from the runway and the hottest accessories using Pantone’s Colour Forecast for the season!

African Violet

This colour trend includes prominent colours such as pale iris, desert bloom, paprika and china blue. These looks from Chanel, Dina JSR and Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti are loyal to the colours. African Violet is perfect for a romantic look during both the day and evening.

Alyssa Norton @ Boutique1

Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti Dina JSR

Dior

Swarovski

Chanel

Bulgari

Dior

Jimmy Choo

90

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Alberta Ferretti

Dior

Dusk Blue The elements of water act as an inspiration for this colour. We’ve selected a lot of seafoam shades as you can see in the Oscar De La Renta and Giorgio Armani looks. Again, this colour is great for a soft, romantic look. We absolutely adore the Charlotte Olympia quirky purse which is available for order online at Boutique 1.

Mawi

Oscar De La Renta

Charlotte Olympia Purse @ Boutique1

Missoni @ The Outnet.com

Aigner

Dina JSR

Giorgio Armani

Lacoste

Paule Ka

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

91

| fashion - colour report |

Emerald

Oscar De La Renta

This gorgeous shade of green is the colour of the year! Emerald complements almost all skin tones so don’t be afraid to go bold with colour! Over here, we stick to the pure and classy emerald! We love the CH Carolina look and the Burberry trench! Perfect if you want to make someone green with envy, don’t you agree?

Marni Stella McCartney

Tara Jarmon

Lanvin

Oscar De La Renta

Burberry

CH Carolina Herrera

92

Gucci

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Grayed Jade

Oscar De La Renta

This pale shade is just so soft, sweet and beautiful. The Alberta Ferretti look below features a more saturated shade of the colour and that we absolutely love. The colour definitely transports us to a world of mermaids and crystal caves!

Donna Karan

Raoul @ Boutique1

Aigner

Oscar De La Renta

Pinko

Alberta Ferretti

Georges Hobeika

Pinko

Coach

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

93

| fashion - colour report |

Lemon Zest Inspired by the sun! Shades of yellow are definitely appropriate for the spring and summertime. Try to incorporate a floral lemon zest into your wardrobe such as the below from Jean Paul Gaultier to perfectly complement the season.

Gucci

Jean Paul Gaultier Serpui Marie @ Boutique1

Stella McCartney

Christian Louboutin

Aigner

Etro Georges Hobeika’s Signature collection

Etro

Manolo Blahnik

94

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

CH Carolina Herrera

Burberry

Linen

Aigner

A very quiet colour that consists of mostly base colours such as nudes!

Sleek and sophisticated, we love these two looks from Salvatore Ferragamo and Lanvin! If you are looking to go sleek with your accessories rather than your entire outfit, we’ve selected some great picks from Bulgari, Christian Louboutin and Loewe.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Georges Hobeika

( Loewe )

Lanvin

Christian Louboutin

Bulgari

Weill

Paule Ka

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

95

| fashion - colour report |

Monaco Blue The royal blue colour followed through from the last season into the present. We couldn’t be more excited! We just adore this look from Dior that features the colour as well as Victoria by Victoria Beckham’s landscape print dress. This colour pairs magnificently with black as the black and blue combination always remains classy and timeless.

Etro

Christian Louboutin

Jean Paul Gaultier

Dior

Gucci

Aigner

Victoria by Victoria Beckham

Longchamp

96

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Jimmy Choo

Burberry

Gucci

Nectarine Even though these are bright and bold shades, they are still warm!

We love how they can make anyone look and feel fresh and vibrant!

Tangerine was last season and this time, it’s all about nectarine which is more of a warm orange shade. Take inspiration from these looks

by Project D, CH Carolina Herrera and Pinko! The Gucci statement necklace is a bolder version of the colour that will definitely add a pop to any outfit!

Jenny Packham @ Boutique1

Pinko

Versace

Etro

Kotur @ Boutique1

Versace

CH Carolina Herrera

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

97

| fashion - colour report |

Poppy Red

Alexander McQueen

Passion and more passion prevail in this colour! There were many poppy red shades on the catwalk this season such as these Balenciaga and Longchamp looks. We also love the look from Wolford’s SS13 collection. There’s a lot of passion on this page and I am sure just by glancing at these gorgeous picks, a great amount of desire is overwhelming you.

Oscar De La Renta

Longchamp

Georges Hobeika’s Signature collection

Repetto

Chloe

Aigner

Gianvito Rossi

Tod's

98

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Tender Shoots

Louis Vuitton Oscar De La Renta

Dreamlike and whimsical, this colour exudes fantasy and fun just as these looks from DVF and Louis Vuitton! With a splash of a colour such as this, you will definitely be the life of the party synonymous with a picturesque park in a distant world!

Diane Von F端rstenberg

Kotur @ Boutique1

Manolo Blahnik

Etro

Serpui Marie @ Boutique1

Dior

Dolce & Gabbana

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

99

| photoshoot |

Poetical Movement A pathway opens up over a bare back, a corrugated roof is reproduced through architectural folds and an overhead archway inspires a geometric winged yoke. DINA JSR builds a lyrical footpath to the world of Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.

Photography : Art director : Hair & make-up : Model :

Greg Alexander www.gregalexander.net SÊbastien Vienne François Laly Gintare T.

| photoshoot |

| photoshoot |

| fashion - style report |

Tokyo drift

Etro

Refined dinners in the panoramic towers of Shanghai, Tokyo, and Singapore have been on your mind lately. Etro’s paisley patterns and Alexander McQueen’s expanded butterfly wings visuals are statement enough to be worn with clean cut white pants. A dragon emblem and accessories in exotic reptile skins add that necessary extra touch of elegance that reflects the region’s heritage.

Luminor Submersible

by Panerai

CH Carolina Herrera men

Bottega Venetta

Alexander McQueen

Baron spinner by Samsonite

106

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Christian Louboutin

Down to earth Drawing inspiration from Ralph Lauren’s mountain hiker, with his beige shorts and sporty layers, we put together pieces that embrace the environment just as much as the athletic man’s sense of style.

We’re particularly fond of this season’s Tumi rucksacks, since the brand is so keen on compartmentalizing; having in mind every single item that may be carried along.

Muhammad Ali watch by IWC Schaffhausen

Lanvin

Ralph Lauren

Armani Exchange

Ducati Scrambler Rucksack by Tumi

Ralph Lauren

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

107

| fashion - style report |

For the love of the sea If you’ve decided to take a cruise ship and tour the islands of Greece, we pictured you looking like Eden Park’s fisherman, with the short swim trunks, water-proof jacket, and boat shoes.

From the ship’s deck to the crowded streets of Santorini.

Sunscreen from Kiehl's Etro

Armani Exchange

Villebrequin

Hackett

Eden Park

108

Boss

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Christian Louboutin

A day in Tuscany When we think of Provence and Tuscany, we are reminded of Russell Crowe’s “A Good Year,” which gave us a charming and romantic look into the culture of winemaking . For the connoisseur who wants to discover the essence of this age old tradition and experience the atmosphere of a vineyard, the fashion inspiration is one of bohemian nonchalance. We’ve chosen Bottega Venetta’s hippie-chic tunics and loose silhouettes and paired them with shoe sandals or perforated peasant shoes.

Paul Smith

IWC Ingenieur Black Series

Prada

Platinum by Loewe This fragrance is designed for the sophisticated, sensitive and observant man, much like the one who enjoys developing his wine tasting skills on the Italian countryside. The resulting aroma is elegant with notes of black tea and leather creating a perfect balance with fresh lavender.

Bottega Venetta

Salvatore Ferragamo

Paul Smith

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

109

| fashion - style report |

The resorter The combination of shorts and long sleeves and swimming trunks and collared shirts take you from beach side fun to afternoon lunch in the swanky lounge. We particularly like the season’s short suits trend, like the one from Maison Kitsune. The citrusy green, lightly striped ensemble, matched with white espadrilles, is the ideal outfit to wear during the day in a luxury resort. We‘ve picked out similar items in refreshing colours from Carolina Herrera, Prada, and Ralph Lauren.

It’s up to you to mix and match as you please!

Coach

Loewe

Salvatore Ferragamo

Armani Exchange

Maison Kitsune on MR. PORTER Emporio Armani

Prada

110

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Ralph Lauren

Urban landscape If you’re walking around the city during the day, jumping from one place to another, you definitely need flexible day-to-night outfits. We like the denims shorts from Boggi, because they come in different fresh colours. The t-shirt, casual men’s shirt and striped belt combination make for a great laid back, sporty, yet stylish look. When packing the right pairs of shoes, think of the sporty yet comfortable Louboutin skate board shoes.

Thomas Pink

Movado Series 800 Chronograph

Hackett

Boggi

Tumi Boss

Christian Louboutin

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

111

| fashion - style report |

Eden Park A light and colourful season

Influenced by its rugby values, Eden Park continues to associate tradition and technicality, elegance and sporting inspiration in its men’s collection.

The products have been revisited by mixing discretion and tradition which have been part of the DNA of the brand for the last 25 years.

A light and colourful season This collection is made-up of 3 lines: Heritage, Sport Club and Blue line each with its own take on preppy. The club inspiration is mixed with tailoring and has reinvented a “formal” look with subtle sporting influences. The tailoring influence is apparent in the Spring-Summer 2013 collection. The outfits have a leisurely week-end feel to them, strolls along the beach, or walking around the marina. The Eden Park man is sporty and relaxed with an affirmed distinction and temperance. The elegant and sophisticated fabrics used in the products each tell their own story…

112

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Dior Homme Military uniforms meet sports clothes and outdoor apparel

The blazer is the starting point. Its timeless quality mixing rigor, precision and dash acts as a sartorial signpost, leaving a trail of navy blues and ultramarines in its wake. Its characteristic buttons accommodate newer cuts and sportswear materials. Navy blue reigns and red acts as an exclamation point, a strongly rebellious note in the sea of blues.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

113

| exclusive |

Interview with

Riccardo Sciutto General Manager of Hogan Hogan has collaborated with designers such as Patricia Urquiola and more recently, Katie Grand. Tell us more about these collaborations?

Let’s start with the Future Roots Project.

It is very important to us because it carries the DNA of the brand. For us, the project dives into the future with generations of new technology for shoes yet maintaining the tradition. So it is modern with a mix of history.

Katie Grand was a fantastic collection. It is amazing because Katie was never a designer; she was a great stylist with great taste. We discovered a wonderful relationship and I asked her to design something for us. She was very happy to be part of the project with us.

The collection targets younger customers and it definitely gives even more of a twist to the Hogan brand. It’s been a success worldwide and continues to be due to vibrant colours and spirit and attractiveness.

Is there any collaboration for the men’s collection coming up soon?

We are thinking of doing so. We are discussing with lots of new designers. We are looking for the perfect link and situation. For the moment, we will have a new actor for our advertising campaign. The actor will not be an established one but will have a fresh face and talent. It is very difficult at times to find such people as they have to be the right ones that carry the DNA of the brand.

114

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Nowadays, it is very challenging for brands to maintain the ‘Made in Italy’ tag. It is very costly, and so many brands claim to do so when they don’t. To what extent is this challenging for Hogan?

It is not at all challenging especially because of Della Valle family!

Let’s talk about the product lines that Hogan is thinking to carry next.

Starting from shoes, the next link is the outerwear. There will be more accessories coming out. What we aim to do is to have iconic pieces and not the full collection. So we need to start with one iconic piece and establish the market which really helps us to tell the lifestyle story of Hogan. I can tell you the next season, we will have iconic pieces with Katie once more, so that is something to look out for! We will also have a new internal designer.

Let’s move on to market talk. How is the brand performing in the Middle East and where is its largest market worldwide?

It’s performing very well thanks to the new collection which is very vibrant and colourful.

The formal side is also doing well starting from last season when we introduced it.

China is the biggest market today in terms of growth. The Middle East is also not too bad.

In terms of distribution, we have cut it in Italy and we are growing it outside. When I started at Hogan, it was 85 % domestic and sales and 20% international and retail.

What is it like now?

Now it is 60%-40% the latter being domestic.

Riccardo, what are the emerging markets according to you?

Russia is a market where Hogan has little sales distribution. We don’t have a retail store there but they are our first foreign customers in Italy which is very interesting. So, we are going to go deeper into Russia and we also need to develop the Middle East more as well.

What’s in the pipeline?

Soon, we will have two stores opening in Shanghai in July and August. By the end of the year, we will have a total of 15 stores in China. We are starting in Russia as I mentioned and we will also be starting something in Germany as we have a very strong presence there with only one store in Dusseldorf so we are thinking of opening one in Munich as well. London is doing very well for the Middle Eastern customers as well as in Paris. Lastly, we are discovering the great American country also. We will start › in the USA with an online business. As for now, we need to become bigger and stronger in the Middle East and China before going anywhere else. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

115

| exclusive |

Hogan has a beautiful collection for children. Are you planning to introduce new product lines for kids?

We have a huge potential in this line. In Europe, it is selling very well. We need to have something on outerwear. We are talking around but in order to develop it properly, it may take two seasons, but it can be a possibility.

If you have one objective that you want to implement that hasn’t been done yet, what would it be?

To become more international than domestic is our main objective. We have a strong impact in Europe but we need a much stronger impact in Middle East, Asia and America.

When that happens, I will be very happy.

How would you describe the Hogan Man and Woman?

The man is timeless, innovative and urban. They are aware of what is happening in the world today. We had a fantastic experience with actor, Stephen Dorff for the two seasons.

He is the epitome of classic with a twist. We’ve known him for a long time and he has such an amazing personality. Do you know, his girlfriend at the time used to live close to our factory as well! You see, we are a family company and we like to work with people who we want to stay with. Stephen Dorff was an example of that.

The Hogan woman is contemporary, urban and chic!

KATIE GRAND

116

HOGAN - SS14

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

KATIE GRAND

HOGAN - AW14

Since you mentioned being a part of a family business, to what extent does it help? It can be very challenging at times, correct?

For me, it definitely helps at Hogan. Having the family inside the business is very important.

There is a great amount of loyalty and trust.

When it comes to the Della Valle family, they are so involved in all the businesses that is very challenging for them, which is why the need to find the right people to implement their desires.

Final message for our readers?

Always be innovative in whatever work you do. In my experience at Hogan, if you are innovative and consider all your traditions, you tend to find a perfect balance which will make you very successful in your career and personal life.

KATIE GRAND

HOGAN - AW14

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

117

| designer focus |

“My collections are unique in their simplicity and clean lines”

talks with

Rabih Kayrouz 118

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Rabih Kayrouz is praised for his architectural cuts and exacting construction, but the designer’s approach is far from rational.

Emotion is the crux of his ready-to-wear label, which launched in 2009 with the opening of Maison Rabih Kayrouz in Paris.

He works instinctively to design garments that embody comfort, confidence and, most importantly, joy.

Beyond pragmatism and pleasure, Kayrouz’s work reflects exceptional craftsmanship.

It was this delicate balance that won over the international press and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, who invited him to participate in the official calendar of couture fashion shows in 2009.

Showing 4 collections per year, Kayrouz continues to apply rigorous haute couture style codes to his ready-to-wear collection, and his distinctive ease to couture. He has shown his work in both the couture and readyto-wear calendars in Paris since March 2012.

How did your fashion adventure begin?

I always knew I would be in fashion ever since I was a young boy.

“The world of Couture is governed by Lebanese fashion designers”

How did you manage to launch your own fashion line?

Is it difficult for Lebanese designers to thrive in the fashion world?

If you could dress one celebrity who would it be?

With a lot of hard work and perseverance. It all started when a friend asked me to do her wedding dress, and everything came together after that…

Lebanese designers have grown immensely in the fashion world. The world of Couture is governed by Lebanese fashion designers.

Tilda Swinton.

What is the staple piece that all women should have in their wardrobe?

There is not one name in specific, I admire all the big names. ›

What makes your collections stand out from the crowd?

My collections are unique in their simplicity and clean lines.

Are there any designers you look up to?

A white shirt.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

119

| designer focus |

120

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

What is your favourite piece from this season’s collection?

What aspects of femininity do you want to recover?

I don’t have a personal favourite, everything I design is special to me.

Simplicity & elegance.

Any trends you want to share for summer 2013?

Colours!

Give us a summary on the latest collection you showcased at Paris Fashion Week?

It was called ‘Waiting’ and it was for FW1314, it received a lot of good comments and feedback.

What inspires you in your artistic investigation?

Everything around me! Nature, food, Beirut, Paris…

How do you incorporate art into your fashion work?

I think that art is the result of passion, I am passionate about what I do and I think this helps me create beautiful pieces.

Do you think art and fashion can ever really be separated?

No not really, they complete each other.

What do you have planned for the future?

I am currently working on lots of new projects, new stores, in addition to a more focused ready-to-wear line.

Interviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

How would you define yourself?

An uncomplicated person who does what he loves.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

121

| emerging fashion designer |

enters the young mind of

Rami Kadi Born in the US and raised in Lebanon, Lebanese designer Rami Kadi’s passion for designing was obvious very early on. He enrolled in fashion design school, Esmod Beirut in 2005, from which he graduated with honours and distinctions in 2008.

He then gained experience working with world renowned Lebanese designers Rabih Kayrouz and Georges Chakra. In 2008, he was selected by the Starch Foundation, (founded by Rabih Kayrouz and Tala Hajjar), which promotes promising fresh fashion graduates, to showcase his first and second collections. His work gained instant success and recognition, which led him to co-open “Madame Muguet”, a luxury multi-brand boutique, where he stocked his own designs and those of other equally talented Lebanese designers.

His rise to an elite circle of couture designers was astonishingly quick for someone his age and 2011, Rami Kadi opened his first flagship Boutique and Atelier in Beirut, where he showcases his Ready to Wear, Couture, Accessories and Bridal collections.

122

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

“The latest dress I designed for Myriam Fares took about 854 hours of work”

What does fashion mean to you?

From my very early childhood, I used to alter my mom’s clothes and help her pick her outfits, and by the time I graduated from high school I had already decided that my happiness was in pursuing a career in the fashion field

When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?

I have been interested in fashion for as long as I can remember. It was only natural that I enrolled in fashion design school, ESMOD Beirut in 2005, from which I graduated with honours and distinctions in 2008.

What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?

A skirt back in 1st year of university, it was purple with multi-colour tweed, and I was very proud of it. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

123

| emerging fashion designer |

Would you consider that your alliance with singer Miriam Fares was the main boost to your name and career in the fashion field?

Collaborating with stars is always a good boost for my name and my career. While my alliance with Myriam Fares is most definitely an important leverage for my name and career, I have to say that hard work is what got me to where I am today.

How long does it usually take you to construct a piece?

It really depends on the piece; the latest dress I designed for Myriam Fares took about 854 hours of work!!

124

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?

Designing clothes is my passion. I can’t think of an aspect I dislike.

What's a designer's daily routine like?

I believe I’m a young designer who is progressing gradually in the fashion scene, where everyday has provided me with enriching encounters and experiences that have taught me a lot and are providing me with interesting opportunities. I think every day of my career has had its own importance so far.

Who is the Rami Kadi woman?

Routine doesn’t describe at all my daily life, I’m often travelling and my schedule is always so hectic. I’m so grateful for that, it keeps me motivated and it pushes me to give the best of me.

What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?

It’s without a doubt the energy and passion that were put into the item regardless of the fabric used.

Do you prefer sketching designs or actually constructing them?

Both, one stimulates my creativity and imagination and the other gives me a sense of accomplishment.

What do you dislike about designing clothes?

The woman I design for is a woman living a normal life in today's world, but who stands out with her elegance and grace.

She has something about her that turns heads wherever she goes, leaving a trail of seduction and mystery behind… She's a woman who gives a whole new spirit to the garment she is wearing.

What are some of your fashion goals?

While my dreams for the RK Brand are big, I am currently working on reaching new markets, mainly in the Middle East and Europe, where I am putting increased efforts on spreading my creations.

What are your favourite fabrics to work with and why?

My choice of materials and fabrics depends on both the trend and my mood, and is not specifically limited to one type of material.

What are Lebanese ladies looking for in their clothes?

Lebanese ladies are always looking for the perfect combination of elegance and sexiness.

So where do see yourself going now?

I hope to be able to develop derivative products and departments, such as a baby clothing line for example… The sky is the limit to my imagination.

How would you sum up your life's philosophy, even though you're still young?

“You can if you think you can”.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

125

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Garden of Eve

With one gaze, she entranced the slithering snake, picked her apple and ate it too.

Eve remained in paradise, and ruled her kingdom with poise and prowess.

Photographer : Fashion Director : Hair & makeup : Model : Location :

Ingrid Sjodhal Stuart Robertson Carollyn Gallyer Ashley from Willhemina/So Famous Models, Dubai The Ritz Carlton, Jumeirah Beach Residence - Dubai

Dress : DONNA KARAN @ Harvey Nichols Jewellery : BVLGARI High Jewellery Necklace & Earrings

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti High Jewellery Bracelet

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Jewellery : BVLGARI Flora High Jewellery Necklace & Earrings

Dress : AZZEDINE ALAIA @ Boutique 1 Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti Vintage Belt & High Jewellery Necklace

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti High Jewellery Watch

Dress : ALICE & OLIVIA @ Harvey Nichols Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti High Jewellery Necklace & Watch

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Dress : ELIE SAAB @ Boutique 1 Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti High Jewellery Necklace & Bracelet

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Dress : GUCCI Jewellery : BVLGARI Serpenti High Jewellery Necklace & Bracelet

Dress : White jacket by JOSEPH & silver dress

by ALICE & OLIVIA @ Harvey Nichols Jewellery : BVLGARI High Jewellery Necklace & Ring

| jewellery - photoshoot |

Bird of Paradise

A “TROPICAL COUTURE” BREAKAWAY BY DIOR Legend has it that the bird of paradise flies through the skies, never coming down to earth. For summer 2013, this imaginary bird has inspired TYEN, and is unfurling its shimmering colours on the Dior makeup collection.

Inside Monsieur Dior’s garden, a precious flower reveals itself and is actualized into an exceptional ring. The Milly Carnivora collection by Dior fine Jewellery, is yet another charming manifestation of nature.

EGRATIGNA ANGÉLIQUE' RING, WHITE GOLD, DIAMONDS & GLITTERED DIOR GREY LACQUER

DIOR FINE JEWELLERY

FACE : Diorskin Nude Tan BB Cream Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Duo EYES : Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow 273 Parati (used as eyeliner) Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara 090 LIPS : Dior Addict Gloss 043 Caprice NAILS : Dior Nailpolish Bird of Paradise Duo 001 Samba * Necklace and ring by Dior Fine Jewellery

| jewellery - photoshoot |

‘CARNIVORA DEVORUS’ NECKLACE, YELLOW GOLD, DIAMONDS, TSAVORITE GARNETS, PINK, YELLOW & ORANGE SAPPHIRES, PARAÏBA TOURMALINES & LACQUER

DIOR FINE JEWELLERY

FACE : Diorskin Nude Tan BB Cream Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Duo 001 EYES : Dior 5 Color Eyeshadow 434 Peacoock Iconic Overcurl Mascara 090 LIPS : Dior Addict Gloss 363 Dormeuse * Earrings and Necklace by Dior Fine Jewellery

| jewellery - photoshoot |

‘RING ‘DIORETTE’, WHITE GOLD, DIAMOND, AQUAMARINE, TSAVORITE YELLOW SAPPHIRE & LACQUER

DIOR FINE JEWELLERY

Photographer : Stylist : Hair / Makeup : Model :

Mazen Abousrour Sara Maisey Carolyn Gallyer Lina @ Bareface

Fashion by Dior

FACE : Diorskin Nude Tan BB Cream Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Duo EYES : Dior 5 Color Eyeshadow 374 Blue Lagoon Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara 090 LIPS : Dior Jelly Lip Pen 636 Carioca NAILS : Dior Nailpolish Bird of Paradise Duo 001 Samba * Earrings and Ring by Dior Fine Jewellery / Watch by Dior Timepieces

| jewellery - designer focus |

Nada G

Introduces a&e to her world As a young girl, travelling with her family, Nada was introduced to new cultures and places that fascinated her. When walking in new cities, Nada would stare endlessly at window displays. It wasn’t just the designs that captured Nada’s eyes, it was more the behind the scene work, time and energy that fashioned these that fascinated her. In the early eighties, Nada was sent to a boarding school in the UK to escape the Lebanese civil war. The fragility of being away from family, gave Nada an inner strength and shaped her personality, a combination, which comes across in her designs. It was there that she learned to express her feelings and emotions on canvas and it was there that she was encouraged to pursue a career in art. After working for nearly 10 years in advertising and after winning multiple regional and international advertising awards, Nada knew that it was time for her to create her own brand.

At the age of 30, Nada moved back to Lebanon and started weaving her first jewellery pieces with 18k golden strings and precious stones in her apartment. A year later, in December 2003, she showcased her first collection with 25 hand-made pieces. In less than a year after her acclaimed success, Nada established Nada G™ brand and opened her first boutique and workshop Nada G™ in October 2004 and in December 2010 Nada G™ opened its 2nd and flagship boutique in Beirut Souks, Beirut Central District, Lebanon.

144

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

When did you discover your talent in jewellery designing?

My fondest memory is sitting by the fireplace watching my grandmother’s delicate fingers weave pieces of art using a string and her trusted crochet needle. I could sit for hours examining and looking at every detail and never tire. I was fascinated with the intricate details of the pieces she created. I clearly recall the euphoric feeling I had the first time she held my hand and gently pressed my finger against that needle as she carefully guided me to tie my first knot. I knew back then and at the early age of 6 that I wanted to be an artist and an artisan.

What's the first project you remember crafting?

Rings I made out of wires and beads at the age of six.

“I aspire to emotionally connect to women around the world through my fine jewellery collections” What's the best advice you've ever received?

It’s actually an advice I have always heard from my parents, which is: “Put your heart into it, and you will succeed”.

As a designer, where do you draw your inspiration from?

My designs are a true reflection of my emotional sense, surroundings and what invariably moves me, materialized with the glow of gold and the luring energy of a gem.

What makes your designs so unique?

Going against established norms, the pieces I design exhibit fragility in their coarseness, docility in their textures, and vibrancy in their candid statements. Each piece of jewellery echoes a different sense of emotion, mirroring not only an adornment of the senses, but more so celebrating what they evoke to be a woman. I believe every piece we create has a soul! ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

145

| jewellery - designer focus |

146

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

What aspects are you most interested in exploring these days in terms of design?

It is very challenging to create something unseen and unexpected, and that’s what I always aspire to explore.

You combine materials that are very different from one another, with a style that has become richer with time. Where did you start from and where do you want to go today with this investigation of contrasts?

I originally started with handmade, customized jewellery made of 18k golden wires and precious stone. Few years later my instinct led me to smoothly shift into fine jewellery with an edge, believing that this is where the trend will go. As for now, I would like to continue by lifting the level of our creations even further, in terms of design, material and quality.

\With what materials and techniques

are you experimenting now?

I’m experimenting with different unused textures and looking into pieces that could be worn in unconventional ways.

Do you follow a defined path when you experiment or are you more instinctual?

I would say both, but more instinctual.

Sometimes pieces are created without me knowing how I got there.

And who are your pieces addressed to?

I aspire to emotionally connect to women around the world through my fine jewellery collections. I would rather not select women I address, but let them select Nada G. After all, the best part about being a jeweler, is translating my emotions into timeless jewellery pieces that awaken emotions in others.

How has the use of jewellery changed today?

In the old days women used to wear jewellery occasionally, but today jewellery is a prominent item in every women’s’ life.

Specially that I believe jewellery can set your whole look. Even men tend to accessories their look with jewellery these days.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

147

| jewellery |

Cartier

Collection Paris Nouvelle Vague

• Ring, large model, white gold, diamonds • Bracelet, white gold, diamonds Vincent Wulveryk © Cartier 2013

148

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

• Pendant, white gold, diamonds Vincent Wulveryk © Cartier 2013

• Ring, white gold, diamonds • Ring, pink gold, diamonds Vincent Wulveryk © Cartier 2013

Ring, white gold, onyx, lapis lazuli, diamonds

Bracelet, pink gold, hematite, amethysts, smoky quartz, pink opals, diamonds

Vincent Wulveryk © Cartier 2013

Vincent Wulveryk © Cartier 2013

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

149

| jewellery |

MISE EN DIOR

"Sometimes the simplest ideas can be the most striking", says Camille Miceli, who this season presents a single earring that is actually a pair, since it features two asymmetric paste beads.

The smaller one rests on the ear while the larger one can be seen just behind, as though accompanying the first in contrast.

All pearl, pearl and jade (a luminous green), pearl and opaline (a delicate pink), pearl and ruby (blood red) or pearl and sapphire (deep blue): the colours of the glass are subtle yet intense. Behind the apparent simplicity of this earring lies the full force of great ideas.

Natalia Vodianova - ©Dior

150

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Lucie de LaFalaise - ©Dior

Chelsea Tyler - ©Dior

MISE EN DIOR PHOTOGRAPHED BY JULIA NONI

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

151

| jewellery |

Tufenkjian

A Legacy since 1909

Bracelet with diamonds

Necklace in white, yellow and pink gold with diamonds

Bracelet, white gold, set with diamonds

Double ring, in yellow gold, set with diamonds

Double ring, in white gold, set with diamonds

152

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Double ring, in white gold, set with diamonds

Rings in white gold, with blue & white diamonds

Bracelet, white gold, set with diamonds

Rings in white gold with white, pink & green diamonds

Double ring, in white gold, set with diamonds

Earrings in yellow gold, diamonds & semi precious stones

Double ring, in yellow gold, set with diamonds

* BEIRUT - AMMAN Web: www.tufenkjian.com

Earrings in white gold and diamonds

Earrings in yellow gold, green & white diamonds

Earrings in white gold set with diamonds

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

153

| watches |

Middle East Launch of

Baume& Mercier Clifton collection

154

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

The Clifton collection of men’s watches is inspired by a museum timepiece that dates back to the 1950’s and perfectly combines tradition with modernity. Clifton reflects the core values of the brand inherited from its rich history - affordable luxury that combines excellence, expertise and aesthetic elegance – and also showcases the brand’s quest for excellence that shaped its destiny.

Both urban and classic, from its clean lines down to its finishes, Clifton was created specifically for a male clientele wishing to purchase a timepiece to accompany them through every moment of their lives, transcending both personal and professional spheres. The collection features a total of nine references, including the emblematic Clifton 1830, a particularly sophisticated watch which took direct inspiration from the historic model, four 41mm automatic pieces, two 39mm red gold pieces and two moonphases.

Dior Christal

Created in 2005, the Dior Christal collection is a tribute paid to Christian Dior’s talents as a colourist. Because no durable material was able to express the House of Dior’s range of colours, Les Ateliers Horlogers Dior had the idea of giving a new twist to sapphire crystal, usually employed for the making of watch glasses, and turning it into a decorative element. Fashioned in the shape of pyramids and tinted with the House’s emblematic colours, it decorates the bracelet and the bezel on the timepieces in the collection.

In previous years, for its limited editions, Dior Christal has been equipped with

sophisticated movements echoing Monsieur Dior’s own artistic fibre. In 2008, “Dior Christal Tourbillon” opted for transparency so that the eye might glimpse the sophisticated clockworks of the movement forming airy-light lace patterns. In 2009, “Dior Christal Mystérieuse” seemed no longer to have a movement… Concealed under the bezel, it revealed a layering of crystal disks inserted with mother-of-pearl and plating which, as they rotated at each minute or second, created a kaleidoscopic effect. In 2010, thanks to the first “Dior 8 Fuseaux Horaires” calibre making it possible to read local time, the time in 8 international

cities and the day/night indicator all on the same hour marker, the Dior Christal’s dial evoked kinetic artworks, recalling Monsieur Dior’s time spent as an Art Gallery Director.

Since it was revised in 2011, Dior Christal sports a graceful silhouette and colours that are even more dazzling: a bright red (“colour of life” according to Christian Dior) and a deep purple (“the queen of colours”, dixit the couturier). In 2013, the colour blue came to join this palette. In his Little Dictionary of Fashion, published in 1954, Monsieur Dior said that “blue is one of the prettiest colours”.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

155

| beauty - interview |

consults make-up artist

Bassam Fattouh “Haifa Wehbe has always been my muse throughout my career and ever since I began in this field”

156

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Bassam Fattouh is a famous Lebanese beauty specialist and makeup artist. He graduated honourably from the “Carita Beauty Institute” in Paris with a degree in Thalasso Therapy. Moreover, Fattouh is a beauty creator who established his business”Bassam Fattouh Institute” in 1997.

Known for his supreme talent, his glamorous touches are the beauty haven for much class-A stars such as Haifa Wehbe, princesses, and royalties as well as regular customers. He recently launched his own makeup line known as “Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics”.

What created Bassam Fatouh’s fame in your opinion and made him one of the leaders between makeup artists in Lebanon and the Arabian world?

You launched your own makeup line. What made you take this step knowing that there are numerous other brands in the market?

My talent and the way I feel towards this domain and towards the woman I perform my makeup touches on, in addition to always wanting to make her look attractive and gorgeous, are the main reasons for my success. I am also keen to stay updated on the latest of every aspect related to my career.

Throughout my career, women have always asked for my advice in choosing the right makeup brand. That is the main reason that made me decide to launch my own makeup line, which includes a mixture of the finest and highest quality products. This achievement has always been a dream of mine!

Did your work with celebrities increase your fame or the contrary?

What distinguishes Bassam Fattouh’s products in general?

Of course my work with celebrities and special stars contributed to my fame especially that they are more like ambassadors for my work and success.

Experience, luxury and professionalism. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

157

| beauty - interview |

158

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Do you feel that eye-lining is an important process for a perfect makeup look?

Not necessarily, because there is nothing called a “perfect makeup process” and in general applying makeup cannot be categorized. On the other hand, we can apply the right makeup on the matching face. The only common factor between all makeup processes is mixing colours.

What is the most popular summer makeup trend?

As a makeup artist, the most common makeup trend nowadays is matte colours whether they are in the form of lipstick or blush…

What inspires your ideas when performing on a client?

Each woman should have her own style of makeup. My ideas come from a talent gifted to me by God. Just as I look at a woman’s face, I can draw her face in my imagination and picture her in the right makeup for her.

In addition to that, the shapes of the eyes, mouth, and the face in general all give me inspiration and the ability to differentiate and focus in order to give the best of me.

Is the bronze skin tone still popular in summer?

Who is the Arabian star that inspires Bassam Fattouh?

This depends on the woman’s personality, as it is no longer considered a trend. While a woman loves her skin to be bronzed all year round, others might prefer that each season gives them a different skin colour.

Every lady who sits in my chair is my muse.

In this matter, Haifa Wehbe has always been my muse throughout my career and ever since I began in this field.

The experience I gained during our cooperation, gave both of us glamour, success and made us sparkle.

Do you think that the Lebanese woman should learn from the European style of makeup and stir away from heavy makeup?

I love her as she is. How can we ask her to imitate the Western style and she is the most famous for her elegance and glamorous looks? Arabian women in general are divas!

What advice do you give women in general?

Love yourselves and feel your inner beauty.

Do you feel that applying makeup is an art or career?

Drawing makeup is certainly an artistic talent and through experience and studying, we can turn it into a successful career.

Interviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

159

| beauty |

Le Rouge

Chanel

COLLECTION AVANTPREMIÈRE DE CHANEL

ROUGE COCO SHINE

160

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s style, Rouge Coco embodies a carefree spirit on attitude.

Applying makeup, casual and carefree, ignoring convention and inventing one’s own elegance: Rouge Coco draws on the legend of Mademoiselle to define a free-spirited femininity.

To wear ROUGE COCO is to live freely and spontaneously. In 2013, Rouge Coco SHINE, the lip shine by Chanel, extends its range of semitransparent shades with a palette of deeper colours.

For this Collection, Chanel presents a tribute to the fragile grace of movie icons a palette of halfshades.

COLLECTION AVANT-PREMIÈRE DE CHANEL, 2013, Ad Visual.

Model : Sigrid AGREN. Photographer : Solve SUNDSBO.

ROUGE COCO

ROUGE COCO

LE VERNIS

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

161

| beauty |

3 weeks of sun in 3 seconds

Guerlain’s Terracota Summer Collection 2013 Beauty Shoot

One Terracotta Bronzing Powder is sold every 20 seconds somewhere in the world: it is definitely a success built on talent. The entire makeup line has the ability to duplicate the illusion of the sun on the skin with an astoundingly natural-looking radiance. It’s secret formula strikes a subtle balance between colour and transparency, creating a flawless natural look that lasts all day. In 2013, to please all women, Terracotta 4 Season presents four new shades for a tailor-made natural glow in any season. The collection also features many other legendary products that will help you look sun-kissed from head to toe.

Look 1 Skin Care Used Orchidee Imperiale Cream FACE Terracotta Summer Base Terracotta Skin – Nude Foundation Terracotta Powder 02

EYES Ecrin 4 colour eyeshadow Rue Des Francs Bourgeois Precious Light 02 Khol me Bronze eye pencil 07 Maxi Lash Mascara Noir LIPS Maxi shine gloss No 400

( GUERLAIN LES ROSES )

Look 2 Skin Care Used Orchidee Imperiale Cream FACE Terracotta Summer Base Terracotta Teint D' Ailleurs 01 Blondes Terracotta Powder 03

162

EYES Ecrin 4 colour eyeshadow Les Roses Precious Light 02 Khol me Bronze eye pencil 07 Maxi Lash Mascara Noir LIPS Rouge Automatique lipstick No 601

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

( TERRA BOITIER OUVERT )

( TERRACOTTA GROS PLAN )

( ORA KHOL )

( SPRING MASCARA )

Look 3 Skin Care Used Orchidee Imperiale Cream FACE Terracotta Summer Base Teint D'Ailleurs tinted moisturizer 02 Brunettes Terracotta 4 Seasons medium brunettes No. 05

( MAXI SHINE GLOSS )

EYES Ecrin 4 colour eyeshadow Les Cuir Precious Light 02 Eye pencil black 07 Maxi Lash Mascara Noir LIPS Rouge Automatique N0 600

Look 4 Skin Care Used Orchidee Imperiale Cream

( PRECIOUS LIGHT )

( ORCHIDEE IMPERIALE CREAM )

( SHINE AUTO 3STEPS )

( CRAYON KHOL )

FACE Terracotta Summer Base Terracotta Teint D' Ailleurs 01 Blondes Terracotta Powder Natural Blondes No.4 Terracotta Powder 4 Season Ebony No.8

EYES Ecrin 4 colour eyeshadow Les Gris Precious Light 02 Eye pencil black 07 Maxi Lash Mascara Noir LIPS Maxi lash 441 gloss

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

163

| fragrance |

Dior Addict Eau Delice “Revelling in the privilege of reckless youth, the age of dancing night and day come what may, and a time of carefree love.� Christian Dior

Christian Dior Parfums

164

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

“The name Eau Délice conjures up a precise image of the fragrance. It is a 'delicious' perfume that is appreciated once you have ‘tasted‛ it.”

Christian Dior Parfums

François Demachy

Making women more beautiful and happier was an on-going quest for Christian Dior. Every fragrance and every dress, every colour and every flower were chosen by the couturierperfumer to enhance and charm. Bursting with this energy, the Dior Addict woman is a beauty with a feline gait, a defiant glint in her eye and a sulky pout. In her wake, all is carefree and laughing seduction. For her, a new fragrance has been created, with the seductive name of "Eau Délice."

Eau Délice is a voluptuous and fresh fragrance.

It springs forth, bursting with sassy youth.

A cocktail of joie-de-vivre under the Saint-Tropez sun.

Saint-Tropez & “ la plage des délices” Red chairs on the terrace of the Sénéquier, the La Madrague beach, and the narrow streets of sunny charm… SaintTropez is the eternal port of casual elegance. With her tousled blonde hair, the Dior Addict heroine seems to spring forth from the unforgettable images of "And God Created Woman."

She too sets the screen on fire, shaking off convention and constraint, playing as she lives, and living true to herself.

She charms you then forgets you, leads you on without a care.

With her, Dior Addict continues the Tropezien myth that is cool and rebellious, light-hearted and carefree. * Based on the original work of Roger Vadim

Dior Addict Eau Délice, easy living, easy loving.

With Eau Délice, François Demachy, the Dior Perfume Creator, has created a perfume with "instant charm" that embodies the youthful elegance of a confident young girl. Its scent is instantly easy to live with and easy to love. Behind this refreshing spontaneity, Eau Délice's composition is finely facetted. This addictive fragrance calls for a generous gesture, and boundless love: › Christian Dior Parfums

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

165

| fragrance |

Dior Addict Eau Délice, mouth-watering A luminous chapter in the light-hearted saga of Dior Addict, Eau Délice is a striking scent composition.

A mouth-watering fruity and floral composition.

A magic formula for a cool beauty.

A manifesto for joie de vivre.

Voluptuous Eau Délice emphasizes the sweet and sour notes of the Cranberry. This entrance is both sharp and delicate, opening onto a fresh floral heart note. It is here that Indian and Egyptian Jasmine Grandiflorum, and the rare and exceptional Mahoran Ylang Ylang bloom. In the background, white musks add density, distinction and a cottony softness. For light and soothing sensuality.

Christian Dior Parfums

Christian Dior Parfums

166

Christian Dior Parfums

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Dior Addict, a scent wardrobe

Christian Dior Parfums

Dior Addict is a scent universe as rich as a colour palette. These winning fragrances invite change, prompting you to have fun with each moment of the day, varying your style and enjoyment.

Dior Addict Eau FraĂŽche

A bright, fresh and yet woody composition. She is as radiant as a bright sparkling pink. Her flower is the Freesia and she wears a diaphanous, swirling silk chiffon dress.

Dior Addict, Eau DĂŠlice

A new luminous, voluptuous and fresh scent. She is as vivacious as a seductive Coral Red. Her flower is the fruity accord of the sweet and sour Cranberry. She wears a sexy, fiery red dress.

Christian Dior Parfums

Dior Addict Eau Sensuelle

A Floral and sensual, harmonious and luminous scent. She is as charming as a tender mauve. Her flower is the Rose and she wears a silky, lilac-coloured dress.

Dior Addict Eau de Parfum

An oriental and modern, smooth and vibrant creation. She is as deep as Midnight Blue. Her flower is the opulent Queen of the Night, and she wears an intense blue, figure-hugging dress.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

167

| philanthropy project |

Picon Hosts a Heroic Celebration Honouring Lebanon’s Outstanding Student Achievements:

“Happiness Heroes”

Program marks its third year - Beirut, Lebanon

For the third year running, more than 1000 students hailing from schools across the country gathered to celebrate their heroic successes at the closing ceremony of this year’s annual Happiness Heroes initiative.

Held on Saturday, May 18th at the newly unveiled KidzMondo Edutainment Park in Beirut, the celebration was an event to honour the outstanding achievements of this year’s “Heroes.” Festivities for the students ran from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm, with the highlight of the event being the distribution of awards to children in the afternoon. Prior

168

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

to the ceremony, children were able to enjoy all the amenities of the KidzMondo Park, making them among first in the nation to visit the recently opened establishment.

Mrs Jackie Fares, Marketing Manager of Bel Group Levant, opened the ceremony by welcoming the students and thanking them for their great efforts. She addressed the students, “As Happiness Heroes, you are the future of our nation. The responsibility and character that you demonstrate are a source of hope and inspiration for all of Lebanon”

In attendance were the representative from the Ministry of Education Mr. Georges Daoud, as well as the Happiness Heroes Program Ambassadors: former minister, Mr. Ziad Baroud, as the Citizenship Ambassador, Mrs. May Khalil, as the Solidarity Ambassador, Mrs. Rose Marie Boulos as Ambassador of Health, and Mr. Maxime Chaya as Ambassador for Environment.

Each Ambassador expressed their pride in supporting the initiative for the second year, and thanked the students for all of their effort and hard work over the past three years.

a&e met Philanthropist Jackie Fares to tell us more about her latest project

Jackie Fares moved to Beirut to join the American University of Beirut at the age of 18 from which she graduated in 2006 with a degree in Electrical Engineering.

She joined Procter and Gamble in November 2006 as a “Supply and Planning Manager” for Head & Shoulders and Pert Plus for Near East markets. In 2008, she moved to the marketing department to handle Pantene marketing for NE. After consecutive success at P&G Beirut, she was moved as an expatriate to P&G’s head quarter in Geneva to handle Tide marketing and design for total Middle East and North West Africa. In September 2012, she decided to leave P&G and come back to her hometown to go on a new and exciting adventure with Group Bel as Levant Marketing Manager.

Tell us more about "Happiness Heroes" in brief?

Our objectives are simple: To spread happiness, drive social awareness, and build on the values of good citizenship in our children. We mainly focus on children because they are the best investment in our future and what we teach them today will drive the changes in our society in the future.

Groups of students from 50 schools in Lebanon are working on 4 missions, each

one of them related to a theme: Health, Solidarity, Citizenship and Environment.

Throughout these missions, students will work on awareness campaigns; helping people in need, planting trees… with the ultimate target being spreading as many smiles as possible. Until now, 1 ton and a half of bottle caps have been collected, over 80 families and associations were helped and over 10 sensitization campaigns were held.

Which of the four missions is your favourite?

I don’t think I can choose a favourite mission… they’re all equally essential, not to mention that they complement each other.

What made you choose to participate in such projects?

that are sustainable in the long-term and that offer durable development. Additionally, Lebanon is very dear to our heart and with 50 years in the market we’ve been a part of people’s lives with many generations being raised on Picon. This made us feel that we should give something back to society.

What about the latest mission that took place in Chouf, what was it about?

Mrs Rosy Boulos, along with representatives from Bel and Leo Burnett, visited the Hidaya School in the beautiful Chouf area. Upon our arrival, students were very excited to tell us all about the mission they had been working so hard on. Of course, Mrs. Boulos, as Ambassador of Health, provided essential nutritional advice and guided them in continuing the noble work they had begun. ›

Bel has always been a socially responsible company in its operations around the globe.

We also believe in taking part in projects

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

169

| philanthropy project |

“Through Happiness Heroes project, kids learn essential skills that will aid them in being better citizens in the future” Do you see that the kids in these missions are making a difference in the Lebanese society?

Of course! After all, these young leaders will be the foundation of Lebanon’s society in the future. They’re already learning how to be socially responsible, and are being educated in the ways to be better citizens for a better Lebanon.

How is "Happiness Heroes" benefiting these kids in return?

Through Happiness Heroes project, kids learn essential skills that will aid them in being better citizens in the future. They also learn the importance of collaboration and team work. By their simple determination they realize that they are able to achieve big projects for their country. But most of all, Happiness Heroes’ missions teach students about compassion and social responsibility.

170

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Why did you pick the four ambassadors in specific for the project?

We selected our ambassadors on the basis of their contributions to Lebanon, and their proven track record in their area of expertise and domain.

For example, Ms. May Al-Khalil was able to bring all of Lebanon together for the marathon, while Mrs. Rosie Boulos has done an incredible job with the Red Cross. We have Maxime Chaaya to thank for making Lebanon internationally known, and as for Ziad Baroud, if we could all contribute to Lebanon the way he does, our country would really be heaven on earth!

Did your young age contribute in your enthusiasm towards "Happiness Heroes"?

Honestly, when it comes to your country, age is just a number and really doesn’t matter.

What is a word of wisdom or awareness you are trying to spread through "Happiness Heroes"?

Raise your kids to be socially responsible and invest in their civic education. One day they will become the fabric of our society, and with what they learn today we will make Lebanon a truly wonderful place to be.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

171

| celebrity |

Actress

Nadine El Rassi Opens up to a&e

Nadine El Rassi was originally a model. She later took roles in many television series and movies. Her professional career is marked by principal roles in several well known series. In addition to acting and in the beginning of her career, El Rassi took role in major advertisements as well. Throughout her success and career, she is eager to leave a fingerprint in every step she takes.

“Motherhood is the best and most beautiful experience ever�

172

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

After all the success you achieved, what were the obstacles you had to overcome?

Throughout each experience, whether it was related to my life in general or to my career, I had to overcome many obstacles. However, my faith in God and in my personal abilities contribute in helping me bypass all trouble.

What are the best experiences you have been through?

Motherhood is the best and most beautiful experience ever.

Do you think you were able to make any changes in the Lebanese acting domain?

It is a desire I try to achieve with every acting role I take, especially since I intentionally take the roles that have a feminine fingerprint.

Every real artist seeks to leave a trace and his fingerprint should leave some changes on the artistic track in general.

How do you evaluate your experience in working on stage and specifically in the current play “Shams W Kamar” with Singer Assi Hilani?

It is a beautiful experiment that helped me showcase all my talents in acting, singing and dancing. “Shams W Kamar”, written

by Wajdi Shayya, was like an extension to my first experience on stage in “Zanobia”, written by Mansour Rahbani. However, this recent experience is more mature, especially since I took on a bigger role.

What are the characteristics that changed in your personality after you achieved fame?

I enjoy my motherhood and seek to care for my home and family and therefore, I don’t feel that anything changed in my personality.

We saw you in several ads. What are your conditions to take on an advertising campaign and is money a main factor?

I should be fully convinced of the product which should also suit my image. I don’t deny that money is important, but it is secondary. ›

“I am dazzled by the past decades and I love the beautiful Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren” | issue 09 | june / july 2013

173

| celebrity |

The acting field in Lebanon is still poor compared to that of Turkey and Syria. What are the reasons in your opinion?

Actually we have reached advanced stages in the Lebanese acting field and I prefer to look at the full half of the cup. Lebanese drama has become a craft and is witnessing high demands in the Arabian markets and I will not compare it with the Turkish acting field which has huge production. As for the Syrian acting field, it has also reached very high levels and I am proud to announce my participation in the Syrian series “We will be Right Back” with the great actor Dored Lahham.

What about singing? Will you release an album?

Singing solos is not my goal and what I did in “Shams W Kama” in acting and singing exceeded singing on different levels.

174

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Are you planning on having more children?

Who is the actress that you regard as a fashion icon or idol?

I thank God for my family and my three boys. Although I don’t deny that sometimes the idea of pregnancy triggers me, however, raising children and taking care of them and balancing between my family and my career needs lots of efforts.

There are great fashion icons of every era, and I prefer not to name one. However, I am dazzled by the past decades and I love the beautiful Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren.

How do you describe your relationship with fashion?

I follow what suits me from the latest trends, but I am not obsessed with fashion at all.

How do you maintain your beauty and stay in shape?

There is no secret to it actually; I just drink a lot of water.

What have you learned from Assi Hilani?

He has a great personality and the characteristics of a real knight and I am so happy to work with him in “Shams w Kamar”.

What makes you cry?

My tears are quick to stroll down my face and I am quickly moved by any sensitive situation.

Interviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

Full Page Advert PENDING

| must read |

Top 10

Best-selling Books And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini

1

An unforgettable novel about finding a lost piece of yourself in someone else. Khaled Hosseini, the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, has written a new novel about how we love, how we take care of one another, and how the choices we make resonate through generations. In this tale revolving around not just parents and children but brothers and sisters, cousins and caretakers, Hosseini explores the many ways in which families nurture, wound, betray, honour, and sacrifice for one another; and how often we are surprised by the actions of those closest to us, at the times that matter most. Following its characters and the ramifications of their lives and choices and loves around the globe-from Kabul to Paris to San Francisco to the Greek island of Tinos-the story expands gradually outward, becoming more emotionally complex and powerful with each turning page.

2

Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success

by Adam M. Grant Ph.D. For generations, we have focused on the individual drivers of success: passion, hard work, talent, and luck. But today, success is increasingly dependent on how we interact with others.

It turns out that at work, most people operate as either takers, matchers, or givers. Whereas takers strive to get as much as possible from others and matchers aim to trade evenly, givers are the rare breed of people who contribute to others without expecting anything in return.

Using his own pioneering research as Wharton's youngest tenured professor, Grant shows that these styles have a surprising impact on success. Although some givers get exploited and burn out, the rest achieve extraordinary results across a wide range of industries.

Combining cutting-edge evidence with captivating stories, this landmark book shows how one of America's best networkers developed his connections, why the creative genius behind one of the most popular shows in television history toiled for years in anonymity, how a basketball executive responsible for multiple draft busts transformed his franchise into a winner, and how we could have anticipated Enron's demise four years before the company collapsedwithout ever looking at a single number.

Praised by bestselling authors such as Dan Pink, Tony Hsieh, Dan Ariely, Susan Cain, Dan Gilbert, Gretchen Rubin, Bob Sutton, David Allen, Robert Cialdini, and Seth Godin-as well as senior leaders from Google, McKinsey, Merck, Estee Lauder, Nike, and NASA-Give and Take highlights what effective networking, collaboration, influence, negotiation, and leadership skills have in common. This landmark book opens up an approach to success that has the power to transform not just individuals and groups, but entire organizations and communities.

176

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

3

I Love New York: A Moment in New York Cuisine: Ingredients and Recipes by Daniel Humm From the acclaimed team behind Manhattan's three-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park restaurant comes this deluxe cookbook showcasing the foods, ingredients, and culinary history of New York.

After landing rave reviews for their transformation of Eleven Madison Park from a French brasserie into a fine dining restaurant, chef Daniel Humm and general manager Will Guidara decided to refashion Manhattan’s ultimate destination restaurant into a showcase for New York’s food artisans. Instead of looking abroad for inspiration, Humm and Guidara headed to their own backyards, exploring more than fifty farms in the greater New York area and diving into the city’s rich culinary heritage as a cultural melting pot.

4

Inferno: A Novel (Robert Langdon) [Hardcover] by Dan Brown

In his international blockbusters The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons, and The Lost Symbol, Dan Brown masterfully fused history, art, codes, and symbols. In this riveting new thriller, Brown returns to his element and has crafted his highest-stakes novel to date. In the heart of Italy, Harvard professor of symbology, Robert Langdon, is drawn into a harrowing world centered on one of history’s most enduring and mysterious literary masterpieces . . . Dante’s Inferno.

Against this backdrop, Langdon battles a chilling adversary and grapples with an ingenious riddle that pulls him into a landscape of classic art, secret passageways, and futuristic science. Drawing from Dante’s dark epic poem, Langdon races to find answers and decide whom to trust . . . before the world is irrevocably altered.

5

Lean in: Women, Work and the will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg Thirty years after women became 50 percent of the college graduates in the United States, men still hold the vast majority of leadership positions in government and industry. This means that women's voices are still not heard equally in the decisions that most affect our lives. In Lean In, Sheryl Sandberg examines why women's progress in achieving leadership roles has stalled, explains the root causes, and offers compelling, commonsense solutions that can empower women to achieve their full potential.

Sandberg is the chief operating officer of Facebook and is ranked on Fortune's list of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Business and as one of Time's 100 Most Influential People in the World. In 2010, she gave an electrifying TEDTalk in which she described how women unintentionally hold themselves back in their careers. Her talk, which became a phenomenon and has been viewed more than two million times, encouraged women to "sit at the table," seek challenges, take risks, and pursue their goals with gusto. In Lean In, Sandberg digs deeper into these issues, combining personal anecdotes, hard data, and compelling research to cut through the layers of ambiguity and bias surrounding the lives and choices of working women. She recounts her own decisions, mistakes, and daily struggles to make the right choices for herself, her career, and her family.

She provides practical advice on negotiation techniques, mentorship, and building a satisfying career, urging women to set boundaries and to abandon the myth of "having it all." She describes specific steps women can take to combine professional achievement with personal fulfillment and demonstrates how men can benefit by supporting women in the workplace and at home. Written with both humor and wisdom, Sandberg's book is an inspiring call to action and a blueprint for individual growth. Lean In is destined to change the conversation from what women can't do to what they can. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

177

| must read |

Manuscript Found in Accra by Paulo Coelho

6

The incredible new novel from the #1 internationally bestselling author of The Alchemist.

July 14, 1099. The city of Accra awaits the invasion of the crusaders who have surrounded the gates. There, within the city walls, men and women of every age have gathered to hear the words of a mysterious man known only as the Copt. He has summoned the townspeople to address their fears with truth, hope and comfort.

They begin with questions about defeat and struggle; they contemplate the virtues of loyalty and solitude; and they ultimately turn to questions of beauty, love, wisdom, and what the future holds. "What is success?" poses the Copt. "It is being able to go to bed each night with your soul at peace." * * * Now, centuries later, the manuscript containing the Copt's extraordinary insights on courage, solitude, loyalty and loss has been unearthed from a cave in Cairo.

7 8

A Manuscript Found in Accra is a revelatory exploration of our most enduring and transcendental values, and a testimony to everyday wisdom.

Margaret Thatcher: From Grantham to the Falklands [Deckle Edge] [Hardcover] by Charles Moore The authorized biography of the longest-serving-and first female-Prime Minister of the twentieth century, and one of the most influential political figures of the postwar era.

Charles Moore’s biography of Margaret Thatcher, published after her death on 8 April 2013, immediately supersedes all earlier books written about her. Capturing her as a historical figure and, for the first time, a three-dimensional one, this book gives unparalleled insight into her early life and formation, especially through her extensive correspondence with her sister, which Moore is the first author to draw on. It re-creates brilliantly the atmosphere of British politics as she was making her way, and takes her up to what was arguably the zenith of her power, victory in the Falklands. (This volume ends with the Falklands Dinner in Downing Street in November 1982.) Moore is clearly an admirer of his subject, but he does not shy away from criticizing her or identifying weaknesses and mistakes where he feels it is justified. Based on unrestricted access to all Lady Thatcher’s papers, unpublished interviews with her and all her major colleagues, this is the indispensable, fully rounded portrait of a towering figure of our times.

The Fast Metabolism Diet: Eat More Food and Lose More Weight

by Haylie Pomroy

Haylie Pomroy has helped countless clients lose up to 20 pounds in just 4 weeks-all through the fat-burning power of food. Hailed as “the metabolism whisperer,” Haylie reminds us that food is not the enemy, it’s the rehab needed to rev-up your sluggish, broken-down metabolism and turn your body into a fat-burning furnace.

On this plan you’re going to eat a lot. You’re going to eat three full meals and at least two snacks a day - and you’re still going to lose weight. What you’re not going to do is count a single calorie or fat gram. You’re going not to ban entire food groups. You’re not going to go carb-free or vegan or go cold turkey on the foods you love. Instead, you’re going to rotate what you’re eating throughout each week according to a simple and proven plan carefully designed to induce precise physiological changes that will set your metabolism on fire.

178

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Pope Francis: Conversations with Jorge Bergoglio: His Life in His Own Words

9

On March 13, 2013, the former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, longtime Archbishop of Buenos Aires, now Pope Francis, was elected to succeed Pope Benedict. He is the first Latin American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis, after St. Francis Assisi, the 13th century monk known for his charity and kindness.

Elected in one of the shortest conclaves in history, the former Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina reveals, in a series of extensive interviews conducted over the course of two years, the very image of a humble priest, inspired teacher, and wise and adroit cardinal. What emerges is a portrait of a man more interested in substance over style, a compassionate cleric and teacher who has shunned the spotlight. In spontaneous, intimate terms, Archbishop Bergoglio, now Pope Francis, covers topics as wide-ranging as his childhood, family life, and the importance of his first job to discovering his calling and his early days in the seminary. The former archbishop was a teacher of psychology and literature until John Paul II consecrated him as a cardinal. He befriended writers like Jorge Luis Borges and cites Homer, Cervantes, and German and Italian poets with ease and offers nuanced thoughts about teaching. Thoughtful, intelligent, and even witty, he names Babette’s Feast as his favourite movie and Marc Chagall as his favourite painter.

A learned and introspective man, he does not avoid the uncomfortable subjects: the declining numbers of priests and nuns; celibacy; the sexual abuse scandals that have rocked the Church; and his opinions about and experience with the military dictatorship of his own crisis-riddled country. It also discusses the incredible role he played in the last conclave, where he is said to have been tied with Ratzinger in the second of three votes, and asked that the votes for him be transferred to Ratzinger.

Through his own words, we come to know a man whose actions and words reflect his deeply-rooted humility. The book concludes with the Pope’s own writings and reflections, full of wisdom and inspiration.

10

The Good Book by A. C. Grayling A. C. Grayling, Britain's most popular and widely read philosopher, has created a secular bible that draws on the wisdom of 2,500 years of contemplative nonreligious writing about all that it means to be human - from the origins of the universe to small matters of courtesy and kindness in everyday life.

Designed to be read as narrative and also to be dipped into for inspiration, encouragement and consolation, The Good Book offers a thoughtful, non-religious alternative to the many people who do not follow one of the world's great religions.

Instead, going back to traditions older than Christianity, and far richer and more various, including the non-theistic philosophical and literary schools of the great civilisations of both West and East, from the Greek philosophy of classical antiquity and its contemporaneous Confucian, Mencian and Mohist schools in China, down through classical Rome, the flourishing of Indian and Arab worlds, the European Renaissance and Enlightenment, the worldwide scientific discoveries of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries to the present, Grayling collects, edits, rearranges and organises the collective secular wisdom of the world in one highly readable volume.

In an interview in the New York Times, AC Grayling says it is a book that 'provides resources for thinking about what the good life might be' but points out that we 'We have to take the Socratic challenge to lead the examined life and transcend the teachings and the teachers ...We have to think for ourselves.'

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

179

| health |

Do you Know

What’s on your Face?

Learn what your Makeup Products might Contain…

Makeup is an integral part of most women's morning routine. It consists of a colouring agent and a carrier. Some make up includes sunscreen or vitamins said to improve the skin's condition or allow the makeup to last longer. Most ingredients in makeup are unpronounceable, and the ingredients are not always good for the skin.

Propylene glycol is included in many make up and beauty products. It is also included in brake fluid and antifreeze. It can cause headaches, nausea vomiting, and central nervous system depression and can reach the blood stream through skin absorption. Mineral oil is a petroleum by-product that clogs pores, worsens acne and slows down skin regeneration. It can cause premature aging and coats the skin so that it cannot eliminate toxins. It is also found in many products. Moreover, Aluminium is found in most anti-perspirants. It blocks pores so sweat cannot escape the skin. It has been linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Unfortunately, the cosmetic industry is selfregulating meaning there is no oversight into what chemicals find their way into the beauty products and how many of these chemicals are toxic.

Most women haven’t the slightest idea of what’s inside their makeup. I’m sure you’ve pondered this thought before. We tend to assume that cosmetic brands are honest.

Here’s just a few of the most common used ingredients that you will find in your makeup:

Fragrance:

Believe it or not, most brands include fragrance in makeup. It is commonly found in foundation, pressed powder and lipstick. It is known for causing allergies and endocrine disruption.

Paraben Preservatives:

Paraben preservatives are synthetic preservatives that are included in cosmetics to extend the life of the product. They have been linked to breast cancer, skin rashes, and can even interrupt your body’s natural hormone

180

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

balance. The most common names for paraben preservatives are Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben and Propylparaben.

Diethanolamine: Diethanolamine, or DEA for short, is another famous ingredient known as being a carcinogen. It has been linked to causing kidney, liver, and even stomach cancer.

What's on Your Face?

The average woman uses 10 health and beauty products every morning before leaving the house. But the brands women rely on to look their best may be hiding harsh chemicals that have been linked to cancer, organ failure and birth defects.

Foundation: Oxybenzone can be a double-edged ingredient, protecting against UV rays but also causing irritation or triggering allergic reactions to light in some cases. The chemical can also be absorbed by skin.

Powders: Women who use this to get rid of shine on top of concealers may be getting a double dose of retinyl palmitate, which has been linked to cancer in lab animals. For colouring, the powder uses "lake" dyes, which contain metals such as aluminum, calcium and barium.

Blush:

Mascara:

Used for their powdery finish, rose quartz and silica are considered possible human carcinogens and have proven toxic to immune and respiratory systems over prolonged exposure.

Mascara may seem a strange place to find fragrance ingredients, but they're often used in makeup to cover up harsh chemical odors.

Fragrance can set off headaches, wheezing and asthma in a concoction of compounds.

Disclosure of ingredients isn't required. Some mascaras also includes retinyl palmitate and parabens, which are used as preservatives and can mimic estrogen and interfere with the endocrine system.

Concealer: Some brands removed the skin conditioner retinyl palmitate from their formulas, responding to concerns it could break down under UV light, producing free radicals that cause gene mutations and damage DNA. However, many products still include this ingredient.

Eyeliner: Anti-caking agent aluminum starch octenylsuccinate has been approved by the FDA for limited use as a food additive, but it has also been linked to neurotoxicity, and developmental and reproductive harm. It's also made with retinyl palmitate and parabens.

Lipstick: Some lip rejuvenators harbor repeat offenders including retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone and undisclosed fragrance chemicals. One of the top pieces of advice is to reduce the products you use with fragrance in them. Some brands of lipstick still contain lead, which can be ingested and accumulate in the body, potentially causing learning and behavioral disorders.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

181

IOSIMEX M A G I N ELiban Y O Us.a.r.l.

R LIFE IN A V Website: www.vikingrange.com Sami Solh Ave., Serhal Bldg.

Tel: (961) 1 396088/9-391144 Service: (961) 1 391199 E-mail: osimex@osimex.com www.osimex.com

| interiors |

Interiors

Our interiors pages this issue is packed with stunning objects from great designers and talents that will prove to be a decorative and valuable addition to your home this season!

2XL Photo Frames

Andrew Martin Tunstead Table Lamp

Ligne Roset A-Chair

2XL Pretty Peacocks Chest of Drawers

Jardin d’Eden tray from Christofle

184

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

LLadro Procelain Decorative Pieces

Missoni Home

Visionnaire 'Pitti' bed

The Rug Company

Serving Dishes @ Crate & Barrel

WINDSOR Collection @ THE One

Aux Rois Bernardaud

Cloud Bianco Scont by Cappellini

Collection of chandeliers by @home

Arabian Tea set by Aura

Marchesa by Lenox

'Lace Gold' by Vera Wang

Agent Provocateur Bed

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

185

| interiors |

Take a Seat From modern and avant garde to classical, victorian and oriental, we’ve put together singular reference pieces that may help you choose your decorating style. Whether you choose to work around these items or to incorporate them in your already existing set up as statement pieces, each have a unique characteristic in terms of fabric, colour or shape.

'Curve Your Enthusiam' by Caracole

Hanjel

186

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Pink collection by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams London

Zentique

Figaro by Armani Casa

'Bondage' by The Haas brothers for Versace home

The Funk Yard Elegance collection by THE One

Nada Debs

Ligne Roset

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

187

OSIMEX Liban s.a.r.l.

Sami Solh Ave., Serhal Bldg.

Tel: (961) 1 396088/9-391144 Service: (961) 1 391199 E-mail: osimex@osimex.com www.osimex.com

| technology |

Vertu Enters new era with launch of

Vertu Ti

Vertu, the world’s leading provider of luxury mobile phones, has launched Vertu Ti, a new contemporary Smartphone powered by Android. Based around a titanium case that has been used for its strength, elegance and low weight, Vertu Ti also uses leather accents as well as the largest sapphire crystal screen ever engineered at 3.7 inches. The sapphire crystal renders the screen virtually scratch

proof and it is tested to be four times stronger than other Smartphone’s in terms of impact resistance. Vertu Ti’s titanium case is around five times stronger than other Smartphone’s, deforming less than 1mm when a 500NM force is applied. The result is a phone that feels solid and beautifully crafted in the hand while offering unrivalled durability.

Vertu TI combines distinctive Vertu design cues, such as the ceramic pillow and exposed watch screws, with a clean overall aesthetic, the result of which is a product that conveys a timeless elegance.

Vertu Ti is powered by Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, which in combination with the devices 1.7 GHz processor makes for an intuitive, highly reactive and enjoyable experience. Other features include an 8MP rear camera with auto focus and twin LED flash, a 1.3MP front facing Skype compliant camera, 64GB internal memory and secure “Near Field Communication” technology.

Another example of Vertu’s continued commitment to superior craftsmanship and engineering is Vertu Ti’s audio ability. Its 11 x 15 mm rectangular drivers are acoustically integrated into the chassis to maximize frequency response and level. The result is an unrivalled symphonic sound from the phones own stereo speakers.

A new feature of Vertu Ti is the Vertu key, which provides instant access to a curated world of benefits and services available via a global team of professionals available to customers wherever they may be, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. These services include Vertu Certainty, which helps protect the device, its data and, where necessary, the customer. Vertu Life - tailored information, articles and benefits - sits alongside Vertu’s famous Concierge Service.

190

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Massimiliano Pogliani, Vertu’s Global Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, said, “VERTU TI is the most rounded product that we have ever designed. The new Android platform and elegant physical presence combined with Vertu’s renowned curated benefits and services deliver a unique and exceptional proposition.”

“As Vertu continues to grow, we will develop a design language that will satisfy the large number of our customers that appreciate classic simplicity of ranges such as Signature, while reaching out to new customers with hand crafted, elegant designs and technology that engages and inspires.”

Vertu’s Head of Global Design, Ignacio Germade said, “Vertu Ti is a pivotal product for Vertu. It is where the timelessness of Vertu design meets contemporary technological elements. Long-standing Vertu customers will appreciate the style, the weight and the materials while those yet to experience Vertu products will engage with the clean, elegant lines, superior feel and contemporary operation.”

Vertu President and CEO, Perry Oosting said, “Vertu Ti is our most significant product for a decade. Android 4.0 delivers a proven and intuitive environment for users while the design and craftsmanship of the handset remains uniquely Vertu. Vertu has pioneered and led the luxury mobile phone sector since we began in the late 90s and the great depth of our knowledge and experience can be seen in Vertu Ti. There is nothing else like it.”

Vertu Ti now means that our customers can leave the house in the morning with just this phone in their pocket or bag without the need for any other device.”

Each Vertu Ti is handmade in England by a single craftsman at Vertu’s state-of-theart headquarters in Hampshire. It is then signed by that craftsman on completion of a rigorous testing and detailing process before being shipped to buyers via one of over 500 stores around the world.

Vertu’s global sales turnover rose for the third consecutive year in 2012, continuing a trend that has seen sales growth every year since 2002, barring only 2009. A strong product roadmap is in place to ensure that this trend continues over the coming years.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

191

| automotive |

talks Maserati and the new Quattroporte with

Umberto Cini

The Managing Director of the overseas markets

Just ten days after the global unveiling at North American International Auto Show, the sixth generation of the Maserati Quattroporte premiered in the Middle East at the Qatar Motor Show. A flagship of the Maserati product range, the new Quattroporte is larger, lighter, more luxurious and faster than the globally-acclaimed car it replaces. The sixthgeneration Quattroporte is a significant leap forward that not only sets the high-technology tone for Maserati’s upcoming range of newmodels, but also remains faithful to Maserati’s

192

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

long history of luxury sports sedans. It is the essence of Italian car design with a style dedicated to proportion, dynamism and purity that delivers new standards in quality in every area from design to development, fabrication and process controls. The first model of Maserati’s unparalleled strategic step in industrial growth, the new Quattroporte is the start of a journey that will see the company’s sales increase by a factor of eight by 2015. It is an increase inspired by a near century of vehicles which define style, elegance, quality

and performance. The Quattroporte will be followed by Ghibli and the Levant luxury SUV entering key growth segments for the luxury brand.

Speaking from the press conference in Doha, Mr. Umberto Cini, Managing Director for Maserati Overseas Markets, commented: “50 years ago we took a revolutionary step when we successfully put a Maserati racing engine inside the body of a sedan; this idea not only changed our brand but brought a new segment

of the industry to life. The Quattroporte will once again shape Maserati’s future. It is the ultimate Grand Touring vehicle offering highend sporty performance, uniquely blended with Italian design and luxury materials. The new Quattroporte ensures that every journey is an unforgettable one, and I am honoured to be unveiling it to the Middle East just a few days after the world first saw it in Detroit.”

I caught up with the Italian globetrotting Managing director at his office overlooking the Meydan race course. He thoroughly explained to me the meticulous work put into the maintenance of the luscious green grass that appears outside his balcony. The race tracks are a natural place for Umberto to find himself every single day, where the best of both of his worlds meet; the world of Maserati and the world of racing. He spent the first half of his life racing horses and the second half racing cars so it comes to us as no surprise that he represents a luxury car brand with a strong heritage in racing.

Let’s begin by talking about Italy’s reputation in luxury products, from fashion, to jewellery and cars: In Italy, the iconic fashion brands such as Armani, Valentino, Fendi, Gucci and Zegna employ exclusive tailors whose work still carries with it the essence of older craftsmanship.

The Maserati is definitely a tailor made suit, well stitched on your body. Our customers can tailor make the car, which is one of our main features. They can choose the colours inside and out, the fabric, the stitching or how you they would like to have the bottom sealed.

In terms of jewellery brands, (he points at the back of a&e’s latest issue,) this is our comarketing partner, Bulgari.

The Octo watch with Bulgari was definitely a big hit, what other types of products would Maserati consider collaborating on?

Why not a car? They produced a watch with features common to the car; why not make a car with features common to a watch?

Jewellery for women is also an option since the Maserati our car is growing dramatically in terms of female customers. We’ve also worked with Fendi before, on a limited edition Fendi GranCabrio, with only 50 pieces in the world.

The car was customized by Fendi according to their values using their special leather

and the colour was designed and chosen by Fendi’s graphic and artistic team. The wood inside was a special wood made for Fendi by Maserati, and every piece has its own number on the dashboard and the soft top. 26 pieces out of 50 came to the Middle East!

do separate events for males and females and lean towards more traditional events that are in line with the culture. So it’s definitely different according to where we go and we have to respect the culture while bringing our own philosophy.

Where in the Middle East?

The iconic Sophia Loren is a big fan of the brand. Who are some other friends of the brand?

We sold 7 pieces to the UAE, a couple in Qatar and Saudi and Lebanon got 2. We have a good representation in this region.

What do you think appeals most to UAE customers in particular?

They mainly want something special and exclusive which is of high standard but not too flashy. They are keen on Italian manufacturing, whether it be in fashion, jewellery or cars. We always maintain our Italian style and DNA, all the while adapting to the needs of the local market. We don’t do the same marketing in Dubai, as in Abu Dhabi or Saudi.

We took Andrea Bocelli around the UAE in our new Quattroporte two weeks ago, when he was in Abu Dhabi for his show. We definitely stick to our roots, where we come from.

Are Maserati ambassadors strictly Italian?

Not really, we partnered a couple of years ago with a Lebanese singer. We appreciate people with personality that somehow have something that matches our philosophy and embody our image.

How do you differentiate between those different markets?

What would that image be?

Dubai is based on more of an expat community.

More than a third of our customer base in Dubai is made up of western expats, so we organize more unrestricted events with more flexibility of course. In Kuwait and Saudi we

Bocelli is the benchmark of Italian style. Before him there was Pavarotti. (he points towards an enlarged black and white photograph of Pavarotti posing in the 3rd edition of the Quattroporte) When Pavarotti came to Dubai, we were part of his sponsoring pool as well. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

193

| automotive |

Talking about marketing, our roots are very important to us. We are almost a 100 year old brand with a long heritage made of values that are still with us till this day. We first started producing the racing engine then came the body, and we were quickly matched with the Bella Vita Italiana soonafter. We went through all these stages and still it is all part of our DNA.

There are 6 generations of the Quattroporte, take us through the different eras.

The first one was in 1963, which dates back 50 years from the launch of the 6th generation.

It was a unique car back then, because it was the first time that a racing car and engine was put inside a Sedan body. It was the first time that it was able to achieve 250 km/ hr for as a Sedan. The 2nd generation was unique because it was very well received, with very few units which were mostly sold in the Middle East actually. The 3rd generation was the first Quattroporte that was blessed by the president of the Italian republic for being a representative car for Italy, a great title. The 4th generation, despite the lack of money to develop anything new or interest to do so due to the difficult times the company was going through, this was the only one that was produced at the time. The 5th generation is the one that was launched in 2003 and until now it is out on the roads. It is the Sedan that

won the highest number of international prizes around the world, around 57 prizes. This was the first sportif Sedan saloon produced in the world. When the Quattroporte came out, there was nothing similar to it. The Quattroporte was a breakthrough concept, the first units had an excellent handling and were well put together in terms of leather which is still made

by Poltrona Frau, a leader in luxury. Only a few years after, we saw the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide.

The last one was one year ago. This car is going to be unique because it’s the first Quattroporte that has a generous dimension, which is something people here love. With this Quattroporte we grew our shares in the Maserati world sales significantly. Now the Middle East counts for around 7% of the entire world production, my area, which is the general overseas market, counts around 13% of the entire world production.

You mentioned that your female customer base is growing significantly. Where would you say you have the most female customers?

Definitely, Kuwait. It has the highest number of female customers in the world. It’s come to a stage where they’re starting to be concerned for us, because it’s too many women. Almost 60% of our Kuwaiti customers are female, and Saudi Arabia makes up 25%. It’s a higher

Mr. Umberto Cini, Managing Director for Maserati Overseas Markets,

number than Dubai, which is around 20%. The Middle East has one of the highest percentage of female customers in the world.

Tell us about the region’s customer base in general: The customer base here is interesting. It’s very difficult to segment in the Middle East, because the demographic is always changing.

It’s a customer who is generally younger than the rest of the world, more demanding and knowledgeable about the cars. But if we interview each one of the customers, we discover that there are some elements of the brand that appeals to all of them similarly.

This includes the exclusivity of the brand. If you dig deeper, you discover that some people buy it because of the colour, or even the sound that the engine makes.

If we launch the Quattroporte in the US, we know that 90% of our customers will be within a certain cluster that is easily identifiable. Here, it’s the other way around. 10% is identifiable, while 90% will be from outside this cluster.

That’s why we want to be directly present in the market, with a dedicated team who help us understand the needs of this country. In terms of colour for example, we did a special series car in 2007 based on a colour that we saw was a best seller in the Middle East.

With regards to the environment, how do you ensure sustainability?

The Quattroporte is 90 horsepower more than the previous one, which is a lot. The weight is reduced because of the large use of aluminium and the kinds of fibres we have available in the automotive industry. The engine has changed.

Previously, in order to deliver 440 horsepower we needed a 4.7 litre engine. Now we can deliver 530 horsepower with just need a 3.8 litre engine. So the engines are reducing, with less fuel needed to burn. At the moment, we are the most efficient engine in production.

Which is your favourite model?

It depends from the day, how I feel and even how I’m dressed. Maserati is a small manufacturer and we produce a few models. But if you look at each one, you notice that they have different personalities. You go from the smoothest one to the most extreme one which is for track use. I love the convertible, of course. I’m also a family man, so I’d want the Quattroporte

194

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

The new Quattroporte's interior for the family. As I mentioned, I’m a race car driver so I like the Gran Turismo when I want to feel the power of its performance. The Quattroporte is however the most balanced car we have, since it has a bit of everything. If you are a lucky man who works for such a company then you have a small fleet of cars downstairs, and every day you can drive a different model!

in a two-way communication. It’s a very rewarding company with whom I started working around 10 years ago as a sales manager for Italy and in a few years they allowed me to build a decent career. You can’t work 14 hours a day if you don’t have passion for what you do. From 7:30 in the morning till 9 pm, you always find someone in the office!

Tell me about your job and role as managing director? How does your style and work ethic fit in with Maserati?

What do you like about this region and how do you like working with the different countries?

I feel like I’m the luckiest person on earth because I work for my passion. Business wise, I grew up in the car industry and my first job was in a car dealership. This is definitely my preferred field and Maserati is my preferred company, because it’s a small company which is target oriented. A manager can make all the difference. We have our yearly target which we revise on an annual basis, but then we have leeway to use our own capabilities to achieve those targets. The headquarters trust us to represent it well and that is the philosophy I use with my team. They are all right until they prove to me that they’re wrong!

I highly regard loyalty, trust, and transparency

What I like about “my world,” is definitely the experience that I get. I have a global view of the business world, going from Mexico down to New Zealand all the way around to South Korea. Whatever countries are located in this triangle, I’m in charge of and they are all so different than one another. You can really gain a 360 degree experience, not just a business one but a life experience. When you sell a product like Maserati you really get in touch with the customers. We like to meet the customer and share with them our idea and concept so whenever they buy a car, they give you a part of their life in a sort of exchange. Business involves taxation, pollution, regulations, and marketing amongst others, which we carry in a tool box and take with us wherever we go.

We work from the extreme of no taxes in the Middle East, to Brazil which is around 450% taxation. From here to there I pass through Lebanon which is 70%, Egypt 250%, India is 170%, while in the UAE it’s 5%. The business environment varies from one place to another, but you learn this with a tool box. You put everything in a sort of micro excel file and you get your results. But learning about different cultures and their respective needs is the most valuable thing you learn from this experience.

What are your thoughts on Lebanon?

Lebanon, is an interesting place. One of the first things they told me when I was on my way there for the first time, they said that “we are the Paris of the Middle East.” Everyone should learn something from the Lebanese people, to live as if there is no tomorrow.

The positivity that they have on some level should be a benchmark. Even though they have been through 25 years of instability, they are passionate about their business as well as their lifestyle. They are great people, and I personally love Beirut!

Interviewed by Houry Seukunian

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

195

| travel |

Five Historic Places to Visit this Summer Break

Summer Break - the perfect time to get away from the routine and just relax. But while students, teachers, and parents are counting down the days to freedom, it can be hard to find a destination that's perfect for everyone. The world has many amazing historical sites and even if you don’t make it to these, there are plenty more out there worth seeing. The more you know about the past, the more you can understand why people act the way they do in the present.

The good news is, whether you are a nature-lover, foodie, or history hound, an unforgettable summer break experience can be found. Which one is right for you?

196

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Taj Mahal Built in the 1600s, this building is a testament to undying love. Located in Agra, India, this white marble tomb built for Emperor Shah Jahan’s deceased wife is a must-see for everyone.

The Taj sees between two and four million tourists annually. There have been recent restrictions on tourism in an effort to help protect the site.

However, the greatest threat to the site is the air pollution that is destroying the white marble the building is constructed of. It was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Colosseum/Forum The Colosseum and the Forum are right next to each other in Rome. Remnants of a civilization that once controlled the world, these sites are breathtaking not only for their beauty but also for their history and age. You’re standing in the spot Caesar walked and gazing into the arena where gladiators battled to the death.

The Colosseum has slowly crumbled throughout the ages and much of it is restricted now, especially the floor and basement where everything was organized.

The Forum is great to walk around. I would definitely get a guided tour because the information presented by the authorities doesn’t go into much depth. ›

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

197

| travel |

Angkor Wat This ancient city in Cambodia was the center of the Khmer empire that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. This empire went extinct, but not before building amazing temples and buildings that were reclaimed by the jungle for hundreds of years. Though Angkor Wat is packed with tourists, it’s still breathtaking to see.

And the temple regions to the north and south see far fewer tourists than the main temple group. The best time to visit is early in the morning before the tour groups arrive and stay late. The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom and they always have crowds. In order to really experience the temples, you’ll need to purchase the three- or five-day pass.

The Pyramids at Giza Over 3,000 years old, and we still don’t have a good idea as to how they were built or how the Egyptians got them so precise. The Pyramids align to the stars and the solstices and contain vast chambers we still haven’t opened. I mean what do those little chambers where people can’t even crawl through mean? How did they even build them? They are truly a marvel of human engineering that was fit for kings. The largest one, called the Great Pyramid, was built by the Pharaoh Khufu and has limited access to it. You will also find the Sphinx in this area, another historical site that baffles researchers with its mysteries and is the subject of many conspiracy theories. Due to the Egypt revolution in 2011, tourism is drastically down though the revolution is over. If you ever wanted a time to have the pyramids to yourself, now is the time to visit.

198

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Petra Carved into a canyon in Arabah, Jordan, Petra was made famous by the third Indiana Jones film when he went to find the Holy Grail. Since then, everyone goes to look for it. It was discovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer who followed some local tribesmen there. Prior to that, it had been forgotten to the Western world. Though its founding is not known, it appears this place had settlers as early as the 6th century B.C. Under Roman rule, the site declined rapidly and was abandoned by the late 4th century. Petra was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is now one of the coolest and biggest attractions in the world.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

199

| hotel review |

A Sizzling Experience at

Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand

Not Your Average Summer Break Experience!

Among Beirut’s finest hotels, Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand ranks high on the list of luxurious accommodations, soothing getaways, and high standards experiences.

Nearby to many tourist attractions, the hotel boasts a prime locale for an intimate getaway or a sight-seeing filled vacation.

Here you can escape the stress and

200

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

exhaustion of travel or work and find relief and relaxation.

In Beirut City, there are a plethora of hotel options. Two in particular stand out for offering elevated experiences to savvy travellers out on business or pleasure. Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of

Hilton Worldwide, entered Lebanon with the opening of two hotels in the capital Beirut.

The 183-room Hilton Beirut Metropolitan Palace and its sister property, the 195-room Hilton Habtoor Grand are now officially operating as Hilton-branded hotels. Both also offer dining and entertainment options that are in themselves destinations for style-

conscious city dwellers.

Situated in the heart of the Lebanese capital, Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand delivers a world-class range of business and leisure facilities with an outstanding level of service. Located only 15 minutes away from Beirut International Airport and surrounded by a wealth of shopping and entertainment options, the hotel also features the city’s leading venue for international conferences and conventions. Experience the lively scenes of Beirut in all its brilliance from this outstanding property. The end result is a charming destination, affording everything necessary for a relaxing visit. The best of the city is right outside your door!

The Journey Begins Check in at Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand was the smoothest ever. We were accompanied to a beautiful accommodation, with an inviting atmosphere to escape to a superbly comfortable stay. Wood surfaces and crisp linens outfit the spaces, along with the best in modern amenities. The room is artfully decorated to give its guests amazing city or mountain views while offering privacy from neighboring structures. The striking elements of the decor still leave room for your own style to assert itself.

LOBBY

Stepping out on the balcony at the 18th floor, we could see the best of Beirut at its busiest. We treated ourselves to a warm coffee before we started the journey of a lifetime.

From business travellers to those travelling with small children, the hotel offers special amenities designed to exceed all of your

expectations. Choose your pleasure from a luxurious variety of room types from 195 modern guest rooms and suites, and a host of high-end amenities for an enjoyable stay.

With an approximate size of 36m2, each guest room allows plenty of space to spread out in comfort and provides a full selection of amenities including twin or king-size beds, a seating area as well as a work desk with a chair and a private balcony. Take your stay to the next level with the Ambassador suites, the 500m2 four bedroom Royal suites or the generous 1,100m2 Penthouses.

Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand fans will very soon be familiar with room categories including Wonderful, Spectacular and Fabulous, and suites ranging from Fantastic and Marvelous to Extreme WOW. All feature luxurious baths, Bliss spa products, plasma TVS….›

HABTOOR AMBASSADOR SUITE MASTER

KINGDOM PENTHOUSE MASTER

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

201

| hotel review |

Eat & Drink Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand offers some of the best Beirut restaurant options. Our first choice for the evening was the highest bar in Lebanon, UP ON THE 31ST. Live it up at with a wide choice of wines, cocktails and international light cuisine. We had a blast enjoying a mix of music, with great service and ambience in a memorable location, sipping our drinks and enjoying one of the best views in town. For a similar view, and a taste of a marvelous French cuisine, you can drop by LE CIEL where you can also enjoy panoramic sights of the city, in intimate and upscale surroundings. Fresh seafood awaits, along with a mouthwatering menu of expert culinary delights - perfect for any special occasion.

We headed back to our room, to enjoy a warm bath and a charming magical evening in the most relaxing atmosphere. Next morning, the sun was shining up in the sky calling us to start our day with a mouthwatering breakfast. ›

202

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

LE CIEL

FITNESS CENTER

SPA TREATMENT ROOM

WHIRLPOOL

The hotel’s elegant Al Diyafa restaurant features contemporary Mediterranean and International breakfast. The place for the city’s prominent businessmen to see and be seen every morning at breakfast, the chic eatery is also popular for its tasty wide variety of choices, starting from freshly baked bread to all sorts of tasty foods.

Get into Action After a fulfilling breakfast, it was time to burn some calories! We enjoyed a relaxing and rejuvenating stay by taking advantage of the wide array of features available.

We headed towards the the state-of-theart health and fitness centre. The three dedicated floors with 3,500m2 of space feature the latest professional equipment, with personal trainers on hand to offer guidance and advice. It was time to renew our commitment to fitness at the gym and grab a quick workout before we took a dip in the ornate pool. From the bustling power breakfast scene to the pleasures of relaxing poolside, this hotel definitely sets the standard for sophistication. Moving on to the Spa, it was time to transform our mind, body and spirit through a memorable

spa journey. The spa treatments mix the natural benefits of botanicals with modern techniques, creating a harmonic experience.

Here you will discover a secluded shelter in which to unwind and rejuvenate. Choose from a wide range of body and facial treatments, soothe your muscles with a massage and then unwind in the sauna, whirlpool or steam baths.

If you still have time, you can also enjoy the first snow rooms and Volcano steam rooms in the Middle East which refresh your senses and invigorate your body. From -10 degrees to 80 degrees, these rooms transport you to worlds of relaxation, serenity and vitality!

Romance in the Air After a long day, it was time to take an afternoon nap before we get ready for dinner. If romance was in the air and you felt like visiting the splendid Italian cuisine in a Venice-like atmosphere and soothing dim decorations, Venezia is your ultimate destination. We took the pedestrian bridge that connects to Hilton Metropolitan Palace, allowing Guests convenient access to both hotels, strolling above the busy

streets underneath, and enjoying a small wake before sinking in the marvelous dishes available at Venezia.

Genuine Italian-style dishes and a lively atmosphere make this vibrant restaurant a friendly and welcoming venue to enjoy a meal with friends or with your beloved. We tried out the most zestful mouthwatering Italian meals, enjoying the singing of a heavenly live show. We were instantly transported to a whole new country with intimate ambience and romantic heavenly food that took our breath away for the rest of the evening.

Going back to the room, we were trying not to think that this journey is almost coming to an end, but rather considering it a first time experience to a series of similar splendid getaways.

This property was designed with pure luxury in mind and at the same time, honouring guests at the highest levels of professionalism. An ultra chic hotel under the sparking Lebanese skies, is there any other choice for your city break vacation?

Reviewed by: Mira El-Orr Bleik

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

203

| a&e recommends |

Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris

A New Chapter Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris, the European flagship of Raffles Hotel & Resorts, was entirely transformed by the French designer Philippe Starck. This illustrious hotel, an icon in the City of Light since 1928, begins a new era in its history, reliving the unique Parisian spirit of the 1930’s, filled with Glamour, Effervescence and Creativity.

Art & Culture Art and artistic creativity form the soul and rhythm of Le Roayl Monceau - Raffles Paris. Guests are surrounded by the finest contemporary art installations and services throughout the hotel: the art collection, the art gallery, the contemporary art bookstore, the in-house movie theatre, the boutique and the unique services of an Art Concierge.

An Exceptional Destination Located on the prestigious Avenue Hoche, only steps away from Champs ElysĂŠes, the Arc de Triomphe and the elegant Parc Monceau, Le Royal Monceau is ideally located in order to fully experience the rich and vibrant atmosphere of Paris, a city that pulsates with life and creativity.

A Vision of Luxury Every detail in the hotel is perfectly tailored to the needs of each guest, from the state-of-the-art technology, to the decor in each room and the artwork on display. Combine this with the distinguished Raffles service, le Royal Monceau offers a unique alternative to the Parisian luxury hotel experience.

204

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

Gastronomy The hotel has three distinct areas dedicated to Gastronomy, supervised by two culinary talents, the Executive Chef Laurent André and the Pastry Chef, Pierre Hermé: • La Cuisine, the French restaurant offers a refined, generous and spontaneous cuisine in an elegant decor that combines an open kitchen, a chef’s table and private alcoves.

• Il Carpaccio, the Italian restaurant presents a gastronomic cuisine in an audacious and artistic atmosphere, overlooking the garden.

• Le Bar Long has been inspired by and designed as a living room that welcomes guests all day long to meet, gather, eat and relive the effervescence of the 1930’s.

Spa The Spa at the hotel is the first of the exclusive My Blend by Clarins spas which offers 1500 sqm of pure tranquillity that a&e had the pleasure of experiencing during the exceptional stay at Le Royal Monceau.

Room & Suites Inspired by the 1940's and 50's, the elegant rooms and luxurious suites reflect a unique atmosphere, infused with art and the French spirit. Le Royal Monceay - Raffles Paris

offers 85 rooms (from 36 to 45 sqm) and 64 suites (from 55 to 360 sqm) including 3 stunning Presidential Suites.

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

205

| tried & tested spa |

The Spa My Blend

by Clarins At Le Royal Monceau, Paris

A temple of wellbeing and contemporary beauty, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris Spa, the first for My Blend by Clarins, offers a unique haven of peace and relaxation in the heart of Paris. A paradise of pure white, this 1,500 square meter space includes a 23 meter pool, the largest ever built in a Paris luxury hotel. The exclusive treatments, relaxation rooms including a hammam, laconium room and sauna, and dedicated fitness coaches make this luxury hotel spa in Paris a temple of tailor-made luxury. The spa can be accessed directly from every floor.

A revolutionary new concept My Blend by Clarins is a unique line of body care products that can be customized and designed for the specific skin-care needs of each client. The personally tailored facial treatments are based on a thorough analysis of each client’s skin to determine its biological age.

206

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

depict foot massages and one hieroglyphic caption states “don’t hurt me!” You can discover Clarins’ perfect touch through their massages and body treatments for both men and women.

With relaxing facials and body treatments, you will be so close to the finish line of perfection at the Clarins Spa. The finishing touch could be a manicure, pedicure or a simple application of nail polish.

When it comes to haircare, Clarins has chosen the Leonor Greyl brand for its haircare booth notably because its expert, tailored approach fully complies with its own facial and body care ethos.

That’s not all – the Spa My Blend by Clarins is wholly dedicated to beauty, youth and general well-being. Physical exercise goes hand in hand with cosmetic care, and can also be tailored to your requirements, with advice and support from a team of specialised coaches. Personal rediscovery means learning to listen to your body and feel it change.

The Clarins ‘Facial Beauty’ menu includes a selection of emblematic treatments that aim to rejuvenate the skin and enhance its radiance, balance and purity. It now also includes a unique, specially developed protocol; a plant-based anti-ageing treatment associated with application techniques that enhance the effectiveness of active agents in combating the signs of ageing.

At Le Royal Monceau Spa, the Clarins’ ‘power of touch’ reigns supreme. Clarins has developed massage techniques inspired by the best of the cultures experienced in the 150 countries where it operates. Based on the five fundamental contact points (palm, thumb, edge of the hand, forearm and elbow), Clarins leverages long-standing traditions to find the ‘perfect touch’.

Indeed, some Ancient Egyptian bas-reliefs

Whether you need a relaxing break in exceptional surroundings or a workout that tones up your muscles or drives you towards specific endurance objectives, the Spa My Blend by Clarins can offer effective and enjoyable responses to your needs with its Spa Programme, Water fitness, Turkish baths, cardiovascular workouts and so much more. a&e recommends Anti-Jet-lag Stopover ( Face & body massage ) Rating: 9/10

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

207

| best for last |

Product

in-focus

Andy Warhol bag From winter 2013, these bags are limited edition pieces. There are 12 bags, 6 clutches and 6 Lady Dior produced in a very small quantity. Very exclusive and limited editions, these bags are collector pieces, all handmade, expressing Dior's creativity and the finest french savoir faire.

Photo credit: IN COLLABORATION WITH THE ANDY WARHOL FOUNDATION

208

| issue 09 | june / july 2013

IBC

PENDING

OBC www.chanel.com

CHANEL

18-CARAT YELLOW GOLD AND DIAMONDS