Arabian Woman April 2013

(ISSUE #159) APRIL 2013

www.godubai.com/arabianwoman

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FASHION ISSUE #159 April 2013

The Fashion Issue

MeetTheTamara Al Gabbani UAE’s Fashion Sweetheart

Photographed by: Saeed Khalifa

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Kenzo

Features 44 Arabia’s fashion darling The best dressed person in Cannes, Tamara Al Gabbani is certainly blazing a trail

50 Gemstone fever Learn how you can truly appreciate your sparkling centrepiece

78

Is it in you?

It may look glamorous but the road to fashion success is anything but easy

95 Street fashion, German-style Only good at making cars? The Germans have immaculate fashion taste too

Regulars

Karina Grimaldi

12 Editor’s pick 20 A-list celebs 22 entertainment 24 artsy 26 Calendar 28 Glam events 66 beauty products 68 scents 70 get the look 86 wellness 90 dining 98 the coveted

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editor’s letter Paul Smith SS13

Fashion Issue

Fashion is all about reinvention and change. And as we delve into this muchhyped industry, we also took time to give Arabian Woman (AW) some make-over, hoping to provide a more modern and classy approach suited to its equally chic and elegant readers.

In this issue, you will find our stories classified according to major sections: Out and About, Fashion, Beauty, Life and Travel. These key facets are what we knew would interest the likes of you who are connoisseurs of fine living. Our sections, filled with breaking news and in-depth features, would indeed cater to your sophisticated tastes as the new breed of empowered women.

Our cover girl, Tamara Al Gabbani, represents the new set of stylish and wellaccomplished Arabian woman who knows exactly what she aims for and how she can get there. Be inspired by her story on how she built her fashion lines, and how she continues to pursue further heights in her career.

Meanwhile, our features on Louis Vuitton and Chanel’s fashion and art collaborations, on pages 42-43, as well as our haute couture fashion editorial sum up highlights of this Fashion issue. Yet do not overlook our art briefs, events calendar, beauty files and travel stories. Surprisingly we discovered a fashionable side of Germany as we snapped street style photos in Berlin and Munich. Also, our experience of Rixos The Palm Dubai and its indescribable Turkish hammam are must-reads.

We have your cravings in mind as we developed each page of this newly reinvented AW. We hope you’d have a wonderful reading (browsing even) experience.

Enjoy, Michael Kors

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Sherry Tenorio

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Bakur A. Azher Associate Publisher Ayah R. Lunsford senior editor Sherry Tenorio SUB-EDITOR/ARTICLES WRITER Faizal Dahlawia SENIOR Designer Virgie L. Santillan Agencies and SYNDICATION Planet Syndication Rex Features design Assistants Sajid-Ali Shaik Advertising Manager Hamdi M. Shiba - Jeddah Advertising executives Abdul Raouf Al Zubairi - Jeddah Leena Hamza - Riyadh Administration & Finance Ahmed Ali Ibrahim - Jeddah Mohamed Fathy Raslan - Dubai Business Development Manager Ladan Rahbary

Distribution Manager Muneer H. Abul Huda For Advertising Information email: awsales@azherinfo.ae Arabian Woman is a registered trademark and published by Azher Information Technology Group Ltd, 6 Thermistoclis Dervis St, 4th floor, Office D4, PO Box 4185, 1702 Nicosia, Cyprus.

ARABIAN WOMAN IS PRINTED BY PREMIER PRINTING PRESS Tel: 04-8853633; Fax: 04-8852777 Dubai Investment Park, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE No part of Arabian Woman may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers.

Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher and editorial staff.

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EDITOR’S PICK

A-LIST This issue, our top choice goes to the simple and effortless chic of this runway number by Rachel Zoe. Depicting the season’s trend, this monochrome look marks the personal style of our fave designer.

We admit – we’re in love!

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Be it music festivals, art exhibitions or a cinematic experience, head on out and get mixed in with the ‘in’ crowd.

aul Smith SS13

Out & About

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AW ShopS

MUST-BUYS OF

shopaholics

From bags and shoes to dresses and accessories, we’ve scoured the city for the latest fashion pieces. Check out these must-have adorable Spring/ Summer items that top the AW Shops list.

Statement necklace, Anton Heunis at Harvey Nichols – Dubai

Trendy purse with red and white stripes, Marc Jacobs Equestrian medium saddle boston bag, Ralph Lauren Peek-a-boo bag, Zayan

Sky-high stilleto, Manolo Blahnik

Channel the runway look from Oscar De La Renta

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Studded pointed toe flat, Alexander McQueen

Ankle boots, Sergio Rossi

Cocktail ring, Miquella at Harvey Nichols – Dubai

AW Shops

Ezra 17

AW trends

Say hello to

Summer Eddie Borgo paradox bracelet

S

pring 2013 is in full swing, but if you know the first thing about fashion, you’re already rocking summer’s hottest looks because it’s always fun to be ahead of the style curve. And this summer, we are all about revisiting the season’s timeless classics. We are wearing the same things that have worked for the past so many summers, yes, but as always, there are a few key twists.

Innovation these days is no longer about shock and awe, it lies in the details. British avant-garde designer Hussein Chalayan

Saint Laurent Antiope polished cuff

would probably disagree what with his transforming dresses and all, but his work is more the exception rather than rule.

This month, we’re donning a delicate white lace piece like it’s Spring 2010, as outerwear! Fresh as summer, Alessandra Rich’s belted lace trench can be capped off with some chunky metallic accents like the Saint Laurent Antiope polished cuff and Eddie Borgo paradox bracelet, both mirroring the golden sun, to contrast with the reworked mac’s inherent femininity.

Rosario Dawson in Alessandra Rich

Dior SpringSummer 2013

Maiyet Cuff

Charlotte Olympia Belinda cutout leather sandals

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The battle for dominance between clean lines and ornate Baroque still features in this season’s top looks, and the winner has yet to be decided. In the meantime, incorporate both into your summer wear and infuse a bit of disarray into an otherwise monotonous wardrobe. Start with a basic shift dress, preferably in white or black, continue on with Charlotte Olympia’s Belinda cut-out sandals and finish off with a lovely Maiyet cuff.

AW trends Accessory-free dressing is also making waves as an efficient way to approach fashion. Statement collars and arm parties are one thing, but if your key pieces are commanding and intricate enough, you can do away with the accessories and shift the focus onto your dress. We suggest Peter Pilotto’s Ava printed number and Emilio Pucci’s oh so feminine butterfly wrap dress.

Emilio Pucci’s butterfly wrap dress

Peter Pilotto’s Ava printed dress

Kenzo

Tropical jungle prints are also a big hit this month – but tread lightly as overdoing it can result in fiasco rather than finesse. Take a leaf out of Kenzo’s book by muting down the aggressive patterns with blocks of blank pastel canvas. Start with a printed maxi from Kenzo and work your style magic to strike a balance of statement style and calculated elegance.

Jim Joquico, Editorin-Chief at www. lamodadubai.com, shares with AW the best trends to follow this coming summer.

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A-LIST CELEBS

Fashion

WARS

Nothing like a good insult to stake your claim as THE fashion guru.

Karl Lagerfeld on Heidi Klum I don’t know Heidi Klum.

She was never known in France. Claudia Schiffer also doesn’t know who she is.

Azzedine Alaia on Karl Lagerfeld I don’t like his fashion, his spirit, his attitude. It’s too much caricature. Karl Lagerfeld never touched a pair of scissors in his life. That doesn’t mean that he’s not great, but he’s part of another system. He has capacity. One day he does photography, the next he does advertisements for Coca-Cola. I would rather die than see my face in a car advertisement. We don’t do the same work. And I think that he is not doing a favour to young stylists who might think it works that way. They’re going to fall before they retire.

Richard Blackwell on Britney Spears

When it comes to couture chaos, this tacky terror should take a bow – looks like an over-the-hill Lolita

Roberto Cavalli on Anna Wintour

Just look at American fashion, which is almost fashion. It’s terrible and you almost can’t even look at it, but it has been driven by a great journalist, Anna Wintour, who wants all women to be like her and to dress the way she does.

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Giorgio Armani on Prada I don’t have debts.

Instead, Prada’s problem is that they have to pay back the money that the banks spent to build up the brand. There are thousands of ways to make money. But for me, I don’t want to wind up having to knock on the door of some Thai managers to explain myself.

Valentino

When asked what a lady should never wear “Lady Gaga’s clothes.”

BEYONCÉ & H&M Beyoncé will appear in television and print ads featuring pieces from the H&M summer collection.

The print and outdoor billboards introduce Beyoncé as Mrs. Carter in H&M, reflecting the idea that all women can be all things: strong, vulnerable, maternal, fun, and playful.

“I’ve always liked H&M’s focus on fun and affordable fashion. I really loved the concept we collaborated on to explore the different emotions of women represented by the four elements – fire, water, earth and wind.

It was a beautiful shoot on a tropical island. It felt more like making a video than a commercial,” says Beyoncé.

What makes these pieces even more special is that Beyoncé herself had input into the design, and they are full of her own personal style.

A-LIST CELEBS

Fashion

LAUNCHES

These celebs will be showcasing their fashion mettle in 2013.

the latest Robbie Williams – Launch ‘Farrell’, el lab n hio fas line from his er Jack ath ndf gra late his inspired by table but Farrell. “I like to be comfor t and I do enjoy being a British gen dressing up a bit.”

Eve Mendes – Launching her own fashion label by partnering with US retailer New York & Company on a clothing collection under her name. “I love anything that winks to yesteryear.

You have to find what works for you. In this day and age where everybody has a stylist, I appreciate the kind of woman who steps out of the box. I love feeling like an individual. I want to share all these little tips with women.”

WHO, WHAT, WHERE Nicole Kidman was in Vienna to help OMEGA launch new models in its Ladymatic collection and to introduce the global advertising campaign for the collection. The multi-media campaign features Kidman, who has been the ‘face of Ladymatic’ since its international debut in 2010.

Solange Knowles wears a blazer and shirt from the Marni Winter Edition 2013 collection and skirt from the Marni Summer Edition 2013 to the ‘Verizon Wireless & Nokia Music Live’ event.

Diane Kruger, the face of Jaeger-LeCoultre feminine watches, wore the JaegerLeCoultre Joaillerie 101 Art Deco watch to the premiere of the ‘The Host’.

Kate Beckinsale lit up the Vanity Fair Oscar Party red carpet in a strapless Monique Lhuillier gown complemented by a fresh and glowing makeup look, courtesy of Rimmel London.

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gear/movies

On the silver screen

For your dose of artsy film faire, head on down to Grand Cinemas at Dubai Festival City for the Gulf Film Festival. We recommend some of the best films to be featured during the film extravaganza; Berlin Telegram Leila is a singer-songwriter with nothing but her voice to accompany her as she wanders from one place to another. With her heart still carrying the heavy burden of unrequited love, she resolves to leave her town.

Armed with a camera and her music, Leila takes the audience on a trip that draws attention to her hopes and fears. In this lyrical road movie based on a true story, through the wonders that music presents, there is no path and no destination.

Except that of the heart…

It’s About To Rain IT’S ABOUT TO RAIN is a film about a very particular situation – an Algerian father and two AlgerianItalian sons, struggling to come to terms with an Italy that appears to reject them – that’s extraordinarily universal. Starring the charismatic newcomer Lorenzo Baglioni as Said Mahran, this is a subtle, emotional and gripping story, one that relates to everyone that’s ever found themselves between different countries, belonging somewhere that doesn’t make them wholly welcome...

Ticky Techy Atmos Hermès clock When three classic Houses combine,the result is the Atmos Hermès clock. The result of the collaborative effort of Hermès, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Les Cristalleries de St. Louis, the 176-piece limited edition crystal clock features stunning juxtaposition of materials; artistic craftsmanship combining the uncompromising nature of metal with the fragile vulnerability of crystal. By giving substance to an immaterial reality, it forges a strong bond between humankind, its environment and an eternally intriguing principle: that of time.

Canon PowerShot N The Canon PowerShot N offers a different approach to capturing creative, spontaneous photos and sharing them instantly with social networks. The unconventional square design, innovative zoom and shoot operation lens rings and tilting touch screen encourage people to capture their world from a fresh angle, whilst the new Creative Shot mode automatically generates a selection of unexpected creative treatments with every shot taken. The perfect smartphone companion, the PowerShot N has been designed to simplify image sharing with intuitive Wi-Fi connectivity allowing a new generation of high-quality, artistic images and Full HD videos to be shared in near real-time.

Samsung VS Apple… in KSA A new survey by Axiom Telecom and YouGov has found that Samsung is the most popular smartphone brand in KSA. Thirty-six per cent of a large sample of smartphone consumers from across the Kingdom claimed to own devices from the South Korean tech pioneer, with 25 per cent opting for Apple. Samsung became the world’s best-selling mobile brand last year with a 29 per cent market share, knocking Nokia off the top spot for the first time in 14 years.

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BooKs/Tv/mUsiC

Recommended Books The Kingdom of Men by Kim Barnes When Gin McPhee’s husband Mason takes a job at the Arabian American Oil Company in Saudi Arabia, it unlocks a glamorous new lifestyle far from their humble beginnings in Oklahoma. But as Gin tires of the cocktails and an absent husband, the illusion of freedom is shattered, leaving boredom and curiosity for life beyond the gates – a world she soon finds is one of danger and corruption.

The Fast Diet: The Secret of Intermittent Fasting – Lose Weight, Stay Healthy and Live Longer by Dr Michael Mosely & Mimi Spencer Is it possible to eat well, most of the time, and get slimmer and healthier as you do it? With the Fast Diet it is. This radical new approach to weight loss is the diet that everyone is talking about. It really is as simple as it sounds: you eat normally five days a week, then, for just two days you cut your calories (500 for women, 600 for men).

Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O’Farrell It’s July 1976. In London, it hasn’t rained for months, gardens are filled with aphids, water comes from a standpipe, and Robert Riordan tells his wife Gretta that he’s going around the corner to buy a newspaper. He doesn’t come back. The search for Robert brings Gretta’s children – two estranged sisters and a brother on the brink of a divorce – back home, each with different ideas as to where their father might have gone.

Tube Talk

Alan Carr: Chatty Man After winning various UK Television awards for Best Entertainment Show and Best Talk Show Alan Carr: Chatty Man is now firmly established as one of the UK’s favourite entertainment TV shows. So snuggle up on the sofa and expect laughter, silly antics, celebrities and top music acts, with the UK’s favourite wonderfully self-deprecating comedian and chat show host Alan Carr.

Music Top Charts Girl Who Got Away by Dido Girl Who Got Away is the fourth album from multi platinum selling artist Dido whose No Angel and Life For Rent albums turned her into a global superstar. Featuring ‘No Freedom’, and ‘Let Us Move On’ ft Kendrick Lamar, this deluxe edition features a bonus CD with six exclusive tracks.

The 20/20 Experience by Justin Timberlake The 20/20 Experience is the third studio album by Justin Timberlake. It is his first album released since his musical hiatus in 2006 and change in labels in 2011. Its music incorporates neo-soul styles with elements of older soul music. As Executive Producer, Timberlake enlisted previous collaborator Timbaland to work alongside Jerime ‘J-Roc’ Harmon and Rob Knox.

Buddha Bar: Karma Kafe Dubai Buddha Bar presents Karma Kafe Dubai, a downtempo, chillout offering that includes tracks by Nitin Sawhney, Ronny Morris, Shantel, Jay West, Dr Kucho!, Carlos Russo, and many more.

Persil Arwaa Abaya Competition The time is almost here for the much-awaited Season 5 of the Persil Arwaa Abaya Competition.

The competition is part of Persil’s attempt to bring the local and regional talents across the region to the fore and offer them a platform to succeed and showcase their skills and expertise in Abaya designs. The winner of the Season 5 will win an internship with a well known designer and a scholarship course in one of the most famous design schools. The Persil Arwaa Abaya contest will be shown on Sabah Al-Kheir Ya Arab on MBC 1 between April 22, where the contestants will be judged by the jury on the MBC show. Some episodes will involve Arab celebrity appearances and surprise collaborations would be unveiled to make this season truly entertaining and engaging.

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ARTSY

Refine

yourself And what would life be like without a little bit of art and culture…

Portrait of a Lady Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi Date: April 22 – July 20 Included in the Birth of a Museum exhibition is ‘Portrait of a Lady’, the never before seen work by arguably the most legendary artist of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso. Previously only mentioned in John Richardson’s writing, A Life of Picasso: The Triumphant Years, 1917-1932, ‘Portrait of a Lady’ is a portrait of famous socialite and fashion muse Natalie Paley, created using glued paper cutouts.

The granddaughter of Tsar Alexander II of Russia and wife of the couturier Lucien Lelong, Paley was a renowned model in her day, well-connected in fashionable Parisian circles. Picasso may have used photographs as a source, as he did for many other portraits, to capture her oval face, fine features, and slim silhouette.

World Record For Panoramic Photo An image of London has set a new record for the world’s largest panoramic photo.

The image shows a full 360 degree view of London in incredible detail. The 320 gigapixel image comprises more than 48,000 individual. If printed at normal photographic resolution, the image would be 98m across and 24m tall, almost as big as Buckingham Palace. To see the gigapixel image, visit www.btlondon2012.co.uk

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Gallery One’s Spring line-up Gallery One, the art and photography retailer, will showcase works from world-renowned artists Rosha Nutt, quirky photographer Mr Kuu and Claridge & Lilius as part of its line up for the second phase of its spring collection.

With inspirations drawing from the bold, graphic works of Roy Litchtenstein, Andy Warhol, Bridget Riley and Damien Hirst, Rosha Nutt’s most recent collection, ‘Popp Art’, sees her unique artworks combine simple screen-printed objects such as unmistakable bottles of Chanel, butterflies and popsicles, with stippling and bold colour combinations for maximum impact and easy-on-theeye aesthetics.

Mr Kuu is a pseudonym for what some believe is the alter ego of a famous fashion photographer obsessed with capturing life’s quirky, intimate details, through his perfectly angled lens. This collection of fine art photography, ‘Small Things In A Big World’, focuses on tiny bright, plastic hand painted figures juxtaposed against seemingly mundane everyday objects, creating a surreal world, which aims to accentuate routine raw emotion.

The ‘Brush and Lens’ project, the intriguing marriage between the talents of one of the UK’s most popular young artists, Simon Claridge, and a much in-demand fashion, art and film photographer, Marc Lilius, has transpired into creating collectable pieces of photographic art that are simply breathtaking.

ARTSY

Introducing… Lafi

ADIEFF Film Festival

The Abu Dhabi International Environmental Film Festival (ADIEFF), to be held April 20-25, has included a new contest, entitled ‘Environmental Films from UAE’, aimed at encouraging filmmakers and amateurs from UAE to produce specialised films in the field of environment to publically promote the importance of environment conservation to make earth a better place to live.

Lafi is both an art photographer, photo journalist and documentary film-maker. He has travelled the world extensively and his tales alone would make an enthralling adventure novel: Run aground in the Bahamas. Cameras confiscated in Luxor. Questioned in China. Arrested in Moscow. Lost in the Abu Dhabi desert. Tossed by the seas around Cape Horn, Filming humpback whales in Antarctica...

Many of Lafi’s pictures are in black and white because for him, monochrome conveys detail with much more clarity, allowing the viewer to see at a subconscious level.

Colour is wonderful to convey the beauty of a place but can sometimes confuse our senses and obstruct the greater story.

More recently, he has channelled his journalistic roots into film-making, with most of his assignments being documentaries for NGOs highlighting the plight of those struggling to survive, bringing human interest, and stories of the underprivileged or suffering to the world’s attention.

He records the daily lives of those in Jordan, Palestine, Nepal and Ethiopia, hoping his work will increase awareness, compassion and a greater understanding for those who are most vulnerable in society.

This contest paves the way for amateurs and professionals to communicate with regional and international experts. Through the sessions and seminars, everyone will be able to land on the most appropriate formula for the environmental film.

Curtains Up! An Extravaganza of Dance To Hit Center Stage Head down to Centrepoint Theatre, DUCTAC, Mall of The Emirates on April 26 and 27 as Sharmila Dance presents its 13th annual Dance Extravaganza featuring more than 200 performers presenting an entertaining array of hip-hop, street jazz, contemporary, ballet, break dancing and Bollywood. Audience members can expect a collage of choreographies, styles, costumes, music and all other things dance. This is a show for all ages with a diverse selection of performances on one stage giving spectators a fun-filled and exciting experience.

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CALENDAR

6

4-5

3-6

5

er 2013 GITEX Shoppdition - Spring E

12

World Beats at Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi

Yanni Back in Dubai

Train ConcertLive in , Dubai

2013 April Events

Red Bull World To X-Fighters ur - Duba i

Yeo Flower uFido Spring estival, S eoul

13-15

Songkran (Thailand Water Festival)

12

Br Live uno M in D ars uba i

26

12-18

19-20

Julius Baer Bea Polo Cup Dubai 2ch 013

L

6-7

7

World Health Day

Lollapaloo za Chile 2013

BRIDE Dubai 2 013

Bahrain Grand Prix

America’s Cup World Series, Naples

London Marathon

10-13

19-21

16-21

21

CALENDAR

27

Dubai D Road Reusert n

30

11-17

6th Gulf Film Festival

22

Earth Day

29-30

Drag Queen Olympics, Am sterdam

Witches’ Night, Prague

27

GLAM

A Fashion

Wonderland at Etoile 'La boutique'

e' adopted a ‘Fashion in Wonderland’ theme.

This season’s whimsical ‘What’s Hot Now’ event by Etoile 'La Boutiqu sk mannequins, the style-savvy of Dubai were Alice-e and ms Surrounded by fantasy inspired décor including giant mushroo 2013 collection. The collection embodies a fun, invited to the Mall of the Emirates to discover the latest Spring/Summer and enlightened the guests of the wide selection of girly and brightoutlook on the Etoile 'La boutique' multi-brand concept es on a trip down the rabbit hole with powder blue their most sought after fashion brands. They could take their wardrob tea dresses, sassy hearts and statement accessories.

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GLAM

Swarovski revels Spring/Summer 2013 collection in KSA

Swarovski hosted a sparkling event in Jeddah, KSA at the Park Hyatt Hotel to showcase their new Spring Summer 2013 Tropical Paradise jewellery collection, a collection inspired by the diversity and exuberance of South America. Saudi Arabia's elite ladies and bloggers gathered together to discover the new jewellery in style, with a fun photo booth, a mind blowing fire show and an impressive acrobatic performance, all while treated to a lavish display of carefully crafted canapĂŠs and treats.

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GLAM

Harvey Nichols-Dubai stages fashion show at Mall of the Emirates for the first time

Mall of the Emirates brought Spring/Summer glam to the catwalk by and partnered with Harvey NicholsDubai to host their first-ever fashion event in the mall.

Fashion lovers, trend-seekers and style leaders were the first in line to catch some of the world’s most desirable brands as they took over the runway.

Harvey Nichols-Dubai unveiled contemporary looks and the hottest new trends of the season for women, men and children from its super chic fashion lines including Michael Kors, Chloe, Diane Von Furstenberg, Isabel Marant, Catherine Maladrino and Alexander Wang. New talent including Charlotte Olympia also unveiled her fresh new collections on the runway.

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GLAM

Jaguar Style Stakes at the Dubai World Cup 2013 Dubai’s racing calendar concluded with a spectacular turnout at the Dubai World Cup in Meydan. The world’s richest horse race attracted the very best international and local talent from the world of horse-racing along with hundreds of Dubai’s fashionistas, all hoping to claim the best dressed accolade at the Jaguar Style Stakes.

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Fashion

With Spring in full swing, the fashion world is set abuzz once gain as an explosion of colours take centre stage.

LongChamp SS13

Spring/ Summer trends Anton Heunis

Be Bang

On Trend this season From monochrome and miniskirts to bright hued skinny jeans, fashion trends constantly evolve with time and this year is no exception. Saadiya Ahmad chats with some of Dubai’s hottest stylists and designers to find out what’s hot and what’s not to keep you looking your most fabulous.

Moschino cheapandchic Anton Heunis

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Spring/ Summer trends Banana Republic

Remember to have fun with accessories as summer is all about layering different pieces…

– Kelly Lundberg, Stylist

Top Trends for Spring and Summer According to Kelly Lundberg, the brainchild behind StyleMeDivine, the go-to company for bespoke styling, wardrobe advice and personal shopping, there are several fashion do’s and don’ts this spring and summer 2013.“Firstly, remember to have fun with accessories as summer is all about layering different pieces,” she says, so try wearing a combination of two or three different necklaces or make a statement with a great piece of arm candy.“Next, be sure to embrace a new trend. If you are not too sure about a particular style looking good on you, give the high street a try before splurging on an expensive designer item,” she suggests. And since shorts are meant to be huge this year, Lundberg advises to start toning those legs before the summer.

“Also, be sure to edit your wardrobe; you should have all your winter items cleaned and placed away in a cool, dry environment ready for fall,” she says.“And lastly, do invest in decent underwear and supportive shape wear; with the invention of Spanx, multi-way bras, supportive tube tops and specialist hosiery, there is absolutely no excuse for untidy straps and unsightly bulges under lighter summer clothing.“Also, ultra flattering

Alexander McQueen

Assad Mounser

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Spring/ Summer trendS printed silky pants has been seen on the catwalk at Matthew Williamson and have translated well on the high street as seen in stores such as Zara and H&M,” she says.“Footwear is also incredibly accessible this season; sky -high stilettos have been replaced with the mid heel, and pointed toes are back.” Give a basic outfit a style boost by accessorising with high impact, quirky shoes from Alice and Olivia or celeb favourite Charlotte Olympia .For a cheaper style statement, check out Rihanna’s collection for River Island.

Other trends, points out Dima Ayad, a well known Dubai based fashion designer, are stripes.“Do wear stripes as they are very in and completely the moment,” she says.“Also, anything flowy and light and anything structured and shaped are big trends this season.”As well as the favourite monochrome is back in fashion as are graphics in a big way.

Flattering Styles For Any Body Shape Let’s face it, not everyone has a perfect body. So when dressing for a particular body type, Lundberg says that the trick to looking your best is to keep everything in proportion.“If you are top heavy, avoid low cut tops and anything that draws attention to the bust area,” she says and in fact, printed pants are a great way to balance out a bustier client with the emphasis on the bottom half of the body.

Similarly, bottom heavy or pear shapes should choose a dress or top with great

Jimmy Choo

neck or sleeve detail, or accessorise with an eye -catching scarf or necklace, as the idea is to draw the eye upwards and away from any problem areas. When it comes to short legs, Lundberg suggests finding a brand of shoes that are comfortable as heels are your friend.“Avoid ankle straps unless you are wearing trousers

Anton Heunis

Jean Paul Gaultier

Shourouk Alexander McQueen

Diane Von Furstenberg

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Spring/ Summer trendS Karina Grimaldi

Banana Republic

and keep the colour and design simple so that it elongates your silhouette,” she says.“Also, women with a shorter neck should opt for a v-neck and avoid any detailing with a round neck.”And equally, short necklaces are a no-no as are scarves knotted at the neck--it’s all about creating space and elongating the neckline. And a huge problem area for many women is the tummy and for this, she advises to try a waist cinching wrap dress or a top with a bold print design to maximise curves whilst disguising any imperfections.

“Again selecting jewellery that will draw the eye upwards is always a good start and always avoid pleats,” she emphasises.

Moreover, Ayad reminds us that a woman needs to really know her body and try

things that also don’t immediately grab her attention.“She also needs to know that not every trend out there may suit her; basically all women should really dress for their body type and forego the ones that don’t accentuate her figure no matter how much she loves the trend,” she says.“Top heavy women can easily wear wrap dresses which are really flattering for this figure type.” Bottom heavy women can flatter their figures with figure hugging dresses with fabric that drapes and for women with shorter legs, miniskirts work well.“Women with a shorter neck can wear one shoulder dresses with lower necklines and women with a fatter tummy should show a bit of décolletage,” she says, and for this, a highwaisted dress a lower neckline works.

Do wear stripes as they are very in and completely the moment.

– Dima Ayad, Fashion Designer

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FASHION TIPS

What to wear at Julius Baer Beach Polo Cup? We asked former international model Gaby Katiela, owner of mamemo productions and brainchild behind the event, for some fabulous fashion tips…

1.

2.

Just because it’s called ‘Beach Polo’, it doesn’t mean you have to dress for the beach!

Wear something flattering, and something which is breathable – its mid-April and will be held outdoors

3.

You can never go wrong with the little white dress.. but accessories are a must!

4.

Wear colours! It’s in fashion and it suits the location

6.

We love high heels but because you will be going to Beach Polo, then on this occasion, less is more. When styled correctly, flats can be as sexy as killer heels!

5.

7.

8.

Glitter and sparkles belong to the clubs. Nevertheless if decently combined, it’s a la mode!

We love hats! Especially Panama hats!

Fascinators belong to the races

10.

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9.

We adore white suits

Wear your smile

ABOUT JULIUS BAER BEACH POLO CUP DUBAI 2013 Traditionally referred to as the ‘Sport of Kings’, after much anticipation, the original Beach Polo Cup is set to return to its roots on the sands of Dubai this April 19 and 20, providing world class horsemanship, nail-biting pace and international glamour to the shores of Dubai.

Featuring an invitation only Exclusive Players Night on April 18 and two days of heart pounding tournaments on the 19th and 20th, it is expected to bring an entourage of professional polo players from around the world as well as recognised personalities and celebrities from the region.

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Photographed By Darwin Tiambeng

Vintage Fashion

The fantastic idea As fashion tilts towards past generations for inspiration, the timeless, classy looks inspired by the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O, and Marilyn Monroe have become a modern day look once again.

Contemporary styles are no longer the ultimate source of fashion satisfaction and ladies ‘in the know’ are looking for those one-off pieces that reflect a unique expression of who they really are.

The Red Carpet is now a showcase of vintage glamour as well, with celebrities like Sienna Miller, Rachel Zoe, and Julia Roberts demonstrating how gorgeous second time fashion really is.

The whole idea of Bambah is a fun place where people can just come in and have a good time and explore some unique vintage pieces at very affordable prices.

The collection is handpicked from around the world and is of course in pristine condition. The styles and designs are extremely exclusive as there is only one of each piece, so you are guaranteed a unique look. The collection is also very reasonably priced which makes it easier for customers to experiment with pieces and have fun buying them.

Vintage springs at Bambah Two years after finishing her Marketing degree at the American Univesity in Sharjah, a young vintage fanatic merged her passions with her business aptitude. Maha Abdul Rasheed, the brains behind Bambah, the go-to vintage destination in Dubai, as well as the creative mind behind the label ‘Vintage Reconstructed’, tells AW the art of selling vintage fashion.

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Love for vintage Fresh in her twenties, Maha has been a self-confessed vintage aficionado. To her, vintage is more than just a collection of clothes and accessories, it’s more about a lifestyle and how you carry and style yourself. What she likes the most about vintage is the exclusivity of wearing it.

Because it’s unique in nature, you will be guaranteed that no one else will be wearing the same piece which gives you an edge over the crowd.

Maha also thinks that vintage will always enable the wearer to make a statement and express who they are. Whether it’s a jacket or a scarf or a piece of jewellery, it feels like it makes a bold statement by integrating something vintage in the outfit.

Vintage Fashion

vintage buying tips } When you’re buying vintage, I would say it’s very important that you choose pieces that are in pristine condition. It’s very important that you research your product very well and take your time in finding a credible supplier. You should always inspect the piece thoroughly, studying the labels, fabric, and any unique product details to make sure you are purchasing a unique piece. } Try them on before you buy them because sizes may look deceiving on the racks. Do your research on current trends and trends from the past to see how best to wear the piece and integrate it into your everyday wardrobe.

} There are really no rules on how you wear vintage – and the whole idea is the fun in experimenting with pieces and shaping them to fit your figure and personality. } It’s always better to mix and match vintage pieces with today’s trends to come up with the prettiest outfit. Choose a piece such as a dress, scarf, or a pair of shoes, and slowly integrate it with your current wardrobe. Remember to choose one accessory at a time, as your vintage piece will stand out more if it’s the focal point of attention rather than competing with other items.

The cute wall filled with old mem adds to the comely atmosphere orabilia at Bambah

on: long black A treasured possessila Renta de gown by Oscar

Introducing the concept Although the concept of ‘real vintage’ is relatively new in the UAE and the region as a whole, I’m glad to say that so far, people have received it very well!

There seems to be a strong need for specialty boutiques that offer personalised attention, one-off pieces, and a pleasant and fun shopping environment. Bambah’s customers have repeatedly quoted Bambah to be ‘very refreshing’ that serves as a nice change from traditional malls.

In addition, people are constantly on the look out for unique and exclusive pieces that complement their style and personality with a guarantee that no one

else will be wearing the same piece.

Bambah’s vintage pieces are sourced from cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, Paris, London, New York, and Tokyo. The collection is a mixture of everyday classics and designer pieces such as Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, and Nina Ricci to name a few.

restricts herself to anything in particular; everything and anything is welcome because at the end of the day, people have different tastes and styles and she is sure every piece will be appreciated.

Above all, since Maha enjoys travelling and handpicking pieces by herself – every piece has a story and a special bond.

There is a criterion on how Maha chooses the pieces. Of course, first and foremost, she looks at the condition that the piece is in and she personally tries everything on and make sure that the items are in pristine condition before she buys them. In terms of styles, she never

‘Bambah’ means pink in Egyptian Arabic and was a term heavily used in the 1940s as an expression for a joyful/happy life- it also happens to be Maha’s favorite colour!

The vintage shop is located at the heart of Jumeirah Beach Road, across the Dubai Zoo.

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Fashion x Art

Louis Vuitton

collaborates with El Seed

D

uring Art Dubai, Louis Vuitton announced the unveiling of the latest art project in the Middle East; a dual product and window collaboration with the Tunisian urban-calligraphy artist eL Seed, guest artist of Tashkeel in Dubai.

Louis Vuitton has involved eL Seed to reinterpret, in his own inimitable Arabic ‘calligraffiti’ style, the classic silk Louis Vuitton scarf. The textile collaboration is part of the second stage of Louis Vuitton ‘Foulards d’Artistes’ project, which has seen three other street artists design a scarf for the Maison so far this year including Japanese AIKO, American

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RETNA and Brazilian OsGemeos.

As an added dimension to the art collaboration, building upon the layers of cultural communication between the artist and Louis Vuitton, eL Seed has custom created a window installation using the iconic Alzer hard-sided luggage, a stack of three that he has left his unique mark on, sharing the same poetic and fluid ‘calligraffiti’ messages that have made him renowned in the world of urban art. The unique Alzer pieces will be auctioned by Christies in October of this year for the benefit of START. The eL Seed collaboration was unveiled recently at the Louis Vuitton

Mall of the Emirates store.

The eL Seed textile will be presented, as a worldwide preview in Dubai. In addition, one of the two stunning and emotional Arabic calligraphy designs will only be available exclusively in Dubai for a limited period.

Fashion x Art

The Little Black Jacket: CHANEL’s classic revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld On April 25, CHANEL’s photographic exhibition dedicated to Karl Lagerfeld’s latest book, The Little Black Jacket: CHANEL’s classic revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld, will open in a unique and specially constructed space at The Venue, Downtown Dubai.

Following on from Tokyo, New York, London, Paris, Berlin and Milan, this special event in Dubai joins a new stage of the exhibition that underlines CHANEL’s values of creativity, modernity and excellence.

The public will discover Lagerfeld’s original photographs that illustrate the versatility and timelessness of the iconic CHANEL jacket, seen modelled on a range of friends of the House who have each adapted the garment to reflect their own inimitable style. In addition, new photographs featuring such notable personalities as Keira Knightley, Diane Kruger, Carla Bruni and Carole Bouquet, all of whom embody the iconic style of the House, will be unveiled.

Running simultaneously with the exhibition, window displays in CHANEL’s Dubai Mall and Burjuman boutiques in Dubai, as well as the brand’s boutique at Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi, will present a selection of jackets from the 2013 Spring-Summer Ready-to-Wear collection.

The exhibition will be open to the public from April 27 until May 11, and admission is free.

The Little Black Jacket: CHANEL’s classic revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld The Venue, Downtown Dubai Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard 11:00AM-9:00PM 11:00AM-10:00PM on weekends Free admission thelittleblackjacket.chanel.com

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cover story

Up close with

Tamara Al Gabbani The epitome of a modern sophisticated woman who unleashes a striking force in the region’s fashion, television and film circles, Tamara Al Gabbani proves to be so much more than being a pretty young thing. To have sold out the 35-piece collection before its debut on Dubai’s catwalk, and to have had the international media buzzed about her presence at the Cannes Film Festival, are just pieces of testaments how this lady blossomed into an inspiring personality. In this exclusive interview, AW discovers more about why she entered fashion design, how she envisions her creations, and what makes her proud as an Arab woman.

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Photographed by: Saeed Khalifa

cover story

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cover story

The Julie: A stunning piece from Tamara’s previous collection

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cover story

What makes you proud as an Arab woman? “As an Arab woman, I am proud of our culture, heritage and traditions. I am also proud with what I have achieved so far in my career but I have bigger dreams and aspirations.

This is just the beginning.”

Arabian Woman (AW): From modelling and television presenting, what made you decide to become a fashion designer?

Tamara Al Gabbani (TAG): I saw a gap in the market for affordable luxury evening and daywear. As a woman in your 20s to 50s, you constantly find yourself in a crisis, where you are invited to events, parties and weddings but have a shortage of exclusive yet affordable outfits to wear.

are made. I believe that all women are ‘Goddesses’.

Combining my unique creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit, I launched The Tamara Al Gabbani brand, a collection of Goddess inspired evening gowns, jalabiyas and abayas. The line is exclusive, high quality and elegant, yet comes at an accessible price range.

I launched the collection at Burj Khalifa and sold the entire collection before it had even been viewed. Three days later, I was walking on Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet, and was awarded Best Dressed at Cannes Film Festival in my own designs, a first for a woman from the Arab region. Since then, the brand has amassed fans and clients globally.

AW: What challenges do you usually encounter as a fashion designer?

TAG: The Middle East hasn’t fully developed as a hub for designers as yet.

There is definitely a lack of support, with most designers just figuring things out as they go along. Some of the challenges include supply chain issues, set-up formality costs and lack of wholesaling opportunities due to the relentless focus on Western designers and designs. These are all part of the hindrances the design industry needs to address and overcome in the region in order to become part of the global fashion industry.

AW: Who, or what, influenced you to enter the field of fashion?

TAG: I had great influences, both my mother and my grandmother were involved in the fashion industry, owning boutiques and designing clothes. They were both incredibly stylish; therefore style came naturally and played a fundamental role in my upbringing.

It was, in many ways, inevitable – an inherited inspiration.

My collection isn’t just about the clothes; it’s a belief system. The concept and ideology behind the brand are the foundations upon which the designs

Historically, the ancient goddesses were pillars of strength and power, but retained an air of femininity. I incorporated this into what she thinks the modern day goddess is; strong, independent but also graceful and chic. It means accentuating a woman’s beauty without denying her magnificent strength and ability to persevere.

Modern and chic abayas from her newest ArabiAna line

AW: How did you overcome the said challenges?

TAG: I could very well go to London or New York and give my brand a better chance at succeeding there, but doing that would mean abandoning hope for the fashion industry in the region. I would rather stay, and use my experiences to help solve the problems faced by many talented creatives here and truly make a difference.

AW: Since you are a woman of multitalents, what do you love most among the things that you do?

TAG: I love inspiring women around the world. In fact, my brand is my ode to

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Photographed by: Saeed Khalifa

cover story

The Noora

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cover story Aptly dubbed as the UAE’s Sweetheart, Tamara Al Gabbani believes in the power of kindness, love and positivity.

women, reminding them of the pedestal they were created on and should so proudly stand on.

AW: Also a style icon, how do you define your personal style? What are your musthaves?

TAG: Style is the ability to take the mundane, unnoticeable, insane, or even hateful, and making it something that is inexplicably appealing. Style is an expression of who you are and what you are not afraid to be. The most accurate way to describe my style is fearless. I am not afraid to experiment with new and cutting-edge designs.

AW: Can you tell us more about your brand? What is your latest collection?

TAG: The brand is an extension of my personality, which is a harmonious balance of both traditional refinement and modern cool. I wanted the brand to be honest, from the heart and showcase

outfits designed according to my own taste. When it comes to my designs, I have a very clear vision of what the collection is going to be, I just see it, it’s hard to explain. It’s almost like a visual dream.

To celebrate my mixed Arab-Western heritage, and to promote bridging an East& West understanding and appreciation, I created the ArabiAna Line, a combination of Middle Eastern Abaya’s, Jalabiyas and Kaftans designed with modern and western touches.

The collection’s high quality fabrics are sourced from all corners of the globe, with the intricate embroidery carefully handmade in-house, making the finished piece unique and luxurious.

The ArabiAna range, like the rest of the Tamara Al Gabbani collection, is reasonably priced, offering accessible exclusive glamour, the right of every woman. Each piece has been designed

with careful thought regarding wearability, and has proven a hit with both Arab and Western women clients.

AW: What sort of woman would wear your collection? Do you have any particular muse in mind for your label?

TAG: My purpose is towards all women. I want to make my audience and clientele happy. I want to give them a moment where they feel uplifted and special.

If I can make one woman feel like the goddess she is for even just one evening, the honour is mine.

I made a decision to give the dresses names, and each dress is named after women whom I admire, respect or have inspired me. Three of these are famous women, Princess Diana, Queen Rania and Sherihan. It would be an absolute honour for me to have either Queen Rania or Sherihan wear my dresses one day.

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Jewellery special

Time to

sparkle

From rubies to diamonds, every girl needs a little bling to complement her outfit. It is with this mission in mind that jewellery designers put their heart and soul into their craft. AW speaks to Carla Atala and Maha Al Sibai, two jewellery designers who understands what it means to truly shine.

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Jewellery special

The world sees me as a very energetic person working hard into building a name in jewellery amongst the top jewellers in town. I am a very happy and positive person at heart who loves fashion, jewellery and music. – Carla Atala

Jewelry apart from the others are the messages it carries, through the songs which represent every collection.

Maha Al Sibai (MS): I think what really makes my jewellery different is that my imagination is full of input from different cultures and civilisations. All these impact and inspire my jewellery from the environments that I’ve lived in. I also travel a lot and I am obsessed with studying arts and cultures and you will find a touch of so many regions in my jewellery combined with the Middle Eastern spirit.

AW: How has jewellery evolved? Also, how has the art of jewellery-making evolved?

Arabian Woman (AW): Jewellery, to the common person, may all look the same after a while. How do you personally try and make your designs stand out from the crowd?

Carla Atala (CA): I design a very stylish and trendy jewellery line inspired from fashion and music. My line is very edgy, yet feminine at the same time. What sets Carla Atala Fine

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Jewellery special

Every element in these two cities (Damascus and Rome inspired me, along with my family being a great source of inspiration.

– Maha Al Sibai

CA: In my opinion, jewellery has certainly evolved, from more classical designs into more daring ones, which are actually more fashionable.

MS: If you look at history, jewellery has played an important role, whether in political, social or religious aspects.

Now, jewellery has evolved in the way it is presented or the way it is manufactured to suit the time and situation. The message of a piece can have great sentimental value and that is why it is needed to be done with perfect technicality and artistically.

AW: What kind of new trends and technology are in today’s jewellery?

CA: The manufacturing has evolved into a more computerised process.

MS: The artistic part is the design that comes from the artists’ head.

Technology is used to develop the design, be it in terms of gems cutting, shaping, casting, sculpturing or polishing and stone setting.

AW: Jewellery is always associated with women of luxury and wealth. Is this always true? If not, how do we change this perception and how do

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you, as a jewellery-maker, help achieve this?

CA: Big pieces and big stones are still associated with women of luxury and wealth. We can’t change that perception because they do still cost a fortune. However, an average person can go for small pieces and small diamonds. They can wear the more fashionable jewellery, perhaps a line which is stylish yet non-expensive.

MS: I agree. However, in addition, while jewellery is traditionally associated more with women, I have many male clients who are obsessed with jewellery and they use it as much as we women do. If you go back to the earlier historic phases, jewellery was also a man’s thing such as big bangles, brooches, crowns, and big rings were used more by men than women.

AW: What are the different habits of women when buying jewellery?

MS: They are all different in tastes, depending on the region where they come from and the personal perspective, as well as personal body structure. It is all related to their lifestyles and nature of the country

geologically.

CA: Also, some women unfortunately go for jewellery that does not suit them or they tend to over dress the pieces.

AW: What are the differences in creating jewellery for men and for women?

MS: To me, women’s jewellery are more romantic-looking and associated with softness and beauty whereas men’s jewellery is a combination of a message of wealth, power, and strength. When I am designing for men I always consider all of these elements first, but in women’s designs, I concentrate more on beauty and softness.

CA: I can definitely be more creative when designing for women. Jewellery for men is more complex as I need to design something simple, stylish, edgy and small at the same time.

AW: What are the common mistakes and pitfalls people make when buying jewellery? Give us the tips one should follow when picking out jewellery.

MS: I think buying jewellery is like

Jewellery special buying a painting – you will hang it and see it every day. Jewellery should be suitable to the body and it should be touching your soul. It is more of a personal perspective, but the most important thing I believe is that it should be a one-of-a-kind piece as I don’t like the jewellery designs that are made in massive numbers.

CA: Women shouldn’t buy big rings when they have big hands, or even wear long earrings when they have a small neck. Also, don’t wear all the pieces of the set at one time.

AW: What are the more popular kinds of gemstones preferred by customers in this region?

MS: Diamonds are in first place.

CA: After diamonds, semi-precious stones are preferred as well. Some ask for emerald because they love the green colour.

AW: What are some of the main differences between the customers in this region and say, Europe, when they a) buy jewellery and b) wear jewellery?

CA: Europeans go for jewellery that are simpler and smaller and they emphasise on the quality of the stones and the finishing. As for the people in the UAE, my opinion is that they want big pieces, preferring the ‘big look’ more than the quality.

AW: What is your inspiration behind your pieces?

CA: Fashion, travelling, music, decoration, etc. Basically, everything inspires me.

MS: In my designs, you will always feel the relation between the powers of human combined with the special earth treasures along with beauty, art, historical images. I tend to use unusual stones in different shapes and colors that are really rare to find.

AW: What is your ‘holy grail’ in jewellery-making?

MS: I have a strong relation with God

and Earth, and I feel attached to real stones only, I never use any manmade stones. I consider this as my holy grail; it is always the treasures that God gave us on Earth.

AW: Do you design for order? If so, do you feel like your creativity is stifled due to the limitations and requirements of the person ordering it?

CA: Most of my work is by order, especially for the Exclusive and Bridal Collections. No, it does not bother me when I am given a budget, because I always come up with something very nice within the limitations.

MS: Likewise, my main activity is custom design. I really enjoy it more than anything because I can sit with the client and have her express her views and dreams and then I give them my suggestions over that.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to match what my client actually wants, and what I think it should be due to the experience I hold in jewellery making.

AW: What does it take to be a jewellery-maker?

CA: An education in the field and a lot of experience. To be an honest person because trust is the main thing in this business.

MS: It takes wide imagination, ability to draw, a lot of reading and of course

studying in terms of gemology, casting and manufacturing.

AW: If you were not a jewellerymaker, what would you be right now?

CA: A fashion designer MS: I think I would still be some were between arts, paintings, music, or theatre.

Do You Know Your Diamonds? ­– The name ‘diamond’ comes from the Greek word ‘adamas’, which means unbreakable.

– Despite being the hardest substance known to man, diamonds can still chip or break.

– Diamonds come in an assortment of colours including pink, yellow and blue.

– Red diamonds are the rarest of all coloured diamonds – The 11 grades of diamonds are: FL, IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, I1, I2, I3.

– The Koh-i-Noor (Mountain of Light), at around 106 carats, was once the largest diamond in the world. It is now part of the British Crown Jewels.

– Sold for USD46 million, the ‘The Graff Pink’ is currently the most expensive diamond in the world.

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WATCH

PARADOX OF TIME The irony of horological works of art is that time seems to stand still when they are truly appreciated.

Movado Datron Black Pvd Quartz

Victorinox’s ‘Infantry collection’

Ebel X

Mouawad’s La Griffe

Fendi’s Crazy Carats

Baume & Mercier’s Clifton Collection

Smoothly contoured, the 40mm wide tonneau-shaped case is crafted in brushed black PVD with two matching chronograph pushers. A polished black PVD-finished stainless steel bezel provides subtle, intriguing contrast.

Protected by a curved antireflective sapphire crystal, the distinctive black lacquer dial is detailed by three black timing sub-dials, thin silver-toned hands and applied hour markers, a printed minute index, and contrasting white Big Date display at 12 o’clock.

A watch for today’s strong yet glamorous woman who welcomes new adventures, the new 34 mm black ceramic EBEL X-1 offers a fascinating juxtaposition of dark and light; the sleek and glossy black ceramic and stainless steel case set with 15 glistening diamonds. Framed by a bezel alight with 48 diamonds, its gleaming galvanised black dial is graced by eight diamond hour-markers and three applied Arabic numerals.

Crazy Carats watches feature a remarkable patented rolling gemstone mechanism that enables the wearer to change the colours of the gemstone markers at will to match her mood. Every Crazy Carats timepiece is built with a choice of three different gemstone colours to offer three very distinctive looks.

These watches are set with 33 precious gemstone markers.

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While still faithful to their original spirit of robustness, optimal ergonomics and perfect legibility, the 2013 Infantry collection has also evolved and adapted to stylistic trends. With two bracelet choices – an organic black leather strap or a stainless-steel Milanese-type mesh bracelet – the watches are easily adjustable, flexible, thin and elegant.

The steel bracelet is particular transforms the timepiece, giving it a more urban, jewellery and feminine look.

Mouawad’s first line of luxury watches for women – La Griffe – are available in two distinct cases: stainless steel and rose gold and feature exquisite décors such as colourful mother-of-pearl dials, Super-Luminova indices, polished dome-shaped hands and Mouawad engraved case-back and buckle. The distinct oversized Arabic numerals at 6 and 12 catch the eye with their coloured lacquer finishes or diamond settings and each elegantly polished case is embellished with precious stones.

This particular watch from the Clifton Collection is inspired by models from the 1950s and boasts a silver-coloured dial. This traditional watch has sun satinfinish, a silver-coloured dial and Arabic numerals, powered by a mechanical self-winding caliber visible through the sapphire crystal case back.

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haute couture

An affair with haute couture brings forth these romantic monochrome frocks. AW can’t help but fall in love‌

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haute couture

Island Encounter Photographer: Jef Anog Assistant Photographer: Jonathan Ybarra Models: Lenka Josefiova (Diva) & Alexei Voitovici (Bareface) Styling by: EJ Valera Hair & Make-up: Chloe Widera Location: Fujairah Couture by: Aldwin Jlo Ornopia & Mel Maria 57

haute couture

Unleash the feminine power with this multi-layered tulle gown with lace appliquĂŠ by Aldwin Jlo Ornopia

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haute couture

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haute couture

Free and pure with this feathered beauty amidst soft drapes of pristine white layers transforms a woman into sweet temptation

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haute couture

Her: Sheath dress with intricate details by Mel Maria Him: Body suit by Mel Maria

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haute couture

Evolve the divine palette with hints of crimson-painted summer dress by Mel Maria

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haute couture

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Nothing like a good pampering and some dress up playtime to get into the stride of your very own celebrity lifestyle.

Une Frosty Eyes & Glimmer Lips Balm

Beauty

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Beauty

Beauty List Here are the latest must-have beauty products that we’ve recently discovered. Pile them in your beauty shelves, and stay pretty all season long…

Glam Lashes Provides glamorous, expressive, big volume lashes from every angle – instantly. The innovative brush contains a lash-accentuating tip so you reach every last lash, delivering highvolume and unprecedented dimension without flakes or clumps.

Sally Hansen’s Magnetic Nail Colour

Revlon PhotoReady 3D Volume Mascara

Max Factor Facefinity All Day Flawless 3-in-1

Flawless Face Combines three professional make-up tools in one bottle: a built-in primer to hold, SPF foundation, and a concealer to correct. It delivers a high coverage, matte finish – to give you the confidence to carry off an all day, any statement look. With this, there’s no need for imperfection touch-ups and the undesirable midday shine.

Lancaster’s 365 Cellular Elixir Intense

Fabulous Nails Create gorgeous 3-D nail art in just a few minutes using these unique magnetic polishes from Sally Hansen.

Young-looking Skin This legendary serum immediately puts the skin into a state of grace.

The minute it touches the skin, its surface is transformed. It shines with the radiance of youth.

Velvet Lips Water-resistant formula with unique blend of waxes for long-lasting velvet finish Burberry Lip Velvet Burberry Vintage Gold Eye Palette

Golden Eye Sleek compact with a quartet of coordinating Burberry Beauty Sheer Eye Shadow colours that are available in six shade combinations

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Beauty

Get dolled up The ecrin 4 couleurs collector’s palette long-lasting eyeshadows This season, the Ecrin 4 Couleurs long-lasting eyeshadows feature purple as the star of the show.

Equally chic but more daring and luminous than black in the springtime light, it’s the absolute ‘must’. This 501 Attrape-Coeur is a dazzling palette in which mauve, violet and white illuminate the prima donna purple.

The eye pencil It’s a retractable cream kohl and liner that is waterresistant. It creates the perfect eye contour – a multi-purpose pencil that instantly transforms the eyes’ expression, giving in to every whim, anytime, anywhere.

The it-accessory: Maxi Lash mascara Guerlain has reinvented this indispensable beauty accessory. Applied in the blink of an eye, it makes eyes instantly captivating. Introducing Maxi Lash, the mascara that makes every woman’s dreams come true. Simple to use, easy and flattering to wear, it gives a guarantee for gorgeous eyes every time.

Once she’s tried the it-mascara she can’t live without it.

The insiders’ cult eyeliner With its ultra-thin tip, this cult classic ensures flawlessly precise, absolutely intense lines you can adjust at will. You can create all the art of calligraphy at the service of the most sophisticated, ebony black punctuations.

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Météorites Perles du Paradis: This illuminating sparkling powder – a devilishly beautifying compact – features six skin-toned and pastel shades. The traditional correcting colours (blue and green) have been cunningly replaced by pink, to brighten dull areas, and silver, to reflect ambient light and ensure one-of-akind radiance. It promises that dark zones disappear, greyness is erased and fatigue vanishes.

Guerlain’s Spring 2013 beauty collection

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SCENTS

Spritz your

way into summer!

You’ll be forgiven if you forget to layer accessories this summer. But you’ll be judged a fashion victim if you forget to spray on perfume. So, get spot on the fashion radar and take your pick among our pre-selected favored scents this season, for you, and your man.

Bvlgari’s Mon Jasmin Noir L’Elixir A jewel to be worn with class: Mon Jasmin Noir L’Elixir caresses the skin like a diaphanous garment.

Just in: Ajmal’s Prose for the young and sassy!

Prose is a delectable, vivacious, and spirited fragrance that emanates a feminine, warm, and playful aroma. Impossible for any young lady to resist, this charming fragrance is infused with three delicious scent combinations designed to tantalise the senses. Prose combines hints of bright and fresh citrus fruits such as orange, melon, and apple, with a fruity trifecta of strawberry, coconut, and sugar – all a brief prelude to an invigorating base composed of a rich laden amber, vanilla, and musk.

Star Perfume For the latest fragrance in the Beyoncé Parfums collection, the powerhouse performer taps the culture capital of the world to create an olfactory expression that exudes a confident floral chypre for the sophisticated, self-assured, stylish woman.

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Montblanc Legend woman This lady captures the Montblanc DNA: timelessness, luxury but still with a touch of femininity, sensuality and delicacy. The fragrance opens on Neroli fresh notes of and fruity notes of Pear and Bigarade. The Orange Flower is the cornerstone of the composition.

SCENTS Fan Di FENDI Eau Fraiche: The new Fan di FENDI olfactory variation Like the famous Baguette bags which are constantly being reinterpreted, Fan di FENDI has a fragrance to suit different moods and desires. After the Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum Extreme, comes the Fan di FENDI Eau Fraiche, which reinvents the signature with a dazzlingly radiant and happy tempo.

To fuel the desire, this radiant floral is generously infused with Sencha Green Tea. Fan di FENDI Eau Fraiche is a unique composition, whose stunning freshness, energy and purity guarantee it will be a new addiction.

Séville à l’Aube is a perfume filled with passion and desire.

The fragrance opens with spicy, green and zesty notes. There is also a distinct lavender note redolent of the Eaux de Cologne so typical of Spain.

Fresh and Delicate

Urban Homme by David Beckham Exuding relaxed elegance, this fougère ambery fruity scent is the perfect expression of contemporary male style.

Davidoff Hot Water Night With its sensual oriental spicy fragrance, Davidoff Hot Water Night brings you a distinctly masculine touch of charm and sensuality.

Shalimar Parfum Initial L’Eau perpetuates the legend of the eponymous perfume in its own style, like a new initiation into sensuality and innocence. It highlights an unexpected concentration of citrus notes, notably bergamot, which is a touch greener and zestier than the Eau de Parfum, along with a premium neroli essence.

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Get the look

Hair

Want to emulate the hairtsyles of the stars? Pastels Salon’s bridal hair specialist Marilina Skoulaxinou gives you the stepby-step guide to your own chic, red carpet hairdo. } The next step is to do a Fishbone braid. } To do a Fishbone braid, use the following method: 1

Brush the remaining hair.

2

Separate ponytail into two even sections.

Braids are always in fashion and Lucy Liu’s style is a fantastic choice for channeling either a casual or formal look!

3 Using your right (or left) index finger, section off a small amount from the far right hand side of the hair.

To create the hairstyle, we need a tail comb and bands and it is easier if the hair is damp it will be easier to handle. If the hair has already been dried, put some wax through it so it’s not so slippery.

5 Merge this section with the left hand section, placing it on the inside of the left hand section.

} Brush the hair thoroughly. } Separate a section of hair at the point where your

natural parting is, so you can start with a French braid.

} To do a French braid, use the following method: Divide the section of hair into three even strands, making sure that the strands are completely separated all the way to the ends.

1

Hold right section in right hand, left section in left hand, and middle section between thumb and another finger of either hand.

2

To begin braiding, cross right section over middle section, then repeat this move with left section, smoothing hair down as you go.

3

6 Place your right thumb on top and apply pressure to the small section of hair, just crossed to ensure it doesn’t move.

7 Use your left index finger to section off a small amount from the far left hand side of the hair. This small section should be around the same size as the small section taken from the right hand side.

Merge this section with the right hand section, placing it on the inside of the right hand section.

8

Place your left thumb on the top and apply pressure to the small section of hair just crossed to ensure it doesn’t move.

9

Using your right index finger, section off a small amount from the far right hand side of the hair.

10

Move this section over to the left hand whilst still gripping the two sections.

11

Merge this section with the left hand section, placing it on the inside of the left hand section.

12

Pull hair as much as possible in order to be as tight as possible.

Place your right thumb on top and apply pressure to the small section of hair, just crossed to ensure it doesn’t move.

Before repeating your cross-over motion with the right section, gather a little bit of additional hair from the head’s right side, and add it to this section.

Use your left index finger to section off a small amount from the far left hand side of the hair. This small section should be around the same size as the small section taken from the right hand side.

4

5

Cross this larger portion of hair over the middle section of the braid.

6

7 Gather a small section of the remaining hair on the left side of your head up and into the left section and cross that over the middle section.

Repeat the previous two steps, adding hair until you have gathered in all additional hair strands at the right side just behind the ear.

8

9

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4 Move this section over to the left hand whilst still gripping the two sections.

Place the hair into a ponytail.

13

14

15

When you reach at the end, secure with a band.

} When you have finished, you can pull the fishbone

slightly open, so you can make it look a little bit messy.

For more information, contact Pastels Salon Jumeirah / The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Marina / The Mercato Mall www.pastels-salon.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/pastelshairnailsandbeauty Twitter: pastelssalon

Get the look

71

Spa Review

Turkish Hammam

like no other

I

AW tries the Sultan Turkish Hammam at Rixos The Palm Dubai, and discovers the wonders of the centuriesold manner of bathing.

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t was not our first hammam experience but the royal treatment we received during the one-hour session of Sultan Turkish Hammam at Rixos The Palm Dubai was way beyond our expectations. In our minds, we thought that we’d go for an hour filled with lots of scrubbing, some body massage and a few minutes at the relaxation area. But what awaited us at the hotel’s Wellness & Spa Center surprised us in the best way, we must say.

Bit of history Hammams have Greek and Turkish roots, and were used for communal affairs in which bathers underwent

steamy sessions of rigorous scrubbing and massaging while gossiping and socialising. Perfect for therapy and cleansing, the hammam scored Islamic nods, paving the way for its spread alongside mosques. Bathing in hammams may have taken on different forms over the centuries, but the essence of this rejuvenating treatment is unchanged. A testimony to this pleasurable experience was our recent visit to the Sisters Beauty Lounge for a two-hour session of Royal Hammam Ritual.

The venue Tucked away at the far end of the Ground Floor of the hotel, guests

Spa Review receive total privacy and serenity at its Wellness & Spa Center. Quite tricky for first-timers are the doors and exits around the spa so we’d suggest to be mindful, and to follow attentively the therapists who would guide you to the changing rooms. Overall, the welcoming vibe of the spa’s reception was nothing compared to the elegance and sassy setup of its massage rooms, relaxation areas and hammam treatment areas.

The treatment Friendly and polite staff greeted us at our entry to the spa center, even offered us refreshing glasses of carrot juice while waiting for our guides to the changing rooms. Since our treatment required our skin to be soft before scrubbing, they suggested that we took about 10-15 minutes of steam bath to prep up our skin. No wonder they asked us to arrive 30 minutes before the session.

After minutes of soaking in the steam bath, our hammam therapists summoned us to rooms downstairs and ushered us into one of many hammam rooms. Huge was an understatement for this room which depicted the traditional Turkish bath houses – we were immediately transported to the times where royals have therapists bathing them every day in hammam.

From the pitcher-like pail to the hot-

stone tables, we were blown away that we did not hesitate dropping our inhibitions and lied atop the table to start the treatment.

While our eyes were covered, the therapists began splashing hot water over our bodies which was bit hot for our tastes but eventually our bodies seemed to be craving for such warm temperature. Then, they continued by scrubbing with water and loofah where the intense scrub-down removed impurities from every inch of our bodies.

After the scrubbing was done, we were taken into the next level of heavenly hammam experience. The therapists took off our eye covers and we saw how they prepared the scented bath gels that would moisturise our already faultless skin. They took these in towels, threw them up in the air and created balloon-full of bubbles which they suddenly splattered over our bodies. After which, they began doing full body massages with these soapy bubbles.

Then, the next step was washing our bodies with a pail-ful of hot water.

And, as part of the final ritual, the therapists asked us to stand up and leave the hot-stone tables, and to sit next to the overflowing source of hot water, and washed us like kids.

After helping us dry up and wore our bathrobes, we were ushered into the relaxation area where water, tea and fruits delighted us.

The verdict From getting baby soft-skin to boosting blood circulation and whole body exfoliation and detoxification, the Sultan Turkish Hammam was worth a visit at Rixos The Palm Dubai. It would be a fabulous treat to a tired body, stressed from work and life’s concerns.

The hotel provided amazing amenities and fancy techniques that made the session incomparable to others. The staff was friendly and helpful, offering a wonderful welcome to the guests.

Unique and pleasurable, this Sultan Turkish Hammam is a must-try. And don’t just take our word for it – better try it.

Rixos The Palm Dubai invites you to experience the famous Sultan Turkish Hammam, for smooth baby skin cleansed and fully hydrated. Guests can enjoy this forty-minute Turkish Hammam available Sunday to Thursday during the month of April 2013, including a sumptuous lunch at the all day dining Turkish restaurant, A La Turca.

Treatment: Sultan Deal When: During the Month of April 2013 Where: Rixos The Palm Dubai Price: AED400 treatment and lunch at A La Turca restaurant For more information or reservation please call 04-4575555

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Get inspired and change the face of your life and your loved ones.

Zayan SS13

AW Life

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How to

How To Start Your Own

Fashion Label

It takes a lot more than just a great idea, a colourful imagination and some creativity to turn your dreams of starting up your own fashion label into a reality. Saadiya Ahmad meets one such Dubai based fashionista – Buffi Jashanmal – whose grit, determination and of course, loads of talent, helped turn her dreams into reality. into a full-fledged career. “I studied at London College of Fashion and Parsons alongside having about a million other creative, fashion related hobbies,” she narrates. “I love to be hands-on, but when designing a line, you cannot be designer, seamstress, pattern maker and sales rep all at the same time, therefore it is vital to be able to let go a little bit and delegate and this actually took me a long time to be able to do.” Still the hardest part about starting your own fashion label is the money. “It is hard starting out, I have had to juggle many different jobs to keep myself afloat,” she muses, but admits that despite the industry being super competitive and tough, she is constantly learning all the time.

B

uffi Jashanmal Is A Fashion Designer, Teacher And Author, all rolled into one. She has her first book coming out next year on the art of dress-making and DIY fashion. “I have been teaching fashion, design, sewing and pattern making for 6 years now to both adults and children,” she says, as well as having a stint on Project Runway this year. For Buffi, fashion has been her passion as a young girl and in fact, she has always loved to make her own clothes, which she ultimately was able to turn

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The Business Aspect Keeping your finances clear can help you to gauge and fully comprehend what you plan on doing, get an idea of how much everything will cost and help you keep track of all of your expenses. And despite artists and designers being known for more creativity and less finances to make it in the fashion world, Buffi says that you actually need to sell your soul a little bit. “At the end of the day, it is, after all, a business, and as much as we ‘artists’ want to stay true to our art, you also have to pay the bills,” she says. “Make

How to

The Nitty Gritty While Buffi stresses no unique skills are really required to start your own label, it is personal and unique to everyone.

“It’s a tough business,” she says and advises to get as much experience as possible, with internships and explore all different aspects of the fashion business. “In fact, design might not be for you; if you are more hands on, you might prefer pattern-making actually,” she says, or if you have a good eye for style, fashion buyer might be a more suitable career option rather than design.

Being Successful How can a person predict whether or not his or her clothes will be a big hit or a big miss? According to Buffi, see how friends and family respond. For starters, identify your brand’s values, mission, objectives, strategies, goals, and long-term vision. She advises,

“Don’t spend a huge amount on your line until you know it will be profitable.

Sell small collections at markets, and online as this is a great way to see how an audience responds to your work.

Get a following before you invest too much money into something that is not going to make you any!” And bear in mind that a successful business sets goals of success, in order to have a solid idea of what it’s working towards.

Set a goal and believe in your ability to reach it. Compose a practical business plan to use as a guideline for operating.

Words of Wisdom It is vitally important to know what people are wearing and Buffi suggests one way is to check some of the better known online bloggers. “See who is wearing what and what is selling and what is working,” she says. And remember that it’s important to know your competition. You should always know what other clothing labels you’ll be competing against. Keep track of things like their design variety, pricing, and promotion, because it may spur some new ideas for your own business strategy. This can be done easily nowadays by reading the blogs of competitor brands and signing up to their newsletters to keep tabs on what they’re up to. This knowledge can help you keep up. “Also, keep your eyes open for exactly what is missing in the market. What are you doing

Buffi’s Practical Tip “Don’t spend a huge amount on your line until you know it will be profitable. Sell small collections at markets, and online as this is a great way to see how an audience responds to your work. Get a following before you invest too much money into something that is not going to make you any!”

Stay true to yourself and your designs will speak for themselves.

- Buffi Jashanmal, Fashion Designer

differently, and is there a need for your designs/product?” Next, Buffi advises to plan, plan, plan! “Don’t make too much stock and then end up not being able to sell it,” she says. “Make sure you have other work coming in before you give up everything on this.” And lastly, Jashanmal reminds all aspiring designers out there to be realistic – it is tough out there and there is a lot of competition. “Stay true to yourself and your designs will speak for themselves,” she says.

Also, be sure to come up with a promotion strategy. Figure out a way to spread the word in a manner that those who discover your brand go on to spread the word to others.

And remember never to give up; try to figure out ways of improving your designs, your strategy or your work habits. When you’re just getting started, you’re still learning, so keep at it. Winners never quit and quitters never win. Read informative, motivational books, to keep your spirits up. Frequently visit other designer’s websites and blogs to remind yourself of where you aspire to be in a few years and how bad you really want it. Re-analyse your business plan, promotional efforts, and branding strategy. Consider how you compare to the competition and emphasise your competitive edge constantly.

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http://addicted2success.com/success-advice/top-10-tips-on-starting-your-own-successful-clothing-line/ ; https://www.facebook.com/projectrunwaybuffijashanmal ; www.buffijashanmal.com ; www.quietriotdubai.com

sure you keep the art and the business separate if need be.” She stays handson by teaching her craft, and through her book, she demonstrates how easy it is to create something unique. “I love to be DIY and work with my hands, and this is how I am able to keep the business and art separate,” she says, adding, “I also have a weekly vlog on Emirates Woman where I show you simple DIY fashion that everyone can do even without a sewing machine.”

How to

BECOMING A

A FASHION

DESIGNER The fashion industry is no doubt one of the most glamorous and highly charged career sectors to be in today, but it involves hard work, grit and oodles of experience and know-how to actually make it. Saadiya Ahmad meets Tamara Hostal, owner of Dubai’s top fashion design college Esmod, as well as Zayan Ghandour, fashion designer for S*uce, to learn what it takes.

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How to

That’s why it’s important to find your own voice and vision and stick to it.

– Zayan Ghandour, Fashion Designer and Co-Founder of S*uce

one-off T- shirts, which garnered quite a following. It was a hobby but I think people liked them because each piece was unique, no two were alike and people felt like they were getting a T-shirt made especially for them.” Inspiration for her pieces, she tells, stems from her extensive travels but also from her sisters, her mother, her friends, in fact, Zayan finds inspiration in everything.

Career Experience and hands-on practice is vital in the journey to becoming a fashion designer and Tamara points out that they have opened a shop named Incubator – located at Wafi Mall – to help support the fashions designers who graduate from Esmod by offering them a platform from which to sell their collections, to follow up their personal work and teach them

The Program To learn the practical aspects of fashion design, Esmod Dubai, a French Institute fully dedicated to fashion, offers a full-time three-year program to study fashion design and pattern making which encompasses daily courses.“We also have a one month program that starts every July with courses that run on a daily basis,” says Tamara Hostal, CEO and Founder of the institution.

In this course, you are literally living amidst a fashion and highly creative environment.

“This course can help you figure out if you are truly ready for a fulltime career in fashion design,” she says, quickly pointing out that the supposed ‘online’ courses that offer degrees in fashion design are actually a waste of time. And while the minimum cut-off age for a student is 17 years-old, Tamara says that Esmod Dubai’s summer program is open even to students as young as 15. The college also offers fashion design related courses such as a fashion marketing program, textiles, make up, perfume and photography.“There are a comprehensive range of creative, technical and marketing programs available at Esmod Dubai, delivered by specialised fashion instructors who balance technical prowess and artistry through intensive training,” she says.

And who knows better about being successful at fashion design than the co-founder, creative director and head buyer of S*uce in Dubai – Zayan Ghandour – who is also the designer of her own brand, Zayan the Label. She narrates her initial foray into fashion,“Like all little girls, I’ve always loved fashion and started off initially designing

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How to

the first steps of business.“Otherwise, our students have internships, and at the end of their studies, we can find a job for them as we have a huge waiting list of companies waiting for our graduated students,” she says.“Your success will ultimately depend on the quality of your fashion studies, and of course your talent and creativity and after three years in Esmod, our students are ready to work alone and launch their own collections, or work in a good position with European designers.”

Zayan adds that while it may sound cliché, you need to just do it.“Stop thinking and start doing,” she says and if you make a little mistake along the way, you just learn from it and keep going.“Everyone has what it takes for sure which is why we launched the annual ‘S*uce Design a Dress’ competition, encouraging entries from all sorts of people with no background in design whatsoever.”

All you need is passion, determination and the ability to not take no for an answer.

But how can a person predict whether or not his or her clothes will sell or be a big hit? Unfortunately Zayan says that this is something you can never predict and you just never know.“That’s why it’s important to find your own voice and vision and stick to it,” she says, pointing out the importance of finding that voice and being consistent consistent season after season. She advises to always evolve, always grow and adapt and assimilate trends, but at the heart of it, always be true to your vision.

Talent Talent, reinforces Tamara, has nothing to do with a diploma, as is the case with other fields.“If you are looking for a job or launching your collection, you need to show your talents and finished garments,” she says, and essentially in the field of fashion, creativity is paramount. Yet while many of us are creative, Zayan stresses that the most difficult part of the job is the actual designing.“Yet this is what makes it the most rewarding,” she says as so many things come into the process, after the initial ideas are conceived.“These things include things such as pricing, production, quality control, dealing with suppliers, making sure things

80

arrive on time and making sure things are done according to the instructions – it’s challenge after challenge,” she explains.

“But then once you have your final product in hand, it’s the best feeling in the world.”

The hardest part, she reinforces, is definitely dealing with production, because that’s the part that’s no longer in your hands.

“You need to find the right supplier, who becomes your partner, and that’s incredibly difficult.”The easiest part is actually coming up with ideas and themes for each collection which is not only easy but

Advice Zayan offers her time felt advice with regards to becoming a fashion designer, saying,“Firstly, do lots of research before you begin – think about your production, think about your costs, think about your timelines. Next, find your voice, your aesthetic, your signature detail that differentiates you from the rest. And always remember to be consistent with it, season after season, but always evolve and always grow.” She recommends creating a brand experience that represents your aesthetic, reminding,“And don’t follow trends, create them. And always be sure you love what you love without hesitation – always.”

*Zayan SS13 collection

– Tamara Hostal, Founder of Esmod Dubai

immensely fun and is the creative aspect of things.

Got what it takes to be the next Coco Chanel? Start following your passion.

Your success will ultimately depend on the quality of your fashion studies, and of course your talent and creativity

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Career company. Dress for the role that you want to play; if you’re looking for a promotion, dress the way a woman in that position would.

Moving

>

Listen and learn!

Listen to the people around you and let them guide you in the decisions that you make. If you have questions or can make a contribution, don’t be afraid to speak up.

> Be a contributor

Find out how you can get involved and be helpful, without stepping on anyone else’s toes. Offer to take on or help with projects to show that you are enthusiastic, determined and willing to make your mark.

> Under promise, over deliver

Bayt.com exclusively shares with AW a few tried-andtested tips to get ahead as a woman in the workplace.

> Plan

If you want to achieve your dream career, start planning your path towards it. List your goals and set dates by which you want to achieve them. Learn the skills that will help you in your career, such as negotiation, a new language, a computer course, or even personal image consultancy. In short, anything that can give you an edge is worth investing in!

> Prepare

you should have a full definition of your role. Once you know what your responsibilities and areas of accountability are, you’ll be able to work on excelling in each one of them. By proving that you’re capable of handling what’s expected of you, you’ll increase your chances for career advancement.

>

Be culturally aware, and respectful of diversity

Whether you’re preparing for an interview, or have an appraisal with your current employer, do your homework, and remember, there is no such thing as being too prepared. Jot down any questions you may have regarding your job description and/or responsibilities, and find out what your boss (either current or future) expects of you if you’re going to advance up the ranks.

The Middle East is a melting pot of people, cultures and religions. You have to be savvy when it comes to knowing what’s considered acceptable to those around you.

It’s better to err on the side of being too safe than risk a faux pas. You can show respect to those around you by understanding their culture and norms – don’t be afraid to do your research in order to check what is acceptable by different people and what is not.

> Know what’s expected of you

> Dress to impress

No matter where you are in your career,

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It’s always a safe bet to emulate the dressing style of a senior female executive in your

There’s nothing worse that promising beyond your capabilities and then failing to deliver. Instead, promise to deliver just below what you know you can feasibly achieve. Only then will you be able to wow your manager and colleagues by delivering beyond their expectations.

Humility, followed by a star performance, is the way to go about building a reputation for yourself at work

> Be professional at all times

This one goes without saying. A pleasant demeanour, common courtesy and good manners will set you apart and give a good impression. Remember, people want to be around someone courteous and helpful.

> Believe in yourself

No one knows what you are capable of more than yourself. So don’t underestimate your capabilities, and always be confident that you can achieve what you set out to do. And remember to always shoot for the moon, because even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars!

Parenting & Kids

Love your child

Worried about the responsibilities of parenthood? Educate yourselves on all things child-related and ease those nerves. >> Autism

‘Family Time’ trends Think that Europeans have good quality family time? Think again. A study by OREO revealed that on average, parents in the Gulf spend 3.69 hours a day with their families, compared with 2.1 hours a day in Europe. However, whereas almost all the people in surveyed in the Gulf would like to spend more time with their families, in Europe the figure was only 28 per cent. So, not only do they spend less time with their families, a majority of the Europeans surveyed don’t seem keen on improving that aspect of their lifestyle.

Common reasons for wanting more family time include helping solve family disputes and maintain family harmony, with many believing that this can also set a better example for children as they transition into adulthood.

Many felt that additional family time helps pass on family values, keeps cultural values alive and alleviates emotional stress amongst family members.

Reading still in vogue

The study is part of ‘The Family Leave Initiative’, a social campaign launched by OREO to encourage busy, working parents to leave their offices an hour earlier than usual, at least once a year so they can spend more time with their families.

In this age of technology where children as young as 5 are active on Facebook and Twitter, gone truly are the days of children fuelling their creativity with books instead of with technology …or are they?

According to a study conducted by the Government of Dubai’s Knowledge & Human Development Authority (KHDA), just more than 90 per cent of children surveyed said they enjoyed reading books in their free time. The KHDA also reported last year that Abu Dhabi has one of the highest literacy rates in the world.

There’s hope yet.

A quick chat with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Amy Bailey about child autism.

- Are there misconceptions about child autism?

Autism is on a spectrum and therefore children present with varying degrees of severity. Autism affects many different areas of development and therefore children with autism can present very differently from each other. As such it is important to obtain individual assessments of the child’s specific areas of weakness so that appropriate treatment plans can be developed to most accurately address the child’s needs.

- What are some of the signs of autism during childhood?

The signs for autism in early childhood vary widely. However, every child on the autistic spectrum has difficulties, at least to some degree in the three following areas: communication (verbal or nonverbal), relating to others and the world (socialisation), and being able to think and behave in a flexible manner.

- What can parents of children with autism do to help them?

It is important to know what is a normal part of development and what is not.

Monitor your child and if you are concerned if they are not meeting their developmental milestones that get in touch with a specialist. There is much research about the effectiveness of early intervention therefore even if you child is not diagnosed with autism, such intervention will be beneficial in terms of their long-term development.

Being educated about your child’s needs will help you to understand them and their behaviour better thus giving you better skills in being able to manage them.

Learning at the Zoo

Want your children to have an exciting and educational experience at the zoo?

Then sign up for Spring Safari at Al Ain zoo. Spring Safari participants will enjoy a wide range of fun and interactive educational activities including meeting animal keepers, a zoo treasure hunt, team-building games, back-of-house tours, arts and crafts, gardening activities and more. Al Ain Zoo will also give children the chance to participate in animal talks and to enjoy up-close encounters with their favourite animals.

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Kid’s Fashion

unveils Spring/Summer 2013 collection Drawing inspiration from the life and energy of children, the Spring Summer 2013 collection echoes the liveliness of summer through fun and modern styles for girls, boys and babies aged newborn to 14 years.

A new swimwear range of 8 new styles including of bikinis, swimsuits and swimming trunks, has been added in an array of summer inspired stories including a colour blocked parrot print, Hawaiian print, flower garden print and a sailor stripe print.

This season, Stella’s signature muted colour palette is fused with bold colours, vibrant repeat prints and vivid colour blocking in a variety of contrasting tones of red, cobalt blue, yellow, orange and pink. Humorous prints of skateboard dogs, roaring tigers, ice cream sundaes and a funny face that can be changed around with additional velcro pieces, are teamed with camouflage or flower garden Pack-a-Macs. Playful details appear throughout the collection in buttons in the shape of pineapples, bananas, oranges and flowers, as well as bright rainbow, strawberry and snail pockets embroideries.

Cool themes including parrots, super heroes and flower gardens are highlighted in the Skipper pirate pyjamas, Pip and Ivy graphic dresses, Lulu and Inky intarsia jumpers, Isla colour blocked top and Lila lively playsuits. Bright red strawberries, yellow birds and multicoloured floral prints are matched with essential denim styles which appear patch worked on the Rafferty shirt and Quinn shorts, two-toned on the Nina jeans and sprayprinted in multicoloured pastels on the Devon shorts.

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Shoe Mart kids

SS’13 collection springs with colour and style With the new Spring/Summer season on the horizon, the new and exciting range of Kids Footwear at Shoe Mart will captivate you with an eclectic mix of styles, colours and trend led designs. This collection features fun prints and vibrant colours capture the essence of the range for Spring/Summer.

The highlight of the collection includes contrast detailing and mixed prints along with vivid colours.

For our little boys, the Hybrid Deck Shoe is a fashion favourite. Colour blocking makes a comeback in this collection with rounded laces and a contrast whipstitch along with the cupsole unit. The girl’s range of shoes is extensive with sentiment and attitude. Espadrille Plimsols come in stunning neon prints and fabric laces, sandals that add glam to your feet with oversized detailing and bead embellishments.

Discover more fresh and vibrant range for boys and girls this Spring/Summer and pick your favourite style from a collection that is fun and comfortable and meets your children’s everyday style needs.

Kid’s Fashion

Gap Kids

launches Spring collection Gap Kids has introduced a new Spring collection for Boys and Girls, which is bright and colourful and is in stores now!

For boys and toddler boys, new pocket T, light sweaters in new fabrications and coloured denim are the key items from this collection. Coloured flat front chinos, madras wovens, solid colour knits, graphic tees and polos are the season’s must-haves.

The Cambridge Active collection consisting of French Terry Shorts, Pants and Crew and Gap Logo Ts in new fabrication and Surf Cowboys, which is a modern take on denim shop featuring new denim fabrications in a tight colour palette, are ranges that would surely excite you for your little Boy. Surf Cowboys also introduces yellow into the coloured denim range and the key items in this range are novelty denim, woven shorts, better Graphic Ts, Mini Stripe Jersey Polos and cargo shorts.

For girls, Gap has collections such as Wildflower, which offers printed denim bottoms, fashion knits with embellishments in new detailing and skinny bottoms in terry. Great dresses and skirts with bounty

of florals, jewelled and floral accessories are a must-have from this collection. The range offers items in a fresh colour palette of pink, oranges, greens and soft teal. Your girl is surely going to stand apart from any other with this collection.

For the Girl who is trendsetter amongst her friends, Highline collection offers perfect shift dresses and circle skirts in bold patterns. The key offering of this collection is Ponte dresses, skinny denim, bold and geo prints, circle skirts and matching accessories.

La Marais collection is inspired by the Marais district of Paris and is grounded in an artistic palette of deep purples, lilacs, stone and a soft hint of dusted limestone pink.

New embellishments done in an elevated and in tonal levels will surely add shine to your little girl’s outfit.

Gap also introduces Daisy, a perfect collection for the warm days of late spring that await. Lace details, drop needle stitch sweaters and knits, fashion knits are paired with denim. Key items include indigo and white denim, textured sweaters, delicate lace tops and embroidered denim.

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WELLNESS

HealthMatters Lift your

mood with tea

Ingredients found in tea have been found to help develop the ability to focus attention and have a positive effect on mood.

Dr. Jane Rycroft, Category Nutrition Manager for Tea-based Beverages & Member of Lipton Institute of Tea, Unilever R&D, UK, points out that additional benefits also associated with regular tea drinking include a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, potentially through affecting blood vessel function.“The positive effects of tea on enhancing blood vessels is mainly attributed to the fact that tea is a rich source of flavonoids, which are beneficial compounds also found in fruits and vegetables” she added.

Tea, a favourable drink across nations, is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. A recent UK study showed that consuming four cups of tea a day was as hydrating as drinking an equivalent volume of water.

Not putting yourself first?

Despite a majority of women admitting their own health is average or poor, three in five UAE women place their family’s health ahead of their own.

Anlene and bone health advocate, Nancy Ajram, says this could be putting women at risk of poor bone health and called on UAE women to be aware of this important health issue. “As a mother I understand how having children changes your priorities in life. By looking after your own health, you are setting a good example to your children as well. All women should be concerned about their bone health and need to start incorporating weight-bearing exercise into their routine, try and get some daily sun exposure and add ingredients high in calcium and vitamin D into their diet.”

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WELLNESS

Organic Corner: Get the perfect

party skin!

Intraceuticals treatments are the ultimate weapons against problem-prone skin where impurities are banished leaving an environment for calm clear skin.

Intraceuticals treatments are closely concentrated to smooth the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles. It firms, lifts and plumps the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial muscle contractions around the forehead, eye, nasal folds and lip areas.

There are four sets of Intraceuticals treatments for different kinds of skin issues: Rejuvenate: Hydrates skin to reduce premature ageing and sagging.

Opulence: Brightens, balances uneven skin pigmentation and age spots.

Atoxelene: Prevents visible expression lines and lip lines.

Clarity: Clears blemish pores and refine daily build-up of keratinisation.

Both Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities like Preity Zinta, Victoria Bartlett, Kim Kardashian, Gina Brooke, Eva Longoria, Naomi Cambell, Fergie and many more are currently using Intraceuticals treatments.

FIRST SIGNS

OF A CURE A team of researchers from Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, the University of Mississippi Medical Center and the University of Massachusetts Medical School has described the first case of a so-called ‘functional cure’ in an HIV-infected infant. The finding may help pave the way to eliminating HIV infection in children.

The infant described in the report underwent remission of HIV infection after receiving antiretroviral therapy within 30 hours of birth. The prompt administration of antiviral treatment likely led to the infant’s cure by halting the formation of hard-to-treat viral reservoirs – dormant cells responsible for reigniting the infection in most HIV patients within weeks of stopping therapy.

That infant is now deemed ‘functionally cured’, a condition that occurs when a patient achieves and maintains long-term viral remission without lifelong treatment and standard clinical tests fail to detect HIV replication in the blood.In contrast to a sterilising cure – a complete eradication of all viral traces from the body – a functional cure occurs when viral presence is so minimal, it remains undetectable by standard clinical tests, yet discernible by ultrasensitive methods.

Nils El Accad, CEO Organic Foods & Café, shares some of the things you first need to know about everything organic.

5 things people don’t know about organic 1. Organic is still geneticallymodified foods (GMO) free 2. No animals are allowed to be given hormones, antibiotics or growth promoters 3. There is no one global standard but the basics are similar for all 4. Biodynamic is a higher standard than normal organic and is the only standard farming in harmony with nature.

5. Hydroponic is NOT organic 5 things you need to watch out in organic 1. There is no requirement to be environmentally-friendly in organic but there is in biodynamic 2. Organic sugar is NOT slimming 3. Avoid greenhouse organics where possible 4. Some brands have the word ‘organic’ as part of the brand but the products are not organic. Look for the organic certification logo*.

5. Natural is NOT organic *Some of the organic certification agencies: - Agriculture biologique - ECOCERT - International Organic Accreditation Service (IOAS) - BioGro New Zealand - International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM) - United Stated Department of Agriculture - National Organic Program (USDA)

For more information, contact Organic Foods & Cafe at + 971 4 4340577.

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Travel

Chic biker spotted near Brandenburger Tor

Step out of your bubble and experience all that the world has to offer.

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DINE OUT

Tasting the sassy

Vintage Brunch at Fazaris

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DINE OUT

F

ridays in Dubai might equal waking up late, lazing around, bonding with families or perhaps running a series marathon on the telly.

But to the likes of us, Fridays are meant for socialising and munching – meaning getting up, dressing up and eating out to brunches. And our recent discovery was the sumptuous Fazaris’Vintage Brunch at The Address Downtown Dubai.

Since the weather was still cool and nice, we hoped to sit al fresco to marvel at the scenic views of Burj Khalifa and its neighbours in the downtown area.

It was a shame that the stubborn winds made us settle inside which was not bad at all as we were entertained by a live band playing oldies music. Nothing would beat great music accompanying a long lazy lunching.

Filled with groups of yuppies and families celebrating birthdays and whathave-yous, the huge dining area of Fazaris was totally chic especially with its sophisticated choice of decor and lighting. It gave a relaxed atmosphere yet buzzed with bursts of laughter and bustling whispers, too– the fun infusing a good balance in such a subdued dining destination.

After a round of girly chit chat and a swift look at long selection of beverages, we took a circle at the number of food stations filled with irresistible sets

of Arabic, Asian, Mediterranean and Indian cuisine. Being the sushi and shahimi lovers that we are, we opted to start the brunch with a plateful of Japanese delicacies. Tasting sea fresh and authentic, we did not go wrong with our first choice – in fact, we returned for three more times, adding some bites of oysters and lobsters which were equally delectable.

For main course (as if we were not fully satisfied just yet), we literally went for a carb and protein fest, feasting over chicken, lamb, beef, potatoes and rice creatively cooked in dishes exotically named we couldn’t properly pronounce them. Although the hot courses were alright, we felt that the winners of the brunch were the Japanese favourites we repeatedly devoured.

Though overly sated, we pursued to grab desserts, which if new to Fazari,s would mean literally asking help to be ushered into a room secretly tucked away from the main dining area. Indeed sinful to have it all but the dessert room was an amazing surprise and a wonderful finishing treat to sweet and confectionery aficionados. Churros and umm ali as well as the bite-sized crème brulee should definitely be part of every dessert plate, we must say.

Nearing 4pm, the very attentive and friendly Fazaris staff reminded us of the brunch closing and assisted us in choosing coffee and tea selections that helped us relax even more. In the end, we realised we gained additional kilos to our already bulging bodies but we were certainly glad we heeded to the call of this elegant and deliciously satiating Friday brunch.

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Locally

An escape to royal

Whether you’re a tourist visiting Dubai or a resident looking for a place to unwind, Rixos The Palm Dubai is the go-to destination. AW explores what this Turkish hotel line has to offer…

I

n our recent trip down to Palm Jumeirah, our patience was tried and tested. While driving through the end of its east crescent, passing by countless humps and endless stare at the car’s clock, and asking ourselves if we were still in Dubai, we carried on heading straight to find the new talk-of-the-town hotel, Rixos The Palm Dubai. And as the old adage goes, ‘good things come to those who wait’.

Getting there Upon reaching the hotel, we understood why it was idyllically tucked away at the tip

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of the crescent; its very location gives it an advantage over the other hotels in the area.

The unparalleled 360 degree views of the Arabian Gulf and the skyline of Dubai were all awe-inspiring to its guests.

And as we stepped inside, we were welcomed by friendly valet and greeters offering cups of refreshments. A few moments of check-in allowed us to feel at ease lounging by its grand reception. We marvelled at the hotel’s modern minimalist approach – its interiors blend traditional Turkish elements with contemporary beach-

Locally chic design, striking a balance between modernity and culture by harmoniously blending the past and the present.

By the time we were escorted to the room, we could not help but anticipate an inimitable luxurious experience awaiting us.

The room Huge would be an understatement to describe our one-bedroom suite at Rixos The Palm Dubai, and we could say that it definitely indulged in spaces. The impressive space encompassed not only a master bedroom and bathroom, but also a separate living area, both equipped with amenities. Adorned with contemporary Turkish furniture and interior designs, the marble floors lead in the expansive living room, elegantly ornamented with luxury drapes and handmade silk Turkish carpets, which radiate intricate craftsmanship and impeccable taste. Finding the fruit basket, together with towering layers of pastries and traditional sweets was added bonus to what promised to be an unforgettable experience in Rixos The Palm Dubai.

coast line, the Burj Al Arab and the endless ocean beyond beset our eyes. It was the best scene to look at before sleeping, and to wake up every morning. Indeed enough to garner envy, we felt totally mesmerised by the stunning sight.

And as we checked the spacious bathroom, we were surprised that it was filled with exclusive Bvlgari toiletries. The immaculately white tub was simply divine for the likes of us who take delight in soaking ourselves with bubbles and hot water.

The dining options Scouring for places to eat inside the hotel was an easy feat. With various options on offer, we opted to try its A La Turca restaurant which is famed for its exciting blend of traditional Turkish cuisine and international flavours. The lunch buffet, as well as its breakfast offering, was full of scrumptious dishes that satisfied us so well.

When we stepped onto the veranda, the utterly breathtaking views of the UAE’s

Dinner was quite special as we went to the latest F&B addition to the hotel, the Salt

restaurant. It’s a seafood restaurant with an all al fresco setting where we found striking views of the hotel’s beach frontline and the panoramic vision of Dubai. Aside from this wonderful sight and ultra-attentive staff, the opening surprise for Salt guests would be an array of various types of salt and a huge tomato which we munched a lot on as we went over the menu. The mouth-watering cold mezzeh we chose were a bunch of oysters, Aegean eggplant salad and sea bass ceviche while we craved for the cheese borek for hot mezzeh.

Our main course were grilled sea bass, a signature dish that Salt boasts of, and grilled sea bream which we spotted on display by the live station. The overall spectacular culinary experience we had satiated us to the max, making us linger at the restaurant and relish its ambiance while we get entertained by an ongoing party at the adjacent White X Beach & Lounge.

The stay It was difficult to say goodbye to an incredible destination such as Rixos The Palm Dubai. With its impeccable hospitality service and undoubtedly luxurious amenities, we could not imagine anyone not having the time of their lives during their stay in this hotel. Indeed the memories we garnered were far beyond in comparison to the other hotels we tried, and so we recommend that tourists and residents must give it a try.

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getaway

Ajman’s Best Kept Secret the elegant atmosphere to the delightful dishes on the breakfast and dinner buffets.

Rest and recreation Shapes Spa and Health Club is a haven of peace and tranquility, where you can relax, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. The range of therapeutic treatments is a delight – try the Ayurvedic variety and you will be transported to a place of utmost tranquility and relaxation.

We’re not a big fan of the pool, although it was good enough to do some short laps.

Unlike most other hotels in the area, this one is temperature-controlled so it can be used all year-round. The real bonus is that the hotel has a guest-only access private beach – an exclusive portion of Ajman’s dramatic coastline, featuring the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf.

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway that’s close to the city, yet still far from the hassle and bustle of the metropolis, then look no further than the Ramada Ajman Hotel and Suites.

Though situated at the heart of Ajman’s city centre, it is a quiet conclave of Arabian hospitality. Its location could be a blessing, if what you’re looking for is proximity to the airport or the city’s shopping district.

Ramada Ajman Hotel and Suites is 4-star by official rating, but it is far better than most five-star properties, even in Dubai, said to be the hospitality hub of the region. What’s the secret? Well maintained rooms and superior service that makes every guest feel welcomed and at home. If it’s relaxation you want, it’s relaxation you will get, of the highest standards.

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Homey and classy The hotel offers a range room types to suit every guest’s needs. We were given a one-bedroom executive suite during our stay and we found the interiors and furnishings both classy and homey.

Like the other rooms on the executive floor, ours featured parquet flooring and generous amenities – from bathroom fixtures and supplies to our elegantly styled living room. The bedroom is a truly quiet and comfortable enclave; we only wish it had the extra flat screen TV. Apart from that, it was the ideal accommodation for a genuinely comfortable stay.

Dining delights When it’s time to fill our gastronomic cravings, the hotel’s signature F&B outlet, Orchid Restaurant, did not disappoint.

Dining at Orchid is a culinary treat – from

The verdict Overall, we had a fantastic stay at the Ramada Ajman Hotel and Suites. We frequently review hotel properties and it compares to the best as far as service and hospitality are concerned. It’s no wonder the hotel is almost always fully booked.

When a hotel has occupancy rates in the higher up of 90 per cent most of the time, it must be doing something right.

Photos courtesy of Jim Joquico

Travelogue

Berlin Cathedral

The discovery of stylish

Retrospective of a week in Germany’s two cities – Berlin and Munich – brings back visions of street chic and stylish fashion, far from the images of Deutschland’s historic buildings and artsy museum. Sherry Tenorio recalls…

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Travelogue Stylish Munchener walks the dog along Odeonsplatz

Maxi with th fashion classic s

Lady in red walking towards Berliner Cathedral

Every time I remember that eventful weeklong journey to the land of Heidi Klum and Karl Lagerfeld, always a smile would appear without my knowing. The sartorial flair that beset my eyes in the laidback outskirts of Berlin and amidst the walled structures of Munich has got to be a fabulous treat for someone like me who’s craving for such a great display of fashion tourism.

Forget Paris, never mind Milan – Berlin and especially Munich certainly surprised me with its classy destinations and sassy stylish locals. Read on as I muse about the remarkable week of fashion and luxury that wrapped me with unforgettable memories.

Carefree fashion fills Berlin’s streets Aside from sightseeing and picture taking, we went people-watching to soak in Berlin’s

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prevalent fashion statements. We saw subgroups and were able to break them down into a few familiar styles – the hippie look, the hipster look, and the couldn’tcare-less-so-I’m-just-gonna-throw-onwhatever’s-clean look. Despite their carefree attitude, people walked down the streets carrying bags of H&M and Zara as arm candies, so we knew that we needed to check the must-visit shopping spots the local folks have in the list.

First stop was Berlin’s Kurfurstendamm, or Ku’damm as locals call the place. This popular shopping artery is clearly known for KaDeWe, a huge mall offering more than 200 famous fashion brands. From electronics to food, from fashion to home accesories, KaDeWe has it all. It might be one of the

Travelogue

The seemingly quiet capital of Bavaria gave us a mighty sartorial surprise when we come by the Maximilianstraße area and its nearby streets around the Residenzstraße. Maximilianstraße is a haven of famous galleries, designer shops, luxury boutiques, jewelry stores and old buildings with wood-carvings of Prada’s signature logo; we felt at home.

imilianstrasse is filled he likes of this seasoned nista who paired up the black coat with trendy sailor-striped top

best malls in Berlin, but coming from Dubai where shopping malls are almost considered as second homes, let’s just say that KaDeWe did not truly impress.

Equally popular and more upscale shopping avenue was the so-called Friedrichstraße.

Considered as the Upper East Side of Berlin where Quartier 207 or Galeries Lafayette will stun walking tourists with its all-glass facade, Friedrichstraße is indeed a shopping paradise for affluent shoppers. Aside from its important historical sightseeing points and the gigantic blocks offering this season’s hottest sartorial choices, Friedrichstrasse is also perfect for checking out art deco forms, posh cafés and small specialty shops.

While exploring shopping in Berlin, we also discovered that it’s fun to check out the flea markets and bargain shops in the city. Most of these are open only during weekends so better check with your hotel’s concierge before planning on having a go.

The night flea market by Alexanderplatz was quite filled with kiosks offering pashminas, accessories and other vintage stuff. There were also food stalls and street performers for the guests’ entertainment. On the other hand, the side street shops on Unter den

Linden would also delight tourist shoppers looking for bargain secondhand books and quirky accessories.

Stylish, super stylish Muncheners When we decided to roam around Munich like locals, we walked two blocks from The Crales Hotel towards the Hauptbanhof U-bahn and took the U4 train bound for Arabellapark or the U5 Neuperlach Süd.

Then, we hopped off two stations down at Odeonsplatz and headed to the Munich Residence. A few steps from the tourist spot will reveal Maximilianstraße, Munich’s most important shopping destination.

The seemingly quiet capital of Bavaria gave us a mighty sartorial surprise when we come by the Maximilianstraße area and its nearby streets around the Residenzstraße.

Maximilianstraße is a haven of famous galleries, designer shops, luxury boutiques, jewellery stores and old buildings with wood-carvings of Prada’s signature logo; we felt at home. The sights here were enough to compensate the time we missed in visiting Neuhauserstraße and Kaufingerstraße, both districts lined with large department stores and international chains.

And, of course, the most shocking fashion revelation was the parade of 60-something men and women along Maximilianstraße, looking more dressy and sharp than their 20-something counterparts, literally changing our impression about the city.

Our eyes literally feasted on the number of not-so-young stylish men and women.

Who would have thought that there were so many of them in Munich? At the end of this vogue trip, we had only one conclusion in mind: Berliners were carefree fashionistas, and Muncheners were the sophisticated, trendy stylistas.

Where to stay in Berlin For those who want the classic hotel with an old-world aesthetic and divine guest service, The Ritz-Carlton Berlin is the go-to option for fine holidaymakers. A fiveminute walk from hotel leads to many of Berlin’s most glorious spots, including the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate).

Ladies strut in carefree street style in Berlin’s posh shopping district, Friedrichstrasse

Where to stay in Munich Located on Sophiestraße, The Charles Hotel is close to the historic square of Königsplatz, the old town and the superb shopping area. It is a few steps away from the idyllic Old Botanical Gardens, which brings peace and tranquility, away from the city’s bustle, to the hotel. May be a tad romantic for our needs, this hotel is perfect for those who want a quiet dash of luxury and privacy.

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The Coveted

T

he recently launched handbags collection by renowned label Porsche Design caught our eyes (and our hearts), and made us wish we have AED119,000 to spare for the star of the collection: the stunning light grey crocodile leather wrist candy. Sporting chrome-black metal fittings, this bag has clever carrying concept – its adjustable handles allow the TwinBag to be worn as either a handbag or a shoulder bag. Italian-made, this particular TwinBag boasts of the individual numbers on the crocodile versions, further emphasising its exclusivity.

Porsche Design’s TwinBag in light grey crocodile leather

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