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Chairman Shahab Izadpanah

Editorial

Publishing

Editor in Chief

Publishing Director

Mojeh Izadpanah

Radhika Natu

Associate Editor

Publishing Assistant

Sheri Izadpanah

Desiree L. Gaveria

Jewellery Editor

Print and Production Assistant

Franceline Prat

Diana Celestra

Guest Fashion Editors

International Sales

Elodie Touboul David

Nazy Sheikhan

Sybille De Saint-Phalle Paris Representative Fashion and Beauty Journalists

Ghislain de Castelbajac

Kelly Baldwin Meaghan Rogers

Louis Fourteen For MOJEH

Copy Editors

Concierge Service Management

Gillian Brett

Assma Ahmed

Shweta Kapur Personal Stylist Editorial Assistants

Mary Louise Read

Alexandra Blacha Alia Alsadek

Lifestyle Manager Olga Kovalchuk

Editorial Contributors Vittorio Gai, Meera Ashish

Customer Representative

Shamim Kassibawi

Vanessa Pasague

Stacey Dooley Rebecca Anne Proctor

Advertising Inquiries

Alexia Inge at Cult Beauty

Tel: +971 4 454 20 50

Asmaa Al-Shabibi at Lawrie Shabibi

+971 4 425 79 79 Email: advertising@mojeh.com

Art Subscription Contributing Producer

Tel: +971 4 454 20 50

Jonathan Wingfield for Louis

Email: subs@mojeh.com

Art Director

Letters to the Editor

Amirreza Amiraslani

editor@mojeh.com

Senior Designer

Published under HS Media Group FZ LLC

Mehdi Ghareh Mohammadi

Registered at Dubai Media City Building 10, 3rd Floor, Office 345

Web Developer

P.O. Box 502333

Ali Roman

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Contributing Photographers

MOJEH Executive Office

Eric Guillemain

Burj Khalifa, Floor 129

Federico De Angelis

P.O. Box 888777

Lionel Koretzky

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

www.mojeh.com Louis Fourteen for MOJEH www.formojeh.com, info@formojeh.com BPA Consumer Publication Audit Applied for June 2011 For the UAE printed by United Printing and Publishing Distribution- UAE: Jashanmal National Company LLC. Qatar: Dar Al Thaqafah. Bahrain: Jashanmal & Sons BSC (C). Oman: United Media Services LLC The publishers regret that they can not accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessary those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. The ownership of trademark is acknowledged, therefore reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All credits are subjects to change. Copyright HS MEDIA GROUP FZ LLC 2011

CONTENTS

Accessories 86

July / August 2011

Most Desired

The most covetable accessories of the season.

SOCIETY

An amazing story of an exquisite natural treasure.

The World’s most Famous Pearl

Histories Most Elegant Moments

Memories of beautiful moments in time.

Me, Myself and the Machetes

Celebrated Woman in Society

FASHION

114

Beauty Vision

126

It’s back to basics this month with luminous make-up and organic skin care.

The best spa treats for the summer season.

126

Beautiful World

An exposé on one of fashions favourite women and design houses.

Around the world for full mind and body rejuvenation.

Culture

C’est Moi

For the love of custom couture.

132

Anne Hathaway

For the Sheer Love of Fashion

An interview with one of the world’s most wonderful starlets.

An edgy take on one of fashions most elegant fabrics.

62 72

A beautiful profile of a timeless accessory.

Indulgent Summertime

Elegant Beckham

Celebrate in couture when the clock strikes twelve.

Body Brooch

122

Around Midnight

100

Beauty

A young life dedicated to others.

In conversation with one of the regions most inspiring ladies Negin Fattahi.

100

134

Artists in Exhibition

A look at the Middle East’s growing presence at the Venice Biennale and Dior’s newest exhibition.

134

142

Elegance Never Goes out of Style A snapshot of the world’s most elegant women.

The Language of Flowers

Say it this season with flowers.

The Shapes of Eid

What will you be wearing this Ramadan?

By Appointment Only

The legacy of one of our most beloved designers Bijan Pakzad.

Cover shot by Federico De Angelis, model Dovile wears dress, STELLA MCCARTNEY. White lace shirt, AZZEDINE ALAIA. Vintage black velvet collar, BRIGITTE CAMPAGNE. Ring, MARTIN MARGIELA.

142 11

Editor’s letter ‘Elegance is an ensemble where the invisible is as important as the visible,’ Christian Dior.

ere it is ladies, one final hurrah from the season that gave us chic minimalism, seventies extravagance, lots and lots of flowers and more colours than we thought was humanly possible! When scrolling through the archives of spring/summer 2011 in search of that final theme yet to be uncovered, I realised so many of our favourite trends are all leaning back towards one specific look. A look that has been somewhat lost in translation with the recent seasons of boho, neons and lady gaga-esque glamour. In case you hadn’t already guessed it from the above quote by fashion’s finest Christian Dior, the look is elegance. Spring/summer has offered us refined tailoring, an abundance of pretty floral prints, sultry sheers and subtle skin flashing. It all rolls into a wonderfully ladylike and graceful look, and what better time to celebrate it than now? Turn to the fashion section for our profile of a woman who after years and years of experimental style, now perfectly defines elegance through both her own attire and her fashion collections. Designer, mother and icon: Victoria Beckham. This month we again took to one of the most elegant cities in the world for our fashion stories, Paris! Celebrate the season in style with the finest couture photographed against the enchanting backdrop of an old Parisian Mansion. Then go for elegance with an edge as model of the moment Dovile showcases sheer fabrics in strong and sultry silhouettes. A very modern aesthetic. Of course elegance is one of those styles that works best with an elegant attitude to match… ‘an ensemble where the invisible is as important as the visible’, and our pages are bursting with elegant women: from the young girl who chose early on to dedicate her life to others, in our memoir on page 22, to the beautiful luminaries who showcase elegance inside and out in fashion’s focus on page 72. Depending on where in the world you may be, July and August can sometimes be an unsettling time of year. It’s high summer, the close of another season. Some of us are travelling (or escaping the heat) and the rest of us are left static. It’s also the wonderful Ramadan, and whether or not you celebrate each of its traditions, it offers everyone the perfect opportunity to step back, rejuvenate and embrace in the joys of your friends and family once again. We want you to use this time for reflection and to restore your body’s natural balance. So forth turn to our beauty section where you’ll find the very best resorts around the world, with something to suit everyone from a silent retreat to a rigorous detox. Hide away and concentrate on yourself. Alternatively, jump into your most fashionable loungewear and head to some of the region’s best spas for head to toe relaxation. Finally, go back to your beauty basics with natural make-up and organic skin care on page 114. Elegance is the eternal aesthetic - a style that will never be too in or ever out – but always available to any woman who chooses to live her life with sophistication and grace. In the words of Dior, the way you style your life and personality is just as important as the way you style your wardrobe. Let us live the elegant life together.

Ramadan Kareem everyone! Mojeh Izadpanah

Editor in Chief

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British-born Jonathan Wingfield is a magazine editor, journalist and creative consultant based in Paris and London. Editor-in-chief of fashion and culture magazine Numéro for the past 10 years, he successfully launched the biannual mens’ title Numéro Homme in 2001. In 2006 he co-founded Paradis, the luxury arts and culture magazine, for which he remains editor-in-chief. His cultural writing has been published in newspapers, books and magazines throughout the world, including the New York Times, the London Times, International Herald Tribune, Vogue, W and GQ. A ghost writer and communication aide to French design legend Philippe Starck, Wingfield has also consulted for clients such as Cartier, Christian Dior, Chanel, Armani, L’Oréal and Rem Koolhaas’ OMA architecture firm.

Italian born photographer Federico was given his big break in the industry in 2004 when he started working exclusively for the famous photographer Mario Testino. In 2008 he decided to travel the world, before settling between cities – Paris, Rome and New York – where he now works freelance on many different photography projects. He loves tennis, sailing and eating half a kg of pasta every day! This month Federico wonderfully captured model Dovile in a story of elegance for MOJEH’s fashion section.

MOJEH contributors

Federico de Angelis

JONATHAN WINGFIELD

Elodie Touboul David Franceline Prat French born Franceline Prat used her unparalleled eye for beautiful accessories as MOJEH’s guest jewellery editor for July. After a record-breaking career at French Vogue, Franceline now consults on many projects including sitting on the Cartier committee and working at Stiletto and Wallpaper magazine. As the industry authority for the jewellery domain, her work is part of a collective memory that includes sessions for Helmut Newton and Guy Bourdin. Having her enigmatic eye for diamonds and jewels on our fashion shoots was a privilege like no other.

This months Fashion Editor Elodie Touboul David lives in Paris with her husband and 2 month old baby. Throughout her career she has assisted many industry veterans namely editor Marie-Amelie Sauve and photographer Mario Testino and has fluxed between production and styling. As a fashion editor for MOJEH she brought a new era of edge and seduction to classic elegant styling.

ERIC GUILLEMAIN

Courtesy of Richard Keep

Lionel KORETZKY Lionel is a French photographer who grew up drawing, sculpting and capturing images outside of picturesque Paris. At aged nineteen he began assisting still life photographer Jean Jacques Liegeois, and spent the next four years working with other renowned photographers. Lionel relocated to New York in 2002 as fashion photographer Nathaniel Goldberg’s 1st assistant. Nathaniel introduced him to daylight, locations and large open working spaces, which would soon weave into Lionel’s style; a mix of high end fashion photo production, elegant simplicity and childhood handcrafting. He currently lives in Brooklyn with his wife Saloi and 2 young children, Joaquin & Pablo.

Meera Ashish Meera Ashish is a columnist and travel journalist writing for international publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Bazaar and now MOJEH. Meera now lives between Dubai, Uganda and London with New York quickly becoming a fourth home. How does she place elegance in traveling? “As a traveler elegance can be a combination of comfort and style, wearing what is most suited to the country and climate, staying in hotels that have a unique edge rather than the most expensive, and stumbling upon eclectic cafes and eateries. New places come to life in the most fascinating ways when I’m not trying.”

Born in Morocco and raised in France, Eric Guillemain is a fashion photographer and lead singer of rock band Venice. After assisting world famous fashion photographer Peter Lindbergh, Eric started going solo in 2008. ‘I never stopped singing, I just decided to make photos instead of songs for now,’ he said. Eric’s style can be described as stripped down and sudden without filters or device, he connects directly through emotion.

Rebecca Anne Proctor In this month’s culture section Rebecca Anne Proctor takes us on a trip to the Venice Biennale, exploring art past and present. Rebecca has studied art at many prestigious institutes including Christie’s in London. Whilst there she worked at the Gagosian Gallery assisting with the exhibitions of Francis Bacon, Damien Hirst, Cecily Brown, Mario Merz and Dan Flavin. What makes for an elegant piece of art in Rebecca’s eyes? “An elegant artwork is defined by sophisticated simplicity equivalent to the sensation of equilibrium and harmony.”

Alexia Inge Shamim Kassibawi As this month sees the approach of Eid, Shamim Kassibawi ensures we’re all musically ready for the many gatherings ahead. For this month’s record shop Shamim enlisted the help of her 2000 twitter followers to create our playlists for the seasons. Mixing cool contemporaries with old classics, this entertainment savvy woman is your guide to the celebrations ahead.

Alexia Inge, Brand Director at www.cultbeauty.co.uk, brings her 11 years experience in the fashion and beauty industries to MOJEH’s latest issue. After being sold one beauty product too many that didn’t work, she co-founded the online beauty boutique Cult Beauty with Jessica Moore in June 2008 in order to stop that from happening ever again! What are her make up rules for an elegant look? “Spend more time prepping your skin than painting it. After you’ve added a subtle foundation base, start with your blusher rather than your eyes. A couple of individual eyelash inserts placed just on the outer edge of each eye are an easy way to add instant feminine elegance. Then a dash of black liner and lashings of mascara and hey presto elegance personified!”

roland mouret @ net-a-porter.com

guerlain

stella mccartney

cacharel

missoni @ net-a-porter.com

CHANEl

la prairie

van cleef & arpels

chanel

Dior

michael kors

current elliot

proenza schouler

D&G

hermes

jason wu @ Boutique1.com

Editor’s snapshots

maison michel

Be inspired by these chic choices for the summer... whether going neutral or colourful use our Editor’s picks as your mood board for the season.

jimmy choo

gucci

Alaia @ Boutique1.com

Editor’s snapshots

Style for summer Dior

1950 fashion model wearing a white Christian Dior evening gown decorated with tiers and ruffles.

1937, Performance of Swan Lake

1949, Models on the roof of the Condé Nast Building, by Norman Parkinson

obert Helpmann and Pearl Argyle of the Vic-Wells ballet company perform a pas de deux from Swan Lake, surrounded by perfectly poised prima ballerinas. The scene captures a moment from one of history’s most elegant and adored ballets. The pure and uninhibited love of a chivalrous man, releases his Princess and her companions from the eternal sadness of life imprisoned as a swan. The ballet was and still is, an advocate for love at first sight and the measures a man can go to, to walk with his true love.

orman Parkinson was one of the century’s most desired and coveted fashion photographers. He used his art to beautifully decorate the pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar and was the first port of call for photographing the Royals. Parkinson’s sensation was widely due to his revolutionary success in pulling fashion models from confined studio settings out into the open air. In this 1949 shot, he took four models to the top of the Condé Nast offices in New York (the most influential building in editorial and fashion). This image is a vision of desire, style and transformation in the world of fashion and art.

carlett O’ Hara and Rhett Butler shared a tumultuous relationship in this epic melodrama whose unhappy ending paved the way for new Hollywood romances. Magnetically drawn together throughout their lives, Scarlett, played by Vivian Leigh, is the manipulative protagonist whose love affair with the town rogue Rhett, played by Clark Gable, charts the Civil War and Reconstruction Period in the deep South. Winning eight Academy Awards, Gone With the Wind’s famous kiss scene remains one of the most memorable in history. For the first time, writer Margaret Mitchell harmonises love and lust with the realities of life; you can’t play with hearts and always win.

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Corbis, Bettmann at Corbis.

1939, Gone With the Wind - The Kiss

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Norman Parkinson at Corbis, Norman Parkinson at Corbis, Sunset Boulevard at Corbis.

1937 performance of Swan Lake in the UK.

1939 Rhett Butler (Clark Gable) embraces Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh) in Gone with the Wind.

1947, Christian Dior

t the end of the 40s, Dior opened up his house to become one of the worlds most famous and coveted fashion designers. He revolutionised the way women dress, and will always remain one of the most precise, captivating and elegant designers. The fashions from the House of Dior transcend time: the Belle Époque, the gardens of his childhood and the indulgent balls of the 50s, to name but a few. This image captures the House of Dior just three years after its birth, already in a state of absolute fluency, articulation and contentment. A desirable statement for what would become of the style setting house.

We’ve rummaged through the archives and selected our most elegant moments in time, from our favourite ballet to a modern wedding fit for an extremely elegant princess. Some are obvious, some less so, but each and every one holds its own endearment and charm. A moment in history when either the person, the fashion or the statement stood tall and evoked beautiful emotions across the globe.

Elegance in focus

History’s Most Elegant Moments

1949 Manhattan New York, fashion models on top of the Conde Nast Building.

1961, Breakfast at Tiffany’s – The Dress Up

olly Go Lightly is arguably the most iconic film character of the century. Famed for the shots of her dripping in diamonds, peering longingly into the window of Tiffany’s, with a croissant and coffee in her delicate little hands. We happen to think her most elegant moment is as she’s dressing for a visit to Sing Sing prison. As she slips into her black shift dress, clips on diamond earrings and tops off her look with a wide brimmed hat her simplicity in styling stuns the audience and continues to set the bar for elegant dressing. The irony of her final destination and her most refined outfit makes this a favourite elegant movie moment. 1961 Actress Audrey Hepburn on the set of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Elegance in focus

1966, The Black and White Ball

n 1966, Truman Capote threw what was to become one of the most talked about and memorable balls of the twenty first century. Invitations were so sought after that Capote himself had to flee from the frenzy to the countryside prior to the ball. The 540 long guest list included models, editors, Royals, Hollywood icons, presidential advisors, heiresses and socialites. The result was something of 60s magic as a glorious ballroom in New York was bursting at the seams with the world’s most fashionable, bright and intriguing characters, dancing and liaising with one another. Here, Mia Farrow and Frank Sinatra are about to enter the grand landscape together.

1966 Manhattan Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow arrive at Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball.

2001, Halle Berry - first black woman to win an Oscar

e couldn’t let history’s most elegant moments pass without saluting Halle Berry as she picks up the first Academy Award ever to be given to a black woman, for her role opposite Billy Bob Thornton in Monster’s Ball. Wearing the now famous Elie Saab gown, Halle Berry lost all inhibitions and composure as the raw intensity and emotion began to flood. Some critics may have heralded it as unladylike and uncontrolled, but it’s for that reason exactly that we deem it elegant. The pureness in her reaction was rare, unique and completely compelling.

2011, The Royal Wedding

wo months on and the world still can’t get enough of William and Kate’s fairytale wedding - Fairytale being the perfect word. This time around, not only did England stop to watch it’s future King and Queen say their Royal ‘I dos’ at Buckingham Palace, so did every young girl, teenager and woman across the globe. Kate is a representation of all girls around the world whose fairytale dreams really can come true, as she too evolves into an elegant Queen in waiting.

2011 Prince William and Kate Midleton kiss on the balcony at Buckingham Palace.

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Bettmann at Corbis, Frank Trapper at Corbis, Christopher Furlong at Getty.

2002 Halle Berry at the 74th annual Academy Awards wearing Elie Saab.

DUBAI - GENEVA - GSTAAD - HONG KONG - KUWAIT - LONDON - MOSCOW - NEW DELHI NEW YORK - PARIS - PORTO CERVO - ROME - ST BARTHELEMY - ST MORITZ - TOKYO www.degrisogono.com

Me, Myself and the Machetes

neath my wings. From that point on, I knew that the way I had envisioned my tranquil and colourful world – the world which my friends and family were still lucky enough to move within – was altered forever. I know it may sound silly, perhaps innocent or maybe even ignorant, but I genuinely had no idea that children were used as labourers. I had already travelled substantially before I met with India. But at that moment, I realised I had only travelled from one Western country to another. Or maybe my eyes had been wide shut until then? Never had I seen a place where poverty was so rampant – this would be just the start of walking with my eyes open.

“I came across cramped, dirty sweatshops where grown men slept on the floor under their sowing machines, and alongside rats. Just awful.” I came home to the UK determined to let my friends and everyone else know what they may not have yet realised. I wanted them… no I needed them to see what I now couldn’t detach my mind and body from. These children were being overworked for little or no pay, receiving no education, were sometimes homeless, sometimes beaten and abused, and often lifeless. I felt so passionately about it that once home, I started raising awareness

and fundraising initiatives for money to send back to help the children out there. About a year or so later, the people at the BBC asked me if I would be interested in learning more about child labour and possibly making some more programmes. I found my lips saying yes before my brain had even registered anything. The risks, my family, my friends, leaving England again? But since my first experience, I was intrinsically linked to these people. My entire body, mind and heart knew that this was where I needed to be. My life had taken a different course and I wasn’t going to shy away from it now, even if I wanted to. So I jumped at the chance, and my next stop was the Ivory Coast. ‘Stacey Dooley Investigates – Kids with Machetes’ was my first ever commission as the presenter of my own TV series. The Ivory Coast is famous for producing cocoa and provides masses and masses of beans for places all around the world. Of course, me being me, I had only ever thought about cocoa in terms of chocolate and coffee. But there had been so many reports suggesting that cocoa farmers were, in fact, just children, some as young as eight or nine. The Ivory Coast proved to be very hard work, and I knew straight away that it definitely wasn’t going to be an easy couple of weeks! As soon as we arrived at the airport there were four big, scary and very official-looking African men waiting for us. It was obvious from the get-go that we were investigating a very sensitive topic and weren’t necessarily welcome guests. We were given a minder

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Ricochet, Stephanie Rabemiafara at Corbis.

his month’s memoir comes from a young girl, who has been on this earth for too small a number of years to have already made such large imprints. After taking part in a Bafta awardwinning series, ‘Blood, Sweat and T-shirts’, twenty-one-year-old Stacey Dooley’s charming and generous character was snapped up by one of the world’s largest production companies, the BBC. Before she knew it, the petite, friendly Londoner was flying into some of the world’s most corrupt destinations, on a mission to make a difference. Now, into her fourth series, Stacey takes us back to the start of her journey. “Everything started after I was privileged enough to have the chance to take part in ‘Blood, Sweat and T-shirts’. Thinking back now, I’m ecstatic to have been given the opportunity… I often wonder what I would be doing now, had I not pushed myself forward. The idea was to take six young fashion-mad Brits to India and experience first-hand how our high street garments are made. India was beyond incredible and without sounding too ‘Miss World,’ it changed my life! Like most others, I honestly never realised the kind of filthy environments and ridiculously low wages Indian workers had to live with. I came across cramped and dirty sweatshops, where grown men slept on the floor under their sewing machines alongside rats. Just awful. I spent just over a month living and working alongside these workers. I was blown away by the whole trip – but really, it was stumbling across child labour that swept the wind be-

Image by Ricochet.

By Stacey Dooley

they’d go through. The same spirit that would soon be mine too. I felt very privileged to be with such a nice crowd of people, and without the minder I learnt so much about their lives. Things were tough and the cocoa trees were basically their lives. They had to spend money on keeping them healthy and making sure there were no parasites that could kill them. Money, they just did not have. They had to struggle every day just to feed the family; it was difficult, as they were being paid such low wages for the cocoa beans. The entire family had to pull together just to survive. The most horrifying sight was the very young children who would work with machetes, just to make ends meet. From afar they could be mistaken for free-spirited Western kids playing a game of pirates in fields of flowers. But the reality was so much darker. However, you quickly realise that these children aren’t always forced to work by evil and neglectful parents. Sometimes it’s honestly just the only way to stay alive. I asked Bonifas and Suzanne if someday they hoped their children and future generations would live differently. Their biggest dream was that one day their kids could go to school and receive an education. Education was a huge deal, but the nearest school was hours away and it just wasn’t an option. So now it begins to sound a little like a fictional child’s tale! But after a few weeks I fell across an empty space in my mind and knew that building a classroom could benefit families like my kind hosts. I asked for the community’s permission and they were of course delighted by the idea. I organised for local builders and plasterers to set up a proper classroom. I found a qualified teacher and ordered tables, benches and chairs from the local carpenter, as well as bought books, stationary and a blackboard from the nearest city. I borrowed the money from the production team, and would pay it back through fun-

LifeCulture In

and told he would travel everywhere with us whilst we were in the bush. We were assured that he was there just to make sure we were safe but my instincts told me he was there instead to make sure the cocoa industry and its secrets were kept safe. The production team and I were staying in a remote settlement with an amazing family. It was an incredible experience; but I somehow knew that the way they were living whilst we were there wasn’t how they would ordinarily carry on. The minder would constantly watch and listen to every conversation I would try to have with the family. It felt so unnatural. He would often intervene and talk in their native tongue. He was well aware of the fact that our translator was there to translate only French. Things went from bad to worse. I started to feel really poorly and I remember thinking it’s probably the heat and the food; maybe my English stomach couldn’t cope! It turned out to be the much dreaded malady of malaria. I was taken to Ghana and kept on a drip for four days. When I was strong enough, I took the long haul flight back to the UK. I was exhausted physically and now emotionally. I hadn’t given up on my mission, but I felt like my body was letting myself and the children of the Ivory Coast down. Once I was a little perkier and back on the mend, I was flying back to the Ivory Coast quicker than the doctor could sign my release forms. I needed to know exactly what was happening in those fields. I went back to stay with the same lovely family as before and this time got to spend some real quality time with them. Bonifas, the dad, explained he had been praying for me when he heard I was ill and said he was so delighted I was back. The mum, Suzanne, said she was worried about me – her only “white baby” – and had spent some of their life savings on phone credit trying to find out if I was okay. This was the kind of giving and loving spirit these families still had, in spite of everything

“To see the children in the classroom was just amazing. It felt natural; they were right where they were supposed to be.” draising as soon as I went back to England. I finally flew back for the third time to make sure everything was coming together and on track. To see the children in the classroom was just amazing. It felt natural; they were right where they were supposed to be – a complete juxtaposition against the unnatural and greedy vision of the cocoa fields, where machetes would swing uncontrollably in the air and manipulate the tiny children holding them. There is now a third classroom being built and by Ivory Coast law, once three have been built you can ask the government to formally recognise it. My fingers are crossed for the children and their families, eager to live, learn and play away from the fields flooded with cocoa and fear. Since the Ivory Coast I have visited Nepal, Cambodia, the Congo, Thailand and Kenya. I will never forget the Ivory Coast though; it opened my eyes and heart to the realities of life. The bigger reality, however, is that there is no need to be sad, full of pity or sorrow for these people. Instead, there is a need to do whatever you can to help. This is only one of my memoirs, I hope to build and build many more for the rest of my life. The heavier my story, the lighter the lives of others may be – well that’s what I wish for anyway. I start filming for my fourth series this year… who knows where that path will lead me to next.”

Negin FattahiDasmal

n empress of grooming in Dubai, Negin Fattahi-Dasmal has amassed a stellar business portfolio that has been transforming locals into preened perfection. With The Grooming Company, Negin has developed four stand-alone salons that cater to women’s and men’s every styling wish. Beginning at the age of 22, she developed N.Bar, the Middle East’s first chain of nail bars; 1847, the region’s first men’s grooming lounge; Jet Set, a blow dry bar and Tilia & Finn, a beauty lounge with a focus on all natural products. On top of her impressive business acumen, Negin is also a mother and a cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer at the age of 31, whilst pregnant with her fourth child and since going into remission, her life has inescapably changed for the better. Here, she tells MOJEH magazine about her inspirational journey of hard work, love and above all, faith.

Negin and Salem, her husband.

You’ve been wildly successful in your businesses. What do you put this down to?

I put this down to being blessed. By far I am truly blessed to be able to combine the two things I love in life, business and grooming. Grooming has always been in my family, my mother and father are very fashion and grooming conscious and have always supported me through my business, from start to finish. After studying in LA, my passion to start my own business grew. I chose to start it in Dubai, as I saw a niche in the market and could not think of a better place to inject my passion for grooming into.

Was becoming a successful business woman always in your plan?

No, I wouldn’t say it was ‘in my plan’. I have always had good business acumen and I really wanted to put it to good use. It was more about combining aspects I love and seeing a spot in the market to develop what I absolutely adore – grooming.

What drove you to start your business?

It sounds like a cliché but it was really just that I had spotted a niche in the market. I had just returned from LA where I had completed my degree; while there, I was exposed to lots of fantastic concepts. I think I had a lot more to offer once I returned and I wanted to make Dubai proud. My true inspiration was the people of Dubai.

Now there’s a lot more competition in the beauty market in Dubai, How do you separate yourself from your competitors’?

The truth is that there was not a lot of competition earlier. Before I set up my brands there was no one else executing such a concept in Dubai. There was no male grooming or nail care – these services were seen as more of a side service than a dedicated ‘grooming lounge’ phenomenon. I saw what the people of Dubai wanted and could not wait to initiate these ground-breaking ideas. I changed the normal ways of Dubai and created a new ‘grooming way of life’ to come. Since this start, many others have followed; but with a hugely loyal following, some of which has been with us since the beginning over 12 years ago, we see ourselves as the front-runner in grooming for the region.

How do you balance being a mother and wife with being an empress of business?

To be honest, I don’t! Being a great mother, wife and business woman is not an easy job, or three! Having said that, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Once I set my mind on something I absolutely have to do it well; in fact in some ways I would rather not do it at all if it means I can’t do it well. Looking after my health is of the utmost importance to me – it comes on top of everything. I can’t be the best mother, wife or businesswoman unless I keep that as a top priority. Time management is also key; I pick and choose my battles and challenges. Following my illness I had to get back to work. I like to be involved in every aspect of my company, I love to channel my creative juices!

Personally you’re heavily involved in charity work – what motivates you to get involved with certain causes?

In my country, Iran, I am heavily involved in charities for children. I am very conscious of these causes, in particular because I am a mother of four children. I feel that it is so important for them to have the small but essential things in life, such as having fun and friends. I don’t like to ‘broadcast’ as such the charities I support, as this is a private thing for us, but it is very, very close to my heart and an integral part of my life.

Society Bells

Celebrated woman:

Negin and celebrity hair stylist from LA, Negin Zand

Negin and her daughter Alia and son Kian

Negin, her mum Lily and sister Mariam.

ing my biggest supporter. I had support from every aspect of my life, even from my staff, who sent their love regularly. It has built my relationship with God and now I truly believe that there is a reason for everything.

Do you have any beauty rituals you can share with our readers?

One thing I do swear by is sleep. When I don’t get enough sleep I feel like someone else. I think it is essential to ensure you get the right amount, not only for your body but for your mind as well. When it comes to products, I can’t live without REN for my face and Ila for my body – they are natural and free of harmful carcinogens. Oh, and water, water, water!

You seem very physically fit, what are your workout secrets?

I tend not to work out too heavily because of my health but it is very important to me to keep fit, both in mind and body. To release energy in the mornings I love to take a brisk walk around the block. Another great exercise for the morning is yoga and yoga meditation at night before I go to sleep. I also can’t live without the following drinks – for the morning I have to have one litre of my Green Juice, consisting of ALL things green – cucumber, green pepper, coriander, parsley, celery, bitter gourd and green apples, on an empty stomach. At night, for calming and soothing, I have fresh ginger in a cup of boiling water.

Where are your favourite places to shop in Dubai?

I don’t have a favourite place to shop but I always take friends to S*uce for great gifts and of course I love Boutique 1 and a new store, Symphony. For must-have high-street buys it has to be Topshop and H&M.

Where is your favourite place in the world?

I would say that a favourite place is one that leaves you full of wonderful memories. So, for me, it has to be Capri Island in Italy – I had one of the best holidays there. I’m not sure what it was, maybe the place or being surrounded by my family and friends, but it was fantastic.

Who are your personal style icons, or who do you look up to?

I would say it is my father and grandfather; when it comes to grooming and business acumen, they have always taught me that it is of the utmost importance to be well-groomed. I look up to my mother when it comes to family and motherhood, she is the most hospitable person I know and a true inspiration.

What plans do you have for your future and your family?

I was told a very funny line once, ‘If you want to make God laugh – tell him your plans!’ I would say I have learnt that the hard way when it comes to making plans. Instead of making plans, I want to live as healthily as possible in every sense of the word, mentally and physically.

Negin’s Empire

How did your experience with breast cancer change your outlook on life?

It drastically changed my life – it opened my eyes. I woke up and really thought that someone was trying to tell me something. It made me realise how much there is to life – it was less of a ‘oh why me’ moment and more of a realisation that I needed to be strong for my family and friends, to get through this and carry on. Another huge thing I realised following my diagnosis was how much the people around me actually cared for me. Obviously, you know that your friends and family care about you, but it is not until something life-changing happens,that you realise just how much. I have always had a strong relationship with God but following my diagnosis this relationship was cemented. I had, and still have, an amazing support system and love around me, with my husband be-

N.Bar

The Middle East’s first chain of nail bars, N.Bar has a choice of over 150 Essie nail colours. N.Bar offers a selection of advanced nail treatment, luxurious therapies for hands and feet, rejuvenating massages and a full range of waxing and threading services. A fresh interior décor is complemented by attentive staff who are often requested by name on repeat visits.

Jet Set

A blow dry bar which offers quick and easy hair styles for girls on the go. Cut and colours are on offer, but the blow dry bar is the main focus of Jet Set. If you’re short on time this is the perfect place to get styled before a big night out.

1847

The region’s first men’s grooming lounge. Promising a unique experience of ‘executive grooming’ through a range of high-end services, from shaves to shoe-shines, manicures to pedicures, and massages to facials, 1847’s wide variety of choice offers everything from the quick and basic to the long and the leisurely. Your man will be transformed and have a new appreciation for physical grooming.

Tilia & Finn

A beauty lounge with a focus on all natural products. Feminine and homely interiors offer comfort and tranquility whilst the focus here is on natural and chemical-free products. A full body experience from hair to nails, face to body, can all be catered to under one roof.

Fashion

â&#x20AC;&#x153; It is the unseen, unforgettable ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departureâ&#x20AC;? Coco Chanel

Fashion Banquet

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ake for a very stylish summer and look to sheer fabrics and kaftan shapes for breathable attire. McQueenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flame colour dress is perfect for sandals on the beach followed by heels at night. Alternatively Pucci, Body Amr and Andrew Gin offer breezy kaftanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in vibrant colours and exciting prints. Accessorise in delicate golds for a relaxed but polished look.

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1 Alexander McQueen. 2 Dior. 3 Hermes. 4 christian Louboutin. 5 emilio Pucci. 6 Alberta Ferretti. 7 Emilio Pucci @ net-a-porter.com. 8 Body Amr @ Boutique1.com. 9 Alessandra Rich @ Boutique1.com. 10 Dolce & Gabbana.

11 Andrew Gn @ Boutique1.com. 12 Alberta Ferretti. 13 Jimmy Choo. 14 Isharya @ net-a-porter.com. 15 Rosantica @ net-a-porter.com. 16 Dior. 17 Erickson Beamon @ net-a-porter.com. 18 Charlotte Olympia.

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Blacks and Metallics

he new black is black teamed with metallic! Take inspiration from Alexander Berardi’s sequined harem pants and black chiffon shirt, and enjoy its sparkling qualities when walking under the strong summer sun. Or play with the rules and go all black in Chloe’s top and shorts combo, with Michael Kors’ glistening shirt thrown on top for good metalic measure.

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1 Lanvin. 2 Hermes. 3 alexander Berardi. 4 Melissa Odabash @ Boutique1.com. 5 Alexander McQueen. 6 Christian Louboutin. 7 Giuseppe Zanotti. 8 Dolce & Gabbana. 9 Marc Jacobs. 10 alexander Berardi.

17 11 chloe. 12 Michael Kors @ net-a-porter.com. 13 Marchesa @ net-a-porter.com. 14 dvf @ Boutique1.com. 15 Lara bohinc @ theluxuryemporium.com. 16 Dries van noten. 17 la perla.

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hrow yourself into the celebratory season with full throttle excitement and shop til you drop for elegant dinner party demeanour. Just below or above the knee is just the right measurement for an evening with friends and loved ones. Alexander McQueen, Rodarte and Antonio Berardi all offer some wonderfully fun and quirky options. Keep it clean when accessorising with golden entangled cuffs and neat and refined clutches.

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1 Antonio Berardi. 2 Giorgio Armani. 3 Lanvin. 4 Christian Louboutin. 5 Chanel. 6 Alberta Ferretti. 7 Alexander McQueen @ net-a-porter.com. 8 Dolce & Gabbana. 9 Alberta Ferretti.

10 Lanvin. 11 Rodarte @ net-a-porter.com. 12 Giuseppe Zanotti. 13 Dolce & Gabbana. 14 Markus Lupfer @ Boutique1.com. 15 Stella McCartney. 16 Giuseppe Zanotti.

Designer PROFILE Images from top to bottom / left to right Courtesy of: Larry Busacca at Getty.

Elegant Beckham By Kelly Baldwin

Upper East Side elegance is back on the fashion agenda, with every celebrity from Gisele and Elle Macpherson to fashionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool kids Blake Lively and Leighton Meester testing the ladylike waters. Each trend begins with an influencer and MOJEH sees it as no coincidence that the Victoria Beckham Collection made its runway dĂŠbut around the same time that the trend made its reprisal. 37

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Designer PROFILE S/S 2010

nothing too extreme, but still a small step away from the less body conscious minimal looks which at the time ruled the runways. It was just a hint of what was to become of the brand and subsequently the 21st century dresser. By Fall 2009, Beckham introduced her now infamous style, The Carmontelle, a body-conscious, shoulder padded dress – in both grey and magenta – with a feminine peplum detail swaying at the hip (similar to Roland Mouret’s Galaxy and Moon dresses which would later spur empty rumours of an undercover collaboration). By the time Elle Macpherson and Gossip Girl’s Blair (Leighton Meester) stepped out in the dress, both looking suitably elegant, feminine and classy, it was official; a Victoria Beckham dress was just as powerful and just as big a statement as a Birkin Bag. A season or two in, everyone from the slender Gwyneth Paltrow and the taut Demi Moore, to the more curvaceous Jennifer Lopez and Jennifer Hudson, were choosing a different Beckham dress for every occasion. Walking out in one of the designs received instant acknowledgement of class and control. Most notably, fashion’s experimental trendsetters, such as New York scenester Blake Lively, would slip into one of the designs and realise the power it gave them to act more sophisticated while out on the town. It’s this thought process that proves

Images from top to bottom / left to right Courtesy of: Ray Tamarra at Getty, Jason Merritt at Getty, Jason Kempin at Getty, Jason Merritt, Chip Somodevilla, Larry Busacca at Getty, Bryan Bedder at Getty, Craig Barritt at Getty, Jason Merritt at Getty, Larry Busacca at Getty, Stephen Lovekin at Getty, Ray Tamarra at Getty.

Designer PROFILE

xperimentation and boundary pushing seemed to be the essence of the last few decades: art met fashion with the likes of Hussein Chalayan’s grandiose runway exhibitions, Westwood’s punk-fuelled social movement, Marc Jacobs’ introduction to grunge at its finest and Jean Paul Gaultier’s use of plus size, pop sensation Beth Ditto who ran riot on his runway. By the late 00’s the fashion waters seemed to calm and in a recession-induced coma, experimentation took a back seat as minimalism prevailed. Celine, Chloe, Calvin Klein Collection and even fashion’s most eccentric made a move towards clean lines and controlled colour palettes. Finally, in an extension of the minimal trend, ladylike elegance has arisen from the ashes of the 1940’s and is beginning to reshape the way 21st century women look, feel and act. One lady and her infant fashion house arguably lead the movement in action and design; all hail Victoria Beckham. The Victoria Beckham collection made its runway début for spring/summer 2009, as fashion followers were fed a very small taster (just ten-pieces to be exact) of below the knee, fitted dresses in plain blacks, creams and whites. The aesthetic was tight and strict, with occasional accessorising, in a controlled colour palette and very fuss free manner. The designs were quite wisely

“A few seasons in, the genetics of the design house were established and admittedly brilliant; body forming, attention to detail, focused and eloquent” jeans and eyewear collections. Her previous style mishaps were not forgotten but made her ever more endearing and all the more real and relatable to the women watching her evolve. She’s transformed herself from a punchy pop queen who - like most fashion followers of our time - has tried and tested every trend available with varying success rates. Victoria Beckham has now harmoniously settled for something a little more understated and refined. Beckham was a woman who seemed to have everything, but when it came to designing the industry made sure she still had everything to prove. “I can cope with mistakes if they are mistakes I make myself,” she said at one of her catwalk shows. A few seasons in, the genetics of the design house were established and admittedly brilliant; body forming, attention to detail, focused and eloquent. Her front rows (now in New York) consisted of fashions biggest critics who scribbled nothing but niceties and earnest praise. Everyone was smitten: Victoria was smitten with designing, and we were smitten with the designs. “She is someone who has always wanted to design clothes. She

This Page: 1. Victoria Beckham attend the ‘Project Runway’ Season 4 Fall 2008 fashion show, 2. David and Victoria Beckham leave the Hassler Hotel, as part of Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise wedding, 2006 in Rome, 3. At the Vanity Fair Oscar Party 2007, 4. Designer Marc Jacobs and Victoria Beckham attend the 2008 CFDA Fashion Awards, 5. Jennifer Lopez and Victoria Beckham attend the Marc Jacobs Spring 2009 fashion show 6. Designer Karl Lagerfeld and Victoria Beckham attend the 58th annual Bambi Awards 2006, 7. Victoria Beckham attend the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006. Previous Page: 1. Elle Macpherson, 2. Heidi Klum, 3. Gisele Bündchen, 4. Brooklyn Decker, 5. Jennifer Lopez, 6. Oprah Winfrey, 7. Blake Lively, 8. Cameron Diaz, 9. Demi Moore, 10. Jennifer Hudson, 11. Gwyneth Paltrow, 12. Leighton Meester.

knows the body, she loves it and she is working her butt off,” reported close friend Marc Jacobs to Woman’s Wear Daily in 2009. For this season, her collection has evolved even further. As any confident woman would, she takes risks, but ones that are well measured, timely and intelligent. Showing at New York’s Fashion Week in a studio on the Upper East Side – a place in the world where her collections are in perfect company – the audience were wooed by her spring/ summer collection. Her cardinal body-con, below the knee dresses with snaking zips on show, were an ever-present reminder of how far she’d come. This time around they came in lively pinks and tangerine oranges. Stunning new introductions were made as more spacious designs roamed the runway: a-line skirts, smock dresses and ruffled waists were some of the most welcome newcomers. The colour palette is punchier with silvers, violets and patented purples all making their debut. Shapes are architected perfectly, some with bow detailing at the waist and others origamied with just one or two puffed pleats from the neck to the knee. The grandest looks of all are the floor length gowns, some with fish tails and others in billowing puff ball shapes. The entire collection embraces the spirit of today’s refined and stylish woman, with the grace and demure of a 1940’s socialite queen.

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Designer PROFILE

the style’s worth in shaping the movement of twenty-first century dressing. Women want to be taken seriously and even if this means deviating slightly from their instinctual style, with lady-like elegance comes increased confidence. A Victoria Beckham has fast become the staple dress for making that courageous statement. What woman flawlessly represents the changing of the 21st century dresser better than the actual lady behind the designs? Victoria Beckham and her style was always something of an enigma to the media and society. Was she talented, was her marriage genuine, and was she anything more than a ‘WAG’? Did she have class, was she a trendsetter or a trend follower, should she really have worn those shorts to the World Cup? Slowly but surely she began to prove herself in spirit and in style. Her front row appearances exuded an elegant demeanour and new designer friends included Marc Jacobs, Karl Lagerfeld and Roberto Cavalli. In 2006, she was a contributing fashion editor for Harpers Bazaar and by 2008 she made her first cover of Vogue UK. Finally she offered her style to the world with the launch of her

Images from top to bottom / left to right Courtesy of: Stephen Lovekin at Getty, Salvatore Laporta at Getty, Evan Agostini at Getty, Stephen Lovekin at Getty, Brad Barket at Getty, Sean Gallup at Getty, Ross Kinnaird at Getty.

Designer PROFILE

S/S 2011

The latest celebrity to don a Victoria Beckham dress is the world’s highest earning model, the stunning Gisele Bündchen. Known for her sultry displays as a Victoria’s Secret model and as a tight jeans and t-shirt wearing Brazilian babe, this time Gisele needed an elegant and sophisticated dress to collect her Global and Environment Citizen Award from Harvard University in May. Like every other women who chooses Victoria Beckham as her second skin, Gisele looked womanly, sophisticated and magnificently elegant. The charm in the design becomes the charm of the wearer. For autumn/winter 2011, we can expect more of the same style delights from Mrs. Beckham. Tight dresses still hold their place in autumnal shades of plum, cream and duck egg blue. The collection has developed further still into looser lines with deeply pleated shirts and roomy smock dresses (worn by Victoria herself to April’s Royal Wedding). “As I’ve become more confident in my own skin, I realised I wanted to give women the freedom to be more comfortable,” she said at the show in February. Just six seasons into the brand, she’s giving women freedom and comfort, along with a new style aesthetic and a chic attitude. For the Victoria Beckham woman, effortless elegance is the pièce de résistance of modern fashion.

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wenty first century fashion has turned the what was once clinical and stuffy suit into a stylish and fun affair. This season’s collections are incandescent with an array of charming versions, from Phillip Lim’s preppy short combo to Akris sharp, white and roomy two-piece. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your styles and tones - a shirt plus trousers still equals suit, even if in contrasting colours.

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1 Oscar de la Renta @ net-a-porter.com. 2 Tom Ford. 3 Jimmy Choo. 4 Akris. 5 Alberta Ferretti. 6 Lara Bohinc @ theluxuryemporium.com. 7 Stella McCartney. 8 Dior. 9 Stella McCartney. 10 Maison Martin Margiela @ net-a-porter.com.

11 Alaia @ Boutique1.com. 12 Miu Miu @ net-a-porter.com. 13 Phillip Lim @ net-a-porter.com. 14 DVF @ Boutique1.com. 15 McQ @ net-a-porter.com. 16 Chloe @ net-a-porter.com. 17 Stella McCartney. 18 Shoes Christian Louboutin.

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e couldn’t let the summer season bow out without paying one final homage to the year’s brightest trend. Catch the colour rainbow with ravishing accessories in vibrant violets, ruby reds and aqua blues. Add a rich red Balenciaga bag, or keep it toned down in a neon pastel shirt or blazer such as Stella McCartney’s cornflour blue jacket and Elizabeth and James’s crayon blue shirt. Embrace, enjoy and paint the town an array of colours one final time!

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1 Nina Ricci. 2 Charlotte Olympia. 3 Hermes. 4 Etro. 5 Isharya @ net-a-porter.com. 6 Gucci. 7 Mawi at S*uce. 8 Erdem @ Boutique1.com. 9 Elizabeth & James @ Boutique1.com. 10 Chanel. 11 Miu Miu. 12 Stella McCartney. 13 Balenciaga.

14 DVF @ Boutique1.com. 15 Tom Binns @ net-a-porter.com. 16 Pamela Love @ net-a-porter.com. 17 Christian Louboutin. 18 Preen @ Boutique1.com. 19 Jil Sander @ net-a-porter.com.

‘Fun, flirty and fashionable,’ is the embodiment of C’est Moi designs. A collection of elegant dresses, that have been created with only the woman and enhancing her natural shape and movement in mind. MOJEH talks serious fashion with the women behind the much-coveted brand, Muskan Taurani and Rashmi Kumari. 2008 was a very good year for Muskan and Rashmi, and subsequently an even better style year for the women of the region. After meeting a few months earlier by chance at a friend’s lunch, the two women saw a gap in the fashion market and launched a collection of custom-made couture at Dubai Fashion Week. Needless to say, the designs were an instant hit. “We produced a very dramatic catwalk, including an opera singer,” Muskan explained. “The collection was greatly received and it took off straight away.” Bought by high-end boutiques including Harvey Nichols, Chocolate & Pickles and later on Bloomingdales, the first collection sold out within just twenty days. C’est Moi’s standing as one of the most sought after brands in the region was solidified from the very start. It’s now three years on, and the duo are dressing an array of women from stylish housewives and business women, to the region’s savviest Sheikhas. “Our clients are extremely international in their outlook,” explains Rashmi. “They travel all over the world and are very up to date on the fashion circuit.” A C’est Moi dress offers regional quality and ease coupled with international style and status. The unique selling point of a C’est Moi dress is in the impeccable tailoring; designer Rashmi defies the traditional process, beginning where other designers usually end. “I start with the silhouette, making it absolutely perfect for the woman, and then I’ll end with the fabric, patterns and embellishment,” she explains. Subsequently, the dresses envelop the curved female form eloquently, with the C’est Moi rule of thumb being always to flatter and never hide a woman’s natural shape. “It’s a given that our clothes just don’t look anywhere near as good on the hanger as they do on the actual woman,” Rashmi continues.

“Our future is expansion within the region, we are so inspired here. It’s cosmopolitan, fashionable, cultured…and women really really love to dress up!”

Close to Trend home

C’est Moi

Concentrating on the architectural design of the dress, Rashmi builds the silhouette to mould to the wearer – especially in bespoke pieces – then develops the ornamental embellishment later. “Our designs shouldn’t be worn with any jewellery, most pieces have their own handmade decoration which in itself is a statement,” she explains. Their newest collection propels the designs into a new climate of decoration. “The entire range is a perfect juxtaposition of cutting edge custom and haute couture mixed in with prêt-a-couture trends, with minimalist cuts catered to suit every occasion,” explain the design duo. The new collection incorporates pure silks, jerseys and kaftan shapes in seasonal colours including earthy green, vibrant fuchsia, cherry red and powder blue. Detailing is paramount to C’est Moi’s style and bold, statement embellishments are beautifully built from the finest materials including Swarovski jewels, beads, gemstones and glass sequins. Standout pieces include the forest green maxi jersey dress, framed at the neck with a built-in bejewelled and scalloped edged bib. Alternatively, the floor skimming ruby red kaftan with gold Grecian detailing can be transformed for an evening goddess look or daytime boho vibe. “The focus still remains on our trademark asymmetrical contemporary styling and body conscious fit,” they explain. “Dazzling bugle-beaded long flowy evening dresses make the C’est Moi woman feel beautiful, powerful and amazing.” Most endearingly, the C’est Moi woman remains contemporary, stylish and through the teams bespoke tailoring service, enduringly individual. In a few short years, C’est Moi have catapulted themselves to the very heart of fashion design in the region. They have embraced the opportunities that are available, and share a mutual respect for their fellow designers. Most notably, they have been selected to represent the region at an event for Bloomingdales ‘New York New York’, this coming October. Of primary importance to the designers however is the unique and loyal relationship they share with their clients. Stocked in the most prestigious boutiques across the region and with a mono store due to open in Beirut, the designers still maintain a personal relationship with their wearers and, luckily for us, they’re not planning on going anywhere anytime soon. “Our future is expansion within the region, we are so inspired here. It’s cosmopolitan, fashionable, cultured…and women really, really love to dress up!”

For the Sheer Love of Fashion Photographed by federico DE ANGELIS Styling by Ă&#x2030;lodie ToubOul DAVID

Lace coat, LANVIN | White collar/plastron, BRIGITTE CAMPAGNE | Satin bra and black satin corset, CADOLLE | White leather belt, AZZEDINE ALAĂ?A | Bracelets, LANVIN

Black satin bra and corset, CADOLLE | Lace top, NINA RICCI | Orange chiffon top, YSL | Belt, AZZEDINE ALAÏA | Double ring, MARTIN MARGIELA

Black lace collar, BRIGITTE CAMPAGNE | Shirt and skirt, MARC JACOBS | Bracelets, LANVIN | Belt, AZZEDINE ALAÏA

Black lace dress and red shorts, AZZEDINE ALAÏA | Vintage lace collar, BRIGITTE CAMPAGNE | White silk bra, CADOLLE | Double ring, MARTIN MARGIELA | Belt, shoes, AZZEDINE ALAÏA

Around Midnight Photographed by Éric Guillemain Styling by Sybille de Saint-Phalle

Silk jersey dress, Azzedine AlaÏa Cascade earrings, 18K white gold and diamonds | Comete necklace, white gold and diamonds | On the left, Camelia bracelet, white gold and white and black diamonds | On the right, Dentelle de Camelia cuff, 18K white gold and diamonds | L’air ring, white gold and diamonds | Comete rings, white gold and diamonds | All Chanel Joaillerie

Viscose knit dress, AZZEDINE ALAÏA | Lady peep sling patent heels, Christian Louboutin | Cascade earrings, 18K white gold and diamonds, Chanel Joaillerie | On the left, Dentelle de Camélia cuff, 18K white gold and diamonds Chanel Joaillerie | Gourmande Pastel ring, pink gold, diamonds, morganite, sapphires and white mother of pearl, Dior fine jewelery | L’Air ring, 18K white gold and diamonds | Franges Solaires ring, both Chanel Joaillerie | On the right, Bracelet, silver, Hermès | Feux d’Artifice ring, Dior fine jewelery

Silk crepe sleeveless dress, Chanel | Sexy strass aurora boreal peep toe heels, Christian Louboutin | Cascade earrings, 18K white gold and diamonds, Chanel Joaillerie | Bracelets and rings, all Hermès

Silk crepe dress, DIOR | Coquine earrings, yellow gold diamonds , Dior fine jewelery | On the left, Rose gold bracelets, HermĂ¨s | On the right, Rose gold and brown diamonds bracelet, HermĂ¨s

White silk blouse, CHANEL | Black silk satin pants, YVES SAINT LAURENT | Belt, RABIH KAYROUZ | Nougat earrings, yellow gold , Dior fine jewelery | Bracelets and rings, rose gold, Hermès Opposite page: Gown with swarovski elements waist band, Martin Grant | Kelly Cut black crocodile wallet, Hermès | Petit Caprice earrings, white gold, diamonds and cultured pearls | Dior VIII watch , both Dior fine jewelery | Silver rings and silver bracelet, Hermès | Black suede cut out booties, AZZEDINE ALAÏA

White feather dress, John Galliano | Cream lurex sandals, John Galliano | Petit Caprice earrings | Mimioui precieuse long necklaces | Milly Sous La Neige long necklace, all Dior fine jewelery | Long necklace, Hermes | On the left, Dentelle de Camelia cuff, 18K white gold and diamonds, Chanel Joaillerie | Feux d’Artifice ring, Dior fine jewelery | On the right, Camelia Bracelet, white gold and white and black diamonds, Chanel Joaillerie | Feux d’Artifice ring, Dior fine jewelery Model: Maria Palm Lyduch, Elite Paris | Assistant stylist: Astrid Guilhot | Hair: Olivier Lebrun, B agency| Makeup: Marie Duhart, Atelier 68 | Photo assistants: Olivier Jeanne-Rose and Christophe Herembourt | Shoot location: Cercle des Écrivains, Paris | Production: Valentine Avron, 2B Paris

NEVER goes out

of Style As quickly realised in the MOJEH office, elegance is subjective. Is it Audrey Hepburn peering into the window of Tiffany’s New York, dripping in diamonds and dressed in Givenchy? Or is it Angelina Jolie in a white UNICEF t-shirt tenderly caring for children in Africa? As defined by the Oxford English Dictionary, elegance is “the quality of being graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.” As defined by us, it is appearance and manner; the ability to be styled with grace from top to toe, but polished off with dignity, charisma and generosity to match. From fashions new crush Kate Middleton to Helen Mirrens everlasting sophistication, these are our modern day Elizabeth Taylors and Grace Kellys.

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Francois Durand at Getty, Jason Merritt at Getty, WPA Pool at Getty, Brooks Kraft at Corbis, WPA Pool at Getty, WPA Pool at Getty, Ethan Miller at Getty, Jemal Countess at Getty, Jason Merritt at Getty, Dimitrios Kambouris at Getty.

Elegance in focus

Elegance

Angelina Jolie

Michelle Obama

Angelina Jolie turned her back on the dirty grunge days - mostly remembered by wearing Billy Bob Thornton’s blood in a vile around her neck – and has evolved into one of the world’s most elegant and generous women. Her style is basic and fail-safe, but carried off with the unmistakable Angelina air of confidence and composure. She spends more time in her role as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador than in the shops however, dedicating herself to the lives of people around the world as opposed to her closet.

They say that behind every great man is a great woman - and Michelle Obama is exceptional in more ways than one. She helps her husband lead America into a new generation and all the while maintaining her impeccable sartorial taste. When the occasion calls, Michelle dons only the most elegant of couture, and then switches to beautiful tailoring for daytime to act as an ambassador of her country.

Sheikha Moza

Cate Blanchett

Australian actress Cate Blanchett can’t be faulted for her red carpet style; perfectly groomed from head to toe and supporting covetable designers on every occasion. We love her for her endearing character and ethereal charm.

A revolutionary for monarchical wives in the Middle East, Sheikha Moza is a very high profile figure in her native Qatar’s politics and society. She is actively involved in government and philanthropic work, and in 2003 UNESCO appointed her as Special Envoy for Basic and Higher Education. In this capacity, she actively promotes various international projects to improve the quality and accessibility of education worldwide. She has been particularly involved in trying to ensure that education is protected during the current conflicts in Gaza, Iraq and Afghanistan. With such a global influence, Sheikha Moza has proven to be the best ambassador the Middle East could hope for. Her personal style catches the headlines internationally, but her generous spirit and inspirational work ethic ensure the global recognition of her constant compassion.

Rachel Weisz

English born, Cambridge educated actress Rachel Weisz is never caught looking anything but perfect. Her articulate British accent, good humour, brilliant brains and philanthropist attitude has made her the leading lady in many beautiful movies from The Land Girls to The Constant Gardner.

Elegance in focus This award-winning actress has charmed our nations for years. Beginning with her cute and cuddly role as Bridget Jones, Renee was an advocate for all curvaceous and unlucky in love women. She has ruled the runways since, in outfit after outfit of timeless dresses in understated colours and tranquil prints. Her daywear is never outlandish or risky, and she represents all classy and contemporary women across the globe.

This buxom blonde has been sending shutterbugs wild ever since she first appeared on our screens as a fresh faced teen in ‘The Horse Whisperer’. Her real woman curves and down to earth attitude have garnered her legions of fans on and off the red carpet. Always highlighting her figure in an elegantly seductive way, Johansson’s girl next door demeanor singles her out as a starlet who doesn’t believe her own hype.

Katie Holmes

Mrs. Cruise’s look has 360’d into a beautifully refined style swan since the teenage years of Joey and Dawson. She’s not your obvious, full-length, billowing gown wearer, but instead exemplifies understated elegance and everyday grace. With her pretty skirt and top combos, teamed with dark chocolate lustrous hair and an adorably elegant five year old mini-me to match, Katie fits the bill of poise perfectly.

Natalia Vodianova

Natalia is the supermodel enigma; young, brilliant, beautiful and more than generous with her time. As founder of the Naked Heart Foundation, she uses her endearing personality to win over famous faces and raise an abundance of cash for under-privileged Russian children. Her flawless style also adds to her ultra-refined persona; couture muse by night and yummy mummy by day.

Helen Mirren

At 65 years old, Dame Helen has amassed a collection of Academy Awards, SAGs, BAFTAs, Golden Globes and Emmys. Her stellar career spans TV and the silver screen, and her style choices on the red carpet have proven elegance is something innate to the individual. As selfdepreciating as she is talented, she has been quoted as saying she is “famous for being cool about not being gorgeous”.

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Larry Busacca at Getty, Rune Helestad at Corbis, WPA Pool at Getty, WPA Pool at Getty, Jason Kempin at Getty, Daniele Venturelli at Getty, Pascal Le Segretain, Pascal Le Segretain, Larry Busacca at Getty, Jason Kempin at Getty.

Scarlett Johansson

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Stephen Lovekin, Andreas Rentz, Ethan Miller at Getty, Frazer Harrison at Getty, Stephen Lovekin at Getty, Janette Pellegrini at Getty, Ian Gavan at Getty, Pascal Le Segretain Getty, Andreea Angelescu at Corbis, Lisa O coonor Zuma Press at Corbis.

Elegance in focus Renee Zellweger

Victoria Beckham

Kate Middleton

From pop star, to red carpet lovely and now star designer, Mrs. Beckham has transformed into an international style icon. “I know I came from a pop band and I’m married to a footballer, but I think the fashion industry has accepted me,” she says proudly. Withstanding the scrutiny of her image, her marriage and her career, Beckham has remained dignified and focused. Her inner grace and willingness to prove her naysayers wrong have made her an elegant icon in her own right.

England’s newest Princess also happens to be the world’s freshest fashion icon. Over the past years, we have watched her evolve from a preppy Cambridge student, to a perfected future queen. Regal style aside, her finest moment was the discipline and rigour she displayed when keeping mum about the royal relationship’s break-ups and make-ups.

Queen Rania of Jordan

Voted number two of the most beautiful royals in the world, second only to Grace Kelly, Queen Rania of Jordan is an international emblem of beauty, grace and integrity. Dedicating her life to philanthropic efforts, her charity work includes improvements in education in Jordan with a focus on community empowerment. She is also a New York Times Best Seller, having released her award winning children’s book, ‘The Sandwich Swap’, in 2010.

Carla Bruni

The first lady of France has been flying the flag for lady-like elegance long before anyone else in the twenty-first century. A subtle pre-requisite for next season’s runways, she’s always showcasing the neatest two-pieces in the most elegant of colours, from ink blues to peachy nudes. Not to mention that Audrey Hepburn hair and delightfully natural make-up.

Diane Kruger

The star of Troy and Joshua Jackson’s untouchable other-half, Diane Kruger is an exceptional designer darling, and a suitable style setter. Unlike many stars of her generation, she’s never papped intoxicated at parties, dancing on tables or with a curfew tag around her ankle. Diane is new Hollywood, but with the grace and poise of an old Hollywood legend.

Celebrate Eid in style and choose from an array of beautiful dresses created in structures and styles to die for. From deep lilac halter necks at Issa, to floor skimming gowns at McQueen, there’s more than one style to suit each of your Eid occasions. What better excuse to finally shop for the most desirable dresses you’ve been coveting all season?

Akris

THE Bandeau

This season saw an influx of floor length smock dresses that add a laid back quality to dressing up; perfect for events during the day or for a boho look at night. Calvin Klein keeps it clean in all white, whilst Etro goes bold in blacks. Be inspired by the nauticals at Jil Sander or prairie girls at Issa. Our favourite look for instant show stopping style is Michael Kors’ lemon yellow silk and jersey dress. Use the power of accessories to dress down for day or up for night; wear with sandals for daytime celebrations and with heels and jewels for night-time allure.

Compliment your end of summer tan with a strapless, bodice style gown. Look to Carolina Herrera for contrasting colours, or Monique L’Huillier for head to toe golden glory. Giorgio Armani accessorised with this season’s must have turban hat, adding an undisputable elegance and edge to the style. Seek feathered extravagance from Marchesa or spotty monochrome from Oscar de la Renta. Whatever the style or print, the strapless bodice creates a timeless aesthetic suitable for any evening event.

Fashion occasion

The shapes of Eid

THE FLOOR LENGTH SMOCK

Issa Jil Sander

Calvin Klein

Dsquared2

Emilio Pucci

Carolina Herrera

Giorgio Armani

Cacharel

Carolina Herrera

Jason wu

Fendi

Elie Saab

Etro

Marchesa

Michael Kors

Monique L’Huillier

Issa

Louis Vuitton

THE HALTER

THE SLIT

The Halter neck has long been one of women’s favourite choices for red carpet and occasion dressing; flattering at the front and edgy at the back with just a touch of skin flashing. Compliment the style with an up-do that won’t overshadow the strong focus on the neck. For ball gown glamour, fall for Carolina Herrera’s metallic taffeta number, or for a laid back summer look Cacharel and Akris offer fun and fresh prints. Issa adds a contemporary and glamorous twist to the halter with ruche crossover effects in majestic plums. But nothing comes quite as feminine as Jason Wu’s ink blue chiffon gown, decorated with the most perfect petal detailing.

This season the catwalks were awash with ultra sexy dresses showcasing a sultry shot of leg. The slit comes in a multitude of styles, prints and fabrics, with something fit for any occasion day or night. For evening inspiration see Dsquared2’s silk black bustier number, Elie Saab’s waist gathered jersey dress in coral and Louis Vuitton’s two-toned animal print; fierce and feminine. Alternatively go for slightly laid-back luxury with Fendi’s baby blue tied waist and short slit look, or Emilio Pucci’s seventies print lycra number. For a lesson in the ultimate leg flashing confidence, replay Charlize Theron’s J’adore by Dior advert and prepare to make an entrance.

Oscar De La Renta

Fashion occasion

The ONESHOULDER GOWN

The TRAIn DRESS

The one-shoulder will never go out of style: elegant, classy, endearing and always, always on the most glamorous runways. We’re head over heels for Oscar de la Renta’s chiffon gown with falling hearts and petals, or Zac Posen’s monochrome evening dress with a hard-edged structure to die for. Naeem Khan offers a figure wrapping printed number in tranquil blues, bold purples and earthy greens; perfect for evening parties under the deep night sky. Marc Jacobs created a brilliant palette of ruby red, sunset orange and deep plum with a draped detail at the shoulder edge. Contrastingly at Chloe, we saw a swan lake style gown in mauve brown worn elegantly with dainty ballet pumps.

An absolute must-have for the season is the modern and super sultry take on the classic train dress - think Kate Middleton’s wedding dress, but hitched up a metre at the front for bare-leg seduction. Speaking of Kate’s dress, Sarah Burton created a good bride gone bad version with mountainous pleats and ruffles framing the legs gloriously. Lanvin’s version is freer flowing in transparent silk and sheers, similar to Giambattista Valli’s sunshine lemon version, perfect for garden parties. For summer’s relaxed boho vibe be inspired by Emilio Pucci’s midnight blue chiffon version or Stella McCartney’s exotic fruit bowl. Who said the alter is the only place to relish in the glory of a train?

Stella McCartney

Naeem Khan

Lanvin

Oscar De La Renta

Zac Posen

Marc Jacobs

Alexander Mcqueen

Chloe

Emilio Pucci

Giambattista Valli

Organized by:

By appointment only

Text by Meaghan Rogers

He came to America with a dream, became an industry leader, an icon and a legend. Now, in the aftermath of his passing, MOJEH magazine looks back at the extraordinary life and career of Bijan Pakzad, fashion designer to the world’s most powerful men and a shining example of perseverance, self belief and success. 80

Image by Douglas Kirkland at Corbis.

Born in Tehran, Iran in 1940, a young Bijan modelled his future talents on his father’s style. The almost ceremonial act of putting on a suit in the morning, matching his tie to his pocket square and donning freshly polished shoes was imprinted into the designers mind and would act as the foundation for his menswear empire. Arriving in America in 1973, he found his way to Beverly Hills and subsequently opened his first store on Rodeo Drive in 1976; back then it was very different to how we know it now. When Bijan moved in, there was little more than a gas station and a few clothing stores. Now of course, Rodeo Drive is lined with famed jewellers and design houses, alongside the self-made designer’s flagship store heralded as ‘The most expensive store in the world’. The $12 million Mediterranean style palazzo is even classified as a Beverly Hills landmark. Inside, one can find such luxuries as a $15,000 vicuña coat, a $120,000 chinchilla bedspread and a $65,000 crocodile-trimmed luggage set. It revolutionised the retail business in the States, as customer entry was ‘by appointment only’, the first of it’s kind in the US. Catering to the very wealthy and powerful, including world leaders, Hollywood stars and stockbrokers, the designer’s vision was to bestow individualised attention upon each customer. Inevitably this exclusivity and dedication paid off, as customers spent extraordinary sums of money on everything from silk ties to suits, shoes to luggage, pocket squares to overcoats, umbrellas to bed throws and even bottles of perfume. The interior of the store is designed as a decadent homestead with colour coded closets, each housing a full collection of items, acting as display cases. Hundreds of flowers and pictures of celebrity friends adorn every available table, adding to the homely atmosphere. An impressive Baccarat crystal chandelier hangs proudly over the staircase, decorated with 1,250 red bottles of Bijan’s custom perfume. The windows of his store are in scripted with the names of his famous clients, which included Barack Obama, Robert de Niro, George W. Bush, Tom Cruise and Al Pacino. With highly influential customers comes high demands—something Bijan has always recognised. Going to the ends of the earth for his clients is something this designer took quite literally. For those guests that can’t make it to his LA store, Bijan and his team of tailors journeyed twice a year to visit exclusive clients in Europe and the Middle East. For a sale of potentially millions, it is a small price to pay and just another element of the exclusive service offered to the top 1% of high earners Bijan catered to.

“His mega watt smile and love of life made him a deeply loveable character that touched everyone he met”

Fashion Legacy

t the memorial for Bijan on the 30th of May 2011, the Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger shared a dispute he once had with the late designer. The Governor was disgruntled over a suit he wanted that was given to George Bush. He told of how Bijan laughed and said he was working on something extra-special for the Governor that would showcase the two greatest loves in his life. On stage, Schwarzenegger opened his jacket and showed the crowd Bijan’s results. The inside breast had an American flag on the right side and on the left a Californian flag lay over his heart. Such individual details in design are classic attributes of a man dedicated to luxury and his elite customers.

Tales of huge sales have emanated from the many years of trading Bijan has maintained. A couple that visited the store in early 2011 spent a staggering $600,000 in a solitary afternoon. The young couple then returned the following day hoping to purchase more jackets to take home to Asia and spent another $250,000. Ironically, they didn’t have an appointment. With prices ranging from $1,200 for a bespoke silk tie to upwards of $25,000 for a suit; one can see how things might add up at the till. Bijan was also known for creating custom pieces to suit his clients’ individual taste. Reportedly, when former President Ronald Reagan wanted something warm to wear on the family ranch, Bijan designed mink lined jeans for him. When regular just won’t do, the world’s most powerful men called upon Bijan. Perfecting perfection seemed to be the designer’s ethos. His dedication to providing his elite customers the best ensured Bijan remained one of the only menswear designers whose company was owned and operated by the original designer. Up until his passing, he remained the head of all operations, overseeing more than $1 billion in sales by the summer of 2010. His larger than life personality aided him in everything he did, garnering him a legion of loyal fans and admirers; as George H. W. Bush once said: ‘His propensity for friendship is extraordinary’. His mega watt smile and love of life made him a deeply loveable character that touched everyone he met. He was the first designer to truly understand the concept of self-branding. Bijan was starring in billboards and his own ads long before Karl Lagerfeld or Tom Ford. He learned early on that no one could sell his concept better than he could. ‘I am not a mass designer,’ Pakzad told The Times in 2003, when sales of his fragrance lines, clothes and custom jewelry reportedly totaled more than $70 million annually. ‘What was important to me was not to have 2 million clients, like Versace, but to have 20,000 clients.’ His warm manner and unparalleled success left a lasting impression on the fashion world. He dressed 36 President’s from around the world including Barack Obama and Nicolas Sarkozy. ‘I believe in the quality and detail that goes into my clothes and how we present it. The bottom line is I look for quality not quantity.’ At his memorial service in LA, his son Nicolas read a letter of condolence from George W. Bush that personified the late designer perfectly: ‘By knowing Bijan we learned about the greatness of our country. The land where dreams become a reality and man did Bijan dream big. He was smart enough, energetic enough and creative enough to succeed. Bijan brought joy to many because he was so joyous. He brightened people’s lives because he was so bright.’ In his own words, Bijan is quoted as saying, ‘The world said to conform, the world said to settle for less, the world said to compromise and no one would know... so I made my own world.’

Fashion trend

Mother Nature Calls

s a season of neons, brights, pastels and more colours of the rainbow than we ever thought humanly possible comes to a close, we celebrate the understated elegance found in spring/summer’s mother nature hues. Be fashion wise and use these shades to fill any final gaps in your summer wardrobe; these will still be sitting strong in the autumn horizon. All summer we’ve been swooning over Michael Kors’ grassy green ensembles, wood brown swimsuits and dove cream trenches, and now is as good a time as any to introduce them to our style files. Turn to summer favourite Alberta Ferretti and indulge in the whimsical floral chiffons, but this time opt for sandy hues instead of deep purples or pastels. The autumn/winter catwalks came in a worldly wash of browns, greens and beiges, proving that many designers’ second colour palette was undoubtedly nature inspired. Mix the earthly undertones for head–to–toe, gloriously natural outfits, such as Chloe’s burnt brown silk trousers teamed with a dustier tone on top. Alternatively, match with simple whites and creams for a fresher look, like DKNY’s two-piece outfits. In a wonderful array of tanned browns, Frida Giannini turned the Gucci girls into forest tree branches with headto-toe autumnal outfits. Elsewhere, Jean Paul Gaultier rocked the grass fields with long leaf green prints and Hermès covered their runway in rich soil browns. However, no designer visited earth undertones with quite as much fashion feistiness as the star of the season, Peter Dundas at Pucci. The designer created floor-skimming, bountiful dresses in the richest of browns. The collection was the embodiment of Mother Nature herself. Saying our farewells to this season’s collections needn’t mean absolute closure. Look towards Mother Nature for more sublime, minimal looks to see you out of one season, smoothly into another. Summer’s natural tones will in fact become autumn’s must-haves. Emilio Pucci

Michael Kors

Alberta Ferretti

Michael Kors

Chloe

Gucci

Michael Kors

Alberta Ferretti

Hermes

DKNY

ALberta Ferretti

Michael Kors

Jean Paul Gaultier

Accessories

â&#x20AC;&#x153; You can always tell what kind of a person a man really thinks you are by the earrings he gives youâ&#x20AC;?

The bottom left photo courtesy of Maison Michel images shot by Karl Lagerfeld .

Audrey Hepburn

Most desired

our most coveted accesories for summer

TOURBILLON

new Bamboo Tamponata

Desire Me Snaffle Bit Python

Handmade handbags by Gucci

CASPITA, a new world unveiled

CASPITA is an exclamation of a thousand colours, a name chosen by Arlene Bonnant to launch her new line of fine jewellery. An Italian name which expresses admiration, joy and surprise – literally ‘my goodness’! The brand represents the art of jewellery addressing the soul. The jewels have the appearance of true sacred ornaments, which make a connection between the visible and invisible worlds, between a sensitive beauty and a deeper one, more mysterious and more fabulous. CASPITA creations are designed to develop a certain spiritual balance – there is a harmony and beauty nourishing every level of being, from its inner strength to its exterior radiance.

Kiss Me

Crave Me

The new Bamboo, the Snaffle Bit, and the Handmade bag – three of Gucci’s signature handbag designs have been recreated by designer Frida Giannini. The New Bamboo is comprised of 140 separate pieces which are hand-assembled by an expert artisan in Gucci’s Florentine workshops. The Snaffle Bit bag showcases hardware first used by Gucci the late 1950s reinterpreted after years in the archives. The Handmade bag, which also debuted on the spring/summer 2011 runway, is a testament to Gucci’s impeccable quality and superior craftsmanship.

Handmade

Collier de chien

Exceptional Pieces from Hermes Agent Provocateur’s brand new sunglasses range

Agent Provocateur has launched it’s debut eyewear collection in collaboration with Linda Farrow. The masters of saucy lingerie have created an alluring collection of sunglasses that put us in mind of the pin ups of the forties. Tortoiseshell frames and cat eye shapes keep the feminine and flirty feel we so love from their lingerie.

The famed French label has produced a series of beautiful and exclusive jewellery pieces as covetable as any of its handbags. Rose gold and brown diamonds are central to this beautiful collection that draws influence from Hermes traditional elements including the hunting dog collars, bridle details and iconic Kelly clasp.

CRAVATE

FOISON

Kelly bracelet

Boucle sellier

Most desired

33MM AUTOMATIC BAGUETTES DIAMONDS

38MM AUTOMATIC

Elisa head band

All Maison Michel images shot by Karl Lagerfeld .

38MM GRAND BAL

Dior VIII Watches

A new collection of Dior wrist watches brings all the glamour and detail of the couture house to a timepiece. It’s name consisting of eight characters is also a nod to the lucky number of Dior’s superstitious founder. The atelier is housed in the VIIIth Arrondissement of Paris and at 8 Place Vendome and the house was created on the 8th of October 1946. The black colour is simultaneously chic and timeless with it’s ceramic finish and trickle of diamond accents. The Grand Bal pieces are ultra exclusive. Only 88 are made in the world, making these beautiful timepieces most desirable.

Veruschka head band

Frida hair piece

Maison Michel couture headbands

Feather comb hair piece

Laetitia Crahay is a woman who knows a good accessory when she sees one. As Maison Michel’s Artistic Director, she is also head of accessories and jewelry at Chanel. The brand that shot to fame with it’s animal ears last year, take on all manner of head dress but it’s the hairbands that have caught our attention. Glittering with silver, turquoise and with semi precious stones some entwined with flowers and feathers, the entire collection makes us want to change our look to centre around a beautiful head-dress. With a lookbook shot by Karl Lagerfeld we’re sure these delicate delights will be around for seasons to come.

www.formojeh.com

Accesory Affairs

he end of the season also means your last chance to give in to fashionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temptations and finally pick up the bags youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been resisting all summer. Look to the styles that add an understated twist to an old classic, leaving you with something new that will still last forever. McQueen embellishes the staple satchel with overlapped leaf embellishment, whilst Gucci turns their classic Snaffle Bit style serpent green.

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5 9

1 Chloe , @ net-a-porter.com. 2 Bottega Veneta. 3 Proenza Schouler @ Boutique1.com. 4 Celine. 5 Louis Vuitton. 6 Gucci. 7 Alexander McQueen. 8 Chanel. 9 mulberry @ Boutique1.com. 10 hermes.

AccesoryAffairs

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othing decorates the womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body more naturally and delicately than a free falling, whimsical scarf. From Alexander McQueen to DVF and Hermes, choose your house then pick your pattern and colour. For a top-to-toe matchy matchy look pick the shoes to counterpart, or mix it up with a complimentary colour, such as Charlotte Olympiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peachy platforms.

1 Alexander McQueen. 2 Charlotte Olympia. 3 Dsquared2 . 4 Brian Atwood @ net-a-porter.com. 5 louis vuitton. 6 dvf. 7 giuseppe zanotti. 8 hermes.

1 Versace, 9 jimmy SS11 choo. Backstage. 10 jonathan 2 Jennifer saunders Lopez.@3Boutique1.com. Nubo, Diamond 11 Peel dior. and 12Reveal balmain Activator. @ net-a-porter.com. 4 Nubo, Diamond 13 christian Peel and Reveal louboutin. Exfoliator.14 5 Versace, emilio SS11 Backstage. 6 Versace, SS11 Backstage. 7 RMS, Living Luminizer. 8 Charlize Theron. 9 Rag and Bone, SS11 Backstage. 10 Donna Karan, pucci. 15 christian louboutin. SS11. 11 Perricone, No Foundation SPF 30. 12 NuBo, Voile.

Accesory Affairs

Nothing suggests class and sophistication better than a pretty ballet slipper. Try a classic Repetto, contemporary Dior or timeless patent style. Intrinsically linked with walking the elegant and stylish streets of Paris, a ballet flat offers a very fashionable way to rest our feet! 10

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1 lanvin. 2 roger vivier. 3 lanvin @ net-a-porter.com. 4 alexandre birman. 5 pedro garcia. 6 nina ricci. 7 maloles zoe. 8 repetto. 9 maloles zoe. 10 longchamp. 11 dior.

AccesoryAffairs

Pearl Perfection

are, fine, admirable and valuable pearls are a beautiful example of natural treasures. Take inspiration from these natural wonders and adorn yourself in pearl jewellery and pearl toned ensembles for a fresh twist on iridescence.

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1 lydia courtelle. 2 paspaley. 3 phillip lim @ Boutique1.com. 4 lara bohinc @ theluxuryemporium. com. 5 ranjana khan @ Boutique1.com. 6 rudolf heltzel. 7 chloe. 8 tom binns.

Traversing the globe for the past 500 years, ‘La Peregrina’ is one of the world’s most famous pearls. From America to Spain, England to the US, it found its way into the hands of Elizabeth Taylor. The story of this spectacular pearl ignited romances, granted freedom and became a national treasure. MOJEH magazine uncovers the lives and loves of its owners through the years.

T The ‘La Peregrina’ pearl had an original weight of 55.95 carats and was the size of a pigeons egg.

his magnificent treasure is a large, pear shaped, white, nacreous pearl and gained its name ‘La Peregrina’, which in Spanish means ‘the pilgrim’ or ‘the wanderer’, from the incredible journey it embarked on. Discovered in 1513 off the Pearl Islands in the Gulf of Panama, the beautiful pearl had an original weight of 55.95 carats. It is approximately the size of a pigeon’s egg. Elizabeth Taylor described in her autobiography its importance to her: “La Peregrina is unique in the world of gems. It’s one of the most extraordinary pieces there is.” Unearthed by a slave who was rewarded with his freedom, it was then presented to Prince Phillip II, the Crown Prince of Spain. The pearl was to become a pre-wedding gift to unite Spain with England as Prince Phillip presented it to Queen Mary I. Their marriage in 1554 marked an irrevocable turn in England’s history as she restored Catholicism as the state religion, and revived the laws against heresy.

In focus

The World’s Most Famous Pearl

For the next three years her infamous reign saw heretics being relentlessly executed and left her branded ‘Bloody Mary’. The King and Queen were widely hated and distrusted. Her early death in 1558, in the fifth year of her rule, brought a sense of relief to her subjects who suffered under her reign. ‘La Peregrina’, which was worn as a pendant to a brooch by the Queen, was returned to Spain and entered the crown jewels where it was to be treasured for the next 250 years. The pearl became a favourite of the queen’s consorts until 1808 when Napoleon seized Spain and installed his brother Joseph Bonaparte on the Spanish throne. It is said that he carried part of the Spanish Crown Jewels with him that included the precious pearl. Bonaparte emigrated to the United States and brought the pearl with him on his various travels which included England, Genoa and eventually Florence where he died in 1884. He left his important artefacts including ‘La Peregrina’ to his nephew Charles Louis Bonaparte. Charles Louis was to become the emperor of France, Napoleon III in 1852 until he was defeated in 1870 in the Franco-German war and retreated to England, pearl in hand, with his wife. Whilst residing in England, Charles Louis is believed to have sold the pearl to Lord James Hamilton, the 2nd Marquess of Abercorn, during a time of particular financial hardship. The Marquess was a very wealthy and highly educated man who held various posts including the Knight of the Garter - the highest of knighthood existing in England at the time. Lord James gave the pearl to

Elizabeth Taylor wearing the famous La Peregrina pearl in 1972.

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Norman Parkinson at Corbis, dpa at Corbis, Kevin Fleming at Corbis.

Twice married, Richard Burton gifted the world’s most famed jewellery to his adored wife Elizabeth.

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Bettmann at Corbis, Douglas Kirkland at Corbis.

Elizabeth Taylor designed a necklace modelled on Queen Mary’s version with Cartier, shown here on the red carpet in the early 90’s.

A 17th Century painting of Queen Mary I wearing the famous pearl.

“From Panama to the palaces of Europe, this exquisite natural treasure was a symbol of love for couples throughout the ages.” his wife on a necklace, Lady Jane Russell, who used it for formal occasions including visits to Buckingham Palace. The pearl remained in the Hamilton family and in England for over a hundred years until 1969 when it was assigned to the House of Sotheby’s and put up for auction where a doting husband bid for it as a Valentine’s gift for his betrothed. The sum of $37,000 was paid by Richard Burton who gifted the extraordinary pearl to his wife Elizabeth Taylor. Such a gift encapsulated Burton’s intense attachment to his movie star wife. He is reported as saying “I cannot see life without Elizabeth. She is my everything - my breath, my blood, my mind and my imagination.” At the time of purchase, Taylor’s pearl was suspended as a pendant to a delicate pearl linked necklace. Taylor and Burton decided to have it redesigned and worked with Cartier to incorporate pearls, rubies and diamonds into a spectacular work of art. ‘La Peregrina’ disappeared for a number of years, quietly tucked away by a collector, only to resurface and to be auctioned off at Christie’s auction house in 1987. The pearl sold at auction for $463,800. With a journey of nearly 500 years, ‘La Peregrina’ has passed though aristocratic families of Spain, France and Britain. From Panama to the palaces of Europe, this exquisite natural treasure was a symbol of love for couples throughout the ages. As decades passed ‘La Peregrina’s’ beauty remained intact, a constant in the tides of life, journeyed by fate and presented with love.

Body Brooch Photographed by Lionel koretzky JEWELLERY EDITOR FRANCELINE PRAT

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Bow brooch in white gold with diamonds, CHAUMET

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Head jewel in white gold with round and baguette diamonds, VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

Cluster brooch in platinum with marquise and poire diamonds, HARRY WINSTON

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Magic Garden brooches in white gold with pink sapphire and diamonds on left and with rubies and one diamond on right, PIAGET

Chameleon brooch in blackened gold with rubies, tsavorites and sapphires, BOUCHERON Leaf brooch with white and autumn icy diamonds, DE GRISOGONO

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Model: Caroline Chazel | Groomer: Huberte Cesarion at Marie-France Thavonekham | Photographer assistant: Anthony Salvi.

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Camelia brooches, diamonds and rubies on left, sapphire and diamonds on right, CHANEL JOAILLERIE

Panther brooch in white gold with diamonds and onyx, eyes in emerald, CARTIER

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Autumn/Winter Collections

THE BIG

September ISSUE

Everything you need to know about the new fashion season including the hottest trends, latest designers and best new pieces to invest in. Plus, how to recreate the most glamorous beauty and hair looks from the autumn/winter runways as well as all your favourite MOJEH regulars.

Out september 1st

Imagine if you had an exceptional lifestyle concierge service that made everyday outstanding. Louis Fourteen. Unlock the extraordinary.

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Beauty

â&#x20AC;&#x153; We live only to discover beauty. All else is a form of waitingâ&#x20AC;? Khalil Gibran (Lebanese born American Philosophical Essayist, Novelist and Poet)

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atural beauty is always our focus here at MOJEH and this month we share some of our favourite products that highlight your beauty in the most sophisticated way. From eyeshadow that brings out your natural colour, to mineralized blush and the best nude lip glosses - everything you need to enhance your natural look is here.

Beauty vision

Back to basics 4

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1 Aigner. 2 Mac, Lipstick in Playing koi. 3 DuWop, Private nude lipstick. 4 Essie, Ballet slippers. 5 Estee Lauder, Pure colour lipstick in Barely nude. 6 RMS, Lip2Cheek gloss in Muse. 7 RMS, eye shadow in Sparkle. 8 RMS, Lip2Cheek gloss in Smile. 9 Benefit, Ultrashine lipgloss in Nudeatude.

Products 3, 6, 7, 8, 14 and 16 available at www.cultbeauty.co.uk

13 17 10 Mac, Naked liner lip pencil. 11 Bobbi Brown, New concealer kit. 12 Sisley, Phyto khol perfect pencil. 13 Mac, Skinfinish Soft and Gentle Mineralize bronzer. 14 Dior, Addict lipstick no. 333. 15 KaplanMD, Lip 20 Treatment gloss. 16 Jane Iredale, Mystikols mineral eyeliner. 17 Chanel, Beige petale.

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f there’s one accessory every woman wants it’s perfectly luminous skin. An inner glow and ethereal appearance makes other complexions pale in comparison. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Charlize Theron and Jennifer Aniston have long mastered that lit-from-within glow and now MOJEH magazine shows you how to recreate the luminous look at home. The first thing to remember when trying to recreate J-Glows look is that gentle cleansing and exfoliating are the most important steps. Sloughing off the debris that sits on the skin’s surface allows new cell layers to shine through and promotes healthy cell renewal. As the Brand Director from cultbeauty.co.uk, Alexia Inge explains:“Dead skin, dirt and oil on the skin’s surface absorbs light, and new skin layers reflect it. As we get older, our skin becomes more matt so illuminating the skin is the quickest way to looking younger.” A chemical exfoliator is recommended by Alexia to prepare the skin’s surface and reveal a brighter complexion. NuBo’s Diamond Peel & Reveal contains micronized diamonds and acts like your own personal microdermabrasion kit in your bathroom. It contains Papain (papaya enzyme) to gently lift and remove dead skin cells, while the Lactic Acid stimulates cell turnover, banishing dullness and hydrating your skin at the same time. It can be quite difficult to find make up products that shimmer as opposed to sparkle, so choose subtle rather than showy items. Start with a flawless base, Perricone’s No

Beauty trend

Luminous Skin

Beauty trend

Every summer we overload our skin with sun, self-tanners and lashings of bronzer. This season, see the light and go for a luminous complexion instead.

Foundation Foundation is perfect. A multi-purpose product, it evens out skin tone, smoothes fine lines and boosts moisture levels. Lighter than most foundations, the formula is translucent, includes an SPF30 and can be reapplied throughout the day. For extra coverage, use a multipurpose base and foundation. Heralded as Photoshop in a bottle, Voile Skin Perfector by NuBo is the perfect product for a radiant glow. This wonder-product blurs imperfections and perfects your skin whilst still being light enough to make you look like you’re not wearing any make up at all. The clear gel formula dries to a smooth powder-like finish that allows your natural light to shine through. Highlighter is a key product to create a flawless face. Cream highlighter is the easiest to blend and Living Luminizer by RMS Beauty is one of the best around. Reportedly favoured by living goddesses, Gisele Bündchen and Miranda Kerr, this mineral illuminating product has a translucent finish and can be used anywhere you want some natural highlight. Apply down the bridge of your nose, to the apples of your cheeks and dust over your collarbone to be one step closer to catwalk radiance. “You can also eat yourself glowy by feasting on oily fish, olive oil and flax seed,” explains Alexia. “Anti-oxidants from red and purple fruits such as blueberries and leafy vegetables such as spinach are a great way of stopping blemishes. Also a cleansing tea first thing in the morning before food helps cleanse the gut and makes your skin glow. Simply add a slice of lemon and some ginger into a cup of hot water and watch your glow grow.”

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1 Versace, SS11 Backstage. 2 Jennifer Lopez. 3 Nubo, Diamond Peel and Reveal Activator. 4 Nubo, Diamond Peel and Reveal Exfoliator. 5 Versace, SS11 Backstage. 6 Versace, SS11 Backstage. 7 RMS, Living Luminizer. 8 Charlize Theron. 9 Rag and Bone, SS11 Backstage. 10 Donna Karan, SS11. 11 Perricone md, No Foundation Foundation SPF 30. 12 NuBo, Voile. (all products available at cultbeauty.co.uk)

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Ramadan season is an opportunity to start afresh and reevaluate our lifestyle choices. This same ethos can be applied to your beauty products. We all know the best things in life come from Mother Nature, so by using natural ingredients from top to toe, we can be ensured of enhancing our look in a natural way.

Organic plant extracts each have their own specific function. Juniper stimulates, geranium balances sebum production, whilst watercress extract and zinc promote brighter, more even skin by inhibiting the production of melanin. Summer Facial Oil from De Mamiel is a limited edition product filled with plant extracts designed to address your skin’s needs as it transitions from spring into summer.

ry Tilia & Finn, a distinctive beauty lounge that combines grooming and beauty services under one roof. Its tranquil concept is inspired by nature, health, renewal and growth, and it endeavours to use only natural and chemical-free products. Treatments are extensive from massages, body treatments, hair removal and nail services, using only the best in natural brands such as the non-toxic Butter London nail polish. The facials in particular benefit from the Jurlique range, an Australian brand boasting rejuvenation and homegrown ingredients. The relaxing and harmonious qualities of nature are truly felt through the dedicated and rejuvenating facials. Alternatively, seek a brand new hair style and colour with one of their trained technicians, followed by a natural and intensive treatment for full blown sleek, shiny and shockingly perfect hair!

Tilia & Finn’s are located in Boutique 1 on the JBR and Mirdif City Centre, both Dubai.

Located at the JBR Walk Shams 1, Jumeirah, Dubai.

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1 Lancome , Three rose body moisturiser. 2 weleda, Wild rose wash. 3 redken, Nature’s rescue sea spray. 4 MV organics, Aromatic body oil. 5 bobbi brown, Brightening advanced serum. 6 ginverva, Green tea marvel gel. 7 frais, Hand sanitizer.

Image by P.Ginet -Drin/photocuisine at Corbis, products 4, 6, 7, 11, 12 and 13 all available from www.cultbeauty.co.uk

ne brand that has truly recognised the benefits of natural products for beauty and the soul is the France based skincare range, Altearah Bio. Based on the unique idea of ‘Colour Therapy’, they’ve designed a range of organic cosmetic products, for which the beneficial effects on body and mind are inspired by aromatherapy. With a concept accessible to everyone, Altearah Bio has simplified the principles by formulating 14 readyto-use essential oil compositions. Organised in a range of 14 colours, chosen according to their effect, these health-giving compositions bring simple and fun solutions to our daily desire for wellbeing. Each of the colours represents a clearly defined effect; royal purple for energy, orange for creativity and gold for confidence to name but a few. All are available in eau de parfums, serums, body oils, bath salts and scrubs. What’s even more exciting from the world of essential oils is the Spadunya Colour Experience Spa, which incorporates the power of the oils under one roof for full-on pampering.

Looking for an organic beauty spa in Dubai?

Natural ingredients may be kind to skin but that doesn’t mean they aren’t tough on blemishes. Marvel Gel is a mild exfoliating gel-mask, enriched with green tea extract that banish even the most stubborn whiteheads, blackheads and blemishes without aggravating sensitive skin.

Cosmetics to Suit My Mood

Beauty VISION

Earthly Ingredients

Collagen boosting vitamin C is vital for glowing skin. Omorovicza Gold Flash Serum packs it alongside Gold Ferment to make a firmer and younger looking complexion.

8 de mamiel, Summer facial oil. 9 weleda, Rosemary hair oil . 10 l’occitane, Angelica UV shield. 11 Compagnie de Provence, Heaven liquid soap. 12 mv organics, Rose hydrating mist. 13 omorovicza, Gold flash firming serum.

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Spotlight st tropez

La Soiree Blanche

Brigitte Bardot was a Soiree Blanche regular in St Tropez.

Each July in Saint Tropez, a private party takes over the desirable enclave of Southern France. A party where there is only one rule: you must wear all white.

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Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Bettmann at Corbis, Mediterranee Photo.

The beautiful view of the Saint Tropez harbour.

Johnny Hallyday, Adeline Blondiaux and Christophe Leroy.

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Photo time St Tropez, Mediterranee Photo, Rainer Schmitz at Corbis.

From left to right: Christophe Leroy, Prince Albert II of Monaco, Eddie Barclay, André Pousse and the artist Carlos.

he Soiree Blanche is a summer picnic in St Tropez, first held by international dandy and famous French music producer Eddie Barclay in the early ‘80s. Continued today by star chef Christophe Leroy, St Tropez continues it’s reign as the playground of the wealthy with a taste for elite gastronomy and raucous carousing. Welcoming international celebrities such as Brigitte Bardot, Ivana Trump, Prince Albert of Monaco and countless stars of screen, sport and politics, the Soiree Blanche is the invite of the season on the French Riviera. Eddie Barclay founded his record label, Barclay, in the 1950s with Quincy Jones as its artistic director, and signed many famous singers of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s including Léo Ferré and Jean Ferrat. His move to Saint Tropez in the 1980s incited his famous feasts, where his dazzling guests wore all white and partied for days in a heady mix of gourmet food and high glamour. Often guests would arrive to his expansive estate by private helicopter and could take advantage of three private beaches on the property whilst a sumptuous banquet was served on the terrace; course after course delivered by golf carts. The parties reignited the glamour of St Tropez, which up until this point was a sleepy French port. Keen to provide his discerning guests with the best food in all of France, Eddie enlisted the help of a talented young chef, Christophe Leroy to collaborate with. “I discovered the white party for the first time from Eddie Barclay in 1983,” explains Christophe. “At that time I was a kitchen helper at the Negresco Hotel and we came to do the catering for him. It was a magnificent night and I left the party full of dreams. A few years later, after training with the best I settled down in Saint Tropez.” Christophe’s training included working alongside Alain Ducasse and Jacques Maximum, and in the best restaurants in the world such as L’Hotel de la Poste a Avallon and Hôtel de Crillon in Paris. “I met Alain Ducasse in 1984 and worked with him for several years,” explains Christophe. “He wasn’t as famous as he is now, so I was able to work very closely with him. To work side by side with a brilliant man like that was fantastic. He inspired everyone around him and like every great person in his domain he wasn’t giving us advice, rather he was moving forward and we had to understand. Recently we met each other and it was like it was 25 years ago!”

At the age of 26 Christophe shot to fame after winning ‘La Clé d’or de la gastronomie’ - which translates to the gold key of gastronomy; France’s most prestigious culinary award. Returning to Saint Tropez in the early ‘90s would mark a turning point in Christophe’s career, as he reacquainted himself with the famous Mr. Barclay. “During this time I started to get to know Eddie better. He liked what I was doing and he invited me, together with other chefs to cook at the Soiree Blanche. Later on, feeling that I didn’t have enough space in my own kitchens, I offered to do a picnic the day after his white party with him as my guest of honour. Slowly it became a picnic at night and for the last couple of years I told Eddie I wanted to host the party in his honour.” Eddie agreed to this request and eventually stopped hosting his own party the night before with one condition: the dress code for Christophe’s new soirée would be all white. “White gives a powerful message,” explains Christophe. “It signals the first days of summer where everybody is tanned. It’s magical because it makes everybody look beautiful. It’s simply pure.” Following Eddie’s death in 2005, Christophe has continued the Soiree Blanche tradition in his honour. As a chef and restaurant owner, Christophe enjoys delighting his guests gastronomically as well as throwing a huge party that rarely ends before sunrise the following day. “Eddie was a musician and producer so the most famous artists accepted his invitation. All his life he lived like a king and so his parties were reflecting his life.” Some of the reports of the Soiree Blanche included the guests being flown to Rio to keep the party going the next day and inordinate amounts of premium champagne being consumed. Does such grandeur continue now Christophe is at the helm? “In any kind of party, it is the guests and their extravaganza that makes a great night. Nothing is predictable,” Christophe states coyly. “The bases of a great party are beautiful girls, great decor, great cooking, a mix of fun guests and very good entertainment.” From private estates to secluded beaches, Christophe and his team transform the most exclusive locations into white majesty, encouraging total indulgence from dusk till dawn. One such party saw the chefs barbecuing the finest lobster ankle deep in the surf whilst guests feted on the sand in a decedent beach picnic sprinkled with candles that illuminated the cove. ‘It’s always a great moment when a party is successful and enjoyed by everyone,’ muses Christophe. ‘I feel proud and honoured to have hosted people like Eddie Barclay and Prince Albert. Every year the white party is my own little expensive gift to my friends and to St Tropez.’

For those not lucky enough to gain access to the Soiree Blanche, there are always Christophe’s many restaurants dotted around the world where one can sample his culinary genius. Les Moulins de Ramatuelle, La Table du Marche and Leroy’s Kfe each offer a unique dining experience in beautiful locations from St Tropez to Marrakech and St Martin. “I am a chef that cooks with passion and without limits, I love to make people happy and to surprise.” A unique concept adapted by Christophe and his partner, journalist Didier Audebert, is that of Eternity Food. The chef and his partner have adapted haute cuisine by using ingredients which help fight the ageing process and those which have been recognised for their anti-ageing properties. Essentially, they believe these specific dishes, with high antioxidant values, will encourage cell renewal and therefore maintain well being from the inside out. The Eternity food set menu will be available from July at the Moulins de Ramatuelle restaurant on the Cote D’Azur.

Christophe Leroy

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Raffles Hotel Dubai

Raffles Spa is a haven of well-living, offering endlessly enchanting moments and opening doors to discovery in a private sanctuary of luxury and sublime tranquility. The feeling of calm and lavishness hits you like a warm embrace as soon as you walk through the hotel’s grand entrance. With relaxing waterfalls and the sensual smell of incense and oils, the feeling only grows continuing through to the dedicated spa on the fourth floor. Staff are warm and kind, and even when visiting at the end of a long week, the weight of the world is instantly lifted. Of particular luxury, Raffles offers two excellent packages specifically tailored for the Ramadan season; the Arabian Ceremony and Summer Escapades. Perfect for deeply cleansing and exfoliating your skin during the season, the Arabian Ceremony is an intense two hour treatment, consisting of a 90 minute full body scrub including a clay mud wrap, followed by a 60 minute massage with Shea butter. The experience is intense and thorough, but extremely invigorating and rejuvenating. The result is baby soft and subtle skin, cleansed beyond your wildest dreams—an absolute musthave to wash away any impurities before embarking on Eid and the autumn months. The second option sees the return of Raffle’s Summer Escapades packages. The first package is your choice of two 60 minute treatments including facials, massages and scrubs. The Just For You facial is particularly delightful, with an expert therapist mapping out your skin’s needs. The second choice is designed to beat the heat with a specially priced gym membership and spa discount for the summer months. Each package includes complimentary access to the Raffles Spa 3,510 square metre private sanctuary, including the majestic hotel pool, fitness facilities, sauna, steam room and relaxation areas. Raffles is the perfect haven to spend those lazy summer days.

As the July and August heat begins to kick in, it’s time to run for cover and make the most of indoor activities – what better excuse is there to indulge in the latest and greatest treatments from the most incredible spas around. Adorn yourself in your luxury loungewear and head for the treatment rooms...

Six Senses Spa Zighy Bay, Oman

The spa at Zighy is truly a unique experience. Access to the resort is either in four-wheel drive down a dramatic cliff face, by high speed boat into the bay or paragliding onto the beach from the mountain top. The resort is nestled between the mountains and beach on the Gulf of Oman in the Musandam Peninsula. The ethos of Zighy Bay is built on the concept of SLOW - LIFE, Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wholesome - Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences. All water is sourced and bottled locally and the treatments at the Six Senses Spa begin from natural ingredients. Holistic and wellness therapies are offered alongside pampering, for the perfect mix of rest, relaxation and balancing the senses. The Arabian Facial features locally sourced ingredients including yogurt, figs, almonds and nourishing honey. A wide range of massages adorn the spa menu including Chavutti Thirumal a two thousand year old technique whereby the therapist is suspended by ropes above the client and uses his feet to deliver a therapeutic massage. An extensive range of Yoga, Pilates and meditation is on offer from the brilliant Mr. Vishnu Prasad who recently won the ‘Best Spa Therapist’ Award at the Middle East Spa Awards 2011. Six Senses also won Best Destination Spa, Best Spa Design and Best Green Initiative Awards for 2011. Each of the resorts 82 private villas have a dedicated butler who tends to your every need. A luxurious plunge pool and sun deck await as your cares melt away in the luxurious resort designed to resemble an old Omani fishing village. The peace and serenity of the resort coupled with the award winning food and wine is perfect for those looking to completely escape. Only two hours away from Dubai airport, this Arabisque paradise will take your breath away and leave a lasting impression on mind, body and soul. www.sixsenses.com

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The body

Summer Indulgence

Raffles Spa

www.raffles.com

Amara Spa Park Hyatt Dubai

In the quest for slimming and detoxification before the bikini season, women will endure almost anything—liposuction and laser therapy spring to mind! So when we heard the Amara Spa in the Park Hyatt Hotel Dubai had a two-hour bath and massage that claimed to do the same we had to try it. The Emerald Ceremony is described by the spa as an aromatherapy body polish which prepares you for the aqua massage seaweed bath with lymphatic drainage massage.” The hotel itself sits on the beautiful grounds of the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, and the Amara Spa is a large and decadent resort that envelops you in calm and relaxation as soon as you slip on one of its fluffy white robes. The treatment room for the ceremony has an adjoining outdoor room where the therapist washes guests’ feet and hands under the stars before proceeding with a full body scrub. A seaweed bath in a private jacuzzi tub pumps water all over the body, encouraging a lymphatic massage, after which hot mud infused with the oils of juniper, rosemary and pine is applied with cotton wrapping to induce maximum absorption and dispersion of toxins. After showering off outdoors in your private and secluded garden wet room, a final massage and moisturising of the entire body ensures optimal drainage. This and a host of other monthly offers during the summer months are available on the Park Hyatt website. Now there’s no excuse not to spoil yourself or someone you love during this time of giving. www.hyatt.com

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Fashion Banquet

LUXURY LOUNGEWEAR

here’s no need to let your style standards slip during those long days of pampering, as plenty of designers now offer delectable choices in laidback luxury. Stick to baggy styles in skin soft fabrics such as Phillip Lim’s silk tanks and Iris Von Arnim’s cable knit cardi’s. Who said the spa doesn’t deserve to be our next runway?

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1 Alexander Wang. 2 Gucci. 3 Alberta Ferretti . 4 Cutler & Gross. 5 Chanel. 6 Chanel. 7 Lanvin. 8 Kova & T @ Boutique1.com. 9 Gucci @ net-a-porter.com. 10 Lanvin. 11 Philippe Audibert @ net-a-porter.com. 12 Giuseppe Zanotti. 13 Stella McCartney.

14 Phillip Lim @ Boutique1.com. 15 Phillip Lim @ Boutique1.com. 16 Stella McCartney. 17 Gryphon @ Boutique1.com. 18 Iris von Arnim @ Boutique1.com. 19 Stella McCartney . 20 Phillip Lim @ Boutique1.com.

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Ananda, Himalayas

he lifestyle experience at Ananda is as much about the setting as it is about the yoga and Ayurveda, if not more. The soothing mountain environment is itself refreshing, but set at the Himalayan foothills in a secluded location, not far from Haridwar and Rishikesh, the birthplace of the ancient sciences of Yoga and meditation, Ananda promises a spiritual and holistic experience. Once the residence of a Maharaja, this palace is now a place to restore your energies. The Sanskrit word for ‘bliss’, Ananda, surrounded by the Sal forests with views of the Ganges below and mountains above, certainly lives up to its name. The tailored programmes at Ananda are based on Ayurveda, designed to heal, cleanse, revitalise and restore the body’s natural balance by cutting out certain foods according to your body type. And if it’s relaxation you’re after, being at one with yourself and with nature, then pick anything that might take your fancy from the menu of 79 body and beauty treatments incorporating European, Ayurveda and Oriental systems of holistic health. The Spa Cuisine menu at Ananda includes Indian, Oriental and European cuisine and uses organic vegetables and herbs, imbibing the philosophy of better living.

By Meera Ashish

The world of exquisite resorts and spas has developed, expectations have duly increased and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find the very best retreat that caters for your end of summer needs. Whether you’re in search of a holistic spiritual awakening, a pampering yoga retreat, a full-on detox, mere silence, or a body re-balance, we bring you our top five retreats from around the world….

DETOX

SILENCE

Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand uilt around a centuries-old cave temple, once used by Buddhist monks as a place for meditation, Kamalaya is an oasis of quietude, nestled in hills, streams, ponds and swaying palm trees. The Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa, with open and closed treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a steam cavern and hot and cold pools—all of which command spectacular views over the greenery and then the bay stretching ahead—focuses on cleansing the body both on a physical and spiritual level. Out of all the various Wellness Programs, which include Stress and Burnout, Ideal Weight, Optimal Fitness, Yoga and others, the Detox Program is the most sought after. Kamalaya’s approach to detox is designed to support the body’s ability to eliminate toxins and reestablish its ideal balance. Depending on the length of detox – anything from three to fourteen days – the program features a range of therapies, the detox cuisine as well as vitamin and herbal supplements. Both restaurants at Kamalaya serve a wide range of artful and delectable detox dishes, fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails. This healthy and nutritious cuisine is an integral component of the holistic wellness concept.

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The body

Beautiful Body, mind and World

SPIRITUAL

Park Hyatt Hadahaa, Maldives

till somewhat undeveloped, the islands in the southern atolls of the Maldives have a faraway, seemingly hidden charm about them. The Park Hyatt Hadahaa, a perfect mix of simplicity and luxury, is entirely secluded and boasts one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, making for some great snorkeling. The lush vegetation and trees surrounding your private villa’s own outdoor pool act as an enchanting boulder from the world. In fact, stepping onto the beach just outside, mere footsteps away from the villa, there often won’t be a soul in sight. To describe it as private would be an understatement. Furthermore, the villas themselves, contemporary yet cosy, have large glass windows which open up into the garden or the lagoon depending upon the villa type. If you’re in a beach villa, walk barefoot on the pure smooth sands to the lagoon pool, where the resort’s main restaurant is located. Don’t be surprised if you have one of the Park Hyatt’s two stunning pools completely to yourselves. As the sun sets, a rejuvenating treatment at the gorgeous Mandara Spa, surrounded by a carpet of mangrove, is unbelievably relaxing. And so, revelling in the lap of luxury, you’ll be immersed in silence but for the sound of the waves rippling at the shore. Bliss.

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The body

YOGA

Como Shambhala Estate, Bali

he Como Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri sits on a lush forest-covered area of land outside the Ubud region. Immersed in gardens and set amongst trees high above the Ayung River, and sound tracked by chirping birds and running water, the Como allows mental quietude by being at one with nature and through the practice of yoga and Asian therapies. What better place to focus on yoga or participate in one of the Yoga Retreats with world-renowned teachers in the teak-wood yoga pavilion than an Edenic setting, so at one with nature. Hand in hand with the yoga is of course what you eat, and detoxing at Como is designed to be a pleasure with a deliciously eclectic menu that mixes Asian and Mediterranean elements, along with a special raw menu. Whether you’re in a suite or villa, they’re all spectacular with net-canopied colonial beds, some with alfresco showers and others with views of the river valley. There is also a 25-metre pool surrounded by coconut trees and ferns, along with exceptional foliage-clad spa and wellbeing facilities which include floating treatment rooms and a climbing wall. And so, if you’re yearning for complete seclusion, longing to be revived with life-changing yoga and lifestyle practices, Como Shambhala is the perfect pick!

BODY

Capri Palace, Italy

igh up in the picturesque town of Anacapri lies the majestic Capri Palace Hotel with its famous medical spa, the Capri Beauty Farm. Under the supervision of Professor Francesco Canonaco, a medical doctor who specialises in food science and immunology, Capri offers a comprehensive range of programmes targeting specific areas of the body. The Metabolic Response programme targets metabolism for sensible weight loss through exercise programs and tailored Mediterranean meal plans. Meanwhile, The Heart School deals with cardiovascular problems and The Leg School, which is probably the most sought after - Gwyneth Paltrow came to tone up her legs pre-Iron Man – offers a seven-day programme involving cold mud and bandage wraps, dipping in and out of the Kneipp pools and lymphatic drainage massages all designed to improve circulation and swelling, and therefore the appearance of your legs. The exercise schedule involves a combination of fitness with a personal trainer, gymnastics in the thalassotherapeutic pool and ecological walks. All this resides within a grand Mediterranean palace with columns, arches, vaulted ceilings, antique artefacts, white architecture and rooms that offer breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples and hills of Mount Solaro - the setting for your health programme couldn’t be more spectacular.

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mojeh .com

Culture

“Love of beauty is Taste. The creation of beauty is Art” Ralph Waldo Emerson (American poet and essayist)

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In Conversation with

don’t think about singing until I get to the shower. I love acting so much it just occupies most of my day.

Anne Hathaway

I’d love to, and I think Gwyneth is having a lot of fun with Glee. Something like that - I give her mad credit for that because that’s not easy.

Would You ever record music one day?

Who knows what will happen. The lines are drawn and redrawn every which way about how you define yourself and that’s one thing I took away from the Oscar’s. The sky’s the limit and you can be whoever you want to be. Who knows? Maybe if an extraordinary opportunity came up to collaborate with someone presented itself? But I don’t have any current plans and it’s not in my focus.

How was your experience hosting the Oscars?

I had so much fun. I made a conscious decision early on in the process that although there was every reason in the world to be nervous, I wanted to enjoy the experience and didn’t want to waste time being fearful and nervous of what people would think. I just wanted to have the time of my life. And, clearly I didn’t know what I was doing, and so it was just all instinct! I’m not a comedian and I’m not a host so it was really an honour that they put their faith in James (Franco) and I, to be able to do something like that.

You’re very willing to take risks? Like you did with Love and Other Drugs.

Would you like to do it again?

I haven’t been asked so that would be the first step, being asked (laughs)! But I’d love to GO to the Oscar’s again!

I’m relieved that people like my work and I am so flattered that teenage girls and young people who have so much choice in what content they want to watch would choose me. There is a lot of choice out there!

You had a lot of costume changes at the Oscars. What is your style when you’re at home?

Do you have any formula to protect yourself against this roller coaster you’re on?

I don’t do it to set myself apart. I just do it because it is what I am drawn to. I have such respect for acting and for filmmaking. I feel such gratitude and privilege that I am a young actress who has a say in what parts she gets to play. I seek out the risk and it’s what makes it interesting.

You’re a big role model for young women. How do you feel about that?

I try to find a balance between being someone who loves style and someone who hates consumerism. I think there’s an art to putting things together and I love when fashion becomes art - the clothes I got to wear at the Oscars were wearble art in my eyes. So that was what I built my Oscar performance on. I love fashion and I appreciate it but I can’t say that’s what I love most about this world.

Why Rio?

The message of the story reminded me of what I was going through in my personal life: finding your wings and learning how to fly. How freedom comes naturally to some people and others discover it later on in their lives. It went straight to my heart.

What about the singing aspect?

Apparently you were very nervous for the singing part. What can you tell me about recording that little bit?

It was intimidating to sing in front of Sergio (Mendes) and Will I. Am, for reasons I’m sure you can imagine! That morning, I had an extra cup of coffee to steel my nerves (laughs).

“I’m super low maintenance. I really, really am.”

Image by Camilla Mornadi at Corbis.

So far all my singing engagements have been under 30 seconds and if I extended it you’d know why (laughs).

Images from top to bottom Courtesy of: Kevin Winter at Getty, John Shearer at Getty, Henry S. Dziekan III at Getty, Kevin WInter, John Siculi at Getty, Vince Bucci at Getty.

Well, I acted a little bit! (laughs) There was a modicum of skill involved, you know. I think in every film you appreciate the people you work with but in an animated film, the actor has a very small part in the process. And we worked with 300 animators. We got to stay in dark rooms and basically, squawk.

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That’s the formula. I don’t try to protect myself against it. It’s going to happen whether or not I want it to. I’m just going to have fun regardless. That’s my attitude.

How was the experience making Rio as a voice only role?

I wake up thinking about acting, even before I take a breath and I

What about a musical one day and combining the two?

We talk to the actress of the moment Anne Hathaway on life, love and presenting the Oscars with James Franco.

Where does singing fit in with acting?

LifeCulture In

Are you a low maintenance gal?

(laughs) I’m super low maintenance. I really, really am. I’m a little crazy because I’m an actress but no, I’m generally very mellow. I love to let things just kind of happen as they do, but I’m a work in progress. I think I’m actually someone who loves to let life happen the way it wants to. That being said I think my instinct is to try to control things to make sure that people around me are having a good time, but I’m trying now to find the balance between the two.

It sounds a little bit like you really live a spiritual life. Is that true and if so, what’s the direction?

Spirituality is something that’s very specific to everyone. So when you say spiritual, it’s a very touchstone word – it can mean a lot of different things. I try to live a very compassionate life. I do give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and I’m very comfortable doing that for a while. Then you do have to be smart and protective on top of that, which is something that I’m learning. So I’d like to think that I’m spiritual but on a scale of one to ten, one being an atheist and ten being the Dalai Lama, I’m probably like around a two!

Who are you closest to in life?

My best friends…my friend Theresa from college, my cousin Meredith and my two brothers Mike and Tom. Of course, my parents. I do have that core handful of people that when things fall apart - and things do fall apart - are always there. When their things fall apart I’m always there for them. Then I have a lovely group of friends from college and I still have friends from high school. I’m very lucky. I’ve got a very diverse group of people in my life, who I’m lucky enough to be able to love.

7 1. 2008 Anne Hathaway attends the Rachel Getting Married premier, 2. 2011 Annual Academy Awards Anne Hathaway with James Franco, 3. 2011 Annual Academy Awards, 4. 2010 Love & Drugs New York Screening, 5. 2011 AFI Fest Presented bu Audi Love & Other drugs, 6. 2011 Premiere of Rio, 7. 2008 Annual Academy Awards.

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The Middle East at the 54th Venice Biennale By Rebecca Anne Proctor

Suspended Together by Manal Al Dowayan.

Courtesy of: www.alexmaguirephotography.com, the artist and Cuadro Fine Art Gallery, Dubai.

Hopeful Aesthetics:

“With the establishment of the Venice Biennale in 1895, the city once again forged itself as a distinctive cultural crossroads—one which would serve as a pinnacle for art and culture.”

ositioned on the glistening waters of the Adriatic since the 9th century, the city of Venice has been a major centre for trade and commerce. With the establishment of the Venice Biennale in 1895, the city once again forged itself as a distinctive cultural crossroads—one which would serve as a pinnacle for art and culture. The Biennale has always been organised according to national pavilions—an echo of its competitive origins. The Middle Eastern presence here has always been shy. Aside from the Egypt Pavilion in the Giardini first granted in 1952, regional Middle Eastern nations have rarely participated (Iran had a Pavilion in 1958 and 2003, Iraq in 1976 and 1990). This year witnesses the largest participation by Middle Eastern nations, featuring the seven Pavilions of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iran, Syria, and Iraq. During a moment of intense political unrest for the region, the growing artistic presence of the Middle East at the Biennale shows a region determined to reveal the force and power of societal expression through art. The Biennale presents a rare opportunity for Middle Eastern artists to interact through art. In a region which has only recently seen the development of modern and contemporary art museums and institutions, a trip to Venice offers Middle Eastern artists and art professionals a chance to take part in an international and regional artistic dialogue. Such interaction transcends national boundaries; artistic dialogue sheds light on inter-cultural and political issues in a place far away from the governmental structures at home.

Image by Mark Bolton at Corbis.

The home of the Biennale, beautiful Venice.

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ArtistEXHIBITION In

he seven pavilions show passionate and determined representations of Middle Eastern society. From a video of one of the performance pieces at the Egypt Pavilion by the now deceased Egyptian-artist Ahmed Basiouny - who died by a sniper bullet during Cairo’s infamous Tahrir demonstrations to reflections on water as an element of daily life in Iraq in ‘Acqua Ferita/Wounded Water’ at the Iraq Pavilion, the works displayed echo the developments, changes and hopes of the people of the Middle East. Cultural reflection is portrayed in ‘The Black Arch’ at the Saudi Arabia Pavilion by Saudi sisters Shadia and Raja Alem. The work features a 350 x 700 x 20 arch surrounded by 3457 stainless steel balls. The viewers are mirrored onto the works in order to recreate what takes place when two cultures become exposed to each other: the viewer reflects their own culture and takes in the perception of the other. Emirati artists Reem Al-Ghaith, Lateefa Al-Maktoum, and Abdullah Al-Saadi raise questions concerning land, identity and change in ‘Second Time Around’, a group show curated by Vasif Kortun at the UAE Pavilion. The people in the Middle East have become accustomed to promises for reform which have never been delivered. Their unrealised dreams and empty promises are exhibited in ‘Inshallah: Future of a Promise’, curated by former Sotheby’s representative Lina Lazaar at the Biennale’s first and only Pan-Arab exhibition. The show features the work of 21 artists from 9 countries from the Middle East living both in and outside the region. Lazaar approached Edge of Arabia to produce the show because of their participation at the 2009 Venice Biennale and secured the Abdul Latif community initiative and Abraaj Capital for patronage and funding.

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Courtesy of: www.alexmaguirephotography.com, the Artist and the Farook Collection.

he works in ‘Future of Promise’ are poignant events; they simply embrace who we are and where we portrayals of a state of societal limbo. The art- come from which is beautiful.” ists voice their resistance through installation Saudi co-founder of Edge of Arabia and artist Abduland conceptual pieces which recreate the sense nasser Gharem similarly believes that art has become a of frustration, the lack of freedom of expression and the new form of media for the Middle East. “Lately, governcontinual unfulfilled promises of real change. A favour- ments promise many things which become like dreams ite work is Manal Al-Dowayan’s ‘Suspended Together’, for the people. The promises become like a drug; you bewhich was recently displayed at Art Dubai’s ‘Edge of come addicted to promises which never take place,” he Arabia’. The work expresses the state of women’s rights says. In ‘Future of a Promise’ Abdulnasser exhibits his in Saudi Arabia and more specifically the requirement work ‘Stamps’ (2007) which features large recreations of for Saudi women to obtain a permission slip in order stamps with Arabic officials and the word “Amen” identito leave the country. Mafiable throughout the Arab nal collected permission “States of suspension, frustration world. The stamps refer to slips from women all over the fastidious bureaucratSaudi Arabia; the young- and disappointment—even if the ic procedures of governest was six and the eldest works by Middle Eastern artists ments in the Middle East was the artist’s mother. which seemingly create “When it comes to travel, signal these emotions there is still more difficulty than ease Saudi women are treated cause for hope.” for the Arab people. “It is like a flock of doves,” says like a jungle; a jungle of a Manal. The doves in her work appear to be flying but are system and it is difficult to get out of the jungle,” says the actually suspended. They are temporarily stuck in mid- artist. air. The Saudi government’s promises for change are like States of suspension, frustration and disappointment— a state of suspension. There have been so many broken even if the works by Middle Eastern artists signal these promises but people want change more than ever. “What emotions there is still cause for hope. The Biennale ofcan we hold on to for identity? For a while it was religion, fers the international art community a chance to disbut now we are moving closer towards cultural expres- cover art from the Middle East as a major force of socision. There is now a shift from religion to a greater focus etal expression. Perhaps the increased participation of on the influence of art and culture,” says Manal. “Art for the Middle East at this year’s Venice Biennale signals a the Middle East is a new language; it signals expanding greater desire for change. Perhaps the power of art can freedom. The statements of the artists in ‘Future of a go beyond mere aesthetic representation to become a Promise’ are subtle. They do not profess war-torn tragic new guiding light for hope.

ArtistEXHIBITION In

All images by www.alexmaguirephotography.com, Courtesy of: the artist, the artist and Newertown|Art, the artist, Gallery Isabelle van de Eynde, Dubai and the Kamel Lazaar Foundation, Tunis, Agial Art Gallery, Beirut, the artist and Haunch of Venison, New York & London. Private collection, the artist and Haunch of Venison, New York & London and the Kamel Lazaar Foundation, Tunis, of the artist and Galerie Hussenot, Paris.

ArtistEXHIBITION In

The Stamp (Amen) by Abnulnasser Gharem.

3 5

1. Al Maw3oud by Ayman Baalbaki, 2. Shadow Sites II by Jananne Al-Ani, 3. Colour Correction 2 by Yazan Khalili, 4. Rose by Lara Baladi, 5. Untitled (Arabes) by Ziad Abillama, 6. Untitled by Ahmed Alsoudani, 7. Untitled by Ahmed Alsoudani, 8. Future of a Promise bag, 9. The Lost Springs by Mounir Fatmi, 10. Untitled by Abdelkader Benchamma, 11. Untitled by Ziad Antar.

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ArtistEXHIBITION In

Inspiration Dior “It definitely makes sense to talk about the architecture of a dress. A dress is constructed: constructed according to the line of the fabric. This is the secret of couture, one that belongs to the first law of architecture: the law of gravity.” Christian Dior

2011 Dior Exhibition at Moscow’s Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.

Asad Faulwell-Les Femmes D’Alger.

hristian Dior would have liked to be an architect. His dresses were constructed, shaped to mould the lines of the female body. He accentuated the waist or the full curve of the hip and enhanced the bust. The body was idealised: Dior saw the dress as an ethereal architecture destined to heighten proportions. His successors have remained true to his vision of curvaceous femininity, also seen in the works of the greatest artists. Modigliani, Renoir, Chasseriau and Klein all offer this image of the absolute woman. The female body is an emotion that each recreates with their own particular language and vision. Now the entire Dior journey from his original visions of the woman and her body, his jewellery line, to celebrities in Dior is on display at Moscow’s State Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. Through a passionate display of photography and archived prêt a porter and couture pieces – collated from numerous destinations around the world – the Dior house is revisited and beautifully articulated for anyone to experience. The perfect place to visit during your July in Europe. The exhibition runs until the 24th July, from 10am to 7pm. Volkhonka St. 12, 121019, Moscow, Russia.

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1954 Christian Dior & star model Lucky.

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Bettmann at Corbis, Mudats Alexandra at Corbis, Tavoularis Bettmann at Corbis.

1948 Christian Dior working in his atelier with model.

HEROES & VILLAINS

ho are today’s heroes? Who are the villains? In 2011, the year of change, the answer to this has never been less clear. Those who we adulate one minute might repulse us the next. Heroes commit villainous acts and yet even villains can redeem themselves. The very idea that they were ever villains at all depends on perspective and timing. In the fast-paced changes in today’s world, the absolutes in politics and morality are exposed as illusory, expeditious and ambivalent. HEROES & VILLAINS explores these grey areas in vivid colour, demonstrating the heady mix of glamour, drama, melodrama and grit that characterises our notions of heroism and villainy. A number of the artists selected for the show have never been exhibited in Dubai before and work in a variety of media including collage, photography, video, sculpture and other three dimensional work. Those artists include Aicha Hamu, the Moroccan multi-disciplinary artist and Asad Faulwell, whose new works of intricately woven collages celebrate the largely unsung female freedom fighters who struggled to end French occupation in Algeria. HEROES & VILLAINS the summer group exhbition runs from the 12th of June, 2011 to the 31st of July, 2011. Lawrie Shabibi Gallery, Dubai.

Images from Aicha Hamu-Henna collection.

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Embellish your home with the newest and nicest coffee table books this season and read your way through Ramadan with international releases in non-fiction. ANDY WARHOL, HEADLINES

Molly Donovan, with essays by John J. Curley, Anthony E. Grudin, John G. Hanhardt, Matt Wrbican

Out in October, DelMonico.

Obsessed with contemporary culture, Warhol celebrated the sensational as well as the mundane in every facet of society. His headline works, which were realised in a range of formats—from two-dimensional to time-based media such as film, video, and television—chart in real time the great shift in the technological means employed to deliver the news from the 1950s until the artist’s death in 1987. This companion volume to a riveting exhibition brings together more than 80 works, from Warhol’s earliest drawings and paintings of newspaper headlines, to his screen-printed canvases, photographs, and electronic media, and concluding with collaborative works he produced with Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Featuring illuminating essays and abundant reproductions of the headline works, as well as source materials and examples of Warhol’s private scrapbooks of clippings, this unique and powerful volume demonstrates the rich intersection of mainstream media and fine art. Headline making in every sense, the myriad works of art in which Andy Warhol used or referenced tabloids throughout his career are explored in this book as a coherent body for the first time. In association with the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

By Alan Hollinghurst

Alan Hollinghurst’s first novel since The Line of Beauty, winner of the 2004 Man Booker Prize. In the late summer of 1913 the aristocratic young poet Cecil Valance comes to stay at ‘Two Acres’, the home of his close Cambridge friend George Sawle. The weekend will be one of excitements and confusions for all the Sawles, but it is on George’s sixteen-year-old sister Daphne that it will have the most lasting impact, when Cecil writes her a poem which will become a touchstone for a generation, an evocation of an England about to change for ever. Linking the Sawle and Valance families irrevocably, the shared intimacies of this weekend become legendary events in a larger story, told and interpreted in different ways over the coming century, and subjected to the scrutiny of critics and biographers with their own agendas and anxieties. In a sequence of widely separated episodes we follow the two families through startling changes in fortune and circumstance. At the centre of this often richly comic history of mores and literary reputation runs the story of Daphne, from innocent girlhood to wary old age. Around her Hollinghurst draws an absorbing picture of an England constantly in flux. As in ‘The Line of Beauty’, his impeccably nuanced exploration of changing taste, class and social etiquette is conveyed in deliciously witty and observant prose. Exposing our secret longings to the shocks and surprises of time, The Stranger’s Child is an enthralling novel from one of the finest writers in the English language.

Out in July, Picador.

The End of Everything By Megan Abbott

Drawing Jewels for Fashion

By Carol Woolton

In this illustrated collection of fashion illustrations of jewels, Vogue jewelry editor Carol Woolton draws out the essence of the jewelry designers’ creative energy. Organized thematically around the topics of civilization, the natural world, art and architecture, culture and literature, raw materials and history, this book examines the relationship between drawing and jewelry design and features pages from the designers’ sketchbooks, images from their mood boards and photographs of their newest designs. Including insightful interviews with each designer, the book sheds light on the creative process and tells a gripping story of how an idea is transformed into a beautiful, polished jewel. A compelling mix of text and visual display, this book presents the best in the art of jewelry design. Carol Woolton, the Jewelry Editor of British Vogue, was also Tatler magazine’s first jewelry editor. Her articles have appeared in the London Times, the Financial Times and Art Quarterly, and she appears regularly in the media commenting on jewelry themes.

The Book Shelf

Summer reading

The Stranger’s Child

Out in August, Picador.

When you’re thirteen and your best friend goes missing, only one thing is certain: your life will never be the same again. “Megan Abbott captures the essence of being thirteen – all its magic, its intensity and confusion, its headlong power and its terrible vulnerability – and wraps it in a story that’s taut, unflinching and very hard to put down” Tana French, author of In the Woods. Lizzie and Evie are inseparable. They walk home from school together, sleep over at each other’s houses, even flirt with boys together. And they tell each other everything. Or at least, that’s what Lizzie thinks - until Evie goes missing, and Lizzie suddenly realises their friendship wasn’t quite what she thought. A novel about two young girls discovering their sexuality; about fathers and daughters; about family and friendship; about jealousy, secrets and lies, ‘The End of Everything’ is a powerful reminder that things aren’t always what they seem. “A gripping and disturbing novel, a fever dream of adolescent desire and adult complicity” Tom Perrotta.

Out in September, Prestel.

Solace

By Belinda McKeon

Salvador Dali The Reality of Dreams By Ralf Schiebler

Concise yet comprehensive, this elegant volume follows Dalí’s artistic development from the 1920s to his death in 1989. Accompanied by brilliant reproductions and the artist’s own words, it offers detailed analysis of his most important paintings based on the theories of two men who deeply influenced his thinking: Sigmund Freud and his protégé, Otto Rank. What emerges is a picture of an artist whose pursuit of selfknowledge provides fascinating and important insights into the inner workings of the creative imagination. Now available again, this fascinating look at Dalí explores the forces that shaped the life and works of one of the modern art world’s most inscrutable and misunderstood figures. Ralf Schiebler is a writer on twentiethcentury art and philosophy.

Out in September, Prestel.

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As tender as it is heartbreaking, a brilliant debut from an exciting new voice in Irish fiction. Mark Casey has left home, the rural Irish community where his family has farmed the same land for generations, to study for a doctorate in Dublin, a vibrant, contemporary city full of possibility. To his father, Tom, who needs help baling the hay and ploughing the fields, Mark’s pursuit isn’t work at all, and indeed Mark finds himself whiling away his time with pubs and parties. His is a life without focus or responsibility, until he meets Joanne Lynch, a trainee solicitor whom he finds irresistible. Joanne too has a past to escape from and for a brief time she and Mark share the chaos and rapture of a new love affair, until the lightning strike of tragedy changes everything. Solace is a work to be admired for its spare, intense lyricism, its range, and its deeply compassionate portrayal of life as it is lived now.

Out in August, Macmillan.

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August sees the release of the long awaited Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh, a beautiful story of life, love and emotion expressed through flowers.

Out in August, Macmillan.

The Victorian language of flowers was used to express emotions: honeysuckle for devotion, azaleas for passion, and red roses for love. But for Victoria Jones, it has been more useful in communicating feelings like grief, mistrust and solitude. After a childhood spent in the foster care system, she is unable to get close to anybody, and her only connection to the world is through flowers and their meanings. Now eighteen, Victoria has nowhere to go and sleeps in a public park, where she plants a small garden of her own. When her talent is discovered by a local florist, she uncovers her gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But it takes meeting a mysterious vendor at the flower market for her to realise what’s been missing in her own life and as she starts to fall for him, she’s forced to confront a painful secret from her past and decide whether it’s worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness. The Language of Flowers is a heartbreaking and redemptive novel about the meaning of flowers, the meaning of family and the meaning of love. Heralded as the Chocolate of 2011 said with flowers.

Where did the idea of creating a novel based on the language of flowers derive from?

I actually started with the idea of writing a novel about the foster care system. I have been a foster parent for many years and I felt that the same sensationalised stories appeared in the media over and over again: violent kids, greedy foster parents, the occasional horrific child death or romanticised adoption—but the true story of life inside the system is one that is much more complicated and emotional. Foster children and foster parents, like children and adults everywhere, are trying to love and be loved and to do the best they can with the emotional and physical resources they have. Victoria is a character that people can connect with on an emotional level—at her best and at her worst—which I hope gives readers a deeper understanding of the realities of foster care. When I sat down to start the novel, Victoria and the language of flowers came to me simultaneously. I liked the complication of a young woman who has trouble connecting with others communicating through a forgotten language that almost no one understands.

When did you discover the language of flowers, does it affect the way you choose your florals?

I discovered Kate Greenaway’s Language of Flowers in a used bookstore when I was 16 and couldn’t believe it was such a well-kept secret. How could something so beautiful and romantic be virtually unknown? I went home and created a poem on a string by attaching flowers to a long piece of twine, interspersed with words on scraps of paper. I gave it to my high school boyfriend along with the flower dictionary so that he could translate. From this day forward, I could never look at flowers the same way again. I am careful about what I give to others but also careful about what I bring into my home. Lately, I’ve been buying a lot of asters—patience—as I sit down to write my next book!

The yellow rose has great significance in the book, what made you decide to portray it as infidelity instead of jealousy? Was it a long debated decision?

I did think about it for quite a while, but in the end I decided it had to be infidelity. The dictionary I created at the back is Victoria’s dictionary, and since she learned that the yellow rose means infidelity from Elizabeth—it was, in fact, one of the very first flower definitions she taught her—I imagined that Victoria would be loyal to this definition.

There are some fantastic anecdotes in the book, where as a reader we are left to encrypt the thoughts and emotions of the characters through their choice of flowers. As a writer did it feel unnatural to replace description and emotion with flower names?

It felt very natural. I think as a writer, especially when you are writing in first person, you are so inside the head of your characters that you write and express and communicate as they would and in Victoria’s case that was through flowers.

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In an interview with the Author, Vanessa Diffenbaugh speaks of her inspiration for The Language of Flowers.

Celandine/Joys to Come

The Book Shelf

Images from top to bottom/Left to Right Courtesy of: Corbis, Michael Bradley at Getty, Martina Geiss at Corbis, Phil Schermeister at Corbis, Steve Terrill at Corbis, Luciano Gaudenzio SOPA at Corbis, Bill Ross at Corbis, Clive Nichols at Corbis, Japack at Corbis, Michael&Patricia Fogden at Corbis, Atlantide Phototravel at Corbis.

The Book Shelf

The Language of Flowers

Use the majestical Language of Flowers to decorate your home during the Ramadan season...

Water Lily/Purity of Heart

Stonecrop/Tranquility

Wisteria/Welcome

Sorrel/Parental Affection

Lily Of the Valley/Happiness

Freesia/Lasting Friendship

Violet/Modest Worth

Chrysanthemum/Truth

Passion Flower/Faith

Aster/Patience

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Dinner Party

Family gathering

Hussien El Jasmi – 6 El Sob7 Miami Celine Dion – I’m Alive Nancy Ajram Mariah Carey ft. Ne – Yo – Angels Cry U2 – Beautiful Day Ordinary people – John Legend James Morrison – You Give Me Something Diana Haddad Feat. Cheb Khaled – Mass Wi Loli Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight Michael Bolton – How can we be lovers if we can’t be friends

Bruno Mars – Marry You Black Cats – Yeki Bood Yeki Nabood Coldplay – Viva La Vida Bryan Adams - Summer of 69 Kanye West Khaled – Aicha One Republic Ramzi – touch the sky (for some Arabic mixed with English) Ne – Yo – One In A Million Usher Bon Jovi – It’s My Life John Mayer – Your Body Is A Wonderland UB40 – Red Red Wine Toni Braxton – Yesterday Stevie Wonder – I Just Called To Say I Love You

Record Shop

Lunch with the girls

Carole Samaha – Khallik Behalak Keri Hilson – Pretty Girl Rock Adele, Amy Winehouse, Pink and some Katy Perry Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want To Have Fun Edith Piaf (for some French flair...) Nancy Ajram The Eagles – Hotel California Original Phil Collins – In The Air Tonight Michael Jackson – Man In The Mirror Spice Girls – Stop

Social Party

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Find Shamim at: @shamimScene and www.ShamimScene.com

Chillout/Relaxation

Image by Dick Wolters at Corbis.

During the summer socialising is a must, whether it’s after the sun’s gone down, just before the sun comes up or during the day within the confinements of your own home. The UAE’s musical mastermind and go-to lady for creating fun and original mixes Shamim Kassibawi has - with the help of her 2000 plus twitter followers - created five playlists for those special social events. Combining a mix of one-off distinctive songs with entire albums, Shamim creates the perfect backdrops for the long hot months of Summer.

Adele – 21 Elissa – 3a Bali Habibi (and any of her chilled out music!) Café Del Mar – Best of 2010 Anything James Morrison! Hotel Costes – Best of John Legend – Revolver Alicia Keys Maxwell Fleetwood Mac – Albatross Krezip – I would Stay TLC – Waterfalls Eric Clapton – Wonderful tonight Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You All headphones urbanears.com.

Diddy ft. Skylar Grey - Coming Home Black Eyed Peas – I got a feeling Black Cats – Khanoom Justin Timberlake is always a winner! Edward Maya – any of his hits are fantastic Chris brown – Yeah Afrojack feat Eva Simons – Take Over Control Lady Gaga – Bad Romance Katy Perry ft. Kanye West – E.T. Ministry of Sound –The Annual 2011 B.o.B ft.Hayley Williams – Airplanes Sheloha Sheilah Miami Band Usher ft. Pitbull – DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer Michael Jackson – The Way You Make Me Feel Bryan Adams – Summer of 69

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Farewell to We salute spring/summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colourful and inspiring trends.

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the Season Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a fun and extravagant few months!

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