bazaar March 2015 by bazaar magazine

March 2015 | Issue # 191 www.bazaar.town

TAG H

HEUER

Available in all H&M stores For further information visit us at hm.com Contact us on: 182-12-12

ECC

THE AVENUES MARINA MALL MOHALAB MUTHANA AL KOUT

MONS

SOON

Year GUARANTEE

IKE

CARLA A

AMORIM

TONI &

& GUY

ASH

‫ﺗﻨﺰﻳﻼت‬ ‫ﻤﺑﻨﺎﺳﺒﺔ اﻹﻓﺘﺘﺎح‬

‫ﻣـﺘـﺠـﺮ اﻷﺛـﺎث‬ ‫رﻗـﻢ ‪1‬‬ ‫ﻓـﻲ اﻟﻌـﺎﻟـﻢ‬ ‫‪ 24716077‬اﻟﺮي‪ ،‬ﺧﻠﻒ اﻷﻓﻨﻴﻮز‬

‫‪HLEY‬‬

Int

March is finally here! No more mid-month holidays that totally disrupt one's work cycle and empty one's wallet. No more fear of getting water gunned or foamed on Gulf Road. No more bitter desert cold (although to be honest, this must have been the mildest winter on record). Hello weekends spent on the beach, or laying by the pool. Hello dining al fresco. Hello lazy Friday BBQ's. Hello 4X4 desert trips. Can you tell that us bazaarites love Spring?

The bazaar team...

You know what else we love? The tremendous amount of positive feedback we have received from all of you with regards to our new website www.bazaar.town. When we launched the new site we knew there was a gap in the market, and that people were hungry for interesting local content, and more information about events, and shop and restaurant openings, but not to this extent. We have listened carefully to all of your suggestions, so stay tuned for even more frequent updates, more unique content, and more competitions in the coming months.

Tim Burns

Food & Fashion…these are a few of our faaaavorite things (cue chorus-line). And we couldn’t get enough of these this month! Firstly, we had an absolute ball with the lovely family that brought us The Urban Creamery for our up close feature: join us as Dana Al-Fulaij introduced bazaar to her famous delicious and addictive ice cream and cookies…it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it! Our gastronomic cravings were also satisfied when we took an in-depth look into the restaurants at the M2, located at the Salhia Complex. From Italian to Japanese and an incredible Middle Eastern concept, there really is something here for everyone. You also must check out our visit to one of Kuwait’ newest bakeries – Bibi’s Cakes – where we were also introduced to Norwegian baking sensation, ‘Cupcake Queen’ and in this case, baking mentor, Manuela Kjellen. Our fashion journey this month led us to some wonderful inspiration for Spring/ Summer. Max&Co. helps you face your workday in a fabulous way with their new workwear collection; at Harvey Nichols you will be able to flawlessly rock their new Parisian 80s-inspired Sandro line; and of course, noone accessorizes like Jimmy Choo, where you can join the many A-listers strutting their new 247 collection. Finally, don’t forget to check out the interview with award-winning filmmaker Hassan Said, our feature Arab Abroad, who is doing what he loves “even if that requires me at times to not afford to eat.” And whose roles on NCIS LA and the upcoming series of True Detective, were just part of his journey of exploring the reality of being a human being through film. Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Rebecca Sweetman

Business Development Ihab Mokalled

Design Padmini Chandrasekaran

Staff Writer/Coordinator Yasmine El Charif

Staff Writer/Online Media

Syndicates and Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek Tribune Media Services USA Today Variety News Service Washington Post

Printing British Industries for Printing and Packaging members of:

Sarah O. Wali

Staff Writer Amira Haroun Brook McClurg

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Editor

w w w. b p aw w. c o m No one likes to be dumped;

recycle me, please.

The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

A. Al-Duaij

Contributing Writers Abrar Al Shammari Deepa Pant Liltera R. Williams Loaay Ahmed Mike Campbell Patrick Makhoul Reshmi Revi Shabana H. Shaikh Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg

tel. 2461 0017 – fax 2461 0018 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar.town | Al Argan Complex, Shuwaikh Free Trade Zone @bazaargram bazaarmagazine @bazaartweets

JAZEERA (OBC)

INDEX MARCH '15

CREAMY WICHI-NESS

ALMAKAN

THOMAS LUNDGREN

BIBI’S CAKES

SKOUNT IN KUWAIT

We were outted as the ultimate ice cream fiends when we paid a visit to The Urban Creamery. Join us, as we get up close and personal with the queen of all things dairy, Dana Al-Fulaij. She tells us about her bewitching story with the world of fresh, handmade ice cream, her passions and much more.

We’ve seen many creative spaces come and go. What we found at Almakan, however, was a pleasant surprise. A place to feast, create and contemplate, the people behind Almakan pride themselves on presenting a concept that gives back to the local creative community while proving that creativity can indeed make for a sustainable living!

Make your lifestyle an inspired one, and pay a visit to THE One. We sit down with the brand’s creative founder or Creative Emotional Originator, Thomas Lundgren, and he tells us all about what makes THE One different from the rest of the world’s big box corporations.

When we found out that Kuwaiti concept Bibi’s Cakes is hosting the world famous Norwegian sensation Manuela Kjellen, we ran to meet her! Upon meeting Manuela and Bibi’s Cakes owner Enass Abdul Aziz Khalifa, we loved that their success stories transpired worlds apart, but their shared passion for baking prevails.

As part of Visual Therapy’s efforts to constantly educate Kuwait about the importance of public art, they present us with the works of Spanish artist Skount. Using paint, paper, music and performance, video art, sculpture and installations, he has made his mark as an explorer of people and the masks they wear.

SPRING FOR DKNY

KARIM JABBARI

Whenever we’re feeling the beginnings of a style rut, we immediately head to DKNY for inspiration. For Spring 2015, DKNY’s interpretation of New York chic offers a beautiful backdrop that is alive with color, culture and creativity. Flip through to uncover bold prints, happy colors and the makings of real style.

In case you missed it, Kuwait City’s landscape was transformed when Nuqat joined forces with visual artist Karim Jabbari. Find the inspired street art piece in Souq Al-Mubarakiya, or learn all about the astounding technique of light art calli-graffiti in our review of the workshop: We Are The Artwork.

Song of the Sea, pg 110

102

YOUR BEST CHOO FORWARD

DINING THE M2

READING A SERIES

THE MISSION OF DANCE

Worthy of BAFTA red carpet style and taking us all the way to biggest after-parties and street style, Jimmy Choo is bringing its A-game and then some. A pioneer in the industry, Jimmy Choo strives to provide its clientele – celebrity or not – the best they can offer with their covetable 247 collection.

While we all have days of culinary confusion – craving something, yet not really sure what said urge is – The M2 at the always-luxurious Salhia Complex has created the ideal dining and retail space. Join us on the quest to find every craving’s gastro-perfect-fit as we eat our way through The M2.

“What if Harry Potter grew up and joined the Fuzz.” What a line! The River Thames and all it’s tributaries are personified, and wizards and warlocks are all intertwined with the London Met, are reason enough to read on. Read through this compelling series of murder, mystery, and magical mayhem!

This 23-year-old Kuwaiti born student of the arts has a desire to someday travel the world. Hussein Al Shammery – better known socially by his Hip Hop moniker, Slash – is striving to master every single one of his self-taught talents while on a mission to help others understand the true meaning of self-expression.

THE BLUE BOX Writing for the last three years, Emma Abdullah has done what most people need a lifetime to achieve – find a niche. Publishing her first collection of short stories, entitled The Blue Box, Emma has raised USD 50,000 in support of Syria! Impressive, no?

MERCEDES

bazaar connect Freedom to find us

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With a bilingual audience of both English and Arabic, we cover everything from what’s on, to the bizarre. We print and distribute 10,000 copies of bazaar every month; each copy is read by an average of 3 people, giving us a total readership of over 30,000. bazaar is published every month (except August), delivered free of charge to a large subscriber database, and distributed free of charge in all of the following locations: Cafés & Eateries

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Starbucks Outlets: Abdullah Mubarak Adeliya Airport Mall Al Mowasat Hospital Al Shaya Head Office

Aliya & Ghalia Complex Andalouse Coop AUK Bairaq Mall Baitak Tower Behbehani Complex Bida’a Complex BMW Showroom Daiya Co-op Dar Al Awadi Divonne, Abu Hassaniya Four Points by Sheraton Hilton Resort Jabriya Kaifan Khalifa Resort Kout Mall Marina Crescent Marina Mall Mishref NBK Nuzha Co-op Plaza Hawalli Rosa Castle Salhiya Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak Salmiya Co-op Salwa Co-op Scientific Center Seif Hospital Shaab Shamiya Co-op Sharq Co-op Sheikha Complex Sheikh Saed Al Abdullah Terminal Shuwaikh Zain Headquarters

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Souk Sharq The Avenues The Palms Hotel Zahra Co-op

Clinics & Hospitals

Al Mubarakiya Dental Clinic - Egaila, Salmiya Al Safat American Hospital Boushahri Clinic Dasman Diabetes Institute Diet Care Center Gulf Clinic International Clinic Maidan Clinic - Fahaheel, Farwaniya, Hawalli, Sharq, Subah Al Salem Noor Clinic Salam Hospital Seif Hospital Soor Center Taiba Clinic The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

Hotels & Health Clubs

Al Corniche Club Crowne Plaza, Farwaniya, Salmiya Hilton Kuwait Resort & Spa Holiday Inn, Salmiya, Inspire Pure Fitness JW Marriott – Residence Inn, Sharq Pilates & More - Salmiya, Mahboula Spaloon The Palms Beach Hotel The Yoga Center

Malls

Arraya Haagen Dazs

Galleria Al Hamra Elevation Burger Mall 360 Dunkin Donuts Marina Mall/Crescent Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar Johnny Rockets P.Q. Paul Souq Sharq Starbucks Haagen Dazs Breadz Symphony Mall Juan Valdez The Avenues Elevation Burger Johnny Rockets Paul Starbucks Airport Mall Starbucks Dar Al Awadi I.O. Center Spoons Chocolate Bar Salhiya Complex Starbucks

British Embassy Brush Salon CAP Gallery Cookie Dough Dar Al Funoon Dar.Nur Gold Class Lounge - Grand Cinemas Al Hamra I. O. Center Italian Center Jacques Dessange Salon, Shaab KAICO Kuwait Airport Business Class Lounges N Style Nail Lounge Media Elephant Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Chairman's Club USA Embassy

Stand Alones

Kuwait University

4 Boutique Alghanim Marine Alghanim Showrooms - Safat Al Rai, Shuweikh, Sharq, Fahaheel beau-Tique cosmetics

Schools & Universities American International School American University of Kuwait Australian College Kuwait Bayan School (Hawalli) Boxhill College BSK - British School of Kuwait Retail Academy Universal American School Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks

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MAX MARA

what’s on

VISUAL THERAPY BRINGS BACK ALWAN Dates: Friday, March 6, 2015, 1pm–9pm Location: Marina Crescent After the success of the first edition, Visual Therapy is bringing back Alwan, Kuwait’s first live art festival, taking place on Friday March 6th 2015. Alwan is an annual celebration of public art and creativity. The open-air art festival aims to inspire the youth and promote public awareness of art and culture while connecting the community. The festival will feature an exciting program of events taking place in various locations around Marina Crescent. This includes live street art, music and performances, shopping and art activities for both kids and adults. This year, Alwan will be showcasing street artists from around the Middle East, in addition to Spanish artist Skount. The festival will also include live music by Galaxy Juice, Karrouhat, and more. For more details visit: www.alwanfestival.com, email them at: alwanfestival@gmail.com or follow them on Instagram @alwanfestival.

THE TASTE OF Q8 – KUWAIT'S FOOD FESTIVAL: Dates: March 5 until 7, 2015 Location: Kuwait International Fairgrounds, Mishref The Taste of Q8, Kuwait’s first major food festival, taking place in Meshrif this month, showcases everything to do with food. The people of Kuwait will have the opportunity to taste the best that Kuwait has to offer, with over 50 restaurants featured at the event spotlighting their best dishes over the 3 days. The highlight however will be the attendance of the Celebrity Chef’s including Food Network’s Jenny Morris as well as The Spice King himself, Chef Reza Mahammad and several other Fatafeat Chefs. Supported by partners: Fatafeat, OSN, Taste of Arabia, Mercedes as well as bazaar, this is bound to be a brilliant event, not to be missed! For more information please visit their website: www.q8foodfestival.com or follow them on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook @thetasteofq8.

SAMI MOHAMMAD: A RETROSPECTIVE Dates: March 14, 2015 – June 14, 2015 Location: Contemporary Art Platform / Exhibition Space Contemporary Art Platform presents Sami Mohammad: A Retrospective, the first in-depth survey of over fifty years of work by the pioneering Kuwaiti sculptor. More than 120 pieces – many of which have never been exhibited before – including sculptures, paintings, drawings, prints and documents from the artist’s archive make up the largest ever presentation of his work. Mohammad’s first and only solo sculptural exhibition was mounted in Kuwait in 1995. 20 years later, this retrospective, held in the country of the artist’s birth, pays homage to his long and influential artistic journey. This chronological exhibition highlights the entire thematic arch by the foremost sculptor in the Gulf. The sculptures on view come primarily from Mohammad's own collection, consisting of his favorite pieces. This includes many works exhibited for the first time, beginning with his earliest ceramic pieces made in 1961 and sculptures made during his studies in Egypt. His work reflects his belief that the human being always maintains the power to overcome oppression. If one strives for freedom, it is possible to be free. Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) is located in Kuwait Industrial Shuwaikh, Block 2, St. 28, Life Center. Call 2492 5636 for more information.

VISUAL THERAPY PRESENTS SKOUNT Dates: Monday, March 9, 2015, 6pm-10pm Location: AlMakan located on Mubarak Al Kabeer St. in Sharq For the first time in the Middle East, Visual Therapy presents “Projections: Searching” an exhibition of new artworks by Spanish artist Skount currently based in Amsterdam. This is the second of his studio series inspired by the study of psychoanalysis projection. For more on Skount and his inspirations, see the article later on in this issue. For more details visit: www.visualtherapyonline.com or follow them on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook @skountworks.

A WONDERFUL WORLD UNDER CONSTRUCTION by GCC Dates: Opening March 10, 2015, 7pm–9pm Runs March 11 –April 2, 2015, 10am–4pm. Location: Sultan Gallery Inspired by nation-state branding campaigns, ‘A Wonderful World Under Construction’ imagines a reality in which a government body provides branding as an essential public service. A state’s investment in public diplomacy and expansive nation branding campaigns are often disseminated as seemingly benign efforts to promote tourism, trade and foreign direct investment. These outward facing tactics emerge out of opaque deadlines with strategic communications experts, public relations and consulting companies that often obscure a government’s negative qualities to secure influence on the international stage. Through these soft power strategies a nation can pursue ambitious international and domestic policy objectives, while at the same time their internal PR strategies capture the public imagination on a national scale. This exhibition serves as the launch for a fictional smartphone app that offers branding as an essential public service by government. The detritus of this press conference, including posters and promo videos, remain in the gallery. By existing in the interstitial space between idea and implementation, we invite audiences to consider the pervasive role of government in the day to day management of our hyper-mediated lives. Sultan Gallery is located in South Sabhan, Block 8, Street 105, Building No. 168, Kuwait. Ph 2471 4325 xtn 110; Mobile 6097 0001, or you can visit their website: www.sultangallery.com.

GANT

what’s trending As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it! Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more. facebook.com/bazaarmagazine

what: Cup&Cake Studio - Homemade - Kuwait info: Handcrafted (literally) cupcake bouquets. editor’s note: You imagine it, they bake it!

what: @darcytheflyinghedgehog info: Hedgehographer Shota Tsukamoto. editor’s note: This is the cutest hedgehog EVER.

what: @nevillejacobs info: Meet Marc Jacob’s dog! editor’s note: He is one lucky, stylish pup. 28

twitter.com/bazaartweets

pinterest.com/bazaarmagazine

what: Maison De Marrakech info: etsy shop turned website. editor’s note: Our choice for total boho-chic.

www.bazaar.town

what: @skullsandroseskwt info: Online lifestyle boutique in Kuwait. editor’s note: We can’t buy enough knick-knacks!

instagram.com/bazaargram

what: Secret Flying info: Daily deals on air travels. editor’s note: Save up to 80% on flights!

what: @Ihavethisthingwithfloors info: When feet meet nice floors. editor’s note: We’ve got the floor/tile bug!

what: @W.Store info: Wafaa Al-Husaini designs. editor’s note: All products handmade in Kuwait.

FOR INFORMATION CALL +965 25309676 | 360 MALL, LEVEL 1 | WWW.VERSACECOLLECTION.COM

VERSACE

truth or dare

THE BLUE BOX Emma Abdullah by bazaar staff

You probably recognize her name from pages in issues past, and you’re not wrong to. Emma Abdullah has been an awesome addition to our contributors list at bazaar – because naturally, we have remarkable people writing for us! As a regular, Emma is our youngest writer yet! She’s been one of our freelancers since she was fourteen. So, she’s been published regionally by the age of fourteen, and internationally at seventeen. Impressive, no? Writing for the last three years, Emma has done what most people need a lifetime to achieve – find a niche. A people-enthusiast, Emma explores the world around her and the “little things we look past” as she writes about people and how they lead their lives. It all started with a short story and ended with a book. Self-published yes, but still a book, The Blue Box has gathered USD 50,000 in support of Syria! When asked about the title, she explained that it was a metaphor and that “The Blue Box represents the thoughts and the power we have and how sometimes it builds up inside for a while before we let it out.” She added about the cover, “I happened to come across some drawings by Syrian children in refugee camps and was able to meet some who had been lucky enough to be able to move to the USA,” she said. Emma then asked if they could draw Syria for her. “I asked one of them ‘anything you remember; draw whatever reminds you of home.’ I hadn’t planned on using a drawing for the cover initially.” Something about the artwork intrigued her – the story behind the drawing embodied the book perfectly. How would your mother describe you in one word? Determined. How would you describe your mother in one word? Wonderful. What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? (Last summer, in the States) “Would you say you’re more of a Dominican or a Republican?” (The summer before) “Do you know if these stairs go downstairs?” What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? Call Oprah (It didn’t work out quite the way I had hoped it would) What is your theme song? 'All Star.' What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Serendipity. 30

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location? I haven’t really thought of retirement just yet! What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind? “A ship in harbor is safe – but that’s not what ships are built for.” What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in? Dolphin. What do you miss about your childhood? Thinking I could negotiate with the tooth fairy. If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I wouldn’t change it – I love my name! Describe your handshake in one word? Am I being too cliché if I say 'firm'? What is the toughest part of your character? I think I can be quite stubborn.

Who is your favorite historical figure? Theodore Roosevelt. What in the world do you least desire? To stop learning. What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place? Empathy. Why do you think most girls/guys like you? Because I take them as they are, hoping they’ll take me as I am too. Finish this sentence: “Happiness is (a thing called)…” Being true to yourself.

You can buy Emma’s book The Blue Box through www.amazon.com or you can email her at theblueboxstories@gmail.com for more information.

‫‪AUDI‬‬ ‫تجذبك بقوة‪.‬‬

‫مجموعة طرازات ‪ Audi A7‬الجديدة‪.‬‬

‫ال يكتمل الجمال دون براعة األداء‪ .‬لذلك تم تجهيز مجموعة سيارات ‪ Audi A7‬الجديدة بتشكيلة من أربعة محركات‪:‬‬ ‫محرك ‪ 333( 50 TFSI quattro‬حصانًا)‪ ،‬محرك ‪ 252( 40 TFSI‬حصانًا) و محرك ‪ 220( 35 FSI quattro‬حصانًا)‪،‬‬ ‫باإلضافة إلى المحرك ‪ V8 TFSI quattro‬بقوة ‪ 450‬حصانًا في سيارة ‪.Audi S7‬‬ ‫لمزيد من المعلومات‪ ،‬تفضل بزيارة موقعنا ‪www.audi-kuwait.com/A7‬‬ ‫أو اتصل بشركة فؤاد الغانم وأوالده للسيارات لحجز موعدك لتجربة القيادة على ‪1811118‬‬

SHOOT THAT TROLL! by Dr. Susannah J. Schuilenberg

“You’re such a loser!” “Why can’t you do anything right?” “Great. Just like always, you’ve messed this up. Now what?” “Don’t even bother. It won’t work. You never get it right.” “You can’t do that.” “That was so simple and you botched it. As usual.” I’m no longer surprised to hear that a client is struggling with a painful inner dialogue more than anything else in his/her life. Those things we say to ourselves are often far more hurtful than anything others may say to us. I mean really – when was the last time someone actually called you a loser to your face? Actually said that to you? Now think about the last time you said this (or some variation) to yourself. I bet it wasn’t so long ago. As a therapist, I’ve worked with psychologically exhausted and emotionally wounded women by the fact that they did not enjoy being a new mom. The constant, caustic stream of mental chatter overwhelmed their ability to take pleasure in the baby’s presence. “I must be doing something wrong – all she does is cry.” “If I were doing this right, the baby would be sleeping.” “I am so exhausted I want to give my baby back to the hospital.” There’s more of the same, often much, much worse in word or tone. Along comes mom-in-law who suggests that it might be better to give baby a bottle, or let her “cry it out” at bedtime, or some such advice. This feels to new mom like judgment that she really 32

is “failing” at mothering, and her reaction is so big that mom-in-law is offended, takes her coat and goes home. Now new mom feels guilty about that, too. Really, new mom is NOT failing at anything. She’s finding her way in this new situation and season of her life and doing just fine. The problem is her Inner Troll. This example is common, but instead of a new baby, it could be a new job…a new relationship…a new opportunity. Trolls are not discriminating. Everything is fair game for criticism. When the internal troll is talking, we often can’t hear anything else. Our emotional and psychological response appears to others as an overly emotional reaction, a meltdown, or often, an inappropriately angry outburst. We read criticism or judgment into the words of others when in fact the criticism and judgment originates in our own minds. This internal troll is a combination of ‘voices’ – family of origin, beliefs about self, and life experiences. We form beliefs – negative and positive – about ourselves in childhood and we unconsciously internalize these messages and then repeat the negative ones – with our own cruel embellishments – to ourselves in times of stress. (Funny, that. It seems to be human nature to repeat and embellish the negative much more than the positive.) The answer to that ugly troll is the habit of mindfulness, the truth of reality, and intentionally focusing on the positive. The mindfulness is

necessary because we have to learn to pay attention to what we say to ourselves, and when. Mindfulness is tuning in to the mental chatter that’s always in the back of our minds, and identifying when we are bullying ourselves. The dose of reality is to take stock of what is actually happening, right now THIS minute. Almost always that stupid troll is making dire predictions of some catastrophic failure about to happen, or criticizing for some past failure. The key is the mindful self-talk that speaks the truth of the current moment. “No. I’m not failing, I’m learning how to care for my baby and as I practice, I will get better at it.” “It’s not true that I “fail at everything” and I’m not failing now.” “I’m going to practice/get help/change what I’m doing so I am successful.” These truths are said out loud (out of your mouth into your own ears) and are a direct rebuttal of the lies you’re hearing in your head. The focus on the positive is the element that restores balance. I choose to emphasize what the troll ignores. We recognize when others are being bullied or trolled – why don’t we recognize or acknowledge when we bully ourselves? Mentally standing up and physically speaking up will expose the troll for what it really is; a figment of the imagination and definitely not worth your time or attention. In fact, get out that imaginary gun and shoot it. Yes. Just go ahead and do that.

ACCESSORIZE

up close and personal

CREAMY WICHI-NESS Dana Al-Fulaij and The Urban Creamery by bazaar staff

"The reality is quite simple, if it's not delicious and we don't like it, we won't serve it!"

There’s something beautiful and bewitching about ice cream. Your love for it grows with age, untarnished by those naysayers who claim that it will make you fat. Don’t listen to them; they’re just lying to you. Some people look at ice cream as a classic emotional remedy for all of life’s problems, while others consider it as a celebration of milestones and success. That’s why ice cream always works. No one knows this better than Dana Al-Fulaij, Co-Founder of Kuwait’s locally crafted ice cream concept, The Urban Creamery. "Everybody is a fan of ice cream. I clearly remember our childhood days, going to the ice cream cart usually parked outside our school and asking around for extra money to get some!” Dana told bazaar. Along with her four sisters, they turned this pastime into a daily indulgence at the Urban Creamery. What most people don’t know, however, is that the Fulaij sisters were initially known for their infamous cookies. They have an exacting recipe for their classic chocolate chip cookies that will instantly get you hooked. These cookies are so good that after years of school bake sales filled with their different cookies during Dana’s formative years, she contributed the recipe to her senior year time capsule. She added, “We still haven't opened the time capsule yet, so I hope no one knows where

it is!” With this early start in baking, it comes as no surprise that the Creamwich, basically an ice cream cookie sandwich, is one of the Urban Creamery’s best sellers. Both Dana and her other sisters are avid bakers. In fact, the entire family is always there for Dana when it comes to The Urban Creamery's marketing activities, financials, and crafting the best of flavors to add to their line of offerings. This makes the Urban Creamery a family affair, as it is also inspired by familial childhood memories and flavors. Dana explained that, “We’ve never set out, or intend to become a huge conglomerate. We like preparing our ice creams in small batches.” They discovered their affinity for ice cream while living in Boston. Dana recounted how people in Boston and the North East love their ice cream, even in the dead of winter. “They love their ice cream freshly churned and handmade with love, and artisanal creameries are the norm. When we all came back home to Kuwait for our family gatherings, we'd make a batch and test different flavors that we’ve tried before. We would also attempt to recreate flavors that we’ve grown up with – that’s where it all began.” Dana knew that they were on the right track when they perfected their now-famous Chai Haleeb & Baskoot (aromatic tea with milk) ice cream flavor that is inspired by their mother’s love for it.

From there, they went on to create flavors that are well thought out and prepared with great quality ingredients. The Urban Creamery refrains from using any additives, and the unique combinations that you taste when sampling their TUCaramel ice cream, for instance, happen from using these actual ingredients. Even their coffee flavored ice cream features real coffee beans. They don’t employ the use of extracts, fake syrups, or unnecessary sugars. Everything is produced in the little store located in downtown Sharq. On coming up with their strangely addictive winning combinations, Dana said that the Chai Haleeb & Baskoot flavor spurred them to become more inventive. "We've always been a Chai Haleeb and digestive biscuits type of family. I especially love it when the biscuits settle at the bottom of the mug. That flavor is indescribable! Recreating that sensation through ice cream is a challenge, but it is definitely a fun one!” The Chai Haleeb & Baskoot flavor might have been an ode to their family traditions, but soon after many establishments flocked to the Urban Creamery to enlist their help in creating a signature flavor that is unique to said establishment. Perhaps the most ideal example that best describes their process is the Cinnamon Pumpkin Cake flavor that they developed for Lorenzo restaurant’s seasonal menu. The spice combinations echoed with the restaurant's autumn menu. Dana [continued...] 35 33

[...continued] further revealed that any flavor that the Urban Creamery creates for an establishment becomes only theirs. Some of their other top sellers include the Mohalabeya flavor, topped with caramelized pistachios and the Arabic coffee with dates was a huge hit last summer. There’s also the highly anticipated and always amazing rahash flavor, with treated Persian bread that is caramelized and baked so it stays crunchy while you eat it! Keep your noses, eyes and stomachs peeled as they plan on reintroducing this flavor for this upcoming Ramadan. We asked Dana how they come up with these combinations, and she laughingly said, “We're mainly inspired by our cravings! But we also read, and we love following food trends to taste these combinations to see how we can make them work as ice creams. But the reality is quite simple, if it's not delicious and we don't like it, we won't serve it!" In all fairness, Dana, along with the team at the Urban Creamery, might stay away from plain vanilla, but will offer you a ridiculously addictive Corn Flakes flavor. They also customize orders based on their clients' needs, paying heed to allergy sufferers. Just like its owners, the Urban Creamery is driven by the fun loving attitude of its owners. This is a place of fun and indulgence. A place where the word diet is forbidden, and while many might quickly call ice cream a junkie meal, the flavors at the Urban Creamery prove that indulging every once in a while is never a bad thing when done properly. Dana added "I would never claim that our ice creams are healthy per say, but they are definitely clean as they are prepared with fresh and 36

natural ingredients. I don't think dessert should be anything but indulgent!" You might also have noticed their famous ice cream cart at Qout Market. While they could have gone with any other easier and practical mode of presentation, they wanted to recreate that sensation of catching the ice cream cart before its driver wheels it away! For this reason, Dana and her sisters actually bought an ice cream cart off of a guy on the street, renovated it, and the rest is history! You'll see this cart at any of the markets they participate in, or at catered events. Dana’s vision for the Urban Creamery is definitely one that revolves around real passion and fun, as she and her sisters are simply enjoying the process of creating whimsical, fantastic flavors that will make you take that much needed pause from an awfully hectic day to enjoy a comforting scoop of ice cream. Okay, maybe two scoops. And a cookie.

questionnaire What do you most value in your friends? Honesty. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Two cookies with ice cream in between (a creamwich). What is your greatest fear? Rollerblading downhill. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? I’m very emotional. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Being sly (not Stallone). Which living person(s) do you most admire? My parents.

What is your greatest extravagance? My Aramex bills. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? No wayyyyy / Masaddig! What is it that you most dislike? Fresh garlic. Which talent would you most like to have? Dancing. If you could have any job, what would it be? Judge on Iron Chef America. What would you consider your greatest achievement? Getting the courage to do this interview. What is your most treasured possession? My kids, and my Apple TV play-list. What is your most marked characteristic? Tenacity. Where would you most like to live? Southern California. What are your favorite words to live by? Found on Hellman’s Mayonnaise “Keep cool, don’t freeze” (but this does not apply to Ice cream – always freeze ice cream!)

You can get your fix from The Urban Creamery by passing by their shop, calling for delivery, or ordering through The Outlet app that is available on Android and Apple App stores. The Urban Creamery is located in the ground floor of Sami Tower in Sharq and is open from 1 pm to 9 pm, closed on Sundays. Call 6004 2034 for delivery inquiries and 6008 6010 for catering inquiries. You can follow them on Instagram @urbancreamery.

bazaar apps

MARCO POLO

HABITRPG

Our smart phones are smart. Just not when it comes to helping us find them. Now you can locate your iPhone using nothing but the sound of your voice thanks to Marco Polo. This app listens for you to shout "Marco" — or any other input phrase you like — and responds with either "Polo" or another message of your choosing, in one of 30 unique character voices. It works in silent mode, will pop up a notification to let you find your phone in the dark, and can even boost the volume if you've got it set too low to hear. At last, no more tearing apart the couch/bed/house just to check Twitter.

The problem with most productivity apps on the market is that they provide no incentive to continue using them. HabitRPG fixes this by making habit building fun! By rewarding you for your successes and penalizing you for slip-ups, HabitRPG provides external motivation for completing your day-to-day activities. Whenever you reinforce a positive habit, complete a daily task, or take care of an old to-do, HabitRPG immediately rewards you with experience points and gold. As you gain experience, you can level up. Gold can be spent on in-game items that change your experience or personalized rewards you've created for motivation. When even the smallest successes provide you with an immediate reward, you're less likely to procrastinate.

TOUCHPAL KEYBOARD

PPLKPR

TouchPal Keyboard brings swipe input, keyboard themes, Emoji and amazing speed to your fingertips. The app has over 150 million users and supports more than 75 languages. The best feature has to be the layout flexibility. You can have 12, 26 or T+ keypads. But perhaps the crowning glory of the 26-key 'board, is that it also has a Swype style "drag-to-type" arrangement. Instead of tapping on keys, you drag your finger from letter to letter, and TouchPal does the rest. It's good, pretty accurate, and you can get very fast using this method. It is also highly customizable, letting you select from several color palettes and stock images to brighten up your keyboard. Best thing is, it’s free!

You let your phone manage your contacts, appointments, and even your health, so why not let it manage your relationships, too? Developed by Lauren McCarthy and Kyle McDonald, Pplkpr (pronounced "people keeper") uses GPS and a heart rate wristband to determine your emotional state around specific friends. As a result, it can tell you who makes you the most anxious, the most excited, the least bored, and so on, giving you a better idea of which friends you should maximize your time with and which friends you might want to make less frequent appearances in your life.

VINE KIDS

DUBSMASH

It's been two years since Twitter launched the popular video service Vine, which allows users to create and share looping videos of adorable puppies, breaking news and occasional, unexpected x-rated clips. But as part of a larger effort to make the platform more enticing for children and families, Vine Kids will be free of creepy content you could potentially run into on the "grown-up" version. The app lets kids swipe right or left to see Vines and users can tap the screen to hear quirky sounds. It's also filled with animated characters. Currently only available on Apple devices, with no further word from Vine about when an Android version will be made available.

Dubsmash is becoming a big hit, and we can see why. It’s a deceptively entertaining way of getting in touch with friends and family and simply involves choosing a famous quote from the movies, television and more, miming over it and finally sending the dubbed video to friends. Once recorded, users can save their ‘Dubsmash’ to their photo gallery and then share it via social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp. The app organizes quotes in various folders that relate to the theme that you’re looking for, and it also includes a list of the trending, most popular clips.

MENBUR

Ground Floor Gate Mall, T. +96522056147

www.menbur.com

www.facebook.com/menburme

Ground floor 3rd Avenues, The Mall T+96522200640

PHANTOM ULTIMATUM by Abrar AlShammari

I am currently in my final year of university, very close to graduation. Several of my friends will be “walking” at the June graduation ceremony, young men and women of different majors and walks of life. Though perhaps our dreams will not come true, we have been wistfully sharing those dreams with one another; pursue higher education, be a diplomat, start my own business, open up a professional theater company, run a football training academy, produce movies. Beautiful dreams coming from beautiful individuals with beautiful ambitions. I have, however, heard different concerns being expressed by the young women than by the young men. Both are, of course, concerned about having to dig for wasta in order to nail the job they have in mind, but the young women were concerned about something that the men casually dismissed. To quote, “Are we supposed to go for a Masters or get married?” Before jumping to judgment, it’s important to keep in mind that the students asking this question are independent young women who work hard to assert their potential; they are not the type of girls who have spent their university years trying to find a husband. In fact, at my university, the valedictorian of each graduating class has been a woman for the past ten consecutive years. The question being asked is a valid one, it is one that 40

is recurrent among young women and it can be traced to societal pressures that make them feel obligated to choose a single path, as opposed to their male classmates who can and do choose the dual path of family and career. First, women in Kuwait are told that there is a ticking clock for the marriage train; if they don’t catch it by the time they are thirty, they are then lumped into the “A’anis” boat, regardless of what other accomplishments they had achieved during that period where they chose not to marry. Second, many are pressured to settle as a result of this ticking clock, and do not end up in compatible marriage relationships; though divorce is becoming common in Kuwait, the equation is made complicated and that choice made more distant once children are involved. It is at this point that motherhood comes into play. Wanting to be good mothers, the women stay with the husbands who aren’t the best match for them, or they take on jobs that are not as demanding so as to pay more attention to their babies; it is precisely at this moment of sacrifice that society’s pressures are victorious. The husband is not expected to cut back on his work hours, or eliminate the possibility of pursuing higher education; he may choose career advancement and he may choose to continue studying. In both cases, his wife will be there to take

care of the children. On the other hand, there is a constant expectation for the woman to fulfill the role of the good mother. This is not something that only comes from outside forces within that society, but also an innate desire to give her children everything she can give them. The woman’s desire to excel in her career and to be a loving mother at the same time creates a conflict that, until today, has yet to be resolved. In a discussion at university about this particular topic, one male classmate offered what he said was the “obvious” solution: women need to focus on their destined roles as caretakers, and allow men to be the providers as they were meant to. He said that he would feel “like a princess” if he had that option. Though I realize that many share his belief, I think it’s necessary to point out the flaws in that argument that would be particularly relevant in today’s world. First, today’s economic familial demands require that each household has two providers rather than one. Second, it ignores the woman’s own right to choose the path she prefers. “Housewife syndrome” is a depressive state where wives feel crippled and repulsed by their unchanging daily routines; this was originally ‘diagnosed’ among American housewives in the 1960s, but is absolutely applicable to other countries and time periods. Restricting a woman’s options to looking after her husband and children is not at all “princess”-like, but suffocating. Housewife syndrome specifically occurs to university graduates, women who were intellectually stimulated during their undergraduate years and then are not given the opportunity to invest their skills into a field they are passionate about. The reality today is that women in Kuwait have both the potential and the desire to excel in a career path or their family lives, but that it grows difficult when they are told, “You have to choose.” This is something that I have been personally told; I was told that I had to decide if I wanted to get married and have a family, or pursue higher education and be a professor. I see beauty and success in both, and yet I can understand how it would be hard to balance the two. Still, ten years from now I would like to see my classmates happy with their jobs and their families, and not resentful that they had to give one up in order to keep the other. It is unfair to impose such an ultimatum on women who have both the intellectual and emotional capacity to do well in both, and I think this is a basic right that all young women should have: choice. The fact that so many of my classmates are already concerned about this is deeply worrying. Surpassing this fear can only occur through cooperation, through a fair distribution of tasks between mother and father, through a willingness to be flexible; or through the support of friends and family in the case where a woman decides to solely pursue a career path. The role of women is rapidly changing and progressing in Kuwait; our expectations and perceptions must, too.

MANGO

BEHIND THE

Mask WE ALL WEAR

Spanish Artist Skount challenges our inner perceptions by bazaar staff

In the center of Spain, a small town rests between the Paleozoic mountain ranges, named Almagro. In the late 15th century, a young man by the name of Diego de Almagro was searching for himself in a world that had left him without parents, family or the general security every young child should enjoy. His hometown was the first Templar settlement, a bustling place for religion and ideas, but he could not find himself in it.

Skount

So, at the age of 29 he embarked, as so many young adventurers did in the early 16th century, to an unknown land. There he found excitement, battles and a way to build his fortune. He was one of the first westerners to marry a native Indian and was soon promoted to captain. With his partner Francisco Pizarro he conquered the Incan empire, but a dispute between them forced Almagro to leave Peru in search for other riches. He became the conqueror of Chile, but was disappointed by the lack of treasure and resented his former partner for stealing what he believed was rightfully his. He returned home to find Pizarro battling the Incas once more, and took this as an opportunity

to defeat the foe that had once been his friend. Instead he found himself run down by the enemy and eventually killed. Today a faceless mural of the conqueror rests on a wall on a 18th century building in the middle of town. The conqueror is an inspiration for many, but particularly for the man behind the mural Spanish artist Skount. “This historic character is a clear example of how the human being in search of better life, new experiences and knowledge, can become corrupted by power and greed, causing death and even attract own death,” Skount told bazaar. Though he was born in Jerez de la Frontera,

in the South of Spain, Skount grew up in the conqueror’s historic birth town in the center of the country. Today, Almagro is well known for its prominence in classic Spanish theatre, perfect for an artist who regards life as a wonderful play, in which everyone has a role. Using paint, paper, music and performance, video art, sculpture and installations he has made his mark as an explorer of people, and particularly the masks they wear. “The mask disguises the identity of its owner, and symbolizes the need to hide, or represses a person’s desires, fears or concerns,” he told bazaar. “Everybody carries masks. However there are also moments in which we can reveal our true nature and take them off.” Vivid in color, strong in it’s strokes and inspiring in its message, Skount’s artwork has been spotted in Spain, Europe, Israel, China, Japan, Australia, Mexico and the United States. He first started painting at the tender age of 7, alongside his artist mother, and created his first collaborative projects with her. In 1999, greatly influenced by the Hip Hop culture he ventured into graffiti. His murals are a reflection of his inner thought process and the environment around him. He will find a hidden area where he spends days scoping the place in which his chosen canvas lives. He talks to people, researches its history and finds out as much as he can about it. Finally, when a sketch is created, he begins to paint. “For me it is really important where I paint and how it looks on the wall because in the end the wall will be part of the artwork,” he said. “I think of a concept before I paint it on the wall, because I like that behind each painting, there is a story.” On March 6, Skount will be displaying his latest work “Projections: Searching” at the Visual Therapy live art festival in Marina Crescent. The show is based on the theory of psychological projection. People defend themselves against their own unpleasant impulses by denying they exist within themselves or project positive attributes to those they want to love. “For this time I am focusing my work on seeking the inner self of our existence; our roots, identity, and after-life,” he said. “Removing our metaphorical mask by leaving behind hidden feelings, thoughts or desires that are never quite accepted as our own because they generate distress or anxiety, they rest hidden under our mask.“ This is the first time the world-renowned artist will be coming to Kuwait, but he’s excited about the prospect of displaying his work in a new country, and possibly pushing some of us to reveal our true selves. For more on the Visual Therapy event visit the website www.visualtherapyonline.com or follow them on Instagram and Twitter @VisualTherapy. To find out more about the artist Skount visit his webpage at www.skountworks.com. Or you can follow him on Facebook.com/skountworks on Instagram, Twitter or Flickr @skountworks. 43

DINING THE M2

A gastronomic experience awaits you at Salhia Complex by bazaar staff

While we all have days of culinary confusion – craving something, yet not really sure what said urge is – The M2 at the always-luxurious Salhia Complex has created the ideal dining and retail space. This way, you can do a light spot of shopping while you let the delicious aromas of the space reel you in. With cuisines ranging from Italian to Japanese and an incredible Arabic concept, you’ll find your gastro-perfect-fit.

[continued...]

ADOLFO

adolfokuwait

DINING THE M2

[...continued]

Doppio As you walk into The M2, you’re greeted with the warm, and welcoming aroma of freshly baking pizza from none other than the delectable resident Italian, Doppio. This Italian Pizzeria and Friggitoria is deliciously exquisite. The brainchild of Amr Al-Refai, who’s also responsible for Solo Pizza Napolitana, ‘Doppio’ means double in Italian, a double entendre on this establishment which not only serves up signature pizzas, but also unique street food found only at ‘friggitoria’ shops in Napoli. On the inside, a gorgeously carved, and detailed, map adorns the wall to your left. A replica to the streets of Napoli, you can see exactly where they got their certification – just look for their infamous mask. With the pizza oven always in sight, the tantalizing aromas float through the restaurant as you sit and not-sopatiently wait. Beautifully baked pizzas with the perfect ratios of tomato sauce and cheese on top, we’re salivating at the memory. Enjoy a complete menu (antipasti, salad, pizza/calzone, and dessert), you won’t regret a single bite! Doppio Pizzeria E Friggitoria Napulitana’s opening hours are from 1 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram @doppiopizza, call them on 2245 1511 or visit their website: www.doppio.pizza.

Dikakeen Dikakeen arrives as yet another brilliant concept by MMC Kuwait. We loved the idea behind this Kuwaiti fusion restaurant; with dishes and an ambience that plays with contemporary takes on traditional favorites. If you’re seeking the familiar taste of home cooking in a trendy upbeat environment, then you will love this whimsical restaurant filled with vintage Kuwaiti memorabilia, making Dikakeen a place where the past and present converge. Their meals come as shareable platters ready to be eaten with your hands or scooped with fresh bread that their baker prepares right in front of you. Some recipes are family secrets passed down from the owner’s mother, and some are original creations, such as the infamous cheekily named dessert, “Coma chocolate pudding.” They have classics like shawarmas, falafels, kebbeh, and Mishaltit, with the option of adding a modern twist. Upon our arrival at The M2, and until we completed our tour, people continued to flock to this destination. This surely speaks miles about the quality and service offered at Dikakeen. Dikakeen is open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. For reservations, call 9772 8587 or 2299 6552. For more information, you can follow Dikakeen on Facebook or Instagram @dikakeen and Twitter @dikakeenkw or visit www.dikakeen.net.

The Pantry Artisanal baking at it’s finest, The Pantry brings you the greatest freshly baked creations. With a passion for baking and high quality ingredients, The Pantry is home to an incredible selection of cakes, pies, and breads. Starting out solely as a dessert concept, they’ve expanded into a savory menu upon opening in The M2. So why not enjoy their selection of salads, sandwiches, wraps, or pastas before checking out their desserts. But if you’re targeting the desserts, then head inside and admire the mouthwatering display of freshly prepared scintillating delights. We tried the cookie cheesecake, Chocoleche and their signature silky smooth Pumpkin Cake. Their crowning glory, desserts (and all baked goods) are created with The Pantry’s “twist.” Relish in the warmth of a Chai Haleeb to accompany your dessert selection, because no matter what you go with, it’ll be made to perfection. The Pantry is located just after Doppio. Contact them on 2299 6551 or 9000 1769, or follow them on Instagram and Twitter @thepantrykw. You can also reach them by email on thepantrykw@gmail.com.

[continued...]

MILLY

MILLY.COM ARRAYA CENTER, GROUND FLOOR, SHUHADA STREET ENTRANCE, SHARQ | TEL: 2299 7739

[...continued]

DINING THE M2

Life With Cacao Nestled between the sweet offerings of The Pantry and the incredible Ridley’s Burger joint, you’ll find the elegant Life With Cacao. At this special location in The M2, Life With Cacao perfects the art of all things chocolate, while still offering scintillating savory dishes to those who prefer a dash of salt to sugar. We loved the chic display of delicious merchandise that functions as this establishment’s main façade. If you fancy yourself some high quality chocolates, you’ll be spoilt for choice between dark, milky variations and white. We personally would choose this location for its breakfast offerings, and the waffles are a must try! Life with Cacao is definitely a café that aims to bring an international flair to the local food arena. Having an extra edge is what makes this café a hit amongst dessert lovers. Life with Cacao also has locations in Mall 360, Solar Garden Area (2530 9909) and the Grand Avenue – The Avenues, (2220 0762). You can follow them on Facebook: Life With Cacao, Twitter and Instagram @LifewithCacaoKW.

Ridley’s Burger Burgers are a tricky thing to master, let alone eat. If they’re too big, you’re sure to make a mess. If they’re too small, they won’t be filling enough. Plus, if you’re out shopping, burgers are usually too heavy a meal to consume between sprees. Enter Ridley’s Burger, a homegrown burger concept with the flare of a chain. Light, perfectly-sized burgers await you at Ridley’s, they can even cut them in half for you! Choose from the original, Mr. Ridley, or be a little adventurous with Mr. Patrick. No matter the choice, you’ll surely enjoy them. With sides, appetizers, and desserts, you’ll find yourself staying for just a little longer. If you do decide to stay, make sure to try the Gamble – a chocolate fudge base with vanilla ice cream, strawberries, and Nutella concoction. Basically, what dreams are made of! Ridley’s Burger is located right after Life With Cacao. You can contact them on 5503 6869 and follow them on Instagram and Twitter @ridleys_kw.

Maki If you’re in Salhia and you find yourself craving the finest in Japanese cuisine, then make sure you head to Maki. With plenty of outdoor and indoor dining spaces, Maki would also make for the perfect location for an office lunch. A classic choice of ours when it comes to Japanese dining that we love revisiting time and time again; perhaps one of our favorite things about Maki is the establishment’s ability to deliver us with new and unique flavors every season. Since spring is here, and tanning season is right around the corner, we would recommend that you try their new healthy delicacies, such as the Amer Maki, Tara II Maki, and Oliver Shiromi Sashimi. With elements like red quinoa, your Japanese experience will be elevated once you’ve tried Maki’s new healthy offerings. Maki has four locations across Kuwait – The M2 in Salhia (2247 9721); The Avenues (2259 7122), Marina Waves (2224 4560) and Burj Jassem, (2290 1010). Visit www.olivemaki.com, for delivery call 182 3080. Follow them on Facebook: MakiRestaurant, Twitter and Instagram @Makirest.

For more information about The M2 level in Salhia Complex check out the website www.salhia-complex.com, follow them on Instagram @SalhiaCompany and the hashtag #The_M2. 48

SAFAT HOME

ALMAKAN

F E A S T, C R E AT E , A N D C O N T E M P L AT E by bazaar staff

It goes without saying that a creative vision and strategy effectively set in motion fosters collaboration, innovation and true change. If you find yourself in the heart of Kuwait City, don’t hesitate to pay a visit to Almakan. You’ll easily be drawn toward Almakan’s location due to its proximity to the country’s most known cultural and commercial hubs. A short stroll away from Souq Al-Mubarakiya, Kuwait’s banking complex, the Kuwait Stock Exchange and the Safat market, this space’s location is alive with its neighbors as well as its creative tenants. You won’t be able to walk by without catching a whiff of the intoxicating coffee served at the café, and you’ll find yourself immediately immersed in a space where art, food, creativity and innovation effortlessly collide. When we first heard about Almakan, we envisioned a creative space that would skyrocket in popularity then eventually reach a plateau, tapering off as just another ‘new concept’ in town. However, 50

what we’ve seen from its four Managing Partners so far is an extremely well thought out strategy that reflects a deep passion toward shaping and bettering the future of the country’s creative community. With the talents of Aysha Al Nafisi, brother and sister duo Bader Alhasan and Dalal Alhasan, along with culinary guru Faisal Al Nashmi, a visit to Almakan will leave you feeling inspired, creatively satiated and challenged to try something different. The idea behind this space is rather simple. Almakan is essentially a physical hub that welcomes all lovers of the arts. Whether you see yourself as a culinary aficionado, in the habit of learning a new skill every now and then, or you have a deep appreciation towards emerging artists, Almakan allows you to experience something different as the space comes alive with its many activities and different workshops. Almakan’s design does not fall under a certain theme and it cannot be labeled as either modern or artsy. Upon arrival, you will be instantly taken with the

youthful vibe of the space. Almakan aesthetic echoes with possibility, growth and creation. Whether you’re at the studio, its restaurant ‘Street’, the café, or the gallery. Le Cordon Bleu graduate Faisal and Architectureloving Bader both attended the University of Miami together. Faisal said, “I clearly remember the first time I met Bader, I was so relieved that he wanted to explore everything that Miami had to offer, unlike many people from our part of the world who also happened to study abroad.” They jointly discovered and instantly fell in love with the lively arts and culture hub that is the Wynwood Art district. They found themselves lured by the creative vibes of this once ignored neighborhood, now an inspiring district that is abundant with art galleries, graffiti enveloped surfaces and incredible emerging food concepts. Bader added, "I always knew that I wanted to do something that celebrated the spirit of Wynwood, right here in Kuwait.” Faisal especially appreciated the organic growth of this

area, “Wynwood grew with its people. It changed my entire understanding of food.” Prior to Faisal’s eventual return to Kuwait, Bader had mentally prepared him about the journey that lay ahead. Bader also sought out the help of his sister Dalal, who, along with Aysha, would complete the dream team behind Almakan. As for Dalal and Aysha, the pair quickly became close friends over their shared passion for the art world in 2011. First meeting through mutual friends, they previously worked together on an art project for the United Nations Development Program. Aysha said, “At the time, I was looking for volunteer work to do over the summer. That's where it all started. The project was experience, and I especially loved that we worked on a project that empowered the youth, and that is when Dalal and I realized that we needed to do something to keep this momentum going in Kuwait.” They met up in London again later that year, and Aysha found a friend in Dalal who shared her passion for

visiting art galleries. Dalal added that after many museum-hopping sessions later, they met up again in Dubai. Dalal clearly remembers dreaming up the idea of Almakan with Aysha, they even wrote the name down on a piece of paper and tucked it away for safekeeping, long before Bader and Faisal approached them with the idea. Once the wheels were set in motion, the rest as they say, is history. When it came to finalizing the layout and design of Almakan, Bader utilized his architectural background and focused on the structure and the design elements along with Aysha who also offered her expertise, given her experience in interior design. Faisal plunged right into developing a carefully crafted menu that ensured that the dining at Almakan reflected the attitude and the culture of the space. Now recognized as ‘Street’ at Almakan, the dining experience is unforgettable, and truly inimitable. Along with Dalal’s managerial expertise, they decided that they weren’t in it to simply open up a space

that allowed creatives to convene, they collectively decided on a long-term strategy that would leave a lasting impression with Almakan’s visitors. Faisal, along with the partners at Almakan, wanted to make sure that people were involved in the story of the development of the food. Utilizing his architectural background, Bader happily glances around at the open dining space, highlighted by an extended dining table that communally seats many people, and told bazaar that people are finally beginning to understand and respect the way that food is prepared. Faisal explained that his vision for ‘Street’ involved breaking down the boundaries of what is considered as normal. “We want to do everything in house, and we decided to take on a different approach that reflects the collaborative nature of Almakan.” ‘Street’ is currently open for dinner and also serves up a mouth-watering brunch menu on Saturdays. While many people are rallying for a lunch and even a breakfast menu at ‘Street,’ Faisal is in no rush and said, "While we are all trained to acknowledge that the customer is always right, sometimes we have to take a step back and look at the feasibility of each and every request. I can't pressure a team to perform if this will compromise the end result, so instead we are taking our time. We see our success in how we grow as a team, and not by how many tables are cleared in one day." He added, "As we set to work on Almakan, we first acknowledged that we are four people working on the same project, so we have to respect each others' views. Even when we don't necessarily agree on something." If it weren't for these differing views, the end result wouldn't have turned out the way it is now. The design of the space, the theme and the originality of the food at ‘Street’ speak miles of this 'end result'. Everyone's personality shines through Almakan’s multifaceted elements. Faisal recalls the droll experience of finalizing the design of the dining space, with the shining example of an illustrious blue marble counter, a design element Faisal initially deplored, that is now a stunning focal point at the restaurant. Nonetheless, Faisal utilizes every part of the kitchen, and believes that it is important for people to see what goes into the preparation of the dishes. You’ll see the culinary team preparing those deviously addictive ‘Street’ cookies on that marble counter, or you might catch Faisal working on a new creation right in front of his guests. Regardless, everything happens right in front of you at Almakan. If you arrive to dine at 5 p.m., let your eyes wander toward the art gallery where you will find the works of local and regional artists on display. You might also be a little taken with the constant hustle and bustle that comes out of the studio, where workshops are organized and given to willing participants looking to learn something new. If you arrive at Almakan before dinnertime, then stop by the café for a coffee, and check out the surrounding concepts that are popping up in the same area. While every partner at Almakan is avidly spreading awareness about their concept space [continued...] 51

[...continued] through cultivating strong relationships with the local community, Aysha explains that their roles are collaborative in nature. “We tackle our roles and responsibilities by collectively working on one project at a time.” While every team member has his or her own vision for Almakan, they share the collective goal of supporting local creativity and helping this local community grow by giving them the space to display and showcase what they have to offer. Dalal’s dream for Almakan is overflowing with art. She said, “I see us hosting more pop-up exhibitions in and around our space, collaborating with others to create art installations, gallery showings and hosting quality events that could be showcased on a national scale. I wish that we could continue our efforts here to arrive at a point where we can present something from the Kuwaiti youth to the international arena.” Bader believes that Almakan represents the start of a true artistic district in Kuwait, “Art is always a reflection of a nation's success, culture, growth and development. Where there is art, there is culture and civilization. Not many people are involved with the art community here, and despite high literacy rates, an appreciation for the arts is not prevalent. If people visited Almakan for the food, they will inevitable encounter art. While this might seem like a small change, it is still an impression on the visitor nonetheless.” Perhaps this is where Faisal’s role takes the lead, as he intends to educate visitors about the bigger picture with the attitude of dining at ‘Street’ or visiting the downstairs café for a coffee. He said, “We blended four concepts under one space. When you tell anyone who hasn't been here, they question our choice. When people do arrive here, they finally understand the beauty of a space that flawlessly blends the worlds of dining, with art. This is what we aspired to do, having these four incredible concepts work. From here, we know that the sky is the limit because every concept at Almakan could potentially expand and branch out to carry out more activities. ‘Street’ perfectly embodies this idea. Who knows, we can even execute a pop up show one day at Dirwazat Abdulrazzag. Our flexibility is the key to our future.” Aysha further remarked that with

Almakan, the pressure to create is even greater. “We see prevalent opportunities for artists in other GCC countries, governments have paid attention to this idea. Whereas in Kuwait, artists feel pressured to create because of the fact that the opportunities are not present. We’d like to give them this opportunity now.” Aysha also told us about one of their fantastic initiatives, in which Almakan adopts a policy of displaying the words of 12-15 different artists throughout the year, free of charge. They started collecting creatives' information through a previous installation of empty acrylic contact cards displayed at the recent Nuqat Creative Conference, which successfully led to a great database. She added, “Not everyone is able to come out with their art, some people need a push, and we would like to provide that for them. This is one of our initial projects; to promote and showcase the talents of locally based artists. We also want to limit the outsourcing of creative talent, because this country is abundant with it!” From art showings to workshops at the studio, Almakan will always be buzzing with activities. The rest of the year is already looking pretty busy for the team, as they are also planning on working on public projects, CSR efforts and much more. March also marks the arrival of Almakan’s official opening to the public, so a visit to the space is a must. They’ve transformed the gallery into a thought-provoking installation that tells the story of Almakan. As soon as you walk in to a gallery, you will leave with an experience. ‘Street’ will also be representing Kuwait and the GCC in the field of French cuisine on the 18th and 19th of the month with the support of the French Embassy in Kuwait. Furthermore, a humanitarian lecture by Humanity 1 is set to take place every Saturday throughout March and well into early April. Expect more activities, art showings, and lectures from Almakan, with a side of Green Curry Glazed Ribs on Mash from ‘Street’. Almakan is located in Sharq on Mubarak Al-Kabeer St. For more information, visit their website www.almakan-kw.com, or follow them on Instagram @Almakan_kw.

bookworms

THE SERIES Murder, mystery, and magical mayhem! by bazaar staff

Books, as you all know by now, are my thing. Although I had written in the past about my woes of “serial” reading (pun still wholly intended), I’m addicted. There’s one series in particular that I can read in a flash, and I have one book left in this series – so far that is, there’s no knowing when the actual end is – and I can't wait to devour it. So I’m writing this particular edition of bookworms in an attempt to justify reading the fifth and final – again, so far – instalment of this series as part of the bazaar book club! So with slightly flawed intentions – what? A girl’s got to read you know! – let’s get this series started. This month’s bookworms is brought to you by renowned author Ben Aaronovitch and his Peter Grant series, Rivers of London. When I wrote about the first book back in November 2014, I had mentioned that the tagline alone was reason enough to read the book. “What if Harry Potter grew up and joined the Fuzz.” What a line! The River Thames and all it’s tributaries are personified, and wizards and warlocks all 54

intertwined with the London Met are reason enough to read on. When PC Peter Grant joins The Folly – the supernatural department of the London Metropolitan Police – he finds himself tangled in a web of magic. Chaos and riots break out of the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, and things go absolutely bonkers. And that’s just book one, Rivers of London. Book two, Moon Over Soho, is a whole new level of crazy. Taking us from Covent Garden and right into the heart of Soho, the events are darker. Musical history takes a strange turn as we follow the jazz era go from soothing to slightly disturbing and then destructive. Careers on the line, family involved, and souls getting sucked – actually sucked – it’s up to PC Grant to save Soho’s jazz culture from evaporating, literally. A story of both justice and revenge, things become very twisted, very quickly. Book three, Whispers Underground, takes us deep into the underground – where minding the gap isn’t the only concern. While Inspector Nightingale is the last registered wizard in England, a rouge

magician known as the “Faceless Man” appears to be wreaking havoc. The underground is never safe after hours, especially when dealing with said magician. The FBI becomes involved and things get bad quickly. The only question left to ask is this – how does the “Magic Division” deal with an agent opposed to all things magic? Book four, Broken Homes, is where it all goes haywire! From Crawley to a strange housing estate in Elephant and Castle, the chase continues. Murders are taking place at random, and PC Grant is attempting to identify the Faceless Man, it’s getting harder for him to do his job. Taking on a new apprentice, fellow PC Leslie May, Nightingale’s Folly is growing. With an unexpected ending and a massive twist, book five couldn’t have come any sooner. For now, I bid thee farewell and hope you had an incredible long weekend! Join the bazaar.town book club as we delve into book five of this intense series, Foxglove Summer.

LOVISA

Gate Mall -22056151,Salam Mall -22052610. Opening Soon At Fanar Mall

A PASSION FOR BAKING

Kuwait’s Bibi’s Cakes pairs with Norwegian sensation Manuela Kjellen by bazaar staff

Baking, more than any other culinary endeavor, requires a special kind of person. It is not enough to follow a recipe exactly, nor will it do to have a lovely looking treat that tastes sub-par. Bakers need to be lovable, their treats filled with the passion they have for creating a smile on someone’s face. That passion to create a moment of happiness with a sweet treat, is what you can find in one of Kuwait’s newest bakeries, Bibi’s Cakes. The adorable shop, located just off of the fifth ring road, exudes all thing sugar and nice. It opened almost four months ago as a side project for banker Enass Abdul Aziz Khalifa. Encouraged by her husband, the son of a Kuwaiti baker himself, to share her delicious goodies with the community, Enass created a pink haven of sugary goodness in Salmiya. “My husband and I are partners in the shop,” Enass told bazaar. “He is always with me. You always need to know the good things in you, and sometimes you need someone to help you with that. I was always afraid to fail but he said try, you have to try.” As a baker in her own home Enass has scoured the Internet for recipes, followed Instagram accounts and bought many books, some in foreign languages she didn’t understand. One baker she came across was Manuela Kjellen, author of the blog Passion 4 baking. The mother of five has created a name for herself in Norway and around the world for her delectable sweets. When Enass called the most loved blogger in Norway, who is also known as Manuela the Cupcake Queen in her homeland, to ask about an English version of her best seller Love Manuela, she was surprised to find herself talking to the infamous blogger herself. “I thought when I called her a secretary would answer and put me on hold,” Enass said. “She picked up and said ‘This is Manuela,’ and I was very surprised.” The two women discussed Enass’s business venture and breaking into the world of bakeries. For Manuela, Enass’s story of following your passion was all too familiar. For Manuela, baking had always come as a recluse in some of the most difficult times in her life. Her first attempt at a cake was at the tender age of 12 after her grandmother passed away during the school year. Manuela and her brother dropped their mother off at the airport, upset that they couldn’t be with her. To brighten their spirits her father presented them with a challenge: he who bakes the highest cake wins. As a young child suffering from dyslexia she misread the recipe and put 12 tablespoons of baking powder in her cake. What resulted was a distasteful but extremely high cake, and the beginning of Manuela’s

You always need to know the good things in you, and sometimes you need someone to help you with that. I was always afraid to fail but [my husband] said try, you have to try.”

adventures in baking. Years later her husband, the sole breadwinner in her home, suffered a tragic stroke that left him unable to continue working. Through the ordeal Manuela continued to bake for her family and community. Her friends insisted she had a talent that should be shared and encouraged her to start a blog. At the time, she didn’t even know what a blog was, so her and her husband did a quick Google search. She found young women with perfect bodies filled the blogosphere. She wanted to do something different, and connect with real women. When it came to naming the blog the avid Oprah fan recalled an episode of the show where the host encouraged her fans to find their passion. “I told my husband that day, ‘Oprah said find your passion, but I think I am not normal. Every woman has a passion for something but what is my passion?’” said Manuela. “I did not understand my baking is a passion. I said, ‘No, every mom bakes for her children’.” When the first post went up on May of 2010 it was under the blog title Passion for Baking. Finally in her element, Manuela graced Norway with her delicious recipes, amazing photos and incredible decorations. Within three months she was named the Most Beloved Blogger in Norway and had an offer for a book deal. Like Enass, Manuela found the support of her husband to be a catalyst for her success. Now after 11 books, over a million Instagram followers and several dozen trips around the world, Manuela finds her passion in teaching others the art of baking with love. Which is why when Enass called her on that fateful day just to get an English translation of Manuela’s best selling book, she jumped at the opportunity to meet this local bakery owner. For five days Manuela worked with the chefs at Bibi's Cakes to help them perfect their skills in original Bibi recipes like the chocolate bundt cake and a her own desserts like the fluffy meringue lemon curd cupcakes. Her time with Enass and her staff was emblematic of the owner's business model of baking with love. The famous blogger may have added a touch of her expertise, but it is the homey feel of Bibi's Cakes that Enass and her crew have created that will keep you coming back for more. Fall in love from the moment you step out of your car and see the bakery’s front façade that is reminiscent of a corner bakery in your favorite European country. Inside, the comfortable setting welcomes guests with warm pink hues and a staff that is all smiles. Everything about Bibi’s Cakes is created by those who have a passion for baking, to put a smile on your face with delicious treats.

Bibi’s Cakes is located in Salmiya, Block 12, Abdul Karim Al-Khatabi St. Building 16, parallel to the fifth ring road. For more information, call them at 2566 6711 or follow their Instagram @bibiscakes_kw. Check out Manuela Kjellen’s blog www.passionforbaking.com and follow her on Instagram @passionforbaking.

bazaar movie night The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in March

RUN ALL NIGHT

CINDERELLA

INSURGENT

Release Date: March 12 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Crime, Drama Cast: Liam Neeson/Genesis Rodriguez/Joel Kinnaman

Release Date: March 12 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family Cast: Hayley Atwell/Lily James/Helena Bonham Carter

Release Date: March 19 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Cast: Miles Teller/Shailene Woodley/Theo James

Synopsis: Liam Neeson reunites with Unknown director Jaume Collet-Serra for this thriller following an aging mob hitman Jimmy, and his estranged son as they flee the wrath of a vengeful former crime boss. Jimmy is haunted by the sins of his past, as well as a dogged police detective who’s been one step behind him for 30 years. His only penance for his past mistakes may be to keep his son from the same fate he is certain he’ll face himself…at the wrong end of a gun. Now, with nowhere safe to turn, Jimmy just has one night to figure out exactly where his loyalties lie and to see if he can finally make things right.

Synopsis: A live-action retelling of the classic fairy tale about a servant step-daughter who wins the heart of a prince. When Ella’s/‘Cindrella’s’, father suddenly and unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself at the mercy of a jealous and cruel new step-family, finally relegated to nothing more than a servant girl. However, all that changes one day when she meets a dashing stranger in the woods. Unaware that he is really a prince, her hopes are dashed by her new family who push them apart. But as in all good fairy tales, help is at hand as a kindly beggar woman steps forward and, armed with a pumpkin and a few mice, changes Cinderella's life forever.

Synopsis: The Divergent Series: Insurgent raises the stakes for Tris as she searches for allies and answers in the ruins of a futuristic Chicago. Tris (Woodley) and Four (James) are now fugitives on the run, hunted by Jeanine (Winslet), the leader of the power-hungry Erudite elite. Racing against time, they must find out what Tris's family sacrificed their lives to protect, and why the Erudite leaders will do anything to stop them. Haunted by her past choices but desperate to protect the ones she loves, Tris, with Four at her side, faces one impossible challenge after another as they unlock the truth about the past and ultimately the future of their world.

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

GET HARD

HOME

Release Date: March 19 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Comedy Cast: Judi Dench/Maggie Smith/Bill Nighy/Dev Patel

Release Date: March 26 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Comedy Cast: Kevin Hart/Will Ferrell/Alison Brie

Release Date: March 26 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy Cast: Jim Parsons/Steve Martin/Matt Jones

Synopsis: The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is the expansionist dream of Sonny, and it's making more claims on his time than he has available, considering his imminent marriage to the love of his life, Sunaina. Sonny has his eye on a promising property now that his first venture has only a single remaining vacancy. Evelyn and Douglas have now joined the Jaipur workforce, Norman and Carol are negotiating an exclusive relationship, as Madge juggles two eligible and very wealthy suitors. Perhaps the only one who may know the answers is new co-manager of the hotel, Muriel, the keeper of everyone's secrets. As the demands of a traditional Indian wedding threaten to engulf them all, an unexpected way forward presents itself.

Synopsis: Will Ferrell (The Lego Movie, Anchorman) and Kevin Hart (This is the End, Think Like a Man) headline this Warner Bros. comedy about a wrongfully convicted millionaire investment banker, James King, who is nailed for fraud and tax evasion and bound for San Quentin. He turns to a friend who knows a lot more, the man who washes his car, Darnell Lewis, to help him prepare for 10 years of life behind bars. Ethan Cohen directs (Tropic Thunder, Idiocracy, Men in Black 3), with Ian Roberts and Jay Martel handling screenwriting duties.

Synopsis: When Oh, a loveable misfit from another planet, lands on Earth and finds himself on the run from his own people, he forms an unlikely friendship with an adventurous girl named Tip who is on a quest of her own. Through a series of comic adventures with Tip, Oh comes to understand that being different and making mistakes is all part of being human. And while he changes her planet and she changes his world, they discover the true meaning of the word HOME. Characters voiced by Jim Parsons, Jennifer Lopez, Steve Martin, and Rihanna who also created a concept album for the film, consisting of 12 original songs.

For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you, visit: Cinescape: www.cinescape.com.kw or Facebook: Cinescape – Kuwait National Cinema Company. *Above programs are subject to change without prior notice.

NEW LOOK

The Avenues 22597197 • AL Bairaq Mall ,Fintas 23824057 • Al Salam Mall,Salmiya 22285884

RUSTIC LIVING WITH THOMAS LUNDGREN The latest home décor trends from THE One’s founder by bazaar staff

I personally adore THE One. If I ever feel uninspired, I pay their store a leisurely visit. Whether this means I end up feasting at their delicious restaurant, or I simple spend hours upon hours browsing their beautiful pieces, I always leave feeling uplifted. For this spring, THE One is geared to deliver us with the finest in Rustic Living, a collection that deeply echoes with cozy-chic. Furthermore, the brand’s founder Thomas Lundgren, speaks to this lucky staff writer about THE One’s latest developments! If you’re a fan of this year’s Pantone color of the year, Marsala Red, then you will love the lived-in look of the Rustic Living that is reinforced by this power color for 2015. Hi Thomas! Can you please introduce yourself to our readers? I am an entrepreneur trying to live my dream; a passionate idealist in search of my own happiness. I’m an obsessive-compulsive, frustrated artist on a mission to change the world and ascribe my entrepreneurial success to a mixture of naivety, curiosity, creativity and gut-feel, as well as stubbornness, employing the right people and good old-fashioned hard work! I hold no college degrees or any other prerequisites which could possibly have contributed to me becoming the inventor and CEO (Creative Emotional Originator) of THE One – THE home fashion chain in the Middle East. With 18 stores in 8 countries and over 650 employees, we are also ranked as the UAE’s No.1 Local Employer four years in a row and Asia’s 5th Best Workplace in 2015! How did your journey begin with THE One? In 1993, after working in the home furnishings industry for nine years, I had a dream one stormy night, in which an angel came to me with a mission to ‘save the world from big box corporations.’ I then moved to Dubai and after three years of working on my business plan and trying to raise capital, we finally opened our first Theatre in Abu Dhabi in 1996. But it was oh so NOT my dream. In fact, it was my worst nightmare come true, looking and feeling like a home furnishings supermarket. When the endless hordes of adoring customers I expected didn't materialize, I realized that the location was all wrong. I also discovered that a brand is not built overnight. Then I found another location in Dubai and since my early optimism had led me to overstaff and overstock the Abu Dhabi store, I transferred half the staff and half the stock to the new Jumeirah store, which ultimately secured the brand's survival. How would you describe ‘THE One’s Total Home Experience?' At THE One, we aim to be both magical and meaningful: inspiring our fans by being Always Different and offering Affordable Luxury in home 60

fashion, while engaging our staff, customers, suppliers and communities in our Core Purpose of Changing the World Together. Our stores are Theatres that are designed to deliver an all-encompassing, total sensory adventure. We want our fans to FEEL when they walk into our Theatres, not only inspired by our products, but also that we care. They should see the latest home fashion trends displayed in such a way that they can picture it in their homes... They should hear carefully chosen music, discover scents from exotic home fragrances, eat healthy fusion food and drink well-made refreshments in our restaurants and delis. Our aim is for each Theatre to feel ‘handmade’ – like a friendly, neighborhood store – a magical place where they can touch, see, smell, hear and taste THE One Total Home Experience; feel THE One’s soul. Our aim is to be a total contradiction to anything else you can find in the furniture world today. However magical this may sound, we also want to bring meaning to a material world and give our customers the opportunity to make ethical choices and Do Good by simply shopping with us. As a home fashion brand that sources from all over the planet, we are committed to helping protect it and the people who live on it. This is why we only deal with manufacturers who sign a legal agreement confirming that they do not use child labor or

wood from rainforests and why we offer many ecofriendly ranges as well as products that support disadvantaged communities worldwide. Can you tell us about your role in creating the special collections every season? We are a small tight-knit team here at THE Office that work on and create our two seasonal collections. My strength is to see the future and trends, to be out there with my antennas up, getting new ideas and sketching product concepts day and night. We always work a year in advance on planning our new collections. We have a wall in THE Office where we pin up inspiration of everything we think is going to become a trend. That can be anything from movies, TV series and political events, inspiration from my visits to Harvard Business School and pages of fashion magazines. In fashion, there are always different trends from different eras. But as French poet and artist Jean Cocteau once said: “Fashion… One must forgive it everything; it dies so young.” Fashion is fickle and fun, and THE One wants to be that too. So I immediately move on anything that inspires me in the fashion world, so nobody can copy us at the same time. They will copy us eventually, but later, and by then we would have already moved on.

What is your inspiration for 2015? As THE One is very diverse in terms of our styles, I get inspired by lots of different things for the different styles. I get inspired on my travels, by nature, a product or interior I see, a color, fabric or texture, it could be runway fashion, a hotel or restaurant… Everything around me inspires me! For 2015 I'm still very inspired by animal prints – I think it gives a cool and luxurious vibe to the home. I've also taken inspiration from the colonial times as well as a tropical climate. I always find it inspiring to find new and unexpected ways of mixing textures and colors together. How is THE One becoming a Social Enterprise? For us, Corporate Social Responsibility (which we prefer to call Socially Responsible Investment) is not a Values issue. It’s a Priorities issue. As I said before, we don’t believe the world needs another retailer. We need a better world. It’s all about CSV (Creating Shared Value) for People, the Planet and also our Profit, because the better we do as a company, the more good we can do in the world. We feel THE One has a much more meaningful role to play than merely buying and selling stuff no one really needs. We have a responsibility to try to improve the world we live in. This goes way beyond environmental and social auditing. It's

about engaging with society on a significant level and empowering our communities to evolve as a by-product of our core business. We are on a mission to fulfill our Core Purpose of Changing the World Together! Besides this, we believe that companies without real values will not only lose their staff but also their customers. In today’s world the best talent as well as customers want to work for and shop at a company that cares. As a retailer, Ethical Sourcing is an obvious first step. Since we are a home fashion brand that sources from all over the world, we are committed to helping protect it and the people who live in it. This is why we only deal with manufacturers who sign a legal agreement confirming that they do not use child labor or wood from rainforests. In addition, we offer many eco-friendly ranges and a number of our products support disadvantaged communities worldwide. Local Volunteering is the next logical step, since we want to give back to our communities. Our aim is to get involved and fulfill a need in the local communities of our business units. We do this through giving our people the freedom to choose which causes they wish to support in their market and encouraging them to devote

company time to Local Volunteering initiatives. Furthermore, we participate in events in support of our chosen causes and host weekly, hands-on vocational training sessions for young adults with special needs in order to help integrate them into the workplace. While I originally initiated our Local Volunteering program, it has since taken on a life of its own. We have seen that every time our people organize and participate in a Local Volunteering initiative to support their chosen causes, it reengages and re-energizes the team, boosting morale and wellbeing. As I always say: what comes from the heart goes to the heart! Our Challenged Employee initiative is perhaps not so obvious, but in this part of the world, individuals with special needs are often seen as unable to contribute meaningfully to the workplace. We will continue to fight this misconception as we have seen that employing those with challenges fosters better understanding and greater social integration. In our experience, these individuals have a tremendous amount to offer, inspiring staff and customers alike, while gaining an increased sense of purpose, empowerment, independence and an income. It’s a win-win situation and all parties have everything to gain. While, back in 2002, I personally hired our first Challenged [continued...] 61

[...continued] Employee in Dubai (who is still with us today), we currently employ 19 special needs individuals across the network and aim for Challenged Employees to eventually make up 5% of our staff. Then finally, there’s THE Onederworld. This idea was born out of our belief that education is the key to ending the cycle of poverty. So in 2008, we launched THE Onederworld -– our Sustainable Village Community program, focusing on neglected regions in the world where our employees come from or our manufacturers are based. We are placing special emphasis on areas where there is a high incidence of child labor, exploitation of children and minimal opportunities for girls. Teaming up with Free The Children on our Onederworld projects, we are currently working with villagers in Rajasthan, India on five-year plans towards self-sufficiency through holistic community development. This includes Balanced Quality Primary Education, Healthcare Services, Alternative Income Projects, Safe, Clean Drinking Water and Sanitation Systems and finally, Food Security. We have set ourselves a Big Hairy Scary Goal of successfully running 99 stores by 2020 in order to build and support 99 Classrooms. Fans can follow our monthly progress and leave comments on our video blog youtube.com/THEOnederworld Can you tell us about the latest collection styles? What are some of your favorite items from the collection? New this season is the Bohemian Glam trend – a mix and match of the dark and heavy with shiny and glamorous products… and lots and lots of flowers! We’re also introducing our charming Rustic Living colonial-inspired style, featuring mixed metals, dark wood and natural materials in a neutral color palette and finally, our eclectic Moroccan Delight look, where ethnic goes edgy! Monochrome is still big, so our cool masculine MonoMania trend carries over from autumn, but with new products. Same goes for Glamorama: the mix of animal prints, leather and gold gives a very luxurious and rich look. Pastels, antique metals and rose gold take center stage in our feminine Timeless Elegance trend, while Tropical Punch is fresh and crisp – perfect for Spring! What are some of your plans for 2015? Our planned growth up to June 2015 is to open another 11 stores, which will bring our total to 30 stores across 10 countries. This will comprise of 3 new stores in Abu Dhabi and we will also be entering 4 other Emirates, namely Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman and Al Ain. Two more stores are on the cards for Qatar, one more for Lebanon as well as our new franchise Azerbaijan. 2015 will also see the launch of THE One Basics – our brand new concept – in 4 locations, so watch this space! THE One is located in Marina Mall (2224 4511) and The Avenues (2259 7284). Learn more at theone.com, or ‘stalk’ them on Instagram @THEOnePlanet, Twitter @THEOne_Planet, Facebook: THE One Planet and YouTube: THEOnederworld. 62

THOMAS LUNDGREN'S PICKS

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arabs abroad

AN ANECDOTE FOR HUMAN LIFE Filmmaker Hassan Said explores the reality of being a human being

by bazaar staff

It’s Friday evening and you are headed to the cinema to watch the latest Hollywood film release. There’s going to be action, lots of explosions and scenes that are completely disassociated from reality. Yet, when it’s all over, you shrug your shoulders and think to yourself, well that was all right. Though big blockbusters are entertaining, they often fail to explore the reality of being a human being. One burly, bearded filmmaker in Hollywood is veering away from the explosive money making scenes we saw coming out of the infamous studios. Though his looks have landed him such roles as “The Iranian” in NCIS: Los Angeles and “Pimp” in the upcoming season of True Detective, it is his role as an award-winning filmmaker that has driven Hassan Said to success. “A great deal of my inspiration comes from ordinary people’s stories,” he told bazaar. “When I first got drawn to the craft, I was very inspired by Italian, French, Russian, Mexican and other international cinema, besides Hollywood. They 64

added more flavors and subtext to human emotion than most Hollywood films.” Born in Alexandria, Egypt, Hassan dedicated his life to creating art that spoke volumes through one story. Whether it was a commercial he took on to pay the bills, or a film he poured all his resources into, every piece Hassan produced was an anecdote to human life. His dedication to creating a narrative that shed light on our similarities as humans has been recognized with more than half a dozen awards. Every one of his seven films has been featured in a renowned film festival, and he attributed his success to his focus on telling a very real story. His experience living away from home has proven challenging and difficult at times for Said. As a filmmaker he embraced these challenges and channeled them into his work. “While outside the Arab world the competition is far more fierce,” he said. “It’s far more challenging to break in or be given a chance as it takes a lot more years, and years of work in the bottom to make your way up.”

Yet Said appreciated the benefits of hard labor, and the privileges it offered him. He worked with A-list celebrities like Sean Penn, James Franco, Clint Eastwood and Vince Vaughn. Yet, he has gone beyond the confines of the Hollywood haven in California and created movies that have screened in the UK, German, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Denmark and South Africa in almost as many languages. We got a private screening at bazaar of his most recent film Sal y Limon (Salt and Lemon). The Spanish short explored the passion of a relationship when it first started and the pain when it ended. Through a letter the male lead read to his former lover, we heard his anguish in loosing her and the too late realization of his contribution to her distance from him. As the voice slipped deeper and deeper into depression, the scenes played out their relationship as it spirals into a series of fights and hatefulness. The film, recently screened in Los Angeles California, was extremely well received. For Hassan his success in film, photography and art boils down

to one thing: “to simply express one’s place in the world and do it for the love of the craft,” he said. “It’s the hardest job I have ever had and the one I appreciate the most. It’s a long road of uncertainty in comparison to a lot of other work fields. That’s why I chose not to be a doctor, or lawyer or engineer though. So I can do something I love. Even if that requires me at times to not afford to eat.“ Where are you originally from? The first cosmopolitan city: Alexandria, Egypt. Where is most of your family? Mostly in Egypt. What were the circumstances under which you left your home country? I was 16, I didn't want to leave but my parents felt that I had to leave Egypt or else I’ll just be a carbon copy of a spoiled rotten brained individual that I could've grown to be…Well, I was a troublemaker. Have you always wanted to live abroad? No, but as I grow older, I appreciate the

experience that it brought, helping me to evolve into more than just a person with a singular view. How long will you stay abroad? Who knows? I am not planning on staying in one place as I am pushing to do films in Egypt, Africa, Europe. So if I am still alive, I won't just be in one place. Where else have you lived? New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. What is your favorite thing about where you live? The fact that I can be or think or believe whatever it is I want. Honestly, after traveling to various countries and continents, it doesn't get better than California. What is the worst thing about where you live? The lack of opportunities and support of a wide range of arts and the ability to survive as an artist. Plus the taxes are too damn high. What do you miss most about home? I miss the idea of home or what, to me, home represents. With time, this is changing. I miss my family, the familiar places and my childhood. Today

home is not what home was to me. It’s a different planet that I am an alien to. If you could take one thing from home (a place, a person, an attitude, a belief) and place it where you are, what would it be? Nothing, cause then I would alter the reality that I love about my home. How often do you return home? Once in a blue moon, it’s not constant. Where will you eventually retire? In a place where its primitive, away from politics, people and noise, with some roosters, cows, farms and a beach. When I die, I will… Perish, and it won't matter because the years I live in this world are insignificant to the infinite time our world existed and will keep existing in. For more on Hassan Said’s work check out his website www.hassansaid.com. Follow him on Facebook: theworkofhassansaid or on Twitter or Instagram @HASSAN_SAID. 65

bazaar love/hate

THIS. MODERN. LIFE. by bazaar staff

Arguably the best thing about living in this modern age is the abundance of devices meant to make life easier. The phone? The tablet? Are we still calling them phablets? I don’t know! All of this technology is meant to make our life seamless, right? Well why are there always seams then! Every bit of technology has a learning curve or changing parameters so great, it changes every time you finally get the hang of it. So here it is…your love/hate relationship with all of your little devices. #5 The new phone – First of all, there is the overinflated price of phones in itself that gets you into this whole little wormhole where you basically have to just sign up for another couple of years. I know you don’t pay the poor workers in the factories that much, so why does the phone cost 300KD without a contract? Once you have a new one, you are never happier: so many new functions, so much better than the last one! Just wait, 'cause there is a new one coming in about ten seconds. #4 The learning curve – Every time I finally get caught up to speed on something, it changes. Why, world? Why must you do this to us? Of course, the flip side is that you keep to a computer or phone 66

too long, and much like my parents do, end up holding on to a phone that is so antiquated that rocks probably get better reception. #3 The owners manual – Have you looked at an owners manual lately? These things are ridiculous. They are either minimalist picture-only explanations that don’t explain enough, or are a way-too-long nuts and bolts explanation of everything that only an engineer could figure out. Is it too much to think there might be a middle ground here people? #2 Glitches with software – Why is it that every time there is a new software update for your phone, it starts crashing? Seriously people, did you not test this product before rolling it out to market? It has gotten to the point that, when a new update comes out, you have to let everybody else download it and find out what the problems are first. At its best, of course it is the best and latest of the kinds of features you are going to want, at its worst…it will leave you wide open for a security breach (yeah, I’m talking to you Apple!) # 1 Change in terms update – So, all you wanted to do was hook up your phone for a little sync, and low and behold the dreaded window pops up again about the change in your agreement. Do you read it? Do you just blindly

click accept and move on? Sadly, both are preposterous. In general, it is of course terrible to put your digital signature on anything you haven’t completely read. At the same time, it’s iTunes (hate to pick on Apple…sort of) or whoever... are you really going to give up your tablet and sharing info across devices due to one clause in a relatively frequently changing contract? You’re not. Just click ok. I won’t tell anybody. Bonus: Why do I still not have a Jetpack? Ok, it is probably going to sound like I’m being funny here, but I’m not. We had a deal world: if I went ahead and went to school, you would keep working on getting jetpacks for kids to travel to school with. You didn’t keep up your end of the bargain though, did you world? The idea of being able to go to school in a jetpack was the dream of every post-Jetsons kid. We’ve got people still working on hover boards, and even a weird jetpack thing that just works on water and occasionally dunks you, and an increasingly packed skyline full of drones, so what’s the problem here? How different can the technology be? I want my jetpack people! Love/Hate is your guide to all of life’s little conundrums and ridiculousness(es)!

OLIVIA PALERMO INTRODUCES

MAX&CO's

'THE NEW WORKWEAR ISSUE' Softer Tailoring vs.Dressed-up Sportswear 68

by bazaar staff

Getting dressed up for a day at the office is not what it used to be. Once upon a time, women planned their work attires down to a T. We’ve all been guilty of falling into the routine ‘work uniform’, paying heed to what is considered appropriate and knowing that once we walk out that office door, the outside world is our playground to explore more ‘fun’ outfits. The biggest sea change in recent fashion history, however, is the rise of sportswear influences into everyday fashion. This is a clear cut sign that is reflective of how times have changed the way we perceive the very concept of what constitutes the perfect work wardrobes. Women’s lives are faster and more complex than ever before. Sure enough, clothing inherently adapts to and redefines the new codes of society. MAX&Co. Style Ambassador, Olivia Palermo works around the (world) clock and her professional style choices reflect that very notion. Her advice for the perfect work attire is simple – plan your days ahead and you will be ready to face the world. She said, “I really try to dress for my

environment and what’s appropriate. If I am going to a meeting and I have something in the evening, I may carry an extra accessory and put it on to transition from day to night.” When in doubt, less is more. “Right now, I am very much into a clean look – a crisp button-down shirt or a cashmere sweater with a pencil skirt. It’s always a great option”, said Olivia. The MAX&Co. Spring/Summer 2015 collection addresses the modern wardrobe’s need for stylish workwear, redefining proportions and experimenting with inspirations and materials borrowed from the world of sportswear, yet firmly in the tradition of Italian tailoring and craftsmanship. The result is stylish yet comfortable clothing classic shapes interpreted with technical fabrics, or sportswear shapes made with luxurious fabrics. All in perfect, understated balance. On the other side of the sportswear spectrum, classic tailoring – once upon a time the primary choice for women wanting to impress at work – breaks the mould. Proportions change, volumes become more relaxed yet feminine, masculine silhouettes soften up through color, and trusted classics become exciting again.

Among the standout pieces: - Classic sportswear silhouettes in technical fabrics like mesh, to create elegant structure in informal shapes; - Softly tailored sarong shorts with a matching duster coat in a soft pastel hue – a new take on the work suit; - A new fitted blazer shape, with trompe l’oeil pleats to create the illusion of a collar; - New takes on the classic leather jacket – in an inedited blush shade or collarless with cotton inserts; - A sleeveless jacket inspired by the tough shape of the biker but tailored with a basket weave fabric borrowed from classic womenswear. THE MAX&Co. ‘New Workwear Issue’ and the MAX&Co. Spring/Summer 2015 collection is available at the MAX&Co. store in Kuwait. For more information, visit the MAX&Co. boutique at the 2nd Avenue – The Avenues. Please call 2259 8073 or find their latest updates on Instagram by following Alyasra Fashion @alyasra. A digital edition and exclusive content is available on www.maxandco.com and the brand’s social media channels throughout the season. 69

REEBOK CHALLENGES THE WORLD TO “BE MORE HUMAN” Celebrating athletes and human potential

Maybe they are crazy to spend every day sweaty, bloody, muddy, beaten and sore. We watch them and we think, “They must be obsessive, fanatical and extreme.” They are the tough fitness athletes that keep pushing themselves to the brink, every single day. And we all know at least one person who falls under that dazzling realm. “There’s a new breed of athletes. These are everyday people and these are the athletes the world should hold up as role models,” says Yan Martin, Vice President of Global Brand Communications at Reebok. The new brand of athlete can be a friend or family member who has decided to take on a tough fitness lifestyle, but why do they do it? To become better humans. Reebok believes that fitness is not just a physical activity – it’s something you do to enhance your body and become a better, stronger person. “Reebok believes that by pushing ourselves to the brink and testing our limitations, we have the 70

power to transform ourselves not only physically but also mentally and socially,” says Matt O’Toole, Reebok Brand President. And for that, the 2015 Reebok campaign looks to celebrate and support the efforts of everyday athletes who embody the tough fitness lifestyle. Reebok issued a bold challenge for the world to “Become More Human” with its new, fully-integrated marketing campaign, continuing the global fitness brand’s mission to change how people perceive and experience fitness. The three sides representing the physical, mental and social change that comes through living a fitness lifestyle. Reebok also released a film titled “Freak Show,” available at reebok.com/bemorehuman, which acknowledges that tough fitness is a lifestyle not always understood. Its methods are intense, demanding and require real commitment. Courageous and cinematic, “Freak Show” is a story with captivating intensity that showcases everyday athletes embodying what it truly means to “Be More Human” as they meet and tackle

different fitness challenges transforming them to be better leaders, better parents and more capable humans. Directed by AG Rojas in partnership with Venables Bell & Partners, the 60-second TV spot juxtaposes the merits of tough fitness and how it benefits humans in their everyday lives. “For these individuals, the achievement and acclaim doesn’t come in obscene paychecks and gold medals – it comes from the realization that they are transforming their lives through fitness, and in the process they’re transforming the lives of their communities. We acknowledge and salute these new athletes who challenge themselves daily in search of greater rewards,” Martin adds. “Be More Human” with Reebok at The Avenues Mall, phone 2220 0509 or at Al Kout Mall, phone 2393 0447. For more information visit www.aaw.com, discover Reebok on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube @Reebok, or head to news.reebok.com.

THE BLACKOUT PLAYLIST Next time, be prepared! by bazaar staff

When the lights went out in Kuwait last month we were all caught off guard. And though they fixed it in record time, it is amazing how quick we can be sent back to the stone ages when the grid goes down. Sometimes though, it is just plain fun to have a common experience as a community – and if social media taught us anything, it is that we were in it together! When curating this playlist 1. We had to be careful to set you up correctly for each following track. 2. With a lengthy mix of genres. You want a song that will make you at least smile at the irony of it all? 3. Maybe deem it essential enough to warrant using the last of your batteries? We’ve got you covered. Here’s your Black Out playlist! 12) Title: When the lights go out Band: Five What they’re about: Extra cheesy 90s style Whiteboyz R & B. Best lyric: “The only thing on my mind is just kickin it wit-chew, girl!” Synopsis: This track is so cheezy that it is just about cool again – OK, not quite. But still, throw it on and do the running man. 11) Title: Lights (When the lights go down in the city) Band: Journey What they’re about: They’re Journey, what do you think they’re about? Best lyric: “I’m lonely too. I just want to get back to my city” Synopsis: A whole lot of oooh’s and ahhh’s and something about a city. Still, it was too much of a classic to not include here. 10) Title: Blackout Band: Method Man and Redman What they’re about: Causing ruckus, and keeping things real, dirty, and green. Best lyric: “I scored 1.1 on my SAT and still push a whip with a right and left AC” Synopsis: Don’t mess with us. Seriously, we’re Redman and Method Man. 9) Title: Electricity Band: Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark (OMD) What they’re about: The best of 80s feel good (while feeling bad about it) music. Best lyric: “The ultimate discovery, electric blue for me” Synopsis: Just a feel good song about the life electric. 8) Title: There is a light that never goes out Band: The Smiths What they’re about: Late 80s sad sacks from Birmingham, UK. Best lyric: “And if a ten ton truck, kills the both of us, to die by your side the pleasure, the privilege 72

is mine.” Synopsis: This guy would rather die next to his girl than to have his metaphorical lights go out anywhere else, furthermore he considers it a privilege. How do you like them apples?

Best lyric: “Far away, this ship is taking me far away far away from the memories of the people who care if I live or I die.” Synopsis: This band is going places, here’s the soundtrack.

7) Title: Light my fire Band: The Doors What they’re about: Tripping out. Best lyric: “The time to hesitate is through…” Synopsis: Exactly how far do you suppose we can take this thing?

3) Title: Light Band: David Gray What he’s about: Ok, if you’re not ready to feel a feeling don’t put this track on – it’s dangerous. Best lyric: “The dark sucks on the embers of the fire that shoulders in the night.” Synopsis: This guy really misses his girl.

6) Title: Flashlight Band: Parliament What they’re about: 70s P-Funkadelic of course! Best lyric: “Now I lay me down to sleep… Ha da da dee da hada hada da da” Synopsis: Good ol’ fashioned fun dance music. This will keep the party going through the dark hours.

2) Title: What is the Light Band: The Flaming Lips What they’re about: Awesome weirdness. Best lyric: “What is the light that you have shining all around you – is it chemically derived?” Synopsis: Did you by any chance fall into a nuclear explosion? 'Cause you seem to be glowing.

5) Title: Run (Light up, Light up) Band: Snow Patrol What they’re about: Making you feel feelings. Sad ones. Best lyric: “Light up, Light up, as if you have a choice, even if you cannot hear my voice.” Synopsis: Do your thing, cause wherever I am, I see it.

And the best all-time, stuck in an electrical blackout song is… 1) Title: Dancing in the Dark Band: Bruce Springsteen What he’s about: Good ol’ fashioned get-you-outof-your-seat-while-breaking-your-heart rock and roll. Best lyric: “They say you’ve gotta stay hungry. Hey baby, I’m just about starving tonight.” Synopsis: Here sucks. There’s better. I’m gonna go there.

4) Title: Starlight Band: Muse What they’re about: Three-piece, heavy-handed, awesomeness.

You supply calamity, we’ll give you the playlist.

SOUQ SHARQ

SANDRO

LAUNCHES AT

HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT 74

SANDRO LAUNCHES AT HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT by bazaar staff

For Spring-Summer 2015, Premium French brand Sandro radically modernizes the trends of the 70’s and 80’s, combining the eclectic influences of the two decades for a collection resolutely Parisian and contemporary. The collection embodies the joie de vivre of summer: from the vibe of Palm Springs, to the sporty-chic attitude of the East-Coast, to the rock festivals in the city, the looks emulate the pure joy and ease of summer. This season’s silhouette is more structured, minimal, and fluid. Natural and architectural landscapes of 70’s America inspired the bohemian spirit of the collection. Styles are made of fringe, suede and natural colors, like mint green, burnt red, and sunshine yellow. The energy of the 80‘s animates the collection, with graphic styles inspired by design group Memphis and pop icon Boy George. Pleats, stripes and prints by contemporary artist Yoko Honda bring rhythm to the look, while transparency, sequins and bright colors reflect the playful optimism of the era. These colors spice up the more sober hues, like black, beige and khaki, which temper the collection and give it a more urban attitude. Lace slip-ons, espadrille wedges and sandals in sequins or velvet complete the feminine, elegant looks.

About Harvey Nichols: Harvey Nichols Kuwait is located at Grand Avenue – The Avenues. Opening hours are from 10 a.m. till midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Sunday to Wednesday. Please call 2228 3008 for more information. You can also get social with Harvey Nichols Kuwait by following them on Facebook.com/HarveyNicholsKuwait and Instagram, @HarveyNicholsKuwait. About Sandro: Known for its clean lines and sophisticated aesthetic, Sandro is a leading accessible luxury Parisian brand featuring refined and versatile men’s and women’s collections. Evelyne Chetrite, founder and creative director since 1984, developed a new women’s aesthetic: modern and sophisticated with a hint of androgyny. In line with the Sandro sensibility, Evelyne’s son, Ilan, launched Sandro Homme in 2008 focusing on revisited classics with a modern twist. Today, Sandro has over 410 points of sales worldwide.

THE STATE OF REMASTERS by Patrick Makhoul

We’re at a point in time where video games are mainstream and games are easily accessible. As consumers, we want to experience entertainment at its best, whatever form it takes – whether it’s movies or video games. That’s pretty normal. It’s why I’m not opposed to this new trend of developers re-mastering classic games, as long as the original game remains accessible and the improvements they add don’t ruin what made the game great to begin with. One of the first things people ask about when they hear a game is getting re-mastered is about the visuals. Usually, the older the game, the bigger the differences. Sometimes overhauling the graphics is all-together unnecessary if the source material has an art style that has aged well. An example of this would be The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Nintendo wouldn’t be able to alter the graphics of Wind Waker because the game has a distinct art-style that is part of its identity. The visuals don’t feel outdated and don’t hinder the enjoyment of playing the game either. So when Nintendo re-mastered it for the Wii U, they only had to make some slight changes to the graphics. Now, on the other hand, a lot of classics from the Playstation and Nintendo 64 era run into a very common issue: 3D graphics from that particular generation have not aged well. This isn’t surprising because it was the first time a lot of developers tried making games with that type of visuals, so updating the graphics makes the games more accessible to people who have a hard time getting past how outdated games can look. Another benefit of re-mastered games is that more people will have access to them, especially if the game was originally released on an unpopular console or if it was released some time ago. Grim Fandango is an adventure game released by LucasArts on PC back in 1998. It was critically acclaimed, but bombed commercially. For years it was nearly impossible to find a convenient way to play the game until earlier this year when the director of the game, Tim Schafer and his company, Double Fine were able to release a re-mastered version that updated its controls and visuals for consoles and PC’s allowing an even larger audience access to the game. Sometimes re-mastered games don’t end up all that great. Sometimes developers can make a good game terrible through a series of bad decisions. Silent Hill is a critically acclaimed survivor-horror series that was first released in 1999. The Silent Hill HD Collection includes the re-mastered versions of Silent Hill 2 and Silent Hill 3. The HD collection turned out to be a disaster due largely to a wide array of technical issues and artistic liberties the 76

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker developers took. One of the iconic aspects of the original games was the use of a thick fog throughout the environments. The HD versions altered this and some areas were missing fog completely. There was also a list of technical issues with the games that included things like the game crashing, severe drops in frame rate, and audio and graphical glitches. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD is another re-mastered title that wasn’t well received. The two games that are included in this HD re-master were originally released on the Playstation 1 and Nintendo 64. The games featured fantastic soundtracks that included songs from popular rock and punk bands, a career mode, multiplayer modes, a skate park editor and you were able to create your own skater. The developers behind the HD re-master ended up removing features like the split-screen multiplayer, park customization and some of the music. Consumers will enjoy remasters, but why remove key elements from games that the majority of fans enjoyed? Bad examples aside, bringing games to this new generation of consoles tends to be a good thing. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time was released 17 years ago on the Nintendo 64, a console that wasn’t as popular as the Playstation 1. The game is widely considered to be one of the greatest games created. So it was natural that Nintendo would remake it at some point, which is what they ended up doing. The game

was re-released on the Nintendo 3DS with the visuals completely changed, with the inclusion of gyroscope controls and it also took advantage of the 3DS’s touch-screen. Resident Evil HD is another great example of a re-mastered game done right. The original game was released by Capcom in the same generation as Ocarina of Time so it featured low-resolution visuals and a control scheme that feels pretty archaic nowadays. Capcom updated the graphics and control scheme so that it plays more like a modern-day game. They even took it a step further by adding things like a new type of zombie, expanding some areas, a harder difficulty setting and a few other, slight minor additions. This is what separates good and bad re-mastered games. There shouldn’t be a reason for removing things that made the original games fun, while adding things is a positive thing as long as it fits within the confines of the original game. Ultimately, re-mastering old titles that gamers love, is a good thing. Having more people experience them is also great. But like all things, moderation needs to be maintained. Developers can’t focus too heavily on re-mastering old games while not releasing anything new. Finally, work on re-mastering classic games can’t be rushed and there needs to be a balance between modernizing aspects of the games, like graphics and controls, while keeping other aspects true to original form.

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bazaar goes cruising

MERCEDES-AMG GT Driving performance for sports car enthusiasts by bazaar staff

The Mercedes-AMG brand is moving into a new, top-class sports car segment for the company. The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. More importantly, it combines the latest in driving dynamics technology and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a fan of Mercedes luxury or the high-end performance that AMG is known for, the new AMG GT promises 78

to satisfy both needs. It is a little known fact that the first Mercedes ever built was built to race. This latest successor to that long lineage seeks to carry this heritage forward: the new Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new, top-class sports car segment for the company. Its newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers (called a "hot inside V") and dry sump lubrication is configured in two-output ratings. No matter which way you go though, it will be powerful and responsive.

It has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG sports car â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the characteristic styling and thoroughbred motorsport technology, to the optimum weight distribution. The drive system tailored consistently to driving dynamics and perfectly complements this setup. At the same time, the two-seater is a straightforward, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical tailgate, easily accessible luggage compartment, high level of comfort on long journeys and the extensive range of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems. The overall look of the car is iconic in itself:

the long bonnet with its pronounced powerdomes, the greenhouse which has been moved far back, the large wheels and broad tail end make up the distinctive looks. The trimmed cabin results in muscular shoulders – the hallmark Mercedes "Coke bottle" shape – which lends the car its extremely powerful stance. Positively arched surfaces give the Mercedes-AMG GT S its sensuous character and the appearance of a sculpture. The creative interaction of diverse design elements lends the coupé a superior, selfconfident front: the three-dimensional diamond radiator grille, with central Mercedes star, a broad

louvre and AMG lettering, stands in the center of the front end. LED High Performance headlamps with stylized "eyebrows" as daytime running lamps, side lights and indicators, as well as three separate high-beam reflectors lend the GT S its characteristic look. The interior design embodies maximum emotion for the auto purist. Radically low, sporty proportions create a unique sense of spaciousness. Clearly drawn components and their authentic materials underscore the dynamic character and create instant excitement: anyone opening the door discovers an exciting interplay between the deep,

sloping dashboard and a dominant, arched high center console, a design which evokes emotions and impresses with its perfection. Outstanding precision and a superior quality feel, thanks to the finest materials with superb workmanship that Mercedes has long been known for, are also apparent on the sports seats, the performance steering wheel and the instrument cluster. The most important control for sports car fans is located in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the left-hand side: the button for starting the engine, which is labeled "Engine Start Stop" and illuminated in red. When it comes to the power transmission the Mercedes-AMG engineers rely on a combination of front mid-engine and seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle. The weight distribution, with its ratio of 47 percent (front) to 53 percent (rear) benefits from this configuration. The efficiency, shift speed and precision of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission have been further optimized for usage in the new sports car. The drivetrain's overall design is ideal for an uncompromising sports car. Whether you are looking for driving dynamics and comfort for long journeys, racetrack performance or everyday practicality: the new Mercedes-AMG delivers on all counts. A great deal of attention was paid to the seamless integration of all mechanical and electronic systems during design, development and testing: from the suspension, through 3-stage ESP, locking differential, steering, aerodynamics and tires to the brakes. The Mercedes-AMG GT S boasts hallmark active and passive safety of the very highest caliber, adopting numerous Intelligent Drive assistance systems Standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ATTENTION ASSIST and the tire pressure monitoring system. The standard-fit restraint systems not only include three-point seat belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters, but also airbags that surround the entirety of driver and passenger. The latest AMG models are a powerful next step for a brand long synonymous with power and speed, all while offering the latest in safety and technology as well. For more information on Mercedes-Benz products and services in Kuwait, please visit them online at www.kuwait.mercedesbenzme.com. You can also follow them on Facebook: MercedesBenzKuwait or on Twitter and Instagram @MercedesBenzKWT. 79

Moschino

FOR A

SPECIAL MOM

Make your mother feel like a million bucks this Mother’s Day! On her special day, give her the gift of fashion. Al Ostoura presents a selection of the latest arrivals from the most prestigious brands. There’s something to suit every mother’s taste. Available at Al Ostoura Boutiques in Thuraya Mall, Laila Gallery, Salhiya Complex, The Avenues Mall, and Zahra complex. For more information visit www.alostoura.com.

Balenciaga

Alice + Olivia Antonio Marras

Hermes

Stella McCartney

MAIS ALGHANIM

Loaay's Two Cents Got business problems or challenges at work? With his Two Cents page, Loaay Ahmed shares his expertise in strategic management consulting to help managers, employees and entrepreneurs thrive.

We want to grow from a small to medium sized company but every area of the business needs development and it’s just simply not possible to cater to them all with the budgets we have today. Any idea how we can approach this situation?

In one small company with less than 50 employees, the team has collectively the ability to speak six languages, win table tennis championships and dance competitions, decorate cakes professionally, put together some unique flower arrangements, and play some decent football. As for professional skills, this group can defend a legal case, teach Calculus, design a GPS grid, and book airline tickets using IATA systems, and more. None of these employees are hired for any of these skills in that company. And their management is not aware of most of their talents. Your employees might have hidden gifts that you’re not aware of. Reach out to them before contacting regular providers in the market. If you offer employees a benefit exchange scheme, you could lower cost and get them more engaged in the company. For example, if your website needs are quite basic, ask your employees before requesting a proposal from web developers. One of them might have programming or design skills that you didn’t know about. In exchange, you can offer a few extra days off or even your reserved VIP parking spot for a month – a little humility from a boss makes him/her more human to the employees and more approachable. Another example, if you were short on cash to spare but desire to be more active with your corporate social responsibility, is to offer employees perks such as extra bonuses, days off, airline tickets to Dubai, just to name a few, for providing community service during working hours in areas that matter to the company and to the employees. It’s not called Human Resources for nothing...and that's just my two cents.

My generation (born in the 1990s) looks at senior management as people who have accumulated experiences, which most of, are irrelevant today. When will senior managers get that times have changed?

The door of the DeLorean time machine is open and you’re invited to travel through time and see your future self. You found that you’re behaving like a C-Zombie, an executive board member with an expired attitude. You just watched yourself approving pay packages without linking them to results and you approved rolling out crippling Policies and Procedures systems all in the name of standardization. You are shocked and wondering, “How did I become like that?” Many people seek change as they see the previous generation as old fashion and not in touch with reality. When they themselves become older they face a new group that looks at them the same way they did years ago. To protect what they built – because they believe they’re right – some weird overprotective decisions start to flow aimlessly until retiring. I’m not saying one side is right and the other is wrong. Balance is 82

needed for both generations to coexist. For example, one generation finds it important to wear formal clothes while the other does not see it as a prerequisite for developing one's mind or behaving professionally. While the former is concerned with negative first impressions, and rightfully so, the latter desires less stiffness. For most occupations, there’s nothing wrong with wearing semiformal attire with some creative twists that express one’s own unique personality while maintaining a professional image. Standards and consistency are desperately needed in many businesses around us; but so are well thought-of improvements. For tested practices to survive, rigidity in the implementation must disappear first...and that's just my two cents.

I came to work in Kuwait a few months ago and I’m horrified by the amount of imported retail brands in this market. Why aren’t there more local brands in malls? Decades before oil, Kuwait’s welfare had always been dependant on trade merchants. They had a strong influence on the economy since it was their financial contributions that provided the budgets needed for the country to manage in the early days. There are many reasons why being a trade merchant in Kuwait made more sense than producing something locally. For example, lack of natural resources to use in manufacturing anything. With such a harsh environment, Kuwaitis turned to the sea. They dove for pearls to sell to other markets and built ships for wealthy individuals and markets. Kuwait’s location encouraged trade merchants to exist. How could they not, when they had such a strategic position geographically? It was profitable to buy wholesale from the East and sell retail to the North and West. As our nature is to be slaves to pattern and since old habits die hard, the trade trend became a permanent style of entrepreneurship. Having said that, there are many local businesses that exist outside shopping malls. Maybe those business owners lack the knowhow of strong brand management experience to turn their business into a large household name in the region. Also, the small market size doesn’t leave much room for real growth without reaching out to international markets to expand into; but again, the limited expertise by some and the risk-averse mindset kills such attempts. Relying on importing has its downside, but without imports there are no exports...and that's just my two cents.

For Loaay Ahmed’s advice on business or work matters, send a short email to loaay@knightscapital.com. Regrettably, only the questions chosen for publishing will be answered. Loaay Ahmed is a management adviser and strategic expert. To learn more about Loaay and his consulting service, strategic business therapy, visit www.knightscapital.com.

MCDONALDS

DKNY SPRING 2015

SPRING FOR STYLE Basics in Geometry

The epitome of New York City chic, DKNY’s spring collection is abundant with color, culture and creativity. Where individuality speaks with an accent all its own – where techy details meet new ethnic – patterns, laser print and cut; the palette is a vivacious spring medley of Blazing red, Supersonic green, Luxe Yellow, Paradise green, Ink blue, and Powder nude.

SUPERSONICALLY TECHY 84

KALEIDOSCOPIC FLASH Graphically Layered Bold beading and mirrored paillettes. Kaleidoscopes of prints clash with macro and mini stripes. Proportions play – fit and flare, ease with lean, cropped over full. Cleanse your visual palette with modern graphic eyelets, and Crisp poplin with raffia fringe.

URBANOMICAL ZEST Pop Statements Accessorize with high-energy streaks of color! Think multicolor Velcro strapped subway platforms or graphic city – flat or sky-high – trainers and the perfect single-handle satchel popped with color.

Multicolored, multicultural and multitasking, The DKNY spring collection is just like its unique, global city of neighborhoods. DKNY is where it all comes together – they’ll have you springing in style! Shop the DKNY spring collection at 2nd Avenue – The Avenues (2259 7111), Marina Mall (2224 4842) and Mall 360 (2530 9911). Stay updated about the collection by following Al Yasra Fashion on Instagram @alyasra.

bazaar fitness

YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO STOP by Mike Campbell

There is an old saying that goes along the lines of “you’re never too old to start.” I would like to take a new spin on that and say that “you are never too old to stop.” Recently on my holiday home to New Zealand I had initially planned to conduct several hikes and therefore base this article on outdoor training… that is until I broke several bones in my foot. Because of that small set back, I decided to focus on writing about something different. I always join a gym when I’m on holiday. It’s more about maintaining strength than trying to regain once I’m back in Kuwait. I noticed that in my first day at the local gym, there was a group of about twelve 70-plus-yearolds engaged in a circuit styled class. That night whilst watching the national news it again peaked my attention when it featured a 92-year-old New Zealand lady that still goes to the gym around five times a week to do her weight circuits and her dancing. It made me immediately think of my mother. Whilst Mum is some way off 92, (she is 63 years old this year) she continues to teach around 20 hours of ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop per week. She used to teach a lot of low impact aerobic styled classes which eventually gave way to country line dancing as trends changed. Mum started teaching when she was 14 years old and never really looked back. She has in fact won the Instructor of the Year in New Zealand (for line dancing) seven times in the last twelve years. In 2008 she was awarded a special recognition award for services to line dancing. Fitness training is important throughout your life, but in many ways it becomes even more important as you age. Even if you’re in your 90s, it’s not too late. One study found a group of nursing home residents with an average age of 90 improved their strength between 167 and 180 percent after just eight weeks of weight training. Whether it is the resistant training of an added weight or your own body it’s never too late to start, and if you have started, it’s never too old to stop. What are some of the other benefits of continued fitness training? Improved walking ability: After 12 weeks of weight training, seniors aged 65 and over improved both their leg strength and endurance, and were able to walk nearly 40 percent farther without resting. Improved ability to perform daily tasks: After 16 weeks of “total body” weight training, women aged 60 to 77 years “substantially increased strength” and had improvements in walking velocity and the ability to carry out daily tasks, such as standing up from a chair or carrying a box of groceries. 86

Decreased risk of falls: Women between the ages of 75 and 85, all of whom had reduced bone mass or full-blown osteoporosis, were able to lower their fall risk with weight training and agility activities. Relief from joint pain: Weight training strengthens the muscles, tendons and ligaments around your joints, which takes stress off the joint and helps ease pain. It can also help increase your range of motion. Improved blood sugar control: Weight training helps to control blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. It can also reduce your Type 2 diabetes risk; strength training for at least 150 minutes a week lowered diabetes risk by 34 percent, compared to being sedentary. Weight training can also go a long way to prevent brittle bone formation, and can help reverse the damage already done. For example, a walking lunge exercise is a great way to build bone density in your hips, even without any additional weights. Strength training also increases your body’s production of growth factors, which are responsible for cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Some of these growth factors also promote the growth, differentiation, and survival of neurons, which helps explain why working your muscles also benefits your brain and helps prevent dementia.

Now, it can be argued that teaching dance is not directly related to weight training, but tell that to anyone who has spent time at a ballet bar! We only have to look at the incredibly popular Barre classes that have been emerging around the world in the last 24 months. Not sure what a Barre class is? Set to upbeat music (to keep you motivated), the usual 60-minute class starts with a warm up and sequence of upperbody exercises using light free weights, pushups and plank. It’s here that participants target the bicep, tricep, shoulder, chest and back muscles. They then move into a series of ballet barre or floor exercises that focus on the legs – wrapping up the class with fun “back dancing” and a final stretch. I asked mum as she was gardening, if she had a choice, to continue teaching. She smiled and explained to me that she has done it for so long, it’s just second nature to her now. So, if you’re currently engaged in some type of weight bearing fitness, then my suggestion is to keep at it. It will only benefit you well into your future years. Mike Campbell is the GM and Co Founder of Inspire Pure Fitness and Inspire 2.0 at Sahara. Email info@inspirekw.com or nooriya@inspirekw.com, or you can visit them at www.inspirekw.com.

FANTASY WORLD

JAZEERA AIRWAYS

Your guide to their top three weekend getaways by bazaar staff

Get on the 3:40 p.m. flight to Dubai, and return on the 10:10 p.m. flight. Or Beirut. Or Bahrain. The possibilities are endless! Jazeera Airways brings you the March guide to plan your weekends this month. Jazeera Airways VP of Marketing and Product, Mohamed Barakat, says, “Weekend traveling has become as easy as heading to the mall.” He continues, “Only a couple of hours away are ideal destinations to spend a weekend with friends and family. March is filled with experiences waiting for you – all you have to do is get on the next flight.” If you’re looking for some activities or shopping, then over to Dubai! Flight time: 1.50 hours On any given day this month, something is happening in Dubai. Arts, sports and fashion lovers will find something for them. March in Dubai kicks off with the Dubai International Boat Show (March 3-7) and continues with the Taste of Dubai for an exquisite outdoor culinary experience on March 12 and 13. The internationally renowned and awaited Design Days Dubai will be held from March 16 to 20, simultaneously with the coveted Art Dubai (March 18-21). Getting married this year? The Bride Dubai Exhibition returns during the last weekend of March (25-28). Horse lovers are also scheduled with a date at the Dubai World Cup on March 28. And if you haven’t filled your closets with enough shopping yet, Dubai is just another reason to raid the never-ending line of stores. Needless to say, you can also enjoy the summer breeze in The Palm Jumeirah… living la vida spring. There’s nothing more beautiful and serene than enjoying a winter’s breeze by the Cedars of Beirut! Flight time: 3 hours Here’s how your ideal weekend in Beirut could sound like: a downtown dinner right off the plane, followed by a night stroll within the old streets of the capital. The next morning, head to Mzaar slopes for winter activities and skiing. Spend the day enjoying 88

what’s left of the white-coated mountains. Continue the night in Jbeil’s old souks, as locals stay awake until the break of dawn. Catch up on art museums or spend the day by the seaside for a Saturday lunch before heading back to the airport. Need we say more? Care for some road rush? Then let Bahrain be your guide! Flight time: 1.10 hours March in Bahrain brings you the BIC Dragster Xperience (March 2-6, 16 and 30), with a mind-blowing thrill to step into the Top Fuel Dragster, the fastest car in all of the sport of drag racing. Night Open Track comes on March 13 to see how fast you and your car, or bike can go, while the Ebrahim K. Kanoo Drag and Drift Nights as well as the Bahrain Drag Racing Club Test & Tune are scheduled throughout the month. Booking the next flight couldn’t be easier with Jazeera Airways’ mobile app and website. Passengers can check-in online or in person using the airport kiosk, before boarding through an exclusive gate and state-of-the-art bridges at the Kuwait International Airport. Not sure when to go? Then check out this nifty weekend timetable for your ease of mind!

For more information please go to their website www.jazeeraairways.com, or follow them on Instagram and Twitter @JazeeraAirways and on Facebook: Jazeera.Airways. Alternatively, you can call their hotline at 177 and book your next destination!

LEONOR GREYL

JIMMY CHOO CHOO’S YOUR PERFECT ACCESSORY by bazaar staff

While there might be a few names in the shoe realm, nothing quite resonates with the shoe aficionado as well as Jimmy Choo. Once a humble shoemaker to the bespoke loving jet setters – Lady Diana, amongst others – based in London’s East End, Jimmy Choo has since become the shoemaker to the stars. Completing their dazzling outfits that rock each and every awards season, nothing says, “step in to glamour” better than Jimmy Choo. As an A-list must-have, the shoes and clutches are a brilliant fit for every frock, figure, and flair. Led by Creative Director Sandra Choi since ’96, this prestigious design house has asserted itself into the lives of celebrities and our hearts. With designs that are truly worthy of the Oscar’s red carpet, a fabulous after-party or a fashionable street style look, Jimmy Choo always provides you with a chance to put your best foot forward.

A pioneer of sorts, Jimmy Choo strives to provide its clientele – celebrity or not – the best they can offer. Skilled Italian craftsmanship and fine leathers combine to create a shoe fit for every occasion and lifestyle. With a resurgence in all things retro, Jimmy Choo have gone back to their roots by introducing the Made-To-Order service. Based on their 247 collection of signature styles, customers now have the opportunity to create the perfect pair for any occasion, let alone the perfect ‘Choo’ for that special occasion. Customizing a shoe according to your bridal gown? No problem. Thinking of wearing glamorous sandals for a summer night’s gala? Never an issue. Bespokivity at its finest – this collection serves as the building

block for an entirely customized wardrobe. The perfect embodiment of chic and well suited for every shoe aficionado. Chosen exclusively by Sandra Choi, your options are coming in from the God Mother of beautifully crafted shoes. The 247 collection contains a plethora of elusive suedes, radiant satins, and supple leathers alongside glitter and exotic skins. Not to mention the color options for both the shoe’s body and the sole itself. Build your own shoe and live the life of a designer by creating your perfect pair. If inspiration is what you seek, look no further than the mystical – and iconic – glass slipper. A truly princess-worthy design, Lilly James – Cinderella – walked the red carpet in

her character’s namesake shoe to the premier of the film. Jimmy Choo – borrowing from their 247 collection – fashioned a fitting glass slipper for Cinderella to wear to the ball dubbed simply as The Cinderella Shoe. Jimmy Choo for Cinderella caused a stir on the red carpet and will be our inspiration with the Made-To-Order service. Because who wouldn’t want to feel like a princess? Jimmy Choo is located at The Avenues – Prestige, 1st floor (2220 0567), and Mall 360 (2530 9912). For more information, visit www.jimmychoo.com and follow their latest updates on Instagram through Alyasra Fashion, @AlYasra. 91

OPERATION CLEAN CARE

Dust busting Kuwait, one place at a time by bazaar staff

Sometimes, you need someone who’s a complete and utter clean freak to understand how you like your place to be properly scrubbed down. Clean Care founders Nasser and Fatma AlQallaf definitely understand those needs more than your average person. Founded in 2011, Nasser actually experienced the woes of bad cleaning services firsthand. Today, their services are widely utilized by large corporations, hotels, medical centers and even private homes. Dubbed as ‘the lazy one’, Nasser always wanted things done a certain way, but couldn’t be bothered to do the household chores himself. His sister Fatma, now Clean Care Operations Manager, always teased him about his laziness. So rather than continue lazing around, Nasser decided to create a cleaning service that perfectly tailored to customers’ needs. Nasser told bazaar that when envisioning Clean Care, he put himself in the clients’ shoes. He considered their home as his and co-created a company based on the desire to preserve a person’s habitat by using natural and environmentally friendly materials and the help of a highly skilled team. We meet up with Fatma to learn more about Clean Care’s services. How and when did you decide to join Clean Care? Upon finishing my MBA, I moved away to live in Singapore and Korea for a year. After moving back in 2013, my family assisted me in finding a position in either the public or private sector. When Nasser sneakily spoke to me about Clean Care, I jumped at the opportunity to become a part of this startup. I joined Clean Care on April 1st of 2013 as the Financial and Administrative Manager, and with a lot of hard work and experience, I become an Operations Manager and Nasser’s business partner. As a family owned startup, how did the local market respond to your services? We initially focused on corporate and commercial accounts, such as hotels and clinics. We were cautious to start but found lots of support from established Kuwaiti companies, as they did not think of us as small and they treated us like any other supplier. With the support of clients like Safir Hotels and Asnan Tower, we felt that our start was a great one. With hard work and perseverance, we managed to expand our services in 2013 to private homes and villas. What cleaning services does Clean Care offer? Rather than positioning ourselves with our range of cleaning services, we like to think of ourselves as problem solvers. We are solution providers for any and every cleaning service a client could ever want or need. If we are unable to find a solution for the client, we will then direct them to companies that we think are best suited to serve their needs. Our services include: General cleaning, detailing and deep cleaning, Marble restoration, grinding 92

and polishing with state-of-the-art machines (that are patented as an invention), glass cleaning, building’s interface cleaning, dry-cleaning (sofas, carpets) with 98% natural and eco-friendly materials, and janitorial cleaning services. Our services are available through several flexible arrangements that range from a onetime project, to contracts that could be activated on a quarterly, monthly, weekly and daily basis. What are some of your latest products or services? We are now offering our clients the Nano4life product/service. It is a German product used to protect all types of surfaces. Any surface protected by Nano4life becomes water repellent and waterproof and this deems the surface protected against water, spots, dirt and so on. We are now a certified distributer and applicator for Nano4life with an official training and certification from the Nano4life sister company in Kuwait. We love this product due to its ecofriendly nature, antibacterial properties and cost efficiency. We offer our clients a 1-year warranty to keep them at ease upon using this service. We also have several other free services, which include: Cleaning consultation tips that are available to everyone, distributing respected monthly magazines to our clients as a privilege, some discount coupons from our sister companies and other companies that wish to offer their distinct services, complimentary tissue boxes to our clients…and more surprises to come!

Can you tell us more about the Clean Care team? We currently have a team of 23 people that include full time members as well as others who are contracted on a part time basis. Due to the developing nature of our company, we have an office team that takes care of the day-to-day aspects of the administration, and an operations team that includes the execution team, along with handling customer calls, transportation and quality control. We all function as a family, and every employee in our team, no matter how small his/her position is, feel that they belong to the Clean Care family and must feel they are cared for. We are also always undergoing additional training, and all of these courses are mandatory. Do you have any future plans that you would like to share with us? We are planning to launch a new line of service offerings and sister company, Car Clean Care, which specializes in cleaning and protecting cars from dirt. Cleaning your car is as easy as a phone call to our call center and we will be there to serve you the best way that we can. Pay Clean Care a visit at their offices located in Kuwait City, Fahad AlSalem Street Block 15, floor 17, office number 2. For more information, please visit www.cleancare.co and follow them on Instagram, Twitter @CleanCareCo and Facebook: Clean Care Co.

WOK HAY

VILLA TONI&GUY Where innovation meets beauty by bazaar staff

From London and right into our hearts, TONI&GUY is our go-to spot for all things hair. Here on the Kuwait front, beau-tique has done it again with their newest location, Villa TONI&GUY. Now we’ll be heading over for so much more! All things beauty, Villa TONI&GUY promises to be your one-stop-shop! Starting off as a single location shop in Clapham, London, TONI&GUY have grown to becoming a leader in the fashion world. Blending the aesthetics of hair with the latest sartorial trends, they’ve grown into a multi-national sensation. As a major player in London Fashion Week, TONI&GUY have made it big. After an incredible four years serving the ladies of Kuwait for their hair-related needs, due to increasing demand they are expanding and opening a second salon. As Beverley Van Staden – Franchisee and GM of TONI&GUY Kuwait – had put it, “We're delighted to introduce the opening of our Kuwait flagship salon. Our team of professional Hair Stylist/Technicians and Beauty Therapist will ensure that you are always entirely satisfied with your results.” Villa TONI&GUY promises to continue giving its loyal customers – and new if you haven’t been yet – the best in the business. They started with hair and they’re now bringing us so much more! TONI&GUY Kuwait is opening a second salon, CLIFFS – the luxurious seaside apartment complex in Salmiya. Having taken over one of their villas, TONI&GUY’s new location is huge. Spanning over three floors, this gorgeous salon is bright, airy and submerged in natural light. With the ground floor dedicated to hair care – Expert Cuts, Coloring and KeraStraight Hair Treatments – the first floor will have everything related to nails, makeup, and general beauty. Getting married soon? Take advantage of their VIP Beauty Room! It’s the perfect room for any bride-to-be. You can also just book the VIP Beauty Room if you’d like to opt for that little extra special indulgence. To boost your Zen state of mind – weather permitting of course – you can relax and enjoy a pre or post-treatment in their gorgeous courtyard. All their stylists and beauty therapists are British and extremely well versed and trained in their respective fields. Amongst the several beauty treatments that’ll be offered, they’re also going to be introducing the latest in CACI Non-Surgical Facelift and body toning treatments! But if you’ve had any form of hair trouble, you’re in for a surprise. The great people at beau-tique are bringing us the amazing Leonor Greyl Rituals, straight from Paris, for all our hair-related woes. So head on over as fast as you can and get a free consultation! Apart from the usual hair treatments and services provided – and the newer ones mentioned here – at TONI&GUY, 94

they will also be offering Eyelash Enhancement Treatments, Racoon Hair Extensions, and Nail Care. The Salon Operations Coordinator, Debbie Johnson, commented, “I believe the convenience of being able to combine the professional skills of our Hair Stylists alongside our Beauty Therapists whilst doing so in relaxing, plush surroundings can only enhance our clientele’s experience. Pampering at its finest!” Keep your eyes on their social media, because Mr. Toni Mascolo will be their guest of honor at the grand opening. So follow them to find out the exact date of Mr. Mascolo’s visit and to always be in the know about their incredible promotions and offers. But for now, make use of their bookable discounts in honor of their newest location. The Salon Manager and Technical Director, Emma Verey, added, “This is such an exciting opportunity

for me to be part of TONI&GUY expanding here in Kuwait. I am looking forward to our team offering fresh new ideas for all aspects of hair care to suit each individual clients needs.”

Villa TONI&GUY for Ladies will be open in March and is located at Cliffs Tower, Salmiya Block 9, Bldg 638 Villa 1 Gulf Road. You can call them on 2572 3381 or 6616 6966. And for TONI&GUY Hairdressing for Ladies and Gents at Al Corniche Club, Shaab Al Bahary, Gulf Road, call 2566 3286 or 6617 8889. Follow TONI&GUY Kuwait on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @toniandguykw, or visit their website www.toniandguykuwait.com. For product information please visit www.beau-tiqueonline.com.

BEVERLEY

DEBBIE

Franchisee/GM

Salons Operations Coordinator

Van Staden

Johnson

EMMA Verey

Salon Manager/Technical Director

LEEN

Proudly 'Made in Kuwait, for Kuwait' by Shabana H. Shaikh

Meaning ‘merciful’ in Arabic, Leen is a beautiful story of how a group of people from different walks of life, united in their empathy to create a unique product in support of those who are battling with cancer and those whose lives – as a result of it – are changed forever. It all started at the Qout market last October, when Mallika Kaul stopped by the Asama Perfumes booth and had an epiphany. She was so impressed with the work of the Al Refai brothers, that she decided to use their skills to create a customized perfume in Kuwait, which would not only boast the notion of local manufacturing, but also support artistic talent, as well as offer an alternative means of self-sustenance to local NGOs. When asked “why perfume?’’, Mallika replied, “Because it has universal appeal, and appeals to one of our main senses, the olfactory.” Marketed under the tagline ‘Made in Kuwait, for Kuwait’, Leen is blended, bottled and packaged with great attention to detail by Ahmed and Abdulwahab Al Refai (founders of Asama Perfumes). Both of them are knowledgeable about aromatherapy and are particular about using high quality authentic oils. “We discussed the purpose of the project, its grounding in elements of aromatherapy research for cancer patients and the spirit the fragrance should embody. We discussed how patchouli, amber, oud, black orchid, lavender etc. oils have calming, antidepressant and anti-anxiety affects,” explains Mallika about the process that ensued. “The mandate for the Al Refai brothers was to come up with an intense, subtle and calming blend without spicy or floral tones.” Bader Al Mansour, the brilliant Kuwaiti artist known for his upcycled creations from scrap materials, has conceptualized, designed and hand-carved the limited edition Sidra wood boxes from an 80-year-old Sidra tree log that he recused from the desert. “When I approached Bader and told him about my initiative and how he could help, it took him all of five minutes to respond with ‘yes’!” recalls Mallika, who later on learned that Bader had lost his younger brother to cancer. Within the span of three months, the perfume was blended, perfected, and ready for marketing. Leen was launched February 7, 2015 at the House of Butterflies (HOB) booth at Qout market, exactly where its seeds were first sown. “The aromatic oils used in Leen are high quality and selected specifically for their soothing properties keeping cancer patients in mind,” Mallika explained. Leen for a cause During my interview with Mallika, I learned that an astounding number of women in her family were either battling or had survived cancer. Mallika, who is an investment professional, co-founder of Business and Professional Women Kuwait, a MEPI Alumni and a fervent voluntary worker, has experienced firsthand the agonizing trauma family members of cancer patients undergo, when someone they love is diagnosed with 96

the disease – or tragically succumbs to it. But Mallika believes that when a woman – a mother, a daughter, or a sister – has cancer, she has to fight a dual battle, one with the disease and another for the sake of those that look up to her. In her own words, “In such times, a soulful strength of these women and the entire family is revealed – the pain is intense at the beginning, gradually becoming subtle as they come to terms, and eventually, a perkiness characterizes their personality as the soulfulness permeates.” These were the very three-elements Mallika was seeking to embody in a special blend of soothing oils and lingering fragrance. “They [Al Refai brothers] managed to get the intensity and subtlety I was looking for…so, Leen is dedicated to the soulful strength of all women,” says the smiling lady. Apparently, every aspect of Leen is an expression of artistic and altruistic belief. Hanouf Al Juhail (founder of House of Butterflies) is yet another fervent supporter of causes, and has lent her time and platform to launch and distribute Leen. Lulwa Al Terkait (founder of Je La La Jewellary) agreed to donate her time and efforts as the media consultant for this project. Mallika credits the name of the perfume to artist Reem Al Hajiri, an investment professional by day, and an artist by night. Reem not only came up with the name, explaining that “mercy is the essence of spiritual sustenance,” but also donated the Arabic calligraphy for the product. “I have known these women for a while now,”

Mallika said, “But I’m still touched by the fact that they all came to my support so selflessly, and the Leen project took off without any hitch.” Bader’s use of Sidra tree is symbolic in itself, as it has a special significance in the Kuwaiti culture. It is called the 'tree of life', as it grows in extreme arid environments, yet bears edible fruit, leaves for medicinal purposes, while the shade of the tree provided respite to travelers and scholars for generations. “Bader proposed to keep it natural…so no wood varnish or lacquer has been used, keeping the original graining of the wood and its smell intact.” In sports, there’s a saying: “The great ones play hurt.” This interview just made me realize how true that was, that no matter how daunting or painful life is for some people, they continue to do what they have to do for others, in spite of their personal pain and injury. Leen will be donating all profits to Al Sidra Association for Psychological Care for Cancer Patients. You can order the limited edition of Leen perfumes through HOB, Instagram: @hobq8 or drop a line to hob_q8@hotmail.com. Contact: 9911 1217. Al Sidra is the psychosocial support center for women, and their families, who are living with cancer. For more information, follow them on Instagram @alsidra_kwt. Images courtesy of Lulwa Al Terkait and HOB.

JAMAWAR

WE ARE THE ARTWORK Kuwait City’s landscape transformed with Karim Jabbari and Nuqat by bazaar staff

A proverb once stated that ‘necessity is the mother of invention’. While we usually acknowledge this saying when it comes to technology and innovation, we rarely apply it to our perception of art. The need to create art could arrive from a desire to beautify our surroundings or to simply tell a story. With the rise of public art in all of its exciting forms, officially and unofficially commissioned, perhaps this proverb takes on new meaning. In the case of visual artist Karim Jabbari, one of the leading purveyors of what is now recognized as light art calligraphy, innovation and art come together beautifully and whimsically. In association with Nuqat, local creatives took advantage of a truly unique workshop and creative experience. Entitled, ‘We Are The Artwork’, Karim Jabbari led the workshop and its participants toward creating a final art installation in the one of Kuwait City’s main intersections, near Souq Al-Mubarakiya. The main premise behind this workshop is to demonstrate the importance of collaboration to learn something new, and achieve a final art piece. The huge installation of wall art involved the combination of various portraits of the participants mixed in with Karim’s abstract calligraphic style. Throughout the three day workshop that took place from the 29th of January and lasted until the 1st of February, participants of the workshop were also introduced to Karim Jabbari’s unique technique of creating light calligraphy and light paintings. The final product involved the collaborative efforts of all of the participants, speaking to Nuqat’s theme for 2015, which revolves around practicing the collective approach in every facet of our creative and daily lives. 98

For three consecutive days, participants combined their newly learned knowledge and techniques with elements of graphic design, calligraphy and street art collage. To this day, you can visit the commanding street art piece in Kuwait city, a testament to a truly collaborative approach to Karim’s inspired technique. The workshop participants and volunteers involved come from different walks of life, all coming together to share in learning something new and profound. Each and every one of their efforts will live on in the finished street art piece, proving that they are the artwork indeed! The participants included: Nour Alsane, Farah Haidar, Abdallah Asem, Afrah Buhamrah, Dalal Abdullah, Nour Alkhuraibet, Margaret McKenzie, Salima Merhebi, Hashem Al baghli, Haya AlMana, Dalal AlSaeed, Fahad AlSabah, Yousef Sitabouha, Hammed AlMutawa, Bader Al Hasan, Aysha Al Nafisi. Karim first turned to calligraphy and the arts when he was only twelve years old. Experiencing many struggles as a child, and after seeing how his dad battled many difficulties for his political views in their homeland of Tunis, Karim turned to calligraphy for answers. After leaving home to pursue his studies abroad, he always turned once again to calligraphy to remind himself of where he came from. Karim became consumed with letters, words and syllables, crafting meaningful messages in the form of classic Kufi and Maghrebi calligraphy. Karim believes that his work is in constant evolution, but his most recent work practicing and almost perfecting light calligraphy techniques leaves us fascinated. Truly innovative, Karim’s work took him to new heights when he discovered new ways to incorporate

Arabic calligraphy into our surroundings using a simple SLR camera and a flashlight. With this technique, our everyday surroundings are transformed to carry new meaning, presenting a second nature of our surroundings. During the workshop, participants, including this bazaar staff writer, were able to experience and learn this technique up close. The final result produced images that seemed to be digitally altered, but they are actually the result of carefully thought our movements in the dark, captured on camera. We asked Karim about how to recreate these steps at home. He explained, “The light calligraphy discipline needs precision, concentration and a sense of orientation to try to write in space with a source of light. The process is very simple; using a DSLR camera you set it on Manual mode (M) and change the following settings, the shutter speed, aperture and iso. Then using a remote trigger we can take the time needed to realize the calligraphy you want.” If you’re feeling uninspired, or simply looking for a new way to express your own story, never feel overwhelmed by the pressure. If anything, Karim advises you to use it to create something entirely new and different. Karim leaves us with this inspiring note, “Most people end up becoming prisoners of their negativity, and their bad habits take over their life, leaving them to never discover what their talents are. BE POSITIVE!” You can find more information about Karim Jabbari at www.madefromwords.com, or follow him on Instagram @Karim_Jab. For more information about Nuqat, head to www.nuqat.me. Follow Nuqat on Instagram @Nuqat, Facebook: NuqatME and Twitter @nuqatweets.

PLATINUM FOOTBALL ACADEMY It’s game time

by bazaar staff

Armed with an education from UEFA and specialist goalkeeping training, Khalid Isbieh had a vision. Taking his fifteen-year experience in coaching youth into account, Khalid decided to start the first specialized soccer academy here in Kuwait. Platinum Football Academy is a haven for soccer fanatics. Accepting children between the ages of four and seventeen, there’s a specialized program dedicated for every level. With your child in mind, their aim is to provide educational materials and opportunities that will aid in achieving the child’s dream. Be it on a competitive or non-competitive level, their coaches will pass on their knowledge to the children. Contracting UEFA coaches from all around the world – such as Spain, Brazil, and The Netherlands to name a few – your children will be trained by the best in the business. The director of Platinum Football Academy, Khalid Isbieh, has built his clientele from years of personal training 100

and working in UEFA clubs, as well as acting as main referee at the KNVB. Coaching over 700 kids – ages five to nineteen – his experience has pushed him to start this academy. “I’m involved with training youth as both competitive players and teams during the evenings – on weekends, I run the academy sessions,” he explains, “Throughout the summer, I run the entire refereeing management group for a Middle East competitive league.” This is how dedicated Khalid is to his trade. Only hiring coaches who’ve attained a higher level of education from UEFA, Khalid’s only bringing those with the most to offer to Kuwait. Believing that expertise and professionalism are the most important things for the youths’ development in soccer, they aim to push the players to the limit. Using a positive psychology approach with the kids, Khalid strives to use strategies that will help the players reach the best results possible. As for his vision for the more senior players, he intends to push

them to becoming the best – after all, their ethos is “To be the best, join the best.” As part of Platinum Football Academy’s commitment to the parents, they’re ensuring that coaches for youth under the age of twelve must go through extensive training before they can interact with the youth. Although they’re not affiliated with any international clubs at the moment, they’re working on introducing that soon. But what they can do is send their talented players from Kuwait to international UEFA camps! They also have qualified physicians available along with qualified dieticians to ensure the health and safety of all their players. Part of their tuition includes transportation to and from the Academy so the parent’s don’t have to worry about this. Need we say more? For more information check out their Instagram account @platinum_football and visit their Facebook page: Platinum_Football_Academy. If you have any questions call them on 5007 5333.

PROTEGES

B-BOY IN A

SUIT by Liltera R. Williams

Hussein Al Shammery, better known socially by his Hip Hop moniker, Slash, is a 23-year-old student of the arts. Born in Kuwait with a desire to someday travel the world, he’s striving to master every single one of his self-taught talents while on a mission to help others understand the true meaning of self-expression. Through the growth of his positive B-Boy movement, Slash aims to change the minds and beliefs of the misguided and misfortunate – transforming with a purpose. His humble spirit keeps him from boasting about his own skills, but his name often rings a bell in casual conversation; admirers are quick to identify his elevated passion and most would agree that he’s destined to become more than just a local prodigy.

When did you discover your passion for the arts? It all started with music. Ever since I heard and learned to understand it and was able to tell the difference between meaningful music and commercial music, I discovered what I wanted to be. Everything else just followed… One track led 102

to another track, one move to another move, one action to another action and here I am today living my life as a dancer, filmmaker, actor and singer in one tiny, skinny body. What are your main talents? Would you say that you have an equal level of dedication for each one?

I don’t believe in talent as a word really, I believe in hard work and skills; talent is just the product of pure work and practice. I’m fully dedicated and committed to dancing. I love to express myself and create something that can leave an imprint. But I’ve been filming and shooting long before I

started dancing. I always loved to see and capture everything as a moving piece of art – all things have a story behind them and I strive to share those stories from my point of view. I’m not a first-class filmmaker and I don’t own the best cameras or equipment, I just like to save moments as moving pictures. I also organize Hip Hop and break dance competitions. I don’t know if it’s a talent or not, but it takes some skill and practice to understand and correct mistakes. Hip Hop events are a huge part of my identity, from graffiti, DJing, MCing and fashion. I enjoy combining all of the elements together to create the best vibe. Recently, I’ve gotten involved in another beautiful way of expressing myself through acting and theater. Working with One World Actors Centre allowed me to see my potential as an actor and singer and made me realize that you can be whatever you want to be if you just put your mind to it. Who or what inspires you? I have a HUGE list that would probably take two editions to complete, but I’ll say anyone who takes pride in what they do and are humble about their status. I love all kinds of music on the planet. I always look for new music and it inspires me so much and makes me want to give out the best of me at all times. I’m also inspired by details. I love seeing detailed artwork because it makes me think of all the angles and perspectives. As Bruce Lee said, “you must be shapeless, formless, like

water.” It makes me feel like I can stretch my body to create any pose. Nature, with all its randomness and beauty, and last but not least, every part of the Hip Hop culture and urban life. How do you network with other passionate individuals? I always try to keep a lookout for all the events happening in Kuwait and attend to show support while absorbing that artistic energy, which leads to meeting new interesting people from the area. Once I meet individuals and learn more about them, I immediately begin discussing how we can collaborate and create something together to make an impact in the community. Passionate people are the most artistic in my opinion. Where do you find the energy to hone/practice your craft(s)? I don’t always have enough time to practice, so I manage my time to do what I need to do, from filming, practicing or working out, meeting with people to complete projects, and rehearsing for shows. I basically live every day as if it’s my last and make the best of every moment possible. How much has social media contributed to your growth and notoriety? It has definitely connected me to many interesting people and allowed me to explore many new things. I don’t think I’m that famous or that I wish to be famous. I think fame will disconnect me from the things that I love, which is actually working

with people for the love of the art and not for the love of the retweets and the reposts and such. Social media is meant for connecting to people and to see other things all over the world, but not for popularity surrounding who has the most followers on Instagram or likes on a Facebook page. Real life is what’s behind those mobile screens with the people we love and care about. Is it difficult to Live Your Dream in Kuwait? I wouldn’t say difficult, but it is challenging. Being a full-time dancer, I take pride in what I do and sometimes face some challenges in getting jobs or being treated as a professional, because some people don’t fully understand the hard work behind the art form. Other than that, I am blessed to say that during my life as a dancer I’ve received a lot of positive feedback from different people. Comparing it to the negative wouldn’t even be on the same level, so I believe Kuwait can be another capital of arts, especially dance, in the coming years. What is your ultimate goal? My ultimate goal is to be in the history books as a man who stood up for what he believed in and managed to change the world. I want to create my mark as a doer and achiever and someone who believes in the power of the people and the power of love. You can follow him on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter @slashhsz. All photography provided by Kendrix Lewis of DrixLe Pixel Photography. 103

“FIT IN’’ AT SAKURA

Serving up fresh and healthy Japanese cuisine by Reshmi Revi

Sushi. I remember trying these delicate Japanese finger-foods in a bid to slim down back when I was still a student in Auckland, New Zealand. The year was 2002 and there I was on the corner of Queen and Victoria St, grabbing my first packet of a 6-piece smoked chicken and avocado maki roll at famed St. Pierre’s Sushi House on my way to my university classes at the Auckland University of Technology. Suffice to say, sushi and my love for it have come a long way since my tertiary student days. In K-town, I will have it almost once a week, as depending on my hectic schedule and the items chosen, this Japanese cuisine can almost be likened to fast healthy food on the go. One of my favorite Japanese restaurants I often frequent is Sakura. Recently this eatery’s menu underwent somewhat of an overhaul (for the better) to include an even greater selection of healthy dishes. The new menu features a healthier selection of appetizers, maki rolls, shabu-shabu (a Japanese dish of thinly sliced meat cooked in boiling water or broth and served with a selection of veggies and sauces), nigiri (raw seafood under a ball of cooked rice) and sashimi (raw slices of seafood) platters. Saying that though, my 3 favorite dishes at Sakura were: Goma Wake – This appetizer is a fabulous fresh mixed seaweed salad with a sesame dressing folded through. Seaweed is rich in a fiber called alginate. A recent study at the Newcastle University in the UK deduced that consuming seaweed reduced one’s fat digestion by more than 75%. More importantly, seaweed contains iodine, a nutrient that’s sometimes absent in other foods. Consumption of iodine-rich foods is essential in maintaining a healthy thyroid function – that tiny gland in your neck which is responsible for producing and regulating your hormones. Nagasaki Maki – This is fast becoming one of my favorite rolls here at Sakura. During competition prepping and subsequently cutting my carbs, I would usually opt for the sashimi selection with a house salad on the side. This little roll right here is a rice-less maki roll. That’s right, no rice or starchy carbs in it. Instead, what you get is a maki roll that’s filled with fresh salmon, crabstick slices (you can opt not to have this and fill it instead with more salmon or other seafood), grilled shrimp, avocado, cucumber, lettuce, spring onion and pickled ginger in a white soy sheet. So you get a good dose of protein from the fish and the shrimp, healthy fats from the avocado (which help in lowering your cholesterol levels and risk of cardiovascular diseases) and an array of vitamins, fiber, minerals and antioxidants from the veggies in it. #winning Miso Black Cod – I’m happy to see that Sakura has added this to their menu. Their miso-glazed 104

grilled black cod served with steamed rice does not disappoint. Please bear in mind that there’s a good 15 to 20 minute wait for this dish, but it’s well worth it. The cod has a sweet buttery taste to it thanks to the miso glaze (again, from seaweed) and pairs well with the plain rice. Rich in lean protein and iodine, cod is also rich in vitamins B12 and B6, 2 important vitamins in keeping your homocysteine levels low (homocysteine is a molecule associated with blood vessel damage and high levels of homocysteine are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes). So, if you’re curious to give Japanese food a try, do give it a go at Sakura. The staff are Japanese culinary connoisseurs when it comes to their menu and are very friendly and attentive in helping with your food selection. What’s more, the

chefs would be more than happy to accommodate your meal preferences – something that’s a rarity at some other Japanese restaurants here. Sakura has 6 locations – located at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Laila Gallery, Holiday Inn Salmiya, Abu Halifa opposite to Alia and Ghalia Towers, the Zone next to Shaab Park and at Mall 360. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 12noon to 10.30pm, please contact 2475 7775 for their main reservation line at the Crowne Plaza. Alternatively you can follow them on Instagram @sakurakuwait. Reshmi Revi is a NZCF Certified Personal Trainer, Fitness Enthusiast and an Evolve Supplements Sponsored Athlete who competes in bodybuilding. Follow her on Instagram @Q8MissFit

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bazaar a la mode SALVATORE FERRAGAMO’S F-80 Best-selling line combines exclusivity with a sporty design. The new ladies watch has a steel or IP gold case, downsized to 33 mm in diameter, ideal also for smaller wrists. Six decorative screws on the bezel and the refined color shades of the dial are distinctive features of this collection. From elegantly essential silver, black and nude, nuances of pink and brown, to luxurious gold: for a dial enriched by a special guilloché pattern that is reprised on the color-coordinated caoutchouc strap. The new gents version offers even more performance and appeal. Sporty and sophisticated, it has an important XL-sized case (44 mm in diameter) and the distinctive decorative features that define the entire collection: six screws on the bezel and the guilloché pattern on a black, silver, blue or dark brown dial. On sale from this month in Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques, from authorised retailers and online at www.ferragamotimepieces.com.

GAP SPRING 2015 COLLECTION Transition your wardrobe seamlessly into spring with Gap’s new collection. Innovation in Denim is the highlight of the season. Apart from offering the mid-rise skinny, high-rise skinny and slim straight, Gap launches a new fit that’s a slimmer and more modern version of the Sexy Boyfriend. The new women’s skinny jean featuring performance stretch material that provides a more flattering fit is a must have for this season. The color palette encompasses basic black, white, blue and grey tones, as well as brighter shades of yellow, peach and pink to add a color pop. To complete the look, team it up with a peplum styled knit for a touch of glam. For Men, Skinny & Slim is a key focus for Spring’15 that can be teamed up with all new graphic Tees, striped Tees or the clean chambray. For spring, Gap introduces the new Khaki for Men with improved fits that are versatile for any occasion such as slim and skinny while a range of dresses from cool/casual to preppy/pretty are available for every girl. From bright yellows to oversized daisy prints, the Spring’15 collection displays a range of show stopping, printed and bold shift dresses tapping into the prominent spring trends with color blocking and florals.

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION NOW AT HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT Harvey Nichols Kuwait has launched its new Spring/Summer 2015 collection, curated by a fearless and stylish buying team that has traveled the world to find the most cutting-edge brands in fashion. Offering lines directly sourced from fashion capitals around the globe, including Paris, Milan, London and New York, the new Spring/Summer collection offers items that are available exclusively at the country’s premier fashion destination. Kuwait can look forward to a bold, colorful start to the year across the store’s departments, including the country’s best Footwear offering, which has been infused with the latest head-turning items from the Spring/Summer catwalks of designers such as Manolo Blahnik, Salvatore Ferregamo and Isabel Marant. New to Harvey Nichols Kuwait is footwear label Sue Comma Bonnie, a contemporary Korean designer shoes handmade in Korea with premium Italian materials. With a strong and stylish approach to everyday fashion, Sue Comma Bonnie’s creations are not only cool and modern, but also ageless and adaptive, whether completing the look for a funky fashionista or adding a suitable bit of flair for the office. Harvey Nichols’ womenswear range offers vibrant, refreshing styles, colors and prints from both staple designer brands and fresh fashion faces from across the world, including up-and-coming London-based label Self Portrait. Self Portrait’s designs are inspired by street style, contrasting hard and soft silhouettes in experimental fabrics with unexpected textures. Celebrities have been quick to embrace the brand, with the likes of Alessandra Ambrosio, Anna Camp, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry and Maria Sharapova flaunting Self-Portrait items. In menswear, hand-picked pieces from favorites such as Balenciaga, Valentino and Alexander McQueen highlight sporty styles and statement-making designs, with standouts emphasizing comfort, fit and unexpected details. Here, Harvey Nichols Kuwait has added the new hit Wooster + Lardini collection: a collaboration between Instagram icon and ex-fashion director of Bergdorf Goodman, Nick Wooster, and fashion group Lardini. Together, they have created a synthesis of sophisticated fabrics and unexpected styling. The colors are based on a wardrobe of classic menswear: gray, khaki, olive and navy, and made up of ten color cards that range from garment dyed cotton/linen, seersucker, Prince of Wales plaid, houndstooth in black and white, a summer tweed in wool and mohair, and a compact panama in cotton and linen. For more information about the Spring/Summer 2015 collection, follow them on Instagram @HarveyNicholsKuwait to start thinking inside the box. 106

H&M EXPANDS RELATIONSHIP WITH DAVID BECKHAM TO CREATE A NEW WARDROBE FOR MEN H&M announced an expansion of its long-term relationship with sporting and style icon David Beckham. This new collaboration is a natural evolution of David’s relationship with H&M, following the unprecedented success of David Beckham Bodywear, and will allow men around the world to share in David’s globallyrecognised sense of style. “I am thrilled to continue and extend my collaboration with H&M by selecting my favorite pieces from this spring’s Modern Essentials collection. Each piece is a new wardrobe classic that will update every man’s spring wardrobe with great style.” says David Beckham. Modern Essentials selected by David Beckham focuses on the important key pieces of the season, each updating a men’s classic in fresh fabrics, colors and fits for Spring 2015. Key pieces include a linen bomber jacket; a white chalk-washed denim jacket; a car coat; a sharp linen blazer; a city-slick polo shirt and the perfect poplin white shirt. Meanwhile, David Beckham continues with a new Bodywear collection for Spring including the perfect loungewear pieces; Henleys, raglan-sleeved shirts, crewnecks and a jersey vest. The collection is supported by a brand new print campaign, featuring David wearing selected looks from the David Beckham Bodywear collection, exclusively available at H&M.

MAKING A STATEMENT WITH ‘THE COLLECTION’ Glamour and glitz were redefined at the recent Miss Selfridge event that saw the launch of ‘The Collection’ – a stunning capsule collection of occasion wear. Versatile in style, flow and cut, The Collection included statement floor length styles in fluid metallic and elegant chiffons with embellished neckline detailing. Crisp white styles get a new twist with a standout peplum, while coordinates are still key with matching cropped boleros and two pieces, creating stylish top-to-toe dressing for special occasions. Fabric innovation is the starting point for The Collection. New lace techniques and modern jacquards push the boundaries of what is perceived as traditional 'occasion' dressing. The floral trend elevates to an exciting new level giving the pieces an energised and fresh look. The palette is high-contrast, ranging from inky blues and apple green pretty bursts of marshmallow and citrus zest, which makes it perfect for the summer. Each individual garment has been designed with glamour in mind. From stunning maxi dresses, beautiful beaded kimono cover-ups to striking tailored dresses and co-ords, every fashionista will find a glamorous outfit for herself with The Collection. For more information visit www.missselfridge.com, or follow them on Instagram @missselfridge or #MISSSELFIEME. ALYASRA FASHION INTRODUCES BOLD AND BRIGHT PETIT BATEAU SPRING/SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION Alyasra Fashion has now rolled out the Spring/Summer 2015 collection of the elegant and chic kid’s French brand, Petit Bateau in the Kuwait market, inspired by Jacques Demy’s La Cinémathèque de Paris, an enchanted world where imagination always wins over the impossible and enriched by one of the most prominent artists of the 20th century, Simon Hantaï. Petit Bateau’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection introduces to children’s wardrobes iconic, attractive, and desirable pieces in mixes of knits, stripes and eye-catching prints. The Spring/Summer 2015 collection is an interaction of whites with colors, as a revelation of true enlightenment, where a combination of fresh and sparkling colors reveal a new era. Playing with colors, Petit Bateau introduces an overall warm, deep, intense color palette inspired by monochrome painters and artists like Mark Rothko’s red browns and Josef Albers’s work on yellows and greens. Vibrating between the two ‘sugary’ and solar tones, the collection encapsulates dense and deep colors such as abyss blue, green ‘Amazonian’, and an acid yellow – conveying a summer full of freshness filled with cheerfulness, dancing, moving, and energy. The Petit Bateau Spring/Summer 2015 collection will be available at the Petit Bateau outlet located in 2nd Avenue – The Avenues Mall, to girls and boys aged 0 to 12.

SWATCH: INTRODUCING IRONY XLITE – DYNAMIC FUSION! Swatch introduces the latest and lightest collection of Irony products, using a bi-material construction to mix- and shape-up twelve new fun and punchy watch designs. Following a quick trip to the future where cool materials and fusion fashion are the norm, Swatch is excited to introduce XLite, a sleek, sporty ambassador and the face of Swatch’s latest, lightest collection: Irony XLite. While swimming pools and long walks in the rain might not be this mechanical celebrity’s cup of tea, he certainly digs Swatch’s futuristic bi-material watches which blend smooth aluminum with brightly colored plastic for ultra-lightweight fun and statement-making style. XLite is a robot with a sense of humor and pokes light-heartedly at the stereotypical celebrity watch testimonial and humanizes the entire collection in the way only a robot can. The showstoppers in the Irony XLite collection combine modern design with fun and energetic colors. These contemporary pieces have a cool flair that proves to be just as functional as it is dynamic and eye-catching. Exuding sci-fi allure, the chronographs in the collection are sleek state-of-the-art attention grabbers that are unlike anything Irony has ever seen. Characterized by the vibrancy that Swatch knows best, the bold bi-material watches are prepared for a future full of non-stop action and adventure. 107

bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

MOOG SYSTEM 55 SYNTHESIZER

LUNA SMART MATTRESS COVER

WHATSIM

Moog's early synthesizers weren't just electronic novelties — they had a profound effect on the music industry, one that's still apparent today. Now you can recapture some of that early sound with the Moog System 55 Synthesizer. A faithful recreation of the 1973 model hand-built using the original documentation, this analog instrument features 36 different modules, each of which is hand-stuffed, hand-soldered, and finished with a photo-etched aluminum panel. They arrive housed in two hand-finished solid walnut cabinets paired with a 960 Sequential Controller, and if you want one, you'd best get your order in now, as only 55 are being made.

A night of great sleep can improve how you feel, and maybe even the quality of your life. That's what the makers of the Luna Smart Mattress Cover believe, and their smart mattress cover might help you feel the same way. Luna works with any mattress and learns and adjusts to create the best possible sleeping experience thanks to builtin sensors. Set up separate temperature zones for you and your partner, track your sleep without an annoying wearable, and wake up using the built-in smart alarm – which identifies an ideal time for you to rise at your peak level of energy. Luna even plays nice with other smart items in your home like lights, and thermostats.

There are over 600 million people using WhatsApp. Odds are your friends and family use it. So when you're abroad, why not save yourself typical SIM fees and grab a WhatSim instead. This single SIM card works with over 400 operators in roughly 150 countries (although not Kuwait yet), letting you chat over WhatsApp free of charge. If you want to send more than just texts, you can buy credit packages to enable sharing of photos, videos, voice messages, your location, and contacts quickly, easily, and affordably. And when WhatsApp adds support for voice calls, it'll support that too, making it a onestop solution for overseas communication.

www.uncrate.com

MOTA SMART RING

TOSHIBA ENCRYPTED USB FLASH DRIVE

IRIG MIC FIELD

Constantly checking your phone is rude. So is constantly looking at your wrist, whether you're checking the time or just seeing who's liking your latest Instagram post. The Mota Smart Ring promises to move your notifications to somewhere even more discreet: your hand. Powered by Bluetooth LE, it uses an LED touchscreen to keep you up to date, combined with subtle vibrations to let you know when you've received a notification. Now you just need an excuse for why you're staring at your palm all day.

On most occasions nowadays the Cloud or a micro SD card is enough for easily toting data around, but sometimes a USB flash drive is the best choice for protecting sensitive data. Toshiba have introduced the Toshiba Encrypted USB Flash Drive, a robust and secure solution to safely make confidential information portable. The easy to use and affordable flash drive features a mini-keyboard to authenticate access, and incorporates a rechargeable battery allowing users to enter their passcode before plugging into a USB port. The drive is available in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB capacities.

From IK Multimedia comes this new digital stereo microphone that allows you to record, with high quality, the sound that's surrounding you using your iPhone or iPad. Designed for either audio or video applications, you can be sure that this mic will get the sound you hear, and want to hear after recording. Using the app that comes with it, iRig Mic Field is the easiest way to record, edit and process professional sound. It’s light and pocket sized, and you can twist it up to 90 degrees, letting you create accurate and faithful field recordings. Mic also features a low-noise and high definition pre amp for audiophile quality, just to make sure your recordings get the professional treatment they deserve.

www.uncrate.com

www.blessthisstuff.com

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RIVER

SONG OF THE SEA by Deepa Pant

What is art without a message? Artist Olivia D’ Aboville has been making waves in the art world. This wouldn’t surprise anyone familiar with her work. The ocean has been one of her key inspirations in creating visually arresting artwork that grapples with environmental issues. In her own words, Olivia D’ Aboville, the young Manila based French-Filipino artist, is sensitive to light, fluidity and movement and finds the ocean an endless inspiration for her art. Always conscious of the beauty of the environment, D’ Aboville strives to ensure that all her artwork has been constructed using recycled materials ranging from plastic spoons to plastic bags and water bottles. Creating powerful eco-ethical artwork from abandoned, discarded objects is key to her central creative process. D’ Aboville has been exploring sculpting with textile techniques and her works range from textile jewelry, to sculptures, to lighting designs and installation art. The artist says she would love to help design an artificial coral reef in the Philippines. D' Aboville has exhibited widely in museums, galleries, hotels and festivals in Paris, Lyon, Hong Kong, Manila, New York and Singapore.

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Tsunami Wave

Giant Dandelions

Q AND ART: OLIVIA D’ ABOVILLE There is a sense of vulnerability and fragility in your installations. Your love for the ocean is at the heart of everything you do, whether it is your incredible installation titled Coral Garden or the Anemone Collection of lights. What fascinates you about the ocean? I'm at awe in front of the ocean, I am both fascinated and terrified by it. I can find endless inspiration in the theme of the ocean, in its movement, in the incredible creatures that inhabit this underwater world. What materials do you often use? I started recycling and up-cycling massproduced plastic objects such as plastic spoons, stirrers, plastic bags and other containers when I was a student in textile design in Paris. I would weave and interlace unconventional materials. I liked those materials for their transparency and malleability, but it became more of a statement when I realized I was drawn to ordinary objects that are discarded after a single use and that would eventually end up polluting the environment. Why do you feel compelled to use recycled materials like glass and plastic in your work? Is there a message in your narratives that you want to convey? 70% of plastic waste ends up in the ocean. Recycling and up-cycling these materials was a way for me to go full circle. I wanted to use those objects and transform them into new works, inspired by the sea. So what's your process when starting a new project? Do you plan out the work beforehand, or just let it happen? I usually start with the material itself. I play with it and it eventually dictates the final form. I don't really plan much although I have an idea of its finality.

You have come a long way from your first solo exhibition of textile sculptures titled Chasm of Fantasies, held in Manila in 2010 to installation art, lighting designs to designing home accessories. How have you evolved as an artist over time? At the start of my career as a young artist, I made it a point to try to build my "brand" in the sense that I wanted all my works to be coherent and consistent. The ocean has been one of the key elements in my work, I've then opened up to Nature as a more general theme of inspiration, not limiting myself to the water world. Nevertheless, my pieces would still have an organic feel to them. My works ranges from sculptures to light art installation, to textile design and jewelry design. The scales vary from one to another and I explore all sorts of materials. I think that's how I kept the wheels turning, one idea or concept would help feed another. Recently, you have also moved into jewelry designing. How did it come about? Can tell us about the Crystal Dew Jewelry Collection for Denovo Diamonds in the Philippines? Denovo is a new Filipino diamond jewelry brand that launched in July 2014. To go out with some noise, they commissioned six artists to come up with their own line. It was a great experience to work on the project, seeing my drawings turned into 3D interpretations in clay for editing and then seeing and wearing the finished pieces. The team was great, it was very easy to work with them. My Crystal Dew collection was composed of a two finger ring, two bracelets, three necklaces and ear studs. For me, the diamond could only represent the world's most precious element: water. I left the

vast ocean realm to focus on the delicate size of a water droplet. I was inspired by the morning dew found on twigs and branches at dawn. The collection is quite simple yet elegant I think and organic-looking. How do people react to your eco-ethical artwork? What sort of reactions do you hope to elicit and keeping that in mind what’s the most notable reaction you’ve had? I like hearing surprise in people's reaction when they realize what my works are made of. I had a large scale outdoor installation for the Christmas season where I displayed 90 larger than life light flowers. I recycled 9,000 plastic water bottles for the heads of the Dandelions and it always makes me smile when I hear people say "Oh they're made of water bottles!” The reaction in Asia has been more entertaining I suppose, because the mindset here isn't like in Europe yet, where being green is a part of everyone's lifestyle. The green movement there, is much more embedded in the culture. With your well-deserved success, what's in the pipelines for you now? What directions do you see yourself going in the future? I'm a very fortunate person and I'm very grateful that my work has had a positive impact on people. It definitely encourages me to continue experimenting and having fun in what I love doing. I'm happy more opportunities are coming my way and I hope to be involved in environmental projects in the near future. I've always dreamt of being part of a coral nursery program. Perhaps I can help design an artificial coral reef in the Philippines. To find out more about Olivia D’ Aboville, you can visit www.oliviadaboville.com. Images courtesy of the artist. 111

‫‪bazaar investigates‬‬ ‫العالمة التجارية العالمية ترودو تنضم إلى منتجات صفاة هوم‬ ‫أدوات للطبخ وإكسسوارات للتقديم ذكيّة وذات تصميم غاية في الروعة‬ ‫يفخر صفاة هوم بإستحداث كل ما هو جديد ضمن منتجاتها ومعارضها‪ ،‬حيث أضافت عالمات تجارية‬ ‫عالمية ورائدة في األسواق‪ ،‬وتقدم من خاللها مجموعة واسعة من المنتجات الجديدة التي تعتمد في‬ ‫اختيارها على األفكار الجديدة واألساليب المبتكرة التى تناسب جميع األذواق‪ ،‬تتضمن تلك المنتجات‬ ‫أفضل التصاميم العصرية إلكسسوارات المطبخ وأدوات إعداد الطعام والمشروبات‪ ،‬من خالل العالمة‬ ‫المميزة ترودو‪.‬‬ ‫تتضمن منتجات ترودو اكسسورات وأدوات المطبخ المتنوعة التي تساعد كل ربة منزل في تحضير‬ ‫وتجهيز الوجبات وأيضا تخزينها وتقديمها بشكل أنيق ومميّز‪ ،‬وتتميز منتجات ترودو بأنها تجلب األناقة‬ ‫والعملية معا‪ ،‬كما تعطي البهجة والشعور بالرضا من خالل األواني الزجاجية‪ ،‬الصواني‪ ،‬علب التوابل‪،‬‬ ‫ألواح التقطيع‪ ،‬الفتاحات‪ ،‬وغيرها من األدوات التى تتمتع بألوان جذابة وعصرية ومريحة لإلستخدام داخل‬ ‫كل مطبخ‪.‬‬ ‫تأسست شركة ترودو في عام ‪ 1889‬وتعد اآلن الشركة الرائدة ورقم ‪ 1‬في أمريكا الشمالية في إنتاج‬ ‫أدوات المطبخ‪ ،‬تتميز منتجاتها على مستوى العالم بالجودة العالية والخبرة في اختيار المواد المستخدمة‪،‬‬ ‫كما أن لديها فريق من المهندسين والمصممين والمبدعين الكنديين واألوروبيين‪ ،‬للتأكد من أن الشركة‬ ‫دائما مواكبة لجميع التطورات العصرية المناسبة لكل منزل‪ ،‬أسم ترودو معروف منذ زمن طويل بخدماته‬ ‫المتميزة وخدمة العمالء التى ال مثيل لها‪ ،‬إضافة إلى األلوان المميزة والحلول العملية والذكية لملئ جميع‬ ‫الفراغات في المطبخ بشكل عملي يستفيد منه الطهاه والطباخين في جميع أنحاء العالم‪.‬‬ ‫ينفرد صفاة هوم بتقديم المنتجات ذات الجودة العالية‪ ،‬واألسعار اإلستثنائية‪ ،‬والتي يرغب العمالء في‬ ‫اقتنائها في أنحاء العالم‪ ،‬وتركز اهتمامها على إظهارها بشكل يتميز عن المنافسين المحليين‪ .‬حيث‬ ‫تقدم المنتجات المختلفة لتناسب جميع األذواق واألنماط الحياتية التقليدية والمعاصرة‪ ،‬إضافة إلى أن‬ ‫صفاة هوم تضم أكثر من ‪ 35‬عالمة تجارية مهمة ومعاصرة وبأوفر األسعار‪ .‬باإلضافة إلى العالمات‬ ‫التجارية الدولية التي تأتي بالمئات من المنتجات الجديدة ومعظمها حصريًا لصفاة هوم في الكويت‪.‬‬ ‫قائمة العالمات التجارية الجديدة التي تصل إلى صفاة هوم في ازدياد مستمر‪ ،‬مع المنتجات الجديدة التي‬ ‫تصل إلى صالة العرض كل أسبوع‪.‬‬ ‫يوفر صفاة هوم لكم بيئة ودية للتسوق وخدمات استثنائية‪ ،‬إضافة إلى التسوق عبر الموقع اإللكتروني‬ ‫أو داخل معارض صفاة هوم أو اإلتصال وطلب المنتج عبر الهاتف إضافة إلى كفالة وتوصيل مجاني إلى‬ ‫أي مكان في الكويت وخدمة تركيب مجانية على أيدي خبراء لضمان راحة البال‪ .‬يستقبلكم معرض صفاة‬ ‫هوم في الري يوميا من الساعة ‪ 9:30‬صباحا حتى ‪ 12:00‬ليال‪ ،‬وفي الشويخ قرب مركز خدمات الغانم‬ ‫من األحد إلى الخميس من ‪ 9:00‬صباحا حتى ‪ 10:00‬مساء وأيام الجمع من ‪ 2:00‬مساء حتى ‪10:00‬‬ ‫مساء‪.‬‬

‫‪MAISON DE SHEIKH: WHEN EAST MEETS WEST‬‬ ‫‪Rarely does the East meet the West, but when they do they come to offer both you and your home this‬‬ ‫‪rather exciting fragrant addition that is Maison De Sheikh. Maison De Sheikh combines Parisienne‬‬ ‫‪Chic and sophistication with ancient Arab knowledge and fragrance 'nose' finesse in six beautifully‬‬ ‫‪packaged and presented home diffuser sets. These carefully chosen scents transform any home or‬‬ ‫‪living area into an elegant setting that quietly perfumes your environment day after day, reed after‬‬ ‫‪reed. While it is easy choosing Maison De Sheikh to fragrance your home the decision is a little harder‬‬ ‫‪when choosing which of these wonderful scents to go for. The ocean blue freshness and colors of‬‬ ‫‪Fraicheur Marine? The relaxing subtle notes of Lavande Noir? The more darkly seductive combination‬‬ ‫‪of Bois Du Tabbana? The morning freshness that is Citron Verbana? Or nature's Etoile Jasmin or Rose‬‬ ‫?‪Vicotrienne‬‬ ‫‪The Maison De Sheikh home diffuser range is available through all UTC stores and Key outlets such‬‬ ‫‪as SaveCo and Bayt Lothan. For more information please contact Ms. Zakia Shahawi on 6636 4343.‬‬

‫‪GIVE YOUR MOM A FOREVER TREAT FROM BATH & BODY WORKS THIS MOTHER’S‬‬ ‫!‪DAY THAT SHE WILL NOT FORGET‬‬ ‫‪One of the most empowering feelings any woman can have is the knowledge that she‬‬ ‫‪is someone fabulous and outstanding. The threads of every epic fragrance are formed‬‬ ‫‪when emotions are entwined with reality. And now these moments are captured in‬‬ ‫‪Forever Midnight (KD 17.5) – the electrifying next chapter in the bestselling Forever‬‬ ‫& ‪Fragrance legacy. Forever Fragrances are the new echelon of luxury perfumery at Bath‬‬ ‫)‪Body Works. A blend of luxurious, rare, carefully curated notes, Forever Red (KD 17.5‬‬ ‫‪introduced a new echelon of perfumery to Bath & Body Works. Inspired by the modern‬‬ ‫‪woman who does not need a reason to feel sexy, Forever Red is the ultimate expression‬‬ ‫‪of sexy and the perfect fragrant accessory for the confident and fashionable woman.‬‬ ‫‪From the juice to the package design, every aspect of the fragrance brand is impeccably‬‬ ‫‪chic and enviably luxe. With more than 1,700 stores across the globe, Bath & Body‬‬ ‫‪Works takes pride in providing its customers with a world-class selection of beauty‬‬ ‫‪products, and has redefined the way customers wear fragrance.‬‬ ‫‪112‬‬

HYPOXI

bazaar checks it out STP/ARMOR ALL AWARDS AUTO1 Accessories division the best sales performance for 2014 Armored AutoGroup Inc (AAG) which owns STP and Armor All, the world’s number one automotive fuel and performance additives and protectants, or simply put, one of the best car care brands, awarded Kuwait’s AUTO1 – Accessories Division with the Sales Performance Award for 2014. The award was presented to Mr. Ali Hassan - General Manager of AUTO – Accessories by Mr. Ian Doherty, Senior Vice President & Managing Director EMEA of AAG, UK, while visiting Kuwait along with Mr. Peter Coleman – Marketing Manager AAG, UK and Mr. Robert Pearce of GDT Group of Companies, Dubai. Present on the occasion was also Mr. Hani Ahmed – Retail Manager of AUTO1 Accessories. Mr. Hassan stated that at AUTO1 they are as committed as ever in ensuring STP and Armor All remains the most preferred brand in their respective automotive categories through innovative sales offers and proactive customer service. It is an honor for AUTO1 to be associated with STP, as they get ready to put to test the world’s fastest land speed car (1000 miles per hour) ever built on the face of the earth – the BLOODHOUND SSC project. During the presentations, the AAG team revealed multiple new products that are scheduled to be released in 2015 starting with fragrant infused protectants, new freshness protection containers and paint protection waxes.

BASF UNVEILS MASTER BUILDERS SOLUTIONS IN KUWAIT BASF, the leading supplier of construction chemicals in the GCC, invited more than 300 customers for the official presentation of its Master Builders Solutions brand in Kuwait. The gala dinner took place on 10 December, 2014 at Holiday Inn Hotel in Salimya, Kuwait. The event was the first of its kind in the construction industry, and drew the participation of key company representatives and customers, as well as of Basil Al Maousherji, Executive Director of Arabi Company – BASF’s official distributor in Kuwait. In addition, Julian Pritchard, General Manager, BASF Construction Chemicals UAE LLC, graced the launch to highlight the brand values and benefits of Master Builders Solutions. BASF also presented tiling and screeds solutions, along with other technologies such as admixture systems, construction systems, and waterproofing and flooring solutions. During the event, BASF video streamed its most recent projects in construction, including Amiri Airport, Boubyan Sea Port Bridge, Radisson Blu Hotel Renovation and Sabah Al Ahmad Sea City Project.

BOOTS – CARING FOR YOU, ALL YEAR LONG The New Year is the perfect time to embrace a brand new health and wellbeing regime. At Boots they have the products and expertise to make it easy for you to keep that positive New Year feeling going all year long. Whether it’s refreshing your skincare regime, taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle, or committing to looking after your hair and body better, now is the time to make it happen: Boots Dermocare Anti-Ageing Collagen Gel Plus helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within just four weeks. It cleverly uses a combination of ingredients known to help improve the elasticity and firmness of skin, whilst also providing moisturizing benefits. Their Botanics Hydrating Day Cream SPF15 ALL BRIGHT brightens and protects. It hydrates for 24 hours, and it’s enriched with brightening Hibiscus. Dual texture is the trend for hair in 2015 – mixing textures has made a real statement on the catwalk but can be a little extreme for every day. Soften the look by keeping the root area smooth and adding waves or a disheveled texture to the mid-lengths and ends. The easiest way to do this is by blow drying your hair using a large round brush to smooth and then using a large barreled tong to add the waves. Wind sections of hair around the tong from eye level down, not from the root, and remember the larger the section the looser the wave. Finish with a product to smooth and add shine such as Mark Hill MiracOILicious Moroccan Argan Oil, apply to your hands and then rub sections of hair between your palms to give a more disheveled texture.

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HUBLOT & BEHBEHANI GROUP UNVEIL THEIR LATEST ACTIVITY, THE FERRARI F1 SIMULATOR IN KUWAIT Until February 7th 2015, Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot showcased the different facets of the “Art of Fusion” combined with the Hublot Challenge in Kuwait, at the Grand Avenues in The Avenues Mall, featuring the ultimate F1 racing experience with the Ferrari F1 Simulator. The inauguration took place on January 28th in the presence of Mr. Marco Tedeschi, Hublot Regional Director, and Behbehani Group management. Hublot luxury timepieces featuring innovative materials are exhibited in Prestige located at the Grand Avenue in The Avenue Mall throughout the duration of the Hublot Challenge. The activity saw an array of luxury timepieces, including the aptly named Big Bang Ferrari Ceramic Carbon with the mythic Ferrari Yellow, alongside the Big Bang Ferrari King Gold, the Big Bang Ferrari Titanium Carbon, and the Big Bang Pop Art. As the Ofﬁcial Timekeeper of Ferrari, Hublot offered guests and VIPs a fully immersive experience with the Ferrari F1 racing simulator as part of the exhibition. Equipped with HD graphics displayed onto a wrap-around curved screen with accompanying 3D effects, the ride transported drivers onto the track and gave a realistic driving sensation. Guests were able to compare their performances with Ferrari F1 drivers’ scores live at www.hublotchallenge.com. Hublot watches are available at Hublot Boutique - The Avenues, Prestige and Behbehani Group showrooms. MINDSHARE SWEEPS MENA CRISTAL FESTIVAL AND IS NAMED “MEDIA NETWORK OF THE YEAR” Mindshare, which is part of WPP, is a global media agency network helping clients to make collaborative and adaptive decisions across their paid, owned, and earned marketing in real-time. The agency led the pack with a staggering 17 awards at this year’s MENA Cristal Festival 2014-2015, including the prestigious title of “Media Network of the Year 2015.” Mindshare MENA was recognized across the board for the team’s outstanding accomplishments and creative campaigns spanning the Middle East and North Africa region and representing a broad array of industries. The agency’s 17 awards put Mindshare MENA ahead of their competition with seven Cristal (Gold), seven Sapphire (Silver), and three Emerald (Bronze) prizes across segments like cultural, integrated, launch, branded, and environmental campaigns. The judges’ panel honored Mindshare MENA for work representing a broad list of clients including Tunisie Telecom, Egypt’s National Initiative for Energy Conservation, Infiniti, Nissan, Dubai Shopping Festival, Sancella Tunisie and Gandour. The festival is widely esteemed as one of the industry’s most prestigious awards shows and regularly recognizes Mindshare MENA for excellence in advertising and communications. Hosted in Dubai this year for the event’s 10th anniversary edition, the MENA Cristal Festival draws in large crowds of notable agency representatives every year.

DEAN & DELUCA’S STORY Founded in New York City in 1977, DEAN & DELUCA is one of the world’s most beloved and iconic gourmet markets, committed to the exploration, discovery and celebration of outstanding food. Since 2009, DEAN & DELUCA’s store in The Avenues has been inspiring Kuwaiti food lovers in search of gourmet and speciality foods, including exceptional coffee and delicate pastries, world-class charcuterie and cheeses and DEAN & DELUCA’s own signature line of products, from spices to chocolates and candies to coffee, tea, vinegars, oils, sauces, snacks and more. The DEAN & DELUCA experience is unlike any other. With a glorious mix of colors, products and smells their store is a haven for those in search of something unique and delicious. They offer both packaged goods as well as freshly prepared foods created by our chefs every day. From the very beginning, DEAN & DELUCA has educated consumers with an ever-evolving selection of foods never before available. It all began 35 years ago, when three friends – Joel Dean, Giorgio DeLuca and Jack Ceglic – dreamt up the idea of creating an epicurean haven in downtown New York City. The flagship store in SoHo has achieved status as a “don’t-miss” culinary destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike. DEAN & DELUCA Kuwait is rapidly developing similar status locally, as they offer a variety of products and brands that are specifically tailored to local tastes. The essence of DEAN & DELUCA is to incorporate products that will excite customers’ imaginations, challenge their tastes and turn meals into a creative exercise. At their prepared foods counter, they take pride in using a variety of ingredients to create culinary masterpieces. Their aim is to surprise their customers with flavors they are familiar with, while challenging them with new flavors and experiences. From traditional Arabian dishes to freshly-made salads, they have something for everyone. DEAN & DELUCA also offers the perfect gifts for every occasion. The collection of gourmet delights has been hand-selected and beautifully presented, and they provide assistance in selecting a basket or gift box, as well as creating your own custom gift. You are invited to visit the DEAN & DELUCA Café and store to discover a new world of culinary food and gourmet products. Situated at 2nd Avenues – The Avenues Mall, phone 2224 2224 or follow us on Instagram @DeanDelucaME.

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CAUDALIE

The all-new Polyphenol C15, a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-wrinkle regimen Get up early and stay up late, be a successful career woman and the (almost) perfect mother. Be plugged in but still take time to look around, read, and listen... all while maintaining smooth, radiant skin 24 hours a day. But every second of our turbo-charged day generates tiny invisible aggressors called free radicals. Starting at age 30, the skin begins to weaken, draw from its reserves, and take much longer to recover completely; it turns gray and wrinkles form. In a word, it oxidizes. CAUDALIE HAS THE SOLUTION AGAINST OXIDATION WITH POLYPHENOLS C15 The ultimate wrinkle defense is a strong offense. Exclusive stabilized Grapeseed Polyphenols from Caudalie research protect and fight oxidation. Patented in 1995, Caudalie’s Grapeseed Polyphenols are 10,000 times more effective against free radicals than Vitamin E, the benchmark active ingredient. These Polyphenols are capable of inhibiting the oxidation produced by all sources of free radicals (UV, stress, pollution, etc.) and also protecting the quality and quantity of fundamental substances in the skin (hyaluronic acid, elastin, and collagen). In addition to this, stabilized Vitamin C fights skin oxidation. This “superstar of vitamin” is also the most fragile, which is why preserving and stabilizing it is crucial. The Vitamin C present in Polyphenol C15 is particularly active because it is stabilized. It is capable of capturing the free radicals generated by UV radiation while also protecting collagen and stimulating its production. In addition, it acts to boost radiance and even out the complexion. POLYPHENOLS + VITAMNIC STABILIZED = 100% ANTI OXIDANT POLYPHENOL C15 REGIMEN The Anti-Wrinkle Defense Serum is the product with the highest concentration of active ingredients in the Polyphenol C15 line. This youth concentrate acts deeply and intensely to correct wrinkles and reinforce the skin’s natural protective systems. In addition to the intensely powerful anti-oxidant combination of stabilized Grapeseed Polyphenols and Vitamin C, its formula is enriched with moisturizing, plumping hyaluronic acid and olive squalane to make the skin suppler. Not only is the skin protected from day-to-day stress factors, but also better equipped to defend itself naturally. Existing lines and wrinkles are visibly corrected. The skin is smoothed and brighter. The product’s fine, silky texture soaks in instantly, leaving the skin soft and refreshed. Its fragrance, with notes of mandarin blossom, lemon tree leaf, cucumber water, and fresh mint, instantly awakens the senses. Hypoallergenic formula. No photosensitizing. Non comedogenic. Dermatologist tested. How to use: Morning and evening, to face and neck, before applying your daily product, year round 116

or as an intensive treatment. The Broad Spectrum SPF20 Anti-wrinkle protect Fluid is a true antioxidant shield and the perfect companion for skin all day long. In addition to the intensely powerful antioxidant combination of stabilized Grapeseed Polyphenols and Vitamin C; its formula incorporates a broad-spectrum sunscreen to preserve the skin from the free radicals generated by UVA and UVB radiation. Upon application, the skin is rehydrated, smoother, filled out, making skin ready to face the day. Over time, existing wrinkles fade away, and new wrinkles are prevented from appearing. This oil-free fluid is ultra-light on the skin, feeling present but not heavy. Its fragrance, with tart notes of sweet orange pulp and zest and refreshing mint leaves, is a delight for the senses. Non comedogenic formula. Dermatologist tested. How to use: In the morning, to face and neck, after the serum; avoid the area around the eyes. The Anti-wrinkle Eye & Lip cream fights oxidation, wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness, this gel-cream addresses every issue that affects the eye contour and lips. In addition to the intensely powerful antioxidant combination of stabilized Grapeseed Polyphenols and Vitamin C, its formula also incorporates an instantly tightening fern extract, Matrixyl 3000 (a combination of peptides) to boost collagen synthesis, Horse Chestnut extract to smooth, and Licorice extract to decongest. Finally, soothing Calendula and Witch Hazel add

even more softness. Instantly, dark circles become less visible and the eye contour is smoothed. The eyes are brighter, day after day, the skin around the eyes is perfectly protected and repaired, and becoming smoother. Hypoallergenic formula. Not photosensitizing. Fragrance-free. Ophthalmologist and dermatologist tested. Polyphenol C15 Overnight Detox Oil is a 100% plant-derived and natural dry oil which helps overworked skin renew itself overnight and recover from the effects of stress, pollution, UV radiation and other sources of oxidizing free radicals. A naturally potent cocktail, it includes a perfect balance of 3 essential oils (sandalwood, carrot, lavender) and 5 plant oils (sweet almond, musc rose, grape-seed, orange blossom and petitgrain oils). At night is stimulates cell renewal and eliminates the toxins and other cell debris that accumulates during the day. In the morning, skin is detoxiﬁed, and the complexion is fresh and radiant. The oil is perfectly compatible with the skin, for quick absorption with no greasy ﬁlm. 100% ingredients of natural origin. No preservatives. Fragrance-free. The Caudalie Range is available at Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa registered pharmacies including Boots pharmacies throughout Kuwait. For more information visit www.caudalie.com or call 1804449 ext: 123. Follow them on YouTube or Facebook: Caudalie, or on Instagram or Twitter @caudalie.

STARBUCKS

bazaar around town LANDMARK GROUP EXPANDS ITS PRESENCE IN THE REGION Opens ICONIC, NEW LOOK at Al Salam Mall Salmiya and Launches FUN CITY for the first time in Kuwait Landmark Group, the region’s leading retail and hospitality conglomerate, officially opened the doors of three of its stores: ICONIC, NEW LOOK & FUN CITY at Al Salam Mall Salmiya. Expanding its presence across the region, the lavish new stores opening was celebrated at an official ribbon-cutting-ceremony attended by senior officials of Landmark Group and members of the press. Speaking at the launch of the three new stores Saibal Basu, Chief Operating Officer, Landmark Group Kuwait said: “Expansion has always played an important role in Landmark Group’s growth strategy. We’re really proud to bring ICONIC and New Look to Al Salam Mall and launch the first two Fun City locations at Al Salam Mall and Gate Mall. We are confident that shoppers will love our wide range of products in ICONIC and New Look and we look forward to welcoming families to experiencing a number of rides and attractions in a safe environment at Fun City.” Brimming with fashion, different merchandise and an exciting shopping experience for everyone, ICONIC and New Look is located on the ground floor of Al Salam Mall while Fun City is located on Level 1.

NESPRESSO EXPANDS ITS NETWORK WITH A NEW BOUTIQUE OPENING IN KUWAIT Nespresso, the worldwide pioneer in premium portioned coffee, achieves another milestone in its Middle East expansion plan with the opening of its second Boutique in The Avenues Mall in Kuwait. The Nespresso history is marked by their passion for perfection and track record of continuous innovation to consistently deliver the highest quality coffee tasting experience to consumers worldwide. From the range of their Grand Cru coffees, to the unique Nespresso system, and their commitment to service and a sustainable approach, they have been constantly enhancing and reinventing how consumers experience their coffee through every facet of their business. Nespresso has now expanded its expertise by opening its 41st Boutique in the MEAC (Middle East, Africa and Caribbean) region. Pierre Debayle, Regional Manager of Nespresso MEAC commented: “It is a feeling of pride to open our second Kuwaiti Boutique in The Avenues Mall. For a long time, we were waiting for a location in this iconic mall of Kuwait. Patience has been rewarded and now our Club Members and Coffee Lovers can enjoy the full Nespresso experience during their shopping journey in The Avenues. Also soon, we have the pleasure of announcing the launch of our mobile application as well. Nespresso is on the move in Kuwait, for the pleasure of all our fans!” Located in the largest shopping mall in Kuwait, the new Nespresso Boutique will provide a unique opportunity for Nespresso Club Members and Boutique visitors to indulge in a multi-sensory journey into the world of Nespresso. This 84 square meter space will immerse you into the Nespresso universe, from the tasting of the entire range of the 23 permanent Grands Crus with each of their aromas and profiles to the discovery of the latest machines and accessories, conveniently presented in dedicated areas, every need will be met in a unique and personalized way, with unrivalled customer service, advice and guidance from specially trained Nespresso Coffee Specialists. The coffee lovers can now enjoy the ultimate coffee experience in The Avenues Mall, from Sun to Wed 10am-10pm and from Thurs to Sat, 10pm to 11pm. The Coffee Specialists will be glad to assist you. For any other information about Nespresso products you can contact the Nespresso Club by calling 2492 2600 or visit the online Boutique at www.buynespresso.com. 118

DR. NASER AL-AZEMI IS THE NEW OBSTETRICIAN, GYNECOLOGIST AND REPRODUCTIVE SPECIALIST AT ROYALE HAYAT HOSPITAL Royale Hayat Hospital recently announced the appointment of Dr. Naser Al-Azemi as the new Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Reproductive Specialist. Dr. Azemi is a distinguished infertility specialist; he earned his medical degree from Comenius University, and obtained a subspecialty in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery from University of Brussels-Belgium. Board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Naser Al-Azemi is also a member at the Belgian and American Society of Reproductive Medicine, and at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. His talent and experience in managing of female and male infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, induction ovulation, intrauterine insemination, in-vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, male infertility and surgical sperm retrieval, laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery, management of endocrine disorders in male and female, management of singleton and multiple pregnancies, normal and operative deliveries, caesarian deliveries played an important role in his appointment at Royale Hayat. Royale Hayat Hospital is committed to serve and help patients and families by providing the highest medical care, state-of-the-art technology and most talented qualification in the medical sector. For more information follow Royale Hayat Hospital on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @royalehayat. TAG HEUER HALF TIME SHOW AT CROSSFIT FDT 2015 TAG Heuer Kuwait affiliated themselves with Crossfit FDT on their grand opening event. TAG Heuer Kuwait selected top 3 female athletes, and top 3 male athletes to compete in the TAG Heuer Challenge of the crossfit wod “grace” followed by an AMRAP of wall balls targeting TAG Heuer clocks on the wall! The top female athlete along with the top male athlete received TAG Heuer watches. The event created a buzz within the crowd as it was a surprise to all the attendees; since it was a halftime show right before the big finale! TAG Heuer installed a booth of their newest collection, and had a raffle draw of TAG Heuer gifts along with a free membership at Crossfit FDT; to take part in the draw all you had to do was sign up! The DJ, MC and judges are all athletes from different Crossfit boxes in Kuwait. Crossfit FDT were great supporters to everyone. In celebration of their opening they managed to bring the Crossfit community in Kuwait under one roof!

AUTO1 BRINGS NEW FOCUS TO V-KOOL’S PREMIUM BRAND EXPERIENCE AT AUTO MOTO 2015 AUTO1, the automotive division of KAPICO Group, embarked on an experiential approach at the recently concluded AUTO MOTO 2015 fair that let visitors experience the V-KOOL brand and solar shielding at a whole new level. As an ultra-premium window film brand, V-KOOL is synonymous with high visible light transmission that delivers the best heat rejection performance. “At the booth, the AUTO1 team unveiled a heat demo unit that demonstrated how the unique proposition of V-KOOL spectrally selective film reflected infra-red heat, while allowing high levels of visible sunlight, and the immense benefits such as UV and infra-red rejection. All of which helps in protecting the fabric and interiors of the vehicle. Not to mention the added benefit of protecting one’s skin from harmful sun rays”, stated Mr. K. T. Govind, President – Window Films Division, AUTO1. During this exhibition period, Mr Edwin Joseph, General Manager V-KOOL Kuwait, also announced a special combo package (paint protection + window film tinting) for all visitors who booked their appointments at the AUTO1 booth. For more information about the technology visit www.v-kool.com.

WILLIAMS-SONOMA LAUNCHES THE VITAMIX TOTAL NUTRITION CENTER Williams-Sonoma, the specialist for gourmet cookware and home entertaining, has launched the Vitamix Total Nutrition Center, a model exclusive to Williams-Sonoma, Kuwait. The Vitamix Total Nutrition Center is one of the best-performing and most versatile tools for home and commercial use. Millions of professional chefs and home-cooks use the world-renowned Vitamix blender every day for faster, smoother, and more delicious results. Designed to be the universal tool for family meals, users can grind, chop, purée, blend, cream, and even cook with a single machine. The friction of the motor can be used to create a steaming hot soup out of fresh, raw vegetables. The Vitamix can also make nut butters and milks, salsas, dips, and salad dressings without any extra attachments. Engineered for excellent performance and unmatched durability, the Vitamix is likely to be the last blender you buy. The Total Nutrition Center includes a cookbook with hundreds of Vitamix recipes. It is available in a sleek black finish at Williams-Sonoma, Grand Avenue – The Avenues. 119

bazaar scopes what’s your sign? ARIES MAR 21 – APR 19

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22

A disappointment early in the month will make you realize that you don’t have control over everything. Instead of letting it get you down, focus on what you can control. It’s a much better way to deal with let downs. Change is on the way.

A getaway may not be all that you hoped for. Several unexpected delays could put a damper on your spirits. Try to make the best of it. This month, you’ll see a different side of someone you thought you knew. Unforeseen expenses make finances an issue later in the month.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 You will be called on for advice by a younger work associate. Be fair and truthful and you will help this person a great deal. In matters of the heart, a look to the past helps you make a decision for today. A Cancer friend does something to surprise you. Travel plans need some attention.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 – DEC 21

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19

A change in a friend’s behavior could provide clues into his/her past. Be diplomatic when giving advice – especially if you’re giving it to someone in a situation much different from your own. At work, all eyes will be on you and you may be approached with a new opportunity. Be open.

What seemed like a hopeless situation last month, now takes a positive turn. You’ll have something more to look forward to. If a new romance is what you’re looking for, this could be a promising month. Keep an eye out for a charming Leo. Health concerns prove unwarranted.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUN 22

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18

Be supportive of a loved one who is going through changes. Being a good listener is key. An unexpected windfall will make an upcoming trip more enjoyable. You’ll have something special to look forward to. Keep business and pleasure very separate this month.

Learn how to say “no,” Aquarius. There’s nothing wrong with being nice, but being too nice is as good as inviting others to take advantage of you. Take charge and you’ll gain respect. Anticipation of an upcoming event may give you some anxiety. Seek meditation as a way to relax.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22

An opportunity for career advancement comes midmonth. Think twice before jumping at something you know nothing about. News of a breakup will come out of nowhere. Even if you’re disappointed, you won’t be surprised. Be honest in a love relationship.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 20 Don’t let self-doubt get the better of you. Success is near. You just have to hold on to your confidence in order to get it. Understanding is the key to happiness in a love relationship. Being a good listener is more important than you realize. Virgo plays a big role this month.

If it has seemed lately that the world has been caving in on you, you’ll be happy to find that you can make your way through the rubble. Things will come a little easier now and you’ll be able to reap the rewards of hard work. Now you can relax. A Libra brings extra fun to a weekend outing.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 Someone who looks to you as a mentor will ask for advice. Be sure to present both sides of the story. If you have a lot on your mind, you’d be better off taking some time to yourself rather than trying to tackle big projects. Good news for Virgos saving towards a big purchase.

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 Avoid taking sides in a family fight unless you like playing with fire. Even the most diplomatic Libran could get burned. An old friend may resurface when you least expect it. An Aries will come to you for advice. Use common sense when making financial decisions.

www.bazaar.town source: www.2015horoscope.com

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