FLAIR 6-2017

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TURN YOUR RAMADAN WISH INTO A EID CELEBRATION.

BMW EGYPT GREETS RAMADAN WITH GENEROUS OFFERS. BMW Egypt is feeling generous this Ramadan. Offering to trade in your used car with the BMW of your choice, you will drive off with your brand new BMW and enjoy payment plans up to 5 years. Head down to the nearest BMW authorized dealer today, or call 19269 to turn your wish this Ramadan into a Eid celebration.


Sheer Driving Pleasure

Call Center: 19269


Design by Phoenix Design

The rounded corners and unmistakeable PuraVida lines also feature in the toilet area. The toilet and bidet are available both in the 36 x 54 cm wallmounted version and in the 36 x 63 cm floor-standing version with visible cistern. Once again, the parts appear to float and communicate the typical PuraVida lightness. All toilet seats feature the silent SoftClose lowering mechanism. The free-standing PuraVida bathtubs features simple, uninterrupted lines. The collection of PuraVida baths comprises one free-standing, one console and three built-in versions.

PURAVIDA







June 2017 FEATURES

Person of FLAIR: Nicole Williams p. 24 Top Wedding Trends p. 26 Wedding Planning Tools p. 30 White Weddings p. 32 Bridal Beauty p. 36 Weddings at the Capital p. 38 Sami Amin X Aiisha p. 42

FASHION

Fashion Clippings p. 46 Beauty Clippings p. 48 Feature: Reem Acra X Tiffany & Co. p. 50 Photoshoot: Knockout by Kojak p. 52 Bridal Runway p. 60 Feature: Bridal Bijou p. 66

LIFESTYLE

Hot Address: The Honeymoon Affair p. 70 Driven: Getaway Cars p. 72 Interview: Lara Scandar p. 76 Home: The Vertical Slot p. 79

REGULARS Editor’s Note p. 10 Happenings p. 16 FLAIR Loves p. 20 Stylish Living p. 85 Flair Foodie p. 88



EDITOR’S NOTE

Wedding Bells

W

ith the first rays of spring already behind us, wedding season is in full swing, and in this issue we celebrate the festive occasion. Personally, it doesn’t feel so long ago when I got married in a fairly intimate affair wearing a (gasp) yellow short dress and a floral tiara on my head. Whether you are aiming for a small wedding affair like myself, or you are going for a grandiose celebration, this issue is dedicated to all types of brides. Whichever type you consider yourself to be, planning a wedding nowadays is not a piece of cake (no pun intended). Make sure to read Amy N Pugsley’s Wedding Planning Tools to simplify your planning process. Meanwhile, Kate Dannies rounds up the hottest wedding trends of the season that should make your wedding the talk of town. What’s the most important aspect of any wedding? Many would say the wedding dress of course! That’s why this issue is packed with the latest bridal couture fashion right from Egypt and abroad. Our Person of FLAIR this month is reality star Nicole Williams. Addicts of her E!’s hit reality TV series WAGS have already witnessed as her NFL pro fiancé proposed to her onscreen. Read on to find out if they will make it a tradition, and share their wedding with the rest of the world. Enjoy the issue, Hind El Ramly editor@flair-magazine.com

MY PICKS FOR THE ISSUE

Knockout by Kojak p. 52

Bridal Haute Couture p. 60

Interview with Lara Scandar p. 76

Vertical Slot Home p. 78



June EDITOR IN CHIEF

Ahmed I Hassan

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Hind El Ramly

EDITORIAL UK Editor Daniela Bonetto Editorial Consultant Kate Dannies Staff Writer Nour Ibrahim Contributor Amy N Pugsley ART DIRECTOR & VIDEO EDITOR

Tony Atia

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Christena Hanna

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Bashayer Alridi

SALES MANAGER

Rinato Atef

FINANCIAL OPERATIONS MANAGER

Maged Azoz

DISTRIBUTION Distribution Officer Farid Sayed Distribution Officer Ahmed Ibrahim PRINTING |

Tel.

(+2)

INTERNATIONAL PRINTING HOUSE

CONTACTS Adress: Apt. 1, 11 Bahey el Din St., Off Giza St., Giza, Egypt 0235720632 Mob. (+2) 01000493100/200/300 Fax. (+2) 0235720632 INQUIRIES

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guess who’s back? #BIGGESTMINCER

marassi hacienda bay

minceburgers

minceburgerseg


FLAIR TEAM

DANIELA BONETTO A psychology graduate who probably needed a therapist herself, Daniela decided that her form of expression was writing. Curiosity, tenacity and just enough vanity has brought her to desire ‘all things beautiful’ which she extends to in her lifestyle blog, “theinkedition.com” Excited about the world, her greatest pleasure is traveling and discovering new things.

BASHAYER ALRIDI An advertising and public relations graduate, Bashayer is incredibly passionate about movies. The social media enthusiast also has a knack for shopping and is a makeup addict!

TONY ATIA “Don’t just make an eye catching design; create ideas to change minds.” With a passion for drawing and art, Tony started to design graphics at the age of 15. He loves the guitar ,the violin and the cello as well as reading and playing sports.

NOUR IBRAHIM Student. Loves Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Comic books. Bakes for unhealthy amount of time.

KATE DANNIES

CHRISTENA HANNA

Kate is a writer an editor with a penchant for luxury, history, and politics, which she has found to surprisingly compatible. An adopted Cairene for six years, Kate currently lives in exile in Washington DC.

With an HR Diploma from Cambridge University, our Business Development Manager is definitely the best at what she does. Also a fabulous jewelry designer–working with pearls and crystals–she also enjoys coloring and horror movies.

RINATO ATEF Long before joing the team, Rinato has always been a Flair fan. With a career specializing in sales management, success and hard work are his principles.

MAGED AZOZ Incredibly dedicated to his work, Maged’s passion is unmeasurable! Flair Magazine truly is his baby.

AMY N PUGSLEY Amy is the latest contributor to join the magazine. She is a Persian-Canadian international development specialist and an educator living in Cairo.



HAPPENINGS

New GM of Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, Cairo recently appointed Russel Storey as its new General Manager. He will be responsible for the hotel’s entire operations and lead Kempinski’s newest Palace in continually delighting guests with the brand’s renowned European hospitality. Mr. Storey will also oversee the hotel’s nine food and beverage outlets to bring a new and exciting dining experience in the heart of New Cairo. With a broad spectrum of hospitality experience spanning over two decades with international chains, Mr. Storey has played a crucial role in operations, renovations, re-positioning and assisting in brand augmentation and takeovers at many prestigious hotels.

A Songkran Festival at Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers In celebration of “- Thai’s new year”- Songkran, the hotel recently hosted H.E Ambassador Chainarong Keratiyutwong of the Royal Thai Embassy and a number of his guests; H.E. Ambassador of Myanmar , H.E. Ambassador of Cambodia , H.E. Ambassador of Indonesia , H.E. Ambassador of Singapore, H.E. Ambassador of Vietnam , Charge d’ Affairs of Embassy of Malaysia over a glamorous dinner at Lan Tania, Fairmont’s Heliopolis & Towers Thai haute cuisine. The Ambassadors expressed their admiration for the hotel, its fusion architecture as well as the standards and quality of service. The Ambassadors were pampered by chef Pitchaphat Duangkham, Lan Tania’s authentic Thai chef who delighted their palate with her sophisticated delicacies.

Dusit Thani LakeView Earns Certificate Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo is now an ISO 14001 certified five-star property following the granting of the world’s most-recognized effective environmental management system certification that covers all vital divisions of the property including Accommodation, Food & Beverage and recreation. Dusit International is dedicated to maintaining quality and a high-level of service to exceed guest expectations, including the areas of food safety and environmental management within Dusit properties all over the world.

Renu Misra Appointed at GROHE GROHE announced the appointment of Ms. Renu Misra, as the President of GROHE Middle East, Africa and East Mediterranean. With this appointment, Renu will represent GROHE Group’s interests in the region - reporting directly to Michael Rauterkeus, CEO of Grohe AG. Renu Misra joined GROHE in 2010 as CFO of GROHE India, was then promoted to CEO of GROHE India Business, leading sales in India and the subcontinent region. Renu’s managerial and organisational capabilities in delivering robust results in challenging markets has resulted in significant growth of business.


Award Winning InterContinental Hotels Group Citystars For the second consecutive year, InterContinental Hotels Group Citystars has received the best employer award for the year 2017 by the Egyptian Chamber of Human Resources Management during the Chamber’s fourth annual Misr HRians conference. Nasser Fadly, Area Director of Human Resources for InterContinental Hotels Group, Africa has been recognized as 2017 Human Resources leader which is a prestigious HR excellence award based on voting. The award has many nominees across all HR leaders in various companies and organizations. Voting and judging panel consisted of top HR directors from a diverse collection of organizations representing a range of sectors with years of executive experience.

Miss Belgium at The Mena House The iconic Mena House Hotel is always a first choice of stay for celebrities and key figures around the globe. Recently, The Mena House Hotel had the pleasure to host Miss Belgium 2015/2016 during their recent official tour in Egypt. After having dinner at 139 Garden restaurant they were welcomed by Mr. Ahmed Aboulnour, Sales & Marketing Director and Mr. Amr Rady, Sales Manager.

“Reach Immigration” Launch in Egypt Portuguese Consular in Cairo Dr Salvador Printo da Franca inaugurated the second branch of “Reach Immigration”, a leading immigration and its services company in the Middle East and North Africa. Based in the Fifth Settlement, the new branch offers its services to the students looking forward to studying at the best scientific universities in the world and to businessmen looking for immigration and investment opportunities worldwide. Manuel José, the Portuguese football coach and the supervisor of the Football Academy at Al-Jazeera Youth Centre with a galaxy of elite businessmen and journalists attended the inauguration.

New Management at Sofitel Sofitel Legend Old Cataract has recently appointed Ahmed El Shandawili as the new General Manager of the property. Shandawili has more than thirty years’ experience in the hospitality industry as he started his career from the United States working in Hyatt, Starwood then joined Accor & Movenpick in Egypt and has progressed throughout his career by taking on extensive management experience gained in luxury, business as well as resorts destinations and thus continuously expanding his responsibilities. Also, Sofitel Winter Palace & Pavilion has recently appointed Selim Shawer as the new Hotel Manager. Shawer held the position of Executive Assistant Manager of Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan since July 2013 and was in charge of the Sales and Marketing of Sofitel Taba Heights beforehand. Selim joined Accor in 2009 coming from Hilton with an experience in the rooms division.

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Make a Difference During the Holy Month Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, today launched its 11th annual ‘Make A Difference’ campaign, which encourages the act of giving during the holy month of Ramadan. Majid Al Futtaim’s Ramadan campaign promotes kindness within the community by allowing people to make a difference through the donation of everyday essentials to families in need. Donation items can include clothes, toys, books, food and electronics, which will help families across the region experience the spirit of the holy month. Commencing on the first day of Ramadan and continuing into Eid, Majid Al Futtaim will have special donation boxes placed at its shopping malls, leisure and entertainment destinations, and Carrefour stores across Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, and the UAE. People can also follow the campaign on social media by using the #ShareTogether hashtag on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Tatweer Misr Celebrates at the United Nations Tatweer Misr Managing Director and ICSB Board Member, Dr. Ahmed Shalaby, has spoken at the United Nations on May 11, 2017 at the International Council on Small Business High Level Knowledge Summit. The summit was held to mark the adoption of a U.N. resolution designating June 27 as “Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day” thereby recognizing the crucial role Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) play in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Also speaking at the summit was Dr. Luca Ilandoli , President of ICSB and from the Egyptian side where H.E. Sahar Nasr - Minister of Investment and International Cooperation, General Mohamed Erfan - Minister of the Administrative Control Authority and Ayman El Tarabishy, Executive Director, ICSB.

Careem Expands in the Delta Careem, the region’s leading app-based car booking service, has recently expanded its network in the Delta region to cover a total of seven cities namely: Mahalla, Banha, Damnhour, Mansoura, Tanta, Kafr El Dawar (Behira) and Zagazig. With the new expansion, Careem now offers its services across 10 Egyptian cities with a current fleet operated by 50,000 Captains nationwide. The recent expansion comes in line with Careem’s ambitious growth plans for the Egyptian market creating tens of thousands of jobs for more Egyptians. Careem’s services are now available at Cairo, Alexandria and North Coast in Summer as part of Alex, Hurghada – and Gouna as part of Hurghada, in addition to the seven Delta cities.

Welad El Zawaat at JW Marriot Cairo A great Ramadan season made complete with the fabulous opening of Welad El Zawat Ramadan venue decorated in warm and inviting colors at JW Marriott Hotel Cairo, Where some of the city’s sparkliest joined for a delicious sohour overlooking the beautiful golf course. The launch party featured Oriental dishes, delectable desserts and endless range of flavored Shisha, in addition to enjoying Ramadan whirlwind of classic Arabic music with the authentic takht while watching Ramadan series. Mr. Magdy Naguib, Multi Property General Manager along with Yasmine Sherif, Multi Property Director of Marketing Communications and the Marketing team welcomed the guests upon arrival.


Unique Adventure at Soma Bay Why laze by the sand when you can experience a unique adventure at the dazzling Red Sea of Soma Bay? Enjoy the delightful summer holiday and feel the great thrill with an amusing myriad of unlimited leisure activities for you and your beloved little ones at Kempinski Soma Bay. The hotel gives you more places to stay, dine and play in paradise than any other resort, such as diving, snorkelling, sailing, parasailing, banana boat, glass-bottom boat, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Soma Bay’s lush landscape and awe-inspiring coastlines with sweeping views of the inviting pools, Red Sea water and mountains create a remarkable setting for the perfect summer holiday. Day and night….. Soma Bay is really spectacular.

Coppermelt X Joud at Ramadan Ramadan is always that time of year when people come together to enjoy each other’s company over a perfectly cooked warm meal. But, no iftar is complete without a fair share of delicious desserts! This year, Coppermelt, Cairo’s most creative dessert makers, are surprising Cairenes with a wide variety of innovative Eastern and Western desserts. And that’s not all—Coppermelt has also collaborated with Joud and Tamara Fabrics to decorate their flagship shop in Tagamoa with a festive Ramadan tent design. Serving comforting desserts with an east-meets-west twist, Coppermelt will be showcasing their Ramadan sweets using Joud’s wide selection of artistic home accessories including coaster trays, throws, pillows, trays and more. The tent fabric, by Joud’s textile line, Tamara Fabrics, is designed by interior designer and artist Dina Samaha, and will fill the shop with colorful and vibrant patterns, delivering customers a magical and the ultimate Ramadan-inspired shopping experience.

New Director at Sonesta Hotel Mr. Alfred Heim General Manager of Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino in Cairo recently appointed Mr. Tarek Zaher as Director of Sales & Marketing. Mr. Tarek brings along to Sonesta more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry where he had held several managerial positions in different multinational hotel chains such as Hilton and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Movenpick & Dusit Thani.

Telalians by The Platform With a wide variety of the top-notch restaurants, cafes and retail venues in Egypt, Telalians by The Platform is set to be the number one destination this summer targeting both Telal residents as well as coming visitors and guests. Built over an area of 8,000 square meters, Telalians by The Platform is situated 18 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the North Coast with unparalleled views and a sleek magnificent design. A hub for some of the finest restaurants and cafés, Telalians by The Platform comprises the ideal tenant mix, ranging from offering a hearty breakfast to a fine summer dinner. So whether you’re looking to grab coffee, lunch with the family, or a place to hang out with friends, Telalians by The Platform is the place for you.

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FLAIR #LOVES By Daniela Bonetto

Cementiles Not only a really cool play on words but also an awesome collaboration with the Campana brothers with Bisazza. For this first collection Fernando and Humberto Campana took inspiration from nature from the fascinating mineral world to the underwater environment of the Great Barrier Reef, creating organic designs influenced by composition and layering. All I know is – they are fabulous! Price from £154.00 per sqm. (bisazza.com)

In My Reveries

As far as tableware goes porcelain goes manufacturer Vista Alegre has been on our radar for a long time. And the Reveries collection has us once again gladly dressing the table. Always a talking point at dinner, the new collection takes inspiration from the park at Château de Groussay. Prices from €40.50 to €625 [vistaalegre.com]

{ short stories } when at home I’m forever in search of a vase. That one! No too big. Oh this is perfect! Nah too short. A vase is like an ill-fitting garment; it can make or break a bouquet. The April Vase tells a good story and can up the game of any bloom. So if you like short stories, the April Vase can be summed up in a few words: designed by Sigolène Prébois and Catherine Lévy in 1991, it comprises of 21 tubes and is inspired by Japanese ikebana. The End. Brilliant. Little April Vase, €148 {tse-tse.com}


REFECTIONS 2017 is a year of reflection for Veronese. This year, the French design house looked back at its creations spanning almost nine decades, including some of its most recent collections, to create new designs and reshape others. And we are liking what we see. TABLE LAMP Baguette from €2,190 {veronese.fr}

[ Cartier in Motion ] Cartier, TICK. Norman Foster, TICK. Design Museum, TICK. Who ever said three was a crowd never had this line up to contend with. Cartier in Motion, curated by Sir Foster, explores the creativity of Cartier and its links with the history of flight and design in the early twentieth century. At the Design Museum until 28 July. Free Admission [ designmuseum.org ]

ALFRESCO HOUR

The sun is hot the days are long and the kids are begging to be outdoors. It’s time to pack up and go outside for the much needed Vit D. So, set up your tray and bring out the goodies because it’s alfresco dinning o’clock. Bølling Serving Tray’, from £155, by Hans Bølling for Brdr. Krüger { skandium.com }

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FLAIR REVIEW

For the First Time in Egypt

Orange Announces the Launch of “Orange Game” The First Smart Phone Portal for Electronic Games

Eng. Ashraf Halim, Orange Egypt Chief Commercial Officer among Huawei officials and the teams of both companies

In light of being the first operator to acquire 4G technology in Egypt, Orange – in partnership with Huawei – announced the launch of “Orange Game”, the first platform bringing the best in the gaming scene. This came during a press conference held at the Fairmont Nile City Hotel attended by Eng. Ashraf Halim, Orange Egypt Chief Commercial Officer, Huawei officials, and a large group of press in the ICT sector. Since the gaming arena is becoming very dynamic with the digital transformation taking place all over the world, the “Orange Game” platform embraces more than one thousand games for all audience and gamers worldwide. Under the umbrella of “Orange Game”, Orange Egypt is introducing for the first time in the Egyptian market the Augmented Reality (AR), the new technology in the which is a modern technology offers a real scene of games that allows the customer to experience a game on his mobile phone with the possibility of interaction with that environment, in addition to the sounds and special effects that takes the customer to another world through the mobile screen, to enter a new stage under the umbrella of Orange Game.

As Orange supports its customers in what really matters to them, Ramadan is going to be different for “Orange Game” customers with the launch of Orange Soccer League. During the holy month of Ramadan, customers will participate in the first ranking soccer league and enjoy Orange’s top game with many surprises. Furthermore, it is a good opportunity for Orange to introduce a new system for the mobile game market in Egypt. Orange is playing a leading position in this ecosystem, under which lies Huawei, content providers and distributers to bring more interesting, more abundant games and provide more delight to its customers. Eng. Ashraf Halim, Orange Egypt Chief Commercial Officer said, “It is our pleasure to announce the launch of the new “Orange Game” platform. Orange ensures a smooth transition through the technological flow and with our international content providers and developers; we ensure the most prominent games for our customers.”


Features

P. 36 Nicole Williams/Top Wedding Trends/Bridal Beauty 23


INTERVIEW

Nicole Williams Behind the Small Screen

An international model who became a successful entrepreneur, Nicole Williams has gained a massive fan base who follow her closely on E!’s hit reality TV series WAGS and witnessed her on-screen engagement to former NFL pro Larry English. Currently one of the hottest influencers in Hollywood, the beauty has amassed over 800 thousand followers across her social media platforms. We caught up with Nicole and spoke to her about her life behind the small screen and her latest business ventures.

How does it feel to be constantly filmed on-camera? You get used to it, at first it feels strange, but now, going into our third season it’s easier and most of the time I forget cameras are rolling. It helps that I film with my besties.

How would you describe your personality on-camera vs. off-camera?

I’d say I’m the same. I don’t change who I am for TV. Of course viewers don’t get to see my entire life since it’s only an hour per episode. Who I am as a person will always stay the same, on or off camera.

downs like anyone else, and the only difference is my life is more in the public eye. It can feel a little overwhelming having so much attention on us, but we understand that it’s the price we pay when being under a magnifying glass. Other than that we are a pretty normal couple.

Reality TV can be hectic. How do you relax when not filming? I love to just stay at home with my dogs and Larry, watch a movie and just take time to be together. Our schedules are so crazy so quality time is key.

What sets your BodyBlendz prodWhat are the pressures of being a ucts from similar beauty products WAG like and how do you deal with on the market? We put so much work into making Manthem? darin Mist-one of the best scrubs out there! It’s just regular life to me. I have ups and


It’s completely organic and cruelty-free of course. We use only the best ingredients for the skin. I’m all about products that work and natural ingredients. After my first time testing out my scrub, the difference I felt in my skin was incredible. I knew right away we had something magical. People really swear by it. I will only attach my name to something I strongly believe in, and Body Blendz turned my scrub into just that.

Tell us more about your swim line Nia Lynn as well as your collaboration with Seven 50. I grew up watching my mom sew, so I instantly wanted to be a designer. I used to make a lot of my outfits as a teenager and I was very into fashion. I started modeling at a very young age so it all went hand in hand. Being a swimsuit model as well has made me lean more towards designing swimwear. Wanting to design my own brand has always been a passion of mine. My swimwear “Nia Lynn Collection” is set to launch this summer! Aside from swimwear and Body Scrubs, I’ve also teamed up with Seven50 Jewels to design my own jewelry collection “Nia Lynn Jewels” I’m so excited about it! It will be Rose Gold and Yellow Gold with diamonds. I’ve never imagined being a jewelry designer, it’s really a dream come true so I’m really excited. It’s going to launch sometime this May.

Who do you look up to and inspires you the most?

My mom, I hope I can be as great as a mother as she’s been to us. She’s amazing.

Congratulations on your engagement! How are you planning for the wedding and will it be televised on the show? It’s been amazing! I have a lot of work ahead of me before the big day; weddings are a lot of work! As for it being televised for WAGS ... you’ll have to watch and find out!

What should we expect in the new season of WAGS? Well we have some new girls! I’m a newly engaged woman, and I think you’re going to see a lot of emotions this season. We also have a few really cool trips that u don’t want to miss

Take us through a typical Nicole Williams day.

Wake up, check my emails and texts, check the schedule, feed the dogs, shower and get myself together, go to my castings/auditions. Film for WAGS! Maybe if I have time I’ll run a few errands in between

then I unwind after a long day, feed the dogs, take them on a walk, make dinner and try to catch up on some Homeland! I just got tired thinking about it ha-ha.

What are your hobbies/ what do you like to do in your free time?

We love going to the movies, and of course I love just staying home and watching my Homeland or some good old school Michelle Pfeiffer movies.

What are your future dreams?

To just be successful in anything I do and to be happy.

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FEATURE

Top Wedding Trends

While the concept of a wedding is wholly traditional, the execution can be anything but. From metallic accents to food trucks and eco-friendly dĂŠcor, these wedding trends for 2017 are anything but conventional! By Kate Dannies

Location While tropical getaways such as Mexico and Puetro Rico are still popular picks, couples are opting for even more exotic locales in 2017. In line with a rise in rustic themed affairs, destinations such as Iceland, Norway, Canada and Italy have emerged as top spots for couples looking for increasingly remote and beautiful outdoor settings. For those looking to stick close to home, venues such as large land plots, farms and estates allow couples to customise the experience to fit their needs.


Hair Say goodbye to tight, fussy up-do’s and hello to au naturale locks. From flowing, tousled curls to long, loose braids and decidedly un-done buns, 2017 hair trends are embracing the ‘I woke up this way’ look. Even traditional veils are becoming a thing of the past, with brides instead opting for fun and fresh styles that incorporate accents such as jewels and pearls directly into the hairstyle, along with tiaras and long flowing headdresses.

Beauty When it comes to make-up, minimalist monochrome is in. Think pearl or platinum-rimmed eyes with pale pink eye shadow, youthful brows and luminous pastel pink lips. For a healthy, natural glow that translates perfectly in photos, highlighting is key. For those looking for a bolder look, keep eyes and cheeks to a minimum and opt for a statement lip stain such as deep red with orange undertones.

Dresses For both brides and bridesmaids, 2017 is all about metallic. From gold threading and silver beading to subtle sequin accents, brides and bridesmaids everywhere will be embracing this trend for its versatility and subtle glamour. Style trends for 2017 include deep plunge necks, sheer elements and lacetrimmed capes.

Décor For summer 2017, wedding décor is all about rustic, vintage and bohemian themes. From rustic forest settings featuring green bouquets of leaves and ferns and rough wooden accents to bright and airy garden locales adorned with simple lace linens and miss-matched tableware, this wedding season is all about embracing natural settings and decidedly unconventional furnishings.

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Colour Palette

Invitations

Floral is still in-but only when it comes to dĂŠcor and accent pieces. New colour trends for 2017 include wistful shades of grey, cream, gold and china blue for more rustic settings, while blush rose and white continue to reign supreme for brighter, garden affairs.

Invitations this season are all about standing out. Plexiglas invites, glow-in-the-dark ink and foil stamping are just a few trends that have caught our eye, along with custom illustrations and bold colour ways.

Catering Bucking the trend of traditional coursed menus, couples are opting for a more interactive approach when it comes to serving their guests. Dedicated self-serve stations and food trucks serving themed cuisine are crowd pleasers, along with intimate and fun family-style dining options.


Dusit Thani LakeView brings you the

of your Wedding

glamour

Ceremony

Dusit Thani LakeView brings you a glimpse of beauty celebrating love and marriage in the most elegant manner. Delivering unmatched service, step by step, starts from the simplicity of smooth ceremony to the extravagance of a wedding reception, complete with glamour and elegance. The hotel enjoys an ideal location oriented with privacy and flair. Dusit Thani LakeView is strategically located in the Fifth Settlement of the New Cairo district, only twenty minutes away from Cairo International Airport. The blend of Thai and Egyptian culture assures a truly unique hotel experience. The minute you step into the hotel, you will be captured with the impressive interiors, eye-catching greenery embraced with unique Thai touch. One of the many interesting features of Dusit Thani LakeView is the Grand Ballroom with its magnificent 1536 square meters with such beautiful outdoor scenery and its pre-function terrace to deliver an unmatched catering service par excellence. Distinctive setting for the bride and groom to exchange vows surrounded in the warmth of Thai artistry presence. Another nine fully-equipped smaller ballrooms are supported by a professional staff to compliment the banqueting facilities of the hotel. We invite you to reserve this lovely venue for a memorable ballroom wedding ceremony. Memorable weddings are not only well arranged technically, but are distinctive and personal. Wedding Event planners are here to create moments that will last a lifetime. We know that you've always dreamed about having a beautiful wedding. Let Dusit Thani LakeView make your dream come true and your wedding planning a joy. Dusit Thani LakeView is excited about every element - from the way the tables are set, to the moment you enter the room as bride and groom. Creativity is our fundamental source. Inspired wedding planners and organizers reassure every step of the way. Offering an insight into the latest fashion and decoration themes for weddings to be able to get in touch with your dream wedding and bring it to life. Dusit Thani LakeView alluring “Packages� starting from 33,333 EGP that cater various styles, sizes and occasions, all including hotel accommodation and much more tempting surprises just to make your wedding experience such a matchless one. For further enquiries E-mail: cairo@dusit.com


Wedding Planning Tools Planning a picture-perfect wedding nowadays is no easy feat. The amount of details and decisions to take are almost endless, which leaves many brides and grooms feeling overwhelmed. For a stress free wedding, we bring you the best tools to help you plan your biggest event of your lifetime. By Amy N Pugsley

Pinterest Planning a wedding involves lots of decisions, maybe more decisions than most people thought possible. Pinterest is an online social network that allows users to “Pin” ideas to boards. Wedding cakes, bridesmaid’s dresses, centerpieces, the works is available on Pinterest at the touch of a button. Wedding planning can start online and brides and grooms can search through thousands of ideas to help them decide just how they want their special day. From the bridesmaid’s dresses to groomsman’s gifts Pinterest will help you find things you never realize you needed. Do you want your dog as a ring bearer? Maybe cupcakes instead of a wedding cake? If your engaged and haven’t started planning yet this is a great tool to start! www.pinterest.com/

Guesterly Weddings bring together families, friends, acquaintances, and peoples’ ‘plus ones’ to celebrate a day of magic and love. With large families, weddings sometimes become an overwhelming experience with hundreds of people in attendance. It is easy to get lost in the crowd of dancing, eating, laughing, when everyone is gushing over the bride and groom. Guesterly is a creative way to get people intimate before the big day and is described as a wedding yearbook. Guests click on your Guesterly link and answer some fun questions about themselves, upload a picture and voila! The mini magazine comes in a print or digital format and helps people get acquainted before the nights festivities. www.guesterly.com/weddings

Riley and Grey Wedding invitations used to be delivered by carrier pigeon, ok maybe not quite, but snail mail was traditionally how people found out if they were invited to your soiree. Like almost everything else in life, technology has taken over and a wedding website is the best way to go to keep on top of your wedding organization. A relatively new phenomenon is the “wedding website” which is a one stop shop for everything related to your wedding from times and dates to dress code. Other than being beautiful, Riley and Grey have created websites that are versatile and functional to make sure everyone is informed of even the smallest detail and gets from A to B. While we know they might not arrive on time, everyone will be ‘in the know’ with a customizable wedding website. If your planning a destination wedding or a small intimate affair in your family’s villa this is the tool you need under your belt. www.rileygrey.com/


Spotify A wedding starts long before the date on the invitation. This big of an event deserves something special and is a once in a lifetime event. From dress shopping to cake sampling it is a multi month process that requires a soundtrack. Spotify is your own personal DJ and has a wide range of music arranged by artist, theme, album, or mood. This app is a great way to reduce the costs involved in a wedding and takes one thing off the to-do-list. The app is a great wedding tool as many people have moved away from hiring a band for weddings. Instead of having to make a giant song list or risking your aunt getting chummy with the DJ, Spotify keeps the party going all night long, or ends it promptly at 2am, you choose. www.spotify.com/

Mint No matter how big or how small the wedding budget is it is important to stay on top of finances and payments during wedding season. Imagine the cake not being delivered because you missed the payment? While this is not the most glamorous part of anyone’s special day it is the most practical and no one wants to start their new life as husband in wife fighting over money. Mint is a personal finance app that lets you manage your wedding budget with ease. Mint is like your personal banker and an all-in-one stop to keep track of wedding splurges and saves. The app helps track and pay bills, makes budgeting easy, and categorizes everything so you don’t have to. www.mint.com/

Veri Other than the fact that the bride and groom will be spending an eternity together, pictures are the second most important part of a wedding. What good is an amazing venue, a perfect dress, and a 5-tier cake if there aren’t photos to prove it? Veri is a photo app that allows users to skip the tagging, #hastagging, uploading, sending, and hassle that come with trying to round up wedding pictures. The app seems too good to be true but all guests need to do is download the app with their smartphones and start snapping pictures! The pictures will be shared in real time with guests because even if you have a professional photographer he/she can’t be in all places at once. This is a great way to skip paying for the second photographer or videographer and collect some candid memories. www.veri.com/

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FEATURE

White Wedding

Designer Dresses

Wedding season has officially arrived, and with it, a sweeping array of dress trends to delight even the most discerning of brides. From bold and show-stopping styles from Zuhair Murad to romantic, fairy tale-like gowns from Deana Shaaban, here are the hottest wedding designers in Egypt, the Middle East, and across the globe. By Kate Dannies

Egypt Maison Yeya First launched in 2014, designer Yasmine Yeya’s breakout design label Maison Yeya has gained recoginition both regionally and internationally. Featuring an elegant take on sheer lace bridalwear, latest collection offers a range of styles from classic to daring.

Deana Shaaban Debuting in 2010, Shaaban designs evening and wedding gowns on a per-order basis and no one design is ever repeated. From strapless ball gowns to backless blousons, Shaaban’s styles are infused with whimsy and romance.

Norine Farah Couture Recently nominated to represent Egypt in World Fashion Week, Norine Farah Couture designs bold and unique dresses for all occasions. Her wedding line features a wide range of styles and textures, including rose patterned lace and flowing feathered gowns.


Middle East

Elie Saab One of the most internationally-recognized brands worldwide, Elie Saab recently launched his bridal range in 2016. Collection highlights include sheer bodices with lace overlay and strapless floorlength princess cuts.

Reem Acra A former student at the American University of Beirut, in 1997 Reem Acra launched a New York line to keep up with demand. Her bridal styles border on avant garde, with some featuring bold black accents, and others, striking silhouettes and intricately detailed overlays.

Rami Kadi A Lebanese-American designer, Kadi’s designs are a fusion of East-meets-West. Dreamy and amorous, his bridal styles feature whimsical draping, unconventional silhouettes and intricate beadwork.

Zuhair Murad Originally from Lebanon, Murad launched his couture collection in Paris in 2001. His stunning bridal collection is unlike any other, heavily featuring sheer sheath styles with a dazzling array of intricate pattern work that could be considered more art than fashion.

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International

Oscar de la Renta A Dominican-American designer and protĂŠgĂŠ of Cristobal Balenciaga, de la Renta is the epitome of high design. His 2018 bridal collection does not disappoint, highlighting plunging necklines, layered strapless bodices and multi-layered tulle ball gowns.

Vera Wang Possibly the most iconic name in bridal wear, Vera Wang has made wedding gowns for the likes of Mariah Carey, and Victoria Beckham. Her Spring 2017 bridal collection continues to turn heads, featuring flowing layered ball gowns, form-fitting high-low cut sheath, bold statement collars and an A-line silhouette with high front slit.

Marchesa Established in 2004 by Georgina Chapman and Keen Craig, Marchesa is a favourite of celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Sandra Bullock and Penelope Cruz. The brand is known for its intricate beadwork, which features prominently in its bridal wear. 2017 collection highlights include a flowing mermaid silhouette with flower-embroidered overlay and a pearl and jewel encrusted halter back with sweeping tulle train.

Carolina Herrera The designer choice of First Ladies such as Jacueline Onassis and Michelle Obama, Carolina Herrera is known for her exceptional personal style. Ranging from simple to unconventional, her bridal collection features dramatic hemlines, flowing trumpet silhouettes, and unexpected necklines, including a flowing collared piece that resembles a men’s dress shirt.


FLAIR REVIEW

Marriott Weddings Fit for Royalty

What better way to start a blessed life with your partner than at a fairy-tale palace? At the Cairo Marriott your wedding can become a marvelous affair that you and your guests will hold dear to your memories. The historical grandeur of the palace adds magic to your special day creating a balance between royal chic and sophisticated modern trends.

Palatial Ballrooms The Cairo Marriott boasts not one or two but six marvelous royal venues to choose from. The Salon Royal and Eugenie Ballroom features beautiful chandeliers, marble floors and a royal staircase. Both venues connected accommodate up to 300 guests. Regal weddings can take place at Salon Vert for a spectacular reception or gala complete with lavish marble floors and decor. For more intimate, yet royal celebrations, salons “Verdi”, “Memphis” and “Thebes” create the perfect setting. A View Worth a Thousand Years Opt for a fresh outdoor venue like Almaz with a magnificent view of the Nile; it is almost as if you are looking onto years of history while writing your own. A dinner or cocktail reception whether by day or night is sure to captivate and excite your guests bringing the celebration to a fantastic start. Make a Wish The hotel team of professional certified planners is ready to take your ideas and materialize them into a reality with ease.

They are ready to offer their professional opinion to help you choose the right venue, menu, setting, decorations and entertainment. Who said a genie has to come in a bottle? Delightfully Delicious An expert team of chefs are ready to prepare buffets and A La Carte meals that satisfy even the most discerning palates. Everything is prepared fresh and in the state-of-the-art “green kitchen”, the first of its kind in Egypt. Whether you are aiming for classic options or a more eclectic spread of fusion dishes, the wide selection guarantees a satisfying experience. A Happily Ever After Honeymoons are equally as important as the wedding ceremony and since the Marriott understands that, their honeymoon treats go over the borders for free getaways in all Marriott Hotels worldwide. For every dollar spent, 3 points are added on your Marriott Rewards card which can be redeemed for free nights and upgrades at every Marriott hotel around the world. Now that’s a wedding gift to remember!

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FEATURE

BRIDAL BEAUTY

Summer is coming up, and rings are coming out. That’s right ladies, it’s Wedding Season! Whether you’re a beautiful bride, an excited bridesmaid or a proud single, there’s no denying the fun of dreaming up a wedding. And we all have that dream look we want to achieve. However, there may be some of you out there that still aren’t sure what you want. Not to worry, below we have tallied up the best bridal trends for each possible summer wedding aesthetic that will at least get you started on your bridal beauty journey. By Nour Ibrahim

Boho Beach Bride Who hasn’t dreamed of a wedding by the beach? One of the most popular options, even if you can’t have a laid-back seaside wedding you could still get that relaxed boho beach vibe in your look. Hair: For this type of wedding, a beach wave hair and a flower crown are all you need. Not only does it match the general theme, but waves are making a comeback in general this summer, and a flower crown adds the perfect cherry on top of Boho-chic. A few lose braids here and there can also add to the bohemian aspect of the look. Make-up: For this look, light eyes and darker lips are key, especially a dark nude, giving the look a more rustic, boho vibe. Contouring is also a new poplar addition to this look and will do marvelously in the wedding pictures. Just ask any Instagram model ever.

Glam Bride This bride not only is the star, but looks like one. Taking glam cues from Hollywood and the runway, this bride is the combined power of the classic glam looks of today’s day and age. Hair: The side bun is strong with this one. One of the most classical and still most trendy glam looks is the everlasting side bun that just elongates anyone’s neck and provides an elegant aura. If a glam wedding is what you want, this sophisticated side bun is what you need. Make-up: When going glam, glitter is a must. While heavy glitter becomes too tacky, just the right amount will make you shimmer like a diamond as you close your eyes. Especially in 2017, bold eyes with a nude lip are just the thing you need to boost your confidence for the wedding. One of the most trending eye colors when going glam is most definitely rose gold with a darker brown at the end. This Smokey look is glamorous and sophisticated and goes amazingly accompanied by highlight and heavy contour.


Fairytale Bride We all wanted that fairy tale wedding, and if you want it, you can aspire to have it. Dressing up as a princess however isn’t the easiest, but we found some trends that gather most aspects of those Disney characters we always wished to imitate. Hair: One trending hair option is the Tinkerbell Bun. Now, while she may not be a princess, the bun is the perfect balance of innocence and delicateness, and perfect for any princess walking down the aisle. Make-up: When it comes to make up, a light pink lip and blush cheeks are a must. Light contour and highlighting can be used, but the main focus should be on rounding out the eyes with some eyeliner and making them appear larger with the help of some fake lashes if needed. White eyeliner can be used to achieve this illusion and help add to a makeup look that holds the innocence and beauty of a fairytale. If needed, a little light glitter can be added for a more magical result.

Modern Bride For some brides, a fairytale wedding is not their thing. Some women favour a sleek modern city look to suit today’s day and age. Hair: The modern bride parts her hair in the middle and sleeks it back either tying it up or letting it down. This is meant to bring the main focus to the face of the bride rather than the hair. Make-up: The classic Instagram makeup is designated for this bride. The contour, the highlight, a smoky eye, on fleek brows and a dark lip are what complete this modern look. Not only is the look sophisticated, it also is very popular and admired by many. While all these trends are beautiful and unique, don’t forget so are you. So don’t be afraid to mix and match, try new things, or totally disregard what’s trending, because your wedding day is yours, and the best beauty trend for you is flaunting your true self.

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FEATURE

Weddings at the Capital Cairo Celebrations

A Royal Wedding Royal Maxim Palace Who doesn’t want to be a princess on her wedding day? Every girl dreams to live the magical fairy-tale palace wedding. Live your royal dream wedding at Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski with the largest ballroom in Egypt. Their The Excelsior Ballroom allows guests to live the luxurious European lifestyle with its spacious is 3,042 sq m. It carries up to 3,000 guests and is divisible into three sections for smaller weddings. With this spacious ballroom, you can arrange the wedding of your dreams with family and friends, down to the last detail. If you are seeking a majestic outdoor dream wedding, then you can opt for The Terrace, inspired by Austrian palatial courtyards surrounded in elegance. The Terrace can hold up to 300 guests, leaving everyone with a lavish dream wedding experience. The bride and groom can choose from a selection of 50+ wedding cakes and can tailor-make special wedding menus according to their preferences.

Happily Ever After The Fairmont Heliopolis Celebrate your “happily ever after” in spectacular style at Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers. Their beautiful Cairo ballrooms, stunning ceilings with glass light rods taking the form of corals shed a variety of colors on the floors and scattered LED lights give the twinkling effect of the stars. All designed to accommodate small and intimate Cairo wedding parties or larger weddings up to 2,500 guests, with an attention to detail and service few can rival. Turn once upon a time into a fairy tale ending with a world-class Cairo wedding. Whether your style is softly romantic, trend-setting modern or show-stopping elegance, Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers is the premier choice. Whether you opt for a gourmet meal followed by dancing or a cocktail reception with innovative hors d’oeuvres, Fairmont’s certified culinary team exceeds expectations. If you choose a Fairmont wedding, you also receive exclusive access to their Platinum Honeymoon Program.


Chic & Intimate JW Marriott Cairo At JW Marriott Cairo you will have a day of celebration you will never forget. It will be memorable, glamorous, fun and within your budget. The hotel has come to refer to their wedding planners as a ‘Dream Team’. They will turn your dream into a mesmerizing reality, taking care of every detail. Their world-class chefs and award-wining catering expertise add another dimension to your celebrations. Varied dinner buffets and à la carte menus will always be special. The Tutankhamun ballroom is one of the largest in Egypt and is perfect for galas. Cheops and Chephren ballrooms are ideal for more intimate occasions. ‘The Terrace’ is a unique outdoor venue. The JW Marriott Cairo provides you award-wining cuisine, world-class hospitality, attention to detail and the promise of an unforgettable wedding day.

City Sparkle Renaissance Mirage City Hotel Celebrate your “happily ever after” in spectacular style by booking a bespoke wedding experience at Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel this season. Renaissance Mirage City Hotel Cairo is skilled at creating warm, intimate weddings and beautiful engagement parties that will exceed your expectations. Heighten the exquisiteness of your special event with customizable venue spaces, professional wedding planning services, impeccable catering options, and stylish accommodations. If you require an intimate event space for a daytime wedding or engagement party, then the luxurious Baron Ballroom is sure to satisfy. They offer a number of exceptional wedding and engagement packages – encompassing superior food and beverage options, decorations, lighting, and comfortable accommodation for the bridal party – to help you achieve the wedding or engagement party of your dreams.

Modern Romance Le Meridien Cairo Airport Whether you’re dreaming of a simple or extravagant wedding, planning your special day requires a lot of effort. Surround yourself with the romance and leave the details to the talented team of Le Meridien Cairo Airport. Make your wedding day a wonderful memory you will treasure for life with Cairo’s newest hotel in town! Le Meridien Cairo Airport provides you with an idyllic choice of indoor and outdoor venues to create the perfect scene for your dream day.

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FLAIR REVIEW

Fairy Tale Weddings The Nile Ritz-Carlton

Weddings are fairy tales brought to life, a day that requires nothing but perfection - from the reception to the ballroom decorations, including welcome drinks and the lighting. To ensure perfection on this special day, what better partner to have than The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo. Known for their bespoke wedding experiences, wedding planners with extensive knowledge, to the famous Alf Leila wa Leila ballroom, and unique wedding packages tailored send off the bride and her groom in comfort and style. Every perfect wedding requires a strategic wedding planner to ensure all the finest details are planned with precision.. At the Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo, their wedding experts will assist in designing every aspect of the celebration, from the ballroom decorations down to menu choices. In addition, to providing the newlyweds with the best wedding experts for planning and execution, The Nile Ritz-Carlton have also put together a summer wedding package tailored to enhance the bride and groom’s memorable wedding experience. This alluring summer package includes a lavish buffet with select beverages, accommodation for the bride and groom in a luxurious suite, day-use for the groom on the

wedding day, and a romantic in-room dinner for the bride and groom on their wedding night. The package also includes an extravagant three-layered wedding cake, decoration package as well as entertainment that covers DJ, videography, photography and Zaffa. The summer wedding package at Alf Leila wa Leila ballroom is valid through the months of July and August 2017 with the package price starting at 80,000 Egyptian pounds inclusive of all service charge and applicable taxes for a minimum of 100 guests. The Nile Ritz-Carlton also offers an exclusive bridal spa package to pamper the bride, which will begin with an indulgent Moroccan bath, followed by a full hour relaxing massage, before a 45-minute cleansing facial to leave the skin radiant and healthy for all the wedding photography sessions. The special pre-wedding pamper package is also extended to around three to seven of the bride’s bridesmaids, family members or close friends. The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo has also put together a special bridal party that includes a welcome glass of bubbles on arrival, access to a luxurious private cabana; full day access to swimming pool, 40-minute relaxing massage and pampering.



FEATURE

Sami Amin Aiisha Create Magic &

By Sarah Hassan

A thousand words cannot leave an impression as what Egyptian designer Sami Amin created in his latest collaboration with the Lebanese designer and the epitome of modern design Aiisha Ramadan that was presented in Arab Fashion Week in Dubai! We could say that it is not only Sami’s first time for him to work on this kind of collaborations but also his first time to work with beads, pearls, and crystals. Meanwhile, it is Aiisha’s

first time to introduce bags beside her beautiful couture. With the collaboration of both stylish designers, the bags were customized for Aiisha’s collection L’Azur with the touch of Sami Amin’s creativity in each and every detail. The outcome was a killer collection which was driven mostly from Aiisha’s deep belief in the positive and magical powers of the sea.




Fashion

P. 52 Knockout by Kojak/Bridal Runway/Bridal Bijou 45


FASHION CLIPPINGS By Nour Ibrahim

LV: Cruisin’ in Style Why have a normal fashion show when you can stage it on a cruise? Said someone who worked at Louis Vuitton and was praised and now probably has a raise because it was a beautiful idea. The designer Nicolas Ghesquière even took it one step further by making each show take place at an architectural landmark in Kyoto, Japan (talk about production setup). With an ocean on one side and a monument on the other, you’d think the eyes wouldn’t be on the models. Well, with great scenery comes greater contrast. Taking away from the natural air the ocean provided, the models strutted in out in what can only be described as modern technological fashion, bringing a whole new meaning the term “caught my eye”.

Moss’s Jewellery Teaming up with Vartanian, iconic British model Kate Moss is pulling out her own aesthetic into her passion: Jewellery. A self-proclaimed addict to the drug that she calls jewels, it was about time she had a collection of her own. And what an exquisite collection it was. The 18-karat gold collection is filled with amazing representations of art, emotion, and Kate Moss’s own personality. Using red garnet, Kate’s birthstone, as a signature decorative aspect, the drive and nature of the jewellery is a perfect balance of both harmony and sophistication.

New “Okhtein” Ambassador You loved her sweet innocent look in Grand Hotel and you’ll love her power-hungry look even more. Actress Amina Khalil has now been named ambassador of the Egyptian brand Okhtein, and she is killing it in the modelling scene. Embracing the determined and can do attitude of our future generations, she embodies the Egyptian and powerful aesthetic the brand is so famous for. Given the brand has made immense accomplishments over the past few years such as earning a Vogue Fashion Prize award and being worn by esteemed actresses such as Emma Watson and Emma Roberts, it’s about time the brand have an ambassador, especially one as lovely as Amina Khalil.


Loewe’s Posters Large projects need a lot of time, and Loewe is getting ahead a season in advance with their new Fall/Winter 2017-2018 campaign that includes a collection of 3000 unique posters displaying different artistically set images. The images flaunt not only the items shown but also the models shown with them, such as Brazilian bombshell Gisele Bundchen. Talk about starting the hype. Just like any good movie, the trailer always comes out about a year before the big reveal, and this is a 3000-page trailer we don’t want to miss!

Valentino’s Lee Gardens The Italian originated brand has opened in Hong Kong’s shopping heaven Lee Gardens in Hong Kong and it couldn’t look more sophisticated. After opening with a VIP party, the boutique is now selling ready to wear, accessories, and fragrances all at the steady aesthetic of both elegance and craftsmanship. The perfect location for the high-quality brand, Lee Gardens could not be a more viable host.

Adidas Ultraboost Athletes, you may want to warm up for this one. Adidas Running has revealed a new version of their iconic UltraBOOST, and boy is it ready for the track. Literally, the shoe is shaped in the running position so that it feels as if it were naturally there. With the new ARAMIS system, Adidas has made a shoe that expands, tightens, and is padded where it should, giving the ultimate comfort for any long run. You can say buy to runner’s knee with this one, as Adidas both tackled and defeated the issue directly, making the running world a safe place once more.

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BEAUTY CLIPPINGS By Nour Ibrahim

A New Daisy Kaia Gerber is as pretty as a petal, a Daisy petal that is. Yes, supermodel Cindy Crawford’s daughter is finally taking on the fashion world and it looks sweet. Marc Jacobs’ Daisy fragrance is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a new limited edition bottle. No surprise she would be the face of the campaign after her amazing success working with Marc Jacobs in the beauty department. The young and talented model may not only live up to her mother, but may also surpass her, something we can all look forward to seeing.

Gaultier’s Super Scents What do superheroes smell like? Superhero fans may have spent hours upon hours watching their idols on the big screen, in video games, and in comics, but will never be able to answer this question (Except Aqua Man, he most likely smells like tuna). But with their unworldly powers and their abilities to never break a sweat or mess up their hair, you must wonder if they smell as powerful as they look. Turns out Jean Paul Gaultier don’t wonder, they know. Coming out with two new powerful scents, Superman and Wonder Woman, Jean Paul Gaultier Limited Edition has brought the essence of two of the most beloved heroes to life! While the Classique Wonder Woman Eau Fraiche has a zest scent of lemon sorbet, orange blossom, and jasmine, the Le Male Superman Eau Fraiche has more of a sturdy vanilla, mint and sage fragrance that adorn to the characters’ respective fiery and steadfast natures alike.

Balmain X L’Oréal Can September 2017 come soon enough? The renowned fashion brand Balmain is teaming up with another French beauty icon L’Oréal in order to create a capsule collection of twelve new and bold shades to be designed by none other than Balmain’s creative director Oliver Rousteing, and will be split into three unique color schemes. The announcement coming out on Rousteing’s Instagram page with the #becauseweworthit hashtag. Rousteing said that he envisioned the colors that satisfy every voice of self-expression that a woman deserves to make heard.


Marble Lips First it was big lips, then it was matte lips, then glitter lips, drip lips and now everyone is talking about marble lips. MARBLE LIPS. That is art. Finding a way to create such a satisfyingly surreal marble look on one’s own face is truly remarkable. Bold enough to be Instagram famous and still subtle enough to be worn to a formal, this new lip style is one we hope stays around till the ends of social time.

Custom Polish Skin tones, undertones, and preference all play a role in the kind of nail polish we choose to adorn our hands. But sometimes it’s hard to find that color that goes with everything. For instance, a bright orange may be perfect for the new purse you got, but not for your skin tone. All it may need is a little tweaking and it’s perfect. But why tweak when you can get perfection from the start. The new Rungh Nail Polish set allows you to mix and match both the type and quantity of each pigment to create your perfect nail-polish needs. Coming with an electric mixer, the set supplies 6 bottles of clear nail polish and 6 different pigment shades to mix and match with. If you’re still looking for your shade, this could be the one for you.

Eye of the Rainbow Spring has sprung, and so has the rainbow of colors that came with almost every spring/summer runway collection. Out with the calming and in with the popping as its time to embrace the beautiful burst of color the season brings by mimicking the essence of the rainbow onto a pallet of gorgeous models. Making eyes the focus of your look you could experiment with a daring red, a calming green, a shy rose, a bubbly blue, a dreamy yellow and a mystic purple to create a multicolored masterpiece.

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FEATURE

Reem Acra X Tiffany & Co. A Perfect Match Before the onslaught success of Lebanese haute couture and bridal design heavyweights such as Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad, there was one woman: Reem Acra. To celebrate her namesake label’s 20th anniversary the Lebanese-American designer partnered with the renowned jewelry brand Tiffany & Co. for her show during Spring 2018 Bridal Week which took place in the iconic store’s fifth avenue flagship in New York. The show did not disappoint as models strutted down the runway with gowns adorned with the loveliest embellished jewels-all from Tiffany & Co. of course and inspired by the house’s rich heritage. As you would expect the dresses were draped with gorgeous jewels that is not for the faint hearted. One dress in particular, a strapless gown held more than a 165 carats of diamonds and over 60 carats of gemstones. Acra strayed away from the conventional bridal white as her runway show started with an unexpected twist, the first nine models – who entered the runway from elevators that mimicked the signature Tiffany‘s blue jewelry box donned black gowns. The remaining 28 dazzling looks showcased Acra’s ability to combine tradition with a modern aesthetic; redefining the luxury bridal market with each breathtaking design. After studying the finest details of various jewelry creations, including the storied Tiffany Diamond, Acra drew upon many Tiffany masterpieces while designing the collection. Sculpted and cutout bodice details reflect the intricacies of ornate platinum metalwork juxtaposed with the power and vibrancy of Tiffany yellow diamonds. Looping and scrolling bands of geometric diamonds in ribbon and bow motifs inspire romantic embellishments on sheer sleeves, necklines and tulle overlays, while the brilliance of Tiffany’s legendary gemstones Morganite and Kunzite add a blush tone to the mostly traditional color palette.


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PHOTOSHOOT

Knockout by Kojak Concept, Styling & Art Direction: Ghina Maalouf Photographer: Sam Rawadi Makeup: Sharbel Hasbany Hair: Hamza

Egyptian brand Kojak has launched a new capsule collection, “Knockout”, blurring the line between feminine and reckless. The shoot, which took place on the streets of Beirut, focused on the typical urban exteriors in contrast with the feminine silhouettes of the collection. It featured Kojak’s signature style-dresses with an experimental edge, voluminous skirts and various textures. “This contrast was the main theme that I wanted to emphasize,” said Mohanad Kojak, the designer behind his namesake brand. “I didn’t want the look to be fully feminine or royal,” he said. That’s why he shied away from featuring locations that would directly give away that the shoot took place in Beirut, a city with a lot of contrast between modern and old; delicate and rough.


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It’s no surprise that Kojak went back to the Lebanese capital for his latest shoot for his capsule collection “Knockout”. After his experience at Project Runway Middle East, which took place in Beirut, Kojak found himself roaming back to the place, which lent him further grounding in the fashion industry.

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BRIDAL RUNWAY

Carolina Herrera


Elie Saab

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Marchesa


Oscar de la Renta

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Victor & Rolf


Zuhair Murad

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FEATURE

Bridal

Diamond Rings

Bijou

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and the blinding shine it gives is enough to make anyone’s head turn. It’s hard to imagine that diamond rings were not always the first choice for newly engaged brides, since the diamond ring is now an engagement jewelry staple. With a myriad of shapes, cuts, and colours, we present you with our favourite picks of the ring that should last you until “happily ever after”

Chaumet

Van Cleef & Arpels


Bulgari

Boucheron

Chopard

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Lifestyle

P. 76 The Honeymoon Affair/Getaway Cars / Lara Scandar 69


HOT ADDRESS

THE HONEYMOON AFFAIR By Daniela Bonetto in collaboration with Design Hotels Marrying your soulmate means happiness for the rest of your life and the dream travel experience that will be embedded in your heart, mind and eyes means honeymoons are a serious affair (of the innocent type). But we have all heard about the adventurous safaris or the isolated bungalow in the middle of the ocean but what if there was a third category emerging from the to-do’s bucket-list?

GEORGIA ON MY MIND Located at the crossroads where East meets West and with a unique cultural history and stunning natural beauty, Georgia remains one of Europe’s last hidden gems. Situated at the eastern end of the Black Sea, Georgia’s landscape is as rich as it is diverse – from snow-topped mountains to sweeping beaches and dense forests. Thanks to its position on the ancient silk route, Georgia’s cultural identity has been influenced by aspects of traditional Russian, Persian, Turkish, Armenian and Azerbaijan life – and more recently the former Soviet Union has left its mark. Patriotism is central to the country’s psyche, and Georgians take great measures to protect their national heritage, most notably with the preservation of their distinctive written and spoken language. STAY AT Rooms Hotel Kazbegi (rates USD 125-250)


GROTTO LIVING Situated in the arch of the proverbial Italian boot, Matera is not widely known by foreigners; historically impoverished, it fell into local seclusion. The importance of maintaining the traditional local aesthetic and preserving the existing architecture is this intensified in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Where others see decay, philosopher and renegade hotelier Daniele Kihlgren sees opportunity, creating hotels that breathe life into the fading communities of Italy’s past. His Sexantio villa, which he discovered in ruins back in 1999, is comprised of six different medieval structures located in the village Santo Stefano di Sessanio, which he restored with local architects and archaeologists. STAY AT Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita (rates EUR 275 – 600)

GREEN ICE PACKS For those of us who have yet to journey to Iceland and only have a vague, often chilly idea of what might be in store for us there, it pays to remember this expression: “Greenland is ice, but Iceland is green”. Or put another way, Iceland is a verdant and stunningly beautiful land packed with unexpected joys for the first-time traveller. Sigurlaug Sverrisdóttir has just what it takes to pull off such a mesmerising property as Ion. She has the adventurous spirit that one immediately sees in the hotel, which is carved almost defiantly into its rugged Icelandic setting, and the founded business sense and organizational acumen to make it all work. STAY AT Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel (rates ISK 33,500 – 51,000)

All hotels can be booked at designhotels.com

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DRIVEN

Just

Married! Getaway Cars

By Kate Dannies

When it comes to the ultimate wedding experience, driving away from the event in style is of the utmost importance. From glamorous convertibles to speed-racing sports cars, here are the top just married vehicles to suit every style.

Lamborghini Diablo Perhaps the most iconic of Lamborghini models, the Diablo is a high-performance sports car reaching top speeds of over 200 mph. The sleek, subtle Italian-made body and low seats are perfect for high taste, low profile couples looking to make a quick getaway.

BMW Z1 This two-seat roadster is perfect for new couples entering a marriage without any extra baggage. Featuring vertically retracting doors and with only 8,000 cars produced, all in left-hand drive, this car is sure to turn the heads of even the most discerning auto enthusiast.


1959 Cadillac For those pining for a large dose of American nostalgia, look no further than the 1959 Cadillac. Considered the ultimate symbol of success in 1960’s America, the outrageous tail fins and jet pod lights evoke a love it or hate it attitude. Large, heavy and comically over-styled, this in-demand collectable has ‘Just Married’ written all over it.

Bentley Continental GT Convertible Oozing glitz, glamour and upscale English taste, this Bentley GT Convertible will be the envy of all your wedding guests. Featuring diamond upholstery Mulliner GT design seats, lower body side stripes and four-layer fabric hood, new couples will be the focus of the road in this high -end convertible.

Mercedes-Benz

500K

This legendary World War II-era two seater was first exhibited at the 1934 Berlin Motor Show. Offering a larger, more powerful engine than its predecessor the 380 and opulent coachwork, the 500K is perfect for history buffs and luxury lovers alike.

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Chevrolet Corvette Considered the most significant American car ever created, the breathtaking and unique design combined with impressive performance and potent, fuel-injected engines make this convertible a musthave for couples looking to kick off their union with an automotive legend.

Tesla Model S Undoubtedly one of the trendiest vehicles of the moment, the Model S offers unparalleled performance with an all-electric power train that accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. Equipped with autopilot capabilities, the Model S will be driving you away from the wedding by years-end.

Lexus GS Hybrid The ultimate luxury cruiser, the Lexus GS Hybrid offers outstanding fuel efficiency and potent power in a sleek, elegant package. Loaded with features such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, the GS Hybrid is a perfect getaway car for environmentally-minded couples who still enjoy the high life.


FLAIR REVIEW

Stunning Photos

by Huawei P10 plus Huawei Team up with Photographer Abdel Rahman Gabr-Koree and Fashion Designer Norine Farah to give us a Stunning Series of Portrait photos taken by Huawei P10 plus In another one of their much anticipated affiliations, Huawei team up with Photographer and Filmmaker Abdel Rahman Gabr-koree and fashion Designer Norine Farah to produce a stunning series of photographs using the Huawei P10 plus. Koree’s biggest challenge was to produce images with very high quality to be used in Huawei’s campaign, and the P10 plus camera quality proved just that! The entire shoot was taken using Huawei P10 plus with the second generation Lieca Dual Lens Camera. Each photography series mimics the stunning colors of the new smartphones which are gold, black and blue. In addition, the scenery was set amidst gorgeous and monumental areas around Cairo. Koree chose to apply three main features of P10 Plus camera that are truly exceptional in terms of quality and innovation; Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and Monochrome. “I thought it would be a challenge to have an entire photoshoot using a smartphone camera but I was actually surprised how the camera handled different modes exceptionally well. For example, the night mode takes multiple exposures and blends it automatically, perfecting the picture with one click of a button,” explained Koree. Designer Norine Farah was impressed with the photoshoots final results: “It was great experience designing garments to reflect the aesthetic design and beautiful colors of Huawei P10 and P10 Plus,” said Farah. “Having worked with Huawei before on previous P series devices, I was determined to design gowns with many small details because I was confident they will stand with the great camera quality, which is exactly what happened,” added Farah. With their all new P10 and P10 Plus, Huawei proves that consumers are just one touch away from delivering the perfect portrait. The Huawei P10 and P10 plus are tailor made for those with an artistic eye. With its unique camera features, the smartphone is perfect for the rising photographers of today, the Instagram influencers and the obsessed selfie addicts. It truly is a professional studio right in your pocket!

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INTERVIEW

Lara’s Comeback

Egyptian Star Academy alumna Lara Scandar has made her musical comeback following her hit album About A Girl’s release in 2012. Lara’s latest is her album ‘Khalas Khalas’ that has been going viral on social media and on music channels. We caught up with Lara to get the scoop on her latest album and more…


What was your favorite part of shooting your new video “Khalas Khalas”? My favorite part was the outfit changes. Every look brought out a different side of me and added a different tone to the song. Why did you decide to conduct a vote in order to decide whether to release the single in the “pop” or “dance” version? Our strategy was to release both at once but our issue was picking one version for the music video, so we thought what better way to decide than have the fans be a part of the decision making process. I think the pop version ended up winning the vote probably because a genre like electro music is an acquired taste. Not everyone likes it. Lots of people do, but the pop version is smoother in a sense. I’m assuming that’s why. I’ll release the second version pretty soon. This is your first single to sing in the Lebanese dialect. Why did you choose to sing in Lebanese? Why not? I tried singing in Egyptian and I loved it. I’m definitely doing it again, but I thought “Why not try Lebanese as well?” I’m part Lebanese and I love experimenting with my songs. You have garnered quite a following on social media. How important is the role social media plays in your life and what do you wish to communicate to your fans that follow you online? Nowadays social media is quite crucial to an artist’s image and career. I’m very picky about what I insert on my social media platforms. I’m not one to enjoy people digging in too much into my personal life, so I pick and choose more work related or neutral material. I think the way I’d like my fans to see me via my online platforms is just see the real me. I may not add too many personal moments but everything is as real as it gets! How do you see your evolution in terms of music? I think I’ve always evolved in a way when it came to my music. I went from singing English pop songs, to Arabic (Egyptian) pop, to Christmas covers and old French covers and then went off to recording an entire virtual online acoustic concert with Egyptian folklore songs and Dalida covers. Now I dove in to singing in Lebanese. I have quite a few different sounds as well for the new album. I’m super excited about it! How did the “Star Academy” experience change you or affect you? What do you miss the most about your time there? Star Academy was a long time ago. I definitely learned a lot on both a professional and personal level. I think it’s the post-Star Academy experiences that I learned the

most from. I think I just miss the hype of it all. I also miss being on stage every week, I loved that.

probably anywhere else in Italy! Main hobbies: Writing, online shopping (I’m addicted) and being a couch potato

Quick Questions Hidden talent: Mad makeup skills! Dream duet: Ed Sheeran. Ed Sheeran. Ed Sheeran. Musical idol: Dalida Favorite cities: Paris, London, Rome and

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HOME


Vertical Slot By Studio Octopi

For an old home, the Slot House looks like a modern masterpiece thanks to its renovation by architects Studio Octopi. Despite its modifications in the 1980s the house still suffered from a fragmented plan, poor connectivity between the principal living spaces and restrictive ceiling heights. Studio Octopi tried to recapture and preserve the original proportions of the period terrace, whilst reinterpreting the layout to suit modern family living. For example the existing brick wall in the dining area was given a lime wash to soften the yellow colour of the London Stock bricks but maintain the distinct feel of a London terraced house. The joinery is timeless in its approach, using oak, Carrera marble and limestones. Photography by: Jack Hobhouse

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The previous layout of the house was very cellular and had evolved over the years through a series of smaller changes. Across the ground floor there were various changes in level and man doors between spaces making the rooms feel small and claustrophobic. To overcome this the lower two floors had all the internal walls removed and a new steel portal frame inserted across the two levels. This allowed for clear views front to back and from side to side. A 10m high glass infill extension slots between the reconfigured existing closet wing and the neighbouring property, divided as two sash windows, it forms a double height dining area at basement level and a master ensuite at first floor. An open tread stair allows views to stretch from the basement across the double height space to the first floor.

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A polished concrete floor in the basement extends out to the garden where a green wall allows maximum use of the terrace for entertaining. The ground floor level is the perfect introductory space to the house. As you enter there are glimpses through the new stair across the void and up to the first floor. As you turn the corner into the living room the change in scale between front and rear windows is astonishing. It sets the tone for the rest of the house, drawing you into the property. Connecting the floors as one space rather than the fragmented and cellular original layout was key to this experience and only achievable through complex fire strategy planning.

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FLAIR REVIEW

Hello Moto Moto G5

Ever since we heard about the latest Moto G5 smartphone, we couldn’t wait until we got our hands on one and we did! We are here to tell you that if you are in the market for a new phone that fulfills all your needs at ease, it’s time for you to switch to the new Moto G5 smartphone. Filled with easy to use shortcuts such as Moto Actions that open cameras at the flick of a wrist and flashlights at two chops of an arm, this phone is made to save time on the inevitable. Speaking of the phones’ camera, it features an outstanding 13MP rear camera accompanied by an LED flash as well as a 5MP front camera suitable for all your selfie needs (selfie addicts rejoice!). And you don’t need to worry about it dying in the middle of a picture as it holds a 2800 mAh removable all-day battery made to last all day, every day. Still not enough for you? The Moto G5 even comes with its own rapid charger that will get you on the go faster than ever. While on the go, you can keep yourself entertained with the phone’s amazingly fast 1.4GHz octa-core processor, and store all your favorite memories in its impressive 1632 GB internal storage depending on the model. And if that isn’t enough storage for you, you can even add up to 128 GB of your own space with an external memory card. With an Android 7.0 operating system, fingerprint and light recognition, single or dual Nano-SIM card convenience, and a beautiful casing of Lunar Grey or Fine Gold there is almost nothing this phone can’t do. If you’re looking for different, you’ve come to the right place, because with this phone ‘Different is Better’.


STYLISH LIVING

Torii’s New Asian Fusion Extravaganza Cairo Marriott’s very own little piece of Asia, Torii, now serves a whole new menu of delicious Asian fusion dishes and of course, live Teppanyaki, as well as fresh all you can eat sushi every Monday and Friday. To celebrate the new menu, Torii invited Cairo’s biggest media, influencers and taste makers to try out the delicious new menu.

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STYLISH LIVING

Samsung Galaxy S8 Launch In an environment packed with entertainment Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. held an extravagant launch event in The Nile Ritz-Carlton to introduce Egypt to the world to the Galaxy S8, a smartphone that pushes the boundaries of traditional smartphones with its seamless hardware design and a variety of new service offerings.


STYLISH LIVING

India by The Nile In collaboration with the Indian Embassy in Cairo, the Semiramis InterContinental Cairo hosted the “India by the Nile� food fiesta, celebrating the colourful culture and diverse cuisine of incredible India. The food festival was inaugurated by H.E. Sanjay Bhattacharyya, Ambassador of India to Egypt and Mrs., Sameh Sobhy, General Manager Semiramis InterContinental Cairo, Massimo Bernardi, EAM in charge of F&B, Semiramis InterContinental Cairo and Chef Vikram Udaygiri at The Grill Restaurant & Lounge.

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FLAIR FOODIE

Pan-Seared Chili Shrimps

Whole Shrimps are always a feast for the eyes and the stomachs! They are also perfect for serving at dinner parties. Make sure to source the freshest shrimp you can get your hands on for the ultimate flavour and texture. Jumbo shrimps work well with this recipe although they may need more cooking time. If you would like, serve them along side some tartar sauce for dipping, and some fresh crusty bread. This recipe serves 5-6 people. By Kareem Abdelrahman

Ingredients:

Method:

1kg, Fresh shrimps, medium to large size 6 cloves of garlic 2 lemons, juice and zest 1 bunch of fresh coriander 2 tsp chili flakes Olive oil Sea salt

1.Start by first cleaning the shrimp and removing the veins. 2.Slice the garlic finely. 3.In a medium sized pan, sautĂŠ the sliced garlic in olive oil, over medium-high heat. Add the shrimps in one layer and let them cook until they have turned pink and curled up slightly, 5-7 minutes. 4.Remove the shrimps from the heat. Add the lemon juice, zest, chili flakes, and fresh coriander. Serve with sea salt, and freshly toasted bread.




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