July 2017
ETHNIC VIBES WITH AVIZEH
STATEMENT
The Colours of INGLOT
FA SH I O N
AVIZEH: AN INSIDE LOOK
ZAMZAM ZALILA: WITH THE HEADSCARF AGAINST PREJUDICE
JULY 2017
THE COSMOPOLITAN WOMAN
FLOWERY FRAMES
BLACK & NUDE BY AQEELAH LIN
BE A U T Y
FACE FORWARD: ZAHRA ROSE ALAZAIBI X INGLOT SINGAPORE
O PI N I O N
AT THE END OF RAMADAN, I REMIND MYSELF TO...
FOOD
CREAMY PESTO CHICKEN LINGUINI
COVER Photography: Qaiser Azim.
TUNA BAKED
H E A LTH
RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES
MUA: Ghazala Akram. Model: Christeva.
THIS PAGE Photography: Qaiser Azim. MUA: Nadia MUA. Models: Geri Gjata & Jaya.
Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine or content may be reproduced or used without the written permission of the publisher: C.A. Editorial Consultants. All information contained in this magazine is for information only, and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. The views, ideas, comments, and opinions expressed in this publication are solely of the writers, interviewees, press agencies, and manufacturers and do not represent the views of the editor or the publisher. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies or losses incurred. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit material to us, you automatically grant C.A. Editorial Consultants a license to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world.
JULY... A
lhamdulillah, we have reached another month and another Eid. I hope you had a good and blessed Eid with your loved ones. If you’re still going around visiting your relatives like I am, then I hope you enjoy the festivities and the fooooooddd.... Another month is upon us and I just cannot believe my eyes that we’re halfway through the year. Soon it’s going to be 2018! No! This can’t be. Can I turn back time? Does anyone own a time machine which I can borrow?
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Hmm....here’s a thought. If you had the chance to go back in time, at which point in your life would you revisit? And would you make an alternate choice at that point? Fruit for thought, eh? Well, whatever the choices may have been remember that Allah is the best of planners. Ahh...the unofficial ‘ustazah’ in me has reemerged. LOL. I hope you enjoy this new issue, this new July and everything that it holds. I would like to hear from you and what you think of GAYA thus far. Hit me up on IG at @dayinthelifeof_jules!
love & peace...
Juliana Iskandar
the website
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TEAMG AYA OUR WRITERS
Co-founder & CEO Editor-in-chief Juliana Iskandar juliana@gayamagazine.com
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Beauty Editor Naira Ghanem
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Fashion
THE MYSTICS II | PHOTOGRAPHER: KRISTINE (K2PHOTOGRAPHY) | MUA: FAZ (MAKEUP BY SATAN) | HAIR: TANESHA COLEY HMUA | MODELS: MARIE, SHILPA THAPA MASKEY
Emma Khoo interviews Marina Khan, the founder of Avizeh, on her ethnic Afghan jewellery and clothing business, and the inspiration behind her unconventional concepts. Written by Emma Khoo
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F
rom the classic Afghan beauty, the skater girl, the Goth, Frida Kahlo, the Ice Queen, the Tibetan deity, up to the modern 21st century woman, Avizeh is known for pairing her beautiful ethnic Afghan jewellery collection and traditional Afghan dresses with unconventional concepts. Young, passionate and creative, Marina has kept up with the high demand for ethnic Afghan jewellery in the West and has been bold in developing fresh concepts to sell her collection; one that reveals a new narrative far from the traditional and conservative presentation of ethnic Afghan jewellery and clothing. Many of her pieces have been featured in various magazines and various media such as Asiana magazine, Gazelle Magazine, and BBC Pashto, but it is
to limited knowledge that Marina is actually the mastermind behind majority of these concepts. Marina is not one to loan her pieces out to stylists or photographers without much involvement in the development of their concept. She plays the active agent - essentially a stylist and art director of her own collection. It will come to a surprise that this incredible British-Afghan entrepreneur has been managing her business, organizing collaborations whilst studying for her degree and Masters in Psychology at a well-known university. Marina was also invited to speak at SOAS in conjunction with the Farkhunda Trust Anniversary Event, whose mission is to provide higher education to bright, yet disadvantaged Afghan girls.
COLOUR POP PHOTOGRAPHER: JULIE DE MOURA MUA: EVA GRUSZCZYNSKA MODEL: NATALIE CANNON
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SKATER GIRL PHOTOGRAPHER: LEANNE GRACE MILLER MUA : BECKY PURSY MODEL: KIRAN MATTU
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How did the name, Avizeh, come about when you first started the business? Avizeh was actually suggested by my brother, Ammad as he is always good at coming up with unconventional names. I’ve always wanted something connected to my brand but at the same time, find a name that is unique. The word, Avizeh actually translates into “pendant” in Farsi (Persian language). Furthermore, Pashto and Farsi are languages dominant in Afghanistan so
Your concepts are known to be quite unconventional. You don’t seem to like playing safe with the traditional representation of ethnic Afghan jewellery. What inspires you to try out different concepts? Ah yes…First of all, there is no one traditional look in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is really diverse that the traditional clothing style varies within each ethic group. That is why I don’t think there is really one representation of Afghan traditional clothing.
‘I FEEL AS WOMEN, WE SHOULD EMPOWER, LOVE AND SUPPORT ONE OTHER THROUGH THE GOOD AND BAD TIMES AND REALLY JUST BE SUPPORTIVE OF EACH OTHER.’
to me, the name Avizeh fits well. Besides that, most people assume Avizeh is actually my name! Though I actually wish it was… How did the idea of making ethnic Afghan jewellery and dresses begin? It all started when I was looking for traditional Afghan jewellery and found nothing online. From then onwards, I have decided to fill that gap in the British market.
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In the early establishment of Avizeh, the concepts started off by taking inspirations from both the East and West. I was inspired to respond this way since I reside in the West. I wanted to create concepts where Afghan clothing and jewellery were not only seen with traditional clothing but with Western clothing also. Avizeh isn’t afraid to be unconventional but the jewellery still carries on that traditional essence. That’s what makes Avizeh unique, as it’s not just
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THE MYSTICS I PHOTOGRAPHER: SIMONA INDIGO PHOTOGRAPHY CREATIVE ASSISTANT: MARIA MUA: MI IN MAKEUP HAIR: SHABANA I MUA MODELS: SHILPA THAPA MASKEY
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conventional glam makeup or hairstyles but it is a form of art that focuses on strong concepts and narrative. Tell us more about the process behind the development of a strong concept? Well, the process actually takes months! Interesting ideas often come to mind, like a strong vision and from there, I begin by focusing on the strong ideas and developing them before carrying it out. The concept development process goes on for few a weeks. After that, I get into the process where I really want to materialize my vision so I begin organizing a team which fits the concept well. It takes me around two months time finding the right models and photographer, makeup artist who I think will make my vision come to life. What is the most memorable or craziest concept you’ve done or considered? Haha! Well, there are many. I think the most unconventional idea for me was the concept with Qaiser Azim with models, Geri and Jaye, where we patted down prominent round, red cheeks on our models and their hair were very twisted up in an abstract way. According to feedback, some found it very shocking as it was not the conventional conservative concept that featured pretty faces with elegant 10
traditional wear. It is bold and quirky. At the time, I’ve received a lot of appreciation for taking the risk and people really could see that it does carry a story. It isn’t random. The idea of representing the mountain dwellers in Afghanistan and Central Asia came across well. It is still my favorite campaign of all time. You’ve just finished your Masters in Psychology. Congratulations! My next big question is about your work ethics. How do you manage to find a good balance with your student life and Avizeh? Thank you. Well, I really don't know how I managed it to be honest! Haha! I think I was equally passionate about Avizeh alongside my interest in psychology. Although sometimes, it would get very busy but I love Avizeh too much so I would be working on it during my free time and going to events after my lectures. Also, whether it is in my studies or Avizeh, I have a sense of responsibility of giving 100% of effort into my work and sometimes feel that I am a bit of a perfectionist. If I feel that I’m neglecting my studies due to Avizeh, or vice versa, I will not organize a new project unless I am satisfied with the outcome. I will keep a hold on shoots if I feel as though my studies are being affected.
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THE MYSTICS II PHOTOGRAPHER: KRISTINE (K2PHOTOGRAPHY) MUA: FAZ (MAKEUP BY SATAN) HAIR: TANESHA COLEY HMUA MODELS: MARIE, SHILPA THAPA MASKEY, TONI
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It is good to keep that balance so I could produce good quality work. What is your biggest challenge as a young entrepreneur thus far? I think my biggest challenge is actually myself. I want to do so much for Afghanistan and sometimes I forget to take a break and slow down. So you were invited to the Farkhunda Trust Anniversary Event at SOAS in March 2017 to talk about your brand and your support the trust on providing education to bright but disadvantaged Afghan women. How did that come about and what was the experience like?
the Quran and was murdered in front of a large crowd. I think the charity is taking great steps towards women empowerment and education by offering scholarships to young, bright but disadvantaged Afghan women. They are the future after all. So what are the most important values that a young entrepreneur should have in order to succeed? To be true to yourself and be honest. Use it as your platform to promote all that is good and beneficial to society too. Also, make sure you are passionate about what you are doing and work hard.
It was a huge honour to speak at SOAS and to support the Farkhunda Trust on such an amazing campaign. This opportunity came about after meeting a young girl from the organization who came to one my events and invited us to be a part of the Farkhunda Trust Anniversary Event. The owner of the charity is a magnificent woman, a true inspiration. She went to Afghanistan to help young Afghan women even during the Taliban regime. I think for me, the experience was a bit emotional because the charity itself is based on a girl named Farkhunda, who was a volunteer teacher in Afghanistan but she was falsely accused of burning 12
A MODERN BOHO ROMANCE (GAZELLE MAGAZINE) PHOTOGRAPHER: FYI PHOTOGRAPHY | MUA/HAIR: AURELIE LEUPE | MODELS: FRANCESCA DAKIN AND LILLIAN LIU
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ICE QUEEN PHOTOGRAPHER : KRISTINE (K2PHOTOGRAPHY) MODEL : TARA
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FRIDA KAHLO PHOTOGRAPHER : MONA MUNSHI MUA : SHABANA I MUA MODEL : ELLA HAMLIM
On the topic of female empowerment, what does mean to you as a young, female Muslim? For me, female empowerment as a female Muslim means being free and happy to choose whatever style you prefer to wear. Whether you are covered or not covered, it's ultimately your choice. I feel as women, we should empower, love and support one another through the good and bad times and really just be supportive of each other.
Well at the moment, I am not sure but Insha’Allah, I want to direct Avizeh into promoting Afghanistan as well as working with more charities. At the same time, I would like to educate people on things we either ignore or do not value within our community and outside, I hope to diminish stereotypes and stigmas. Last but not least, I would like to promote unity, peace, love and most importantly, the beauty within Afghanistan.
Finally, what are your future plans for Avizeh and for yourself? THE WRITER: EMMA KHOO Emma lives a double life as a research assistant as well as a part-time Malaysian fashion photographer under FYi Photography, occasionally flitting between London and Kuala Lumpur. Other than photography, she writes articles on history, film, fashion and emerging young designers. She is also a contributing writer for Nee Hao Magazine UK.
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Fashion
WITH THE
HEADSCARF AGAINST
PREJUDICE How a German based Modest Fashion label tackles stereotypes with a short film.
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ABAYA GREY & POMPON HIJAB
H
eadscarf or career? Awa Said, the founder and chief designer of the Modest Fashion brand Zamzam Zalila made it her business to liaise alleged contradictions. For this reason she released a short film in cooperation with Lebdiri Studios and Hasania Aqarrout, the owner of the online shop “Nisma” and the publisher in chief of Basma Magazine. The film is available on the YouTube channel of Zamzam Zalila. 16
The idea behind this work was to portray a mix-up situation in which many Hijabis find themselves very often as they are underestimated, especially in the current climate of many continental European countries. “Unfortunately, many people assume that we are so manipulated, that we either aren't able to take our own decisions or that we aren’t even smart enough to do so,” resumes Awa Said whose aim is to give the possibility to have it both: a career and a headscarf.
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ABAYA PEACH & TASSEL HIJAB
The lack of business looks for Hijabis made her create Zamzam Zalila. She is convinced that in the current tense situation it would be very helpful if the diversity of society becomes represented in senior positions of companies, too.
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“In the 21st century a woman should be able to decide for herself what to wear without having to fear to become stigmatised or segregated.� Under #expectationsVsyou women are invited to share their experiences about the difference between general expectations and their real character.
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Zamzam Zalila was founded in 2016 and the collection has been already shown in Istanbul, Toronto and Jakarta.
Her objective is to set new standards by fair conditions of production and by the quality of the garments in order to oppose to the model of fast fashion.
The designer had lived in France and Great Britain before she returned to Germany once she had completed her degree in Business and Commercial Law. Working as an analyst for an airline the mother of three became aware that there weren't business looks that meet the requirements of a hijabi. She describes the style of Zamzam Zalila as conscious chic.
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Fashion
Annie Mirza takes us inside the fashion works of Feradje, a London-based modest fashion label who is bringing the modern Muslim woman into the forefront. Written by Annie Mirza Photos by Zaynah (Desiraindrops) Hair & Makeup by Lima Artistry 20
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M
odesty and fashion are walking hand in hand these days. Mainstream fashion industry has fallen in love with the styles and cuts of modest clothing, and more people are opening their wardrobes to this trend.
MODEL: ANNIE MIRZA LOCATION: CITY STREETS OF LONDON, BAKER STREET
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MODEL: ANNIE MIRZA LOCATION: CITY STREETS OF LONDON, BAKER STREET
Whether it’s for a summer day, evening parties or just work, modesty is everywhere and for everyone. It’s no wonder why many modest brands are receiving the recognition they rightly deserve and Feradje is one of them. Feradje is a unique company that was created for the modern woman who wants to stay modest yet chic. They have a range of unique styles and colours that would suit anyone who wants to dress up or dress down, in a beautiful and modest way. This stunning collection, The Cosmopolitan, takes its name from an observation of the worrying past and hope for a strong future. 22
The Muslim world is on the move, in a range of ways, and Feradje celebrates the new generation of Muslims around the world; Muslims who represent their faith in the public sphere. The collections are designed in London, blending the trends of the fashion capital with the culture of Islam. And Art Director, Gulhan Karali from Turkey, is one of the front runners among designers who recognise the difficult situation many young Muslim women are in as they struggle to coordinate their outfits for every day wear, work life and evening events.
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MODEL: ANNIE MIRZA LOCATION: CITY STREETS OF LONDON, BAKER STREET
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But Gulhan Karali successfully enriched the classic abaya - a normally plain veil overdress unique to the Gulf - into a creative blend of Western and Eastern patterns, cuts and fabrics. There are some major staples, including the pearl fitted abaya, which many women love. Feradje offers a variety of outfits that incorporate this minimal and chic touch. Their integration of kimono, pelican-sleeve, batwing, zipper details and fitted-sleeves, along with so much more, ensures their collections are suitable for everyone.
THE WRITER: ANNIE MIRZA Annie is a professional model and writer from the UK with a Pakistani Muslim heritage. Despite the restrictions within the modelling industry for South Asian and Muslims women, Annie has worked with a range of fashion professionals within the UK, Pakistan, India and Canada. She is also a freelance writer and editor for various magazines, websites and companies.
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Fashion
Flowery Frames Written by @modestlywrapped
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In the words of Flowery Frames founder; Rizwana ...I started Flowery Frames after wanting to start a new project - something exciting and a small home business to suit my needs as a stay-at-home mum to my little boy. I began in January, mostly blind as I had no idea about selfie frames at all and just did whatever came out my brain and a bit of help from YouTube. Soon I discovered that selfie frames were actually very popular and there was a lot of friendly competition out there. I mostly receive orders from women who were getting married, so for Nikkah, Mendhis and weddings. I’ve also donated to charity events and a masterclass but I make them for any occasion which a customer might require for. The order process starts from an enquiry, getting details of what the customer wants and working to 26
create something unique just for them. I don’t like to replicate frames or any hairpieces exactly. To create a frame, there’s cutting which has to be very precise, prepping flowers, setting them in a design I like which can take some time and my favourite part is to add all the little details to finish it off. I hand write on all my frames, I love the personal touch and uniqueness it adds. The process is similar when making hairpieces. First, I place flowers in various layouts until I’m happy with the look. I always send customers pictures of the flowers I’ll be using first so I know they are happy with them and I can work with confidence. I love to add extras that they wouldn’t expect because getting amazing feedback makes me jump with glee...
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Wore this beautiful floral headpiece by Flowery Frames on my turban.
G
uys it’s been a while I know! Swamped with work but I wanted to take some time out to write and tell you about the gorgeous flower headpiece that I had made by Flowery Frames.
They custom made me this beautiful headpiece which is on ribbon, so that I could just tie it around my turban! The colours were perfect and they asked me which flowers I would like in it obviously opted for peonies!
So I was going to a Christening and I was looking for a floral headpiece to wear on my turban - Flowery Frames to the rescue!
I’ve got to say it came out even better than I had imagined! The headpiece was packaged beautifully and the customer service was fabulous! Very personal! Loved it!
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SKIRT: MADE BY ME JUMPER: PRIMARK BLAZER: H&M EARRINGS: H&M BAG: NEXT SHOES: EBAY
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They also make (you guessed it) flowery frames! I just need an excuse for one of those now...
Check them out by tapping the icon below. Oh, and thanks to my beautiful bestie Laura for the pics!
After I wore the headpiece for the christening, I wanted to see where else I could use it! So I am 100% going to keep it on my A ccessorize summer hat! Looks so nice! Check out my ideas for accessorising!
modestlywrapped x
THE WRITER: MODESTLYWRAPPED As a revert I knew very few Muslims and I definitely didn't know how to dress fashionably modest! That's until I found the modest fashion community on social media! Then bang! I felt right at home! So I too started experimenting with my hijab style and taking pictures of my outfits - especially my work outfits as this was a difficult balance to find. I've met so many amazing people on this journey and I pray it continues! So come and join me just me, myself and my wardrobe!
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Fashion
BLACK
NUDE
Written by Aqeelah Lin
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T
oday was a camera date as we grabbed our cameras and met up at a scenic location neither of us had been before!
My friend and I both got fooled as we headed out to the pier that day. For some reason as you can see I gravitated towards wearing all black.
We had a photoshoot on the pier (we both love photography and style so why not?) But the weather often times can play tricks on you.
I have no shame in wearing foundation colours and a nice mono outfit. It is classic and timeless.
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SCARF: CHIFFON SCARF FROM VOILE CHIC IN NUDE PINK TOP: TUNIC FROM MODANISA IN BLACK SHOES: FLATS FROM ASOS IN NUDE
My friend gravitated towards a cozy fuzzy sweater more dressed for Fall, I would say. Later on the sun came out and we started to feel the heat a bit. But We took advantage of the sun and had a fun time out. To shop these pieces head over to my blog at aqeelahlin.com for the clickable links.
I hope you draw some inspiration from this modest style post. Thank you for reading... Much Love...
Aqeelah
THE WRITER: AQEELAH LIN I'm Aqeelah, I run a Lifestyle and Style blog that intertwines with my lifestyle, style, travels, health & wellness, as well as my faith(Islam). I'm a Canadian residing in Canada. I love to travel, photography, to live a healthy lifestyle including eating clean(I opt for wholistic health) and fitness, and sharing my modest style with you ladies in hopes of giving you some inspiration. Come say 'Hi' over on my Instagram or with an e-mail and my other social media accounts. You can find more modest outfits on my Blog and Instagram.
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Beauty
"Just when I thought I had it all together my makeup decided to fall apart on my arrival to Singapore." Written & Photos by Zahra Rose Alazaibi
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o I had a VERY long trip to Singapore, (around 24 hours to be precise) and somewhere in the world of airport luggage (Toy-Story airport vibes) my makeup bag decided it needed more cushioning than the cashmere sweaters it was wrapped in, and so, the majority of my pressed powders, eyeshadows, contour and blushers ended up falling apart when I needed them most - for MODEST FASHION WEEK.
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Thank goodness on the first day my girl Iman (Fashion with Faith) had my back and saved my life but THEN I received the BEST gift from Inglot Singapore. Not only did they replace my much needed broken products but almost my WHOLE makeup bag. I played around with their best sellers and created some looks for Singapore Modest Fashion Week but sadly due to my packed schedule I was unable to properly photograph these looks for you. So here they are, in their full recreated glory...
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INGLOT UNDER MAKEUP BASE
I ended up using this as a base for all my looks. It's the Perfect hypoallergenic primer for all skin types and makeup finishes. Absorbs excess facial oil (which I suffered from in Singapore) and scatters light, giving all skin types a matte look and silky smooth finish. Use to prolong the life of your foundation, turning your skin into the perfect blank canvas.
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INGLOT BEAUTIFIER TINTED CREAM
I also found a substitute for my foundation during my time in Singapore. This tinted moisturiser has rich moisturizing properties, adds subtle colour and evens out the skin tone. Enriched with Coenzyme Q10, saffron extract, and vitamins C, E, and F. HD pigments ensure an illuminating and soft focus effect. Perfect for those who are looking for a very natural effect of healthy, glowing, and hydrated skin.
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INGLOT FREEDOM PALLETTE:
The Freedom Palette is my new best friend. They come in a range of sizes and a range of products. A magnetic layer on the bottom of the palette holds pans in place, but also allows you to rearrange and exchange each item for convenience and easy product replenishment. The unique Freedom System allows you to mix and match products and colours to make your own custom designed palette.
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BLUSH ILLUMINATOR IN SHADE 203 FOUR COLOUR PRESSED POWDER IN SHADE 34 PEARL EYESHADOW IN SHADE 422 MATTE EYESHADOW IN SHADE 351
In my palette, I have the Blush Illuminator in Shade 20. You can pick a combination of blush and illuminator. Matte face blush is ideal for defining selected parts of the face, while the illuminator provides delicate highlights. A silky formula enables easy application for a long-lasting fresh and subtle look. Also in my palette, I had the Four Colour Pressed Powder in Shade 34. The pressed powder contains four lightly concealing colours that when mixed together have the effects of improving and revitalising the complexion, concealing redness and skin discolouration through light diffusers 38
and setting makeup which helps improve its hold. It is silky to the touch with a natural and radiant finish. It is a very important component to have in any makeup bag. Lastly, the Pearl Eyeshadow in Shade 422 (the darker one) and Matte Eyeshadow in Shade 351 (which I used as a base for all my looks). It is a fully matte eye shadow that contains special silicones and treated pigments. It boasts high lubricity and a silky touch combined with easy, smooth, long lasting, and crease resistant application. The oil free formula provides the ideal matte finish and intense color.
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INGLOT AQUASTIC CREAM EYE SHADOW
Aquastic - water-based cream eye shadows will ensure a long lasting effect with a subtle or stronger shine depending on the application. Even a minimal amount provides strong coverage. Crease and smudge proof. They're available in 10 ocean shades, ranging from silvers and golds to rose, blue and green.
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INGLOT LOOSE COLOURED POWDERS
I LOVE these highly concentrated loose coloured powders that range from subtle to ultra-intense effects depending on application. The product contains sponge gourd oil and almost 90% pure pigment. Can be mixed with DURALINE to create liquid forms of all pigment colours.
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INGLOT AMC EYELINER GEL
The high intensity pigmented liner provides ideal coverage. It comes in a range of rich colours, and provides vibrancy and longevity after just one application. The creamy and delicate long lasting formula dries to a long-lasting, smudge proof, and crease proof finish. With my busy schedule, I can vouch for that.
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INGLOT FALSE LASH EFFECT MASCARA
This mascara maximizes the volume of the eyelashes, making them extra black with a delicate glow. The clump-free formula allows to reach a desired effect in just one sweep. The smudge proof formulation ensures the mascara will stay where it belongs, but is easily removable. The brush is the perfect size for my deep set eyes.
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INGLOT HD LIP TINT MATTE
HD Lip Tint Matte is a trendy lip product that will provide full coverage and a silky matte finish. The product ensures a long lasting effect, does not smudge and is transfer resistant. A handy little sponge makes the lip tint easy to apply, while intense colours will compliment any makeup or skin tone. These SMELL amazing too. They're available in 10 colours, ranging from subtle nudes to classic reds and darker statement shades.
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INGLOT SLEEKS SHEER LIP GLOSS
A beautiful sheer lip gloss, I love that it's presented in packaging resembling a test tube as a nod to the company’s passion for science. Vitamin E, treated pigments and breathable film formers moisturize the lips while a long lasting formula ensures longevity.
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This look was out of my comfort zone because I had never experimented with colours that weren't brown hues, I had also never tried wearing eyeshadow under my eyes (as silly as that sounds) because I have huge eye lids and have always been conscious about accentuating them.
Eyes: Aquastic Cream Eyeshadow in Shade 17 Pure Pigment Eyeshadow in Shade 22 False Lash Effect Mascara AMC Eyeliner Gel
Base: Under Makeup Base Beautifier Tinted Cream in Shade 105 Blush/Illuminator in Shade 203
Lips: Sleeks Lip Gloss in Shade 41
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Lashes: Mi-Ni Lashes, Santorini
Hijab in Black Onyx & Dusty Pink from The Veiled Vogue supplied by Modestrove.
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I would have never imagined I would be applying pink to my eyelids at twenty three years of age, but here I am, and here you are...watching me do it, haha. But in all honesty how amazing is this colour? I never thought I could've pulled it off but I'm completely in love with it. The lip colour was especially something I freaked out about, new favourite? I think so, I'm not quite brave enough to try the purple just yet. Base: Under Makeup Base Beautifier Tinted Cream in Shade 105 Blush/Illuminator in Shade 203 46
Eyes: Matte Eyeshadow in Shade 351 Matte Eyeshadow in Shade 296 False Lash Effect Mascara AMC Eyeliner Gel Lashes: Mi-Ni Lashes, Santorini Lips: HD Lip Tint Matte in Shade 14 Sleeks Lip Gloss in Shade 41 (Added in the middle) Knitted Metallic instant hijab supplied by Modestrove.
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This look is so much closer to my usual evening look, I love doing it and trying it with different products. Subtle browns and golds are always my go-to's. Base: Under Makeup Base Beautifier Tinted Cream in Shade 105 Blush/Illuminator in Shade 203 Eyes: Aquastic Cream Eyeshadow in Shade 13 Pure Pigment Eyeshadow in Shade 82 47
Pearl Eyeshadow in Shade 422 Matte Eyeshadow in Shade 351 False Lash Effect Mascara Lashes: Mi-Ni Lashes, Santorini Lips: Sleeks Lip Gloss in Shade 32 (Added to the middle of my old matte lip) Hijab in Black Onyx from The Veiled Vogue supplied by Modestrove.
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I have began using these Sminka London brushes because my skin has been extra sensitive these past few months - even after cleaning my natural bristle brushes every week. So I decided to switch to VEGAN make up brushes since they are known to be better on the skin and for those with allergies (AKA ME!).
They're also not HUGE like many of the brands out there, they fit perfectly into my small makeup bag. How beautiful is the rose gold? Many thanks to INGLOT Singapore for saving my face during Singapore Modest Fashion Week and for saving my nonexperimental life back in London.
Not only are these gentle on my skin but they come in more variations and sizes which means I have everything I need.
THE WRITER: ZAHRA ROSE ALAZAIBI Zahra is an Arab, UK based, fashion and lifestyle blogger. She began blogging around 4 years ago while at university. Zahra has since taken her followers all around the globe with her, condensing her love of travelling, fashion, and photography together, to share her visual story on instagram and her blog.
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Opinion
at the end of I remind myself to,... Written by Amal El Gharbi
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ne month ago, we entered the finest and most beautiful schools of life. I still remember that one month ago... when Ramadan was about to knock at our doors, I had a pretty tough time. I was emotionally and physically exhausted. To be honest, I was even questioning myself about my ability to make the best out of this holy and unique month. But as soon as the Maghreb athan started, announcing the first day of Ramadan, I had such a peaceful and reassuring feeling (tawakkul).
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And...we’re here today; the blessed month of Ramadan is gone. When I look back, I’m more than humbled to say that incredible things - humanly and spiritually speaking - happened to me during this sacred month, and I’ve been so productive.
At the end of Ramadan, I remind myself to always trust in its magics, and to never lose hope...
I feel blessed. Ramadan not only teaches us patience, self-restraint, introspection, humanism and empathy, but also to trust in ourselves, be positive and nourish hopes. THE WRITER: AMAL EL GHARBI Editor, translator, writer for Peace, born and raised in Brussels, Belgium, Aamaly - alias Amal El Gharbi, is passionate about modest fashion and interested in social and women issues. Aamaly mag is a bilingual online space created after an inspirational trip to Canada to share passion for modest fashion, but also insights on women’s conditions, education and society.
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Food
PASTA
PERFECTO Spaghetti, Penne, Tomato, Cream, Pesto, Boiled, Baked...there are so many ways to make your favourite Italian meal. This month we share with you super easy pasta recipes. Enjoy!
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Food
CREAMY PESTO CHICKEN LINGUINI
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Ingredients 400g linguini 500g chicken breasts, chopped or chicken stir fry strips 300ml tub cream ¼ cup basil pesto
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Method
In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the linguini according to packet directions.
Meanwhile, in a nonstick frying pan, sauté the chicken until golden, 4 to 6 minutes.
Add the cream and reduce heat, add basil pesto and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the linguini and toss to coat in the yummy sauce.
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Food
TUNA 56
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Ingredients 4 cups cooked penne pasta 410g tuna 1 cup grated cheddar cheese 420g can condensed celery soup
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Method
Preheat oven 180C.
Into a large bowl place pasta, tuna, half the cheese and the soup, season with cracked pepper.
Pour into a 22cm baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbling about 30 minutes.
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Health
We’ve all been there...we glance over at our long to-do list and our brains just switch off. Too much work and the brain and the body aren’t coordinating. Not even a strong cup of coffee is going to help. This especially happens to us #girlbosses who work from home. Being at home has its perks but motivation is sometimes hard to jolt. So what do you do when motivation is running at an all time low and all you feel like doing is curling up in bed?
Written by Juliana Iskandar 59
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ometimes when your lazy bones are just too heavy, giving yourself a small reward helps. Tell yourself to do just 5 minutes of work. That’s all. Tell yourself, “ok, let me just send 1 email and after I’m done I will reward myself with a chocolate bar.” Remember when we were kids and our parents would tell us to clean our room and after we’ve done so we’d get to watch our favourite cartoon? It’s like that. The brain works better when we have something to look forward to. 60
If rewards aren’t your thing, try breaking down the long list to smaller tasks and tell yourself to just finish that one small task. Before you know it, after you’re done with that small task, you’d automatically go on to the next. Personally this is something I do. Sometimes I find myself unmotivated to write. I have tons of story ideas but the moment I sit in front of the laptop, I’m hit with writer’s block. Why? Because whilst I may have many story ideas running through my mind, I don’t have the motivation to actually write.
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But here’s what I started doing - I start with just 1 line. Then 1 line would lead to 1 paragraph and before I know it, I’m done with one entire article. The key here is to just begin. And that’s the quote I have now on my desktop wallpaper - Just begin. Speaking of just beginning, one tip I can give you is also to count. I know you’re probably reading this and saying to yourself, “Count? Like counting sheep before bed?” Well ya, something like that. But you’re not counting to drift off to sleep. When I’m sitting on the couch or lying in bed and I know I have to get up and get some work done, I count to 10 and stand up. Psychologically once you’re on your feet, your body knows it needs to get moving. 61
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And since we’re on the subject of counting, I do more counting to not allow my mind to wander off. I have this habit of getting distracted while I’m in the midst of doing something. Countless times, I have found myself in my bedroom going through old photos when all I had planned to do was to get something out of the closet. This is going to sound silly but I quietly whisper “1,2,1,2” when I’m in the midst of a task. 62
That way I distract my mind from wandering off. Plus when the phone beeps (which is all day, all night, for me) the silent counting stops my mind from reacting to the beep. At this point my mind’s too busy counting to react to the messages. And speaking of phones which is the number one distractor, I like to put it on silent when I’m in the middle of something important like writing.
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That way, I don’t get distracted by the constant beeping. Side note: to those of you who don’t get an instant reply from me, now you know why. I hope these little tips have helped you in a way. I know for the Health section we usually talk about physical health but mental health is just as important. Stay healthy!
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