Emirates Woman - March 2024

THE AUTHENTICITY ISSUE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER AND GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy Sessions amy.sessions@motivate.ae

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff

DIGITAL EDITOR Ruman Baig DIGITAL STYLE EDITOR Sarah Joseph FASHION EDITOR Camille Macawili

JUNIOR DESIGNER Charissa Canlas EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Londresa Flores

GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP SALES MANAGER

Chaitali Khimji chaitali.khimji@motivate.ae

GROUP MARKETING MANAGER Joelle Albeaino WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CONTRIBUTORS

Joëlle Albeaino, Izzy Turner, Mark Mathew, Ahmed Abd El-Wahab, Varun Godinho

HEAD OFFICE

Reine de Naples 8918

The Queen of Naples, Caroline Bonaparte Murat, owned thirty-four Breguet watches. Start with one.

Make History with us.

Editor’s Letter

Welcome to The Authenticity Issue. Emirates Woman as a brand has authenticity and integrity at its core. For this issue, which is out as the special month of Ramadan begins, we turn inward and look at what and those who are of value, and who hold these attributes within themselves.

SHOW UP AS YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF

For our cover, we partnered with Mouawad, in Resplendent on page 16. The renowned luxury jewellery brand recognised for its timeless elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and rich heritage. With a legacy spanning over a century, Mouawad has epitomised excellence in jewellery, crafting the extraordinary with artistic mastery and trusted expertise.

In this issue, Dubai Ladies Club celebrates its 20th anniversary as it continues to empower women in the region over two decades of groundbreaking on in For Women By Women on page 116, Chaumet utilises authentic craftsmanship, casting

a sense of purity and spirit in Flight of Freedom on page 52, master of innovation and horological excellence, Audemars Piguet introduces its latest timepiece in collaboration with designer Tamara Ralph in Authentic Elegance on page 48 and it is with great honour that we support HH Sheikha Mozah Bint Marwan Al Maktoum on her inspiring journey from a pioneering pilot to a children’s book author in Soaring to New Heights on page 114. We also focus on how to show up as our best and most authentic selves. With this in mind, we discuss feeling enough and the power this has to transform your life positively with RTT founder, Marisa Peer in Authentically Enough on page 106 and we compile an edit of short-haul getaways rooted in design, locality and culture to press reset this coming Eid in Eid Escapes on page 128.

At this special time of the year, slow down and show up as your authentic self, it’s the best self.

Sessions EDITOR / ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Lidia patent-leather slingback pumps Dhs1,913

Paris Texas

Calypso Long padded leather pouch Dhs3,750 Saint Laurent

Valkyrie aviator-style acetate sunglasses Dhs3,053

Jacques Marie Mage

THE HERO BUYS

Amy

Cutout satin kaftan Dhs3,800 Taller Marmo available at

No.3 Hair Perfector, 100ml Dhs82 OLAPLEX

The

Report SS24 p.30

Fashion

The Edit – The best clutch bags for essentials-only p.26

Glide – The best flats for a serene events season p.28

An Authentic Approach – The creative director of Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi, takes the brand’s signature styles to new heights for Ramadan p.44 Authentic Elegance – Audemars Piguet introduces its latest timepiece in collaboration with designer Tamara Ralph p.48

Hot New Buys p.96

An Authentic Cut –Stacey Gallello, founder of Gallello Atelier, on what it takes to craft timeless pieces p.56 Collaboration & Creativity – Fatma Al Otaiba, founder of ODEEM, on collaboration and creativity p.62

Haute Height – MACH & MACH’s Georgian sister duo on creating a global footwear superbrand p.70

The Luxe Reboot –Sébastien Létrange on how he nurtured LÉTRANGE back to life, and dives into the finer details of its exquisite signature styles p.74

A True Legacy – An interview with designer Iris von Arnim p.78

A Masterwork –Alexander McQueen delivers a capsule collection inspired by 16th century Old Master paintings for Ramadan p.86

Style and Grace –Miu Miu Ramadan 2024 Collection p.92

Shine Through – Fendi Ramadan 2024 Collection p.82

CONTENTS

March 2024

Beauty / Wellness

Authentic Allure –Oud-infused scents redefining luxury and tradition p.98

Skincare Authenticity –Skincare guru Rebecca Treston on essential skincare practices to adopt daily p.104

Authentically Enough –RTT founder, Marisa Peer, on feeling enough and the power this has to transform your life positively p.106

The Blackout – Brothers and founders of Drowsy, Thom and Rich Hemelryk, on their journey creating a wearable blackout shade p.108

Beauty Shelf – Amna Mohammad Karmostaji, founder of Elna Line p.110

AM/PM Beauty –Founder of OKTA, Alia Al Khafajy p.112

Flight of Freedom –Chaumet utilises authentic craftsmanship, casting a sense of purity and spirit p.52

The Minimalist’s Dream –Aman Tokyo delivers clean lines , precise detailing, and next-level views of the city skyline p.132

Lifestyle

Soaring to New Heights – HH Sheikha Mozah Bint Marwan

Al Maktoum on her inspiring journey from a pioneering pilot to a children’s book author p.114

For Women By Women –Dubai Ladies Club celebrates its 20th anniversary as it continues to empower women in the region p.116

Holistic Healing –Lauren Baker on her captivating “Letter

From The Universe” installation in Kintsugi Space, Abu Dhabi p.118

Pure Talent – Candelight Concerts by Fever p.122

Eid Escapes p.128

The Real Deal – Aman Kyoto is a secluded world where tradition and modernity meet p.134

MOUAWAD

BY THE BEACH

Break your fast in our beachside live stations buffet with the sounds of the waves crashing and soft tunes by our resident entertainment.

Adults can feast for AED 110 with soft beverages included and AED 55 for kids below 12 years old.

Reserve your spot WhatsApp +971 56 414 1085

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Rich Tapestry

The latest launches, new openings and hero buys

WORDS:

SARAH JOSEPH

AN ODE TO LOCAL

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, in partnership with Emirati, homegrown perfume brand, ARCADIA by Amna Al Habtoor, announces the launch of ‘Seaside’, an exclusive fragrance that beautifully marries the cultural aromas of the United Arab Emirates and the French Riviera.

12

THREE TO OWN 3

Torn Heart Oversized Gold-Tone Earrings Dhs3,010 Alaïa

Ubud One-Shoulder FeatherTrimmed Crepe Maxi Dress Dhs8,400 Taller Marmo

Ami Leather Pumps Dhs2,745 Amina Muaddi available at

Casa Letter “A” Ring in 18kt Rose Gold Dhs4,350 Noora Shawqi

Aesthetique Retexturing Treatment Serum Dhs185 Plenaire

Rose Saffron Eau de Parfum, 100ml Dhs840 Whind

Mira Top-Handle Bag in Nappa Dhs3,150 L'Afshar

Breton by Fernanda Marques

LANDSCAPE SOFA

@bretondubai

Al

Social Listings

A curated guide of authentic accounts to #follow on Instagram

COMPILED BY:

SARAH JOSEPH

@amankyoto

The very best of Japan combining tradition and modernity.

@machandmach Statement shoes designed for after-hours impact.

@iris_von_arnim Luxury knitwear crafted for the minimalist.

@drowsysleepco Home of the cult silk sleep mask.

@letrange.paris Heritage bags with a twist since 1838. @fforme Elevated knitwear that works in harmony with the body.

@louisvuitton

The French luxury fashion house known for their iconic pieces.

@simihazebeauty Skincare-infused vegan makeup essentials.

@tamararalph Craftsmanship and design stemming from the heart of couture.

Choose from our extensive range of authentic Thesiger photographs.

PERFECT DECORATIONS FOR HOTELS, OFFICES

AND HOMES.

Framed or unframed prints available exclusively from The Arabian Gallery

WORDS & CREATIVE DIRECTION:

CAMILLE MACAWILI PHOTOGRAPHY: ŽIGA MIHEL I

Fine craftsmanship fused with authenticity inform Mouawad’s latest high jewellery designs. The pièces de résistance, the “Machu Picchu” bangle and earrings from the “Sun on the Seven Wonders” collection, are punctuated with exuberant stones and steal the spotlight with their majestic energy

Resplendent

This page: Sun on the Seven Wonders, ‘Machu Picchu’ white and yellow gold bangle and earrings with diamonds, all Mouawad

Both pages: ‘White Desert’ yellow and white diamond earrings and bracelet, all Mouawad

Both pages:

‘Drops of Passion’ ruby and diamond necklace, bracelet, earrings and ring, all Mouawad

Both pages: High jewellery blue sapphire, diamond necklace, Gemstone Classics rings: ruby, blue sapphire, emerald, yellow sapphire and diamond rings, all Mouawad

MAKEUP & HAIR: MAURO HERNAN AT MMG ARTISTS; MODEL: JULIANA STÜRMER AT MMG; FASHION ASSISTANT: DHAARNA MAKER AT BAREFACE; LOCATION WITH THANKS TO BAB AL SHAMS; STYLING WITH THANKS TO OUNASS

This page: ‘White Desert’ yellow and white diamond earrings; Right page: High jewellery diamond necklace, bracelet, earrings and ring, all Mouawad

WORDS: AMY

THE EDIT

The best clutch bags for essentials-only

T-Lock texturedleather clutch Dhs3,088 TOTEME

Fendi First leather & shearling clutch bag Dhs10,385 Fendi available at MATCHES x Sellier

Leather clutch Dhs4,190 Hunting Season

Left: Rue mini crystal-embellished canvas clutch Dhs1,635 Cult Gaia; Below: Knot padded intrecciato leather clutch Dhs13,200 Bottega Veneta

Leather clutch bag with metal chain Dhs700 Mango

+ Fernando Jorge Ease embellished glossedleather clutch Dhs6,140 Métier exclusively available at NET-A-PORTER

Rose Marie iridescent metallic elaphe tote Dhs7,900 Alaïa

Mini city bag Dhs169 Zara

GLIDE

The best flats for a serene events season

Bianca logo-embellished raffia slides Dhs3,100 Dolce & Gabbana

Above: Bow grosgrain and leather slingback sandals Dhs2,559 The Row available at NET-A-PORTER; Left: Chocolate leather slides Dhs2,470 The Row available at NET-A-PORTER

Above: Patent leather-trimmed mesh ballet flats Dhs3,290 Alaïa; Below: The Asymmetric leather ballet flats Dhs1,803 TOTEME

Anais bowembellished leather slingback point-toe flats Dhs3,750 Saint Laurent

Luna leather-trimmed mesh ballet flats Dhs1,526 Le Monde Beryl

THE RUNWAY REPORT SS24

WORDS & STYLING: CAMILLE MACAWILI

90S REVIVAL

ALTUZARRA

Clean lines, neutral shades, casual fits – the SS24 runways were a throwback to 90s minimalism (think: Helmut Lang and Calvin Klein). It received a stamp of approval from AMI, Miu Miu and Gucci, all of whom unveiled model-off-duty styles.

TIBI

MIU MIU

CORP CORE

Social media has spoken: the Office Siren trend is not going anywhere – and it’s here to take over. For SS24, Gucci’s new creative director Sabato de Sarno, Victoria Beckham, and Jacquemus’ Simon Porte took a step back to present a lineup of office-friendly garments.

VERSACE

SAINT LAURENT

DRIES VAN NOTEN

JACQUEMUS

VICTORIA BECKHAM

WHITE OUT

VICTORIA BECKHAM

Succumb to allure of pristine and perfect whites for SS24. When temperatures heat up, look to the runways at Chloé, Valentino, and Proenza Schouler for fresh takes to wear the hue.

SAINT LAURENT

TORY BURCH

JACQUEMUS

VALENTINO

FULL FRINGE

For SS24, different forms of fringe popped up on numerous runways. Rabanne, Christopher Esber, Tom Ford leaned heavily into this though it took shape in a variety of styles, silhouettes and sizes.

RABANNE

ROKSANDA

CHRISTOPHER ESBER

TOM FORD

KEEP IT SPICY

BOTTEGA VENETA

Burgundy for spring? SS24’s new neutral isn’t your usual hue. This deep burgundy shade will bring intensity and heat to your ‘fits.

ALTUZARRA

SHORT SHORTS

The motto for SS24? Go short or go home. The shortest hemlines were rampant on the runways. If the short hemlines leave you feeling exposed, don’t disregard this trend just yet. For a more modest take, look no further than Khaite and offset with billowing blouses, or balance it out with a tunic as seen at Valentino.

KHAITE

DAVID KOMA

PRADA

MODERN FEMME

Taking on a gentler and grown-up form, femininity was expressed with a 90s streamlined edge. Elegant drapes and sophisticated silhouettes are set to be the ultimate power-dressing move for SS24.

JACQUEMUS

VICTORIA BECKHAM

GUCCI

SAINT LAURENT

ALAÏA

LOEWE

SHEER GENIUS

For when the heat turns up, the SS24 runways revealed an array of elevated sheer dressing ideas. Pieter Muller of Alaïa, Peter Hawkings of Tom Ford and Gabriela Hearst were all on the same page as their respective brands were not shy in putting forward their see-through visions.

CHRISTOPHER ESBER

PRADA

SPORTMAX

3.1

PHILLIP LIM

THE JEWELLERY

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT; CHLOÉ, VALENTINO, COPERNI, GUCCI

For SS24, let your jewellery do the talking as bold, sculptural and directional designs interspersed the new collections.

INVESTMENT BAGS

The SS24 runways presented a gamut of arm candies in all shapes and sizes.

Bottega Veneta, Fendi, and Loewe delivered some of the most lust-worthy and practical designs, making them perfect investment buys.

FERRAGAMO

LOEWE

GIVENCHY

SUMMER FLATS

From ballerina flats to strappy sandals, the SS24 runways were awash with footwear newness of every height, silhouette, and colour. Fendi gave us chic ballerina flats in a variety of colourways while Hermès and Louis Vuitton introduced wear-all-summer styles.

HERMÈS

TORY BURCH

FENDI

PUMP IT UP

Pumps are here to stay. Fendi and Prada SS24 runways all brimmed with this timeless footwear silhouette while Gucci scaled it to new heights with 70s-inspired platform pumps.

STELLA MCCARTNEY

GIVENCHY

ACNE STUDIOS

Creative Director of Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi, takes the brand’s signature styles to new heights for Ramadan

AN AUTHENTIC APPROACH

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

“Jimmy Choo is a celebratory brand, we create special styles and

collections for our community to highlight their personal style,

What is the inspiration behind the free-spiritedness and refined glamour that the collection evokes? We wanted to create something that was modern, sleek but also glamorous and that could work on different heel heights so there is something for everyone. I was inspired by my love for summer sandals and these styles are the ultimate embodiment of summer.

The collection celebrates the signature standout styles of the brand. Tell us more about the key styles in this collection. The Jimmy Choo icon, the SAEDA, has been updated as a pump and sandal option available in Champagne, Light Pink Candy and Dark Green in metallic mesh, hot fix crystal and snake-print leather. Similarly, the VAL mules are an elegant yet effortless day-tonight option. In accessories, the CALLIE bag and Avenue Wallet Chain clutches are available in the same colourways and finishes as the shoes.

How do you envision the pieces to be worn during Ramadan? Jimmy Choo is a celebratory brand, we create special styles and collections for our community to highlight their personal style, mixing it with traditional pieces during the month of Ramadan.

mixing it with traditional pieces during the month of Ramadan”

AUTHENTIC

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Master of innovation and horological excellence, Audemars Piguet introduces its latest timepiece in collaboration with designer Tamara Ralph. We discuss the finer details of the collaboration with Ralph and ask what makes her tick

What have you learned about the horology space? As someone who was already passionate about haute horlogerie, I have long admired this specific category and had, what I feel, is an innate understanding of what makes an exceptional timepiece.

However, this partnership has afforded me the opportunity to truly understand what goes into the making of a watch – especially a highly intricate design – and I have learned that it is just as painstaking as designing and creating couture. Being a highly technical product, it is quite a layered and meticulous process, so I have walked away with an even greater appreciation of all that goes into the making of a one-of-a-kind timepiece.

The Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon captures exquisite craftsmanship and forward-thinking spirit of both brands. How did you go about conceptualising the design and how long did the entire creation process take? I would say that one of – if not the – main objectives was to create a design that honoured both my brand as well as that of Audemars Piguet, fusing together in a seamless and authentic way our brand pillars and overall design aesthetic. I approached the design of this watch in much the same way as I would a piece of haute couture, given both require enormous attention to detail and often painstaking technique – but, fortunately, had the incredible guidance of and collaboration with the Audemars Piguet team.

Ultimately, it was about exploring different methods of creativity, through a new medium for me – and pushing the boundaries in a sense – but in a way that kept in mind and honoured the ornate nature of haute horology. I feel the watch ultimately captures the essence of both of our brands; it is unique, elegant and feminine, but also bold, layered and modern.

spheres of expertise, to ultimately create something beautiful from all angles, and entirely unique.

How do you envision this timepiece to be worn? I think an individual will wear this watch to feel pulled together, polished and elegant. A watch – in my opinion – is very much the finishing piece for a look. In fact, I often feel as though something is missing if I don't have one on myself! In designing this piece, I also kept in mind versatility; as I wanted it to be incredibly bold and unique, but also conducive to being worn from day into evening. I see this piece as a permanent fixture in a woman's wardrobe, and very much the final touch regardless of the outfit or the time of day – be it a chic, well-tailored suit in the daytime, or a head-turning gown in the evening. With collab culture at an all-time high, what makes a creative project stand out to you? Aside from a collaboration featuring a product –or products – that offer something wholly unique in the market, to me a project stands out when it is clear that both brands are aligned in their vision and their pillars; even if they have pushed the boundaries, which is important to a collaboration and really what makes it so unique. For a collaboration to resonate with me personally, and I do think the same is true of consumers, it has to feel organic and genuine. The brands need to make sense together and have a sense of cohesiveness, even if it might be unexpected.

“Having this sense of trust and mutual respect is so important, and – in my opinion – is what gives you the space to be authentically yourself”

In terms of the entire creation process from beginning to end – it took many, many months! But it was an absolutely exciting process, and I very much enjoyed every stage.

What are some challenges you encountered in this collaboration? As a creative, it is always exciting to challenge myself stylistically and push my creativity in new directions – and this collaboration has certainly given me the space and freedom to do just that.

The creative process was, in my ways, similar to creating a piece of couture – particularly in terms of the attention to detail required. I suppose the most challenging aspect was simply designing a watch, as this is new territory for me as a designer however, I very much enjoyed pushing myself creatively to do so! And of course, Audemars Piguet was incredible to collaborate with and helped guide me through the process. We very much leveraged each other's different

What are you spending most of your time on right now? Well, firstly, having very recently unveiled my new collection under my eponymous brand – for Spring/Summer 2024 – in Paris during Haute Couture week in January, I am quite busy with client appointments. With that said however, I am already mentally (and physically) preparing for the next collection, as the next season will be here before we know it. Aside from work, I am also spending my time with my family – my daughter, Haliya, and my partner – as we prepare for the arrival of our second daughter, who is due this summer. So, in between work commitments, I am quite busy preparing the nurseries. As you can tell, there is just never enough time! This is The Authenticity Issue – What does it mean to you, and how do you create it for yourself? Being authentic, to me, means staying true to yourself, your vision and your values; unapologetically so. I maintain this by being strong and unwavering in how I work and how I approach both business and life and am especially careful to surround myself with people who believe in me and my vision, and who share these values. Having this sense of trust and mutual respect is so important, and – in my opinion – is what gives you the space to be authentically yourself.

Chaumet utilises authentic craftsmanship, casting a sense of purity and spirit

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Flight of Freedom

ALL AVAILABLE AT CHAUMET

Occupying a place between earth and sky, the new High Jewellery capsule Un Air de Chaumet writes a unique chapter in the story woven between Chaumet and nature over 240 years. Depicting the grace of birds with dexterity and daring, from aerial display to sky-slicing flight, the parures cast their creativity.

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

An Authentic Cut

Stacey Gallello, founder of Gallello Atelier, discusses what it takes to craft timeless pieces and the level of attention to detail that separates the brand from the rest

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine – and how non-negotiable are these practises? I have always been an early riser but now that I am a mum and an entrepreneur, the solitude of my early mornings have become even more sacred. I like to get up at 5.30am and use my alone time to reconnect with my ‘why’ and goals. When you run your own business, the day can go by in a blur with the amount of messages and decisions you need to make that sometimes we can lose touch with why we started in the first place. I use the mornings to open one of my books like ‘Manifest’ by Roxie Nafousi or ‘Dior and I’ by Christian Dior to try to reconnect with my vision for the Atelier over a cup of coconut milk matcha.

When did you decide to launch Gallello Atelier and what are the core pillars of the brand? My husband’s grandfather, Dominic Gallello, was the Pattern Cutter for Christian Dior himself working alongside him to hone his craft. The role of the Pattern Cutter is how to bring a design to life, he receives the first sketch from the designer and makes it a reality. I inherited Dominic Senior’s archives including

a series of sketches, fabrics, and designs that he had made for his wife, Elena. For my wedding, I wanted to honour Dominic and Elena by remaking one of the dresses he had made for her. When I brought the piece to my tailor she examined its construction and told me that clothes aren’t made this way anymore – it was completely handmade and the pattern behind it was complex. These heirlooms started my journey of the Atelier and the vision to revive the love for the one, well-made piece and the craftsmanship of artisans in luxury. As I began to build the Atelier in Venice, I learned that the artisans and tailors who still practise nonno’s craft today are approaching retirement and that the idea of artisan made in Italy is a dying workforce. The heart of the Atelier is to return to nonno’s era of couturier craft – where fashion was made to order, where women shopped attending elegant salons, and each piece was individually made to a client’s specifications by a single artisan. Each piece at the Atelier is crafted to the highest degree by a single artisan using exclusively noble materials – silks, cashmere, and virgin wool. We believe that luxury is artisan made. Gallello Atelier creates traditional, hand-tailored garments deeply rooted in the ethics of Made in Italy and artisan savoir-faire.

How did you know it was the right time to take the leap and with whom did you found the business? I have been very fortunate to have had a successful career in tech. I have worked with filmmaker Andrew Jarecki to launch a consumer mobile video editing product ten years ago which was acquired by Apple. I then went on to work for Sean Parker on another mobile consumer video product before joining the customer automation software company, Braze, which went public in 2021. After a successful career in tech and learning more about the fashion industry, I felt compelled to make a change for a more fulfilling career. I am the sole founder of Gallello Atelier, which is completely funded by my husband and myself. I have two founding members, Agata and Anna, who create a trio of this female led business who have extensive experience in the fashion industry.

How do you scale without compromising on quality? We are a small Atelier where each piece is made to order for each client. We have one Pattern Cutter and two tailors, one who specialises in ‘Atelier Tailleur’ jackets and one in ‘Atelier Flou’ soft dressmaking. We have an extremely limited production and built this business to keep it as such. This business is built on slow craftsmanship

IMAGES: NATALIA KISELEVA; ROWBEN LANTION

Stacey and Dominic Gallello

and our most important asset is our team. Authenticity is the cornerstone in the foundation of team building, fostering an environment where trust, respect and appreciation for each other’s skill thrive. By providing an environment in which each team member is given the opportunity and autonomy to thrive in their respective roles, it enhances their wellbeing and strengthens our collaboration around our shared goal and values.

Do you believe in manifestation and the ability to create what you can visualize? I am a firm believer in manifesting and the Atelier is a product of that. For me, this isn’t a new practice as I have always identified as a ‘dreamer’ and have believed that if I want something enough, it will come to fruition. My daily mantra is ‘to create your dream world and live in it’ – the Atelier is my dream world. The more I invest energy into visualising what that world looks like, the more it comes to life. I love vintage films, fashion, and the glamour of old Hollywood. For me, this is the essence of what luxury should be. The Atelier returns to this era.

and uncompromising quality and we offer an extremely limited number of pieces which is what makes them so special. How important is client retention and do you create bespoke pieces for clients? The Atelier has been built on creating a small community of clients with an appreciation for tailoring and couturier craft. Our utmost priority is to our community of clients who are just as passionate about ‘artisan-made’ as we are. The Atelier is committed to reviving the relationship between the creator and the client. For each client, we take them on the ‘creation journey’ of their piece. This approach enriches client understanding and appreciation of the artisanal processes and ensures that each piece carries with it a story of its own – a narrative of creativity and a shared passion for excellence. The Atelier offers a ‘Special Order’ service creating bespoke pieces exclusively to existing clients. We offer a made-to-measure service, where any piece in the Collections can be custom-made to a client’s unique measurements and specifications.

Which piece drives sales season after season? The Isabella Jacket and Antonella Skirt is our signature set.

Do you creative direct the shoots for the brand yourself? I have the vision for the campaigns but the creative production is led by Agata, the Atelier’s Head of Brand and Creative. Agata has extensive experience in the luxury sector, in particular in fine jewellery. ‘La Collezione Elena’ Campaign was directed by Agata and shot at Passalacqua Hotel in my favourite destination in Italy, Lake Como. Aside from being the number one hotel in the world, Passalacqua was a very special location for me to shoot the campaign. As a fan of opera, Vicenzo Bellini wrote his most famous Operas Norma and La Sonnambula at the former Villa Passalacqua. The vision for the Atelier is to promote the lost craft of the artisan as a fine art equivalent to that of the operatic pieces we enjoy today.

Have you had any mentors on your journey and if so, what knowledge did they impart? I am fortunate to have inherited this beautiful history from my husband’s grandfather, Dominic Gallello. His passion for his craft is the mentorship that has inspired me throughout my journey in building the Atelier. He told stories of how Christian Dior highly regarded and respected each of the artisans who worked for him. He was actively involved in collaborating and working with his artisans to bring each design to life. This is a core value of our business to build a deep appreciation for the artisan making the garment and regard their craft equivalent to that of the CEO of the business. My father-in-law, also Dominic Gallello, is a serial CEO of various successful tech companies and his experience has offered me the counterbalance to the creative inspiration in running a business. Gallello Atelier is very much a family run business.

“Authenticity is the cornerstone in the foundation of team building, fostering an environment where trust, respect and appreciation for each other’s skill thrive”

What have been your biggest challenges to date both professionally and personally and how did you overcome them? My biggest challenge in the business is also one in which I have been very fortunate – in building a fantastic team. I joke that the Atelier is a ‘serendipity vortex’ in which wonderful people have come across my path and joined our mission. While it has taken time and a few mistakes to gather the team we have today, we could not have better talent behind this business. I think to overcome the challenges in building a great team is to run a values-based business that people will believe in and want to be a part of.

Authenticity and persistence are gamechangers. How have these attributes shown up in your life? We are a small Atelier

What advice would you give to your younger self? When I was six, I was inspired by my mother’s style and chose a Chanel-inspired pale pink tweed skirt suit to wear to a birthday party. When I arrived, every other girl was in a frilly dress and tulle skirt. I would tell young Stacey that you will always feel your most confident when you are authentically yourself. Embracing your uniqueness is the cornerstone of genuine self-confidence. Young Stacey, standing amidst a sea of frilly dresses, might have felt like an outsider, but in reality, she was a beacon of individuality. That moment of choosing a Chanel-inspired suit over a traditional party dress wasn’t just about fashion – it was a declaration of independence, a first step in understanding and asserting her identity. It’s about recognising and holding onto the things that make you distinctly you, even when they diverge from the norm. This path isn’t always easy. It comes with its share of raised eyebrows and whispers of dissent. But the rewards – selfrespect, authenticity, and the magnetic pull of genuine confidence – far outweigh the discomfort of standing out. I have entered as an outsider into a competitive industry with a drastically different perspective on fashion. While it is easy to be swayed by what everyone else is doing, it is important to remain true to your individuality and values that will make you stand out in this industry. How would you define your style in three words? Elegant, poetic, and vintage. This is The Authenticity Issue – what does Authenticity mean to you? Authenticity to me means remaining true to your purpose. As the founder of a small Atelier inspired by the legacy of our grandfather’s couturier craft, authenticity embodies a profound reverence for the artisan and preserving tradition. Authenticity, in this context, is not just about the uniqueness or the exclusivity of the garments but about the story, the passion, and the history woven into each piece. Authenticity is our commitment to maintaining the integrity of the artisan’s craft. By weaving the artisanal techniques that have been passed down through our family into each garment, we are ensuring that the artisan has a place in fashion’s future.

CREATIVITY COLLABORATION &

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

We discuss collaboration and creativity with Fatma Al Otaiba, founder of ODEEM

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the latest collection? I wanted to develop this collection with multiple elements and textures. I drew inspiration from our first collaboration bag with Alia bin Omair. This is the first collection where we are seeing earrings – how did you align on what the first iteration of these would be and will we be seeing more in future collections? I loved the texture of the fibre inspired handle and wanted to have earrings added to the collection. We are planning to have a few more drops

of earrings, hopefully in time for Ramadan. There is a new clasp design for this collection – how long did it take to achieve the perfect knots and what was the inspiration behind these? We tried several sample iterations for this bag to achieve the perfect Knot. The hardware design reflects the texture concepts throughout the new collection.

The materials you select are exceptional – is it challenging to source superlative materials to work with each season? We source our materials from several suppliers globally. It does take

time to find the right material to develop the collections, but we believe in creating quality pieces which last, so the investment is worth it. We love the styling of this shoot – do you always design with both the ability to wear the bags with both modern, minimalist silhouettes as well as local dress? The bags are always designed to be versatile.

Do you personally have a favourite piece in the collection? That would be the Knot bag because it is inspired by someone that who near and dear to me.

Georgian sister duo Nina and Gvantsa Macharashvili, founders of MACH & MACH share

HAUTE

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

their journey on creating a global footwear superbrand

HEIGHT

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? We start work every day at 9am in the morning. The first half hour is basically spent organising the day, distributing tasks and going through the calendar of meetings. Over a cup of coffee, we also discuss the current processes with our creative team and go through the development of the collections. More active work usually starts between 9.30 and 10am. What inspired you to launch MACH & MACH?

The creation of the brand was very organic. Since childhood, we have been fascinated by fashion and everything related to it. Fashion magazines, art and fancy clothes were our daily interests and when we reached the age where we had to start working, we didn’t think about anything else. It was our dream since childhood to create clothes and shoes that we only had in our imagination and that we could not buy in a shop. Luckily, people liked our style almost immediately and the brand became very popular in a short time. Talk us through the creative process. The creative process is actually quite long, but at the same time very exciting. It all starts with inspiration, as very collection has its own inspiration and mood. It can come from different places and different environments. Then we put it all on the mood board and only then do we start working on the sketches. The creation of each collection is like a journey, at the end of which you see your result, and if your customer likes your result, it gives you additional motivation and enthusiasm. But the most important ingredient in this whole process is still love for your work. Without passion and love, your collection will never be what it should be.

How did your signature crystal bow accent come about? There was no special approach to creating the double arch. It was the same process as any other product. We always strive to create a product that makes the customer feel beautiful and unique. The double Bow became our first best-selling product and perfectly represents the DNA of the brand.

Each element emulates the magic of this modern-day Cinderella slipper – tell us about the materials used? Choosing the right materials is one of the most important aspects of creating a product. We always try to use only the highest

“The double Bow became our first best-selling product and

quality materials. A beautiful design does not automatically mean a beautiful product. It is necessary to create it correctly so that your customers are always satisfied with the quality and expectations. Their satisfaction is the main goal of our brand and therefore we try to make the product always perfect. How do you ensure consistency in each design? Overall, how have you maintained its quality over the years? Quality assurance is absolutely fundamental to building a brand. As we have already mentioned, a satisfied customer is the greatest asset for our company. We have a large team of people working on this in production, and in fact the quality of every pair of shoes produced is checked one by one. The latest SS24 collection is an ode to the royalty of the undersea – tell us more. We imagined a romantic fairy tale set in fantastic underwater landscapes, where sunlight reflects off crystalclear water and creates iridescent light effects. Researching materials, we found a vintage leather perfect for this collection, iridescent, which we have reproduced. The marine inspiration was then translated into pastel colours and the use of pearls in gradient colours and sizes. With this collection, we launched our first thong style, with a sculptural kitten heel and the two straps covered in white pearls with a blue undertone.

Various celebrities have been spotted in a pair – name a few? We have been fortunate to have many celebrities wear our products around the world, which makes us very happy. One such highlight was when Beyoncé wore our shoes as she has been an icon for us since childhood and it was our dream.

What have been the biggest milestones in your career so far? We really want to believe that this is just the beginning and that we haven’t yet reached what we really want to achieve in our careers. We want the brand’s popularity to grow as much as possible and reach higher heights and to have as many loyal customers as possible and to make them as happy as possible with our new collections. People’s love and respect for our brand means a lot to us and we are working very hard not to disappoint them and to make the brand one of the most successful brands in the world. Your brand aims to empower women from around the world – was this the plan from the outset? This was definitely our goal from the beginning. It’s part of the foundation of the brand, and we hope to do even better in the future. This is The Authenticity Issue – how do you manage to stay authentic in your work? To be authentic to your art, you must first be honest with yourself and your emotions. First, make the product that fits your brand’s aesthetic and what your customers expect from you as a brand.

perfectly represents the DNA of the brand”

THE LUXE

Globetrotter, Sébastien Létrange dared to take on a new adventure reviving the family’s legacy. Here, he shares how he nurtured LÉTRANGE back to life, and dives into the finer details of its exquisite signature styles

1855, 1878, 1889 and many more. His motto was “Achieve excellence and challenge it each and every day”, linking to our strong commitment to craftsmanship, a phrase he engraved on the pediment of his workshop in 1865 and we strive to live by this even today. Later on, in the 1900s, my great grandmother Henriette came to the helm, adding her own motto to the brand’ s DNA: “Life is a peculiar journey with unexpected stop overs”. She added a feminine touch to an otherwise masculine technical base, thus diversifying LÉTRANGE further. What’s more, she was one of the very few women who held such a position of power within what was then one of the biggest leather houses in the world – she was constantly a trailblazer. Nurturing the creative spirit of Auguste and embodying the drive for excellence instilled by Armand, she opened LÉTRANGE’s door to a world of more possibilities, curiosities and encounters. I decided to stay faithful to my ancestry, by adding my little stone to the Maison and modeling a new vision that is: “Heritage with a twist” – paying homage to three great members of our family but modernising their wise principles to today’s world.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? Wow, this is the first time anyone has ever asked me this question! I love it. Well, the very first 30 minutes of my day consists of a quick shower because I then have to work on preparing and readying breakfast for my five-year-old twins. I am blessed as a happy husband, and the responsibility of breakfast is completely on me as requested by my children. This is our everyday 30-minute family routine and it’s one I thoroughly enjoy – the only time we don’t follow this is when I’m travelling.

These 28 minutes are cherished moments of great connection between us… The last two minutes is our version of ‘rush hour’, a stressful few minutes as we rush to pack and leave the house since we like to stretch our breakfast sessions to as long as possible!

How would you define the DNA of the brand and how has it evolved over the years? Auguste, the founder of LÉTRANGE in the 1800s, was from a very humble family. His father was a postman in Paris, and Auguste started working at the age of 13 as a saddler’s apprentice. At the age of 21, he founded his own saddle workshop directly connected to the Louvre Palace stables, exactly where the iconic pyramid stands today. In those days, it was formerly a neighbourhood called the “Doyenné”. He soon became the Royal Saddler, an extremely prestigious position at the time. By continuing to develop his skill, in 1844 he patented the first cigar holder in molded leather. That was the instance of a unique innovative and creative spirit within our Maison and has been the spirit of our family ever since.

From that moment, our humble business began to grow steadily. Armand, the second generation head, was a visionary technician. He was trained by Auguste and was the first one to receive several medals at the World Expos in

What are the brand signatures? Our main signature is the three punches in the leather that is on some of our bags for the past 150 years. It is a distinctive and discreet understatement, three points of suspension, telling a story that continues to unfold every day, capturing the adventurous spirit of the founders.

They also underscore the three pillars of the brand today: Excellence, Elegance and Exclusivity.

The name tag that is attached to some of our bags is the second signature element. We hold a genuine LÉTRANGE patent from 1926 that sits as the tribute to the house’s innovative spirit and desire of discretion for our customers, hiding their name away from the sight of everyone. Some of our bags, the Égo style, feature Saddle Nails, which act as a tribute to Auguste and his life as a Royal Saddler. We have also come to be known for our iconic Empreinte shape, a style that has become particularly famous. We just launched a special Ramadan capsule collection called the ‘Gilded Age’ collection, a special celebration of this stunning work of art.

When did you know it was the right time to relaunch the brand and how many styles did you launch with? It was never really in my plans, if I’m being completely honest. It is much more about the serendipity I’ve experienced over the past 40 years. I decided to dig into our family archives of the Maison, and I found such stunning pieces and stories I didn’t even know about… It was enough of an inspiration for me that cemented my next steps. I decided to take over the company as my great uncle stepped down a few years ago and take the wheel of a company that no one else in the family was willing to continue. I was lucky enough to find the most amazing designer to create the most beautiful luxury handbag collection: Mathias Jaquemet. Mathias is the genius designer who gave birth to some of my briefs in the most amazing and unexpected ways. He first worked on three bags: The Empreinte, the Vis à Vis, and the Attachant. Then he added the Égo and the PourquoiPas? – each style is a distinctive piece with its own character, story and rich history behind it.

REBOOT

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

You had different career transitions – from a photo and video reporter to running a creative advertising agency in Paris. Was it an obvious transition for you and how were your experiences useful in the world of design and luxury? I had all these rich experiences in my life that helped shape my outlook in life – while the journey may not have been the traditional route, it helped me clearly understand my goal. I cannot pretend that those experiences were useful for me in terms of design, but luckily, I am not a designer. But they definitely sharpened my eye a lot and helped me ascertain what I wanted to achieve with the LÉTRANGE legacy. Luxury is a commercial word that can lack content, especially with how many things are now marketed as “luxury”. LÉTRANGE is more about excellence in craftsmanship, for those who pay immense attention to details and look for distinctiveness.

Létrange is a family business. What is it like to be part of a brand with such a rich and storied heritage? Some would say such a responsibility could feel like a burden. However, thanks to Henriette’s free spirit, and as I never aimed to take over, I came to the table with a fresh approach, “Heritage with a twist”, which allowed me to follow the legacy but still gave me freedom to make new decisions, whilst voluntarily staying true to the brand’s spirit and DNA. And given this spirit seems to be in our blood it makes this crazy journey very entertaining and deeply satisfying.

LÉTRANGE pieces are truly unique. How important is it to use traditional techniques and how do you combine this with innovative design? The key is the talent of the designer, and I have to say Mathias Jaquemet, our Artistic Director excels on mixing our traditional handcrafting techniques from our legacy and a truly radical innovative spirit and line. He completely reimagined the technique for making a bag with the Attachant style (assembled without stitching but using a LÉTRANGE unique leather tab system) and the Égo (an asymmetric leather origami wonder). With the Empreinte, we wanted to create the most beautiful bag ever, so Mathias decided to literally make a jewellery-like bag, with a real piece of jewellery as the handle of a very minimal leather body enhanced by a little stiletto, providing an ultimate elegant silhouette.

are not driven by marketing, studies or data. They are driven by a deep creative process, as a family. We are within the fashion maelstrom, but we do not follow the quintessential “fashion agenda” and seasons. We are not a fashion house. We are an authentic leather maison who aim to create products that will last a lifetime.

The brand has opened its first pop up in partnership with Galeries Lafayette. How has the brand been received in the region? I have a wonderful, personal relationship with the region. I explored the Middle East for one year driving the four corners 23 years ago (probably to places only a few have been to!) and I still feel that connection to this region. I love its people. The opening at Galeries Lafayette was a very warm welcome. We had, as an example, two existing clients who came specifically to attend the event. One who flew from Kuwait in and out the same day, one who drove from Abu Dhabi. They are great ambassadors for us, and I was so blessed they came. It shows the relationship we have with them.

For bespoke pieces, how do you work with a client on crafting a customised piece? We have different levels of personalisation as we offer an inimitable in-store experience. We offer a range of personalisation options, starting with the Égo mini style, where you can choose bespoke Saddle Nails with precious gems, or your initials engraved on them. Then with the Attachant 10:30 style, which can be entirely assembled in-store and then sent to Paris for the final touches – clients can choose the colours and textures for each part of their bag, creating a piece that is totally unique to them. For those who crave something even more exclusive, we can create made-to-order Empreintes using exotic leathers or specific gemstones in the handle. We recently created a version of this we like to call the Empreinte 178 – a masterpiece using Himalayan exotic leather with 178 diamonds set in a white gold handle.

“LÉTRANGE is more about excellence in craftsmanship, for those who pay immense attention to details and look for distinctiveness”

That “sweet spot” took us three years of R&D and hundreds of prototypes. Today, its production is still a feat of strength as it requires the highest skills in crafting both the bag and the handle.

From your perspective, is there fear that an online presence would diminish a luxury brand’s equity? Did you think it was an issue with scaling the brand? We are a ‘relationship’ brand. We aim to connect with our clients and start a conversation with them. Our LÉTRANGE apartment in Paris is the essence of that approach – existing or potential clients can visit by appointment only. So, we eliminate the need to queue (which takes away from the luxury shopping experience) and clients don’t just come to buy a product, you come for the LÉTRANGE experience.

Though being online is miles away from this, it has become compulsory in many aspects. We still don’t have an online shopping platform, but our Instagram account has become a tool of interaction with our audience. I do not think it diminishes our brand’s equity as, for us, it is on a small scale for now.

Fashion is a business after all. As an independent brand, how do you navigate the global fashion market? Being an independent business is tough, in all back-office and financial aspects. But it can be an incredible chance for creativity and innovation. Our developments

What were the biggest lessons from seeing your grandmother operate the business? Through her philosophy, did she shape your point of view on design? Strangely, I never actually saw Henriette operate the business, she retired in 1975 and I lived with her from the 1980s until 2000. She embedded a spirit of adventure and entrepreneurship into me during this time through her delightful stories and knowledge. As an example, for years she told me stories of travel and adventures. She was admiring a famous French explorer and marine commander, Jean-Baptiste Charcot. In 1907, LÉTRANGE produced the travel equipment for Charcot’s Antarctic expedition on board the vessel ship named ‘Pourquoi-Pas?’ Digging through the archives, I found a piece of equipment and it reminded me of many of Henriette’s stories. I asked Mathias to design a bag we could name the Pourquoi-Pas?, becoming our tribute to both Henriette and Charcot. The inspiration for the aesthetics behind our designs come more from my mother, who is an elegant, timeless character herself. This is The Authenticity Issue – what does it mean to you, and how do you create it for yourself? Authenticity for me is being yourself and following your instincts, before anything else. I guess through the story I’ve told today, you can see this is something I’ve been doing for the last four decades. I think our motto “Heritage with a twist” is another example of my interpreted authenticity as I’m respecting our brand DNA, but adding my own instinctive spin. Transposing this to LÉTRANGE, I like to say that we aim to “make every day unique”, which is what I know Henriette, Armand and Auguste would have wanted.

A TRUE

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

LEGACY

Iris von Arnim has been interpreting zeitgeist in the form of cashmere and high-quality knitwear for over four decades

Global brand, Hamburg-based Iris von Arnim has a legacy spanning over four decades. The trailblazing designer has redefined the landscape of knitwear, infusing it with unparalleled sophistication and timeless elegance. As we delve into the story behind her iconic brand, we uncover a journey marked by passion, creativity, and dedication to craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration for her work from the company’s special history: in the early 70s, she spent several months in hospital after a serious car accident – and discovered knit-

ting for herself. A pastime turned into a business idea: hand-knitted sweaters with exceptional colour gradients. Since founding her own fashion brand in the early 80s, she has led the business in an unconventional way up until today.

The collection’s essence is luxury knitwear: outstanding and pure designs meet elaborate manufacturing techniques. High-quality knit essentials and signature styles combined with timeless readyto-wear and elegant double-faced pieces – favourite items that last a lifetime. Like all the designs, the expressive prints and

patterns are created by hand in the design studio in Hamburg.

Cashmere has been the focus of Iris von Arnim’s collections since the mid-80s. She designs one-of-a-kind pieces of unpretentious elegance and outstanding quality. Today, the business is one of the few family-owned German luxury brands that has achieved worldwide success. The collections continue to captivate audiences with their understated style and craftsmanship, proving that true luxury is not just about fleeting trends, but about timeless elegance that transcends generations.

Shine Through

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Encompassing the Italian house’s design codes, FENDI’s Ramadan collection is a deft balance between refined elegance and opulent shine

A Masterwork

Alexander McQueen delivers a capsule collection inspired by 16th century Old Master paintings for Ramadan

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

STYLE AND GRACE

Miu Miu plays up its Italian heritage and mastery of cool-girl practical luxury for its Ramadan 2024 collection

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Hot New Buys

WORDS :SARAH JOSEPH

A curated edit of the best beauty buys with an authentic touch

Radiant Skin

This cooling jelly with saffron threads is a royal treat for your skin. Resurfacing Saffron AHA Masque Dhs345 Ranavat

OUD ACCORD

This olfactive watershed pairs precious oud with the fresh exuberance of the ocean. Oud Minérale Eau de Parfum, 100ml Dhs810 Tom Ford Beauty

DECADENTLY SOFT

Add to your cleansing regimen with this smoky oud wash. Oud & Bergamot Body & Hand Wash, 250ml Dhs225 Jo Malone

Highly Concentrated

This opulent oil exalts the woody strength of agar wood essence. Oud Élixir Précieux Perfume Oil, 3ml Dhs1,720 Dior Beauty

FILTERED FINISH

This homegrown brand’s pressed powder is designed for targeted brightening and setting. Easy Bake and Snatch Pressed Brightening and Setting Powder Dhs158 Huda Beauty

A LUMINOUS GLOW

All-Day Hydration

This plush formula gives your skin all the protection with SP 50. Bare Multistick Dhs160 Skin Story

The super food for your skin formulated with the optimal balance of oil and essence. Oat Kernel Oil Like Essence Dhs477 Peacefull

A MUSKY ALLURE

Expect top notes of amber with white flowers and pear. Eternal, 100ml Dhs650 Arcadia by Amna

AUTHENTIC

Oud-infused scents redefining luxury and tradition

This page: Oud Minérale Eau de Parfum, 100ml Dhs810 Tom Ford

ALLURE

W ORDS & CREATIVE DIRECTION: OLGA PETROFF

P HOTOGRAPHY: AHMED ABDELWAHAB

Both pages: Oud Rosewood, 125ml Dhs1,220 Dior Beauty; Purple Oud, 125ml Dhs1,220 Dior Beauty

This page: Devotion Eau de Parfum, 100ml Dhs650 Arcadia; Replica: Under The Stars Eau de Toilette, 100ml Dhs690 Maison Margiela; Right page: Oud Seven Eau de Parfum, 100ml Dhs968 Matiere Premiere

Skincare Authenticity

Skincare guru Rebecca Treston on essential skincare practices to adopt daily

What have been the biggest milestones in your career so far? Without a doubt, winning the overall Emirates Woman, Woman of The Year award in 2023. It was such an incredible honour to be recognised in my field and such an amazing accolade.

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

What ingredients do you wholeheartedly believe in? Definitely AHAs and BHAs! They target different skin concerns and really help to maintain great skin. I love antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E, and selenium and CBD oils. Physical SPFs are a must to avoid sun damage.

Are there any skincare TikTok fads to avoid and should you consult with your aesthetician before considering anything like that? I’m not a big TikTok user but I have two teenagers that are obsessed with TikTok recommendations and I constantly find myself having to explain why they shouldn’t be using retinols and other strong ingredients at their age. Just be mindful that not everything you see online is true and – as with any treatment for your skin – it’s best to check with a qualified, experienced aesthetician first.

What’s your skincare philosophy? Keep it simple and consistent. I don’t believe in 10-step skincare and layer after layer; less is more! Overall, it’s important to not be swayed by the latest fads. Study the science. My daily routine includes a gentle milk or emulsion cleanse in the morning, followed by an antioxidant serum. I’m currently using Selenium in C. Then I add moisturiser with SPF, and that’s it. In the evening, I do a double cleanse – either with a balm or micellar water – to remove makeup, then alternate between an acid foam cleanse and an emulsion. I apply my acid, whether it’s retinol or an AHA blend, and then finish with an oil and moisturiser. I’m currently using the Juana CBD oil.

How do you ensure consistency through your practice? Consistency starts with discipline and then becomes a habit. When you see the positive results that come from consistency, it’s very hard to let the benefits – and therefore good habits! – fade. Keeping patients consistent has become easier due to the unrivalled, undeniable benefits of modern laser treatments and the immediate results they offer, but it’s important for both practitioners and patients to be accountable in order to achieve long-term benefits. With such busy lifestyles, it’s essential to make sure you purchase and pre-book your treatments so you can schedule appointments in good time and as needed for your regime and can enjoy the cumulative benefit. For me, I make sure my first appointment with each patient is thorough and comprehensive, so we can agree on the treatment plan, and I know it’s achievable.

What important qualities do you have that makes you a great laser technician? I think the key word here is ‘passion’. Simply put, I’m doing exactly what I love! I set to work with good intentions to improve skin health daily, which boosts my patients’ self-esteem and confidence. Seeing people shine and seeing their confidence build is so inspiring and I’m so grateful that people trust me to create this positive change in their lives. Another passion of mine is to innovate, and this keeps me moving forward. I’m constantly learning to improve across all areas of my life, but especially in my field of laser treatments.

Is it true that your diet and skin health go hand-in-hand? Diet is everything when it comes to good skin. Our skin takes nourishment from what we eat and drink. I try to get most of my vitamins and minerals from whole foods and I avoid all processed foods and refined sugars.

How important is it to maintain a skincare routine daily for results? As with most things in life, consistency is key with skincare. The daily practise of cleansing, moisturising and protecting with SPF is key to preventing premature aging. What laser treatments can work wonders for your skin without any downtime? There are so many laser treatments that can achieve great skin by improving function, structure, texture and tone, but if you want to avoid downtime, stay away from ablative lasers. These are the lasers that work by removing the top layers of your skin, resulting in some peeling. My favourite no-downtime treatments are Picogenesis, BBL and Fotona 6D protocols, Sofwave and Starwalker.

Are there any at-home treatments or techniques you recommend for anyone who has a big event coming up? Microcurrent devices will temporarily improve the tone of the skin along with an LED mask. You could try some mild AHA peels to smoothen and brighten the skin, and microneedling and hydrating sheet masks will also firm and brighten the skin before a big event.

What are some of the key issues women in the UAE face and how can these be resolved? The main conditions I see in my clinic are melasma, sun damage, acne, rosacea, wrinkles and laxity. And in the younger generation, I see prejuvenation. I use my layering technique to specifically target the areas of concerns. I also advise on skincare and lifestyle factors and suggest techniques that will help to avoid and/or manage individual issues.

This is The Authenticity Issue – how do you manage to stay authentic to your art? Simply put by staying in my own lane and by loving what I do. By doing it with integrity. By continuously learning, by working on self-development and discipline and sharing my knowledge to help others – one skin at a time.

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Authentically Enough

We discuss feeling enough and the power this has to transform your life positively with RTT

World-renowned therapist and best-selling author Marisa Peer, is one of the most recognised names in the wellbeing industry. Over her 30-year career, she has worked with a client list that includes international superstars, CEOs, and Olympic athletes, using her unique approach – Rapid Transformational Therapy® (RTT®). In 2013 she began the I Am Enough movement which works to boost inner confidence and help people to improve their relationships, career, health, and self-esteem while eliminating blocks to creating wealth and abundance.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I always start my day by practising gratitude for all that I have in my life and am truly grateful for. As soon as I open my eyes, I say, “I love my life, I love my bed, I love my first cup of tea, etc”. Having what I call an aptitude for gratitude makes life better and everything easier. It really is about having that laser focus on all the wonderful things in my life.

‘I am not enough’ is one of the three key issues people have – how does this show up in their lives? The feeling of not being enough is incredibly common and can influence our thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and relationships in several different ways. Some of the main ways it can manifest itself are: Low Self-Worth and Self-Esteem: People who believe they are not enough often struggle with low self-worth and self-esteem – constantly comparing themselves to others and feeling inadequate or unworthy in various areas of their lives, including their career, relationships, or personal achievements. Striving for Perfectionism: The belief of not being enough often leads us to strive for perfectionism – setting unrealistically high standards to prove our own self-worth. However, this pursuit of perfectionism can be exhausting and ultimately unfulfilling – as it’s an illusion – there is no such thing as perfect – which can lead to further feelings of frustration and

we worry that we might fail, not measure up, or be judged by others. This fear can hold us back from reaching our full potential and again, feed that feeling of not enoughness. People-Pleasing Behaviour: When we don’t feel enough, often we look to others for approval and validation and people-please –prioritising the needs of others over our own and sacrificing our wellbeing and authenticity in the process. Relationship Issues: The belief of not being enough can manifest itself in relationships as insecurity and ‘neediness’ as the person constantly seeks reassurance and approval as a way of validating their own worth. This dependency can put a huge strain on a relationship and lead to feelings of resentment from the supporting partner.

create self-sabotaging patterns of behaviour, such as procrastination, self-doubt, or playing small – to avoid failure or disappointment. What is often the root cause of not feeling enough and how can we change this with RTT? When we are born, we are a blank canvas – no worries, no self-doubts, just living in the moment. But as we grow up and start navigating our way in life, we look to the people around us – parents, teachers, friends –for guidance and to learn how we fit into the world. It’s the experiences we have and the beliefs that we adopt as ‘truths’ from those we are closest to that shape the way we see ourselves and often contribute to us adopting limiting beliefs and negative self-perceptions. Feelings of rejection, criticism, neglect, or

comparison to others during childhood, can have a deep impact on our sense of self-worth and adequacy. Traumatic experiences, such as abuse, bullying, or parental abandonment, can also exacerbate feelings of not being enough and create emotional scars that stick with us for life. Often, consciously, we are unaware of just how much these experiences shape us and our belief systems and that’s where Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) can help. It’s like shining a spotlight on those underlying beliefs and memories that have been holding us back – digging deep to find out where those feelings of inadequacy came from, and then flipping the script and changing the narrative to reframe our perceptions, replace negative beliefs with empowering ones, and grow that self-worth, self-love, and self-acceptance.

Is it possible that feeling not enough can affect one area of a person’s life while in others it does not? It is possible for someone to feel not enough in one area of their life while feeling more confident or competent in other areas. For example, someone may feel completely confident and capable in their professional life – excelling in their career and feeling valued by their colleagues, but then struggle with feelings of inadequacy in their personal relationships – feeling insecure or unworthy of love and acceptance. Another person may feel confident and secure in their relationships, experiencing deep connections and support from their loved ones – but struggle with feelings of inadequacy or imposter syndrome in their career – doubting their abilities and feeling undeserving of success. It’s like we have different sides to ourselves, each with its own set of strengths and weaknesses and sometimes, we’ve developed coping mechanisms to help us feel good in certain situations even if we’re not feeling that way!

Ultimately, our self-worth isn’t one-sizefits-all – it’s like a patchwork quilt, made up of all these different pieces of our lives and if we want to feel good about ourselves overall, we’ve got to look at what’s driving those feelings of inadequacy, and work on bridging the gaps in our self-esteem.

Do stubborn issues require more than one RTT session? Every client is different, and the number of sessions needed will vary depending on the complexity of the issue, the depth of the underlying beliefs, personal history, level of resilience, and how they respond and participate in the therapy process. In some cases, a single session may be enough to address a specific issue and uncover the root cause of the problem. However, for more complex issues such as trauma, health conditions or multiple connected issues – additional sessions may be needed to fully uncover and transform the underlying beliefs, patterns, and behaviours. This is why we start every session with a full consultation to assess the

client’s needs and set them up for success. How can we focus on showing up as our authentic selves and what behaviours support this? The most important thing to remember about being our authentic self is that it isn’t about being perfect. Instead, it’s about being genuine, embracing our imperfections, and being a beautifully human! Here are my five top tips on how to focus on showing up authentically:

1. Embrace Self-Acceptance: Start by accepting yourself exactly as you are and celebrating yourself for your strengths, weaknesses, and imperfections. Recognise that your uniqueness is your greatest asset and embrace it because when you accept yourself unconditionally, you give yourself permission to show up authentically in every aspect of your life. 2. Cultivate Self-Awareness: Take a moment to think about what really matters to you. What do you value? What do you believe in? What are your deepest desires? Tune in to how you’re feeling, trust your gut, and tap into that inner wisdom of yours. Let it be your guide as you make choices that stay true to who you are deep down inside – this is when the magic happens! 3. Practise Radical

ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth. Remember, we are always a “work in progress” – learning and growing along the way.

As we ‘do the work’, we start to let go of the things that have been weighing us down –whether it’s old beliefs, issues, or habits that no longer serve us – and as we shed that baggage, we start to see things more clearly. We get in touch with what really matters to us, what we’re passionate about, and what gives our lives meaning. That’s when we start to feel more like our authentic selves, and living lives that feel truly fulfilling and meaningful. Authenticity and persistence are gamechangers. How have these attributes applied to the brand over the years? Being real and genuine is at the cornerstone of everything I do. I’ve always believed in being honest and open – sharing my own story, struggles and triumphs along the way. It’s what has allowed me to connect with so many people on such a deep level over the years. I’ve faced my fair share of challenges and setbacks on this journey, but I’ve never let them stop me. I’ve kept pushing forward, staying laser-focused on my mission to empower people to transform their lives – and it’s that never-give-up

“The most important thing to remember about being our authentic self is that it isn’t about being perfect. Instead, it’s about being genuine, embracing our imperfections, and being beautifully human!”

Honesty: Be honest with yourself and others about your thoughts, feelings, and intentions. When you speak your truth and let your true self shine through, you’re inviting real connections and genuine relationships into your world. It’s like building a friendship on a solid foundation of trust and honesty. 4. Set Boundaries: Know your boundaries and assert them confidently. Respect your needs, preferences, and limits, and communicate them clearly to others. Boundaries are essential for protecting your authenticity and maintaining healthy relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. 5. Release the Need for Approval: Authenticity requires courage and self-assurance to stand firmly in your truth, even if it means risking disapproval or rejection. Instead of seeking external validation or approval, trust in your own self-worth and embrace the liberating power of self-validation!

Through self-development and ‘doing the work’ can our authentic selves change over time? The key thing to keep in mind is that being authentic isn’t like reaching a finish line – it’s an

attitude that’s helped me overcome obstacles and keep making a difference in the world. This is The Authenticity Issue – what does authenticity mean to you? For me, authenticity is all about being true to yourself and living life on your own terms. It’s about being genuine, honest, and staying real in a world that sometimes encourages us to be anything but.

Living authentically is like being comfortable in your own skin – embracing your quirks, flaws, and uniqueness, and being okay with them. It is so important to just celebrate being flawsome!

It’s also about being honest with yourself and others, even if it means being vulnerable sometimes. Authenticity really is the secret sauce for personal growth and happiness because when you’re authentic, you feel more confident, self-assured, and connected with others, as you are giving yourself permission to be who you really are, without worrying about judgment or criticism from others. So go be authentically you – the wonderful picture of imperfect perfection that you are absolutely are – and celebrate it!

“Good sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s a critical component of a comprehensive skincare regimen.”

The Blackout

Brothers and founders of Drowsy, Thom and Rich Hemelryk, share their journey on creating a wearable blackout shade

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

What inspired you to launch Drowsy? I was suffering from burnout running hospitality businesses which lead to chronic insomnia. My constant lack of sleep became a real problem in my life, affecting my health and energy levels. I decided to start living a “sleep first” lifestyle, where I put my self-care above everything. The idea for Drowsy came during the pandemic when I realised how many people in the world were also suffering from stress, anxiety and sleeplessness. We wanted to create a brand that would help people have a moment of restorative daily self-care where sleep always comes first.

The mask is oversized in fit – talk us through the creative process to creating this next level blackout shape. Every product that we create at Drowsy is made to solve our own personal sleep problems. That’s always the starting point of our development process. I’m a big fan of luxury, especially when it comes to sleep. With every product we make, we start out by imagining what the most extravagant version of something would be. So with the sleep mask, we brainstormed how we could make something unlike any other sleep mask on the market, something that was irresistible to use. Once we have our first prototype developed, we go through

Good sleep can have serious health benefits for your skin –tell us more. Good sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s a critical component of a comprehensive skincare regimen. Lack of sleep is a fast track to aging skin, puffy eyes, dark circles and tired looking colourless skin. When we sleep really well regularly, we allow our cells to regenerate and enable health collagen production which is essential for glowing skin.

What are your must-haves to your bedtime tool kit? I love to follow a ritual that slowly helps my body and mind prepare for deep sleep. Part of this is setting the scene with very low lighting to help with melatonin production. I always light my Drowsy sleep candle an hour before bed, because it creates a lovely peaceful light and scent instantly relaxes my senses. My other must-have is the Drowsy Sleep SOS pillow spray, which I take with me everywhere, especially when I’m travelling. I can’t get to sleep without it. And of course, my Drowsy silk sleep mask is something I just can’t live without. As soon as I put it on it’s like I’m shutting out the world so that I can sink into deep sleep naturally.

How did your personal struggles with sleep problems influence the development of the sleep mask? Light is my pet hate when it comes to sleep. Even the tiniest ray of light in the bedroom is enough to stop me sleeping well. So I wanted to create something that would guarantee I could sleep in total darkness every single night.

Can you elaborate on the 100 per cent blackout feature of the sleep mask and its importance for developing a healthy sleep routine? Darkness signals to your brain to release melatonin, the hormone which helps you sleep. So the darker it can be when you drift off, the better you can enable healthy sleep habits. If possible, you need to sleep in total darkness, as even a small amount of light can affect your melatonin production.

What are the key maintenance tips for the product? Make sure you wash the mask on a low temperature to protect the integrity of the silk. And store it in the silk mask carry pouch when you’re not using it to keep it safe!

many rounds of modifications based on customer feedback, until we are confident that we have the perfect design.

What are your future plans for Drowsy and the development of sleep-enhancing products? 2024 is going to be a very exciting year for Drowsy. We have exciting new launches in sleep wear, and luxury sleep supplements coming very soon to mention but a few things that we are working on. Watch this space for more info!

The material is the key component of each design, how do you source quality fabric and why is it important? For me quality is everything. Investing in sleep is one of the best things you can do, as it unlocks so many benefits in your life. We always seek to use the best possible materials so that the sleeping experience is unrivaled. When it came to the sleep mask, we knew it had to be made from silk – the soft gliding touch is so calming and soothing on your eyes that it instantly relaxes you. We spend hours testing hundreds of different fabrics and ingredients for our products until we find the ones that outperform all the others.

This is The Authenticity Issue – how do you manage to stay authentic to your art? Authenticity is a key brand pillar for Drowsy and we always try to stay ahead of the curve by being different to everything else on the market. I read a lot and listen to various podcasts. I always look at brands in completely unrelated spaces for inspiration rather than follow competitors. But generally, most of my ideas come to me when I’m working out or going for a walk and not even thinking about work. That’s my best time for creativity and coming up with authentic ideas when my mind can just wander. Drowsy is available at theskincareedit.ae

The Beauty Shelf

Amna Mohammad Karmostaji, founder of UAE-based fashion label Elna Line, shares her hero beauty buys

COMPILED BY: JOELLE ALBEAINO

Sublimage Masque

Dhs930 Chanel

I adore Chanel’s Sublimage Masque because it leaves my skin looking incredibly fresh and revitalised. It’s like a rejuvenating spa experience in a jar.

Hydra Beauty Micro Sérum

Dhs605 Chanel

They’re not just products –they’re transformative essentials that make waking up to a radiant morning a reality.

Madagascar Centella

Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum

Dhs71 Skin 1004

I use this before applying my makeup. It’s my daily dose of sun protection merged with deep hydration. I’m all about that chic simplicity when it comes to makeup.

Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint

Dhs285 Chanel

It gives me that light, natural finish I adore. My makeup vibe is minimal but impactful –mascara, bronzer, brow gel and lip balm, enhance my natural beauty effortlessly.

Brow Freeze Extreme Hold

Laminated-Look Sculpting Wax

Dhs104 Anastasia Beverly Hills

It’s like a magic wand for your eyebrows. It lets you style them

however you want, and the hold is fantastic, it keeps them in place all day. It’s basically your brows’ best friend.

Gold Woman Eau de Parfum

Dhs1,375 Amouage

My go-to fragrance weaving into my daily routine with a captivating scent. Each spritz is like a personal signature, adding timeless elegance wherever I go. It’s an easy, delightful beauty journey.

Layered Mascara Dhs84

Mina Al Sheikhly

I love curved mascara because it effortlessly elevates my look, making my eyes stand out. What sets it apart is the defining and volumising effect it has. It gives my lashes a bold, captivating appeal that lasts throughout the day. It’s a game-changer.

Rosa Nobile Hair Mist

Dhs260 Acqua di Parma

Choosing a rose hair mist isn’t just about a pleasant fragrance; it’s a daily dose of floral therapy. The subtle scent adds elegance,

and the ritual brings a moment of self-indulgence and calm to my routine.

Crystal Retinal 1 Serum

Dhs203 Medik8

Before bed, I apply Medik8’s retinol. It’s like a superhero serum that transforms into a dreamy cream, working its magic overnight to visibly improve wrinkles. It’s my secret weapon for waking up with a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Poudre de Beauté Eclat

Soleil Bronzing Powder Dhs200

Gucci Beauty

My makeup game is all about the Gucci bronzing powder –it’s practically my signature. I never leave the house without it; it’s the secret behind my radiant, sun-kissed glow.

IMAGES:

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COMPILED BY: SARAH JOSEPH

AM TO PM BEAUTY

Founder of beauty and wellness platform OKTA, Alia Al Khafajy shares her beauty routine

Talk us through your morning routine. In the morning, the first thing I’ll do is start oil pulling with organic coconut oil and then move on to some back stretches to open up my muscles from sleep. I’m currently using the Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser in the morning because I love the freshness from the strawberry seed extract first thing in the morning. Occasionally, I’ll skip the cleanser and just use warm water and a damp face towel. I’ll start with eye cream/ serum, so I go in with the Oio Lab all-ineyelid contour serum, which is a light gel consistency, I like to mix this with the Indie

Lee Restorative eye cream. I like to keep my routine minimal and so currently I’m using the Kai repair balm from Khus+Khus and gently massage that into my skin, final AM step – sunscreen. I alternate between the Indie Lee SPF primer and the Suntegrity Impeccable skin.

How does your evening routine differ? I begin with cleansing my face, and here I love using the Indie Lee cleansing balm. The texture of the balm is so soothing and calming to the skin creating a sensory feel. On a dry face, I massage a dallop size onto my massaging it in for a couple of minutes. It always

leaves my skin feeling plump and supple. I have a full hair and body shower and that’s where the ritual continues. I’m currently using the Corpus Body wash in scent Third Rose. Once a week after the shower, I’ll add the Indie Lee AHA Exfoliating solution. I repeat the eye and face routine with the same products, but in the evening I use Gua Sha after applying the Kai repair balm. What are your go-to skincare products? I do have some staple favourites which I keep going back to. It includes the Indie Lee brightening cleanser, and a new addition is the Indie Lee cleansing balm. I would also have

to add in here the Khus+Khus milk cleanser.

As I love face mists, my top two are Indie Lee coq10 toner, and the Khus+Khus Especial K toning mist. Overall, the Khus+Khus The Fix potion is my new go-to for the face, as I prefer balms and face oils over cream. I also love using Oio Lab’s serums as they are light yet super enriching and hydrating to the skin. For the body, the most jars I’ve gone through are the Khus+Khus Rasa Restorative and the Indie Lee coconut citrus body scrub. How would you describe your approach to makeup? I like to occasionally play around with makeup for certain looks or to reflect a

mood. But overall, I’d say very minimalistic. I’m intrigued by makeup and looks, however, I like to keep it quite natural. What can always be found in your makeup bag? Lip balm and Oio lab melting blush –for the just-in-case moments to dab on some flush to the cheeks, lips and lid and a 15ml Abel Eau de Parfum.

Which fragrance is your favourite currently? For fragrances, the current number one is Black Anise, followed by equally between Pause and Cyan Nori, Golden Neroli and Nurture – all from Abel. The ABEL room sprays are even more long lasting.

How do you choose your evening fragrance?

I always go with my mood and what I’m feeling in the moment. So, with fragrances that mood element is even more enhanced. I tend to go for more sensual scents in the evening for example Black Anise is perfect and I love to wear it after burning some Bukhoor – the combination is perfect!

What is the most unusual item in your makeup bag? An all-purpose oil or balm like the Indie Lee squalene oil to use it for anything that would need hydration on the go. Especially if I need something off my hands and I keep losing my hand creams.

Clockwise from top left:

Katrafay Body Scrub Dhs260 Corpus available at Niche-Beauty; Cobalt Amber Eau de Parfum Dhs710 Abel; Brightening Cleanser, 4fl. oz Dhs155 Indie Lee available at amazon.ae; Kai Repair Balm POA KHUS+KHUS; Squalane Facial Oil Travel, 10ml Dhs68 Indie Lee; Melting Blush Sunlit, Eye and Cheek Contour Balm POA Oio

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

Soaring to New Heights

HH Sheikha Mozah Bint Marwan

Al Maktoum on her inspiring journey from a pioneering pilot to a children’s book author

In a fusion of aviation prowess and literary ambition, Her Highness

Sheikha Mozah Bint Marwan Al Maktoum, Dubai’s pioneering first Royal female police pilot, has soared to new heights. With the release of her debut children’s book, ‘When She Took To The Sky,’ Sheikha Mozah is not only rewriting the rules of ambition, but she is also changing the narratives that shape young minds. Through an exclusive interview, we delve into her remarkable journey from breaking gender barriers in aviation to inspiring the next generation of young women to reach for the skies.

Can you share the inspiration behind your debut children’s book? The future leaders of tomorrow – the youth. I wanted to convey my encouragement to young women to go out and pursue their dreams, and I think the best way for me to do that was to highlight the stories of inspiring female aviators throughout history. I wanted to impart courage and strength to the young women of tomorrow to chase their passions – be it aviation, or any field.

As Dubai’s pioneering first Royal female police pilot, how did your experience influence the narrative of your book? My aviation journey was challenging in many ways but immensely rewarding. As a young woman entering

terms of breaking gender stereotypes in aviation? The sky offers limitless possibilities for all, and anyone can fly and experience that regardless of gender. I want young women to find strength and courage within the stories from When She Took To The Sky. Especially in aviation where women as a group are so underrepresented, it is important to know their history and the remarkable feats of women who were here before us – their work has led the way for more women to make their mark in aviation, including me, in more ways than one.

Can you tell us about some of the remarkable female aviators you feature in your book? When She Took To The Sky consists of stories of inspiring women in aviation from the world and the region. From Rosina Ferrario, the first Italian female pilot, to Helene Dutrieu, the first woman to fly a seaplane, and Lotfia Elnadi, the first Arab woman to become a pilot – all their stories highlight incredible grit and unwavering determination. Their desire to fly motivated them to overcome the many obstacles that stood in their way. The young generation needs to know their stories and their contributions to the field of aviation, because not only is it a way to honour their fearlessness and grit – but also because their stories are a reminder that nothing is impossible. How do you believe literature, particularly children’s literature, can contribute to empowering the next generation of young women in aviation? I believe literature, especially children’s literature, can mould young minds to pursue their goals and passions with determination. Young girls today should know that they can do anything they set their mind to – and so many women did the same thing before them. Literature can introduce strong positive role models to young women at an early age. Apart from highlighting strong role models, literature can serve as a reminder to let young women know they can dream big because there is a vast world out there that awaits them. Storytelling can inspire young women to not let themselves tire at obstacles but rather to persevere and fight them and emerge victorious.

a male-dominated field, I had to put in twice the effort compared to my male peers to make my presence felt. But it never got me down – I was motivated to put in the work and make myself stand out because ultimately, I believed in my dream to be in the sky. The stories of the women all over the world who came before me and broke the glass ceiling were so inspiring to me, and I just felt like I had to retell their stories to honour them and inspire the future generation. They were a testament to the fact that women can do anything men can do and that flying does not categorise anyone based on gender – which is something I have always believed in. What message do you hope to convey to young girls through your book, particularly in

What challenges did you face in your journey as a female pilot, and how do you address these challenges in your book? I set out to become a trained pilot at a young age. Being amidst much older peers was daunting at first, along with the academic requirements. My instructors were also keen that I worked for my wings the right way, and not through privilege. And at many points, I had it harder than my peers who were male. But with time I was able to rise above and go on to thrive as a pilot up in the skies because that goal was what kept me motivated. The stories I have compiled in When She Took to The Sky are stories that give me the courage to keep moving forward as a woman in aviation. I did not have any female role models to look up to when I was young and did not want that to be the case for young girls today. Your career has been filled with groundbreaking achievements. How does it feel to add ‘author’ to your list of accomplishments? Thank you. It is an honour to be an author and to be a storyteller. I hope that my work

in aviation and as an author can motivate and inspire more young women to reach for the sky (literally or figuratively).

Could you share some insights into your writing process, did any personal anecdotes or experiences influence the story? When I usually speak at events, I realise that many people do not know about female firsts in aviation. I observed something similar when I would sit down and converse with my family, and they were so surprised by the fact that these women go way back in aviation history. They are awed by the fact that these women had to step up and pursue their dreams and not be kept at bay. Did you know that Fiorenza De Bernardi, the first European woman (Italian) to become a

commercial airline pilot, is alive to this day? This is what led me to write a book to honour and highlight these women’s stories. What advice would you give to young girls who aspire to pursue careers in aviation? I would like to tell them perseverance goes a long way, and to bravely face any obstacle they encounter. Every pilot dreams of their first solo flight and being up in the sky all alone is an extraordinary experience that will make all the hard work, and challenges worth it. There may be times when you may have to work twice as hard to make a mark, but that effort will always pay off in the end. What do you hope readers, both young and old, will take away from your book? Ultimately, I would like the main takeaway from

my book to be to go after your dreams relentlessly and bravely take on challenges –both to children and adults alike. Having a dream or a goal and putting in the work to make it happen is a hugely rewarding feeling and I hope everyone who reads my book gets to experience that.

This is The Authenticity Issue – what does authenticity mean to you? For me, authenticity is defined by how passionate a person is about their dreams and is keen on putting in the work to make it happen, and the kind of attitude they adopt towards making their dreams a reality. I live by the motto that your altitude is determined by your attitude, and a positive and determined attitude can take anyone to great heights.

“I live by the motto that your altitude is determined by your attitude, and a positive and determined attitude can take anyone to great heights”

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

FOR WOMEN BY WOMEN

Dubai Ladies Club celebrates its 20th anniversary as it continues to empower women in the region

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council (UAE GBC), President of Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) and President of Dubai Ladies Club (DLC), wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the Dubai Ladies Club celebrated its 20th anniversary on January 31, 2024.

The event was held at the Dubai Ladies Club beach with the theme “20 Years of Reflecting You,” featured Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Chairperson of Dubai Women Establishment and Managing Director. Her Excellency Mona Ghanem

Al Marri highlighted Dubai Ladies Clubs’ success aligned with Dubai's development by continually enhancing its facilities and services. She expressed that the Dubai Ladies Club transcends being just a club; it has evolved into a home, uniting a vast family of members, visitors, and employees. This evolution reflects the club’s profound understanding of women's rights to lead lives marked by psychological and social balance, coupled with the organisation of entertaining events for women and children.

Overall, the club remains committed to inspiring women and serving as a key platform for happinessinducing initiatives in their integrated lifestyle. The Club’s future strategy is filled with more initiatives and events to build upon its successful journey over the past years.

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

HOLISTIC HEALING

We discuss the captivating installation

“Letter From The Universe” by Lauren Baker in Kintsugi Space, Abu Dhabi

Discover the transformative power of Kintsugi Space, Abu Dhabi’s pioneering women-only sanctuary, where renowned wellness practitioners and artists converge to celebrate the art of healing and renewal, highlighted by Lauren Baker’s captivating installation.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? The first 30 minutes of my day is a sacred ritual. A mindful start serves as the foundation for the creative energies that will unfold throughout the day. I often start with drinking my greens supplements and a brief meditation. Then I take my Pomeranian puppy called PomPom, with an Earl Grey tea, for a short stroll. Being with nature gives me so much inspiration and grounding. I do a few yoga stretches and some Kundalini breathing and then I enjoy a blast of cold before a warm shower am then on my way to the studio. The reality is that this doesn’t happen every day as my work can be all-consuming with long hours, yet I aim to maintain my ideal routine as best I can – it’s the little things that make life beautiful.

Can you talk us through your career journey? My early years were marked by a fascination with the interplay of light and shadow, and the intricate dance of energy that permeates our existence. My degree is in Business, Psychology and Sociology, then as soon as I had the epiphany that I was an artist (whilst in the Amazon jungle) I did an intensive master’s in mosaics in 2011 and then studied Site Specific Sculpture in 2017. However, it was during my travels around the world in which I was inspired by diverse cultures, spiritual practises, and the natural world, I began to infuse my work with a sense of transcendence and interconnectedness. My art became a conduit for exploring the invisible threads that bind us all.

Some highlights include exhibiting at the most prestigious institutions including the Tate Modern, V+A, and Tate Britain. As my portfolio grew, so did the recognition of my work on a global scale. My most meaningful work was my first ‘Letter To Mother Earth’ at Tate Modern, which involved a ten-metre letter as an open apology to nature on behalf of humanity. I was commissioned to create two large-scale public installations in the UNESCO-protected desert in AlUla, Saudi Arabia inspired by the Sun and the Moon, and the most exciting to date is the recent 25-metre ‘Letter From The Universe’ at Kintsugi Space in Abu Dhabi.

The 25-metre letter sculpture at Kintsugi is truly inspiring. Can you share more about the creative process? The initial spark of inspiration emerged from the concept of being one with the universe and receiving a message from a higher realm of consciousness. I meditated and wrote a special letter and recorded the frequency of my voice into sound waves, before creating the sculpture and, painstakingly, painting gold sound waves across both sides of the 25-metre letter, over a period of a year.

The installation involved slowly pulling the letter up using a winch system, traversing seven staircases. The moments of securing the sculpture to the ceiling, 25 metres up on elaborate scaffolding, were intense. I was in the zone with my team and Donna from Studio Feel, and I forgot to breathe at that point, letting out a sigh of relief as it went perfectly to plan. It was worth the challenge to see the piece suspended and I took delight in seeing the 360-degree views that the staircase provides.

It has a feeling of infinity as you gaze to appreciate it cascading all the way to the floor. The activation of energies from the seven chakras and the focus on inner peace are intriguing aspects of your sculpture. Could you elaborate on this? The content of the letter is an activation of the energies of the seven chakras and our collective higher purpose of harnessing inner peace, as well as inspiring peace within the world. Our first responsibility is to seek peace within ourselves, then we offer it to others. The letter was created as an activation to cultivate mindfulness, balance, gratitude, happiness, inspiration and ultimately peace. Universal frequencies contained within the letter form an energetic code, exploring energies from the seven chakras and expressing the internal journey that can lead one to fulfilment, peace and light.

How did you ensure that your artwork resonated with Kintsugi’s values and the overall vision for the holistic space? Creating artwork for Kintsugi Space, with its deep commitment to wellbeing, spirituality, and aesthetic harmony, was a profoundly enriching experience. The installation needed to seamlessly integrate with the spa’s ambience. I drew inspiration from the spa’s design elements, such as the use of natural materials, soothing colour palettes, and minimalist yet elegant aesthetics. In terms of wellbeing, my artwork became an extension of Kintsugi’s commitment to nurturing the mind, body, and soul. The calm colours and flowing gold text create a visual sanctuary within the space. The piece was designed as a catalyst for relaxation and introspection, contributing to the overall wellbeing experience of the visitors. With its spiritual abstract message and its enormity in scale, the artwork aims to evoke a sense of transcendence and connection to a higher, more profound dimension. Your artistic practice explores symbolism, higher realms of consciousness, and nature. How do these themes play a role in shaping this installation? Sound wave symbolism formed the core of the installation, transforming the large letter into a vessel of meaning. As a symbol of communication, the letter became a channel for a profound

conversation, expressing universal messages and interconnected energies. It wove a story that went beyond its literal form, inviting viewers to engage with the cosmic language it held. Inspired by higher realms of consciousness, the installation aimed to provide a transcendent experience. The immense size of the letter sought to create a feeling of expansiveness, urging viewers to look beyond the ordinary and connect with their higher consciousness. The design of the letter incorporated natural forms and textures, mirroring patterns found in the natural world. The 25-metre letter metaphorically served as a gateway, encouraging individuals to transcend their immediate surroundings and connect with the vast universe.

Collaborating with Studio Feel adds another layer to the project. Could you share more about this? Donna Tzelepis, the visionary behind Studio Feel, has been an absolute joy to work with. Her passion for art and dedication to curating a space that speaks to the soul is infectious. The unique approach of focusing on women-only artists brings a distinct perspective to the project. It’s a celebration of the diverse voices, stories, and artistic expressions that women bring to the table. This intentional curation not only fosters a sense of inclusivity but also adds a layer of empowerment to the overall narrative of the installation.

With both Kintsugi, Studio Feel and I had a beautiful alignment of visions. The two-year timeline of the project speaks to the commitment and dedication invested in its realisation. Creating site-specific art at 25 metres above the ground involves a lot of health safety and preparation so the collaborative journey becomes an integral part of the artistic process. The commissioned artwork aims to cultivate mindfulness, balance, gratitude, happiness, inspiration, and peace. How do you envision visitors experiencing this? Envisioning how visitors will experience and interact with the piece involves creating a multi-sensory journey. The sheer scale of the 25-metre letter draws attention, immediately prompting a sense of mindfulness, encouraging viewers to be present at the moment. The symbolism within the letter, coupled with the curated soundscape of my voice revealing the mes-

sage, infuses the space with an aura of gratitude and joy. The message is an invitation for visitors to embark on an inward journey. The soundscape reveals a message of truth and higher purpose, and acts as a meditative anchor, enveloping the space with a sense of peace. The installation invites introspection and connection with a higher purpose. Each visitor becomes an active participant in this experience, finding moments of reflection, inspiration, and connection within the layers of messages in “Letter From The Universe”. Kintsugi Space embraces imperfections, believing they lead to strength, beauty, and resilience. How does your artwork embody or reflect these values? The powerful message within the artwork aligns with Kintsugi’s philosophy, emphasising the transformative nature of imperfection. References to the “energetic code” and “internal journeying” support the idea that imperfections can bring about positive change. The mention of one’s “personal map” recognises life’s imperfect paths, turning them into valuable lessons. Inviting chakra energy centres to unravel symbolises releasing imperfections, aligning with the spa’s belief in inner harmony. The idea of spiralling in a dance with the divine suggests imperfections are essential elements in the journey to alignment. “Letter From The Universe” embodies Kintsugi values, portraying imperfections as a source of transformation and enlightenment.

This is The Authenticity Issue – what does being authentic mean to you? As an artist working on themes of symbolism, spirituality and the higher realms of consciousness, in the public eye, being authentic is important. It involves a willingness to be vulnerable and open about my creative process, inspirations, and the challenges faced along the way. It involves staying true to the essence of the themes explored, even when faced with external expectations or trends. Authenticity acknowledges that the artistic journey, like life, is imperfect. It involves an ongoing commitment to self-discovery, vulnerability, and the sincere expression of profound themes. It involves embracing the ebb and flow of creativity, acknowledging mistakes, and finding beauty in the imperfections.

“I aim to maintain my ideal routine as best I can – it’s the little things that make life beautiful”

Six music mavens from Candlelight Concerts by Fever on delivering a truly memorable experience

WORDS:

SARAH JOSEPH

Lina Oudghiri

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Middle East Team Lead

Talk us through your background. My background is quite diverse. I was born and raised in Morocco where I developed a passion for the arts early in life, particularly ballet and contemporary dance. Later, I moved to France to pursue studies in Literature and Business. After university, I entered the world of television and advertising as Client Director for France Televisions Publicite, where I focused on high-quality television and digital programmes that positively impact the brands through advertising and sponsorship. I joined Fever in April 2022 to spearhead the Candlelight Concert Series in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where classical music events were often aimed at a niche audience. As the Candlelight Team Lead in the

Middle East, I’ve been able to combine my strategic mindset with my love for the arts. You learned ballet and contemporary dance early on – tell us more. This passion is the foundation of who I am today. Ballet taught me discipline, to fight for what I loved, to never give up, and to work hard until I become the best version of myself. Discipline allowed me to acquire a certain technique that later would be the basis of my fulfillment in contemporary dance.

Your role as the Candlelight Team Lead in the Middle East allowed you to merge your business acumen with your passion for art – how do you balance both? My love for art has given me the demand for excellence. I am immensely proud of what we produce. I have a great affection for the artists we work with, and I consider that each one has contributed to the great structure of Candlelight Middle East. But to ensure Candlelight’s success, we must not forget that it is a business. It is necessary to understand the desires of our audience and the trends, and to manage all the teams involved in this project to ensure its expansion. There is a fine line between artistic intuition and the public’s taste. Fortunately, and this is where the Candlelight model stands out, we benefit from a vast database based on concerts that take place in more than 150 cities worldwide and which alternate between more than 100 musical programmes. There is no crystal ball, there is just data that tells us what to play, when, where, for whom, and how!

Classical music is seen with its innovative format – talk us through the journey of each concert. One of our goals at Fever is to inspire our users with innovative experiences by creating new ‘Fever Original’ ideas that we know will interest them. We launched the Candlelight Concerts in 2019 after realising the need to make classical music accessible to a wider audience, reaching beyond the core demographic of classical music enthusiasts. We started by testing different concepts and quickly found that the audiences who attended were keen on more intimate experiences. They also shared concerns about the length of traditional classical concerts being too long and not knowing how to dress or behave at events which had always seemed more “grand and elite”.

Candlelight Concerts by Fever offers a variety of programmes to meet all tastes – what are some of the most interesting concerts so far?

We develop Candlelight concert programmes by combining recommendations from our dedicated in-house music curation team, the data received by analysing global metrics, and feedback from audiences and musicians. So far, in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, we have already presented some of our global best-selling programmes, including concerts featuring works by renowned composers such as Vivaldi, Mozart, and Chopin and tributes to contemporary artists like Queen and Coldplay. We are also always looking to meet our local audiences’ expectations and create programmes that cater to varied tastes. For example, we’ve presented performances in Dubai and Abu Dhabi featuring A Century of Iconic Arabic Music and Indian Music Night which is exclusive to the region. The Candlelight Concert Series in the UAE and Saudi Arabia – how did it all begin? At Fever, our mission is to democratise access

“I have a great affection for the artists we work with, and I consider that each one has contributed to the great structure of Candlelight Middle East”

to culture and entertainment in the regions where we are present. Classical music is very niche, so the essence of the Candlelight concerts is to bring a fundamentally modern vision to the classical music experience to reach a broad audience of age, nationality, and social background, thus promoting diversity in the cultural landscape. We had seen the experience’s success in many cities worldwide, so we thought bringing it to the ever-evolving cultural scene of the Middle East was a step in the right direction. With this in mind, we started with our first concert – Best of Chopin performed by Aldo Dotto. We were sold out after a few days of

PURE TALENT

sales. one-and-a-half-year later we are still sold out to almost all our Chopin’s shows and Aldo is still one of our best artists. And as they say, the rest is history. We had the pleasure of celebrating the UAE with an incredible public concert in the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi. Over 1,600 attendees immersed themselves in an exclusive musical programme, combining piano and traditional Arabic instruments for a rediscovery of the region’s musical legends. Candlelight has seen much success in the Middle East, with the community expanding with each new concert – what lies ahead? Our success in the Middle East has been wonderful, and we are looking forward to the exciting possibilities the future holds as we continue to expand our community. We want to diversify our programmes further, reach even wider audiences, and contribute to the region’s cultural richness. The journey involves continued innovation and collaboration to make classical music a vibrant and integral part of the Middle East’s cultural landscape.

Magdalena Wajdzik

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Pianist

What do your first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I wake up every day at 5am and start my morning routine with a refreshing shower. I then proceed to my skincare routine. After that, I tackle my exercise routine, which includes a challenging fiveminute planking challenge. I am proud to say that I have been making steady progress each week by gradually increasing the time I hold the plank. Next, I prepare myself a delicious and nutritious breakfast, usually consisting of overnight oats or chia seeds with berries and nuts, and pack a satisfying lunch for school. I am mindful of the food I consume and make a conscious effort to reduce my meat consumption. Finally, I leave for school early so that I can practise playing the piano with complete focus and mindfulness. Talk to us through your background and career. At the age of six, my mother signed me up for piano lessons, and music became a significant part of my life. It wasn’t always easy, but after years of practise, I won a prize at a music competition. This achievement changed my mindset, and I started to believe that becoming a professional musician was possible. During my university years, I had an urge to study abroad. I was accepted to the Birmingham Conservatoire, where I seized every opportunity to grow, such as participating in internal and external competitions and concerts. Although

some of these were more successful than others, they all contributed to my overall development. I also spent some summers in the US as a pianist. After a few years in the UK, I received a scholarship opportunity in Budapest, Hungary, where I spent two years exploring Hungarian piano repertoire and working with up-and-coming composers. My interest in modern music, particu-

“There is nothing better than knowing that my work and attitude have impacted students’ lives in a musical way”

larly the music composed post-1950, grew stronger, and I continue to enjoy working on contemporary classical music. When I moved to UAE, I shifted my career from performing to teaching. However, I still perform occasionally and participate in a few projects such as the Candlelight Concerts. I also support student projects around Dubai as an accompanist or chamber music performer. Although music takes up most of my time, I’ve been a skydiver for the past few years, and I spend my Saturdays (my official day off from music) at Skydive Dubai. Prior to moving to Dubai in 2014, you lived across Europe, the United Kingdom and USA. What lessons did you learn during those times that you apply into your career? I left Poland during my university years and had to quickly adapt to living independently. This required me to develop an understanding of the cultures of the countries I lived in. While living abroad, I made friends from all over the world and learned how to be flexible and adaptable in different social situations. Speaking Eng-

Magdalena Wajdzik

lish as my first language gave me fluency and the ability to teach and mentor others while leaving my mother tongue behind. Where do you get the discipline and motivation to be consistent and are there any practices which have helped you with this? I believe in the power of habit. I remember reading the book with the same title by Charles Duhigg. I always care about producing the highest quality of work. In order to achieve this, I try to be honest with myself. I am my biggest critic, which keeps me driven and motivated. In North London Collegiate School, where I work, I am surrounded by a wonderful and ambitious team that keeps me motivated and devoted to the art of teaching and supporting students in the best way possible. It’s important to mention that my own students keep me motivated. There is nothing better than knowing that my work and attitude have impacted students’ lives in a musical way. What role has mentorship played in your career? I have been blessed to have had a few mentors in my career. They had an important role during my university years but also right after I graduated and started my teaching and performing careers. Thanks to those people, I stayed focused, built my self-confidence, achieved goals and widened my professional network. They also led me to self-discovery and helped me direct my focus to particular areas in music performance and music teaching.

Are there any milestones you are most proud of? My milestones have changed over time. When I was younger, a milestone of mine was to visit 50 countries. Another was to finish with the highest degree offered at my university, the Advanced Postgraduate Diploma. What I am really proud of is that despite being so busy with my teaching career, I can still perform and practise piano, and not only that (!) – I am still getting better! What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome this? Living as an expat has been my biggest challenge. I have been living abroad for a long time, and I often feel lonely, which affects my mental health. Family is extremely important to me, and I try to overcome the distance and time apart by visiting them whenever possible. We also have regular Zoom calls to stay connected. Prioritising my family keeps me content and grounded in life.

As an educator, your interest lies in brain development and music therapy – why is this important? Every musician has a reason for turning to teaching. At the beginning of my career, my main focus was to make a living. This all changed soon after I began my career in teaching. I find teaching at any level incredibly rewarding, regardless of the speed of progress my students make.

This has been an informed decision after diving into the subject of brain development. Understanding the neural processes and how ‘flexible’ and ‘plastic’ (referring to brain plasticity) the brain helps tremendously with patience and choosing the right learning pathways for my students. Music Therapy, for me, can reduce stress and improve quality of life. I am a big supporter and strong believer in the power of music, and I hope one day, music will be the most important subject in students’ timetables. How important is music in creating the perfect ambience – how does this add to the experience? I can’t stress enough how important music is to create the perfect ambience. Music truly accentuates experiences. It can convey a specific mood: calmness, excitement, tension, or suspense. I can relate this question to a soundtrack from a movie. Something that I always pay attention to while watching a motion picture. The sound can add emotional depth and help the person experiencing it better direct their emotions.

What is the most important to you when you are on stage performing? The stage is the platform for performers. We share an art

that is music. It is very important for me to connect with my audience. I always think about what I will play and how to convey those musical messages and ideas. I ask myself a few important questions: am I engaging? Are the music pieces I’m performing varied and balanced enough? Am I able to convey my emotions successfully? These questions help me direct my attention and, therefore, make me try to establish a connection with the audience.

Yi-Wei (Amy)

Huang

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Piano and Violin specialist

Talk us through your background and career. I was born in Taiwan. I started my classical music training at age six. After completing my violin performance degree in Taiwan, I began a different journey in studying music therapy in the United States. I have played in different types of chamber music, such as string quartet, piano trio, and piano quintet, since the age of 12. I integrated music

Yi-Wei (Amy) Huang

therapy concepts into music teaching and performance. I like being active in not only music teaching but also music performance. So, playing the violin as part of the Strings, fulfilled my musical life in the UAE.

Where do you get the discipline and motivation to be consistent and are there any practices which have helped you with this? As a music therapist and violist, I use the violin to regulate my emotions. I incorporate mindfulness concepts in my warm-up routine to ground myself and achieve consistency. What role has mentorship played in your career? One of my most important mentors is my professor, Sophia Lee. She showed me how music can change and improve each individual’s life quality. Also, she is the best example of balancing her life with teaching, performing, and practising music therapy. She is the person I would call when I feel upset and lost in life.

Are there any milestones you are most proud of? One of the milestones I am proud of in the UAE would be the moment we performed our first Hans Zimmer Candlelight concert. We spent so much time working closely together and finally shared our music with the audience. It is amazing to communicate and connect with the audience through music universally.

How important is music in creating the perfect ambience – how does this add to the experience? Imagine there is no sound when you watch a horror movie. You might not feel scared that much. That is the power of music. Music creates a unique atmosphere.

For example, the songs from the Hans Zimmer programme provide a variety of styles to make each movie more unforgettable. People can still remember how it feels like when they recall the movies. Music plays an important role in that.

What is the most important to you when you are on the stage performing? Enjoying the moment is the most important to me while performing on the stage. Even though there are a lot of uncertainties during the live performance, being at the moment and embracing the uncertainties is the beauty of live performance.

Your philosophy is to help students build connections with music and express their emotions – how do you do so? When I teach, I let my students express their feelings about the pieces they are learning and discuss the reason behind these feelings and emotions. Also, I give examples that they could relate to understand the emotions and connect them with techniques. So, it helps them practise and improve techniques with emotional expression better.

As an educator, your interest lies in brain development and music therapy – why is this important? The two main things I would apply from

my music therapy background in my teaching would be the task analysis and how different everyone could be. Every individual has their strengths and weaknesses, so being flexible to meet every student’s needs and providing the best method of instrument practise would be vital and practical in my teaching.

Enkhmaa Tuvshin

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Pianist and Cello specialist

Talk us through your background and career. My name is Enkhmaa and I am from Mongolia. I have been playing the cello for 21 years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree from the Korea National University of Arts. After completing my studies, I returned to Mongolia and worked with the Mongolian Symphony Orchestra, gaining experience at the State Opera and Ballet Academic Theatre. Currently, I am employed at Juli Music Institute in Abu Dhabi as a teacher.

You have a passion for teaching cello – tell us how it began. My passion for teaching cello originated from the guidance of my exceptional mentors. One teacher, in particular, conveyed the beauty of sharing knowledge, emphasising, ‘It is truly rewarding to pass on what you have learned.’ Inspired by this sentiment, I found my calling to start teaching. During your studies in Korea, you performed in many Korean Orchestras and concerts. Which prestigious ones did you participate in? I would like to highlight my participation in university orchestra concerts during my bachelor’s degree. I had the opportunity to join the orchestra led by the conductor of the Korea Philharmonic. The experience was invaluable, and I learned a great deal, making it a truly amazing chapter in my musical journey.

How important is music in creating the perfect ambiance – how does this add to the experience? Music sets the vibe and amps up the awesomeness. It stirs emotions, creates a mood, and adds something special

Enkhmaa Tuvshin

“One teacher, in particular, conveyed the beauty of sharing knowledge, emphasising, ‘It is truly rewarding to pass on what you have learned’”

to any place or event. I’m truly grateful for this candlelight concert – it’s an incredible experience for me. I’d like to sincerely thank the fantastic audience for attending and giving warm applause. I also want to extend my gratitude to those who organised this concert. Your support means a lot. What is most important to you when you are on the stage performing? The importance varies depending on the genre. In classical performances, my focus is on expressing and sharing emotions with the audience. Conversely, when playing pop music, I relish simply enjoying the moment with the audience, fostering a lighter and enjoyable atmosphere.

Maria Khachieva

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Piano and Violin specialist

Talk us through your background and career. I am an Italian with a Russian background who grew up in Tuscany. My journey with music started when I was just five years old, and I began playing the violin. However, I later switched to the viola when I turned seventeen. In 2022, I graduated with honours and was awarded a merit scholarship.

Throughout my studies, I also attended several masterclass courses with Danilo Rossi, who is the principal violist of La Scala. I have had the privilege of playing with various Italian orchestras, including the Puccini Festival Orchestra. I am excited to share that the orchestra will be coming to Abu Dhabi at the end of January 2024. Where do you get the discipline and motivation to be consistent and are there any practices which have helped you with this? I learned discipline through my mother, who was a music teacher. During my teenage years, my desire to improve and my curiosity to see how far I could push myself helped me to stay persistent. I believe it’s important to set high-attainable goals and push yourself hard. However, I have noticed that

many people, including my students, tend to focus more on competing with others rather than motivating themselves. In reality, self-motivation and self-improvement are the keys to success.

What role has mentorship played in your career? Mentorship has played a significant role in my life. I owe a great deal to two Italian maestros: Danilo Rossi and Fabrizio Merlini. They not only taught me a lot about the viola but also provided me with guidance and support during difficult times. As a young musician, having a teacher who could motivate and encourage me was essential. Today, I am delighted to be able to offer the same level of support to my students. Are there any milestones you are most proud of? It’s difficult for me to pinpoint a single achievement that I’m most proud of because I have many. These achievements range from the competitions I participated in in Italy to the people I’ve had the honour of meeting throughout my music career. However, I can say that I am currently proud and happy to be a violist and a viola teacher in Abu Dhabi. This is particularly important because I take pride in seeing my students achieve their goals with my support. Additionally, I am thrilled to be working with my quartet and to have the honour of playing with such professional musicians.

Milica Djurovic

Candlelight Concerts by Fever’s Pianist and Violin specialist Talk us through your background and career. I’m a violinist from Serbia. My musical journey of 18 years led me to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in violin performance. Since 2021, I’ve been teaching violin and piano instruments in the Abu Dhabi, UAE, nurturing a love for music in students of all levels. Early on, I began to be a part of numerous orchestras and ensembles, travelling and performing in various European countries and, more recently, in the Middle East. Met different cultures, and realised that we’re all connected through the universal language of music. Working with other musicians, as well as with students, helped nurture my skills and career growth.

What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome this? The most significant challenge I face is balancing my time between teaching students and nurtur-

ing my passion for performance. Juggling the dedication required for individualised, one-on-one classes to help each student reach their goals while also investing time in rehearsals for our performances demands careful planning. Overcoming this challenge involves a lot of scheduling and devotion, allowing me to give my full attention to both teaching and performance preparation. Our concerts are a culmination of shared enjoyment in the music we create.

Are there any milestones you are most proud of? There are several milestones that I’m proud of. Moving to the UAE has been a significant journey, allowing me to meet diverse people and share my love for music. Teaching students how to play the violin and introducing them to the world of music has been particularly fulfilling. I also take great pride in being the violin instructor of the Abu Dhabi Youth Orchestra. Additionally, performing as part of the ensemble “The Strings” at the Candlelight Concerts has added another layer of accomplishment to my musical journey. Each of these milestones represents a chapter in my musical story.

How important is music in creating the perfect ambiance – how does this add to the experience? Music is essential in creating the perfect ambience and shaping emotions in listeners’ ears and hearts. We navigate through a variety of musical landscapes, from classical music to movie soundtracks and pop and rock genres. In preparation for each performance, we practise how to transition between emotions of each song quickly; from sad, intense or heavy tones to cheerful melodies during the concerts. Whether playing music from Hans Zimmer’s cinematic brilliance, capturing Taylor Swift’s melodies, or delivering the soulful tunes of Whitney Houston, each performance is an opportunity to connect with the audience on various emotional levels. What is the most important to you when you are on the stage performing? For me, the most meaningful moment when on the stage is the sense of connection – with colleagues, the music, and the audience. Every moment holds a unique value, and the feeling of creating something extraordinary with musicians is truly special. I dedicated my whole life to mastering the violin because I find enormous joy in sharing my emotions with the audience, making each performance a memorable and meaningful experience.

“Music is essential in creating the perfect ambience and shaping emotions in listeners’ ears and hearts.”

EID ESCAPES

An edit of short-haul getaways rooted in design, locality and culture

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Previous page: Our Habitas Ras Abrouq – Ras Abrouq, Qatar; This page: (right) Passalacqua – Lake Como, Italy; (bottom right) ÀNI – Dikwella, Sri Lanka

BROADWICK SOHO – LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

Located in the heart of London’s West End, Broadwick Soho is as charming and characterful as its storied neighbourhood. Channeling the glamour and wild energy of London’s most vibrant area into a contemporary 57-room retreat, Broadwick Soho exhibits great style and character with its flamboyant décor: a mix of English eccentricity and with a sprinkle of Disco fabulousness. broadwicksoho.com

PASSALACQUA –LAKE COMO, ITALY

A stay at Passalacqua offers a muchneeded antidote to time-crunched vacations. Embrace the Italian art of dolce far niente at this 5-star hotel on Lake Como for a dash of dolce vita, whether its yoga beneath the magnolias, a stroll through Moltrasio’s ancient lanes, learning how to make pasta or perhaps skimming across the lake in a vintage motor launch. passalacqua.it

HÔTEL DES GRAND VOYAGEURS – PARIS, FRANCE

Hôtel des Grand Voyageurs is a sleek haven for art, design, and culture enthusiasts. The interiors, a mix of contemporary flair with the nobility of old-world Europe, are curated by Milanese architect and designer Fabrizio Casiraghi. Sharp by day

and sultry by night, each aesthetic space – from the 138 rooms down to the American-French brasserie –delivers a fresh yet charismatic ambience on Quarter Saint-Placide. hoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.com

ÀNI – DIKWELLA, SRI LANKA

A four-hour flight from the UAE and a two-hour drive from Colombo will take you to the southern coast of Sri Lanka where you’ll be embraced by a verdant jungle and endless views of the sea. ÀNI is a luxury beachfront estate with a tropical modernism-inspired decor that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and an all-inclusive crafted stay. aniprivateresorts.com

ROOMS – BATUMI, GEORGIA

Batumi is the capital of the autonomous Adjara region – both a port town and a holiday destination. With its outsized glass towers and leafy old streets, Adjara has its own Turkish-inflected dialect,

distinct cuisine, lush rainforests, ancient Roman ruins and beaches for miles – definitely far from the brutalist Tbilisi that you know.

ROOMS Batumi reflects this environment, drawing inspiration from a mix of Japanese, European, and LA styles. This design-led property delivers a fresh coastal twist mixed with 70s flair and hints of Japanese influence. roomshotels.com

OUR HABITAS RAS

ABROUQ – RAS

ABROUQ, QATAR

Following the debut of an award-winning hotel in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, is Our Habitas Ras Abrouq. Located in an untouched region on Qatar’s west coast and bordering a UNESCO protected site, Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, this new property is a soulful space to enjoy nature’s beauty, with a dramatic coastal and desert backdrop to boot. From wellness programmes to locally sourced nourishing meals at Qissa, you won’t have to venture far for this one-of-a-kind travel experience. ourhabitas.com

This page: (above) ROOMS – Batumi, Georgia; (bottom right) Broadwick Soho – London, United Kingdom

THE MINIMALIST’S

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Aman Tokyo delivers clean lines, precise detailing, and next level views of the city skyline

THE STAY

From the heights of the Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo tempers urban dynamism with a profound atmosphere of serenity. Inspired by Japanese design tradition, with ikebana displays, washi paper doors and engawa plat-

forms, the vast lobby, ryokan-style rooms and Aman Spa are all among the city’s largest.

THE DINING

Centred on a Hinoki cypress-wood counter that seats eight, Musashi by Aman invites guests to experience the authentic Japanese omakase dining tradition. In front of diners, Master Chef Musashi prepares an exquisite selection of sushi based on the finest and freshest ingredients available that day.

Meaning ‘I will leave it to you’, Omakase is the Japanese tradition of entrusting your order to the chef, giving them full creative freedom over your meal. Successful omakase experiences depend on a skilled chef with a breadth of ingredients and wide-ranging knowledge. Master Chef Musashi travels to the Tokyo fish market early each morning, to select the freshest seasonal fish and seafood, pairing it with his self-grown ‘shari’ (sushi rice) to craft his omakase menus – an unmissable experience.

DREAM

THE WELLNESS

Drawing on the Japanese understanding of nature and balance, the Aman Spa makes use of natural ingredients in its journeys and therapies. The Spa itself features onsenstyle hot baths and steam rooms, a 30-metre pool with panoramic city views, fitness centre with cardiovascular and weight-training machinery, and dedicated yoga and Pilates studios. Book a full body massage - the perfect wind down post-Omakase experience.

THE REAL DEAL

Aman Kyoto is a secluded world where tradition and modernity meet

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

THE STAY

Set in a secret garden in the heart of a forest, Aman Kyoto rests a stone’s throw from Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji Temple and 16 other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The resort is nonetheless a secluded world apart, with light-filled suites and pavilions set in tranquil glades and its steaming private Onsen offering healing in the Aman Spa.

THE DINING

Sample the peerless art of Japanese hospitality at Taka-An, where Aman’s gifted chef presents an omakase (set menu) dining experience. Or savour Western and local cuisines at the convivial Living Pavilion, with its fire-warmed interiors and breathtaking garden terrace. With over 20 different types of tea available at the Living Pavilion by Aman, an afternoon can be well spent sampling these alongside traditional Japanese and Western confectionaries. Freshly prepared matcha is always the finishing touch – and this is the real deal.

THE WELLNESS

The mineral-rich water that springs near Aman Kyoto is central to the philosophy at the resort’s Aman Spa. Traditional Onsen bathing facilities deliver relaxation and healing in their purest forms, while a range of treatments tap into Japan’s plentiful natural apothecary – including Kyoto green tea, tamba kuromame black beans, local sake and cold-pressed camellia oil. The healing waters of the Onsen bathing pools are as rejuvenating for the mind as they are for the body. Dating back to the sixth century, Japanese bathing culture initially grew out of Buddhist cleansing rituals. Today, the Japanese still enjoy seasonal Onsen and herbal baths for their health-giving benefits.

If you’re looking for a deeper overhaul, acupuncture and moxibustion are said to have positive effects on both mental health and anti-aging. Based on the idea of oriental medicine and the five elements of yin and yang, it is believed that stimulating the body’s pressure can also elevate muscle tension, rebalance hormones, and improve lymphatic circulation. When combining with the warming effects of the Aman’s Spa’s natural hot springs, the treatment leaves the mind relaxed, and the body rejuvenated.

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PERPETUAL LUXE

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, homegrown label L’AFSHAR has stayed true to its design core through the years. This hero acrylic bag sets the stone for elevated accessoring for Ramadan

Elle Bag

Dhs3,690

L’AFSHAR

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI