Emirates Woman - July/August 2020

UAE DHS25 OMAN RO2.70 BAHRAIN BD2.60 KUWAIT KD2.10

A MOTIVATE PUBLICATION

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

emirateswoman.com

THE SUMMER ESCAPE ISSUE

THE WANDERLUST

HARBOUR ISLAND

BEACHSIDE BEAUTY

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER AND GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy Sessions amy.sessions@motivate.ae FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITOR Natalie Westernoff SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cecilia D’Souza SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff DIGITAL STYLE EDITOR Diana Bell-Heather DIGITAL EDITOR Olivia Morris DIGITAL FEATURES WRITER EMIRATES WOMAN ARABIYA Diyana Hakmi WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi DIGITAL DIRECTOR Sabir Khodabux GROUP MARKETING MANAGER - DIGITAL Anusha Azees GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP DIRECTOR Andrew Wingrove GROUP SALES MANAGER Bindu Gupta bindu@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Neha Kannoth neha.kannoth@motivate.ae GROUP CREATIVE SOLUTIONS MANAGER Kelli Maddock kelli@motivate.ae

HEAD OFFICE Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 4273000, Fax: (+971) 4 4282261, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae DUBAI MEDIA CITY Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Tel: (+971) 4 3903550 Fax: (+971) 4 3904845 ABU DHABI PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: (+971) 2 6772005 , Fax: (+971) 2 6770124, E-mail: motivate-adh@motivate.ae LONDON Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

Editor’s Letter Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue. This issue, magic into beachside-appropriate hats and Lisa Marie Emirates Woman invites you to escape, unwind and Fernandez on page 56 – the pioneering lifestyle and resort indulge in some serious wanderlust. Whether you’re wear brand we’ve come to know as a summer go-to. We planning a staycation, prepping your summer beauty select the hottest resort wear in La Isla Bonita on page regime or investing in the latest resort wear collections, 32, and focus on summer’s coolest accessories in The we’ve collated the best edits to transport Gladiator on page 40 and Shade on page you beachside and beyond…

38. Travel wise we cast a spotlight on I’m exceptionally proud to say the evolutions of luxury luggage brand ESCAPE, we’ve partnered with Farfetch for this Rimowa on page 82, show you how to UNWIND AND cover, featuring Rania Fawaz in our pack a suitcase like a professional on INDULGE IN cover shoot Harbour Island on page 14. page 90 and deliver a masterclass in SPF SOME SERIOUS Thinking globally and supporting on page 70 to ensure you have the perfect locally has always been the vision I tan on page 72 this summer. We’ve also WANDERLUST. have held for Emirates Woman and this compiled the best UAE staycations if perfectly aligns with Farfetch’s strategy you fancy a change of scene without to support their global network of local boutiques, going too far afield on page 98.

We dedicate this issue to one of the founding ensuring success even in challenging times. Stephanie Emirates Women; Lady Audrey Flanagan, wife of the Phair, Farfetch’s Chief Customer Officer, speaks late Sir Maurice Flanagan founding CEO of Emirates. eloquently about this in Strategy & Style on page 26 and Demonstrating great strength all the while maintaining we find out what it takes to dedicate yourself to building a softness that allows for a considerable legacy of a real brand as an influencer in Real Rania on page 28.

Also featured are exclusive interviews with master close, loving family and friends – Emirates Woman will milliner Ruslan Baginskiy on page 36, Greenpacha on continue to feature incredible women who successfully page 42 the brand weaving their own kind of sustainable strike this balance with such grace.

Amy Sessions EDITOR / ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

T H E H E R O B U YS

Bryon toquilla-straw hat Dhs610 Greenpacha

Floral print shirt Dhs1,653 Peter Pilotto available at Farfetch

Large Baguette - Ochre FF raffia bag Dhs11,980 Fendi

Nourishing Protein Peruvian Chocolate, 300g Dhs111 WelleCo available at Net-A-Porter

Magic Lip Oil Dhs175 Charlotte Tilbury

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CONTENTS J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

Lisa Marie Fernandez – the pioneering lifestyle and resort wear brand p.56

The hair detox p.62

Arabella Swim p.52

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32 FASHION

The Edit – La Isla Bonita p.32 THE MONITOR

Monitor news p.10 Accounts to follow this month p.11 Plug & Play – the best beachside podcasts p.12 The Cover – Rania Fawaz p.28

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The hero buys p.34 Exclusive interview with master milliner Ruslan Baginskiy p.36 The Gladiator – summer sandals p.40

60 BEAUTY

Nourishing oils to beat dehydration p.61 The glow supplements p.66 Hot new buys p.68 SPF: The essential guide p.70 The perfect tan p.72

Exclusive interview with Greenpacha p.42

Fragrance of freedom p.74

Chanel CR2020/21 p.46

AM/PM beauty p.78 Beauty shelf p.80

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COVER SHOOT – HARBOUR ISLAND

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CONTENTS J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 Summer’s hottest shades p.38

The Jet Set – Rimowa p.82

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93 The Cover

LIFE

Packing essentials p.93 Beach Game – Backgammon p.94 FEATURES

Beachside reads p.96

The Great Escape p.86

The Wanderlust – Superlative staycations p.98

How to pack a suitcase p.92

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Beach Comber p.106

Ellery two-tone top Dhs1,388; Joseph Tomy wide leg shorts Dhs2,953; Sunglasses and shoes stylist’s own; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

Audrey Flanagan IN MEMORIAM Audrey – Lady Flanagan, long term Dubai resident, well known for her charitable work and wife of the late Sir Maurice Flanagan passed away on June 7th in London.

Audrey Flanagan (née Bolton) was born in 1931 and left school at 16, but would have gone to university could her family have afforded it. Instead, she became a reporter on the Warrington Examiner, her hometown newspaper. She was a winner of the Vogue Talent Competition for journalists and was offered a job at House & Garden in London. However, instead she married Maurice, whom she’d met at 14 through an inter-school debating society, and travelled the world with him.

Her daughters, Siobhan and Claire, and son, Julian, were always impressed by the ease with which Audrey adapted to such a different life from the one she’d known in a close, Roman Catholic, workingclass family. She said her mother told her: “Remember, you’re no better than anyone, and no one is better than you.” That explains her social ease and why, like Maurice, she was always interested in others. That ease and curiosity also extended to encountering new cultures, which is perhaps why she was such a good journalist.

Maurice was a trainee manager with BOAC when they married. The company held a paternalistic grip on its employees and discouraged him from marrying, advising that he could probably not support a wife and family on his salary. But they did marry and were posted to Calcutta where the only entertainment they could afford was popular Indian films, of course without English subtitles. However hard up they were, Audrey dressed with style and always wore a hat and gloves to travel.

After Calcutta, they were posted to Bangkok, where Audrey’s kitchen stove was a biscuit tin on a charcoal burner in a shed. Then Nairobi, just after Siobhan was born. This was during the height of the Mau-Mau rebellion, whose violence was exaggerated by the British authorities, leading Audrey, when Maurice was on night shifts at the airport, to sleep fitfully with her baby beside her and a pot of pepper and kitchen knife on the nightstand for protection. Then Columbo, after Claire was born; Lima, where Julian was born; Abadan (Iran) where there was no available school, so Audrey home-schooled Siobhan; and Bombay/ Mumbai, which was one of the happiest times for the family.

Audrey made light work of each upheaval, leaving one household and setting up a new one. She and Maurice always formed friendships and interests beyond the British expat bubble, and their departure from each posting was mourned by staff and friends.

After Bombay, Maurice was stationed in Manchester with British Airways and Audrey worked in Press and PR for the Warrington New Town Development Corporation. The regional BBC correspondent once told Audrey that he usually ignored press releases, except hers because she always spotted and tailored a story that would interest and engage the public.

In 1977, Maurice was posted to Dubai to manage DNATA, and Audrey was appointed Press & PR Officer for Dubai’s World Trade Centre, which was then the Middle East’s tallest building. Audrey and Maurice’s world was transformed in many ways in 1984 by a phone call from Sheikh Mohammed,

when the family was celebrating Christmas at its house near Warrington. His Highness tasked Maurice to start a new airline, Emirates.

At the Dubai seaside villa, Maurice led the core, planning group in secret meetings and Audrey supervised the care and feeding of the intense working marathons. In the early years of Emirates, Audrey hosted dinners at the villa for pilots and cabin crew, helping to forge an esprit de corps in the fledgeling airline.

Maurice and Audrey loved Dubai and were fascinated to watch its extraordinary development. While Maurice was a visionary with a sharp business sense, he relied on Audrey, as a shrewd sounding board, and valued her insights throughout his career.

Dubai became even more of a home to Audrey and Maurice when Claire and her husband, Dougie Gibbons, moved here with their two small children, whom Audrey had the pleasure of watching grow up.

Audrey was a keen, diverse reader and it was her idea, sparked by Isobel Abulhoul, that Emirates might support Dubai’s Literary Festival. She suggested it to Maurice, making a strong case for how it would widen an understanding of Dubai in the rest of the world. Speaking about Audrey’s involvement in the festival, Isobel Abulhoul said, “In 2007, Audrey suggested that I pitch the idea of the Literary Festival to Emirates Airline – and thanks to both Maurice’s and Audrey’s belief that this would be an excellent way to enrich the cultural fabric of the city, the festival was born. All of us owe a huge debt to Audrey for also championing so many charitable causes.”

She supported the Al Noor Training Centre for children with special needs, from its early years, fundraising, organising and working in the charity shop, and made lasting friendships through that work.

“Audrey was a great supporter of Al Noor, from the early 1980s onwards and the centre will always be indebted to her and Maurice for their generosity and invaluable assistance,” Ian Fairservice said, on behalf of the centre’s board of governors. “She provided wonderful encouragement and helped in so many different ways, including managing the centre’s Thrift Shop for many years,” he continued.

Audrey had a great gift for friendship, across generations, and remembered small details about everyone she knew. For someone so affectionate and tender, she bore stoically the profound loss of her husband, her younger sister Veronica, and especially of her son Julian aged 56. Her legacy is of the close, loving family she nurtured and loved to watch grow, and a network of valued friends that cherish her memory.

Summer High

Net-A-Porter launches High Summer 2020, a sunshine edit of vibrant and free-spirited styles including 39 exclusive capsules, made up of everything needed for endless days of sunshine Embrace the return of warmer weather and slip into easy breezy dresses made for sunny days with romantic florals, dreamy cover ups and flowing dresses from key exclusives by Paco Rabanne and Ulla Johnson. Elegant separates such as lightweight shirts, wide leg pants and silky blouses elevate the day-to-day, with chic and time-

less basket bags complementing any summer look. Make the most of the heatwave with cult sandals brand Arizona Love who launches on Net-A-Porter offering their lustworthy sports luxe styles, along with refined swimsuits and retro-inspired bikinis which are perfect for soaking up the sun wherever you are.

Sloane embellished triangle top Dhs584 Cult Gaia

Sloane bikini briefs Dhs584 Cult Gaia

ACNE STUDIO

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This cotton-canvas bucket hat adds a touch of urban jungle to summer dresses. Pair with a simple bikini for the coolest way to protect yourself from the sun. Dhs450

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These barely there sandals work with everything from summer dresses to shorts – make them your go-to whether you’re packing for a staycation or taking some downtime at home. Dhs403

CARAVANA

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Handmade in a workshop in Valladolid, Mexico, each taking many patient hours to create, this ‘Misol’ dress is cut from lightweight cotton-jute making it as chic as it is easy to wear. Dhs1,209

THE MONITOR – NEWS

Espadrille small fringed raffia tote Dhs2,164 Altuzarra

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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Social Listings

COMPILED: DIYANA HAKMI

A curated list of who to #follow this month

@lancaster_beauty

@doyoutravel

@flywithhaifa

@rimowa

The ultimate sun care, skincare and makeup brand for summer. Founded in Monaco in 1946, the brand has gained popularity throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Try their Tan Maximizer for a bronze boost.

A travel and lifestyle blogger with incredible photography skills. Jack Morris is the genius behind the Instagram account with a strong following of two million. Famous for his surreal photographs of inspiring locations around the globe over – his page is a must-follow for serious travel inspiration.

One of the most popular travel bloggers in the Middle East, Palestinian Haifa Beseisso has over 800K subscribers on YouTube and over 500k on Instagram.

Haifa started her travel adventures around the globe at 22-years-old making, uncovering and exploring new countries and cultures.

Rimowa is the perfect brand for travelling in style. Their designs incorporate wood, aluminium and high-tech polycarbonate to give a cool, slick feel. Invest in one of their iconic aluminium suitcases and it’ll travel with you for life.

@tumitravel

@tutuskurniatiofficial

@cultgaia

@eres

If you’re looking for world-class travel products, Tumi is the brand for you. Famous for it’s soft, ultra-functional, blackon-black ballistic nylon travel bags. Tumi also provides unique designs to meet everyone’s design demands on the go.

Founded by Tutus Kurniati, the Dubaibased resort wear brand offers a selection of high-quality pieces inspired by the coastal lifestyle of Dubai. The boutique includes high-end beachside brands such as Cult Gaia, Alexandre Vauthier, Temperley London, Hunza G as well as other contemporary brands.

LA-based label Cult Gaia has been a brand for several seasons and there is nothing they do better than summer accessories. Inspired by vintage pieces in candy hues, this sustainably conscious brand is the ideal summer investment.

Cult French swimwear label Eres is known for elegant bikinis and onepieces that flatter and fit your form like no other. They make sure their shades flatter every skin tone and female body shape. Founded in 1998, Eres has been offering dreamy beachwear in innovative colour shades for over 40 years.

@caravanaland

@ancientgreeksandals

@melissaodabash

@lisamariefernandez

This beachwear label has all the coverups we dream of and is made from high quality, natural fabric. Handcrafted in Mexico by artisans using traditional Mayan techniques. Simple yet chic, these pieces for beachside lounging.

The sandal maker behind the brand is famous for having made Hermes flying sandals with a signature ‘golden wing’ buckle. The styles are classic and are handmade by traditional craftsmen to go-with-everything. Helping the environment, they only use chemical-free natural tan leather that ages beautifully.

Melissa Odabash is a former swimwear model who worked in Italy previously for many years. The brand’s designs are made to enhance different body shapes and are a must-have for travel enthusiasts. Offering beachwear, accessories, childrenswear and sports luxe, this label introduces high fashion into swimwear.

This brand is a direct reflection of its founder, a previous fashion editor who expanded the swimwear line to incorporate resort wear. Super flattering, invest in these and they’ll see you through many summers to come. A definite must-have.

THE MONITOR

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Today In Focus – the Guardian

Plug & Play

The best podcasts to listen to beachside and beyond WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Hosted by Anushka Asthana, Today in Focus combines personal storytelling with insightful analysis. Brought to you by The Guardian, this podcast takes you behind the headlines for a deeper understanding of the news, every weekday.

The Goodness Podcast

Launched in January 2020 with the goal of celebrating the inspirational stories of women living in the Middle East.

The ten-episode first season highlights tales of triumph over tragedy, stories of resilience and ones of survival, all while imparting valuable advice and lived experience to its listeners. Hosted by Goodness co-founder Noor Tehini, it follows the brand’s overarching mission of fostering an honest and real conversation around the topics that matter the most to the women of this region.

TED Talks Daily

Every weekday, TED Talks Daily brings you the latest talks in audio. Join host and journalist Elise Hu for thoughtprovoking ideas on every subject imaginable – from Artificial Intelligence to Zoology and everything in between – given by the world’s leading thinkers and creators. With TED Talks Daily, find some space in your day to change your perspectives, ignite your curiosity and learn something new.

Ten Percent Happier

You might think you know what it takes to lead a happier life… more money, a better job, or Instagram-worthy vacations. You’re wrong. Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos has studied the science of happiness and found that many of us do the exact opposite of what will truly make our lives better. Based on the psychology course she teaches at Yale – the most popular class in the university’s 300-year history – Laurie will take you through the latest scientific research and share some surprising and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about happiness.

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THE MONITOR

Deep Energy Podcast

This podcast is dedicated to ambient and new age music for sleep, meditation, relaxation, massage, yoga and Reiki. Listen to reveal your inner most thoughts and feel revived.

IMAGES: GETTY AND SUPPLIED

The Happiness Lab

Dan Harris is a skeptical ABC News anchor who had a panic attack live on Good Morning America, which led him to try something he always thought was ridiculous: meditation. He went on to write the bestselling book, 10% Happier. In this podcast, Dan explores happiness (whatever that means) from all angles. Guests include legendary meditation teachers – from the Dalai Lama to Western masters – as well as scientists who determine that mental traits such as happiness, calm, generosity, compassion and connection are not hardwired, unalterable factory settings; they are, in fact, skills that can be trained and here you’ll learn how.

Harbour

ISLAND

Channel your inner island castaway this summer with bohemian shades and surfer cool Words & Creative Direction: Amy Sessions Photography: Greg Adamski

Previous page: Missoni Mare zigzag crochet one-piece swimsuit Dhs1,550; Isabel Marant Ike belted cotton shorts Dhs1,355; Sunglasses stylist’s own; This page: Missoni Mare colour block lightweight dress Dhs3,056; Missoni Mare mesh bikini set Dhs1,385; Right page: Taller Marmo Volver halter neck dress Dhs1,755; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

Ellery two-tone top Dhs1,388; Joseph Tomy wide leg shorts Dhs2,953; Sunglasses and shoes stylist’s own; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

Left page and top right: Peter Pilotto short sleeve floral print shirt Dhs1,653; Atm Anthony Thomas Melillo highwaisted wide leg trousers Dhs1,564; Bottom right: Missoni Mare colour block lightweight dress Dhs3,056; Missoni Mare mesh bikini set Dhs1,385; Sunglasses stylist’s own; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

Missoni Mare contrast panelled jumpsuit Dhs3,019 Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

This page: Missoni Mare zigzag crochet one-piece swimsuit Dhs1,550; Sunglasses stylist’s own; Right page: Peter Pilotto short sleeve floral print shirt Dhs1,653; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com

Strategy & Style WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Stephanie Phair is what you’d call incredible. Leading, developing and articulating the long-term vision for Farfetch, we spoke to Phair about supporting boutiques in the time of a pandemic and beyond

Stephanie Phair

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What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine? I’ve stopped checking emails first thing in the morning, or you go down a rabbit hole, and I end up with a clearer head! If there is anything urgent I would have missed calls. I get myself ready and it’s all hands on deck to get 3 children and us out of the house on time.

Tell us about your role as Chief Customer Officer at Farfetch? My role encompasses the broader customer strategy at Farfetch, the world of Private Client and our customer innovation efforts with Store of the Future. Our customers are at the core of our business and one of our key brand pillars is “amaze customers”. José [Neves, founder of Farfetch] always had in mind that he wanted to build a community and our customers are at the heart of that.

How did your previous roles at the likes of Net-A-Porter set you up for such a role and what do you think the key thing is to remember if you strive to build a customer-centric brand? NetA-Porter was such a customer centric business and I learnt a lot there. Making sure you constantly look at things not from a functional point of view but from a customer lens is a discipline. The customer doesn’t care that your average answering time is x minutes, they care about what it was for them.

The recent months have been a challenge - how did Farfetch stay ahead of the curve in terms of inventory and strategy? Farfetch was founded at the beginning of the 2008 recession, and born out of a need for brick and mortar boutiques to survive and reach customers worldwide. Today our partners are facing an equally difficult time for trade now as we did then, but our capabilities as a global platform enable us to offer them solutions during this time, because they can still ship from their stores even if their footfall has dropped. Farfetch has hundreds of boutique partners who make our business model so unique and our first instinct was to go back to our DNA and highlight what an important part of our community they represent by launching our Support Boutiques campaign. When our customers shop on Farfetch, the items arrive from one of 700+ boutiques in one of 50 countries around the world, or from the stores of our many brand partners, altogether representing over 3000 designers mostly small and unique creators of fashion. The vast majority of these are small businesses (often family-run) many of whom cannot welcome customers into their physical stores at the moment. We wanted to ensure these partners have our full support to be able to continue servicing their dedicated customer base and continue to trade. Now as we see the market begin to come

COVER STORY

boutiques around the globe. We do look for opportunities where we can bring the offline experience to life by immersing our customers into the world of the many boutiques that sit on the platform and through consumer facing events where we can connect with the Farfetch community.

Our loyalty programme, Farfetch Access, allows us to cater to and personalise our offerings to each of our customers as their buying profile develops from one tier to the next. Once our customer reaches the Private Client tier, one of the very personalized services we offer them is a personal stylist and access to the Fashion Concierge service where you can buy unique oneof-a-kind pieces from brands that we don’t stock on our platform.

How crucial do you see tech and innovation in luxury versus the personal touch or is it the two combined? When it comes to the online shopping experience, we know that customers are more hyper connected than ever.

They have their pulse to newness and emerging trends so it’s very important for us as a brand to create inspiration and aid customers in that discovery. Furthermore, when it comes to the offline versus online journey, the digital aspect of the consumer journey is so important. Due to the current climate, consumers’ habits have certainly shifted towards online shopping. I believe that customers today expect a far more seamless, effortless and efout of the strict lockdowns we saw implemented around the ficient experience when they shop online. Additionworld, we remain steadfast in supporting our partners. ally, customers are incredibly knowledgeable and do Which attributes do you find appeal most to customers when it their research before purchasing an item, so they comes to products? What customers really want lends to our want to know that they are being offered the highest DNA and what really is authentic to Farfetch -which is curaquality products at the most competitive prices. tion, aiding in discovery but also the human stories we tell via our community. With Farfetch Communities we spotlight indiWhich Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiravidual points of view across the world which shows how varied tion? I follow a lot of interior Instagram accounts. and unique the world of fashion can be. Whether it’s our bouI believe that fashion is not just about clothes anytique partners, our network of influencers or our own teams, more but fits into wider culture and this helps frame our brand has a lot of heart and I believe that is something our the broader perspective. The World of Interiors, The consumers appreciate and connect with.

Modern House, Great Women Artists are some.

Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals? I do check my How does Farfetch intend to continue to support boutiques phone, which is not great! globally going forward? We will continue to support our boutiques through strong editorial and the ability to let them tell What effect has social media played in the growth of their unique stories but we are also working to integrate techFarfetch? Social media has been a great platform nology that better connects the online and offline experiences. through which we have seen the extensive growth and If our marketplace can help drive people in to our partner bouextension of Farfetch Communities – it’s limitless. It tiques’ stores for example then it is a win-win. has also been a platform through which we were able to remain connected to our customers throughout this Do you have particular brands yourself that you buy into? I have pandemic. We were able to bring our customers into always loved more classic, clean lines. The Row, Toteme, Frame our boutiques and were able to give our boutiques the – I’m happy to go hi-lo and sometimes throw in something crazy chance to talk to the customers and tell them of their and colourful. Farfetch is such a great place to discover brands. experiences throughout these unprecedented times.

How do you manage to succeed in both roles (Farfetch & BritWhat advice would you give to your younger self startish Fashion Council) and do you have any mindfulness practices ing out? Don’t be so impatient. It will all come in time. that help when the challenges come from every angle? I prioritise in order of urgency, work as hard as I can, but recognise Did you have a mentor and if so what was the most that there are only 12 hours (or 16) in the day! I am lucky to valuable piece of advice they gave you? I have worked work in an industry that is about selling nice clothes and stowith many wonderful women (and men) who have all rytelling and so perspective is really important too. been mentors in some aspect, from Anna Wintour to Natalie Massenet and Mark Sebba, the CEO of What is luxury today? It is health and quality time. I think this the Net-A-Porter Group I am very lucky that I have coronavirus pandemic has taught everyone how to appreciate worked with some of the best in the business. the small things.

If you were not Chief Customer Officer at Farfetch, Do you see any buying patterns in terms of global sales and if which other role would you choose career-wise? I so what? We are certainly seeing demand change according to love my role – so much to do and I get to work with where on the path to easing lockdown a region finds itself in. smart kind people all over the world.

We are also seeing an increase in homewares, active wear and comfortable fashion as you might expect.

This issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would How do you approach client engagement and retention? We have you like to escape to? I am actually really looking forward to visiting Dubai again when it’s safe to do a number of different avenues when it comes to engagement so. My last few trips have been very quick so I would and retention. We are focused on always innovating our online really like to spend some proper time in the city and customer experience and user journey, by being able to offer our connect with the community out there. customers an unrivalled assortment from the best brands and

COVER STORY

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Real

RANIA

Rania Fawaz is focused, free-spirited and unfailingly hard-working. On a 12-hour shoot day in 45-degree heat we saw just the metal she’s made of, and we liked it Words: Amy Sessions

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COVER STORY

STYLING: GEMMA DEEKS; MAKEUP: MELANIE MEYER AT MMG ARTISTS; HAIR: JORDAN ROBERTSON AT MMG ARTISTS; LOCATION: WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO FOUR SEASONS RESORT DUBAI AT JUMEIRAH BEACH, WWW.FOURSEASONS.COM/DUBAIJB 04 270 7777; WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO SEAWAKE

You mentioned on set this was an unusual shoot for you – how so? Yes, it was unusual and I’m so happy I stepped out of my comfort zone. It’s a shoot I will show my children one day, very different and another side of me I only discovered that day at the shoot!

Who have been your mentors to date and what have you learned from them?

My mother is my mentor and has been from day one. My mother has taught me a lot, she is so loving and courageous. My mother has taught me selflove and it is the most important life lesson I have ever learned.

Have you encountered any hurdles in your career to date and how did you mindfully overcome them? I encountered some difficulties in the beginning but I took my mum’s advice to always believe in myself and know that this belief will get me where I would like to be.

Can you recommend any books or podcasts we should be reading / listening to? I love self-improvement books. My favourite book is The Power of Now

by Eckhart Tolle, I read it once a year at least. A podcast I love to listen to is The Breakfast Club, it’s so interesting to listen to different perspectives every morning.

What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning rouWhich Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiratine? The first 30 minutes of my day usually starts with a lot of tion? A lot of Instagram accounts inspire me @twocoffee – I’m not really a morning person, and it’s the only thing arabminds @digitalf33ls @thatcoolmoodboard to that gets me going! I have my green juice next and just spend name a few. it usually as my 'me' time. I try my best to disconnect from my Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals? Yes, I do fifteen phone but I don’t always succeed. minutes of my skin and hair care routine then fall asleep in bed watching something lighthearted.

How has your schedule changed during the pandemic and how What’s the beauty buy you cannot live without? A has this altered your creativity? My schedule has definitely changed during this pandemic. I now organise my time in a beauty buy I cannot live without is my eyebrow gel. way where I can do so much more during the day. I’ve develIt’s the only product I haven’t changed in over seven oped a YouTube channel, a pantry system and refurnished years and I re-buy it religiously - it’s the ‘Transparthe apartment. I’ve also developed a much healthier lifestyle ent eyebrow gel’ by Anastasia Beverly Hills. in both food and exercise. I’ve really discovered a lot of new Which new brands should be on our radar? Actually, things about myself during this time, the biggest being that funny to say, during this lockdown, I decided to disI’ve finally learned how to be patient. I’ve realised that good cover more brands with good quality pieces, I really things take time and I think patience has helped me with my like @orseund_iris, @miaou and @palomawool. creativity as well. Before the lockdown, I was constantly travIn which way have you approached growing your folelling, always on set or at fashion week and I made lifestyle lowing and what works best with your followers? I’ve choices based on not having enough time. made a rule for myself with social media to not really care about your growth as much as your content.

You’ve skillfully mastered growing your brand, how do you manWhat advice would you give to your younger self age this whilst still having time for yourself? Building my name (brand) is really a lifestyle, there is no off switch. I think the starting out? Honestly, it might sound like a cliché, key to being sane is always to be yourself across all platforms, but I would tell my younger self everything happens that way it is not draining and I didn’t feel like I had to have for a reason and to take everything with ease. time for myself. I feel like the entire day is time for myself beThis issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would cause of the way I choose to be. you like to escape to? I want to escape to a beach destination somewhere where the water is so blue – You studied fashion design, is this something you’d like to focus Ibiza or the islands in Greece. on in future and what would be the design focus? Yes, for sure, fashion has been something in my family for generations. My dream is to have my own label and it’s something I’m curPrevious and right page: Isabel Marant cape-overlay rently working towards. floral crochet top Dhs3,959; Tibi pleated waist cropped trousers Dhs1,131; All Boutique 1 via Farfetch.com You grew up in Dubai – how do you think that has influenced you? Growing up in Dubai is a blessing, I was influenced by both Arab and foreign cultures and it definitely did make my childhood more interesting. I love everything about Dubai and All items available at Boutique 1 Dubai I can’t wait to raise my kids here someday. via Farfetch.com; All prices are approximate

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Hanalei Bay panelled paisley-print silk maxi dress Dhs3,235 Etro

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Radja whipstitched leather-trimmed raffia bucket bag Dhs2,180 Isabel Marant

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE: NET-A-PORTER

WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

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Croc-effect leather sandals Dhs737 Exclusively available at Net-A-Porter

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If you’re missing your annual trip to this magical island, these pieces will make you feel like you’re there WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

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01. Eleftheria braided leather sandals Dhs680 Ancient Greek Sandals available at Matches Fashion; 02. Les Essentiels Show bandeau bikini top Dhs725 Eres; 03. Les Essentiels Cavale bikini briefs Dhs585 Eres; 04. Thera cutout gathered silk crepe de chine maxi dress Dhs2,036 Cult Gaia; 05. Plage shell pendant necklace Dhs1,135 marine Serre available at Matches Fashion; 06. Colombier ruched bikini top Dhs364 Fisch available at Net-A-Porter; 07. Corossol ruched bikini briefs Dhs364 Fisch available at NetA-Porter; 08. Paula's Ibiza Slit leather-trimmed woven raffia tote Dhs2,357 Loewe; 09. Angular aviator metal sunglasses Dhs1155 Bottega Veneta; 10. Oversized Linen shirt Dhs199 Zara; 11. Satira wraparound leather sandals Dhs595 Ancient Greek Sandals available at Matches Fashion

Missing Mykonos

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Ruslan Baginskiy is building the next powerhouse accessories brand, one hat at a time. We spoke to the designer about the cool factor and how to remain commercially viable in this market

The Master

Ukrainian milliner Ruslan Baginskiy has seen the kind of stratospheric brand growth most only dream of. After sending a handful of samples to an editorial shoot featuring Bella Hadid, his signature baker boy caps went viral following an Instagram post from the model.

Now sold on the biggest e-commerce platforms, we spoke to Baginskiy about what fashion looks like going forward and how to build the next powerhouse brand.

What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine? Morning is the most important part of my day. I like to start my day right. I always open windows for some fresh air, use a face mask and drink water with vitamin C. It’s important to put on the right music. And I love to cook, so I always make breakfast when I’m at home. All these little details help me set my mood for the day.

How has your schedule changed during the pandemic and how has this altered your creativity? Sure, it has definitely changed, we’ve all felt these changes. All my team and my family were in quarantine from the start, we all took it very seriously. Myself and part of my team had been to Paris for fashion week, so when we came back to Kyiv we decided to quarantine and not go to the office for 14 days because we feel responsible for our team being safe. And in a week lockdown started and we all had to learn how to work from home. This time has shifted our normal schedule, we have a lot of calls now and Zoom meetings. I think I’ve started to work even more than before as it can be a challenge to understand when your day starts and when it finishes, yet I feel I’ve learned a lot from this experience.

Have you invested in your home during this time and if so what additions have you added?

Actually, I was lucky with this lockdown, because I just moved into my new home and for me, it was exciting to be there. I enjoyed ordering new pieces for the kitchen so I could enjoy cooking. I planted olive trees and now it’s my favourite summer place in Kyiv.

How did you know it was the right time to launch Ruslan Baginskiy and what were the stepping stones to that point?

I started working as a fashion stylist, and during that time I ended up styling the shows of Ukrainian designers. I couldn’t find the proper accessories that would perfectly fit the aesthetics of the shows. That’s when I started creating accessories on my own. Af-

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Milliner ter a few seasons, I realised there was a gap in the market so I started my own brand.

You sent you samples to a photoshoot – was this pure gut feeling and do you believe in following this? Every time we send our hats to shoots, I strongly believe that it will work out.

It’s very important to believe in what you do.

We love the chain detailing on your hats – how important are the materials and details in building a brand? Very important, because it makes you unique. From the start, all our hats were about details. The RB monogram, hand embroidery, pins, piercing and chains.

Some of these details are removable and can be used to style hats with your outfit.

Do you feel more drawn to the creative or the business side of the brand and how have you grown the team to support this? Most of my work is about creativity and design.

But I also take care of the business side in terms of being part of strategy meetings and making the overarching decisions. RB is an emerging brand; our team has grown to 30 people and I’m happy that most of them are my family and friends.

What has been the biggest hurdle since starting your own brand and how did you overcome it? One of the most challenging parts is successfully managing the fast-growing company. We built our own production line in one year and we are now able to fulfil the growing demand, it is very motivating.

Do you have any mentors or guides and how does this help navigate the right path? I don’t have one particular person. I always try to learn from the people I meet in my life. I’m always open to asking for advice.

What is your approach to scaling the business? The online market is very strong for us. From the start, it was our goal to work with the biggest online retailers and now we are launching our own online store.

You have clients the globe over – do you see any buying patterns based on regions or countries? We do see how one market differs from another when it comes to global sales. We

research and learn about what people prefer in each region and that really helps when we create new collections or we’re preparing to go to market each season. For example, in the US people prefer felt and straw hats. In Europe, especially in Italy, people choose more intricate pieces such as our crystal-embellished baker boy caps. In the UK our signature baker boy caps are the most popular.

How have you stayed connected to the buyers you work alongside at e-commerce brands such as Browns, Matches Fashion and Net-A-Porter and what do you predict a buying season will look like in future? We have our in-house sales team and we set up our own showroom in Paris every season, so we are connected with all the buyers directly as they’ve become our friends. Now we are in the middle of preparing for the new season and due to the COVID-19 situation, all appointments will be done online.

Have you created any bespoke pieces for your clients? We always make custom pieces for editorial shoots and special events. We also have a couture collection where each is unique.

How has social media affected building Ruslan Baginskiy and which platform has been most useful? For us, Instagram was at the

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heart of the initial visibility of the brand, it gave a chance to reach people we dreamed of working with while we were based physically in Ukraine.

Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration? I follow a lot, but there are a few I really admire such as @ruby_marylennox, @mudimakes, @grabkoivan and @minhyunwoo.

We love all your styles, if you had to choose one signature which would it be and what do you predict to be the next? Our signature style has always been baker boy cap. But now I think the hats with chain strap can also compete.

Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals? I always watch Friends episodes before I go to bed.

What do you carry with you always when travelling? Hats!

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out? Now I know how important it is to get specialised education.

If you had not launched Ruslan Baginskiy, which other role would you choose careerwise? I think I would continue work as a fashion stylist, I really admire this job.

This issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would you like to escape to? It would be Italy for sure. I had a plan to travel around Italy this summer.

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GIVENCHY

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Carrera Facer sunglasses Dhs1,230 available at Farfetch; Oversized hexagon-frame tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses Dhs1,306 Loewe; Logo-arm rectangular metal sunglasses Dhs1,575 Loewe; Oversized square-frame gold-tone sunglasses Dhs407 Kaleos available at Net-A-Porter; Camp Aviator-Style Metal Sunglasses Dhs1,710 Dior available at Moda Operandi; Cat-eye gold-tone and acetate sunglasses Dhs1,434 Loewe; Flat-top mask acetate sunglasses Dhs1,575 Loewe; D-frame metal sunglasses Dhs1,244 Saint Laurent; Jagger aviator titanium sunglasses Dhs3,235 Jacques Marie Mage available at Matches Fashion

Oversized or retro, we’ve compiled the best edit of summer’s hottest shades.

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GLADIATOR

Candela leather sandals Dhs754 ATP Atelier

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Alcyone lace-up metallic leather sandals Dhs496 Ancient Greek Sandals

Rockstud leather sandals Dhs2,903 Valentino Garavani

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Beaded braided leather sandals Dhs2,812 Brunello Cucinelli

CHRISTIAN DIOR

There’s no summer sandal that can rival the gladiator.

Whether you opt for leather, rope or techno fabric, this perpetual summer staple will be the best investment you make this season.

Rockstud suede sandals Dhs2,082 Valentino Garavani available at Net-A-Porter

Tied Flat Leather Sandals Dhs199 Zara

Estia leather sandals Dhs556 Ancient Greek Sandals

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Alezio leather sandals Dhs794 ATP Atelier

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Weaving

Magic

The sustainable hat brand with serious style game Since 2010 Greenpacha has been working with artisans of Ecuador and their beautiful tradition of hand-woven toquilla hats.

Founded on values of sustainability, ethics and respect, authenticity and innovation remain at the core of the brand. We spoke to Florencia Gomez Gerbi, CEO and one half of the co-founding sister duo.

What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine? I like to wake up early, around sunrise, most days. I do Bowspring, a physical practice that activates the fascia and leaves my body ready to start the day, either for surfing or working creatively.

How has your schedule changed during the pandemic and how has this altered your creativity? To be honest, I have been positive about this pandemic, considering the challenges it has brought to my company and artisans. I try to flow with the circumstances that are beyond my control and get the most out of it. Being at home has allowed me to have more time with my family, without the usual travelling or excessive movement. This in turn has allowed me to be more creative and focus on the things I didn’t have time for before. I am aware of the difficulties this change has brought to many people, but I have disconnected with much of the main media as I find it draining and sometimes misinforming.

I feel these times are an opportunity to observe more and be reflective on the way I am within myself, my family and my community. I also became more flexible about my plans for the near future. I live day by day.

As founder, I was already conscious at the time to buy, and think that from now on,

the world will change towards a more experience-oriented way of consuming, one that elevates the self; and also, people will be more open to create in collaborations, which will certainly bring like-minded people from all around the world to connect and generate more consciousness while creating.

How did you know it was the right time to launch Greenpacha and what were the stepping stones to that point? Creating Greenpacha was a 100 per cent intuitive process. I wanted to be an entrepreneur in California with values that respect nature and inspire artists in the creative process. I love to surf and create art; my entire lifestyle is centred around these two expressions. I created Greenpacha living this lifestyle. At the beginning we designed balsa surfboards, I wanted to promote the “Green ride”, but in one trip to Ecuador with my sister, an Ecuadorian friend introduced us into the Panama hat path, which is actually in Ecuador. The fine toquilla straw weaving blew our minds.

On this trip, I met doña Rosa Aurelia Salinas, the leader of a weaving community in the Ecuadorian hills. We instantly connected. She was starting a co-op of artisans back in 2010. So, we basically helped each other to build what we have now. We became friends and have remained so since then.

How did growing up in Argentina support your ability to launch Greenpacha? I guess growing up in Argentina, the most European of the Latin American countries, gave me a sense of style that I was able to blend well when I moved to California. And it was also super easy for me to connect with the artisans in Ecuador because I can relate not

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only with the Spanish language, but also with some cultural Latin American ways we share, like humour, warmth, music and the ability to always find a good excuse to party.

You founded the brand with your sister Julieta – how is it working together? We are still working together so I think it’s going well!

Regardless of our differences I always tried to find common ground and prioritise our sisterhood. We are both artists so running a business wasn’t our strength. I always thought if I were to be a CEO, I would want to create an environment of enthusiasm within my team that inspires each member to work with passion independently and drive the best success for Greenpacha, not in an office but from wherever they are. Juli and I worked from the two different hemispheres for most of the 10 years and the distance sometimes was challenging, but we persevered so now it is our strength.

I am the creator and guardian of Greenpacha but I like to let the creativity of each member flow genuinely and supervise that gently. I like my team to be motivated by their own results and also allowing them to autoredirect if something does not work out.

We love that you work with artisans and support this craft. How challenging was it to make that dream a reality? Working with artisans is a journey. Each hat is different and unique because it is handmade and the emotions, activities, weather on the days the artisans weave all affect the product. So that’s why I like to say that our hats are alive, they have the energy of the mountains, the skill of the hands and the prayers these ladies do when they weave. All these, empowered by the force

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come it? To switch industries. As a surfer, at the beginning I wanted Greenpacha to be in the surf boutiques, naturally. But it turned out to be a very expensive hat for this industry. So, I needed to move my brand and strategy to the green fashion world, which I really liked but I had no idea about. It took me some time, lots of investigation and patience

“We always bring a respectful approach, making sure they knew we wanted to honour their work and dignify the beauty of their legacy.” to make this transition happen in a clever and genuine way. But I am really happy I did.

Do you have any mentors or guides and how does this help navigate the right path? I do, and I did have, lots of them. I don’t think anyone can do anything successful alone. We learn when we relate, so I have learned from a lot of people. My husband Fernando has

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helped me in the business side; the artisans have helped me to understand and appreciate their work; Julie my sister has confronted me with reasons I didn’t see; Mario Gemin has helped me with the artistic direction of the brand; Julie Gilhart has been my mentor to prepare Greenpacha for the fashion world; a few milliner artists have taught me a lot about hats; my father has given me good pieces of advice; Valery Demure with whom I work now has been really helpful in reaching the audience suitable for Greenpacha; the girls from A’maree’s gave me beautiful advice. Some good friends and artists along the way too… I couldn’t make this happen without the help from all these precious people.

What is your approach to scaling the business and are there any markets you’d like to focus on? At Greenpacha our mission is be the “goto brand for Panama hats”. That is, you need a sun hat? Think Greenpacha. As we only focus on this Ecuadorian weave made with natural material, all our hats are free from plastics, we are green for real. Our hats smell like nature, like a plant, it is very pleasant.

They are light and flexible. They are perfect to enjoy and be protected from the sun.

Plus, we have the new paradigm values in our DNA of respecting nature and the artisans involved bringing design innovation to a tradition. I am confident with the direction and potential we have and we are ready to deliver.

As we expand the line, we will only work with plant-based fabrics. Now we are about to launch a new line of fine artisanal linen to the collection, so we are very excited about that.

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of a pre-Colombian tradition that it is alive now in 2020 thanks to the artisans.

We have had lots of challenges with our clients in regards to sizing, styles, colours, imperfections etc., because of the nature of them being handmade but this is also part of the beauty of our products.

Since 2010 we have visited Ecuador regularly, and each time we learn something new.

We participated in most of their festivities and shared their culture. Each May we send two per cent of our sales to the co-op and over the years they build a workshop and they improved their technologies. We always bring a respectful approach, making sure they knew we wanted to honour their work and dignify the beauty of their legacy. It took us seven years to gain their trust and in 2017 they gave to us and Greenpacha their blessing.

Do you feel more drawn to the creative or the business side of the brand and how have you grown the team to support this? As I mentioned earlier, I am more drawn to the creative side but I had no choice to learn to be a CEO and make friends with the numbers. My team has pushed me to do so and demanded me to take this role more actively, so I did, but in my own way. That is, finding the right people for each task. Perhaps it took me more time than any other business could survive, but as Greenpacha is a passionate and flexible business I was able to conquer this dream and I am happy to continue to grow like this, organically and with the right team members.

What has been the biggest hurdle since starting your own brand and how did you over-

You have clients the globe over – do you see any buying patterns based on regions or countries? The patterns I see are more related to the style of hats people buy. People are going back to middle to shorter brims as opposed to the last two years obsession with the oversized brims. Most of the time people choose natural colours, which totally makes sense when it comes to buying a straw hat. Nevertheless, we are trying new colours too. Japan and the have been our strongest regions in terms of sales to date, and we’re looking forward to exploring more corners of the globe.

We only do spring-summer collections, so we also work in Argentina and Australia.

How have you stayed connected to the buyers you work alongside at e-commerce brands such as Browns, Matches Fashion and Net-A-Porter and what do you predict a buying season will look like in future? I have no great expectations for Greenpacha sales in 2020, for obvious worldwide reasons, but I have a good feeling about 2021 and beyond.

I feel the Greenpacha audience is more sensitive and drawn to appreciate a product like ours. We are working on a new collection that will make our clientele happy to be back outside and enjoy the simple pleasures in life with a Greenpacha hat on. As for our clients, I am always there to help them with anything, but the Valery Demure showroom is in charge of managing our accounts. Anyone interested in our brand will be redirected to the showroom. They work amazingly with us.

How has social media affected building Greenpacha and which platform has been most useful? Social media is a great tool for building a business nowadays and gives us a global reach.

We mainly focus on Instagram and Facebook.

I have a passionate young team creating content and being active across these platforms which is where we see a large number of clients contacting us. Tiare manages our @greenpacha account and I have a personal one for any direct inquires @greenpachaflo.

Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration? I honestly mostly follow and engage with my friends and members of my close community I am living at the time.

Sometimes, I follow randomly and temporarily, some creative accounts like @i_d or @dezeen or @nowness or @wolfcubwolfcub and some artists I admire, like @mirandajuly.

When creating, I find my inspiration where I am offline. An artist I follow and I adore is @ErykahBadu, I love her style.

We love all your styles; how do you perpetually innovate? I love to be inspired and I seek for a definition of beauty; and in the process of redefining it, I found a pleasure for sophistication, more in the simplicity rather than in the complexity. I also find pleasure in meeting people and making new friends with mutual affinities. I am always follow-

ing my curiosity to find inspiration. If I can’t travel, I find a way to take a journey inside.

Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals? Be grateful for my day, shower or rose baths from my garden when I have the time, clean and nourish my skin and teeth, hug my loved ones and read a few lines of something that provokes me to have good dreams.

What do you carry with you always when travelling? Hats of course. Quite a few of them!

I’ve become an expert in travelling with hats so if you are unsure of how to pack a hat please don’t hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to help you.

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out? Follow your intuition and enjoy the ride, be a good listener and an avid observer. Love what you do even though you don’t know what you are doing, one day

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you will realise. Don’t be afraid of speaking numbers and know that emotions don’t count in business.

If you had not launched Greenpacha, which other roles would you choose career-wise?

I am a dancer and I love to sing. Perhaps I would be singing jazz and Bossanova in cool small venues.

This issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would you like to escape to? I think for this summer which has been really exceptional I would like to go to Formentera and Ibiza, as a surfer I have never been there because there are no waves. Perhaps visit Greece too if I am in Europe. Or, if I take a surf trip, I would go to Baja California, Mexico with my friends and family. Tahiti is also pending on my list, or to my favourite place in the world, Bali.

It’s hard to decide for a travel lover!

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Look ahead to Chanel’s Cruise 2020/21 collection ‘Balade en Méditerranée’ – the perfect way to indulge your wanderlust.

COLLECTION IMAGES BY KARIM SADLI AND LANDSCAPE IMAGES BY BEA DE GIACOMO

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Arabella London is reinventing what swimwear means with carefully constructed pieces designed to be worn far beyond the beach. We spoke to the team about brand DNA and designing for women 52 emirateswoman.com

What do your first 30 minutes of the day look like, your morning routine? I kick-start the working day with a strong cappuccino and one of the first things I’ll do is share a beautiful image on our Instagram @arabellalondon to inspire and excite our audience. I like to think this provides a little virtual vacation and light relief from the everyday. It puts me in a summer mindset - whatever the weather dreaming of the better times and energised for the day ahead with a clear vision for the brand right from the get-go.

Selling swimwear online is not a simple operation - morning priorities for us involve working closely with customers to provide detailed fit advice and product suggestions depending on their body type. Maintaining a great brand-consumer relationship is paramount for us. Alongside this, as a small team we tackle all areas of the business in-house - from sourcing and product development, to the marketing and PR activities - shipping and sales. Those 30 minutes are crucial in mapping out the workflow and priorities for the day.

What is at the heart of Arabella London’s DNA as a brand? Swimwear that is as cleverly constructed as your finest lingerie. Our styles combine couture-like craftsmanship with ultra-sophisticated silhouettes made to go effortlessly from day to night (just add wide-leg pants or your favourite jeans for after-dark glamour). We are on a mission to instill every woman with vacation-ready confidence, and create swimwear that is exciting (and not nerve-wracking!) to slip into.

What has been the biggest hurdle since starting your own brand and how did you overcome it? I’ve learnt that running a business never gets easier and ongoing challenges are part of the process. I used to think - as soon as you reach X, Y and Z - you’re sorted, but this isn’t the way it works. In the startup phase I had every hurdle to contend with - creating a brand and business from scratch without any formal background in the industry - grappling with development issues, quality control, finding factories, multiple trial and error moments compounded with the stress of being a solo founder with all responsibility entirely on my shoulders. This was a passion project I was determined to make a success. Fast-forward a few years and we’ve secured world-famous retailers and we are growing so quickly that it’s hard to keep up. With every stage of growth, new challenges arise - now we have immense pressure to meet retail deadlines, scale production, keep innovating and keep our finger on the pulse whilst balancing a social life and getting a little sleep on the side!

Do you have any mentors or guides and how does this help navigate the right path? People with a long-term mindset are worth listening to. Success doesn’t happen overnight and businesses take time to build. I’m fortunate to have supportive family to turn to, along with other entrepreneurs I have met along the way for advice and direction. It is important to surround yourself with the right people who offer invaluable guidance and a new perspective.

Innovative design, close attention to detail and soft fabric choices have created pieces which bridge the gap between swimwear and ready-to-wear. Was this the goal from the outset? My university years at St Andrews were spent defying Scotland’s sub-zero temperatures which had me forever in a summer state of mind (I’m a beach girl at heart) – wardrobe staples like delicate bralettes and bodysuits paved the way for the sculptural bodies that bridge the gap between swimwear and ready-to-wear, transitioning from day to dance floor, beach to bar, spring to summer and autumn to winter.

Every piece in the collection notably has been crafted to have a transitional and transeasonal appeal. How do you achieve this and was there some trial and error? Completely. It took two years to search the globe for the finest fabrics and ensure the designs were as functional as they are beautiful - we created more prototypes than you can imagine!

The fabrics are quick-drying, chlorine-resistant and woven from super-opaque microbes to protect you from harmful ultraviolet rays.

However, these fabrics can also be used for activewear and ready-

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You have clients the globe over – do you see any buying patterns based on regions or countries? Yes - it is really amazing seeing live views on the website from all over the world and shipping to new territories is so exciting. Outside the UK, the USA is our largest market.

At the moment our pastel shades are selling really well for us, but we often find customers purchase a wardrobe-staple core colour such as black, navy or plum and come back for a splash of colour. The High Waist Briefs are more popular than our low-rise options and many customers try these for the first time and rave about the fit and feel.

What in this market is luxury? Something special and rare. We have so many women come to us because they cannot find swimwear that is sleek, sculpting with sophisticated colours and patterns. They are tired of formless options and want something firm and flattering. Our pieces are thoughtfully structured, moulded and precision-cut to contour, support and complement natural curves.

We combine exceptional quality and craftsmanship with unique design details and the finest European fabrics in order to create a product that will last and remain relevant season on season.

I wore our dazzling glitter navy blue colourway in Ibiza and multiple women asked me over the course of the day, “Where is your bikini from?” With one woman commenting, “You look like a Bond Girl!”. That bikini made me feel just that! I hope others feel equally empowered in our swimsuits.

How do you approach client engagement and retention? We have repeat customers year on year - often coming back for the same style in a new colour.

However, we have exciting plans to bring exclusive perks and secret oneof-a-kind pieces to our Insta fans, customers and web subscribers.

How has social media affected building Arabella London? It has been incredible for us. We have had style icons such as Negin Mirsalehi, Xenia Adonts, Lena Perminova amongst a multitude of others, wearing our pieces. We have had brilliant feedback on our choice of models which showcases our swimwear on a range of body types from size 4 - 16.

Women can identify with the product they are buying.

Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration? Lots! But a few favourites are @Worldarchitecturedesign for incredible minimal and modern architecture, @Seehura evokes serious wanderlust and @Stuartcantorphotography who captures the mood and feel of the Amalfi Coast so perfectly.

What do you carry with you always when traveling? My laptop (!) business never sleeps…

What advice would you give to your younger self starting out? Good things take time. Trust your gut and look at the bigger picture.

If you had not launched Arabella London which other role would you choose career-wise? Designing skiwear… perhaps.

This issue is ‘The Summer Escape’ – where would you like to escape to? Santorini. I recently came across the hotel ‘Perivolas’ which looks truly gorgeous. An infinity pool, terraced gardens, epic sunsets and laidback luxury interiors incorporating the colour scheme of our 2020 collection - pastel pinks and lilacs. Super chic.

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to-wear purposes thanks to the unique structure of the knit. They are ultra-light, allow for total freedom of movement, retain their shape and feel incredible against the skin. The fabrics are also special enough for after-dark including textured fabrics from France and Spain, metallic silver and plum lamé sourced from Como and the most striking glitter midnight blue that shimmers from every angle.

Defining details also make the pieces versatile. The scallopedge detail on the Contour Swimsuit is ultra-glamorous and fit for evening wear, as is the Modern Bustier, which is perfect layered under a tuxedo jacket. More relaxed styles such as the Plunge Crop or One80 function equally well as T-shirt bras or comfy ‘swimtimates’ – underpinnings for the everyday.

What is your approach to scaling the business? The goal is to continue to break into more and more luxury department stores worldwide. There is a huge market out there and potential for our product which is so exciting as we have only just scratched the surface.

Our e-commerce business is going from strength to strength. I also consider Instagram as another store-front for us. This is growing exponentially - we recently reached 20K followers and we have never paid for a sponsored ad. The growth is entirely organic.

Why did you decide to design with cupsizing and do you find this lowers the return rate? Absolutely. Size abbreviations S, M, L provide no indication of the true size and there is no industry standardisation - each brand varies making it even trickier to shop swimwear online. Aside from sizing the products in cup and dress sizes and our international size conversions, we also focus on design details to refine the fit, for example tie-back fastenings on bikini tops which enables the customer to customise the fit (large cup, small body size or vice versa).

Which colourways / designs have been most popular the globe over and was that a surprise? Our ‘Insta-famous’ styles such as the Modern Bustier and Contour Bra set in black paired with High Waist briefs are forever best-sellers. Customers are also loving the Bonbon baby pink and the Hyacinth blue at the moment which is a stretch-piqué base with a gorgeous honeycomb textured finish.

Due to the popularity of the Modern Bustier bikini, we developed the Bustier Bodysuit (a one-piece) as customers asked if we’d develop the design into a swimsuit. This piece is a new favourite - sculptural moulded cups and a dramatic peek-a-boo cutout are balanced by the signature wide, ruched straps. I wore this in London with my favourite Victoria Beckham flares and it was such a hit.

You’re stocked in some of the most prestigious stores such as Harrods and Selfridges – how did this come about? Hard work and a great sales team - but also, having a relevant and in demand product. Our sculptural designs offer customers with a unique perspective in a world of increasingly formless swimsuits. A buyer once described us as a ‘structured Eres’ which was an amazing compliment.

Which key Arabella London pieces outperform season after season sales wise? The Contour Bra and Modern Bustier sets with High Waist Briefs in Ivory and Black can’t be beaten!

SUMMER SOLSTICE WORDS: OLIVIA MORRIS

As a pioneering lifestyle and resort wear brand, Lisa Marie Fernandez knows how to build an empire which stands the test of time

In this day and age, more and more lifestyle brands are launching thanks to the explosion of social media. Having become a saturated market, it’s difficult to stand out. But for Lisa Marie Fernandez and her eponymous swimwear and destination wear line, she’s stood out from the beginning because she was the first one in the field doing what she’s doing. In other words: she launched an Instagram-worthy brand before Instagram was even around.

While Fernandez has now been running her own label for 13 years, she began her career as a Market Editor for Elle. With a clear love for fashion and creating images, she eventually became a fashion editor for Vogue and Numéro France. It was this that naturally led her to launch her own brand in 2009, which

was a direct reflection of her own lifestyle. “It was super simple and very personal,” the designer tells Emirates Woman of her transition from editor to fashion designer. “I was living a life of travel and exploration and created this whole world for myself – I just brought my own lifestyle to the brand.” As for why she launched it was simple: there was nothing on the market that offered what Fernandez was looking for. “There was not one lifestyle brand that was approaching the customer to elevate their style in regards to travel and holiday,” she explains. “The only offer was a simple caftan and a triangle bikini. I would always love to get dressed for the beach – it is the best time to get super glamorous with little effort.” So, the LMF brand was born.

It all started with swimwear, pioneering the neoprene trend along with surf-inspired designs. These have since become staples in her collections over a decade on. As for how the ideas for the innovative designs came about, Fernandez reveals the brand “began looking at swimwear in a completely different light”.

“Our swimwear is approached as one would with ready-to-wear,” she explains. “We create all of our own fabrications and use a lot of ready-to-wear details. We began in 2009 with a new luxurious neoprene, then developed the terry cloth, and continued from there with seersuckers, jacquards, denim, PVC – so many new fabrications.” After a few years in business, testing many different fabrics and designs, Fernandez took the luxury lifestyle

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brand to the next level by launching resort wear – or as she refers to as destination wear.

“I refer to it as destination wear as it is clothing to take you to your next destination,” she says. “And that destination wear would be no different than your ready-to-wear except that it would be in more sensual, effortless fabrications that were mix and matched with your swimwear to get that LMF look.”

Since its inception 13 years ago, women all over the world are now wearing Fernandez’s designs including many notable names in fashion, too – Victoria Beckham, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, Selena Gomez, Kendall Jenner, Beyoncé, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, just to name a few. “I think every celebrity has been spotted in LMF,” Fernan-

dez says. As for her favourite, she admits she loves how Rihanna is able to put her own spin on her designs. “I love to see how the celebrity expresses themselves in LMF, such as Rihanna,” she says. In fact, the brand has become so popular, Fernandez has had to, on more than one occasion, call out fellow brands for creating knock-off designs. Including Victoria’s Secret and Triangl. The designer was even forced to call out model-turned-swimsuit designer Emily Ratajkowski a few years ago after the launch of her line Inamorata. Fernandez filed a cease and desist against the line in 2017 in federal court in New York, accusing Inamorata of copying key LMF designs. However, Fernandez puts the recognition of calling out knock-off designs down to the community

and fans of the label. “Our followers are super loyal and, in many cases, they are the ones to bring it to my attention,” she admits. “They are very protective and get very angry.”

As for what the future holds, Fernandez is continuing to draw on her own experiences in order to create cutting-edge designs everyone wants, just as she has done for the last decade. “For the last 10 years, we have always managed to continue to innovate with new fabrications for the swimwear that is interesting but at the same time super flattering on the body,” she says. “The inspiration for my brand comes from my own personal experience – past and present – in many places and in many cultures.” And this, we guess, is what keeps consumers coming back for more.

– past and present – in many places and in many cultures.”

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BEAUTY FILE

AESOP

NOURISH

Salvation for sun-parched skin WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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01. Pure Balancing Botanical Face Oil

03. Kaya Anti-Aging Face Oil

Circumference’s effective, sustainably sourced skincare line is the result of founder Jina Kim’s passion for eco-conscious practices and healthy skin. This hydrating ‘Pure Balancing Botanical Face Oil’ is packed with 16 different organic ingredients like Prickly Pear, rejuvenating Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil and reparative Sacha Inchi Seed Oil to minimise lines and even out complexion.

Costa Brazil’s potent elixir is powered by the brand’s exclusive Kaya Oil, which is sustainably sourced directly from the Amazon rainforest and cherished for its antioxidant properties - natives have been using the ingredient as a superfood for centuries. This lightweight formula absorbs quickly to deliver nutrient-rich Omegas and vitamins that enhance firmness and revitalise your complexion, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A refreshing blend of Tucuma, Brazil Nut and Pataua extracts work in harmony to hydrate and reveal a natural radiance.

Dhs345 Circumference, 30ml available at Net-A-Porter 02. Divine Camélia Face Oil, 30ml

FEMMUE’s ‘Divine Camélia’ face oil nourishes and hydrates skin while imparting a healthylooking glow. This highly concentrated formula is enriched with antioxidant-rich, 100 per cent cold-compressed Camélia to balance oil production and lock in moisture, as well as Tocopherol to help prevent discolouration and age spots.

Dhs406 Femmue available at Net-A-Porter

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Dhs467 Costa Brazil, 30ml 04. Dry Remedy Daily Moisturizing Oil

This leave-in treatment instantly moisturises dry hair and ends with the hydrating power of certified organic buriti oil, it penetrates instantly moisturising your hair leaving it soft and full of shine.

Dhs168 Aveda available at Sephora

05. Huile Prodigieuse® MultiPurpose Dry Oil

Huile Prodigieuse®, the iconic dry oil number one in the oils category in French pharmacies, nourishes, repairs and beautifies the face, body and hair. Now even more innovative, it is antioxidant, has a “shield” effect against pollution and reduces the appearance of stretch marks.

Dhs204 Nuxe available at Sephora 06. Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil

The Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil is an innovative, lightweight treatment that nourishes and enhances the lips’ natural beauty. Infused with rich plant-based oils, this luxurious formula glides on smoothly providing intense moisture with antioxidant benefits and comfortable wear.

Dhs105 Clarins available at Bloomingdales.ae 07. Beat The Blues Shower and Bath Oil

Blues’ range with the intention of lifting your mood. This oil will gently cleanse your skin and help clear the mind after a hot shower or bath. It’s formulated with Clary Sage, a sweet musky scent known to enliven the senses, and Tuberose that works to soothe nerves and promote a restful sleep.

Dhs126 150ml Ilapothecary available at Net-A-Porter 08. Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil

Unexpected. Sultry. Addictive.

TOM FORD shimmering body oil captures the sultry effect of sun-kissed summer skin and tempts the senses with a fragrance of scorching sensuality.

This silky and lightweight oil illuminates the skin with shimmers of gold and platinum leaf.

The captivating fragrance wraps a bouquet of white florals in a golden, amber-sandalwood embrace – as tempting as a whitesand beach, as irresistible as the perfect tan.

Dhs445 Tom Ford

Ilapothecary founder Denise Leicester created the ‘Beat The

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During summer everyone wants to look and feel their best. A body overhaul and skin detox is normally what many focus on, but a major thing that is overlooked is hair. Of course, we want to rock incredible hair all year round, but particularly in summer in order to have it be as maintenance-free as possible. However, with many hair care products filled with harsh chemicals, this could be doing more harm than good. That’s where Act+Acre found a gap in the market – a focus on hair wellness, particularly on the scalp

WORDS: OLIVIA MORRIS

The Hair Detox

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It’s fair to say the beauty and hair care industry is a saturated market and it takes someone who truly has a keen entrepreneurial eye to spot a gap in the space. Whether it be a slow-burning idea, a sudden light bulb moment or a mixture of the two, breaking into an already saturated space is a difficult thing to do and it’s something celebrity hair stylist Helen Reavey knows all too well. With a wealth of celebrity clients under her belt including Harry Styles, Rita Ora and Tilda Swinton, along with major designer brands including Fendi, Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs, Reavey explains it was her experience of working with many different people that she saw the same thing over and over again – poor scalp health.

“I suffered from scalp issues my whole life, and I am an avid believer in treating your scalp with the same degree of care and attention as one treats their skin,” she tells Emirates Woman. “Now as a hairstylist, I’ve had the pleasure of working across all races, genders, nationalities, but the one thing that I continued to note as being common across the board was poor scalp health.” Upon delving deeper into the hair care industry, Reavey found that the every day products that many people use are full of harsh chemicals that didn’t serve to nourish, balance and stimulate the scalp – quite literally the root of all hair health and growth. This was Reavey’s slow-burn of her soon-to-be bigger picture, but there was still that light bulb moment to come, which was actually down to her husband Colm. “In 2017 during one of my first Couture shows in Paris, Colm flew out to surprise me and really saw me in action for the first time,” she explains. “He realised I wasn’t just a hairstylist – I was also acting as a creative director, pulling the entire look together. It was then that we really started thinking about creating a brand and Act+Acre was born.”

At the end of 2018, the couple launched Act+Acre together and from the get-go the brand stood out from all others. Not only in its mantra – putting scalp health first – but in the way its products are produced, through a Cold Processed® method. “For generations, the hair care industry has been using chemicals to achieve product performance, prioritising shortterm benefits over the long-term health and wellness of your hair,” Reavey explains. “But it’s not their fault, artificial ingredients need to be added because nutrients evaporate during the traditional highheat production process.” This is where Act+Acre’s patented Cold Processed® method comes in to play. Using hyperbaric chambers, ice cold water, and 1200lbs of pressure to mix all of the ingredients together, the absence of heat ensures active ingredients for the hair products remain “fresh and highly potent, just as nature intended”, as Reavey notes. The result? A formula with potent and rich ingredients which will feed your scalp the much-needed nutrients it needs to provide long-term health for it, as well as the hair.

From the process, to the long-lasting effects of the products – this is the foundation that the brand is built on. “Act+Acre is a labour of love - a modern hair wellness brand developed on clean hair principles,” Reavey says. “We’re not about quick fixes. We’re about expertise, caring, and thinking things through. More importantly, it’s about your own wellbeing and the wellbeing of the world. We wanted our brand to be proactive, not reactive. It’s about prevention, not damage control. It is about long-term investment.” The expertise used and caring nature put into the brand’s products are a testament to its values – putting time and thought into something that’ll really work.

Enter ‘The Essentials’ – the brand’s three staple products, which all work in sync with one another. “They truly are the essential three steps to support the health of your scalp and hair on a daily and long-term

basis,” Reavey says. It all starts with the Scalp Detox – an oil which removes build-up on the scalp, restoring moisture and letting the root of the hair breathe, which means the rest of the hair can thrive. Then the Hair Cleanse and the Hair Conditioner come into play, which have been carefully formulated to be clean, non-stripping and nourishing.

“I’ve found that so many hair products on the market either exacerbate issues with harmful chemicals or are designed to be short-term fixes, so it’s important that our products are always improving the health of the hair, or what I like to call ‘hair wellness,’” the co-founder explains.

However, getting to the place of starting her own brand in the hair industry wasn’t an overnight success – in fact, it was 17 years in the making. After working in Ireland for 12 years as a hair stylist, Reavey and her husband Colm made the big leap to move to New York City in 2013, which took her career to new heights working under hairstylist to the stars Sam McKnight whose clientele consists of the late Princess Diana, supermodel Kate Moss and Grammy winner Lady Gaga. “Under his direction, I styled Fashion Weeks in New York, London, Milan, and Paris,” Reavey says. “From there I signed with an agency and went on to direct my own shows at Couture and ready-to-wear in Paris and London, as well as collaborating with the industry’s top photographers on magazine editorials and advertising campaigns.”

She describes working with McKnight as the “ultimate dream”. This led to Reavey leading a show at Paris Fashion Week in 2018, a career highlight for the hair stylist. “It was a huge undertaking for couture brand Ralph & Russo,” she recalls. “Fifty models and we created a wig for each one. I had a team of 25 hairstylists who all came to support me and we did an amazing job. I really enjoy not only leading and creating but I love to teach.”

With the launch of Act+Acre at the end of 2018, Reavey hasn’t stepped back from her first love, hairstyling and has actually found both her roles complement each other very well. “My biggest motivation is making people feel special and at ease, regardless of the hat I’m wearing,” she says. “As a hairdresser, I usually play a second role as therapist for my clients.

With Act+Acre, I get to create that same positive feeling for so many more people by developing products that are not only high performing, but also help to capture that moment of care and relaxation.”

And there’s no slowing down for the Act+Acre co-founder and hairdresser, as there are plans in the works to take the brand global, having originally launched the brand “to challenge the way the haircare industry thinks about products”. While it was a risk, it has certainly paid off. “The overwhelming feedback we’ve received over the past 18 months has only reinforced our mission,” she reveals. “We have several new products in the pipeline that I’m so proud of, and we look forward to continuing to expand globally.” Does this include the UAE? “Yes,” Reavey says, as she believes the region in particular fits in with the brand’s core values of the “investment in self-care”.

As for what’s to come next, Reavey reveals to Emirates Woman that she is launching a dry shampoo like no other. “I’ve personally never been a fan of dry shampoo as it tends to be a quick fix that leads to excess build up on the scalp, which can clog and damage the hair follicle over time,” she explains, but she saw this as an opportunity to “reinvent” what dry shampoo is. “We knew it was a product that everyone wanted, so I saw it as an opportunity to reinvent dry shampoo in a way that would align with our philosophy of hair wellness,” she says. “We worked incredibly hard on the formulation, and the result is incredible.

It’s unlike anything that’s currently on the market!” We’ll be waiting in the wings, in eager anticipation of this revolutionary launch.

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“Act+Acre is a labour of love a modern hair wellness brand developed on clean hair principles.”

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WO R D S : D I A N A B E L L- H E AT H E R

The Glow When it comes to supplements, are we too reliant on these miracle capsules for skin-deep beauty? We look at a 360-degree approach instead.

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Over the years of curating our routines and discovering hero products that deliver exactly what we need, one thing we all have come to realise is that beauty isn’t only skin-deep. There has been an evolution of products on the market that promise to nourish our complexion, and they are not just the formulas you apply on the surface. Many well-known brands have extended their skincare lines be-

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yond topical products by introducing supplements that help tackle concerns from the inside. See it as a 360-degree approach to your daily routine.

Some specialists believe that topical products only address around 20 per cent of skin issues, which naturally forces us to look to supplements as well as personal habits. “Skin is the largest organ of our body. It is meant to protect us, but

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it is also a mirror - a mirror that reflects our health and the faults in the body,” Zuzana Hrdinova, a Lifestyle Consultant and Health Coach, explains.

“Despite the nutritional supplement market being a multi-billion-dollar industry, the data to support the use of most of these products is poor. There is very little evidence that any supplement or a multivitamin can reverse the course of a disease or play a role in our skin health,” she adds.

Shirley D’Souza, a Certified Ketogenic & Primal living coach, agrees that there are “a lot of decoy supplements out there in the market, especially when claiming a whole list of benefits”, but does believe some supplements can be beneficial in replenishing the nutrients that are lost through the agricultural process.

“Supplements may be useful for people who are unable to get adequate nutrition from diet alone,” adds health coach, Sheetal Ramchandani. “For example, it is recommended that vegans take a supplement of vitamin B12 since it isn’t adequately available in plant foods and some specific conditions, like gastrointestinal issues that can affect nutrient absorption, call for more than high nutrition and require extra support that supplements can provide.”

Zinc is one of the widely recommended supplements that supports the immune system, while Omega 3 repairs the skin barrier. Iron can also be extremely beneficial, especially for those prone to eczema or psoriasis. But like with anything, seeking professional advice is the best way for you to know for sure that what you are taking is beneficial, as Hrdinova points out: “If you take calcium, magnesium or zinc, but you are deficient in Vitamin D, you will not be absorbing those minerals and hence you will not see any results.”

Vitamin C and E are emerging as skincare heroes among the beauty insiders as they are seen as powerful antioxidants.

Collagen supplements are also on the rise.

As we age, we produce less collagen that results in wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. It is still hard to judge whether the collagen you ingest will have the same properties when it reaches your skin as the digestion process breaks it down, so perhaps it’s more beneficial to look at products that encourage collagen production. Chicken soup, for example, is rich in amino acids which encourages our bodies to produce collagen. “One big change I would add to a diet is bone broth – chicken or beef – which is full of collagen but more importantly full of electrolytes and has properties that help, our gut health a

lot more. Our gut health is important as it is our main communication to the brain, hormones and nerves,” D’Souza reveals.

It appears that all of our supplement trails lead us back to something we can easily change – our diet. “There are certain nutrients that help us to get the look of glowing, healthier skin and slow down the ageing process,” Hrdinova explains.

“Essentials are vitamin C, E, A, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, copper, zinc, selenium, but also vitamin B and iron. All these nutrients are available in a balanced diet. My advice for anybody who wants to have smoother and clearer complexion and glossy, silky hair is to eat healthy food including lots of fruit and vegetables, drink sufficient water, exercise frequently, get out in the fresh air, get proper rest and learn to manage your stress levels.”

D’Souza also champions a healthy lifestyle, promoting a balanced diet and cutting down on junk food. “Cucumber and kale added to our diet has properties of naturally hydrating our skin, the nutrient silica is a trace mineral found in high levels inside cucumbers,” she explains. “Silica contributes to the growth and maintenance of connective tissue throughout your body.”

“We need to limit eating things in plastic or packets with long shelf life and eat more natural basic ingredients,” she continues. “If you cannot pronounce the additive or do not know the added preservative do not eat it.”

Hrdinova echoes this saying, “Excessive consumption of refined sugars and artificial sweetener and trans fats (fried food) can cause inflammation which may lead to a breakdown in collagen and elastin and have a negative impact on the skin’s strength and elasticity. Too much of caffeine from coffee or energy drinks has an impact on the hormonal levels in our body and may lead to breakouts of acne.”

The only additional supplement D’Souza would add for a glowing complexion is a probiotic “at least with a minimum of 1 billion colony forming units and containing either genus Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium or Saccharomyces boulardii.”

Looking at the busy skincare industry promising a miracle solution with every new launch, it is easy to become overwhelmed at the options that are before you. The bottom line, take a closer look at your diet, seek advice if you want to introduce supplements, and continue to enhance your skincare routine. A glowing and healthy complexion requires attention from all angles, especially if you want to achieve long-lasting results.

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SKINCARE HEROES FOR GLOWING SKIN

Skin Food + Prebiotic Dhs184 The Nue Co. at net-a-porter.com

Skinesis Stem Cell Collagen Activator Dhs685 Sarah Chapman at Harvey Nichols - Dubai

Charlotte’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir Dhs285 Charlotte Tilbury Integrative Beauty Dhs300 SkinFusion

Super Seed Supplement Dhs162 Votary C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil Dhs155 Sunday Riley at Sephora

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Hot New Buys WORDS: CECILIA D’SOUZA

Our best edit of the latest summer beauty buys for beach-ready skin

Hydrate “Good hydration and skin barrier functionality are key to the skin’s beauty and wellbeing,” says Fréderic Bonté, Guerlain Director of Science. The Super Aqua Emulsion Light, containing microbiota (microbial communities on the skin) is formulated with cranberry oil for purifying benefits that will help skin breathe, mattify and control shine all summer long. Dhs498

STAY SMART

The elixir

We’re in the era of smart products and few skincare gems are smarter than the Sun Intolerance Protective Body Spray by Institut Estherderm. Packed with soothing active ingredients that help your body absorb only as much sun as it requires, the fragrance-free spray works like a shield protecting your skin from harmful, ageing UVA and UVB rays. Spray evenly all over your body about thirty minutes before you go into the sun and reapply every hour or so. If you have sensitive skin, prep your skin for the sun by beginning to use it at least two weeks before your holiday. Dhs195 for 150ml

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The Pure Lavender Hydrolat Toner from 001 skincare is the epitome of a summer complexion multi-tasker. Feel free to use this magical concoction as a cleanser, toner, makeup setting mist and even a mask. Spray it directly onto your skin or pat into the skin using a cotton pad. Dhs175 for 100ml

Summer bronze New to the Gucci Beauty summer collection, the Poudre De Beaute Eclat Soliel, Dhs 245, bronzing powder is perfect for a glamorous sun-splashed finish.

SMOOTH

Give your sea-salted hands all the pampering they need with Byredo Sundazed Hand Cream.

The cream will not only work to protect your hands from the sun but will leave them moisturised in lingering notes of citrus, white musk and mandarin. Dhs153

The essential Beachside vacations or summer in the city, make-up should feel lighter. The one essential is mascara. Keep your lashes long, curled and clump-free with this double-ended volumising and lengthening mascara from Huda Beauty. Dhs120

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Protect

Rejuvenate

Your body needs all the protection it can get from harsh desert sun. Turn to the Protective Body Lotion SPF50 from Aesop packed with skin-nourishing vitamin E and oil-absorbing Silica along with SPF50 sun protection for that soft and smooth skin. Be sure to massage gently and generously into uncovered skin at least 15 minutes before you step out into the sun and reapply every 80 minutes. Dhs135 for 15ml

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Lancôme’s Rose Sorbet Cryo-Mask is a summer must-have. This cryo-mask is the magic spell you need for smoother skin. Gently pat a generous dollop onto your cleansed skin and rinse it away with lukewarm water. Dhs195

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WO R D S : D I A N A B E L L- H E AT H E R

SPF The Essential Guide

Protecting your skin is serious business

SPF is one of the three scientifically proven steps in your routine that can make a visible difference in how the skin ages – the other two are vitamin C and retinol.

It’s not just the sun protection it provides, it also acts as a barrier against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. “Sunburn and health risks aside, overexposure to the sun is also a real villain in the fight to keep skin looking young,” Dubai’s go-to skincare and laser expert Rebecca Treston explains. “In fact, new research reported in the medical journal of Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, suggests that UV rays are responsible for around 80 per cent of skin ageing:

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wrinkles, reduced skin elasticity, increased pigmentation and a degradation of skin texture can all be caused by overexposure to sun.” Scary? Yes. Many of us wear SPF on a daily basis, yet may give less thought to the actual level of protection we choose. We assume that SPF10 is low and SPF50 is high, but these numbers are significant when it comes to knowing exactly how much time you can safely be exposed to the sun. If you are wearing SPF15, you would be protected for 150 minutes longer than if you weren’t wearing SPF at all, for example. It’s also good to note that there is a bigger difference in terms of

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protection between SPF15 and SPF30 than there is between SPF30 and SPF50. According to experts, SPF15 absorbs 93 per cent of UVB, SPF30 absorbs 97 per cent and SPF50 absorbs 98 per cent when applied thoroughly.

“Numerous studies show that sunscreen users apply far less sunscreen than they should, which can lower the protection they expect to have,” Treston explains. “For instance, when someone applies only 25 per cent of the expected amount of SPF 30, the sunburn protection on the skin is actually only 2.3 per cent. Someone who applies SPF 100 too sparingly can endure a result of SPF functionality as low as 3.2 per cent. In the real world,

THE EDIT

From left: UV Protecting Cream SPF50 Dhs395 La Mer; Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF50 Dhs177 Kiehl’s; Protective Body Lotion SPF50 Dhs140 Aesop; Prisma Protect SPF 30 Dhs270 Dermalogica

these products are less effective than T-shirts, which generally have an SPF5.” Another trap we can fall into is assuming that applying a little bit of high protection is enough to last us the whole day. “We have become more reliant on higher-rated SPFs, meaning we are less, not more, safe in the sun,” Treston continues.

“It is also important to remember that SPF only protects against UVB rays, but it is in fact UVA rays which cause cancer. So even with a high SPF you are not guaranteeing protection against melanoma. In fact, because UVA and UVB protection do not harmonize, high-SPF products suppress sunburn much more effectively than other types of sun damage.”

“Also, high-SPF products require higher concentrations of sun-filtering chemicals than low SPF sunscreens. Some of these ingredients may pose health risks when they penetrate the skin, where they have been linked to tissue damage and potential hormone disruption. Some may trigger allergic skin reactions. If studies showed that high-SPF products were better at reducing skin damage and skin cancer risk, that extra chemical exposure might be justified. But they don’t, so choosing sunscreens with lower concentrations of active ingredients – SPF 30 instead of SPF 70, for example – is prudent,” she concludes.

The next hurdle is deciding on a chemical on physical sunscreen. Physical options reflect the UV light so it doesn’t enter the skin, while the chemical variety penetrates your skin and absorb the UV light which is then converted into heat, neutralising its impact. If you prefer an invisible result that is also heat resistant, then chemical sunscreens should be in your beach bag, while physical sunscreens are ideal for those with sensitive skin.

Treston recommends carefully looking at the ingredients and avoiding pre-formed vitamin A, including retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate and retinyl linoleate which can cause a variety of health problems, from brittle nails to liver damage. “It is a good idea to look for sunscreens that do not contain these ingredients so you are not at risk of excessive vitamin A exposure,” she says.

An SPF of 30 or more should be an integral part of our daily skin routine and applied as a separate product, even if there is SPF in your foundation. Be generous with the amount, avoid excessive sun exposure and always have a small bottle with you to apply to exposed areas as needed. If nothing else, this savvy sun shield helps you achieve a well-honed level of bronze while avoiding any damage.

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THE CHECKLIST Most dermatologists recommend SPF 30 for everyday use and SPF 50+ if you’re going to be sunbathing.

• You need one that blocks out UVA and UVB rays.

• Apply it like a pro, thick, early and often.

• Put it on at least 20 minutes before you go outside, so it has time to absorb.

• Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’ve been swimming and towel dried.

• Cover up with light layers, shades and a hat.

• Stay out of the sun in the hottest part of the day.

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The Perfect Tan

Summer is all about hitting the water, sunbathing, playing in the sand and radiant-looking skin.

Here we compile all the tanning products you need to show off a sun-kissed glow

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WORDS: CECILIA D’SOUZA

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The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

Does your skin tend to burn easily in the sun? Pamper it with this hardworking bronzing serum. It will help hydrate your skin and work to give it a glow, all in under 60 minutes.

For a more radiance-boosting effect mix with your favourite moisturiser.

Dhs143 Tan-Luxe.

The Bronze Liquid Sun Self-Tanning Water

This divinely scented self-tanning mist refreshes and nourishes your skin from the first spritz. Enriched with DHA this milky concoction deepens the skin with a natural-looking, velvety glow that intensifies day after day.

Dhs243 Dior The Body Tan Activator

This formula contains the natural tan enhancer Bronzyl and has an added bonus of SPF30 UVA protection. Which means your skin will be protected from immediate and long-term sun damage and blessed with a bronzed glow. Free from any preservatives it is suitable for even the most sensitive of skin.

Dhs129 Ultrasun The After-Sun Tan Extender

For skin that lasts and lasts with a summer glow, look no further. Formulated with self-tanning ingredients, it is non-greasy and upon application will instantly get absorbed into your skin leaving it soft, nourished, hydrated and refreshed.

Dhs600 Sisley The Summertime

This tanning serum helps to moisturise and soothe your face, neck and dĂŠcolletĂŠ giving it a smooth, soft and sun-kissed look. Apply morning and evening with your fingertips using upward movements. Finish with a few soft taps.

Dhs530 Codage Paris. Available on balmessence.com

IMAGES: GETTY AND SUPPLIED

The Rejuvenating Tanning Oil

Nail your beach look in one shot. Formulated with Cell Regen C Complex, argan oil, jojoba oil and more this luxurious oil works as you sleep, to firm, rejuvenate and hydrate your skin and wake up to a golden glow.

Dhs143 Tan-Luxe The Tinted Leg Cream

This easy to wash off Capri Crush scented tinted cream is what you need to protect and show off evenly bronzed and glowing beach legs this summer. Dhs143 Legology

The Quick Self-Tanning Gel

Soaking up the sun and maintaining your bronzed glow has never been easier. Slather this fast-absorbing gel formula and watch it melt into your skin leaving it fresh and sunready, almost instantly. Dhs143 Shiseido The Anti-Ageing Sun Spray

This will not only give you gorgeous skin but will assist against those early signs of ageing as well. Slip it into your beach bag and keep spraying your skin as it is exposed to the sun, especially after a dip in the water.

You can also use it on your hair, we love a multi-tasking product.

Dhs150 Filorga

The Protective Face Cream

This cream is designed to protect your skin and nourish it while giving it a quick boost of long-lasting natural tan. Apply 15 minutes before you go out in the sun and keep reapplying every two hours for the best results.

Dhs168 Institut Esthederm

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IMAGE: BYREDO

FRAGRANCE OF FREEDOM

WORDS: D I A N A B E L L- H E AT H E R

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BEAUTY

Let our fragrance edit transport you back to your favourite summer getaway, or inspire you to seek new horizons Nothing evokes the wanderlust mood of summer more than a brand new fragrance.

We’ve curated the latest launches to take your nose on an unforgettable journey this summer. From crisp, light fragrances to warm notes that feel like the sun on your skin and patchouli notes that are ideal for an evening of fun, allow yourself to dream of the perfect getaway.

According to experts, a smell is linked to around 35 per cent of our memories, which is a significant number when you consider that the visual sense can recall only five per cent. “A fragrance moves and communicates with us because it resonates with our emotions and our memories because it represents something very personal and emotional,” Hermès head perfumer, Christine Nagel, explains.

Engage your senses as we bring you closer to some of the most iconic places around the world.

Rōzu Eau de Parfum

Dhs630 Aesop KEY NOTES: Rose, petitgrain, bergamot, shiso, ylang ylang, vetiver extract REMINDS US OF: Japan Charlotte Perriand inspired the latest fragrance from Aesop. The French architect and designer had a particular soft spot for Japan, so much so, that the famous Keiji Rose Farm created a rose in her honour. This was the starting point for perfumer Barnabé Fillion who approached the delicate flower from a masculine yet delicate perspective. “We aimed

Heures d'Absence

Dhs1,180 for 100ml Louis Vuitton KEY NOTES: Jasmine, pittosporum, may rose, mimosa, raspberry, vanilla and sandalwood REMINDS US OF: The French Riviera Every morning brings new opportunities. Somewhere between daydream and reality is where you find Heures d’Absence, one of the newest additions to Louis Vuitton’s growing range of luxury scents.

The fragrance was inspired by the Maison’s first ever perfume of the same name, taken from the country home the Vuitton family acquired

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to create something quite unique with this fragrance, compared to a traditional rose perfume,” he explains. “The overall aroma is rich, fresh and woody—unmistakably rose, yet with vibrant shiso accords and a deep, long-lasting base of vetiver extract, patchouli and myrrh. Just as Perriand’s life was multi-faceted, the fragrance profile of this scent changes significantly based on the wearer.”

in the Seine-et-Marne region in the 1920s. Unfortunately, there is no record of the original scent, so the brand’s master perfumer, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, had to go on a personal journey to create a new version that captures the essence of the historic house – travel. Inviting you to take the plunge and follow your daydream, Cavallier Belletrud has modernised a floral scent but stayed true to the raw ingredients resulting in something sophisticated and inspiring. “Everything is done in service of the flowers, there’s no element to rein them in or disturb their message,” he says.

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L’Ombre des Merveilles

Irresistible Givenchy Eau De Parfum

Dhs536 for 80ml Givenchy KEY NOTES: Rose, iris, pear, blond woods, amber, REMINDS US OF: Paris The spirit of opportunity and joy dances through the city of lights, sweeping everyone up in the ‘Joie de vivre’. Irresistible Givenchy Eau De Parfum is unapologetically bold and captivating, like wearing a striking fuchsia dress with a pair of dazzling heels. “The fragrance had to smell like the colour pink, meaning that it had to be a sort of new rose, a reinvented flower,” one of there perfumers working on the latest scent, Dominique Ropion, explains.

“With such a colour, we wanted to evoke joy and positivity. We also referenced key silhouettes from Givenchy’s runway archive as inspiration.”

Dhs640 for 100ml Hermès KEY NOTES: Citrus fruits, black tea, Tonka bean REMINDS US OF: Morocco There is something magical about lying on sandy dunes at sundown.

Hermès head perfumer Christine Nagel was particularly taken by how transformative the desert environment is when the day moves from morning to night. “Beneath a shower of shooting stars, I experienced a moment of absolute grace, a form of balance that I wanted to capture in a fragrance,” she says. “I wanted to provide a moment of serenity, like a veil of soft, fine and enveloping cashmere with a faint aroma of incense. Rather than expressing the material itself, I wanted to seek out lightness, scented swirls, smoke so light it metamorphoses at the slightest breath of air. A trace rather than substance.”

Carnal Flower

Dhs1,425 Frederic Malle KEY NOTES: Tuberose, musk, camphora, melon and coconut REMINDS US OF: California The unpredictability of the ocean is something that lures surfers and sunseekers from all over the world to the coastal towns of California. Carnal Flower, part of Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle collection, was composed by master perfumer Dominique Ropion. Malle and Ropion strived to redefine tuberose by exaggerating each of the flower’s naturally occurring spices. Youthful and modern, it is a scent that lures you in, no matter how hard you try to resist. “Carnal Flower is reminiscent of flower-shop freshness which disperses to reveal a more lustful tuberose,” Malle says. “At first whiff, it is vegetal, almost aquatic in its freshness. Just as we are lured into believing its innocence, a descent into darkness brings spicy camphor and carnal, animalistic notes to the fore. A play of three acts, the darkness surrenders to a warm sea of milky white softness.”

Dolce Shine

Dhs525 Dolce & Gabbana KEY NOTES: Mango, grapefruit, quince, orange blossom, jasmine petals, sandalwood and white musk REMINDS US OF: Sicily, Italy Close your eyes and picture yourself walking the sun-drenched cobbled streets of Palermo, Sicily that lead you towards a picturesque Piazza Pretoria and it’s famous fountain. There is freshness in the air, a scent of lemons and delicate flowers that make you smile from the inside. That joy and energy have been bottled in Dolce & Gabbana’s newest fragrance Dolce Shine. Perfumer Master Marie Salamagne says that a “perfume is a bit like a romantic encounter. I love the idea of a perfume that makes you smile without knowing why. There’s an immediate seduction in smell. You let yourself get carried away.”

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Oud Rosewood

Dhs1000 for 125ml Dior KEY NOTES: Resin, frankincense, Damascena Rose, Sandalwood and Purple Oud REMINDS US OF: The Middle East The Middle East’s mysterious allure is what brings millions of visitors from all over the world to explore the sweeping dunes and immerse themselves in the rich culture. The colour and textures is what inspired Dior's Master Perfumer, François Demachy, to create the latest scent. “Oud Rosewood is a journey in the sensual flavours and scents of the Middle East,” he explains. It is so inspiring to a perfumer! The colours, spices, the embrace of all the senses. Some feel woods and oud are both strong and masculine, but I like working with the contrast to show that they can also be tender, soft, almost creamy. This is what Oud Rosewood conveys. The sweet blend of animal oud and milky sandalwood.”

SUMMER-READY FRAGRANCES OF 2020

Déjà Vu White Flower Dhs340 Kayali Infusion of gardenia, jasmine and tuberose

Lil Fleur Dhs895 Byredo Coming-of-age floral notes with grownup essence of leather

Le Lion de CHANEL Dhs1,480 for 200ml Chanel Citrus notes ironed out with labdanum and sandalwood

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Libre Dhs440 YSL Lavender heart meets vanilla Bourbon

Eau Capitale Eau De Parfum Dhs625 Diptyque Chic notes of pink peppercorn, rose, ylang-ylang, and patchouli coeur

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C O M P I L E D B Y: D I A N A B E L L- H E AT H E R

AM TO PM BEAUTY

Dr Barbara Sturm, known for her non-surgical anti-ageing treatments and methods for rejuvenating the skin as well as her celebrity loved skincare line, shares with us her personal beauty rituals What does your morning skincare routine look like? I’m busier than ever, and so I still need my skincare routine to be simple.

A few days a week, I apply my hydrating Face Mask first thing in the morning, while drinking my latte and responding to overnight emails. Twice a week, I’ll either use the Facial Scrub or Enzyme Cleanser in the shower on my face and body to remove dead skin cells, boost circulation and encourage skin renewal. The rest of the time I use my cleanser. Immediately after showering (which is important to avoid osmosis/transepidermal water loss) I apply my Balancing Toner, followed by my Hyaluronic Face Mist and Anti-Pollution Drops (more important than ever with extra-heavy digital screen exposure). I follow this with my Face Cream and, when I have dark circles or puffiness,

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my Eye Cream. For Zoom calls and IG Lives, I use the Glow Drops instead of makeup.

Not counting the Face Mask, my entire routine takes only two minutes. I am taking my supplements more religiously – Skin Food, Anti-Pollution Food and Repair Food. I’m a vegetarian, so I am extra careful to replenish my Zinc daily through my supplements.

Talk us through your own personal journey with skincare, were you always interested in that world? The beauty industry would not have been a likely career prediction for me growing up. I grew up as a tomboy and didn’t see an eyeliner until I was 24. I studied medicine and sports and worked in the field of anti-inflammatory molecular orthopedics.

As a doctor and scientist, I always aimed for new cutting-edge techniques and treatments. When I started injecting hyaluronic

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acid and Botox, I translated the science from the orthopedics into the skin and the blood facial was created in 2002 based on work with body own proteins from my patient’s blood. Then I invented my first cream, called MC1, for my patients out of their own blood plasma. My grandmother was a pharmacist and my mother was a chemist. I learned a lot about ingredients from them and my grandmother helped me with my first face cream.

If you had to choose three products what would they be and why? I couldn’t live without my Face Cream simply because it hydrates the skin. I call my Hyaluronic Serum the ‘White T-Shirt’ of my line because it is that fundamental. The Hyaluronic Serum provides deep and fundamental hydration, and you will see immediate improvement to your skin matrix. I have been applying my

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Clockwise from left: Cleanser Dhs208 Dr. Barbara Sturm at net-a-porter.com; Hyaluronic Serum Dhs390 Dr. Barbara Sturm at net-a-porter.com; Glow Drops Dhs508 for 30ml Dr. Barbara Sturm at net-a-porter.com; Facial Scrub Dhs231 Dr. Barbara Sturm at Apotheca Beauty; Face Cream Dhs624 Dr. Barbara Sturm at Apotheca Beauty; Anti-Pollution Drops Dhs508 for 30ml Dr. Barbara Sturm at net-a-porter.com

Anti-Pollution Drops regularly to protect against both environmental pollution and HEV rays from digital screens.

Can you share with us your three top skincare tips? My fundamental advice never changes – healthy skin is glowing, beautiful skin.

Protect and boost your skin barrier function, provide your skin with essential nutrition, drench the skin with hydration and combat inflammation with skincare ingredient science. Avoid makeup and aggressive skincare, and allow your skin to heal and have full skin barrier functions to protect from stressors outside. And despite its popularity, avoid acid peels and aggressive lasers that inflame and prematurely age your skin. Heal and protect your skin instead, and it will glow.

What does your pre-bedtime nightly ritual look like? At night, cleansing the skin before bed is

essential to remove pollution, pathogens, oil, makeup and other impurities from the skin before sleep. Cleansing also prepares the skin to receive active ingredients that assist the body’s reparative processes in the night.

I also invented a Night Serum that boosts the nightly renewal process with active ingredients that include Cotton Thistle Extract to counteract dryness and stressed skin, Senna Alata Extract that aids the skin’s own protection against UV-induced damage and Poria Cocos, which provides astringent, toning and calming properties. My proprietary formulation of high dose, molecularly balanced Hyaluronic Acid works throughout the night to replenish moisture reservoirs at multiple skin layers by binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. I also take my Sleep Food supplements before bed, especially after a

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stress-filled day. It’s a blend of natural active ingredients that relax the body and mind and helps me fall asleep sooner and deeper.

Which fragrance do you choose for daytime?

Byredo – Bal D’Afrique.

What is the most surprising item on your beauty shelf? Actually on my refrigerator shelf – a gallon of whole milk. My family takes regular milk baths, which is a wonderful DIY for your skin.

Looking at the skincare industry today, what do you feel is women’s biggest concern? I think the biggest concern is the search for healthy, glowing skin, which eclipses all specific concerns. Due to increasing prevalence of aggressive skin treatments for home use, such as acids, the concerns have actually shifted from anti-ageing to sensitivity, redness and inflammation-caused skin dysfunctions.

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The Beauty Shelf

Every month we ask an industry pro to share with us their all-time favourite products across makeup, skincare and fragrance C O M P I L E D B Y: D I A N A B E L L- H E AT H E R

Argentinian model Cami Romero regularly jets into Dubai to shoot campaigns and editorials for some of the leading international and local brands. Spending so much time in the makeup chair has resulted in knowing a lot of what does and doesn’t work for her. With a wealth of industry knowledge and an understanding of what her sensitive skin needs, she shares with us her ultimate makeup and skincare heroes.

younger-looking complexion. It brightens the appearance of age spots and discolourations, and the smell is amazing.

Essence Toner Dhs80 Pyunkang Yul

Pyunkang Yul is a famous brand in herbal medicine in Korea before skincare. This toner is created from that concept. It calms, balances and hydrates my skin without irritation because it’s made with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients.

Use it morning and night.

Rose Quartz Gua Sha Face Sculpting Tool Dhs175 SALT on ounass.com

maintain its purity by using this mask. Good for pore cleansing and the smell it’s like a mini spa day at home.

This is ideal for contouring the face, especially the jawline, which you can use with oils and serums. The facial massage helps all the ingredients in the products absorb deeper into the skin, it depuffs the eyes and smooths out fine wrinkles, resulting in a fresh and healthy complexion.

Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 50+ Dhs200 Shiseido

I use this serum in the evening, it’s made with retinol and vitamin B3. If you are concerned with dehydration, skin irregularities and signs of wrinkles, but also searching for a serum suitable for sensitive skin like me, this is a good choice.

Goddess Skin Clay Mask Dhs175 Charlotte Tilbury

I love mask day! It clarifies my skin in such a way it glows after just one use. Makeup and air pollutants affect the skin so I

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Chance Eau de Parfum Dhs470 for 50ml Chanel

It’s a really nice soft and floral fragrance! It feels like summer on my skin.

Luminous Silk Foundation Dhs245 Giorgio Armani at Sephora

It has a medium buildable coverage and a luminous finish that leaves my skin looking naturally flawless (Thank you Hindash!).

Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment Dhs392 Sunday Riley

It’s a chemical exfoliator. I use it for skin clarity, radiance and

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IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Retinol B3 Dhs132 La Roche Posay

This is a nice non-greasy formula which works for my sensitive skin and amazing for applying makeup on top and it comes in a small container which makes it great for travelling.

PROMOTION

As Nature Intended G LOW G E T T E R S I S B R I N G I N G H I G H - P E R FO R M I N G C L E A N B E A U T Y B R A N D S TO T H E R E G I O N Driven by a passion for clean beauty and eagerness towards sustainability, Glow Getters has seen the demand for conscious beauty and lifestyle products in the region and are determined to deliver “purpose-driven brands, thoughtfully curated collections and multi-purpose products” straight to your doorstep.

“We are extremely selective about brand partnerships, researching everything from the ingredients to the fine print on the label artwork before launching products on our e-commerce website,” the Emirati founders explained.

“We have scoured the globe to find the absolute best brands whose values align with ours and whose products and ethos we believe in. We make sure to connect with brand founders as much as we can to learn about each brand’s story and unique ideals. We find that our customers enjoy this journey of brand discovery just as much as we do.”

Housing cult favourites that you already know such as Grown Alchemist and DAVINES, as well as some newbies that haven’t been easily available in the UAE before, Glow Getters stock 12 brands at the moment and are already tracking down more to add to their curated edit.

“At the moment, we’ve reached out to a few regional brands but nothing has been finalised. We’re open to supporting regional brands as much as we can.”

For brands that offer results without compromise, take a closer look at some of the trailblazing brands you can shop on www.glowgetters.ae.

T

he clean beauty movement is showing no signs of slowing down, especially in the UAE where educated shoppers are not willing to settle for any brands that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates and artificial fragrances among many more.

However, the beauty market is a busy one, and many of the claims such as ‘organic’, ‘natural’, ‘green’, ‘eco’ or ‘nontoxic’ actually don’t hold much weight as there are no legal standards for these labels. To help you sift through the jargon, newly launched Glow Getters platform has done all the hard work to bring you the best ethical products on the global market to the UAE.

PLENAIRE Plenaire is a Vegan brand promoting positivity.

Made in the UK, these multitasking essentials are safe for sensitive skin.

Hero buy: Rose Jelly gentle makeup remover Dhs70

CODEX BEAUTY Harnessing the power of sustainably sourced indigenous Irish botanicals and eco-friendly packaging that reduces their carbon footprint.

Hero buy: Bia exfoliating wash Dhs225

NUORI NUORI products are freshly blended in small batches every 10 to 12 weeks so you enjoy the most efficient formulas each time.

Hero buy: Vital Foaming Cleanser Dhs150

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SANS [CEUTICALS] The brand ensures that the collection is multifunctional, keeping your regime powerful yet simple.

Hero buy: Bio Active Body Exfoliant Dhs140

BIOLOGI Aussie brand Biologi is behind the world’s first 100 per cent active natural plant serums.

Hero buy: BF Hydrating Serum Dhs175

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F E AT U R E

The Jet Set WORDS: OLIVIA MORRIS

Luxury luggage brand RIMOWA delivers in the style stakes. We look at how this 120-year-old brand stays ahead of the curve and designs for the future F E AT U R E

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“It is important for us to resonate with these new generations as we forge ahead with uncharged creative ideas.”

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F E AT U R E

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

With cutting edge designs, functionality at its forefront and sustainability at its core, luxury luggage brand RIMOWA is one that should be on your radar. While it’s a brand that’s been delivering premium luggage for 120 years, it’s under the leadership of Alexandre Arnault, who became the brand’s CEO at the age of 26, along with being acquired by the LVMH group, that’s redefined the brand into a new league of its own.

In the last three years alone, Arnault and his team have secured partnership with some of the most well-known brands in the fashion industry including Fendi, Off-White, Supreme, Moncler and most recently Dior. This move has firmly put RIMOWA on the map as one to watch. According to WWD, just as LVMH acquired the brand, RIMOWA was only wrapping up around $485 million in sales. However, as of 2019, under Arnault’s leadership and realignment of the brand, that number has now been far surpassed.

Collaboration is something that has become deeply entwined with the brand’s design ethos, Emelie de Vitis, the Chief Marketing Officer for RIMOWA tells Emirates Woman. “It’s always an honour to work with houses like Dior, Fendi and Moncler, among many others,” she adds. “We learn from each other and challenge our existing understanding of how our products look and feel. Through collaborations, we get to focus on what is essential for RIMOWA and what can evolve in unexpected, exciting ways.”

This is just one of the ways the brand has set itself apart from other competitors, at its core “form has always been just as important as function”, de Vitis says.

This has been true from the brand’s inception in 1898. Originally founded as a company focusing on saddlery in Cologne, Germany, founder Paul Morszeck evolved the business into crafting suitcases out of wood. However, it was in the 1930s when the brand took a turning point which would define itself throughout the decades. Firstly, the name RIMOWA was born after Paul’s son Richard Morszeck became involved in the running of the company. The word ‘RIMOWA’ is actually an acronym for Richard Morszeck Warenzeichen, with the latter word meaning ‘trademark’ in German. In the latter half of the decade, in 1937, an apparent fire broke out in the factory destroying the majority of the company’s materials. What survived of the blaze materials wise was some aluminium, which became the key substance of the pieces from RIMOWA. Over a century down the line, the key designs for the brand still remain etched in their ethos, but now at the heart for RIMOWA and what it stands for is “purposeful travel”. “We expertly design and engineer the resilient tools needed for a lifetime of journeys, crafting them to be capable of enduring all the little turbulences along the way, while still moving effortlessly and elegantly through even the most bustling airport terminal, train station or beyond,” de Vitis says. However, the current climate of staying put due to the pandemic has forced the brand to go against its very essence. “As a business, but also as a team of curious, driven individuals, we’re made to

move,” de Vitis explains. As a company deeply rooted in travel, it’s meant the brand has been particularly sensitive and affected by the limited movement, which has meant RIMOWA has had to look for other ways to communicate with their community. In fact, it has sparked a reflective movement for the company, which has recently launched the New Horizons and #TripsChangeUs campaigns, putting forward the notion that travel isn’t just about the act itself but the lasting memories and experiences you take with you long after you have left a destination. “It was important for us to share our feeling that, for us, travel is not the location; it’s what you learn about yourself that makes the memories of a trip worth holding on to,” de Vitis says. “And that’s determined by your mindset and whether you choose to find purpose in how and why you move from one place to the next.”

Despite the current pause, it hasn’t stopped RIMOWA from planning for the future, which is looking towards the consumer-conscious traveller and how they can support their community with their brand identity as a whole. “As a new generation of travellers come of age, we’re seeing a fresh definition of how and what it means to move in today’s world,” de Vitis says. “Hospitality, mobility, fashion all find themselves in the commercial intersection for today’s consumer-conscious traveller. These crosscurrents bring with them the opportunity of innovation in the product, retail experience, and brand identity.

As we explore and implement new ways to anticipate shifts in trends, it is important for us to resonate with these new generations as we forge ahead with uncharged creative ideas.”

As part of their ethos of catering to the consumer-conscious traveller, RIMOWA also ensures sustainability is at the heart of its design ethos. From the materials they choose, to the techniques they employ, to the durability of their luggage pieces – sustainability is at the company’s core. “When we speak of ‘luggage designed for a lifetime’, we mean this from our luggage’s engineering to our renowned aftersales service, trusted with thoughtfully catering to our client’s needs at Client Care Centre’s around the world for decades with the knowledge and expertise accumulated over more than a century,” de Vitis says.

De Vitis also reveals there is plenty of exciting things around the corner for RIMOWA. As you’d expect the brand is focusing on expanding its core luggage range, but with a slight twist. “We’re increasingly looking to cater to customers beyond the moments typically associated with travel, moments not necessarily associated with arrivals and departures,” she says. This includes the exciting launch of RIMOWA Eyewear in June 2020. While it’s beyond the luggage sphere RIMOWA is used to, but the same core production values continue. “Created with mobility in mind, this new collection explores beyond what we typically consider to be in the travel product ecosystem, building on the brand’s history of innovation while preserving its iconic tradition of quality, engineering and craftsmanship,” de Vitis says.

So, it’s clear that while this travel company is standing still in terms of location, it’s moving forward in every other way just as it has done for the past 120 years.

The Great Escape Freedom is not something we take for granted.

We asked some of the most incredible women we know where they’d like to escape to this summer and what they’ve learned during the time in lockdown H.E. Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali Al Sabah CO-FOUNDER OF PRISMOLOGIE @intisaralsabah Where would you like to escape to and why?

I love escaping to a small boutique hotel in a different city or town every time. I am really fond of exploring new places, people watching, discovering new tastes in food. What do you always pack when travelling? I always pack the Prismologie Citrine and Bergamot shower gel and the Ruby and Cedarwood dry body oils. I love using body oil just after the shower. I always pack my walking shoes, and I make sure all my clothes are on a hanger and in a suit carrier so when I arrive it’s super easy to unpack and everything is wrinkle-free.

I am very picky with my packing, everything is in the right place and I always make sure I pack something for the evening no matter where I am going so that I am fully prepared for any occasion. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? I

have learnt many positive things during the lockdown but I think the most important one is that I don’t need a lot. So, my needs have drastically reduced. I have also learnt to unwind and take time off and one of the biggest things I have realised is not to continue running around and keeping myself constantly busy, because when I stop, I realise that I can actually do more with less effort. So, I’ve started focusing on the big picture and everything else falls into place. What’s your most treasured travel memory? My most treasured travel memory was in Yemen. The people are so nice, so generous, so kind and with no rules. I particularly loved the fact that the local people showed so much trust in us which is extraordinary in today’s day and age. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast?

I love reading about marketing and books about the psychology of people and how to get the most out of the people around you. One of my favourite books is Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath about why some ideas stick and other fail to succeed.

Alanoud Badr FASHION DESIGNER AND TV ANCHOR @fozaza Where would you like to escape to and why? South of France, it’s just my second home. What do you always pack when travelling? My face creams and hair care products. I also always pack my favourite snacks. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? To be extremely grateful, to be patient and most of all to live every day to its fullest. What’s your most treasured travel memory? Exploring Greece from island to island. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell.

Ola Farahat INFLUENCER AND ENTREPRENEUR @olafarahat Where would you like to escape to and why? The Maldives – I want to be on an island. What do you always pack when travelling? The best pair of jeans I own. A black blazer and mostly neutrals. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? To slow down and appreciate moments more. What’s your most treasured travel memory? My honeymoon in the Seychelles. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? Personally, I prefer to unwind by playing music.

Latifa Al Gurg FOUNDER OF TWISTED ROOTS @twisted_roots

Where would you like to escape to and why? We spent some time last summer in Carmel in California, and I’ve been wanting to go back. The nature is breathtaking and there are so many things to do and see. What do you always pack when travelling? I always pack at least one pair of jeans, a white shirt, lots of scarves and and a steamer. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? It has really given me the gift of time to reflect, try new things and most imporNada Baeshen tantly spend special moments with ENTREPRENEUR AND OWNER OF THE HUNTRESS my family. What’s your most trea@nadabaeshen sured travel memory? It’s hard to choose just one, there are so many!

Where would you like to escape to and why? I wish I could be in Greece right now, I love the sea My most recent was visiting my the people the food and culture. It makes me happy. What do you always pack when travelling? I grandfather in Denmark just before pack almost all my wardrobe since I simply love dressing up in the summer my dresses, sunglasses the flights stopped. Can you recand hats mainly. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? I slowed ommend a beachside read / poddown, spent time with my son and started meditating. I discovered that I love the interview procast? My latest read was The Dutch cess of lives on Instagram and sharing knowledge and insightful topics on my platform. What’s House by Ann Patchett. It’s a family your most treasured travel memory? My first trip to Italy with my husband. Can you recommend drama that spans five decades and I a beachside read / podcast? To be honest, I am too busy dancing on the beach to read. couldn’t put it down.

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Emon Shakoor FOUNDER & CEO, BLOSSOM ACCELERATOR NURSERY @emonshakoor Where would you like to escape to and why? I would love to escape to a tropical island with clear blue waters, beautiful sunshine, enjoy the waterfalls around me and the glory of nature.

What do you always pack when travelling? Portable speakers, portable charger, noise-cancelling headset, hand sanitiser, sunglasses, workout gear, books, laptop and business cards because even on vacation there is always room for networking. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? Sometimes in life things do not happen exactly how you foresaw them and accepting that while still being happy takes a beautiful level of bravery, courage, strength and resilience. What’s your most treasured travel memory? My senior year of college I completed a study abroad program in Granada, Spain to learn and explore the heritage of the Moorish empire. The south of Spain is enchanting and marvellous. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz.

HRH Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan FOUNDER OF MKS JEWELLERY @mksjewellery Where would you like to escape to and why?

There are so many places I am yet to discover and I’m feeling really open to escaping. I think that what matters most is what comes with the escape; the travelling, the experience, the new cultures – these things are what I love regardless of where it may be and that’s what I look forward to the most. What do you always pack when travelling? Other than the usual necessities, I make sure my comfiest walking shoes are with me. There’s nothing worse than the soreness from a new pair of shoes after a full day of exploration!

What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? The importance of taking time for yourself. This pandemic gave me the time to reflect and work on myself more than I have ever been able to. Confronting questions and actually sitting down with myself has been extremely rewarding personally. Everyone has gone through different forms of self-reflection during lockdown, it really has been a time of growth and evolution and for that I am grateful. What’s your most treasured travel memory? The most recent treasured memory is my first ever trip to Morocco with my family. The sense of togetherness and the dynamics of spending time with each other in a natural habitat, combined with the excitement of the adventure and learning something new surrounded by a new culture was something that will stay in my heart forever. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I’m currently reading The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak. The book has been on my bookshelf for a very long time and I finally got around to reading it! I’m loving it so far.

Ingie Chalhoub THE PRESIDENT & MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE ETOILE GROUP AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF INGIE PARIS @ingieparis Where would you like to escape to and why?

The first country I would think to go to is France. The sudden lockdown left us all separated from family members and friends and I’m very eager to see them again. I’m look-

ing forward as well to reconnecting with my INGIE Paris team and work in my atelier in Paris. Following all that I would like to visit south of France for a much-needed vacation.

What do you always pack when travelling? I always pack full looks to take me from day to evening. Casualwear, cocktail dresses, gowns, shoes and matching bags in addition to my toiletry kit. Of course, the main new items to pack nowadays would be the masks, sanitisation gels and gloves for safety during travel and daily protection. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? One of the most positive things I have learned is how important it is to make time for connecting with friends and loved ones. Sometimes we are too busy with our lives, jobs, professional and social life, that we miss on reconnecting and spending quality time with them. I definitely communicated more with people via phone calls, asked them about their health and wellbeing and it filled me with happiness. What is your most treasured travel memory? The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil two years ago.

Brazilians know how to enjoy their lives and it was amazing to experience their positive energy with people from all backgrounds, walks of life sharing love, joy and fun while dancing. There is nothing like it. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast?

111 Places on the French Riviera That You Must Not Miss by Ralph Nestmeyer.

Parvané Barret CREATIVE CONSULTANT AND DJ @parvbar Where would you like to escape to and why? I would honestly love to go to London right now, to be with my friends who I miss a lot! What I love about London is that you can really be whoever you want, dress however way you want, and you will still be accepted no matter what. Other than that, I would love to escape to somewhere in the Caribbean, like Cuba, Jamaica, or Trinidad. I have never visited any of these places and it is a real dream of mine. What do you always pack when travelling? I always love packing a lot of clothes that I can shoot with and create content. I love shooting in another country, especially when the architecture is a lot different than in Dubai. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? I’ve learnt that even with some limitations around you, you can still be super creative and express yourself through what you create. I have been shooting a lot more at home, collaborating with some brands that have sent me things to shoot. I made a few orders of equipment and background to build my own mini studio and I feel super great to have found the time to do what I love the most. I’ve also been doing a lot of live DJ sets for a few brands as well for myself on my page, also recording sets and posting them on my Soundcloud page for people to have a listen while at home. What’s your most treasured travel memory? I would say my first trip to Hong Kong, with Kenzo for the Kenzo Tali bag campaign. Nobody from the Middle East team was on the trip so I was pretty much on my own and it was honestly one of the best experiences ever. I met some amazing people from the brand, and some really cool local creatives with whom I shot videos and pictures with. I was only there for a day as well. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? In all honesty, I am not much of a reader, but I do love listening to some podcasts here and there. I don’t have a specific one in mind, but I always manage to stumble across ones that are really interesting, like The Joe Rogan Experience.

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Hjayceelyn M. Quintana

Zeynab El-Helw

AMBASSADOR OF THE PHILIPPINES TO THE UAE @philippine_ambassador_to_uae

MODEL AND INFLUENCER @fashion_pirate

Where would you like to escape to and why? My concept of a getaway is a nice spa resort. What do you always pack when travelling? My adaptor and phone charger since my work requires me to be accessible 24/7. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? We only need love to be happy. What’s your most treasured travel memory? Spending a birthday in two cities and countries - Ljubljana, Slovenia and Split, Croatia on the way to the final destination of Dubrovnik in the Adriatic Coast. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? Captivating: Unveiling The Mystery Of A Woman’s Soul

by John and Stasi Eldredge.

Where would you like to escape to and why?

I would love to teleport to a dreamy deserted island with my husband and baby Luca.

What do you always pack when travelling?

I always pack my coconut oil, swimsuit and shorts if I’m heading to a warm climate. If it involved a lot of walking then I’d always have my sneakers to hand. The coconut oil I use is now more than a hair ointment and is useful for sunburns and pre-bath massages for Luca. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? Slowing down during this lockdown has really allowed me to appreciate real time for family, friends and even work, allowing me to create and

Zahra Lyla Khalil FOUNDER OF THE OTHER AGENCY @zahralyla

Tamara Al Gabbani INFLUENCER @tamaraalgabbani Where would you like to escape to and why? Sardinia – every year I plan to go but then get sidetracked. on other destinations.

What do you always pack when travelling?

A pair of sandals, right now Dior are my favourite, I also love Fendi sunglasses. As for beauty, I always have with me the Heliocare sunblock, Zauria 24 karat face oil (from my Boutiqaat store) as well as La Mer moisturising lotion, Too Faced Born This Way Concealer and Fenty Beauty shine lipstick. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? Family is everything. Be gentle with yourself. What’s your most treasured travel memory? I have a few. Family vacations in Marbella; girls summer holidays on Greek islands; Amalfi coast; South of France; and skiing in Courchevel with my dearest friends. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? The podcast I’d recommend is GaryVee Audio Experience with Gary Vaynerchuk.

Where would you like to escape to and why? Right before COVID-19 hit, I had plans to finally go to the Maldives as it has been high on my bucket list. I am lucky to have travelled around the world for work but I wanted to keep the Maldives for a special occasion. Once we have the all-clear, that is definitely where I will be heading. What do you always pack when travelling? I wish I was a light traveller but I am not. I always make sure I have all my equipment to produce content (work never stops) and my own little first aid kit that includes everything from medicine and sanitisers to hairpins and a sewing kit (that’s the stylist in me). What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? I have learned to slow down and to spend my time on things that really matter like family and real friends. I have also learned that I need to take care of my mind just as much as I need to with my body. I have crippling anxiety so this has been a good time to work on controlling it as much as I can. What’s your most treasured travel memory? Every trip I have been on has been an amazing experience in its own way. London is like my second home as I moved there for my Master’s degree but one of the trips to London is extra special as that was when I met my husband.

Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? When it comes to podcasts, I tend to listen to self-empowering and business topics and I prefer autobiographers for books. If I am by the beach, I prefer listening to music or reading a magazine, like Emirates Woman!

Noha Nabil SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER AND STYLE EDITOR @nohastyleicon

Lana AlBeik MODEL AND CREATIVE @lana_.jpg Where would you like to escape to and why? I would love to take a sailboat for a few days with friends in the Philippines, Palawan is beautiful. What do you always pack when travelling? Skincare and perfume are the most important to me.

What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? I learned to appreciate my privilege even more and I learned to not spare a moment, to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. What’s your most treasured travel memory? When I went to Rome in summer two years ago, after visiting Gallery Borghese, we took a walk in the gallery garden and it was magical. Living in the city can make you forget about how breathtaking it is to be surrounded by greenery and to just walk. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I would recommend The Fall by Albert Camus.

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think rather than always rushing to reach deadlines. Even though I live away from my family, we’re now communicating on a daily basis via video cameras which has given us more freedom with time. It gives us that patience to remain positive and cherish these moments, looking ahead for better days when we will be reunited and spend quality time together more than ever. What’s your most treasured travel memory? The moment I found out I was pregnant in Thailand on January 1, hands down that was the most treasured moments. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? Authors such Charles Dickens, Paul Coelho are a few of my favourites as I grew up reading them. To Kill A Mockingbird and Great Expectations are my top picks. As for podcasts, I really enjoy listening to BoF – Business of Fashion.

F E AT U R E

Where would you like to escape to and why? Although I was there just three months ago, I can’t wait to go back to Paris! What do you always pack when travelling? I usually travel with three cameras to create content and share on social media along with enough outfits since I change my looks three times a day. What have you positive thing have learned during this time of lockdown? I’ve learned to appreciate the little details of my daily routine. I enjoyed time to meditate and think about my life and decisions in a positive way. I can’t complain to be honest as I made the most out of this time. What’s your most treasured travel memory?

Every family vacation. It has become a part of our yearly routine to travel with the kids on summer vacation.

Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I’m a huge fan of women’s poet Nizar Qabani. The best way to relax for me is to enjoy reading some of his work like This Is How I Write Women’s History.

Sara Sabry

Wadima AlYafei

CONTENT CREATOR @sarasabry

JIU-JITSU PLAYER – PART OF UAE JIU-JITSU FEDERATION @4wadimaa

Where would you like to escape to and why?

I would take the first flight out to Bali or the Maldives. My body needs a beach and good food. What do you always pack when travelling? I’m very efficient when it comes to packing, but I always do three main checks: phone, wallet, passport. And if I’ve got these three, everything else is replaceable. What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown?I’ve learned to slow down and that always being on the go isn’t necessarily a good thing. When you’re always busy and always jumping from one place to the other, you don’t really get to sit and check in with yourself often. You also tend to take a lot of things for granted. So, this lockdown taught me to be grateful for the smallest blessings and to really dig deep into myself, learn to love myself and life unconditionally, regardless of the circumstances. What’s your most treasured travel memory? One of my most treasured memories is travelling with my brother to California and driving down the coast in Malibu with the top down blasting Miley Cyrus’ Malibu song and watching the sunset. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? This is a book that I passed down to my friends is called The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F***: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson.

Where would you like to escape to and why? I would love to escape to somewhere like Hawaii or the Maldives where the beaches, palm trees and spas make for a relaxing escape. What do you always pack when travelling? Aside from essentials such as clothes and travel documents, I also try and carry my jiu-jitsu gear and belt with me as I love to train in any place that I can.

What positive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? During lockdown I got to know myself better and realised that nothing is impossible. I learned how to give my body and mind a chance to be creative but also gained a greater understanding of the importance of taking a break. Another major positive of lockdown is that it has given me the chance to spend more time with my loved ones. What’s your most treasured travel memory? As a member of the UAE national team, every win on the international stage is special and something to treasure. It makes me so proud to raise the UAE flag and hear the national anthem after a success in every international competition and is a reward for the trust placed in us by the UAEJJF to represent our country. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I like to read books and listen to podcasts that focus around the themes of self-development, and motivational speeches. I am currently reading The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes.

Tania Lodi FOUNDER OF TANIA’S TEAHOUSE @tanialodi Where would you like to escape to and why?

I would love to be in Bali. I went last year for my honeymoon and I fell in love with the dreamy beaches and endless coconuts. What do you always pack when travelling? I’m very particular with packing, and I always make a packing list, in which I check off each thing after packing. I always bring a facial roller with me and a face mask for the plane if the flight is long. What positive things have

Haifa Beseisso YOUTUBER, CONTENT CREATOR, TV HOST @flywithhaifa

you learned during this time of lockdown?

Lockdown and COVID-19, in general, has really given me the appreciation of financially support myself, to indulge in the little things, and to appreciate family, friends and the ability to travel. To sit back and enjoy the little things in life, to put back the background noise and enjoy what’s in front of me.

What’s your most treasured travel memory?

My favourite memory lately has been back when my husband and I went to Bali, we decided to rent a motorbike and go everywhere ourselves. I remember biking through rice fields on the way to a hidden waterfall, balancing my cup of green bubble tea with grass jelly and my phone. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I love books and I always travel with one to three books. I recommend the book Modesty: A Fashion Paradox by my sister Hafsa Lodi, which discusses the paradoxical concept of modest fashion, and this emerging movement.

Where would you like to escape to and why? Bali, because I go into a deep world of mediation and beautiful Nature. I eat healthy vegan food, meditate and dance with friends and breathe deeply. There’s something about the energy of this place that’s so transformative. Bali is very lush and also has beautiful beaches and islands. I also love going to retreats there, silent retreats. What do you always pack when travelling? My monkey teddy bear, face creams, chargers and cameras, my faSaira Farhat vourite outfits that make me feel good, CONTENT CREATOR a good book, prayer clothes. What posi@fashky tive things have you learned during this time of lockdown? My life changed durWhere would you like to escape to and why? My next dream destination is Cuba. The culture, the ing lockdown, it was a complete detox landscape, the colourful buildings, the classic cars and the music is all so enchanting. What do you and a zoom out of my life where I got always pack when travelling? A major must when travelling is a good, versatile, comfortable pair the chance to see what I want to keep of shoes. The Chanel gate sandals are my go-to when travelling. Equally, a good pair of sneakers in my life and what to eliminate, a real is important for spontaneous exploring. What positive things have you learned during this time of chance to slow down. What’s your most lockdown? One of the biggest positives for me in lockdown has been the ability to slow down, to treasured travel memory? Talking to look at things more deeply and to appreciate more profoundly. What’s your most treasured travel strangers and kids in Zanzibar and litmemory? I have two amazing memories of travelling, the first has to be my journey to Hajj (a reerately jumping in the ocean from a boat ligious visit to Saudi Arabia) this spiritually changed me. The second most memorable place goes to swim with dolphins. Can you recomto Thailand, Koh Sumui. My husband and I hired a scooter to get around since it was the most mend a beachside read / podcast? I convenient and fun way to explore. Can you recommend a beachside read / podcast? I love hearlove all of Oprah’s books. So real and ing personal stories or podcasts, and my most recent read was by Reni Eddo-Lodge. She shared her insightful. Also Heal Your Life by Louis experiences and the history of black people.

Hay is amazing.

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COVID-19 turned the travel and tourism industry on its head, imposing lockdowns across the globe. After months in isolation, things are finally improving. With more than a few countries now opening their borders, it’s time to awaken the traveller in you. We can’t think of a better place to be than Spain, which is one of the first destinations all set to welcome tourists starting from July – #SpainAwaitsYou. Boasting majestic views of everything from rugged mountains and wild meadows in the North of Spain, also known as Green Spain, to coastal towns, fishing ports and picturesque beaches, Spain has something to suit everyone. Enjoy wandering through villages of timeless beauty perched on hilltops, narrow winding lanes in valleys, vibrant life and magnificent sunsets.

Art aficionados should definitely add in a visit to cultural landmarks. On the must-visit list are the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba, the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, the famous Prado Museum in Madrid and the Guggenheim in Bilbao. The landmarks are endless. In fact, the art scene boasts over 1,500 museums and has the third most UNESCO World Heritage assets in the world.

For the foodies, Spain offers the best in terms of home-grown, fresh produce. Whether you are seated at an exclusive table or having a stand-and-go be sure to enjoy the tapas and pintxos in San

Sebastián or savour the sumptuous seafood in Galicia. Alternatively, sports fans can catch a football game at Santiago Bernabéu or be awe-inspired by some Messi magic at Camp Nou. There’s also The Balearic Islands, Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza to explore… so many beautiful locations, so little time!

To ensure your safety, Spain has adopted many hygiene measures to give you peace of mind while travelling. Twenty-one guidelines with specifications to prevent any spread of the coronavirus have been meticulously put together. The government has also introduced a series of protective mandatory measures such as the use of face masks in public spaces, maintaining a social distance of at least 1.5 metres, sanitising your hands, automated check-in procedures and much more to ensure you are safe at all times and have an incredible break in Spain. Spain.info/gcc

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Suitcase Etiquette

Whether you travel a lot or you’re simply heading for a summer staycation, we’ve compiled the best tips to ensure you pack like a seasoned professional

WORDS: CECILIA D’SOUZA

The Suitcase

Choose quality. Invest well once and you’ll have this for a lifetime. Ideally invest in the largest suitcase available and a matching cabin bag to ensure you can carry your irreplaceable items with you on board and the rest has plenty of room. RIMOWA and Samsonite are go-to’s if you’re looking to invest.

The Packing

Think about how you will be spending your days and evenings and lay out everything you think you need to take with you and then start to ruthlessly edit. By stacking the rolled pieces vertically, you save space and prevent creasing. If you have a planned itinerary pack the first outfit you will wear on the top and you are good to go. You will find that footwear takes up a lot of space. Put your socks into your shoes and they can also be used as safe ports for your universal plug adaptor, loose cords, portable phone charger and other small gadgets. Store your shoes in shoe bags so that their soles do not stain any of your other clothes and remember to keep shoes, books and hairdryer by the wheel-end of your case. This will help your bag stay stable and also prevent other items from moving.

THE INVESTMENT BUYS

Clockwise from top: Dark Green Hue Carry-On hardshell suitcase Dhs665 Calpak; Embossed hardshell suitcase Dhs1,718 OffWhite; Black Hue medium hardshell suitcase Dhs724 Calpak

The Guru

Marie Kondo gives us her advice on keeping packing, precise and suitcases streamlined. · Fold, fold and fold again. Every piece of clothing has a sweet spot where it feels just right in your bag. · Lay tops down, fold in sleeves in and roll from the bottom up to ensure minimal creasing. · For trousers put the legs together and roll from the waist down. · Use the KonMari system of storing your clothes standing side by side instead of stacking them on one another. This helps to save space and allows you to see everything at a glance. · Keep at least 10 per cent of your luggage space free to pack any souvenirs from your trip. · Always carry a compact laundry bag, so you can keep all your used clothes separate.

The Beauty Essentials

Always place your toiletries on top of your suitcase in a clear bag or on the side in a pouch. Make sure you have some spare zip lock bags with you so that you don’t have to worry about leaks.

Suitcase essentials: Whether you want to up your tan or just soak up the sun ensure that your skin is protected at all times. Applying sunscreen, suntan lotion and after-sun regularly is a must. Adding a multi-tasking palette, a rosy moisturising lip balm, lipstick, a light fresh fragrance, cleansing wipes, hand sanitiser and a refillable water bottle will ensure your poolside beauty is on point.

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LXCON grosgrain-trimmed mesh sneakers Dhs357 Adidas Originals

From left: Apple Watch Series 5 GPS + Cellular, 44mm Dhs2099 Apple available at Amazon.ae; Wellness Weights Dhs635 Technogym; FREEFLOW 25 Dhs95 Avex available at Amazon; Pro Warm Hollywood glittered mesh-panelled stretch leggings Dhs250 Nike; Air Pods Pro Dhs999 Apple; Resistance Band Dhs109 Nike

LIFE

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Beach Game

Blending the 5,000-year-old game of backgammon with luxury, these creations are a must-have on your summer travels 94 emirateswoman.com

LIFE

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

WORDS: OLIVIA MORRIS

Hector Saxe Paris is bringing strong style game to your beachside set-up, as well as making the perfect addition to your home interiors. Combining bespoke craftsmanship with style and flair with the art of classic games including backgammon, chess, poker and more, this Paris-based brand has carved a totally unique niche for itself, and has been doing so for over 40 years.

Founded by Michel Saxe in 1978, the inspiration for the brand has been spearheaded by his love for games like backgammon and chess. “We combined passion with Michel’s profession as a craftsman and leather goods maker,” Marion Koubbachian, the sales and marketing director for the brand, tells Emirates Woman. “Our goal is to associate the game with fashion.” Through the use of refined materials including precious woods and high-quality Italian leather, products are designed for the individual, taking every single client’s needs and wants to create an elegant and stylish piece, making the game a part of the décor.

So, what’s the secret to the brands longevity? “What keeps our house going is our renewal,” Koubbachian explains. “We are constantly looking for new things to create each year. This is based on determination, involvement and hard work.” As for how they’ve been continually able to set themselves apart from other brands, they are the only ones doing what they’re doing.

“What sets us apart is that we use only leather to make our products, and we make everything in our Parisian workshop,” Koubbachian says, adding they are able to include customers in the process of the design, not only by considering what they want but with the fact that every customer is able to come to their Paris workshop to see the creations come to life.

“We also offer fully custom-made items in a wide choice of leathers and colours,” she adds.

As you’d expect the whole process of design and creation is an intricate, detailed one and the furthest thing away from the evermore popular concept of mass production. “Let’s take for instance the making of a backgammon game, our best-selling product,” Koubbachian begins. “First, we have to make the wooden box, then cover it with leather. We make the marquetry of the leather inlay with the arrows. Then we add the clasps and hinges, and finally, we inspect each piece carefully to check for the slightest defects.”

The aim of Hector Saxe Paris is to design bold creations, which follow fashion trends but also stand

the test of time, which is evident from its 42 years in business. Having recently received the Craft Recognition Medal in Paris, the hard work of the brand and its designers doesn’t go unnoticed. “It was a great reward for all the work we’ve done over the years, and it has allowed us to participate in various prospecting missions and brings us visibility,” Koubbachian says. So much so, Hector Saxe Paris is the sponsor for the French Backgammon Federation, and also has a global presence thanks to the many backgammon tournaments the brand organises.

“We work in the universe of the game, which has a festive and pleasant connotation,” Koubbachian explains. “Many of our products are used to decorate restaurants, beaches and yachts. We offer bright colours for the summer, as well as travel formats so that the game can be taken anywhere!” So, whether it’s the French Riviera, Monaco, Saint Barts or The Maldives that’s your summer destination of choice, this is the perfect bespoke, beachside accessory you can enjoy with pleasure and take home with pride.

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Whether you are lounging by the pool, at the beach or in the cool confines of your home, these summer reads will inspire and elevate your mind

Beachside reads WORDS: CECILIA D’SOUZA

AlUla

By Assouline. Photography by Robert Polidori AlUla, also known as Wadi al-Qura (Valley of Villages), whose history can be traced back to around 200,000 BCE is a true oasis.

A spectacular landscape of epic rock formations, rugged mountains and striking canyons nestled deep within the ancient sands of northwest Saudi Arabia, it is a magical place of extraordinary natural heritage that holds secrets yet to be discovered. In Assouline’s latest title, photographer Robert Polidori leads you through breathtaking imagery of this fertile valley that formed a natural passage for caravans and travellers on the incense trade route. It also provided plentiful groundwater and soil that allowed many civilisations to thrive for thousands of years.

What I Know For Sure

By Oprah Winfrey Oprah Winfrey needs no introduction. Overcoming her own struggles, she has carved a niche for herself as a guru for positive thought and vision. As you flip through the book’s uplifting pages, you will learn about Winfrey’s ‘stand down moment’, her ‘a-ha moment’ and many more, all of which lead to a feeling of comfort and inspiration - something we all need during uncertain times.

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Mykonos Muse

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

By Lizy Manola As you lie on your sun lounger let this photo-essay, through the lens of Greek photographer Liza Manola, take you on a majestic and glamorous journey of the gorgeous island of Mykonos in Greece. Think twinkling bluegreen Aegean waters, Ibiza-style windswept vibe, Cycladic whitewashed architecture, sun-soaked vistas, windmill strewn roads, flowering bougainvillea trees and, of course, the legendary party scene. Along with this are chronicled ancient mythological stories that defined the history of Mykonos over the past century and a look into the culture and society that brought it all to vibrant life.

Dream away.

By Stephen R Covey “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit,” Aristotle famously said. This, author Stephen R Covey, explains is basically what our habits are like. Our character is a composite of our habits because they are consistent of often unconscious patterns, they constantly express our character and effectiveness or ineffectiveness. And in this lovely gem, a must-read, he explains the seven habits and principles of highly effective people that enable them to rise to the pinnacle of success.

Habit one: be proactive. Habit two: begin with an end result in mind. Habit three: put first things first. Habit four: think of winning. Habit five: seek first to understand, then to be understood. Habit six: collaborate. Habit seven: enhance yourself. And the most important thing he reminds us is that success is a habit, as is a failure.

Camino Winds

By John Grisham This is Grisham’s second book in his Camino Island series. As the erratic and deadly tropical storm Leo bears down on Camino Island, about two hundred miles west of Cape Verde, it leaves in its wake a scene of total devastation. As with all Grisham tales, this one too has its own alluring twists, perfect for indulging whilst you’re hammock bound.

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead

By Sheryl Sandberg and Nell Scovell One of the most vital books for any women in business to read. Sheryl Sandberg’s inspirational book begins when she was working at Google. Now the COO of Facebook, Sandberg claims she has written it for any woman who wants to increase her chances of making it to the top of her field. To any woman who is willing to pursue her goals vigorously; who wants to take down the barriers erected by society and those that exist within her as well. She hopes that any man who reads it will understand what a woman – be it a colleague, wife, mother or daughter – goes through, so he can do his part to help. It’s all about believing in yourself, giving it your all and leaning in.

The 4-Hour Workweek

By Timothy Ferris The message in this book is simple: stop working harder and start working smarter. It is about creating an infrastructure so you can work only four hours a week and invest the rest of the time for and on yourself. It drives the point home that life is not all about work. Outsourcing to virtual assistants, licensing and validating your ideas, not spending too much on time-consuming information and news taking mini-retirement breaks are some of the things he explains in detail. In the book, he also offers practical tips and case studies along with the latest tools and tricks you can adapt to achieve your goals.

Zanzibar

By Assouline. Photography by Aline Coquelle When you think of Zanzibar, visions of sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, brilliant turquoise waters, sailing dhows and green landscapes come to mind. In this book by Assouline, Aline Coquelle has captured through her lens the essence of this beautiful island. Images and intimate portraits of a community bursting with life that

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will make you lose yourself in their beauty and mark it as a must-visit on your travel list. Whether it is walking along the labyrinthine streets of Stonetown, visiting the wild forests, scuba diving off the coast of a private island, enjoying the Omani architecture or tasting mouth-watering cuisines from all over the world, Zanzibar has it all.

You’ll find yourself wanting to flip through its pages again and again.

Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Physical and Emotional Self

By Tony Robbins How can I take immediate control of my life? What can I do today that can make a difference? These were some of the questions that author Anthony Robbins asked himself. He, like all of us, had dreams and thought they would never be realised. The book begins with Robbins flying in his helicopter from Los Angeles to his seminar in Orange County. As he looks down he recognises the large building below where he had worked as an overweight janitor, full of life’s problems. It was at that very moment that it hit him how he was now living his dream. In-between the pages of his book, you will find information, philosophies and skills that can assist you in empowering yourself.

All you have to do is awaken the sleeping giant within you and focus on where you want to go and what you need to do to get there, one area of your life at a time.

Good Vibes, Good Life: How Self-Love Is The Key to Unlocking Your Greatness

By Vex King In this book, King shows how true selflove is when you appreciate where you are and who you are regardless of any transformation you aspire to. How when you stop trying to please everyone, surround yourself with positive people, change your body language, get your diet right and make yourself a priority that you really begin to change your world. He believes life will test you, just before it blesses you. Pack this for the perfect beachside read and return to the office motivated and ready to take on any challenge positively.

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The Wanderlust WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Superlative staycations in the UAE and beyond

Bvlgari Resort Dubai

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needs in mind with a two-night stay. While the children are supervised at the resort’s Little Gems Club, the parents can enjoy a spa treatment together getting 90 minutes of pure relaxation and peace. For dinner, guests will receive the best of both worlds enjoying a private family dinner in their villa one evening, and the second evening the children will be treated to a private pyjama party. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy some one-on-one time for dinner at Il Ristorante – Niko Romito with a special set menu.

Those seeking a truly private getaway, Bvlgari’s B.PRIVATE experience will ensure guests feel like the resort is their own home with this two-night stay. With an early check-in at midday, guests will immediately be treated to a family-style brunch. To start the day off on a high-note during your first morning at the resort, enjoy a personal 60-minute training session with a WORKSHOP Performance Specialist. Wind down in the evening with a private masterclass with the resort’s expert mixologist, which will then lead into a BBQ dinner.

Bvlgari’s third unique package, B.ACTIVE, is catered for guests seeking a getaway, but being able to continue to stay active. With a series of wellbeing activities, spa treatments and personal training sessions, guests will receive a special two-night program to meet their needs. Included in the program are two 60-minute training sessions with a personal trainer, one 60-minute yoga class and two 60-minute spa treatments at the Bvlgari Spa. A healthy lunch and dinner will also be included in the experience.

Finally, for those looking to experience the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation, Bvlgari’s B.BEAUTIFUL experience is perfect. The one-night stay includes three-hour Royal Lulur Treatment for two at the Bvlgari Spa along with manicure and pedicure at the Y12 Salon. Ladies will also receive a luxurious hair mask treatment, as well as a cut and blow-dry. For the men, they will be treated to a traditional Italian beard shave and haircut.

As the sun sets, guests will enjoy an Aperitivo at Il Bar followed by a three-course set menu at Il Ristorante – Niko Romito.

Overall, the Bvlgari Resort Dubai is the ideal place to recuperate, reset and reinvest time in yourself after months of staying put at home.

Bvlgari Resort Dubai Where: Jumeriah Bay, Dubai The Vibe: The Epitome of Luxury USP: To switch off in true style and luxury whilst staying close to home, the Bvlgari Resort Dubai is the perfect place to do so. Having recently launched ‘Bvlgari Staycations’, it’s the ideal time to take advantage of the unsurpassed facilities and impeccable, considered service the resort has to offer. Driving over the bridge to this haven you’ll feel the calm wash over you in knowing that this level of luxury exists only in those who know how to attend to your every need whilst allowing you the feeling of an uninterrupted, private stay. We’re lucky enought to have stayed in a multitude of stunning hotels the globe over and this is bar none one of the absolute best.

THE DETAILS:

The Bvlgari Staycations menu consists of four experiences: B.FAMILY, B.PRIVATE, B.ACTIVE and B.BEAUTIFUL. For a staycation getaway with the whole family, the resort’s B.FAMILY package keeps both the parents and children’s

Located in Jumeriah Bay, Dubai, the Bvlgari Resort is a short 25-minute drive from Dubai Airport. The Bvlgari Staycation experiences start from Dhs2,800 and are inclusive of daily breakfast and early check-in at 12.00pm. For reservations email room.reservations.dubai@ bulgarihotels.com or call +971 4 777 5555.

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ALL IMAGES: BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert Where: Ras Al Khaimah The Vibe: The modern Bedouin USP: Escape to the golden dunes of the desert where the stars look brighter than the sun and the facilities are as luxurious as you’d expect of a RitzCarlton property. The all-pool-villa resort is offering a culinary Desert Bliss package. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner will be delivered at allocated time slots with selected beverages. To make your stay extra special, the team will arrange little treats throughout, including a romantic bubble bath with a side of strawberries and cream. Don’t forget to check out the 45-minute interactive Falcon and Owl Show and take advantage of the complimentary private beach access at the nearby The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach which can be reached by a dedicated shuttle.

THE DETAILS:

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Where: Dubai The Vibe: Luxurious Arabian Dwelling USP: Set amongst a wildlife reserve, this is the perfect escape for a weekend away. On your way there, the tranquil vistas of golden sands and views of the Hajar mountains will keep you company. The tented Bedouin-style accommodation complete with ornate doors and antiques and wooden chests, majlis-style courtyards, lantern-lit outdoors all give a warm sensation of luxurious Arabian living. Your stay is tailored to suit you and the choice to do as much or as little rests with you. Midnight swims in the pool, falconry, sunset camel rides, mouth-watering meals, stargazing and complete privacy (you might get a surprise visit from a curious gazelle) are all on the menu along with service that is second to none.

Located in Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija Ras al Khaimah, this is the ideal distance form Dubai for a staycation. Prices start at Dhs4,200 per villa, per night for two adults up to two children under 12 years.

Children under 12 years stay and dine on a complimentary basis. For reservations call +971 7 206 7777.

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THE DETAILS: Located a mere 45 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, it is located at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai Al Ain Road. Suite rates begin at Dhs3,400 per day during weekdays and Dhs3,950 per night during weekends. Children of ages 10 and below are not allowed. For reservations call +971 4 832 9900.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

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Zaya Nurai Island Resort‎

Zaya Nurai Island Resort‎ Where: Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi The Vibe: Fancy Bohemian USP: Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Zaya Nurai Island is the perfect destination to escape to paradise. So much so, you’ll feel the vacation mode switching on as soon as you get on the boat to the island.

From a wide range of dreamy suites and rooms, Zaya Nurai Island has all the options you’re looking for with

sea views and water villas. The island is surrounded by sweeping grass canopies combining all the elements for the dream location.

THE DETAILS: Situated off the coast of Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi, it’s easily accessible via a short speedboat transfer and minutes travel time from Abu Dhabi city. Suite rates begin at Dhs3,125 per day during weekdays and Dhs5,000 per night during weekends. For reservations call +971 2 506 6222.

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Six Senses Zighy Bay Where: Zighy Bay, Oman The Vibe: Rustic Luxe USP: If you’re putting plans in place for your next getaway out of the country once borders open, why not look close to home in Oman? For the ultimate relaxation, escape to the secluded and serene setting of Six Senses Zighy Bay. The luxury villas have a rustic vibe, each coming with their own pool giving optimum privacy for guests. Whether you fancy a trip to the spa, a calming fishing session or just lounging on the beach, this is the place to rejuvenate and recharge. As night hits, enjoy dinner at the array of different dining options at the resort which features both local and international cuisines.

THE DETAILS: A two hour drive from Dubai Airport, this is great option for a staycation that really feels like you've travelled somewhere far away. Prices start from Dhs4,875 for a pool villa for two adults. For reservations call +968 2 673 5555

Six Senses Zighy Bay

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THE DIRECTORY

All Givenchy SS20

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B Banana Republic (04) 3398462 Balenciaga (04) 3951769 Bally (04) 3231643 Balmain (056) 1883796 Bambah (055) 224 1538 Baruni (050) 4579249 Ba&sh (04) 3854557 BCBG Max Azria (04) 4340627 Benefit Cosmetics (04) 3951978 Blaze Milano (800) 044 5703 Bloomingdale’s Dubai (04) 3505333 Bottega Veneta (04) 3951201 Boucheron (04) 3410039 Boutique1.com (04) 3951200 Burberry (04) 3998243 Bulgari (04) 3308834 Byredo (800) 74676277 BySymphony (04) 3106900

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Khalil Al Sayegh (04) 2276555 Kiehl’s (04) 2886376 Kristina Fidelskaya (04) 3627500 Kurt Geiger (04) 3413883 L Lacoste (04) 3410575 Lanvin (04) 3555310 Le Labo (04) 4190953 Level Shoes (800) 5383573 Loewe (04) 3253754 Loquet Online at thelabelhunter Louis Vuitton (04) 3950431 Lucas Hugh+44 (0) 2039622362 M MAC Cosmetics (04) 4190856 Maje (04) 8815988 Maison Des Fleurs (04) 2765886 Maison Michel +44 (0) 2039622362 Mall of the Emirates (04) 4099000 Mango (04) 3414663 Manolo Blahnik (04) 3398122 Marc Jacobs (04) 3951281 Mark Cross +1 8885509675 Marks & Spencer (800) 62637 Maria Tash (04) 8817885 Marni (04) 3549417 Marysia (04) 3951200 Massimo Dutti (04) 3399070 Max Mara (04) 3882070 Messika (04) 4255575 Michael Kors (04) 3253491 Missoni (04) 3951400 Miss Selfridge (04) 3398016 Miu Miu (04) 3249276 All Things Mochi (04) 4433451 Moncler (04) 3300280 Moschino (04) 3398079 Montblanc (04) 3304810 Monica Vinader (04) 3951700 N Namshi.com (800) 626744 NARS (04) 4227531 Natura Bisse (04) 2993090 New Look (04) 4340740

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

BEACH COMBER

Opt for natural fabrics in bucket hat form this summer

Seashell Bucket hat, Dhs780 Ruslan Baginskiy

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