signaturebahrain-sep-12 by oeronline emagazine

VOLUME - 3 SEPTEMBER 2012

FW Fashion THE RUNWAY LOOKBOOK OPULENCE DEFINED BULGARI HOTEL, LONDON FERRAGAMO’S ODE TO MARILYN MONROE

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CONTENTS PEOPLE 10-17 FOOD COURT 24 - 25 RETROSPECTIVE 28 - 31 PLACES 32 - 35 CELEBRITY 76 - 79

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VOLUME - 3 AUGUST 2012

FW Fashion THE RUNWAY LOOKBOOK

EDIT NOTE

OPULENCE DEFINED BULGARI HOTEL, LONDON FERRAGAMO’S ODE TO MARILYN MONROE

DIVA & BEYOND EDITORIAL BOARD MAYANK SINGH DEEPA RAJAN RESIDENT PRINCIPAL CORRESPONDENT LAYLA CROCKER INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENTS London: KATE MORRIS New York: JEFFREY HERMAN Dubai: MICHELLE WALCH, JOLANTA Sydney: PATRICK RIFIELD Paris: ALAYNA MOREL EDITORS-AT-LARGE FREDERIQUE. B, JED BARRETT, MIRANDA HOWELL, NATASHA LUNN, JILLIAN PALMER, BRUCE STEWART, PAUL VILES, JESSICA VU, REBECCA WOODS ART Sr. ART DIRECTOR SANDESH S. RANGNEKAR DESIGNERS LISA KAMPS STEPHEN FISHER PRODUCTION MANAGER GOVINDRAJ RAMESH SALES & MARKETING BUSINESS MANAGER - ROLAND KHOURY BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVE - TANVI GAVASKAR CORPORATE CHIEF EXECUTIVE - SANDEEP SEHGAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT - ALPANA ROY

There are women and then there are women like Marilyn Monroe. She’s the woman’s woman. She is the man’s woman. She is the ultimate Diva, yet, she is beyond all these nomenclatures. An actress, model, and singer, who became a major icon, she remained as much a myth in death as when she was alive. From her relationships to her Àlms, everything about her has been deconstructed by the world. Odes have been paid to her in every possible way and the fashion house Salvatore Ferragamo joins the long list of people who continue to be awed by this magniÀcent enigma. Museo Salvatore Ferragamo in Florence pays its tribute with an exhibition Àfty years after Marilyn's death (August 5, 1962). Under the curation of Stefania Ricci and Sergio Risaliti, the exhibition and catalogue (Skira) are the fruit of meticulous preparation and research, involving the study of documents, photographs, Àlms, writings and the actress’s life, so as to understand the countless facets of this woman and star. The exhibition will be on till Janaury 28, 2013. We won’t dwell too much on who Marilyn was. There has been enough said and perhaps, we may endeavour to Ànd out even more in future. But, for us at Team Signature, she has been an inspiration not because she was a glamorous doll or a siren. Marilyn was beyond that. She was an intelligent woman who knew what she wanted and sometimes did not, yet she revelled in it. She was and will be just an exceptional person to us, someone whose light shone from within. Marilyn puts it best when she says: “Beneath the makeup and behind the smile I am just a girl who wishes for the world.”

PRINTED BY UNION PRESS WLL (BAHRAIN) DISTRIBUTED BY MAIN DISTRIBUTOR: MEMO EXPRESS RETAIL DISTRIBUTOR: AL HILAL CORPORATION Signature is a United Media Services LLC presentation, published monthly and released in the Àrst week of every month. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person or organisation acting or refraining as a result of material in this publication. Signature accepts no responsibility for advertising content. Correspondence should be addressed to

Team Signature

SIGNATURE

UNITED MEDIA SERVICES

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e-magazine

Log on to www.signaturebh.com or connect with us on Facebook/signature bahrain.. You can also tweet up with us on signature_bh

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;OHUR `V\ MVY H 9LTHYRHISL Year

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre thanks you for a remarkable ﬁrst year. Join us as we celebrate our ﬁrst anniversary on 7th September with our Friday Gourmet Family Brunch featuring throughout September, with a complimentary brunch if it’s your birthday too! Packed with truly amazing prizes including a trip to Europe with Kempinski. For more information and reservations, contact us on 17 17 10 00 or visit our Culinary Highlights page on the website. www.kempinski.com/bahrain

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BLOCK YOUR DATES SEPTEMBER 2012 Avante Festival

Venice Country Show

Sept. 7 - 9 Estremadura, Portugal

Sept. 10 - 12 Venice, Italy

La Muixeranga Sept. 8 AlgemesĂ, Valencia

Great British Cheese Festival Sept 22 - 23 Cardiff, Wales

Pardeeville Watermelon Festival Sept. 8 Wisconsin, US

World Stone Skimming Championships

Ingenuity Fest Sept. 14 - 16 Ohio, US

Sept. 23 Easdale Island, Inner Hebrides

Almabtrieb Sept. 22 Tirol, Austria

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FRONT

Arabic Flavours The Lebanese Director of Food and Beverage of SoÀtel Bahrain, Charbel Hanna has announced the reopening of Pashawat Restaurant. The restaurant will be fully operational from the Àrst day of Eid. The authentic Arabic restaurant which has a traditional atmosphere, exquisite design and a fashionable mix of opulent décor will feature live entertainment from a female Lebanese singer and belly dancing shows.

Time Travel Travelling around the globe in style and always keeping track of time, that is the promise made by A. Lange & Söhne’s Saxonia Dual Time, which can be conveniently set by means of two push pieces: when changing from one time zone to another the golden hour hand for the local time can be switched forward or backward in one-hour increments. The progression of the minute hand is not affected by this operation. A second hour hand in blued steel permanently keeps track of the time at home. The elegant white gold case has a diameter of 40mm. Fully wound the watch has a power reserve of 72 hours.

Pure Colours Introducing a new multi-dimensional, limited edition trend collection for 2012, Estée Lauder Pure Color Violet Underground. Inspired by multiple cultures, styles and textures, this collection is the ultimate fusion of high style and street chic. Estée Lauder translates the drama of underground style fused with the luxury of couture onto eyes and lips saturated in a jewel-toned palette. Complement vibrant-chrome eyes and deep plush lips with new Pure Color Nail Lacquer in Black Iris.

Exciting Beneﬁts Etihad Airways and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide have launched a new partnership offering members of their award-winning loyalty programmes, Etihad Guest and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), an array of exciting new beneÀts. Etihad Guest members can now earn Etihad Guest Miles when staying at Starwood Hotels & Resorts around the world, while SPG members can convert their Starpoints into Etihad Guest Miles, with each Starpoint equivalent to one mile in the Etihad Guest programme. SPG members will be given an extra 5,000 miles for every 20,000 Starpoints converted to Etihad Guest Miles.

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Under the Patronage of

His Royal Highness

Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain

Piaget Rose High Jewellery Necklace

21st Middle East International Jewellery & Watch Exhibition

16 - 20 October 2012 Bahrain B International In nte erna atiional Exhibition Exh hib bition and nd Convention Centre nt e OPENING HOURS Tuesday 16 - Friday 19 October from 4pm - 10pm | Saturday 20 October from 10am - 1pm & 4pm - 10pm

www.jewelleryarabia.com

info@jewelleryarabia.com T: +973 17 550033

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FRONT Treat Yourself The Thalassa Sea & Spa at SoÀtel Bahrain has recently introduced two new treatments: Pressotherapy and aqua biking, offering a wealth of well-being and health beneÀts. Pressotherapy involves inÁatable boots which help to drain the lymphatic system by very light compressions from the feet to the thighs. The treatment rewards in several ways such as removing toxins, reÀning the leg outline, and treating circulation problems. Aqua biking is the new trend in sports, gentle on your joints and perfect for Àghting cellulite. Pedal in water, sculpting your legs and reÀne your body with no pain, ideal for those who love the water and want to escape the typical day at the gym.

Ready, Steady, Cook! The AJM Kooheji Group’s Building Material Division recently launched a unique customer centric programme in Bahrain. The endeavour of this activity has been to promote free cooking sessions for ladies in Bahrain. AJM Kooheji Group in association with Crowne Plaza Hotel conducted “Live Cooking Sessions” at the AJM Kooheji Group, Building Material Division Showroom, located in Ma’ameer. The activity is conducted on the 2nd and the 4th Monday of every month and lasts between two to three hours where in the Executive Chef from the Crowne Plaza creates his signature dishes which are easy to cook at home and are healthy.

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AMG Speed

To see the new SLK55 AMG, visit Al Haddad Motors or call 1778 5454

NOPEW N O

Accessorise! MRPORTER.COM, the online retail destination for men’s style, is pleased to offer luxury crocodileskin accessories by new designer, Santiago Gonzalez. Using only the Ànest skins, Santiago creates luxurious bags and accessories, characterised by incredible craftsmanship. The collection is based on items that Gonzalez himself has travelled with for over a decade, meaning the designs have been reÀned and perfected over the years.

Santiago Gonzalez at www.mrporter.com

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG has just arrived at Al Haddad Motors and it is the most powerful SLK of all time. The General Manager Graeme Newport said, “The SLK 55 AMG is the perfect embodiment of the new AMG brand claim of "Driving Performance". In the compact high-performance roadster segment there is nothing to compare to its combination of tangible driving dynamics, superior sportiness, unique high-technology and low fuel consumption.Its newly developed AMG 5.5L V8 engine has peak output of 422 hp and maximum torque of 540Nm and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

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STYLE CENTRAL

PEOPLE

LAYLA CROCKER SPOKE TO EIGHT CHIC AND STYLE-SAVVY INDIVIDUALS TO DISCUSS ALL THINGS FASHION.

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DAMIAN D COSTA Managing Partner of Eventions & Entertainment Manager at Muju & The Dragon Hotel, Professional DJ and Producer. Your favourite looks for... The Office: For the office I like to look smart but I don’t do formal ties. I like wearing slim fitted shirts with big collars and slim fitted trousers with a big buckled belt accompanied with a black jacket. In terms of brands, I wear anything from Reiss to Burberry. I love mixing colours up but black trousers with a white shirt are my favourites. Night Outs: It all depends what the night holds for me. If I have to go for a dinner and then on to a club, it’s usually a cool shirt with a pair of jeans, however if i’m going to a party or to DJ then it has to be some crazy and trendy t-shirt bought from my trips around the world. I usually wear large V neck t-shirts as they suit my body type and look cool. Night time usually sees me wearing my Gucci trainers. I feel that a good watch, a bracelet and one chain stands out more than loads of random things wrapped around a guys wrist and neck. How long does it take for you to get ready in the morning? It varies being your own boss. If I have a morning meeting I give myself a two hour ritual. If not, I take my own sweet time. What is your Signature style? My style is unique, in the sense that with my career, lifestyle and reputation I can get away with a lot more than the usual guy. I’m more daring however when I travel but in Bahrain, I keep it cool and casual but at the same time, I make sure it stands out! What is the most important item in your wardrobe? My Diesel jeans which I can’t live without. All of my other stuff is great but I could live without them. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? Most of my clothes can be worn anywhere.... it all depends how I match them up and wear them.

KALTHAM KHALIL Banker

Your favourite looks for... The Ofﬁce: Formal yet funky. A dash of colour never hurts anyone. Night Outs: Sexy yet sophisticated, bold and bright. It all depends on where the night out is and who with. Do you have a hair-care routine? Having curly hair could be a pain but L’Oreal Elvive does it for me, it’s a great product. Im all about changing my hairstyle, it could be a short bob or long beach curls and the colour all depends on the season.

When in doubt....ask a woman’s opinion. Who is your fashion idol? I would say Johnny Depp is pretty up my street but there are a lot more fashion icons that are too cool for school. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or shopping? Yes, shopping itself! I just love it but have calmed down because I haven’t got any more more space in my wardrobes!

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What is your skin care routine? A good facial wash, body scrub and moisturiser. Living in such hot and humid weather takes it out on your skin, so these three steps are important. What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? L’Oreal Elvive Smooth-Silk Intense Anti Frizz Masque, a good MAC

concealer and a vibrant yet sheer lipstick. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? I love to think that everything I own could be worn anywhere.. it’s a matter of conﬁdence but if I had to pick one, then it would be my little black dress. When in doubt....Coco Chanel once said; “When accessorizing, always take off the last thing you put on.” I live by this rule, it has helped me many times from committing fashion blunders! Who is your fashion idol? I would have to say no-one because fashions fade and only style is eternal. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Im crazy about my accessories...a girl can never have enough!

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PEOPLE ANGEL CECIL Managing Partner Simply-casting Events W.L.L

Your favourite looks for... The Office: Our office is very casual so its usually a colourful summer dress, or jeans and a nice top. If there is a corporate meeting or presentation my favourite outfit is a black knee length skirt, black shirt, black belt with a silver clasp and black pointed toe high heels. I have my hair down and straight with natural make up. For accessories I wear diamond stud earrings and my wedding and engagement ring. Night Outs: I have so many outfits I love for nights out it’s hard to decide! My favourite at the moment is an orange dress from H&M, black waist belt with silver clasp and purple Aldo opentoe high heels. I love my Links of London sweetie bracelet and a Pandora charm bracelet with my Lovebird necklace. I keep my make up simple with no foundation, only eyeliner, mascara, white shiny eyeshadow and lip liner and gloss. Do you have a hair-care routine? I use L’Oreal Elvive Nutri Gloss shampoo and conditioner and let it dry naturally, I only use straighteners or curling tongs for nights out. I have blonde highlights every couple of months and when I’m bored I will either dip dye the bottom of my hair pink and purple, or add pink streaks to the top layers. What is your skin care routine? I use Himalaya moisturiser every morning and night and a Himalya Face Mask once a week. What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? Zambuck lip salve, Himalaya moisturiser and lip gloss. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? I have a simple black dress...I wear it for work, nights out or travelling and it can be glammed up or down depending on the event. When in doubt....always go with your most comfortable heels. I hate being out on a night out or at a daytime event where my feet start hurting from new shoes. My favourite and most comfortable are my Aldo purple five inch heels. They are unbelievably comfortable although you wouldn’t think so to look at them! Who is your fashion idol? I have a few, Angelina Jolie in her Oscar dresses mainly, Roberto Cavalli and Jennifer Aniston, especially some of the outfits she wore in the later episodes of Friends. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Shoes, shoes and more shoes. Also anything pink and luminous I love, especially my new pink shoes.

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DANIELLE DOPORTO Managing Director and Model

Your favourite looks for... The Office: It’s all about minimal makeup, trousers and cute flat shoes for me. I’ll either wear tight trousers with a pretty blouse and blazer, or a neat-fitting top with harem-style/high-waisted wide-leg trousers. Exclusive tip: Over the years, I’ve figured out that wearing fun, brightly-coloured nail polish subconsciously lifts my mood at the office, as my hands are in my eyeline whilst typing all day! Night Outs: I was raised in Bahrain but have spent years living in Sydney, Dublin, London and Ibiza - so for me it’s about combining the vibrant glamour with a more casual street style.... and my own quirkiness thrown in! For example, I might pair an amusing tourist t-shirt from the Souq with a gorgeous skirt and heels, or a short sequined dress with high-top sneakers. Accessory-wise, if I’m going out dancing I stick to a statement necklace. In terms of hair, anything goes, it depends on the outfit and evening. I always keep it a little rough around the edges because it’s bound to become disheveled through the course of the evening.

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Do you have a hair-care routine? Hair styling is not my forte, so I am very reliant upon my local salon! Fortunately, in Bahrain I can afford to be. My hair is really dry and wispy, so it’s at its best when only washed once or twice a week and I spray Tigi Rockaholic dry shampoo in the roots when necessary. What is your skin care routine? My main focus is on moisturising, not forgetting my neck and decollate. I use a richer moisturiser in the summer because constant air-conditioning dries out my skin. I take short-cuts where possible, like using make-up removal wipes and applying cleanser with a facecloth once a week, as this way I’m exfoliating at the same time. I rarely wear make-up and opt for powder and/or bronzer all over my face instead of foundation most of the time. People often forget that clear, radiant skin starts from within so I drink crazy amounts of water, and include healthy fats and antioxidants in my diet from foods like avocado, olive oil and fresh fruits and vegetables. What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? Elizabeth Arden eight-hour lip balm, Moroccan hair oil (you can’t get it here, but you can get L’Oreal’s version, called Mystic Oil) and cotton buds for help with make-up application, like

cleaning up edges of lips or wayward mascara. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? I think maxi-dresses have the ultimate versatility. I have a multi-coloured, halterneck satin one from Monsoon which I’ve dressed down for a casual lunch and dressed up for a wedding. Because the print has a vintage feel to it and the colours suit my skin tone as opposed to being trendy, it is timeless. When in doubt...it is better to be overdressed than under-dressed. Who is your fashion idol? I’ve never really had one, I’m inﬂuenced by everything around me. I’m much more inspired by people I see in real life than in magazines. Girls in Bahrain really know how to dress stylishly and keep it interesting - I’m never afraid to approach someone and ask them where they got something, because when someone asks me I take it as a huge compliment. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Laziness! I really should spend more time exfoliating and moisturising, with special attention to my hands and feet. Also, I’ve had many a lovely picture ruined by unruly eyebrows!

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PEOPLE

YULIA TRUBNIKOVA Sales Executive at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre

Your favourite looks for... The OfďŹ ce: I tend to wear black and white and high heels. Night Outs: I like to wear a bright dress, free hair without decorations, big accessories including earrings, large rings and necklaces and of course high heels. For make up I wear foundation, compact powder, blusher and accent on the eyes.

Do you have a hair-care routine? I use Bonacure shampoo and conditioner by Schwarzkopf and natural oils from India for stronger hair. What is your skin care routine? I use the face cream Institut Esthederm Paris for the day and night, Lancome eye make-up remover and Lancome moisturising tonic. What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? Esthederm Facial Cream, Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Foundation and Chanel Matte Lumiere compact powder.

Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? My favourite jeans. When in doubt....wear a combination of black and white or a distinguished dress. Who is your fashion idol? Sarah Jessica Parker as well as her alter ego Carrie Bradshaw, from Sex and the City. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Dresses, accessories, lots of shoes, eye shadows and nail polish.

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KANWAL MALEK Roche Bobois Showroom Manager

Your favourite looks for... The Office: My favourite look is mostly classic-chic and sometimes edgy-casual. Being in a career related to the design field, I’m not limited to the corporate attire so I like to mix styles and be more eclectic. I usually go with the seasonal trends but never let the fashion dictate my style, rather I try to incorporate the trends to suit my personal taste. Makeup for the office is usually minimal and I wear a small amount of jewellery like a statement piece to accent the look. Nights out: My look is more suave and edgy. I personally love razor back dresses with stilettos for a formal affair. For a more laid back look I put on a jumpsuit topped off with a chunky cuff, gold hoops and bold colour sandals, not forgetting the fancy clutch and I’m good to go! Do you have a hair care routine? I never use any products on my hair other than hair serum and I have regular trips to the salon to keep my hair in good shape and form. Religious conditioning treatments and head massages to keep the hair nourished and protected are great. What is your skin care routine? As natural as possible, nothing fancy or out of the ordinary. The most important thing for me is cleansing and moisturising. I lather my skin with body butter right after showers but the most important thing for skin is drinking plenty of water. What three skin/beauty products can you not live without? My most essential skin products have got to be sun block, facial polish and moisturiser. Since I switched to the Benefit skin care range, it has worked wonders. It has proved more effective than most high end brands that I have used. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? My loyal pair of black pants. When in doubt...Always follow the rule ‘Less is more’ so take a good look in a full length mirror and remove one piece you can do without. Coco Chanel once said ‘A girl should be two things, classy and fabulous.’ Who is your fashion icon? My all-time favourite is Coco Chanel but my present day icon is Sarah Jessica Parker. These women exude style and confidence and have proven over time that fashion does not define you, it’s you who defines fashion. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Wrist watches and shoes!

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PEOPLE SARA AL-SHARFAA Fashion Designer

Your favourite looks for... The OfďŹ ce: I wear formal pants and a blouse with a statement accessory piece. I wear my hair in a pony tail with minimum make up and of course, Christian Louboutin patent shoes. Night Outs: I wear mediumlength dresses for dinners, my hair in big waves and statement accessories. For make-up I use long-lasting foundation, bronzer, black eyeliner, mascara and red lipstick. I also add very high heels to the outďŹ t. Do you have a hair-care routine? Every two months I have a hair cut and every month I do a salon hair treatment. What is your skin care routine? I use a full range of the same skin care products religiously every day, morning and evening. What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? Bronzer, milk cleanser and tinted lip balm. Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? Yes I do, I designed a top myself which I can wear with jeans during the day or a skirt for evening glamour. When in doubt...Wear a plain dress or top and accessorize it with a big necklace or bangles, or just wear jeans. Who is your fashion idol? Sarah Jessica Parker.

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DJETTE KIWI DJ, Musician and Trend-forecaster

Your favourite looks for... The Office: Well, the only office I have ever had to attend on a daily basis was in trend forecasting, where the wilder the style, the better you are perceived in your job. In general though, I think JC Castelbajac has some beautiful, slightly more conservative clothes that still fulfill that epic need for individuality and I also like Versace. I know, it is a little gaudy but hey, so am I! Night Outs: Nothing beats a combination of vintage haute couture mixed with some new, funky finds. I am in love with Kokan Tozai (Paris/London/Tokyo) for something new, funky and way ahead of the trends and Trash and Vaudeville (New York) never cease to add a spicy, vintage, punk feel to an outfit. Hair and make-up completely depend on the outfit. Sometimes I prop-up the front with huge amounts of hairspray and other times, I will go hipster and use a tiny amount of

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wax but leave it down and messy. When it comes to accessories, there is nothing more authentic and full of raw, honest, fashion, than ‘The Great Frog’ in London.

What three skincare/beauty products can you not live without? City Girl body bronzer, anything from MAC cosmetics and YSL mascara.

Do you have a hair-care routine? My little brother has knighted my hair as, ‘the cappuccino’ - half dark brown with ﬂuffy blonde at the top. Having hair modelled for several years, I am painstakingly aware of how horrid bleaching and toning can be. In Bahrain I discovered Jerome Russell bleach whitens my hair in just one 45 minute session, and my scalp isn’t eaten alive. For Shampoo and Conditioner I use KMS, a fantastic Californian brand that delivers.

Do you own one piece of clothing in your wardrobe that can be worn anywhere? If I had to deﬁne it, a circa 92’ vintage comme des garçons jacket. If you end up too dressy, just say you are going to something better later.

What is your skin care routine? For skin, I generally try to use a nice, gluten free moisturiser and some Lancome antiwrinkle cream. I have many friends who work at a high level in make-up artistry and they all recommend using anti wrinkle cream in your 20’s, so you don’t need a facelift in your 40’s. I also use Rioblush which is a portable machine where a small amount of natural gas is injected, which increases blood ﬂow. It is very effective for wrinkles and scars.

When in doubt...remember, the success of any outﬁt is to be sexy, drowned in dignity. Wear your style. Do your thing. Own your sense of self. Never look at what other people think is cool. Express your creative bones through colour, texture, and well-made pieces. Who is your fashion idol? I can’t choose one as I love fashion too much. Thierry Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier and Madonna are just a few. Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to fashion or beauty? Fashion is my weakness. Buffalo Exchange in San Diego exploits this terribly. I will take a trip there, only to excavate their shelves.

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INTERVIEW

MR BODY LANGUAGE

For over three decades, Allan Pease has shown others how to succeed. His books, DVDs, TV shows and advice on personal image are sought after by everyone from business executives and Prime Ministers, to TV presenters, Royalty and Rock Stars. Layla Crocker got the chance to talk to him about his success. You have written 15 bestselling books on a range of different topics and have presented seminars in 55 countries. When did you realise you had a talent for communicating? I probably realised it in Junior School at about ten years of age. I was often told by my teachers to ‘sit down and shut up’, but I realised that I could stand up in front of the class and make everyone laugh from a young age. How long does it take you to realise what a person is like when first meeting them, and how big a role does body language have in judging a person? When I was a teenager I started selling life insurance with my father in 1956 and he taught me very quickly that you can assess whether a person behaves positively or negatively towards you just from their body language. Scientific evidence also shows that people develop an impression of you in under four minutes so body language is crucial within this short space of time to make a good impression. You have helped many people in the public eye with their image. Can you give us any names of these high profile people and how easy is it to create a 'positive public image'? I worked with Vladimir Putin in 1991 when he was the deputy major of St Petersburg during the time that they wanted new-look Russians to whom people could relate. I also worked with John Howard who was the Australian Prime Minister and who was running behind his opponent in the pre-general election opinion polls, but after my assistance, his popularity improved because he started to make a great first impression and was no longer the underdog. I even worked with the original Neighbours cast to help them with their characters. Its not that difficult to create a positive public image, as long as you follow the basic rules of making people feel positive and comfortable towards you. A lot of it can be faked, it is called professional acting. If someone is shy and introverted, can they still achieve the same in the workplace or a social situation as those who are extrovert? No. Today in business and in social life, it is mainly about relationships. In business, if they like you then people are likely to buy what comes with you. Thirty years ago, Human

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Resource professionals looked at education and experience as the number one priority. Today they are looking at personal presentation as the main thing and the resume comes later. There has been a huge shift in workplace psychology over the years. What role does body language play in job interviews? It can obviously be a help, but could it also be a hindrance? Human Resource Managers usually decide whether they are going to give the individual a job in the first couple of minutes. After studying the trends of these managers for quite some time, it became obvious that they immediately make judgements on the way you present yourself which can be detrimental to the job. They have to try and get out of the snap judgement. Body language in certain situations is only a hindrance if you haven’t practiced. The trick is to practice these techniques so that they become fluid. When disciplining children, is there a common mistake that parents make when communicating with them? The common mistake people make in every country is that the adult stands up when telling a child off. Imagine a child aged five or six, adults look like giants compared to them, imposing and very threatening. When you reprimand children you should crouch down to their eye-level. Parents tend to dictate to children by finger pointing and gestures that make kids feel frightened so they do not want to take their advice.

I have got six children so I have had plenty of practice. Another common mistake is disciplining boys and girls in the same way. The male brain functioning system is called mono-tracking where men focus on one solitary task at a time whereas the female brain has the ability to multi-task. Most parents do not understand this concept so for example if a boy is playing on his iPad and his mother is telling him to do something, he wont hear her as he cannot concentrate on multiple things. Because of this, the child is likely to be reprimanded and in some cases boys have even been taken to hearing specialists! What advice did you give the trainees at the Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail to excel in the hospitality, retail and tourism industries? If people like you, they will buy whatever comes with you so how you present yourself is very important. I taught, motivated and hopefully entertained them in the body language field and taught them how to succeed in their industries. For the tourism industry trainees, I stressed that if they are traveling to other countries and are exposed to different cultures the first thing they must learn are the common greeting and farewell signals because some of the signals used in Western countries might be considered offensive elsewhere. Is it easy to 'fake confidence' in social situations and are you naturally a very confident person? I was fairly shy as a child, but I have learnt to be confident. In situations that might be a bit

daunting, I can talk myself into dealing with them. I have taught myself to be outgoing and extroverted because if I didn’t practice doing that, I would slip back into being shy like in my youth. A lot of comedians I have studied are very conﬁdent on stage but off-stage they are often very quiet people who rarely socialise, they often fake their conﬁdence to an extent, as do many other people in the public eye. Has body language played a big part in your personal life? Yes of course. When I met my wife Barbara 21 years ago, I had already studied body language for a long time before which gave me valuable points on whether she liked me or not. That is one of the biggest problems that men have, we are not very sensitive to body signals and many are scared of rejection. Luckily she made it obvious what her intentions were with me for the future so I didn’t have to look for any ‘green lights’ as such, I didn’t have to guess. What do you think is one of the most important things in a man/woman relationship? First of all, accept that science shows that men and women are not the same. They think very differently about the same things and have many different goals, priorities and objectives. We are attracted to each other because of these differences but unless you understand and manage them, it could turn into a negative situation. Tell us something that many people might not know about you. Most people don’t know that back in the 1960’s when I was just 14 years old, I was the lead guitar player in a rock and roll band playing the blues. Today I run one of the biggest recording studios in Australia. We have AC/DC coming next year and Kenny Rogers is coming next month. I am still in a rock and roll band now and I’m 61! I play all sorts of instruments such as guitar, drums and bass. What are your thoughts on Bahrain and have you visited before? I hadn’t been to Bahrain for 15 years and when I had visited previously, the airport was basically a tin shed. It has altered dramatically since then and it’s amazing how it has changed in such a short period of time. I really enjoyed my three day stay there and met many locals who were great people. I hope to return next year to host some more seminars. For more information visit www.peaseinternational.com

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FEATURE HAVING TROUBLE WITH CHOOSING A FABULOUS RESTAURANT? WANT TO KNOW WHERE THE BEST PEARL DIVING IS IN BAHRAIN? TRYING TO SURPRISE YOUR PARTNER ON THAT EXTRA SPECIAL OCCASION?...

LADY IN

RED

..No need to worry, Dunja Pavicic, the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre’s Lady in Red has the solution.

What was the original concept behind every Kempinski having a ‘Lady in Red’? When a guest enters a Kempinski Hotel anywhere in the world, they immediately notice the lady dressed in red. Kempinski came up with a special and unique idea that was different from any other hotel. A Lady in Red is totally synonymous with Kempinski. When did this tradition start? In September 2009, the Guest Relations Manager in Munich, Theresa Von Seubert developed the concept. Within weeks, every Kempinski hotel had a unique Lady in Red. How did you become a Lady In Red? I was working in the Caribbean as a Guest Service Manager for four years and I realised I needed a change, but I wanted a position in the same area of work. I saw the vacancy for a Lady in Red and the idea excited me. It was a similar job to what I already had but was something a little more special. What training do you receive? I received a lot of training and preparation for the role. Kempinski really prides itself on its people and spend an awful lot of energy in ensuring that employees are really prepared for their work. The training we all receive is incredibly helpful and makes you feel much more conﬁdent in your work. Before I even stepped foot in the lobby, I was fully prepared for the role, which has helped me enormously since I joined the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre eight months ago. What exactly does the Lady in Red do? Almost everything is possible! I take particular care of our VIP guests. I arrive with our driver to collect guests from the airport. I can check them in, order them room service, beverages, a Pure spa treatment, and any special requests, all before we even reach the hotel. We have many different VIP guests, from Royal Family members, F1 Grand Prix guests, and celebrities such as George Benson, who joined us earlier this year when he appeared during the Spring of Culture. An added bonus is that I also speak many different languages, which I believe helps me in my role, including German, Spanish, 22

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Russian, Croatian and I am currently learning a little Arabic. Having worked in the hospitality industry for five years I have a lot of experience in dealing with people. What are the most common requests that you have to deal with on a daily basis? There is such a huge range of requests, that nothing surprises me, everything can be achieved if you set your mind to it. Perhaps a guest would like to learn the Arabic language or perhaps have driving lessons, or maybe something totally unique, such as a dinner on the roof! We always try to meet these challenges so that when guests book again, they always remember Kempinski! What is the most difficult request you have had from a guest? You don’t really have any difficult requests as such; the difference is how you look at it. Challenges can always be resolved. With a good imagination and great contacts, everything is possible here. So far, there hasn’t been anything that I haven’t been able to achieve for a guest. You do need to have the right connections to create some of these miracles. Do you travel with your work? Actually no, each Lady in Red stays with her own hotel. There is a Lady in Red in each of our current 73 Kempinski Hotels in 31 countries. It is important to know the environment well in each country and the Lady in Red stays with the Kempinski in each country to be able to do this. What differentiates you from other guest relation colleagues? My colleague, the Concierge, will arrange a number of things such as cars and dinner reservations for guests, but the Lady in Red creates the special touches. As an example, when we have a special VIP , I get to know very small, discreet details about them. For example, I will tell housekeeping to turn down a particular side of the bed that they sleep on- I track all of their preferences. On each arrival, I try to get everything in the room that I think they would usually ask for. If a guest has stayed before and I remember that they liked fresh watermelon juice for example, it would be in the room before they even arrive. It’s all about creating an exceptional stay that remains in people’s memories. What do you love most about your job? I couldn’t imagine working in an office. I love being with and meeting new people every day. It’s a very discreet job with personal information kept between the guest and I which makes it special. You need to really love the job and to be a real ‘people person’. I love that I don’t know what challenge each day will bring and who is going to walk into the lobby next, which makes my job exciting. Are there any downsides? Not really. As in all hospitality jobs, of course we work long hours, and if we have a special guest coming, I need to be here for them. I think anyone that works in hospitality doesn’t come into it lightly, they know what to expect. You either love it or you would never walk through the door! The Lady in Red uniform has small modifications in different hotels to respect the local customs. Is there

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anything in particular you have to wear in Bahrain and is the uniform much more conservative? Kempinski uses ‘Valentino red’ as the colour for its vibrant and compelling associations, as it is a very visible colour to attract immediate attention, and this colour also makes me easily recognizable for the guest. The design of the uniform is reflective of the destination of each Kempinski. The design reflects the local culture in their details. In India for example, the uniform will be complemented with embroidered silk, and in the form of a sari. In Western Europe, the uniform changes slightly each quarter to reflect the seasons. In destinations such as Bahrain, the Lady in Red is required to dress more conservatively, so my uniform is floor-length and my legs and shoulders are covered. I also have a headscarf which I can wear as a wrap or alternatively as a head covering, if so required. Tell us about the Global Hotel Alliance membership scheme. Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is a collection of 15 upscale and luxury regional hotel brand from across the globe, offering the industry’s best hotel loyalty and reward programmes Created in 2004 with the desire to offer greater choice and enhanced recognition, members can choose from 300 hotels, palaces and resorts in 52 countries, each one reflecting the diverse culture and traditions of their locations, and reap extensive benefits depending on their exclusive membership level – gold, platinum and black .. From free upgrades to authentic adventures through an Amazing Local Experience, GHA is about making your travels unforgettable. For information call 17171000 or visit www.kempinski.com

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FOOD COURT

AN ITALIAN FEAST

LAYLA CROCKER INDULGES IN A DELICIOUS BUFFET AT THE SKYWALK CAFÉ , THE COZY AND STYLISH MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT AT THE MARRIOTT EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS, MANAMA.

The Place and Ambience The Skywalk Café is an ideal venue for a quick lunch meeting, an afternoon coffee/tea, family gathering and even a romantic dinner for two. The cafe is located on the ground Áoor and was very busy when I arrived which created a great ambience and the atmosphere was casual and friendly. The restaurant was spacious and the seating was comfortable. The low-lighting helped to create a relaxed atmosphere and I found the waiting staff

attentive, helpful and extremely friendly and warm. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves International and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a special menu for children. There is also a business corner with computers and hi-speed internet connection. The Food I visited the restaurant on a Tuesday which is buffet night and there was plenty of food on offer from the mouth-watering Italian feast. If you like salad, you

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Chef Hari Sharan Budhatoki from Nepal, learned to cook when he was just 15 years old and growing up, he was always helping his family to prepare many different kinds of food. After enrolling in a hospitality school in Nepal and working in the Shangri-La Hotel in Kathmandu for seven years he managed to practice and learn from the best. He has been at the Marriott Executive Apartments Bahrain for three years and works as the Head Chef. will enjoy the Skywalk Café as there is so much to choose from. I made sure my portions were fairly small so I could sample as much as possible from the buffet but I think it was impossible for me to taste everything in a single sitting. I started off with a salad which was unusually presented in small glass pots and I particularly enjoyed the roasted aubergine and courgette dish. This followed with a bowl of hearty minestrone soup which was rich and full of Áavour.

What is the most difÀcult dish in your opinion, to cook? In my opinion, Risotto. A well-made Risotto proves the talent of the chef, since it is one of the most difÀcult dishes in Italian cuisine. This is due to the complexity of timing, balance of Áavours, consistency, aroma, temperature and colours – all required at the precise time of serving. What daily challenges do you face and how do you overcome them? I try to think outside the box and challenge myself to create new dishes using the same ingredients every week for our Italian buffet spread, to provide variety. Another challenge is to train each of the team members.

I had no idea how many different pasta choices existed until I visited the restaurant. The large choice of dishes were set out on a long table and included penne, spaghetti, fusilli, vermicelli and gnocchi. Guests Àll their plates with their pasta of choice, choose from a number of sauces to accompany it and then hand it all over to the chef who mixes it together and heats it all up in front of you. I opted for the classic dish of spaghetti bolognese which was Áavourful and the pasta was very soft and fresh.

What do you love most about Italian food? I love the use of fresh ingredients, a wide variety of herbs, vegetables, cheese, meats, breads and last but not least – extra virgin olive oil. Italian cuisine is the most colourful food compared to other cuisines and the popularity of Italian food is wide spread; pizzas and pastas are found all over the world.

Next up was the pizza which was a thin-crust half margarita and half pepperoni accompanied with some delicious crispy garlic bread. The pizza was cheesy and the ingredients tasted very fresh.

What are your guilty pleasures? I love eating chocolate every day. I also love any kind of dessert. What dish did you last cook for yourself? Grilled Omani hammour with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Although I was almost full by this point, the range of desserts looked too impressive to ignore. I sampled a variety of delicious classic desserts from different Áavoured cheesecake and black forest gateaux to fresh fruit and strawberries dipped in chocolate. ate. Value At BD8 net per person, including soft drinks and free Wi-Fi internet access, the Skywalk Café provides amazing value especially when you consider the vast array of dishes on offer.

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What do you enjoy most about being a Chef? Being a Chef, there is always more to learn every day. Cooking is constantly evolving and changing so learning to cook is never-ending. I have been cooking for the past 18 years and I still feel that I have my whole lifetime ahead of me to learn. Food is a culture and culture is food, so the better I can understand, the better I can deliver and feel part of that particular culture.

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RETROSPECTIVE

Something About

Marilyn MUSEO SALVATORE FERRAGAMO IN FLORENCE PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LEGENDARY GIRL’S GIRL, MARILYN MONROE IN AN EXHAUSTIVE EXHIBITION THAT IS ON TILL JANUARY 28, 2013. A SIGNATURE REPORT.

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“The size of your feet, too, tells me about your character. I have divided the women who have come to me into three categories: the Cinderella, the Venus and the Aristocrat. [...] Venus is usually of great beauty, glamour, and sophistication, yet under her glittering exterior she is often essentially a home body loving the simple things of life. Because these two characteristics are mutually contradictory the Venus is often misunderstood. People accuse her of too much luxury loving and frivolity.” This is how Salvatore Ferragamo described the women who wore a size 6 shoe in his autobiography, but he could very well have been describing Marilyn Monroe, the most famous actress of all time, the most photographed woman in the world, a pop icon with a complex, much talked about personality, the loyal customer who made his 4-inchheel pumps famous – but whom he never met, because she bought her shoes at the Park Avenue store in New York City or she ordered to buy them for her in Italy.

THE EXHIBITION Museo Salvatore Ferragamo in Florence decided to pay tribute to this timeless myth with an important exhibition fifty years after her death (she died on August 5,1962). Under the curation of Stefania Ricci and Sergio Risaliti, the exhibition and catalogue are the fruit of meticulous preparation and research, involving the study of documents, photographs, films, writings and the actress’s life, so as to understand the countless facets of this woman and star. Like other Hollywood divas (i.e. Audrey Hepburn and Greta Garbo), Marilyn adored wearing Salvatore Ferragamo shoes – she owned dozens of pairs, each with a simple design and not one without a stiletto heel. The exhibition includes 30 pairs of shoes and over 50 outfits from the actress’s wardrobe, worn on the set of her most important movies, in her personal life and in public; clothing and accessories that over time – as with anything she touched – have become cult objects sought after by collectors around the world and sold at auctions for astronomical prices. In the rooms of Palazzo Spini Feroni, the prestigious location of Museo Ferragamo, the actress comes to life, in a fusion of contrasting elements immortalised by Andy Warhol in Four Marilyns in black, an extraordinary work of art on loan from The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh. A large room is dedicated to the costumes she wore in her most famous scenes in celebrated films like Niagara, The SevenYear Itch, Bus Stop, Some Like It Hot, or The Misfits. In addition to her clothing, significant film clips and original documents are be shown to make visitors privy to the other Marilyn – not the sexy and adorable blond bombshell we saw on the surface – but a modern woman “bursting with energy” as Cristina Comencini writes in the catalogue, “talent, confidence alongside brusque moments of desperation, fragility, loss of self-esteem and fears … a perfect being aware of herself, her power, and yet, at the same time, a little girl who was wronged so many years ago”; a woman, the exhibition curators add, who nevertheless showed determination and savvy in creating and managing her success.

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RETROSPECTIVE A FITTING TRIBUTE

“Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.” Marilyn Monroe The original shoes created by Salvatore Ferragamo for Marilyn Monroe, with a new and contemporary reinterpretation, have been brought back in the latest capsule collection from Ferragamo’s Creations, the exclusive shoe line that recreates Salvatore Ferragamo’s most historic, well-known shoes and offers them at select Ferragamo boutique around the world. Although they never met, Marilyn made the ‘Shoemaker of the Stars’ pumps famous, and her legend lives on in the collection dedicated to her, ﬁfty years later. The exclusive re-issue of certain iconic Ferragamo shoes brings back, with a modern spin, a selection of the styles designed by Salvatore Ferragamo for the actress in the second half of the Fifties, which she wore in her most wellknown ﬁlms.

THE CATALOGUE

The catalogue includes images of all the clothing and documents in the exhibition, the Ferragamo shoes, a vast group of photographs shown and the extraordinary works of art from prestigious collections, such as the Horvitz Collection in Cambridge (Massachussetts), Museo Nazionale del Bargello, Museo e Gipsoteca Antonio Canova and The Andy Warhol Museum, as well as other private collections in Italy and abroad. In addition, it includes essays devoted to the many facets of Marilyn’s personality and the main sections of the exhibition, exploring the theme of Marilyn and women (Cristina Comencini), her life and major public and private events (Lois Banner), tenets of classical and modern beauty (Cristina Acidini Luchinat), tragic heroines from Dido and Cleopatra to Callas and Marilyn (Mina Gregori, Luca Scarlini, Sergio Risaliti), the great actress (Claudio Masenza), the star’s tragic end and the myth of Astraea according to Pier Paolo Pasolini (Sandro Bernardi) and the pop icon (Vincenzo Trione). A text by Stefania Ricci and Sergio Risaliti, curators of the exhibition, completes the catalogue.

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The shoes Marilyn is known to have loved the understated elegance of a simple pump with a pointed toe and four-inch stiletto heel, which accentuated her innate and explosive femininity, and which Ferragamo created in a variety of materials and colours to suit her signature style. Today, the museum in Florence conserves over 20 pairs of shoes worn by the actress from the mid-Fifties to her death, each with a contemporary, timeless look. Many of these shoes were purchased in New York in 1999 at a Christie’s auction of the actress’s belongings and some of the most modern and sophisticated styles of the very shoes purchased at the auction are now offered as part of the Marilyn Monroe limited edition. The styles range from the bon ton charm of Romantica, a suede pump with scalloped edges, and the evening look of Honey, a pump with a satin upper, white rhinestone decoration and satinlined stiletto heel, to the modern feel of Norma (1958-1959), with its suede upper with decorative slits and kidskin lining and Red, a pointed-toe pump entirely covered in Swarovski crystals. Iconic of her sex appeal, this shoe was designed for Marilyn to wear in the 1960 ﬁlm Let’s Make Love, directed by George Cukor.

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The jewellery The Marilyn Monroe Collection includes two pendants, perfect miniatures of the legendary shoes she wore, made exclusively for this collection: Red, a replica of the shoe with the same name, in 18K yellow gold with black diamonds, and Honey, in 18K yellow gold and black enamel with a diamonds brooch. The charms are exquisitely crafted down the smallest detail and bear, inside the shoe, the label created by Futurist painter Lucio Venna for Ferragamo. The name of the shoe model and the date of its creation are inscribed on the sole.

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PLACES

Opulence Personified!

Such is the look and feel of Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London that you will want to soak in its extravagance forever

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Photo credit Leo Torri

hen Bulgari Hotel & Residences opened in the heart of central London’s most prestigious area, Knightsbridge, as the ﬁrst brand new luxury hotel build in the city for 40 years, it drew a lot of celebrities, awe-inspiring looks, praises and of course, the usual brickbats of how the show of opulence inside the hotel borders on the ‘excessive’. Now, anyone who knows of the brand is aware that wearing/sporting a Bulgari means being smothered by extravagance, and ever so wilfully and the brand succeeds in infusing the same sinful indulgence into its hotels and residences as well. INSPIRED ELEGANCE With its imprint already on Milan and Bali, the brand opened up shop in one of London’s plushest neighbourhood and pays tribute to Bulgari’s silversmith origins and Britain’s noble manufacturing traditions with an understated, elegant design concept with silver forming the underlying theme of the design. The sleek architecture and reﬁned interiors are designed by Antonio Citterio, Patricia Viel and Partners, with Squire and Partners as the local architect, coupling the Bulgari glamour and heritage with sustainable design features and state of the art technology.

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PLACES

silk fabrics are custom-designed and produced in Italy. The silver theme continues right through the hotel into the restaurant and bar with hand crafted Italian detailing such as two stunning solid silver Bulgari chandeliers in the Ballroom, creating a dramatic centrepiece. The Solid Silver Bulgari Chandeliers are one of the most dramatic features of the hotel. Manufactured by Padgham and Putland silversmiths, the chandeliers are destined to become the most impressive pair of silverware pieces made this century. Inspired by a “Dance sequence”, the chandeliers are conceived to create a sinuous sense of movement when lit. GASTRONOMY AND OTHER INDULGENCES IL RISTORANTE Designed by Antonio Citterio, Patricia Viel and Partners, Il Ristorante is accessed from the bar area of the hotel down a show-stopping grand staircase made of polished steel. The walls of the stairwell are covered in metalised fabric and illuminated by custom made lighting, which illustrates the historic collection of Bulgari jewellery sketches from the 1920s and 30s. The lavishly and elegantly appointed restaurant seats 80 diners and has a combination of banquette style seating in dark brown leather and booths upholstered in fabric and leather. The restaurant has three Private Dining Rooms with beautiful silk covered walls for more intimate social occasions, seating 8, 10, and 12 guests with the option to connect two rooms for larger groups of 18 people. Il Ristorante serves contemporary Italian cuisine, catering to the modern palate whilst drawing on classic Italian gastronomic traditions and regional delicacies. Robbie Pepin, Head Chef of Il Ristorante is an accomplished chef and ambassador of Italian cuisine and with his team is committed to creating colourful dishes that are prepared and finished using the highest quality seasonal ingredients. The architectural style of the project reflects the rigour of the Bulgari Hotel in Milan: its classic, solid, contemporary style will consolidate the urban landscape in an area of London that is undergoing a profound transformation. In this sense, the use of Portland stone and bronze, which are typical materials of the architectural style of public buildings in London, and the meticulous façade design reveal a rigorous, modern approach to the theme. The hotel features Bulgari contemporary silver pieces in the showcases at the reception, and the design of the bar reproduces the silver hammered technique. The 85 rooms and suites feature exquisite detailing throughout, such as custom made silk curtains with patterns inspired by some of the classic Bulgari jewellery designs. In the bedrooms, the bed side table lamps is inspired by Bulgari’s silver candlesticks. The custom made silk curtains with patterns derived from a 1800’s silver brooch by Sotirio Bulgari. The chatelaine in an elaborate floral and foliate pattern was produced between 1892 and 1898. Its pattern has inspired the design of the rich and refined textiles outfitting the bedrooms of the Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London. The precious

BULGARI AFTERNOON TEA Located just off the lobby area of the hotel, the lounge is the perfect place to indulge in a Bulgari Afternoon Tea, with its Italian-made chairs and sofas covered in custom made fabrics making it the most comfortable environment in which to watch the bustle of hotel life go by. The honed black granite ﬂoor, curtains in dark silver fabric and a ﬁreplace in black granite cortain steel creates an elegant and stylish setting to sample some of the bespoke tea blends from the Grand Bulgari Tea List.

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THE SPA The Bulgari Spa forms part of the Bulgari Hotel & Residences and is one of the largest and most exclusive spas in central London. The spacious 2000m² Bulgari Spa reflects a contemporary Italian design ethos, influenced by the rich heritage of Bulgari. Arranged over two levels, the spa boasts a 25m swimming pool lined with shimmering green and gold mosaic tiles and vitality pool tiled entirely by gold leaf mosaic. The Vicenza stone and refined colour combinations of cognac-like golden tones and shades of green used throughout the spa, inspires complete relaxation, calm and escapism from the busy world of Knightsbridge. The Bulgari Spa offers unrivalled levels of service, luxury and state of the art facilities to hotel guests and private spa members. The reception area makes a stunning first impression with a signature back-lit reception desk made of beautiful green onyx and glass with walls lined with Vicenza stone; a fitting entrance to the facilities beyond.

GREEN LIVING

The Hotel employs pioneering methods of sustainable luxury and has been developed according to best practices in sustainable design set by BREEAM, the leading environmental assessment method for buildings. To meet the strict BREEAM criteria the hotel and residences feature such initiatives as an ecologically designed green roof with bird and bat boxes, the sponsoring of electric car charging points within the vicinity of the hotel and residences, and energy conserving intelligent lighting. Geothermal Energy, a cost effective, reliable, sustainable and environmentally friendly form of energy generation, has been integrated into the hotel building and is the Àrst of its kind in the UK. CINEMA-SCOPE

The Hotel also celebrates silver screen heritage with a luxurious 47-seat screening room, offering state of the art cinema-quality sound and vision and an exclusively-curated library of more than 200 new and classic Àlms available to guests of the hotel. The screening room is also capable of hosting press events, advance screening Àlm premieres and is available to hire for private screenings. For more details log on to www.bulgarihotels.com

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LOOK BEAUTY

BOOK

On Trend EMMANUELLE GEOFFREY, DIOR’S PRO MAKEUP TEAM ARTIST, ON HOW TO GET THE ‘HEAD-TURNER’ LOOK FOR FALL-WINTER!

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The dominating trends of the season “The trends for Fall are very bold, colourful and graphic, while keeping the skin soft and nude. The new Fall collection by Dior is deÀnitely on trend with its new Golden Jungle collection. With wild, sensuous and sophisticated colours for both lips and eyes, every woman can be an irresistible Dior woman.”

FOR LIPS “Bold lips in deep scarlet or vermillion shades are hot this season. Try this look on its own so as not to overpower the face. Also very popular are more matt lip effects, sometimes used without a liner to keep the look softer.”

FOR EYES “Deep camels, wild tawnys and savannah greens with a touch of gold sublimate the eyes while full groomed eyebrows accentuate the look. Also very on trend is the graphic, bold liner, but with a twist to the classical Áick at the end. Try disconnected lines or a very bold thick line. Also still very trendy is the smoky eyes, but this time using different colour combinations instead of just one shade of grey or black.”

FOR NAILS “Golden Jungle Crocodile leather effect is super fashionable and creates quite an eye-catching look on your Àngertips.”

FOR HAIR “Hair is soft and not fussy, Áowing and free or tied back very simply, always shiny. The key is simplicity and beauty, not over-done. Side parted ponytails, soft braids are very pretty also or centre-parted and twisted around the head.”

FOR SKIN “A natural glowing skin is a must have for the Fall season, gone are the days of Áat foundation effect, now is the time for a more glowy, fresh and radiantfrom-within skin. The new Diorskin Nude foundation is the perfect foundation to recreate a modern nude skin.” Make-up and skin care essentials for the season “As the season is changing, it is the perfect time to revamp your skincare routine and your cosmetics. Get rid of old products, putting aside old trendy products for the new ones, and adjusting your skincare routine for the drier season coming up is a must at the beginning of every season.” Your favourite beauty looks from the AW runway… “I am especially fond of the deep vermillion lips or the

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bold graphic liners seen on the runways, combined with fresh skin. Gone are the looks that are too ‘costumey’, now is the time for women to look and feel beautiful without looking overdone.” According to you, which city/cities in world can be called make-up capital/s “To me any city that has a huge cosmopolitan population is bound to be called a makeup capital due to the fact that trends are often started in these cities. But throughout my travels in the Middle East I have noticed that many women here are trend setters themselves. Let’s not forget that the smoky eye and the liquid liner used in bold graphic makeup looks have roots in this part of the world. Women here have been accenting their eyes with bold liner for ages. As a result, these trends have followed suit in the rest of the world. Dubai, London, Paris, Tokyo, New York, Los Angeles, are all some of the cities that have speciÀc trends in makeup.” Things one must always keep in mind while using beauty products “The most important piece of information to remember is how long you have had a particular product in your makeup bag. Expiration dates are very important to remember. I like to put a little sticker on each product with the date that I have opened the product for the Àrst time. It is also important to go through your products and sort out what is out of trend and what is on trend at the moment. This way your makeup kit will be refreshed regularly and you never know, that scarlett lipstick that was out of season last year, could very well be on trend for Fall.” Tips to get your favourite celebrity’s look “Firstly, it is important to Ànd the celebrity and to study her look. She will probably be on trend or will be creating new trends so it is a good idea to keep track of her style via magazines, Internet, etc. Now, pick a particular feature that inspires you, it could be Kim Kardashian’s smoky eyes or Beyonce’s nude lips. Now you must adapt the look to your features. If that garnet lip is too dark for you, then choose a lighter version of the colour, you will still be on trend, but it will be adapted to suit you. Remember, celebrities can inspire you, but ultimately you want the look to be your own.” One make-up tip that will never let you down… “If there is one thing to remember it is that if you want to try a certain trend, pick one at a time. Don’t overwhelm your features by piling on all the different trends at the same time.”

Emmanuelle Geoffrey opened her eyes to the world with fascination as she grew inspired by glamorous women on the small and big screens. She dreamt of entering the world of beauty and luxury and being responsible of embellishing their faces and styles. While pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts, Emmanuelle remained connected to the everexciting world of beauty. From directing the makeup and styling of photo shoots and fashion shows, her knowledge and expertise Áourished throughout the past two decades, spending her time between the United States, Europe and the Middle East. She is a strong believer that every woman is beautiful in her own way. She stands by Mr Dior’s words “Women must have instinctively understood that I dreamt of making them not only more beautiful but also happier. And they rewarded me with their patronage.” Emanuelle’s is also a connoisseur of Middle Eastern women’s tastes and trends.

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MARC JACOBS

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FERRAGAMO

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CHANEL

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GUCCI

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PACO RABANNE

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TORY BURCH

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VERSACE

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MANGO

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DESIGUAL

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LOOK YOUR GUIDE TO...

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DOTS DONE RIGHT

POLKA DOTS MAY BE OHSO-RETRO, BUT FASHION FORECASTS INDICATE THAT THEY ARE HERE TO STAY! WHETHER YOUR STYLE’S UNDERSTATED OR O.T.T, ROCK THE LOOK WITH OUR SIMPLE TIPS…

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olka dots made a strong come back during spring/summer 2010 and it looks like they are here to stay. The pattern, made famous by Minnie Mouse, is now showing up on everything – from hats and dresses, to headbands and umbrellas. Which means, for those of you who are pattern-shy, there is an easy way for you to incorporate them into your wardrobe too! They are certainly one of the most eye-catching and striking prints, whether we talk about items of clothing or accessories. Therefore, it is important to know when and especially how, to wear them. This summer, you have many options and versions of polka dots from discreet ones to more extravagant kinds.

For a summer office look, black and white is probably one of the winning combinations that never fails. A pleated dress can flatter you as it will hide the flaws around your waist and hips. Moreover, it will give you a dose of femininity and elegance that all women want. As for the colour, a white dress with black dots is your best bet and a safe one at that. You can also match a black pleated skirt with white shirt with polka dots and maybe add a blazer on top. You can play around a little bit and choose coloured accessories. Finish off the look with a pair of black or nude pumps or ballet flats.

Image Courtesy: PR Shots

When it comes to wearing polka dots, designers suggest starting with items like loose polka dot shirts or silk scarves to keep the print wearable. Try picking one signature piece and working your look around that; for example, you could pair polka-dot tights with a solid coloured dress or a simple polka dotted loose shirt with a pair of cropped pants in similar colour. Hand bags and scarves are a great way to include polka dots into your outﬁt without causing a trend overkill.

If it’s a night out with friends, pair your skinny jeans with a silk polka dotted shirt and heels. Alternatively, for a more formal evening setting, choose a ‘70s style black dress with white dots and high-heeled sandals. During hot summer days, a breezy dress with polka dots is a perfect choice for a casual look. You can choose a white one with black dots, or you can play around with colours. A white skirt with dots paired with a red or black blouse with flats or sandals make for a comfortable option. You could also try matching a polka dotted top with a straight-cut navy blue skirt and a pair of ballerina flats or flat sandals. Complete the look by picking the right accessories such as a large handbag, over-sized sunglasses and small earrings and you’re good to go. Polka dots are cheery prints that are sure to bring an element of fun to your wardrobe. Just remember to keep things proportional and simple and pair polka dots alongside solid, neutral pieces. Keep these tips in mind next time you’re putting a look together and we promise that they’ll keep you looking fashionable and totally in vogue this summer.

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RADICALLY

RED!

SOME HANDY HINTS TO ROCK REDS

When one thinks of the colour red, one thinks of danger, anger and a deep abiding love. This colour among all others has the ability to incite deep passionate emotions in people, especially women; whether it is the feeling of conďŹ dence in a bold red lipstick or the subtle femininity of a silky red dress. Here are a few tips that can help you rock this lush colour without going over the top and making you look like a ripe tomato.

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Luscious Red Lipsticks... If you choose to wear red lipstick (of any shade), remember to keep the rest of your makeup to the bare minimum. You want to make your lips pop and be the centre of attention so keep your eyemakeup neutral or natural. However, for night time events go for the classic old Hollywood look with red lipstick and lots of eyeliner. The cat-eye look is in this season; pair it with a bold red lip and you’ll have a sophisticated yet sexy look that will make you the centre of attention. Try to match your lip liner to exactly or a bit darker than your lipstick colour to give your lips a deﬁned shape and a richer texture. Women with paler skin should choose red lipsticks with some orange in it; the tomato red really pops on lighter skin and makes it look chic. Women with medium to darker skin can get away with deeper reds that have brown or tawny bases or warmer reds. Women with a darker skin tone can pull off dark reds, fuchsias, pinks, and orange-based poppy reds. For a long lasting colour, use a red lip stain and then apply a clear or cherry-tinted gloss over that, it helps the colour stick around longer. Nailing the Reds... Well manicured nails not only look tidy, they also help pull outﬁts together and complete your

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overall look. Women with a darker skin tone can sport rich colours such as muted burgundy or dark reds; they bring out the beautiful colour of dark complexions. Tan skin looks amazing with lighter shades of red; such as pale pink or raspberry. As these colours are in this season, be sure to give them a whirl! Vibrant earthy colours bring out the best in medium to earthy skin tones. Bright reds such as blood reds would really make your nails come alive. Women with fair skin can get away with wearing light colours such as light beige or pink. However, a bright pink will add a pop of colour that will deﬁnitely get anyone’s attention. Lady in Red... Choose a simple style when picking out a red dress. The colour itself oozes sexiness so a simple elegant style is the way to go. Keep your accessories chic and simple. Go for silver or gold delicate jewellery for a glamorous look. Over accessorising will run the risk of looking tacky. Black would usually be the colour you’d think to match red with. However, you should go for neutral or silver shades in sandals with a matching clutch for a night out in town or a tote in nude colours for the day. For your makeup, go for greyish metallic colours

or earthy shades like browns or golds which will enhance the look of the dress. For your nails, go for the same shade as your dress or a professionally done French manicure which will set off your look superbly. If Dorothy could do it... If you intend to wear red shoes, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Every piece of your outfit should be a single block of colour and these colours should generally be dark greys, black or white. You can wear large plain jewellery, or opt for chunky metallic jewellery in gold or silver. Show off your shoes. If you’re wearing them, flaunt them. Make sure they peep out from under your pants or wear them with a skirt so that everyone gets a glimpse. Red Handbags... Complement your Little Black Dress with a splash of colour with a red clutch and shoes; a look that will make you stand out in the crowd. A sophisticated red bag will add a pop of colour to any work attire, especially a navy blue dress. You will look professional and smart but also less dowdy than the workplace uniform of grey or black. Pairing a red tote or bag when wearing white is also a sensational look that will have heads turning anywhere you go.

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Wardrobe Essentials Eve Thomas, Senior Fashion Editor, THE OUTNET.COM, on the must-haves this season…

The Trophy Jacket

Print has moved from pants and skirts, to tops and jackets this season, and adds instant attitude to your look. Throw on over dresses, denim or leather and you’re good to go.

The Military Coat

Military coats are back! Opt for doublebreasted styles with brass buttons and epaulettes. Spend as much as you can, as this is a key investment. Not only will it last from season to season, but the cost-perwear component can›t be beaten!

The ‘It’ Knit

Arran, colorful and printed knits prevailed on the fall/winter runways. Style your oversized, crew neck knit with a ladylike skirt.

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The Contrast Collar

The Peplum

Ensure your shirt collars (detachable or not) stand out this season. Interesting details – such as beading, print or a color contrast – see that the shirt is updated this fall.

Always style a peplum piece with clean lines to create proportion and a Áattering silhouette. Team a peplum top with cigarette pants or a pencil skirt, or style a peplum skirt with a Àne knit sweater.

The Ladylike Skirt

Look to full, pleated or pencil st yles – whichever suits your body shape. Ensure the skirt exudes femininity and wear with a leather top or ‘it’ knit.

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Opulence

This trend includes an oriental element for fall. Channel opulence into your wardrobe by mixing touches of brocade, velvet and embellishment with simple, light-weight items such as lace or sheer pieces.

Coloured Leather

Berry, bottle green, pastels and muted grey leather adorned fall’s runways. Wear leather in silhouettes you are used to wearing. Don’t feel you have to choose biker styles – leather can be sophisticated.

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LOOK WELLNESS

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BEAUTIFUL IS YOU WITHIN YOU AND ONLY WITHIN YOU, CALMLY AWAITS YOUR PERFECTLY BALANCED, BEAUTIFUL SELF, SAYS PAT HARVEY

Numerous studies demonstrate links between chronic stress and poor health, including risk factors for cardiovascular disease and poorer immune function. People who are stressed over long periods tend to look haggard, and it is commonly thought that psychological stress leads to premature aging and the earlier onset of diseases of aging. During times of stress, there is an increase in circulating stress hormones, such as cortisol, throughout the body. Interestingly, the skin is also capable of generating these same stress hormones in response to stress. These hormones

may weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier, leaving the skin more susceptible to infection or inflammation, and can also aggravate an already existing skin condition. Oil production increases. Histamines trigger itchiness and inflammation. Water, oxygen and nutrients are drawn away from the skin, which becomes irritable, dull, clogged, prematurely wrinkled, prone to breakouts, itchy and flaky. Plus, skin's natural immune function is impaired, so it's less able to heal itself. There are many stress management techniques you can incorporate into your daily routine that

may improve your ability to cope with stress, thereby lessening the damaging effect that stress has on your skin, one of which is yoga. YOGA FOR BETTER SKIN If you are looking for a natural solution and want to have beautiful, radiant, youthful looking skin, then yoga is the answer. By practicing yoga for 20-30 minutes a day, you will improve circulation which helps smooth your skin and you will feel and look amazing. Yoga poses activate and stimulate the marmas, energy centers in the body, which in turn stimulates the endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for the

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body’s overall functioning and aging process. Practice these five yoga poses daily to bring back your youthful glow. INVERSIONS Being upside down in Headstand reverses the effects of gravity. Yoga headstands are called the king of asanas for a reason. Headstands are the best way to enhance facial radiance and plump the skin. This pose (asana) affects your cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine and lymph systems. The whole brain is energized, washed clean and flooded with rich nutrients. It eliminates toxins causing substances and nourishes cells in the face, muscles and skin, therefore making you look younger. CHILD’S POSE The Child’s Pose is a relaxation pose used to normalize the circulation after a headstand. This is a great posture for erasing wrinkles from the face. In child’s pose, your head is lower than your heart therefore you receive more circulation to the face. Being in Child’s Pose for 15 minutes is equal to sleeping for 1hr. It keeps your skin soft, and boosts immunity. In this pose, you stretch the low back, massage and tone the abdominal organs and stimulate digestion and elimination. FISH POSE This pose has many benefits. It tones the muscles

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in your face and throat, thereby giving your face and throat a great stretch. It normalizes the function of the thyroid, pituitary, pineal and adrenal glands. This helps control the hormone function in your body; therefore leading to improved skin conditions. Performing fish pose also expands the rib cage fully, increasing your lung capacity and aids in deep breathing. WARRIOR 1 Although this pose is easy enough for beginners, it offers many benefits. Your balance is challenged while lengthening the upper body, neck, shoulders and chest and frees up the heart, kidneys and lungs allowing increased circulation to the face. When your heart receives more circulation, more oxygen goes to the blood cells, and, in turn it gets your skin glowing. SEATED TWIST Unwinding with a seated twist is a great way to relive stress, mild depression, anxiety and detoxify your body. This pose helps in slowing down the aging process. It is a great stretch for the neck, shoulders and eyes and is very rejuvenating for the face. Twists are stimulating and cleansing. A twist must be rooted and stable in order to obtain the full benefits it offers. Let your eyes twist along your spine. When focusing and stretching your eyes, it clears away toxins, tones the area around the eyes and prevents wrinkles.

Pat Harvey is the Beauty Therapist and Yoga Instructor at Six Senses Spa Zighy Bay. Pat blends the science of skin care with indulgence to create tailored treatments that are highly beneÀcial to the body and soothing to the soul. As trends come and go, Pat’s philosophy is to maintain a balance of traditional, proven treatments with innovative technology that is safe and effective. Drawing from her broad training and deep personal experience, Pat works with each guest to establish their skin type and understand their unique circumstances such as stress level and diet, as well as environmental conditions including sun exposure, and air and water quality to develop a beneÀcial regime. Canadian born, Pat is also a certiÀed Yoga Instructor and has taught both nationally and internationally. Her enthusiasm for yoga has lead to her attending many workshops on different yoga teaching styles and enjoying a yogic lifestyle. She has studied with several world-renowned yoga teachers such as Rodney Yee, David Life, Shannon Gannon, Cyndi Lee, Erich Schiffman, and Donna Farhi.

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THE ‘IT’ LIST

TOBY BATEMAN, BUYING DIRECTOR OF MRPORTER.COM, PICKS THE ESSENTIALS FOR THE AW SEASON…

Mackintosh black mac A brilliant purveyor of outerwear Mackintosh is one of the few brands that have successfully managed to keep the function of their clothes at the heart of the collection whilst updating the product every season. I am delighted to have them on MR PORTER and shall be buying this great Àtted mac.

Burberry Velvet Trousers It would be disingenuous to call velvet a trend as it was more than that – as a fabric it seemed that many designers have re-evaluated its appeal meaning velvet was all over the catwalks. These Burberry Prorsum trousers sum up the appeal and the dark moss colour is vibrant without being over-the-top.

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Richard James Prince of Wales check suit A Richard James suit is always a great investment purchase. This Prince of Wales three piece is perfect for the city and has timeless appeal.

Boglioli Double Breasted Blazer This is our second season with Boglioli whose mastery of tailoring has proved popular with our customers. This double breasted blazer is a great and the claret colour provides a great pop of colour.

Alexander McQueen Embroidered Slipper Slipper style footwear has been an interesting trend in menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eveningwear and trust Alexander McQueen to take it even further. This embroidered style almost seems like a work of art and when you look at them closely you can really see the craftsmanship involved in their construction.

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TOBY BATEMAN

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COLOUR CODING

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SHAWN STEPHENS DOES A COLOUR AND PATTERN FORECAST FOR THE SEASON...

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tarting with the key colour palette forecast for Fall / winter 2012-13 for men, there are four key themesClassic Luxe, a soft yet polished palette; cool contrast, centred around icy blue hues, a big chill, which takes in brighter pops of mustard and brick tones and Ànally street-wise, a palette of earthy browns, camels and greys. Smoky grey and silver shades of ostentatious and opulent give subtle detail a polished appeal while tan and brown tones indicate elegance within layers of Àne heather mixed wool. Steel blue and icy grey tones of conceivable differences and irrevocable gestures resonate on sleek wool. Shades of turquoise and black intermingle brilliantly on a canvas of pique cotton.Brick and muted mustard tones prudently accentuate cotton twill. Khaki shades and charcoal tints add perfect Ànish to the twists of mohair. Grey and faded olive tones give Áashy accents to subdued lines and multifaceted textures. Blue and camel combinations of urban shapes and cross mode exude ultra-fashionable Áair. For women, this fall winter, one can see slate gray and mauve shades of dwelling and ediÀce coalesce with an astute graciousness while accentuating tailored lines. Muted blue and icy green hues of virtuosity and allure connote an element of seriousness on a backdrop of woolen suiting. Also the colours taking centrestage this season will be deep plum and sky blue tones of purely nostalgic and undeniably evocative giving precedence to delicate layers and gracious silhouettes. Metallic accents resonate with brilliance on a backdrop of silken elements. Lastly, one will also see pale orange and deep reddish- brown tones of unadulterated and ethereal intensify wisps of silken charmeuse. Chocolate brown and maroon hues of bitter chill and glacial ingenuity imply notions of warmth on a canvas of mohair and wool.Some women will also be seen Áaunting dramatic blue and deep brown tones of eloquence and Áuent persuasion reveal intricate weaves of Àne spun silk. Vivid tones of turquoise mingle with bright tints to convey harmonious simultaneity With trends for FW 2012, for women in the face of minimalism and restraint, a contingent of designers went the opposite path for this season. Drawing on the complexity we commonly associate with the Baroque movement, they showered the runways with

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lavish detail, heavy ornamentation and impressively wrought detail. Whether it’s embroidery, tapestry or gold leaf, this trend takes its cues from all things ornate. Going beyond the clichés and channeling a number of different eras, the concept of drama gets reinvented for fall 2012. There’s innocence, there’s tough rebelliousness, and there’s the all-important truth that the two are compatible. Another hit this season will be dark fairytales and noir Àction inspired new romance with all things Gothic for fall / winter 2012, heralding in ways to revive all-black outÀts. Who said black had to be boring? This season fashion is also looking East, drawing inspiration from the Orient and weaving it in with Western fashion in new and unique ways. Texture and print are the keys to oriental-inspired clothing in fall / winter 2012, with oriental motifs and rich brocades taking their places alongside kimono cuts and mandarin colours. Menswear’s insatiable love of print continues this Fall Winter and it looks like designers aren’t holding back. Prints in all shapes and sizes barrelled down the runway proving rather effective at breaking through the many traditional tailored pieces that usually dominate. Prints are a way of saying you have a bit of attitude; they create contrasts and allow your personality to shine through. Whether worn in blocks, layered, or introduced in moderation by way of accessories, prints for men are stronger than ever come fall. Prints are an easy way to inject some personality and life into an outÀt and create a wonderful contrast to tailored silhouettes. On the fall runways, Dries Van Noten offered his own psychedelic interpretation while Raf Simons playfully injected Liberty Áorals into his usual minimal aesthetic. Unsurprisingly, both Etro and Missoni played to their strengths within their own eclectic styles and gave us some great paisleys and natureinspired prints. Paul Smith took his nautical theme quite literally and offered trousers and shirts adorned with octopi and shark’s teeth.

bold statement. Dries styled the look smartly, by balancing the loud bottom half with crisp plain shirting or soft knits. HenrikVibskov did the same by utilising the layering properties of the cardigan. Canali paired his with rich and heavy turtlenecks. It’s all about balance and Ànding the right look; colour, proportion, texture and detail all have to be taken into account. If you’re not willing to take the plunge into the deep end, accessories are an easy entry point and this season designers are making a point of instilling the most of the trend. Patterned scarves are by far the most popular and accessible way of introducing print. When paired with a suit or an overcoat, like in the Kenzo show, silk scarves are an elegant touch of eccentricity. There are other ways utilising the scarf; throw it around an overcoat for a debonair look or tie a neckerchief for something a little more mischievous. Shawn Stephens is a PR professional and has worked on the teams that handled accounts like Dubai Film Festival, Christies, Art Dubai, Qatar Airways, The Hilton group, Adidas and Dior. He is seen quite often on the red carpet making show-stopping entrances at some of the most chic events and parties in Dubai and around the Middle East. He is currently Account Director with Z7 communications in Dubai, United Arab Emirates that handles Versace, TOD’s, TAG Heuer, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bonhams, JAMM art advisory, MRPORTER.COM, Net-a-Porter, THEOUTNET.COM and Hoss Intropia.

Take a geometric printed shirt and pull over a merino v-neck sweater. Pair a Áoral shirt with an earthy corduroy jacket for a delightful combination. When mixed with different textures, such as knits, leather, Áannel and even velvet, print adds a complex richness and vibrancy to a look. Modern abstract prints prefer stark contrasts, such as sharply tailored suits and cropped trousers.while it’s relatively easy to incorporate print in shirting, printed pants and trousers offer a markedly more visible route. With seemingly nowhere to hide, it’s a way to make a

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STYLE TALK

HAPPY FEET

ROSEMIN MANJI MEETS THE FABULOUS DESIGNER DUO OF BIONDA CASTANA…

My Dearest Signature Readers, When I meet someone, my eyes Àrst fall on the shoes he/she is wearing and then work their way up. I believe shoes are the foundation and say so much about your personality, mood and the message you are trying to convey. Also, it is no secret that I love shoe designers. In my previous columns, I have always professed love for shoe designers right from Louboutin to Zanotti. Well, now you can now add Bionda Castana to the list. British shoe brand Bionda Castana is made for a conÀdent woman looking for a shoe with directional style, on trend and comfortable. I can conÀdently add the word ‘comfortable’ as the dream team behind this brand are two beautiful and talented designers, Jennifer Portman and Natalia Barbieri. They founded the company in 2007, these glamorous girls have had their designs being worn by celebrities and not to mention pages of well known magazines. I must admit I was Áattered when when Bionda Castana named the spring summer gladiator shoe after me. I’m truly a lucky girl! Amid the Olympics frenzy, I sat down with Jennifer and Natalia over coffee to chat about the start of their partnership, fashion and future of the brand. How did your brand start? And how did you both decide to come together? "When Jennifer and I resigned from our previous roles to set up Bionda Castana, we had no experience nor the qualiÀcations in design or manufacture of shoes neither did we have a network of contacts in the fashion industry or any press contacts. We really set ourselves a tough challenge! We set up this business with nothing other than passion which is what we are

most proud of. The business was born in 2007 with a very small amount of capital. For our Àrst season we showed a very small capsule collection for Spring Summer 2008 at the WSA show in Las Vegas. We are now stocked in some of the most inÁuential stores in the world namely Browns, Harvey Nichols, Dover Street Market, Saks, Nordstrom, Symphony Style Dubai, 10 Corso Como Korea and Tea Rose Milan. "Our hard work and determination has most certainly paid off. We had a vision and followed through on this despite the hardships along the way. Jennifer and I share a compulsive obsession with shoes, and in particular high heels. Partly because my friends were always taller than me and also because I loved the way that the elegance of the high heel always made me feel at my most conÀdent and lifted any outÀt I was wearing. We see shoes as works of art and our travels to Italy every year as young girls contributed to our passion for meticulously crafted 'Made in Italy' shoes." Where did the name come from? “Bionda Castana means Blonde Brunette in Italian. It represents the two of us; the ying and yang of us both, our dark and light side.” What makes you different from other shoe brands? “We combine progressive British designs with Italian craftsmanship to create unique luxury footwear for freethinking women who place footwear at the heart of their wardrobes. Our designs are very wearable, unique in design and above all, comfortable. The element of the shoes being handmade is very important to us and our brand. The comfort factor is second to none. And when designing high heels, this is of utmost importance.”

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Secrets on juggling home and work life... “Patience, making time for exercise (Pilates), making sure you leave time for enough sleep and make time for friends. It really is the only way to keep sane and stay focused.” Where do you take inspiration from each season? “Once a season has come to a close, we literally start again on a blank canvas. We are inspired by day to day, our friends, Àlms, our travels, cultures - anything and everything. But it is predominantly our gut feeling. In each collection there is a style for everyone be it more conservative or more eccentric.” Share your style...Top picks for this FW season every girl needs in her closet (clothing to shoes)? “I am relatively classic in my dress and ultimately I have to be comfortable. I know what suits me even without trying something on. I invest in garments which I can bring out of the closet for seasons to come. Similar to the concept behind our shoe designs.

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“Our black leather MARGO biker boot and red suede VALERIA pointed Áat shoe with zip chain detail are my ultimate investment for FW alongside our AMANI mustard and garnet nappa combination oversized clutch. This paired with Joseph cigarette trousers and a Jonathan Saunders knit is what I will be coveting most.”

Rosemin Manji is the founder of RR & Co. Bespoke Luxury Management that specialises in styling, media relations among other luxury services around the fashion industry. Manji is an authority on fashion in the region. Her weekly fashion segment on Dubai One TV’s Studio One has fashion followers throughout the region tuning in as she shares her tips. She has brought international designers to the region from Tom Ford, Alice Temperley to Christian Louboutin to the Middle East. She has contributed in Harpers Bazaar, Grazia and Esquire and has covered Atlantis Palm Dubai opening Red Carpet interviewing top International celebrities for MTV. Manji’s style has been celebrated in Best Dressed lists for Harpers Bazaar, Grazia, Pashion, Mondanite, Ahlan Masala. Her contribution to the fashion industry has been recognised by Arab News as Top 20 Business women in the Gulf, Gr8 Women of the Year Middle East and Ahlan Hot 100 List 2010 and 2011 as Style Icon and Contribution to the Media Industry.

Favourite spots in Dubai... “Le Petit Maison without a doubt. Never a bad meal nor a dull moment.” Favourite spots in London... “Bocca di Lupo, Soho for the most perfect Italian meal (feels just like you are eating in Tuscany); Cambio de Tercio, South Kensington for delicious tapas; The Arts Club, Mayfair to watch the beautiful people dance the night away and without a doubt shopping at Browns, Sloane Square (new store opening) to Ànd the most unique mix of RTW and accessories.” Bionda Castana available at Symphony, Dubai Mall. For details log on to www.biondacastana.com

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DESIGN

ART-WISE

André C. Meyerhans delves on uses of art as decoration, as collectibles and as investment One of my clients pulled me to the side after a meeting and asked me to advise him on art purchases for his residencies in various parts of the world. He wished to find artworks that could be used as decorative pieces for his homes and could become a base for a collection and an investment at the same time. What started off as a quick chat on the corridor ended in a longer evening and has led into a continuous involvement … As he especially liked Middle Eastern art, he already knew that he wanted to focus his cultural engagement limited to this geographical area. In order to familiarise himself more with the art of the MENA region, we agreed to visit museums that showcase the masters and to discover established and emerging artists at exhibitions and auction held all over the GCC. Visiting such events not only provides a good overview over the art scene, but also gives an idea of the price range of artworks as well as it unveils the popularity of an artist and hence his or her future potential. In the course of this exercise, we might also be able to narrow down the Middle Eastern focus to a more defined theme or niche. Why is it so important to focus one’s efforts when collecting or investing in art? In contrast to art that serves purely decorative purposes, an art collections and art investments focus on the value of the work. In collections, one likes to see the artwork in an ideological context, wants to see and understand how different people approached similar topics in different ways, how time has affected the understanding of a subject or how technology has influenced working in various media. It is this context that adds value to the individual work and the deeper and more complex a collection is developed, the more insightful and worth it is. With art investments it is a little bit different: investments in art are not very liquid. Thematically focussed investments increase the reputation of an investor in the circle of potential channels required to sell the art and, hence, eases the process. Furthermore, auction houses and galleries often prefer to receive a themed lot on commission. We also establish an annual budget and identify the approximate amount of works to be acquired. In order to mitigate the risk, we plan to diversify the collection: one part, we invest in masterpieces of artists who are dead for ten and more years. These works have proven to keep

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their value beyond a temporary hype, and the risk of devaluation due to ﬂooding the market with new works from or negative publicity on the artist is little. Obviously, prices for these works are much higher than for art from living, established artists and emerging artists – which shall be the focus of another part of the budget. Emerging artists might be a high-risk investment and any ﬁnancial advisor might highlight the enormous gain in case the artist successfully establishes him- or herself. I trust such work shall also be valued due to its immediacy to the current time, the time we are also part of. I have once been advised by a well-known art advisor to always invest the highest possible amount I can afford into an artwork and rather buy one piece than two for that amount of money. I understand his point of view as precious artworks have a higher demand in the market. However, I do not think one should apply this rule blindly. Sometimes artworks increase their value and become more interesting if put into a dialogue with another one. The inventory is another topic we touched during our meeting that evening. The register provides a good overview of the collection and

lists not only the name of the artist but also other characteristics of each work obtained: year created, dimensions, media (material). I advise to include also the year in which it has been bought, the price, any previous history and owners of the artwork as well as the contact details of the selling gallery or auction house. Very interesting for later reviews are also personal comments on reasons why a particular work has been bought and what potential has been seen in the art at the point of acquisition. These notes will show how perception and the intellectual value changes over time and how well one’s judgement is in terms of assessing the potential of an artwork. We have not yet touched the topic of art as decoration. Well, once it has been decided to start a collection and to invest in art, these pieces are the ones that should be hanging or standing in the house. One can rotate them, increase and decrease density of the exhibited work or change the pairing artwork that evokes comparison. I also do not believe that any artwork is too valuable to be displayed. Art is meant to be seen as only then it can fulﬁl its purpose: to inspire. So, let’s decorate our home with the art we collect and invest in and enjoy it!

André C. Meyerhans is a Swiss architect who lives and works in Dubai, UAE. His creations range from 250’000m²-urban plans and onebillion-US-dollar mixed use developments to furniture-like objects, art and jewellery. André has also written for various trade magazines and held lectures in numerous institutions on architecture and design. He is also a regular guest critique at the Architectural Department of the American University in Sharjah. For more details you can visit www.acmeyerhans.com

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TECHNOLOGY COMMUTER’S ADVANCED ELECTRIC BICYCLE PRICE Getting to work and back can be quite a challenge if you have to go through trafÀc jams but cycling is a whole lot greener, not to mention it saves you plenty of time and money. The Commuter’s Advanced Electric Bicycle comes with a wide range of advanced features to deliver a safer commute. It has an LCD that illuminates the current speed, letting you know the voltage on the left on its battery, while indicating when its headlight, rear light, and turn indicators are active, so that you are able to maintain a stern concentration on the road. You can also hit a top speed of 20 mph with the bicycle’s 500-watt electric motor.

BD679

I WANT THAT! PICK UP THE COOLEST NEW ELECTRONICS AND GADGETS IN THE MARKET THIS SEPTEMBER!

NIKON COOLPIX L610 COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA

PRICE BD150

LET YOUR IPHONE RELAX YOU Customise your own massaging experience via your iPod touch, iPhone or iPad. Yes, your phone can control your massager. Meet the world’s Àrst OSIM uSqueez App-Controlled foot and calf massager from Brookstone.com. Once you download the free app, Bluetooth sends the signal from your Apple device to your unit. Set up the unit in front of your favorite chair, put your feet in the footbeds, power it on and then control the intensity and vibration with a tap of the app. No more bending down to adjust the controls. Simply modify your massage from the comfort of your lap. Manual controls are also available on the uSqueez, for times when your phone is far away.

The latest entry level shooter from Nikon comes in the form of the Nikon Coolpix L610, a high zoom-ratio model that will be equipped with a 14x optical zoom lens covering the 25- to 350-mm range of focal lengths. The camera boasts an effective pixel count of 16-million, achieving superior image quality even when you are shooting at high ISO sensitivities.

MOPHIE OUTRIDE CAPTURES THRILING MOMENTS The mophie Outride is a hardware and app solution that places the power to record and share tricks, tracks, rides, and epic moments in the hands of action land and water sports enthusiasts, but they will need to own an iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S beforehand. At least you no longer need to purchase a dedicated video camera, but rather, use the mophie Outride to record your latest daredevil exploits. It is waterproof and impact resistant while sporting a range of custom mounts to capture action shots in the surf, snow, dirt or concrete.

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IRISCAN ANYWHERE 3 The IRIScan Anywhere 3 battery-powered and cordless portable scanner certainly has its advantages – it is able to let you capture paper documents, receipts, photos and more without having to have a computer in the vicinity. On a full charge, it is able to scan up to a 100 full letter sized pages, regardless of whether it is in colour or black and white.

PRICE BD75

CHUMBUDDY SLEEPING BAG

Q CARD CASE FOR IPHONE

PRICE BD15

The Q Card Case For iPhone is said to make your life a whole lot simpler, as you are able to carry some cash with it, in addition to up to three cards that are snuggled nicely alongside your iPhone 4/iPhone 4S. It is made out of an exclusive patent pending soft-touch rubber and premium fabric for that added touch of class, and the Q Card Case itself will come with a Áat Screen Guard design that delivers the ultimate screen protection and ease of use.

3-IN-1 BREAKFAST STATION

PRICE BD15

Not only does the 3-in-1 breakfast station help save on necessary space, it is capable of serving you your favorite set of toast, eggs as well as hot coffee simultaneously. It measures no larger than a standard sized toaster and yet contains three different appliances in a single one.

NO MORE DEVICE DROPPING

PRICE BD11

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Ever dropped your phone or e-reader? Flygrip is a device that helps to preserve our devices. A spring loaded clip securely adheres to your device, or case. It leaves ample room to comfortably insert a couple of Àngers so when reaching for your keyboard on your phone, you get extra reach for your thumb. It can be used as a landscape or portrait stand when you need both hands and is available in eight colours.

PRICE BD75

You sleep best when your feet are warm and your head remains cool, and this is exactly what the 7 foot long Chumbuddy Sleeping Bag does. It is more than capable of covering adults and children and the inner lining is made out of a blend of Poly/Cotton, while the Àll material is Polyester Fiber.

SIERRA DESIGNS’ FUTURISTIC TENTS

PRICE BD680

Sierra Designs’ latest addition will be part of the new line of ExoFusion fast-and-light tents, where it is called the new Mojo UFO. It is capable of housing two people for a good night’s rest inside, weighs in at under 2 lbs and can be pitched within minutes.

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YOUR GUIDE TO…

OVER DRIVE

We have given you the best cars to drive. Now we give you the Greatest driving roads in the world…Vroom! Jebel Hafeet Where: United Arab Emirates The Middle east has its share of impressive mountain roads, but without a shadow of a doubt, it is the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road that is the cream of the crop. It is 7.3 miles of glass-smooth pavement leading to a hotel and a royal palace atop the mountain. With 21 corners and two lanes climbing the mountain, this 7.3 mile road is considered by some to be the best driving road in the world.

Deals Gap, aka "Tail of The Dragon" Where: Tennessee, USA Deals Gap is a portion of U.S. Route 129 in Blount County, Tennessee. This 11-mile stretch, in mostly forested areas, contains over 318 curves (some resemble a dragon's tail, which is how the road got its name) and some of the Dragon's sharpest curves have names like Copperhead Corner, Hog Pen Bend, Wheelie Hell, Shade Tree Corner, Mud Corner, Sunset Corner, Gravity Cavity, Beginner's End, and Brake or Bust Bend.. Better still, it sits in an undeveloped area - making it safer to drive "enthusiastically"

Col de Turini Where: France Col de Turini is a high mountain pass in the Alps in the department of AlpesMaritimes in France. It lies near Sospel, between the communes of Moulinet and La Bollène-Vésubie in the Arrondissement of Nice. It is famous as a stage of the Monte Carlo Rally, giving it some heritage and some credence as a great driver’s road. It is also held on the tight road with its many hairpin turns and some great scenery; the three things that every enthusiast looks for in a good road.

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Pikes Peak Highway Where: Colorado Another road with some great racing credentials is this, the Pikes Peak Highway. It is a 19-mile (31 km) toll road that runs from Cascade, Colorado to the summit of Pikes Peak in El Paso County, Colorado, at an altitude of 14,115 feet (4,302 m). It is full of harrowing drop-offs, tight hairpins and stunning views of the surrounding landscape and has also been home to the annual Pikes Peak International Hillclimb since 1916. If it’s good enough for them then it’s deÀnitely good enough for us.

Great Ocean Road Where: Australia The Great Ocean Road is an Australian National Heritage listed 243-kilometre stretch of road along the south-eastern coast of Australia between the Victorian cities of Torquay and Warrnambool. The road was built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932, and is the world's largest war memorial; dedicated to casualties of World War I. It is an important tourist attraction in the region, which winds through varying terrain alongside the coast. This coupled with its pristine tarmac also make it one of the greatest driving roads in the world.

Conor Pass Where: Ireland Situated in the Dingle Peninsula, Conor Pass offers drivers the breathtaking, cliff hanging experience of navigating through Ireland's highest mountain pass. It runs from the southern end of the Dingle Peninsula toward Brandon Bay. This narrow road snakes through verdant vistas, and its view of the lakes below is the stuff of fairy tales. The quiet countryside surrounded by corrie lakes makes it a beautiful drive worth experiencing by everyone.

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CELEBRITY

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F F F F F

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F R I E DA F R I E DA F R I E DA F R I E DA F R I E DA

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SUDDENLY SUPERSTAR

FREIDA PINTO’S DUSKY SKIN AND DOE EYES BECAME FAMOUS SEEMINGLY OVERNIGHT IN HOLLYWOOD. ONE NIGHT SHE WAS NOBODY, THE NEXT SHE WAS A SUPERSTAR! WE CHART HER METEORIC RISE TO FAME…

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R I E DA R I E DA R I E DA R I E DA R I E DA CELEBRITY

ho is she? Where did she come from? Superstar Frieda Pinto first appeared on the world’s ‘fame’ radar when she starred opposite Dev Patel in 2008’s Academy Award Winning Film Slumdog Millionaire. Pinto auditioned for the role of Latika and was eventually short listed and selected for the role. Did she know what was in store for her? Probably not. Did audiences know what was in store for them? Definitely not. Academy Award winning Director Danny Boyle’s film Slumdog Millionaire went on to win eight out of the 10 Academy Awards it was nominated for, but the real charmer was the stunning Ms. Pinto. Born October 18 to parents Sylvia and Frederick, Mumbai-born Freida caught the acting bug early. Her sister Sharon now says, “I always knew she wanted to do something in front of the camera. As a child she would stand in front of the mirror and imitate actors. She would stick photos up in her room of actors and actresses she liked. For Christmas we would have these little plays and she would write, direct and star in them. They were very amateurish but she would get the kids together to sing…” When Freida was 10,

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Sushmita Sen went on to win Miss Universe and that was a turning point in her life. Her mother recalls, “When she saw Sushmita Sen win, she said, ‘I am going to do something like that someday.” She cut Sushmita’s picture out and stuck it on the back of her cupboard.” However, fame took a while to knock on her doorstep. Young Freida dreamt big dreams in Mumbai where she says it was hard to get into the business without having inside connections; “I always wanted to get into acting. But it’s difficult in India. You have to be a child of an actor or actress, or have a godfather.” However, luck was on her side. After she finished university, talent scouts at Elite Modeling Agency spotted Pinto and recognised that she had a beautiful and versatile look. Pinto started modelling. Later when Boyle sent out audition calls for Slumdog Millionaire, Elite Modeling Agency sent out seven girls, one of whom was Pinto. Against all odds, she managed to nab the role of Latika, and the rest, as they say, is history. Freida herself says, “With each film I want to grow as an actor. I want to do performance-driven roles. Slumdog

Millionaire is a film about destiny. And destiny itself had a major part to play in me getting this role. I believe that things like a middle class girl debuting in a Danny Boyle film cannot be planned. Neither can winning an Oscar. If it’s meant to be, it will. I’ve realised that the beauty of life is that it takes turns that are sometimes bigger than your wildest dreams.” Speaking of one’s wildest dreams coming true, Pinto blossomed into India’s biggest international star almost overnight. Today she is unique in the sense that she is better known internationally than she is in India. Till date, Pinto has not starred in a Bollywood movie and so she finds it hard to find a niche for herself in her home country where most stars are born at home. Pinto herself says, “I guess everybody in India has tried really hard to do what they do and then move into the West. And I suppose I just popped in from nowhere, like, “Who the hell is she?” So I can kind of understand the surprise, and that’s why I’m not bitter about it. My friends meet people all the time who say things like, “But what has Freida done before?” Obviously they get defensive about me because they’re my friends, but they also try to understand

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the other side to make me understand it better.” Like it or not, she is global now. Since Slumdog Millionaire she’s starred in You Will Meet a Tall, Dark Stranger, Miral, Rise of the Planet Apes, Trishna, Immortals and Black Gold. The movies she’s starred in since Slumdog have proven that Pinto is not just a one hit wonder. Today the dusky bombshell is widely recognised as one of the most beautiful and talented women in the world. Sadly, gentlemen, she’s also taken. She fell in love with her co-star Dev Patel who played Latika’s love interest Jamal in the movie. Says Pinto, “…for both Dev and me, Slumdog was our first film, and it became so massive that you had to preserve and protect what you had before, that innocence, without getting sucked in. And who better to do it with than someone who knows what you’re thinking? Dev had never done a talk show before—his first was [Late Show With] David Letterman - and he said to me, “You have to come with me and give me moral support.” So it was very much a case of being there for my friend. Nothing we did was planned. We were making a lot of mistakes, but we were together, and most of the time our mistakes were looked on as, “Oh my god, that’s so cute.” Awww, they are really cute. Today, the couple holds a special place in everybody’s hearts and it’s hard to see them together without wanting to pinch their cheeks and wish them the best. Which we do! We wish them the best! In the meantime, we’re sure the actress is going to go from strength to strength. Her meteoric rise to fame through sheer force of drive and talent proves one thing – dream big, dream hard. It will happen! Here’s to you Ms. Pinto!

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THE LAST WORD "The woman is the most perfect doll that I have dressed with delight and admiration." Karl Lagerfeld

Say What?

Signature picked out some of the best fashion quotes from celebrities, designers and icons. “I don't design clothes. I design dreams.” Ralph Lauren

“The difference between style and fashion is quality.” Giorgio Armani

“You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.” Christian Dior

“A shoe has so much more to offer than just to walk. Shoes transform your body language and attitude. They lift you physically and emotionally.” Christian Louboutin.

“Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing.” Alexander Wang

“About half my designs are controlled fantasy, 15 percent are total madness and the rest are bread-andbutter designs.” Manolo Blahnik

“Today, fashion is really about sensuality-how a woman feels on the inside. In the '80s women used suits with exaggerated shoulders and waists to make a strong impression. Women are now more comfortable with themselves and their bodiesthey no longer feel the need to hide behind their clothes.” - Donna Karan

“I like being a woman, even in a man’s world. After all, men can’t wear dresses, but we can wear the pants." Whitney Houston

"I think there is beauty in everything. What ‘normal’ people would perceive as ugly, I can usually see something of beauty in it." Alexander McQueen

"Fashions fade, style is eternal. I have always believed that fashion was not only to make women more beautiful, but also to reassure them, give them conÀdence." Yves Saint Laurent.

"Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live." Gianni Versace

“When in doubt, wear red.” Bill Blass

“What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language.” Miuccia Prada

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening. I don’t do fashion. I am fashion.” Coco Chanel

"Elegance is the only beauty that never fades." Audrey Hepburn

“Style is a way to say who you are, without having to speak. It is better to have fewer things of quality than too much expendable junk.” Rachel Zoe

"The most important thing to remember is that you can wear all the greatest clothes and all the greatest shoes, but you’ve got to have a good spirit on the inside. That’s what’s really going to make you look like you’re ready to rock the world." Alicia Keys "Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world." Marilyn Monroe

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