Ohlala Abu Dhabi March 2016

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE Abu dhabi

Shop The Key Pieces The Slip Dress, Mules, Tiaras, Backpacks, Culottes + More

The ART OF Fashion The Extravagant World of Millinery Local Escapes Abu Dhabi’s Most Stylish Hotel

FreshFashion

The SS16 Looks to love www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com March 2016 | Issue 06 Abu dhabi | AED 20

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NICOLE KIDMAN’S CHOICE

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Contents Ohlala

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Fashion’s New Season Runway reports The SS16 Trends Haute Couture The Key Pieces To Shop Net-a-Porter Forecasts

The Art of Fashion The World of millinery Vivienne Morgan Lookbook: Krikor Jabotian

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Ohlala Lifestyle In and around Abu dhabi Local Escapes Spa & Chic Eats Listings The Best Boutique Buys Miss Ohlala Column

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bEAUTY spRING FEVER tHE LATEST TRENDS Runway Recap Red Carpet Looks Chanel Focus Beauty Insight: Calvin Klein

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March 2016 issue 06

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Editor-in-Chief

Publishing Director Edward Smith

Country Director

Georgie Bradley

Chelsea Copenhaver

Editor

Creative DIrector

Regional Sales Directors

Angela Beitz

Paula Leal

Kirsty Edwards-Harris

Managing editor

Graphic Designers

Rami Khalil

Shabana Adam

Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bindaina

SAles Coordinator

Contributors Sofia Graniello Victoria

Renie Simplina

Production Manager

Photographers

WEBSITE

Neil Mahmood

Rashed Bindaina

Melek Yildirimtekin

Distribution Manager

Sunder Pratap Singh

Ajit Kumar

COVER Image Krikor Jabotian

Credits image Valentino Garavani

Accountants Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

Distribution Team

Printing Press

Distribution

Jayapragash Ganesan

United Printing Press

Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

UAE – GLS, Tawseel Distribution & Logistics Enquiries

Editorial: georgie@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: chelsea@nansgroup.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com | Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 | Postal Address: Ohlala Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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Prada

Edi t o r ’ s Letter

W

Kenzo

elcome to the March issue of Ohlala which marks the start of the spring/ summer 2016 season where we’ve pinned the key looks to go for in a comprehensive runway report from Ready-To-Wear to Haute Couture. Having attended a number of shows back in September I recall many of the head-turning, jawChristian to-the-floor trends – we’ve selected our favourites louboutin, Haute Couture and given you the key items to stock up on in this Spring/Summer 2016 issue too. I’m never short of adjectives to describe the feeling you get after watching a show. It’s absolutely rejuvenating. As each season goes by, designers are piecing full-fledged productions together (Kenzo’s iridescent set blew me out the water a year ago), beyond a primitive showcase – cue the cellophane (choice prop, Loewe.) Each brand’s aesthetic has never been stronger and expressive; it seems the relationship between art and fashion is cause for deeper consideration and celebration. The connection can cultivate much critical conversation into the long-stemmed history that has inspired these overlapping elements. And with that we take a look into the fascinating world of Vivienne Morgan, a milliner whose designs are, essentially, the most elegant sculptures you’ve ever seen. The very British tradition of women’s hats is becoming more of a mainstay on the fashion scene in the Gulf, especially in high society events and we love it.

Elsewhere in the magazine we continue to stay at luxurious hotels across Abu Dhabi. This month we’ve sampled (just for you, dear readers) Hyatt Capital Gate. If anything, its soaring architectural statement alone should give you enough reason to put your best outfit on and head over for a fabulous night out with the girls. We’ve now also introduced the most sought after dining destinations in town, so flip to our Chic Eats listings to find out where’s hot in March and let your oh so elegant inner glutton have a delicious time this month.

Georgie Bradley 18

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Editor in Chief

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Style Icon

The timelessly elegant Longines DolceVita brings together steel and gold to embody glamour and grace, fit for the wrist of a woman with oodles of charm.

Inspired by the “Dolce Vita�, it pays homage to the sweetness of life. A classic will never tire to inspire...

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Images by Christian Louboutin

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yl ke e t the us you eca We present to shy b

so m n. L en et t ’s h ope you’re not

it

Th

Ed

S S

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o ea o he oks s re’ th is e m h t s s at w es at th c om ill d i o e pr efine your style ch ere etty lo th ud fashion out

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Victoria beckham

Isa Arfen

Miu miu

Marimekko

Prada

Focus

Céline

Style

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victoria beckham Miu miu

Chanel

Stela Mccartney

Style Notes

Opt for some spring layering with a sheer dress or mix and match gingham with another print entirely

prada

Chanel

Stella McCartney

Marc JAcobs

Céline

Ah it’s good to have you back, classic print!

There was plenty of gingham on the runway - notably Victoria Beckham’s stellar monochrome variation that had everyone talking. Notice how you can go all ‘borrowed-from-the-boys’ with some slouchy trousers and oversized coats courtesy of Céline or how you can be more severe with a boxy number (thank you, Chanel) with structure all over as well as going for a sexy wrap dress - just like Diane von Furstenberg wants you to. We love how richly diverse the trend has become over time, allowing for all sartorial forms to play nicely together.

Victoria beckham

Diane von furstenberg

Céline

Go gingham

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Chanel

oscar de la renta

oscar de la renta ralph lauren

oscar de la renta

Roberto Cavalli

Alexander McQueen

Chanel

Gucci

Focus

Roberto cavalli

Style

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Style Notes

Over-the-shoulder ruffles is something of an erogenous zone in fashion. Want to charm even more? Sweep your hair to one side

jason wu

michael kors

Victoria Beckham

Lady Victoriana chic is here to stay, which is fabulous because ruffles are a detail we can easily get on board with – tea party, anyone? It’s as dramatic as it is elegant; it’s as iconic as it is versatile.

This season you’ll find ruffles appearing along the hem, across the body (look at Marques’Almeida’s over-the-top bunching) and at the neck. Miu Miu, Michael Kors and Gucci have given us vintage romanticism while Jason Wu has gone for more minimal, structured tiers, Oscar de la Renta has channeled some girly and dreamy frills while Chanel are all about the bold, layered numbers.

gucci

erdem ralph lauren

Marques Almeida

jason wu

ruffled up

Miranda Kerr

Collection starting at BD 40.200 More to love at SWAROVSKI.COM

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Marc Jacobs

Dolce & Gabbana

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Prada Prada

Ralph Lauren

Prada Max Mara

Tory Burch

Would it be too obvious if we said, Go Big or Go Home? The solid stripe story is a clear favourite this season with most designers letting go of their inhibitions and showing some serious lines. But it’s all about the unabashedly circus-style stripe that stops traffic but also the humble stripe that is subtle, classic and will never tire of renewing itself.

We adored Chanel’s arrow stripes (hinging on Aztec too), fell in love with Dolce & Gabbana’s monumentally bold coloured stripes, swooned over Salvatore Ferragamo’s rainbow bands and felt our inner gypsy girl come out with Gucci’s bohemian vibes.

Ralph Lauren

Salvatore Ferragamo

earn your stripes

Style Notes

Don’t be afraid to go head-to-toe in a one-tone stripe or tuck a plain white shirt into some bold trousers

Dolce & Gabbana

Gucci

Max Mara

Chanel

Ralph Lauren

Focus

SAlvatore Ferragamo

Style

Christopher kane Gucci

Gucci

Christopher kane prada

Chloé

Lanvin

Style Notes

If you feel like you’ve gone overboard, you haven’t. Embrace juxtaposing fabrics, vibrant hues and stark prints

Christian Louboutin

Roberto Cavalli

Christopher Kane

Dolce & Gabbana

AlicE & Olivia

We’ve been going outside the lines for a while now, meshing styles together, allowing individualism to flourish and blazing trails with the most unassuming pairings you can imagine. And there’s nothing more fun than doing that with buckets of colour. Christopher Kane led the way with bursts of solid colours assembled together in modern art influenced slashes in fabric, while Kenzo, always the purveyor of killer fashion, brought out cool cut-outs with a patchwork of primary pops.

Alice + Olivia added a Sixties touch with kaleidoscopic circles and Roberto Cavalli honed the chaos of colour with an air of norm core.

kenzo

Christopher kane

Balmain

Dries Van Noten

Rainbow Clash

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Style

Salvatore ferragamo

Michael Kors

Christian dior Christian Dior

Christopher Raeburn

Carolina Herrera

Focus

Sheer beauty

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Style Notes

Sheer panels can really amp up opaque fabric while nude shoes will let your legs do all the walking and talking

Carolina herrera

Carolina Herrera

blumarine

Carolina Herrera michael kors

Christian Dior

Carolina herrera

prada

Karigam

Christopher raeburn

Christian dior

It only seems appropriate that this trend is in for the spring/summer collections – you can get away with a lot (even with just a little slither of skin) and still maintain modesty. All it takes is a classic maxi reworked with transparent chiffon for some dare to bare and you’re on the right track. Carolina Herrera are all about subtle peekaboo whether it’s in the sleeves or décolletage area while Christian Dior take it head-to-toe over a feminine top/shorts ensemble in the most tasteful and classy way. And Prada add a sheer element over layers of clashing trends for all to see.

w w w. b et t y b a r clay. co m

AL A’ALI COMPLEX | TEL.NO. 17581880

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Christian Dior

Victoria Beckham

Rochas

Burbery prorsum

Céline

Céline

Rochas

Chloé

Oscar de la renta

The slinky slip on. A classic piece from the Nineties and the SS16 shows. Every designer had their own version of it. From classic monochrome lace at Céline, see-through chiffon at Saint Laurent and layered over knit-wear at Emilio Pucci, the slip dress has made a huge comeback this season. It’s the perfect piece for all occasions, whatever the climes, so you can wear it alone or layer it. You can really elevate a simple slip with unexpected chain details and a silky scarf around the neck. What we know for sure is that it’s making SS16 look pretty sexy.

Burberry prorsum

Chloé Christian dior

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Calvin klein

Slip on

Tory Burch 32

Céline

Carolina Herrera Givenchy

Style Notes

Give your slip dress a sophisticated touch by putting a Kimono-style jacket over it or jazz up a minimal slip with a sequin silk top

Chloé

Burberry Prorsum

Focus

Emilio Pucci

Style

Enliven your senses with the art of dining

by The Ritz-Carlton Catering.

As elegantly dressed guests pull up the driveway in anticipation of a memorable night, they are greeted by a butler who ushers them onto a candlelit lawn where canapĂŠs and beverages are offered before an exquisite dinner is served at a spectacular dining hall - the magic set in motion by the new off-site catering division launched by The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

For more information and reservations, please contact 9712-818-8888 or e-mail rc.auhrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style

Focus

The Haute couture

report

A highlight of the stunning flows of fabric on the runway, from neoclassicism and history of art to sequined flapper dresses and preraphaelite muses

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Valentino All hail the statuesque woman! For starters, the models walked on a gilded catwalk with scattered rose petals - very ethereal. The collection has a vertical and airy approach with tattered touches on velvets, pleats exclusively handmade as if ready to melt away, patchwork composed of opulent weaving and handpainted volutes.

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Style

Focus

Chanel Playing with inverted volumes, Mr Laegerfeld focuses on short tweed jackets, worn with long pencil skirts or fitted jackets coupled with full skirts or flared culottes all within a natural colour palette.

The peacock pleats are a real standout in the collection as are the magnificent puffy sleeves.

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Giorgio Armani PrivĂŠ One word: mauve. It reigned the runway.

The collection is beautifully weightless in silks and delicate in ruffles giving a natural elegance. Flounces emerge from shorts under jackets, keeping movement across the ensembles - we especially love the flash of jewelled socks from the short boots.

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Style

Focus

AtelierVersace For women who move to the beat of their own drum, this collection has a sporty kick to it dominated with dresses caged by cut-outs. The gowns and tuxedos are fabulously explosive, held together with extravagant knots of Swarovski ropes. It’s all about the beauty of the female body.

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The SS16 Essentials

prada

Christian dior

Sophie bille brahe @ net-a-porter.com

Now you know the trends, it’s time to shop the key pieces.We pick the bold, the beautiful and the downright brave to inspire your sense of style

Long Earrings

Lanvin

Make a statement with shoulder-grazing earrings.

Go mismatched or live it up with a super bold pair a la Prada’s pompom numbers.

All That Glitters

Let your feet do the talking with gorgeous gem heels and sequincrusted footwear from the likes of Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana.

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lunettes

Retro Reflecting

Go big or go home this season as eyewear takes on a fun and bright edginess with everything from aviators to jewel encrusted shades.

Christian dior

christianlouboutin

Soulier

gucci

Chanel

prada

Fendi

burberry

Style

Serious Stripes

maticevski

Be it vertical, horizontal, banded or angled, you won’t be able to escape the bold striped from Dolce & Gabbana to Riviera tones from Ralph Lauren.

Focus

j.w.anderson@ net-a-porter.com

Back To School

Cool Mules

Slide on a pair of mules, pronto!

You won’t be seen without these super chic yet super comfortable shoe this season.

Gucci

chanel

robert clergerie @ net-a-porter.com

Arwa Al Banawi

paule ka dolce & gabbana

Carolina herrera

marc by marc jacobs

The handy backpack has made a comeback this season with the likes of Burberry and Chanel leading the way for the cool kids.

Graphic Content

Chloé

prada

prada

The best bags this season have a powerful wow factor thanks to bold stripes that pack a punch. Wallflowers need not apply.

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Style

Focus

We sit down with Sarah Rutson, Net-APorter’s Vice President of Global Buying, to break down some of this season’s trends

dolce & gabbana

Christian Dior

Chanel

Chanel

Expert eye

Christian Dior

Chains & Chokers

dolce & Gabbana

Tiara Time

Channel your inner princess with the season’s hottest accessory. No look at Chanel or Dolce & Gabbana was complete on the runway without its crowning glory.

gucci

The Shirt Re-worked

The Fashion Eccentric

Florals seem like such an obvious trend for Spring but they are always a firm favourite for their tried and true staying power. This season, florals get a super charge with strong botanical prints.

Romantic Ruffles This new season trend is so easy to embrace with refined ruffles and perfect tiered frills that are fiercely feminine.

Minimalism has come into its own this season in many different guises, most evidently what we’re calling the Fashion Eccentric. There’s an extraordinary abundance of print, colour and very precious details. burberry

oscar de la renta

Off the Shoulder

One of the single biggest design features that we saw coming down the runway and it’s one that I personally love. Shoulders don’t age, so this can be a go-to for all women.

This is a fundamental backbone and workhorse of any women’s wardrobe, mine included.

Designers made this runwayready by playing with shapes and cut-out details that took this iconic garment from staple, to statement.

JOHANNA ORTIZ

ninca ricci

The Slip Dress

Your most important key buy for the season is the slip dress, it’s back in a big way and it’s looking slinkier than ever.

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noon by nour @ saks fifth avenue

Bold Botanicals

prada Alexander wang @ Net-a-porter.com 42

Chokers and chunky chains are a key accessory trend this season and the good news is that you can wear them every day while still making a statement.

Visual Optimism

Summer should be optimistic.

From Chloé’s bohemian raver to Christopher Kane’s punchy colour blocks, the starting point for all this is kinetic movement.

90s

No one, single mood can sum-up this decade, so we’re dividing it into three distinct micro-trends: grown-up-grunge, sporty street style and of course, minimalism.

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A Head for hats

The world of millinery is as theatrical as it is elegant. We speak to Abu Dhabi based Tori Single from Vivienne Morgan Millinery about her artistic headpieces, her inspiration and Dubai World Cup

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Ohlala Spotlight

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“Being a milliner gives me the freedom to combine fashion styling with art and creativity. There are no limits on shape, style or materials when it comes to hats.�

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Ohlala Spotlight “I buy silks and stamens for flower making from some local haberdashery shops in Abu Dhabi that resemble Aladdin’s Cave”

H

ow long have you been a milliner and what got you interested?

I distinctly recall turning the pages of Vogue magazine in 1999 and seeing a photo taken

by Herb Ritts in Death Valley of a model wearing a fish skeleton headdress by Stephen Jones. That image has stuck in my mind ever since. Years later, my mother gave me some millinery lessons with Rose Cory, milliner to the late Queen Mother. I then did an internship in London with the avant-garde designer Piers Atkinson. Being a milliner gives me the freedom to combine fashion styling with art and creativity.

There are no limits on shape, style or materials when it comes to hats.

How does millinery translate to the Middle East? Why do people look to the UK for millinery inspiration?

London and the UK has been the centre of the fashion world in terms of millinery for such a long time. I think fashion in London is more extroverted and original and avant-garde compared to other fashion capitals and therefore people are more likely to wear a quirky hat, plus it’s also etiquette to wear millinery to a wedding in the UK. Since I’ve been living here, I’ve noticed people have been looking to the likes of the Duchess of Cambridge and Queen Rania and admiring their fashion style and hats and observing that they too can wear hats here. People in the Middle East usually want to start off with something a little subtler such as a headband, but we also have Dubai World Cup once a year where there is a chance to go to the extreme. Anything goes.

How would you describe the Vivienne Morgan Millinery style?

It’s all about wearable pieces of art. Two things are key for me: firstly, that I create original hats or headpieces, which sometimes appear to defy gravity or challenge the traditional interpretation of a hat, and secondly, that such headpieces are designed to flatter the wearer and complement their beauty. All the designs are underpinned by traditional millinery techniques and hand-craftsmanship that is the very essence of Vivienne Morgan Millinery.

Where do you find your inspiration for your designs?

From books on fashion, photography and design. In particular, Tim Walker photography books never fail to inspire me. I also keep a scrapbook of ideas for designs or materials, and sometimes I’ll look back at a design I started a few years ago and a brainwave will suddenly come to me as to what materials I can use to create the desired shape.

Which famous milliners and fashion designers do you admire and why?

There are two collaborations that never fail to inspire me, being

McQueen’s collaboration with hat maker Philip Treacy, and Stephen Jones’ work with the brilliant John Galliano. Together these collaborations produced such powerful, original and fearless designs. They were, in my opinion, responsible for the most memorable catwalk moments of the last few decades.

What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant about wearing hats?

Lots of ladies who come to my studio have never worn a hat before, other than perhaps a sunhat.

It’s crucial to find the hat shape and style that suits you, whether it’s a large brimmed hat, an asymmetric headpiece or a floral crown with veiling. I’ve not yet failed to find a headpiece to suit my clients.

Where do you source your millinery materials from?

Whenever I travel I am always on the lookout for haberdasheries and vintage shops. I buy silks and stamens for flower making from some local haberdashery shops in Abu Dhabi that resemble Aladdin’s Cave. The vintage feathers and veiling tends to come from Paris. And I source the millinery hardware from the UK. Sometimes I even scour children’s shops for kitsch ponies or dinosaurs.

What styles to you think will be popular at the Dubai World Cup this year?

Crowns and Tiaras. They are a key piece for 2016 and they are a strong feature in my SS16 collection. It makes millinery more accessible. Dress designs are more intricate now and detailed with sheer paneling and lace so you need a hat that doesn’t overpower your outfit.

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Come

&Play Lebanese designer, Krikor Jabotian’s SS16 collection is the stuff of a little girl’s dreams, where she imagines her grown up self flitting about in ballerina inspired dresses. Ever so youthful, ever so playful, ever so delicate, The Dahlia collection cuts a fine silhouette with voluminous skirts, gathered peplum waists and overflows, bringing to life some of the most chic babydoll dresses.

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Ohlala Arabia Bringing style across The Middle East

Follow us www.issuu.com/ohlalaarabia 64

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Beauty Focus

a i n r o f i l caeaming r d Who hasn’t dreamt of those polychrome California mornings, where the sea glistens and the light pours into those floor-to-ceiling windows and all seems serene and calm. Ah, le sigh. Collection L.A. Sunrise by Chanel are feeling those dawn vibes and have created a collection packed with to-die-for hues, capturing the energy and charisma of the City of Angels. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Bulletin

Valentina Poudre, valentino

Oscar de la renta

Runway Report

In the Words of Valentino Invisible and impalpable, it delicately envelops the body in a romantic, passionate mist, making all that is sensuous and feminine, recognisable.

The new fragrance lays a mysterious veil of ethereal notes upon the materiality of the senses.

This season is about embracing the ever-chic red lip, coloured mascara and clean foundation.

Take a minimal approach with a smack of

Gucci

je ne sais quoi Tilt, Urban Decay

Rouge Pour Le Mademoiselle

This beautiful rose red hue with a matte finish is set to stay in our beauty cabinets this season.

Nocciola contouring blush & eyeshadow, Diego dalla PalmA Brown Tones

For the Love of Pales

Pale skin is back.

Keep your foundation at bay and simply powder the areas of need. Keep your inner glow and forgo highlighters.

Dolce & Gabbana

ETRO

Ear Candy! It’s hard to say no to these ornate and sophisticated set of earrings.

Lydia Courteille, Net-a-porter.com

Coralista Chic

Dries Van Noten

Leave out the blush and go for some subtle contouring. Enhance those cheeks bones with a shade darker than your skin.

My Teddy Bear, Sephora

Shimmery Moment

Play it fun and wild with colour-daring mascaras for an effortless look. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Both subtle and filled-in eyebrows are a go this spring. Keep ‘em light and keep ‘em clean.

Beauty Nail, polish, H&M I Pinky Swear

If nude nails are wrong, we don’t want to be right. Nude colours are making a return this spring.

If you’re still hesitant to go quasi nude, try these fabulous hues that will add a vibrant touch to your tips.

Hawaii Kawai, Christian Louboutin

50 Shades of Purple

Eyebrow Control

Aloha!

Grandiose Violet, Lancome

Hair Spray strong hold, sanchajuan

Cat-eye sunglasses meowed on the runway. Pair your look with one of these sharp shades.

Giorgio Armani

Plump your hair by backcombing and teasing before styling. Hold and lock it with hairspray.

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Feline Vision

Pack the eye shadow on the entire lid giving the rest of your makeup a lightweight feel.

Stella Mccartneey

The Extravagant Updo

Brow Sculpting in Light, Tom Ford

Le Specs, net-a-porter.com

Beauty Buzz

A red carpet look They’re here; they’re gold –We love awards season! From eyes to nails,

Cate blanchett

emmy rossum

kate bosworth

there’s no faulting these looks…

Quasi nude

Red alert

Romantic pink peach ombre, tom ford

sunkiss ribbon, chanel

Cheeks Multicoloe blush, diego dalla palma les 4 ombres tisse beverly hills, chanel

morning freshness, sephora black jack, guerlain

Perfect rouge in fantasia, shiseido

EYES

laquer rouge, shiseido

LIPS Greige, bobbi brown

scandal, urban decay

Sweet heart, opi

nails

Mayfair lane, nails inc.

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In full bloom

In light of spring, Ilias Ermenidis, perfumer and creator of Calvin Klein’s women fragrance, Eternity NOW, talks about his latest floral concoction and how a modern tale of love is enveloped in all the notes

W

hat were the sources of inspiration to create this fragrance?

The optimistic, young, “fresh in love” concept of this brief was a great source of inspiration. That’s why the fragrance begins with such an explosive, joyful and sparkling luminosity. I was also inspired by the bliss and satisfaction of waking up to the love of my life, one that lasts through decades. This creative journey was pure joy.

Does this fragrance have similarities with the existing Calvin Klein and CK fragrances?

The fragrance carries the brand essence found in the original Eternity fragrance, which revolves around the authority of eternal love. Like the existing Calvin Klein fragrances, it is a balance between modernity and refinement, sensuality and intimacy.

How would you describe this fragrance in your own words?

Feel the undeniable spark of love’s beginning. Dazzling succulence opens the fragrance up into a glittering bouquet of dewy florals that unfold into an irresistible enveloping embrace of sensual warmth. The result is a modern tale of love that can be told from here… to eternity.

Which family does it belong to?

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Bright addictive floral.

If you had to choose three words to describe the fragrance, what would they be?

Sensual, optimistic and modern.

What makes this fragrance unique – what gives it its identity?

The signature is delivered from the unique combination of the nectarine, aqua lily, and quince that give the fragrance a refreshing point of view.

What are some unusual raw materials in the fragrance?

The unique combination of nectarine and quince gives the fragrance its exclusive framework by revealing a luminous and romantic heart of addiction.

What makes this fragrance appealing to women?

It is the undeniable allure of the luminous top notes of the fragrance that hook you into a luxurious olfactive journey of modern love.

If you had to present this fragrance to a consumer in one sentence, what would you say?

Live, love, smile. Love is beautiful!

What type of woman uses Eternity NOW? A woman of all ages and shades, sensual, refined, and confidant; a woman who plans to fall in love, just fell in love or is in love.

Beauty Insight Know your notes Eternity NOW has a top, heart and base note of Nectarine, Peach Blossom and Ambrox.

Nectarine

Found in the hills and mountains of South America and South East Asia these trees produce succulent fruits which have a warm, pulpy sensation that captures the sparkle of sunlight.

Peach Blossom

The bright, fragrant blossoms appear in early spring and are known to be irresistible to honeybees. Peach blossoms lend a delicate softness kissed by velvety sweetness to a fragrance.

Ambrox

Ambrox, a Firmenich molecule, is precious and rich. Its texture is silky like cashmere. Its fragrance is quite delicate, yet long lasting.

Ambrox lends an ambery, woody and very sensuous impression.

“I was also inspired by the bliss and satisfaction of waking up to the love of my life, one that lasts through decades� www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Column

Tried & Tested

Ahead of the new make-up and hair trends for the season, Angela Beitz shares her beauty disasters and triumphs over the years

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his month marks the start of SS16 which brings an array of new beauty trends, from the brazen dashes of blue eyeliner glitter at Dries Van Noten to the almost mask-like swathes of blue eyeshadow at Chanel. Graphic eyeliner is also a key trend for this season as seen on Fendi and Céline along with spider lashes seen at Marni.

While I love seeing these almost theatrical trends play out on the catwalk, what exactly are we mere mortals supposed to take away from this? Especially someone like me where one wrong stroke of the makeup brush can end in tears. While I’m always up for trying a new trend, I’m much more into simple, classic beauty these days as over the years things have certainly gone awry when it comes to my beauty endeavors.

I’ve pretty much had every beauty disaster possible starting from the innocent age of six where I wore my mum’s Estée Lauder foundation to school. Even at that young age, I was already selfconscious of my freckles so I thought it would be a great idea to put my mum’s (way too dark for me) make up all over my face. All I remember was my teacher laughing at me hysterically (the concept of blending failed me back then) but I was always on the lookout for beauty fixes and beauty trends.

The next one I remember was my first experience using fake tan.

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Illustration by martine brand, chanel beauty

“When I discovered dry-shampoo in 2007, it single-handedly changed my life. I know that sounds dramatic but I’ve never looked back”

Being very pale and growing up in Australia, I was constantly on a mission to make my skin look tanned. Back when I was 14, fake tan wasn’t as good as it is these days and I remember thinking I had done a great job of applying it (blending blunders all over again) only to find messy splotches around my ankles that rivaled a Monet painting.

For as many failures as I’ve had, I’ve also had some triumphs. When I discovered dry-shampoo in 2007, it single-handedly changed my life. I know that sounds dramatic but I stumbled across it in a pharmacy one day (it was the medical type of dry-shampoo compared to the cool ones that are on the market today) and I’ve never looked back. Now, I’m not saying that hair shouldn’t be washed regularly but it’s just so helpful for those busy moments when you are short of time. I’d had many more revolutionary beauty moments over the years including developing an obsessive love for serums, the perfect natural looking false eyelashes to discovering great foundations and bronzers for fair skin.

My best advice to tackle the runway beauty trends is to always keep it simple and to be realistic. I personally adored the sleek ponytails tied with a simple black grosgrain bow at Oscar de la Renta which can easily be mastered. I’m keen to try the blue eyeshadow trend for summer but I’ll be doing a more subtle version rather than colouring in my whole eye-socket.

Whatever trend it is that appeals to you, my advice is to try it and have fun.

your Tweet us s @ uerie beauty q GCC to Ohlala ake sure m l ’l e w and hem. answer t

Q&A

Beauty Queries

Beauty editor Sofia Graniello answers your burning beauty questions from coconut oil queries to baggy eye cures London extreme, colab

Q: I have oily and thin hair. I wash it every morning and by the evening it’s already greasy. What can I do?

A: It’s a common thing to have greasy hair by the end of the day, especially if you are one to touch your hair frequently. I’d say, battle that greasy look with dry shampoo.

Apply when needed – and when it’s dry – for a long-lasting and fresh look.

Q: I’m not the greatest at following beauty routines, especially after a night of partying. Any tips for a quick fix before going to bed?

A: It’s always important to sleep with a clean face, regardless if you wear makeup or not.

But for party days, great makeup remover wipes will do the trick! If you invest in good ones, your face will thank you for it. However, on a daily basis, make sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

Collagen under eyes patch, skin republic

Q: No matter how much hand cream I use to soften my cuticles, they always seem rough and dry. How can I prevent this?

A: Super easy. Every morning after showering, apply an oil cuticle to each nail and massage them. This will soften the cuticle preventing it from severe dryness. If you have time, also do it at night – magic!

Q: I suffer from puffy under-eyes. My make up looks terrible and no matter how much rest I get, baggy eyes are always there.

A: No matter what the situation is, always before applying your daily makeup, or when going out for a special event, apply a collagen under-eye patch. Leave it on for 30 minutes and you’re all set.

Q: Coconut oil is everywhere, nowadays!

However, I’m a bit skeptical about oils. How can I incorporate it to my daily routine?

A: If you happen to have acne prone oily skin, I suggest avoiding it. However, for the body and hair, it will do wonders.

Mix a little with your daily body cream to smooth and hydrate dry skin. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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For the Modern Middle-Eastern Woman THE ESSENCE OF STYLE Abu dhAbi

Shop The Key pieceS The Slip DreSS, MuleS, TiaraS, BackpackS, culoTTeS + More

The ART OF FAshiOn The exTravaganT World of Millinery LocaL EscapEs Abu DhAbi’s Most stylish hotel

FreshFashion

the ss16 Looks to Love www.ohlala-magazine.com march 2016 | issue 06 abu dhabi | aed 20

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Leaning Towards Luxury We check into Hyatt Capital Gate to discover a sleek five star hotel that’s perfect for business or pleasure

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“The lean of the building means each of the 189 rooms is unique, but all are spacious, wellequipped and tastefully finished with Turkish marble and zebrano wood and the beds are supremely comfortable�

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Local Escapes

The capital may be brimming with a plethora of five star hotels but it’s not every day you get to stay in a record breaking one. Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi is located in the iconic Capital Gate building, a Guinness World Records-certified structure which inclines a recordbreaking 18 degrees. Without even entering the hotel, we are impressed and it’s easy to see how it’s become a landmark in the capital.

This slickly-run hotel has 189 spacious rooms that commandeer the 18th to 33rd floors of the building. The property somehow manages to expertly attract both business and leisure travellers. The hotel’s contemporary design and luxurious styling is complemented throughout with panoramic views from floor-to-ceiling windows and exposed metal beams. Even if you aren’t into architecture, it’s hard to not sit back and admire the amazing design of this building.

We check- in with the attentive and friendly staff and have our socks blown off when we are shown to our suite.

The lean of the building means each of the 189 rooms is unique, but all are spacious, well-equipped and tastefully finished with Turkish marble and zebrano wood and the beds are supremely comfortable. In some of the rooms the floorto-ceiling windows overlook the city skyline, palaces and the water. The rooms are seriously impressive and we love that they are immense and come loaded with extras, including huge bathtubs and remote control-operated curtains.

Since we love to eat, we are very happy to be checking out some of the restaurants during our stay. Guests of the hotel can enjoy quality experiences from sweet and savoury pastries at Profiterole cafe to superb Eastern Mediterranean flavours at the hotel’s signature award-winning restaurant, 18 degrees, that also offers a fabulous brunch experience every Friday. The Pool Bar and Privé are also favourites, and the residentially styled lounge offers an intimate setting for afternoon tea or evening beverage. Privé also does an impressive wine & cheese night every Wednesday and Thursday which is not to be missed.

On the last evening of our stay we are treated to a very special chef ’s table experience with our colleagues from FACT magazine. Chef Michele whipped us up some seriously tasty dishes including Sole Fish with chorizo, chicken livers with pomegranate, decedent duck and some of the tastiest lamb cutlets we’ve had for quite some time. If you are choosing from the menu there is an array of starters to www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Local Escapes

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Local Escapes

“We leave feeling as if we are floating on air and it is exactly what we needed after a busy week of meetings and slouching over our computer screen” choose from including hot and cold mezze and other dishes such as Burrata with Roma tomatoes and calamari. For mains, there are beautiful steak and fish options along with delicious pastas. We loved the open kitchen and the gorgeous views over Abu Dhabi. After dinner we retreat to the outside terrace for a relaxing drink and took in the views. You simply must sit out on the terrace while you stay here, if only for the Instagram opportunities.

When staying at this lovely establishment a visit to Rayana Spa should be at the top of your list. The 19th-floor “sky spa” is a serene retreat overlooking the city. The elevated oasis complements the hotel’s other wellness amenities which include a fitness centre, spectacular suspended outdoor pool and whirlpool. We get changed into a soft robe and slippers and are ushered into our treatment room which is large yet it feels warm and our gaze is instantly caught by the tiny lights in the roof which resemble stars. We are firstly treated to a foot soak where our therapist asks what we’d like to get out of the massage. Since we’re in need of some relaxation we opt for the Rayana Swedish massage. This treatment is a combination of pressure point stimulation and deep tissue with Swedish massage strokes. We lay on the bed which feels like a giant fluffly cloud and are almost asleep about ten minutes in. Our skilled therapist works hard on our knots, especially around our shoulder and back areas which are quite tense. The rest of our limbs are massaged with deep pressure (just as we’d asked) and we feel totally calm and relaxed to the point where we don’t want to get up. Afterwards we retreat to the relaxation room for some delicious ginger tea. We leave feeling as if we are floating on air and it is exactly what we needed after a busy week of meetings and slouching over our computer screen. Be sure to check out the fitness centre too, it’s perfect for business guests who still want to work out during their busy schedule.

This property is a super polished hotel that is absolutely worth a visit or a stay. The staff are friendly and attentive and go that extra mile to make your stay memorable. You can’t really get a more modern hotel in Abu Dhabi and we love the minimalist décor. Highly recommended.

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Chic Eats Frankie’s

The Forge

Sambusek

The Forge

March Dining

We’ve rounded up the best dining spots for the month The Forge at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal If your serious about your steak The Forge is the perfect venue for an intimate meal or a fun group dinner. The open kitchen allows you to watch the skilled chefs in action but if you want a quiet table there are quiet nooks scattered around the restaurant. While meat is high on the agenda with a plethora of options from the US, Australia, Canada and South America their succulent seafood is also top notch. You’ll be in for an exciting dining experience with lovely staff who are all too happy to speak confidently about the menu.

For information or reservations call: 2 818 8282 Sambusek at Rosewood Abu Dhabi If you love authentic Lebanese fair with a twist in beautiful surroundings then Sambusek is for you.

You’ll experience the true essence of Lebanese cuisine and Sambusek also specialises in seafood with lots of other tasty options. We love the gorgeous outdoor terrace perfect for a post dinner drink.

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Sambusek has also just introduced Beirut Marker Brunch every Friday which includes some of the restaurants favourite dishes. Don’t miss it.

For information or reservations call: 2 813 5550 Asia De Cuba This cool spot has become one of the city’s most popular restaurants. Sit inside the elegant dining room or grab a table on the very popular terrace on the Corniche. The Latin tunes that play in the background add a fun vibe to the venue. We highly recommend the ceviche which is one of the most popular dishes on the menu along with the shrimp churros, steamed Chilean sea bass and cumin tuna. For dessert you can’t bypass the tres leche de chocolate, which consists of chocolate cake served with a spicy Szechuan ice cream. Simply delicious.

For information or reservations call: 02 699 3333 Frankie’s at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr If you want impeccable service, great food and a warm atmosphere, Frankie’s continues to be one

of the capitals great restaurants. The venue is a collaborative between jockey Frankie Dettori and famous chef, Marco Pierre White. The large menu serves up homely Italian food with flair including tasty pasta dishes, perfect pizzas and salads along with meat and fish dishes. What we love is that they also have a separate gluten-free, diabetic and healthy menu with excellent options to choose from.

The staff are very attentive and you’ll leave feeling full and satisfied.

For information or reservations call: 02 654 3238 Mezzaluna at Emirates Palace Dine on authentic Italian cuisine at this stunning restaurant at Emirates Palace with its own take on Italian classics. Indulge in everything from antipasti, pizza and don’t forget to finish your meal off with one of their decadent desserts. We love the beef carpaccio, lamb tenderloin and seafood linguine all of which are full of flavour. Treat yourself to the chocolate fondant or the tiramisu. Italian fine dining at its best.

For information or reservations call: 02 813 5552

Eggs-plore fun moments at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Take part in the Easter egg-stravaganza of Fairmont Bab al Bahr.

From hunting eggs to discovering gourmet treasures, enjoy two days of festive fun and flavour.

Easter Monumental Brunch | Friday 25 March 2016 Easter Sunday Brunch | Sunday 27 March 2016

For more information, please call +971 2 654 3238, email us at dining.bab@fairmont.com or visit fairmont.com/babalbahr

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Health Files

Spa Days Our picks of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate this month

N Style If your hair is simply not behaving itself then pop into N Style for one of their fabulous blowdries. We love their speedy service and how they manage to make your blow-dry last for at least three days. They also offer excellent hair treatments to restore dry and damaged locks.

While you are there, try their fantastic mani/ pedis and relax with a 30 minutes in-chair massage. A lovely pick me up. Blow-dries from AED 120.

For information or reservations call: 800 678 953 Sense Spa at The Rosewood Abu Dhabi If your complexion is feeling a bit lackluster, the Sense Custom Complete Facial will sort your skin out with glowing results. This is a really beautiful facial done with Natura Bisse products that are customised to your skin needs. Incorporating evolutionary skincare that involves a deep cleanse, antioxidant mask, a gentle peel, and tranquil massage. This tailor made facial treatment will restore your skin to proper balance and assist in cellular repair. AED 690 for 75 minutes.

For information or reservations call: 2 813 5550 Eden Spa at Le Meridien This spa may be one of the city’s oldest spas but it’s by far one of the best simply due to the choice of treatments and their skilled therapists. We highly recommend the Unique Ayurveda Package Experience which provides ultimate relaxation with Ayurveda therapy. The treatment is a combination of three rituals: the Abhyangam (herbal oil massage), the Podikkizzi (hot massage) and Dhara (warm, medicated oil poured onto the forehead). The combination works all the tightness and knots out of sore muscles and helps to induce sleep and vitality.

AED 450 for 90 minutes.

For information or reservations call: 2 697 4354 84

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Rosewood abu dhabi sense spa

Rosewood abu dhabi Plunge pool

Rayana Spa at Hyatt Capital Gate If your skin needs a boost then the Signature Facial by June Jacobs is you for. This facial is a results-orientated treatment designed to immediately revive and illuminate dull, stressed skin with highly concentrated peptides, botanical extracts, skin hydrators and potent anti-oxidants. Your skin will glow and Rayana Spa has lovely facilities so you can really treat yourself to a relaxing experience. AED 275 for 60 minutes.

For information or reservations call: 2 596 1234 Namm Spa at Dusit Thani Treat yourself to a fantastic body scrub and massage at Namm Spa. This spa at the Dusit Thani has excellent therapists and calming facilities. Try the body scrub and massage package where your body will be exfoliated with lemongrass scrub to leave you with super soft skin and then you can enjoy a soothing massage to work out all your aches and pains. AED 750 for body scrub and massage for two hours.

For information or reservations call: 2 698 8888

Dusit thani

Dusit thani

N’Style

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Otherworldly Isles

There’s nothing more scenic than the Seychelles. And since we love being in far off places, where the seas are bluer than blue, the sunsets produce a riot of colour, the wildlife is in abundance and the food is perfectly exotic, this tropical destination is a classic that always needs to be rediscovered

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Travel Escapes Different sources give you different answers when you

search for how many countries there are on planet earth. But there are more or less 189 independent countries – and as far as bucket lists go, the Seychelles should definitely make your top 10 destinations to visit before you die.

Etihad Airways and Seychelles Tourism Board joined forces and took hospitality to a whole new level when Ohlala magazine accepted their generous offer to traipse the luscious islands.

Admittedly we thought the Seychelles was purely a honeymoon destination where all there is to do is sun-bathe, drink colourful cocktails, sun-bathe some more and enjoy sprawling sunsets with your love. That may be so, but there’s so much more to the Seychelles than the postcard stereotype.

Over the years the growing number of hotel resorts alongside the influx of tourism has put the Indian Ocean jewel at the heart of the to choose from, but if we had to pin down the best, the busy market of international travel map. Travellers from all walks of life – lovers, soulSir Selwyn-Clarke is ideal for a good bargain. searchers, botanists and families come to this enchanting destination.

Tropical fruits, exotic vegetables, and lots of fresh fish are sold side We are positive that one of the 116 coral and granite islands will bring a by side with a local variety of spices such as cinnamon, bay-leafs, nutmeg, sense of peace and calm to your soul – that or the beauty will just blow vanilla, and their famous homemade curry sauce. From beachwear to your mind. handmade accessories and souvenirs, everything is inspired by the azure Situated in the western Indian Ocean near the equator, the climate in the archipelago is delightfully tropical; the perfect combination of “There’s heaps of luxury to be found everywhere you go – sun and rain that will not leave you too namely in those relaxing massages where you lie in wafts bored of either. You’ll find that June, July, and August have the least amount of lemongrass and ginger essences” of rain and is therefore the best time to visit – especially for a relaxing retreat after a school year – for the family waters and tropical treasures. There’s a plethora of items to choose from: holidayers among you. Yet, with temperatures ranging between 27 and corals, shark tooth necklaces, coconut shell bracelets, coconut oil, soap, 33 degrees Celsius, the Seychelles is never out of season. magnets and key chains, there are so many beautiful souvenirs to gift We took to the main island of Mahé - defined by its white-sand your family and friends. beaches and lush green nature. Victoria, the capital, is the epicenter of We were eager to see Le Coco Do Mer, the erotically-shaped fruit all that’s lively and touristy. The elegant replica of London’s Big Ben that represents the country’s trademark forbidden fruit. It once grew clock makes the heart of the city a must see. From there, walking down only on two tiny isles and is now protected by the government. It’s fairly the busy streets of Victoria is a pleasure, as long as you carry your trusted expensive and to take one back home, you require an export license. umbrella - provided by your hotel. There are plenty of shops and kiosks And when in the Seychelles, a fishing trip is in order. It’s super easy to arrange – either independently or through your hotel, it’s absolutely worth it –the taste of that fresh catch grilled on the shores of the nearby island is just heavenly. Be sure that your local companion knows his way around the spices!

If you get the chance to visit Eden Island, the only man-made island in the country, you must try dining in one of its luxury restaurants.

Foodies and the culinary curious, like us, will not be disappointed.

Surprisingly we found the Seychelles’ curry to be very different from the Indian and Thai variety. The octopus curry is a traditional dish that you may want to try; but if you are not up to the challenge, you may want to ask the chef to go easy on the chili! But no worries, there’s always a hot mix of grill items for you to try if the aforementioned doesn’t work out.

Whatever your reason for visiting the Seychelles – you’ve just gotten married, you want a mini break from city life, you want to top that tan, you want to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature or you want to indulge in a gastronomic journey of spice and more spice – there’s so much to love here. Not to mention, there’s heaps of luxury to www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Travel Escapes

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Travel Escapes be found everywhere you go – namely in those relaxing massages where you lie in wafts of lemongrass and ginger essences or when you sit under a full moon with a passion fruit cocktail in your hand. Perfection? We urge you to tick the Seychelles off your list.

While we were lapping it up in the Seychelles we got to stay in two luxury resorts, lucky us. Readers, take note.

The H Resort, Beau Vallon Beach – Seychelles This one’s got over 100 varieties of luxurious accommodations – suites and villas (with direct access to the beach or a private swimming pool) giving you total privacy amidst thick foliage. Walking through the narrow alleyways lacing the resort is a delightful exercise in transporting you to an otherworldly place – there’s a bridge that goes across the river and the entire scene is pure magic – taking in almost the entire grounds of the property.

The grand staircase in the lobby area is majestic with a touch of local charm– all it takes is a few short minutes to check in and there you are – in your villa. What a treat.

Enjoying food in The H Resort is not hard work at all, there are so many venues to choose from. Vasco’s is the main restaurant, serving international cuisine that is themed with Seychellois/local Creole offerings against simple lines of contemporary décor. 1502, so named in honour of the year Vasco da Gama first laid eyes on the Seychelles. This “Travellers from all walks of life – lobby lounge is the quintessential botanists and families come to this embodiment of relaxed island chic, you’ll get a cocktail screaming with flavour here. Ripples is the poolside restaurant, very laid back in concept, very high in comfort levels.

Seychima is a sophisticated outlet offering exquisite Japanese cuisine while Eden, tucked away in the property’s lavish gardens, gathers all local flavours for authentic dishes and lastly, a personal favourite of ours, is Trader Vic’s – the ultimate franchise concept restaurant – coming soon!

And of course, the resort has many extras to keep you pampered and entertained: they’ve got a state of the art spa, kids club and gym yoga classes, anyone? Invariably you’ll be Instagramming every second while you’re there – cue that holiday envy.

Kempinski Seychelles Resort – Baie Lazare This one’s a massive chunk of luxury wrapped in a lively green crust! Nestled in a secret-like bay, the Kempinski Seychelles is all kinds of romantic and peaceful.

There are plenty of dining options that will keep you stuffed and satisfied for days. Café Lazare is the main restaurant with daily varieties, Windsong Beach Restaurant offers the perfect dining experience by the beach – dining on the beach, the stuff of dreams – and enjoy a fantastic shisha with tempting cocktails at Planters Bar & Lounge, and experience fine dining at its best with Kempinski’s signature restaurant L’Indochine.

The hotel gives you plenty of ways to take care of yourself with their opulent spa (it’s all about world class treatments here…in traditional bungalow houses no less!) and a fully equipped fitness centre. One word: luxury.

The room has that local warmness, the atmosphere is so welcoming, the entire property oozes with hospitality – the staff ’s friendliness is unmatched, we could gush and gush but it’d be better for you to just go and try it yourself.

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lovers, soul-searchers, enchanting destination”

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Ohlala Boutiques

Memorable Mother’s Day Moments

In recognition of Mother’s Day, The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi’s luxury shopping and dining destination, has curated a list of exquisite gifts from a variety of luxury and contemporary brands at the property, which promise to delight and touch the heart of any mother.

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Best foot forward

Spread across two levels of retail space, Shoe Gallery at Yas Mall is a fashion-forward concept with a head-turning new take on shoe fashion. The store boasts a collection of 100 plus fashion brands under one roof with an exceptional mix of in-house brands such as ALDO, ALDO Accessories, Inglot, Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Dune, Nine West, alongside other established labels such as Ralph Lauren, Crocs, Guess, Nike, Adidas, VANS, Timberland, Lacoste, Converse, French Connection to name few.

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Ohlala Boutiques

n a c i r e m A Classic

all. w open in Al Wahda M no is en ur La h lp Ra by sual erican store developed CHAPS ranges from ca e, m ho d an CHAPS, the iconic Am ily m fa e current llection for the entir signature pieces with a to il, ta A complete lifestyle co de to n io nt te Drawing on e of ease and at hed tailored clothing. lis po sportswear, with a sens ’s en m d an s se es is lessly stylish dr presents fashion that re S AP CH , na fashion twist, to effort ica er , from nautical to Am fresh. authentic inspirations confident, spirited and

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The maseRati

granTurismo Photogenic on the outside, oozing with luxury on the inside, Editor in Chief, Georgie Bradley takes to the roads in this exotic Italian beauty

A

llow me to get an embarrassing truth out the way: I got my license just two and a half years ago – five years later than my bosom buddies did. It had nothing to do with fear, but lack of time and urge to actually get it. But when I did come round to the idea (and not wanting to be a geriatric driver) my brotherin-law gave me one of the most prophetic pieces of advice re my delayed accession into motorhood: “do your lessons, pass the test and then learn to drive.” Pearls I tell you, pearls. I learnt to drive in London where the roads are choking with cars, maneuvers are tight squeezes and there’s very little mercy. Having a car in London is about as useful as not having a car in The Gulf. So effectively my driver’s license became just another form of identification, until I moved to this region and I started (one year after passing my test) to put my dormant driving skills to use.

On an unassuming Sunday morning, I get a call asking me to test drive a Maserati GranTurismo. Casual. RSVPed in less than fives minutes, naturally. My history with cars is limited to my beloved, trusty and does98

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”The lipstick red Poltrona Frau leather is super sleek and elegant, the surfaces are distinctly shiny and the dashboard features subtle chrome rings around the buttons” what-it-says-on-the-tin, Jeep Cherokee. So as far as luxury sports cars go, the Maserati GranTurismo is a choice drive.

Being used to feeling high up in my car, it was a novelty stepping down into the two-door GranTurismo – the seat allows for all sizes (me being bird-like of limb) to accommodate. Let’s be honest here, it would not be a luxury Italian product if it didn’t have a lot of stitched leather - there’s ample amounts. The lipstick red Poltrona Frau leather is deliciously sleek and elegant, the surfaces are distinctly shiny and the dashboard features subtle chrome rings around the buttons – all of which are pictorial and user friendly.

Diva Drives

Key in the ignition, engine started and into sports mode – the boy button if you will. The aural qualities are exceptionally powerful and can silence everyone on the road as you blast past them. You are the centre of attention in a Maserati GranTurismo, trust me. I decided to go onto unending stretches of road in the desert so I could do some unabashed acceleration, hair cascading in the wind and everything – so naughty but nice.

Now onto some technical bits and bobs: the larger 4.7-litre V8 of the GranTurismo Sport, which I drove, produces 460hp at 7000rpm and 520Nm of torque, peaking at 4750rpm. Its core is a 90-degree, 4691cc V8 engine that is fully balanced and uses five main bearings. The aluminium alloy engine contains a hardened and tempered steel crankshaft and its 32 valves are operated by chain-driven, double overhead camshafts. The steering and handling is so precise that the second you think about turning, the car turns. The super grippy wheel is beautifully light too. The Maserati GranTurismo is stunning in looks, fast beyond your wildest imagination and let’s everyone know you’ve made it. I could get used to this… www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Shoe Gallery Opening Apparel Group, added yet another feather to its cap by launching its largest shoe store in the region, Shoe Gallery at Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi. The store is a fashionforward concept with a headturning new take on shoe fashion and boasts a collection of 100 plus fashion brands under one roof with an exceptional mix of in-house brands.

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The Galleria Celebrates Chinese New Year The Galleria on Al Maryah Island celebrated Chinese New Year, Year of the Monkey with the launch of a remarkable art exhibition of the acclaimed artist Jun Ma. H.E. Hua Chang - Ambassador of The People’s Republic of China in the United Arab Emirates was there for the official ribbon cutting ceremony.

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Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show Esposa Boutique held a memorable event at their boutique to showcase their SS16 Bridal and evening wear. Top socialites, media and other glamorous invitees mingled and got an exclusive preview of the latest bridal collection by Monique Lhuillier, along with a viewing of the evening wear collection. Gorgeous, airy and romantic, Monique Lhuillier’s 2016 wedding dresses are inspired by the classic story of Alice in Wonderland.

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Jimmy Choo Opens in Mall of the Emirates Jimmy Choo has opened its first dual gender store in the Middle East within the Mall of the Emirates. The newly renovated store brings the Mall of Emirates boutique up to date and continues the global unveiling of the new Jimmy Choo store concept designed in partnership with David Collins Studio. The huge store encompasses Jimmy Choo Women’s collections including eyewear, sunglasses, small leather goods and soft accessories.

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H&M SS16 Studio Collection H&M held a preview of their Studio SS16 Womenswear and Menswear Collection. Key items were earthy yarn-dyed blazers, functional sport leggings, spaghetti strap dresses and patchwork jeans and a super cute picnic rug made from fabrics like silk, organic cotton and Tencel. This bohochic collection is a must-have for summer.

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Yas Waterworld’s 3rd Birthday Yas Waterworld, the world’s only Emirati themed waterpark celebrated three years since its launch and looks forward to a fun-filled 2016. Cementing itself as a favourite entertainment destination in the region, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi saw guests flock to the park throughout its third year of operations to enjoy its world’s first offerings.

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Miss Ohlala

e t t e u q i t e a Inst s Miss Ohlala reveal s for the unwritten rule ugh living your life thro square boxes

Instagram is my guilty pleasure. It’s the first thing I check every morning when I wake up and it’s the last thing I check when I go to bed. Astounded at how many of my friends are not on Instagram, I’ve decided this month to extol the virtues of Instagram whilst also highlighting some common pitfalls to avoid.

The advantage of Instagram over Facebook is that it is your personal, curated feed of beautiful photographs, with limited text.

You choose exactly who you want to follow (you can unfollow people at any time). And you can search for hashtags that interest you; my current favourites being: #orangery #fashionillustration #flowershop #millinery #ss16 #wallpaper As much as I love Instagram, I also have some serious pet peeves.

I am not interested in seeing any more pictures of people sitting in bed, under 100 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets in luxury 5 star hotels, with an immaculate breakfast tray on their lap, and with their tanned and toned pins sticking out from beneath them. Especially when it’s highly likely that the yummy croissants are going to go to waste as they are on a no-carb diet.

Even if you are drop dead gorgeous, please don’t make every picture you post a #selfie. Even Cara Delevingne, who is beautiful, thinks of more interesting posts. The laid back videos of her dancing and singing with friends always make me laugh.

Whilst on the subject of videos, it’s fine to post a video as long as it is interesting. Please don’t post a video where a mere photo would work just as well. Check out @lecollecteur for some fabulously quirky video posts. A video of you driving to work, albeit in the UAE rain, is never interesting and is also likely illegal.

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The critics are divided when it comes to food pics. If you’re at a Michelin star restaurant and the dessert looks like a piece of art then yes, it’s probably acceptable to post a pic, although your date may well question your priorities in life. However, please don’t snapshot every meal that you make at home, especially if it consists of nothing more than a lettuce leaf and a few carrot sticks... blah blah, paleo, blah blah...eat clean blah blah.

I love some of the collage apps that are currently trending, but my advice would be to use these in moderation unless it is your trademark. Lastly, as a word of caution, buying followers is never cool. Just don’t go there.

Need inspiration on who to follow?...

If you like to keep abreast of fashion trends, like the whimsical Haute Couture SS16 collections of Zuhair Murad, Elie Saab, Valentino and Ralph and Russo, follow the likes of @fashion_curator. I’m still dreaming of those snake headpieces by Harumi Klossowska for Valentino.

My favourite trend spotters include @desertmannequin @streetstyledubai @welldressedfemme.

If you like mood boards, and are interested in the interplay between fashion and art you will adore @whereiseefashion

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Let us pamper you with style and discretion.

Let us make your stay be anything but foreign.

Let us promise you’ll never feel the same way about staying at Club Level again.

Experience the new level of luxury with Club Level accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Club Level Lounge, is an exclusive retreat of supreme comfort, convenience and privacy.

Indulge in five complimentary food and beverage presentations daily while captivating in the serene surroundings and views atop the 23rd floor.

For reservations, call The Ritz-Carlton, Doha at +974 4484 8000 or visit us at ritzcarlton.com/doha.

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