Ohlala Qatar January 2017 by Ohlala Magazine

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

FEEL GOOD What To Do, Where To Go

FRESH START

ULTIMATE BEAUTY TIPS

PICK ME UP The Fashion Hot List

COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL START THE YEAR WITH HAPPY HUES

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WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2017 | ISSUE 67 QATAR | QR20

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Contents Ohlala

Getting Colourful Style Focus: Happy Women Bring Out The Blues Sizzle In Orange

Ben Amun

Designer Focus The Sublime: Tory Burch ora Make It Pop: Manish Ar le da an Sc ia A Look At Victor 18

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Happy Lives Travel Escapes: Maldives k Charters Local Woman: Lady Pin a Miss Ohlal

New BEGINNINGS Colour Me: Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter Doha Renewed Shine On: Style Icon

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January 2017 issue 67

Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

Publishing Director Edward Smith

General Manager

Georgie Bradley

Local Editor

Creative DIrector

sales Manager Badir Bechara

Editor-in-Chief

Sofia Graniello Contributors Angela Beitz Bridget Gleeson

Paula Leal Graphic Designers Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bindaina

Hussein Zreik

Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali

Polly Byles Victoria Production Manager Neil Mahmood Distribution Manager

Photography Contributors

Website

Abshar Kader

Melek Yildirimtekin

Faras Ghani

Ajit Kumar COVER Image Victoria Scandale

Accountants Credits image Joshua Sanders

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: sofia@ohlala-magazine.com: georgie@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: edward@ohlala-magazine.com | General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: Qatar +974 4441 8415/+974 4421 3089, 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, Ohlala Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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Editor’s Letter P

erhaps it’s because we are in the Gulf, I’m not sure, but I love January. I love it for the fact that we don’t have the blues here – unless you’re one to fall into a post-festive slump, it’s a beautiful place to be this time of year. But I still sympathise with the above drop, so that is why our first issue of 2017 is dedicated to happiness in the form of colour. We love an excuse to do something visually strong and eye-catching here at Ohlala, so we really went for it with our style pages. Colour can be a daunting prospect for some (me) as you can come off being too clownish, ill-informed and questionable about your pairings. We give you a base colour and the key pieces of each hue to have in your wardrobe and then show you how to mix and match. So it’s a bit more formulaic but allows you to make smart and even alternative choices to what you’d normally gravitate to. Our designer focus section sees the incomparable Manish Arora in the spotlight for his sugary sweet use of colours in his collections – a designer who has fused his Indian heritage with his Parisian sensibilities to create fashion that is exceptionally vibrant. We also nod to Tory Burch, who never shies away from colour (in fact, her use of colour is fearless), and we explore her SS17 collection which taps into many a bohemian vibe and makes you feel warm, sunny and hopeful. You’ll find the rest of the issue is equally as spirited, aiming to give you the tools and confidence to put you on the right track for the start of the year. We also indulge (for your purposes, of course) in soul-feeding spa treatments and fine dining that will blow you out the water this year. Never has there been a better time for self-care, than now. So let’s put away any of last year’s woes and hit refresh. Enjoy the issue and I hope it adds a spring to your step.

Georgie Bradley 22

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Editor in Chief

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First Word

Cliché New Year’s

Resolutions

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F é n eO

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New Year, New You? As I really sit down and actually think of possible New Year resolutions, I also enter into panic mode: Have I ever achieved any of my previous resolutions? No, not one. What is it about resolutions that gets everyone so hyped about, is it the fact that it’s the ONLY time of the year where we sit down and actually think of that much needed diet, or just maybe of how in bad shape we are? Whatever your New Year resolution may be, make it happen this year, whether it’s to hit the gym more often, or be kinder to your body. I for instance, I’m sticking to being happy (yes, I am that cliché). I’ve decided to stick with the ‘after 5pm carbs’ and cancel that Zumba class at 8pm – which by the way I never attended. With that being said, if you’re a foodie lover, Polly our food columnist hits Sabai Thai Restaurant at The Westin Doha Hotel 24

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& Spa for all things Asian including exotic spices and flavours that got her craving for more. Also, for those who perhaps decided to invest in some ‘me-time’ we give you the best spa treatments in the city to unwind and enjoy this month. And for the shopping lovers, Mall Of Qatar just opened recently with fabulous store, cafes, restaurants and a hotel with amazing innovation never before seen in town. Whatever your choice is, we’ve got you covered with another great edition of Ohlala.

Sofia Graniello

, Local Editor

For the Modern Middle-Eastern woman THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

OVER 65 LOOKS TO

OHLALA’S WOMEN OF THE YEAR

MAKE YOU FEEL PHENOMENAL

starring VICTORIA’S SECRET THE NEW LOVE IN HER LIFE

WINTER GLAMOUR THE MUST-BUY COCKTAIL DRESS

GAME CHANGING THE SHOES & BAGS YOU NEED NOW

BEST DRESSED

FASHION LIST 2014

THE ART OF

OHLALA! DECEMBER 2013

MEGAWATT FASHION DECEMBER 2013 OHLALA!

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WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2015 | ISSUE 122 BAHRAIN BD2. KSA SR20

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MAY 2014 | ISSUE 35

QATAR QR20

Available in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain & Qatar THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

MEDIEVAL

MEETS

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

Hot for Winter

WITH SHOE DESIGNER LUCY CHOI

A FABULOUS GUIDE TO THE NEW SEASON’S TRENDS

THE MIDDLE EAST’S QUEEN OF SPADES

Colour Me Crazy

CATWALK TRENDS

GET RED

KATY PERRY

EXCLUSIVE

GLORIA ESTEFAN

CARPET READY

A SOIRÉE WITH THE STARS

SETS THE STANDARDS

AT BAHRAIN’S BEST

Haute Couture

DECEMBER 2013 OHLALA!

JANUARY 2014 | ISSUE 110

DINE IN

STYLE

A TALE OF EXTREMES

Basking in Royal Allure WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM

MODERNITY

BAHRAIN BD2 | KSA SR20

OHLALA! DECEMBER 2013

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WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM MARCH 2015 | ISSUE 124 BAHRAIN BD2. KSA SR20

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Style Icon

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Also AvAilAble in ... Abu DhAbi & QAtAr

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H a p p y

W o m a n

Fashion in January means renewing your love for bright and sprightly hues and embracing an upbeat sense of self. We show you how to wear each colour in a fresh and modern way. The bold choice, is the right choice

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bedouin

Style

Elisabetta franchi

delpozo

michael michael kors

Focus

The Key Pieces Royal blue to

joseph

powder blue, the spectrum is forever chic

and sophisticated look

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bint thani

Mix & Match

Play off the intensity of blue with some ‘shining’

delpozo

Splendid @ net-a-porter.com

tory burch

marco de vincenzo @ moda operandi

inge christopher

larkspur & hawk @ net-a-porter.com Mansur Gavril

The Finishing Touches Play between a casual 30

Céline

Bring a touch of cool frost to your wardrobe

hussein bazaza

Altuzarra

Out Of The Blue

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The Finishing Touches Dress up your outfit with

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these pop pieces

alberta ferretti

beaufille @ net-a-porter.com

eddie borgo @ net-a-porter.com

Rag & Bone

marques almeida

percossi papi @ net-a-porter.com

Fendi

johanna oritz @ net-a-porter.com

Rochas

The Key Pieces Fall in love with Diane von furstenberg

Cushnie et ochs @ net-a-porter.com

carolina herrera

Gucci

Focus

elie saab

Dolce & Gabbana

Style

these deeply romantic pieces

The green light

Be lovely and lush with these emerald hues

Keep it strong, simple and confident

Mix & Match

Rick Owens

Eres @ net-a-porter.com

Apiece apart Paul Smith

The Key Pieces These oozing

sunset-gorgeous separates are uber wow

orange Crush

Nothing says force of nature like this hue

kate moss for equipment

Tomas maier @ net-a-porter.com

CĂŠline

m2m

The Finishing Touches Whether burnt or flame

Endemage

loewe

Dinossaur Designs @ net-a-porter..com

Mix & Match Complement the magic of orange with added earthiness

current Elliott @ net-a-porter.com

ChloĂŠ

mark cross @ net-a-porter.com

orange, heads will turn

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Style

gucci

The Key Pieces Create a serious

J Crew

Embrace the look of an unforgettable siren

allure of red with stand out accessories

Mr by Man Repeller@ net-a-porter.com

Mix & Match

Gucci

Make the red pop with animal print and quieter tones

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Stella Mc Cartney

The Finishing Touches Complete the Gucci

Lanvin

Katerina Makriyianni @ Net-a-porter.com

Claudie pierlot

Chanel

red hot Woman

gucci

entrance with scarlet fever numbers

Slpendid @ net-a-porter.com

MCQ Alexander McQueen

Valentino

Alice & Olivia

Marchesa

Focus

pilotto symphony

Alexander mcqueen

Roland mouret

The Key Pieces Dusty rose to

phony Zero maria carnejo @ sym

kate spade

T-wang @ symphony

Antonio berardi @symphony

Roland mouret

bright fuchsia, this delicious hue is ultra-sweet

pretty in pink

Play off pink shades with florals or daring blacks

lk bennett

valentino

kate spade

valentino

noon by noor

marchesa

phillip lim

for chic innocence

Mix & Match

Maison michel @ net-a-porter.com

The Finishing Touches Add a powdery pink

lk bennett

Add some bright feminine pink to your look

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Michael kors

Style

roberto cavalli

victoria by victoria beckham

Kenzo

Focus

The Key Pieces For women

Roland Mouret

who like to show whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boss around here

Madewell @ net-a-porter.com

Get inspired by this most opulent shade

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these are impossibly sultry

prada

Mix & Match

Jazz and spice up the tone with loud print Valentino

The Finishing Touches For the mood maven,

jimmy choo

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;autre chose @ stylebop

Amrapali @ net-a-porter.com

ralph lauren

Dries Van Noten

Purple Patch

proenza schouler tibi

paule ka Cedric charlier @ net-a-porter.com

The Key Pieces Bolster your

spirits with yellow fever and have fun

Yellow & Mellow marni Jacquemus @ net-a-porter.com

Mix & Match

Counter-act the vibrancy with more subdued hues

paule ka

stand in their own right of fabulousness

marni

kayu @ net-a-porter.com

The Finishing Touches These electric numbers

johanna ortiz @ moda operandi

moda operandi

gianvito rossi

versace

gucci

Eye-catching pieces for a happy you

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Live. Love. Life. 38

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Tory Burch is a woman’s woman. We say this because her SS17 and Holiday Resort are ultra-feminine, polished and intrinsically comfortable – just looking at her designs makes you feel calm, elevated and happy – all the things we women want to feel and stand for when we dress up or down www.ohlala-magazine.com

oday’s woman, no matter her heritage or locality, will naturally gravitate towards a Tory Burch look. It’s hard to pin point, but there’s everything you could want in her designs. Mesmeric prints (that can fix your gaze for long periods of time), sumptuous pearl embellishments, strong strokes of colour alongside playful piecing of fabrics and an overall element of positive Feng Shui. Every piece is well thought out and unique and makes you feel so good. For Spring/Summer 2017, it’s about creating style synergy between the U. S’s East Coast and West Coast. “We begin out East, hostess chic to cool prep. From there, we continue to the free-spirited beach towns of the West Coast. It’s about contrast: graphic motifs and engineered prints, rope and rickrack, pearls and macramé, mules and moccasins, structured and bohemian ease. It’s relaxed and effortless...quintessential American style,” says Tory. When it comes to the silhouettes, it’s about structured tailoring. Think empire waists, widelegged sailor pants and tomboy blazers, which soften as the collection moves West with breezy dresses, peasant blouses and board shorts. You can expect to see voluminous hostess skirts with sweeping hemlines that are paired with crop tops that play on 40

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“Every piece is well thought out and unique and makes you feel so good”

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Designer

Focus

proportion while tunics and caftans round out the collection, putting the emphasis on effortless style. As for the colour palette, it’s all about orchid, pink and green, a classic preppy pairing, where ocean blues and bold reds give way to sunwashed oranges, yellows and periwinkle blues, balanced by soft neutrals of white, ivory and sand. And with this palette comes graphic a graphic garden motif, regatta stripes and nautical prints, followed by bohemian batiks and patchwork florals. A placed wave print subtly references the surf scene and establishes a maritime symbol. The season’s coastal contrast carries through to a mix of fabrics —from linen burlap and cotton knits to silk shantung and delicate fil coupe—and embellishments. Appliqued patches, rickrack. and pearl details provide dimension while fringed macramé and criss-cross lacing lend an easy, undone vibe. Metallic threadwork and moonstones add shimmer and shine.

“It’s all about structured tailoring. Think empire waists, wide-legged sailor pants and tomboy blazers” Topping and finishing off every look, you’ll find that the relaxed, effortless mood extends down to the accessories, from mules and moccasins to pearl-embellished slides and ruffled sneakers from Tory Sport. A convertible handbag with wooden handles brings nostalgic appeal while jewellery draws inspiration from the sea with articulated fish collars and cuffs and cowrie shell charms. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Designer

Focus

make it

Manish Arora is one of the most unique and auspicious designers of our time. Georgie Bradley sits with the Indian designer to talk Paris, colour and the joys of life It’s difficult to articulate exactly what makes a great designer

but when you first meet Manish Arora, you feel like he’s got ‘it’. That ‘it’ comes in the form of good vibes, a humble demeanor and friend-toall conversation. During an intimate lunch at The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay ahead of his evening Resort 2017 show at SAKS Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain, he walks in with an entourage but you wouldn’t be able to single him out at first. But his all-black ensemble is decidedly statement-making and the melodies of the chinking charm bracelets adorning his wrists give you that ‘aha’ moment. His voice turns heads. From a “little thing like me” you don’t expect

a deep-throated, gravel. If it wasn’t for his fantastic social warmth and the ability to make everyone feel he’s interested in them, (“Hello there, so great to see you, love what you’re wearing. Welcome, welcome, welcome!”) you would easily quake in your shoes. He is a smoker, explanation number one. Genetics (his father) lends to explanation number two. Beyond that, he is simply blessed with a baritone voicebox that is more alluring than intimidating. Manish calls Paris and Delhi his home. You don’t get more polar opposite than that. “Paris is the most beautiful city in the world,” he says. It was the Bombay born designer’s “dominant work” in Delhi www.ohlala-magazine.com

“The social temperature of the room soars with chat about his love for Paris” during his training and Delhi Fashion Week that got him shooting high in the fashion world and ultimately leading him to London Fashion Week in 2005 after his “different” style was picked up by the attending British Fashion Council. The fashion crowds in London (coming from the world over) gathered in their haute droves and excitable chatter continued until that finally culminated in a move to the fashion capital: Paris. In 2011 Manish was appointed as the creative director of Paco Rabanne, a French fashion house, and he designed two successful collections for them. His collections are sold globally through wellknown stores such as Galeries Lafayette, Joyce, Maria Luisa, Saks 5th Avenue, Selfridges and now available even in the Brand’s first flagship store on Rue Rouget de L’isle, Paris. The social temperature of the room soars with chat about his love for Paris. We all listen in with child-like amazement. He loves everything about it, claiming there is no ugly part of it. Although he’s always travelling between Europe and Asia, Manish’s world is all Paris. As far as career development, Paris has taught Manish “when to stop”. “If I was just an Indian designer, based in India, I would be really over-the-top. But in Paris, every millimeter counts and you’re constantly learning. The moment you think you know everything, it’s over. Fashion is a job. It’s like being a doctor or lawyer. Fashion is about being disciplined and on-time,” says Manish. Being based there in Paris has given him good grounding. “When I began to move more internationally with my work, I wanted to take my country with me – I didn’t want to lose my sense of self and create strictly Western aesthetics. But Paris has also taught me to refine my work,” he notes. Going back to the true meaning of resort, Manish brings a wardrobe that embodies a time to cut loose from winter’s real life and relax in his Resort 17 collection. Drawing from

“Life is so beautiful, as a brand we believe in this and hope our customers feel it too”

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“Manish brings a wardrobe that embodies a time to cut loose from winter’s real life”

the lushness of a paradisiac seaside for his inspiration, Manish envisions his season as a perfect holiday moment where everything is right in the world. Just as moods are on the upswing as a holiday nears, this upbeat collection encapsulates the fairy tales we tell ourselves before going away, with visions of endless beaches and perfect snapshots. You’ll also find, developed exclusively for SAKS 5th Avenue Bahrain, abayas and kaftans, to cater to the local customer too. Coming from a wildly different land, Manish has managed to marry up the colourful aesthetics you’d expect from the Indian culture with the sophistication of Parisian wear – without compromising on his heritage. His latest Resort 17 collection sprinkles with joy and colour – the world in which Manish loves to live in – “life is so beautiful, as a brand we believe in this and hope our customers feel it too.”

Designer

Focus

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Manish envisions his season as a perfect holiday moment where everything is right in the worldâ&#x20AC;?

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A Touch Of Frost 48

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Victoria Scandale.

A name you need to know. The French dwelling, Polish native has a joie de vivre attitude to fashion which shines through with her spirited personality. Victoria often utilises fabric combinations, contrasting linings and geometric cuts to produce separates that are noticeably luxurious but are equally wearable in dayto-day life. With strong values of individualism and independence, the Victoria Scandale woman embodies a polished grace.

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‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357 56

Mob. 3377 2735 P.O. Box: 7346 Doha - Qatar

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ohlala arabia.indd 1

10/22/15 2:30 PM

Christian Siriano

Beauty Refresh Everything you need to know for a new you

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Christian siriano

Beauty Buzz Air Brush, Kink & Kisses, Marc Jacobs Beauty

Bold Strokes Lipstick Guerlain

A colorful approach to polish off your look

Totally cute pallette, Too faced

Meteorites Guerlain

Stick Foundation, Anastasia Beverly Hills

Shimmering Skin Perfector, BECCCA Portland square, Nailsinc

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Maison margiela

Naeem Khan

mascara V for Volume, Sephora

victoria beckham, estĂŠe lauder

Moodboard:

colorful eyeliner, Sephora

Moschino

marni

C is for Colour

Fendi

Beauty Editor, Sofia Graniello shares her favourite items to rock this season for that ultimate and illustrious, striking pose

rouge matte, sephora up front personal OPI

nuit kajal attractive BI, sephora

jason wu

g Rin e ya ac Vit Vers

zac posen www.ohlala-magazine.com

Beauty Insight

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Tarte

Comestics Undone

We catch up with Maureen Kelly, founder and CEO of Tarte Cosmetics for a fun Q&A on her brand, interests and beauty

How would you introduce yourself to those who don’t know you? I’m a makeup enthusiast, Starbucks lover, entrepreneur, and beach bum! What is your earliest beauty memory? My mother never wore a ton of makeup, but she has very fair skin like me, so she always liked to have a little rouge on her cheeks. I remember sitting on the foot of her bed and watching her apply it every day – I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it! That memory definitely stayed with me as the inspiration behind our original blushes. As a self-described ‘Makeup Junkie,’ what is your definition of beauty? I think that beauty is really personal, and we can use makeup as a way to express our creativity to the world. It doesn’t matter if you wear false lashes every day or barely have time to toss a lip balm in your bag on your way out the door, the confidence behind whatever look you’re rocking is your real beauty. What’s your favourite product you’ve launched so far? Even after 10 years on the market, my all-time favourite product is still our lights, camera, lashes mascara! It really is like a pushup bra for your lashes, and I never leave the house without it! From our newer launches, I’m totally obsessed with our new tartiest pro glow palette. The colours are cooler toned so it mimics real light reflection, and the microshimmer powders can build up to a serious highlight.

What’s one beauty step you never miss in your makeup routine? I never leave the house without mascara! Whether I’m running out for a latte or picking up my kids from school, just a few swipes of mascara can make me look much more awake and put together. When I have time to do a more complete look, I can never forget about my brows! I always say that not doing your brows is like hanging a picture without the frame - a good set of brows balances the face and makes everything look finished. What brought you to start Tarte Cosmetics? Long before Tarte, I was constantly on the hunt for natural products that would fit in my lifestyle. I was frustrated with the few options on the market because they either didn’t perform or didn’t have pretty, stylish packaging that I would want to carry around. I knew there had to be women like me looking for the same thing, so I worked to create a line that did just that. Now, 16 years later we’re still committed to providing good-for-you glamour that truly works. Are Tarte products suitable for all skin types? All of Tarte’s products have been tested by dermatologists and real women, and our skincare products are 100% hypoallergenic. So no matter your skin type, you can find the perfect Tarte product for you. Name a favourite makeup style/trend you wish would make a comeback? I first started working on Tarte in the late 90s so I still have a few favourite trends from back then. I’m so glad that nude and brown lips made a comeback this year. I love rocking them with a statement choker! What future plans have you got for Tarte in the new year? We have LOTS of exciting things planned for Tarte around the world in 2017. Follow us on social @tartecosmetics to be the first to see our exciting newness each season!

“All of Tarte’s products have been tested by dermatologists and real women. Our skincare products are 100% hypoallergenic” www.ohlala-magazine.com

Beauty Focus

Decoding

Chanel

Gear up for the season ahead with vibrant and neutral hues as Chanel takes us on a colourful ride with long-lasting nail polish. 62

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Beauty Talk

The Products You Need To Know About Feel expensive and give your beauty routine a reboot with these body and face classics

1. Clarins BB Beauty Perfector | 2. Bottega Veneta Essence Aromatique Scrub | 3. Shiseido Super Refining Essence | 4. MAC Prep plus Prime Essential 5. Shiseido Future Solution Lx | 6. Shiseido Vital perfection sculpting Lift Cream | 7. La Prairie Skin Caviar Essence In Lotion www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Get Into A New Routine

Beauty Column

It takes 21 days to form or break a habit. This could be anything from exercising daily, cutting out sugar or generally becoming more active. The first three weeks of a new routine may seem more difficult, but once you have the process down, it becomes much easier. Create a workout or eating plan and stick to it. After a month, it won’t be a question of whether you can or can’t, but it will become something that you just do and hey, you may even start to love it. Bonus.

Make Realistic Changes Sometimes all you need are small changes and minor tweaks. You don’t want to end up being disappointed by setting the bar too high too quickly. By tweaking your workout and eating routines, you can reach your goals more quickly. Weights, along with short intense bouts of cardio will give you faster results than running or lifting alone. By eating smaller portions five to six times a day and trading simple sugars for complex carbs that are high in fiber, you’ll see results quickly too.

Set Your Goals Writing goals down and the reasons why you are setting them, as well as having specific time frames for achieving them is a key step in keeping your resolutions. Achieve your goals by ‘having a set plan and guidelines’ for accomplishing them. Don’t go extreme when creating a resolution, whether it’s regarding organising, diet, or exercise. Saying “I am never eating bread again” is ridiculous. It’s better to say “I am going to eat bread in portion control and make it whole wheat.” If you can accomplish your goals, you’re more apt to continue working on them.

Preparation Is Key

A Clean

Slate It’s a new year which means a chance for a new start. Angela Beitz shares her tips for getting healthy, fit and organised

We’ve all had those days where we eat well because we are super organised and then it gets busy and hectic and it all falls apart by eating a burger for lunch and snacking on cake and chocolate during the 3pm slump. Preparing meals ahead of time and making small snacks such as crunchy crudités, a handful of almonds, berries, a green juice or air-popped popcorn will keep you from reaching to that bag of chips or sweets.

Rest Up Sleeping Beauty had the right idea, it’s been proven time and time again that beauty rest is both real and necessary. The closer you can get to hitting that eight-hour goal, the more likely your skin is to be clear, radiant, and fresh come morning, not to mention your mood! To step up your game even further, take advantage of the time by applying before-bed products that need an extended, uninterrupted amount of time to work their magic, like a beauty-balm or rich night cre www.ohlala-magazine.com

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The Heavenly Maldives Forget preconceived ideas of the Maldives being reserved for giddy-in-love newlyweds. The Maldives are also a magical playground with lots of fun and activities. Edward Smith, picked up two different styles of escapes to reveal the broad range of activities the archipelago has to offer. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Travel Escapes

kandolhu island - ocean pool villa

Kandolhu

The Best Kept Secret For people interested in extreme privacy and natural wonders,

Kandolhu is a treasure. Located in northern Maldives and accessible only by plane, the island is a 25-minute flight from Malé. Intensely intimate, Kandolhu is the essence of a barefoot-chic island resort with its only 30 secluded villas scattered in and around its sandy coast. On this tiny island (it takes less than five minutes to walk around it), all the villas are loaded with luxury amenities and an incredible attention to detail. Even down to the music playlist customised for different mood and time of the day, designer furniture sofas by Rolf Benz or bathtub in the water villas with a view of the sea beyond, simply incredible! The lagoon is almost tailor-made for swimming and snorkelling is “All the villas are loaded with luxury amenities literally right on your doorstep. Skip incredible attention to detail” the hassle of boat rides and offshore excursions, jump in from your private jetty and you can spot some parrotfishes, reef sharks, eagle rays, occasional moray eel, you name it. There are also number of resident turtles who live on the reef and are easily approached by snorkelers. More serious divers can partake in the PADI training programme (the dive school offers PADI and SSI certified courses for beginners) and explore the Ari atoll, a spot that most divers agree still offers the best diving in Maldives. Dorianne and Walter, the dive instructors, even proposed fluorescent night dives, a must-do for enthusiasts for big thrills. And for a perfect end to a beautiful day at Kandolhu we highly recommend the sunset cruise on board of the island private sailing yacht ‘Ari Explorer’ and last but not least don’t miss the foie gras at Olives restaurant, one of the four à la carte restaurants available in the resort.

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and an

kandolhu resort

Ari Explorer The yacht of Kandolhu Island

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Travel Escapes

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kurumba - sunset & dolphins

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Travel Escapes kurumba - cooking demonstration at hamakaze

Kurumba

The multifaceted resort Now let’s take a look

at one of the country’s (oldest - first resort to open in the Maldives) grandest resort, Kurumba. It is also the closest resorts from Malé, just 10-minutes by speedboat from the airport, so it’s an ideal choice for a short stay. Like Kandolhu this resort offers the most modern comfort and amenities and half or fullboard (breakfast and dinner) packages as well, so you don’t have to worry Imagine an over-water open kitchen bar with panoramic views of the about anything and enjoy the moment. We loved our beachfront deluxe Indian ocean, few baby sharks swimming around in the background and bungalows which offers private terraces and daybeds perfect for dozing in the in-house chef teaching you how to prepare a ‘rihaakuru’—a tunathe late afternoon sun. based thick brown paste—an essential item in Maldivian cuisine. It was The outside enclosed shower even further enhanced the tropical an incredible experience! rainforest feel of the resort. Note that lessons for children can also be arranged upon request With one eight top restaurants, including Arabian, Chinese, Indian, Italian, and a Japanese counter, Kurumba Maldives is a classic resort that sets the standard for the rest of the “Imagine an over-water open kitchen bar with panoramic archipelago. views of the Indian ocean” One of the top five must do’s on Kurumba is the Sunset dolphin cruise. After a beautiful 20-minute breathtaking boat ride, you can see many as Kurumba is very family friendly destination and offers a wide range dolphins swimming alongside the boat and some others flipping in the of activities for kids and grown ups alike. Kids’ clubs are relatively rare air! It’s truly an amazing sight. in Maldives, especially among luxury resorts, so it is worth mentioning Spotting them is one thing-capturing them on camera is another! the resort offers great kids amenities with Majaa Kids Club, which offers The trick is to keep your camera focussed and ready for the shot. And a playground and supervised activities like face painting, crab racing, yes, it is so gratifying once you manage to catch a good shot of a dolphin treasure hunts for 4-12 years and parents will be free to enjoy some time jumping above the water! alone too! One of the resort’s mission is to introduce Maldivian culture to its “On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it”, The guests through a myriad of activities, cooking class being one of them. Maldives perfectly illustrates this beautiful statement by French author Jules Renard. However, the archipelago nowadays attracts over a million visitors each year and with its second international airport now open, Gan in Addu Atoll and a few new properties in the pipelines, things may not remain quite so idyllic and quiet for much longer. So go soon if you want to keep ahead of the crush.

Best Time To Visit Even though weather is warm year around, the best weather is between November and April. January to March are the driest months, with little rain and low humidity, making this peak season at the resorts (higher rates). However in the last couple of years the weather pattern has been much harder to predict so experts now advise that it may be worth taking your chances in the wet season or during the transitional months, especially if you want to take advantage of seasonally lower hotel rates. For surf aficionados the season is from March to October, which is convenient as resorts will be at their cheapest from May and less crowded! www.ohlala-magazine.com

Local Woman

The Pink Lady Charters

If you covet pink, then you’re in for a treat. But if you fancy luxurious leisure, then you better get your engines pumping. Captain Bianca Cragg from the Pink Lady Charters chats about this one-of-a-kind project that is currently taking over Doha

ow did the Pink Lady Charters begin? Pink Lady Charters was conceived through observations and market research specifically in the local Qatari market, with an understanding on how local Qatari’s (women and families) spend their leisure time. The concept focus concentrated on the Qatari’s love and deep history with the sea and it became apparent very quickly that Doha, in particular, has been developed in/around the water, so we looked at 74

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how we could capitalise on this deep-rooted love to the benefit of local women and their families. Why did you create a yacht charter specifically for women? Doha has +/- 1,200 berths in four dedicated marina developments. Inherently, this tells the market that Doha is investing in its marine infrastructure. However, there was little to no facilities for women or families to enjoy the benefits, as local captains and crew were all male. The only solution was to provide a dedicated yacht operated by an all-female captain and crew, for women and their families (including their husbands), where they can relax in

“I have been a captain, first mate, engineer, deckhand and stewardess on multiple boats for many years within the marine industry since I started working” complete privacy, as if they were at home! What is your role with the Pink Lady Charters? I am the Captain of our Yacht “Ventura”, a 24m Ferretti 80 Raised Pilot House. Ferretti Yachts are considered amongst the best-built yachts in the world, which our clients and guests experience and appreciate whilst on-board. There are plenty charter ‘boats’ in the market, however, very few will offer the same level of comfort as our Ferretti 80. As well as the Captain for the boat, I am actively involved in the marketing and promotion of Pink Lady Charters. This results in me meeting with various organisations and individuals so that we can create a charter that meets their exact requirements. What does the luxurious experience offer and what can we expect? One of the many unique features with chartering through Pink Lady Charters and our Ventura Gulf Yachting business, is it is run by marine industry professionals. The management and operational team, through 30 years of experience in the marine industry (predominantly in Europe), therefore understand the wants, desires and needs of its clients. Pink Lady Charters is a flexible charter operation. We cater for almost any and all our

clients’ requests. If a client requires 5 star service and full catering with our local hotel partners (Kempinksy and Hilton for example) we can cater for almost all menu requests. Our services are limited to our clients’ imagination. Birthday parties, no problem! Musical entertainment can be catered for with a female DJ, karaoke machine, or as simple as our own sophisticated on-board AV system. Female pamper days are a regular request, with services provided by trusted 3rd party service providers. Pink Lady Charters can do as little or as much as a client

requires. The concept is designed to demonstrate how enjoyable life on the water can be! What’s the price for the experience? Pink Lady Charters have a flexible pricing structure, specifically depending on what our clients want from their experience. Prices start from QAR 5,000 for 2 hours including soft drinks, snacks, towels etc, and can extend our offering to an overnight package to the UAE for up to 8 guests at a cost of QAR 30,000 [depending on catering and services required, including fuel and F&B]. Any future projects or additions to the concept? With such a unique concept, we are considering expanding throughout the GCC. However, this in itself brings its own challenges, so for the time being, my business partners and I are concentrating on the local Doha market to ensure that our loyal Qatari clients get the very best quality service. Repeat custom is our life-blood and ensuring all our customers have a memorable and enjoyable experience is our main focal point.

For more information visit: www.pinkladycharters.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

Culinary Insight

It’s a Thai Thing “It was not long after midday on a Sunday when I walked through the doors of Sabai Thai at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, and I was surprised to find it busy and bustling”, says Ohlala’s food contributor, Polly Byles

he building that houses the restaurant is separated from the main hotel by a walkway, and is bordered by serene water-features, which immediately transport you to the Far East. Enormous floor to ceiling windows flood the elegant interiors with natural light, highlighting the fusion of traditional wooden carvings and Thai artefacts with the contemporary open space and clean lines of the room. The menu itself is traditional and authentic, with a few innovative twists to the complex recipes that royal Thai cuisine is renowned for. The freshness of the ingredients are showcased in the salads such as the Som Tam Thai: crisp shredded green papaya with string beans, tomato and peanuts dressed in a spicy citrus dressing which tickles the palette, and the Yaam Som O-Goong: a herbed pomelo salad with meaty prawns, shallots and crunchy cashews and coconut which is a surprisingly wholesome and comforting dish. The Chor Muang are blue-coloured, intricately composed flower-shaped steamed dumplings which are a traditional Thai art, demonstrating that the restaurant’s skilful chefs are not simply adept at putting together complex texture and flavour combinations, but are concerned with the visual appeal of their food, too. These dumplings cry out to be photographed. Stir fries and main courses come in generous portions, and share one commonality: they are all warming comfort food, which make you feel as though you’re eating lunch in a traditional Thai family home rather than a formal restaurant. The Nua Sub Phad Bai Gaprow comes with minced beef or chicken and packs real a chili punch, with a lingering, earthy after-taste of basil. The Gaeng Khiew Waan Ghai is a 76

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delicious twist on the traditional Thai Green Curry, with chicken, Thai eggplant and sweet basil, which combine to create a curry that is both moreish and memorable. For dessert, my top choice is the Khao Niew Mamaung, or sticky rice with mango to you and me. A simple dish, widely eaten in Thai households, it sees two of my favourite things brought together: sweet, juicy and ripe mango slices and glutinous, warm rice laced with coconut milk. On my way back home after the meal, feeling full and content, I found myself absent-mindedly googling holidays to Thailand on my phone. There is no better evidence of a successful meal than this.

Polly Recommends: Signature Set Menu: 199 QAR Sharing Menu for Two: from 100 QAR Express Business Lunch: 65 QAR for three courses; 90 QAR with one selected beverage (excluding Fridays) Friday Brunch: 199 QAR with soft beverages; 299 QAR with selected beverages. For more information or reservations call: 4492 1555

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Polly? Originally from the UK, Polly is a Dohabased blogger who writes about her passions in life: principally travel, family and of course, food. She is constantly seeking out new places to eat, usually with her husband and new baby in tow. Keep up with Polly and her proliferate blog, Follow Your Sunshine. Blog @ www.followyoursunshine.me Instagram @polbag Twitter @polbag Facebook @followyoursunshineblog Snapchat @followyoursun www.ohlala-magazine.com

Chic Eats

January Dining

Start January with great outings and delicious cuisines because these ones have got our pulses racing. Doha Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel Celebrate Winter New York Restaurant Week in Doha and enjoy to a 3-course set menu priced at QR92 for lunch and QR140 dinner. Enjoy to this fabulous week from 23 January until 10 February at New York Steakhouse. For more information or reservations call: 4419 5000

InterContinental Doha The City Seafood lovers listen up! Join Square for seafood madness and enjoy to an array of delectable selection of everything, Choose from grilled, Arabic, Asian and South American and much more. Also with a live cooking station and a delicious dessert bar, it’s on every Wednesday from 6pm until 11pm. For more information or reservations call: 4015 8888

Doha Marriott Enjoy every Saturday at JW’s Steakhouse for an all new brunch. Indulge to their classic steakhouse favourites, seafood and much more. For a regular package it’s on for QR250 and for a bubbly option, QR390. Enjoy it with friends from 78

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12.30pm until 4pm. For more information or reservations call: 4429 8499

Oryx Rotana Doha Hotel Join Choices Restaurant in celebration of the Chinese New Year on 28 January. Let the year of the red rooster bring joy and happiness with a delicious buffet starting from QR205 per person; QR295 including selected house beverages and QR340 for the premium package. For more information or reservations call: 4402 3333

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa It’s on for some delectable Tapas every Tuesday at Seasonal Tastes starting from 6.30pm. Enjoy to a delicious paella, gazpacho, chilly prawns, patadas bravas, Spanish omelette, calamari cooked to perfection in a live cooking set. Make sure to attend with friends because it all starts from QR160 with soft drinks, and QR259 with selected bubbly beverages. For more information or reservations call: 4492 1555

Grand Hyatt Doha Join Issan’s chef, Somporn for a journey of

flavours and spices while learning how to cook four authentic recipes every day from 11am until 3pm. Class includes lunch and soft beverage for QR280. For more information or reservations call: 4448 1250

Marsa Malaz Kempinksi, The Pearl-Doha If you’re into Italian treats, then this one is for you. Indulge into Italy’s artful miniature treats at Café Murano. Pair it up with a delicious traditional tea sandwiches with also, tea or coffee of your choice for that perfect sunset afternoon. Available for 2 priced at QR220, including tea and coffee. It’s up daily from 2pm until 6pm. For more information or reservations call: 4035 5011

Four Seasons Doha Hotel Start your weekend with Doha’s finest Friday brunch with extended buffets stations in Elements, Il Teatro and Arabica. From fresh seafood to delectable sushi rolls and Asian cuisine to Western selection, you’re in for a treat. The fun starts at 12.30pm until 4.30pm every Friday for QR340 and QR440 including bubbly beverages. For more information or reservations call: 4494 8600

Culinary Spotlight

Lenôtre de Paris

Adagio Premium Apart Hotel West Bay is now offering one of the

most delicious and luxurious eatery outlets in town, Lenôtre de Paris. Recognised for their elegance and hallmarks of French luxury, now, you can find a boutique at the hotel with a refurbished location at the hotel’s lobby. The café provides truly authentic French cuisine in a modern Parisian atmosphere, which creates a perfect environment to relax and enjoy balanced food and other delicacies. The boutique also offers an array of sweets such as pastries, danish, macaroons, candies, chocolates and much more.

It’s a Shangtastic Brunch! Enjoy every last Friday of every month with a new culinary experience at Shangri-La Hotel Doha, as its three signature restaurants join forces for a grand brunching feast. Yabby, Fuego and The Den will offer a high-quality and a myriad of options to choose from including: live oysters and fish, fine butcher’s cuts of meat, authentic English pies, desserts and much more. Furthermore, the guests are able to choose their desired location of either restaurant while indulging in a culinary journey with live cooking and live entertainment. Enjoy with family and friends priced at QR305 with soft drinks and QR405 with bubbly beverages. For more information or reservations call: 4429 5295 www.ohlala-magazine.com

Health Column

New Year Skinspirations It’s that time of the year again where new year resolutions are a must, while many decide to take the losing weight route, we opt for clearer and healthy glowing skin. Pallavi Patil gives you her favourite tips

Be Specific

If you want to improve the appearance of your skin, your resolution should be more specific than: “I want nicer looking skin”. Help yourself by making a skin plan with your clinic/aesthetician to help achieve your goal.

Make It Measurable

Measure it! “I want to improve the appearance of my skin” is an “I’m- kind a-thinking-about-it-but-don’t-want-to-commit” type of goal that lets you off the hook if you simply change your cleanser. Want to improve your colour, texture, tone and home care routine? How will you know if your skin has started to improve if you’re not measuring it? Start taking photos or measuring colour changes, either with the assistance of your clinic or by yourself. Do a monthly or bi-weekly photo and cross-check it. This will allow you to stay on track and make course corrections in real time.

Make It Attainable

OK let’s be honest is 100% improvement in colour, tone and texture, in 1 month attainable? Set yourself an achievable goal by having your skin care 80

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reviewed by your aesthetician to make sure that you are using products that will start to give you WOW results.

Make It Realistic

It is never wise to aim for perfectly flawless skin looking at the pictures of celebrities (which are photoshopped BTW!). Take one step at a time and work towards a skin care routine to achieve the best results.

Make It Time-Sensitive

Finally, give yourself a timeline to achieve the result of your hard work. Goals without timelines are just wishes waiting to happen. Ladies, remember that with your new year resolutions, there comes a solid commitment from your side. A flawless complexion can be achieved with a combination of SMART goals, consistency with your routine and a healthy lifestyle. Positivity plays a huge role in reflecting a great complexion. So stay happy, refill your optimism levels and go forth with your new year resolutions! Pallavi Patil is the Manager at Spa by Clarins at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl Doha. For more information on the spa, call 4035 5555

Pool, Spa by Clarins, Marsa Malaz Kempinski Heavenly Spa by Westin

health Files Saray Spa at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel With mineral-rich properties of the Dead Sea, the serene and luxurious hotel spa offers traditional Middle Eastern treatments and products. Enjoy to an authentic and reviving experience, open from 9am until 9pm. Book now and call: 4419 5000 Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club at Oryx Rotana Doha Enjoy and be part of Bodylines’ group classes of pilates, circuit, kid dance and fitness of an 8-session package, or drop-inrates; also available for single sessions. Book now and call: 4402 3333 Heavenly Spa By Westin Nourish your nails at the prestigious spa for QR200 including both basic manicure and pedicure and start the year on a positive note. But also enjoy to their invigorating massages with full access to hotel’s fitness studio. Book now and call: 4492 1680 Jaula Spa at Grand Hyatt Doha Because you deserve some you-time, indulge in a 90-minute massage and pay for a 60-minute only. Book now and call: 4448 1056

Doha’s

Private Havens We share Doha’s finest spa treatments for exciting new beginnings, all to start in good shape.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski Health Club A state of the art space with female-only and mixed fitness areas with the latest technogym equipment, 2 fitness group studios, a personal training studio, and male and female wet relaxation areas. Enjoy to all of this at the Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl. Book now and call: 4035 5555 CHI Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Doha The luxurious Asian-theme spa provides treatments starting at QR250 to restore the balance of chi, which are based on traditional well-being practices across many Asian cultures with an Arabian infusion. Book now and call: 4429 5000 www.ohlala-magazine.com

Local Escapes

Dazzled in Luxury If you’re looking for an exclusive and yet, luxurious weekend escape, we’ve got you covered as we visited Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha for an unforgettable weekend with a deluxe ride on Ferrari’s new model, California T.

Known to be a premier destination in the Arabian Gulf with fully equipped luxurious rooms, suits, and impeccable dining experience, Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s services and facilities made our stay such a prominent choice for a local escape within the city. Having had a lovely weekend at its premises, the opulent aesthetics does know how to make its guests feel right at home. But not only that, the hotel also counts with a fashionable and outstanding social nightlife with also, a toned down atmosphere for those who wish to enjoy to a delectable dinner, or perhaps, enjoy to a well-deserved pool time. As we made way to its grand lobby, we couldn’t help but notice and appreciate the art involved, perfectly paired with some unique murano glass chandeliers, which embodies the brand seamlessly. And if that wasn’t stunning enough, the hotel also holds, yet another strong characteristic that separates them from the crowd – an 18-meter bronze horse at the hotel’s gardens. Filled with a myriad of restaurants to chose from, and also, cafes for that perfect Tea Afternoon, we couldn’t say no to their one-of-a-kind Spanish venue: El Faro, a restaurant where casual and stylish décor marry with a tantalising and cutting edge menu of traditional tapas. If perhaps you’re more of a café lover, Café Murano might just be your take offering Golden High Tea with a European and stylish twist, oozing utter elegance. Said all that, we couldn’t miss some water activities in our weekend itinerary in the tranquil paradise, where also, a tour on a boat is available to roam around the island. But having a regal stay, also calls for an outstanding ride, and this time we gave it a go to Ferrari’s sublime elegant and sporty model: California T. With a versatile and powerful personality the model offers, it truly made our ride an indescribable one. The car perfectly brims with innovation with a balanced interplay of convex design and concave surfaces that give this model the sophisticated feel. Said that, the California T offers fun behind the wheels for its loyal customers, but who also demand on comfortable Grand Tourer they can use every day. The new model embodies Ferrari’s sporty DNA with a retractable hard top and 2+ configuration amongst other features, which makes it more alluring. Underscored by excellence, heritage, prestige and track DNA, our weekend was filled with a fun ride, not to mention all things opulent. 82

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“The new model embodies Ferrari’s sporty DNA with a retractable hard top and 2+ configuration amongst other features, which makes it more alluring”

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Fursan’s

Opulent luxury With an outstanding craftsmanship Fursan is putting its best foot forward with their luxurious take on handbags and scarves. Known for its impeccable style and exclusive pieces, the Qatari brand that specializes in making leather accessories such as handbags, clutches, wallets, but also silk twill scarves, have already created abuzz in the city with its colorful and whimsical line. Showcasing exotic leathers such as python, lizard, ostrich and alligator with intricate finishes, the opulent items are all limited pieces imbedded with creativity perfectly structured to meet a refined woman’s standard. With a fusion between Qatari roots, creativity and emerging ideas with the all-classic Italian craftsmanship, the collection is a blend of modernity and elegance suitable for all occasions. Designed with the ultimate perfection by a Qatari designer, each bag leads to a 40-hour work meticulously made by a single leather craftsman. And it come as no surprise the end results is a timeless charm, undeniably a work of art, which soothingly turns a woman into an icon of elegance portraying cultural heritage – unique to the Arabian Gulf. Having said that, their Dazzah Collection is inspired by the concept of Dazzah, a traditional custom where a bride has gone to her new family with gifts, all offered in an Embayyat – a wooden trunk 84

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decorated with intricate wood carvings and inlaid with brass or gold – all given to symbolize the prosperity the new bride brings to her husband’s home. Oozing luxury and opulence with galore, their work encapsulated this tradition, while showing every woman they’re appreciated through offering Dazzah. But not only that, the brand also reflects strength and gallantry and embodies the cultural importance of a woman’s role in the nation. And having opened their flagship boutique not too long ago at the prestigious Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar, it perfectly embodies its DNA with its majestic designs that stand for longevity with a classic touch. Whether your taste is a bit toned down with a minimal approach, or if perhaps, you desire a more vibrant selection to your accessories – ladies, there is an array of choices suitable for everyone. Give your look an adventurous feel and make Fursan your next shopping destination. Fursan is available at La Croisette 18, Parcel 10, Porto Arabia, The PearlQatar. For more information call: +974 44686513, or visit: www.fursan.qa; info@fursan.qa; Instagram: Fursanluxury

Ohlala Spotlight “The brand reflects strength and gallantry and embodies the cultural importance of a woman’s role”

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Ohlala Spotlight

New

Horizons Hilal Saade, Melia Hotel Doha’s Director of Sales & Marketing sat down with Ohlala and gave us an insight into the many projects the prestigious hotel has planned for 2017

aving worked in different countries with a very diverse market, which has been the most challenging market to be part of ? I can say Qatar, since I’m here now, especially now with the challenges we are facing in the market. How have you adapted your skills into Qatar’s market? Market adaptation is very important, especially when you come and see what is working and what segment is not. Now Qatar is pushing for more business, and the corporate segment and business is much higher. What have you changed in order to achieve certain requirements, or meet your end goals? We are now working on tailored-made packages for our loyal and new guests. So, we see the needs of our guests, and we tailor it to their requirements. This is how we’re attracting new clientele. As a businessman, what do you need: a nice pillow, a comfortable bed, and a great breakfast. Would you say the Melia Hotel gravitates to that sector of business in Qatar? 86

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It’s West Bay, we are located in a business area, so yes, we are connected to that.

people, especially from the European sector, in particular, from Spain.

What does Melia Hotel have in store for 2017? We are actually integrating into the market since we opened last February, and now our target is UAE, mainly Dubai, Abu Dhabi and also the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are seeing these big companies, big oil companies and perhaps work with them down the line and generate business.

What has been the biggest challenge since you arrived to Qatar? Actually I’ve lived in the GCC, so I can’t complain about the weather. Maybe the traffic!

Which market generates more traffic within the hotel? UAE and Saudi Arabia. Guests from Saudi Arabia come for leisure, mainly for the weekend with their families and then go back. Also keeping in mind that from Sunday until Wednesday, the hotel is busy with business

Future projects for the hotel? We are planning to open 27 apartments by the end of January, all tailored-made to our guests’ needs. And the residency is open to anyone who wishes to move to an apartment. Also, we are proud to say that we are also opening another Melia in Doha.

What’s your favourite country you’ve lived in? Paris and Lebanon, of course.

The New ‘It’ Shopping Destination There is a brand new concept in the country. With a remarkable take on entertainment, we’re giving you all the things you should know about Mall of Qatar

There is a new mall in town. Yes, a new one! The new

shopping destination offers an innovative and upbeat recreation with a myriad of entertainment options. Now, it is open to the public. Expect a free entertainment program that will take you on an incredible adventure with the world’s first 360-degree in-mall revolving stage. There’s also a transformed and dazzling oasis with a 5,000 square meter of lush, green and a landscaped entertainment area that offers dancing interactive fountains and waterfalls all year long. But not only that, for cinema lovers, the mall also offers the latest 4D projection technology screen, VIP screens, and an 8-lane bowling alley with an in-theatre gourmet food services. Amazing, right? But if you thought that was it, hold on. The Mall of Qatar also offers over 500 varied retail, dining and café options with the 5-star AlRayyan hotel operated by Curio, a collection by Hilton. If this wasn’t exciting enough, then we don’t know what is. Start your year with a fun and entertaining weekend, and enjoy it with family and friends. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Ohlala Spotlight

Valentino Opens at Mall of Qatar There is a new Valentino Boutique, and this time, with an innovative concept Having recently opened at Mall of Qatar, Valentino Boutique has a new space with a remarkable concept, all developed by the Valentino Creative Direction with renowned British architect, David Chipperfield. The upbeat store offers a marriage of old and new, creating a kind of Palazzo ambience – steering away from the traditional showroom vibe and offering a new retailshopping destination with an architectural twist. The overall feel to the store enhances the pieces on display with the use of subtle opulent materials such as: Palladiana marble flooring, artisan crafted brass and wooden shelving, refined benches and hand knotted rugs. Furthermore, the store also offers two VIP areas – one for male and one for female – with exclusive appointments to its loyal customers. In addition to all that, the boutique is set to offer men’s made to measure for a full customised look on its items. Hop on the luxury wagon and visit this one-of-a-kind store. Valentino Boutique is available at Mall of Qatar, Al Rayyan, Qatar. For more information call: 5047 6766

Apparel Group Launches at Mall of Qatar Dubai based fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate brings 30 global fashion and lifestyle brands to the city Having a new mall opened, Apparel Group is now offering

exciting new shopping destinations to one and all in the country. Well-loved international fashion, footwear, food and beauty brands are now available for everyone to shop. We can find Sketchers, ALDO, Tommy Hilfiger, Tim Hortons and Cold Stone Creamery, and much more at the prominent and much-anticipated Mall of Qatar. Also, new brands such as New Balance, Rituals, LC Waikiki and Ardene are new to the list of the many offerings we can find, so get going and get shopping.

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Luxurious Neo-Oriental Makeup Line Renowned makeup artist, Bassam Fattouh has launched his muchawaited collection, and we think you should get it on it now It’s all about colours right now and we’re so happy to see Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics is all about that, too. Now, we can enjoy and pop some colour on with the brand’s new Velour à Lèvres in 6 royal shades and The Blur Kit, a palette with a contouring, bronzing and highlight shade. The new collection enhances the brand’s textures and innovative formulas that make Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics, a pioneer in the makeup industry. Start your year with great pop-up lips with an impeccable 12-hour long-lasting formula without fading or smudging. Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics is available online: www.bassamfattouh.com

Sama Eyewear in Qatar Qatar Optics brings Hollywood’s

favourite: Sama Eyewear to the city. From Tom Cruise to Jennifer Lopez and Bill Gates, Sama Eyewear has undeniably changed the vision of the world. Endeavouring to reach the pinnacle of quality, Sama company manufactures, assembles and hand finishes all of its products in Japan. The prestigious and accolade brand uses the finest materials for better results, but not only that, precious metals, semi-precious and precious gems to adorn its designs. In addition, it also offers a wide range to choose from such as CR-39 plastic photochromic, gradients, multi-gradient and much more. Qatar Optics is available at Landmark, City Center, Hyatt Plaza, Gulf Malls, Centerpoint and Salwa Road www.ohlala-magazine.com

Ohlala Boutiques

Make Up Store Having opened in 1996 in Sweden, now, Make Up Store is proud to offer 235 stores in 22 countries worldwide. Now Qatar is one of the lucky countries to offer a full spectrum of colours with daring and bold makeup trends. Are you ready to take your use of colour up a notch?

Make Up Store is available at The Mall

Bring Joy To Your Jewellery Box Danish brand, Pilgrim is well-known for bringing classic and stylish designs to those who love to look their best. Currently, with six new collections every year, Pilgrim is the epitome of style in jewellery, sunglasss and timepieces for modern women.

Pilgrim is available at The Mall 90

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Party With Liu Jo

We Say, Oui

Start the new year with the brand’s ultimate chic guide on what to rock, what’s new, and what’s stylish. Known for their feminine attire, now, Liu Jo is taking the party scene with full force. Enjoy their formal occasion and special events looks that will keep you lusting for more.

Enjoy innovative knitwear for the season with modern silhouettes, glamorous details and exceptional craftsmanship with Oui. Combined with prints in their new collection that brings fun with great colours, layer up your wear with fun garments.

Liu Jo is available at Lagoona Mall

Oui is available at The Mall

HolikaHolika With a unique and eye-catching packaging, the Korean brand knows how to roll with style in the cosmetic department. Appealing to a young crowd and to also, a style-conscious consumer, the brand excels on offering top high quality products made with the finest ingredients at affordable prices. HolikaHolika’s vision is to provide fun, yet, practical cosmetic products to enhance every woman’s natural beauty. HolikaHolika is available at Almeera Muraikh and Almeera Juryan www.ohlala-magazine.com

Ohlala Boutiques

The Ultimate Casual Look With Reserved

Remain trendy and unique with the Reserveredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s casual approach to looking cool. Their Street Fashion line is all about feeling and oozing comfort and walking with confidence. Reserved womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s line gently turns from the 70s inspired aesthetics into updated cuts, refreshed colour palettes, new fitted jeans, skinny pants, tight dresses and miniskirts. Also, some style inspiration from the line include: grunge, hippie, urban folk and sporty elegance. Reserved is available at Villaggio and Gulf Malls 92

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Blazer

ladies blouse

Ohlala’s Chic Soirée Ohlala went big this month with its first, one of a kind event, held at Sabai Thai Restaurant, located at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. Media influencers and Doha’s VIPs were gathered to enjoy the many delights the restaurant has to offer. We would like to extend a big thank you to our generous sponsors, as without them it wouldn’t have been possible: Holika Holika, Liu Jo, Make Up Store, Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics, Reserved, Oui, Pilgrim, Swarovski, Qatar Optics, Sabai Thai Restaurant, and The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa.

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Café #999 Salam Hospitality and Qatar Museums hosted the official opening ceremony of Café #999 at Doha Fire station. If you’re looking for a casual spot to hang out with friends and family, check out this new space for its great atmosphere.

Trinity’s 10th Year Anniversary Renowned talent agency, Trinity Talent Qatar celebrated big with their 10th Anniversary of major success. VIPs, influencers, and Doha’s finest were all gathered for an electric and ravishing evening at Illusion.

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Couscous Fiesta! Al Dirwandi Restaurant hosted a colourful and joyful fiesta with Dohaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest, where it was all about delicious couscous. We were there for all things yummy and much more. Crave a fiesta yourself? Visit the restaurant located at Adagio Premium Aparthotel West Bay.

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The Extraordinary Italian Taste On the occasion of the 1st Week of Italian Cuisine held not too long ago, Italian Chef Gianfranco Pascucci had the pleasure of hosting a live cooking show at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. Many were gathered to enjoy exquisite dishes, authentic tastes and much more organised by the Italian Embassy in Doha.

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Doha Season 3

Dohaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion scene got a lot more glamorous with the prominent fashion event: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Doha. This season the show was filled with more than 24 designers participating from around the world including a range of renowned and emerging brands. The luxurious event was held at Hilton Doha amongst a selected list of fashionistas, style watchers and fashion influencers. In case you missed this grand event, we got the shots thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make you attend the next one.

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Miss Ohlala

There’s No Place Like Home Miss Ohlala reminisces over Christmas parties which evoked the senses

December flew by in a whirlwind of fun. Party season with friends and family is always the best time of the year. In order to make any event stand out in December, in a calendar packed full of festive events, you need to make it special. And an event I attended for the festivities in the city certainly achieved that. I attended this event and it was magical. From the moment we reached the stairs the quintessential Christmas smells, mingled with gingerbread and candles, wafted up the stairs. We were welcomed into the room by their attentive and charming staff and were immediately made to feel at home. The space is dark and enticing and was beautifully lit that night with clusters of white pillar candles which reflected off the dark mirrored and wood surfaces. I am a huge fan of tapas so I was delighted to see big truckles of cheese and stands with meats being carved on the bone. What better way to relax after a hard day’s work than eat tapas and wine in good company? And the company was as well dressed as always. One joy of the event from a fashion aficionado’s perspective is that it is chilled enough all year round to wear one’s winter wardrobe. Any chance to get out ones boots and faux fur stoles in this country must be grabbed by the horns. Attention to detail is critical for any event to be successful. In 98

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particular, events during the festive season must be distinctive in order to stand out. This event felt truly special as the team had created a homely feel and the chefs had taken time to create beautifully designed deserts featuring Santa Claus and candy canes sculpted out of icing. The effort was palpable and much appreciated. As a parting gesture, we were each presented with a goody bag containing a beautifully decorated Christmas cake. And this was not just a cupcake-sized cake for one. This was a cake that I could proudly share with friends or family, which saved me the need to bake my own! I was inspired to host a tapas party of my own. I spent hours in my kitchen researching recipes and creating various tapas and pintxos from scratch, but it was worth the effort. In particular the serrano ham and manchego croquetas and pancetta wrapped dates stuffed with goat’s cheese were devoured by my guests. I enjoyed decorating my house with Christmas decorations, lighting scented candles which smelt of pine cones and open fires, and welcoming guests into my house. Most of all, I enjoyed spending time with close friends who I can always rely on to fill the house with laughter. It’s times like these when I truly appreciate how lucky I am to be living as an expat with a happy family and wonderful friends. There’s No Place Like Home.

Science, Experience, Senses

Holistic Healing Warm up your body and soul with our holistic healing journey this winter, allow us to greet you with a rejuvenating potion of ginger tea. The pampering awaits you in our luxurious private suite where our talented therapist will offer you a healing head massage to begin with. Followed by a holistic journey with our melting honey hot stones therapy to relax the mind and body. Complete your revitalising journey by cherishing the memories your experienced in our luxurious bath. QAR 950 per person (130 mins) | including full access to all spa and wellness facilities

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