Ohlala Qatar November 2015

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

SOPHISTICATED FASHION Suits, Furs & Pearls

FOUNDATION TALK

The New Rules For All Skin Types

POWER WOMAN

LONGCHAMP

INGIE CHALHOUB’S SECRETS TO SUCCESS

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WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER 2015 | ISSUE 53 QATAR | QR20

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Plus: SS16 Preview, Andrew Gn Insight & Paris’ Undiscovered Haute Hotel

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blugirl.it

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I

Editor’s Letter

t was on an enchanting, boutique-laden street of Paris one night during Fashion Week where Ingie Chalhoub was hosting a cocktail presentation of her Spring 2016 collection. In her airy new atelier, complete with aristocratically high ceilings, the Hawaiian themed collection was exotically sprinkled across the space with palm trees and polychrome sunset lighting. In and among the swamping crowds of leggy models, the media and VIP guests from around the world, was a spirited Ingie, engaged in animated chatter, wearing an A line dress from her collection, contouring her petite frame. It was hard to process that this super convivial woman had recently been ranked among the top 100 most powerful Arab women by Forbes Middle East. A heavyweight title like that could easily breed untouchable arrogance. Alas she gave me her precious time (the amount of arm tugging she got from everyone blew my mind) and spoke candidly about her rise in the fashion industry. Her humble words are an inspiration to any woman who wants to dress real women. And while we scuttled from show to show, one that left a lasting impression on us was Andrew Gn. The Paris based Oriental designer consistently presents thoughtful runway shows rich in polychrome palettes and delicate embroidery. His SS16 collection celebrates the art of fashion and the relationship between the two. As with all catwalk reports come the beauty trends but sometimes we feel you need to go back to basics before you experiment with electric blue eye shadow and hot red lipstick. How often do we get our foundation wrong? We give you the latest tricks of the trade to getting it right.

In other news we also got our hands on the Rolls-Royce Wraith Inspired by Fashion and took it for a drive. What an exhilarating pleasure. If you want to know what it feels like to experience luxury on wheels, we urge you to track down your nearest dealership and go for a spin! When it comes to events, Doha’s music scene this month is hotter than ever with Stereophonics in town as well as a Sinatra celebration – we get the lowdown on both. You won’t want to miss it. And finally, hurrah for extending our sleeves to full length! I love this time of year.

Alexa Chung & Longchamp Ingie Chalhoub

Tried & Tested Chanel

Georgie Bradley 26

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The Power Suit

Editor in Chief

JIMMYCHOO.COM

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First Word

wi

ng mi

s i c r o e t n

Versace

It’s almost here: the

season we wait for with baited breath. November is upon us and it’s definitely my favourite month of the entire year. A month filled with fluctuations, bringing nostalgia and warm memories on board. There is something about this period that allows me and others to let go of the old and gravitate towards the new. That said, there is something about November’s climate that makes me crave and buy (when I say buy, I mean go on a shopping spree) blazers, jackets and other fun garments. I have an obsession for winter clothes; ‘obsession’ truly means: having loads of winter garments stacked up in the back of my closet with their price tags still on! Who would wear a wool turtleneck in Doha’s winter? What is winter in Doha? And on another note, a bit more violent: am I the only one waiting impatiently for Game of Thrones to air next spring?

Am I the only one spying on Google to find out the latest spills from the set? Did Jon Snow really die? There are so many unanswered questions it’s making my eye twitch. And in healthier news, I have signed up for Zumba classes, bring it on November!

Sofia Graniello

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Local Editor

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Contents Ohlala Wish List 36. Code Red

Beauty Buzz Sleek Is The New Fleek .84 Beauty Buzz How To Ace Your Base .90

Style Focus 45. SS16 Previews, Furs, Suits & Pearls

Health Files Doha Marriott & Listings .104

Versace Vanitas

Style Icon 42. Put A Ring On It

Style Insight 56. Alexa Chung & Longchamp Ohlala Feature 62. Ingie Chalhoub Woman of The month 72. Layla Asgar

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CHic Eats Tse Yang & Listings .106 Ohlala Spotlight The World of Choi & Stereophonics .110 Miss Ohlala Living Out Of A Suitcase .126

The Pearl Qatar Porto Arabia, La Croisette 06 Tel: 974+ 44111248 shop.ermannoscervino.it www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Italian Masterpieces GRANTORINO SOFA. deSIGNed by J.M. MASSAUd. SALONe dONNA eLeNA, PALAzzO CORSINI, FIReNze. poltronafrau.com

29, La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl Qatar Phone: +974 40027467 - www.pfdesigncenter-qatar.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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November 2015 issue 53

Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

Publishing Director Edward Smith

General Manager

Georgie Bradley

Local Editor

Creative DIrector

Sofia Graniello

Paula Leal

sales Manager Badir Bechara

Contributor

Graphic Designers

Angela Beitz

Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bindaina

Production Manager

Photography Contributors

Website

Neil Mahmood

Lemuel Lampa @ Creative Design

Melek Yildirimtekin

Distribution Manager

Ahmed Riffae

Editor-in-Chief

Hussein Zreik

Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali

Ajit Kumar

COVER Image Alexa Chung for Longchamp ©F.L.C. / ADAGP, PARIS, 2015 ©DB – ADAGP, PARIS, 2015 ©MAMO

Credits image Piaget

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: 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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Style Trend

SAntoni

Dsquared2

Purificacion garcia

CODE RED

This is a traffic light situation. From ketchup to scarlet to crimson, the runways were punctuated with this stand-out colour. We think the bolder the shade, the better

lanvin

TOD’s

GUCCI

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OPENING SOON

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7 LA CROISETTE – PORTO ARABIA – THE PEARL QATAR – TEL: 449538776

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Style Icon

Pandora’s fairy tale autumn jewellery inspired by the past, delivers serious sparkle. We love these timeless solitaire rings available in two versions: a prongset,vintage-cut cubic zirconia which is cushion-set in sterling silver and surrounded by a halo of cubic zirconia stones on a stone-studded band; and a prong-set, Danube-cut cubic zirconia cushion-set in sterling silver, and accentuated by a halo of shimmering cubic zirconia stones on a stone-studded band.

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WAW Showroom 12 La Croisette, Parcel 7 Porto Arabia – The Pearl Qatar Tel. +974 40027436 www.waw-qatar.com

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style files The SS16 Previews. The Power Suit. Funky Furs. Pearls of Wisdom. Ingie Chalhoub: Forbe’s Top 100 Most Powerful Arab Women. Designer Spotlight: Andrew Gn. It’s All Happening. Plus Lots More. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style

Focus Paul Smith

Tailoring rules are subverted here with sleeveless jackets and bias cut skirts

Tory Burch

Think neutrals with super brights alongside intricate embroideries

The SS16 Highlights Take a sneak peek into the trends for the next season with our favourite catwalk looks from the fashion capitals

Paco rabanne

It’s all about techno femininity and sporty sensuality 46

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Marc Jacobs There’s so much visual stimulation here. From past to present trends

Michael Kors Collection

As ever this collection breathes so much earthy elegance into all the pieces

Lanvin

Extreme femininity, ruffles, poof, this season sees an explosion of forms

Gucci

Psycho-geographic maps are key to forming the theme of displacement here

DSquared2

Sporty, flirty and tough - this collection is preoccupied with couture and surfing!

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Style

Focus

Funky Furs

fur was rampant on the runways this season.

A shaggy fur coat is an absolute wardrobe staple

TOD’s

Despite courting controversy year on year, The opulence of a faux-fur coat is always a wild hit.

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Lanvin

A ‘not-so-subtle’ nod to the trend found on the shoulders, cuffs and accessories

Carolina Herrera Gucci

céline

House of Holland

Fatema Fardan Marc Jacobs

Ralph Lauren

Gucci

Versace

Kenzo

Salvatore Ferragamo

Céline

Dsquared2

Weill

DIOR

F i n e De t a i l s

WAW Showroom 12 La Croisette, Parcel 7 Porto Arabia – The Pearl Qatar Tel. +974 40027436 www.waw-qatar.com

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DKNY

Stella McCartney

Versus Versace

Ralph lauren

Versace

Kenzo Marc by Marc Jacobs

Maison Rabih Kayrouz

Gucci

lanvin

TOD’s

Ralph Lauren

Long gone are the days when men wore the trousers. Women have been slipping into silky suits for decades and although we don’t think we need a suit to prove any kind of authority, the tailoring and figure contouring qualities of a suit Jacket paired with sharp trousers oozes off-the-chart appeal

The Power Suit Style

Focus

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Chaumet

Cartier

Weill

Prada

Chanel cruise Chaumet

Balenciaga

Chanel Cruise

Daniela villegas, net-a-porter.com

Delfina Delettrez, Net-aPOrter

Focus

Azzi Osta

Eddie Borgo

Delfina Delettrez, Net-a-POrter.com

Gucci

Style

Pearls of wisdom

They are the new diamonds.

And oh so modern and minimalist

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Style Insight

“Bedouin Encourages

Style Without

Borders” The words of Bedouin creator, Andraya Farrag, ring so true. The variation of techniques and designs marry the unassuming combination of embroidery with minimalism for starters. As the brand continues to grow since its launch in 2014, the AW15 collection is deliciously rich and dreamy “Experience is such a valuable thing and I don’t think it necessarily matters where you work, it’s what you take from it. I was on the embroidery design team at Matthew Williamson in London where I learnt a lot about techniques and designs. Bedouin is a completely different brand to MW but I now work with very minimalistic embroidery” “The On The Road collection for AW15 was inspired by a road trip through the Nevada desert. I drew inspiration from the vast landscapes, stormy skies with a hint of the rodeo” “The collection is predominantly made from luxurious silk that provides the wearer with maximum comfort and elegance. Inspired by the sky, the colour palette consists of rich berry, grey, ombre, midnight blue and black” “Bedouin is designed with a contemporary jetsetter in mind producing a collection that is perfect for travelling and a lot of women in the Middle East like to travel” “The beautiful nomadic existence of the Bedouin tribes has shaped the ‘less is more approach’ of the brand.

Inspired by the simplicity and independence of communities from across the globe, Bedouin encourages style without borders” “Juxtaposition is also a big element of my design process.

I love to combine two unlikely ideas to create a fresh uptake”

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Andraya Farrag

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Style Insight

The It Brit Alexa Chung is back as the face of Longchamp for the fourth time. The AW15 campaign took place against the colourful graffitisplattered walls of Miami. She’s so cool she makes a megaphone look stylish. Here are her words...

The Collaboration

“I think we share an appreciation for classic and timeless design as well as practicality and functionality without compromising aesthetics”

The Process

“It was great. We were in Miami surrounded by all the amazing murals and interesting graffiti. When you’ve been in dreary NY weather for months, I was delighted to be shooting in sunshine next to palm trees”

The ‘It’ Bag

“I adore the smaller saddle bags Longchamp have this season, in different colours. Red and cream are my favourites”

In My Bag

“Bank cards, lipstick, phone, room key. I travel light”

The Fame

“It’s pretty insane. I am on all the buses in London. My friend Lizzy from school owns a café and said she waves at me as I go by on the bus everyday. I have yet to travel on one of the buses with my face on it, but that may be fun/weird”

Fashion History

“It crept up on me. I was very particular about my school uniform and I always wanted to look different to my classmates. Finding ways to express my individuality when we all had to wear the same uniform became an enjoyable challenge. I hated when someone had the same shoes or bag as me. Now I take it as a compliment of course” 56

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“I just like how things look. I’m not afraid to try new things or be laughed out of a room. I also know myself very well so I think it’s a mixture of those things. That and copying my mother’s style without knowing it”

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‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

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Tel. 4421 9357

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

Style Insight

T h e Ub i q u i t o u s T r a p e z e Paule Ka is at the fashion forefront with their perfectly proportioned, streamlined and light Trapeze bag.

Highlighting the rich heritage of the brand, we have the exclusive behind-the-scenes images of how the must-have piece is made

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Style Insight

T

he ideal accomplice in a woman’s life: enter the trapeze bag. It’s practical, bold, usually defined by an intense colour block and is the definition of timeless chic.

These images show the dexterity, time and care put into the making of the trapeze. Paule Ka posits the idea that the brand is ‘for the many lives of a woman’s life’ - to which we cannot deny, as the bag itself is a lifetime purchase, with the ability to be carried anywhere and everything. Paule Ka is the image of graphic and contemporary Parisian chic that uniquely interprets the rules of classical and restrained elegance by combining them with an attitude of upbeat and quirky femininity.

S

erge Cajfinger, the founder of Paule Ka, was born in Lille in 1955 and spent his childhood in Brazil. Returning to France in 1968 he opened his first multi-brand store in his hometown, which he named Paule Ka. Moving to Paris in 1987, Serge Cajfinger created the Ready-To-Wear brand under the same name, and opened the first Parisian Paule Ka boutique in the Marais. Inspired by the grace of the 50s and 60s, he sought to give a modern twist to the timeless elegance of the wardrobes of icons such as Jackie Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn, and Grace Kelly. The brand’s style is geometric and simple, sophisticated yet urban, with a few must-haves like the perfect little black dress and handbags made with impeccable materials and detail. Serge Cajfinger’s work for Paule Ka plays upon charm more than seduction, and his distinguished and contemporary silhouettes have earned him the loyalty of a diverse clientele. Located since 2007 at 223 Rue Saint-Honoré, the fashion house Paule Ka continues its global development with the opening of boutiques in China and throughout Europe, as well as a flagship store and showroom in New York. To this day, Paule Ka is established in 57 countries and distributed throughout 475 points of sale, 60 of which are stand-alone stores dedicated exclusively to the brand in cities such as Paris, London, New-York, Dubai, Hong-Kong and Singapore.

F

ollowing the recent departure of Serge Cajfinger, founder of the brand, the fashion house is today writing a new chapter in history. As part of its brand renewal, the fashion house’s new creative director,

Paul Ka Boutique in LillE, 1978

“Paule Ka is the image of graphic and contemporary Parisian chic that uniquely interprets the rules of classical and restrained elegance by combining them with an attitude of upbeat and quirky femininity” Alithia Spuri-Zampetti has stepped in. Alithia SpuriZampetti, is a 31-year-old graduate of the Central Saint Martin School of London. For the past six years, she has been head designer in charge of women’s ready-towear collections at Lanvin. Her previous experiences at Valentino and Bottega Veneta have also contributed to the development of an asserted stylistic signature and the creation of a rich fashion repertoire founded on ultra-feminine figures; this as well as a genuine passion for sophisticated fabrics. Alithia Spuri-Zampetti is Italian-American and grew up between Rome and the United States before becoming Parisian by adoption.

I

n keeping with Paule Ka’s chic heritage and with the support of its atelier, I am keen to create a contemporary wardrobe, combining the essentials of daily wear with more elaborate pieces for special occasions. And all within a price range that offers accessible luxury typical of Paule Ka,” says Alithia.

1987 1989 1992 1999 2000 2001 2006 Launched the first women’s ready-to-wear 60

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First Boutique in Paris, The Marais district

Second Boutique in Paris, Boulevard Saint

Third Boutique in Paris, Rue François 1er

First Boutique in Hong Kong, Chater House

First Boutique in London, Mayfair

First Corner in Harrods, London

Alithia Spuri Zampetti

2008

2010 2012

First Boutique in Cannes – Boulevard de lacollection in the French Department Store Galeries Lafayette & Victoire Germain. & First Boutique in Tokyo - Marunouchi

First Boutique in Dubai

First Boutique in Kuwait’s The Avenues

Coming Soon Emma Roberts 2014

Amal Clooney 2015

Corner in Galerie Lafayette Dubai www.ohlala-magazine.com

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OHLAla Feature Influential Ingie

For the second time Ingie Chalhoub has been ranked amongst the 100 most powerful Arab women by Forbes Middle East.

The pint-sized pioneer chats childhood aspirations, female empowerment and her love for the south of France

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OHLAla Feature

I

have always looked at my mother as the person I wanted to be one day. She has

always been my reference in life; she had a great influence on me and directed me towards fashion. I have learned from her all the essential elements of this job: the importance of trying the clothes on, the painstaking attention to detail, the customer’s experience as a central focus.

As a young woman I had to be stronger and maybe more skilled than a man to enhance my credibility and my negotiating power. It might sound strange, but I think that there are more gender stereotypes in Europe than in the Middle East when it comes to work.

I have been lucky enough to meet with lots of extraordinary people who have been inspiring me with their examples; I could not ask for more than that. I have always tried to have open eyes and an open heart to learn from any single person who crossed my way.

I am a firm believer in the strength of women and I’m a great supporter of women’s empowerment.

Being featured in Forbes’ list of the most powerful Arab women is a great honour but I think that we should share this title with all our Arab Women as they are great examples of dedication, understanding, passion and power in the way they are finding their places in society and in the work field.

Despite hard work, passion and a strong vision you need to have the ability to look at something and know immediately whether it’s right or wrong.

I think the real strength of Ingie Paris is the fact that it is designed by a woman thinking about real women. I always keep in mind the structure of the body of a woman, the parts we all want to enhance and the ones that we prefer to hide, the cuts that shape the figure in the right way.

I always have in mind the bright colours and shades of the Middle East and I try to give life to them through the craftsmanship of the French artisans

I work with. It is really a double conversation between the East and West that happens in the creating phase; and it is actually my double background which unconsciously guides me in merging the two worlds.

I love art. I physically need it. Most of my collections are inspired by a single artist or by more than one. In my pre-fall 15 pieces, Sonia Delaunay and her geometrical patterns were the starting points for my exclusive prints; in the winter 15/16 collection, the collages of Matisse inspired my embroideries and all jacquard work on knitwear.

Looking at some hibiscus flowers one day, I was dreaming about white sand, flowers necklaces and the sound of waves. This Hawaiian nature got me inspired for summer 2016. I wanted those dreams to materialise onto my dresses so I developed an energetic collection with tropical colours, exclusive hibiscus embroideries and prints, relaxed but flattering cuts.

Summertime is when I recharge. It is only then that I can disconnect for a few weeks in order to refresh my mind and my body after a year spent in a plane between two (or more) cities. Having dinner at home with my family is the sweetest thing I can ask for.

The south of France is really close to my heart and it continuously inspires me: the clear blue sky, the vibrant sunlight, the infinite hues of the sea, the energetic green of its nature are just the perfect nourishment for creativity.

When you love what you do, there is nothing that can stop you. Always commit to excellence.

“The real strength of Ingie Paris is the fact that it is designed by a woman thinking about real women”

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A history of elegance

Andrew Gn is luxury-loving.

Across the seasons his collections breathe sophistication, allure and edge. As the lights dimmed for the SS16 presentation at the Palais De Tokyo, the industrial, beige washed space had projections of purple and yellow laced butterflies on the walls. Before the official start, a gravelly, sombre voice opened the show: “Andrew Gn will not be coming out at the end.” Due to an emergency operation the designer was in recovery but that did not stop the raucous reception after each piece graced the catwalk. The final words of the ominous yet soothing voice were, “Andrew has worked on this collection until the last moment, with all his passion and determination” and it certainly showed.

The pulsing music as well as the two distinct aesthetics that came to life show Andrew’s versatility and ability to play. The first part of the SS16 collection conjures holidays. It evokes fresh sea air and summer, sun-kissed moments. Going away, from Deauville to Brittany and Biarritz, moving through a palette of blues, black and white. One then travels further to more distant countries. There is a strong hint of primitive geometric design in his SS16 collection.

The second part is inspired by a Chinese imperial porcelain bowl given to Andrew by his parents when he was 15 years old. This bowl has the most delicate paintings of butterflies, plants and flowers, which he transposed in prints and fine embroideries. It’s extremely colourful, joyful and quirky.

You’ll notice in the SS16 collection the use of denim done in the style of a linen shift dress, jumpsuit and a pea coat. It’s the epitome of freshness, cool play and rugged beauty.

The crepe dress, gathered at the sleeves with fun frill details, trimmed with multi-coloured strass embroideries was a superb

Andrew Gn is in our designer spotlight this month for his exceptional, often understated talents. The Paris based designer has brought Oriental chic to the birthplace of style and is growing in world-wide success

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OHLAla Feature

“The first part of the SS16 collection conjures holidays. It evokes fresh sea air and summer, sunkissed moments”

highlight as was the bright orange porcelain-print triple crepe fitted dress and the sky blue georgette evening gown - stunning flow and grace. We cannot wait to see the brand evolve further and until then we’re basking in that signature butterfly motif.

Andrew Gn was born in Singapore in 1966, the youngest of three brothers and two sisters.

In 1986, Andrew enrolled in the renowned Saint Martins Schools of Art in London.

While majoring in Fashion Design at Saint Martins, Andrew won the FrenchConnection Award, sponsored by the English/French Chamber of Commerce, which was open to all the fashion colleges in the United Kingdom. Andrew also participated in the Design Exchange programme at Parsons School of Design for a term. He returned to Saint Martins to complete his Bachelor of Art degree in December 1989.

The following year, Andrew moved to Milan to attend the prestigious Domus Academy. There his professors included Romeo Gigli, Luciano Soprani, Anna Piaggi and Gianfranco Ferre. While studying, he freelanced for Ratti, a textile company, and for the fashion house Basile. After receiving his Masters of Art in 1992, Andrew accepted the offer to assist Emanuel Ungaro in Paris. In 1996, Andrew decided it was time to strike out on his own, launching the Andrew Gn collection which is mainly manufactured in France. Now the line Andrew Gn is available at Bergdorf Goodman and on bergdorfgoodman.com, Coplon’s (Charlotte, Colombia, NC), Esti’s (Brooklyn), Neapolitan (Winnetka, IL), Saks Jandel (Chevy Chase, DC), Tootsies (Houston, Dallas, TX), Harrods (London), The Room, Hudson’s Bay (Toronto), CiCino, Kokko (Vancouver), Al Aouj Fashion, Harvey Nichols (Kuwait), Boutique 1, BySymphony (Dubai), Saks Fifth Avenue (Dubai, Bahrain, Riyadh), Al Rubaiyat ( Jeddah), 51East, Per Lei (Qatar), The Swank (Hong Kong), E’How, Level6ix (Taipei, Taiwan), Minoshin (Taichung, Taiwan), Tast Boutique (Kaohsiung, Taiwan), Vesna, Tsum, Grey Key (Moscow), Harvey Nichols, Emporium (Baku), Sauvage, Almaty and many other stores in the world. Andrew Gn dresses prominent celebrities such as Jessica Chastain, Emma Stone, Amanda Seyfried, Amy Adams, Anne Hathaway among a host of glittering stars. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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OHLAla Feature

Kaleidoscopic

Creations There’s so much to gush about with the SS16 collection.

Enjoy its carefree bliss, the unexpected but fabulous asymmetric structures, the whimsical botanical flow and of course the art

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Camilla Belle

Zosia Mamet

Jessica Alba

Sophie McShera

Camilla Belle

Rashida Jones

Hailee Steinfeld

Anna Kendrick

OHLAla Feature

CELEBRITY CORNER

Thestarscan’tget enough of Andrew Gn

A CELEBRATION OF OYSTERS AT AL DANA For a limited time, Al Dana would like to invite you to indulge in its new oyster delicacies sourced directly from the cold waters of the Northern Europe and imported solely for Sharq Village & Spa, to show off the different flavours such as Fine De Claire, Specials Geay and Pousse En Claire.

Join us at Al Dana for a celebration of this delicious bivalve every Monday and Thursday, from 6:30 p.m. to11:00 p.m.

QAR 15 per piece For restaurant reservations and more information, please call 974 4425 6666 or visit ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage

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Woman of the Month

The Layla Effect Known for her authenticity, vivacious character and colourful lifestyle, Layla Asgar sits down with Ohlala for the ultimate chat any woman wants to hear: how to do it all

B

eing a businesswoman comes at a very high price where sacrifices must be made to excel for the very best. However, there are passionate women like Layla who’ve come to master the art of juggling it all - at the price of grueling schedules but with stellar results. Now Layla is a successful mum, fashion designer, and renowned blogger and above all: a true example to women in the region.She is not scared to put her ideas forward. Being a full-time mum, full-time blogger and fulltime fashion designer, how does she do it all? Handling a YouTube account where she touches base on beauty routines, health, nutrition and other helpful information – she delivers to many that follow her life and advice. “I’m mainly on YouTube for beauty related matters, skin care, and I use Instagram to support my videos with images, and Snapchat is of course to go behind the scenes,” adds the designer. Layla and her team have created a successful Facebook page which has not only given a voice to Layla but to many other women too. The creative at heart is innovating the social media platform by giving the opportunity to unheard and inspiring women. How does she do it? The fashion designer has created a Snapchat account called, In Her Shoes, in which a different woman takes control over the account for one day and showcases her life and struggles to empower thousand of viewers around the globe.

The creative soul started blogging a year ago to put her creative mind to good use. “My aim of the blog is to educate and share my knowledge and experiences, so young women feel inspired and motivated about themselves. Being in the fashion industry, it can get difficult and deceiving. Always wanting to follow the latest trend, an aspect I dislike of this industry, I

decided to showcase my persona and be myself.” And so she has.

Her blog took off in no time, where women in the region have related to her thoughts, authenticity and the truth she speaks.

With more than 10k followers on Instagram and thousands on her Facebook account her career as a motivational woman and entrepreneur no less, has taken off.

Negative comments can be lethal, but for the risk-taker that she is, Layla doesn’t stop for no one. “Of course, I do get negative responses from a lot women, especially in this region. I get a lot of women who are unhappy of how I ‘portray’ our culture and traditions. They believe that east cannot meet west. However, there are many who do believe there is a middle ground between both worlds.” The blogger not only takes risks - following what she believes in - but she is also a mum who is moderate and modern. “I’ve taken a lot of backlash from people saying I am a woman who doesn’t treat my husband well, or my kids.” Being in the spotlight means one thing: all eyes on you. Not only has Layla received harsh criticism on her lifestyle and opinions, but also her parenting skills have been put through the wringer. “People have made comments attacking my parenting choices saying, ‘I’m too free,’ they always have something to say.” You can say anything about me, but don’t say anything about my kids,” says the blogger. “We had an open chat with my 8-year-old daughter, I wanted her to have the choice on her privacy.”

Layla is in full-throttle mode and her goals are still to be reached. The designer has many projects in the pipeline and hopes to fulfill her ultimate dream: establish her very own design house. The vision is for it to be a haven where she can let her creativity flow and help women in search for motivational help.

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Layla Asgar: empowering women around the globe

“My aim of the blog is to educate and share my knowledge and experiences, so young women feel inspired and motivated about themselves”

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the art of seduction Young French designer, Julyen Carcy has been inspired by the dark aesthetics of John Carpenter’s films for his charismatic autumn-winter collection. The cut-outs at the waist speak volumes of hard core power while the drapes of fabric give a strong statuesque quality

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T: +974 3316 3743 | M: +974 5508 2591 | E: info@creativedesignmena.com OďŹƒce no. 131, 13th Floor, Al Wakra Tower, Old Salata, Doha Qatar.

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B R A N D I N G A N D G R A P H I C S | W E B D E V E L O P M E N T | 3 D A N I M A T I O N P H O T O G R A P H Y | V I D E O P R O D U C T I O N | P R O D U C T I O N F A C I L I T A T I O N

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Beauty Files Our beauty cabinets are brimming with an everchanging array of products, from the essentials to the best scents. Add to that we find new tricks to perfect your look

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Beauty Buzz Kenzo FW15 backstage

Ohlala Loves…

Because if loving a good burgundy pout is wrong, we don’t want to be right. Christian Louboutin is back in the game with his latest lip colour line, only, to pout some more

Volume Shampoo

Because, let’s be real, a good volumising shampoo is always the best way to start

Speed dry

If there’s a need for speed, tackle the task with Color Wow’s Speed Dry. It dramatically reduces heat-styling time, in no time!

Sleek Is The New Fleek Carolina Herrera FW15 backstage

Volume Conditioner

Gel, dry shampoo, even wax might come in handy for that perfect sleek hair. But what about the aftermath: untangling it?

Make sure that your combing journey is an easy ride

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The next great thing is always around the corner or on the runway. And if the likes of DKNY and Carolina Herrera are anything to go by, sleek hair is so on trend this season. We’ve rounded up products to stay on fleek in the hair department

Masque Therapiste

If reconstruction is what you need, head over to the masque treatment department.

Apply and leave for a few minutes after applying shampoo

Intensive Nutritive

The change in weather means one thing: extremes.

For those gals who suffer from dryness, add a few drops of oil and nurture your hair for an everlasting autumnal look

DKNY FW15 backstage

Experience the newly redefined business lunch brought to you by the Executive Chef Vinon Yergu. Savour creative culinary creations such as the Spicy Green Papaya Salad & Mushroom Soup, our signature Camel Burger and finish off with the indulgence of the Seasonal Fruit Salad.

Saturday to Thursday, 12pm-3pm. Starting from QAR 75 per person.

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Verbena, L’Occitane

Noir, Tom Ford

h

A Way for Her, Trussardi

Rose Glacée, Armand Basi

Aromatics in White, Clinique

Essenza, Roberto Cavalli

Miu Miu, Miu Miu

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AJ Arabia Black II

Jadis, Ne’emah

S c e e n h t Trail T

he way with our top nine sc t d ents to love this m lea e on s o n t r

ou Le ty

Beauty Buzz

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Beauty Focus

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Just when you thought an indulgent ten minutes of tranquility was a bit overrated, Jo Malone is back introducing their new Shower Oil and Geranium & Walnut Body Scrub with nourishing formulas and perfect polish scented for the skin. Did we also mention the body scrub is a contrast of herbaceous geranium and warmth of walnut?

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Beauty Buzz Carolina Herrera Backstage

Ace Your Base Mastering the art of foundation is an

acquired skill, and that is why we’ve got the beauty deets with the best tricks and products for you to ace that base

Good day, joelle

Rimmel Match Perfection foundation

Dry Skin

If dry patches are a constant dilemma, Bobbi Brown’s extra repair moisturising balm is your saving grace. Apply at night for an enriching good night’s sleep for starters. If your skin is still dry during the day, apply some more for an ultraemollient treatment for fresher, smoother and firmer look. To protect your skin from the sun, add Bioderma’s Photoderm Max spf 50 + before applying your foundation.

And for that perfect silky skin, Rimmel’s Match Perfection with its moisturising hydrating formula, will do just the job.

Extra Repair Moisturizing Balm

Combination Skin

Having combination skin can be a tricky deal.

Knowing your areas of excess of oil and dryness is a matter of decoding.

Start your morning routine with cleansing your skin with Nuxe’s ultimate product, Nuxe White. This cult product re-plumps, moisturises and helps diminish unwanted dark spots. To cover imperfections with low coverage, Bourjois’ Air Mat tint holds strong for up to 24 hours. For those patchy areas give your skin the ultimate dewy finish, behold: Wow by Wojooh’s, Liquid Gems face illuminator.

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Sebum Control Foundation, Paese Cosmetics

Oil Control Water Cusion, The Face Shop Oil

Photoderm max 50, bioderma

Oily Skin

Having oily skin is not a bad thing, at all. But it’s vital to learn how to control shine, oil, and other imperfections that could make foundation look like it’s done wrong.

Leave it to The Face Shop Oil and their Oil Control Water Cushion to control excessive areas. To protect your skin from the sun, Joelle’s Good Day protecting cream is a must. And finally, for foundation – a girl’s best friend – leave it to Paese’s Sebum Control mattifying foundation. Go matte, or you’ll shine!

Best Advice We’ve Ever Heard

Air Mat Foundation in shade 02, Bourjois Nuxe white emulsion, nuxe

Liquid Gems Face Illuminator, Wow By Wojooh

Face exfoliation! Get a hold of the Konjac sponge and soak it with warm water.

Exfoliate your face using circular and upward motions. This will give you a lifting effect, deep cleaning and face massage, all at the same time.

Face blender brush, bobbi brown

Flat brush, make up forever

Your Tool Kit

Knowing your skin type is the first step for flawless skin, however, applying it with the correct tools, is a whole different ball game. Here are three foundation tools to give your application an airbrush finish.

Makeup Sponge Beauty blender

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Beauty Insight

THE POWER OF M Known for her cinematic, compelling dimensions and sophisticated collections, Miuccia Prada has the beauty world abuzz with her first ever Miu Miu’s fragrance with actress Stacy Martin as her muse. The movie star tells us what it takes to be a Miu Miu girl

Y

ou are lending your features to the first-ever, muchanticipated Miu Miu perfume. What pushed you to accept this role?

One of the things that I admire with Miu Miu is its duality in references and style. It mixes past iconography and modern tailoring, taking references and evolving them for women today. There’s something very playful and at the same time very strong and assertive about the woman Miuccia Prada envisions when you see her creations. I’d worked with Miu Miu beforehand for their A/W 2014 campaign. I was invited by a family that was passionate not only about fashion, but also film, art, music, culture, and so many other things.

Did Miuccia Prada’s interest and commitment to cinema and actresses influence your decision?

Of course, and you can see her commitment to cinema through her work which is very inspiring. I think it doesn’t just stop there too. She collaborates with architects and artists on different aspects of her work. It’s something I naively didn’t expect from a fashion designer. And it has really changed my relationship with fashion.

I don’t particularly believe in adopting one style or ‘personality’. I actually enjoy being versatile with my work and with Miu Miu, that’s one thing that can easily be achieved. We are, as human beings always evolving, changing and searching who we are.

In what ways does this fragrance reflect your personality?

I’d like to let other people come up with that answer! But if I were to say anything I would say it reflects freedom and zeal to life.

What kinds of emotions did you feel when you smelled the Miu Miu fragrance for the first time?

I enjoyed discovering the scent as it evolved and developed once I sprayed it on myself. It reacts differently to the skin and I felt a variety of scents that infused a mixture of emotions. It’s a perfume that brings up and mixes tenderness with vitality, sweetness with coarseness.

What is your favourite smell, outside of perfume?

The smell of freshly mowed grass.

A female figure who inspires you…

My mother.

Every season in Paris, the Miu Miu fashion show attracts young, talented actresses who are notable for their strong What do you think about Miuccia Prada’s creative process, personalities. What do you think about being part of this “I don’t particularly which goes beyond clothing to diffuse, through fashion, “family” of actresses united by Miuccia Prada? numerous artistic, intellectual and feminist references?

The first time I was invited to the Miu Miu fashion show believe in adopting I feel very close to her creative process even though we at the Palais d’Iena I wasn’t too sure what to expect; I wasn’t one style or work in completely different worlds and different ways. too familiar with how shows proceed and had just shot As an actress I take inspiration from everything around with Steven Meisel for their campaign so everything was ‘personality’. I actually me that can inspire, enrage, and titillate me. I find a lot of quite new. I remember being on the front row and thinking enjoy being versatile” inspiration through painters and writers. Mrs. Prada has a how great it was to have someone like Mrs. Prada to attract profound effect because of her creative process. It’s an all-encompassing way these strong personalities and putting them together. There’s a real mixture of creating something. of talent, which reflects her nonconformist and exciting taste. And to use the word ‘family’ is a reassuring and grounding word when you enter the world Tell us about your experience shooting the campaign with Steven Meisel of fashion, which I find sometimes very intimidating.

My experience shooting with Steven was so different to other shoots I’ve done. He’s a real auteur in his own way and is very malleable creatively. He Miu Miu’s fashion has a cinematic dimension. Each collection and works very quickly and with such ease, you rarely realise you’re working at all! campaign tells a story in which the Miu Miu girl reveals a part of her I enjoy his process very much for his decisiveness and sensitivity. personality. Which Miu Miu girl are you? www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Bulletin

Tried & Tested Our beauty expert, Sofia Graniello put Chanel’s latest makeup collection, Les Automnales, under the microscope, giving you her honest opinion on their WOW factor

Eyes Creation Exclusive, Entrelacs Rich with golden beige, velvety beige, bronze with golden shimmers, and deep brown, it’s the perfect combo for an intense and luminous finish. I’ve always struggled to find the perfect eyeshadow that will suit my sometimes pale, sometimes olive tone skin. This palette is perfect for those who enjoy a versatile finish with shimmery hues – all in one!

Les 4 Ombres, Tissé d’Automne Yes, Yes, Yes! Finally a quattro with the perfect metallic, iridescent and satin eyeshadows. Not to mention, the power of its pigmentation confirms the saying: a little goes a long way. The hues are perfect for that smoky eye look with colours so versatile they can be used for a variety of looks.

Illusion D’Ombre, Fleur de Pierre Just when I had lost faith in creamy textures, Fleur de Pierre - a slate gray with silver shimmers, knocked on my front door. It’s a beautiful shade with a powdery cream texture and a velvet effect for a luminous matte makeup result. This product is such a multi-tasker it can be used as a liner, eyeshadow, smoky shadow – the options are endless. But remember to blend!

•

Complexion Joues Contraste, Alezane Oh, blushers are my weak point! And when I say, weak, I mean: I’m petrified of blusher! I can never rock a good blush, I always seem to add the wrong hue to my skin tone – the reasons are endless. However, with this warm brownish, pink with golden shimmers, it gives your cheeks a natural and healthy glow.

•

Lips Rouge Coco Shine, Téméraire I tend to suffer from severe dry lips, so I always struggle using matte finishing lipsticks. The beauty of this lipstick is that it gives your lips a satin and matte finish, yet it hydrates your lips at the same time. The colour is to die for and is the perfect red for my olive skin tone. For those who are of darker complexions, this colour would suit you perfectly!

Chanel, Collection Les Automnales is available in Doha at Fifty One East 94

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Beauty Column

In a perfect world, I would treat myself to a facial

every week. Overkill I hear you say? Maybe. But here’s the thing. I am a self-confessed facial addict. Elizabeth Taylor may have had her love affair with jewellery but my love affair is all about exfoliating, masks and serums.

Call me a total skincare nerd but I sold my soul when I was 17 when I first set foot in a spa and never looked back. There’s something so deliciously indulgent about being seriously pampered while at the same time having gorgeous products applied to your face that give your skin a good clean out while also preventing ageing.

One of the other reasons I am a die-hard facial fan is that I love the feeling that my skin is authentically clean combined with the glorious achievement of super plumped up and hydrated skin. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but there is just so much more going on with your face than the naked eye can see and no matter how good your at-home routine is, it’s just not going to cut it.

Yes, even if you own a Clarisonic you still need regular facials. Living in this region, we are constantly battling environmental factors such as year round air-conditioning and extreme heat and humidity that cause all sorts of skin woes such as congestion, breakouts and skin so dry or so oily that it’s enough to bring you to tears. Treating yourself to a super deep-clean facial once a month will really get results and help combat these issues.

“I hate to be the bearer of bad news but there is just so much more going on with your face than the naked eye can see and no matter how good your at-home routine is, it’s just not going to cut it”

Saving Face

With so much pressure to achieve a flawless complexion these days, Angela Beitz discusses her fixation with facials.

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Facials have come such a long way since a couple of slices of cucumber were placed over your eyes while a wipe-on, wipe-off technique was applied to the face.

Case in point, the facials that are available in our fair city are enough to see you addicted for life. Gold facial?

Why not. Diamond facial? Well, it would be rude not to.

Caviar? Slather it on please. If you are looking for luxury facials you can’t do much better than these and they are the types of facials that are perfect for a bit of ‘me time’.

Now before you judge me for being totally superficial, I’m mostly interested in results-oriented facials and products that actually work. Top of my list are fruit acid peels, DNA serums (of course it’s not actual DNA but rather ‘live ingredients’ for rejuvenating your skin) and beautiful organic products that are free of parabens and preservatives. These types of facials will immediately revive and illuminate dull, stressed skin and take away that awful lacklustre feeling.

If you’ve never tried a facial or feel you don’t have time, I urge you to go just once. It simply makes you feel so much better no matter how bad your day is. You won’t be sorry.

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Sofitel Paris La Defense

Everyone knows and loves postcard Paris.

That image usually has something to do with the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Elysees.

But there’s an undiscovered urban cocoon only a few miles away

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Travel Escapes

T

here are so many cliche boxes to tick with Paris. The love locks, croissants at charming cafes, the Louvre, PalaisRoyal Gardens, riding the Bateau Mouche, window shopping at Rue Saint-Honore - the crème de la crème of essentials if you like. But the business district of La Defense, which is only a few miles north of the must-visit areas of Paris, is definitely a worthy visit.

While we were in Paris for Fashion Week we opted to stay at Sofitel Paris La Defense for two reasons: it was quiet and we would therefore have some much needed peace and because we wanted a different slice of Paris.

The Sofitel Paris La Defense sits among towering architectural statements and a great atmosphere. The concrete jungle of Paris if you like, is a hive of activity during the day, a place of tranquility by night. And while running around to get to every show and presentation appointment, knowing our spacious, comfortable room was waiting for us was reassuring.

Despite not be a sprawling hotel over many acres of land, the hotel has a boutique feel to it - in a way that feels personal, cosy and discreet. Upon check in, the super convivial staff were attentive 100 www.ohlala-magazine.com

and were more than willing to accommodate for any request.

The room, near the lifts, had a strong colour palette of chocolate brown and vibrant fuchsia - a combination that we’ve yet to see in any other hotel, sat very well with us and had a welcoming feel to it.

We’ve got to say it off the bat now, the bed was unbelievably comfortable. Soft doesn’t even cover just how plush and luxurious a sleep we had every night - it’s the truffle of beds. And if like us you love an excess amount of pillows, our bed was plumped up with four very substantial, feathery, memory foam pillows. It was an absolute joy diving into it every night.

Being a largely business hotel one element the hotel has so spot on is its Wifi. Never have we experienced better Internet in a hotel - ever.

The turbo-charged speed at which our files were downloading was superb. Seeing as we still had loads

silky Cheddar cheese, onions, tomatoes and turkey) along with its French fries rolled up in newspaper was a great tummy filler. The breakfast options are also varied and accommodating to all dietary needs - with a selection of gluten free items for those with intolerances.

As far as location goes, Sofitel Paris La Defense is well situated. Just a few moments from the Esplanade La Defense metro station, you can be at the Champs-Elysees within 10 minutes. And don’t be fooled into thinking La Defense is just a business district - only a five minute walk away is

“The Sofitel Paris La Defense sits among towering architectural statements and a great atmosphere” of work to do between the shows, this was a great highlight of our stay at the hotel.

And of course between the shows we also had to eat too! The combination of in-room dining and the L’Italian Lounge gave us the right kind of fashion fuel to get us energised for the next batch of shows.

The medium-rare fillet we had one evening was loaded with juice, supreme tenderness and fabulous medley of grilled vegetables while the omelette (with

Les Quatre Temps shopping centre. There you’ll find all your Parisian brands along with great boutiques within a spacious set up.

It was a great pleasure relaxing in five star comfort. With decor designed by Jean-Philippe Nuel, you will find artwork and contemporary paintings by artists Pierre Bonnefille and Rudy Candillon. In all, this is a great urban retreat for anyone with a love for luxury.

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Travel Escapes

Local Touches Home Comforts Each of the hotel’s guestrooms and suites are exquisite and refined spaces with rich timber, marble and elegant Thai silks. Decorated with a stylish blend of classic elegance, Thai teak furniture and silks, it’s such an inviting place to go back to each day.

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok Located in the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant business and entertainment districT, this Luxury Collection hotel offers a sparkling variety for its guests

Zone Out

City Oasis It really feels like your own private sanctuary where you can’t hear the buzz of the city and there’s nothing more relaxing than having a drink as you unwind in the cooling pool.

The perfectly manicured but still forest-like grounds provide a superb getaway experience. And after a long day of sightseeing, what better way is there to finish off the day?

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There’s no faulting the service this property provides. Known as the land of smiles, Thailand has a reassuring friendliness about it. And it is proven so in every aspect of your stay at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Whatever we needed, it was met with warmth and a smile from ear to ear.

Dine Like A Local This is an absolute must! The hotel offer a cooking class for you to enjoy local fare at Basil - one of the many award-winning restaurants. We got to enjoy a private class with the chef where we cooked Prawn Tom Yum soup, followed by chicken with basil stir fry. Such a great treat.

The Grande Spa is another addition to the hotel’s impressive portfolio of luxury experiences. From invigorating Thai massages to the gorgeous smells permeating the grounds, this is the quintessential spa environment.

There’s a real sense of purity, stillness, and silence that work wonders to create a refuge for the body and mind.

Down And Out You can’t beat the location. In fact, the concierge go out of their way to highlight the best the city has to offer. We had a full blown itinerary to get through (which we got through via the very safe, reliable tuk tuks which you can find pretty much anywhere around the city) and the concierge made sure we had an umbrella at hand alongside bottles of water when needed. The city is filled with colourful history and exciting sites, which are on your doorstep.

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Health Files

Doha Marriott Spa With innovating treatments, Doha Marriott’s Spa is now back with their latest offer to untie those troubled knots The Lowdown

If you’re not quite sure how to release stress, then we suggest booking yourself into the hotel’s latest offering: Sport Massage. Similar to the Swedish massage, this new treatment offers a deep and intense journey with stretching, compression, friction, toning and other techniques to alleviate those troubled areas. Don’t be fool by its name; it’s not just for athletes, anyone can enjoy and benefit from this fabulous stress releaser.

The Package

The latest addition to the hotel’s array of massages and treatments is priced at QR 430 per person for a 60min journey. With the help of professional therapists, who are all welcoming and helpful throughout the entire day of wellness, they will guide you to maximise your experience.

But hold on, any treatment chosen over QR 200 offers you free access to all spa facilities such as their jacuzzi, steam room, plunge pool, and much more.

Location

Doha Marriott Spa is located on the ground floor 104 www.ohlala-magazine.com

of the Doha Marriott Hotel, Ras Abu Aboud Street.

More action!

If you fancy some other packages that you’ve been coveting, here are some recommendations.

If your face has been dry and a bit all over the place, get it glowing with the spa’s Elastoform Facial, a 55min journey for only QR 420. Get that skin lifted and firm.

For ladies who want a permanent sun-kissed look, have a spray tan session. Get one spray tan application in a 45min session for QR 280.

If luxurious baths is your calling then dip into a delicious Turkish bath. For a one-hour treatment, it’s QR 370.

The Spot

Doha Marriott Spa is by far the most efficient spa we’ve come to encounter in the city. Their facilities connecting the outer pool and the hotel’s beach is perfectly designed for relaxing and enjoying the activities on offer. Not only is the spa well equipped with the latest technology, the arrangement of the changing rooms are spacious and respectful of privacy.

Schedule Some relaxing time and book your appointment: 4429 8520

Hammam, Spa by Clarins, Marsa Malaz Kempinski Enjoy a sunny pool day at Radisson Blu

Shake Up Your Routine It’s a beautiful thing to find that perfect workout you love, so here’s some inspiration to help mix up your routine Boxercise at Doha Marriott If you fancy some self-defense, get it pumping with the hotel’s fun boxercise class - perfect for toning and strengthening those muscles. For those advanced at boxercise, there are classes every Tuesday and Saturday from 6pm until 7pm. For beginners, attend every Thursday from 6pm until 7pm.

For information or reservations call: 4429 8520

Six Senses pool

Spa by Clarins at Marsa Malaz Kempinski Regroup in a Sacred Moment massage in a 120 min journey of pure wellness and health. The full day experience concentrates on a body scrub with hot stones, a Clarins facial with a head, neck and shoulder massage and full access to the spa’s facilities. QR 1200 per person.

For information or reservation call: 4035 5555 Cabana Fitness Club at Radisson Blu Get your dancing moves on with a Bulgarian Folk Dance class. Velislava Metodieva takes the lead with 10 years of experience in the industry. Join

Saturdays and Tuesdays from 7pm until 8pm. For members, QR 55 per class and for non-members QR 65 per class.

For information or reservations call: 4428 1621 Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village & Spa Achieve bliss of the mind and soul with an 80 min experience of pure wellness with the spa’s detoxifying body buff followed by a therapeutic marma massage, which allows the body to reduce stress levels, anxiety, and reconnects your inner joy. QR 700 per person.

For information or reservation call: 4425 6999 Remede Spa at St.Regis Doha Enjoy a deeply invigorating Moroccan bath therapy which comprises a threestep experience over 105 min. It includes a Moroccan scrub, hydration of the skin and finishes with a bespoke massage. Available everyday from 10am until 10pm it’s up for QR 980 per person.

For information or reservation call: 4446 0300 www.ohlala-magazine.com 105

Culinary Insight

Tsé Yang If Chinese cuisine is your kick, your eating destination just got a whole lot better with Tsé Yang offering a great new deal

Stir-fried fillet chicken, dried chili & cashew nuts

Crispy banana roll with vanilla ice cream

What’s It All About?

If you can’t decide on where to eat and Chinese cuisine is just your thing, then perhaps returning to the office is a must. Tsé Yang is now offering their new Business Lunch set menu. With choices of a main course, side order and dessert, it is just the perfect pitch for that quick getaway from the office.

The offer stands from 12.30pm until 3.30pm.

Price Per Set Menu QR 75

Special Offer

If you’re lunching with a group, or perhaps it’s an international business group, the restaurant will adjust the Business Lunch menu according to your needs and budget. Who said working lunches were boring?

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Eat Out

Being a renowned chain with exceptional quality, the restaurant offers its services from 12pm until 12am.

Choices are endless when eating at this fabulous place.

The a la carte menu is for those who would rather prefer a lunch or dinner on that special occasion.

If you’re looking for a romantic atmosphere, the restaurant offers two private rooms at your disposal with a minimum charge of QR 300 per person. Their take away options are the best part, keep that in mind!

Location Is A Destination With sister branches already in Paris, Geneva, Munich and New York, the beautiful venue is the ultimate hotspot in the luxurious The PearlQatar. The restaurant can be easily accessed from Porto Arabia’s boardwalk. If you’re done with your

gastronomic journey, take a walk around the stellar premises of The Pearl and discover what this place has to offer with their coffee shops, high-end brand stores, and more. The exquisite place is soon to be rebranded as Krane-Chinese restaurant.

So peel your eyes for that.

Ohlala Recommends

Main course: Stir-fried fillet of chicken, dried chili & cashew nuts Side order: Vegetable fried rice Dessert: Crispy banana roll with vanilla icecream & strawberry mojito

Get Dialing

For information or reservations call: 4495 3876 ext. 2071

Chic Eats

November Dining Has your plate been looking a little sad lately? Use our guide of all the great eateries to liven up your day Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha Gobble Gobble! Have a delicious Thanksgiving dinner in Sawa with an array of roast turkey and traditional stuffing, gravy sauce and yummy accompaniments. It’s all eatery business on Thursday 26 from 6.30pm until 10.30pm, QR 220 per person.

For information or reservations call: 4035 5011 Doha Marriott Thursday nights just got better with the hotel’s new Night Market. Enjoy the scrumptious selections from

India, South East Asia, Mexico and much more from the live cooking stations, only for QR 335 including unlimited beverages. Starting from the November 12, mark your calendars every Thursday evening.

For more information or reservations call: 4429 8499 Radisson Blu Discover and enjoy a savoury Friday brunch at the Hyde Park Coffee shop. With more than 30 dishes to taste from around the world, plus a live entertainment band, make sure to attend from 12pm until 3pm. If you’re going only for the buffet, it’s

QR 170 per person, and QR 235 per person with beverage. For information or reservations call: 4428 1555

QR 450 per person, from 7.04pm until 12am. For information or reservations call: 4446 0105

InterContinental Doha The City It’s a French affair at Prime. Featuring delicious French cuisine served with a selection of French beverages, enjoy an everlasting authentic French evening. The promotion also includes a raffle with a winning dinner for four people, prepared by the hotel’s French executive chef, Emmanuel Pauliat. Promotion starts on November 16 valid until December 7. Prime is open every evening from 6pm until 11pm. For more information or reservations call: 4015 8888

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha It’s a Burger Fest at Admiral’s!

It’s all about delicious meatiness from burgers and sliders from around the globe, and of course South American beef chimichurri, chicken Thai peanut & chili, lamb Moroccan spices and much more.

It’s a daily treat starting at 5pm until 10pm. For information or reservations call: 4484 8000

St.Regis Doha There’s more gobble gobble this month at Astor Grill.

A set menu with a 3-course meal, enjoy it with family and friends this special occasion on November 26.

Oryx Rotana Doha Sunday Smooth Vibes is on every Sunday at The Jazz Club Band as part of the hotel’s theme nights. It’s all about attracting and listening to great vibes to start your week on a positive note. Open from 8pm until 12.45am. For information or reservations call: 4402 3333

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Diva Drives

Rolls-Royce Wraith

Inspired by Fashion Could this be the ultimate Diva Driver review? Ohlala takes a spin in the glorious Rolls-Royce Wraith Inspired by Fashion at an exclusive event in the UAE…

W

hen Rolls-Royce invite you to an event, they’re not just inviting you to drive the car. They’re inviting you into the lifestyle of a Rolls-Royce owner, so that you can experience that glamorous way of life, even if it’s just for a few days.

So, when they invited me to join them for a drive in their fleet from the glamorous Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal to the breathtakingly beautiful Anantara Qasr Al Sarab hotel in the Liwa desert, I knew it was something I couldn’t miss.

This was only confirmed when we found out 108 www.ohlala-magazine.com

that the spectacular Rolls-Royce Wraith Inspired

by Fashion edition was going to be present at the event. We first caught wind of this beauty earlier this year when we received press bulletins about its arrival in the Gulf. It was one of two special editions ordered by Rolls-Royce to the region to showcase the company’s incredible bespoke capabilities, the other being the equally sublime Inspired by Film.

As you can imagine, it is drop-dead gorgeous.

The Inspired by Fashion’s unique features, created by the Bespoke Design Studio at Rolls-Royce in

Goodwood, draw inspiration from colour palettes, materials and techniques used in the world of high fashion. It boasts a two-tone exterior colour scheme of Andalucian White and Arctic White, and the interior is a contemporary impression of the car’s classic Arctic White and Black interior colour scheme.

The car’s front and rear door pockets are finished with fine silks, adorned with an abstract representation of the Spirit of Ecstasy, and the whole interior look is completed elegantly with a Bespoke Clock, set as a piece of jewellery, styled to emit a pearl effect.

Behind the wheel, Sofia Graniello

You can’t imagine the effect this car has when you see it glistening in the sunlight like a dazzling white diamond, and it is very much a girl’s best friend too!

The driving experience is as sublime as the visual beauty of the car. It simply glides along the road in incredible silence, a serene cloud of comfort.

However, don’t expect to be bored in such cosseted luxury, because an impressive amount of performance underpins this luxurious fastback coupe, the closest that Rolls-Royce make to a sports car. Massive power comes courtesy of the 6.6l twin-turbo V12, which has an output of 624hp and 800Nm of torque, which means that this big luxury coupe will reach 100km/h in 4.6 seconds, and a top speed of 250km/h.

What will amaze you though, is how refined the whole experience is, even when you really floor such a powerful engine. The gear changes are so smooth and seamless that you don’t even know when they happen, and the engine is just a quiet purr. All you experience is a huge and relentless surge in speed, and before you know it you’re pushing 200km/h – in silence!

Speed is not what the Rolls-Royce Wraith Inspired by Fashion is all about though. It’s about looking and feeling spectacular. And that is exactly how you feel when you pull up to the driveway of the Ritz-Carlton hotel in this car. You feel like royalty, a glamorous heiress or an A-list celebrity. A Rolls-Royce isn’t just a car – it’s a way of life.

The Rolls-Royce Wraith is available from RollsRoyce Motor Cars, Doha. Call +974 4420 8887 for more information www.ohlala-magazine.com 109

Ohlala Spotlight

Choi In The World of The Made-to-Order with Jimmy Choo made its stellar comeback in Qatar this past month. Totally in awe, we ask Sandra Choi, the creative director, what it takes to be at the helm of the brand at full-speed

What does your daily routine look like?

I am not sure there is such a thing as a typical day in this role which is why it still inspires me nearly 20 years on! I have two young daughters so my day starts early with the usual juggle of breakfast and getting my eldest to school on time. Then I head straight to the office for 9am where I spend my day in meetings, editing collections, working in the design studio with my talented team or meeting with stylists and editors. In the evening I may go to an industry event or rush back home in time to say goodnight to my girls. I travel a lot as well which is eye opening; it is great to see style in other countries and how Jimmy Choo translates across the world.

It’s been roughly two years since you were appointed creative director of Jimmy Choo. How is that working out?

It’s has been an amazing honour. I am in the rare situation of having worked in the same company my entire career and I am still inspired every day I come to work. I love my job and it’s very much part of who I am.

How has the brand evolved since you took on the role?

The Jimmy Choo woman is multi-faceted, confident and dynamic. On the one hand she is glamorous and sexy but she also enjoys a more relaxed style to suit her busy lifestyle. When I design it’s very much with this multi-faceted woman in mind. I want Jimmy Choo to cater for all aspects of this woman’s lifestyle – whether flats, biker boots, trainers or heels – whilst making her feel empowered, sexy, confident and feminine.

I have a very strong long-term vision for the brand. I want it to live on for many years to come.

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What inspires Sandra Choi?

Music and photography are constant sources of inspiration to me; I have an extensive collection of fashion, art and design photographic books that I reference. I often find that the people and the street-style of a new city provide as much, if not more of an insight and creative reference than the ethnic or cultural sights.

What’s in your closet?

Erdem, McQueen for the tailoring and the drama, Simone Rocha. My style is very much understated chic. I like being a little bit rebellious at times, and a little bit refined at other times. And, of course, a lot of shoes!

Your go-to-party shoes?

My favorites are the ROSANNA’S, from the AW15 collection – a round toe velvet pump with a pin heel and leather straps which tie round the ankle like ballet shoes.

Do you have any future plans to visit the Middle East?

I would love to visit the Middle East – I really admire the innate sense of glamour and sophistication that Middle Eastern women possess. I have no plans to visit at the moment but my schedule changes so fast that you never know!

How does your creative process start?

I am influenced and inspired daily by the people around me and the style on the street. For AW15, I was inspired by dancers such as Carlos Acosta and Sylvie Guillem – both are trained principally in ballet but have developed and intertwined contemporary dance into their powerful performances.

The tension in dance between grace and power led me to explore the theme of ballet in the AW15 collection.

Anything you would like to add for our Jimmy Choo lovers here in Qatar?

It’s so rewarding to hear how our Middle Eastern customers have such an appreciation for our designs! We have a big milestone coming up with our 20th anniversary next year, which will bring lots of exciting new projects, so stay tuned!

What defines a woman?

Confidence and having a personal sense of style.

Three items a woman should never leave the house without?

A great pair of shoes, a statement bag and a smile.

Stilettos are…

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Ohlala Spotlight Double Trouble

The illusionists

The Illusionists 1903 For the first time ever the biggest magic show on earth is set to captivate Doha audiences. With a string of new world-class magicians, start marking your calendars!

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Are you ready to be entertained?

A night to be surprised

Considered to be the highest selling and longest running magic show on Broadway,The Illusionist 1903 will make history this month for the first time.

Showcasing impeccable and renowned magicians around the globe, it is set to showcase the greatest and most dangerous illusions ever built. Throughout the show spectators will be able to appreciate its hard-core magic and explore first-hand the spectacles that transformed stage entertainment over a century.

Among the talented performers, The Alchemist (Alberto Giorgi) is on board, being the most appealing examples in the European scene. The talented illusionist has built a prolific career over time, winning him praise as one of the greats in the industry. Not only is Alberto an important element to the show, but also, Mark Kalin, Krendi, Thommy Ten, AmĂŠlia van Tass, Dana Daniels, Jinger Leigh and Charlie Frye are taking part in the successful show.

The acclaimed spectacle is brought to you by the Alchemy Project.

The Illusionist 1903 will show from November 18-21 at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Tickets available at tixbox.com (+971 56 675 6834-35).

It’s all about good music this month.

Stereophonics live in Doha

A Sit Down with

Stereophonics

From Cynon Valley to the desert of Doha, stalwart rock-pop band, Stereophonics, will be bringing a night of new material, nostalgia and awesomeness to the city. Interview by Sofia Graniello Welsh band Stereophonics will be visiting Doha for one night only, performing some of their classic hits and new material. The group has had significant success over the past two decades and are one of the most eagerly-anticipated acts to come to the city this year. We caught up with Richard Jones, bass guitarist, backing vocalist and co-founder of the band and asked about the group’s set in Doha, what keeps them motivated and what the future holds.

There’s some that we can’t not leave out of the set list. They expect to hear them and we are happy to oblige. That includes Dakota, which goes down really well. There’s also Local Boy in the Photograph and Maybe Tomorrow. People expect to hear these and I don’t believe in bands playing obscure songs just to please themselves.

The people in the crowd have bought tickets and we want to make sure they have a good night. In turn, we also then have a great time.

We’ve been performing the new album for a few months, dropping in three or four songs from the new album into the set. It’ll be similar in Doha.

We have over 100 of our songs to choose from but have to whittle it down to about 20, which isn’t easy. So far it’s been really successful and it’s great to watch the crowd’s reaction. I’m looking forward to coming to Doha and hoping for the same kind of response. We’re excited to see how they’ll react.

Storytelling is still at the heart of what we do.

That’s what our lyricist Kelly does best. He writes short stories and we make songs out of them. The only thing that’s really changed over the years is the story content. It still relates to what goes on around us but it also takes in all the experiences we’ve had. We just want people to connect with the song and certain elements of it. That’s what makes it so enjoyable when we perform, knowing that there’s an emotional attachment for some of the crowd to that piece of music.

What can the audience expect from your gig in Doha?

What’s the song that tends to go down best with the crowd?

How has your music changed and developed over the years?

In your new album, Keeping the Village

Alive, C’est La Vie was the first single released. The next will be I Want to Get Lost With You. How do you decide which songs to release?

When we’re recording the songs and play them to people, such as management and people that have been with us for a long time, they can help us out to pick which ones can be a hit. For us as a band, it’s really hard to decide which ones should be singles as we’ve all got different attachments to them.

If you had to choose one song of yours that defines you as a person, which would it be?

I would pick something off the second album.

People had just started taking notice of the band.

What’s been the secret to the Stereophonics’ longevity?

I think consistency is important, as well as not just resting on laurels. We don’t want to be a band that relies on one song or album.

Stereophonics will be performing at Indigo, Sheraton Doha on 10 November. For tickets call 3369 2133. www.ohlala-magazine.com 113

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Ohlala Spotlight

Sinatra Centenary Celebration We can expect exceptional music from great performers this month. Sinatra Centenary is in line to cause a commotion you won’t want to miss. We caught up with artist Matthew vanKan where he talks Sinatra, career and performances Being a renowned artist and exceptional performer, Matthew vanKan is ready to tackle the event of the year at Grand Hyatt Doha on November 18. The performer, who also took part in the much-acclaimed Swing Week 2015, has opened new doors paving way to international venues, including shows in America.

How have you prepared for Sinatra Centenary celebration?

I’ve been celebrating the music of Frank Sinatra all year, playing London’s jazz clubs with shows, which have explored the sentiment of Sinatra’s songs. I was in Las Vegas last month and then flew to New York City to perform at one of Sinatra’s favourite haunts, The Carlyle. I also saw Frank’s show endorsed by his family at The London Palladium, which included some unseen footage from the Sinatra archives. I’ve been scribbling and daydreaming about my Sinatra Centenary show at Grand Hyatt Doha for the past few months, so am really excited it’s now coming to fruition.

What can we expect from the show?

Great musicianship from my band with some dynamic new arrangements, which have added our stamp to the Sinatra songbook. Wonderful singer, Nicola Emmanuel, will be joining me onstage to revisit the tunes covered by Ella Fitzgerald and Frank. We’re also bringing a touch of Vegas to Doha. And, who knows ‘Ol Blue Eyes himself may even put in an appearance!

What’s your favourite Sinatra song?

I’ll Never Smile Again written by Ruth Lowe and released in 1940. It was Frank’s first commercial success and stayed at the top of the Billboard chart for 12 weeks.

“Jazz is timeless, ever evolving and challenging. I feel honoured to be singing great songs”

What got you into swing and jazz music?

The need to sing again. I’d given up but felt overwhelmed one day to perform again. Jazz is timeless, ever evolving and challenging. I feel very honoured to be singing the great songs that I perform.

What has been your favourite performance of your career?

I was performing a show at the famous Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho, London. The pressure is always on at a venue like that because of all the incredible artists that have performed before, and the high expectations of the audience. I’d included a cover version of Joni Mitchell’s ‘Both Sides Now’ and introduced the song with a story that was very personal to me. I don’t think I’ve ever poured as much emotion into one song before.

How do you see Doha’s music scene?

With such investment from the Ministry of Culture in the arts, more artists are visiting Qatar to perform and so undoubtedly Doha has a bright musical future.

Do you have any future projects in Doha?

Coco Latté’s 7-day Swing Week festival in March 2016 at Grand Hyatt Doha. This will be the second year of this unique celebration of popular swing and jazz music, and Nicholas Chrisostomou of Coco Latté and I are already working on an incredible line-up of undiscovered performers and well-known singing talents to showcase in Qatar. Swing Week Doha 2016 will be bigger and grander than last year’s, and plans are afoot to run the festival in Dubai and Abu Dhabi at the same time as Doha. Keep an eye on facebook.com/ swingweek for Swing Week news!

Sinatra Centenary will take place at Grand Hyatt Doha on November 18 at 7.30pm. For tickets and information call 4448 1234 www.ohlala-magazine.com 115

Ohlala Boutiques Donna, Valentino is available at Salam Stores

Illicit, Jimmy Choo is available at Salam Stores

For that night out

Just when you thought Netflix, sweatpants and your regular facemask were about to happen, your friends hit you up for a late night out.

Here are two must-have perfumes that won’t disappoint.

Play it like a lady

We find neutral colours this month to be the go-to hues for wardrobe perfection. Vincci shines through with classic designs in the purse department.

Vincci is available at Landmark and Villaggio Mall

It’s a Casual Date

Don’t play it stressful when you can chill and be casual. Up the ante with Stradivarius and their latest collection. Stradivarius is available at Landmark Mall

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Dreaming of Venice

A collection of romantic reds, decadent blues, striking corals, dreamy pastels and dramatic darks, OPI is embracing an over-the-top vision.

Venice collection by OPI is available at Wojooh, Sephora, and Lifestyle

Celebrate Comfort Feet If you’re having trouble finding the perfect fit for a peaceful relationship between you and your shoe, then head over to Shoe Citi to find great buys with exceptional brands such as Hush Puppies, Cushe, CIRO, Soft Science, Sketchers, Nike, Fila, Crocs and much more.

Hush Puppies

Soft Science

Shoe Citi is available at Landmark and Gulf Mall

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Versace

WHERE TO BUY ABCD Alexander McQueen +974 4495 2231; Ali Bin Ali +974 4413 1391; Al Jaber Watches +974 447 7422; Armani Exchange +974 4416 1003; BCBG Max Azria +974 4450 7082; Bershka +974 4413 5583; Blugirl +974 6665 5004; Boots +974 450 4551; Boucheron +974 4425 7744; Burberry +974 4413 4551; Bulgari +974 4413 4568; Carolina Herrera +974 4413 4748; Celine +974 4413 4763; Chaumet +974 4495 3875; Chloe +974 4495 2181; Chopard +974 4483 0100; Christian Louboutin +974 4450 7004; City Centre Doha +974 4483 9990; Desigual +974 4416 1851; D’NA +974 4002 7911; Dior +974 4413 4665; Dolce & Gabbana +974 4416 1007.

EFGH Elisabetta Franchi +974 6665 5004; Emilio Pucci +974 4464 3533; Ermanno Scervino +974 4017 6089; Etro +974 4495 3876, ext 1981; Faces +974 4450 7189; Fendi +974 4460 09545; Fifty One East +974 4436 1111; Gap +974 487 6962; Giorgio Armani +974 4495 1921; Gucci +974 4413 4612;

Hermes +974 4495 1911; Hoss Intropia +974 4450 7885; H&M +974 4450 7628.

IJKL Jacob Cohen +974 4017 6083; Jimmy Choo +974 4468 4850; Jo Malone +974 4451 7020; Katherine Pooley London +974 4407 7171; Karen Millen +974 4413 4503; Lacoste +974 4450 7191; Landmark Mall +974 4487 5222; Lagoona Mall +974 4433 5555; Louis Vuitton +974 4413 4928; L’Occitane +974 4450 7585.

MNOP MAC +974 483 9763; Mango +974 4487 4612; Massimo Dutti +974 4413 5109; Merch +974 4465 8651; Milly +974 4450 7084; Miss Selfridge +974 4413 5281; Miu Miu +974 44644 082; Omega +974 4451 9750; Oysho +974 4413 509; Paris Gallery +974 459 2060; Patrizia Pepe +974 6665 5004; Philipp Plein +974 4411 1245; Pinko +974 4413 5818; Prada +974 4464 4908; Promod +974 4450 7976; Pronovias +974 4416 1856; Pull & Bear +974 4413 5021.

QRST QELA +974 4002 7594; Quis Quis +974 4468 4686; Ralph Lauren +974 4413 5655; Rivaage Doha +974 4436 3640; River Island +974 4013 5285; Rivoli Arcade +974 4015 8667; Roberto Cavalli +974 4480 2856; Salam +974 4448 5555; Salsa +974 4413 5062; Salvatore Ferragamo +974 4495 1941; Sephora +974 4450 7345; Stella McCartney +974 4495 2281; Tag Heuer +974 4411 5969; Temperley London +974 4407 7183; The Closet +974 4442 2218; The Vanity Room +974 4495 3299; Tommy Hilfiger +974 4312 9899; Topshop +974 413 5015; Toujouri +974 4495 6244; Twin Set +974 6665 5004.

UVWYZ Uterque +974 4413 5580; Valentino +974 4416 1008; Van Cleef & Arpels +974 4416 9399; Vera Wang +974 4495 5157; Versace +974 4447 7333; Versace Collection +974 4413 5437; Villa Moda Qatar +974 4493 5651; Villaggio Mall +974 4413 5278; Vinicci +974 4450 7917; Wojooh +974 4450 7189; Zara +974 4413 4881; Zai Boutique +974 4409 2600. www.ohlala-magazine.com 119

We Keep Falling For Pink Join Strata Lounge every Wednesday for some pink festivities. Ladies, put your best foot forward and try your luck at winning a fabulous prize.

Enjoy great beats only at InterContinental Doha The City.

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Ania Kruk Lands in Qatar Polish and jeweller designer, Ania Kruk was present for the opening of her new store in the region. Not only is she the creative soul of her own brand, she has 10 successful stores in Poland and this new addition in Qatar is set to see her empire grow. Take a peek at her creations at The Mall.

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Nozomi’s Japanese Experience The award winning, contemporary Japanese restaurant has opened its doors for all to experience a unique atmosphere and fabulous fare. Situated in the gardens of Marsa Malaz Kempinski, guests were offered an insight of what the restaurant stands for: a fusion of entertainment and dining.

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(on the Right) Omar Hussain Alfardan, President and CEO of Alfardan Group with BMW representative and Ihab Allam, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles (On the Left)

An Era of Luxury It was the official launch of BMW’s latest gems, where Alfardan Automobiles held an exclusive event for the all-new BMW 7 Series in Qatar. Marsa Malaz Kempinski hosted the event with all the luxurious models.

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#Hashtag

A Bit of Everything Since Stereophonics made it to Doha they of course made our can’t-getenough-of-this list among others...

We can’t take our eyes of you, you’re too good to be true, it’s feels like heaven to dip into..

Enjoy the hotel’s wonderful facilities, because let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good tanning session?

As Stereophonics will be in D-town this month don’t forget to follow the superb band during their crazy daily adventures.

Raise your hand if you can’t wait to get your hands on one of these bottles? Ditto.

We are obsessing over a good winter makeup collection. We’ve tried and tested for you gals, read our review for the must-buy pieces.

It’s all about foundation in the beauty department right now; Rimmel knows best for that flawless finish.

Editor in chief, Georgie Bradley made it once again to the busy streets of Paris where of course, a lot of fashion was involved.

A true match made in heaven: Alexa Chung and Longchamp unite forces for her iconic style.

Because we’re crushing on Lana del Rey this month and her fab and latest work, Honeymoon.

Make sure to follow Ohlala’s Instagram @ohlalamagazine; Twitter @OhlalaQatar; Facebook @Ohlala Qatar Magazine 124 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Miss Ohlala

I

grew up in a household where my dad had a ‘cool’ job: he was and

still is, a commercial pilot. Friends were always amused and intrigued as to what his profession was all about. I would always travel for free (perks of his job) to unbelievable destinations; my vacations were always out of town. I was that teenager who always left town for three full months and would come back with a new pair of Nike trainers. There was not a single summer I didn’t travel – shopping included – to the best malls in the United States and of course, Disneyland was always the cherry on top. If you ask me, I had a pretty decent and happy childhood. Trips as a family were tradition, up until my family decided to make a risky jump and move to a new adventure that brought me to my first real insight of what being a nomad is all about. We packed up and moved to South Korea. Seoul was my home for a year, a place I will always cherish and a place that made me realise how ignorant I was to the real world. A nation where freedom and respect is very much appreciated, it taught me real independence. Later, my family decided, yet again (as if one move wasn’t enough) to pack our suitcases and jump to the Middle East: Qatar. A place I still call home, it’s

“I’ve lived in three different countries, and I’m still in search for that place I can call home”

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a country that has put my tolerance, patience and other great survival skills to the test - and of course where I met my first true love four-years ago (very important to the story). Still not satisfied, and in search of a new adventure, I decided to pack my bags and leave for a new experience, Milan. In Italy it was when I first realised how the power of moving can affect a person. It was in one moment where I understood I had three different homes with my personal belongings divided across three different rooms – in three different continents! My summers consisted of trekking to all my previous homes, especially my real home in El Salvador. Facebook friends increased, Skype was my main communication tool. The beauty of travelling is a constant wheel that doesn’t stop for anyone. Nostalgia kicked in when I would visit my home country and reality would strike, witnessing how I had evolved and my friends and family were at a complete stop. My perspective and vision in life had changed. My priorities were different.

Many back home would criticise (up until this day) and think what a fabulous life I must have. True, but yet, not true. Living and jumping from place to place opens new doors, but it also closes doors to great friendships. I’ve lost three great relationships because of moving, however I don’t regret it. I’m 26-years-old and dare I say it, I am not looking to settle down just yet.

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