Ohlala! Qatar March Issue

QATAR

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Celebrating incredible Women Sharp, smart & strong

Fashion

Spring Clean

In Full

your beauty

Bloom

The return of bold colours

The Season’s new game changers

Acid brights, cool metallics & More...

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OHLALA! DECEMBER 2013

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MArch 2014 | Issue 33

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Editor’s Letter

Welcome to Spring Can you feel it yet? The start of a new season brimming with excitement: new trends, new styles and maybe a new you. Kick-start spring with our definitive guide to the key looks, must-haves and need-to-know styling tips – our runway roundup will show you how to wear the new pieces now, whatever the weather.

For beauty devotees, our makeup master class will have you waving goodbye to the grungy looks of Fall, and spring cleaning your beauty routine for a fresher more feminine you; it’s definitely time to usher in a youthful prettiness associated with the concept of less always being more.

On March 8th the world pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of women across the globe with International Women’s Day, so Ohlala! turned the spotlight onto the faces who have helped place the Qatari woman at the forefront of the working industry - here are six local women who have broken their own cultural barriers and made it all the way to the top. Take a sneak peek into their world with our stunning cover, featuring one of the beautiful designs of Qatari fashion trio, The Kayys.

We’re also delighted to feature the country’s latest cultural venture with the launch of Qatar Brazil 2014. This bridging of artistic and intellectual heritages will create a myriad of events that will have our calendar full for the coming year, something definitely notable to put down on one’s agenda. So don’t make too many plans!

Dina Kabbani

Editor Ohlala! Qatar

hot picks

Dior

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Fendi

Tod’s

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CONTENTS

26 28 30 34 35 36 48 50

STYLE The Hotlist Style Love Scouting Talent Haute Sports Techno Rush World Beat Little Black Book Inspirational Qataris

Fashion 58 Joie De Vivre CELEBRITY SCOOP 44 Alice Temperley

70 78 82 784

Beauty Spring Clean Your Beauty Modern Muse A-List Tan A Healthier You

MOTORING 86 Audi A3 Sedan dining 88 Taste of Singapore Art&CUlture 90 Qatar Brazil 2014 shopping 102 Ohlala! Boutiques 109 Where to Buy

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society 110 Red Carpet Ready 112 Doha’s New Ride 113 Sweet Melody the column 114 Miss Ohlala!

THE CATWALK EDIT

Discover SS14’s most exciting new looks as our fashion team picks the key trends and must-have items for the new season.

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doha 18

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Photography by: Summer Weeks

MANAMA DUBAI ABU DHABI ALKHOBAR RIYADH AMMAN DOHA

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Administration Executive

Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

Roy Varghese

Creative DIrector Paula Leal

Publishing Director Edward Smith

Sales & Distribution Coordinator Sheree Lou Cabonce

Senior Graphic Designer

Accountants

Raquel Henriques

Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

Graphic Designer Rashed Bindaina

General Manager

Distribution Team

Hussein Zreik

Production & Distribution Manager

Editor

Neil Mahmood

Dina Kabbani

contributing EDITOR Karina Lazarraga Kirsty Edwards-Harris

Website Designer & Developer

Ben Whittaker

Awal Press

Distribution Feature Contributors

Editor-at-Large

Printing Press

Ammar Ali

Editorial Assistant Josie Hill

Jayapragash Ganesan Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Giovanni

Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

Photography Contributors

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Imelda Reynante Abshar PK @ Creative Design Fritsche Bautista @ Creative Design Shameer Pokkutty @ Creative Design

Sales & Marketing Manager Sakala Debrass

Lifestyle sales Manager Badir Bechara

Enquiries Editorial: editor@ohlala-magazine.com Advertising: info@ohlala-magazine.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 (Qatar) +974 4441 8415/+974 4421 3089 Postal Address: Ohlala! Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain

Mary Katrantzou

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

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PARENTAL ADVISORY

Cool kid on the block, Alexander Wang served up cropped number after cropped number proving that it really is time to bare it all.

A SHADED VIEW

Whether it’s optimum chic you’re going for or if easy cool is more your signature style, try Fendi’s slick matte lenses.

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SWEET PASTELS

With a bevy of lightweight cover-ups on the runways, there has never been a better time to invest in this modern hero piece. Try Burberry Prorsum’s pistachio mint style for elegant, new-season chic.

The Hot List The new spring/summer season has a trend for everyone, but whatever your style, the mood is all woman

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FEMALE EQUALITY

Miuccia Prada paid homage to women’s rights with beautifully commissioned pieces from six artists, all of which depict women’s faces, and recreated them in her show space and on many of the items of clothing themselves, including the bags.

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SHOES FOR THE SOLE

With its usual headspinning elegance, Dior’s romantic SS14 heels this time just might be too pretty to wear! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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style

Spirited Attitude A must-buy for spring, the Clare bag by Chloé is a chic statement-making piece.

Introducing the Clare bag by Chloé, a tailored and modern bag with attitude for the Spring 2014 season. “The Clare is a bag that best captures all of the new signatures of what I believe Chloé is now” says Clare Waight Keller, creative director of Chloé.

“Soft to the touch and slung over the shoulder, the Clare embodies a spirit that I simply love.” ~ Clare Waight Keller

Clare by Chloe is available in different colour combinations, sizes and fabric, such as leather and python.

Available in all Chloe Boutiques

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Style notes

Scouting new talent The Middle East is looking for the next big thing in fashion here in the Arab world.

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A fantastic opportunity has opened its HOW TO doors here in the Middle East thanks to a APPLY Young designers, with collaboration between The Dubai Mall, the brands that have world’s largest shopping haven, and Vogue been established Italia, one of the world’s most influential for at least a year, should provide a fashion magazines. The duo has joined short biography, a hands launching a new talent scouting written description competition set to find and nurture the next of the collection’s inspiration, hi-res generation of fashion designers. Following in photographs or the footsteps of last year’s inaugural Vogue videos of already produced collections, Fashion Dubai Experience, which saw The and information Dubai Mall collaborate with Mrs. Franca about the brand’s Sozzani, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia distribution channels and email their and Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of application before Emaar Properties, to bring fashion shows, April 2014 to exhibitions and interactive events involving tdmtalentscouting@ condenast.it. For established and emerging designers to the more details visit Middle East, the scouting competition will www.bysymphony. serve as the run-up to the second edition com/scouting2014 of the fashion extravaganza “Dubai today is the must-be with winners to place for the global fashion be mentored by industry, and The Dubai fashion experts Mall, a definitive fashion and their works showcased at the destination.” high-fashion event. Franca Sozzani, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia www.ohlala-magazine.com

INFINITI QX80 FIRST CLASS. EVERY DAY. Settle in comfortably, fasten your seatbelt, start the engine and leave the world behind. The weather conditions outside your window no longer matter. It’s time to forget the ordinary and enjoy the carefully created First Class atmosphere.

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Infiniti QX80, 400 horsepower 5.6-litre V8 VVEL engine with 560 Nm of torque.

Visit your nearest Infiniti showroom to experience the Infiniti QX80 in First Class surroundings.

Infiniti is refining its language; all models will now be prefixed by Q or QX.

SALEH AL HAMAD AL MANA CO. (Exclusive Agent)

Main Showroom: Salwa: Tel: 4428 3366. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Showroom Timings: 8:00am to 9:00pm (Sat-Thu); 4:00pm to 9:00pm (Fri).

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Style Spotlight

Sweet Rush

With this being Emma Hill’s final collection as the creative director of Mulberry, we pay ode to the brilliant designer with our favourite picks of the SS14 collection. With a nod to English stately homes and a whiff of the sixties in both prints and silhouettes, the look is nostalgically sweet, with the debut of a new handbag on the runway: the Kensal, a briefcaselocked shoulder bag.

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Style notes

Jaeger

Marc by Marc Jacobs

3.1 Phillip Lim @Net-a-porter.com

Jaw Bone

Haute Sports

Tommy Hilfiger

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Perfect Legs

Look the part without breaking a sweat with Spring’s sports-inspired pieces that are this season’s investment buys.

Prada

Isabel Marant

Roger Vivier

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Bold and painterly, drench yourself in headto-toe primaries and colourblocked brights.

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9 1. roger vivier 2. louis vuitton 3. burberry Prorsum 4. Prada 5. Christian Louboutin 6. Diane Von Furstenberg 7. Escada Sport 8. LOuis vuitton 9. Escada 10. Dior 11. Prada OHLALA!

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Style notes

World Beat

Tory Burch

Exotic spice markets and faraway lands give an exotic edge to bold colour – clashing and striking statement jewellery.

Isabel Marant @Net-a-Porter.com

Fendi

Prada

Celine

Dsquared Alberta Ferretti

Celine

Marc Jacobs

Giambattista Valli

Tod’s

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Emilio Pucci

Dries Van Noten

Celine

Alexander McQueen

Valentino

Globe trotter

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Roberto Cavalli

Hermes

Missoni

Givenchy

Etro

It’s all about ethno-flair with the reworking of the haute-hippy look with scarf tops, sarongs and bold prints all paired with simple raffia accessories.

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Bottega Veneta

Diane von Furstenberg

Emilio Pucci

Prada

Aigner

style

BURNT BEGINNINGS

Dolce & Gabbana

Emilio Pucci

Marc by Marc Jacobs

With shades reminiscent of the setting sun, designers served up a bevy of blood orange numbers making the scorching hue this season’s hottest colour.

HEAVY METAL

The metallic trend is going strong with shimmering fabrics adding a dangerous glamour to a palette of poisonous pinks, chrome blues and molten gold. From lame skirts to body-skimming looks, this is pure fashion alchemy! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Isabel Marant

Giambattista Valli

Alexander McQueen

Elie Saab Lanvin

Roberto Cavalli

Oscar de la Renta

Innocent and oh-soromantic, this sheer favourite is coming clean with nothing but white dainty numbers here to seduce.

Nina Ricci

Lace up Dsquared 40

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Victoria Beckham

Ports 1961

Mary Katrantzou

Giambattista Valli

Bottega Veneta

WAVE LENGTH

Tory Burch

Dolce & Gabban

Giambattista Valli

Mary Katrantzou

Stella McCartney

Burberry Prorsum

It’s time to dress your waist with spring’s biggest silhouette – the peplum! Whether it’s layered lace or pretty frills, this is feminine tailoring at its best. Designers, from New York to Paris, played with graphical volume and asymmetry, paying homage to the classic art of Japanese origami in pretty minis and structured separates.

GARDEN OF EDEN

With pretty florals, it was fauna and flora all over the international catwalks this season. From soft pretty hues to techno sport, appliqués to motifs – there’s more than one way to work blossoms this spring. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Celine

Burberry Prorsum

Celine

Mulberry

TOUGH LOVE

FOOTLOOSE

The classic men’s white shirt has been transformed into the perfect oversized dress for her, with sharp tailoring and boxy cuts.This is now a timeless staple and a modern day wardrobe must-have.

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Dsquared

Viktor & Rolf

Nina Ricci

Balenciaga

Acne

Emilio Pucci

Fendi

Dolce & Gabbana

Taking on an edgy versus elegant stance, leather has been reinvented with a piece or head-to-toe look to suit all tastes and attitudes.

SUMMER RECIPE

Cut stripes into fine lines and add a splash of spots here and there for the coolest take on graphic mash-ups; it’s not that hard to connect the dots now is it, this season? www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Fashion

Keep Calm & Wear Temperley

Globally renowned as one of the most distinctive voices in British fashion, Alice Temperley, chats with Ohlala!’s Kirsty Edwards-Harris on growing up in good old Blighty, English eccentricity and The Royals.

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Fashion

“Dress for your body, find out what works on you and stick to it, rather than following trends for the sake of it.” ˜ Alice Temperley

London-based designer, Alice Temperley’s timeless, feminine creations combine meticulous detail and embellishments with an English eccentricity and personality drawing on everything British. Temperley London is the modern day ‘Cool Britannia’ offering exquisite seasonal collections, which embody effortless luxury, with an ethereal spirit.

This quirky and unique designer boasts an impressive award portfolio, including the prestigious appointment as Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Her Majesty the Queen at Buckingham Palace, for services to the fashion industry. She trained at London’s Central Saint Martin’s College of Art before finishing her studies with a Masters degree at the Royal College of Art, specialising in fabric technology and print.

Temperley London’s look for SpringSummer 2014 is “Temperley dipped in heady, ethereal romance… with new trapeze shapes and rich voluminous silhouettes with minimal accessories, in a warm and gentle colour palette of burgundy, pink, blush, lilac, black, mint and white” shares Alice Temperley.

Where does your flair for fashion originate from? Did you enjoy playing ‘dress up’ as a little girl?

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Alice Temperley. I have always loved creating, from a very, very young age. I was always making things, I was fascinated by patterns, sewing, painting and cutting things up to make textile pieces or clothing - I remember being in trouble for constantly breaking my mother’s sewing machine. I had a real urge to create and would spend hours drawing and making things that I would sometimes sell at local village shops.

You’re known to be a fan of The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Why do you think she chooses Temperley London? What is it you admire about her?

AT. We are very honoured that the Duchess of Cambridge chooses to wear our clothes; in fact I am honoured when any woman chooses to wear Temperley when there is so much to choose from out there. She is a great ambassador for Britain.

What other celebrities, past or present, would you like to dress and why?

AT. Marion Cotillard, her acting in La Vie en Rose was an inspiration.

Are there any style icons, past or present, who you admire and why?

AT. Coco Chanel - exceptional on all levels. www.ohlala-magazine.com

In your opinion, what’s the key to ‘making it’ in the fashion world?

AT. Work ethic - you have to truly love and have a passion for what you are doing.

The fashion industry is tough; I live by the motto…‘be focused, strong and keep calm and carry on.’

What is the signature of your style?

AT. I aim to create timeless, feminine, sensual designs with an ethereal spirit.

Clothing that makes the wearer look and feel beautiful, the best version of themselves. I like to think of it as effortless luxury - focus on detail and fabrics. Dresses memories are made in. I aim to create designs that are simultaneously relaxed and formal. You want to look like it comes effortlessly and easily.

Who is the Temperley woman?

“You have to truly love and have a passion for what you are doing.

The fashion industry is tough; I live by the motto…‘be focused, strong and keep calm and carry on.”

AT. She is someone who is independent, strong, appreciates her femininity and pays attention to detail and appreciates timeless pieces.

Where would she wear your creations?

AT. Everywhere! She has a zest for life and likes to enjoy her clothes.

How do you manage to be unique while still staying true to the heart of the brand in the fast-paced world of fashion?

AT. We are a British brand and I am incredibly proud of that. I like to think that British design is a bi-word for quality and craftsmanship and I think British designers exhibit an eclectic way of mixing influences. Incredible craftsmanship in timeless pieces with historical references is what keeps us true to our heritage and also makes us unique.

Temperley London is available at The Gate Mall

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Bobbi Brown

INSIDE LOOK

LITTLE BLACK BOOK

Alexander Wang

This month’s business-savvy lady and fashionable woman about town, Farah El Alfy, reveals her fashion musthaves, beauty secrets, and more…

Loving the crop tops - and it definitely keeps me motivated to stick to my pilates classes – paired with high waist pants or skirts.

STYLE RESUME

Who is your style icon?

Kate Moss, hands down. She has the perfect fusion of rock and roll mixed in with elegance and class.

Name Farah El Alfy

Whose closet do you covet?

Profession: Head of Marketing Communications at Grand Hyatt Doha

Well, Kate Moss. I can’t even imagine how many clothes she has, she must have a mansion just for her jeans.

Favourite shopping spot in Doha?

Well the Pearl has the nicest shopping experience because you can walk outdoors with such scenic views, but for selection Villaggio has it all.

My style is At work I’m smart and tailored so out of work I tend to dress down and go for a more grundge-chic style that reflects my character

Signature scent?

Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel.

Favourite beauty products?

Which do you prefer: Flats or Heels? And why?

fail-safe pieces My reversible Hermes belt with gold buckle, one side black and the other camel.

Looks great at work but also turns a pair of torn jeans into more elegant wear

Flats. You can get into a lot more trouble that way.

Heels looks fabulous but I always end up taking them off.

Worst fashion moment?

What music is on your ipod now?

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MAC

Last season’s ankle long skirts and the chunky clog.

Chanel

go-to labels Zara for every day wear, J Brand for jeans, Melissa for flats, Ray bans for shades and Chanel when I can afford it!

Kohl. That’s pretty much all I wear! Also I love the Chanel liquid eyeliner that comes in a pot and not a pen, although it’s really hard to find. In the evenings I wear Russian Red lipstick by MAC.

The Beatles, pretty much exclusively. They have a song for every moment!

Kate Moss

What are your favourite trends for spring summer 14?

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Inspirational Qataris

Although the term “Girl Power” has been coined by endless girl groups in the 90s, we couldn’t have imagined better words to describe the women we have chosen as our inspirational quintet. In celebration of International Women’s Day this March, we have picked the smartest and most talented Qatari women in their chosen fields proving that this really is the year of the woman. These five have made their voices heard by breaking away from their cultural restraints showing that the Qatari woman is just as fierce as she is quiet, just as bold as she is proper and just as powerful as the next man.

These are the power players that are setting the wheels in motion –keep your eye on them.

The Game Changers 50

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“We love competition because if you don’t have it you’ll be stuck. It pushes you to work harder.”

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The Fashion Trio The Kayys

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hey say good things come in twos but what happens when there’s three of them? It’s not good anymore it’s great! And so we discovered with sister trio Ghada, Hend and Maha Al Subaey the brains as well as the brawn behind Qatari brand The Kayys.

Formed back in 2009, the creative siblings opened up shop to the skepticism of most.

“It was difficult starting something, people here don’t take fashion seriously. They think it’s a nice hobby for a Qatari girl, something to keep her busy,” says Ghada. Even the girls’ family, who although from the beginning supported them through their new endeavour, truly expected them to bore of it. But no, the trio proved that their passion stemmed deep beyond the fallacies of a petty hobby, and that they had truly belonged all along in the crazy and creative world of fashion. The Kayys, whose name stands as a pseudonym for the first letter of their father’s surname, have brought together a world where art meets fashion as anyone can tell simply by looking at their lookbooks. Inspired by western icons, like Marie Antoinette and Frieda Kahlo, the girls reinterpret the famous women’s style in their clothes, seeing how they would have dressed if they were Qatari princesses or women of the Gulf. “We love to have a story behind our clothes; we don’t just want to sell our stuff,” Ghada boasts proudly. “At the end of the day we want people to fall in love with them.”

And with three completely different tastes (a bohemian soul, an edgy urban and one that loves anything embellished) it definitely shines through their collections. With the melting pot of creative minds the brand’s woman is totally captured; she is one who loves to be special, passionate and a risk taker but most of all she adores being the centre of attention. Inspired by lyrics off of Beyonce’s new album, the Al Subaey’s believe that there is more to a woman and thus have found themselves in a country where women are slowly, but surely, taking over.

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Inspirational Qataris

The Artist Amal Al Aathem

S “My work is not just about art, it’s about the community in which we all live.”

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trength of character, self-belief and sheer hard work are often qualities associated with successful people and Qatari artist Amal Al Aathem has these in abundance. Recalling her first forays into art as a child Amal says: “I always liked drawing and painting and I even remember skipping classes so I could go to the art room.” And although Amal’s dad wanted her to study science, she realised she couldn’t do it, saying: “I just had to study art.” Today and with 20 years’ experience as a professional artist behind her, Amal speaks about the challenges and the ultimate successes she has faced along the way. “It was hard at first to be recognised as a female artist. I went to the director of the Biennially Art Awards and showed him my art, and he said ‘what is this?’.

He just didn’t get it. It was a real knock back. But I said as an artist you have to be experimental, to try new approaches and different styles.”

When Amal went on to receive a certificate of appreciation for her work from the Cairo Biennially Award in 2004, she says, “People started to pay attention to what I was doing.”

This was one of the first prizes she received in what has since become a long list of honours and awards. Amal’s art is striking, using bold colours contrasted with blacks and whites, solid blocks of colour, and the reoccurring silhouette of women who are central figures in the story she creates. At times Amal has found it difficult to find the supports that she needs and perhaps this is another reason that she champions women and heralds their strength and vitality in society. She says: “From nothing we can do everything but we also need the support of our husbands, family, friends and society at large, just as men do.”

Amal’s art has been exhibited locally, regionally and internationally, and since her first public exhibition in 2001, her art has been part of 40 exhibitions and many private and public art installations. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Inspirational Qataris

The Health Guru Layla Al-Dorani Leading the way to a healthier Qatar is a beautiful talented woman who’s sharing her guide to healthy living.

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t has become a fact, a sad one that is, that here in the Gulf obesity reigns supreme. Health and nutrition have taken a back seat to fries and a Big Mac, and fastfood is the cool kid in school.

But amidst all the oil and grease is a beacon of hope, a ray of healthy sunshine peaking through. Enter Layla Al-Dorani: a freelance nutritionist and a practicing yoga instructor, who has started Qatar’s very first vegan juice company. “I’ve always led a healthy lifestyle thanks to my parents who were always careful about our diet,” Dorani explains, “It’s sad that not everyone here in Qatar looks after their children’s nutrition.”

Her company Raw ME is pioneering the way for a health craze hitting Doha as the first eco-friendly healthy fast food company.

Although the idea is brilliant putting it into action hasn’t been easy for Layla. “It’s been difficult, with the ministry being male dominated when you approach them to

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“We are constantly looking for creative ways to bring our products to our customers; we are handcrafting health into small packages.”

talk about starting a business they don’t take you seriously.

They thought I wanted to open a juice stall at one of the petrol stations, next to a shawarma stand.” For startups like herself there has not been enough support from the government, so the Raw ME team have been finding cool and creative ways to bring their products to their customers. “We’ve had to become innovative,” Layla says as there is no middle ground in between for retail.

But the 30-year-old stays positive about it, believing that Qatar is slowly but surely taking health into its hands with big changes highlighting sports and nutrition. Dorani is also adding her part, as if she hasn’t already, with a new outreach program to get children into farms and in touch with their source of food. By the end of April, they hope to have private schools introducing the program to teach students about a healthier way of living, then follow it up later in the year with the public sector.

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The Athlete Nada Mohammed Wafa

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s the first Qatari female swimmer to compete in the Olympics, Nada Mohammed Wafa is something of a hero to young female athletes in Qatar - proving that women can reach the top. “I was watching the Beijing Olympics in 2008, and I remember being so motivated and inspired by the swimming. So I said to my family: “Imagine if I could be in the Olympics, that would be amazing!” Full of enthusiasm, support and having already been

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noticed for her talent locally, Nada made it her mission to swim her way to the top, and in doing so, MADE history for women in sport in Qatar. So it was that in the summer of 2012, Nada took to the blocks in the swimming stadium facing a packed and noisy London Olympics crowd, and burst off the blocks to achieve a personal best and get a fourth place in her heat. An amazing achievement by any standards, Nada has set the bar high for future athletes in the region to aim for. “Standing on the starting block, I was so happy to be representing Qatar, and I really wanted to do well for my country, my family, my friends, my coach and everybody,” says the 19-year-old. While Nada is always striving to do better than before and is clearly very driven, focused and competitive in her chosen discipline, she says that sport is about much more than just competition: “Sport is so important for life and you don’t have to do it at a competitive level, in my opinion it helps you in every way - both mentally and physically.” Although sometimes being a leader of change can often make you a source of controversy and the focus of criticism, Nada has found the reverse is true.

She says: “Everyone has been so supportive throughout. Even now young kids come up to me and they say they want to be a swimmer like me.” The future is certainly bright for this gifted young lady whose legacy has already been made at such a young age. So, what’s next for Nada? Well the Rio 2016 Games are in her sights, as is carving out a career in Business Administration (she is currently studying for a BA in the subject at Carnegie Mellon University) and to go on to coach others and inspire future generations of young girls to take to the pool is her ultimate dream.

“Sport is so important for life and you don’t have to do it at a competitive level, in my opinion it helps you in every way both mentally and physically.”

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The Scientist Shaika Al Sowaidi A 28-year-old who is showing the country that science and technology are the new cool kids on the block.

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haika Al Sowaidi radiates positive energy and enthusiasm for the love of her life: science. As a research scientist at Qatar’s new state-of-theart Anti-Doping Lab (ADL), Shaika has spent the last year working on some cutting edge research into DNA and rRNA or Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid, a vital component in all living organisms.

Shaika says: “When you look at the rRNA of a person you can read everything about the body, it’s like having a map of your body. So now we are looking for the gene that is responsible for obesity. It’s not simple as there are literally thousands of genes, but there is a special process we use that helps put us in the right direction.”

After graduating with a BSc in Pharmacy from Sharjah University in the UAE, Shaika worked as a pharmacist at Hamad Hospital for

“You need people behind you to guide and push you in the right direction, and you have to learn how to take decisions.

If you don’t have these skills you cannot manage your life.”

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IMAGE CREDITS: Images by Imelda Reynante

Inspirational Qataris

three months before getting the job at the ADL. For Shaika it was about broadening her horizons and doing a job that she is passionate about.

Unsurprisingly, she has not looked back. “I have learnt many techniques since coming here and met many people, I’ve had opportunities that I would never have had: going to conferences, attending lectures and getting mentored by leading scientists (such as Vidya Mohamed-Ali Head of the Research Lab at ADL). So I am not the same person as I was just a year ago,” says the 28-year-old. As for the future, Shaika is certain that her talents lie in teaching and guiding the next generation of Qatari science students in the right direction.“In ten year’s time, I would like to be teaching at Qatar University. I want to share my experience and knowledge gained from working here with other young Qataris. If you can transfer your skills and knowledge to people it’s like the perfect job.”

“Also, when I was studying I wanted someone to guide me in the right direction,” adds Shaika. I think it’s a crucial stage where people need to be guided; they don’t always know which way to go.

You need people behind you to guide and push you in the right direction, and you have to learn how to take decisions. If you don’t have these skills you cannot manage your life.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

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JOIE DEVIVRE Wild and romantic, the Sonia Rykiel woman takes her eccentricities to the springtime streets of Paris in the new season’s Pre-Collection. Calm and serene in peppermint green and peach, she graduates to an edgier sophisticated black flirting with boyish shapes and a brash new take on the house’s classics.

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Sweater dressing comes in sweet cheerful sweaters and slinky dresses with pleated skirts. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Sophisticated, black keeps the crisp pastel palette grown up.

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Kenzo

The Accessory Files

Kick in the new season with the most coveted pieces – here is what you need this spring!

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Gucci

Dior

Fendi

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Mulberry

MOODY BLUES

From cerulean and turquoise to navy and royal, blue accessories are stealing the spotlight this spring.

Diane von Furstenberg

Christian Louboutin

Victoria Beckham

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Dior

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Accessory Marc by Marc Jacobs

Rochas

MONO– CHROME

Dior

Classic combinations don’t get any better than this. Here, black and white rule supreme and make for easy season glamour.

Dolce & Ga

bbana

Christian Louboutin

Balmain

Bulgari

Burberry Prorsum

Ermanno Scervino

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Having worked with some of the biggest luxury fashion houses in the business including Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga, Sam Sky’s super luxe label Maison Du Posh embodies an air of originality and distinction. Inspired by his multi-cultural upbringing and spirituality, the brand creates unique designs season after season becoming the go-to label for the bold and edgy. Using only the finest of materials, the designs create a feeling beyond the aesthetic, bringing the supernatural realm into the wonderful world of accessories with exotic skins, metallic hardware and the blingiest of embellishments. Its bladed wings logo www.ohlala-magazine.com

On the Edge

Maison Du Posh: A world where the supernatural meets the cutting edge.

has become instantly recognizable, both cutting edge yet with a hint of beauty and seduction thanks to its female posture counterpart. Having launched its first collection exclusively with Selfridges, today Masion Du Posh can be found in many luxury department stores around the world, including Harrods in London, Luisa Via Roma in Italy, IT in Hong Kong and Per Lei Couture in Qatar. With the brand growing stronger than ever plans for the launch of new product lines are in the works, with fashion pieces to follow the Maison Du Posh spin taking the ordinary and turning it into the must-have pieces of the season.

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Kenzo

From paintbox brights to girlish pastels - here are the most prominent new looks for spring.

The Beauty Files www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Chloe

Donna Karan

Spring Clean Your Look From youthfulness pretty to sleek ponytails, here are the most coveted makeup, hair and skin looks from the SS14 catwalks.

THE NEW HAIR

STRAIGHT STRANDS The Look: The big, bouncy blow-dry is out and poker-straight hair is now all the rage– it’s flatironed styles taking over this spring.

On the catwalks at Elie Saab, hair was straightened and pulled back by metal barettes, while at Chloe, who definitely put the trend on the map, it was ironed hair and sleek preppy centre partings for the French fashion house.

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Erdem

THE NEW EYES GRAPHIC LINER

The Look: Finally there’s a beautiful alternative to the feline flick. Say goodbye to Amy Winehouse inspired eyes and follow Versace and Missoni’s take by keeping liners straight and playing with the inner corner of the eyes for a graphic line that is modern and slick.

Prabal Gurung

THE NEW SKIN

NATURAL RADIANCE The Look: Making their way onto the scene are sun-kissed luminous complexions, taking over from the bolder made-up looks of seasons past. Creamy highlighters, rosy pink and peach blush, and mattifying powder are all now beauty case essentials!

THE NEW LIPS

Mulberry

THE NEW LASHES

WONDER LASHES The Look: This season lashes are the new brows, with makeup artists now using the latest lengthening mascaras before applying individual false lashes to both the upper and lower lids – think doe-eyes when going for this look. www.ohlala-magazine.com

TOm Ford

Estee Lauder

MAC

Chanel

BOLD COLOUR The Look: Spotted at DKNY, John Galliano and Rag & Bone, power pouts sporting vivid shades of neon orange and fuchsia pink proved to be the lip of the moment. Find your perfect hue according to your skintone, so brunettes and olive skins should go for oranges, while blondes and those with a tan should stick to pinks.

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Absolute Sophistication

Elie Saab’s new, deliciously addictive, soft, almondy floral fragrance is the olfactory continuation of the designer’s Ready-to-Wear 2014 Spring-Summer collection, in which ethereal fabrics as light as petals chisel a magical fusion between woman and nature.

Nature’s Blessing

Shiseido reveals the mystery of their most luxurious skincare range to date. Combining natural ingredients with revolutionary science, the Future Solution LX skincare collection represents the height of Shiseido’s cutting-edge technology, giving skin the power to reveal age-defying radiance.

Beauty Buzz Here’s a fabulous array of new products to indulge in…

Let there be Light!

Delicate and bursting with freshness,

Clarins’ Opalescence Collection is all about a luminous complexion with light pastel and plum colours on the eyes, topped off with juicy, glossy lips in pinks and corals and a flush of glowing youthful colour on the cheeks.

an arty twist

MAKE UP FOR EVER play up romanticism and femininity with its newly released limited edition ARTY BLOSSOM, the must-have eye-shadow palette, which blends fresh colours close to those found in nature, to offer women that luminous and contemporary look of the season.

Radiance in a Bottle Guerlain’s new Dark Spot Corrector Pore

Minimiser is based on a blend of glabridin, Ouessant honey, clover honey, thyme honey and Sologne royal jelly; specifically blended in the Whitening Royal Concentrate for powerful action on dark spot correction, combined with a refining action that helps to tighten pores.

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Get the Look

The phenomenal country crooner, Taylor Swift, looks amazing at this year’s 56th Grammy Music Awards wearing a form-fitting, short-sleeved, gold lamé gown by Gucci Première, topping it off with sexy-sweet, smokey eye makeup. Rock her look with this beauty guide…

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1. For the base, evenly apply liquid foundation all over your face and neck. 2. Copy Taylor’s smouldering eyes by using a grey matte eye-shadow over your lids, making sure to clean any shadow that falls below the eyes. 3. For a sassy smokey look, apply a darker, charcoal grey shadow towards the outer creases of the eyes. Make your eyes pop by applying a bold hit of silver shadow on the inner corners. 4. For that added glitzy look, apply an extra thick black eyeliner on your upper lashline. 5. Finish the look by swiping a few coats of mascara on the upper and lower lashes. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty

Celebs› Beauty Secrets These global celebrities sure look great, but they do have a few beauty secrets up their sleeves…

Nicole Kidman Penelope Cruz

“It’s an old favourite. As well as a rehydrating moisturiser for the face, try on the lips, cheeks or cuticles to really moisturise.”

“I won›t go anywhere without my Jurlique and this is one of my favourites,” It’s perfect for when the skin needs an instant glow.

Chrissy Teigen

“I’m stuck on SK-II Essence. I just love them. I wash my face with their cream wash. And after taking off their face mask, I wipe it on my entire body because the serum is so great.”

Jessica Alba

Koh Gen Do Macro Vintage Essence Masks “I use them when I’m flying.

I look like a serial killer for sure, but they›re so good.

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Beauty

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Modern Muse: Goddess of Inspiration Composed of subtle contrasts and bold contradictions, Modern Muse reveals layers of strength and softness in an appealing creative tension. Ohlala! divulges the secrets of this distinctively feminine scent – which celebrates the vibrant, confident woman who inspires others with her independent spirit and creative, irreverent style – from the team who made it all happen…

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Beauty

Karyn Khoury

Senior Vice President, Corporate Fragrance Development Worldwide, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. What is a Modern Muse?

Throughout history, muses were the goddesses of inspiration in poetry, literature, music and the arts. More recent muses continue to inspire art, fashion and style. A Modern Muse embodies the intriguing duality of today’s woman - soft and feminine yet strong and dynamic, all at the same time. She’s the woman who inspires with a contagious, natural magnetism, which speaks to others without saying a word. Her presence, in fact the very thought of her, draws people in and motivates them to greater creativity and achievement.

Tell us more about the fragrance’s “dualimpression” construction?

Because Modern Muse was inspired by the complexity of a modern woman, its construction reflects the same dynamic tension as her life and her personality. People generally think of tension as a negative word, yet in the world of art, including the art of fragrance creation, creative tension can be a great source of inspiration – the influence of two seemingly contradictory qualities leading to new heights of creativity and emotional resonance. This response to dynamic tension is also something every woman lives, as she balances energy and softness with strength and focus in order to manage the many, often conflicting demands in her life.

Harry Frémont Master Perfumer, Firmenich

How is Modern Muse a “dual impression” fragrance and what makes this unique?

How you connect emotionally with a fragrance can be different from one person to another. I like to say that this is a “dual impression” fragrance because one woman may fall in love with its lush floral dewiness, while another woman may experience the woody, musky aspect first. Someone might connect right away with its sparkling floral quality, while another may be attracted to its warm, rich woody signature. Modern Muse celebrates this creative tension between the florals and the woods. It’s what makes the fragrance interesting and intriguing.

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“She’s the woman who inspires with a contagious, natural magnetism, which speaks to others without saying a word.” ˜ Karyn Khoury

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Arizona Muse

Global Spokesmodel for Estée Lauder How does the fragrance make you feel?

Modern Muse makes me feel elevated - like a better version of me.

Who do you think of as iconic muses?

I think Joan of Arc is iconic. She was a woman who maintained her femininity but was strong enough to lead an army of men into battle. All the models before me as muses, particularly Carolyn Murphy.

She has been in the industry for so long and has had such a long career with Estée Lauder. I find that really inspiring. And Angelina Jolie. She is beautiful, talented, she protects her children which, as a mother, is so important for me, and she gives so much back.

Who are your own personal muses?

I’d say my personal muses are my friends and my mum!

Who inspires you?

The person I find most inspiring is my son. And mothers around the world. We all have a mother and they always have the best advice and do so much for everyone else. They are very inspiring.

How do you juggle single motherhood and modeling?

It is really hard. You have to find a balance. I like to take Nikko with me when I can. Motherhood has brought so much to my life and I wouldn’t change anything. But sometimes it is challenging and I am lucky to have great support from family and friends.

What is your favourite thing about motherhood?

Watching my son grow and hearing how he thinks. Bedtime is my favourite time with him because it is the only time during the day that he is still! I love listening to what he talks about.

Best advice from your mother Always be kind and understanding of others.

Best beauty advice from your mother Don’t pluck your eyebrows!

You are famous for your eyebrows. Any tips?

I fill in the gaps with a pencil. I love the Estée Lauder Automatic Brow Pencil Duo. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“Modern Muse makes me feel elevated - like a better version of me.” ˜ Arizona Muse

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SPA REVIEW

A-List Tan

Get bronzed and sculpted with the help of celebrity spray tan master James Harknett just in time for spring!

With the new season coming to an end of a short, yet fairly cold winter, when faces are pale and complexions are pallid, Doha’s fashion savvy are descending on Bliss Spa at W Hotel for a visit with the sun. Yes the relaxing haven in the midst of the busy business hub of West Bay is offering the chance to bestow a healthy golden glow on those of us who need it. Gone are the days when one had to wait for the weather to get warmer to get some colour, now all one needs is to pop past in one’s lunch break for a quick 82

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spritz that’ll have people wondering if you’ve spent your weekends away! The man behind the newly introduced treatment at Bliss, aka the man with the golden gun, is James Harknett; tanning expert and bespoke spray tanner who helped launch established brands St. Tropez and Xen-Tan. Based in London’s W Hotel for the past three years, Harknett is responsible for the bevy of bronze clientele who come out of the city hotspot. His tanning menu has become quite iconic featuring shades, going from light to deep brown, and names to reflect the city you want to look like you’ve just come from. “I work with a brand called Sienna X, which helps me create the perfect tone for my client” says James, “I always go a bit lighter because less is always more and one can always come back for a top up and go darker.” Not only can the man bestow a golden glow, but using a specially designed spray gun Harknett has created a ‘spray yourself slim’ technique, creating shadow and light to help sculpt the body - his motto is “if you can’t tone it then tan it.” For Qatar the tanning expert has created the “Divine Doha”, a dark glow in homage to the gulf and it’s hot weather and super bright sun. So if you’re feeling a bit of winter blues get yourself down to Bliss, a must-stop just in time for spring! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Spa spotlight

Images by Imelda ReynantE

VLCC’s all-round approach to a healthier you Ohlala! Magazine’s Josie Hill sits down for a one to one with Vandana Luthra, a name synonymous with health, beauty and the fight against obesity whose brand VLCC is going from strength to strength.

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he VLCC brand is not new, but it certainly hit the mark when its founder, the wellness industry entrepreneur Vandana Luthra, took the bold step of launching Anti-Obesity Day on November 26.

Now an internationally observed way-mark in the fight against obesity and in its 13th year, AntiObesity Day recognises the need to take action now on this silent killer.

On VLCC’s third anniversary of operations in Qatar, Vandana spent the afternoon at the VLCC Center on Najma St, one of three in Doha, to take stock of progress and plans for expansion.

“Qatar has been among the most unique and exciting markets where VLCC has created a presence,” says the Indian wellness guru: “The leadership of Qatar has a vision for achieving a fitter nation and has committed its efforts towards creating greater levels of awareness.”

Looking back to the beginnings of VLCC she says: “It was a time when obesity was on the rise and people were looking for more solutions for 84

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In the country VLCC has helped over 15,000 people in Qatar to shed 50,642 kilos through its scientific weight management solutions since its foray into the country in 2011.

On the horizon for customers in Qatar is a new test, which will be able to extract from a person’s DNA their susceptibility to future conditions and diseases. “It’s an incredibly powerful tool which can help people do something beauty and weight loss in the about the health risks they face same place rather than having to “In today’s before they happen” says Mrs go to ten different places.” environment wellness Luthra.

The approach behind the should be a way of life, Mrs Luthra’s brand of global company is simple, it’s designed it’s a necessity, not a wellness is taking off as global to be a one-stop shop for beauty luxury.” awareness about health and and health needs, with the obesity gains pace. “It’s simple” adds Mrs Luthra: view that if you look and feel good, you will feel “Nobody wants to die because of being obese but happier, healthier and more confident. thousands of people die every year because of Vandana says: “At VLCC we try to transform it. Looking and feeling good is really important people. We want to help people with more than to your whole being. So I would say that if you just weight loss. So we help them tone their actually have respect for yourself then you should figure, with anti-aging, to help improve their skin condition and their fitness, and advise them about take care of yourself and take action with regards to your health.” nutrition.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

Your Ohlala!

Life

From where to dine in style to the hottest rides in town – here’s to a fashionable life!

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motoring

Audi A3 Sedan Compact luxury with knock out looks to boot

words by Josephine Marshall, Images by George Mathew

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his month I had the pleasure of getting to road test Audi’s new A3 Sedan. The premium German brand has been producing its popular sporty A3 range since 1996. In fact I was a proud owner of one of the early models of the A3 hatchback, so I was very curious to see what the luxury brand’s first foray into producing a sedan in the A3 line would look like. The

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answer is simply sensational.

With smart styling, a seriously classy interior and excellent driving dynamics Audi has produced a compact sedan that still retains the sporty edge we have come to expect from the A3.

The vehicle sits low to the ground, with the striking lines of the car accentuating a sense of width and strength to the exterior body.

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the low, wide, sporty appearance. All of this is enhanced by the hallmark Audi front grille proudly displaying those four interlocking rings we have come to associate with luxurious and stylish automobiles.

Sharp and stylish, the interiors ooze quality at every turn. From the gorgeous soft leather seats to an automatic sun roof, big easy to read dials and the dual zone auto climate control with rear-seat vents, this is a beautifully ergonomic and comfortable ride for both driver and passengers alike.

One of my favourite features is the centre dashboard, which is telescopic and folds seamlessly into the wrap-around dash, hidden away when not in use. The 5.8 inch colour screen is generous in size and is very intuitive to use, enabling you to easily control all your navigational and audio functions. Talking about the audio capabilities, you will have no trouble cranking up your favourite tunes with the eight-speaker MMI audio system, SDHC card reader and USB input at your disposal.

Wonderfully spacious, you can easily accommode up to five passengers within the Audi. Of course the main point of difference with this newest release A3 is the inclusion of the boot, which is very generous and practical in size, with a roomy 425-litres of boot space.

If you are having a “With smart styling, a particularly heavy seriously classy interior and shopping session, the excellent driving dynamics back seats can fold Audi has produced a compact away increasing the storage space to a sedan that still retains the very handy 880-litres, sporty edge we have come to proving the boot is not expect from the A3.� just for show but has

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been designed with practicality in mind.

So we have sporty looks, one very classily appointed interior, and practicality, the next big question is how does it drive? The answer is extremely well. The car has been engineered using very light materials for the body and underpinnings and the 1.8-litre engine, which starts at the push of a single button, is extremely responsive providing a very zippy ride.

Audi have your safety concerns covered too with this car. The A3 comes with rear parking sensors, auto headlights and wipers, cruise control, seven airbags, electronic differential lock, anti-slip regulation, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and electronic stability control.

Overall, I found my time with the new Audi A3 Sedan to be super fun! The car is full of lots of little luxurious touches, making you feel like you are driving something really special. It successfully manages to merge practicality and fashion. With its knock out good looks, compact body, power on the road and competitive price, it is an excellent entry level vehicle into the luxury car market and is sure to appeal to the smart, classy lady who is looking for both looks and performance.

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Chic Eats Call 4453 5000 for information & bookings

Taste of Singapore It’s time to ditch haute fusion for a real taste of Asia’s Street Food – here is the real deal!

Always one to turn it up a notch, Doha’s favourite hotspot, Spice Market at the W Hotel, is bringing a bit of South East Asia all the way from London (Yes London!) with critically acclaimed chef Peter Lloyd, executive chef of Spice Market London, hosting his signature “Taste of Singapore” menu. A well-seasoned veteran of the London hotel and restaurant scene, the Asian cuisine fanatic has done it all; from training at The Dorchester and working at Suka, the renowned Malaysian restaurant at the five-star Sanderson hotel, to cooking for the Queen of England herself. Offering ten 88

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sumptuously delicious Singaporean-inspired dishes, the menu is a showcase of Llyod’s interpretation of his favourite dishes, where he gives classical Singaporean food its own modern twist. To start off the culinary journey, an amusebouche welcomes guests on a trip through Asia with a bite-sized hors d’oeuvre of a single oyster on a bed of tri-colour peppercorns topped with black caviar – simple as it may look the flavours are there, deeply layered and full of spark. A beautiful array of starters follow, to share as is custom in Asia, with spices infusing the air with aromatic scents of faraway markets. Soft and tender beef satay skewers, very street food like, come alongside a small pot of sweetly pickled cauliflower. But the real star and what steals the spotlight is the famous Singapore chili crab drenched in a lava of sizzling, sweet hot sauce, the soft tempura crab is the definitely the winner.

But don’t get carried away as there are still two main courses to indulge in: Hainan Chicken Rice and Shrimp Char Kway Teow with noodles.

The desserts take creativity to a whole other level with a Pandan macaroon served with caramel soy ice cream and a box of black tea and ginger ice cream as well. You can definitely say that the flavours of Singapore are loud and ever so clear in Peter Lloyd’s spectacular reinterpretation of the south East Asia favourite. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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COLOURFUL wORLDS

What do you really know about Brazil?

The Qatar Brazil Year of Culture is your chance to find out about this vibrant and dynamic South American country with a series of exhibitions, film screenings and cultural events to see you through 2014. Here is a snapshot of what it is, and some of the highlights you can expect to see.

What is Qatar Brazil 2014?

Just as last year’s ‘Year of Culture’ was dedicated to promoting arts and culture of the UK and Qatar with events happening in both countries, this year brings a slice of Brazilian life to Qatar and vice versa. Expect to see all that is great about Brazil such as: demonstrations and workshops of Capoeira; an interactive audiovisual exhibition featuring some of the greatest Brazilian footballers in history; some great Brazilian movies, musicians, artists and a food exhibition.

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COLOURFUL WORLDS

AMAZONIAN TASTE SENSATIONS

Ongoing until April 1, Anima Gallery, The Pearl, Qatar Brazilian artists Pedro Varela and Carolina Ponte, who transform reality into fantastical environments, and the ornamental into art - are the theme for a collaboration between VCUQ and Anima Gallery. Working directly from the exhibition at Anima Gallery, students will create two projects in response to the artists’ work.

20 - 23 March 2014, Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar Qatar Brazil 2014 will bring celebrated chefs from the Amazonian region of Para to facilitate live demonstrations and tastings of classic Brazilian food. Qatari food will also be explored by traditional practitioners.

KHEIT, FASHION AND TEXTILE COMPETITION May to August 2014, Qatar and Brazil Kheit (Arabic for ‘thread’) is a competition www.ohlala-magazine.com

Doha Film institute brazil season

Amazonian taste sensations

carnival comes to doha Khartoon! we speak football

FIND OUT MORE For the full events’ program & more info about the Qatar Brazil Year of Culture14 visit www.qatarbrazil2014. com

Kheit, fashion and Textile competition

between two universities to research, create and interpret cultural heritage through art and design.

With a focus on textile and fashion design, students from Virginia Commonwealth University, Qatar and Belas Artes, Sao Paulo, Brazil will compete by submitting their sketches online. The winners will have an opportunity to create a garment that will be exhibited in both universities in May (Doha) and August (São Paulo).

QATAR FILMS IN BRASILIA FESTIVAL June 2014, Brasilia, Brazil Qatar will participate in the Brasilia International Film Festival by presenting two films from the Middle East that have been financed by the Doha Film Institute Film Financing Programmes. In addition to the film screenings a special symposium on film financing, production and an exhibition on the Arab world will be held at the festival.

WE SPEAK FOOTBALL 29 May – 19 October 2014, Estação Cabo Branco building in João Pessoa, Brazil This exhibition is an immersive, audiovisual rich and interactive experience www.ohlala-magazine.com

celebrating international players, coaches and fans as well as local football cultures.

The visitors travel back to the origin of the game, relive the history of the World Cup, meet stars and fans, and trace the emotions and the diversity which make this sport the beautiful game we all know.

ALL ABOUT PEARLS July - September 2014, Museu de Arte Brasileira, São Paulo, Brazil ‘Pearls’ explores the history of Pearl fishing in Qatar and enables visitors to experience the beauty and allure of pearls, which across centuries and cultures have long been associated with wealth, royalty and glamour.

This acclaimed exhibition, specially adapted for Brazil, will be presented at the leading art museum in Sao Paulo, the Museu de Arte Brasileira.

CARNIVAL COMES TO DOHA November 1 to 8 Museum of Islamic Art Park, Qatar A colourful slice of the energy and creativity of Brazil lands in Qatar for a weeklong series of events presented at the MIA Park and additional cultural venues in Doha. Some of Brazil’s leading popular, classical and jazz musicians will perform in a beautifullyconceived outdoor setting that will include stages, food stalls and a ‘Copacabana Sidewalk’. Visitors can enjoy the carnival procession, music, storytelling, beach football, and stands selling Brazilian street food.

DOHA FILM INSTITUTE BRAZIL SEASON Monthly screenings ongoing until November 2014, Qatar Get to see the best of Brazilian cinema in venues across Doha throughout 2014. Monthly screenings will take place at the MIA, and there will be a Brazil focus at the exciting Ajyal Youth Film Festival (November 2014). In April the silent classic Limite by Mario Peixoto will be screened for the first time ever in the Middle East. The film has been restored with Qatari funding by Martin Scorsese’s World Cinema Foundation.

KHARTOON! Date and location to be confirmed, Brazil KHARTOON! a wordplay on the Sudanese capital ‘Khartoom’, embodies artworks by artist Khalid Albaih, armed with wit and candor, which bravely articulates the realities of the Arab world today. Following the success of this year’s exhibition at Edge of Arabia Gallery in London, Khartoon! will be exhibited in Brazil.

A MUSICAL CELEBRATION Venue and date to be confirmed Special musical works will be performed by young musicians and composers at a concert celebrating musical premieres in Brazil and the collaborative work with Brazilian musicians.

Composers, musicians and youth will be drawn upon to actively participate to help create awareness and tolerance by building bridges through music.

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ohlala! boutiques

Chopard

QATAR IN THE SPOTLIGHT

With the 11th edition of the Jewellery and Watches Expo underway, Doha has seen an amazing influx of over 500 regional and international fine jewellery and luxury watch brands, including notable Qatari brands like Fifty One East and Al Fardan Jewellery.

BCBG’S CLEAN SLATE

Reinterpreting the classic men’s shirt, designers at BCBG Max Azria reconstructed the crisp staple and got creative with loose, tailored dresses in blue and white and asymmetric cuts. The collection also focused on botanical prints and sheer panels, all on a muted neutral palette.

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sweet rush

Treat your mother on March 21st with our favourite new set from L’Occitane: Magnolia & Mure.

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THE NEW 2014 NISSAN PATROL CONQUER YOUR LUXURIOUS SIDE One look is good, but a double take is what we all want in life. Patrol’s premium interior and refined exterior means you are always the one that others are looking out for.

The Hero of all terrains in life Stylish New Look | Premium Interior | Advanced Technology

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Main Showroom: Salwa: Tel: 4428 3333, Al Sadd Showroom: Tel: 4444 1334, Bin Omran Showroom: Tel: 4488 8618 OHLALA! 103 Showroom Timings: 8:00am to 9:00pm (Sat-Thu); 4:00pm to 9:00pm (Fri).

ohlala! boutiques

H&M DESIGN AWARD 2014

This year’s design competition winner is the lucky Eddy Anemian, a 24 year-old student at La Cambre in Brussels. Anemian presented his winning collection at Mercedes-Benz Stockholm Fashion Week, and is busy preparing addition pieces developed from his collection to sell in selected H&M stores and online later this fall.

MEET ME IN RIO

Bershka takes it SS14 campaign to Brazil, a vibrant place full of beautiful beaches and crazy nightlife spots and the city where some of the most interesting indie and alternative bands have made home.

Red POUTS

With the season’s new Rouge Edition Velvet line from Bourjois, lips will get a beautiful kisser, both bold in colour as well asv soft in touch.

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Time To Relax Unwind and escape wherever the mood takes you with Jo Malone’s new Home Candle Collection by Charlotte Stockdale. Whether it’s the smell of crisp white sheets that makes you relax or the smoky incense of sensual amber that gets to you, this is one collection that you will fall in love with.

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Ohlala! Boutiques

Forever‌ Starts at Midnight Introducing Bath & Body Works’ most luxurious scent yet, Forever Midnight elevates everyday fragrance to the extraordinary. Notes of plum nectar mingled with exotic, velvety florals create allure. Sophisticated jasmine joins vanilla orchid for the perfect layer of femininity. Then a final touch of rich, warm caramel liqueur transports you to that magical Midnight moment where anything is possible. The range includes an eau de parfum, body lotion, shower gel, fine fragrance mist and triple moisture body cream.

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shopping

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; 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; 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 Faces +974 4450 7189; Fendi +974 4460 09545; Fifty One East +974 4425 7777; 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 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.

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Red Carpet ready

Bringing Hollywood glamour to Qatar, Grand Hyatt Doha hosted a glamorous Grammy awards brunch where guests dressed to kill with beautiful gowns and dapper tuxedos, ending the day with a fashion show, showcasing LAS’s latest collection.

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Shot-on-site

Doha’s New RIDE

For their launch, Uber invited the city’s top VIPs and social circle to the W Hotel’s Wahm for a cocktail party to introduce their new service to town.

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“The city’s coolest ride is here”

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Sweet melody

Soprano sensation Sarah Brightman lit up the QNCC with her beautiful voice with a one-night exclusive show part of her DreamChaser tour.

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the column

MISS OHLALA! Escapades of a single 20-something girl living in Doha.

TINDER TIMES

Seeing Angelina Jolie on the red-carpet at the BAFTA’s last month, looking feminine as hell in a men’s Saint Laurent tuxedo holding hands (never let that hand go girl!) with the catch of a lifetime Mr. Pitt, was one of her rare appearances since her double mastectomy. Not only is she one of the most beautiful and stylish women to ever exist, a humanitarian, a mother to a zillion children and an Oscar winner, but she is also one of the bravest role models of our time. If you have not read her op-ed about her battle with cancer please put this down and go read it first.

I was in NYC a couple of weeks ago, and was getting hit on by a not-so-hot hedge fund trader who happened to specialise in biochemistry. He said in passing that the whole world will soon know that they have found the cure for cancer, and that “we are all going to live for a very long time”. Needless to say that was the best pick-up line I have ever heard, so I did let him buy me a drink.

My next question to him, probably reflects my weakest characteristic: vanity. “But are we still going to get old and wrinkly?” okay I admit not a very profound reaction. He didn’t know the answer to that so I opted to find a new date who specialises in plastic surgery and/or dermatology.

Even at our age now, I am one of the very few of my friends that have not (yet) had any work done whether it is Rhinoplasty (most common), breast implants (second most common) or liposuction (love handle blastingan idea I personally flirt with often). If we are already the plastic generation, what will our children look like? What happened to the saying that beauty is in the imperfections?

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curls and other amazing inventions that alter your natural looks making a swan out of every ugly duckling.

To tackle the question of whether we are getting shallower, I downloaded Tinder, the dating application everyone is talking about for pure research purposes.

What I discovered is that this app gives you a selection of men to choose from- you can select criteria only based on their proximity to you and their age. You swipe right if you like his picture, or left if you don’t. If you like a guy that likes you then the app matches you up, and you can then chat with each other.

Based on this exercise I have come to two conclusions: firstly that people are in fact getting more superficial -there is absolutely no information about the person except for his name, picture and age making a perfect look a necessity to get a date these days. Secondly, that I am very popular and this app is good for my self-esteem – although this may be directly correlated to the fact that the ratio of single girls to guys in Doha are about 1:4. Go ahead and try it, you know you want to! Ta ta, till next time.

Miss Ohlala

Illustration By Hassan Hassan

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The Gate Mall Tel. 4407 7156 The Pearl, Porto Arabia Tel. 4002 7457

LIFE IS A SMILE H A P P Y S P O R T A U T O M AT I C

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