Ohlala! Qatar May Issue by Ohlala! Qatar

QATAR

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Over 65 LOOKS TO MAKE YOU FEEL PHENOMENAL

GAME CHANGING THE SHoes & bags you need now

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May 2014 | Issue 35

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Editor’s Letter

In her Shoes

Accessories have always been a source of empowerment for the female species; give a woman a pair of Louboutins and she can conquer the world, give her the new pair of Nicolas Ghesquière for Nike and she’ll run a 10k marathon without even having to train for it. I remember saving up a years worth of allowance just to get my hands on a sweet Alexander Wang number; the painstakingly long wait of 12 months was worth every penny put away. For many, accessories are a source of experimentation, for most it’s a means of transformation. The Middle East is no stranger to accessories, our culture has become one full of eclectic earrings and brighter than bright embellishments, where the motto has become the bigger the clutch, the better! For that case, we rounded up the top ten designers whose coveted pieces are a must for any fashionista this side of the globe. If that’s not enough to wet your palette we showcase some of the season’s most beautiful accessories introducing this spring’s instant outfit updaters – the shoes and bags you need now. Our beauty editors picked the standout trends and most prominent do’s off of the runways as well as the hottest hair spots to get that perfect blowout – think Farrah Fawcett worthy, big and bold! And what would a well-groomed mane be without having to show it off? Try one of our choices for the best patios, gardens and sidewalk cafés in town; it’s Al Fresco season and we’re definitely taking it outdoors. From quaint rooftop bars to devilishly chic terraces, we will be sipping lemonade and spritzers this may, see you there… Dina Kabbani

Editor Ohlala! Qatar

hot picks

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Giambattista Valli

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CONTENTS

36 38 40 42 44 46 60 62

STYLE The Hotlist Style Love True Romance Peek-a-Boo Skin is in The Style Files Fashion Insider Made in the Middle East

Fashion 72 Rich Pickings Designer SCOOP 58 Dana Masoud Beauty 86 Mane Affair 88 Haute Hair MOTORING 94 Nissan Patrol dining 96 Chic Eats 98 Chef Cruchet Art&CUlture 100 Art Corner shopping 104 Ohlala! Boutiques 113 Where to Buy

society 116 VCUQatar Fashion Show 122 La Dolce Vita 124 Masters of Luxury 126 A Sparkling Affair the column 138 Miss Ohlala!

Bright Lights

From fuchsia to electric blue, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to drench yourself in head-to-toe primaries and colour-blocked brights.

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Bourjois Middle East

Beauty with a French accent since 1863

0째 volume 6 3

PATENTED DESIGN NEW BRUSH

with spherical bristles to wrap every lash

V O L U M E

1 SECONDE

M a s c a r a www.ohlala-magazine.com

IF UNL S TA N T L VOLUME FROM EVERY ANGLE

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Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Publishing Director Edward Smith General Manager Hussein Zreik

Editor Dina Kabbani

Motoring Editor Tony Sidgwick

contributors Karina Lazarraga Kirsty Edwards-Harris Pallavi Ramesh

FRONT COVER

Editor-at-Large

Distribution Team

Ben Whittaker

Jayapragash Ganesan Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Creative DIrector

Cover Look by Ayaad Damouni

Paula Leal

Senior Graphic Designer Raquel Henriques

Graphic Designer Rashed Bindaina

Production & Distribution Manager Neil Mahmood

Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali

Photography Contributors Abshar PK @ Creative Design Shameer Pokkutty @ Creative Design Imelda Reynante

Sales & Marketing Manager

Printing Press Awal Press

Distribution Bahrain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Al Hilal Qatar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dar Al Sharq www.ohlala-magazine.com

Enquiries Editorial: dina@ohlala-magazine.com Advertising:sakala@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

Lifestyle sales Manager Badir Bechara

Administration Executive Roy Varghese

Accountants Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

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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.

Chloe

Sakala Debrass

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style

The Hot List

WILLOWY SILHOUETTES

Putting effortlessness back on the map, Altuzarra took basics to another level with thoughtfully constructed separates. Our favourite pairing though had to be the thigh-high slit skirts with equally casual shirts – breath of fresh air!

Stripes and a nude palette go hand in hand this may – Here are our top contenders!

CELINE CRAVINGS

The go-to designer this season for shoe addicts, these beauties will take you from daytime cool to evening chic in 24 hours.

ALL CUFFED UP

Tod’s arm candy this season is the hottest way to rock the cuff.

EYE SPY

Summer’s coolest girls will be wearing the biggest frames, so go big with a pair like these Linda Farrow’s or go home!

A ROOMY AFFAIR

Forget compact, and go oversized with a hard case clutch, like this Lee Savage one, perfect for stashing your essentials in a sleek, chic way. 36

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STRIPES AHOY

Rock the new skirt length with this striped Thom Browne number; you’ll have nailed two trends in one go. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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THE BUCKET LIST Classic and contemporary, Loewe’s ‘Flamenco’ bag hits the nail on the head this season with a sophisticated new approach to the must-have bucket shape. A perfect everyday carryall, we know we will be toting this beauty around this spring.

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Style Jason Wu

True Romance From soft lines to fluid silhouettes, fashion takes on a romantic sensuous mood with seductive satin and sheer silk, all in a palette of white, black and nude.

J.W. Anderson Narciso Rodriguez

Mulberry Marc Cain

Rolex

Rosie Assoulin

Essie Byredo Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Roger Vivier

Christian Louboutin

Louis Vuitton 40

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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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style

Peeka-boo

Christian Louboutin

Sheer fabrics and lace numbers are the chic route to sexy this season. Milly

Monky

Nina Ricci

Dolce & Gabbana Burberry Prorsum

Peter Pilotto

Valenti n

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Jason Wu

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style

Skin is in Snake-inspired pieces are sure to put a charm on us this season, with python skin bags being our timeless favourite.

Fenn Wright Mansain

Michael Kors

Desa

Salvatore Ferragamo

Ileana Makri

Salvatore Ferragamo

Stella McCartney

Dior 44

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Gucci

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Chloe

The Style Files

From the new 24/7 accessory to the bold printed jacket, here are the hero buys and key pieces for now!

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SPEND YOUR FRIDAY’S AT Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market

at Grand Hyatt Doha Get an outstanding Chatuchak Weekend Market food experience, every Friday for brunch from 12:30-4:00 pm at award winning Thai restaurant Isaan. Walk around and explore the colorful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. 280 Soft drinks brunch 395 Special beverage brunch

QAR QAR

For reservations and inquiries please call 70218097. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

GRAND HYATT DOHA West Bay Lagoon, P.O. Box 24010, Doha, State of Qatar restaurants.doha.grand.hyatt.com Facebook.com/GrandHyattDoha

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Dolce & Gabbana

Victoria Beckham

Emilia Wickstead Fendi

Roksanda Ilincic

Alberta Ferretti Emilio Pucci

Bright lights From fuchsia to electric blue, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to drench yourself in head-to-toe primaries and colourblocked brights.

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Osman

Versace

Alexander McQueen

Dolce & Gabbana

Mary Katrantzou

PRINTS CHARMING

Dior

Burberry Prorsum

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about eye-popping prints this season, from pretty florals and motifs to splashs of spots and cool graphic mashups .

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Chloe

Christopher Kane

Embrace sugarcoated dreams with icecream shades of pastel pink, baby blue, pale lilac, yellow and mint in floaty fabrics and delicate chiffon.

Sonia Rykiel

CANDY PASTELS

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BRUSH STROKES

style

Bold and fierce, makeup at Celine took on a face paint kind of approach.

ON CAMPUS

FINE ART

Karl Lagerfeld sent out artist portfoliolooking clutches at Chanel.

With museum-worthy graffiti prints and painterly effects, Picasso would have gone mad at the explosion of art on the runways this season.

Peter Pilotto

THE HAIR

Slicked back and sleek, made to look painted or sprayed on.

JC de Castelbajac

Head to Toe

WALL ART

Miuccia specially commissioned shoulder bags with female portraits for the spring collection.

THE LOOK

Celine

Kenzo

Mural art took over dresses at Prada, depicting multi-visions of womanhood.

On the Runway

THE BAG

Ladylike handbags took centre stage in primary colours.

Great Find Curate your spring’s outfits with modern-art inspired pieces like Celine’s suede trapezoid shaped bag.

THE FOOTWEAR Tube socks and Miuccia’s take on Tevas.

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Emilio Pucci

Head bands were the crowning glory of the collection.

Head to Toe

Alexander McQueen

THE HAIR

The Highlights

THE LOOK

Dries van Noten

Celine

Gucci

Worldly and well-traveled, Valentinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spring woman is anything but boring.

THE BLING

Dramatic and striking pieces all in gold.

Globe trotter Exotic colours, prints and embellishments set the tone for a season that is marching to a global beat.

On the Runway

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Proenza Scho ul

Philip Lim

Missoni

Emilio Pucc

ten Dries van No

The fringe numbers at Gucci are perfect for adding a bit of tribal glam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; definitely a season must-have!

Great Find

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style

Great Find Shimmering handbags add a dangerous glamour to a palette that is pure fashion alchemy this season.

Head to Toe

FootNotes

THE HAIR

Tousled and messy – in keep with the high shine outfit.

THE DRESS

Silk lame gets a heavy metal twist at Lanvin that makes the lighterthan-air dress look hard rock solid.

Dolce & Gabbana

Lanvin

Celine

Balmain

Gucci

Marc by Marc Jaco bs

Emilio Pucci

Christopher Kane

On the Runway

THE BAG

Lanvin’s crinkled tote set the tone for spring’s bags.

THE FOOTWEAR

A twist on men’s loafers with cool fringe details.

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INFINITI QX70. THE ORIGINAL. Infiniti QX70 is the perfect harmony of grace and performance. This blend of agility and muscle is the first of its kind, making it totally alluring, totally original.

Discover more at Infiniti-qatar.com facebook.com/AlManaCompany

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Infiniti QX70, 329-horsepower 3.7-litre V6 with 360 Nm of torque, VVEL engine. Also available, Infiniti QX70S: 390-horsepower 5.0-litre V8 with 500 Nm of torque, VVEL engine.

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

inspired performance

SALEH AL HAMAD AL MANA CO. (Exclusive Agent)

Main Showroom: Salwa: Tel: 4428 3366. Showroom Timings: 8:00am to 9:00pm (Sat-Thu); 4:00pm to 9:00pm (Fri). www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Hold That Pose!

Jalil Marvin has an eye-catching style, and a devotion to his craft that helps to distinguish his unique talent – the very reason why we sought an Ohlala! interview.

This fashion and conceptual photographer seems to possess a crisp, clear-eyed, uncompromising directness with his compositions. Born in Kuwait in 1989 to an Iranian father and a Filipino mother, Jalil spent half of his life growing up in both the Philippines and Kuwait. Being part of these three infused cultures only adds to his world vision. “I don’t limit myself to a four-wall space,” offers Jalil. “I love to consider the environment as my studio. My eyes keep wandering around – I love observing people, objects, light, emotions, behaviour and actions. These things keep me going, they get me thinking and coming up with ideas and concepts. Ideas come to my mind more often than words come out of my mouth,” he enthuses.

Jalil Marvin

Words by karina lazarraga IMAGES COURTESY OF JALIL MARVIN

“Jalil is able to merge fine art and commerce and turn them into whimsical but incisive forms.”

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Art & culture Contact Jalil Marvin via email: jalilmarvin@gmail. com or call +965 514 69511; or visit www.jalilmarvin. com or Instagram: @jalilmarvin

Jalil looks at photography as a way for him to communicate his subconscious to the conscious. “To express a compelling narrative that evokes strong elements of emotions – this is at the core of my work,” Jalil expresses. Adding his own lavish vision to any subject he captures, Jalil employs a host of techniques to create his pictures. “I love it to be theatrical at times as film is a huge inspiration for me,” he says. The work that he does for fashion editorials is a case in point. Jalil is able to merge fine art and commerce and turn them into whimsical but incisive forms. “All of my fashion editorial shoots are planned carefully. I go into a shoot with an idea, a feeling, a message. When some elements don’t go according to plan, my team and I troubleshoot the problem. Say if a dress isn’t working, I move on to the next shot instead of trying to fix the dress and wasting time,” Jalil describes his work process. Starting his photographic journey from a young age, Jalil remembers his very first camera – a compact film Ricoh – that he took to school field trips, family gatherings and other interesting occasions. Getting his hands on a DSLR camera while at university, he continued pursuing his passion for photography and joined the university publication as a photojoutnalist, honing his craft until he was made the associate editor. www.ohlala-magazine.com

After graduation, Jalil worked as an assistant to Niccolo Cosme, one of the Philippines’ most prominent fashion photographers. “That experience was an eye-opener for me. It was what triggered my love for the glamourous world of fashion photography,” he recalls. This young talent has come a long way from his internship days. He has gone behind the lens to take photos of some of the most well known celebrities in the region. One of his projects included a collaboration with Bahraini fashion designer Khaleda Rajab and her Kuwaiti business partner Fahad Al Marzouq. “It was great. I

worked with both of them for their Linda Farrow Sunglasses design. I think everybody loved it, including the London-based Linda Farrow herself,” quips Jalil. With a string of successful stints under his belt, Jalil hopes to be internationally recognised for his talents and dreams of one day being able to do a shoot with international supermodel Coco Rocha. “I admire her energy on set,” he says. Whatever he sets his mind to, one thing is certain: Jalil’s body of work has shown him to be an adventurous and devilishly clever master of display – definitely a talent to watch out for.

OHLALA!

Style Studio

The Queen of Pop Combining Middle Eastern pop art and culture into unique creations, Rana Salam has dominated Lebanon’s design scene. We find out just how the design queen is making her voice heard worldwide…

OHLALA!

Rana tell us a bit about yourself… I always wanted to be a designer from the age of 13. I was inspired by my father’s architectural set up and knew that I wanted to do something with the combination of business and the arts. I found that graphic design was the perfect medium to express that. I always loved street culture as it’s where I felt most at home and it’s where I connected most. I loved the food, its informality and its spontaneity.

was no design education in Lebanon back then. After discovering the world of design and how little we had as cultural identity back home, I learned the art of capturing culture via visual communication. During my MA at the Royal college of Art, I researched pop art and pop culture and applied my understanding to our culture, which resulted in what you might call the Rana Salam signature today.

How did you break into the world of design? I left Beirut in the mid 80’s to study in London, as there

Who has been a major influence on you? For me it’s been my father, Paul Smith and Alan Fletcher. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“I always loved street culture as it’s where I felt most at home and it’s where I connected most. I loved the food, its informality and its spontaneity.” How would you describe your work? My work is best described as pop, capturing true Middle Eastern visual language and creating a unique identity that it deserves. You’ve designed everything from cafes to retail shops, but what has been your favourite project so far? Definitely designing the windows for Harvey Nichols, working on my book “The Secret Life of Syrian Lingerie”, and designing the brand Comproir Libanais, and the chocolate bars for Cocomaya in London. Which old Arabic stars have been a base of inspiration for you? Tahiya Karioka and Um Kalthoum of course! What do you think of Arab pop culture, and where do you see it going? As I discovered it in the early 90’s, that visual language has now caught up and become part of our culture. It will always remain, as pop is a very strong visual language that communicates to all classes and to all types of genres. What is a day in the life of Rana Salam like? Ohhh, now that’s a good question! It’s always wild and wonderful, not one day is the same. I’m an early riser as I drive my kids to school, with an exercise regime after. Once that is out of the way, I drop by the studio and meet with my team in which we discuss everything from what we ate, who we met and what we should be looking at, from fashion, to food to music. A list of creative projects is always on, and the team is always either researching or out and about getting inspired for the next project. While they do this, I am meeting with clients and sometimes students and of course developing the business. I still do a lot of the admin and checking on where we are at with cash flow! Any tips for young Arab designers? I always say to young Arab designers to embrace their culture, enjoy it, don’t dismiss the West, but embrace it and get the best out of it, merge it with ours and we can not be separated from it. But always have an identity and protect that.

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OHLALA!

Designer scoop

A cut abovE

When a young designer emerges on to the fashion scene, heads turn to see if they will survive. But when said designer is both brilliant and an Arab, we make sure to stand up and cheer; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moments like this that need all the support and applause, to help breed a new fashion generation this side of the globe.

ive foot nine and only 22 years old, standing next to Dana Masoud is intimidating to say the least; the stunning beauty, with a mane to-die-for, is VCU Qatar’s latest design prodigy. The Qatari born, raised in Canada designer has made it quite far in the year since she both, graduated and won, Salam’s Senior Fashion Award. To describe the young girl who is clearly making her debut as a strong powerful woman is definitely a difficult feat to put down on paper; her sweet demeanour might only hide so much of what we assume to be a burning fire. And as she talks about her work, the past few long and hard months, you can see the flames of passion resonate within her words“You have to work really hard, have faith in what you do. No matter how hard it is you need to know that you’ll get there eventually.” Her brand, which is so aptly named Tiraaz (the Arabic word for stitching), focuses on lush rich fabrics and the marriage of pretty embellishments with the most intricate of embroideries. “I want people to feel beautiful in my clothes, to dress all shapes, sizes and colours. The Tiraaz woman in my eye is one that is confident and elegant yet flirtatious at the same time,” says Masoud. For her collection, she mixed up the design process, starting by picking her fabrics first, which she sourced from Doha and Dubai, using them as the base of her inspiration and not vice versa. And from the beautiful pieces she has so meticulously created

“I want people to feel beautiful in my clothes, to dress all shapes, sizes and colours” for her debut into the design scene, we think the backwards method to her work has paid off. “It’s all about embellishments and silhouettes that are simple and classic. Take for instance Elie Saab’s work, you see his garments on the runway and they take your breath away. That’s whom I aspire to be like!” she smiles to us. And if this is any indication of what we should expect of her in the future, we can’t wait to be there in the audience when her dresses finally make it to the catwalk. See you there soon Dana!

Bobbi Brown

INSIDE LOOK

Fashion insider

This month we delve into the world of this year’s VCUQatar’s winner of Most Outstanding Senior Collection, AlAnoud Al-Nuaimi, who revelas her fashion musthave, beauty secrets and more…

What are your favourite trends for spring summer 14?

STYLE RESUME

Who is your style icon?

AlAnoud Al-Nuaimi

Crop tops, mesh, varsity jackets and slogan t-shirts.

Name

I don’t really have an icon, I get my style inspiration from the metal bands of the 80’s. I love battlevests/ kuttes, distressed torn denim, leggings and tights.

Internacionale

Profession: Designer My style is Edgy - I get my inspiration from rockers

Whose closet do you covet?

Definitely the closets of every member of Judas Priest!! “F” for Fascinating by Salvatore Ferragamo

Favourite beauty products?

M’O Vintage

go-to labels Iron fist! I love everything they have!

Signature scent?

fail-safe pieces My wristband buckles and studded biker boots

Moisturizer, black eyeliner and sheer lip gloss that I change to a blood red lipstick at night.

Bobbi Brown

Adagio – Vamphyri

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MAC

What music is on your ipod now?

Isabel Marant

Which do you prefer: Flats or Heels? Why?

Flats or hidden wedge sneakers because they’re stylish and comfortable but I do wear heels sometimes and they’re always ankle boots.

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OHLALA!

THE MIDDLE EASTERN STAMP

If you come from the Middle East then you know our cultural obsession with accessories, if not flip through any magazine’s society pages and you’ll find them there, staring back at you – a wild jungle of eclectic earrings, brighter than bright embellishments, and multi-sized clutches as far as the eye can see. Forget about being famous for oil, we have now become known as the land of accessories, one that is, fascinatingly, spitting out a new designer faster than one can say Christian Louboutin. But the ones you need to pay attention to are not only making it big here, but are rapidly growing, thriving with a hunger set to give the western fashion world a run for its money. Here is an edit of the best Arabian accessory designers, all the way from Egypt to Dubai… 62

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he’s built a leading luxury jewellery design house from the ground up, and in the past forty years has grown to become one of the most coveted designers the Middle East has to offer to the world; yes Azza Fahmy is definitely the name one turns to for the finer things in life. Her pieces tell a story inspired by history and culture, reinterpreting the beauty of bygone eras all magnificently deciphered in elegant mélanges of calligraphy inscribed handcrafted jewellery with a contemporary touch. What started out as a passion undertaken by Fahmy and supervised by the master goldsmiths of the spicescented souq of Khan el-Khalili in Cairo in 1969, has now become an international business, run today by Azza and her daughters Amina and Fatma. The Egyptian designer has since collaborated with Julien MacDonald to create the jewels for his catwalk show, and now boasts her latest partnership with none other than celebrity favourite Matthew Williamson. The British and Egyptian design duo teamed up to create ‘Azza Fahmy for Matthew Williamson’ for catwalk and retail jewellery collections, debuting in Matthew’s Spring/ Summer 2014 London Fashion Week show. Inspired by botanical prints and architectural forms and textures, the handcrafted collection powerfully captures Matthew Williamson’s trademark nature and print aesthetic alongside Azza Fahmy’s artistic design view and techniques to produce beautifully handcrafted pieces that masterfully reflect a common ground between east and west.

Azza Fahmy

www.azzafahmy.com

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Made in the middle east

Sarah’s bags

hether you’ve been to Beirut before, or plan to in the near future, a trip to Sarah’s Bags is quite up there with the must-do’s when in the capital. Yes, the tiny eclectic boutique, situated in the charming neighbourhood of Gemmayzeh, is a haven where bag fanatics come to seek solace and listen to her designs tell a story, one oozing of contemporary Middle Eastern culture. From Hollywood A-listers to gracing the pages of Vogue, what started out as an intimate line of handcrafted custom made accessories is now slowly becoming a fixture on the who’s who’s list of coveted things to have. Brainchild of Sarah Beydoun, Lebanese designer born and raised in Beirut, the pieces have become the most recognisable it- bags coming from the Arab world; her “Clutch Me” number made waves when she graced it with the face of iconic singer Oum Kalthoum. The bags ooze retro glamour with an urban twist on street-wise sensibility; they scream young, fun and hope. “Hope” because Beydoun has changed the lives of many underprivileged women with her love for fashion, creating a program and business that are both socially responsible and stylishly aware. This season for SS14, her latest collection “Brad Darling!”, brings Roy Lichtenstein’s iconic pop art to life with pieces that are as brightly coloured as they are beautifully made. 64

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www.sarahsbags.com

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Bint Thani www.ohlala-magazine.com

“

ntellectual, sophisticated with an eye for contemporary style and a fashion forward mentality” is how Khulood Thani would describe the Bint Thani woman, one that she intended on attracting back in 2012 when she launched her label during London Fashion Week. As the first UAE national to study at ESMOD

Paris, Khulood also attended the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins, the biggest of fashion guns Europe has to offer. In 2014 she was awarded the ME Woman Leader Excellence Award in Arts and Fashion, and aside from design, has also been appointed as a Fashion Advisor for the Berlin Dubai Festival, organised by the Goethe Institute for the German LanguageDubai, which is a fashion exchange program for fashion designers from both cities. Her turbans have become popular amongst the Middle East’s fashion savvy, now an essential piece for style as well as travel that adorn the young jet set beauties this side of the globe. Her latest collection, “The 7+ Styles Turban”, has her moving towards the contemporary, giving the label the modern edge buyers are looking for these days. With a focus on functionality, Khulood’s new pieces bring a mix of luxury and practicality, whereby the same turban can create up to 7 different unique styles. With so much already under her belt one can only wonder what’s next in line for the young designer; we hear she’ll be at the Origin Passion and Beliefs in Vicenza, Italy this May… Sshh! OHLALA!

Made in the middle east

Sabry marouf

hey say good things come in two and that’s exactly what you get with Sabry Marouf; the design duo whose avante garde brand is taking the Middle Eastern jewellery world by storm. Headed by artists Ahmed Sabry and Mohamed Marouf, the creative twosome are fusing elements from the past, present and future, bringing together the best of art and fashion in a label that is slowly making a name for itself amongst the Arab style elite. Their story started out far from the design world; Sabry studied Advertising & Public Relations while Marouf holds a BSc in Architecture, but their creative sides eventually took over and an artist, Sabry, and business man, Marouf, emerged giving birth to Sabry Marouf back in 2010. Together their work embodies concepts that are progressive and heritageoriented; merging Marouf ’s design focused thinking skills with Sabry’s creative direction. Their design studio and workshop can be found in the heart of Old Cairo, Khan Khalili, where their visions and love of geometry come to life in silver, gold and any metallic form. Their latest collection, entitled Isis, features limited pieces that pay homage to the duo’s Ancient Egyptian heritage which plays along historically revered elements such as Nacre, pearls and Lapis Lazuli. www.sabrymarouf.com

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51 EAST LAGOONA - 4U CITY CENTER

DINA KHALIFE

Madrid/Beirut-based accessories and textile designer, Dina Khalife is the woman behind the bold prints, joyful designs and hand drawn patterns that have made her label the go-to for those seeking beautifully tailored, colourful and easy to wear pieces. Having left behind a career in graphic design to pursue a masters in textile design, her true passion, Khalife’s life changed when she was picked up by the Starch foundation, Rabih Kayrouz’ non-profit that gives emerging Lebanese designers the opportunity to develop their collections and promote their brand. “It was the most important step in starting my label. I would have never launched the brand without the help of Rabih and Tala from Starch Foundation,” says Dina of her journey. In 2012, she ventured out on her own and was soon contacted by fashion haven and cult favourite store D’NA to design an exclusive capsule collection for them. “When D’NA contacted me to collaborate on a capsule collection, I was almost going to fall off the chair. I was super excited! I knew the shop and the brands they carry,” says Khalife, “It was amazing to see my creations in D’NA among international designers.” The collaboration opened several doors for me as it gave me a wider exposure from the media and shops’ head buyers.” The talented and young designer is currently working on her Spring Summer 15 collection, and having seen her past work we can’t wait to get our hands on her new pieces to come! www.dinakhalife.com

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Made in the middle east

NATHALIE TRAD www.bilarabi.ae

Bil Arabi

ou might have seen her pictures in the best-dressed columns of the Middle East’s glossy magazines, but Nadine Kanso is far from just a stylish pair of Louboutins walking the Arab social scene. No, the young and equally talented beauty is the creative brain behind Bil Arabi; a typography based jewellery line and testament to Kanso’s love of calligraphy and the beautiful Arabic language. “I am an artist, photographer and graphic designer so design is in my DNA… I loved design and got attracted to it back in the 90’s,” says Nadine about how her journey started, “I started Bil Arabi when every one was looking and pointing fingers on the region saying we are all terrorists, I had something to say and I did say it in both my photography and jewellery.” Today the Dubai-based designer’s ornate pieces have a cult following, finding a niche for themselves amongst those who love contemporary Arabic designs, which Kanso has so elegantly married together with Graffitti and a modern take on bling. The name, which stems from her first photographic work Meen Ana, reflects her passion for her language and heritage, one that has deep roots within the designer: “Since all I wanted to do is in Arabic I chose the simple and straight forward way by literally using Bil Arabi for in Arabic.” Her latest collection, meaning light, was launched back in October at the FFWD, a more artistic collection than any of her previously designed. She is currently working on an a upcoming photography show at Cuadro Gallery “WHAT IF”, then plans on launching the brand in Europe and Asia. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“

question everything around me through design, it’s my everyday puzzle,” says Nathalie Trad. The 27-year-old lebanese beauty is the mastermind behind her namesake brand, one that in less than a year, has seen her accessories sold in some of the biggest stores across the globe. Her obsession with geometry and asymmetric designs are the basis of her line, which she proudly shows off in a treasure trove of exquisite materials she sources from the Far East, which have now become her signature mark. “It was in 2007, while I was still studying at Paris’ ESMOD International, that I discovered my personal design ethos: to take classic shapes – stemming from our natural environment – and radically transform them, deconstructing and redefining the boundaries of fashion aesthetics,” says Trad of her inspirtaion. From interning at Yves Saint Laurent to getting her BBA in Design and Management from Parsons The New School for Design in New York and working under the mentorship of an industry-leading accessories designer at Proenza Schouler, Trad has had a journey most designers would be envious of. “When it comes to my collections I tend to draw my inspiration from everything around me, it could be anything from a book that I picked up in a second hand bookstore, an art movement I have watched a documentary on or the colours of a bazaar that I have come across on my travels.” www.nathalietrad.com

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Made in the middle east

FATMA AL MULLA fatmaalmulla.wordpress.com

Fyunka

op art has always been a source of expression cultivated from a need to break out from the cultural norms of everyday life and the things that come with it. No wonder Emirati graphic designer Fatma Al Mulla, who couldn’t stay bound to an office, found the perfect channel to escape; what better way is there to break free than through the art of design? “I started out from my blog, fatmaalmulla. wordpress.com - I started posting my illustrations, and I never intended for anyone to see them. Every time I’d post, it would automatically post on my twitter feed and that’s where people started retweeting and my followers increased,” says Mulla of how it all started. And did it really take off for her! In less than two years Fatma has unintentionally built up a global following of tens of thousands of fans for her quirky, witty modern designs, which capture her own culture and global pop culture so well. She takes cult things that society is hooked up on and translates it with her own traditional touches. Take her diamond ring illustration which reads “When am I going to get married?”, a question that every young Arab girl asks herself, the Cartier love bracelet image which boasts the slogan “I only know love from Cartier”, or the quirky take on Starbucks coffee with the Karak illustration. All really simple images but, with an Arab flair, provoke a jubilant air and a witty hint of sarcasm, which today’s overly serious culture needs. 70

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hree words come to mind when mentioning the label Fyunka: bold, quirky and independent. And that’s just how, Alaa Balkhy, founder and designer of the pop artsy label would describe her brand. “‘Fyunka is Arabic slang for a ribbon bow. I wanted the brand name to be in Arabic and I love how adding a bow to something can make it prettier.” Alaa, originally from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is currently studying at Pratt Institute in New York City. Her label, which she started back in 2011, is shedding the light on stereotypes about Saudi and bringing forth a touch of Middle Eastern pop culture for the West to see. Her big break came when her illustration of a Hermes Birkin bag with the caption “Baba Abgha Birkin” (Translation: Daddy I want a Birkin) went viral on the Internet. Since then, Balkhy’s designs have become a phenomena amongst those who enjoy quirky bold pieces – her Burqua inspired bag making it big this side of the globe. “I worked two jobs while attending college, one as a graphic designer at Sotra Boutique (a Jeddah-based boutique and brand) and the other a designer at a small design agency also in Jeddah. While at times it was difficult to manage my academics and my jobs, working while studying was the best thing I could’ve done at the time,” says Balkhy of her journey. And it seems the young designer is only getting started, with plans on an apparel line, an exciting jewelry collaboration and a tea set launching this year. alaabalkhy.blogspot.com

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EVERY BITE TELLS ITS OWN STORY

FAUCHON CATERING For Wedding and Special Events

Souq Najd, Salwa Road, Tel: 4432 4888 | Royal Plaza, Al Sadd, Tel: 4435 5588

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FauchonParisQatar

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RICH PICKINGS Game changing pieces are what every accessory designer seeks when creating a collection, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what Layla Shugriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new line is: a series of covetable statement making pieces that redefine our understanding of luxury.

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globetrotter, she’s lived and worked in many different cities, from Russia to Australia. Today Layla Shugri, who’s finally settled down in the coastal city of Dubai, is following her passion with her luxury handbag brand, Lya Lya. “I have always known that fashion is where my heart is, however, life takes you down different paths and I strongly believe that you need to balance all aspects of your life at all times, and therefore decided to have my priorities in place,” says Layla, “Once I fulfilled my desire of being a mother, and found time to develop my skills and passion, I started working on creating my dream brand and that’s how and when Lya Lya came to life.” 76

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And it seems that Shugri knows just what women want; today her label has proven the ultimate covetable statement when it comes to handbags of the moment. For next autumn, her collection plays with hard and soft textures, metals and Swarovski stones. It is more refined and luxurious than previous ones, and includes a new accessory line, with bold and standout pieces, from belts and rings to earrings. “I was blessed to be living in UAE when I produced my debut collection, it really is the land of opportunities and does recognise and appreciate local talent,” says Shugri about her success, “One must conquer his inner fear of under achievement and realize that anything is possible if you put your mind and effort into it.”

PHOTOGRAPHER: AYAAD DAMOUNI @ D THE AGENCY MODEL: MARYON BERTRAND @ D THE AGENCY PRODUCTION: CAPITAL D STUDIO CLOTHES: PEARL AND RUBIES | AIZONE Lya Lya is available at www.lya-lya.com. The new collection will be available at Impression boutique & Jo Lamode boutique in Qatar starting from June 2014. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Alexander McQueen

The Accessory Files

Tribal cuffs, day-to-night sneakers, and pretty floral pieces: welcome to SS14â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most coveted accessories.

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Accessory ed

uar

Dsq

MUSTHAVE FINDS

Daniel Wellington Aurelie Bidermann

TRIBAL GLAM

Diane von Furstenberg

Dance to the beat of tribal drums with African and Indian inspired pieces that would make any global nomad green with envy. Go for chunky necklaces and bangles for a beginnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take on the trend, or make a statement with big bold earrings in gold or bronze.

Hermes

Linda Farrow

Loewe Tory Burch

Celine

Celine 80

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Accessory

1. Dior 2. Burberry Prorsum 3. Dior 4. Mary Katrantzou 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Louis Vuitton 7. Dsquared 8. Dolce & Gabbana 9. Tory Burch 10. Christian Louboutin 11. Fendi 12. Eugenia Kim

FULL BLOOM

Flora and fauna took over the runways adding a bit of petal power to the pretty collections that blossomed for spring. Go for full sixties flower girl with daisy, meadow poppies and luscious roseprinted bags or keep it sweet and elegant with floral-inspired statement earrings.

6 5

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facebook.com/gap

www.ohlala-magazine.com Singer Andra Day and the Lived In Denim Shorts.

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Dolce & Gabbana

The Beauty Files

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full-on volume or a plaited mess, hair is stealing the spotlight this season.

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Dolce & Gabbana

Beauty

Mane Affair

Here are the standout trends and most prominent do’s we caught sight of on the runways - this is how you should be wearing your hair this season! Valentino

The Tools

Serge Norman

Babyliss

CROWNING GLORY The Look

Hair jewels are having a moment – from “barbed wire” headbands that scream rock princess to ornate gilded crowns at Dolce & Gabbana, it definitely is time to road test these decorated head turners. Put in mind, that this season, a well-chosen hair accessory will take your hair from a simple style into a conversation piece. 86

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Eugenia Kim

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Balmain

VA VA VOOM The LooK

It’s time to go bigger than ever before! From volumised messy braids to bombshell blowouts, get ready to tease those roots to reach new heights. Remember the puffier the better in this case.

The Tools INSIDER TIP Create height and structure by applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair before styling – you’ll be amazed at the results.

Diane von Furstenberg

Giles

AU NATUReL The LooK

Think the natural colour you had as a child but more intense. It’s time to channel movie screen sirens of the golden age of cinema with classic blonde, brunette and redhead shades but in stronger tones and hues. Oribe

Bed Head

John Frieda

The Tools INSIDER TIP When going for a new colour keep in mind your wardrobe, you just might find your existing clothes don’t suit your new colour! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty

Blue Brush Studio at Hilton Doha Ask around town about the blue brush man and everyone will tell you that David Martinez is the one to visit when it comes to matters of the hair. Straight from Paris, he is one of the most recognized fashion hairdressers in today’s fashion industry, and for Doha’s fashionistas he has become the go-to man for the beautiful manes you see around town. To book an appointment call 4423 3022

Franck Provost at Four Seasons

Haute Hair Looking for the perfect blowout? Need a quick colour fix? We went in search of the hottest salons to get our manes in order. Here is where you should go…

Yehia and Zakaria at Grand Hyatt Doha

For hair that is dry, damaged or just needs a little pick-me-up to get that all-important glow back, head to Yehia & Zakaria Hair Salon at the Grand Hyatt. With more than 20 years of international experience, the duo offer everything from hair cuts to extensions to colouring; this is definitely the spot for the woman looking to change up her look for 2014.To book an appointment call 4448 1056/1064

Jean Louis David at Renaissance City Centre One of Europe’s favourite hair destinations, the renowned salon offers excellent quality of service so that each visit is a unique one. Using only the industry’s hottest products from L’Oréal Professional and Kérastase to Redken, you’re bound to get the best of the best, along with the season’s trendiest hairstyles making this the salon to go to for professionals and luxurious hair.

Skin and Soul With two branches, one in Al Hilal and the second at Lagoona Mall, Hannan Najjar’s modern, minimalist beauty centers have become a one-stop haven for those looking for the perfect blowout. The resident stylists are not only good with the brush

but they’ve mastered the art of tackling even the most damaged and tired of hair types; they’ll offer their expertise and consult you on how to take care of your mane even without asking them! To book an appointment call 4455 24 56 4411 2311

Nestled inside the five star luxurious walls of the Four Seasons Doha is a name associated with beautiful hair. Franck Provost will give you A-list tresses while you relax back with a magazine. Already a firm favourite with the high society girls in town, we suggest you book way in advance if you want to ensure your hair looks its best all year round. To book an appointment call 4494 8844

Bliss Spa at W Offering everything from a simple shampoo and finish to all possible colour services, this trendy location is every beauty aficiando’s dream. Stop by for a quick consultation or spend a few lovely hours getting every hair-related treatment possible. To book an appointment call 4453 5555

To book an appointment call 4417 5771

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Beauty

With the launch of her new Idol Eyes Collection, Kate Moss gives an exclusive interview, sharing her beauty secrets. After lips and nails what made you decide darkest/blackest Rimmel mascara yet. Why to foray into creating an Eye Collection? was this important to you? Kate Moss. I love a smoky eye! A striking eye can KM. This was actually the first idea I put forward really make a difference in terms of styling, plus it’s when creating the Eye Collection. Mascara is always also a great everyday go-to look… I rarely leave the the finishing touch of makeup and can be the most house without wearing at least a bit of mascara... For important final touch to a great eye but I felt existing day I use brown and taupe shades and then for night mascaras weren’t nearly intense and dark enough. I go darker and add the Jet Black mascara. I wanted a mascara so intensely black that it would What was your creative intention for this really make a statement. collection? You are known for your cat eye flick, what made KM. I wanted to create a collection using classic you decide to put an emerald touch to it? shades but with a modern twist. KM. I have always been obsessed with the colour All the shade names are inspired by green and love using it for my eye makeup but jewel tones and the shades are have never found a really elegant shade. all very deep and also gem I wanted to create a green that inspired, why? remained chic and I think a strong KM. I really love the whole “The shades are very much emerald green complements bohemian atmosphere and most eye colours. inspired by the mysterious, Are there any colours you lifestyle, so the shades are rich and sensual bohemian would never use for your very much inspired by the mysterious, rich and sensual culture… dark velvets, gem eyes? bohemian culture… dark KM. I never wear the really stones, peacock feathers…” bright velvets, gem stones, peacock shades on my eyes, pinks, feathers… these shades work really reds or yellows as I feel they are very well together. hard to pull off. Some trend shades can be really loud This collection is a new take on colour and hard to combine, so it was very important for block, with shades that can be worn elegantly no me to create a range of shades that would still be matter how you combine them. You can also play wearable and look elegant in combination with with them to create a chic daytime look and a more each other. sophisticated, stronger night time one. You have said in the past that you would never You are known for your famous eye flick, do wear a red lip with red nails, do you have you have any special tips on how to get the similar rules for the eyes? Should one match perfect eye flick? their mascara to their eyeliner? KM. I always pull my eye taut to the side, follow KM. I think I’ve learnt that in makeup there are no the line with my liner and then take it up at the end rules! towards my brow. The trick to coloured mascara is that it needs to You also created the packaging for your be subtle. While you can go all out on eyeliner or mascaras, what was your inspiration behind eyeshadow, mascara if coloured should remain the metal pack? elegant so as not to overpower the rest. KM. I wanted something simple and chic and I loved Your black mascara in this collection is the the gunmetal. 90

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Balmain

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Your Ohlala! Life www.ohlala-magazine.com

From where to dine in style to the hottest rides in town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to a fashionable life! OHLALA!

The 2014 Nissan Patrol

Nissan’s new behemoth has had a few changes over the previous model, although these are largely cosmetic. It’s still the expansive, luxurious and highly capable offroader that’s bringing the fight to the Land Cruiser!

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e love the new Nissan Patrol. We loved it when we first reviewed the latest generation back in 2012, and we still love it now that it has been re-launched for 2014. Changes for the latest model include a revised front end with a re-designed grille, new options in terms of alloy wheels and interior and exterior colours, and the third-generation 360-degree camera, among others. www.ohlala-magazine.com

motoring

The first impression that the Patrol gives you is of its vast size. The Nissan Armada is supposed to be the biggest vehicle in the range, but we can tell you, when the two are parked next to each other on the showroom floor there’s really not much in it! Inside, that impression of space continues, with surfaces so vast you feel like you’re really reaching to touch all the controls. This might appeal to those with a love of the grandiose, but not to others who like cosiness, and having everything close to hand. The huge size might also intimidate unconfident drivers, especially in complicated manoeuvres such as parking in tight spots. The good news in that regard is that the all-round parking cameras are extremely useful, and automatically flash on to the 8-inch touchscreen when the parking sensors detect objects nearby. This is also useful for offroading, when you’re trying to avoid those tyre-shredding rocks in tricky spots, or that particularly steep approach

The huge size might also intimidate unconfident drivers, especially in complicated manoeuvres such as parking in tight spots. angle, which the parking sensors will also pick up for you. Inside, the luxury abounds plush leather seats (standard with the SE model we reviewed) that resemble living room furniture more than car seats ensure sublime comfort on and off the road. And despite its size, off the road is where the Patrol really comes into its own. With four surface settings, three 4WD settings and differential lock, as well as Hill Descent Control, the Patrol is ready to handle pretty much anything. The excellent all-wheel-drive system makes climbing steep gravelly inclines look easy, and the meaty 5.6l V8, which puts out 317hp and 527Nm, will pull the Patrol through soft sand with little fuss. This was a particular focus for Nissan, for whom the GCC market is one of the biggest. www.ohlala-magazine.com

The top-spec LE model comes with an uprated version of the same engine, putting out 400hp and a whopping 560Nm of torque, as well as hydraulic body motion control, which makes for a smoother and more comfortable ride both on and off the road. The new Patrol has the Land Cruiser nervously looking over its shoulder, and for good reason. It has already broken its own sales records across the board, and has the Cruiser firmly in its sights. We wait with baited breath to see how Toyota responds!

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Chic eats

Admiral’s

GO: For more information & reservations call 4484 8663

Paul & Joe

We love the Ritz Carlton’s nautical themed Admiral’s; it’s laidback, unpretentious, and oh-so-chilled, making it the perfect sunkissed outdoor eating and drinking spot in the city.Yacht lovers come here to sit on the outdoor deck and watch the big white boats docked in the marina. WHAT TO WEAR: Think maritime cool with warm colours, sporty touches and easy tailored cuts.

The Great outdoors

Anthony Vaccarello

It’s time to get ready for al fresco season with our picks of the best patios, rooftops and outdoor restaurants in town. Here are our top seven places to get out and stay out this May…

Al Matbakh

GO: For more information & reservations call 4428 8888

GO: For more information & reservations call 4433 6777

Think breathtaking panoramic views, cool music and an even cooler crowd where the glamorous mingle, nibble on sushi, and drink brightly coloured cocktails. A Doha favourite, this is where the fashion savvy head to blow off steam after a hectic week at work. WHAT TO WEAR: Cosmopolitan trendy where only the latest and hottest pieces will get you noticed.

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This outdoor grill, situated in the charming Arumaila Boutique Hotel’s rooftop, serves the best Wagyu beef, tender New Zealand lamb and the freshest seafood from the Gulf waters. With its open kitchen, lively music and spectacular views this place is definitely worth a stop when in Souq Waqif. WHAT TO WEAR: Go boho-chic with brightly coloured kaftans and big chunky jewellery.

Etro

Sky View Bar

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Doha Marriott

Adding a fresh new twist to the Friday brunch scene, the hotel is making it big with their “Late Brunch”, where guests have the opportunity to chill out on the beachside tables and watch the sunset, while enjoying a killer barbeque. WHAT TO WEAR: Cotton shirtdresses, roomy jodhpurs and most importantly: beach-friendly flats. GO: For more information & reservations call 4429 8888

Alberta Ferretti

Located by the pool of the InterContinental Doha, this is Greek-Mediterranean at its best. The restaurant’s cosy contemporary outside terrace is the place to go to enjoy authentic Greek food with one of the best views in the city. WHAT TO WEAR: Pair white ethereal sundresses with straw wedges and loosely braided hair for a modern day Greek goddess look. GO: For more information & reservations call 4484 4919

Diane von Furstenberg

Mykonos

La Spiga

Jil Sander

For a real taste of La Dolce Vita, Milan’s famous family run Italian restaurant, La Spiga by PaperMoon, offers cool interiors with an even cooler outdoor terrace that has us hooked with killer views of Westbay, we don’t want to be anywhere else. Try their risotto; it’s not to be missed! WHAT TO WEAR: Channel Italian chic with light linen pants, leather espadrilles and a nude leather shirt. GO: For more information & reservations call 4453 5135

Beach Bar & Lounge

GO: For more information & reservations call 4494 8888 www.ohlala-magazine.com

Victoria Beckham

The Four Seasons Doha favourite is back every Thursday now that the weather has cooled off. A chilled ambience with cool relaxing lounge music is what’s on offer here, as is a very colourful beverages menu that’ll have you sampling cocktail after cocktail. Yum! WHAT TO WEAR: Urban cool is the dress code here, so think LBDs and standout accessories.

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CHEF CRUCHET

The French Master Chef makes his way to the busy capital at the helm of the Ritz Carlton Doha’s dining, catering and culinary creations. We meet the man under the white apron…

he Ritz has always been a name synonymous with luxury, a destination for the wealthy and those who appreciate the finest service available. No wonder when it comes to their team, they are meticulous in employing the best of the best to ensure they always remain at the top of their game, one that has certainly proven itself throughout the decades. And it seems that the Ritz Carlton Doha vows to uphold the brand’s same integrity by bringing on board Chef

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Gael Cruchet, the culinary genius and the city’s hottest new power player in the kitchen. Born in Lille, North of France, Chef Cruchet was born into a family who was passionate about cooking. As the eldest son, he took over the role of preparing food at the young age of 16. After training at The Cooking School of Cannes, where he got his culinary degree, he went on to Paris followed by St. Tropez, where he cooked for high profile celebrities like Madonnna and Michael Jackson. With stints in several Michelin Star restaurants such as Le Chantecler in Nice, and Le

“I can’t say I have one favourite chef, it’s like music you don’t listen to just one artist.”

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Chef spotlight

The Ritz Carlton, Doha

The Ritz Carlton, Boston

Manoir De Paris restaurant, the French native decided to move to America. “I arrived to Los Angeles in 1991 on Christmas Day,” says Cruchet, “California was absolutely great, the resources from meat to fruit, I loved LA.” After a few years of cooking for Hollywood’s elite he moved to the Caribbean to the Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas. “The best thing about being a chef is that we get to travel and are constantly exposed to different cultures of food, that is the beauty of our craft,” boasts Cruchet proudly, “We are always exposing ourselves to different regions of the world.” From the sunny Caribbean to the harsh cold of Boston, the chef was requested to reopen the landmark Ritz Hotel in the historic city, where he spent the next four years. His biggest accomplishment and which he wears proudly now on his Chef ’s jacket came when he moved on to the RitzCarlton, Tysons Corner in Washington D.C. www.ohlala-magazine.com

The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas

– where he received the ultimate recognition of “Maître Cuisiner de France” (Master Chef of France) in 2007. Les Maîtres Cuisiniers de France is a group comprised of the most elite and well-known chefs worldwide who strive to preserve and spread the French culinary art, encourage training in cuisine, and assist in professional development. Today Doha is lucky to have its hands on such a culinary treat who is just as excited about exploring the city as we are about having him. “This is a fantastic place, a melting pot of cultures,” says Cruchet, “I can’t wait to try everything especially Ramadan!” OHLALA!

art

Art Corner

If you want your event to be featured in Ohlala! Email: events@ohlala-magazine.com

The top artistic endeavours in May

KINGS AND PAWNS: BOARD GAMES FROM INDIA TO SPAIN Ongoing until June 21, Museum of Islamic Art

GHADAH ALKANDARI: THE CLOSEST I’VE EVER COME TO A SCIENTIFIC EXPERIMENT

The Kings and Pawns exhibition uncovers the history of board games in the Islamic world, from India to Spain between the 7th and 20th century. The exhibition focuses heavily on chess, from its origins in India to its adoption by the Persian élite and its subsequent spread across the countries following the rise of Islam. The exhibition will also examine other board games with Indian and Islamic connections such as Ludo and Snakes and Ladders. Kings and Pawns features game boards, game pieces, Persian and Arabic chess manuals, paintings and illustrated manuscripts.

Ongoing until June 7 at Project Space, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Mathaf invites Ghadah Alkandari to its Project Space to conceive a project that includes a residency followed by an exhibition and an in dialogue with curator Ala Younis. Pushing the boundaries of her own artistic vocabulary, this is the artist’s first attempt to produce sculptural objects that translate the world of her character into an exhibition context. Ghadah will be both the experimenter and the subject. As an experimenter she wants to create real-life moments that mirror his drawings. As a subject she is a specimen who is extracted from her everyday life and placed in a room.

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International Artists of Doha - The 4th Annual Exhibition Renowned artists across the globe will exhibit their work and contribute for a cause at the fourth annual exhibition hosted by Qatar Foundation Community Support.

T VCUQatar Faculty Exhibition - Strange Wonders Ongoing until May 6, Msheireb Enrichment Centre The VCUQatar annual faculty exhibition showcases new works by current VCUQatar faculty and staff. This year’s exhibition takes inspiration from Company House, one of the heritage buildings within Msheireb downtown area, which played an important part in the lives of Qatar’s original oil pioneers.

wenty-three Doha-based artists hailing from diverse backgrounds and twelve different countries will be exhibiting their work under the aegis of the International Artists of Doha (IAD) in their fourth annual exhibition. The artists come from diverse countries including Germany, Iran, Canada, Croatia, USA, Egypt, India, the Netherlands, Sudan, Iraq, United Kingdom and Qatar. All the artists will be exhibiting their latest creations that address the theme ‘Rooh Al Hayat – The essence of life’ and offer a wide range of styles from realism to abstract. In addition to original artworks being on display, all artists will contribute a canvas, which will be offered to the public by a silent auction. 50 per cent of the proceeds from the auction will be returned to IAD to fund their future public events. The exhibition is open until May 3 at Al-Qool Atrium, Qatar Foundation Recreation Centre

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Dries van Noten

The Shopping Files www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Tribal Glam with Pinko

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BAG IT WITH LACOSTE Standout accessories are the way to go this spring and this beauty from Lacoste is just the way to make a statement.

Month of Beauty with Faces

Faces will be hosting a month of beauty this May sharing beauty and makeup secrets with the help of some of their favourite brands, so don’t forget to stop by!

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Essential Luxuries

These must-have fragrances from Oscar De La Renta can be found at shopping haven Merch this spring.

FIFTY ONE EASTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RADIANT SECRETS Beauty aficionados will love the new Givenchy Hydra Sparkling range at Fifty One East which features featherlight and velvety creams that melt into the skin.

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The queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday party

Their Excellencies Major General Hamad bin Ali Al-Attiyah, Minister of State for Defence and Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, joined the Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP the British Secretary of State for Defence, British Ambassador, Nicholas Hopton and over one thousand guests of the British Embassy, in celebrating the Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Guests were kept entertained by the talents of the beautiful Sonja Park on the piano for the VIP reception, Doha military band, Doha Jazz and the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visiting Urban Playground parkour team. 114 OHLALA!

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Nada Taha

Hisham Dawoud

THE FASHION RUNWAY VCUQatar’s students’ designs came to life on the runway with the 15th annual fashion show hosted by shopping haven Salam at The Gate Mall, Doha’s favourite luxury destination. Munira Lage da Silva

Fatima Maki

This year’s “Center Front” show opened to a fullhouse, showcasing the work of VCUQatar fashion design sophomores, juniors and 16 seniors over three days. The show feature an amazing line-up from beautiful ethnic and handcrafted designs to super modern and glamorous pieces, proving that the upcoming designers are definite competition for the design world out there!

Maha Al Saad

Aisha Al Naemi

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Shot-on-site Ahmed Malalla

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Shot-on-site Maha Khalifa Al-Subaey

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Noor Abdulla Hamad Al-Thani

Douha Al Jozali

Al-Anoud Al-Nuaimi Alexia Thomas

Marianne Follack Beremejo

Raya AlMeghaisaib

“The upcoming designers are big competition for the design world.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

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BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE SHOW

Ohlala! went backstage where the real magic takes place, to see just what the young designers were up to! If you’ve ever been to a fashion show you’ve never truely experienced it until you’ve stepped foot behind the curtains. From crazy designers running around to interns dressing up models and glitter and hair spray being chaotically spritized everywhere, this is the kitchen where everything you see on the runway comes to life. And let’s just tell you that it wasn’t any different at the VCUQatar show!

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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. Patrolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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LA DOLCE VITA Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion darlings got together for the stylish cocktail party thrown by leading Italian menswear retailer, Boggi Milano, at Opal by Gordon Ramsay at the St. Regis Hotel.

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MASTERS OF LUXURY The Luxury Network brought together the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VIPs and high society at the St. Regis Doha for another fashionable affair.

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A SPARKLING AFFAIR

Dohaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest gathered for a press conference held in honour of Mr. Thierry Fritsch, president of Chaumet International and in the presence of Mr. Hussain Alfardan and Ali Alfardan.

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DESTINATION BEAUTY

Doha’s beautiful showed up for L’Occitane’s exclusive party to celebrate their first flagship store in Villaggio Mall, where they enjoyed French treats all the way from Provence.

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PRETTY Tricks For the launch of IsaDora, the cosmetics line brought in their famous makeup artist Stephan for a one-onone lesson in beauty.

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COOKING UP A STORM

Giving 5 star dining a new twist, luxury hotspot, Ritz-Carlton Doha, got together Qatar’s Ambassadors’ Wives for a special “Cooking Class” taught by the hotel’s expert chefs.

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WATER WORKS

The Grand Hyatt Doha got everyone wet in true Thai fashion in a wonderful celebration to mark Songran, the Thai New Year.

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DREAM WHEELS

The hottest accessory to hit the Doha roads, the beautiful Porsche Macan had the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite show up for an exhilarating and thrilling preview of the sports car.

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ADRENALINE RUSH

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha took to Losail International Circuit for their first ever racetrack test drive to showcase the Wraithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exceptional speed and agility.

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the column

MISS OHLALA!

Escapades of a single 20-something girl living in Doha. LOVE FUEL

They say I am an idealist, however even I have doubts at times. But every now and then you meet someone that restores your fate in life, love and serendipity. This month I will not talk about my story, but instead a story that moved me deeply that I believe needs to be shared. 19-year-old Monika went on a family vacation with her family to Greece, they traveled 32 hours from Prague by bus to keep the trip affordable. The last night of their vacation her younger brother convinced her to accompany him to a bar, although she was very hesitant. As she walked into the crowded taverna, she noticed Amara fairly quickly because he was the tallest and fittest man she had ever seen. They chatted a little and exchanged numbers, and parted ways thinking that was the end when in fact it was the beginning of a fairy tale-esque romance. Three months later, after endless hours and sleepless nights on Skype, Monika packs a carry-on and boards a flight to Athens to go see him again.Taking a leap of fate, her mother paid for her flight ticket. She was a student at the time and was travelling with only 20 euros in her pocket, taking a plane for the first time to meet a man she ultimately did not know. Amara, the tall athlete who was orignally from the Ivory Coast but was based in Doha, was in Europe again for training. Years go by and Monika and Amara stay together, meeting any opportunity they got although the frequency was wilting. To make matters more complicated, her Czech Republic passport couldn’t get her into Qatar and his Ivory Coast passport couldn’t get him into Czech Republic without a visa. Could it be more complicated? Yes. Although she did get the visa once before, the renewal was rejected. As for Amara well there was no Czech Republic consulate in Doha, so he would have to take a holiday to travel to Kuwait to apply 138 OHLALA!

for a visa, every time he wanted to visit her. Monika graduated from University and started applying for jobs in Doha, in all fields from cabin crew to secretarial work, until she lost hope. Amara also tried to move to Czech Republic but the salary and benefits in his package in Qatar where incomparable- after all he had an extended family in Ivory Coast depending on him. By then her friends and family told her to move on with her life that she was wasting her time, but luck kicked in. Once she had lost hope and started a career in marketing in Czech Republic, she finally got the call she had been waiting for since she had graduated two years ago. It was a job offer in Doha! And after a series of interviews Monika was finally able to relocate to Qatar, to work at one of the luxury hotels in the city. Life may not be perfect, but after eight years of struggle with impossible circumstances the couple are now living in Doha engaged to be married soon, finally living a normal relationship. Goosebumps shoot up my body every time I think of them – forever I will think of Monika before ever giving up because I can see now that with determination powered by love you, can always get what you want! Tata for now, until next time. Miss Ohlala!

Illustration By Hassan Hassan

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