Glam February 2013

Contents

21

VALENTINE IDEAS

Make this V-Day extraordinarily special with these amazing finds.

30 SKIN AND LEATHER ETHICS

Alexandra Kohut-Cole offers a perspective on the controversies that often plague the fashion world.

34 DESIGNER IN DOHA

GLAM qatar's no.1 fashion magazine w w w.g l a m qata r .c o m

FEBRUAry 2013

Abigail Mathias meets jewellery designer Sarah Reece and finds out what makes her creativity tick.

36 TIMELESS ELEGANCE

Couture jeweller Bina Goenka discusses her unceasing effort to create timeless pieces.

39 BAG LOVE

Debrina Aliyah talks to Bagsnob, the online fashion experts.

Contents 45 BALENCIAGA

The life of the legend of haute couture

48 FASHIONISTA

The stunning Dita Von Teese speaks her mind in a candid interview that reveals her style quotient.

52 MENS DESIGN WEAR

Qatar ’s very own designer Salz A Rahman presents his latest collection.

56 PUMA POWER

Sindhu Nair explores the idea of sustainable fashions and speaks to a host of creative people striving towards this noteworthy cause.

AD

68 STYLE POST

GLAM meets the Bond Street jeweller Jeremy Morris and discover his tastes in life and business.

70 RUNWAY REPORT

GLAM offers a front-row view of all the action from the recently concluded Muscat Fashion Week.

78 WAAD FASHION SHOW

We bring you highlights from one of the most highly anticipated fashion events in Qatar. Find out who won our special accessories competition.

83 STYLISHLY SPORTY

We meet sport enthusiast Brooke Reid and discover her glamourous side.

GLAM

qatar's no.1 fashion magazine FEBRUARY 2013

On the cover DITA VON TEESE PHOTOGRAPH BY CAMERA PEOPLE/ THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE.

THE SWEET SMELL OF

LOVE IS IN THE AIR. Discover your perfect fragrance at Faces this Valentine’s Day from February 1 - 15.

www.faces-me.com

Online

Edition w w w.g l a m qata r.c o m

Editor Sindhu

Nair

Debrina Aliyah

Chief Fashion Correspondent

Senior CorrespondentS Abigail

mathias

Ezdhar Ibrahim Ali Rory Coen Correspondent

ola diab

Photographer

rob altamirano

Senior Art Director

venkat reddy

Deputy Art Director

Hanan Abu Siam

Assistant Art Director Ayush

Indrajith

Senior Graphic Designer MAHESHWAR Senior Manager – Marketing Zulfikar

Jiffry

Assistant Managers - Marketing Chaturka

REDDY B

Karandana

thomas jose

Senior Media Consultant Hasan

Rekkab

LYDIA YOUSSEF Marketing Research & Support Executive Kanwal

Baluch

Senior Accountant Pratap

Chandran

Sr. Distribution Executive Bikram

Shrestha

Distribution Support Arjun

Timilsina

Bhimal Rai Basantha.P Publisher and Editor–in–chief

Yousuf Jassem Al Darwish

Chief Executive Sandeep

Sehgal

Executive Vice President

Alpana Roy

Vice President

Ravi Raman

Couturier Rami Al-Ali presented his SS13 collection in Paris. Get the first looks in our online edition. Also, exclusive final walk videos of select designers from Muscat Fashion Week 2013.

EVENTS OF THE MONTH 1 Awearness Fashion Fair ● The Awearness Fashion Fair will take place on March 8 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, in Rocca Lounge.

The event is a swap and sell event for everyone who is interested in revamping their wardrobe. All table proceeds will go to the student grant of VCUQ. On the same evening, talent agency Behip-Mgmt and Fashion Rocks Qatar will also be hosting a fashion party with a special DJ flying in from the UK for the event. Contact info@ behip-qatar.com for table bookings.

2 GLOW American Salon New Opening ● The vibrant and fun salon is opening a third outlet in West Bay on February 22 and they are throwing a big party to celebrate! The party will feature a hair show as well as a fashion show. The models will be a sporting a collection of very cool cuts and colors.

There will also be fantastic treats for guests. By invitation only.

3 Splash celebrates it 20th anniversary ●

with SS13 Fashion Show The Middle East's biggest high-street retailer will be celebrating its 20th anniversary with an exclusive SS13 fashion showcase in March and it is now running a competition for fans to win invites to the event. Register on www.facebook.com/ splashfashions

COMING UP

GLAM is published by Oryx Advertising Co. WLL. The contents of this publication are subject to copyright and cannot be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher and/or license holder.

All rights rest with Datalog media solutions. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any advertising contents carried in this publication.

Contact info@omsqatar.com, glam@omsqatar.com www.issuu.com/oryxmags www.facebook.com/glamqatar Call us: +974 44550983, 44672139, 44671178, 44667584 Fax: +974 44550982

In March, we have a conversation with Tina Leung, stylist extraordinare who has worked with the biggest names in fashion.

Contributors Alexander Kohut Cole Previously an editor at Harper's BAZAAR Singapore, British journalist Kohut-Cole pursued a fashion journalism degree in London before working at Conde nast where she was instrumental in the publication of Vogue Women. Having lived in London, Switzerland, Singapore, Bahrain and now Qatar, she has written her way around the world on anything from fashion and beauty to travel, lifestyle and food.

Debi Mendez Makeup is her weapon. Art is her passion. Celebrated Qatar-based international celebrity makeup artist Debi Mendez has worked for Hollywood actors such as Mark Strong, Michelle Yeoh and fashion designer Roberto Cavalli. She is also a portrait painter, particularly keen on pop-art. http://www.facebook. com/theartofdebimendez

Your Voice on Twitter & Facebook @Rafia M. Siddiqui: Good Afternoon & congrats... on crossing 2000 Facebook fans GLAM! @Layla Asgar Al-Siyabi: LOVE MUSCAT FASHION WEEK! glad that you guys are covering it this time around.

Lynette Cowie

@Isa Rua: Great issue. Love it!

Aptly known as The Style Revivalist, Lynette Cowie assists the ladies of Doha in finding and developing their confidence through her innovative personal, wardrobe and shopping styling methods. For individual styling consultations visit www.lynettecowie.com

Jody Ryan Jody Ryan (RYT) completed her Yoga Teacher Training in June 2011 and is currently teaching at Yama Yoga Studios (www.yamayogastudios.com). Being fairly new to yoga but older in life, she hopes to inspire those around her to dive deep into yoga and themselves no matter where they’re at along their journey.

letters Hey Glam, It was good to read your interview with Sarah Elenany in the January issue. We need more designers that think like her and focus on sustainable fashion.

Fatima Taher

Hi, It was so much fun to step into the mind of Henry Holland. Thanks for an insightful read.

Beth Russell

Way to go Glam,

Bridget ALEXANDRA Photographer and graphic designer Bridget has just recently moved to Qatar from Melbourne for a sand change after studying and working for several years in both industries in Australia. Bridget is trying very hard to cut down on her daily chocolate consumption, but on the upside has gained several new driving tactics from her short time in Doha so far.

Blanca Montenegro Blanca is a no stranger to the hair and makeup scene of Doha having worked extensively with JCCTV, Al Jazeera News, top filmmakers, photographers, talent agencies, fashion magazines and local celebrities. With close to 30 years of international experience, she also specialises in Brazilian Keratin, spray tan, 3DM eyelash extension and eyebrows services. This issue, she recreates the Asian heritage looks for Clash of Cultures.

Find her at montenegroblanka0@gmail.com

As a new resident in Doha, I’m always hunting for online shopping options. Your piece on Pink Fudge was just what I was looking for. Cheers.

Steffany Cardoz

Hail Halle, I’ve always been a huge fan of Halle Berry. I was thrilled to see her on the cover.

Liza Holiday

corrigendum In our January issue, we had mistakenly captioned images in ‘Nature in the Muse’ in reference to designs by Lisa Maree as featured in the story.

Credits for Glowing Transformation, last month: Dress, belt and earrings by Dados Boutique 44953876 extn. 1471, Shoes by Love Moschino 4495 3876 extn. 1581, Stylist: Lynette Cowie, The Style Revivalist, Make-up artist: Debi Mendez, Hair stylists: Marwa Dbaissi and Geraldgine Gallatin of Jean Louis David.

G Talk

T

here has never been a more exciting time than now to report on the growth of fashion in this region. If there is one thing that the world underestimates, it is the force of creativity driving the young people here amidst headlines of political instability and perceived cultural oppression. After the breakthrough of regional couture designers like Zuhair Murad and Elie Saab to the international audience, it is now time for young dynamic pret-a-porter designers to take center stage. Muscat Fashion Week 2013 showed us conceptual designs from Ahmed Talfit and commercial offerings of Das Collections and Razan Alazzouni.

Here in Qatar, our talents are shouting louder than ever to have their voice heard. Contemporary Qatari designers including Salz A Rahman, Waad Ali, Fahad Al Obaidly and Moza Jay are the new wave of designers who will soon become the fashion faces of the country.

This is a prelude to a very exciting year for the local fashion movement with many new initiatives to bring new talents to light.

GLAM is very honoured to be part of this new movement and we cannot wait to tell you more in our coming issues.

In the meantime, we pay homage now to the one trend that will never go out of fashion in this region. We bring the best from the affordable to the luxury and especially the handmade pieces from homegrown talents.

Editor’s Pick Qatar-based demi-couture label Toujouri has done us proud at Muscat Fashion Week 2013. Hailed as one of the most established brand to show at the event, designer Lama El-Moatassem curated a dreamy show with gorgeous pieces that showcase intricate and detailed beading, embroideries and structure. Although the brand has reached international recognition with celebrities including Florence Welsh as big fans, the very humble and bubbly Lama still attends personally to clients who drop by her store at The Pearl Qatar. It has been a long fruitful journey that Lama has persevered on, but it is this determination that she hopes to inspire in other emerging designers from Qatar.

GLAM / NEWS

FEBRUARY 2013

Ode to delicateness This season Elie Saab paid homage to fragile elegance by exploring degrees of transparency over silky skin, in ivory and touches of pink gold with poppy accents and clouds of mauve tulle, and in lace of varying opacity, sometimes enveloped by a fluid cape. The Elie Saab Haute Couture spring summer 2013 show was attended by a host of celebrities including Clotilde Courau, Dita Von Teese, Marie-Jos Croze, Peter Brant II et Harry Brant, Tallulah Harlech, Virginie Ledoyen, Nancy Ajram and Elissa.

Pascal Mouawad and Lebanese singer Maya Diab at the Mouawad opening in Doha

Mouawad opens boutique at Lagoona Mall Luxury jeweller and watchmaker Mouawad recently opened the doors to its newest flagship boutique in Doha’s Lagoona Mall.

Commenting on the opening, Pascal Mouawad, said, “I am very excited to be here today to celebrate the opening of Mouawad’s first ever boutique in Qatar. We have made another important step to get closer to our clientele in the region; our local customers will now be able to admire and purchase our jewellery and watch collections at a time and location to suit their needs.”

The new showroom covers 272 square metres and has been designed according to the Mouawad new generation store concept originated by brothers Fred and Pascal Mouawad. The new outlet in Qatar features an exclusive private VIP room for customers to try on select pieces from the exquisite jewellery and watch collections for which the company is renowned. “This country has played a significant role in the company’s history.

During the last two editions of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition we unveiled two of our most incredible and unique creations: the Mouawad 1001 Nights Diamond Purse and the Snow White Princess Diamond Watch. Next month we will attend the 2013 edition and we will once again surprise all the visitors with another incredible unveil,” added Pascal Mouawad.

Since its inception in 1890, the family business has grown, expanding its presence abroad; Mouawad now owns more than 15 retail outlets across the globe, eight of which are located in the GCC.

Rihanna: fashion collaboration with River Island It’s the Rihanna news you’ve all been waiting for.

Rihanna’s first collection for River Island will be on sale from March 5th 2013 and will be exclusively revealed in February at London Fashion Week!

The most anticipated collaboration of 2013, Rihanna for River Island, will officially make its debut at London Fashion Week on Saturday 16th February before it goes on sale globally in River Island stores and on riverisland.com on Tuesday 5th March. Rihanna fans in the United States and Japan will also be able to get their hands on the collection exclusively in Opening Ceremony stores.

Excited? We are and RiRi is too. Speaking about the London Fashion Week launch, Rihanna said, “Launching at London Fashion Week is a dream come true for me. I have wanted to design my own collection for a long time and to present my collection for River Island alongside all of the other great design talent at LFW is a real privilege. I can’t wait to see the reaction from my fans and the fashion press!”

Jeremy Scott’s funky designs hit the high notes

Courtesy Relaxnews

Not one to shy away from the outlandish, Jeremy Scott always brings his unique perspective of fashion to the table, often referencing pop culture from the past to the present and the spring/summer 2013 collection is no different.

The new collection is as eccentric as ever with influences from mystical feathered creatures to billiard balls. An all-over eagle print carries throughout the collection and is executed on Jeremy’s signature winged high top shoe.

Other highlights include the JS chain cage track top with cut-out body and basketball jerseys reinterpreted with uneven hems, fringing and woven fabrics. His affinity for animals continues: there’s a leopard headpiece and a pair of sneakers adorned with sunglass-wearing poodles.

Forming a tight-knit relationship with ‘adidas Originals’ since 2003, Jeremy continues to design unisex apparel and footwear that is high energy, surreal and most certainly fun, playing with bright prints and unexpected shapes.

Our limited edition range of unique pieces for the stylish baby now goes up to 4 years old, so little ones can look fashionable for longer!

Discover our bright, colourful and quirky range at a Mamas & Papas store near you.

Qatar: Doha: Villaggio Mall

GLAM / SHOP

FEBRUARY 2013

A gift of beauty 4U, the premium retailer for international fragrance and cosmetics brands in Qatar, recently celebrated the holiday with an exciting customer-based promotion. A subsidiary of Salam Studio and Stores, 4U is home to a number of international beauty brands such as YSL, Lanc么me, Est茅e Lauder, Clinique, Kanebo, Guerlain, Dolce & Gabbana, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Gucci, Prada and Nina Ricci among others. 4U is also the exclusive retailer of certain brands such as La Mer, Bobbi Brown, and Bassam Fattouh here in Qatar.

"The holidays and the New Year bring a lot of joy to everyone, and 4U made sure that it has been a part of everyone's celebration," said Jinane El Hage, 4U's regional manager. In keeping with this, the group gave away a host of prizes and surprises aimed at providing the most appealing retail experience to its customers.

Scent from heaven The second fragrance by Jimmy Choo has already created quite a stir. Creative directors Sandra Choi and Simon Holloway had a distinct vision for the perfume. The fragrance opens with pink pepper, tangerine and strawberry, for a fresh, sparkling introduction. According to Choi and Holloway, "Flash is about the cool rush of excitement and the sense of power a woman feels when dressed in a pair of sexy shoes. Its character, which is both heady and effervescent, captures this perfectly." Encased in a luxurious, shimmering, crystal faceted bottle, reminiscent of a paparazzi flash bulb, Flash is for the glamorous urban woman. At once provocative, she challenges convention and is a risk taker, audacious and magnetic.

Perfumer Christine Nagel says, "I created Flash for the self confident, urban Jimmy Choo woman: sexy, rebellious and sophisticated. I imagined the sound of her heels, clicking on the streets of New York, London and Paris."

"As a brand, Jimmy Choo is so resolutely feminine that the perfume had to have a sensual background. I used white woods, a contemporary note that gives a feminine, sophisticated touch but maintains luminosity," says Nagel.

"We are grateful for the continuous patronage we get from all our customers and the different store promotions that we have prepared are our simple ways of thanking them and showing our appreciation. We are also filled with excitement as different companies agreed to partner with us in these endeavours, something that customers could look forward to," added El Hage.

Absinthe hand care range now in Qatar Infused with soothing and nourishing Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana, the Absinthe hand care range will leave your hands feeling clean, refreshed and beautifully moisturised.

Absinthe extract, also known as wormwood or Artemisia absinthium, is a powerful botanical long-believed to have medicinal powers and purifying properties. The products also include fragrance notes of bergamot, neroli and petit grain.

The four piece collection consists of a hand butter, hand gel, hand wash, and hero product of the range, the purifying hand cream. Created to banish dry skin and odours, all products are triclosan-free and suitable for all skin types. Stock up on the Absinthe hand collection and let your palms feel nourished.

2 ●

Ultra chic 1 Ultra Definition Liquid Makeup ● 1 ●

3 ●

This is the season's hottest product. Inspired by the Naked palette, Urban Decay has created the ultimate foundation that everyone will want to get their hands on. Anti-aging and lifting peptides restore and maintain the youthful appearance of skin while significantly increasing its elasticity and firmness. Its progressive coverage means that women can achieve the result they desire: from light to total coverage. Itís also oil-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free.

2 Smoked look ● Urban Decay's response to requests for smokey seductive eyes is a new interpretation of the look which moves away from traditional grey's and black's opting for tones inspired by precious stones. This new twist on eye makeup palettes is similar to what the Naked Palette has done with its neutral tones.

Urban Decay has also added a new lip pencil color to its Super-Saturated Naked range: rose nude. This cult shade is a real stunner!

3 Gloss appeal ● Following the success of its Naked Palettes, Urban Decay has added 3 new natural and elegant shades to its "Lip Junkie" lip gloss range: Naked 2 (beige), Strip (Mauve Nude) and Streak (Rose Nude).

PRETTY PINKS AND REDS FOR a PERFECT MISMATCH In keeping with the season, Bobbi Brown has created special nail colours for Valentine's Day called 'Pink Valentine' and 'Valentine Red.' "The pink and red collection isn't about matching your lips, cheeks and nails. It's about deliberately mismatching. I love pink and red worn together–it's a very modern mix" (and perfect for Valentine's Day), says Bobbi Brown. We couldn't agree more.

NEW RETOUCH POWDERS TO PERK UP THOSE DULL DAYS This season, Bobbi Brown reinvents corrective powders of the past, giving them an updated look and feel for the future. Inspired by the color pigments used for years by professional makeup artists, the new Retouching Powder instantly makes your skin look better – yet it is completely undetectable. Depending on the shade, you can correct colour, add warmth, hide redness or brighten dullness.

Developed with a sheer, light-transmitting base, this innovative lightweight powder instantly brightens and illuminates skin while reducing excess oil. Launching in six colour correcting shades, Retouching Powder helps diminish the appearance of dark spots, dullness, redness and imperfections.

Introducing Hot Water Night Davidoff recently introduced a distinctly masculine perfume called Hot Water Night. Built around the duality of grey amber and oud wood, the new product is a sensual oriental spicy fragrance

Set the tone Setting the mood and creating a tune befit for Valentine's Day, Aigner has contemplated a romantic edition of sassy bold with a timepiecejewelry duo set in a special gift box. The limited edition box features a dainty red-strap watch and a heart-shaped pendant that sits perfectly at the center of a gold necklace. Pure, sincere and gorgeous, who could ask for more?

Harrods, +44 2077301234

Make this Valentine's Day truly magical with these very special treats.

Special gifts for that special day These two coloured check fabric, rubber effect calfskin and top piping on sneakers from Lanvin are the ideal gift for the fashion forward looking for style and comfort.

Show your special someone how special they are this Valentine's Day with this exquisite selection of gifts for men and women from Lanvin.

fashion / 27

Valentino for your Valentine In a feminine elegant case, Valentino unveils Valentina Assoluto Eau de Parfum and Satin Body Lotion for your beloved Valentine.

Surprising and sophisticated, the Valentina Assoluto fragrance composes a delicate bouquet blending the freshness of bergamot, the exuberance of white Alba truffle and the sensual trail blossoms of jasmine and tuberose with a delicate touch of vanilla. Commemorating the Valentino codes of elegance and nude colors, the Valentina coffret is the perfect gift for your Valentine. Valentina Assoluto Eau de Parfum 80ml and Satin Body Lotion 200ml are exclusively available from Debenhams and Va Va Voom.

Vanity, Versace's iconic new watch, comes out in a special version to celebrate February 14th. Vanity St. Valentine Edition, in the most passionate colour, is a symbol of strong sentiments.

Time for the one we love: an allusion to the importance of every moment together, summing up all the magic of our time past and our time to come, and revealing the desire to spend the rest of our lives in one another's company.

The red total look of the dial and strap matches the pink gold of the IP case, in an irresistible, vibrant, sensual harmony of colors (though it is also available in chocolate or with a two-tone metal bracelet). The fretted decoration, studs and Medusa underline its plucky, unmistakably Versace style.

Sophisticated and stylish Set the day on fire with these spectacular pieces from Micheal Kors collection.

The New Partition bag is the new signature bag of Lanvin. The matt grained calfskin is the epitome of luxury. The perfect way to show her how special she is.

3

MARQUISE CLUTCH Python silver

2

FARIDA BOWLER Mid size tote

1

CATACLOU Flat studs embellished calf and straw wedge

a

4

DUFOURA Fuschia Neon Sandals

Joyful

World COMPILED By DEBRINA ALIYAH

Take your merry little feet to the Christian louboutin store in Villaggio and check out these cheerful gems.

5

MINA CLUTCH Gold spikes

6

HOT MOUSE Decorated Wedge

7 ZOULOU Platform heels

fashion / 29

Remember why the little black dress in your wardrobe is the ultimate versatile piece for almost any occasion? The key is in accessorising, of course! We nail down two ways for you to spice up your black number either way your budget permits.

Weston Agate printed silksatin scarf - QR900

Save

Vs

Pink Ombre Oval Clutch with gold chain - QR108

Splurge

Colour the

All items available from Net-A-Porter

Black Compiled By DEBRINA ALIYAH

Oscar de la Renta 24-karat gold-plated Swarovski crystal clip earrings - QR1500

Pair of Geometric Bangles - QR36

Two Tier Spiked Necklace - QR54

Spiked Drop Earrings - QR25

Jimmy Choo Linda watersnake sandals - QR2700

Patent Leather Ankle Boots - QR181

All items available from H&M

Lanvin crystalembellished satin-covered metal frame clutch QR7300

Glam

it up!

COMPILED By DEBRINA ALIYAH

2.

Fashion Rocks Qatar

1.

M Collection

Lagoona Mall @mcollectiondoha Whatsapp +97455127123 BB pin 2810A704

Via Special Pop Up Stores info@fashionrocksqatar.com Facebook Page: Fashion Rocks Qatar

accessories / 31 Ever wondered where the cool cats in Qatar are getting their funky and indie accessories fix from? We hunt down some of the best locally-based accessories designers and where you can get your hands on them.

3.

Dana Jewellry

Via Special Pop Up Stores www.danajewelry.com Facebook Page: Dana Jewelry

4.

Moda Key & Common Thread

Via Common Thread Pop Up Store commonthreadqatar@gmail. com Facebook Page: Common Thread Qatar

It takes up to 40 dumb animals to make a fur coat but only one to wear it

Friend Or

Faux On the catwalks this season there was an abundance of animal skin referencing fur coats, real or faux, stoles, trimmings and accessories.

The spring and pre-fall collections were riddled with it. Alexandra KohutCole says fur is fashionable again and — whether you’re pro or anti — it is A trend that incites fierce debate.

US singer and actress Jennifer Lopez arrives for the film premiere of her movie “Maid in Manhattan” at the Odeon cinema in Leicester square central London 26 February 2003.

A model displays a creation as part of Max Mara Spring-Summer 2013 collection on September 20, 2012 during the Women’s fashion week in Milan.

A model presents a creation by Miu Miu during the Spring/ Summer 2013 ready-to-wear collection show on October 3, 2012 in Paris.

A protestor displays a banner during an anti-fur protest by members of People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) during a display of fashion by Hong Kong designer Emily Cheong at the “International Fashion Designers Show” in Hong Kong, in January 2007.

Proving that animal skin use in fashion is alive and kicking, this season, the collections offered plenty of fur and animal print. MaxMara featured animal print shoes, sunglasses and bags; Miu Miu accessorised exquisitely cut duchess satin-lined denim with huge tie-died fur stoles slung over the shoulder. Prada sent out a massive white fur coat adorned with statement Courreges daisies; Saint Laurent paid tribute to the animal prints of Yves - and Phoebe Philo got everyone talking with her statement acid bright fur slippers, stilettos and humorously flat Birkenstock-style sandals lined with, you guessed it, mink, for Celine. Then there are the brands for which fur is their stock in trade, the statement furs of multinational luxury couture fur brand Dennis Basso, for example. And furrier since 1723, Revillon, who sent out puffa coats lined with Mongolian lamb and pure white fox fur jackets under the artistic direction of Andrew Heather, having freshly joined the brand from Givenchy. The furrier is doing so well that it will open a store on Paris’ Avenue Montaigne soon.

This chasm between anti and pro continues to create a colossal media commotion. Not least this January when Karl Lagerfeld said in a BBC Radio 4 interview, “In a meat-eating world, wearing leather for shoes and clothes and even handbags, the discussion of fur is childish.”

In response, PETA described Lagerfeld as “a fashion dinosaur who is as out of step as his furs are out of style.”

The PETA campaign style can be graphic, personal and no holds barred. It operates a name and shame hall of fame. The actressdesigner Olsen twins have been inducted into this; “since fur adds 20 years and 20 pounds, maybe Mary-Kate and Ashley think their matronly wardrobe will deflect the gossip about bulimia,” It says.

Model and actress Elizabeth Hurley has been similarly honoured; “instead of flaunting the remains of animals, this faded siren might focus on the remains of her career.”

But the lines are often blurred. Some have no problem with leather but are staunchly against fur. Others change allegiance to the cause on a whim. In 1997, supermodels Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford featured in the famous PETA campaign of the tag line, “I’d rather go naked than wear fur”, only for them to do a volte-face by signing up to model Blackglama minks in 2004 and 2007 respectively.

Fashion wars The pro-fur lobby promotes real fur as ecologically sustainable and biodegradable. The International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF) states that “sales are at an all-time high. In 2010, sales were over QR50 billion ($14 billion) worldwide, up 70% from 2000.” The British Fur Trade Association (BFTA), member of IFTF, informs us “in the UK, there has been a significant growth in fur sales over the same period and UK sales this year have increased by over 40% compared to the previous year.”

Citing real over fake fur as the environment friendly option, the BFTA states “real fur is a natural sustainable product, delivering rare benefits in sustaining fragile habitats and communities. This contrasts with most ‘fake’ fur which is manufactured from non-renewable petroleum based products.” The message is that real fur is a durable material quite the opposite of disposable fashion. The association found fake fur was responsible for 50%of toxic nitrous oxide emissions and that “it takes a gallon of oil to produce three fake fur coats.”

Back on the catwalk, Russian haute couturier Ulyenka Sergeenka’s military inspired great coats were offset with crazy fur helmet-style hats. And pre-fall 2013 animal power was even more prevalent with Tracy Reese’s leopard and python, Alberta Feretti’s fox fur shrugs and Giambattista Valli deciding to go the whole hog by showing one animal look head-to-toe.

Although Lynx was sued and bankrupted in the 90s, anti-fur movements are thriving - and fur sales are booming. Fur is still a symbol of unimagined luxury, a statement maker. The fur trade will have us believe that the use of fur in fashion is a natural, bio-degradable alternative to faux; while the anti-fur lobby would turn our backs on the real thing to make us believe that all fur farms are unethical. No longer a necessity for human survival, animal skin is totally divisive.

Is vintage the only viable option?

“Instead of flaunting the remains of animals, this faded siren might focus on the remains of her career.”

No-animal policy While plenty of designers worship at the altar of fur and skins, many swear off animals all together. Stella McCartney, perhaps the most famous fashion animal rights activist and PETA spokesperson, has always committed herself to a noanimal policy in her designs, “I totally disagree with any electrocuted animals on people’s backs,” she said backstage in 2007. OlsenHaus Pure Vegan design group promotes 100%cruelty-free alternative fashion materials and UKbased People Tree, recently created the animal-friendly “Youth Collection” endorsed by actress Emma Watson.

There is no getting away from the fact that the fur debate is an emotive one. Could the rise of the love of fur be down to celebrities seen wearing it? Hugely influential in the style stakes Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Madonna, have all been spotted sporting fur, as have fashion A-list Carine Roitfeld and Anna Wintour. Yet in the celebrity anti-fur camp, prominent anti-skin activist, former French actress Brigitte Bardot runs the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals; supermodel Christy Turlington is active in the PETA anti-fur campaign; Victoria Beckham has advocated against the use of fur in fashion.

And who could forget the shockingly graphic 1984 Lynx poster shot

by David Bailey, of a catwalk model trailing a blood-drenched fur coat with the slogan “It takes up to 40 dumb animals to make a fur coat but only one to wear it.” Lynx co-founder, Lynne Kentish, said “We tried to professionalise the animal rights movement. It was all a bit shabby up to then. No-one was putting professional-looking campaign stuff out.” Linda McCartney consequently shot its “rich bitch; poor bitch” poster, depicting a fur-clad model alongside a dead fox.

accessories / 35

02 Marc Jacobs laptop carrier/satchel bag

03 Marc by Marc Jacobs bunny ears iPhone cover

Gadget

01

Michael by Michael Kors horizontal stripe iPad sleeve

06 Lanvin steel polished copper tone camera/ phone bag

Chic Dress your gadgets up to match your style-savvy persona

04 Marc by Marc Jacobs ombre tone iPhone cover

05

Lanvin crystal embellished iPad case

Designed to win

By Abigail Mathias Images by Bridget Alexandra

For

Doha based jewellery designer, Sarah Reece, creativity is second nature. “I have been making jewellery for the past 16 years and can’t ever imagine not spending time at my workbench, designing jewellery that I envisage other people wearing,” she says.

Her passion is replicated in the handmade jewellery that has quickly gained recognition in Qatar. A collection of funky rings, elegant bracelets and chains all bear the distinct Sarah Reece style. “I decided to create pieces that are less flamboyant. I work predominantly in silver and

prefer it to yellow gold,” says Sarah.

This designer has always been lured towards jewellery making. “After my degree, I realised that my love for jewellery and gem stones by far outweighed my passion for anything else. I decided to undertake a 10-week ‘Introduction to Jewellery’ course at Central St. Martins in London. Having thoroughly enjoyed the course, I then completed my diploma in Jewellery Making at City and Islington University,” she says. This was followed by a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Jewellery Making and

fashion / 37 1 ●

2 ●

4 ●

3 ●

5 ●

1 Glass bead flower bracelet, Round resin ring, Black resin with white dot ring ● 2 Black round resin pendant on oval link chain; Purple resin ring; Sterling Silver squiggle necklace on grey ● freshwater pearls and silk thread ● 3 Sterling Silver and resin bracelet; Orange Agate Earrings available at the Four Seasons (price on request) ● 4 Ametrine and sterling silver necklace; Turquoise boulder necklace with semi-precious drops ● 5 Lucky charm bracelet, Yellow turquoise ring, Flower ring

Allied Crafts at London Guildhall University.

“For my final piece of course work I was awarded a bursary which enabled me to make the ultimate piece of jewellery and explore techniques that I wouldn’t have ordinarily been able to use. Upon completion of my HND I was given an award by the British Jewellers Association,” she adds, proudly.

Designing for the Middle East market fascinates Reece.

She says, “Doha is a really different market unlike the UK. Contemporary jewellery is not something you see a lot of in this region and I’m so happy to have repeat customers.

I’ve been working on pieces for someone who bought a piece from us a year ago when she got married. She now wants me to design stuff for five of her bridesmaids. So I’m working on the symbol of eternity set on to pearls.”

She adds, “I thoroughly enjoy being commissioned to make pieces as I find it interesting to meet people and work with them to produce something that represents their beliefs, loves, and personality.”

“Thanks to a feature in GLAM, inquiries started pouring in and I began to conducts classes, says the designer, adding, “It is nice to see people reach a level where they can do it on their own, almost like myself.”

Business partner Kirsty Salazar manages the marketing aspect of the jewellery line. She has also taken one of Reece’s classes. She says, “Though I love jewellery, I realise it takes a lot of patience to make a piece of jewellery.”

Not one to follow seasonal trends, Sarah Reece Jewellery pieces are one off items. “I believe investing your money in jewellery is more profitable to designer wear that may go out of style,” she says.

“In my quest to find unusual and exclusive gem stones, I often travel to parts of the world where particular stones are

unique to that place.” This search has taken the designer to Thailand, the Seychelles, and the Dominican Republic.

“I take my inspiration from the Art Nouveau movement as well as from my surroundings, specifically flora and fauna,” says Sarah.

Working from her home workshop in Doha, each piece of jewellery that Reece makes comes with a story. “I remember exactly what I’ve gone through to make it.”

Speaking about using ethically sourced stones Sarah says, “If people aren’t aware of where their jewellery and clothing comes from, they should be.

Personally, I would not buy a conflict diamond. The stones I use are harmless.” Keeping the environment in mind is equally important. Salazar says, “It’s not just the jewellery but how we display the pieces that counts too. We try to incorporate used stones and coral, all the stuff that is washed up on shores, in our displays. We try and make it feel a bit more natural by using natural pieces.”

If people aren’t aware of where their jewellery and clothing comes from, they should be.

Personally, I would not buy a conflict diamond.

Sarah Reece Jewellery is available at The Four Seasons Hotel, the Mathaf (Arab Museum of Modern Art) and Dados Saloon.

Images shot at The Four Seasons Hotel where the jewellery is available.

Prices available on request.

ACCESSORIES / 39

that transcends time

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

There

was a time when every piece of jewellery was painstakingly crafted and lovingly guarded to be passed on from one generation to another.

A stark contrast from modern day’s ‘more is more’ concept of accessorising, every piece of jewellery held its own significance and value garnering a sense of appreciation deeper than just meets the eye. While the couture jewellery industry is a little less talked about than its fashion counterpart, the sense of revival is strong with many connoisseurs seeking out the experience of crafting highly customised luxury gems. Couture jeweller Bina Goenka is one such talent, driving the force of creating timeless pieces and redefining the meaning of luxury jewellery.

Tell us about the inspiration behind your brand My inspiration has always stemmed from the magnanimous glory of nature in sync with the abstract renditions of geometry, and the wonder created by the amalgamation of the two. Inspiration is also drawn from my client, who is supremely confident, is a trendsetter. and who exudes the essence of contemporary elegance. She trusts me to design something to match her needs and personality.

How has the couture jewellery industry evolved in recent years? What are some of your new markets?

The couture jewellery industry has always been existent and is

My jewellery

pieces are not subject to any particular country or region but rather have a universal appeal. evolving even more strongly now. Today people understand workmanship, quality and expertise. More and more people want design and bespoke pieces.

Middle Eastern and European markets are our prime targets.

Can you explain the process of designing a bespoke piece for your clients? How do you cultivate your relationship with them to understand what they would like?

My clients trust me implicitly to create a statement piece of jewellery that will do them justice. It is a mixture of their personality and my design aesthetics. The process usually entails my client explaining what they have in mind and then the rest is left to me. There is, of course, a synergy of thoughts that leads to the final creation.

It is a relationship based on trust and experience and slowly experimenting with styles that we feel would suit them. Each piece of jewellery created is a journey, and the client is involved in the process at every stage.

Do you currently have a market in the Middle East? How do you think the Middle Eastern culture and beauty might inspire your pieces?

Yes, I have clients across the whole of the GCC region and I envision a 2013 launch in the Middle East as part of our expansion plans. The basic flavour of my jewellery synergises itself seamlessly with the Middle Eastern market. I have always been an ardent admirer of the Arab woman’s fashion sense - their distinct sense of style and their flamboyance. I am an avid traveller

and have always been exposed to the fine quality and intricate designs by the world’s best jewellers and the Middle East is no different.

How would you advise your clients to choose couture jewellery pieces that will eventually be heirlooms for the next generation?

My customers, no matter where they are geographically located, are very similar. My jewellery pieces are not subject to any particular country or region but rather have a universal appeal. My pieces are created for the trendsetter and they exude the essence of elegance whilst retaining a timeless and classic feel. Therefore my pieces transcend time and geographical locations to become an heirloom in itself.

What is your personal style like?

Strong, uncluttered and flamboyant.

How would you style your jewellery pieces for day-to-day wear basis or for a special occasion outfit?

All my pieces work well with formal as well as smart casuals as the women who I design for wears jewellery easily as their personality is intrinsically flamboyant.

How can interested clients in Qatar contact you?

Welcome parties can either visit my flagship store in Mumbai at the Grand Hyatt Hotel personally or alternatively get in touch through my website www. binagoenka.com

ACCESSORIES / 41 BagSnob:

For the love of BAGS

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

Changing the world one bag at a time. if it sounds too good to be true, then you have not met the two stylistas behind snob media global.

Every fashion girl walks a fine line between functionality and style when it comes to buying bags. While we secretly covet the most practical jumbo carry-all that is lightweight, the temptation of the butter soft calf leather with crazy studs lures us over to the dark side.

And if that is not dilemma enough, these days, we seek out pieces that might be a vintage treasure, investment pieces that will last a lifetime, special leathers that might be worthy of an heirloom versus everything that is fun and trendy. So who should we seek advice from on matters such as this?

Two bag-obsessed style personalities, Tina Craig and Kelly Cook, started BagSnob, a blog focusing on bag editorials, a few years back as a fun platform for bag fans to discuss and share their common love of bags. But what makes them different from many other bloggers is their genuine passion and knowledge for all things bag-related. The approach was friendly and readers could relate to their personalised voice on each bag they wrote about. The blog today has expanded to include other accessories and comes under the Snob Media Global umbrella. For Glam's special accessories issue, Tina and Kelly talk about their obsession.

Our first milestone was being in British Vogue, that was incredible especially because that was in our first year.

How is the chemistry between the two of you? How does the friendship translate into the running of Snob Media Global?

We complement each other perfectly, we have different strengths and weaknesses and those combined seems to make the ideal team. Having your

best friend as a partner has allowed us to do the kind of give and take that is essential to any partnership, we don't argue about the small things and always cover each other's back. The support system has been the only way we have been able to build this company while raising our children.

The blog has become one of the biggest fashion reference points today. What has been some memorable achievements, milestones for you?

Our first milestone was being in British Vogue, that was incredible especially because that was in our first year. We always love it when notable fashion editors (who shall remain nameless) come to us for advice on what bags to buy. The interaction with our fans has been our most valued achievement. Someone told us she has saved money over the years by following our advice of buying investment pieces, so instead of buying five to six throw away bags a year, she buys one or two bags that she will keep forever.

What was it like to collaborate with established names such as DKNY and DL1961? Did you imagine that the blog would have been such a success and gathered so much clout?

That was the most fun we had! It allowed us to use our expertise in a creative process. The best part was working with industry leaders and experts who do all the boring stuff like production tech packs, while we focused on the fun part, design!

What should fashion blogs do to maintain credibility and be taken seriously?

Passion! Passion! Passion! Without it you will not be able to excite your readers. It is something that cannot be faked. Also, fact checking. Like all credible journalists, you have to make sure the information you are giving is true.

Can you share with us how you two have turned the blog

ACCESSORIES / 43

into Snob Media Global, consolidating and monetising it, making it a true breakthrough in the world of fashion blogging?

We were very lucky with our timing, we were one of the first professional fashion blogs on the scene, so we were able to capture a very loyal following.

Our readers are true shoppers because we aim to be informative and helpful with our reviews, it isn't just about what we are wearing ourselves; it is also about the bags and products we feature. Our readers are not only interested in what they should be wearing, but what we are wearing as well which we share with them through social media channels like Twitter and Instagram. This has been a huge factor in why we have been able to successfully monetise, we have the biggest luxury shoppers in the world coming to us to see what to buy next.

It also helps that we are both business-minded people who also love fashion. We have always conducted ourselves professionally and it has opened a lot of doors for us. When people meet us, they expect us to be vapid young girls and they are pleasantly surprised to discover that we know how to run a business.

What is your personal style like?

Kelly — I am sporty and casual. I love to dress up but even so, I am a mini skirt or leather pants kind of girl. I do love a good maxi-dress here and there.

Tina — Eclectic. I love mixing high- low, and am addicted to vintage couture. Roland Mouret and Victoria Beckham dresses are my go to basics as are super skinny DL 1961 x Bag Snob jeans.

What are your all-time favourite Day and Night Bags?

Kelly — Day: Hermes Evelyn; Night: a crocodile clutch Tina — Day: Hermes Kelly bag — the optional shoulder/crossbody straps make it easy to use no matter what my day is like. Night: Alexander McQueen skull clutches in different incarnations

WE WERE

very lucky with our timing, we were one of the first professional fashion blogs on the scene, so we were able to capture a very loyal following.

44 \ ACCESSORIES

Styling

01

What advise would you girls give to somebody who’s starting out a bag collection? Some tips for an investment collection, and some tips for a fashion collection.

This is a very good question and is the reason why we created the five Essentials strategy for collecting bags: Tote, Treasure, Trendy, Travel and Clutch. You must have one of each of these and from there you can expand especially in the tote and the clutch categories.

As far as specific bags for your collection, it all depends on your budget and preference. We prefer brands that offer lifelong classics; Chanel (classic flap or 2.55), Hermes (Birkin or Kelly), Bottega Veneta (Veneta or Cabas), Valextra (Namaste or Babila). These are true investments, in price and longevity. In the long run, it will pay off.

Tips

02

This phenomenon of 'IT' bags what do you two really think about this? Do you think it’s worth it that we rush out every time a new bag comes along?

Definitely, DO NOT rush out and buy every declared 'it' bag. There are many reasons but the most important ones to keep in mind are: it is deemed by opinion not fact; it will most likely be a flash in the pan; and it will be on everyone's arms so why would you spend a lot money on something everyone including counterfeiters will have?

But having said that, if it is a bag that you love and obsess over, get it. Always have your own reasons other than what the masses tell you.

03

On a daily basis, how do you decide which bags to use for the day?

Fashion and function. It obviously needs to go with what I'm wearing (which is dependent on mood) and where I am going. If I am going to Disneyland with my kids and even though my Birkin is the perfect way to dress up my tee shirt and jeans, I will NOT be carrying that to an amusement park. But mostly, it is how I feel.

04

What do you have in your bags at the moment? The truth, what do you fabulous girls fill your bags with?

Kelly- Wallet, iPhone, cosmetic pouch, baby wipes (you can never get over the convenience of them even after diapers), some game/toy/ activity for the kids, keys but NEVER a pen, which can explode and lead to a very broken hearted Bag Snob!

Tina- a very handy bag organiser from Jane Finds.com called the Baginizer. It holds my wallet, iPhone, cosmetic pouch, as well as pens pouches so when it does explode- only the bagnizer is stained! It also makes it very easy for me to change bags from day to day or night.

Glam

Trend Report Compiled By DEBRINA ALIYAH

The SS13 collections are hitting stores and we spot trends to look out for this season.

01

GEOMETRY Squares, lines, checkerboard, and grids. Get linear with these picks from Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani.

46 \ fashion

02

MESH

A classier reincarnation of the fishnet, a little bit of mesh fabric just to add the zest to your outfit as seen on Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen.

04

PENCIL SKIRTS

03

LOOK EAST

There is no better time to be of Eastern heritage in fashion. The onslaught of eastern influences including kimono styles, obi belts and Chinese clogs are all over the runway from Lanvin to Emilio Pucci.

A simple classic that is now perfect for almost all occasions other than just the office, provided that you style it with the right top. Get your hands on these beauties from Erdem and Oscar de la Renta.

HERITAGE / 47

Balenciaga:

The conductor of Haute Couture

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

The one legendary couturier who was widely respected and held in high regard by his peers, Cristobal Balenciaga conceptualised design works that became pivotal milestones in the progression of fashion history. Coco Chanel remarked, “He is the only true couturier among us,” while Christian Dior said, “Haute couture is like an orchestra, whose conductor is Balenciaga.”

Son

to a seamstress mother who worked for Spanish high society, Balenciaga quickly learned the intricacies of fine European fashion through his mother’s clients. Growing up in such an environment cultivated his love for the art which naturally steered him in the direction of haute couture.

After finishing his apprenticeship in San Sebastian, he began working at Grandes Almacenes Au Louvre and quickly rose through the ranks due to his talent. In 1914, he moved to Bordeaux, France to work in a tailoring shop.

A few years later, Balenciaga opened his own house back in San Sebastian and thus began his career in designing for the high society of Spain. Working with the silhouettes of the time which were still very much influenced by Victorian elements, Balenciaga counted numerous diginitaries, including Queen Maria Cristina and Infanta Isabel Alfonsa, as his supporters. He ran a haute couture salon

alongside a dressmaking establishment which flourished until the proclamation of the Second Spanish Republic.

The new state led to the exile of many of his customers while social and political circumstances did not permit the luxury of haute couture.

The study of Balenciaga’s work at this period of time is one that is intertwined with Spain’s political journey.

Changing the strategy of his business, he focused on simple dressmaking and subsequently opened stores in Madrid and Barcelona. However, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War halted his progress and Balenciaga left for Paris where he resumed couture work. On August 5, 1936, he presented his first haute couture collection at 10 Avenue George V in Paris to wide acclaim. This marked the beginning of Balenciaga’s fame as possibly one of the best couturiers who have ever lived. At this juncture of

fashion / 49

All images courtesy of Museo Balenciaga, Spain

his career Balenciaga had worked towards deep historical influence and understanding of his culture with collections that referenced 17th-century fashion of the Second French Empire as well as historical Spanish fashion. He focused on spectacular evening wear adorned with magnificent embroidery and passementerie which was a staple of high society in Spain. However, as the years progressed, Balenciaga became increasingly experimental and began working on new silhouettes that were rather forward thinking. alenciaga’s most important contribution to fashion silhouettes included the introduction of the barrel line and the sack dress, which was an antithesis to the New Look popularised by Christian Dior at that period of time. This remains one of the most pivotal creations in fashion history as it was Balenciaga who gave rise to this alternative silhouette that is now much adopted by contemporary avant garde designers. While the New Look celebrated femininity that very much referred to a standard hourglass figure, the ‘shapeless’ form created

by Balenciaga was a design that flattered all body types.

B

The ‘shapeless’ form instead brought the focus back into symmetrical tailoring and fabric manipulation.

Balenciaga continued his work in creating abstract and clean forms and in 1958, textile house Abraham created a high-twist double yarn plain weave fabric with a crisp texture called Gazar to cater to the designer’s highly sculptural work. He went on to present more interesting new works including short jackets and increasingly more abstract pieces throughout the rest of his career. Balenciaga presented his last collection in spring 1968 and passed away peacefully in 1972 right after working on a specially commissioned wedding dress for the future Duchess of Cadiz.

The House of Balenciaga Today In 1986, Jacques Bogart acquired the rights to Balenciaga and opened a new ready-to-wear line with the first collection designed by Michael Goma. In 1992, Josephus Thimister began work at the house shaping what the brand would be today. Five years later, Nicolas Ghesquiere took over the helm and the brand catapulted into the limelight again retaining a signature look that is edgy and sophisticated.

Balenciaga is now owned by the Gucci Group as part of PPR and Alexander Wang has just been named the new creative director for the brand.

Dita Von

Teese: A thing of beauty

fashionista / 51

That

translucent porcelain skin with just the right shade of red on the lips is the one and only image of Dita Von Teese that will ever imprint on your mind. The glamorous multi-talented beauty carefully considers her look and unlike most celebrities who change their styles throughout their career, she sticks to the makeup that works best. Her perfect appearance has won her many beauty and fashion fans through the years, having played the spokesperson role for major brands including the prolific M.A.C Viva Glam campaign that focused on helping people living with HIV & AIDS as well as for PETA in speaking for ethical treatment of animals. She has also appeared numerous times on best-dressed lists and is frequently spotted on the front row of fashion shows including Christian Dior and Marc Jacobs. And if she is not on the front row, then she lends her star appeal to the catwalk as a model. Dita strutted the runways of major fashion weeks wearing the designs of Giambattista Valli, Moschino Cheap & Chic, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Vivienne Westwood.

Despite all the glitz and glamour, Dita admits that she

still dresses herself and does her own makeup instead of using a fashion and beauty team. It is no wonder that she has gone on to launch her own vintage-inspired fashion line and a cosmetic collaboration with German brand Art Deco. Her fashion collection, sold exclusively via vintage retailer Decades, is a selection of gorgeous and elegant understated pieces that is modest yet sexy at the same time. And if you are looking to recreate her perfect makeup routine, ‘Classics’, her makeup collaboration with Art Deco will have all the right tools to pull off the look.

The poster girl for body confidence, says that the secret behind her confidence, lies in loving yourself for who you are and making the best of what you’ve got. The Queen of Burlesque, known for her risque vintage style, and the spectacular shows she puts on without so much as flinching, lets us in on the secret ingredients required to hone stellar confidence.

On Confidence “I’ve never had any fear of performing or being on stage. I always have a great time when I bring my own

fashionista / 53

personality to the show. Even letting people see my vulnerability helps with making the performance more real. Trying to be someone else comes across as being forcefully sexy. I think confidence is sexy because you can tell when someone sticks up for themselves, and that’s attractive. It’s really important to accept yourself for the way you are. You know, a friend of mine once told me that no matter how bad you’re feeling, don’t let anyone see it.

This works really well, especially when I’ve come off stage and haven’t had such a good show. I’ve learned to accept compliments gracefully even if things haven’t gone the way I wanted them to. It’s important to do that because no-one really wants to hear you complain and crib. You’ll come across as someone who needs others to make you feel good about yourself. Not good. It’s fresh when you see someone graciously accepting feedback and growing from it.

On Self-Doubt “It’s important to remember that we all have moments of self-doubt. I feel that my body on stage is different from my body at home or in my bedroom. It’s a different experience being naked in front of someone versus standing up on stage in front of a group of people.

Thankfully, I don’t really need to prepare right before I go on stage, and that’s mostly because everything about the show is very controlled-from the costume to the lighting and sound set-up...even my body. It’s all very calculated, so I don’t really have feelings of self-doubt about my body on stage. I wouldn’t say that I’m always over confident about my body but I never really have to talk myself into it.

If ever I have a day when I feel less than sexy, I do everything to undo that feeling-from putting on my favourite dress to taking the extra time and care to fix my hair. What always helps is choosing clothes and lighting that make you feel great about yourself and the way you look.

On Lovin’ What You Got “I try to be grateful for everything I have. Sometimes I wish I had a little bit more of this... or a little less of that, but then I think about all the positives that I have and am very thankful for them.

It’s important to take care of what you’ve got. For example, I get a lot of compliments on my skin. So I always

use sunscreen, I’m careful not to get too much sun, and I visit a dermatologist regularly because my skin is very sensitive. I’ve also been blessed with a good body (same as my mother), so to maintain it, I start my day with a workout. I think more than what it does physically, I feel better about myself mentally.

Of course there are parts of my body I’m not particularly happy with, but I never point them out, especially not to other women. It can start a very negative cycle. My biggest issue right now is that I’m getting thinner. I wish I were a little curvier.

I exercise a lot and eat well, mostly because I want to feel strong.

Even for walking in high heels, my workouts help! I think high heels are definitely a key to confidence.

They are the best thing you can do for your shape. They change the way you carry yourself, your posture, and eventually, the way you look. The one make-up trick that always leaves me feeling more confident is a swipe of red lipstick.

I feel dressed up and ready-to-go when I don’t have time for the rest of it. Basically, find what suits you and what you like, and stick to it.

“It’s important to remember that we all have moments of self-doubt.

I feel that my body on stage is different from my body at home or in my bedroom.

On the Importance of Lingerie “I have all my costumes custommade. They’re made to come off in layers that are flattering. I don’t feel comfortable in itty-bitty lingerie. I like stockings and garters because of the way they look on my thighs.

It’s sexy. So pick what you think will flatter you and make you feel sexier.

I think every woman should have at least one really nice set of lingerie. Try building a lingerie wardrobe. Black lace is always sexy and chic. Remember, when you go lingerie shopping, buy the bikini bottom matching the bra. The complete look is guaranteed to make you feel sexier and thus, more confident! credits Meher Bajwa/ The Interview People

Designing

for

art

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

Qatar’s very own designer Salz A Rahman presents his latest collection

What

we love most about emerging designers from this part of the world is the limitless imagination and ideas that go beyond the norm of contemporary everyday wear.

Perhaps it is the need to break away from the uniform traditional attire, or perhaps it is the environment that conjures fantasy in the form of escapism. Whatever it is, we are embracing them with wide open arms and our current favourite is Qatari designer, Salz A Rahman.

GLAM FOCUS / 55

The New Collection "My new collection explores the happier side as compared to the previous collection which was very dark. I wanted to bring excitement to the classic suit and give it a sportier edge.

The designs brings life to the classic suit so that younger clients can look smart without coming across as too serious or boring."

The Design Journey "I started designing because I wanted to inspire my mother and sister to think out of the box and to explore their creative side.

I wanted to show them that everything is possible. My humble start and the positive feedback from others have pushed them now to start designing for Salzakih Couture.

I appointed my mother as the Managing Director and got my sister involved in the company too. I literally wanted to bring us together in something we love to do. My designs are always going to be a bit edgy and would only appeal maybe to a more daring customer. I always say that I design for art rather than business but it has to be wearable."

GLAM FOCUS / 57

Shop Now "I am still on the hunt for the best place that I might partner with to showcase my designs. Designing and marketing menswear is still a very tricky business in this city, but I am accepting custom orders. You can get me at info@salzakih.com and we can sit them down and discuss how I can best tailor the design to your taste. I understand each client is an individual and wants to feel special."

Puma goes sustainable

Challenge your

imagination

By SINDHU NAIR

esign has taken us by storm. We wear designer shoes, live in designed spaces and in cities that are designed for optimum comfort. In an era where everything gets design-conscious, sustainable design gets popular too. Puma, with its creative streak, has come up with a brilliant concept that brings together community, triggers ingenuity, while driving home the sustainable message in fashion and design as well. In its latest initiative Puma has challenged some select designers by giving them the opportunity to work with Lumi: the ink that has brought the traditional photographic process into the real world, not the dark room.

fashion / 59 What is Lumi?

The Lumitype is simple and effective, take a picture and turn it into a black and white negative by photocopying the image and printing it on a transparent film, which creates a high density negative. Take the fabric you want to print on, working best on natural fibres like cotton or silk and apply a thin layer of the dye onto the material, take your negative and pin it right on top. Move this outside and watch the sun develop your print, as the colour appears in about 10 minutes and becomes permanent. Simple.

To support and share the concept of Puma Creative Factory 3: Love Thy Planet - Puma has selected an inspiring group of ambassadors from across the globe to take part in the project, by using their experiences, passions and skill to inspire others .

By partnering with key environmental artists and activists, Puma Middle East brought sustainability to life with an environmental and creative army.

Glam finds out the fashion quotient of these designers.

01

Say Cheese Nadine Al Koudsi

a half Iraqi/half Syrian talented female photographer.

Check out her photography on www.shootnadine.com.

“The process of designing your own tee with your own message made the project feel personal - but with an ultimate goal of raising awareness of important issues.”

Tell us more about the challenge?

Puma Creative Factory 3: Love thy Planet is an initiative developed and created by Puma to help raise awareness of sustainability through design. Puma partnered with WildLife Works in Africa who provided 100% organic cotton tees for the project and Lumi - who developed the ink we used, which develops in natural sunlight. Puma selected a group of advocates from the region, including myself to get involved in the project, which involved designing our own tee and tote bags.

What insights do you bring into it?

As a full time photographer making a living in the arts, I have a great appreciation for exploring creative ways to express ideas. Going back to thinking about printing negatives, and the impact of high contrast images on printing, was a great

way of going back to basics considering the digital world we live in today. Being involved in this project has allowed me to work side-by-side with my peers to express ourselves in our own way. A designer, an illustrator and a photographer all have very different ways of viewing negatives and how to use different shapes and patterns to produce an image.

Define creativity in the context of this project. Describe projects that out did your expectations.

We each got the opportunity to express what “Love thy planet” means to us by taking images or making designs that were printed as negatives. After we decided on our designs, we were able to use the Lumitype process to print our images onto tees and totes. It was great to watch the colours change and to see your image imprinted on the materials, by reacting to natural sunlight.

02

A burgeoning fashion environment Deborah Henning Deborah is a fashion designer and founder of Shoreditch Muse, which bring niche labels to the Middle East. Deborah has designed for her own label as well as for international brands.

Check her out on www.shoreditchmuse.com

“The creative industry is starting to recognise and support up-and-coming talent and we are part of it.”

How are you contributing to the challenge?

I am a fashion and accessory designer in the region and as the project involved creating bespoke designs on sustainable tees and totes with the freedom to develop and give your own interpretation of sustainability. Not only is sustainability an issue that I believe should be at the top of everyone’s agenda for 2013, but by taking part in this project, I had the opportunity to join the creative movers and shakers of the region in voicing the importance of sustainability. With Puma’s help, we succeeded in sending an important message to the region.

Tell us about Shoreditch Muse? How popular is the online store?

Shoreditch Muse is a platform for new designers in the Middle East. I select up-and-coming emerging labels from around the globe and sell them exclusively in Dubai. At

the moment we sell at events and on February 13, we are collaborating with Make Business Hub in Dubai to be one of their first designer collectives at their Make store. We are progressing at a good pace, building awareness about our labels and showcasing around Dubai. So far the response has been fantastic!

Tell us about the fashion scene in the region?

We are at the beginning of something special happening in the region, and there are new opportunities for designers coming up thick and fast. There’s an opportunity in the region for a great fashion scene, which isn’t being fully utilised at the moment, but change is coming.

How would you describe your label, your collection?

For the new collection and re-branding of my label, the collections will be much more conceptual - creating separates for day to evening. I am going to re-launch with a capsule collection which will be the epitome of the ultimate wardrobe. The new collection is inspired by German/ American architect, Mies Van der Rohe. He strived to recreate a classic look for his era using minimal, simplistic and clever design with modern materials and re-defined modernity in design. I have translated his concepts and am very excited about the upcoming re-launch in Feb 2013.

Women will be able to get a beautiful balance of modern and feminine pieces.

03

Creativity through “redesigning” Griet Van den Auwelant Designer and co-founder of Quenb, a women’s fashion label made in the UAE, for the UAE market, minimising its ecological footprint. Check out her fashion line at www.quenb.com

“I believe it’s quite pretentious to say that everything you create is a new design. it is more of a challenge to take an old design, and find the best qualities of that product, adjust it to suit age, environment, society, place, technology and materials.”

We love your brand identity and the concept. How was the idea born?

My whole life I’ve been creative and looked for ways to express myself. I’m a collector of second hand clothing, but I knew I had to redesign these pieces to suit today’s busy and practical lifestyle. When I followed my husband to the UAE, I knew Dubai was the right place and time.

I couldn’t find what I was looking for in the shops here, so I started redesigning and took up sewing again and the collection grew from there. I call it redesigning because so much has already been done in history. I design for a range of nationalities and different shapes of women, so I knew I couldn’t work with standard sizes. Only when a piece fits you, you’ll love it and it’ll survive over time.

How well has the concept worked?

The concept is working perfectly! The collection is continuously growing and changing, and that’s how I want it. I sell my collection directly, so an individual hosts a party, invites her friends and I present the collection. Women are free to order anything, in their size and in the fabric they prefer.

Aside from this I host monthly Quenb parties at my place. A selection of the collection has been on sale in a few boutiques and I hope to continue stocking my collection in different locations. If all goes well, there might even be a “Little b” collection. I have already created a few items for boys and girls and they were very popular.

Tell us about Puma Creative Factory and your inputs in it?

It was a creative challenge to picture this critical theme and include it in my designs. The concept of the project was unusual and it grabbed people’s attention - and from a design viewpoint it was the first time I had experienced working with the innovative Lumi Ink. Tell us about your style quotient? What’s your fashion statement?

I try to wear colour every day, it adds to life! So: colour, colour, colour! My philosophy is that colour helps you look and feel better. My style is smart-casual, retro, comfortable, feminine and timeless all in one. I love a piece that can be worn for many occasions, with a few small changes in accessories, or through mixing and matching with other pieces.

We draw some of the most distinctive beauty concepts of different cultures, the Japanese geisha and the Indian odissi and set them against the raw stonewashed surroundings of the Arabian souq. To finish it off, the models don gorgeous select pieces of Vera Wang’s pre-fall 2013 collection in an ode to the diversity and collision of influences in today’s fashion world.

Clash Fashion Editor: Debrina Aliyah Visual Director & Photographer: Bridget Alexandra Lighting: Kevin Mclvor Make Up: Debi Mendez Hair: Blanca Montenegro Models: Maila Torres & Jean Marie van Loggerenberg Venue: Al Najada Boutique Hotel of the Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels Group All pieces from Vera Wang’s 2013 Pre-Fall collection, available exclusively in Vera Wang Qatar, The Pearl.

of Cultures

FASHION / 63

Embellished v-neck mesh evening dress

sequin detail drape evening dress

tutu-inspired dress with one shoulder detail

one shoulder bi-layer evening dress

straight cut lace dress

geisha-inspired make up

STYLE POST / 71

Live Life

King-size

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

There is a certain air of worldliness about Bond street jeweller Jeremy Morris. The 40-something year old son of David Morris exudes a combination of bad boy charm and gentlemanly vivre de jour approach to life and business.

Music

I am listening to Alt-J, XX band, 90s jungle music, reggae based music inspired by my 20-year-old son. It is very eclectic and not quite reflective of my age.

Destination

I would love to go back to the Seychelles Island. It is idyllic with white sand and giant tortoises - a real rarity these days. Also looking forward to visiting South America, definitely. I visit the Middle East and Asia a lot for work and have not had the chance to visit South America, so it is definitely on my list.

Home

I have been spending a lot of time working on my new home. It is an early Victorian villa. I had it stripped out to refurnish and redesign the interiors. Finally after two years, the work is done!

There is a lot of mid-century furniture. I

went to a lot of Italian and French auctions to get contemporary arts and paintings.

Style

I love wearing Lanvin, it is quirky yet classic.

I have always loved fashion but after a certain age I have to tone it down. I was definitely a childhood punk. Grew up in late 70s with new romanticism and all that jazz. I’m really not your average 50-year-old jeweller.

People

I love Alber Ebaz - he is creative and has done a brilliant job for Lanvin. Also love all the Japanese designers including Comme De Garcons. Basically I love people who stick to their guns and do not get dragged off course for commercial reasons.

Qatar

I love the Museum of Islamic Arts which I have visited several times. The architecture is amazing and inspiring.

Heralding a regional

fashion crusade

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

GLAM BRINGS FRONT ROW REPORTS FROM THE MUSCAT FASHION WEEK 2013 WHICH SAW 12 DESIGNERS PRESENT SPRING SUMMER 2013 COLLECTIONS. THE EVENT IS PART OF THE ANNUAL MUSCAT FESTIVAL AND IS FOCUSED ON BECOMING A NEW PLATFORM TO CULTIVATE THE BURGEONING FASHION INDUSTRY IN THE REGION.

RUNWAY REPORT / 73 Using the gorgeous natural landscape as part of the event.

I can see how Muscat will eventually be the regional fashion hub that it is vying for. Some of the best showings at the recent Muscat Fashion Week 2013 came from its homegrown designers who demonstrated a certain level of capacity that gave a hint of something bigger, perhaps a strike at international markets. The exceptional passion and support of the Muscat Municipality, the organisers of the fashion week, also proves the state’s intent in creating a platform for fashion beyond just staging a glamourous affair.

This is the third year the event has been running and 2013 shines the spotlight on 12 region-based designers from the UAE, Tunisia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco and of course, Oman. The selection of designers was varied and included labels of different influences and appealing to different segments of the market. While the commercial sectors were well-represented by familiar names like DAS Collection and Mauzen, Tunisian designer Ahmed Talfit was the vanguard of an exciting new design movement from the region. The eclectic fashion perspective that was sent down the runway is such a promising indication of the creative campaign that is bubbling away in the region.

But what really struck a chord with me after reviewing all the collections was the ability of these designers to preserve the Arabian elements of their heritage and merge with it international silhouettes. There is a tendency for regional designers to make a distinction between designing traditionally or exclusively in the contemporary genre.

Plainly speaking, the question always revolves around, “Are you an abaya designer or not?” But what the collections at the event had proved was that it is possible to now present the Arab design in a modern light that would appeal to a wider audience. Omani stalwarts Afaf and Aida Al Farsi of the label Dibaj married the colourful and vivid fabrics of their heritage with soft feminine cuts of the Victorian era.

Having said that, not all collections were deliberated for a global audience. The sartorial framework of the Arab world is such that the traditional influence will always remain consistent and unique to the region.

Set against the gorgeous landscape of Al-Riyam Park, with the catwalk sandwiched between rock formations and a lake, Muscat Fashion Week 2013 is a new glimmering light for designers bridging the future of fashion with their rich complex heritage.

The set-up at Al Riyam Park

Rehearsals underway

Exhibition space for designers to meet buyers

MAC’s senior artist Vimi Joshi at work backstage

Renowned fashion journalist Hillary Alexander and fashion blogger Tala Samman at the event

01

The Qatar representation:

TOUJOURI

The talented Lama El-Moatassem of Toujouri spearheaded the team to represent Qatar at the event presenting a select edit of the brand’s Spring Summer 2013 collections which had already been snapped up by trade buyers in Paris. The collection, named Reflections, had strong accents of shades of green with intricate beading details on soft feminine cuts. At the exhibition post-show, Lama says her metallic belts went off the shelves like hot cakes.

02

Fun and flirty

RAZAN ALAZZOUNI

This Saudi-based designer has already garnered fans among celebrities including Emma Roberts, Kelly Osbourne and Ashley Tinsdale.

The collection had a fun and flirty attitude perusing floral appliques and flouncy cuts. Beyond the young vibes underlies strong fabric manipulation techniques from the designer who had obviously benefited much from her excellent artistic formal training in fine arts.

03 Strong Omani roots

DIBAJ

Sisters Afaf and Aida Al Farsi form the design powerhouse of Oman, Dibaj. The luxurious collection of capes, flowing dresses and drape cuts are consistent in their all-yearlong fashion calendar. “We are working around the clock, not only two seasons a year but also for wedding seasons and Eid!” says Afaf.

There were stunning pieces in velvet which is a staple for Omani women but reinterpreted in modern jumpsuits and dresses. Dibaj Couture also pays homage to some serious jewellery pieces that finds its roots in Omani culture.

04 Beyond Abayas

MAUZAN

The much established Mauzan spearheaded by Sheikha Rafia Helal Bin Drai and her daughter, Mauzan who she named the brand after, needs no introduction. Shortly after showing at Paris, Mauzan made a beeline to her workshop to create an entire new collection for Muscat. “I gave it much thought and decided I should come up with new pieces for this show. This is the first time I have shown an all new fabric that I created with the ateliers in europe. We are definitely moving beyond abayas now. We now reach out to women from all around the world who would look at the abaya as a fashion item rather than as a cultural garment,” Sheikha Rafia says.

05

Futuristic and funky

AHMED TALFIT

Without a doubt, Ahmed Talfit’s collection was the most anticipated show at the event by fashion editors. The Tunisian designer had already made a mark within industry circles as the ‘avant-garde’ boy wonder. He presented a deeply mysterious and meaningful collection focusing on structural forms and bodycon silhouettes. I was particularly taken by the use of athletic kneeguards as shoulder pads. And though the futuristic theme may not be the most commercially viable in this region, the collection was very wearable and would definitely see success among the more style-inclined crowd.

06

Local influence goes global

ENDEMAGE

A very young Omani label designed by two equally young sisters shows much promise presenting a collection of sweeping floor-length dresses with an edgy touch. Laser cut capes, structured shoulders, and mermaid tail gowns gives the label an international appeal. Even with the traditional influences, the designs would fit perfectly into a global portfolio.

07

Dressed to kill

C’EST MOI

Dubai-based C’est Moi is curated by the very spirited and zesty Rushme Kumari and is a mainstay in UAE’s fashion scene. The brand presented a select edit of pieces at the event which truly represented the brand’s commitment to producing classic foolproof cocktail dresses.

08 A fashion pot pourri

ZHOR RAIS

Zhor Rais premiered her first collection in a private show in Muscat 25 years ago and this year she returned with a repertoire that fully encompasses the Moroccan woman. A couture brand that focuses on strong tailoring and technique work to highlight the diversity of Moroccan fashion, Zhor is now supported by her daughter Chadia Rais. “This repertoire truly brings forward all the staples and designs that are relevant to every woman in Morocco, from the special Algerian ‘serlual’ (drop crotch pants) to Indian jodpurs and salwars, this is the representation of the melting pot that we are,” Chadia says.

09 Ice Queen

TATYANA ACEEVA

The Jordan-based designer worked on her SS13 collection with the Ice Queen in mind. Not the evil part, just the sartorial inspiration. “It is very feminine and romantic. I use a lot of georgette fabrics with Swarovski crystals. My work has always been about bringing out the femininity in women. And also to show that even Arab designers can be contemporary,� Tatyana says. Her intricate work leans on the side of couture.

10

Open for change

NAWAL AL HOOTI

The traditional Omani embroidery on a super short denim mini skirt was shocking but it was a move forward for the designer in embracing a more modern outlook.

Nawal has just opened her new store within Opera Galleria, the new luxury mall in Muscat, and is looking to diversify her designs.

The runway collection was a mix of sheer resort-inspired tops with minis and traditional kaftans.

Growing in design

DAS COLLECTION

The Beljafla sisters have grown leaps and bounds in their design process. The SS13 collection showed much thought and concept and was presented in a very defining manner of the brand’s identity. Unique fabric choices including metallic printed jerseys on drape cut silhouettes and also a kimono-inspired jumpsuit in embroidered silk are some of the winning elements of the collection.

Fashion is tradtional

KANZI

A collaboration between Sheikha Amal Al Maktoum and Raghda Taryam, Kanzi presented a collection of abayas, kaftans, and evening wear. The label also takes orders for couture wedding dresses and has shown at various fashion weeks in the trade shows and bride shows.

COLOUR INFUSED

By Abigail Mathias

The

enterprising Qatari designer, Waad Ali showcased her latest collection at Doha’s Grand Hyatt hotel recently. The spring summer 2013 abaya collection was the third fashion show of its kind by the young Qatari designer. Not only was GLAM a prominent partner in the event, we were also conducting an exciting competition to select the fashionista with the best accessories that night. Some of the other partners were Alnazeeh, Al Jazeera perfumes, Mai collection, Pace e luce salon, Grand Hyatt hotel, Zoom, Occasions, Impression boutique, Ghada events, Impressions, Lucia lounge and Qanect communications.

As the models elegantly graced the runway, it was difficult to resist the thought that we were not in some exotic locale in Milan or Paris. “I am delighted to offer my designs to women not only in Qatar but also the region,” said a beaming Ali. It is easy to see why the designer is fast becoming an icon for women in Qatar. From modest beginnings barely a year ago, her label has gained much recognition not only in the country but the region at large. Her fresh designs are a testament to the fact that Qatar is quickly making its mark on the fashion highway.

Elaborating on orchestrating the fashion event she said, “It takes about two to three months to put something this big together.” She adds, “This collection had a mix of tulle, organza and a number of other elements that make it truly feminine and very youthful. The incorporation of colour is not the usual trend with abayas and that is something that stands out with these designs.”

fashion / 81 Designer Waad Ali is all smiles at the end of her recently concluded Doha fashion show.

Models show off the new

designs by Waad Ali

at a fashion show held in Doha on January 16, 2013.

Waad Designs plays with textures and fabrics to give the abaya a new perspective.

The new interpretation of the abaya makes it versatile not only as a cultural garment but also as an outer wear.

Street Style

Fashion conscious

We bring you a few totally unique styles that stood out at the recent Waad fashion show.

Winning moments

Designer waad ali (centre) poses with the winner mai al mannai (right) and a member of our glam team

Designer Carla Mallari with Gustauo Pulgar and Will Cha

Emna Hedi from Darz Designs

Patricia Luca, Sales Manager at the InterContinental HOTEL

MARKETING EXECUTIVES ADRIANA CACHI AND ANDREA CHARAOLIA

Designer Waad Ali (centre) with her sister, Abeer (left) and mother after the show.

Images by Bridget Alexandra

The clutch that stole the show for its originality and funkiness is owned by Mai Al Mannai.

fashion / 85

1 ●

4 ●

2 ●

Manolo Blahnik heels Massimo Dutti jacket, Kookai singlet and Levi jeans

● 3

5 ●

Stylishly sporty “I look forward to seeing more women in Doha participating in sport in the coming years, and of course the emergence of athletic-inspired street fashion that comes with it!”

Aussie-born Brooke Reid has made Doha her home for the past five years. An avid sports enthusiast, she has worked on the AFC Asian Cup 2011 in Qatar in the rehabilitation and physiotherapy department. Her passion for football has taken her around the world to watch the Australian football team, the

Socceroos, in action.

Brooke has also worked at the Australian Institute of Sport and for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games. Besides an interest in swimming, rugby, Ironman triathlon, cycling and basketball, Brooke makes it a point to always look glamourous.

1 Pink snakeskin clutch ●

I’m not really one for buying ‘this season’s bag’ but I love picking up unique items that evoke memories of a holiday. This clutch is from my last trip to Australia on a day out shopping with my Mum and sister.

2 ●

Samantha Wills jewellery

3 ●

OPI, Dior and Chanel nail polish

4 ●

Selina Farooqui dresses

5 ●

Sports wear and book (HeyYa)

I grew up playing basketball with Samantha and I’m a huge fan of her work. Her statement pieces make the perfect additions to outfits whether formal or casual as well as great gifts. I love the fact that she’s gone from selling at a market in Sydney to showcasing her work in Vogue, the New York Times and even the second Sex and the City film!

Since school days when I’d procrastinate around doing homework, until today, I change my polish at least twice a week. Sometimes it’s to match outfits; on other occasions I’ll use a bright colour to brighten a dusty Doha day.

I love the idea of supporting up-and-coming designers so when I saw Selina’s line at the VCUQ fashion show, I thought that her clothes were perfect for me. Her ability to flatter all body types really endears her to us regular women. The patterned dress was inspired by her W Doha Showcase and the jalabiya was an indulgent purchase I made from Selina’s 2012 Ramadan collection.

Coming from a sports background I often find myself throwing on a team jersey or polo when out doing the groceries or heading to the gym. I like that they have sleeves, which means they’re great for everyday life here in Qatar. I look forward to seeing more women in Doha participating in sport in the coming years, and of course the emergence of athletic-inspired street fashion that comes with it!

Location courtesy Wahm Doha IMAGES BY OLA DIAB

By Abigail Mathias

Your

Feminine Factor

By Lynette Cowie

GLAM’S Style Revivalist shares her style tips and womanly sensibilities, to refocus our feminine energies in and beyond the month of love.

What

does it take to dress like a lady? The answer may well evoke a passionate response, fueled by a deep-seated emotion. This reaction may stem from our perception of bygone eras, or perhaps from a spirited sense of rebelliousness. In short, it’s a fashion question without a onesize-fits-all answer!

Memories of the elegant 1950s provide inspiration for many of us, including the designers’ of the spring/summer ‘13 collections. This era epitomised true feminine charisma, with radiant style icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

These perfectly poised ladies were always immaculately dressed either in the modest shift dress, a flared A-line skirt, cinched-in waist, or the quintessential white shirt dress. The look elegantly complemented with a handbag draped over a gloved arm.

There is no question that history generously provides us with tried and tested silhouettes on which to model our 21st century designs. Although, I hasten to add, these refined, self-contained and old-world elegances are mostly only distant references to today’s liberal and diverse style choices.

Conversely, and admittedly still within the elite, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Michelle Obama display the same feminine and demure sentiment today. We seem quick to appreciate their slightly more wearable kind of ladylike flair, showing that poised femininity is still alive and well.

It’s Alexa Chung, voted at the 2012 British Fashion Awards as the nation’s favourite ‘style icon’, who possesses a personal trend that

STYLE SNAPSHOT / 87

Poignant Poise Clothing and bag by Adolfo Dominguez Shoes by Dune Accessories by La Lune Photographer: Rob Altamirano Stylist: Lynette Cowie, The Style Revivalist Model: Olga Pallar of Trinity Talents Qatar Make-up artist: Debi Mendez Hair stylists: Blanka Bumbakovic Location: Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel, Doha

88 \ STYLE SNAPSHOT truly encapsulates femininity with street-style practicality. Her distinctive boy-meets-girl style (like teaming bloke loafers with pretty Peter Pan collars) combines feminine charm with our love for androgyny. This is just one of the winning recipes to dressing like a lady of the 21st century.

Today’s fashion is about contrast and juxtaposition, and by combining two otherwise distinct styles, we’re finding endless options to modern ladylike dressing. This is easily achieved with a few wardrobe adjustments, based on the know-how of focusing on dress, colours and accessories.

a faux leather biker jacket can add the strong vibe to off-set a demure look.

1 Feminine with an edge ●

Accessories: Studs, spikes, chains and exposed zippers are great visual details to rock any feminine ensemble. Just keep the girlie balance with this strong approach.

Combining two different fashion aesthetics, in this case feminine and edgy, affords the freedom of rule breaking and ingenious invention.

Today’s fashion is about contrast and juxtaposition, and by combining two distinct styles, there are endless options to lady-like dressing.

Texture: The 50s shift dress is big news this spring and by selecting this elegant silhouette in mock suede, it adds an edgy vibe to counterbalance a demure classic.

Coupling: Try these for size -team a subtle floral print skirt with an androgynous biker jacket. Wear a whimsical, sheer chiffon top with bad-girl faux leather leggings. Try a pair of risky, above-the-knee boots with a dainty dress.

Colours: Colours play a vital role in bringing an element of surprise to an otherwise prim look.

Spring’s palette of neon shades adds a dazzling effect to ladylike dressing. As vogue claims, “This is high-voltage style”.

Shoes: Ballet flats are inherently dainty, but select a pair with a silver toe-capped finish, for instance, and they become decidedly edgy.

Accessorise: Wear an outfit that is exclusively feminine or edgy, and then add an accessory that embodies a different aesthetic to diversify the tone. (For instance, team a narrow, studded belt with a floral, full-skirted dress).

Texture: Lace can be the epitome of grace or disgrace. So keep your feminine look intact by wearing this delicate fabric loosely, with clothes underneath playing peek-a-boo.

Shoes: Combat boots and Doc Martens (a big comeback) are a fierce fashion option for sure-footed styling and give a tough edge to the girlie-girl look.

3 Funky Girlie ●

A true maverick, whose outfits are put together with diverse eclectic choices of “mix this, don’t match that” combinations, that actually work like magic.

Vintage: This is the perfect look to encourage browsing through treasures found in charity and vintage boutiques.

A timeless flared A-line skirt can be restyled with anything from canvas lace-up shoes, to an unexpected newsboy cap, for ultimate cheeky appeal.

Shoes: Elegance and platforms aren’t naturally synonymous. But it’s just this thinking that creates the yin and yang for a funky girlie ensemble. (Erdem, the Canadian-born British-Turkish designer chose a metallic finish platform to funk up his ladylike spring 2013 collection) Accessories: Brooches, hats, shawls and laddish satchel bags are just some of the intriguing items that can be the next funky find.

4 Ultra Feminine ● This spring there’ll be no shortage of lace, sheer, ruffle, cut-out applique, playful floral prints and pastel colours (soft yellow, grey, lilac and pastel blue) designed into pretty pieces.

Go full tilt by playing lavishly with textural contrasts, delicate styles, muted tones and hourglass silhouettes.

Most of all, appreciate today’s feminine fashions by loving yourself.

2 Good girls go tough ●

It’s back to boot camp to shape up your tough-girl image while retaining your inner genteel woman.

Colour: Black can play a vital role in projecting your coexisting ‘don’t-mess-with-me’ attitude. This moody colour in

Stylist 's Little Black Book 1 Adolfo Dominguez+974 44811317(Lagoona Mall) ● 2 Dune +974 4487 8158 (Landmark Mall) ● 3 La Lune Accessories & Silver +974 5547 5654 ●

(Landmark Mall)

Natasha Bedingfield performs in Qatar The recently concluded 2013 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters golf tournament hosted a number of international music stars, who performed live shows in the Public Village at the Doha Golf Club.

Natasha Bedingfield, played a full concert as part of the entertainment provided by tournament organisers the Qatar Golf Association (QGA), Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Commercial Bank of Qatar.

Grammy nominated Bedingfield has sold over two million albums worldwide and was the first British female solo artist in almost 20 years to have a number one single in the USA, with her huge hit, Unwritten. This was the singer’s first performance in Qatar.

She was followed by Dublin band the Stars From The Commitments, who wooed audiences with a show the next day. The Irish collective brought all the energy and excitement of Alan Parker’s famous movie The Commitments to the stage in Qatar as they performed a string of soul hits such as Try A Little Tenderness, Mustang Sally and Chain of Fools.

Sweet treats, now in Doha Residents of Qatar can get a taste of the same sweet treats featured in the hit series, ‘Sex And The City.’ Magnolia Bakery recently opened its first store in the city. Known for delicious cup cakes and other sweet treats the bakery started its first location on a quiet street corner in the heart of New York’s West Village in 1996. located at dar al salam, in doha, Magnolia Bakery has always been cherished for its classic American baked goods, vintage decor and warm, inviting atmosphere. Today, Magnolia can be found in a number of U.S. venues besides a host of international locations like Kuwait, the U.A.E. and beirut. tHE COMPANY President AND CHIEF BAKING OFFICER (AS SHE LIKES TO BE CALLED), Bobbie Lloyd was present for the store opening and said she was delighted to be in Qatar.

Around town Singing sensation Magida El Roumi wows audiences at Katara Multi-award winning vocalist, Magida El Roumi, recently performed to a packed audience at Katara’s Amphitheatre.

The Lebanese singer returned to Qatar to render a collection of her best hits. Magida first came to the country in December 2006 to perform a duet with the international opera star, Jose Carreras, at the 15th Annual Asian Games opening ceremony.

The singer started her musical career in 1974 when she participated in the talent show, Studio El Fan and won the gold medal for best female singer. Since her appearance on television at the age of 16, she became one of the most successful singers of the Arab world.

Magida is known to be a soprano artist - unique in the Arab region. Her extraordinary talents took her from Lebanon and other Arab countries to the rest of the world, performing in opera houses across the United States, Europe and Australia. Following her success, Magida became a U.N. Goodwill Ambassador and was appointed Ambassadress for “The Food and Agriculture Organisation of The United Nations,” bridging the links between the rich and poor. Hailed as a messenger of peace, Magida went on to establish several projects to help more than 800 million people in poverty around the world.

GLAM / BEAUTY

FEBRUARY 2013

TecHnicoloured dreams Why choose one shade when you can have many? Make up forever releases its limited edition Technicolor Palette with a colourful range of shades for every mood or occasion.

Inspired from the Technicolor camera technique, the very first cinematographic tones which revealed over-saturated coloured images to the world, Dany Sanz, Creator and Artistic Director of the company created the Technicolor palette to paint an image of beauty in saturated colours while playing with light contrast to re-colour reality, giving it a novel modern edge.

Coinciding with the trend for Spring 2013, this palette is this seasonís must-have accessory offering a mix of bright and softer shades of eye shadow in a variety of matte, satiny, and iridescent textures. Five basic shades, the mainstay of the collection, ensure that there is something for everyone. Yellow, the most luminous shade is the ìItî shade of the season as it is a primary, hyper-pigmented, glowing yellow whose joyful vitality will electrify the eyes and overall look with its radiance.

Beauty / 91 Something Blue by Oscar de la Renta New York City-based Oscar de la Renta has unveiled the brand's latest foray into the fragrance market with a new perfume, 'Something Blue.'

Famed for his fabulous white gowns, Oscar de la Renta has once again got the bridal market stitched up, this time with a new perfume inspired by that old wedding rhyme, "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue."

This is the brand's first fragrance since last year's sextet of perfumes, the Essential Luxuries collection, launched in September 2012.

The fragrance opens with†linden blossom and mandarin before transporting wearers to de la Renta's Dominican home via the bridal flower†stephanotis, which grows in his Punta Cana garden. The scent finishes with rounded vanilla and musk.

In an innovative touch, the ring around the bottle's neck can be slipped off the flask and onto a finger. The brand will also be running an online competition with a top prize of a two-week stay in the Dominican Republic in May.

Skin care goes water-free

Nivea goes in for a new look Global cosmetics brand Nivea is rolling out new packaging designs for 2013.

Founded back in 1882 by Carl Paul Beiersdorf and the company now produces around 1,600 products in 170 countries and counts 500 million women who use a Nivea product each day.

The company's famous tins have been an iconic symbol in cosmetics since their launch in 1924.

For 2013 a new identity produced by Swiss-born Yves Behar and his San Francisco-based consultancy Fuseproject has put the circular blue tin back at the centre of the brand.

The redesigned logo keeps the company's white Bauhaus lettering but places it in the middle of the classic blue circle.

As well as the graphical challenges, Behar was excited by the sustainable aims of the project.

The new lighter packaging has been combined with a label reduction of 23% (with a different material and liner) and plans for tighter packing during transportation.

Courtesy afprelaxnews.com

Promising 100% Pure, All-Active Skin Care, US beauty brand Pur Attitudeís water-free cosmetics line is expected to be part of a growing 2013 trend.

The Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based brand spent three years of intensive research and development to produce its water-free cosmetics, offered in a range of therapeutic skin care products.

Launched in September 2013 on the Pur Attitude site, the products will finally roll out to stores this spring. The brand has replaced the water contained as the major ingredient in most beauty products with a newly trademarked substance, Hyaluronix.

Hyaluronix is claimed to have ìa similar composition to the hydration substance found in almost every cell of the human body. Combined with a cocktail of vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients, the brand aims to slow down and even reverseî the signs of aging. Dried out skin needs to be hydrated, so what are the advantages of taking out the water from beauty products?

Pur founder David Pollock is a beauty innovation veteran with more than 20 years of experience formulating products for brands including Bliss, LancÙme and The Art of Shaving.

Expect plenty more of these sorts of innovations as beauty fans looking for a preservative-free, active-ingredient-packed 2013 flock away from water.

GLAM / BEAUTY

02

PETALE NOIR FRAGRANCE FROM AGENT PROVOCATEUR

01

CANDY COLLECTER FROM PRADA

Hugged by a hot pink Prada bracelet, Prada Candy is magnified by White Musks and consists of an infusion of noble Benzoin and modern Caramel accord to give the fragrance a unique signature.

Prada Candy introduces the Candy Scrub, an exfoliating foam with a creamy texture to refine and soften the skin, scented with Prada’s latest scent.

With a delicate floral pattern etched onto the bottle, Agent Provocateur’s new fragrance opens with a cascade of soft petals, mandarin, water lily and violet. It gives way to bolder rose and ylang ylang, then finishes with a spiky punch of ginger, musk, leather and amber. Launched alongside the fragrance is a Luxury Body Elixir. Featuring natural aphrodisiacs and moisturising Babassu oil, the elixir is designed to leave skin scented and tingling with its blend of fragrance with the herbal ingredient - Tephrosia purpurea.

GLAM SAYS: INNOCENT SEXINESS!

GLAM SAYS: GIVE ME THE CANDY!

03

HAPPY SPIRIT BOUQUET D’AMOUR PERFUME FROM CHOPHARD

Set with two facetted baguette stones in the colours of a garnet and a pink tourmaline, the fragrance is offered in a pastel pink box, beribboned in shades of rosewood and coral and embossed with an initial letter penned in silver ink. The fragrance welcomes the most romantic of bouquets - an armful of powdery peonies, revealing a fragrance with the subtle fruity aroma of raspberries - and ends with beautiful woody accord of cashmeran and musk.

GLAM SAYS: FEEL LIKE A JEWEL!

04

MAKEUP FACE WASH FROM SHISEIDO

The Fullmake Washable Base from Shiseido uses a Veil Action Polymer that is hydrophobic to cold water but hydrophilic to warm water. This means the product doesn’t react to cold water (so you’re safe in a rainstorm) but washes off the face easily when mixed with warm water, removing any makeup on top of it too.

The product also helps smooth out unevenness and fine wrinkles, helps foundation, eye color, and lipstick adhere tightly to the skin and lips, and illuminates the skin with a natural glow.

GLAM SAYS: SAY GOODBYE TO TIME-CONSUMING MAKEUP REMOVERS!

07

URBAN DECAY FROM SEPHORA

Urban Decay creates this season’s hottest products inspired by naked palette. Naked Skin foundation is ideal for women who prefer an ultra-light finish, the matte look, light coverage or total coverage.

Let the smoked palette put the finishing touches to your smouldering look. Urban Decay has added a new lip pencil colour to its super-saturated naked range, rose nude, that reflects light, plumps lips and ensures the gloss stays put. Urban Decay added three new natural and elegant shades to its cushiony and non-sticky “Lip Junkie” lip gloss range: Naked 2 (beige), Strip (Mauve Nude) and Streak (Rose Nude). Cruelty-free and vegan, the Good Karma Optical Blurring Brush is made from tinted steel and a recycled aluminum sleeve.

GLAM SAYS: GET NAKED!

06

SPRING CHERRY FROM L’OCCITANE

Before spring arrives, L’occitane catches the floating scent of the Spring Cherry tree and transforms it into a fragrance. Bursting with floral freshness, the brand brings spring to you in Spring Cherry Eau de Toilette, Iridescent Shower Gel, Velvet Moisturising Gel, Soft Hand Cream and Soap - a range of perfumed body products to spring you up!

GLAM SAYS: PUT A SPRING ON IT!

08

FACE CREAM AND GLOSS FROM BOURJOIS Bourjois BB CREAM foundation offers an original compact and melting creamy texture, which transforms into an ultra-fine veil with very velvety finish. Along with its foundation, Bourjois launches its first BB GLOSS, a new and surprising lip care and make-up product: a five-in-one complexion illuminating gloss. This BB GLOSS protects the lips while creating an instant healthy complexion effect.

GLAM SAYS: IT’S SO NATURAL, IT’S UNDETECTABLE!

09

WATER-FREE FACE WAsH FROM PUR ATTITUDE Promising 100 percent pure, all-active skin care, US beauty brand, Pur Attitude, water-free cosmetics line is expected to be part of a growing 2013 trend. This face wash took three years of extensive research as scientists replaced water with a hydrating substance called Hyaluronix to slow down or even reverse signs of aging.

GLAM SAYS: FEEL SKIN-DEEP YOUNG!

05

L’EAU ROSE PERFUME FROM BALENCIAGA

After Balenciaga Paris and L’Essence, the couture house is adding another fragrance to its collection. L’Eau Rose is blended with blackberry, rose, patchouli, cedar and cypress. The beveled transparent bottle, in which the pink juice is visible, is topped off by a matte black cap.

GLAM SAYS: GET ROSED!

10

NAIL POLISH LINE FROM OPI

Collaboration-crazy cosmetics label OPI has unveiled a new line of nail lacquers inspired by Disney’s upcoming “Oz The Great and Powerful.” There’s some technical innovation going on too, “The new Liquid Sand nail lacquer, What Wizardry is This, features OPI’s groundbreaking technology for a textured, matte finish infused with reflective sparkle,” says OPI’s Executive VP and Artistic Director, Suzi WeissFischmann.

GLAM SAYS: NAIL ART POWER

BEAUTY / 95

Bassam Fatouh:

Expert Talk

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

ne of the most talented and inspiring makeup specialist from the region, Bassam Fatouh, has come a long way in pursuing his art of beautifying women. He is currently one of the most sought after make-up artists in the industry and is a favourite with Arab celebrities including the famous Haifa Wehbe whom he calls his muse. With years of experience under his belt, he decided to launch his own cosmetics line which became an instant hit. The collection is based on a back-to-basics concept focusing on the essential products every woman needs in their make-up repertoire.

What are the biggest make-up trends for Spring Summer 2013 around the world? And how will these trends translate into the Middle East region?

Spring Summer 2013 is very exciting and we are looking at a few key trends that every beauty fan must have. These include the BB Cream, the Ultra Moist lipstick, the Lip Tint, and finally the Baked Illuminator. The BB cream is a make-up base and foundation cream that moisturises, lightens, evens out the complexion, smoothes and erases imperfection while providing UV protection. The Baked Illuminator is a baked powder that has sophisticated, unique and precious ingredients which releases luminous and comfortable film on skin. All these new developments are exciting because it allows women to experiment with new ways to enhance their skin. For me, my strength is to translate the international trends and adapt them to

our needs, social habits, climate, features and skin tones in terms of textures, shades and complexions.

Tell us more about your cosmetic line. How is it different from other products and how does it target specifically the Middle East market?

It is the perfect combination of what is beautiful and what is practical.

It presents a range of innovative products that tends to every need while being functional at the same time. The BFC line was re-branded and restructured with the artistic touch of world renowned illustrator Lisellote Watkins to reach international standards, while sticking to the oriental touch of our region, either by appearance or by product shades. Liselotte illustrated Bassam Fattouh’s vision by presenting a free, independent, beautiful, courageous, sensual, seductive and natural design. The BFC line aspires to offer women new and unique products that they undoubtedly love: best creations, perfect colours and silky textures for them to shine in a whole new light of effortless beauty. A must-have for every season; women will find in this refining and perfecting line the answer for their call.

What projects are you currently working on? And what can we expect to see from Bassam for the year 2013?

I am currently working on the new launches and innovations that are expected for 2013 in addition to my involvement in various workshops around the region for the line and setting up video tutorials that will be a definite added value to beauty professionals and women alike.

Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics line is available at Pari Gallery, Lagoona Mall.

Fashion Forward Fingers

By Kirsten Mclachlan

In

01

Nail art studs These are great fun and can create various looks for your nails. You can get studs in all sorts of shapes and sizes be it square, round or teardrops. You name it and it is out there.

today’s fashion magazines, social media or just about anywhere, more and more women are starting to use their own nails as accessories. There are many different ways you can do this but here are some simple and effective methods to jazz up your manicure.

The other day I saw a young lady at Souq Waqif with a brilliant cocktail manicure. While it may not go with every outfit she may have, she is letting her nails do the talking and expressing herself in green, blue, orange, yellow and purple.

02

03

Ombre Manicure

Minx

A slightly gentler version of a cocktail on your fingers is an Ombre Manicure. Start with nail polish on the little finger or thumb. Add a little white to the colour to lighten it and apply it to the next finger. Add more white and apply it to the next finger and so on, until you end up with a beautiful graduated manicure that is unique. I think this is a great look. It is a simple, yet eye catching nail art method.

Styling tip: If you are wearing an all black outfit this would look beautiful going from black to a light grey.

Minx is a great way to let your artistic flair out and really accessorise with your nails! It can be done in a range of designs including metallic gold, silver and French manicure colours. Minx has a large celebrity following across the world and is regularly used backstage at fashion shows.

Check out the Minx nails which we saw at the most recent Qatar National Day 2012.

04

05

Glossy French Manicure

Ring Finger Manicure

For something totally chic and beautifully understated there is the glossy French tip, which you can only get a glimpse of under the right lighting but it looks-oh- so-pretty.

Take your favourite nail polish and apply a matte top coat. My favourite is ‘Matte About You’ from Essie as it applies easily and dries without streaking. Once the top coat is dry, take a super glossy hard wearing top coat (Seche Vite is a good choice for this) and just apply it along the free edge like you would do a white tip. You can apply the gloss at the bottom of your nails over the ‘moon’ shape. This does require a little more skill but it looks just as gorgeous!

The ‘ring finger’ manicure is quite popular as well. Basically you paint all your nails your favourite colour and then pick one finger and make it a different colour. It is as simple as that but it looks lovely! You can glam it up a bit and use a really glittery polish on your ‘statement’ finger.

BEAUTY / 97

Nail art is all about thinking outside the box, there are no rules and these days with all the colours and effects of polishes that are available there are no limits, even if you just apply a glittery topcoat -experiment with something new.

Kirsten McLachlan is the Training Manager at AND Trading , ensuring all staff have up-to-date training on the newest , trendiest and highest quality services available in the market. She has been in the beauty industry for 12 years.

Kirsten also manages the Nails Boutique Salon inside Zai Mall on Salwa Road where you can see her for appointments on request. She writes a regular column on skin, hair and nail care for GLAM. Join Nails Qatar on Facebook and Twitter @nailsqatar e-mail: training@andtrading.net

Roll out your

welcome mat

By JODY RYAN

For many, a regular yoga class may be a challenge. As the class progresses, the teacher will mention moving into what is always the final pose, savasana (or corpse pose), so one knows the end is near. You should be looking forward to laying down in this resting pose but instead, panic sets in. You think to yourself, “Do I have to do this? Can’t we skip this part, just this once?”

If

this sounds like you at yoga class, or at any time there’s an opportunity to slow down and rest, you are not alone. It is somewhat common for practitioners to get up and walk out of class when it comes time for savasana (in which any control of the breath, body or mind is released).There might be many reasons for this, but often people feel they don’t have time for this sort of thing -- laying around, doing nothing. Though there may be other underlying reasons for a hasty exit, such as anxiety or fear. Why do some panic at the thought of resting? Why does the thought of not doing anything bring fear, discomfort or anxiety to people?

We find it hard to relax not only in yoga practice, but in our day-to-day life.

When was the last time you were completely silent and still? Not sleeping or listening to music, watching TV, reading or checking your smart phone. It has probably been a while. Not only do we believe we don’t deserve to rest or have the time to do so, we don’t even know how to begin. Time alone or at rest is akin to how a writer feels with a blank page staring at them. How do you fill the void?

Anxiety sets in and stress levels rise. Which, in the case of yoga, is precisely what we try to avoid or at least reduce. It can be similar to when you’ve had an exhausting day and know there’s an even busier one ahead, yet quieting your mind enough to fall asleep feels out of reach.

Many of the physical poses or asanas we practice in yoga take years to achieve. A few seemingly simple ones like savasana, can be just as challenging. In trying to be calm and still we are constantly distracted by our thoughts, uncomfortable in our own mind. Here’s what you can do to settle in and let go.

Get physically comfortable: Lay or sit in a position where your spine is elongated, your body feels balanced and supported and your muscles can relax.

Focus on your breath, a few words or a mantra (a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation): By choosing a focal point, your mind is less likely to wander.

Observe your surroundings: One of the best descriptions I’ve heard is to imagine

HEALTH & FITNESS / 99

standing underneath the arch of a waterfall and let your thoughts be like the water coming over you. You’re not moved or touched by your thoughts; you just watch them passing over again and again. Whether positive or negative, don’t try to suppress or ignore them. Instead, welcome them.

Turn to an Inner Resource: Richard Miller, PhD, clinical psychologist, author, researcher and yogic scholar, describes our inner resource as, “A safe haven within your body where you experience feelings of security, well-being and calm.”

Try to imagine a place, person, or experience, that helps you feel secure and at ease. This will help you feel a sense of wellbeing, internally. Return to this safe place when you need to.

Judith H. Lasatar, PhD, physical therapist, author and yoga teacher and trainer has said, “Relaxation is the most powerful tool we can give anyone.” Even if you don’t practice yoga, try to practice resting or what’s often called active relaxation. Just as parents help young children to relax and fall asleep, or caregivers do the same to encourage healing, think of savasana as a gift you give yourself.

Research now shows that stress is one of the leading causes of illness so as a preventative measure learning ways to cope with or alleviate stress is a positive step you can take towards better health. Roll out your welcome mat, lay down and practice this for 10 minutes a day. It may not come easily at first, but use these simple tools and be patient with your progress. Learn to be truly, madly, deeply at rest. It will be worth it.

A safe haven within your body where you experience feelings of security, wellbeing, and calm.

A prejudice justified Reviewed by Sindhu Nair

I

Service: Treatment: Ambience:

★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★

have this distinctive bias for the Ritz Carlton Hotel. It could be because it is one of the oldest hotels in the country, one I have been frequenting since I joined the media scenario here or it could be because the service offered by the Ritz Ladies and Gentlemen is beyond fault. There is no disputing the fact that the warmth of the people serving you at the Ritz comes with genuineness that touches a chord. So I have this feeling that I would inevitably be biased in my write-up about the services at the Ritz Spa. I make a definite effort as I walk up the stairs to the Spa to remain as objective as I could manage to be. That is as unbiased as I could be with a smiling, considerate Gregory Laguesse, the Public Relations Assistant Manager of the Ritz-Carlton, Doha, walking beside me to the doors of the

EXPERIENCE / 101 Spa, and who naturally tries to melt my iron resolve.

And there just beyond the doors, I meet another of my good friends, Dr Tina Pavlova, the Director of Spa and Recreation at Ritz-Carlton, Doha, who envelopes me in a bear hug. Well, damn my resolve, I reflect as I am led to the treatment room.

Before I start with the treatment, I have to tell you about the Ritz Spa and Recreation Center, the huge facility that is almost hidden beyond the lounge of the hotel. A door leads from the lounge to this part of the hotel which houses two huge junior indoor Olympic swimming pools, two whirlpools, a stateof-the-art training room, aqua facilities and, of course, the spa area properly demarcated for males and females. The facility also has a gigantic changing room and locker facilities beyond which lies the shower area, all of which could be simply described in two words: luxuriously enormous.

Tina tells me that the Ritz recreation facilities include fitness classes with step, stretch, low impact, strengthening and toning, power walking, spinning

I silently thanked God for bringing me to Ritz Spa, for Greg and Dr Tina, and also for these infinitively talented hands, I also asked about the therapy I was subjected to. and aqua-fit.

Another surprising addition is the two tennis courts neatly nestled in the ground floor and which can be looked down on from the glass windows that envelop the exterior of the spa area.

Well, back to the spa, where Tina drops me off in the capable hands of a therapist — a no-nonsense professional therapist who I felt didn't believe as much in the power of speech as she did in the power of touch.

Until she started her massage, I had mentally crossed her off in my mind as rude, but the moment she started her techniques, I changed the adjectives to sensitive and caring.

Silently she transported me to a world where aches and pains were merely means to get to this massage room, where her touch spoke volumes in comfort and care, where the comfort derived was beyond words.

So as I silently thanked God for bringing me to Ritz Spa, for Greg and Dr Tina, and also for these infinitively talented hands, I also asked about the therapy I was subjected to.

The massage was one of the signature products and called the Ritz-Carlton Massage which I certify as a very relaxing, balancing experience and which, according to Tina, incorporates Swedish and pressure point massage techniques to release tension and increase energy circulation. This creative massage targets stress, poor circulation and other related problems.

I was advised to go home and relax after this experience and that is exactly what I did. This did not change my earlier perception of what Ritz and its team was about, it just reinforced it.

photographs by rob

More than a Spa: Ritz also offers personal training, fitness assessments, counselling, yoga, indoor squash and tennis lessons and programmes available with an instructor by appointment. Zumba, swimming classes (for all ages, including infants, tennis clinic for children, spinning, circuit training, kick fit, body conditioning, body pump, oriental dance, karate for kids, yoga (Basic, Pranayama, Flow of Ashtanga and Vinyasa) and Pilates.

The Ritz-Carlton Signature Package An active treatment carefully designed to fulfil the needs of all skin types: a sophisticated blend of natural fortifiers, amino acids, pure vitamins C and E and lavender, deliver deep hydration and cellular energy as they soften the appearance of ageing. This luxurious combination of the Diamond Facial and Diamond Body Treatment yields noticeable results after only one session.

SIGNATURE ARABIC TREATMENTS

The Perfect Date

Designed for any special occasion. A gentle natural moisturising rub. Dates, honey and oats exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, promoting a softer and smoother enriched skin, smelling delicious. Finally relax with a Date and Honey Release Massage to reduce muscle tension, moisturise skin and increase blood circulation. Herbal tea is served to complete the experience.

Fashion,

fun

ďż˝ Food

By DEBRINA ALIYAH

Chef Vineet Bhatia of Saffron Lounge admits his cooking and his sense of style is equally as colourful

experience / 103

A Chef with a larger-than-life personality and even better tastebuds, Vineet Bhatia continues to charm the world as the tireless champion of Indian cuisine. Bringing a different perspective to the table, Chef Vineet is slowly but surely changing the face of Indian food and making it accessible to culinary fans everywhere. He wants everyone to know that eating Indian food does not have to be a scary spicy adventure but a warming comfort food experience that will leave you with good memories.

Having been appointed as culinary ambassador to Qatar Airways and heading the kitchen of Saffron Lounge at Katara Cultural Village, Chef Vineet has cultivated a close relationship with this country. He has whipped up unique interpretations of Indian dishes at the restaurant and watched endless amount of guests leave happy. The connection, he feels, is the similarity between Arabic and Indian cuisine in terms of flavours, spices and texture. And now fans can get even more of his cooking expertise on Twist of Taste, a Fox Traveller food series documenting his travels around India to discover new dishes.

What exciting new things can we look forward to at Saffron Lounge now?

We have a new menu incorporating dishes that have been very popular or specially requested before. During the Indian Street Food Festival a couple of months back, we showcased these new dishes in a tapas style setting and the guests loved them. The tapas style is great for groups of 4 or 5 - they got to try out different dishes in a friendly atmosphere. There are some dishes to look out for in the new menu including the slow cooked lamb with lime and prawns from Kerala. And of course, you can still find our all-time bestsellers lamb chops, kulfis, chocolate samosas and butter chicken, cheese samosas and lassi.

Saffron Lounge is different in promoting its cuisine and attracts a diverse crowd. Why is that?

My philosophy has always been to present Indian cuisine in a way that would be suited to international taste buds.

Having Indian food does not need to be a spicy traumatic experience that will end in hours in the bathroom afterwards. Unfortunately, this is the perception that many people have! We tailor recipes to local tastes but we maintain flavours and authenticity. Flavourful does not only mean spiciness but a combination of all other ingredients. This is the reason why a diverse group of

diners are attracted to the cuisine in Saffron Lounge, we give them a good experience by just producing really good comfort food. The restaurant setting is also very comfortable and family-oriented which makes it popular with locals. The ladies can come and enjoy the privacy and comfort the restaurant offers.

Where do you find new inspirations?

I travel all around India looking for new inspirations. The cuisine has so much depth.

It is like a treasure box! I am learning new things every time I set off on a trip. From one part of India to another, the cooking styles are all technically very different and it changes across the region. I pick up new dishes and learn and adapt them to my restaurants. I am very open minded to learning and exploring new styles and techniques.

My style is very casual, funky and friendly.

I love collared t-shirts, slacks and sneakers.

What is your personal style like when you are out of your chef ’s outfit?

My style is very casual, funky and friendly. I love collared t-shirts, slacks and sneakers.

I have sneakers of all colours from yellow, pink, red to maroon, I wear lots of colours and my style is very much part of my personality and my cooking - colours and flavours.

I love good fabrics, and I love hats! I wear hats all the time.

My wife is my personal stylist as she is the one who does the shopping for me mostly and curates my wardrobe.

Future plans There will be another book, a fashion bar in Mumbai, a new venture coming up in Saudi Arabia and when I’m 70-yearsold, I would like to be lazing on a beach somewhere with cigar in one hand and drink in the other. But I am truly a workaholic and it is amazing that I have combined my passion and work together.

Show stoppers Versace Spring Summer 2013

Show stoppers Versace Spring Summer 2013

Show stoppers Versace Spring Summer 2013