Contents
36 Louis Vuitton Monogram
Yes, it is the single most recognisable symbol of luxury. But do you know how and why it was created?
40 Alice Temperley
GLAM
qatar's no.1 fashion magazine w w w.g l a m qata r .c o m
JUNE 2013
At the opening of her new flagship store in The Gate Mall, Alice talks about the challenge of a female fashion designer facing the global economy.
42 The Punk Page
MET Museum’s latest exhibition PUNK: From Chaos to Couture examines how a sub-culture became a mainstream fashion influence.
Contents 50 Met Ball
If your invitation to the MET Ball got lost in the mail just like ours, don’t fret! We nail down the hottest red carpet looks from the night.
54 Summer Trends
Nail all of summer’s hottest trends with our 'What and Where To Buy' guide.
59 Great Escapes
Our editorial team is going on great escapes this summer! Find out what’s on their travel list.
66 By Kage
Not taking fashion seriously seems to be the winning formula these days. The design duo tells us about their high-inducing collection.
72 StayCation
No plans on going away for summer? We nail down some fun things for you to do in rediscovering Doha again!
74 YAS Island
It is only less than an hour away, and it is like a whole new world. Get all the glitz and glam you could ever want in an all-inclusive trip.
76 FashionCation Hot Spots
If your summer travels bring you to Europe, do not miss out on some of the most exciting fashion museums and hot spots that will have you reliving the glory days of fashion history.
GLAM
qatar's no.1 fashion magazine JUNE 2013
On the cover BEYONCÉ IMAGE: August image
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 AYSWARYA Murthy Correspondent sabrina christensen
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
Karandana
thomas jose
Senior Media ConsultantS Hasan
REDDY B
Jiffry
Assistant Managers - Marketing Chaturka
Rekkab
lydia youssef
Marketing Research & Support Executive Kanwal
Baluch
Senior Accountant Pratap
Chandran
Sr. Distribution Executive Bikram
Shrestha
Distribution Support Arjun
Jezequel, the new French label to hit Doha, launched its boutique at Lagoona Mall with a special fashion mob presentation by surprising shoppers. The mob presented scenes from Paris and the French lifestyle while decked in the latest collection from Jezequel. Watch the video of this unique presentation in our online edition.
Timilsina
EVENTS OF THE MONTH 1 Opening of Katharine Pooley Boutique ●
4 June, The Gate Renowned London interior designer Katharine Pooley will be launching her new boutique in Qatar with a special VIP reception at 7pm. Katharine Pooley is an award-winning luxury interior design, architectural design, property development, home accessories and bespoke furniture design brand. She has won two esteemed Decorex awards and is consistently featured among the Andrew Martin Top 100 international interior designers.
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
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
COMING UP
Fashion and the Internet The World Wide Web has changed the world and definitely the fashion industry. From an elusive mysterious perch, internet has made fashion a playground for all. While international bloggers have become icons themselves, in the next issue we discover local and regional fashion bloggers from a very unique perspective. They do not show their faces and their only weapon is their passion for all things beautiful.
Contributors Abdul Rahman Al-Baker Young, electric, perfectionist! These are a few words to describe Abdul Rahman’s personality and work ethics. He graduated with a BFA of Fine Art majoring in Graphic Designs and Technology from Emmanuel College, Boston. He has since worked in PR, managing all creative aspects of various projects that include filming, photography, design and events management. He lends his fantastic photographic eye to our fashion editorial this month.
GLOW AMERICAN SALON The team from GLOW American Salon lends their expertise to our two editorials this month, Jet Set Go and Rock & Roll. The salon features an international team of power female beauty stylists and artists for any occasion. They have recently opened their latest outpost in West Bay Lagoon, a full-service salon for females only. www.glowamericansalon.com
ORNA BALLOUT
Your Voice on Twitter & Facebook
After a previous stint at GLAM magazine, fashion and lifestyle write Orna Ballout has traversed to Asia and back and now she is the Assistant Editor at our sister publication T Emirates. This issue, she recommends a short getaway to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi for an all-out experience from cars to beaches.
Jody Ryan Jody Ryan 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.
Feedback on our classic bride look: Aisha Abdul-Razzaq: Those earrings! VCUQ upcoming designers: Hira Ahmed: Sultana Jesmine, Love your collection. You girls have potential to excel in the field. Congratulations on your success so far. Antonio Berardi - Silk-blend crepe and lace gown: Fashioncontainer (Fashion Blog by Malena - based in Australia): Stunning dress.
letters Hey Glam!
Priyanka Pradhan Priyanka is a business and lifestyle journalist, who lives for fashion and travel. Having worked in television and print media for the past seven years, she takes a keen interest in filmmaking and photography, fascinating people and places. A closet martial arts nerd and a qualified diver, she loves the outdoors as much as her PG Wodehouse collection and prefers backpacking solo. She is currently the Assistant Editor at our sister publication T Emirates.
Jennifer Lawrence has a lot of spunk and it is great that she won an Oscar so quickly in her career. I liked the piece on her in your last issue. Brooke Myers
Hi,
Proud to read about the work of the graduating students of VCUQ, thanks for promoting local new talent. R. Zaidi
Hello team,
Loved the bridal issue. Susan Maybridge
G Talk don’t want to be a mood spoiler but some things just have to be said. Like the Bangladesh tragedy that killed more than 1,000 garment workers whose working conditions are under deliberation. While we in Qatar are far removed from such tragedies (though we do have a Villaggio fire, which has upped our responsible antennae), the same cannot be said for all the luxury brands who sell at premium rates while they get their stocks tailored in Bangladesh, among other developing countries, at low prices by labourers who are paid the lowest salaries in the world (as low as $40 a month). While we do agree that life is not always fair and that the rich do get richer, it is purely unpardonable that you take so much from a segment of the society without even considering their basic rights. While many brands have agreed to sign the safety accord, at least eight of the UK’s leading fashion retailers have failed to put their names to a legally binding initiative that offers financial support for fire safety and building improvements. Shameful, I would say, putting it mildly. Moving on to less stressful and hotter topics of the month: it is that time of the year when you take out your bags and get set for cooler climes. And making your holiday packing easier is Glam’s core theme for the month. From picks of the season to packing guides and the Glam team’s dream vacation choices, this issue is jam-packed. Added to this is the pure love for Louis Vuitton, an invigorating interview with the lady of spunk, Alice Temperley, and a gut therapy that floored our very own Chief fashion correspondent, Debrina Aliyah. To top it all, we too at Glam took a yoga break at the Ritz, though it proved to be much more than just a break. And if our yoga poses made you laugh, don’t blame us, ask our trainer.
Editor’s Pick Not all in the fashion industry is heartless. I put the spotlight on Maiyet, an unique luxury label that partners with artisans in developing communities across the globe (Colombia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mongolia, and Peru) to create high-end designs (it is stocked at Barneys) while promoting sustainable business growth. It’s not an easy thing to maintain a social mission and produce designs that sell on the floors of Barneys. The brand’s Fall 2013 collection is inspired by a spiritual trip to the Himalayas. But like so many others this season, the brand has produced jackets and parkas with bold, rounded shoulders and voluminous sleeves. A blend of gypsy and native look, classic moody and then comes silks, jacquards that use traditional materials of the region while it lifts the mood of the entire collection.
GLAM / NEWS
JUNE 2013
Louis Vuitton travel guides hit London Luxury travellers looking to add to their collection of coffee table city guides may want to hit bookstores in London, where shelves are now stocked with Louis Vuitton’s latest, limited-edition travel books. Illustrated by Japanese artist Natsko Seki, the London guide renders sites like the Tate Modern and Regent’s Canal -- sites chosen because they express the “spirit of London,” she said -- in her signature style, which super-imposes hand-drawn sketches and colours on top of still photographs. Explaining the modus operandi behind her images, Seki said in a video: “In my mind it was as if I was creating a 3D city with everyday scenes like somebody walking their dog and the passers-by turning around to look.” Other editions of Louis Vuitton Travel Books released this month include Paris, illustrated by Congolese painter Cheri Samba, New York done by French illustrator Jean-Philippe Delhomme, and Easter Island, interpreted by American artist Daniel Arsham.
Alice Eve signs as new face of Charles Worthington “Star Trek Into Darkness” actress Alice Eve has recently inked a deal as the face of the UK haircare label Charles Worthington, founded by the eponymous hairstylist. “Star Trek Into Darkness” is poised to be one of this spring’s biggest movies, and hair stylist Charles Worthington has taken no time in snapping up one of the film’s glamorous stars as the new face of his hair products. In a new video, Worthington explains the brand’s choice of the budding Hollywood starlet. “Women want to be able to create red carpet hair at home,” said the celebrity stylist. “Alice Eve was the perfect choice for Charles Worthington Salon at Home range: she has that effortless style,” he added. Eve recommends volumising products for her glamorous bombshell blonde look. “I’m not saying ‘no’ to a little bit of bounce,” says Alice, whose red carpet secret is to add texturising spray, “and then stick loads of pins in.” Courtesy Afprelaxnews.com
Kate Bosworth for Topshop Festival Collection The young American actress, known for her stylish red carpet appearances has teamed up with Topshop on a new summer collection packed with Festival looks. “I’ve always had a love of fashion,” said Kate Bosworth, who worked with the London-based brand to create the ‘ideal festival wardrobe’. “Our intent was to create fresh, wearable, and effortless festival pieces. I am proud of our work together and I adore these pieces, they fit perfectly with the mood of the ‘Topshop Festival’ collection,” she added. The star appeared in a new video directed by Michael Polish, titled “The Road to Coachella,” which was shot at the stunning Mono Lake in California. The film shows off the 16 signature pieces based on Kate’s personal style, some of which were road tested by the star at last month’s Coachella music festival. Last year Kate also featured as Topshop’s mystery star, in a short Christmas film also shot by her film director partner Polish, which featured the 30-year-old blonde singing a new version of “Winter Wonderland.”
Fendi and Karl Lagerfeld stage photo exhibition The creative director of Italian luxury label Fendi will oversee an exhibition of his photographs featuring some of Rome’s most beautiful fountains. Lagerfeld was in Rome earlier this year for the announcement that Fendi would be restoring the city’s historic Trevi fountains. “I’m very happy because I think it’s a very good idea,” said the German-born fashion legend back in February. “I think the fashion world is lucky because a few labels like Fendi and others do well enough that they can pay for this kind of restoration,” he added. Lagerfeld has obviously found real inspiration in the project as the latest news from Fendi is that the brand has worked with the photographer and designer to document the fountains for an exciting new project. Fendi will stage an elaborate and free public exhibition of Lagerfeld’s photos in Paris during the city’s haute couture presentations this summer. Titled “The Glory of Water,” the photos will be housed in a series of dark domes erected on the banks of the Seine open from July 4 to 14, which will also coincide with the opening of Fendi’s new Avenue Montaigne flagship store. Fine art and photography publisher Steidl will also produce a cloth-bound 120-page volume collecting together the photos. One of the fashion world’s biggest names, Lagerfeld has also shot and curated a series of “Little Black Jacket” exhibitions in his other role as Creative Director at the Parisian haute couture house Chanel and is well known for his passion for photography.
Georgia Hardinge’s Collection for River Island
Bulgari and Twentieth Century Fox celebrate 50 years of ‘Cleopatra’ At this year's Cannes festival, Bulgari presented an exhibition of original costumes and jewellery from “Cleopatra” to accompany a screening of the meticulously restored version of the 1963 classic starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The event was tied into a night of cinematic magic: to celebrate the film’s 50th anniversary, Bulgari and film studio Twentieth Century Fox had worked to restore the full 243-minute version of the film in a new digital version to be screened at the Cannes film festival. The restored version will be shown in more than 200 cinemas worldwide beginning on May 22, with a Blu-ray version due out on May 28. Academy Award-nominated and BAFTA-winning actress Jessica Chastain was one of the guests alongside some of Burton and Taylor’s descendants. “Cleopatra” was one of the biggest box office hits of its time, and was infamous for its enormous budgets and opulent sets.
London-based designer Georgia Hardinge has just teamed up with high street favourite River Island on a new limited-edition collection. As part of River Island’s Design Forum for 2013, the collaboration is set to fly off those shelves. Hardinge’s signature style encompasses an aesthetic that is both avant garde yet wearable, and her collections are often inspired by her love for architectural shapes and sculptures, which is exactly what we are seeing with her River Island collection. The collection is comprised of just fourteen pieces with a 2D greyscale pattern that’s key to most of the designs, which totally takes us back to those hours spent shading objects back in art class at school. Hardinge likes to form landscape shapes that accentuate the female silhouette and this kind of shading does that perfectly. This designer is definitely one we’ll be keeping an eye on, and we’re guessing that this is something that the celebrity world is already doing as she’s recently been commissioned to create bespoke outfits for musicians such as Alicia Keys and Jessie J. So, keep this one on your fashion radar!
GLAM / SHOP
JUNE 2013
Karen Millen Spring Summer 2013 Make sure you check out the Summer Collection from Karen Millen in stores now. The collection is filled with fun pops of colours and interesting prints, monochrome dresses and signature cocktail dresses.
26 \ SHOP TALK Dr. Renaud’s new line for first wrinkles Dr. Renaud specialises in skincare using flowers, fruits and vegetable extracts. Discover his latest line of products. Dr. Renaud has chosen the apple as a cellular extract as it increases the skin’s cell longevity, its sugars smooth the relief and plump the skin, and the oil from its pips help reinforce the skin’s resistance against external aggressions. Dr. Renaud also uses an organic apple juice concentrated in vitamins and mineral salts for a skin full of vitality. Dr. Renaud products are available at Nazih.
28 \ SHOP TALK
PURE PleASURE The designer Issey Miyake is known for his conceptual purity and elegant simplicity. His work exudes exuberance, dynamism, movement and colour, which is both contemporary yet timeless. Today, a great new adventure begins in the annals of Issey Miyake fragrance, continuing to forge a powerful bond with his fashion. Issey Miyake is known globally for his signature pleats- a look that went around the world in more than 80 colours. Today, the iconic line Pleats Please Issey Miyake has its own fragrance. It is a scent that pays homage to a seminal fashion creation: an infusion of emotion and olfactory ode to joy. L’Eau d’Issey and L’Eau d’Issey Pour l’Homme burst forth from the fountain of Issey Miyake fragrances; clear and shimmering, the waters heralded Issey Miyake’s first foray into perfumery. The Pleats Please Issey Miyake fragrance has its own special sparkle, the latest and bright facet of the designer’s work.
30 \ SHOP TALK
Migato opens Branch at Ezdan Mall Al Siddiqi Retail has opened Migato’s second branch in Ezdan Mall after the success of the branch in Landmark. Migato is a Greek brand, which offers a variety of fashionable shoes and accessories at affordable prices.
Detox At The Park Beauty starts from within and what better way than to combine a summer vacation with a body pampering session to make sure you are refreshed for the new season. Park Hyatt Dubai, in collaboration with Dubai Herbal Treatment Center (DHTC), is offering a three-or five-day Detox At The Park package where you can choose from a range of detox treatments while enjoying an idyllic vacation on the banks of Dubai Creek. The detox packages designed by DHTC, in cooperation with the Park Hyatt Amara Spa, consist of a combination of conventional, complementary, alternative and wellness treatments. Furthermore, Park Hyatt Dubai’s expert team of chefs has worked with the award-winning Viva Mayr Clinic to put together a special menu guaranteed to be healthy and delicious, and most importantly, one that will not interfere with the progress that will benefit the body throughout the course of the programmes on offer. The Detox At The Park package will be available for booking from 15 May 2013 for stays between 1 June 2013 and 15 September 2013. For more information and for reservations, please call +971 4 602 1234 or visit dubai.park.hyatt.com.
32 \ SHOP TALK
Diet IMPACT
Achieving good health requires a deep understanding of how food and lifestyle impact health. At Diet Delights, nutrition plans are tailored to provide individualised strategies that satisfy personal needs. Diet Delights nutrition plans are not just a diet, as Head Dietitian Cosette Fakih says, “Diet Delights is the first step towards a change, it empowers its clients to acquire new habits and embark on a healthy lifestyle”. Diet Delights’ clinical services offer a full nutritional assessment and an extensive session with a qualified dietitian. During the consultation, detailed measurement of body composition and metabolic rate (through indirect calorimetry) are performed. The new diet centre is located at Al Hilal, Al Nuaija Street.
Prints have come a long way from the classic florals and geometrics. We live in a digital age, and the prints seen on clothes today have been taken to another level. Alexander McQueen was a pioneer in the digital print age and his legacy of stunning prints are still a great influence to many. If wearing a top or bottom piece with a statement print, we suggest keeping the other half neutral to make it pop. Or if you choose to go all out with a printed dress, we suggest keeping the shoes classic black or nude.
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1 Escapology cloud tee QR 140 ● 2 H&M tropical print dress QR 110 ● 3 ● Motel kadie skirt QR 160 4 Topshop botanical bodycon dress QR 250 ● 5 Topshop giraffe leggings QR 140 ● 6 Topshop raquel twistlock sandals QR 350 ●
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the mark of luxury by DEBRINA ALIYAH
In retrospect when pursuing this story, I chatted with my friends and realise that almost all of us had found our first love in a Louis Vuitton monogram bag in our early fashion days. And though we had all gone on to find our own niche and other loves, there is no replacing that exhilarating feeling when you had first held the bag in your arms. In a true fashion sense, this was like our own secret rite of passage into the world.
heritage / 37
Angelina Jolie with Noè Monogram, 2013
There
is without a doubt that the Louis Vuitton monogram was the earliest symbol of designer consciousness globally. When fashion embarked on its worldwide dominance, the LV monogram led the way and became the singular synonym for luxury. Beyond just a tote or a luggage trunk, the monogram represented a step into designer sphere for many and today, it remains the most sought-after emblem in the fashion industry. Behind the glamourous connotation of the Louis Vuitton brand, lies the story of a filial son who wanted to honour his father. Georges, son of Louis Vuitton the man himself, started working on the design of a new canvas soon after succeeding his father. The creation of the Damier canvas in 1888, was his first initiative, a move to stop other trunk makers from copying their work. The Damier canvas features brown and beige squares and the name of the company for the first time. But in time, when the Damier design was not enough to keep imitators away, Georges created the Monogram canvas in 1896, which cleverly incorporated his father s initial into the design. The initials LV became immortalised in the monogram canvas and the accompanying ornaments in the design are flowers that Georges scatter to crown his father s work. The flowers were also reminiscent of the decorative floral ornaments in the Vuitton private home. There had been Gien earthenware tiles in the house at Asni貥s since Georges was born, and they may have unconsciously influenced his quest for the perfect design. Georges was also known to be insistent on drawing four-petal flowers and four-point stars that resembled four-leaf clovers, a move interpreted to be a superstitious gesture meant to ward off ill fortune. In 1896, the Monogram became the company s emblem. The Monogram Design The pattern is made up of four ornaments, three
Caroline Sieber with Speedy Monogram Bandouliere, 2011
The flowers were also reminiscent of the decorative floral ornaments in the Vuitton private home. stylized floral motifs combining the geometrics with the botanical and the monogram of the interlaced initials of Louis Vuitton. The strong graphic style is based on a rhythmic interplay of horizontal and oblique lines that draw two incomplete triangles. The two incomplete triangles are almost identical, but inverted, so the base of the L supports the point of the V. The first floral motif is the brown star with four curved points while the second floral motif is the reverse image of the four-pointed star with light beige points or petals with a dark beige dot in the center. The last motif is a brown four-petal flower inside a light beige circle. At the center of the flower is another small light beige circle or dot. The stylized motifs and interplay of the shapes create a strongly graphic symmetry that is reinforced by the motif ’s layout.
Kate Moss with Keepall in Monogram, 2006
Diana Spencer with Monogram Poche Toilette, 1996
Georges Vuitton with the Special Order for flowers in Monogram, 1920
Sofia Loren with Speedy in Monogram, 1977
Lily Pons with Alzer in Monogram, 1938
Alain Delon with Alzer luggages in Monogram, 1962 Joan Collins with Alzer, Keepall and Beauty case in Monogram, 1989
Lady Gaga with Monogram Insolite Wallet, 2012
Roger Vadim and Jane Fonda with Speedy and President in Monogram, 1969
heritage / 39 Audrey Hepburn in Love in the Afternoon; with Monogram wardrobe,1957
Artistic Interpretations Elements of the Monogram pattern that became the company emblem in 1896 derive from the rules and traditions of heraldry. It has the simple structure of the first coats of arms, from feudal times, which were meant to be visible from a distance, in the heart of a melee, in the middle of the battlefield. ome have suggested that the Monogram reflects the aesthetic trends that were in vogue at the time of its creation, that Georges might have more or less consciously been influenced by the contemporary atmosphere for his canvas. It was a time when the Nabis painters insisted on the decorative dimension of painting, simplifying shapes and giving them the power of symbols and a time when distant influences traversed time and space. A fascination with the Middle Ages had been influencing art and design since the romantics brought back into fashion Gothic barbarity, with its carved filigree and
S
gargoyles. Since the opening of Japan to the West in 1854 and the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1867, Japanese art had permeated Europe. In the 1870s and 1880s it sparked such a passion among the public and among artists that everything shaped by Far Eastern influences was referred to as japonisme. Japan has a tradition of family crests called mon, identifying individuals and lines of descent. There is the disconcerting coincidence between the Japanese word mon and the first syllable of Monogram. Moreover, the stylized floral motifs that abound in the coats of arms of feudal Japanese nobility are very similar to the figures Georges drew. Rather than seeking a direct affiliation between japonisme and the Monogram, the Japanese connection can be understood thus: the Monogram canvas presents a group of signs with universal power. The secret of its lasting success lies in this universality. The design touches everyone, without necessarily evoking the same response. It catches people ’s attention, but it s interpreted differently by all who see it.
Alice Temperley:
The Brand
the persona by DEBRINA ALIYAH
the designer behind the famous brit brand.
A
lice Temperley is a woman of steel. There is a clear vision of where she sees her fashion empire going and she is charging forward, even it means waking up at 4 am for a shoot in a desert far away from home. Without any artistic remorse, she embraces that the demands of the fashion market are changing and she is rising to the occasion to make sure she catches the new wave. This determination has made the label Temperley London the kind of success that a budding fashion designer can only dream of. Founded a little over a decade ago, the brand now sits on a pedestal among the ranks of luxury houses that have decades of history and craftsmanship. And rightfully so. When you look at the collections that have been sent down the runway, the pieces all demonstrate the polished refinery and skill of Alice as a fashion designer. And though the romantic embellished dresses look like they are fit for a ballroom, they work equally well on occasions that demand a little dash of the Brit edge. "I think it is just the way we Brits look at things. We make clothes that can be worn in a very relaxed way. We combine and put things together in a much more classic and different perspective," Alice says. But the journey has not been an easy one. Together with her husband, Lars von Bennigsen, who is also a partner in the label, the duo has weathered the recession and pressures of combining work and pleasure. "It is exhausting and tiring and a real
SPOTLIGHT / 41 rollercoaster ride. It has taken 10 years to get a good team, 10 years to be really confident about what we are doing and 10 years to be selling to all these different markets. It's a learning curve when you are building a brand and now it is amazing to see how we are ranked against all these bigger brands. I think about it for a moment and then I move on, because in truth, I haven't had time to think about it because we never really sit still," she says. "I did textile and fabric training. I was never into fashion that much. It was more of movies and costume design for me. When I ventured into the fashion industry, I was surprised how much goes into it and was pushed into the public eye without realising it. When I learned all about the business of fashion, it was really the details and the love of textile that kept me going. That's why our brand is more about lifestyle than fashion. Now that the essence of Temperley London is very strong, it's time to take it into the next phase," she explained. And the next phase has arrived in the Middle East. Her first store opened in the Dubai Mall in 2009 and has been wildly successful with regional clients, an extension of the steady stream of Middle Eastern shoppers at her London establishment. "Coming here is very important because this market is just very relevant right now with a lot of retail visibility. We have to embrace the movement of markets around the world and understand that the world's economy is fluctuating. Anyone with a right sense of business will respond to this market. But of course, we can adapt but not change the brand's DNA completely. resh from shooting her Autumn Winter 2014 and Bridal at the Ras Al Khaimah's Banyan Tree Resort in Dubai, Alice officially launched her new Temperley London flagship store in The Gate Mall, West Bay. "We used to do a lot of kaftans and we will be bringing that back to cater exclusively to this market. There are plans to do abayas and scarves, which is a natural transition from some of the designs that we have done before. Crossing our fingers, we are hoping to see these plans materialise in the Spring Summer 2014 collection and pop up in the boutique soon after," she informs. And we will be seeing more of Temperley as she opens up her designing process through her website. The focus on interactive and informative content online serves to make clients feel like they are part of the label. "We are a very approachable and real brand. We are down to earth and we are not a big corporate company with tonnes of employees. We are an organic brand and it is silly not to show what happens behind the scenes!"
F
How to achieve fashion success? "Sheer hard work and determination are the reasons why we are here. I have been very passionate about what I do, and focused on it. You have to enjoy the brand and the growth and stay focused. Do it because you want to do it, not just because you want to be in the industry or make money out of it. You have to enjoy the process. And if you have not had lots of education in the field, then you should definitely get training or experience because you have to have an eye, there are no two ways about it. If you want to get into designing, you have to believe in what you do and you have to be prepared to give your life away for a certain amount of years."
Sid Vicious, 1977, Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, photograph by Dennis Morris
Richard Hell, late 1970s, Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, photograph by Kate Simon
Hussein Chalayan, Spring/Summer 2003, Dazed and Confused, March 2003, photograph by Eric Nehr
The Punk Revival
Rodarte, Vogue, July 2008, Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, photograph by David Sims
The start-studded gala affair is over and now the attention comes back to the core of the celebration, the PUNK: Chaos to Couture exhibition which will be headlining at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The exhibition looks at punk’s impact on high fashion from the movement’s birth in the early 1970s through its continuing influence today. Featuring approximately one hundred designs for men and women, the exhibition will include original punk garments and recent, directional fashion to illustrate how haute couture and ready-to-wear borrow punk’s visual symbols. Focusing on the relationship between the punk concept of “do-it-yourself ” and the couture concept of “made-to-measure,” the seven galleries are organized around the materials, techniques, and embellishments associated with the antiestablishment style. Themes include New York and London, telling punk’s origin story as a tale of two cities, followed by Clothes for Heroes and four manifestations of the D.I.Y. aestheticHardware, Bricolage, Graffiti and Agitprop, and Destroy. The exhibition runs till 14 August 2013.
Karl Lagerfeld for House of Chanel, Vogue, March 2011, Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, photograph by David Sims
Rei Kawakubo for Comme des Garçons, 1982, Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, photograph by Peter Lindbergh
Rock 44 \ fashion
Roll
Prints and bling are all the rage and we think a dose of attitude is needed to match the trend. Let your hair down and live up these rock and roll pieces! Fashion Styling: Debrina Aliyah Photography: Abdul Rahman Al Baker Models: Jean Marie van Loggerenberg & Sherin Dos Santos Hair & Makeup: Samantha Renee & Vesna Kristina of GLOW American Salon Location: Rizon Jet Qatar
Top & Leggings (ALEXANDER MCQUEEN)
Top & Skirt (KAREN MILLEN) Platforms (GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI)
fashion / 45 FASHION
Dress & Belt (BALENCIAGA)
Dress (KAREN MILLEN) Shoes (GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI) Wrist Cuffs (BCBG MAXAZRIA)
Top (KAREN MILLEN)
All items (ROBERTO CAVALLI)
PUNK MEETS FAME
We would probably never see Anna Wintour rocking knee-high boots and a Mohawk hairstyle, even though she is the annual co-chair of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala.
The theme this year, PUNK: Chaos to Couture, is an interesting exploration of how the sub-culture has subtly influenced pockets of the fashion industry throughout the decades, and how punk is not really reserved for the rebellious working class anymore. The affluent can have a piece of punk for themselves through the designs of the likes of Vivenne Westwood, and the influential guests at this year s gala most definitely brought out the couture of punk to the red carpet.
SIENNA MILLER Crépe open-back plunging dress with crystal and stud embellishment Studded cropped biker jacket, clutch bag and shoes all by Burberry.
CARA DELEVINGNE Studded crépe plunge-neck column dress, clutch bag and shoes all by Burberry Makeup by Burberry DYLAN LAUREN Ivory fluid satin evening dress and black suede platform sandal from Ralph Lauren Collection. 1910 Edwardian silver drop earring and 1882 Victorian silver stud bangle from Ralph Lauren Vintage Jewelry Collection
MICHELLE DOCKERY Optical python-print leather shift dress and cropped biker jacket by Burberry Makeup by Burberry
MARIO TESTINO accompanied by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Black modern fit two-button tuxedo with satin peak lapel, shirt, bow tie and black studded shoes all by Burberry.
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COCO ROCHA Custom-designed animal print dress by Emanuel Ungaro. KATE BOSWORTH Black satin pumps from Salvatore Ferragamo Red Carpet Collection, dress and clutch from Balmain.
ELIZABETH BANKS Gold chain mail jacket enriched by gold studs and see through inserts from the Atelier Versace Spring 2013 collection.
GWEN STEFANI White crocodile geometrical-shaped minaudi from Salvatore Ferragamo, dress from Maison Martin Margiela cut-out gown and Fred Leighton jewels.
KATY PERRY Print dress complete with a crown from Dolce & Gabbana and seen here, accompanied by the design duo themselves.
Star Looks Red Carpet at the 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival
Actress Nicole Kidman in Dior Couture
Model Cara Delevingne in Burberry with jewels by Chopard.
Zhang Ziyi in Dior Couture and Christian Louboutin Pivichic  pumps.
Actress Julianne Moore in Dior Couture.
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Singer Lana Del Rey in Lena Hoschek. Model Cindy Crawford in Roberto Cavalli.
Fan Bingbing in A custom-made Louis Vuitton gown.
Actress Freida Pinto in Gucci.
Sonam Kapoor in a custom-made Dolce & Gabbana Golden-Era inspired gown. (Photo by Dominique Charriau/WireImage for Electrolux)
Actress Isla Fisher in Oscar de la Renta. (All photo credits: Ian Gavan/WireImage for Electrolux)
Jonathan Saunders SS13
Stella McCartney Falabella QR 4,600
China Glaze Cosmic Dust nail polish QR 30
Hugo Boss SS13
Karl Lagerfeld Karl 7 leather watch QR 1,020
01 Holographic This summer, the accessories just got a little brighter. The holographic trend started its comeback last winter and this summer it’s in full swing. It has been seen on everything from bags to manicures, this season. It’s a great way to make an outfit pop and it’s really just a fun look to play with on accessories.
Gianvito Rossi laser pumps QR 2,280
Stuart Weitzman leather sandals QR 1,120
H&M sneakers QR 90 Forever 21 ballet flats QR 70
Proenza Schouler PS11 mini QR 7,350
Peter Pilotto SS13
FOCUS / 55 Herve Leger cutout dress QR 11,610
Hermes SS13
Peter Pilotto carolina top QR 4,400
M Missoni degrade knit top QR 2,185
02 Geometric
Alexander McQueen print leggings QR 2,180
Prints
Prints and summer are a perfect mix. This season, geometric prints are back and the options are never-ending. From Peter Pilotto to Derek Lam, geometrics were all over the runways. Play around with mixing prints, don’t be afraid to go outside the box.
Proenza Schouler printed blouse QR 7,515
Marni twill skirt QR 2,490
Tibi silk and linen dress QR 2,210
Alexander McQueen skull sandals QR 2,180
Jessica Alba
03 Kourtney Kardashian
Rene Caovilla leather sandals QR 4,420
flat sandals Summer days, 50 degrees. The last thing you want to be wearing is closed shoes or high heels. The best solution for footwear during summer months are flat sandals. They can be taken from casual to a night out in a second. This season especially, there are many options to choose from. From gladiator style to girly embellishments, neon colours and leather, the choice is yours.
Jimmy Choo laser-cut sandals QR 2,730
Asos embellished sandals QR 215
Zara thong sandals QR 220 Saint Laurent studded sandals QR 5,210
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Giambattista Valli embellished top QR 12,340
Temperley London embellished mesh top QR 7,295
Azzedine Alaia cropped shirt QR 3,115
Tibi cropped leather top QR 2,130
Rochas SS13
04 crop
Laura Whitmore
tops
The '90s are back, again. Crop tops are great for the summer weather when the hot temperatures start to take over. Worn with a pair of jeans or a skirt, short sleeves or long, this is one of the '90s trends that we don’t mind having a comeback!
H&M crocheted top QR 75
Oh My Love harness top QR 150
Topshop leather-look vest QR 215
Topshop pleat back shirt QR 200a
58 \ fOCUS
Tucker silkgeorgette jumpsuit QR 2,155
Isla Fisher
Dolce & Gabbana silk-twill top QR 2,515
Olivia Palermo
Clements Ribeiro washed-silk shirt QR 2,540
Marc Jacobs belted cotton dress QR 4,080
Christopher Kane silk-organza skirt QR 4,545
05 floral print
Floral prints seem to always be in during summer, but this year you don’t have to follow the typical florals. Whether it’s simple 2D florals, appliqué, 3D abstract or lace, florals will always be a staple and designers love to play around with this print.
By Malene Birger two-tone lace top QR 1,100
Matthew Williamson silk pants QR 3,035
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THE GREAT
ESCAPE Our comprehensive and stylish guide to your great summer of 2013.
Looks from Sonia Rykiel SS13
Colourful necklaces are the rage.
Bracelets - chunky silver jewellery come in a range of designs – perfect for the beach.
India
Skirts - go for cotton.
By Abigail Mathias
The very notion of India conjures up images of elephants and snake charmers. That image while partially true, isn't exactly what India is about. It has a whole lot more. From the breathtaking ice-capped mountains of Kashmir to the sunny beaches of Goa, there is a multitude of avenues to explore. We chalk out the fashionable gems from the sub-continent.
Indian sandals are super comfortable and perfect for travel.
Scarves are the perfect accessory. They come in a variety of colours and fabrics to help transform looks. Choose from Batik to soft and shimmery silks.
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Maldives Ipad Mini
By SABRINA CHRISTENSEN
The Maldives is like heaven on earth, with endless blue bounty water and white sandy beaches. Explore the islands, go snorkelling and see the stunning corals, and enjoy the cuisine. Keep your look relaxed and make it pop with fun prints and accessories.
Mara Hoffman feather-print beach dress.
Eugenia Kim hat. River Island chain head band.
Illesteva cat eye tortoiseshell sunglasses.
Chan Luu beaded leather bracelet.
Missoni reversible triangle bikini. Ancient Greek sandals with beaded leather.
Asos leather fringe bag.
Roberto Cavalli Oud Edition.
Proenza Schouler dress from net-a-porter.com.
Estee Lauder Pure Colour Illuminating Powder Gel.
Tom Ford lip gloss.
Animal print bikini by Marianna G.
Australia By Orna Ballout
Beautiful beaches combined with a laidback lifestyle cement Australia as one of the best countries I've ever visited. For a slice of pure paradise, and the opportunity to enjoy stunning scenic diving experiences and private dinners on the beach, Lizard Island Resort (lizardisland.com.au) on the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must-visit.
Wilbur & Gussie Alice satin clutch from theoutnet.com. Salvatore Ferragamo sandals.
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The Greek Isles
See By Chloe fragrance, deliciously summery!
By Priyanka Pradhan
From Santorini's whitewashed cottages overlooking the blue-green Mediterranean Sea, to Mykonos Island's thumping nightlife, Greece fulfils the most voracious of appetites amongst travelers. And I'm not even talking about the moussaka yet. As for me, if I could pack just three things for an island-hopping spree to the world's most gorgeous archipelago, it would have to be my hippie alter ego, the spirit of adventure and some waterproof mascara, of course. Luckily though, I have room in my luggage for so much more!
Beats by Dre Headphones by David Guetta in neon pink- love the bass as much as the colour!
Brazilian beachwear brand Kariza s two-piece swimsuit.
Another travel essential is a great book for those long flights and I highly recommend Love In The Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Lush Blousey Shampoo and Seaspray hair mist.
Aqua Smokey Lash MascaraMakeup Forever.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SunscreenSPF 45.
I 'd carry it all in my Louis Vuitton Zephr travel case, just launched this summer.
Chanel Hula-Hoop Bag This is my inner fashion victim acting out, knowing fully that perhaps I will never use this bag ever again. But in the words of Mr. Kaiser himself, it was designed specifically for the beach to fit beach towels and the hoops can sit on the sand. www.chanel.com
Sophie Papiernik Sculptural Straw Hat The quirky shape is actually an intentional pick after years of trying to perfectly pack a conventional round straw hat and never succeeding. So this time, I am picking a hard-shelled shaped piece that will stay in shape. www.sophiepapiernik.fr
Full Skirt Dress from MJay Designs I love wearing Qatar-based designers when I am travelling because it is a great opportunity to show the world the talent that we have. This dress is on my packing list for the lovely evenings out! Instagram: @m_jaydesigns
& Other Stories Flatform Wedges I am the biggest fan of both wedges and flatform. So, when I first laid eyes on this pair of beauty, I knew it would be a trusty addition to my shoe wardrobe for a long time. It adds height and gives an instant styled look to your summer outfit, rather than a pair of thongs. www.stories.com
French Riviera By Debrina Aliyah
The French Riviera has settled down now that the fame-chasing glitterati have moved on to the next hot summer destination. And without the snobbish wannabes crowding the scene, this is the best time to truly discover what the French Riviera is really all about. Forget about the spots to see and be seen and instead focus on the beautiful coasts and sun-kissed water while enjoying a meal in a hole-in-the wall joint where a menu is not really necessary.
Elisabeth Wessel In Monaco, I will be taking a trip to visit Elisabeth Wessel's showroom. Wessel is a couture fashion designer and artist who has been based in Monaco for close to two decades. www.elisabethwessel.com
Molami Twine Headphones Headphones often scream juvenile but this pair of silk black and gold Molami headphones is a classic for me. The earpieces are hidden in the silk headband ,making it a chic hair accessory that plays music too. www.molami.com
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Simone Rocha’s neon embroidered organza dress.
Ireland By Sindhu Nair
gap ruby linen cotton spot dress.
The book presented by my colleague Rory Coen as a parting gift made me pick on my next to-go-destination. As I flicked through the pages of the book that tried to capture the mystery of Ireland, I was all set to explore the land of saints and scholars. To accompany me to this picturesque green countryside, I take with me a dress from the country’s own designer, Simone Rocha with accessories to match and Louboutin pumps for a romantic evening. For practical purposes, I go realistic with GAP’S trendy selects. All of this packed into a Prada travel solution and I am all set for the countryside!
gap’s casuals. Prada’s ostrich travel set. Irish linen draws from the country’s celtic design. Oscar de la Renta’s gold-plated carved cabochon clip earrings.
gap orange skinny web belt.
Micheal Kors Persia studded leather sandals.
Christian Louboutin Flo 120 patent-leather peep-toe pump.
The Ireland book gifted by my colleague.
Summer Love By DEBRINA ALIYAH
summer wardrobe
I
f there was ever a collection that put smiles on faces, this is it. You just cannot help but feel happy and upbeat about life as you preview the colourful and light-hearted pieces of Kage SS13 designs. The young and vibrant perspective sets a very integral mood for summer, a relaxing vacation that will have you refreshed with a new outlook for the rest of the year. The design duo behind Kage, Arwa and Basma, places a strong emphasis on very simple and easy-to-wear cuts, and from our point of view, very easy to pack too. The label ’s DNA on the happy life is a mantra that the duo keeps close to heart when designing, The KAGE woman is young at heart, playful, natural, and effortless. She doesn t take fashion too seriously. And sometimes, not taking things too seriously is just the right formula. "We designed the SS13 collection to accommodate any holiday destination the KAGE woman might be travelling to and whatever she may be doing. We have an array of vibrant and liberating pieces without compromising style or comfort. This was achieved through light and breezy fabrics. All the pieces are colourful and exciting, helping the KAGE girl to refresh and feel liberated from dark winters," says Arwa. The UAE-based brand was launched in 2009 as a contemporary womenswear clothing label and is one of the few casual preta-porter offerings in a market that is saturated with demi-couture and bespoke designers. Fresh from showing at the recent inaugural Fashion Forward in Dubai last month, it is no surprise that the label received much positive
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response even from the international guests. Designing for the girl next door in mind, the collections have always revolved around travel inspirations and laid back garments. KAGE rose to fame with their wildly successful oversized t-shirts that can be styled in different ways to meet the occasion. This summer, they reinterpreted the t-shirt with fringing, playful frills and full-laced backs in new colours and prints. “We have taken the simple t-shirt and given it a whole new dimension. By keeping the focus on precise tailoring and cuts, the dresses, shorts, skirts and shirts are elegant yet keeping in line with our love for the bohemian aesthetic.” Even at this stage of the label’ s career, the girls are already keen on giving back to the community. Working passionately for the breast cancer awareness cause, they created the signature KAGE t-shirts with special illustrations in 2011 to raise money for the campaign. Last year, they launched another cheeky slogan tee that carried the message ‘Have You Been Checked?’ for the same campaign. As you are headed out for your vacation this year, the girls at Kage have a few words of style to give. “Always explore your wardrobe. It is easy to get into a routine of wearing the same pieces together. It is important to mix and match as this can reignite your whole wardrobe and style. Just remember minimalism is key, and never over accessorise.” Kage is available at www.bykage.com and Dados Beauty & Spa, West Bay.
summer wardrobe
A Grecian
A
Dream
new season, a new vacation, and a new designer collection. Debutante fashion designer Marianna Goulandris brings to life the exotic and mythical dreams of the Mediterranean Greece in her first SS13 collection for her eponymous swimwear label, Marianna G. There is no mistaking the inspiration and story that Marianna wants to convey in her collection. Even a quick glimpse will send you into the azure skies of Santorini and fantasies of time past, where opulence is a necessary affair among the mythologies of the Greek gods. Crafted out of rich Italian fabrics using draping techniques with fine
embellishments, the tactile impression of the collection is far removed from the conventional materials used for swimwear. And perhaps this is the winning factor for the budding label, understanding that clothes, especially resort wear, is not all about functionality but the vision and lifestyle it exudes. The Story I really understand how women feel about their bodies especially in swimwear, where it is so easy to feel vulnerable. It became a mission of mine to create something that would make women feel both comfortable and chic. I grew up observing the style sense of women of all ages including my peers and friends of my mother and grandmother. This experience really helps me in
creating a versatile range that would suit various body shapes.  The Collection The swimwear line is split into three parts; Brights which is more of a young fun section with easy shapes and bright colours. Athletic which is a lot more fitted, a lot more structure in the shapes and the Lycra content is higher creating more support for the body. And finally Goddess, which unlike the two previous groups has a lot of earthy colours and gold and pearl white fabrics that creates a very luxurious feel. There s also a Ready to Wear line which has beautiful cotton crochet fabrics and maxi dresses and skirts in 100% silk with the print from our swimwear. My biggest inspiration came from Greece. This included creating
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and is a real fashion icon to me. When I was younger, watching her get ready for events or nights out made me understand what style is and that really influenced me. I like to think her style sense has been passed on to me too.
mood boards for each section and linking my inspirations. For the Brights section I was looking into the peasant girl who wore very bold colours. For sporty I focused on Grecian armour and how the warriors were portrayed with structured suits and fitted silhouettes, very similar to my one pieces. When looking at the Goddess section I researched a lot of the Grecian goddesses and used gold trims and colours that create a very glamorous and luxurious feel. On Designing I have always been passionate about fashion and have grown up in a household where fashion was a big part of our lives. My mother is always incredibly well-dressed
Fashion in the Middle East I find the women very elegant and always maintain a very exotic beauty. Depending on where you go to in the Middle East it differs but from Dubai, being the place I have visited most, they have a very unique way of turning things into special pieces, maybe a bag they have customised - they put their own twist to things.
SUMMER STYLE TIPS 1 Focus on your body type when choosing a swimsuit. ● Every woman knows (or should know!) what her assets are and should dress to highlight and complement their best. Draw attention away from what you do not feel confident about. 2 Invest in a great big beach bag that will carry ●
everything you need. I would carry an extra bathing suit and a wet bag, iPod, a good book, sunscreen, sunglasses, Evian spray, and Kerastase oil for the hair and of course a Marianna G swimwear piece! 3 Less is more. Do not go overboard with accessories ● and make up. Sometimes keeping it simple is what gets you noticed the most.
Marianna G debut collection is available at mariannagswimwear.com and Saks Fifth Avenue, Dubai.
summer
ideas
The Art of Packing by fiona may
The art of nailing the holiday capsule wardrobe (minus the panic attack and over-packed suitcase with split zip)
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I have always wanted to be one of those slick, glamorous holiday-makers who look effortless in their silk blouse-scarf-shades-jeans combo, gliding through the airport pulling along only one suitcase on wheels behind them, a la Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham, rather than the stressed-out holiday maker who stuffed everything into a suitcase and holdall in the last minute and whose airport ensemble was basically whatever outfit that was leftover hanging in her wardrobe because she had packed all her decent clothes into her suitcase and locked it already. I have also always wanted to learn the art of clever holiday packing, the type of packing where you pack a capsule wardrobe that consists of versatile pieces, rather than packing my entire wardrobe, having to sit on the suitcase to get it to close and then once arriving to my holiday destination, discover that the suitcase s entire contents, which I had spent hours carefully ironing, are all creased and unwearable. Not just that, but none of the items actually go together. Holiday chic and clever holiday packing all comes down to one thing: time management. If you plan ahead and use these clever tricks, holiday packing should be as easy as ABC.
Create more space in your suitcase by rolling rather than folding your clothes.
Packing like a pro Select pieces that are versatile, i.e. they can be worn to various locations on various occasions and be taken from day to night. Take, for example, a pair of dark wash skinny jeans. They can be teamed with a kaftan
and sandals for a breezy walk on the beach or stroll through exotic markets, and then be taken from day to night by wearing them with heels, a glitzy top and a pair of earrings. Other versatile pieces are maxi dresses, silk blouses and scarves. The number of tops you pack should outweigh the number of bottoms (i.e. for every pair of trousers or skirt, pack two tops that can both be worn with them). Another way to avoid over-packing? Plan your outfits for each day of your holiday in advance. Make sure you remember to pack one light cover-up for cool summer nights, whether that is a lightweight cardigan, blazer or poncho. Color-code your holiday wardrobe. Stick to three central colors, such as black, white and nude and add a few bold colored pieces which can be swapped around and worn in different combinations. As tempting as it may be to take all 200 pairs of shoes, you do not need more than four: flip-flops for the beach and poolside, sandals and flats for exploring the town, and one pair of glamorous heels for nights out. Likewise, you do not need more than three handbags: a beach bag, a practical yet stylish handbag for day trips and a sparkly clutch for evenings out. When it comes to packing, put your shoes in the bottom. Stuff them with tissue paper or newspaper to stop them from being squashed, and then pack your underwear around them. Create more space in your suitcase by rolling rather than folding your clothes. Turn tailored items inside out before packing them to keep them in shape. Stick to garments made from non-creasing materials such as jersey and polyester. Fill up the little nooks and crannies in your suitcase with accessories that will instantly add pizzazz to any outfit. Pack your beauty products and toiletries into clear, plastic zip-up bags and makeup into clear Tupperware boxes (to prevent your eye shadows, powders and blushes from getting smashed when your suitcase is manhandled). Save up on suitcase space and weight by wearing as many layers as you can on the flight (but not so many that you die on your way to the airport in Doha s heat).
The perfect Doha Staycation by fiona may
Stuck in Doha for the summer? Well there is no need to be down when there are so many things you could be doing that do not require you to pass through border control.
quick escape
W
ith school out and my four kids at home, hearing from my husband that we would not be taking our annual summer trip to Egypt this summer sounded like he was giving me a three-month prison sentence in a blistering hot sauna. Sure family holidays are stressful, take painstakingly long planning and require a nice sum of money (which is usually splurged on takeaways that ensue with diarrhoea and overpriced trinkets), but the thought of sitting at home day after day for three months with my kids fighting over the computer and PlayStation because it is too hot for them to be playing outside with their friends is every Doha mom's worst nightmare. And there are only so many trips you can make to Villaggio Mall and City Centre before you become sick of the places. Then I heard of something called a staycation. What's a staycation, you ask. Well, it is basically a vacation right here, at home, no passport or ridiculous amounts of money needed. But how can it be a vacation if you are at home? You can still take time away from your everyday life without having to leave Qatar's borders, and there are plenty of indoor activities you can do without having to venture out into the 500 degree heat. Throw a movie night: Bored of the cinema? Huddle up with your family or invite your girlfriends over for a movie night. Hook your TV or laptop up to a projector screen and get DVDs of your favourite films, or even watch them on a free streaming website. You could make it a themed night and dress up according to the theme of the movies. Don t forget the popcorn and nachos. Learn something new: Brush up on your culinary skills and join a cooking class. Learn the art of cupcake making and cake decorating at Tavola in Royal Plaza (44131222/55806730) or get together with a group of your friends and receive private lessons in Greek cooking from a professional private instructor (66335289). Have a laugh: Laugh all your troubles away by attending one
of Doha's many stand-up comedy events, either at The Laughter Factory in Radisson Blu Hotel (www.thelaughterfactory.com) or look out for upcoming shows from Stand Up Comedy Qatar (www. sucq.org). Get fit: Was your new year's resolution to join a gym and get fit, but you never got around to doing it? Well now is the perfect time to join an indoor gym. Don't stick to the treadmill and exercise bike; take advantage of the wide range of classes gyms in Qatar are offering, from Zumba to belly dancing and yoga to boot camp training. There are plenty of mixed and women-only gyms in Qatar. Try Curves (44699955), Al Massa Active (44991888) or Yama Yoga Studios (66900965).
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Visit a gallery or museum: Are you an art fan or culture vulture? Explore Qatar's growing number of art galleries and museums. Pay a visit to Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art on Al Luqta Street (44028855) or the Museum of Islamic Art on the Corniche (44224444). Also on the Corniche is Qatar National Museum (44442191). Off Al Muthaf Street is the Orientalist Museum and National History Collection (44367711). Don't miss out on the quaint Al Hosh Al Qatari Lil Funoon Gallery located in the heart of Souq Waqif (44411305) and Waqif Art Centre too (66683466). Have a spa day: You have been working hard all year, the least you deserve is a spa day, on your own or with a girlfriend or
two. Revive your face with a Triple Oxygen Treatment at W Doha's Bliss (QR750 for 75 minutes) (44535353) which includes intensive cleansing, exfoliating, a fruit acid wash, a preextraction oxygen wrap, a calming oxygen and milk mask, hydrating enzyme pack and vitaminised oxygen spray. Or book yourself into Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village (44256666) for the Qatar-inspired Local Journey, over two hours of bliss that includes a body scrub, date and honey wrap and full body oil massage (QR1,400 for 140 minutes). Be a hotel guest: Get family or friends to babysit the kids and book yourself and your hubby into a hotel for a weekend getaway right here in Doha (and take full advantage of room service and the other services reserved for guests). And it doesn t have to be the most expensive hotel in town. There are a range of quaint boutique hotels cropping up around Doha, like the rustic Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels (44336666) that overlook the vibrant cobblestone streets and alleyways of Souq Waqif, or the hip and modern K108 Hotel (44333000) also situated near the souqs, which donates 100% of its profits to charity (so you can treat yourself guiltfree). Get down and boogie: As a wise person once said, YOLO, or you only live once. So put on your most sparkly dress and highest heels (or flats if you can't dance in heels) and head to one of Doha's hippest clubs or club lounges. If you are one of the cool crowd you will be living the night away at W Doha's Wahm (44535000) or La Cigale's Club 7 (44288888). Get your Great Gatsby on and jive away to live jazz acts at Lincoln Centre Doha (44460000). Are you a Bollywood fan? Have fun dancing to the latest Indian hits at Rancho's at the Grand Regal's monthly Bollywood party (44094444) or hit the Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott on a Saturday (44298888). If dancing in front of a huge crowd isn't your thing and you prefer a quieter scene, the Ritz-Carlton's Admiral's Club is the place for you (44848000). And if all that is not enough, make use of your staycation to do the little things you don't usually have the time for. Like reading that book or stack of unread fashion magazines that you have been meaning to read. Or inviting your family and friends over for a late night barbeque. Or lounging around in your silk pajamas all day with a box of chocolates, catching up on the latest season of Downton Abbey or Mad Men.
WEEKEND WONDER
Yas Island by ORNA BALLOUT
Adrenaline rushes, romantic moments and sumptuous cuisine, GLAM experiences Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, discovering a destination that will woo the most discerning of travellers.
quick escape
Stay in a hotel straddling the famous Formula 1 track
From fast-paced rides to chill out time at the spa, if you re seeking a weekend break that fuses adrenaline and relaxation, then Abu Dhabi s Yas Island should be at the top of your to do list. While Yas Island has numerous hotels to choose from, The Viceroy is an exciting option, thanks to its prime location straddling Yas Marina Circuit, the famous Formula 1 track. The structure of the hotel is quite impressive: a huge steel gridshell made up of 5,096 diamond shaped glass panels creates a veil over two hotel towers, linked by a bridge that crosses the Yas Marina Circuit. Throughout the hotel, it is possible to hear the sound of speeding cars when they re racing, which adds to its sporty aesthetic. I stayed in a Marina Executive suite; its best feature has to be the gigantic wraparound balcony, showcasing brilliant views of the Marina and track. Simplistic interior design featuring white walls, silver grey furnishings, with materials such as marble and leather, create a peaceful backdrop to enjoy the expansive outdoor views. There are many dining options at the hotel that may tickle your taste buds. Nautilus is a must for seafood lovers, with a selection of scrumptious dishes such as shucked oysters, Gulf shrimp and Omani lobster. I ordered Lobster Thermidor the daily special served with sweet pumpkin mash potato and spinach, while my guest opted for steak. Both dishes were delicious. I especially enjoyed the outdoor terrace that boasts stunning views of Yas Marina. If you re after something more traditional, then head to Atayeb, a Pan Arabic restaurant offering a mix of Mezze dishes and tasty tagines. For a post-meal tipple, venture to the super stylish Skylite lounge, the perfect place to gear up for a night out in the hotel s nightclub, Rush. Make sure you set time aside to visit ESPA , the hotel s luxurious spa. The Private Suite which boasts its own hammam, a treatment room, steam room, and relaxation room, is perfect for couples who want to pamper in privacy. Relax here with your loved one, sipping delicious tea from delicate cups, before enjoying a treatment such as the Aromatherapy body massage. Whatever treatment you choose, you re guaranteed to feel pleasantly pampered in the suave surroundings of the spa. For more information, visit viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/abudhabi
Soar Into the Sky
With a surprisingly smooth takeoff and landing, the seawings boat/plane experience gives you the chance to see the spectacular sites of Abu Dhabi from the sky. Starting with a thrilling water takeoff, the plane soars high into the sky, taking you on a journey where you can capture excellent photos of Emirates Palace and Yas Island s star attractions such as Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. The 30 minute experience costs QR 995 per person. For more information visit seawings.ae
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Sail On a Romantic Sunset Cruise
From Yas Marina, hop aboard a Gulet, a traditional Turkish sailing boat, and enjoy a scenic sail through the Persian Gulf. The trip provides fantastic photo opportunities of the sunset showcasing pretty pink and orange hues, so make sure you have a camera with you. I m not sure if it was the stunning sky, or the servings of fresh strawberries and cream, chocolates and bubbly, but this was like something from a movie, where I was Rose and he was Jack the romantic sailing scene from Titanic all over! For more information, visit azurecharter.com
Experience The World s Fastest Ride
Featuring more than 20 Ferrari inspired attractions, Ferrari World is a great attraction for lovers of the famous Italian brand. Make sure to feed the appetite of your daredevil spirit, taking a ride on Formula Rossa, the world s fastest rollercoaster that accelerates from 0-110 kph in less than 2 seconds reaching 240kph, providing the ultimate rush to thrill seekers. For more information, Visit ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Splash Around In The Sun
With over 40 rides, the recently opened Yas Waterworld is your one-stop-shop for fun and adventure. I especially enjoyed the Liwa Loop, an exhilarating slide in which you are sealed into a tube, before the floor beneath you moves and you are dropped straight down the loop. It s quick, intense and terrifying. Watching the build-up of fear amongst the crowd as they approach their turn in itself is hilariously enjoyable. Be warned that queues for the main attractions can be quite tedious, especially during the weekend, so a large dose of patience is required. For more information, visit yaswaterworld.com
Speed Around The Famous Formula 1 Track
Get into the racing spirit, speeding around the same track that plays host to the sporting stars of Formula 1, one of the year s most anticipated events. While there are many passenger experiences to choose from, why not let a trained racing driver do the hard work for you, while you sit back and enjoy the fast-paced ride. The Yas Supersport SST experience costs QR 485. For more information visit yasmarinacircuit.com
FashionCation Hot Spots style escape
by DEBRINA ALIYAH
Appreciation for anything in life always comes from knowledge and a deeper understanding of the past. While it is easy to go wild on shopping holidays and buying tonnes of fashion items, this summer, we recommend a break from the shopping and a cue on the learning. Make room in your travel diary for a discovery journey on the history and founding of some of the biggest fashion brands in the world. It is just so much more fun to wear a little black Chanel jacket having seen where it had all started from. Bon Voyage!
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The Gucci MuseuM
Piazza Della Signoria, Florence, Italy. guccimuseo@it.gucci.com The mythical draw of this museum is that is located in a building with significant architecture history. The upper floor of the museum used to be the chapel of the palazzo and is now a Guccisponsored contemporary art space. Take a journey through the craftsmanship of early days Gucci trunks and products and at some exhibits, there are little informative flip cards that you can take for keepsake. Other than historical sections, there are also iconic pieces including gowns worn by celebrities for landmark events. On quiet days, the museum staff will be more than happy to give you a guided tour. Half of each ticket sale is used to benefit the City of Florence preserve and restore the city s signature art treasures. The museum is open year-round, seven days a week, with closures planned only for August 15, December 25 and January 1.
Salvatore Feraggamo Museum
Via dei Tornabuoni, Florence, Italy museoferragamo@ferragamo.com
The museum opened in 1995 to bring to life the work of Ferragamo and the integral role he played in the history of shoe design and fashion. Exhibits include photographs, patents, sketches, books, magazines, casts and models of shoes during Salvatore s lifetime. The permanent collection is exhibited on a rotational basis so at any given time of the year, you may discover something new you have not seen before. At the moment, the museum is hosting the Amazing Shoemaker exhibition which focuses on shoes in fairy tales and legends. The museum is located on Palazzo Spini Feroni, a medieval palace built by the banker to Pope Boniface VIII in 1289. Proceeds from ticket sales are used to finance scholarship for young footwear designers every year.
Cristobal Balenciaga Museum
6 Aldamar Parkea, Getaria, Spain. www.cristobalbalenciagamuseoa.com A very definitive and complete look into the works of Cristobal Balenciaga, the King of Coutouriers, whose name forms the basis of the Balenciaga brand today. The collection consists of approximately 1200 pieces and is not only the most extensive collection of Balenciaga creations in the world but also the most representative both in terms of quality and the time span covered. It undoubtedly takes pride of place among the most important fashion collections in the international scene today. The Balenciaga Museum is housed in a newly built annex to Palacio Aldamar. This majestic villa, on a hilltop overlooking Getaria, was the residence of the Marqu鳠and Marquesa of Casa Torres, grandparents to Queen Fabiola of Belgium and mentors to Balenciaga during the early days of his career.
Coco Chanel’ s Apartment
31 Rue Cambon, Paris, France. (By Appointment via Chanel only.) Stepping into the apartment, the first thing that hits you is the unmistakable smell of Chanel No.5. Coco herself had religiously sprayed her favourite perfume all over the apartment when she was alive and the tradition had been kept strong by the custodians of the space now. The apartment has been kept exactly as it was since the last day the maestro had stepped foot there, and visitors are kept to the minimum with visits being strictly monitored. There are little clues and hints from the apartment that carries through into the signature works of Chanel, like the quilted suede couch reminiscent of the iconic 2.55 bag. The apartment is a lavish representation of Coco s taste in interior design and ultimately, in life. Be sure to snap a photo at the famous staircase where the early shows of Chanel were first presented.
Textile and Fabric Museum Paris
107 Rue De Rivoli, Paris, France www.lesartsdecoratifs.fr
The collection contains some16, 000 costumes, 35,000 fashion accessories, and 30,000 pieces of textile. There are a total of over 81,000 works which trace the history of costume from the Regency period to the present-day. These collections are regularly enriched by generous gifts made by private donors, designers or manufacturers. They rival the largest collections in the world and apart from its historical pieces, the museum also has collections of the work of great designers such as Paul Poiret, Madeleine Vionnet, Elsa Schiaparelli, Christian Dior, Raoul Dufy, Sonia Delaunay and the embroiderer R颩.
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Continuing the fashion journey
In part two of our Fashion Journey series, we meet the second finalist of the programme, Aliya Al Obaidly. 1 The Aspiring Designer ●
The dream of becoming a fashion designer started since the day I could hold a brush. My obsession with art started at an early age; I used to take some art lessons and work with every type of art. I continued on this path by pursuing an Art & Design foundation in University of Leeds, UK. I took different modules such as art, fashion and textile design as part of the course. After that, I studied Graphic design and communications at the same university. After graduation, I had the chance to do an internship at Haute Muse magazine and it was a great experience. I was fortunate to be able to release my first collection in 2012, which was also the beginning of my own line under the name Aliya. Being half-Bahraini and half-Qatari gave me a different perspective and influence from others. My passion for making dresses and gowns comes with a classical view and a modern touch that magically comes together every time I hold a pencil.
2 Joining Fashion Journey ●
The whole idea was not really planned but thanks to Khawla Yousif, a blogger, who proposed and explained the programme in detail, I decided to join a programme to learn more about the fashion industry and take the chance to become an international fashion designer. I presented a portfolio of my collection, which included different designs of many long and short dresses.
3 The Vision ●
My general vision is to become a globally known designer and to achieve major success in the next five years. I love the womenswear industry; I don't want to change anything but just want to add my unique touch to it. I want to be memorable locally and internationally and sell my designs in every fashion capital. It is difficult to maintain the same spirit and amount of creativity in every collection, but I believe that I can be inspired by every little detail around me - from travelling to new cities and walking down the streets to listening to music and being surrounded by spiritual people. I would always stay in touch with every fashion trend by going through the pages of different magazines or even attending international fashion shows.
4 The Local Scene ●
The local fashion industry has been growing and so many concepts are being repeated. The most difficult challenge is to stand out and create my own special thoughts. Another obstacle was finding high-quality fabrics and materials to work on. What really drives me is having a positive atmosphere and getting enough support and strength from my family and friends. Fashion Journey is a comprehensive programme, initiated by Roudha Centre, to provide emerging local fashion designers with the skills, experience and exposure they need to turn their work into successful businesses. GLAM is the official media partner for the Fashion Journey programme by Roudha Centre. We will be following the progress and updates from the programme and its participants. Next issue, we will be profiling more participants and their travels to the different fashion capitals. In the vision of unearthing new design talents, we invite emerging designers based in Qatar to submit their portfolio to glam@omsqatar.com for future opportunities.
Turquoise Maxi (BCBG MAXAZRIA) Hologram Snakeskin Tote (BALENCIAGA) Wedges (ALEXANDER MCQUEEN) Yellow Panel Maxi (BCBG MAXAZRIA) Snakeskin Sandals (BCBG MAXAZRIA)
fashion / 83
Jet Set Go Our favourite piece when travelling is always The Dress. Versatile and easy to pack, the Maxi dress works miracles for different occasions while the Shift dress saves the day for an elegant calling. Fashion Styling: Sabrina Christensen Photography: Abdul Rahman Al Baker Models: Jean Marie van Loggerenberg & Sherin Dos Santos Hair & Makeup: Samantha Renee & Vesna Kristina of GLOW American Salon Location: Rizon Jet Qatar
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Dress (STELLA MCCARTNEY) Stilettos (ROBERTO CAVALLI)
Dress (KAREN MILLEN)
Dress (ALEXANDER MCQUEEN) Shoes (BCBG MAXAZRIA)
Dress (ALEXANDER MCQUEEN)
BEYONCÉ The Irreplaceable Entertainer
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World
class entertainer, fashion star, wife, mother, and an icon for empowerment of women globally - there seems to be nothing that Beyoncé Knowles cannot achieve. After rising to fame with the all-girl group, Destiny's Child, Beyoncé has single-handedly taken on the world of pop and proved that vocal prowess combined with a constant reinvention of style is the formula to staying in power in the fickle world of entertainment. She and her husband Jay-Z (Shawn Carter) make a formidable power couple that extends their influence not only in the world of music and arts but also in politics, having openly supported Barack Obama on his campaign trail. The power songstress recently concluded her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, and all through summer this year, has been the face to spot on print and outdoor billboards of H&M as Mrs. Carter. The partnership between retail giant H&M and Beyoncé features the singer on a beautiful island holiday donning the latest summer collection by H&M. "I' ve always liked H&M s focus on fun and affordable fashion. I really loved the concept we collaborated on; to explore the different emotions of women represented by the four elements fire, water, earth and wind. It was a beautiful shoot on a tropical island. It felt more like making a video than a commercial," says Beyoncé. The campaign images were shot in Nassau in the Bahamas by photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, while the commercial was directed by Jonas ūerlund. The commercial highlights the opposing nature of the four basic elements and will be available to view online in its entirety, with edited versions for TV. The commercial also features a new song from Beyoncé Standing On the Sun, which will be available worldwide online at hm.com from the beginning of May. The summer campaign features swimwear and beachwear pieces as well as a tie-dye bikini from this
summer s H&M for Water collection. Twenty-five percent of sales from the H&M for Water collection will be donated to H&M for WaterAid. Beyoncé Shares Her Experience Tell us about your experience shooting the campaign for H&M? I loved shooting the campaign in the Bahamas. We shot on a beach outside of Nassau and the weather was perfect. The shoot was filled with vibrant colors and was inspired by the glamour of the late 70’s. How was it to work with the director Jonas ūerlund? It s always incredible to work with Jonas. We had a great time shooting the TV commercial for the Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, so I was looking forward to working with him again. He has such a great imagination and I love seeing his visions come to life. Where does your own fierce and fabulous style come from? Well, thanks for the compliment. I think my style comes from watching my mother from the time I was a little girl. She was so stylish. She was the first person I saw mix high end pieces with more accessible styles and make it all work. I’m also inspired by my sister, I love her bold approach. What kind of clothes or items do you like to wear? I like sexy, but classic pieces. I love prints and patterns, mixing textures as well as solid colours. How do you decide what to wear? It depends on how I’m feeling that day and luckily I have great, honest people around me to help. My stylists Ty Hunter and Raquel Smith are an influential part of the process. How do you dress in the summer? I love the summer. I’m always in shorts, dresses, light, flowing fabrics and great sandals. Do you do any charity work? Absolutely. My parents taught my sister and
fashionISTA / 91 me the importance of giving back and making a difference in another person's life. I work closely with a number of charities from food pantries and drug rehabilitation to natural disaster relief and prevention of sexual exploitation of young girls. It is one of the most rewarding things I do.
THE LOOK Style Preferences:
1 Sexy, seductive and provocative on stage. That, however, is strictly her stage persona, as she states, ●
“I’m not like her in real life at all.” 2 From the start of her career to today's date her fashion preferences depict classic to contemporary ● wardrobe styles. According to Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, Knowles uses different fashion styles to go with her music while performing. 3 “Whenever I’m out in public, I have to be well put together. When I get home, I rebel against it and I ● don’t want to take care of anything. I drop it all. I’m relaxed. I don’t have any shoes on. No makeup.” 4 ● Big heavy earrings are her trademark. 5 Her favorite item of clothing is a pair of patchwork metallic boots. ● 6 “My main accomplishment is achieving peace and happiness. Sometimes you think it’s about ● success, and you think that it’s about being a big star. But I want respect, and I want friendship and love and laughter, and I want to grow.” 7 A style concession of hers since the birth of her daughter, Blue Ivy, is the permanent blue-hued ● manicure that makes an appearance occasionally along with a great pair of flats. What she carries off well and why:
1 Since the release of her song 'Dangerously in Love,' she has become a crossover sex symbol ● 2 “I take ‘home’ with me,” she says. “I take the church and the hair salon, the Southern hospitality and ●
the realness. They shape the way I look at people and look at life. It keeps us all grounded.”
3 She has a vibrant and glamorous image that has made her an in-demand commercial spokesperson ●
and model, with ad campaigns for L'Oreal, Tommy Hilfiger and Pepsi.
4 “I had so much fun collaborating on the campaign with Pepsi. I got to relive some of my favourite ●
past characters and looks. It was the first time I saw those costumes in years and it was very emotional," says Beyoncé, "I'm proud of those moments and they all connect in some way and have helped me evolve into who I am today." 5 TIME counted Beyoncé among the 100 most influential people in the world. ●
Recently Spotted In: 1 For the New York Premier of her HBO documentary “Beyoncé: Life Is But A Dream” at Ziegfeld ● Theatre, she rocked a beaded mesh design by Elie Saab Couture. 2 The diva arrived on the red carpet at the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards at the Staples Center in Los ● Angeles wearing a crepe jumpsuit with white panel detailing. It was a fitted black-and-white outfit by Osman Yousefzada with graphic lines and a strong shoulder. The 31-year-old entertainer complemented the ensemble with geometric black and white bangles, a Swarovski Gemma clutch, Jimmy Choo Kalpa sandals, and Lorraine Schwartz jewellery. The look featured short sleeves, a high neckline and a tight fit around her curvy backside. This style icon finished the look with a sleek ponytail and red lips. 3 She performed in a Rubin Singer leather bodysuit with lace applique, for the Pepsi Super Bowl XLVII ● Halftime Show at Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. 4 ● Knowles looked exquisite in a black velvet burnout gown by Emilio Pucci for her performance at the President’s inauguration. With her husband Jay-Z, she arrived for the Presidential Inauguration on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington in an elegant black fur coat by Christian Dior. 5 Beyoncé also appeared with her husband, wearing a Thakoon Addition zebra print button down top ● and Giraffe Walk Jaipur tie woven flats, at Old Havana, Cuba while on a tour. Compiled by Basra Bashir
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Fashion for all
Splash has created history of sorts by making fashion available to the masses. Behind the success of this mass brand is Raza Beig, who has made his name in the Dubai fashion circles by pioneering the bi-annual Splash fashion show that is almost as popular as the brand or even more. By Sindhu Nair
On
the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the brand, Raza speaks to GLAM about his passion, his fashion mantra and why he believes in having a brand that caters to the masses. “‘Fashion 365’ is what I believe best defines Splash. As a brand we believe in offering the latest in international trends and fashion at affordable prices. Our collections always reflect the fun, youth and vibrancy of the season,” he says. For someone who made a living by teaching, fashion seems to be an unlikely industry to turn to. But Beig says, “Probably it was my calling. When I entered retail, it was all about the brand and the customer. I enjoyed the interaction and my love grew for the business of fashion. Thereafter, there was no looking back.”
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You have made the Splash fashion shows a legend by itself. What made you build on this aspect? Our show is a team effort. It is a celebration of the designers at Splash and the hard work they put in season after season, bringing forth the latest fashion. There is a lot of good work that happens in our office and this is one way to show our customers what we are about. Our bi-annual fashion shows started seven years ago. A customer told me that though he knew the brand, others had no clue about it. That is when I decided to ensure that the work done in my office, should be showcased and the teamwork celebrated. The first fashion show got people’s attention and so we decided to then have three shows, to entertain and accommodate more customers and to introduce newer ones to the Brand. For our 10th show we had a Fashion Carnival where 16,000 people turned up and that is when we knew we had our customers’ attention. What is your fashion principle? Do you follow design trends? Who decides the theme of each collection? My personal fashion principle is comfort with elegance. I do follow trends, but only what suits my style and personality. At Splash, we have over 50 designers, who work collectively and highlight the most important trends. Once it is signed off by my core team, we go in to designing entire collections. Who picks the designers or products for Splash? Who is the sourcing expert? I started as a buyer and product has been my real strength. Over the years I trained my team personally and today, it is a team effort – from design to sourcing and to the final product. No single name can be put to credit and we take pride in creating all this as a team job. What would you say if critics call Splash products a “watered down version” of clothes or clothes which do not last long? I will accept watered down versions because we give away the trends on the runway, at a fraction of the price. Similar products in a high-end store would be anywhere from 10 to 25 times the cost. On the other aspect of durability, I will not defend because I am sure you would not wish to cling on to a QR100
dress and hand it down to your granddaughter. Fashion is all about newness and we offer the service of giving fast fashion for the season and then move on to the next season, without feeling the pressure on the spend. All high street retailers work on the formula –“wear a few times and then move on to the next season.” Who are the designers that Splash has an eye on? We look at markets, fashion shows and changing cultures and habits. Design is all about newness, so we watch all the top-end luxury houses, because that is where new trends are created. Who do you aim a Splash design at? You do not have a face (or celebrity) of the brand? A Splash design is for everyone, be it a 12-year-old or a 60-year-old, man or woman. We even cater to the plus size clientele. We are a family store, catering to all lifestyles. Our customer is our inspiration. What is ICONIC all about? Which segment have you kept in mind while acquiring the brand? ICONIC is a lifestyle destination that caters to all the fashion needs of men, women and kids. We focus on being a youthful departmental store. Will you bring your iconic fashion show to Doha in its true sense for Splash’s 20th birthday celebrations? It’s a great idea, but logistics, costs and approvals can be an issue. I will do a trunk show only if I can do it across the GCC for all my customers. But this is food for thought, I will work on it!
GLAM / BEAUTY
JUNE 2013
01 Grow your nails to the maximum!
With Sally Hansen's new Maximum Growth Treatment, one week is all it takes to achieve longer nails. The new advanced, nourishing and effective formula helps nails grow longer in just seven days. Developed with a triple-protein and silk formula, this lengthening treatment instantly strengthens soft, bitten, weak nails. The advanced formula works to fortify nails and protect them from breaking and splitting to help them become visibly longer in a single week.
02
Bourjois' first large format sunny bronzing powder! From the new collection Summer on the Riviera, Bourjois has created the Maxi Delight Bronzer which enhances radiance and prolongs your natural tan through an original combination of exquisite ingredients – golden pearly extracts and beta-carotent. It has an incredibly delicate, soft and light texture to ensure a delightful application. Its maxi format is ideal to enchance the face and dÊcolletÊ in one single sweep of the brush.
04
More than just water
03
The latest take on beauty balm
The newest BB cream in the market isn't just any beauty balm. The Urban Decay Naked Skin Beauty Balm delivers measurable anti-ageing benefits. While many beauty balms are tinted to provide coverage, this one diffuses light with high-tech pigments to give you amazing, natural, naked-looking skin that keeps getting better every week. It uses optical blurring pigments that instantly even out skin tone and minimises pores, lines, wrinkles and redness. It has SPF 20 that shields the skin from sun damage and Pepha-Protect helps inhibit DNA damage. It treats your skin with Vitasource to firm, improve elasticity and provide measurable anti-ageing benefits. The beauty balm leaves a smooth finish and moisturises without being greasy.
Though it might seem silly to some, the Evian mineral water spray is one of the most useful items to keep in your bag this summer. The cool mist rehydrates skin suffering from overheated or humid air. It also revives your makeup throughout the day and keeps you looking fresh by replenishing that much needed moisture.
05
Keep your lips smooth with EOS A celebrity favourite, the EOS sphere lip balm will keep your lips perfectly moistured this summer. Available in different flavours, it's 95% organic and packed with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, soothing shea butter and jojoba oil.
06
Get the natural glow with your moisturiser Getting a natural glow on your body isn't always easy. The Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturisers will give you a beautiful, natural-looking colour that's just right for you. The formula used has been clinically proven to gradually deliver the optimum amount of natural-looking colour to enrich the appearance of your skin – now without sunless tanner odour. The secret to getting the natural glow is the buildable formula used and by layering the product, you can gradually build up to the exact glow you want without the fear of looking orange! Designed for both fair to medium and medium to tan skin tones.
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Oh La La!
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Perfect lashes with Dior Keeping your lashes looking good during summer isn't always easy, especially if you want to take a dip in the water. With Dior's waterproof mascara, Diorshow Iconic Extreme Waterproof, you will be sure to experience no smudges and perfectly curled lashes. It uses the Lift Model Extrême compound, which uses Latex polymers like those in hairspray to coat and set each lash, giving the result of an over-the-top curve. It's long-wearing and smudge proof to beat the humidity.
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An eyeliner that is here to stay Formulated to withstand everything, from tears to inclement weather, the Lancôme Le Stylo waterproof eyeliner has a unique twist tip that never needs sharpening. It won't skip, smudge or streak. The easy-glide, creamy texture helps you create any look you like and it now comes in 10 different shades.
The latest fragrance from Juicy Couture, Couture La La is the new bold companion to the previous fragrance launched in 2006. “There are many layers to her personality. She’s confident and fearless but at the same time flirty and feminine. The Juicy Couture girl lives and breathes couture — it’s part of her everyday fashion and fragrance choices,” says LeAnn Nealz, President and Chief Creative Officer of Juicy Couture. The fragrance is a mix of a sparkling fruits blend with water hyacinth and bold white florals, revealing a luminous bouquet of water lilly and muguet. The translucent dry-down highlights the sensuality of smooth woods and frosted liquid musk.
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Matthew Williamson brings the '70s back
Matthew Williamson's new The Rich Is Back palette for Benefit brings back another era to makeup. This '70s-inspired kit includes bright eye shadows such as Peacock and Rainbow Leopard, plus the little extras (mascara and lip gloss) that a girl needs. Williamson's embrace of colour and pattern feels fresh and fun. The designer was looking towards the Studio 54 era for the limited-edition palette, citing Bianca Jagger and Diana Ross as some inspirations.
GLAM / BEAUTY
JUNE 2013
Kora Organics by Miranda Kerr arrives on Net-à-porter Organic beauty fans will be pleased to hear that the Australian supermodel’s range of skincare is now available via the Net-à-Porter online shop. Organic beauty brand Kora Organics has released an exclusive Revitalizing Body Pack containing Enriched Body Lotion (jojoba, noni extract and cocoa butter), Energising Citrus Mist (bergamot, orange and aloe vera), Exfoliating Cream (oat flour and bamboo) and Luxurious Rosehip Body Oil. The products are also available individually via Net-à-Porter. Launched in 2009 in Australia as an exclusive at department store David Jones, the brand is now slowly expanding around the world, as part of global growth in organic skincare.
EstÈE Lauder creates first new fragrance in ten years Luxury cosmetics company Estèe Lauder is creating its first major women’s perfume since 2003’s Beyond Paradise. Titled Modern Muse and set to hit stores later this year, the new fragrance is rather aptly fronted by American model Arizona Muse, who was shot by famous fashion photographer Craig McDean in New York City. The scent combines a fresh and light jasmine accord (expanded with mandarin, lily, honeysuckle, tuberose and petals) with woodier notes building up from amber wood, patchouli, vanilla and musk. Modern Muse was concocted by Harry Fremont, the nose behind the famous Polo Sport by Ralph Lauren, a number of Vera Wang’s biggest hits (including Princess) and the co-creator of the smash hit CK One fragrance.
Max Factor launches ‘72-hour’ mascara Ever wished your mascara could be completely sleepproof? Fans of clean pillows everywhere will be excited to hear that Max Factor has come to the rescue with a new mascara it says works like a long-lasting lash tint. The Lashfinity 3 Day Mascara is completely waterproof, meaning it won’t come off in the shower or in the sea (good news if you’re hitting the beach this summer and planning on flashing your lashes), and the formula is said to have 72 hours of staying power. When you want to remove the product, it’s as simple as using a cotton bud and the built-in remover.
Kate Moss shoots for St. Tropez The British supermodel has been unveiled as the new face and body of self-tan brand St. Tropez. A new video released by the brand shows Moss behind the scenes on the campaign shoot and waxing lyrical about the benefits of the brand, which she trusts to give her “a natural looking tan: that’s what people want. They don’t want something orange.” The 39-year-old model is a big fan of summer -- “I love hanging out in my garden and not having to put layers and layers of clothes on, and swimming in the sea.” Michelle Feeney, CEO of PZ Cussons Beauty, owners of St. Tropez, was excited about their new brand representative: “It gives us the ultimate stamp of approval on the quality of our products. Kate epitomises St. Tropez’s naturally glamorous approach to self-tanning and is a long-time advocate of the brand.” The company is also launching a publicity drive on Twitter, encouraging fans to tweet whenever they’re off on vacation with the #OFFTOSTTROPEZ handle. The brand will send out Riviera-chic content and prizes to those who play along, while one lucky follower and a friend will win their own summer trip to Saint Tropez, France.
Rooney Mara for Calvin Klein’s Downtown The 28-year-old star of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and the recent “Side Effects” has been snapped up by Calvin Klein as the face of the new Downtown fragrance. Rooney Mara has exploded on the international style scene ever since her radical restyle for a role as Lisbeth Salander in David Fincher’s hit 2011 film adaptation of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” Fincher has teamed up with Mara again for the black and white TV advertising campaign for Calvin Klein’s new perfume, Downtown. Set to debut in July 2013, and shot in New York City, the short film tells the story of a confident young woman (played by Mara) breaking out and living her own life, soundtracked by the New York City art-pop band Yeah Yeah Yeahs’s “Runaway”. “Downtown Calvin Klein is a fragrance for women that live by their own rules,” explained Catherine Walsh, Senior Vice President at Coty Prestige. “This campaign captures a woman with an original ‘downtown’ mindset -- she leads a lifestyle that is authentic and defies expectations. We were thrilled to work with Rooney Mara for this campaign; her individuality and formidable talent resonate with the incredible legacy of women who have been captured in Calvin Klein advertising over the years.” Alongside the film is a full print campaign, which was shot by acclaimed fashion photographer Jean-Baptiste Mondino.
Amanda Seyfried new face of Givenchy fragrance Amanda Seyfried is the new face of Givenchy’s iconic perfume Very Irresistible, the French house announced. Seyfried steps up to replace Liv Tyler, who sang in the ad video of “Very Irresistible Givenchy Electric Rose” in 2012. Amanda Seyfried has starred in 20 movies, including “Mamma Mia!” and “Les Miserables.” The American actress has also featured on the cover of several magazines, but has rarely appeared in ad campaigns. She has already posed, however, in a campaign for Shiseido.
For the love of
crystals BY SINDHU NAIR
W
orking inside an eighteenth century building in the heart of Paris and having to travel to amazing places around the world, we can see why Nathalie Colin feels spoilt by her working environment. The Creative Director of the Consumer Good Business division of the Swarovski Group, has been infusing the collection with her creativity and vision of modernity since 2006. A very passionate lady, Nathalie loves what she does and draws inspiration from her job, the environment and from the people she works with. She says, “I love my job, my team, and with them I find endless possibilities for creative inspirations.” And her passion for the job comes from the diversity it has to offer. “Every day is different, filled with new topics, new people to meet to discuss projects and design ideas. And this eclectic side of it, I really love. I would get bored in a repetitive type of job,” says Nathalie. GLAM has an exclusive tête-à-tête with the woman behind the crystals.
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What is the theme for Swarovski SS 2013? The theme of our Spring Summer 2013 collection is Tropical Paradise, a journey through South America, from the rolling green hills of Rio de Janeiro to the glistening white sandy beaches of Miami. The inspiration came to me when I heard all the unsettling news about economy, political crises and so on. I felt we needed to go on a trip, real or imaginary, to an unknown paradise to be amazed by stunning landscapes and extraordinary colours, tropical flowers and lush vegetation, exuberant patterns and beautiful craftsmanship. So the main inspiration comes from South America, especially Brazil and Mexico, where the economy is buoyant and gives, to the outside world, an impression of strong dynamism. The collection is exotic, joyous, extravagant, exuberant and sensual: just like the people from the countries’ that inspired the designs. Tell us about the design process at Swarovski. I work closely with a designing team comprising of 50 people from 21 nationalities. Everyone brings his/her expertise and ideas which are very different with varied backgrounds. All these inputs impart richness to every collection and make them unique. The collections are created after a lot of passionate and creative brainstorming and positive teamwork. We are also supported by 600 experts in R&D who make our ideas come true. They help develop that colour, mixing different techniques until the right shade and the best effect comes to life. Fashion, art and jewellery. How do they all come together to form a cohesive statement? All the trends from fashion, art and jewellery are complementary. Each picks its inspiration from the other, so fashion will be inspired by art, jewellery as well, and art will be inspired by both, they all work together and complete each other, that makes a cohesive statement. What is your personal style statement? Personally, I found my inspiration in a lot of domains: music, art, travels, countries, fashion, design, books and movies. All these sources inspire me to create a whole theme for the seasonal collections. I do have a personal style, every creative director has his own signature, but I also like to experiment new fields, and create different type of jewels so every woman can find the one which will reflect her personality the most. What is your personal favourite jewellery brand? It’s Swarovski, of course! Because we have so many different styles in the collection, from super-trendy pieces to modern everyday jewellery, classic feminine styles to glamourous cocktail end red carpet pieces. You don’t really need another brand! But, I also like vintage jewellery pieces from the designer Tony Duquette, which are very rich and flamboyant. I also buy at the flea markets from around the world that I usually do not wear but treasure like a decorative emotional object at home.
Nathalie's Must-have: I would go definitely for a necklace, because it’s a piece that can change and personalise an entire outfit. From Spring Summer 2013 collection, I would recommend the TANGARA necklace. It has all the important ingredients: the multi-coloured use of crystals, floral inspiration for the bib-shape but modernised in a kaleidoscope way, some metallic touches that add a distinct contemporary touch. It’s very feminine and glamourous in a new way.
A Gut feeling Viva Mayr Center in Austria combines several natural therapeutic approaches with the main focus on the digestion system. Debrina Aliyah gets introduced to this new approach and comes back an enthusiastic convert.
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When Dr. Christine Stossier of the famous Viva Mayr Center in Austria took the one empty seat at our table for lunch, everyone had a mild look of horror on their faces. Just moments before, she had announced during her introduction that talking was not encouraged during meals at her clinic and that it is an absolute need for you to chew at least forty times before you swallow your food. Lunch was going to be a quiet affair. But of course, we were not at her clinic but at the beautiful Traiteur restaurant at Park Hyatt Dubai, and Dr. Stossier did chat
Everything starts from the gut. If you look at a tree, the strength comes from the root & the root is like your gut with us throughout lunch, albeit only in between courses. Exchanges were thrown across the table with many ladies openly discussing their eating habits and dietary restrictions. I had pinned Dr. Stossier down then as a no-nonsense kind of woman, she shot down ridiculous suggestions of fad eating trends including the very popular
raw food movement. I quietly noted down many philosophies of the Viva Mayr method and could easily relate that they were all fundamentals of eating that we had long forgotten -- no talking with your mouth full, chewing your food properly, and genuinely just enjoying the taste and texture of your meals, were just some of them. In the book, ‘The Viva Mayr Diet,’ the founder of the Viva Mayr approach, Dr. Harald Stossier stressed that we have to relearn the most basic human action of eating. In keeping with our busy lives, we do not really think about eating anymore. We just throw some food into our body and move on. Still, I have to admit I was about half a skeptic when I arrived later in the afternoon at Dubai Herbal and Treatment Center for my consultation with Dr. Stossier. My family and friends will be quick to testify that I am a bona fide health and fitness fanatic, and after passing a thorough medical check 10 months ago with flying colours, I knew I was in the green zone, or so I thought. “If there is nothing wrong with you, then there is something wrong with the diagnosis. Nobody is perfect,” Dr. Stossier asserted. I guess you do not mess with Austrian precision and true enough, in that one hour spent with her, I came out of the room a complete convert. The modern Viva Mayr therapy is a form of complementary medicine that combines several natural therapeutic approaches with the main focus being your digestion system. “Everything starts from your gut. It is the foundation of your health. If you look at a tree, the strength comes from the root and the root is like your gut,” Dr Stossier explained. And so she went about a diagnosis
102 \ EXPERIENCE The Viva Mayr Philosophy 1 We can avoid almost every disease and live a ●
healthy life if we just learn to eat properly.
2 No sugar – that’s the best sugar you can have. ● 3 Chewing your food properly is the single most ●
important thing you can do for your digestion and general health.
● Eating the right way to enhance the results of your 4
workouts.
5 Do not eat raw food after 4pm. ● 6 Detox programme to cleanse the blood and the ●
body for a renewed sense of strength and vitality.
consultation for me using the applied kinesiology test, a simple method that involves asking the body questions and letting the body respond through changes in muscle strength. The changes in muscle strength as a reaction to targeted stimuli reveals a lot in terms of food intolerances, requirements of vitamins and vital substances or other medical measures. This test was a real eye-opener, as I saw my body immediately reacted to different food groups. Dr. Stossier’s diagnosis answered long-standing small doubts I had of my health, which the conventional medical check 10 months ago had failed to detect. If you were checked into the Austria clinic, you would then embark on a three- week recovery journey following your diagnosis with a team of doctors headed by Dr. Christine’s husband, Dr.
Dubai Herbal and Treatment Center
Viva Mayr partners with clinics around the world to offer patients who are unable to travel to Austria a chance to experience the Viva Mayr way of life. The Dubai Herbal and Treatment Center is Viva Mayr’s partner in the Middle East. Dr. Harald Stossier and his wife Dr. Christine Stossier visits Dubai every couple of months to receive appointments to diagnose patients and prescribe follow-up treatments and programmes which can be done in the Dubai Herbal and Treatment Center. To book an appointment, call +97143351200 or visit www.dubaihtc.com. For more information on Viva Mayr, www.viva-mayr.com
Harald. In that time, while enjoying a beautiful retreat away from the stress of daily life, you will be introduced to the Viva Mayr way of eating and approach to life. Many patients come away with a renewed sense of experience and outlook on their eating habits, and of course, a cure for their ailments. As for me, Dr. Stossier prescribed changes that I could undertake on my own to fix my ailments. Seriously, she had remarked that I do not view these problems lightly. “When you are young, your body is capable of fighting against problems. What people don’t realise is that one day when they wake up with diabetes, for example, when they are 40 years old; it’s a slow process that has been building up for years. So it is important for you to address the root of the problems now.” Needless to say, I took her advice seriously too. It is one thing to live life like there is no tomorrow, but it is another when you have truly seen for yourself what your body is trying to tell you.
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get fit with glam If you are a GLAM regular, you will know we are big on health and fitness, especially yoga. Yoga is one of the few fitness routines that allows you to practise at your own pace and goes beyond just physical training. This summer, the team – with our fitness gear ready – got a special Candlelight Yoga class at The Ritz Carlton Doha. The class was held in dimmed lighting with a special focus on breathing and calming of the mind.
Take the
weather with you BY JODY RYAN
M
y family and I recently returned from a relaxing beach holiday along the exotic shores of Thailand. Having been there many times before, we pretty much knew what to expect in terms of food, sights and smells, weather and the people. Where to go, what to do, how to spend our time and how much to pay when haggling over prices with street vendors are not new to us. This holiday was to be mostly lying either by the poolside or the beach with a good book in hand, drenched in tanning lotion, soaking up the rays of the sun. At least that was the plan. In reality, for about half the days our hands were reaching for an umbrella rather than lathering on any sunscreen lotion. Living in the desert makes rain somewhat special for us, but when you’ve taken the time to go on holiday and spent a fortune to get there, the last thing you want to find is a sky full of clouds and threatening rain. While practising yoga we focus on (at least we try to) what is happening in every particular moment and our response to it. We notice what comes easily and what we struggle with. We try to deal with expectations like being able to keep our balance on one day, only to fall flat the next. We find ourselves in some of the most uncomfortable positions and practise taking a moment to decide what to do about it. Or just noticing our response to the discomfort. Do we force our way through? Do we pull back or quit? Do we accept this limitation or situation? Rather than immediately reacting out of habit or blindly moving forward, we try to reflect and respond with a meaningful choice. Everyone’s days are filled with situations, conversations and experiences that give cause for thought and a response or choice to make. The moment we wake up finding no hot water available and beginning our day with something unwelcome like a cold shower. Having a sick child at home when we’re expected at work
for an important meeting. Making a choice about what food we put in our body: whether it’s going to be that fresh green healthy apple or a bag of crisps with a soda. Maybe it’s initiating a conversation with our child who’s struggling with friends at school, or being on the phone with those who are breaking news to us of a death or serious illness in the family. How do we respond in each circumstance? Do we accept the situation as it is and move forward with what needs to be done? Does our stress response begin to rise causing our heart to pound, our back to ache, our breathing to become laboured? Can we sleep at night? When our life ambles along smoothly, it is easy to be calm and
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But by stepping on my yoga mat each day, I practise how I might better manage my stress, fears, problems and anxieties that inevitably make their way into life. I work on letting go of the things I have no control over
keep cool. But what happens when everything is not as we’d like it to be? As the clouds gathered, opened and then poured water on us while sitting on the beach, we had a choice. Retreat to the hotel room sulking along the way or choose as we did, pile everything under a big umbrella and hit the pool! We soaked up raindrops falling cool on our faces while our bodies were kept warm in the water underneath. We made use of the waterslides while there were no long line-ups. We spent time floating down the lazy river, talking effortlessly and endlessly with each other. I don’t always like what’s happening, the decisions that have to be made or the available choices on any given day. I don’t always
jump in to the river and go with the flow. Some days, I want the road work by my house to be finished so it didn’t continually cause me to struggle around all the detours. But by stepping on my yoga mat each day, I practise how I might better manage my stress, fears, problems and anxieties that inevitably make their way into life. I work on letting go of the things I have no control over. I push myself to be strong in ways I could not have imagined. I learn to pause before making a choice. Instead of trying to battle mother nature on those dreary vacation days, we chose to jump in. Fully enjoying the twists, turns, bumps and joys along the ride! What choices will you make along your own journey?
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Scent--sations
W
By Abigail Mathias
hat does it take to have a nose that attracts admirers from the world over? Ask Karen Dubreuil. From Guerlain to Gucci and Roberto Cavalli, she has worked with a number of leading perfume brands in the world. La Collection de Grasse is her most recent venture for the L ’Occitane brand. She speaks exclusively to GLAM and relates the experience. This June, four unique fragrances by L ’Occitane will make their mark in the region. As someone who was born and raised in the picturesque town of Grasse, their specially selected nose was easily inspired by her surroundings. “I was born and spent my childhood in Grasse. I have always had a passion for nature and fragrances, which led me to the Roure Bertrand Dupont perfumery school in Grasse,” explains Dubreuil. The school was established by Jean Carles, creator of the legendary Miss Dior perfume. In the past, Dubreuil has also collaborated with brands such as Roger and Gallet, Guerlain, Mugler, Lanvin and Jo Malone. She has also dabbled with music and is an accomplished opera singer. Dubreuil shares a love of Provence and a taste for simplicity with Olivier Baussan, the founder of L’ Occitane. “I know the
land of L ’Occitane because it is also my own Provence,” she says passionately. The region of Grasse has been associated with perfumers from as early as the 18th century. It is believed that the greatest perfumers in the world learned their skills in Grasse. The town of Grasse in Provence is the world’s perfume capital and a true meeting point for raw materials from close and distant lands. “La Collection de Grasse is all about bringing these ingredients together. We have been forging strong links with the town for more than six years, through our patronage of the International Perfume Museum,” says Dubreuil. In keeping with the brand’s affinity with nature, the perfumes closely reflect natural elements. “Connecting with nature is very important for inspiration and creativity. Each of my fragrances calls on memories and unique moments in my life.” Creating these perfumes also involved conjuring up personally treasured moments for the perfumer. “Rather than simply trying to replicate what certain flowers or trees smell like, I wanted to capture the way they make you feel on a typical sunny Provencal day. For Jasmin and Bergamote, I was inspired by an image of the fields of jasmine in Grasse, where I would help harvest the flowers, but also the opulence of jasmine in the freshness of the night. For Vanille and Narcisse, narcissus makes a link with the sweet memory of my grandmother’s garden, adorned with beautiful white flowers in the spring,” she explains. With each fragrance two ingredients have been brought together, using the ampersand symbol to link the raw materials and elements infused. “The ampersand sign on the bottle is emblematic of the story of the collection. It represents both the winding roads taken by the ingredients to reach Grasse and the union of two ingredients for each fragrance,” she explains. According to Dubreuil, “Anyone should be able to find a fragrance that they love, with this line.” While Jasmin and Bergamote is aimed at women who are looking for a refined, floral scent that is both delicate and fresh, Magnolia and Mure denotes a tone of mystery revealed over time. Vanille and Narcisse will appeal to women who are looking for a sensual, enveloping skin scent. Thé Vert and Bigarade is aimed at men and women alike. Bigarade is the French name for bitter orange. The simple packaging of the perfumes is appealing. The bottles have been designed by Baussan and handmade by a prestigious glass-maker.
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Tex mex tastes in Doha
California Tortilla has just opened its new store in Qatar. This is the popular Tex-Mex brand’s first international outlet. It is located on C-Ring Road, a prime location for food and beverage outlets in Doha. California Tortilla serves fresh burritos, quesadillas, salads as well as its famous specialty burritos such as signature Blackened Chicken Caesar Burrito and other 'Cal-Mex' favourites. California Tortilla has been constantly redefining the fast casual Mexican segment; adding a Californian twist to the normal burritos and serving it up with a lot of personality. California Tortilla is best known for its fresh made-to-order offerings, vibrant decor and fun in-store promotions. Renowned for its bright and lively decor and fun vibe, the Doha restaurant reflects the atmosphere of California Tortilla; bright colours of green, red, yellow and orange reflecting the colours of the fresh ingredients used throughout the menu. The ‘Wall of Flame’ has over 75 hot sauces to try; each with a number rating, 1 equaling very mild and 10 for super-hot. “We are very proud to open the first international store in Doha. Working in close partnership with the international branches, we are excited to bring the unique flavours of California Tortilla to all Tex-Mex lovers in Doha. Qatar is a growing dynamic and quality-driven market and California Tortilla will continue to provide this to all food lovers in Doha,” said Simon Nehme, Managing Partner, Roots for Hospitality and Services.
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Wedded bliss
The recently concluded I-wed event held at the Doha Exhibition Centre was a huge success. Recognised as the leading wedding industry event of its kind in the region, this year marked its sixth edition in Doha. The event was held from 16-19 May and coincides with the start of wedding season in the GCC. Walid Attalah, the award-winning fashion designer was the guest of honour at this year’s event. This year's edition hosted a number of fashion shows. These included brands such as Sposabella, The Couture Gallery London, Hania, Leen Fashion, Nara Salon, Glam Your Image, David Martinez and Fadia El Mendelek. Another special feature included this year was ‘The Steps’, a young designer runway competition built to encourage upcoming designers. “This was my first time exhibiting in Qatar. Usually I showcase the new collections at the London based shows,” said Britta Kjerkegaard, Designer and Founder of the UK-based
company, The Couture Gallery. “Since I have clients travelling from the Middle East to see me in London, I wanted to explore possibilities further in this part of the world,” she adds. Another exhibitor named Joe Atallah said, “Our line, Esposa has frequently had Qatari customers visiting our boutiques in Beirut and in Dubai. In recognition of this, we brought Esposas’ new collection to I-wed Doha for the first time.” Esposa offers a wide selection of gowns from top of the line bridal designers in an intimate salon setting. The brand has stores in Sao Paolo, Beirut and Dubai. I-wed also hosted a special section which catered to visitors offering tips and tricks on improving their overall look, with the help of a professional style consultant. GLAM was one of the prominent media partners at the event.
Golden beauty Nara Salon is a beauty and body sculpting centre that provides numerous services, making it a one-stop destination for all your beauty, fitness and personal care treatments. The salon is supported by a well-trained and professional staff. It recently supported the I-wed by conducting the makeup and tattoo applications on models at the event. The salon offers a range of day spa treatments using Dermalogica body treatments, body slimming and sculpting (using the LPG endermospa concept and the innovative Huber Motion Lab accompanied by circuit training), Face Care (with Dermalogica skin care programme), hair care, nails care and a range of gold tattoos. The interior of Nara Salon houses a VIP treatment room with wooden walls, onyx marble Moroccan bath and LPG themed treatment room.
Business lunches just got better
Chi’Zen recently announced the launch of its new business lunch menu at the Oryx Rotana, Doha. The menu caters to professionals and businessmen who want to treat themselves to a quick meal or enjoy a business lunch in the company of associates. The courses are offered from QR 65 for a two course and QR 75 for a three course and available from 12 noon to 4 pm. Led by Asian culinary specialist, Head Chef Eddie Burban, Chi’Zen offers a selection of exceptional dishes with impeccably prompt service. Understanding the importance of being served a fulfilling meal efficiently during lunch hours, the chef produces dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients and innovative cooking styles. Speaking about the business lunch menu, Sanjeev Thakur, Country Operations Manager at Foodmark Qatar, said, “At Chi’Zen, we offer a wide array of signature dishes to suit individual tastes and dietary requirements in a refined, sleek yet awe-inspiring environment, allowing our guests to indulge in the most popular Chinese favourites with a contemporary twist.” Specialised in an array of exceptional Chinese dishes, the new menu comprises delicious treats including warm duck salad, crystal prawn dumplings and sweet chilli hammour. Derived conceptually from the critically acclaimed Zen chain of restaurants in Hong Kong, China, London and Mexico, Chi’Zen offers an entirely novel and exclusive culinary journey of its own.
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Fashion Mob Did you get flash mobbed?
Shoppers at Lagoona Mall got a pleasant surprise when 50 fashion models broke out into a scene re-enactment of an enchanting Parisian night at the French boulevard. The fashion flash mob was to celebrate the opening of the Jezequel, a French lifestyle clothing brand in Qatar. Drawing on its French heritage, the flash mobsters wore Jezequel’s latest Spring Summer collections which feature its trademark casual sportswear line. “The flash mob highlighted our Spring Summer collection for which we are receiving significant attention from clients and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to discover the unique value that Jezequel offers,” said CEO of Naira International Group, Gilbert El Khoury. Get into the flash mob action with videos from the event on our website, www. glamqatar.com
Pacha Ibiza World Tour Pacha Ibiza beachside event will be coming to Doha this June 6th at the Marriott Hotel beach.
Pacha is an event franchise with headquarters in Ibiza, Spain. The first Pacha club was opened in sites outside Barcelona in 1967. The Ibiza club, located in Ibiza Town, is the best-known venue today. The event starts at 8pm and limited tickets are available from Virgin Megastore (Villaggio and Landmark outlets), Virgin Online Tickets (http://tickets. virginmegastore.me), Doha Rocks Cafe Al Rayyan, Airport Road) and Marriott Hotel reception. Ticket prices: QR 200 Girls, QR 250 Guys, QR 350 VIP (only 150 available) and QR 150 Crew. The tour comes to Doha via Loud Entertainment.
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Scent of success Qatar’s first perfume exhibition was recently held at Doha Exhibition Centre. Eman Amna of White Hands Media said this was a ‘first of its kind’ exhibition to be held in Qatar and there were plans to organise it annually for the next five years. “The idea of the exhibition was to bring local and international companies, especially those operating in the Gulf region, under one roof,” she said. Hani al-Mustafa is executive director of Al Mamlaka Perfume Co, one of the prominent
local companies whose products are displayed at the exhibition. “Everybody in the Arab region is a fan of Oud (wood-based) perfumes and our company has engineered special perfumes to cater to this market,” he said. Markaz Sabir, a brand from Kuwait, was also showcasing its products. The Marghoob brand for women and Ajaib for men are their most widely sold perfumes in Doha.
Skin and Soul recently opened a new salon for men in Doha’s Lagoona Mall.