Contents
36 summer 13 Edits
These are the investment pieces you most definitely need in your wardrobe right now. Beg, borrow or steal to get them!
38 Bridal Looks Inspired
GLAM
46 Clara Rosa
qatar's no.1 fashion magazine w w w.g l a m qata r .c o m
MAY 2013
We put together four different looks, to appeal to the different personalities in you. Let your unique style shine through on your big day.
The renowned bridal designer finally arrives on the shores of Qatar. She tells us why every man needs a thobe in their wardrobe.
48 Bridal Jewellery
It is as important, if not more, than your dress. The right ones stay in your collection forever, each with significance of your union of love.
Contents 56 Rani Zakhem
The couture bridal designer’s touch is exquisite and classic. He tells us why classic cuts are important especially for your big day.
76 VCUQ fashion show
The five graduating students put the theme 'Fingerprint' through a new perspective and take us through their own journey into design.
84 Fashion Journey
Qatar’s biggest fashion initiative this year, is a fashion entrepreneur programme by Roudha Center to hone the next homegrown label.
90 Wadha Al Hajri
Producing a collection is no easy work, and Wadha knows it well. After two years in planning, she finally reveals the first DNA of her design work.
92 The Ricky Bag
The craftsmen of Ralph Lauren take us on a discovery journey of their precious work in producing the brand’s iconic Ricky bag.
110 Super Facialist
Our editor Sindhu Nair takes a relaxing hour under the trained hands of super facialist Su-Man and ponders on the hype.
GLAM
qatar's no.1 fashion magazine MAY 2013
On the cover Jennifer Lawrence 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 Rory Coen 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
Jiffry
Assistant Managers - Marketing Chaturka
Karandana
thomas jose
Senior Media ConsultantS Hasan
REDDY B
Rekkab
lydia youssef
Marketing Research & Support Executive Kanwal
Baluch
Senior Accountant Pratap
Chandran
Sr. Distribution Executive Bikram
Shrestha
Distribution Support Arjun
Timilsina
Bhimal Rai Basantha.P Publisher and Editor–in–chief
Yousuf Jassem Al Darwish
Chief Executive Sandeep
Sehgal
Executive Vice President
Alpana Roy
Vice President
Ravi Raman
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia Recap and coverage of the Russian Fashion Week that took place in Moscow in April featuring more than 70 fashion designers. The event is a main venue for designers with Russian heritage. The aim is to increase support for Russian-speaking fashion designers and to encourage them to present their collections in Moscow.
EVENTS OF THE MONTH 1 The Amazing Shoemaker– Fairy Tales and ● Legends about Shoes & Shoemakers Exhibition From now till 31st March 2014 at Florence. Curated by Stefania Ricci, Sergio Risaliti and Luca Scarlini, the exhibition explores the role that shoes play in fairy tales, myths and legends, which are often centred around shoes and cobblers, as wearing shoes has historically been seen as a sign of wealth and power. It also tells the life story of Salvatore Ferragamo, a personal history that already has all the essential ingredients of a fairy tale. 2 The Little Black Jacket Exhibition ● From now till May 11th 2013, 11am to 9pm daily. Admission free. Downtown Dubai, Mohamed Bin Rashid Boulevard, UAE. The exhibition features Karl Lagerfeld’s photographs of celebrities and other personalities wearing the Chanel jacket. Running simultaneously with the exhibition, window displays in Chanel's Dubai Mall and Burjuman boutiques, as well as Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi, will present a selection of jackets from the 2013 Spring-Summer collection.
COMING UP
GLAM is published by Oryx Advertising Co. WLL. The contents of this publication are subject to copyright and cannot be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher and/or license holder. All rights rest with Datalog media solutions. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any advertising contents carried in this publication. Contact info@omsqatar.com, glam@omsqatar.com www.issuu.com/oryxmags www.facebook.com/glamqatar Call us: +974 44550983, 44672139, 44671178, 44667584 Fax: +974 44550982
Heritage: Louis Vuitton We take a journey of exploration into the history of the storied luxury brand Louis Vuitton, reliving the creation of the monogram and the craft of the iconic canvas bags.
Contributors Debi Mendez Makeup is her weapon. Art is her passion. Celebrated Qatar-based international celebrity makeup artist Debi Mendez has worked for Hollywood actors such as Mark Strong, Michelle Yeoh and fashion designer Roberto Cavalli. She is also a portrait painter, particularly keen on pop-art. http://www.facebook.com/theartofdebimendez
blanca montenegro Blanca is a no stranger to the hair and makeup scene of Doha, having worked extensively with JCCTV, Al Jazeera News, top filmmakers, photographers, talent agencies, fashion magazines and local celebrities. With close to 30 years of international experience, she also specialises in Brazilian Keratin, spray tan, 3DM eyelash extension and eyebrows services. This issue, she recreates the Asian heritage looks for Clash of Cultures. Find her at montenegroblanka0@gmail.com
Robert Grys & Angel Mallari Buddies Rob and Angel share the love for photography and decided to collaborate in the vision of creating amazing photographs. Their visual styles are unique and out of the ordinary, yet widely acceptable by the fashion, modelling, and photography industry. Robert Grys is a technology consultant by profession and a photographer by heart, while Angel Mallari is a versatile professional photographer and lighting expert. Together, they hope to take the photography and fashion industry by storm.
Your Voice on Twitter & Facebook @polliblog: @GlamQatar your covers always “wow” me!” Thank you! Responding to the fashion shoot: Dantella Al Hilali: All, those Abayas are nice. Designer Tamara Al Gabbani: Thank you so much for the feature! It looks great. Suzanne Grant: Interesting story. I enjoyed the interview.
scenes from behind the show: If you only read one thing from this issue, let it be our in-depth coverage from the VCUQ graduation show. We meet all five of the final students and get up and close personal with their visions and thoughts. The new graduates will form the next new front runners of the Qatar fashion scene and we hope that you will enjoy getting to know them in our pages just like how we fell in love with their creations.
letters Hey Glam!
Your feature on Anne Hathaway was an interesting read. Thank you for the update on the next issue. I cannot wait for it. Lubna Bayed
Hello team,
It is lovely to read about the different abaya designers in the region. Thank you for giving us such a delightful issue. Ananya Singh
Hi,
I love reading your stories and fashion reviews. Keep it up. Michelle Ryder
G Talk hile the NY season sees bridal collections being rolled out on runways, in Qatar, this is the time of the year when wedding planners and banquet halls are completely booked. According to a wedding planner in one of the busiest hotels, Qataris leave no stone unturned to make the D-Day special. Money to the tunes of QR600,000 is churned out on just location and decoration. While I am not one for extravagance or vagrant consumerisation, who does not get gooey-eyed with the romanticism of the wedding moment? Who does not want to look special on this momentous occasion? Glam brings to you breath-taking jewellery and bridal looks to make your BIG Day special. Glam urges you to leave behind the traditional and go punk. But whichever STYLE you chOose to FOLLOW, do it with style and confidence, for you deserve the best, brides really do! Glam also puts a local designer in the spotlight, Wadha Alhajri, whose designs have impressed us so much that we are sure SHE will acquire global acclaim. Her dedication should be an archetype for the younger generation of designers passing out of Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCUQ), some of whom (we feel) chose the profession not by vocation but for the pure glamour FACTOR this industry begets. HOWEVER Glam supports local talent and encourages them. this month we reveal the new breed of designers from our own fashion VCUQ. In our quest to support the best in fashion, Glam goes on a fashion journey with Roudha Center to scout that talented designer from a group of five. We bring you glimpses of the fashion journey and follow the designers as they learn more about the industry.
Editor’s Pick GLAM was invited to be part of the VCUQ Graduation Show jury panel this year, an important calendar event for the students in the fashion design programme. The jury panel precedes the actual show as a platform for the students to receive feedback on their garments. The panel is made up of industry professionals and experts from different aspects of fashion to give students a broad perspective on how their work would be viewed in the real world. The jury also collectively decides on the garments that will receive the W Award (presented by W Hotels & Residences Doha), and the Golden Needle award based on the best junior collection and the best senior collection.
GLAM / NEWS
MAY 2013 Dsquared2 designers celebrate first anniversary of flagship store Dsquared2 designers Dean and Dan Caten visited Tokyo to celebrate the first anniversary of their first flagship store in Ginza. A cocktail exhibition was held at the boutique in collaboration with photographer Leslie Kee. The photographer presented his Super Dsquared2 book with special photos shot during Milan Fashion Week at the Dsquared2 SS13 shows. A long friendship ties the twin designers to the famous photographer. The duo will be dressing Beyonce Knowles on her upcoming tour. Details are at the moment top-secret, but DSQUARED2 have announced that they have designed at least one custom-made piece for the pop megastar as she hits the stage on her upcoming world tour. The brand is promising a “show-stopper of an outfit” that takes its cues from the current, 1990's supermodel-inspired spring/summer collection. Earlier this year the brothers announced that they will be launching a children’s line for Spring 2014, which should please Knowles and husband Jay-Z, who welcomed their daughter Blue Ivy Carter in January 2012. DSQUARED2 have dressed a number of famous musicians over the year, including Britney Spears, Madonna and Justin Timberlake.
Thatcher's look immortalised The invitation of a handbag designer to Margaret Thatcher’s funeral is testament to the way the Iron Lady used fashion to forge her image in what was then the man’s world of British politics. The centre piece was the famous handbag that struck fear into the hearts of ministers, but the blue skirt-suits and shoulder pads, the pearls and her bouffant hair became iconic in their own right. So it was no surprise to see Anya Hindmarch, the fashion accessories designer for whom Thatcher was one of many celebrity clients, on the guest list for her funeral at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Thatcher reputedly bought many of her clothes in bulk from British high-street retailer Marks and Spencer. But her favourite designer was the British heritage outfitter Aquascutum, who provided the fur-collared camel coat that she wore on her triumphant visit to Moscow in 1987. Hilary Alexander, fashion critic of Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper, said Thatcher’s wardrobe on the Soviet trip “made world headlines and established her as the decade’s most important ‘power dresser’, alongside Diana, Princess of Wales.” Seven of Thatcher’s suits, including the jade-green wool outfit worn on the day she was confirmed as Conservative leader in 1975, fetched £73,000 at a London auction in September.
Courtesy Afprelaxnews.com
24 \ NEWS BUZZ Ralph Lauren raises funds for breast cancer Al Shouhra recently hosted an event in collaboration with the Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation at the Ralph Lauren luxury store, in Kuwait's Avenues Mall. The event was held to raise funds for the Hayatt breast cancer foundation. "It is a great honour to have one of America's signature brands, Ralph Lauren, in Kuwait. It is particularly heartening to see the important role they are playing in raising awareness on breast cancer here in Kuwait," said US Ambassador Matthew Tueller.
Louis Vuitton dresses Japanese popstar Hatsune Miku Marc Jacobs has provided Louis Vuitton outfits for J-pop sensation Hatsune Miku, but there’s a twist: she doesn’t exist. Hatsune Miku regularly sells out stadiums in Japan, despite the fact that she doesn’t exist. The popstar’s hits were created via a ‘singing synthesiser application with a human persona.’ Now Marc Jacobs is dressing Hatsune Miku in Louis Vuitton for a new tour which sees the star play ‘live’ around the world with the use of holgrams and other visual effects. The video teaser for the ‘vocaloid opera,’ titled “The End,” features the Louis Vuitton Spring / Summer 2013 outfits, but we’re yet to see visuals of the live tour which will hit Tokyo in May and arrive in Paris in November. Earlier this year, Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy put together looks for Rihanna’s ‘Diamonds’ tour, and Pucci’s Peter Dundas recently designed costumes for Rita Ora. Still, this collaboration between a high-end luxury label and an entirely computer-designed popstar puts a new angle on the phenomenon.
Jimmy Choo joins London's menswear line up This June, luxury shoe brand Jimmy Choo will be showing off its latest styles as part of the London Collections: Men event. Organised by the British Fashion Council, and now in its second year, the London Collections: Men, is set to take place in the UK capital from June 16 to 18. Since first launching its men’s line in 2011, Jimmy Choo has presented in Milan, but this year the brand is returning to its British roots. “It’s exciting to be showing our men’s collection as part of London Collections: Men,” said Sandra Choi, the label’s creative director. “London is at the creative heart of Jimmy Choo,” she added. The label is also set to open a flagship store on Dover Street in the West End in May. London Collections: Men chairman and editor of the UK’s GQ magazine, Dylan Jones, was equally enthusiastic. “Having Jimmy Choo move their men’s presentation from Milan to London for London Collections: Men in June is marvellous news, and will make our third men’s fashion week even more exciting.” The London Collections: Men will also be hosting menswear shows from Tom Ford, Alexander McQueen, and Richard James (among many others). Founded by Tamara Mellon (now departed) and the eponymous designer in 1996, Jimmy Choo has been a global luxury success story, with more than 150 stores in 32 countries.
GLAM / SHOP
MAY 2013
Coveted closet The latest multi-brand boutique that is the fashion talk of the city at the moment is The Closet. The gorgeously appointed store with adorable black mannequins spotting only a tuft of the season’s latest hairstyle sits at the marina of Porto Arabia, The Pearl. There is much love for contemporary young designers including Mary Katrantzou, Peter Pilotto, and Prabal Gurung which gives the boutique its print-crazy edge. We love the fact that it is the only place in Qatar now where you can find the works of Christian Siriano, the wonderboy of Project Runway fame. His delicate detailing works on his dresses are a hit among the local crowd alongside the more established picks from Naeem Khan and Marchesa Notte. We also spotted some vintage Chanel bags on display, but were later told that they were all snapped up by the end of the opening night. But rest assurred, that the boutique will definitely be bringing in special vintage pieces as and when they find the right gems. The Closet Qatar is located in Parcel 5, Porto Arabia.
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Migato Bridal Collection The popular high-street shoe label has launched their new bridal line, a collection of pretty and dainty specialised heels for the big day. Spectacular pumps adorned with precious stones, glamourous decorations and high-heel sandals with unique patterns. The collection has been especially designed to offer elegance, luxury, and variety to future brides dreaming of the perfect fairytale wedding!
30 \ SHOP TALK Accesorised army Fashion lovers can breathe a collective sigh of relief as a new collection that is marked by clean lines, sharp cuffs, coloured canvases and even a dedication to the ‘Great Gatsby' has just hit the runway. Dreamy, shiny, wild and romantic – make up the Shoemart Spring Summer 2013 accessory range which is a classic mix of varied hues.
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Stepping out in summer A botanical atmosphere permeates the Love Moschino collection for spring/ summer 2013. The collection includes many colours, from more natural shades to typical Moschino colours such as red and blue to stronger, brighter tones. New this season is the “Charlie” print on dresses, Bermuda shorts and tops. A sweet Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that has recently become the full-fledged mascot of the Moschino house, transposing the likeness of Moschino Creative Director Rossella Jardini’s cute little puppy onto fabric. Contrasting collars, embroidery and patchwork make up for the brand's designs this summer.
Dary designs When it comes to design, one brand is striving for perfection. A blend of traditional and trendy styles for the modern conservative women make up the Dary designs. The brand claims to offer traditional wear, with a Qatari perspective. Its talented designers sketch concepts on paper which are translated into exquisite, feminine, and chic designs with great attention to detail. Dary currently has two branches in Qatar; one in Hyatt Plaza and the other in Royal Plaza. A third branch, built with a whole new concept and image, will be opening soon at the new Ezdan Mall. The company’s new style is inspired by the classic French façade. The store will have a warm French look with white built-in display units, vintage wall light fittings, brushed stainless steel frames surrounding the fixtures, and smoked back mirrors.
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Fresh new designs from Yamamay The Spring Summer collection from Yamamay is bold, fresh and definitely fun. The company claims to be the second largest mono-brand store company in the lingerie and swimwear industry in Italy. The brand was established in 2001, and was based on an idea of Gianluigi Cimmino and continues to create a range of undergarments and swimwear.
Black and white is one of the freshest trends this season, and celebs and streetstyle fixtures alike have already been embracing the cool colour duo. It’s simple, classic and hard to get wrong. A monochrome palette like this never goes out of style so you can
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wear it all year round mixing and matching with the rest of your wardrobe. Whether you go head-to-toe black and white or choose to make a statement with just one accessory or accent, you will be sure to turn heads!
Opposites
Match Compiled by Sabrina Christensen
H&M blazer QR 175
Jil Sander shopper QR 7,800 H&M bag QR 145
T by Alexander Wang tank QR 355
Balmain skinny jeans QR 6,260
H&M leggings QR 75
H&M top QR 75 Zara sandals QR 280
Giuseppe Zanotti sandals QR 4,000
Aminaka Wilmont leather blazer QR 5,000
Summer
Edits Compiled By DEBRINA ALIYAH
At GLAM HQ , we could not be happier that the summer collections are finally hitting stores, especially when we live in a desert where warm weather comes early! A few exciting buys include the much awaited new bag from Hedi Slimane's first Saint Laurent collection, the print that does not seem to be going out of fashion, and a quirky pair of sandals for the sunny happy days. We are armed with a sense of adventure this summer but we recommend trying out the variations one at a time so that you don't get lost in the fad!
Valentino Contrast Collar Dress
Christian Dior Christian Dior, Villaggio. Clean lines and sleek surface makes this envelope clutch a must for all corporate power stylistas.
fOCUS / 39 Hermes Enamel Bracelet Hermes, Porto Arabia. The neon feather motif adds an instant pop to any outfit. Mary Katrantzou Mongolia Print The Closet, Porto Arabia. Does it get anymore summer-ish than this psychedelic piece?
Gucci Noah Crystal Heels Gucci, Villaggio. The Noah Crystal heels are also available in summer pastel colours.
Nicholas Kirkwood Oxford Sandals www.nicholaskirkwood.com We know oxfords are in, but cut-out oxford sandals are a definite must for summer.
Fendi 3D Baguette Fendi, Villaggio. The Fendi signature gets an interesting update with a 3D colour blocking box, perfect for the current geometry craze.
Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane www.saintlaurent.com This is the first bag in the Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane collection, may we just say collector's item alert?
40 \ fOCUS Inspired Looks
Bridal Moodboard If fashion changes all the time, and no two looks are ever exactly the same, then why should your bridal aspirations be narrowed to the standard? Celebrating the union of your love may very well be one of the most significant events of your life, and there is nothing more fulfilling than letting your personality and style quotient shine through. We take our hats off to stylish personalities like fashion blogger Leandra Medine of The Man Repeller who got married in sneakers, and rocker Gwen Stefani who said her vows in a loud ombre fuschia dress. So what s your bridal number?
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Shades of Blue Pastel colours being the bridal trend of 2013, we pick blue. It is the kind of understated shade that will shine big this summer. (all items available from www.oscardelarenta.com) Crush Pleasted Tiered Gown 1 Swarovski Heart-Shaped Earrings ● 2 Grosgrain Obi Belt ● 3 Long Tassel Earrings ● 4 Cara Vanity Case ● 5 Larimar Nail Lacquer ● 6 Satin Peeptoe Platform ●
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Avant-Garde Nuptials Paco Rabanne Vintage Bridal Dress (available from www.farfetch.com) 1 If deconstruction and sci-fi is ● your thing, this dress is set to wow your guests. 2 ● Creative Wedding Band from Cartier (Cartier, Villaggio Mall) 3 Two-tone clutch from Kzeniya ● (www.kzeniya.com) 4 ● Grey and white wedge platform from United Nude (United Nude, Salam Studios & Stores)
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Classic Elegance Lanvin Mermaid Tiered Gown (Lanvin Bridal from www.lanvin.com) 1 White Line Necklace with Pearls from Lanvin ● 2 Baroque Earrings from Oscar de la Renta ● 3 Bridal Post Cards from Lanvin ● 4 Classic Wedding Band from Cartier ● 5 Satin Heel with Bow Detail from Lanvin ● 6 Embroidered Head Band from Lanvin ● 7 Lace Veil from Lanvin ●
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Rock Star Bride Viviene Westwood 's signature rebellion punk bride in her SS13 presentation 1 Studded clutch with Skull from Alexander ● McQueen (Alexander McQueen, Porto Arabia) 2 Skull Handle Umbrella from Alexander ● McQueen (Alexander McQueen, Porto Arabia) 3 Cut-out Platforms from Gianmarco Lorenzi ● (www.neimanmarcus.com) 4 Devil Key Pendant from Theo Fennell ● (www.harrods.com) 5 Black by Comme Des Garcons fragrance ●
48 \ fOCUS
Wedded to
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Rosa Clara and her Qatari affair BY debrina aliyah
fashion / 49
fashion talent with an acute business sense, Spanish bridal designer Rosa Clara knows the importance of tuning into market demands to produce her collections. After years of successful showings at Barcelona Bridal Week, Rosa Clara has gained a strong global following for many brides and brides-to-be including an impressive list of celebrities. Her boutique in Paris receives the patronage of many Qatari clients, and it is no wonder that the latest Rosa Clara boutique finds its home in The Gate. "Qatari clients are very fashionable and they have a keen sense of European style. They value what we have on offer as a brand in terms of fabric, quality, finishing and detailing. It is the whole fantasy of what Rosa Clara is as a brand that appeals to them," she says. The brand is already well-represented across the Middle East with 16 boutiques, and it makes sense from an entrepreneur point of view to take advantage of a booming region to compensate for the economic downturn in Europe. "Qatar is booming. It is an expanding economy attracting global talents; so it is natural for me to consider a location here," she says. "It is a great partnership working with Salam Studio and Stores. They are a reliable and well-known luxury retailer and I have no doubt they will represent me very well." The Rosa Clara boutiques globally are anchored by the main collection which is presented at the Barcelona Bridal Week. The essence of the designs embodies pieces that are versatile and can be adapted to the local market. In the case of the Middle East,
Swarovski crystal detailing or sleeve lengths, to suit local culture. But of course, there are special custom order services available with the consultation of the designer. "I have about 800 people, including European craftsman working in my workshop and every Rosa Clara dress is lovingly made and unique." Designing and inspiration comes from observing fashion trends and listening to global demands. For 2013, there are two prevalent trends in the Rosa Clara collection, a very light and flowing mood board versus a 1920' s inspired opulence. "The collection is mainly in pastel colours of blue, pink, and green with details of embroidered organza, cut-out patterns, and tulle. The pieces reflect the growing trend of outdoor wedding celebrations. A lot of people are getting married on the beach, or on gorgeous mountain tops and you need a versatile dress instead of a traditional opulent one," she explains. Rosa has previously embarked on collaborations with talented couture maestros including Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Lacroix to produce haute couture pieces for her boutiques. This year, in her diffusion into the Middle East region, she chose to collaborate with Zuhair Murad, the breakthrough couturier from Lebanon. "We have a lot in common, in terms of design visions and luxury perspectives." And so begins Rosa' s love affair with Qatar now that her first store here is up and running. She is fascinated by the understated styles of the Qatari thobe and abaya. "It is so elegant and you can see people are really into fashion. I am so positively surprised by the thobe. It is impeccable and sleek and really brings out the manliness of a gentleman with the sharp tailoring. So much thought goes into dressing up the abaya with various accessories. I would love to photograph the people I observe but of course I know I can 't."
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Love Sparkles Compiled by Sabrina Christensen
Finding the perfect precious stone to signify the love story of your life is a huge task. But be sure, the right ones will stay in your collection forever. You can go over-the-top princess or simple and chic. There is bohemian, rocker, art-deco, the list goes on. GLAM dEPICTS looks for a classic bride versus one with a twist. What kind of bride are you?
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Classic Yara for Piaget
1 Piaget diamond necklace (price available on request) ● 2 Assael flower clasp bracelet QR 17,300 ● 3 Mikimoto black pearl and diamond necklace QR 18,900 ● 4 Mikimoto black pearl and diamond ● 5 6 Assael diamond earrings QR 25,200 ● Mikimoto pearl and diamond stud earrings QR 22,800 ● 7 Penny Preville pearl and diamond ring QR 17,300 and south sea pearl necklace QR 7,600 ●
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Jessica Biel wearing Tom Binns 6 ●
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1 Tom Binns regal rocker earrings QR 2,150 ● 2 Bijoux heart script earrings QR 2,400 ● 3 Erickson Beamon girlie queen earrings QR 2,100 ● 4 Tom Binns regal rocker ● 5 6 Diamond in the necklace QR 6,550 ● Valentino jewel flowers necklace QR 2,950 ● 7 Aurelie Bidermann lace cuff QR 3,400 Rough diamond rings QR 49,200 ●
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Continuing the Legacy Hala Debs SS13 Couture Bridal Collection
Growing up in an environment that nurtured her love for fashion, it was only natural that couture designer Hala Debs would follow suit in honouring the legacy of her family. After 10 years as the creative director and atelier chief of her family's knitting factory, she decided to pursue professional training at the Esmod School of Design where she honed her techniques in design and pattern making. "I went on to become a pattern-making professor for eight years with Esmod Paris, Norway, China and Lebanon," she says. Hala has worked with an impressive list of design personalities throughout her career, including Jose Enrique Onaselsa - creative Creative Director of Loewe, and Dominique Barsacq, Creative Director of Thierry Mugler. She also assisted the owner of Esmod Norway, Nils Ihlen Hansen, one of the very few remaining fashion teachers who still teaches the old technique of draping. Feeling the need to move back to Lebanon, Hala created her very first couture collection in her new minimalistic showroom. The atelier finally opened its doors in January 2012, and Hala now works with a team of tailors and seamstresses, of course, one of which is her mother, in order to continue her couture legacy. Her SS13 Couture bridal collection is eclectic, with cuts and designs that are refreshingly different, including a suit-like piece for the subtle bride.
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Jay Ahr Ray of Light crystal-embellished silk-chiffon gown Nina Ricci Lace Trimmed Silk Chiffon Gown Giambattista Valli - Tiered organza and macramé gown Antonio Berardi - Silk-blend crepe and lace gown Chalayan Crepe and silk-chiffon gown Issa - exclusive capped sleeve jean bracq lace wedding dress Lover Lace-overlay silk gown
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What we love about being a bride in modern times is that it is possible to just order your dress over the Internet. Net-A-Porter makes the experience even better by launching an exclusive online collection designed by top-notch designers. Giambattista Valli, Antonio Berardi, Valentino, and Haider Ackermann are some of the names available and the dresses range from flirty and feminine to structured and classic. We are especially in love with Giambattista Valli’s crepe and lace overlay cape dress that combines the edge of fashion with the classiness of a bride. All dresses are available exclusively on Net-A-Porter.
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Rani Zakhem
timeless elegance BY debrina aliyah
ani Zakhem’s love affair with delicate embroidery and intricate lace naturally led him into the world of bridal wear. It is like second nature, he says, and appropriately so, since those are the two key elements of traditional wedding gowns. The Parsons School of Fashion graduate, is a rare find among young designers these days, preferring to adopt a more elegant and classic approach to his collections. Rani started out a couple of years ago designing for a plus-size niche, and his designs have been seen on celebrities including Queen Latifah, Alison Jenney, Sarah Rue, Mariah Carey, Adele, and Raquel Welch. He has got his hands into prêt-a-porter and couture lines, both visibly targeted at the feminine yet vivacious woman. The use of bold colours and materials on classic silhouettes for the RTW
collection while the couture collection sees a refined technique, no doubt a reflection of his accomplished academic background and training with big names including Zuhair Murad and Patricia Underwood. Rani was also influenced by his time spent living in Nairobi, where the beautiful colours of his surrounding cultivated his love for the aesthetics. The handsome couturier does not believe in bridal trends, wedding dresses should always be about timeless elegance. “And comfort, that is so important. When the bride is comfortable, the dress will bring out the bride’s inner and outer beauty,” he says. His collection is a vision of the most refined bride, long flowing veils, cascading lace trains and definitive bodice. Currently based in New York, Rani is working on starting his new flagship store in his hometown, Beirut, Lebanon. He is also planning on putting on a runway show during New York or Paris Fashion Week. Rani Zakhem RTW collection is available in Zai, The Pearl Qatar.
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SS13 Bridal Collection “Antique Jewelry Box – is the inspiration behind my Bridal Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Each gown is carefully designed with a modern approach to vintage details. Youthful sentiments are added to give the dresses a contemporary twist. The collection offers an elegant, fresh approach on timeless styles in lightweight fabrics, including soft satins, organza, tulle and lace. Ball gowns, A-line, fit-and-flare and mermaid skirts are represented as well as various necklines. Intricate details such as crystal Swarovski flowers, satin ribbons, tulle rosettes and fabric manipulation are prominent fixtures in the collection. I have used a lot of rich and delicate embroidery on the corset, the bodice and on the skirt. Flower and butterfly appliqué and draping are also prominent techniques.”
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Honeymoon
Essentials We love the glow and cheerful spirit of the Summer 2013 campaign from By Kage, a resort-focused label from the UAE. Bring a little of this cheer onto your honeymoon vacation with our essential packing ideas.
Summer 2013 look from UAE brand By Kage
Agent Provocateur Alina Basque
San Diego Cowgirl Hat
Gucci Square Frame Sunglasses
Star Bronzer Magic Bronzing Brush
Missoni Printed Jumpsuit Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment
Longchamp La Pliage Traveler
Agent Provocateur Kimono Night Slip
FOR THE Boys We lament over the great white dress and enviously wish it was as simple as our boys’ suits and ties. No, we might not be marrying Justin Timberlake or Jay-Z, but dressing the groom is really not as easy as it seems to be. The stylish blokes over at MrPorter.Com has just waved their magic wands and put together a virtual wedding store on their site. They curate the best of their collection including Gucci, Richard James, Lanvin and Etro so your boys can look their best whether it is a city, country or beach wedding. And to kick things off, GLAM got the buying director Toby Bateman, to nail down some tips for the men.
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Preparation is key. Assemble the entire outfit to check it looks good, well before the event itself. Ensure the suit is clean and pressed, and the shirt laundered. Having spent time putting together a sharp outfit make sure it’s in good shape for the big day by using a suit carrier to travel, then unpack immediately and hang everything up to minimise creasing. Product: Mulberry suit carrier, #495 www.mrporter.com
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Establish the dress code and work out what it means - “black tie” may be obvious, but things such as “summer chic” are unhelpfully opaque. The key is to be smart without looking like you’ve just popped out of the office. The blue suit is a faultless option; keep one good lounge suit not subjected to the daily grind of professional life for weddings and smart dinners.
If the setting is likely to involve very high temperatures, linen is a great idea. It’s hard to beat a linen shirt in the heat, and this season Boglioli has an ivory coloured 3-piece linen suit, which would be highly wedding appropriate. Product: Boglioli linen suit, #895 www.mrporter.com
The obvious shirt colour is white, and there wouldn’t be anything wrong with wearing one, but a pale blue or pink shirt is a summery alternative. Let colour lift your look with this pink shirt by Brioni, the colour will look particularly sophisticated against grey and navy. Product: Brioni shirt #240 www.mrporter.com
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Product: Alexander McQueen blue suit, #1,260 www.mrporter.com
Consider your choice of tie. A patterned silk tie is the smartest and most conventional choice, but between chambray cotton, fuzzy wool and knitted silk there’s a selection of casual styles that convey insouciance just as eloquently as an open collar.
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Your choice of accessories can make or break a wedding outfit. Let the formality of your outfit guide your choice of cufflinks, from precious metals for formal outfits, to simple silk knots for more relaxed combinations.
Product: J.Crew tie, #60 www.mrporter.com
Product: Lanvin crystal cufflinks, #125 www.mrporter.com
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Make sure to wear new shoes a couple of times before the wedding day so that they’re ready to dance in.
Product: John Lobb oxford shoes, #695, www.mrporter.com
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Add some visual interest to an otherwise sober suit with a colourful pocket square, or try a summery bowtie. Product: Richard James floral pocket square, #55 www. mrporter.com
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FOCUS / 65 Elegant Events
Orchestrating the perfect wedding
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ith almost a decade of experience in organizing events and weddings in Qatar, there is no task too colossal for the dedicated planning team at Elegant Events. The event planning team comes from all around the world and is the best in their field to ensure the ideas and solutions are executed according to their clients’ wishes. The strength of the team lies in their talent to blend the Qatari culture with European aesthetics when executing events. “We bring the best of both worlds. We understand the sensitivity, needs and minute details of Qatari values and customs and we merge them into international event highlights. A large percentage of our clients are Qataris and they appreciate that we are able to find the fine balance of what they want, especially for weddings,” says Elie Selfani, the head of photography and videography of Elegant Events. “We offer highly bespoke wedding services, and this means our team is very dedicated to each project that we undertake. And because we are in every step of the way in the whole process, we maintain a close relationship with our clients.” Elegant Events has an impressive array of events inventory including the state-of-theart lighting, customised furnishings and fittings as well as good network with event venues in Qatar. The core of the team is made up of its photography and videography personnel. Documenting the event, so that memories are preserved forever is highly integral to the day. Elegant Events has a dedicated photo and video studio that tailors this service individually to each client. Using modern filmography techniques, they document every detail of the event especially candid and touching moments. “While you may expect, say a few hundred photos from your wedding, we will present you thousands of images. Every single detail and emotion is documented. We make sure that the photos and videos from your wedding are not just a straight forward photo stocks but a collection of images that depicts the story, the
emotions and the ambience of the big day,” says Elie. A highly specialised service from Elegant Events that caters to the Qatari wedding custom is an all-female photo team from onsite photography to editing and down right to the printing of the photo album. “This is what we mean when we understand the needs of our clients. We know the importance of respecting the privacy of women and this service ensures that no men will ever see the images from the wedding event.” And of course, no ordinary photo album would do for your big day. Elegant Events has interesting designs of albums as well as album carriers for your collection. “We have highly customisable album services and I am proud to say we are probably the only ones to offer services like silver printing, leather printing, 3D hologram photo print, crystal printing and matte printing. We can just about produce almost any type of album you prefer. We even have albums that look like briefcases for you to carry around to show your friends and family.” While most of the albums can be produced here in Qatar, Elegant Events would even source suppliers from Europe to complete the job if needed, just to fulfill their clients’s wishes. 2013 Wedding Décor Trends “This year, we are looking at a very popular all-white theme and we do mean all-white everything including flowers, carpets and stage set-ups. The white base means that the ambience of the venue can be changed throughout the wedding using state-of-the-art lighting. Lighting effects are hugely popular now especially the use of Gobo lights where the light shines through a stencil of the desired pattern. It could be a special wedding theme pattern or more popularly, the initials of the couple getting married. And of course, the four-season flower arrangement is the classic style that most people choose for centerpieces. Plexi stage is also now all the rage for the runway, that is integral in a Qatari wedding. The light shines through from under stage to focus on the bride, and these reflective lights is also done for the guests’ tables, where LED lighting lights up from under the tables.”
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Help At Hand Planning a wedding is tough work, no two ways about it. While some may feel that they should take on the task as a bonding session with friends and family, there are others who just prefer to leave it in the hands of professionals. We round up some interesting resources where you can find plenty of ideas and solutions, including some you had not even thought of yet!
1 Weddings By Harrods ●
The newly launched service is an addition to Harrod’s Bespoke Events, a service specialising in custom-created occasions. The strength of this service lies in the extensive range of departments and services available at Harrods, which provide everything required when organising a wedding, including dresses, suits, cakes and beauty. Other departments include the Harrods Gift Bureau, the renowned fine jewellery department and the store’s range of elegant personalised stationery to use for invitations and place cards. Each wedding consultant will provide a personalised ‘hand-holding’ wedding package that is tailor-made for each couple. www.harrods.com 2 Lover.ly ●
Lover.ly is a namesake of its website address and is an excellent tool for brides-to-be to traverse through the Internet and save their inspirations all in one place. This makes it easy for you to refer to images, ideas or sites that you have found useful in your wedding planning. In addition, you can browse through other brides-to-be’s mood boards to see what’s popular and trending. At the time of press, over 220 million images have been pinned on the site. The site partners with Saks Fifth Avenue, J.Crew, KWIAT and Monique Lhuiller. www.lover.ly
3 Bridal Tweet ●
The premier wedding forum to get first-hand experience advice and to find wedding and bridal related services all in one place. It is free and has about 30,000 visits monthly and members of the forum can ask questions and share inspiration. The site currently has about 8,000 blog posts, 1,400 discussions and 720 videos. www. bridaltweet.com 4 Brides Against Breast Cancer ●
Here’s a little food for thought amidst the marital excitement. If you have not found THE dress, do check this project out. Brides Against Breast Cancer is a project that partners with major bridal brands to raise funds to contribute to programmes for cancer patients and their families. Wedding gown sales are an important fund-raising event for Brides Against Breast Cancer. It provides brides-to-be with an opportunity to find their dream gown (at an incredible savings), while contributing to services that provides support, education and hope to men and women affected by breast cancer. So here’s your chance to get the dress of your dreams while doing a good deed. http://www.bridesabc.org/
A refined style sense
Fatma Al Dosari Compiled by Sabrina Christensen
Fatma has a natural sense of style, chic yet practical. Even when she was much younger, Fatma recalls how her mother entrusted her with organising daily work outfits. Even her sister and friends used to call on her for advice before going out. Fatma likes to mix her Arabic heritage with western designs and personal touches. She is a self-proclaimed hijabi and through her style, wishes to convey that there lies authentic beauty in modesty. Fatma currently works for Al Jazeera Network as a New Media Analyst and has an educational background in International Affairs and Human Development. 2 Mango lace dress 1 Mango blazer, Zara pants and purse from Loudanlun ● ● 3 Furla purse, Aldo heels and gold accessories set from and Riva turban ● 4 Badgley Mischka silk top, Riva turban and glitter pumps from Swarovski ● 5 All daytime flats from Toga. Carvela nude pumps, Bershka black Suntown ●
heels and handmade rainbow heels from SD
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in All Colours
Traditional bridal gowns or modern coloured alternatives, we pick some fresh edits to make your I Do’s truly unique and yours. Fashion Styling: Sabrina Christensen & Debrina Aliyah Photography: Robert Grys of www.7evenshots.com Lighting and Technicals: Angel Mallari of www.thescenestealer.com Hair: Blanca Montenegro Make Up: Debi Mendez Models: Maila Torres & Jean-Marie van Loggerenberg Venue: Grand Hyatt Hotel, Doha All pieces available from Salam Studios & Stores, The Gate.
Asymmetrical Shoulder Blue Gown (Two by Rosa Clara) Embellished Shoulder Yellow Gown (Temperley London)
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One Shoulder Lace Overlay Gown (Rosa Clara)
Ostrich Feather Dress (Matthew Williamson)
Strapless Tulle Gown (Zuhair Murad for Rosa Clara)
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Dragon Motif Dress (Rocco Barocco)
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Strapless Lace Gown (Aire by Rosa Clara) Puffy Tulle Detail Gown (Zuhair Murad for Rosa Clara)
Wedding Hair Net Veil (Rosa Clara)
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BUDDING By Abigail Mathias
Every year the fashion educators in Qatar stun the community with a fashion festival for the senses that makes the industry abuzz with new talent. Was this year’s talent worth all the hype?
pictures by robert altamirano
Speaking to a few aspiring designers left me curious – what makes the next generation better than its predecessor. Make no mistake, this isn’t a bunch of lost puppies with stars in their eyes. The graduating students of Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar (VCUQ ) have tasted success and they seem determined for a second helping. An engaging conversation with Sandra Bell Wilkins, Chair of Fashion Design at VCUQ , assures me that they have learnt from the best. “I don’t believe that when our students decide that they want to get into fashion, that they understand how much work is involved,” says Wilkins with a hearty chuckle. She runs the programme with a self proclaimed ‘iron fist.’ “It is imperative to us that they learn the basic techniques. Of course, it is pretty hectic for them. Some leave things to the last minute and for most of the teachers, it puts a lot of stress on us as well but then that goes along with the programme.” Wilkins is clearly someone who is forthright in her opinions. She doesn’t believe there’s anything that stands out this year. “Frankly I’ve been doing this so long that I’ve gotten used to the process. Students are different -- some procrastinate while others get things done. To be honest every group has potential. It depends on how much the individual wants to devote to the profession. This business is cut throat but it is also wonderful and it requires a 24/7 mentality. To stand toe-to-toe with the next designer is not easy.”
Little in fashion is really new. It has all been done before. It's just a matter of reinterpreting and redefining it into something different.
“One of the challenges in the Middle East is that there are so many other things that take precedence over career,” she says, “but then there are success stories here, too. “One of our students who have made a huge impact is Selina Farooqui. But then Selina is amazing because she puts in the work. You can’t be current if you are distracted by other things,” she adds. When it comes to sustainability Wilkins doesn’t believe the subject gets the importance it deserves. “Though we do encourage the topic, it’s hard to wrap your head around such a complex subject when you are in a disposable culture. It is going to be another generation before anyone, really grasps the importance of sustaining the environment.” Though Wilkins jokes that she will retire soon she is busier than ever. Soon after the show she heads off to the Royal University for Women in Bahrain for a three-day workshop. “I will then take the students to Indonesia with our ‘Reach Out to Asia Project.’ For me giving back is really important and the highlight of my year. The students there are like sponges, who hang on to every word. Every year that we go back they’ve used the little bits of knowledge imparted and that’s very rewarding.” Fingerprint “Little in fashion is really new. It has all been done before. It’s just a matter of reinterpreting and redefining it into something different. Science tells us that a fingerprint is our single most distinguishing factor. We have used this as a theme to bring out the individuality in each one’s designs,” explains Wilkins. The event has children’s wear collection called ‘Patterns’ where adorable tiny tots strutted their stuff unabashedly on the runway. The Senior Fall Collection, titled ‘Illusions’ contained extraordinary details while the junior sportswear had a denim focus. The senior thesis collection is an eclectic mix of day-to-evening looks that reflect the individual aesthetic of each student. The collections consist of a minimum of 10 looks that reinforce the individual vision, creativity and styles of the young designers. GLAM caught up with the graduating designers to understand what sets them apart.
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Oulla Al Samarrae “I love the fact that fashion is always changing”
When we first meet, Oulla strikes me as a bit of a recluse. She is least interested in a few questions on her designs. “My designs are elegant, sophisticated, young and soft tailored. I’ve chosen black, white, navy and maroon as my colours,” come her hurried reply. Of course she is busy preparing for the upcoming fashion show so I allow her to continue her work. I ask what draws her to fashion. When it comes to fashion, she is more passionate. “As a fashion designer I love experimenting with different materials, colours, shapes and patterns; I enjoy exploring different construction techniques to create original garments, and by following the current fashion trends I pick up on things that appeal to me and incorporate them into my designs.” “I love the fact that fashion is always changing yet recurring. I would like to create various designs and explore the possibilities with fashion, but always refer to my preferred personal style, which is elegant, youthful and soft tailored garments.” Her senior spring 2013 collection reflects her personal style. Clearly this is a girl that makes no mistake about marking her territory.
Basra Khalid Bashir
A regal journey
Soft spoken Basra Khalid Bashir, comes from Pakistan and finds it hard to control her enthusiasm when speaking about the fashion show. “I’ve created an eclectic mix of Eastern and Western outfits for my collection. I’ve used some of the sheer and flowy fabric which has been challenging as you cannot control the fabric easily. This is the first time I am using fabric of this kind. This was my first experience in using flowing and thin fabrics. I used chiffons, silks, and georgettes. The fabrics are mostly plain and some have textured prints rather than coloured.” Basra has even used pieces of materials from her own wedding trousseau for her striking collection. It is a bright red piece with detailed hand embroidery. “Unlike its original use the piece can be simply wrapped around like a stole,” she says. Elaborating on how she has interpreted the theme, she says, “My Undergrad thesis collection is called ‘Monarchy’ and it narrates who I am. It takes one on a voyage of regal history through decorative and ornate accessories keeping simple silhouettes. This is a combination of the latest Pakistani fashion trends and other regional styles. My
approach is to give a feeling as if the runway was at an actual royal palace.” “My inspirations are from my mother, who has been a constant source of creative thoughts and opportunities for me,” adds the ever smiling designer. When it comes to her pieces she says, “I have designed for an audience worldwide since Qatar is a destination where people from almost every culture reside." Looking into the future, she says, “I, personally, would like to bombard the design world with all that I have got and more of that which is yet veiled. I get inspired from everything around me, be it anything from shreds of erasers to most creative works of art.” “If the world has no designers, it would be so ugly to survive in it. Fashion is now a necessity; it’s no more just a bunch of tailors and fabric. I chose to become a fashion designer because for me the study of fashion almost never ends.”
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Dana Masoud Simplicity with a contemporary twist One of the clearly confident designers in the group is Dana Masoud. She won the prestigious Salam Fashion Award, introduced by Salam International Investments chairman and CEO Issa Abu Issa, to support a graduate’s transition from student designer to a career in design. The award includes mentoring in the development and design of two bespoke collections which will be sold exclusively within a dedicated space in Salam Stores, Doha. When speaking of her designs she says, “I’ve used simple silhouettes and lots of embellishments to go along with the pieces. I have added textures to make the look sophisticated. It has a very classic feel to it. There are a lot of vibrant colours and a set which is basic off-white. The hand embroidery stands out." “I used a lot of influences from my childhood,” says the designer, who has Palestinian and Canadian roots. “For as long as I can remember, my childhood was filled with beautiful dresses and garments. These were adorned with delicate embroidery and embellishments. The finishing touch was always tying a beautiful satin bow at the back of every dress. The flawless construction and soft silhouettes represented the touch of perfection that I recall to this day.” She adds, “I use fashion to express myself; I shape my aspirations onto paper and later merge them into reality. I truly believe in the power of simplicity, but with a unique contemporary twist.”
Sultana Jesmine
Deviant Minimalism
The petite Sultana Jesmine hails from Bangladesh. A recipient of the award handed out by Texture Boutique, which gives her the exclusive opportunity to showcase her collection at the concept boutique for a month later this year. “Having bursts of fun and finding beauty in simple things in life, lends comfort to my heart and this reflects my way of life as well as my design decisions,” says the young designer. Her collection is inspired from every day elements of Arabic society. “My senior collection entitled Deviant Minimalism explores the superimposition of simplicity, elegance, freedom and comfort that a woman aspires, with accents of playfulness and energy that beams in her personality.” “I decided to do something that is different from the norm. Something that is familiar and yet seen in a new light. I have taken elements from this culture and mixed them with European elements. I have used some common fabric that is found in jalabiyas and have used fatoorahs as accessories,” she explains.
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Rabab Abdulla Timeless blend
Rabab Abdulla was a double winner at the awards, winning accolades for most outstanding senior Collection as well as most outstanding and innovative VCUQ fashion design student of the year from W Hotel. The award includes the opportunity to use W Doha, and another W Hotel around the globe, as a platform to showcase her collections at various events happening throughout the year. The Indian designer has a strong influence of her home country in her work. “Since I am an Indian, but born and brought up in Qatar, and because I am a henna designer, my collection consists of touches of my lifestyle and the use of patterns. It has inspiration that comes from abayas as well as Indian patyalas, (loose trousers found in India, Korea and Thailand). The aim of my collection is to create pieces that are comfortable, easy to wear, pieces that can be mixed with other outfits. The pieces can be worn maybe at home, work environments or even casual parties.” With a double major in interior design and fashion design, Rabab is clearly in a league of her own. “Fingerprint to me means that every person uses their fingerprint as an identity. At the same time, each designer has their unique taste, skills and working style. Also, all designers use their hands to design, sew, illustrate, create, which again contains uniqueness. So, every designer has laid their fingerprint on the designs they have created,” she says. Explaining her designs, she says, “My collection is called a ‘Timeless Blend.’ Women of today are active, working individuals. The looks
create an attitude of a lively person, who is always working yet emits a positive vibe to the people around her. This person is always ready to help.” Overcoming obstacles was part of the learning experience for the young designers. Rabab says, “One of the biggest challenges in Qatar is to find the right fabric. Qatar has, over the years, improved in terms of what kind of fabric is available. Yet it is very difficult to find the right fabric. Some students have ordered from the US, because the fabrics found there are pure and much cheaper compared to Qatar’s prices. Not only is the fabric a problem, but to find a specific fabric in the desired colour was very challenging. It took me almost a week to find what I needed. It would be of great help if Qatar or Qatar Foundation could create links with other countries like the US, India, Korea and other major exporters of fabric so that students have access to them in larger quantities and at cheaper rates so that the limitation of fabric found in Qatar would not limit the creativity of the student. Although VCUQ has some links with fabric stores here in Qatar, the students hope for more stores to be linked where the costs are affordable and fabric choice is wide.” “Another challenge we face in Qatar is the number of models to model for the fashion show. The Fashion Department has found that the number of students attending VCUQ is increasing every year, and as the years pass and as Qatar begins to become a fashion hub of the Gulf, the Fashion Department hopes that Qatar will be able to provide more models,” she adds.
Fashion Journey
A Quest for local talent BY debrina aliyah
The name, Fashion Journey, got our attention. The involvement of Roudha Center got us listening.
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roviding a platform for emerging local fashion designers? That sounded just like the vision for us at GLAM, constantly in search of putting the spotlight on new talents. We hop on this adventure with Roudha Center, hoping to establish another infrastructure to support the local fashion industry. With the participation and engagement of about 4,500 women in the last two years, Roudha Center, the first NGO in Qatar for women, entrepreneurship and innovation, identified a substantial interest in fashion and entrepreneurship in its demographics research. Responding to this interest, Roudha developed a comprehensive programme to provide emerging local fashion designers with the skills, experience and exposure needed to turn their work into successful businesses. Creativity must be driven by a sense of business acumen and the right opportunities to succeed in the competitive modern fashion industry. With young designers cleverly aligning their work to the interest of giant luxury conglomerates, it is easy to see the importance of a big balance sheet in supporting the creative work of fashion. And while this is all accessible to talents in big fashion capitals, Fashion Journey hopes to be the pioneer in providing this opportunity here in Qatar. And so the search began, and six female participants were shortlisted based on criteria set by Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar faculty with an emphasis on innovation, originality, creativity, fabrics and quality. From now till September 2013, the participants will be embarking on a learning programme which will take them to Italy, France, and the UK to have a first-hand experience of sourcing, producing and marketing. The highlight of the program is the business and design educational perspective where the participants will be learning from industry professionals and receive mentoring from in business development. The VCUQ faculty will be conducting three workshops on design while Blue Salon will be conducting three workshops on brand management, financial and business planning as well as marketing strategies. The program culminates in a special collection presentation in both London and Doha, where the participants will put to test everything that they have learnt in the program.
We chat with one of the finalists of Fashion Journey, Mariam Al-Obaidli, on her design vision. I am I am a 26-year-old Qatari. I am currently a network engineer and pursuing fashion design on a freelance basis. It is exciting to work in these different areas and it gives me a great feeling when I overcome the challenges. I started my own label in November 2011 specialising in luxury ready-to-wear apparel and accessories. I develop my brand to produce innovative and creative designs for women. I can describe myself as a very ambitious, enthusiastic and passionate about taking up new roles and challenges. The beauty behind my designs reflect my personality. I am currently present in the market, selling my pieces at exhibitions. I hope that my business will flourish and my label will be renowned in the fashion industry, Insha Allah. Fashion Journey and expectations My ambitions are limitless and I look forward to learning from the fashion world. This programme came at the right time to express my talent, and I also liked the idea of a fashion trip to gain more knowledge. I presented a range of my collection and I was very inspired and happy that the judges gave positive feedback on my work. I had submitted three of my designs that focused on the detail manipulation on fabric. Brand Vision My brand is a combination of glamour, confidence and optimism. I adore the style of Valentino, a big inspiration for my work. Almost all of my designs are from my own imagination with a dash of the Valentino touch to make them more fabulous. I would describe my designs as modern and feminine, playing with the combination of stylish colors and finest fabrics. I pay a lot of attention to details which plays a big part in the execution of my designs from fantasy to reality. Filling the gap I realized that there is a gap in the local market for modest clothing that is unique. I often hear about this from clients and this encouraged me to try to fill in this gap. I have tremendous love, passion and admiration for this style. GLAM is the official media partner for the Fashion Journey program by Roudha Center. We will be following the progress and updates from the programme and its participants. Next issue, we will be profiling more participants and their travel to 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.
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Jennifer Lawrence
“I am at peace with myself” Ned Ehrbar / Metro World News / The Interview People
Her breakout role in the Hunger Games caught the world’s attention in a non-stereotype fashion. Here was a heroine who truly won hearts with her courage and bravery instead of beauty and bash, a rarity in today’s celebrity sphere.
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nd lest you think of her as wholesome, she gave a sterling, albeit borderline psychotic performance in Silver Linings Playbook. So, when Jennifer Lawrence walked home with a Golden Globe award and then the Oscars, the world stood and applauded. The honesty in the characters she portrayed carries through into reality, the star is an absolute darling to speak with. She is rare young actress who speaks frankly about whatever she feels like without a hint of media training.
On adjusting to stardom: “I feel so bad for Emma Stone because she’s where I was a few months ago. When it first happens it’s horrible because your entire life flips upside down and the entire planet starts treating you differently, and it’s really hard to adjust and get used to, but then you get through it. People told me that it would come in waves, and they were right. I texted Emma yesterday and I was like, ‘I’m walking down Rodeo Drive. Nothing!’ And she was like, ‘The audacity!’ (laughs) But yeah, there are bad days and there are good days.” On what she’s learned from Bradley Cooper: “He was the one who told me I can’t go to Whole Foods [anymore], and I tested it and he was totally right. The paparazzi, they’re like at every Whole Foods, it’s insane. I had to say goodbye to Whole Foods. It’s fine, I can get friends to get my groceries. I dipped my foot in the water and I was like, ‘You know what, you buy me groceries. I don’t want Whole Foods to call the police again.’” On trying to gain weight for “Silver Linings Playbook”: “I was supposed to, but I was also dancing two hours a day. I kept trying to explain that to [director] David [O. Russell], because he was like, ‘You’re not getting fatter.’ I had a Philly cheesesteak I think every day. They’re on every street corner and they’re delicious. And then at the end when I finally slowed down the dancing, it was like, ‘Yeah, I’m looking pretty good, right? Look at this.’ And then David’s like, ‘Yeah, you’re going to be in a tube-top.’” On trying to stay grounded: “I still want the same life that I grew up with. I still want a family, a normal family. I will have to make a couple of adjustments [because of my career]. I’m at peace with myself because I think that maybe not having to deal with years of rejection at such a young age - I think that could definitely be damaging. I can’t imagine letting my young child go through something like that. There were times when I was doing a movie once that was really emotionally hard for me, and I was just praying that I wouldn’t have a daughter and praying that she wouldn’t want to be an actress because it’s hard.” On avoiding her last will and testament: “I’m supposed to have to do that. My business managers - my somebodies - are telling me to do that just in case I die. It’s a really morbid thought. I’m working on it. I haven’t signed anything. For some reason I’m really avoiding it, because I feel like as soon as I sign it I’m going to die, so I’m like, ‘I don’t know, let’s keep a couple of things open.
JENNIFER'S Look Style preferences 1 Balance between refined and whimsical. ● 2 Strong, graceful, courageous. ● 3 Simple yet oh-so-chic. ● 4 Dresses nipped at waist. ● 5 “Wardrobe’s always a really important part of your character,” said the star, ● “because it’s one of the most important parts of our characters in real life. That’s how you represent yourself. Unfortunately, this has been stripped from The Hunger Games contestants, and they’re all kind of put in the same thing, in clothes that represent the Capitol and not them.” Recent/current Wardrobe
1 New hairstyles for most appearances. ● 2 For Oscars 2013 - Pinned-back hairdo of the 19th Century made playful, modern ●
and hip.
3 Wore Calvin Klein at The Hunger Games Premier in New York. ● 4 Changes hair colour often; for the characters she plays. ● 5 Quick changes while going around the New York City. ● 6 Oscars 2013 - She wore a Dior Haute Couture gown that she tripped over. ●
What she carries off well and why?
1 Serious player in the world of fashion. ● 2 At the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards, Jennifer Lawrence wore a red Dior Haute ●
Couture gown. “I don’t know what ‘haute’ means but I was told to say it that way,” the Silver Linings Playbook star, who won the award for Best Actress in a comedy admitted to Ryan Seacrest on the red carpet. Unfortunately, while the bustier bodice should have given her an extra lift, it left her looking a little droopy.
Compiled by Basra Bashir
92 \ fashion
When fashion meets passion BY SINDHU NAIR
Glam meets the most promising designer of the country, Wadha Alhajri, who stuns us with her international designs and breaks some stereotypes too in the process.
A
ppearances are always deceptive. So are prejudices. After a month of conversation with designers who have come into their own having explored the world of abayas, your mind gets tuned to a certain set of answers, all which are moulded around the usual. And then like a gust of new wind, comes Wadha Al Hajri, a young Qatari with her distinctive designs and sharp almost stark cuts that make you sit up and ask, "Where were you, all along?" I did just that and pat came the reply from Wadha, "I was waiting for the perfect moment to launch the brand." Coming from a Qatari traditional family, Wadha breaks many
stereotypes. "I am a working mother, I work as an Assistant Researcher in a political institute," she says. And if you ever thought that you had to study fashion designing to be a worthy designer, Wadha breaks that prejudice too, for she studied politics at Qatar University. Wadha explains why she took time to launch her brand and waited for the perfect moment. "With work and family, there is a lot happening in my life lately," she says. And the moment could not be more perfect, with the setting of a contemporary art museum – Mathaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art, during the closing ceremony of one of its exhibitions, Tea with Nefertiti, to display her collection, where her eponymous collection seemed to straddle both art and fashion. Wadha's commitment is evident, not just in the detailing of the clothes or in the texture of the fabric she has used, but also in planning to present her Autumn/Winter collection at Mathaf. "I really like how Mathaf nurtures new talent and contacted them to see if I could present my collection with them and they were very encouraging," she says. This is not her first collection, Wadha has already presented two collections previously, though this classifies as her real, serious public launch, while the others were more low-profile. So is fashion designing more of a hobby for Wadha? "No," she says categorically, "This is very personal for me, it grew up with me. I do not take it lightly at all. I have always been designing all my life, for my Barbie's and now for real people." Though Wadha loved designing, she still did not opt to study fashion. Did she feel that experience and hands-on designing would mould her better? "I just had other interests which I feel equally passionate about, like politics," she admits, "And I wanted to experience it all." WADHA Autumn/Winter 2014 collection is inspired by the 1959 Danish Expedition to Qatar the only photographic source of the
Wadha Quips Fashion means everything beautiful; you cannot separate it from everyday life. It is something that is inherent in every person.
last Bedouin tribes who lived in Qatar. "It is the most beautiful photographs ever showcased by QMA and has been the inspiration for my collection. The matt tweed material I have used is reflective of what they wore at that period," she says. The theme of the collection is the modern 1959 Bedouin woman, who is powerful, independent, and empowered. "I tried to keep it as minimal as possible, and to focus more on the simplicity of the silhouettes and designs. The main colours used in this collection were black, white, silver and beige, and most of the fabric used was exclusively produced in France. Some of the pieces in the collection are handmade, and took more than 400 hours of work." Though her designs definitely categorise as global with a touch of the Arabaian influence, Wadha is very much rooted to her Qatari culture and adds, Being a Qatari means the world to me. It defines me."
Women who wear Wadha s collections know exactly what she wants and gets it. She is someone who appreciates the hard work involved. She is not specifically a Qatari but a confident woman from any country. Global acclaim will be when the international fashion scene is ready to accept someone from outside. Goal is to produce something beautiful that will be worn by women who love it. Challenges faced are difficulties in getting the right fabric and material, as everything is not available here. Designers I admire are Karl Lagerfeld. I also admire the designs of the brand Balenciaga. Confidence is the one accessory that women should always carry. A fashionable lady should have a Wadha attire in her wardrobe! To get a WADHA collection email info@wadha.co
RALPH LAUREN
AMERICAN
DREAM BY debrina aliyah
W
hen you think of Ralph Lauren, it is most likely you will conjure visions of rolling grass fields with polo players or an understated yacht cruising into the sun-kissed waters. Somewhere in that dream, you then notice polo tees and riding boots that the models are wearing. It is this perception that forms the essence and success of Ralph Lauren as a brand, selling a lifestyle dream in which the products are the core. It does not matter that the man himself has never played polo; it did not stop him from creating the world' s most sought-after polo tee, in any colour and size you could ever want. Ralph Lauren was born in New York to Jewish parents, and his life is a living example of the perfect American Dream. Growing up, he adored John F. Kennedy and James Stewart as heroes, wanting to emulate the iconic role that they had in American society. Perhaps uncannily, that had been the premonition to his success, thereafter in creating a visually recognisable American lifestyle through his creative work. While ties, polo tees and suits were the staple of his early business, it was his ability to translate these items into a desirable aspiration of success that won the heart of consumers. And as the business grew, Lauren began doing serious design work that sealed the brand 's status as an American fashion hallmark. Casual but perfectly- cut blazers, crisp shirts, gorgeous floor length gowns, and pencil trousers, are all design blueprints that form his collections. His designs are like a wardrobe curation of the American elite, people who had golf club memberships, who attended galas and who travelled to exotic locations in summer. It comes as no surprise when the brand branched out to cover a complete lifestyle experience, home accessories, perfumes and children's wear. The Creation of the Ricky Bag The Ralph Lauren Ricky Bag, named after the designer' s wife and
HISTORY / 95
muse, reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and is one of Ralph Lauren s most iconic silhouettes. The Ricky, is one of the few bags that enjoys cult status among serious bag collectors and is considered an investment piece beyond passing fad trends. Meticulous attention is paid to the materials used and skilled artisans pour their heart and soul into the creation of this bag. The distinctive pattern of the Ricky Bag is hand-drawn, and each individual piece measured and cut by hand. A testimony to its precise construction, one Ricky Bag can take up to 12 hours to create. Leather handbags are fashioned from a total of 50 separate pieces while alligator handbags require approximately four skins. Each hide or skin has been handpicked to create a flawless silhouette and treated to ensure the handbag will age beautifully. The Ricky Bag is handcrafted throughout, from the hardware and handles to the gusset and feet to create the graceful lines of the silhouette. To protect the handbag from fraying, only waxed cotton thread is used. Edges of the Ricky Bag are formed from three layers of leather, which are buffed and stained as a natural sealing process and hand-skived to ensure a flawless contour. Ricky Bags from the Saddle Bag Collection, with signature leather-covered hardware, are constructed without corners, piping or lining for a supple silhouette. Bombé detailing creates a subtle curved design that mirrors the delicate folds of fabric. Finished with cut edges and reinforced with wax cord, the handles of a Ricky Bag are specially shaped to ensure supreme comfort. Their signature form is accentuated through hand skiving and stitching. The unique shape of the top edge of a Ricky Bag is designed for ease of opening and allows the wearer to carry the handbag unbuckled. Additional hand stitching is found on the top edge of a Ralph Lauren Saddle Bag Collection Ricky Bag. The Ricky Bag features nine different pieces of hardware. Custom made in Italy, each piece is handmade, attached by hand and stamped with the signature Ralph Lauren logo–a symbol of its authenticity. The separate pieces of the Ricky Bag are joined with the handbag inside out. Two artisans must work together to gently reverse the handbag, preserving its shape and the integrity of the hardware. The signature Ralph Lauren stamp is hand-applied with a heated hammer tool. The Ricky Bag is hand-shaped with special tools after it has been fully turned, to recreate its signature look. The Ricky Bag starts from QR13,000 for a basic soft model. Personalisation services including engraving and monogramming, and custom order pieces with your choice of colour, skin, and hardware are available. Ralph Lauren boutique is located in Villaggio, Qatar.
Leather handbags are fashioned from a total of 50 separate pieces while alligator handbags require approximately four skins.
GLAM / BEAUTY
MAY 2013
01
Nars and Pierre Hardy team up
Makeup brand Nars has joined forces with French shoe designer Pierre Hardy for his new Spring-Summer 2013 collection of nail polishes and blushers. The collection is based around six bold pairings of coloured nail polish and Hardy has also used his signature cubic print as a gold overspray on two blush palettes.
02
Yves Saint Laurent creates tie-dye nail polish
YSL’s La Laque Couture Tie & Dye Top Coat Collection is the first-ever nail polish that comes with three tones in one bottle. The collection of four new nail polishes features a fun twist – each polish is composed of three separate layers, for three different finishes in one application. The sparkle, solid and clear gloss finishes sit in three layers in the bottle; you can either slide out the brush smoothly for a dip-dyed gradient effect, or you can shake up the mixture to create another look.
03 Perfect Body by VS
Buff, scrub and polish your way to Supermodel perfection with the new VS Perfect Body Collection. These 8 rejuvenating, relaxing, body-loving, spa-inspired products are the ultimate Supermodel spa experience at home. You’ll be refreshed and relaxed from head to toes with ingredients such as Pink Sugar, Sea Salt, Purifying Clay, Cucumber Extract and Almond and Coconut Oils.
04
Givenchy leather and lipstick
Leather generally isn’t on your Summer shopping list, but with the Givenchy Le Rouge Lipstick, you can enjoy the cold-weather trend with a twist. Designer Riccardo Tisci embellished the new lipstick cases with genuine leather and studs for the ultimate in luxury. And inside there are an array of colours from nudes to brights that satisfy every woman’s makeup preference.
05
It’s the end of color as you know it!
Rimmel’s Apocalips Lip Lacquer is the intense rich colour of a lipstick, enhanced by a satin smooth shine. It’s neither a lipstick nor a gloss. It combines the best of lipgloss and lipstick in a new groundbreaking formula - a luscious liquid full of pure colour pigments which give rich colour and great shine which goes the distance. It promises to not leave lips feeling the same dryness which many long-wear lipsticks can cause, or the gloppy stickiness of a typical lipgloss.
07
CK One Summer fragrance
06
08
EstÉe Lauder brings pure colour
Estée Lauder introduces the unparalleled texture, extreme performance and intense colour in creme eyeshadow, Pure Color Stay-On Shadow Paint. Whether it is a bold, right off the runway flash of colour or a soft, sophisticated wash of watercolour, this high style collection will drench eyes in a silky smooth buildable mousse creme and captivate with rich pigments to create eye-catching looks that last all day!
For its tenth anniversary, CK One is getting a new bottle and a new formula inspired by the exotic underwater world. The 2013 limited edition, developed by Harry Fremont, has notes of citrus, watermelon and crushed leaves enriched with scents of cucumber, lotus and aquatic mint. The base notes of this fresh light summery juice include caraway, moss, blond wood and musk. The bottle has been completely revamped and visible drops of water make the ocean-blue bottle look wet.
M.A.C whips up sweet beauty treats for summer The artistry of cake decoration is a world filled with tempting creation, as is the newest M.A.C colour collection inspired by the most couture of cakes. The new summer collection, Baking Beauties, includes creamy pastel shades of powders, lipsticks, glosses, polishes and more.
09
A cleanser that melts makeup in one use
Usually the process of makeup removal takes two steps or more, but thanks to Elemis, you can condense your cleanup routine down to one product. The brand’s Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a thick, lather-free cream that provides a unique cleansing experience to say the least. After applying the product to your face, the starflower and elderberry oils contained within immediately start to dissolve your makeup, melting away the most stubborn, no-budge mascara formulations. Just add water to rinse.
10
Vera Wang launching new Be Jeweled fragrance
The latest fragrance offering from Vera Wang aims to capture “the energy and excitement of the perfect girls night out” according to the brand. Served up in a glamourous glass bottle cut to look like a precious gem, the packaging features imagery inspired by the designer’s jewellery. Opening with pomegranate, red currant, and champagne notes, the perfume’s heart is composed of a passion fruit extract with pink honeysuckle and peony. The drydown is musky, with added pink sugar crystals and a rich Australian sandalwood.
GLAM / BEAUTY
MAY 2013
Bobbi Brown promises new smokey eyes Effortless and high impact make up the essence of the new long wear cream shadow stick. It can be used to shade, define or create a smoky look and highlight the eyes. The shadow stick has been designed for women on the move and claims to last up to eight hours. This newly launched product has been endorsed by Katie Holmes. Antioxidant Vitamins C and E protect the delicate eye area while skin conditioners help create a smooth and light effect. Available in shades such as violet plum and sand dune.
Nivea releases day care cream Nivea’s extensive skin care range has expanded to include a nourishing day care cream featuring both their latest innovation, Hydra IQ and SPF 30. Featuring SPF 30, the highest sun protection factor in the Nivea face care range, the product has been developed for both dry to sensitive skin and for normal skin using essential natural ingredients to intensively nourish and hydrate. Nadim Gholam Brand Manager for Nivea Face Care said, “Due to the delicate nature of facial skin and increased exposure of sun, humidity or dust, moisturiser with high sun protection should be an essential part of any skin care routine.” “In addition to the SPF value of the product, the ‘revolutionary’ new technology - Hydra IQ, which has been developed by the NIVEA research team based in Hamburg, Germany, hydrates the skin from deep within. By activating the skin’s own irrigation system, the aquaporin, it allows for the transfer of water molecules between skin cells to improve the skin’s natural hydration,” he adds. It is recommended to apply moisturiser with SPF 30 every day all year round at least 15 to 30 minutes prior to being exposed to the sun.
100 \ BEAUTY BUZZ
Flawless skin in a few minutes For women who are always in a hurry, Make up forever’s revolutionary compact powder foundation, Pro Finish seems like a magic powder. The compact foundation can be applied on any skin type and skin tone as quickly as possible. With its transforming texture and breakthrough formula, this versatile and multi-use foundation allows users to change their looks. It can be used wet or dry to produce an endless array of effects that are adaptable to suit different skin types. When applied dry, Pro Finish corrects and evens out the complexion with an instant matte coating that erases imperfections to achieve a full coverage, matte result. When applied wet, it offers a sheer, semi-matte finish. Available in 25 shades to suit all skin tones, Pro Finish is the essential product to carry at all times to achieve true professional results instantly.
Kissable lips from Revlon Marc Jacobs to launch new fragrance The New York City-based luxury label Marc Jacobs is going to launch a fresh new scent this August, Honey. It has just been revealed that Marc Jacobs has been working with Ann Gottlieb (the nose behind Calvin Klein’s Obsession, CK One and Christian Dior’s J’adore) and fellow perfumier Annie Buzantian (concocter of fragrances for Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren and Azzaro) on a new flanker scent to last year’s Dot fragrance, set to be unveiled as ‘Honey.’ According to Women’s Wear Daily, “The scent, which will arrive in stores in the late summer, “has top notes of pear, fruity punch and juicy mandarin; a heart of orange blossom, peach nectar and honeysuckle, and a drydown of honey, golden vanilla and smooth woods.” Honey will come in a reimagined bee-covered version of the Dot bottle, and there’s no official word on the campaign yet. In addition to this, Marc Jacobs will also launch his colour collection with Sephora in September.
Prepare for the perfect kiss from Revlon’s newest lip innovation: Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain. Just Kissable is a pampering balm fused with a lightweight lip stain that claims to provide softer, smoother lips with a perfect flush of colour that lasts hour after hour. What’s more it comes in an adorable crayon form - and no sharpener required! There are 12 vibrant shades that match any look or mood. The smooth gel formula glides on beautifully with a light peppermint fragrance and the retractable chubby crayon is the perfect accessory for any occasion. It functions as a light weight lip balm. Available in shades described as honey, crush, darling, precious and adore among others.
102 \ fashion
the beauty business
R
unning a beauty empire is no easy task, especially in Qatar where beauty trends change at the click of a mouse. Mariam Trad, General Manager of AND Trading is one woman who is putting her special touch into developing beauty brands to offer the best of services to the local clientele.
How has the journey been like for AND Trading? It is currently one of the biggest beauty companies in Doha. AND Trading
104 \ BEAUTY was established eight years ago, with an intention of providing quality services for the sophisticated women in Qatar. Since then, our style of services was well received and accepted, which resulted in an increased demand for it. As such, AND Trading has opened at several new locations, with new concepts and services that cover these new areas. While being the biggest beauty company is something that we definitely aspire for, our main focus and priority is to provide a unique and innovative experience that guarantees nothing but the best quality service to our customers. What is your personal vision like in developing AND trading? Along with the other Members of our Board of Directors, I share a vision of growth and innovation that will keep us in step with the ever changing trends and needs of the market. Since we started, we have already gone a long way in providing our valued clients with first class quality service. However, the highly competitive and challenging beauty industry also keeps us always on the alert and on the lookout for other services which we need to provide.
I make it a point not to micro-manage as we are fortunate to have a team of highly-skilled professionals.
Tell us about your personal style and how it influences the decisions in your business Having acquired a passion for the beauty industry at such a young age, I studied business at the Ryerson University and about the beauty industry at one of the well-known beauty colleges in Toronto. As a hands-on type of manager, I am involved with all aspects of the business. However, I make it a point not to micro-manage as we are fortunate enough to have a team of highly-skilled professionals who are the backbone for the business. What are some of the things that we can look out for from AND Trading at the moment? New Outlets and expansion plans? We are expanding in two new locations one of them will be for Nails at Ezdan Mall and we will be upgrading our Four Seasons location. Next year, we will be moving into new territories.
Tell us more about Frank Provost and Jean Louis David and your work in providing world-class salon services in Doha. Frank Provost and Jean Louis David are two unique and globally recognised brands that are leading the hair industry in Europe and the world. We originally partnered with Frank Provost in July 2006, followed by Jean Louis David in October 2009, and we are more than satisfied with the execution of the business plan. Working and partnering with the leaders in the hair industry is essential for us to deliver on our promise of providing only the
best quality products and services to clients. Such partnership also provides our team with on-going training for stylists to keep them up-to-date with the latest hair trends, colours and techniques. What is the vision that you have in developing the beauty industry in Doha? My vision of developing the beauty industry in Doha is simple, which is for it to be able to offer the market with the best, worldclass quality service to customers, as well as to educate and keep them informed about the latest trends of a fast-paced and everchanging beauty industry.
106 \ AROUND TOWN
Al Gassar Resort marks anniversary Doha’s luxury waterfront destination, marks its first anniversary this month.
A member of Alfardan Group, the hotel has successfully become a popular choice for residents with its unique aspect in having a sophisticated internationally renowned hotel as The St. Regis Doha, as the centre piece of the development. Al Gassar offers a choice of 422 beautifully furnished, spacious apartments along with rooftop penthouses and terraces, equipped with furnishing and appliances and balconies overlooking Doha’s West Bay and the Arabian Gulf. Mohamed Sleiman, Assistant Chief Operating Officer, Al Gassar Resort, said, “The success that Al Gassar Resort has achieved throughout its inaugural year is consistent with the growing reputation of Qatar as one of the world’s most exciting business and lifestyle destinations. To celebrate this momentous occasion, we will continue new initiatives that are symbolic of our unwavering commitment to service quality and excellence as we move forward with our growth plans in 2013 and beyond.” The hotel also specialises in outdoor catering which is quite popular with guests.
Five star service at your doorstep
the ritz carlton in qatar now offers fresh bread to residents.
Weekends will never be the same. The Ritz-Carlton, Doha rolled out a new ground-breaking ‘Pastry to Go’ service to cater the needs of an early sumptuous breakfast during the weekend at home. Every Friday and Saturday starting from 7 a.m. the pastry department will deliver fresh baked loaves, rolls, fruit Danish, muffins and donuts. Bread can be purchased online the day before.The service has been initiated by Executive Chef Richard Green with the single goal of making quality bread broadly available to consumers across Doha.
THEY'VE GOT THE LOOK
More than 275 contestants competed at the Elite Model Look 2013 casting held at the Dubai Festival City in Dubai, U.A.E where 15 men and 18 women were shortlisted for the next round.
A taste of Mala ysia Malaysian food in Qatar never tasted better.
Executive Chef Peter Lloyd, who has held senior positions in some of London’s most demanding kitchens was recently in Doha’s W hotel offering some of his signature dishes at the Spice Market. From a mouth watering Nasi Goreng to a juicy chicken satay, guests were left with a 10-course meal that left little to be desired. Though the Durian ice cream took a little getting used to, the entire meal was a testament to the chef ’s talents. As a Commis Chef at the House of Commons, Peter cut his teeth in a brigade of 60 chefs before moving to the world famous Dorchester Hotel on Park Lane. It was here that Peter was selected to join a team cooking for the Queen and members of the Royal Family, alongside the king and queen of Malaysia. He has also worked with the likes of Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsey, Pierre Koffman and Phillip Howard. He has won numerous awards and appeared on Masterchef on numerous occasions besides running master classes for children. He quickly discovered a passion for Asian cooking, making his mark overseeing Suka - the hotel’s Malaysian restaurant. Notably, he masterminded a one-off lavish, themed feast for the world premiere of the film, Alice in Wonderland. The concept was soon turned into a daily offering, in the form of a Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea, generating 500 covers a week. Extremely well versed in Thai, Malaysian, British, and French cuisines, Peter consistently delivers signature dishes on which the Spice Market has built its reputation. He made his first appearance on BBC Saturday Kitchen Live in January 2013, demonstrating how to cook his award-winning black pepper shrimp dish.
Partnered for success Roudha Center and Grand
Hyatt Doha recently signed a memorandum of understanding for the year 2013.
Held at Grand Hyatt Hotel, the press conference included statements from Roudha Center’s Directing Manager, Shareefa Fadhel, and Grand Hyatt’s General Manager Christoph K. Franzen. Roudha Center is Qatar’s only non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering and developing local female entrepreneurs, innovators, and future leaders. Chaired by Sheikha Hanadi bint Naser bin Khaled Al Thani, Roudha Center has reached, to date, over 6,000 local women through its innovative workshops, lectures, and initiatives, that focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership and empower women with the confidence, skills, and ambition they need to succeed. Throughout the year, the hotel will host a variety of Roudha Center’s many events, workshops, and lectures. This will include monthly business workshops conducted by members of the corporate community, monthly high tea networking events, Mashrouai program graduation ceremony, quarterly business breakfast, and Roudha Center’s two-year anniversary gala dinner, among others. “Roudha Center is honoured to partner with such a prestigious name in hospitality both locally and internationally. We are excited for the many upcoming events that will be hosted by Grand Hyatt and are confident that Grand Hyatt and its attentive staff will provide our attendees with nothing but the best service,” said Shareefa Fadhel. “Hyatt’s global corporate responsibility platform, Hyatt Thrive, is designed to help make our communities, places where our associates are proud to work, our guests want to visit, our neighbours want to live and owners want to invest,” said General Manager Christoph K. Franzen.
110 \ EXPERIENCE
A workout without the work
AS By Abigail Mathias
with all things, fitness can sometimes be a bit of chore. The very idea of working out, can leave you with less enthusiasm on most occasions. Enter Mandu, a new fitness regime that works on your muscles without too much of the workout. What might this new fitness mantra be? For starters, it involves strapping yourself to a machine that is meant to work on your entire body while you virtually work out. Mandu is a high-tech training session meant for the whole body. A 15-minute workout claims to have the same effect of three hours of weight/strengthening training. The muscles are trained simultaneously giving you the maximum effect in the shortest time. It is perfect for people who want to burn fat, get rid of cellulite and shape up in the shortest possible time. “It is also ideal for those with joint and back problems,” says the handsome, Toni Klein. Klein is Austria s wellknown fitness professional, best-seller author and TV coach for the show, ‘Austria eats better. ’ He is the founder of the Mandu workout and has 30 studios in Germany, Italy, Chile and Austria with many more planned. I ask if he is related to the fashion icon, Calvin Klein. “Not really,” he says. Speaking of his first Doha experience, Toni says, “People in Qatar are curious about Mandu. Once they start, they love it, because they experience the
difference.” His book ‘The Toni Klein Principle,’ is a best seller in Europe. In today’s busy world, people don’ t have time to train, so Mandu fits perfectly in to their lifestyle. It trains the muscles to burn fat. Julia Pfeifenberger assists the sessions and is super fit. “It is better to conduct a session with a trainer,” says Toni, adding, “We create a card for each individual and at the end of the training one can see the impact of the session.” I decide to see for myself what the fuss was all about. Before the workout you are provided with black tracks and a t-shirt. This is worn with a jacket on which there are electrodes which connect to a machine and activate the muscle fibres deep within. These muscles cannot be activated with normal training. Through this machine, we can reach areas in the lower back and spine which are a tremendous benefit for those working at a desk job or are driving all day,” says Toni. After saying a silent prayer and hoping, I won’ t get electrocuted, I am indeed in for a shock of the positive kind. As soon as the session begins I feel a current pass through my body. Toni and Julia monitor my progress and motivate me to do more virtual jumps and weights. Slowly, but surely, I feel more energised. I ’ m not sure if it was the fact that I had not one, but two trainers that kept me going. “Mandu is the make up for your inner self,” says Toni. In Austria, I work with the Miss Austria beauty pageant and football champions as well.” Each session is conducted only once or twice a week, not more. “Mandu is safe, though pregnant women and those who have pace makers should avoid it,” says Toni. The trainers plan to return in November. I took two additional sessions after my first workout. Though I am yet to see any visible change, it is safe to say that I am hooked.
112 \ fashion
An Eastern answer to By Sindhu Nair
facial therapy hen W Doha Hotel & Residences announced the Middle Eastern debut of the “most renowned facialist in the world” (according to W), the team at GLAM was genuinely curious. Though, secretly, most of us in the edit team wanted to experience this London based super-facialist, in a seemingly "generous" act I volunteered to be the guinea pig for the “non-invasive alternative to Botox” and a “facelift in an hour”. Though I cannot vouch for either, I did come away with a beautiful experience
and a skin that literally glowed. With a client list ranging from Anne Hathaway, Frieda Pinto and Juliette Binoche, I was sure the effect would be as enthralling. What I conveniently forgot was how beautiful the showstoppers already were and that the facial would just enhance their attributes. Su-Man’s therapy is an experience that goes much beyond a mere facial. Ask her about it and she explains the process which has evolved with her life experience.
EXPERIENCE / 113
Su-Man recommends If you pass forty I recommend once a week facials, but once a month is absolutely necessary. It also depends on how welldisciplined you are at looking after your skin.
For the Bride-to-be 1. No alcohol the week leading to your wedding. It will make your face look puffy. 2. No salt in your food three days before your wedding. Salt has the same effect as alcohol. 3. Take a bit longer applying your moisturiser by massaging it into your skin. 4. Have a full body massage to relax your mind and body. 5. Have a facial the day before or on your wedding day if possible.
Su-Man will be returning to Bliss Spa at the W Doha from May 25-30. For bookings contact W Doha.
“My treatment has been described as a shiatsuinspired facial but it has evolved out of a lifetime of being connected to my body,” she says. u-Man grew up on a farm in Korea with six sisters and has learnt a lot about the power of touch and nature, in a life that could never be described as easy. “I was formerly a professional dancer so I acquired values of the pursuit of excellence, striving for perfection and how it feels to be physically alive. After retiring from dancing, I became a qualified shiatsu and Pilates practitioner as well as learning some rare Asian facial massage techniques,” she explains. Her touch is soothing, firm and works magic on your face, back and feet. Her life-changing experiences humanises her efforts and it is an amalgamation of all this that makes this facial much more than what it is. “If I break my system down, it starts with purifying, energising, and finally, nourishing the face. I don’t just work on the skin but on the muscles that support the skin. So the treatment is deeper and requires greater strength and accuracy. Our face is a beautiful structure of bone, muscle and skin. If the muscles are activated
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and toned then the skin reflects this and looks lifted and sculpted. You can then begin to improve the quality of the skin itself by removing impurities and dead skin cells,” she says. Su-Man opens the energy channels of the face by working on the pressure points and release tension of the muscles in the neck, shoulders and upper chest. “The end result is not only a face that looks wonderfully conditioned, healthy and radiant but is also open, expressive and happy,” she says. Su-Man scanned my face to find out my skin type and the condition under the surface, but that is the only modern touch in the process. After this she lets her intuition take over. “In Asian culture, we look for the essence rather than evidence. Essence being the truth of what cannot be seen touched or described. That’s why in Asia maintaining good health has a greater emphasis on prevention than prescription,” she says. The facial becomes all about Su-Man’s hands and a combination of high performing products from Asia and Europe which she has created herself. While my experience was definitely positive, my skin and muscles must have been in a much degenerated state to show the results she described. Or maybe I was just not as glamorous as her clientele!
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
Show stoppers GAP Summer '13 collection
ADVERTORIAL
Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel Romance is more than an idea. It is a real place with a real name. It’s your day. A day of magical moments at Renaissance. Our lavish Grand Ballroom, with a capacity of up to 480 pax, is the ideal setting for your big day. We can accommodate every wish and family tradition to make your fairy tale wedding absolutely perfect. We’ll make sure every last detail is taken care of, from easy access to comprehensive security, a delicious menu and the most beautiful flowers. Let us create your magical day. Call 00974.4419.5000 or see renaissancedoha.com
Elegant Events Elegant Events offers complete turnkey event solutions and services with a special final touch by taking weddings, corporate events, concert tours as well as festivals to new heights. An unsurpassed quality, attention to detail and distinctly bold approach are used to present the way we deal with our beloved clients and offering them the following: Wedding kosha; stage and lighting; tables and chairs setting arrangement; wedding photography and film production; event concept design & theme; flower arrangement and provision of all kinds of entertaining singers, bands and dancers.
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Regency Halls
The newly enhanced Regency Halls comprise of two fully equipped multi- purpose venues; Al Hamra and Andalusia each boasting an immense capacity to accommodate up to 1000 guests. The traditionally adorned halls are the ideal setting for large scale international and local events. The halls opened on December 13, 2001 boasts, a strategic location at the Mall roundabout - next to the Al-Ahli Sports Club with ample parking facilities to accommodate more than 400 cars. With over a decade of first-class service, whether it’s a corporate meeting, a wedding or a silver service banquet or even an outside catering, the professional team behind Regency Halls possess the expertise to deliver and exceed expectations every time. The sophistication and elegance of Regency Halls make every event a memorable experience. It is no wonder that the Regency halls is host to over 500 events each year.
Bride Special Moroccan bath with Chocolate mask Treatment Be the smiling bride with Be Bloom, Bride special Treatment combination of Moroccan Bath with Chocolate Mask. A Moroccan bath is the perfect remedy for stress thanks to the soothing and all-round relaxing effect the hot steam has on both body and mind. The chocolate mask will give your sluggish complexion an invigorating boost. And the results are instant and dramatic. Masks are the most effective and economical way to build and maintain healthy skin. Masks remove cellular debris that can give skin a dull and gray appearance. Enjoy the smoothest feeling of Be Bloom chocolate treatment all over yourself.
Grand Hyatt Doha
In Grand Hyatt Doha, your wedding will certainly be an experience for your guests, but unlike any other hotel, planning it will be your lifetime experience. The second you will call or step into their premises, your experience will start with an expert events manager who will be your wedding planner taking charge of all the event’s details. They put together years of experience in creating ideal weddings from advising the best setup for their 1500 square meter, Al Silia ballroom, to what kind of breakfast would you prefer in your luxurious suite, the morning after. Your wedding planner’s job is not limited to guiding you with setup options. At Grand Hyatt Doha, the job starts with the setup followed by menu creation, where you will have a tailor-made wedding menu and a chance for a food tasting. Suppliers are no longer an issue; there are neither exclusivity contracts nor “find them yourself” concepts; your wedding planner will provide you with a recommendation list and will assist with different packages. In addition, if you seek the traditional henna night, your planner will also be guide on various possibilities.