Contents
40 DRESS DU JOUR
With so many different styles to choose from, designer Rime Arodaky tackles the all-important questions you may have, to help you find the perfect dress.
46 EMBELLISHMENTS
GLAM
QATAR'S NO. 1 FASHION MAGAZINE W W W.G L A M QATA R .CO M
MAY 2015
Beg or borrow, but never be out of style. This season’s embellishments are edgy and versatile.
52 HONEYMOON
A taste of different destinations for couples to celebrate their love.
VILLAGGIO MALL - VIP AREA - GATE 8 - 44643533
Contents 54 LESS IS MORE
Priyanka Pradhan discovers an old Japanese spa town which offers a unique retreat.
60 THE GIRL AND THE MOON
A mesmerising fashion event in Qatar leaves us spellbound.
64 CLASS OF 2015
A front seat view of the country’s most-celebrated fashion show hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar.
90 EN ROUTE TO JOY
What’s special at Doha’s latest beauty house?
94 TABATA
Our fitness expert breaks down this quick interval workout.
GLAM
QATAR'S NO. 1 FASHION MAGAZINE MAY 2015
ON THE COVER ESPOSA BRIDAL 2015
GLAM SOCIAL MEDIA
SINDHU NAIR FASHION EDITOR DEBRINA ALIYAH DEPUTY EDITORS EZDHAR IBRAHIM ALI SRINIVASAN V L SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS ABIGAIL MATHIAS AYSWARYA MURTHY PHOTOGRAPHER ROBERT ALTAMIRANO SUB EDITOR SHELLEY KNIPE
MANAGING EDITOR
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR
DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR
ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
VENKAT REDDY HANAN ABU SIAM AYUSH INDRAJITH MAHESHWAR REDDY B
FREDRICK ALPHONSO MANAGER – MARKETING SAKALA A DEBRASS ASSISTANT MANAGER – MARKETING HASSAN REKKAB MATHEWS CHERIAN SONY VELLATT SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT DENZITA SEQUEIRA
SENIOR MANAGER – MARKETING
PRATAP CHANDRAN BIKRAM SHRESTHA DISTRIBUTION SUPPORT ARJUN TIMILSINA BHIMAL RAI BASANTHA P
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
SENIOR DISTRIBUTION EXECUTIVE
PUBLISHER AND EDITOR–IN–CHIEF
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Tod’s has launched “The Virtuous Elevator” video starring model Elisa Sednaoui and the Tod’s Cape bag, interpreting the Tod’s woman’s world and her lifestyle. In the video, the Tod’s woman lives her innate elegance and the different aspects of her life with joy and a bit of irony: she can shop compulsively, be voracious, party at night, be frivolous, be disorganised, run late and be distracted, but she will always follow her very personal style. Watch the full video on www.tods.com/thetodscapebag
EVENTS OF THE MONTH BFA & MFA Exhibitions 2015 May 3rd to 23th Room 390 (BFA exhibition) & VCUQatar Gallery (MFA exhibition) An exhibition featuring graduating students from the Fine Art programmes at VCUQatar. The VCUQatar BFA & MFA Exhibition is a celebration of the creative achievements of graduating students and provides the opportunity to preview Qatar’s emerging talent in the fields of graphic, fashion & interior design, painting & printmaking, and design studies.
COMING UP
YOUSUF JASSEM AL DARWISH SANDEEP SEHGAL ALPANA ROY
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American designer Tadashi Shoji will be opening his first ever store in the Middle East in Lagoona Mall, Qatar we have got an exclusive interview with the designer. He talks to us about his Autumn/Winter collection and the inspiration behind dressing women of different styles and shapes.
Contributors Karen Nicolet Karen Nicolet is a fashion and lifestyle blogger and the marketing manager at the Doha Film Institute. She began her professional career in advertising and moved to film marketing, working on projects including the Ajyal Youth Film Festival and Qumra. With a love for photography, fashion and writing, she started her blog ‘Clumsy Chic’ in 2012 as a creative outlet to keep her inspired. Since then, the blog has continuously evolved to bring inspirational stories in fashion, travel, food, design, and DIY to her readers. She has collaborated with brands like Fendi, Dior Beauty, Printemps and Turkish Airlines.
Rocky Dafna Going undercover in the desert city of Doha is the talented Mr. Rocky, who has shot countless editorials for both international and local publications. His keen eye for body forms and photographic visuals helps bring to life our editorials. For enquiries on Rocky’s work, feel free to drop us a PM on GLAM’s Facebook page!
YOUR VOICE ON TWITTER, FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM @NMICHADINE on Instagram I loved the cover on Takafumi Tsuruta’s runway approach at Tokyo Fashion Week; and of course I loved the Out of The Box fashion shoot, which depicts women in exactly how we are every day. The multi-taskers that keep up with fashion while being strong in every sense.
Blanca Montenegro Blanca is a no stranger to the hair and make-up 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. Find her at montenegroblanka0@gmail.com
LETTERS The last issue jumped right out at me. It was a well shot feature. Liked the piece on the fine jewels of Suzanne Kalan. Crystal L.R. Who knew Qatar had its own perfume brand? It was nice reading about it in your magazine. F. Alsaegh
Yousra Samir London-born and bred, Yousra has been living in Doha for eleven years. She has written for various local magazine publications, and is the creator of one of Qatar’s first fashion blogs, Under Your Abaya (www.underyourabaya.blogspot. com), as well as the social media coordinator for Fitness in Qatar (www.fitnessinqatar.com). Her latest project is Doha Scene (www.dohascene.tumblr.com), a retrospect on fun happenings in Doha. Next? Her first novel.
If ever you need someone to do your beauty reviews, I’m a ready volunteer. Cheers! Lynette Babel
G Talk There’s much to be excited this season on the horizon of Qatar’s fashion scene that is looking bright and sparkly. In the graduating weeks of Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar’s fashion school, we met the senior students who produced an impressive spectacle of their final collections. Diverse and some introspective, in their inspirations and design narrative, all eight designers demonstrated a strong commitment to making their voices heard as they now embark on their journey into this competitive industry. While the international profiles have their hearts set on crossing borders after graduation, the Qatari designers have already begun the groundwork in carving a niche in their homeland. Maryam Al-Darwish has been making jewellery under the label MBM’s Collection that is already wildly popular among local girls, while Aisha Al-Suwaidi will be venturing into childrenswear as an extension of the retail boutique that she currently owns. The promising rise of new talent in this city deserves recognition and support, something that we are proud to be committed to with our inaugural GLAM New Talent Award. Trinidadian designer Malia Bennett Henry won our hearts this year with her unique viewpoint on experimental silhouettes, and you can be sure of seeing more of her works in our pages. We also celebrate another kind of new beginning this issue, with our annual bridal feature. There’s a little something for all, from finding the perfect dress to exotic destinations for your honeymoon getaway. In these modern times, we believe that the celebration of love should reflect your personal style, so we’ve thrown in some off-kilter dresses for good measure. With new boutique openings and trunk shows aplenty this month, we hope you find some exciting new buys, and remember to share them with us on our social media channels!
EDITOR’S PICK DOHA-BASED DESIGNER LAYAL MAKAREM INTRODUCES HER NAMESAKE COUTURE LABEL THAT GIVES TRADITIONAL ANDALUSIAN AESTHETICS A MODERN TWIST. IT IS A SERIES OF FIVE CUSTOM DESIGNS WITH A FOCUS ON TEXTURE, DETAILS AND EMBELLISHMENTS.
BUZZ GLAM / NEWS
MAY 2015
CHANEL’S NEW JEWELLERY LINE The French luxury brand has introduced Coco Crush, a jewellery collection inspired by the diamond-quilted pattern as seen on its handbags and other accessories. Chanel’s signature motifs, diamond quilting is an integral part of the brand’s heritage. Seen most famously on its popular handbags and clutches, the pattern has also appeared on Chanel shoes, as well as in haute couture and ready-to-wear items such as jackets. There is even a Chanel watch collection reprising
the style. Now Chanel is celebrating the motif once again with its Coco Crush jewellery collection. The generously sized items in this line offer an entirely new take on the diamond-quilted pattern, which is delicately engraved in gold, for an elegant and understated effect. The new collection includes rings and a cuff bracelet, available in white or yellow 18k gold. The rings are available in small, medium or large versions.
French ministers recently voted to ban ultra-thin catwalk models, despite howls of protest from modelling agencies in the world’s fashion capital. “Anyone whose body mass index is below a certain level will not be able to work as a catwalk model,” said the amendment, voted in the National Assembly lower house of parliament. Agencies found employing models considered too thin could be liable for a heavy fine and six months in prison. Health Minister, Marisol Touraine, had previously said that young models should “...eat well and look after their health.” However, the National Union of Modelling Agencies has complained this would affect the competitiveness of French modelling. Up to an estimated 40,000 people suffer from anorexia in France, and 9 out of 10 of them are women.
Courtesy Relaxnews
ULTRA-THIN IS NOT IN
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HILFIGER CELEBRATES 30 YEARS The American ready-to-wear brand, Tommy Hilfiger, is celebrating its 30th birthday this year with a plethora of festivities, a famous new ambassador and a second store in Paris. Founded in 1985, the brand has never stopped evolving and today produces a large selection of ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes, perfumes, sportswear and denim, as well as luxury collections for men, women and
children. Firmly focused on American values and traditions, the brand regularly celebrates the American family – its main source of inspiration – in its campaigns and collections.Last December the brand announced the arrival of a new ambassador, Rafael Nadal, to be the face of the tailored and underwear lines for Autumn/Winter 2015. The campaign is expected to be released in September.
European museums are currently allowing the public to admire the work of star fashion designers Jean Paul Gaultier, Alexander McQueen and Karl Lagerfeld. The Gaultier show, which opened in Paris recently as part of a global tour, and the McQueen one in London, whivh has been running for the past two weeks, both have proved to be a hit according to organisers. The Lagerfeld exhibition, in the German city of Bonn, has just begun and is certain to draw crowds curious about the Chanel designer’s work. “Those who don’t get a chance to attend the fashion shows rarely see what a haute couture creation looks like,” said Jean-Paul Cluzel, the president of the Grand Palais exhibition hall in Paris. “Even the very best images, the very best televised reports, are not able to show the richness of the material, of the embroidery. Only an exhibition allows common mortals to see that.” The success of the Gaultier exhibition shows no sign of flagging. It has already been seen by 1.4 million visitors since starting out in Montreal in 2011 and making eight other stops around the world. The French designer is famous for innovative and sometimes outrageous pieces, perhaps most famously, Madonna’s cone bra. In London, the Victoria and Albert Museum is featuring ‘Savage Beauty’, the biggest-ever exhibition in homage to Alexander McQueen, the brilliant British designer who committed suicide in 2010 at age 40. The display started out in New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2011, where it achieved “blockbuster” status that year with 660,000 visitors.
Courtesy Relaxnews
RETROSPECTIVES
30 \ TRENDS 3 ● 4 ● 2 ●
3 ● 5 ● 2 ●
SAVE
1 ●
VS
SPLURGE
HERE COMES THE SUN
1 ● 5 ●
6 ●
SAVE 1 Tropical print bikini, QR102, Oysho. ● 2 Floral ● 3 Cartoon straw hat, QR31, playsuit, QR269, Oysho. ● 4 Tassel earrings, QR39, H&M. ● 5 Fringe bikini H&M. ● 6 Beach rope sandal, QR98, H&M. dress, QR387, H&M. ●
H&M and Oysho are available at Villaggio Mall.
The sun’s out and while many will be escaping to island holidays and exotic beach destinations, there’s also a host of interesting beachfront options here in Doha. Both the new Banana Island Resort by Anantara and Marsa Malaz Kempinski make for great staycations away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Wherever you to choose to unwind, gear up with eye-catching swimwear – we love the unique psychedelic print of Mara Hoffman’s onepiece and the fun bikini-fringe dress hybrid from H&M. Go for a beach chic vibe with tribal accessories and cover-ups and for a touch of fun, the cartoon straw hat seals the deal. DEBRINA ALIYAH
6 ●
4 ●
SPLURGE 1 Grosgrain-trimmed cady shorts, QR2,310, ● 2 Gold-tone marble Chloé, Net-A-Porter. ● necklace, QR1,153, Chloé, Net-A-Porter. 3 Woven tribal bag, QR1,460, M Missoni, The Gate ● 4 Espadrille wedges, QR1,170, M Missoni, Mall. ● 5 Plaid back one-piece, QR806, The Gate Mall. ● 6 Shelter Mara Hoffman, Maison Du Maillot. ● Island bikini, QR814, Le Swim, Maison Du Maillot.
GLAM / ON OUR
RADAR
MAY 2015
AN EDIT OF THINGS THAT ARE HOT NOW
PRADA’S MADE-TO-ORDER RICAMO SNEAKERS Prada presents a special made-to-order version of the classic running shoe that is reinvented with luxury crocodile leather details and crystals. Elegant yet playful, the sneakers are crafted to individual orders in precious crocodile leather or in a subtle mix of technical materials contrasted with hand-embroidered elegant crystals. The sneakers are available in different versions, and colour variations and clients will receive a special packaging that includes an elegant satin shoe bag to protect these precious pieces. The made-to-order service is available exclusively at the Prada boutique in Villaggio Mall.
ALPHA FOXTROT CAPSULE COLLECTION The traditional Arab ‘ghutra’ pattern forms the basis of this three-way collaboration between Dubai’s Amongst Few, Singapore’s SBTG and Casio Middle East to produce a limited edition pack of three special items. Famed for their world-famous custom sneakers, SBTG has created 12 exclusive pairs of Militarised Air Jordan 1’s that feature patterns that are individually handpainted. The sidewalls hold the ‘ghutra’ pattern while the toe box and ankle-
collar feature SBTG’s signature Tiger camo-print, which is finished off with an Arabic Amongst Few transliteration on the heel. Casio Middle East introduces the Alpha Foxtrot 3 which incorporates selected ‘ghutra’ patterns over a sleek matte black classic watch. Amongst Few releases its signature all-over tee in olive with detailing that includes a premium woven cotton tag featuring Arabic and English artwork. The complete capsule collection retails for QR2,950.
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Images by Saeed Khalifa
BINT THANI URBAN CORP Urban Corp is a collaborative experimental project between Bint Thani & Inter | Act, that merges expertise in design, fashion and 3D printing technology. Khulood Thani, the designer and founder of Bint Thani and Amer Aldour, the architect and founder of Inter | Act, developed this original concept in
a uniquely 3D printed fashion installation. The experimental garment is infused with native camel leather, to accentuate the narrative behind the project. The concept is inspired by the city of Dubai, specifically the juxtaposition of seemingly out of context architecture, set against a barren desert landscape.
THE CAPE BAG This season, Tod’s Cape bag specifically references horse saddles through a contemporary exploration of construction and functionality. The Cape bag’s curves evoke saddlery, with geometrical sides that feature a simple fold. Echoing the look of the ready-towear collection designed by creative director Alessandra Facchinetti, the bag features openwork, patchwork and two-tone or print-effect inlays. Materials for the season include chrome-tanned half calf, chrometanned calfskin, Miami leather, cotton, calfskin, python and crocodile, while colours range from summer brights and pastels to more muted, classic tones.
34 \ TRENDS RESERVED X BROOKLYN BECKHAM It seems only natural that the children of the stylish David and Victoria Beckham would venture into the world of fashion, with the duo’s eldest son Brooklyn leading the way. Brooklyn is currently the face of the Polish street-style fashion brand RESERVED, that has recently launched in Qatar this season. RESERVED’s women’s collection celebrates the comeback of 70’s style with a new interpretation of the cult fashion era. Think flattering wide-leg trousers, elegant suits, feminine dresses and chiffon blouses paired with A-line skirts. Along with Brooklyn, Jerry Hall, Lizzy Jagger and Georgia May Jagger sets the tone for the brand’s campaign.
A AND Z’S SPRING SUMMER 2015 A and Z, designed by the Emirati duo, Asmal Al Bulooki and Zainab Al Abbas, is a young and fresh, fashion brand that goes against all clichés. This season, the designers introduced on-trend flowing dresses and structured separates in grey, classic black and white, and turquoise. The pieces were created using unconventional fabrics such as suit-like linen and pleated crêpe that have been block-sewn together and interspersed with neoprene. Embellishments such as grey and turquoise marble stones, stringed yellow beads and jagged-edge fuchsia stones have been added to elevate the paired back silhouettes. For a positive theme throughout, the designers have embroidered words such as ‘Rise’ and ‘Live’ on various pieces for a free-spirited and empowering start to the summer.
TRENDS / 35
Brancusi Rothko
Rothko © 1998 Kate Rothko Prizel Christopher Rothko - ADAGP Paris 2015 - Photo The Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles
Munch Photo © Munch Museum
KEYS TO A PASSION The Louis Vuitton Foundation presents ‘Keys To a Passion’ an exhibition featuring a select choice of major artworks that have been key to the development of modernity and have had a dramatic impact on art in the 20th century. This includes works from artists such as Mondrian, Malevich, Rothko, Delaunay, Léger, Picabia, Munch, Dix, Giacometti, Matisse, Kupka and Severini. The exhibition highlights the foundation’s collaborative relationships with major French and international institutions with lenders to this exhibition that includes The State Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg; Tate Modern, London; MoMA, New York; The Munch Museum, Oslo; Guggenheim, New York; Gemeentemuseum, The Hague; The Pushkin Museum, Saint Petersburg;
Picabia
Matisse
The Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo; The State Russian Museum, Saint Petersburg; MNAM-Centre Pompidou, Paris; Kunsthaus, Zürich; and MOCA, Los Angeles. A symposium dealing with diverse issues, shared by many global institutions, will be held on June 12 and 13 and will cover themes such as: “What does it mean to collect art today?”, “Who is currently making art history?”, “What impact does the art market have on this landscape?”, and “What makes a work iconic?”. The exhibition is curated by Suzanne Pagé and Béatrice Parent, in collaboration with Isabelle MonodFontaine as scientific advisor and launched last October. It will run until July 6. Fondation Louis Vuitton is situated on Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, Paris.
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Charlize Theron in Dior Haute Couture at the premiere of her new movie, Dark Places.
WHO WHAT WEAR
ON THE RED CARPET, OFF THE RUNWAY AND ON THE STREET, CELEBRITIES BRING THEIR STYLE GAME.
Angelina Jolie in a black silk-cady gown and black leather sandals from Versus Versace at the Nickelodeon 28th Annual Kids’ Choice Award.
Michelle Obama in a Kenzo AW2014 dress as she arrives for her first official visit to Japan.
Beyoncé in a pair of beige Stuart Weitzman Nudist sandals. The sleek minimal Nudist is available in different materials and colours as part of the brand’s SS15 collection.
TRENDS / 37 Rihanna in a green fur coat, thigh-high green patent leather boots, Medusa sunglasses, and green choker from Versace’s AW2015 collection for her performance at the 2015 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Jada Pinkett Smith in a Versace custom cocktail dress with illusion silk tulle at the ‘Black Girls Rock!’ red carpet event.
Rose Byrne in a head-to-toe Lanvin outfit; sequin cocktail dress from the SS15 collection, metallic gold leather belt from the Resort 2015 collection, crystal studded long clutch and gold python pumps from the SS14 collection. She was attending the New York premiere of Danny Collins.
Kate Hudson and Miranda Kerr both carry the MICHAEL Michael Kors Riley satchel on their travels as they arrive at Los Angeles airport. The new bag seems to be a perfect companion as a carry-on piece.
38 \ TRENDS
THE LADY BAG Dora Maar was a French photographer, poet and painter, known for being the muse of the legendary Pablo Picasso. She was to said to have had a penchant for the Marceau bag created in the 1950s by the house of Louis Vuitton. Drawing from this history, creative director Nicolas Ghesquiére brought to life the Dora bag for his first fashion show after taking the helm at the house. Dubbed the lady bag, the Dora is inspired by two travel bags in the house’s archives: the Squire which was created in 1934 by Gaston Vuitton and the Marceau. Echoing Nicolas’ new vision for Louis Vuitton, the bag is modern and structured with a sharp and clear silhouette. Made for the woman on-the-go, whether for everyday essentials or a short getaway, the Dora is all about practicality and versatility. At the designer’s debut presentation, different variations of the bag complemented different looks: feminine with pretty embellished knit dresses, edgy with a full-leather outfit, and ladylike with a sophisticated tweed and leather dress. Four versions of the bag are now available in the region: a chic contrast of leather and textile, a classic with a twist of monogram and smooth leather in two sizes, and a mix of black and colour in calfskin and Taurillon leather. Prices start from QR12,700.
TRENDS / 39
ALBER’S ARABIAN ADVENTURE Lanvin’s artistic director, Alber Elbaz made his first-ever appearance in the Middle East during a three-day Arabian adventure to Dubai. Accompanied by the house’s CEO, Michèle Huiban, the designer unveiled a capsule collection designed exclusively for the region, in an intimate presentation at the One & Only Royal Mirage. The Peregrine Ballroom with its classic French salon atmosphere set the tone for the presentation, and was decorated with fresh flowers, handmade gold antique wood, silk jacquard
furniture, and cushions made from Lanvin’s Autumn Winter 2015 collection fabric. Along with the playful pieces from the Middle East capsule collection, looks from the AW2015 collection were also presented. From Moroccan-inspired long flowy gowns, to embroidered jumpsuits and jackets, the collection juxtaposed elegance with the brand’s signature avant-garde edge. Alber’s visit to Dubai was hosted by long-term partners UAE Trading and The Chalhoub Group.
FALL INTO LOVE
Esposa Made-to-Measure Service
FOCUS / 41
The definitive style guide of trends, designer gowns, bespoke services and enchanting destinations to celebrate your romance.
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DRESS DU JOUR CHOOSING THE RIGHT DRESS IS AN AGE-OLD DILEMMA AND ULTIMATELY, AN INTUITIVE PROCESS. WITH FASHION SO INTRICATELY LINKED TO MODERN DAY BRIDAL WEAR, WE ENLISTED THE HELP OF DESIGNER, RIME ARODAKY TO TACKLE SOME GROUNDWORK TIPS TO HELP MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION.
A classic low-waist dress from Tony Ward Bridal 2015.
When should a bride start looking for her wedding dress? Ideally six to eight months, depending on the date of the wedding, but for weddings between May and September – a popular wedding period, I consider eight months to be the minimum. What are the important elements to always bear in mind? It is certainly necessary to choose designers whose styles suit us. It is also helpful to avoid looking at too many dresses and to try on dresses with as few people around as possible, to avoid
Classic empire cut from Oscar de la Renta Bridal AW 2015.
getting distracted. Go straight to the essential and to what you really want! What are the main types of dresses, and which body types best correspond to them? There are four to five basic silhouettes: the low-waisted blouson, the fitted mermaid shape, straight cuts, dresses with accentuated waists, and bell shapes. A bell shape or a 50’s-style cut will better suit a more voluptuous bride, while a mermaid shape will suit a more slender woman. An empire waist dress would be classic and
Mermaid silhouette from La Sposa.
effective for larger tummies, but I prefer to be more unpredictable and suggest a slightly rock and roll style bell-shaped top with cut-outs and a straight crêpe skirt with a train. Are there fabrics to avoid? Shiny fabrics such as satin, which tend to make one look fatter. I prefer matte fabrics or alternatively iridescent ones such as silk gazar. When should a bride do her last wedding dress fitting? Two to three weeks.
Carolina Herrera Bridal AW2015 Carolina Herrera SS15
TRENDS FROM SPRING AND AUTUMN COLLECTIONS TO HELP YOU PLAN AHEAD.
DESIGNER TRENDS
FOCUS / 43
Carolina Herrera Spring is all about softness and grace, and this is realised through the effects of layering, lace treatment and sleek silhouettes. The effect is romantic and sensual, with the back of the dresses highlighting elements of surprise, including plunging lines and elegant
appliquĂŠs. For Autumn, Herrera has added a fun oriental twist with origami hair accessories, as well as delicate Chantilly lace, laser-cut appliquĂŠ work and long diaphanous veils. Sheer and lace overlays play with transparency and added a hint of flirtatiousness.
44 Pamela Rolland AW 2015 is the first bridal collection for this designer and she offers a modern twist on the traditional. Classic fabrics including French lace, Italian silk and an embossed metallic organza are cut into a mix of gowns and dresses with key features including the innovative detachable overskirts and trains.
Oscar de la Renta SS15
Oscar de la Renta The Spring collection emphasises off-the-shoulder cuts with Chantilly lace, silk organza and traditional tulle on new embroidered overlays, pearly prints and sequin detailing. The Autumn collection serves up a variety of shapes, both structured and loose, with key styles including a broderie anglaise short dress with long arms which is perfect for brides looking for a second outfit for the evening, and longer fishtail gowns with elaborate bows.
FOCUS / 45 Temperley London Alice Temperley’s Imogen Collection features plenty of hand-worked lace and embroidery inspired by a bygone era. Key features include cascading trains over fitted underskirts and the brand’s first mini-dress style, designed for brides who want to change into a shorter look after the formal ceremony. Accessory options veer to the classics with veils, floral headdresses, and belts.
Badgley Mischka Mark Badgley and James Mischka present plenty off-the-shoulder and halter-neck gowns with embroidery and quilted details in relief. Bows on the backs of dresses, cut-away details on torsos covered with sheer silk and crystal-embellished shrug jackets, form the frills on empress-line shapes. This season’s veil is a wrap of mesh netting around the models’ heads.
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Lanvin The Lanvin collection is different from the conventional with precious fabrics in unusual volumes and proportions. Daisy Guipure, washed satin silk and Chantilly lace chisel the long dresses and magnify the body’s harmonious curves. Creating a falsely classical look, the couture details that edge various items in the collection are dressed in ebony black, giving an edge to sublimate the virginal white of the dresses. A long, sculptured dress in Guipure, embroidered with black lace at the waist and hem of its long skirt, gives airy volume for a bride who wants to move around. Key looks include a little bubble hem dress with a feather-look cut thread, narrow straps and a bow over the bride’s bodice, a minimalist short bustier dress adorned at the bust with a graphic white bow, lined with black, a long, 20’s-style dress with pleats, and a T-shirt style dress that is elevated through excellent cutting work and the use of gorgeous fabrics.
Marchesa SS15
Monique Lhuillier Inspired by the paintings of John Singer Sargent, these gowns take on a visionary fantasy with delicate detailing. Clouds of tulle, silk satin organza and signature Chantilly lace infused with delicate embroidery and intricate beading, create a dreamy, alluring vision. Pastel shades of blush, hydrangea, pistachio and mist are a bright, yet unexpected discovery within the traditional palette of ivory and white. Design details such as cascading hemlines, Alencon lace and architectural shapes are found in effortless silhouettes, while an exploration of layering creates subtle sheerness. Lace caplets and overlays, beaded veils and elaborate jewelled headpieces create dimension and allow for a more glamorous outlook.
FOCUS / 47 Marchesa For Spring, the label evokes grandeur and romance with draped bodices paired with dramatic ball skirts in silk faille and organza, while ethereal and feminine gowns are shown in Chantilly, corded and re-embroidered laces. Shorter hemlines appear in a tea-length cocktail dress with lace peplum top and in a re-embroidered lace dress with cap sleeves. Blush hues cascade down layers of silk tulle and delicately draped chiffon with embroidered accents. For Autumn, colours range from a soft champagne to an ice-white, while the gamut of shapes shifted from short abovethe-knee lengths, to flowing trains. Highlights include the exquisite crystal embroidery and the assured use of ruffles. Intriguingly, many of the shapes aren’t dresses at all, but carefully layered separates that can be worn in different ways. Marchesa AW15
Monique Lhuillier Bridal SS15
Marchesa SS15
48 Crystal jewel bracelet, Prada.
EMBELLISHMENTS DELICATE FRILLS TO ADD ZEST TO YOUR DREAM DRESS.
Azore headdress, Jenny Packham.
Bridal Frisson ring, Chaumet.
Bow earrings, Oscar de la Renta.
Ring and bracelet jewel, Al Zain Jewellery.
Beau headdress, Jenny Packham.
Diamond classic engagement ring, Mouawad.
FOCUS / 49
Ivory satin court shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti.
The Art Jewel Forest Spider hoop earrings, Cindy Chao. Maltaise heels, Christian Louboutin.
Mia heels, Jimmy Choo.
White purse, Aigner. Cerise heels, Aruna Seth.
Orchid enamel necklace, Oscar de la Renta.
Crystallography box clutch, BHLDN.
Lotus Pearl Necklace, BHLDN.
AT YOUR SERVICE Arabian Pearl Kaleidoscope Sandal
Level Shoe District’s Bridal Capsule Collection
Esposa Made to Measure The region’s most celebrated bridal boutique offers an opportunity for you to bring the dress of your dreams to life through its Made to Measure service. Brides-to-be who have a specific look in mind, but can’t find a match in designer collections, can consult with Esposa’s dedicated fashion designer who will help with the whole process. The designer will advise on fabrics, embellishments, details and silhouettes of the dress to best suit your body type and preferences to help create the perfect fit. A one-ofa-kind personalised dress is the best a bride can keep to commemorate her big day!
Dubai Mall’s Level Shoe District has collaborated with footwear’s big names on a capsule bridal collection that puts the shine on the details. Nicholas Kirkwood, Aquazzura, Dsquared2, Gianvito Rossi, Paul Andrew, Rupert Sanderson, Sophia Webster and Aennis Eunis updated 20 of their iconic shoe designs into limited edition bridal versions for the collection. Nicholas Kirkwood’s Arabian Pearl Kaleidoscope Sandal is
decorated with 600 Arabian pearls, and was designed for “the adventurous woman,” says Nicholas. Dsquared2’s Janina Bridal Feather Sandal comprises a delicate combination of ribbons and plumes – the perfect shoe for a short wedding dress. Brides-to-be will receive an on-site foot massage as part of the luxury fitting service, with each pair of shoes delivered in a monogrammed silk dust bag with a special note from the designer.
Janina Bridal Feather Sandal
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Navabi launches plus-size bridalwear The premium plus-size fashion e-tailer is adding a string to its bow with a new collection offering curvy bridesto-be plenty of dress inspiration for their big day. Based in Germany, Navabi has launched its first range of wedding dresses for EU sizes 44-56 (US sizes 14-26). The collection features breathtaking, exclusively designed gowns by UK bridal specialist Linzi Jay. Designs include classic ruched
bodice and strapless corset styles with or without floor-grazing trains and sweetheart necklines, as well as ontrend one-shoulder styling -- in duchess satin, pearls, chiffon and lace. Navabi is also partnering with Italian fashion label Idea Pin and US wrap-dress specialists Kiyonna, to cater for the mother of the bride. The collection is now available at www.navabi.co.uk and prices range from QR2,796 to QR5,190.
Tanagra x My List Fine home decor retailer Tanagra, has partnered with the online gift registry MyList to assist couples with ideas for wedding gift wish lists. “On hand are our bridal experts whose advice on the latest global trends will prove invaluable for couples setting up home for the first time. The experts will be referring closely to Tanagra’s highly collectible, chic and new bridal ranges that are launching this season,” says Tanagra’s marketing director, Carla Daaboul. The bridal collection includes Baccarat Eye crystal vases, Rosenthal Versace Medusa, Vanitas and Jardin de Versace vases, Baccarat’s Harcourt Our Fire candlesticks and Bernardaud’s butterfly-themed votive holders. Rosenthal Versace’s Medusa Gala cupcake stand and Medusa Red cups and saucers are perfect for pre-wedding bachelorette parties or a wedding shower tea, setting the tone for the celebrations to come with their delicate designs and intricate patterns.
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FOCUS / 53 Line and Style Ink Pen Eyeliner by Prestige
BEAUTY Smoothing Primer by Make Up Forever
Airbrush Leg Solutions by Sally Hansen
WITH CLEAR GLOWING SKIN AS THE CANVAS, CHANEL’S MAKE-UP ARTIST CLAIRE BLAVET SHARES TIPS ON HOW TO ENSURE YOUR MAKE-UP LOOKS ITS BEST FOR THE CAMERAS AND STAYS PERFECT FOR THE LONG CELEBRATIONS. Stick with your complexion Your make-up should match your natural complexion as closely as possible. Paler brides may hit the tanning bed in moderation before the big day, but the face, neckline, arms and hands should all match. Don’t cake it on Too much powder is a guaranteed faux pas, especially in the unforgiving outdoor lighting conditions that will likely be the backdrop for your wedding photos.
Master Eyebrow Kit by Wow by Wojoh
Kate Bright Lipstick by Rimmel
In The Mood for Love fragrance by Ferre
Foundation is not concealer A common mistake is attempting to conceal flaws and even out skin tone with the same product. Conceal what there is to conceal and set with a sheer powder. One pitfall to avoid is wearing orange-tinted blush over a tanned complexion, as the result is too tone-on-tone. Matte above all else When it comes to powder, choose a transparent product that mattifies, without adding extra pigments. The advantage of working with powder sparingly is that it allows you to mattify where necessary while maintaining just enough shine to capture the light on the
cheekbones, a small edge of the nose, and the jawline. Keep the eyes subtle Smoky eyes may be trendy in other circumstances, but you’ll most likely want to walk down the aisle with something more subtle. Everything that’s close to nude, rosewoods, brownish rosewoods, bronze, candied chestnut, slightly faded colours, eggshell shades, bring light to the eyes. Well-defined lips The perfect lip makeup starts with a liner. If your lips are not well-defined, draw the outline with a rosewood shade, which suits everyone. To fill in the shape, there are several options. If your pout is already rosy, keep it simple and just put on balm. On lips that are naturally pale, a little colour goes a long way. Avoid bright red shades, which have a tendency to run and could ruin your entire look. Careful how you set the look Every bride wants her make-up to last all day. Prepare your face ahead of time by moisturising so that you only need a base layer, as this helps prevent the skin from producing too much oil throughout the day.
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HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS TO CELEBRATE LOVE Maldives Dusit Thani Maldives blends graceful Thai hospitality with the unparalleled luxury setting of the Maldives. Encircled by white sandy beaches, a stunning 360 degree house reef and a turquoise lagoon, the luxury resort sits on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll - the Maldives’ first ever UNESCO biosphere reserve. Enjoy your honeymoon escape in a private villa that offers privacy as well as candlelit beach dinners, romantic bath setups as part of the spa treatments, and a special celebratory gift from the resort.
London A metropolitan destination that many are familiar with, London offers a multitude of experiences for lovebirds. Go for a touch of heritage and opulence at the century-old The Berkeley, that is offering a special service that includes atraditional English breakfast in bed, massage at the Bamford Haybarn Spa and monogrammed bathrobes as keepsakes. The hotel also hosts the creative Prêt-à-Portea which incorporates fashion elements into the afternoon tea ritual. To celebrate the launch of the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum, Prêt-à-Portea now features Alexander’s Armadillo Shoes as a chocolate biscuit and the Butterfly Hat as a dark chocolate mousse dessert.
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Zanzibar The picturesque landscape of Zanzibar is an ideal fit for lovebirds who just want to kick back and enjoy Mother Nature. At the Meliá Zanzibar, couples can opt for a unique Sand Ceremony experience which symbolises the union of ‘two into one’ in a spiritual moment. By pouring two individual vials of sand into one, the newly formed union is represented by the intertwined pattern of sand created. The romantic getaway offers packages that include spa treatments, candle light dinners as well as a unique Bali Bed experience at the exclusive Gabi Beach.
Paris In the city of love, Le Royal Monceau Raffles offers a great mix of high-level design and exceptional service as the perfect backdrop for a wonderful honeymoon. Located just a few steps away from the Champs Elysees, the hotel is home to two stylish Michelin-starred restaurants, the award-winning Spa My Blend by Clarins, a private 99-seat cinema, the longest swimming pool in Paris and a special art collection. The works of art exhibited in the public areas were all commissioned specially for the hotel, including Stéphane Calais’ fresco murals Jardin à la Française and Rosson Crow’s Maison d’Alsace. Honeymoon packages start from QR4,400 per night and include special delicacies from Pierre Hermé, as well as a special ‘Paris At Night’ tour in a luxury Jaguar.
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A file photo of the founding family of the ancient Tocen Goshoboh, Arima Onsen.
LESS IS MORE BY PRIYANKA PRADHAN
JAPAN’S OLDEST SPA TOWN PROVIDES FOR A SPIRITUAL ZEN HONEYMOON GETAWAY. It’s fascinating to see the relevance of ancient Japanese philosophy even today, as it resonates across the natural theatre of Arima Onsen, and ricochets off the Spartan, zen-inspired homes of this hilltop town. As it turns out, Arima Onsen, which lies in the Kobe region of Japan, is not only the country’s oldest natural hot springs spa-town, but is also a slice of mystique, folklore and philosophy. I’m sitting at the quaintly decked out, yet ultra-modern luxury ryokan, the Arimasansoh Goshobessho Hot Springs resort, waiting for an induction into the ancient Japanese tradition of onsen (hot springs) community bath. My eyes wander towards a bright, somewhat circular emblem across the room. “It’s like a wheel - a circular device with spokes that converge at a central point,” Kazushige Kanai, the young scion of Arima Onsen’s most prominent business families, follows my gaze and attempts to explain. He introduces himself as CEO apprentice for his family’s ancestral
properties, the Arimasansho Goshobessho resort and ancient parent property, Tocen Goshoboh, before continuing. “What do you see at the centre of the wheel? Nothing!” he says passionately. “It’s an empty space - a ‘functional nothingness’. It’s functional because this ‘nothingness’ is what makes the wheel useful to man. How would you attach the wheel to anything if it wasn’t for this empty space in the centre?” He continues, “According to Japanese philosophers, people, and things, should have a certain emptiness at the core, in order to understand, appreciate and serve a purpose. The wheel-like emblem for our resort follows the same philosophy.” Arimasansoh Goshobessho, the hot springs spa resort that’s responsible for launching us into the throes of philosophy, is innocuously tucked away atop the steep slopes of Arima, just a few steps from his family’s ancient spa, Tocen Goshoboh. The latter was established as far back as the 12th century Kamakura period in
FOCUS / 57 “I’m wondering whether to plunge into the pool of steaming hot, reddish-gold waters of the onsen, or simply return to the reassuring confines of my villa.” One of the many natural hot springs in Arima Onsen.
The hot spring community bathhouse (separate for both sexes) at Arimasansoh Goshobessho, Arima Onsen.
Japanese history, lying adjacent to the only hot-spring bathhouse of Arima at the time. Today, with more than 30 inns and onsen resorts, Arima Onsen is known to be a haven for alternative therapy as well as spirituality. For Arima locals, however, the therapeutic powers of hot springs are mythical. According to the history of the ancient Tousen Jinja (shrine) in Arima, two Shinto gods discovered Arima Onsen more than 1300 years ago. When they passed by the town, they happened to see three injured crows drink water from an onsen pool they were immediately healed, much to the astonishment of the gods. Legend has it that these ‘three crows of Arima’ were then considered supernatural and became the only birds permitted to live in the town. A few yards uphill from the Goshobessho, lies the same shrine, which takes more than 50 rugged stone steps to climb. Cloaked in silence, the shrine houses the protecting deity of Arima Onsen and has the three crows carved into the entrance doorway. Wooden wishing plaques called Ema brush against each
other and water gushes out of an elaborate tsukubai (stone basin), marking the only two sounds heard across the compound. A peek inside the sanctum sanctorum reveals a very simple and beautiful design, with a prominent empty space in the centre, reiterating the ancient Japanese perspective of ‘less is more’. Back at the resort, I’m staring at another sparsely furnished space - the community onsen bathhouse. I’m wondering whether to plunge into the pool of steaming hot, reddish-gold waters of the onsen, or simply return to the reassuring confines of my villa. My trepidation is mainly because I’m told that one can only take a dip in this onsen completely in the nude - a very common community bath custom in onsen tradition, but a bit of a culture shock to me. Lying before me is the ‘Kinsen’, or ‘golden hot-spring’, one of the three types of natural springs found in Arima. The strongly basic ferruginous sodium chloride spring is known for its beauty benefits, as the thermal water leaves the skin extremely smooth and moisturised. Therapeutic effects of this onsen include healing of external wounds, menstrual
Interior of the Arimasansoh Goshobbesho onsen resort spa in Spring.
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A traditional zen garden inside the Arimasansoh Goshobessho.
Inside the gates of the Arimasansoh Goshobessho hot springs resort’s 1.2 acre estate.
disorders and infertility in women, chronic digestive disease, rheumatism and even motor paralysis. It is also known to help in therapy for active tuberculosis, malignant tumours, severe heart disease and anaemia, among other acute ailments. “The hot springs in Arima surface from up to 60 metres underground, at temperatures more than 98 degrees Centigrade,” Kanai informed me earlier. “Special pipes are then used to route it straight to the bath houses of our two properties, where the temperature is controlled at around 40 degrees
“The hot springs in Arima surface from upto 60 meters underground, at temperatures more than 98 degree centigrade.” Centigrade.” A walk around the town, which is small enough to be explored entirely on foot, uncovers a number of active onsen sources, seen steaming and whistling out of long pipes. Spices, condiments, confectionery, and tea are sold at every corner of the narrow, steeply sloping main street, which was once the path of a flowing stream across the town. Local life is simple and relatively uninterrupted by the world outside, shielded by Mount Rokko and wrapped in the rich heritage of the traditional onsen. However, the esoteric charms of
this ancient spa town have attracted travellers from across the world, including some who even set up a small Western colony here, in the pre-World War II era. As for me, I did eventually take a plunge into the onsen’s hypnotic waters and in doing so, surrendered myself to a unique spiritual experience – one that stayed with me long after the effects of the onsen had worn off. How to Get There Emirates flies direct and daily from Dubai to Osaka. The business class service aboard the Airbus A380 offers the perfect start to the spa vacation. With the chauffer-driven service from your doorstep to the Emirates business class lounge in Dubai, and from in-flight services to regionally-inspired onboard gourmet dining, the Emirates business class service aims to be a seamless luxury travel experience. Emirates also flies daily between Dubai and Doha, Qatar. Where to Stay Arimasansoh Goshobessho, Arima Onsen. Guests have the option to choose between villas or two-storey maisonettes at the resort, established on the site of the ancient Arima Kiyomizu temple. Both types of stay offer views of the Kiyomizu lake or the Taki river and come with private thermal rooms and access to the community onsen. www.goshobessho.com/en
One of 10 luxury villas at the Arimasansoh Goshobessho, Arima Onsen.
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THE PROPOSAL CARTIER REAFFIRMS ITS LEGACY THROUGH A SHORT FEATURE ON THE DIFFERENT MOMENTS OF LOVE.
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ith the iconic red Cartier box appearing at key moments in the film, The Proposal is a collection of three love stories with Paris as its backdrop. Director Sean Ellis, working together with French screenwriter Olivier Lecot, has created three Parisian love stories in which the Cartier box pays a surprise visit: at the Musée Rodin, in the elevator of a philharmonic concert hall, and at the Paris airport. Between a game of hide-andseek and misunderstandings, the movie is an ensemble piece in which original romances intersect during the course of three proposals. The first shows a youthful and affectionate treasure hunt in the gardens of the Musée Rodin, drawing to a close at the foot of the famous Thinker sculpture. The second story unfolds with a rushed series of missed opportunities in front of the elevator in a large Parisian concert hall, where the doors consistently close on the lovers. And finally, the third is an unexpected declaration that unfolds in a dramatic turn of events at the airport, following a series of developments between a husband and wife. A passport is stolen and returned and finally a surprise “remarriage” proposal is elicited. The fine jewellery house gave free reign to English director Ellis to create these stories of love. Ellis is noted for his short film Cashback, which won him an Academy Award nomination in 2006, and Metro Manila, winner of the World Cinema Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival in 2013. Watch the film at www.cartier.com
Photo credits for Film Stills: Nicolas Gouhier/ABACA Photo credits for Solitaire Cartier Destinee and Diamond Ring: Vincent Wulveryck/Cartier 2012
A MYSTERIOUS AMBIENCE THAT LEFT THE AUDIENCE WONDERING IN A THEATRICAL SETUP THAT INVOLVED AN ACROBATIC HOOP DANCER AND A SMOKEDFILLED ENTRANCE TUNNEL, THE CLOSET PRESENTED A FANTASY. BY DEBRINA ALIYAH
THE GIRL AND THE MOON
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uests were intrigued by the promise of meeting a superstar designer and the opportunity to experience the fantasy tale of The Girl and The Moon. After a smoke and mirror opening gambit, American designer Christian Siriano took to the stage to the surprise of the audience. The young and vibrant voice in New York’s design scene has established his niche in eyecatching evening gowns and occasion wear. Red carpet dressing is his forte - Sarah Hyland’s cropped top and orange ball skirt at the 2014 Emmy Awards has a special place in our hearts – and is something that translates very well for women in the Middle East. “Even at black tie
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weddings or events in New York, not every woman gets to dress up. They usually just wear a black dress, but here they embrace fashion,” Christian tells us after witnessing a fashion extravaganza at a wedding in Kuwait, before his appearance in Doha. The Middle East is an important market for the brand and Christian is fascinated by how knowledgeable Arabian women are about fashion. “It’s a little intimidating sometimes because they know more than I do!” He dressed several women for the Kuwaiti wedding, including style icon Sheikha Raya Al-Khalifa, for whom he designed a custom gown. “I love her, she is such an amazing person with such a great personality,” Christian says. The Closet has been a big supporter of the designer since its opening, and has helped cultivate a fan base in Qatar for the label. In the first of a branding initiative to introduce a series of fantasy tales that encapsulate the identity of The Closet’s muse, the boutique decided to collaborate with Christian for his special touch on fantasy creations. “The idea is to create something that feels dream-like and whimsical. We wanted her to look like a cloud in the sky and yet the piece is still wearable, light and beautiful. I think it turned out beautiful and modern,” Christian says. The Girl and The Moon tells the tale of a beautiful woman who is unaware of her
“It’s a little intimidating sometimes because they know more than I do!”
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beauty and wishes upon the moon every night to be made more attractive. The moon becomes mesmerised by the woman and eventually travels to earth to meet her, but the encounter turns out to be a trap. The story ends there for now, as the boutique waits to unveil the next chapter of the story. “We want to leave a magical and somewhat uneasy feeling with the audience, in a sense that they are left
wondering,” the team at The Closet says. The one-off only dress, as interpreted by Christian, is a mysterious, dreamy and soft powder-blue number with a fitted bodice that cascades into a layered full skirt. ollowing the launch event, Christian hosted a two-day trunk show at the boutique, introducing his Fall 2015 collection while meeting his clients here. “I am very appreciative of the boutique. They are very serious about what they do and they care a lot about the brands they carry. There are not a lot of stores in the world like this and it’s nice to know that places like these still exist,” he comments. The designer also had the opportunity to meet local talents, including the trio behind The Kayys, “I think they have a nice vision. It’s very clean, minimal, and pretty. They just need to a do a few more pieces and they are ready to go. I offered that I could put them in touch with some people in New York and Paris,” Christian says. The Fall collection was inspired by the Congo jungle, and the multitude of flora and fauna that lives in it. Movements and colours were captured through prints,
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textures and embroideries, to create a mood board that is both dark and mysterious, yet beautiful and romantic. Feathers were aplenty and a medley of animal prints detail the pieces, while the tailored separates in khaki are reminiscent of the safari adventurer. “I love the layers and colour, just like the African sunset. There’s a plant called the African tulip tree and we recreated the flowers and shades,” the designer says. The brand’s team is still very much a small close-knit unit with Christian as the only designer, which explains the organic way the brand works. “We take little ideas and then see how it translates into dresses,” he says. Though small, the brand is working on many collaborations and upcoming projects that include eyewear and bags, and is expanding from a creative standpoint. “It’s just me. I am pretty bossy, I don’t like a lot of opinions and I like it that way,” Christian laughs. The Girl and The Moon is the first story from The Closet’s series of fantasy tales. Every launch of a new tale will be accompanied by a special collaboration with a designer to design a unique creation.
“We take little ideas and then see how it translates into dresses,”
CLASS OF 2015 BY DEBRINA ALIYAH Fashion Studio Photography by Karen Nicolet Runway Photography by Rob Altamirano
EIGHT DESIGNERS DICTATE THEIR FASHION IDENTITY IN COLLECTIONS TO KICK-START THEIR CAREERS.
From theatrical costumes to urban warriors, Virginia Commonwealth University - Qatar’s fashion design class of 2015 displayed a strong range of technical fashion construction and distinct design voice. The eight graduating seniors presented individual collections that give rise to their own design identity; a spring board to kick start their careers. The collections were shown over three days as part of VCUQ’s annual fashion show that is hosted by Salam International at The Gate Mall. Thread, to represent the thread of international connections and creative collaborations, underlined by the presence of guest designer Stephane Rolland, who brought four definitive pieces from his haute couture Spring/Summer 2015 collection to open the show. Three senior fashion design students from VCU’s Richmond campus, Gabriels Villalon, Rene Velasquex and Haley
Choi, were also invited to present their collections to strengthen this creative exchange. This year also marks an exciting partnership between GLAM and VCUQ in an effort to identify and nurture new fashion talent in Qatar. The inaugural ‘GLAM New Talent Award’ was incepted to provide recognition to one graduating student of outstanding aesthetics from a purely creative and design perspective. The award, presented to Malia Bennett Henry, is to encourage and promote innovation in pushing the limits of silhouettes, material and form manipulation beyond the ordinary or commercial demands. Malia also won The Salam Fashion Award which will provide a commercial opportunity for her collections, while Maryam Al Darwish won the W Doha Award which will provide marketing endeavours by the W Hotel chain worldwide.
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Haute couture creation from Stephane Rolland’s Spring Summer 2015 collection
Models presenting the Junior Collection
GLAM’s Sindhu Nair presented the New Talent Award to Malia
Haute couture creation from Stephane Rolland’s Spring Summer 2015 collection
VCUQ’s fashion department chair Sandra Wilkins thanking couture designer Stephane Rolland
GLAM NEW TALENT AWARD MALIA BENNETT HENRY
Manic Depression The winner of the first-ever GLAM New Talent Award, Malia, presented a six-piece collection that explores the theme of depression through Jackson Pollock line prints. A highly on-point narrative, the pieces exhibit unique silhouettes that were contemplative yet wearable; with the added bonus of being transformable into a different look through an innovative use of zippers. The prints were created through a free-hand drawing and brought to life onto the fabric using the monoprint technique, resulting in an organic print unique to each garment. “The lines express how your mind goes crazy in depression and the black blocks represent when the mind starts to feel nothing. I wanted to show that experience, it’s
something that people suffer and yet find difficulty in expressing,” she explains. The silhouette becomes increasingly abstract as the collection progresses, “...which is what depression is like – it starts off as something small and then it eventually becomes something that you aren’t sure anymore,” she says. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Malia hopes to be able to work in New York as she feels her aesthetics would fit into the city’s vibe. “My style is very comfortable and urban, and I identify with Martin Margiela. He makes contemporary clothing that is exaggerated, yet wearable, and that’s the kind of clothes I want to make. I am also very interested in textile experimentation,” she says.
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MARYAM AL-DARWISH
The Details Working with a precious swath five metres of floral fabric that she procured on a trip to New York, Maryam reversed the creative process of designing the collection. Instead of mapping out a concept and then picking fabrics, she used the floral swath as the starting point to visualise the collection. The limited quantity of the material got her thinking on her feet to maximise every inch, incorporated in the collection as belts, details, and panels as well as an entire shift dress made with just one metre of the fabric. “The prints are abstract floral and I wanted to give a modern take to nature,” she says. The seven -piece collection is a progressive story, with each being a bigger challenge than the previous. “It had to capture the attention of the audience and to keep them coming back to discover new
perspectives,” she explains. A pastel colour palette was chosen to tone down the highly-designed pieces and to capture the softness of Mother Nature. Maryam has already ventured into commercial design with her jewellery brand, MBM’s Collection, that is a favourite among Qataris for its unique use of tassels and beads. She has shown at Impression Boutique, and has recently interned with local fashion label The Kayys. “I learned a lot during my time with the brand especially the challenges and hard work that goes into producing collections after collections,” she relates. The designer will be looking into expanding MBM’s Collection after graduation, including the possibility of introducing a ready-to-wear line. Check out the brand on Instagram @mbmscollection
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SORAYA TESCHNER
Modern Warrior A student from VCU’s main campus in Virginia, USA, Soraya decided to finish her the last year of her degree and graduate here at the Qatar campus. “I heard a lot about the region’s appreciation for fine fashion and really wanted to experience this for myself,” she says. Evoking the strength of a female warrior, the collection was inspired by Asian philosophy and silhouettes. “There’s an Asian proverb that attributes the strength of bamboo to its flexibility and adaptability, and I feel that fashion and clothing should have the quality,” she
explains. The ten-piece collection is crafted mainly from knit, which Soraya sourced from Holland, and conveys a sense of simplicity that puts the focus on the person wearing the clothes. Living here for a year has helped Soraya shape her collection, including the beige and nude colour palette that dominates the pieces. “This collection is spiritual for me, and the quiet time here really helped me to focus on what direction I wanted to go with this. This place is like a blank space that really allows you to get your creative juices going,” she says.
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DYLON ADONIS
Triggered Metamorphosis Dylon explores the transformation of the playfulness of childhood to the gracefulness of adulthood. “I decided to use animals as a reference point because they have a sense of freedom that humans don’t, like the ability to travel without borders,” he explains. The collection starts with a white and turquoise palette, inspired by the reflecting shade of an iceberg on
water. “During my research, I came across polar bears and as young cubs, they had snow white fur which slowly darkens as they grow. I used that colour progression in the collection,” he says. With faux fur, crêpe, chiffon and lace, the collection is a feminine take that ranges from playful contemporary mini-dresses to a dramatic navy blue bodice dress with a soft train.
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KINDA MORSHED
Elizabeth.Haunted A reflection of her love for costume design in performance and theatre, this collection is dramatic and highly specialised for show business. Finding inspiration from the Victorian era, Kinda used a combination of velvet, organza, silk, feathers, and embroidered lace to bring about a theatrical presentation of elaborate collars and exaggerated gowns. “It’s like Queen Elizabeth was
resurrected and haunted by the spirit of an evil witch. I wanted to see the two worlds collide, hence the black colour theme,” she explains. The designer is a big fan of the vintage clothes revival, and the darker side of fairy tales, which gives rise to the Evil Queen reference in the collection. “I also kept it only to one colour which allows the focus to be more on cuts and fabrics.”
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TAMADER AL-SULTAN
Blooms This collection is a metaphorical representation of Tamader’s journey. “In my four years at VCUQ, I have been planting this seed and growing it, and now it has blossomed. It is now spring, my spring. This is the spring where I give myself the
chance to bloom and explore,” she says. Using a combination of chiffon, Japanese crêpe silk and organza, Tamader narrates the collection with embroidered floral designs on blouses that are contrasted with textured underlining.
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AISHA AL-SUWAIDI
Fashion as Art Inspired by spring’s bloom, this collection was created with pastel colours that reflect lightness and innocence. The fabrics and colours reflect the essence of the season with floral beading and pale polka dots. “It reflects my passion for 1960’s fashion with a modern twist. This characterises my personality as a designer,” she explains. Using silk and organza, the collection has a young and vibrant spirit that modernises the
silhouettes of bygone days. The designer admits to being shy since she was a young girl, and found fashion to be a form of expression for her. “Also, the immense influence fashion has as a form of expression throughout history, continues to fuel my interest in this art,” she says. Aisha has already established her own boutique and will begin work on childrenswear collections for her store.
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MARWA AL-SAID
Bonsoir NY The collection is a tribute to New York City, where Marwa sees the streets as a never-ending runway and its people as models who are free to wear whatever tickles their fancy. “I breathed the freshest of air while observing the colourful nature and absorbing the unique sense of fashion in every social class,” Marwa explains. The city’s
wide-range street style looks made the designer realise that attire does not represent class or status, and that fashion through the decades has been incorporated in a contemporary way. Interpreting the crossover of inspirations, Marwa created pieces that pulled elements from different eras and subcultures.
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Jacket by Roland Mouret from Net-A-Porter Shoes by Santoni
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GEOMETRIC
P L AY BLOCK COLOURS, PANELS AND SHAPES UNDERLINE A GEOMETRIC PLAY THAT IS BOTH FEMININE AND SHARP FOR THE MODERN WOMAN. Photo credits: Z7 Communications
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Dress by Victoria Beckham
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Tunic and Shorts by Versace Sandals by Santoni
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Top and Trousers by Victoria Beckham
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Dress and Clutch by Versace
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Dress, Shoes and Bag by Salvatore Ferragamo
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Jacket, Dress, Shoes and Bag by Versace
SPORTING LEGACY In 1985 leading sports brand, Puma signed a 17-year old German tennis player who was just emerging on the scene. That man was Boris Becker. He went on to become the youngest and first unseeded player ever to win Wimbledon. Resplendent in his signature Puma mid tops and distinctive style of play, Becker became a household name and popularised the sport and the sporting brand. This year Puma celebrates the 30th anniversary of his victory with signature sports shirts and tennis shoes.
ALWAYS IN STYLE: The ever-funky Daft Punk wears Saint Laurent at a recent New York event.
AL ANEEQ WHERE THE BIG BOYS COME OUT TO PLAY
DINE LIKE JAMES BOND With the steady build-up of buzz being generated by the fall release of the next James Bond film “Spectre,” a recently released restaurant guide can help fans dine like 007. In his book “James Bond’s Cuisine: 007’s Every Last Meal,” author Matt Sherman combed through 54 books and 23 films in the Bond franchise to come up with a list of 254 real-world dining destinations. The travel site GoEuro recently distilled the listing into a handy infographic that breaks down the restaurants by country and region. Not surprisingly, restaurants in the UK and Ireland get the most mentions, with 21 in total. According to Sherman, the most popular dining destination in the entire repertoire is Scott’s of Mayfair in Courtesy: Relaxnews
London, which is mentioned in four separate films and books. While in the UK, Bond’s typical meal choice may include a good old-fashioned steak with potatoes and a picnic hamper from Harrods. To sample the glamorous spy life, Sherman suggests hitting up Ascot for smoked salmon sandwiches and washing them down with Dom Pérignon champagne. And in the 1985 film “A View to A Kill,” Bond (Roger Moore) tucks into foie gras topped with caviar on toasted brioche at the iconic Jules Verne restaurant at the Eiffel Tower. Fans can also find Bond-approved restaurants and addresses in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, Switzerland, Greece, Germany and Austria.
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SUPER COLOURS A true star doesn’t follow the pack, or tell someone else what to wear. You cannot impose a style on a superstar - nor a trend, or a colour. This is the ethos behind the Adidas Originals Supercolor release, which sees the iconic Superstar silhouette transformed via a spectrum of 50 different colourways. Pharrell Williams knows that the most empowering thing you can give a superstar is the freedom of expression. In collaboration with the creative and entertainer, the Adidas Originals Supercolor Superstar pack offers a choice like never before. “With every shoe treated exactly the same, all colours are equal. No matter what colour you choose, you can be part of Supercolor. Choose your colour,” says Pharell.
CASUAL YET CLASSY Gentlemen Only Casual Chic is the new perfume from the house of Givenchy. After launching Gentlemen in 2013, Givenchy offered men a new distinctive fragrance – a natural extension for the house founded by Hubert de Givenchy. After capturing the modern gentleman’s elegance in a sensual and unsettling intense version, in 2014, the newly launched casual chic fragrance is a welcome addition. While remaining true to the original scent which incorporates sandalwood, cedar wood and birch leaf, the new Eau de Toilette asserts its own lively and refreshing personality. Through an astonishing trio of spices – cardamom, ginger and juniper – this wood spicy fresh fragrance successfully blends freshness and character.
GLAM / BEAUTY
BOOTY MAY 2015
OUR CURATED BOX FOR ALL YOUR BEAUTY SOLUTIONS.
SCENT OF A WOMAN Boucheron has followed the launch of its Quatre ring with yet another essential accessory, the Quatre fragrance for women - a lively combination of modernity, that reflects the timeless elegance of the ring. Just as the ring combines four different motifs in an array of colours with dazzling harmony, the fragrance reveals surprising facets and daring sharpness that mirror both elegance and style. The unique fragrance features notes of bitter orange, red currant, a rose-jasmine blend, as well as wood.
89 SUMMER LOOK This summer, Dior takes the spirit of tie-dye seen in the house collections and interprets it for the skin. Colours fluctuate, stretch and transform, as though saturated by light, from Hypnotic Jade to Amber Bronze, in spectrums of Sandy Beige or Lagoon Blue. A variety of sunset tones drenches the complexion in light. For the lips, combinations of coral, pink, mauve and red will make your smile vibrate. On the nails, a wave of grenadine adds a twist to key summer shades.
ALL ABOUT THE LIPS Lips & Boys is a new collection of lip colours named for the men Tom Ford admires. These include those whom he personally knows and those he finds inspiring. The lipsticks come in a miniature case that is compact enough to fit inside the smallest of clutches. Each shade, from James to Henry and Stavros to Francesco, amplifies a woman’s individuality. Rare and exotic ingredients include Soja seed extract, Brazilian Murumuru butter and Chamomilla flower oil, and create a creamy texture with each smooth application.
BUZZ GLAM / BEAUTY
NATURAL BEAUTY The French make up line, Une recently launched in Qatar. All of its products are made of natural materials. We particularly love the lipsticks which are made of shea butter and offer moist lips to wearers. Shades of cherry, brown and maroon are some of the colours on offer. Une’s mineral foundation has won over consumers since its launch. It is fragrance -free and evens and corrects skin tone while offering a unique glow, thanks to pure micronised pigments. Its texture allows the skin breathe, reveals its beauty and maintains the comfort of the wearer. Over time and when tired, the complexion sometimes needs a little helping hand or perhaps even a magic wand. Une’s Skin-glow concealer brightens areas of shadow and attracts the light; and on bare skin or after applying foundation, it illuminates in a single step for a dazzling result. The products are available in Doha at Monoprix.
MAY 2015
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SUN-KISSED LOOKS
VALENTINO UOMO SHINES AT FRENCH FRAGRANCE AWARDS The FiFi Awards, an annual event sponsored by The Fragrance Foundation France that took place early April in Paris, honoured the best perfumes to hit the country’s shelves in 2014. Three fragrances truly stood out this year: Valentino Uomo by Valentino, Black Opium by Yves Saint Laurent, and L’Homme Idéal by Guerlain. The 23rd edition of these awards assembled no fewer than 470 industry professionals and journalists to enjoy the traditional gala dinner and discover the new winners of the FiFi Awards. Sixteen prizes were awarded, including a new one, the FiFi d’Or (which awards the best ensemble of bottle, scent and campaign), selected by a jury made up of leading figures in arts and culture and was presided over by Jean Paul Gaultier. A jury made up of 25 consultants, bloggers and journalists, selected two perfumes sold in less than 100 points of sale. The results: Corsica Furiosa, a fragrance by Parfum d’Empire, was awarded the prize for best niche perfume, while Cuir d’Ange by Hermès was designated best perfume by a luxury brand. Courtesy: relaxnews
It’s that time of year to show up with a gorgeously tanned skin to every occasion. It’s what women want and can now get, regardless of the season. Breaking the tradition, Make Up For Ever has revolutionised its bronzing powder with Pro Bronze Fusion for a luminous and naturally tanned complexion. It is a waterproof and sweatproof gel-compact bronzer that delivers a natural sun-kissed effect in just minutes. The light compact texture melts instantly into the skin, giving a boost in a silky-smooth effect with no powdery finish. Its waterproof aspect allows for a longer and optimal hold
in any weather condition, without leaving a trace or streaks. It is available in six shades and two finishes - luminous matte for an undetectable nude finish and lightly iridescent for a warm, glowing complexion. The Pro Bronze Fusion Kabuki Brush is specifically developed for the application of Pro Bronze Fusion. The brush allows for an ultra-natural makeup result, without leaving streaks. Its perfect combination of straight and wavy fibres guarantees you looking tanned and not like you are wearing a bronzer – by taking just the right amount and applying it with no risk of application lines.
JUST BREATHE Color Ritual, the new nail polish from Wow by Woojoh makeup line offers a chance for your nails to breathe easy. The unique, porous chip-resistant formula allows your nails to breathe while delivering a gorgeous glossy or edgy matte finish. Depending on which anti-chip topcoat you choose, you can swap your nail colour as often as you change your outfit. It is also enriched with a UV filter to prevent discolouration and yellowing. Not tested on animals and containing no animal-derived ingredients, Color Ritual - Breathe-in Nail Polish is now available in 30 shades, exclusively at Wojooh outlets across the Middle East.
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EN ROUTE TO JOY BY ABIGAIL MATHIAS
WITH NEW BEAUTY TREATMENT VENUES SPROUTING ALL OVER DOHA, IT IS ALWAYS A CHALLENGE TO PICK THE MOST WORTHY FROM THE LOT. WE VISITED THE NEWLY LAUNCHED ROOTS SALON TO TRY SOME OF THEIR SIGNATURE TREATMENTS.
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Everyone
in this region seems harassed with unmanageable, dry hair. It either looks unhealthy or lacks volume. We decided to test out the Brazilian Blowout which has been the rage of Hollywood celebrities like Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez. Through the use of innovative and breakthrough bonding technologies, the treatment claims to improve the health and condition of the hair by creating a protective protein layer around the hair shaft to eliminate frizz and smooth the cuticle. The results are said to last up to 12 weeks. The treatment is not cheap. It costs Qr 1,900 at Roots and you need to buy Sulphate-free shampoo to ensure that the treatment lasts. The results however, will leave you stunned. The Brazilian Blowout improves the health of colour-treated or highlighted hair by conditioning the hair while sealing the cuticle for enhanced colour, reduced frizz and a radiant shine. Here’s the best part, it works best on chemically-treated hair, and helps to improve the hair’s texture by fortifying each strand with essential amino acids. Roots is located in South Duhail near Landmark Mall and offes a multitude of services for hair, beauty, nails and tanning treatments. The team at Roots certainly impressed me with their knowledge. A unique facet of the salon is its emphasis on face-to-face consultation, enabling its staff to understand the requirements and ideas of each individual client before suggesting treatments. Hairstylist Lauren Campbell has eight years of experience in the UK. She put me at ease not only because she was confident about her work, but also because she didn’t push me into doing anything I wasn’t comfortable with. Lauren shared a beauty tip which most of us in Doha can try: “Use a silk pillow case while sleeping to retain the hair’s natural oils, maintain beautiful curls or perfectly sleek straight hair.” In 2012, Debbie Algosaibi assembled a core team to transform her vision into a reality by developing a holistic and personalised salon experience. She says, “The concept of this salon began many years ago as a persistent idea in my mind, as I preferred to go home to the UK whenever I needed something as important as a haircut. Hair and beauty services are, by their very nature, personal– requiring trust and confidence between the client and her professionally qualified technician. At Roots, we hope to achieve precisely that through our internationally-trained expert staff as well as our innovative product choices.” The salon is spacious, with eight hair stations, three beauty treatment rooms, including massage and reflexology suites, and multiple manicure and pedicure stations. In addition to traditional hair, beauty and nail services, they also offer hair extensions, anti-ageing treatments, nail extensions, HD brows, make up, and spray-tanning services. “Our stylists and beauty therapists have been carefully selected
for their expertise and knowledge and are qualified under their internationally respected professional designations. The products we use have been selected to provide results true to their promises, based on professional and personal experience. We believe that beauty is age-agnostic and ‘real’ – and as such, every woman is unique. That is why we deliver constructive consultation, innovative, personalised solutions and responsible customer care, rather than pursuing a ‘one-size fits all’ approach,” says Debbie. The deluxe mani-pedi treatment was also relaxing. Kim Simpson, who has taught at Qatar’s International Beauty Academy Tajmeel, knows all about the art of keeping your nails healthy and not just pretty. She is also an expert in reflexology and does body massages and facials. If you are trying the blowout, make sure you have at least 90 minutes to spare. Also it is wise to invest in Açai aftercare products for long lasting results.
ANTI-FRIZZ HAIR IN 90 MINUTES: 1 The stylist will shampoo your hair with the Brazilian ●
Blowout specially formulated Anti-Residue Professional Shampoo to prepare your hair for a super smooth result.
2 After towel drying, your stylist will divide your hair into ●
sections and begin to comb the Brazilian Blowout treatment through each section of the hair from root to tip; lightly dusting each section with the solution.
3 Solution will surround each hair shaft with protective ●
protein layers to smooth and flatten the cuticle.
4 The stylist will then blow-dry your hair as straight as ●
possible with a flat or round brush.
5 Once the hair is dry, the stylist will divide the hair into ●
four sections and begin using a flat iron to further straighten the hair in 1 - 13/4 inch sections.
6 Once complete, the stylist will rinse the hair, towel dry it ●
and apply the Brazilian Blowout Masque to further seal in the professional formulation. After a minute, the stylist will rinse the hair once again and towel dry.
7 The stylist will then apply the Brazilian Blowout ●
Smoothing Serum to further seal the cuticle and assist in detangling the hair prior to the final blow dry.
ENERGISING THE SKIN BY ABIGAIL MATHIAS
IF THERE’S ONE SKIN MANTRA THAT BECOMES MORE RELEVANT WITH AGE, IT IS THIS: HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE.
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T
he leading luxury British spa and skincare brand, Elemis, knows how relevant moisture is for the skin. A successful combination of natural active ingredients with cutting-edge technology has enabled the brand to market some of the most influential anti-ageing products and professional spa-therapies the beauty industry has ever seen. Elemis professional spa-therapies and products are available through an extensive network of over 1200 spas and salons around the world. Their products are used in spas at leading hotels in Qatar as well. Celebrating 25 years of antiageing excellence, Elemis’ signature cream has won 21 awards. The Elemis ProCollagen Marine Cream is a luxuriously light, hydrating gel-cream which has become a British skincare icon. Combining ground-breaking marine actives with cutting-edge science, it delivers positive, visible results. There are also a number of body creams and a line of products for men. The Pro-Collagen Marine Cream reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by up to 78% and increases the skin’s hydration and moisture levels by up to 45%, in just 15 days. According to Joan Nguyo of Spa Resources International, there is one sold every 10 seconds around the world. “Kate Hudson, Jennifer Aniston, Emma Bunton and Victoria Pendleton are some of the celebrities who swear by this cream,” she says.
Nguyo is an expert on Elemis products. She explains that the cream’s power comes from its ingredients. She says, “The powerful anti-ageing properties of the Mediterranean fan-shaped algae, Padina Pavonica, supports moisturisation and firmness of the skin - resulting to a plumper appearance. It also has Chlorella seaweed which is rich in amino acids and enzymes, providing vital elements in the fight against ageing.”
“Kate Hudson, Jennifer Aniston, Emma Bunton and Victoria Pendleton are some of the celebrities who swear by this cream.” Porphyridium seaweed helps provide moisture, restructuring benefits and powerful anti-oxidant protection. While absolutes of Mimosa and Rose help balance, protect and improve elasticity, Gingko Biloba liposomes protect against free radicals and transport essential ingredients to a cellular level. What makes moisutrisation so important for the skin? “Moisturisation is an excellent way to keep the skin hydrated, replenishing the natural moisture elements in the upper layers of our skin. Lacking moisture will cause your skin to look dull and dry which can accelerate the ageing process - so moisturising can help combat these factors. In turn your skin will look radiant and healthy for many years to come,” says Nguyo.
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TABATA EXPLAINED BY YOUSRA SAMIR FOR FITNESSINQATAR.COM
A CHALLENGING WORKOUT PERFORMED IN A SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME THAT PRODUCES MAXIMUM BENEFITS.
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I
n as little as four minutes, Tabata training could get you more fitness gains than an hour on the treadmill. These fitness gains have a lot to do with the intensity level of the workout. Tabata is one of the most intense methods of exercise and has recently become a popular choice because it gives you results in a short time. You can get more benefits in a 20 minute Tabata workout that you would from an hour of low intensity exercise like pounding the treadmill. Just four minutes of Tabata training can increase your aerobic and anaerobiccapacity, resting metabolic rate, VO2 max and help you burn more calories for longer post-workout results than your traditional run-of-themill hour jog. The name Tabata comes from its inventor – Japanese physician Dr. Izumi Tabata. Dr. Tabata developed this method of high intensity interval training in the 1970s for Japanese Olympians. In his study, he took two groups of athletes and put them on an exercise program for six weeks. The first group did one hour of moderate-intensity exercise five times a week, while the second group did 20minutes of Tabata training five times a week. He wanted to see if the second group of athletes would benefit from a 20/10 session repeated eight times – that is, 20 seconds of one exercise performed at maximum intensity, followed by 10 seconds of rest eight times. This adds up to four minutes in total, which means you would have to do this five times to complete a 20 minute Tabata workout. Six weeks later, the second group of athletes had improved both their aerobic and anaerobic fitness levels. Tabata training may be shorter than your regular workout, but it is by no means easier. You need to put 100% effort into each 20 second set of exercise to reap the benefits. You can choose any type of exercise to train with – whether it is sprinting on the treadmill for 20 seconds followed by 10 seconds of rest, or 20 seconds of burpees followed by 10 seconds of rest. Whatever exercise you choose, you need to perform the 20/10 session eight times. Working out in this way immediately increases your heart rate and your body will need to work harder to keep up, forcing your metabolism to increase too, an important factor for losing fat. The great thing is your metabolism will keep on going at this high rate for hours after the workout. Ultimately Tabata training will improve
Tabata training may be shorter than your regular workout but it is by no means easier.
your overall fitness level and endurance. Your body becomes accustomed to tolerating lactic acid and your threshold increases. There are some important things you need to remember. This is an advanced level of training, so it is most suited to those who have been performing high intensity interval training for a while. Make sure you are fit enough and minimise your risk of injury by warming up properly before a workout. Also be mentally prepared: four minutes of the same exercise can become monotonous and your muscles will fatigue. Be sure to mix the exercises up. Exercises to try using the Tabata method: 1 Interval jogging or sprinting on a treadmill ● 2 Interval cycling on an indoor bike ● 3 Interval rowing on an indoor rowing machine ● 4 Kettlebell swings ● 5 Burpees ● 6 Squats ● 7 Crunches ● 8 Sit-ups ● 9 Bicycle crunches ● 10 ● Jumping jacks 11 Mountain climbers ●
Fitness in Qatar (www.fitnessinqatar.com) is Qatar’s first and most comprehensive online fitness directory. A destination for fitness enthusiasts living in and passing through Qatar, the website provides free access to hundreds of fitness classes being run across the country, as well as personal trainers, fitness instructors and coaches, and an online store for natural and organic products. For more health and fitness-related articles, you can visit the Fitness in Qatar blog.
TALK GLAM / SHOP
BRAVE NEW WORLD Fashion gurus, Splash, recently hosted ‘Brave New World’ which showcased the Spring Summer 15 collection urging wearers to go back to where it all started. The brand presented pieces that were an amalgamation of luxe fabrics in simple, basic silhouettes. The season’s hottest trends were interpreted in a way that appeared close to nature. Raza Beig, CEO of Splash and Iconic said, “This season was about exploring the roots and going back to our basics from where it began, and so we presented a very clean, minimalistic collection that infused the modernity around us. We highlighted two key themes, namely Luxe Zen and Gypset. In terms of the venue we wanted to have an open air area, surrounded by the beautiful Dubai skyline, that juxtaposed our nature-inspired runway adorned with geometric installations and trees.”
MAY 2015
100 \ SHOPTALK
FALL IN LOVE The latest collection from Inglot introduces an exciting assortment of stunning metallic shades, evocative of dreamy autumn sunsets that will make you fall head over heels in love. The collection includes a colourful set of five shimmering eye shadows, five metallic AMC eyeliner gels and five nail enamels. The colour palette includes cool, warm and neutral tones with aptly romantic names like RosĂŠ Mist, Silver Blues, Fine Pine, Fields of Gold and Golden Brown.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Every year, as summer approaches, the native cells of the almond tree trigger the bud renewal process. The L’Occitane laboratory draws upon the regenerating power of these native cells to create the new youth complex, which acts on five signs of aging in the body: dryness, skin slackening, lack of tonicity, fine lines and skin irregularities. The Velvet Serum pairs the expertise of the youth complex with the performance of Vitamin C to help even out the skin and reveal its youthfulness. Velvet Balm feels rich on the skin, providing an immediate sensation of comfort.
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ODE TO SUNSHINE The newest addition to Bath & Body Works’ signature collection, Love & Sunshine, is guaranteed to make you smile. The fresh and playful fragrance is a bright, happy blend of the juiciest fruits, brightest blooms and most cheerful citrus - it’s happiness in a bottle. The range includes a shower gel, fragrance mist, body lotion, bubble bath and ultra shea body cream.
FACE PAINT Bobbi’s new Face Touch Up Palette is thoughtfully designed for anyone who wants to quickly and easily achieve a flawless complexion while on-the-go – it’s a portable skin perfector. Extremely portable, this palmsized mirrored palette features Bobbi’s best-selling corrector, creamy concealer, skin foundation stick and sheer finish pressed powder in skin-tone correct shades. These four products are formulated to layer seamlessly and deliver an incredibly natural skin finish. Offered in arange of 15 shades, Bobbi and her team of artists have carefully selected the most popular combinations for on-the-go touch ups.
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HAUTE & NAUGHTY WATERPROOF LASH
NATURE INSPIRED Bulgari has recently launched Aqva Divina, a new jewel born from the Mediterranean Sea. Master perfumer Alberto Morillas, created this eau de toilette with a singular signature for which he plunged into his childhood memories on the shores of the Mediterranean. Embodying the harmony of nature’s treasures, like Venus on the world’s first dawn, Aqva Divina is revealed as a precious pearl in a shell. The fragrance, like its bottle, is radiant and meant to represent a sea shell.
When launched M•A•C Haute & Naughty was an overnight success, offering definition and precision with powerful volume. Now M•A•C Haute & Naughty Waterproof Lash features the same dual-wiper system and rich pigment in a new formula that is tear-proof and humidity-resistant. It quickly coats from root to tip, with conditioning ingredients that prevent dryness, protecting your lashes whatever the weather. Lashes now stay bold, black and waterproof - all day long.
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MEET AND GREET
THE UTERQUE WAY Uterque recently hosted an in-store event at its boutique in Landmark Mall. Graced by media and bloggers, the event also hosted guests from organizations such as the Doha Accueil (French) Expats Guide in Doha, Espanolas En Qatar (Spanish) Expats Guide in Doha and media and event companies such as Design Creationz (Qatar) Events Company and New Line for Media Company. With live jazz entertaining the huge turnout, the event was aimed at bringing more of loyal clientele to the brand, while introducing it to first-timers. Renowned for its trendy and classy twist on fashion, Uterque continues to strengthen its commitment to its loyal clientele by hosting such events.
SOMETHING SWEET Turkey’s leading ice-cream maker and restaurantcafé chain Mado opened its doors at The Pearl-Qatar’s Porto Arabia, in a ceremony that brought together prominent social figures, media representatives and Turkish food aficionados. The opening was attended by H.E. Ahmet Demirok, the Turkish ambassador to the state of Qatar, and Ateeq Al- Khulaifi, general manager of the UDC assets management department, and Mohamed Yoosaf, general manager of retail leasing at The Pearl. This is the restaurant’s second outlet to open in Qatar, joining a large 250-restaurant network of worldwide operations, where Mado has carved a distinctive niche as an international food chain, faithful to its 150-year history and signature ice-cream experience.
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CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
The St. Regis Cherry Blossom Festival included education, fashion, food and arts activities inspired by the Japanese culture. The festival began with a Kimono show of traditional fashion. Leanne Mills, the director of marketing said, “This programme has been meticulously developed and choreographed between multiple teams in Qatar and Japan. In addition to around 25 Japanese ladies and children getting involved, we’re also delighted that two local Qatari designers have taken an interest through our joint connections with The Luxury Network.”
Asma Sckali and Safia Al Qahtani collaborated with the teams at The St. Regis Doha, the Japanese Embassy and The Luxury Network to prepare and show a unique collection of abaya designs with heavy influences from Japanese culture and couture. The renowned Japanese artist, Takeshi Ohbayashi, returned to Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha with Takuya Kuroda, a trumpeter and composer. There were also a number of other activities, including a drumming demonstration with the Japanese School of Doha.
FASHION CORNER I Pinco Pallino and Salam Stores recently hosted an exclusive cupcake master class at Eatopia in The Gate mall, followed by an unveiling of the brand’s SS15 collection at the I Pinco Pallino store in Doha. The SS15 collection comprises delicate 3D embroideries and stunning prints on textiles including muslin, lace-effect quilted cotton and broderie anglaise, lace and carpet-like bouclé fabrics in fresh creams, greens and off-white colours. The couture collection boasts
unique handcrafts and fabrics such as lurex embroidered tulle, organdy, taffeta and silk jacquards. Vivid yellows, turquoises, oranges and fuchsia collide with soft powder pinks, beiges and off-white. The daily part of the collection caters to the new generation of mothers and their cutting-edge lifestyle with a range of dresses, leggings and t-shirts featuring I Pinco Pallino iconic printed maxi bows, floral patterns, embroidered denim and girl’s portraits made of beads and piqué fabrics.
SHOW STOPPERS Esposa Bridal SS15 www.esposagroup.com
SHOW STOPPERS Esposa Bridal SS15 www.esposagroup.com
SHOW STOPPERS Esposa Bridal SS15 www.esposagroup.com
SHOW STOPPERS Esposa Bridal SS15 www.esposagroup.com
SHOW STOPPERS Esposa Bridal SS15 www.esposagroup.com