Woman This Month - August 2021

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

August 2021 | Issue 220

BEAUTY 6 Summer-friendly products you must get your hands on!

FASHION Pretty in Pink!

A Sparkling Summer Our top jewellery picks this season.

INTERVIEW

PARENTING

The Epitome of Strength & Determination

Ouiam El Hassani tells us how to help kids readjust to going outside again.

We chat with para-athlete Rooba Al Omari about the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

LIFESTYLE

We step into Kristina Rowena Estero’s shoes

Cool Treats for the Summer! www.womanthismonth.com

Pretty in Pink!

FASHION

We explore some of Giorgio Armani’s Prive Shine collection in pretty shades of pink

Giorgio Armani once again brings his haute couture collection to the catwalk, transforming symbols, lines and colours into a new expressive path that cuts across the sense of time. In his most recent show, the designer included some garments from the latest haute couture collection in homage to Milan, creating a subtle common thread that underscores a deep sense of authenticity that transcends seasons.

The collection is luminous: the brilliance of fabrics that almost seem liquid, the sheen of satins and silks interwoven with ultra-fine metallic thread, which create an impression of joyful levity. Where long evening dresses seem to float, and delicate blouses suggest movement with crinoline ruffles featuring an unusual construction. The outfits – composed of long skirts and short bodices and jackets – are imbued with evocative elegance. Embroideries sparkle, and the dresses are like giant blossoms with a supported yet weightless structure, as if in an enchanted garden.

Surprising colours make a statement in the classic world of couture, but what truly caught our eye was the unexpected range of pinks from blush and powder to kasaya and pomegranate.

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FASHION

Embellishing Your Pink Look

We don’t just wear pink on Wednesdays around here. Pink is for every day, every week and every season in our opinion.

Regardless of when you’re dawning a fabulous shade of pink, you can either wear chic outfits in pink or embellish your look with these stunning accessories.

Coach Pillow Tabby

The Coach Pillow Tabby is crafted from soft Napa leather. The aptly named Tabby is designed to be your main squeeze and is available in a range of colours. We naturally love the Pillow Tabby in pink!

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FASHION

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FASHION

By Far Tiffany Pink Spray Print Leather Heels When your confidence is struggling boost it strutting a la Elle Woods in hot pink flip-flop heels or go full lambada in this quirky pink spray print heel from By Far.

Editor’s Pick

Meera Toukan’s Statement Plexiglass Clutches

Rene Coavilla Strong, cosmopolitan and confident women can make a true statement wearing these spectacular heels from the luxury Italian shoe designer, Rene Coavilla. We loved the fairytale feel of the bejewelled Cinderella pump and flowery Floriane Sandal.

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The world of art, architecture and accessories are beautifully combined in the form of Meera Toukan’s eye-catching plexiglass clutches. The Jordanian designer juxtaposes Middle Eastern and Western cultures to form designs that we believe would go well with every outfit – especially a couture summer look!

Handmade in Jordan, each Meera Toukan piece is a work of art, expressing Meera’s understanding and appreciation of traditional Arabic culture in a contemporary, universal milieu. Paying homage to the designer’s heritage, Meera blends the ancient art of calligraphy along with the traditional Keffiyeh to create a collection of coveted clutches.

We love her pieces that maintain pride in the Middle Eastern culture!

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PEOPLE | interview

THE EPITOME OF STRENGTH & DETERMINATION

Woman This Month Speaks with Bahrain’s Only Female Competitor at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics Games “I want to leave a mark behind me when I grow up; to be remembered as Bahrain’s Paralympic champion.”

With these words, Bahrain’s sole female competitor at the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Paralympics Games, Rooba Al Omari, expressed her pride in representing the Kingdom for the second time at the prestigious global sporting event - competing this year in the discus throw F55 category.

The 2020 Tokyo Paralympics is scheduled to be held between August 24 and September 5 this year. Similar to the Olympic games, it was rescheduled from last year due to the global outbreak of COVID-19. Besides Rooba, the Kingdom of Bahrain will be represented at the event by javelin thrower, Ahmed Mushaima.

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PEOPLE | interview

Despite having an outstanding record of medals in multiple local, regional, intercontinental and international paraathletic competitions up her sleeve, Rooba says preparing and qualifying amidst the pandemic for the most-awaited sporting event in the world has been a challenging task. “This is my first participation since the outbreak.

Training during such unprecedented circumstances has been incredibly challenging, especially with the frequent and unpredictable closure of sports facilities which led to training interruptions,” says Ms. Al Omari.

“Regardless of the challenges, I aspire to standout in the upcoming games and achieve advanced positions for my country,” she says with determination.

The 29-year-old, who is specialised in discus throw, shot put and javelin throw, has competed in several games throughout her career including the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Paralympics, the World Para Athletics Championships London 2017 and the Jakarta 2018 Asian Para Games, to name a few.

She had notably won three medals at the 2017 World Para Athletics Grand Prix.

Speaking about her beginnings, Rooba says she found herself in individual sports, and with the necessary support and guidance, rapidly gained experience that bagged several medals at regional and international levels.

“At the start of my sporting career in 2013, I was in fact more interested in basketball when compared to other sports,” she says.

“However, there are no female basketball teams for people with determination in the GCC, so I decided to move on to individual sports that suit my skills and add to my professional career as a para-athlete,” she explains.

When asked about her source of motivation and support, Rooba mentioned that her www.womanthismonth.com

biggest supporters are her family members.

“They are the last to say goodbye when I leave the airport to represent the Kingdom in international sport arenas, and the first to welcome me back with flowers, regardless of the outcome of my performance,” she says fondly.

“Family support is key to any athlete’s success, but especially in the case of paraathletes. Without them, we would never be able to make it,” she adds.

step forward. Nothing comes easy, that is a fact. Consistent effort is necessary to advance.

It took me six years of hard work, training and competing in different events before I could reach the Paralympics in 2016,” “All I want to say to people with conditions that are similar to mine is that nothing is impossible as long as you continue believing in yourself and work hard to achieve your goal,’ she concludes.

Rooba went on to laud the endless support provided by the newly established Bahrain Paralympic Committee, headed by Shaikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, and the keen follow up of the General Secretary, Ali Al Majed, as well as the sincere efforts exerted by the coaches under the Committee’s umbrella.

As the countdown for the mega event begins, with a little more than two weeks for the take-off to Tokyo, Rooba and her teammate are now undergoing extensive training sessions, under the supervision of National Coach Hassan Muftah. She trains twice daily, five days a week, as she eyes winning her first podium spot in the Paralympics.

Sharing a message to people with determination who are contemplating taking part in paraathletics, Rooba says: “I encourage them to take a August 2021

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BEAUTY EARTH-CONSCIOUS HAIR CARE L’Occitane has introduced its new solid shampoo which is free from silicones and sulfates and comes in recycled packaging. The range consists of two shampoos targeting different hair types: Intensive Repair for brittle and damaged hair and Purifying Freshness for normal to oily hair. The Intensive Repair shampoo helps repair and improve the quality of the hair from root to tip, leaving the hair soft and supple. The Purifying Freshness Shampoo, on the other hand, helps reduce excess sebum and beautifies hair. Both shampoos also contain 100% natural essential oils and smell divine.

Available at all L’Occitane stores and on www.loccitane.com.

6 Summer-friendly products you must get your hands on!

We’re in the thick of summer and we all know what that means – we’re on the quest for all things heat, humidity and smudge-proof. With the sweltering heat in mind, we bring you a range of products which will keep you feeling fresh and looking your absolute best, both: night and day.

DEFINED AND SCULPTED EYES WITH D&G BEAUTY

For the Spring-Summer 2021 Ready to Wear season, Dolce&Gabbana presented a captivating collection entitled Patchwork di Sicilia. This elegant show was complemented by a timeless make up look: a healthy and polished complexion with signature feline flicks and vivid matte lips in a palette of nude, pink and red – all from Dolce&Gabbana Beauty.

The skin was prepped before creating an elegantly defined and sculpted eye makeup look using Felineyes Intense Eyeshadow Quad in shades Sweet Cocoa 2, Smoky Taupe 3 and Italian Baroque 4. This was then highlighted with the Intenseyes Creamy Eyeshadow Stick in Gold 6 which was used on the inner corners of the eyes, adding a shimmery accent that brightened the look. For the signature sweep of liner, The Glam Liner in Black Intense 1 was traced along the upper lashline and out towards the temples to create the iconic black flick.

The models’ brows were enhanced with The Brow Liner, using light feathery strokes to mimic the natural hairs and give soft fullness and definition. The feline eye look was finished with show-stopping lashes, using Passioneyes Intense Volume Mascara in Nero Sicilia 1.

Products available at all leading beauty stores and at www.dolcegabbanabeauty.com.

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AN OLFACTORY DREAM WITH L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR

The sumptuous and captivating scents of a dreamlike nature are created by L’Artisan Perfumer as they open the doors of the Orient. The L›ARTISAN PARFUMEUR L›ORIENT collection of tales and legends, which offers the image of an East praised by dreams and fables, and celebrate a rich and opulent nature.

Being guided by his emotions, the perfumer Christophe Raynaud sowed in these stories some native ingredients of an Orient of wonders: Turkish rose, saffron, cedar and incense to create five unique fragrances.

View the collection on www.artisanparfumeur.com.

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BEAUTY DIVINE EYES START WITH CHANEL

Express and emphasise your style with a single swipe of Chanel’s STYLO YEUX WATERPROOF which has seen an addition of seven beautiful new shades. The cult favorite beauty product is now available in 14 shades so that women can wear whatever color they desire.

The glimmery liners are resistant to humidity, water, and sebum, and doesn’t run or smudge. Being versatile, it can be applied along the upper lash line for a natural look, as a kohl, or on the outer corners – the perfect product to experiment with.

The new shades include a satiny blue, green, grey, coppery pink and khaki aside from a surreal shade of gold.

Available at all leading beauty suppliers.

BE PROTECTED, PORELESS & FLAWLESS! Charlotte Tilbury’s new Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer SPF 50 PA++++, is a next-generation, weightless SPF 50 filter shield with a flawless poreless finish. It’s a beautifying, hydrating, protective filter that primes your complexion and is clinically proven to improve the look of skin while you wear!

It’s no secret that the sun is the most damaging external stressor for your skin, with too much exposure causing photo-ageing, moisture-loss, breakdown of elasticity, premature wrinkles and hyperpigmentation!

No matter your age, skin type or skin tone, if you aren’t wearing sun protection daily, your magical layers of serums, creams and hydration are going to waste! The UV Flawless Poreless Primer will give you daily UVA/ UVB defence with SPF 50 to shield the skin from the impacts of modern life and urban pollution, and delivers clinically proven results with an instant flawless, poreless looking finish.

Available on CharlotteTilbury.com and Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Wonderlands aside from Namshi.com.

Shiny Pouts with Flormar

Ditch those mattes and take on summer with a shiny pout. High-shine, glossy lips are all the rage this season. Opt for brighter shades for a little pop. Flormar’s Dewy Lip Glaze collection includes 20 shades of metallic, pearlescent and glass shine finishes and offers long-lasting shine and hydration, without the stickiness.

Flormar products are available at all Flormar Stores in the UAE and online on www.glambeaute.com and www.instashop.com.

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accessories

A SPARKLING SUMMER Jewellery that makes a hot fashion statement.

Spice up your summer look this year with these glamourous accessories. We love our fair share of jewellery and are positive that these spectacular pieces will turn some heads. Whether you’re in love with dainty jewellery or statements pieces, we’re sure you’ll find something you love.

A UNIQUE ACCESSORY FROM FULLORD

We’ve worn everything from earrings to necklaces, anklets to braclets but Fullord has set our eyes on something exquisitely beautiful which we just have to get our hands on. The brand creates intricate scarf rings which beautifully adorn their luxurious scarves.

More than a jewel and of a scarf holder, Fullord marries the preciousness of gold and diamonds to a practical use, giving a new life to how you can wear a scarf or adorn a Hijab.

They have a wide range to choose from, but if we had to choose, we would pick these stunning animalinspired scarf rings.

Find out more on www.fullord.com.

A Masterpiece of Passion by Sicis Jewels

Luxury fine jewellery designer, Sicis Jewels, have unveiled its breathtaking 14.33-carat diamonds, the Detino Incantato Necklace. The precious jewel features 18-carat white gold, 3.91 carat tanzanite and 4.23-carat rubellite.

A three-dimensional design, where curved lines intertwined inside-out and mark the trajectories of a movement, made up of dynamic shapes and vivid colours: a statement of the jewel's powerful and symbolic visual language. The result is an exquisite piece of jewellery featuring a kaleidoscope of colours.

Find out more about the exquisite piece on www.sicisjewels.com.

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accessories

AKILLIS’ BANG BANG COLLECTION WILL BLOW YOUR MIND

With Bang Bang, AKILLIS presents a jewellery explosion. This unisex collection, charged with forbidden munitions, blasts off with a rock’n’roll charm. Bracelets grace the wrist and chokers highlight the neck of the wearer with a weapon as alluring as it is dissuasive. The 9mm bullet - a callingcard for adrenaline addicts - is available in a range of options.

Originally a stylish and casual titanium mounted on a cord, Bang Bang bracelets are now available in flexible bracelets and chokers made of rose gold, or white gold, and are optionally set with black or white diamonds.

For more information check out www.akillis.com.

ELEGANTLY EDGY WITH TIFFANY & CO.

If urban was an attitude, this would be it.

The Tiffany & Co. Hardware collection are strong and stunning statement pieces that are edgy, yet elegant in appearance. We have our heart set on the stunning 18K yellow gold earrings including the Tiffany HardWear bead double drop earrings, Tiffany HardWear chain double drop earrings and Tiffany HardWear graduated chain link quadruple drop earring.

For more information, visit www.tiffany.com.

MKS Jewellery’s Celestial Beauties Stargazing jewellery lovers look no further, MKS Jewellery’s curated collection takes inspiration from the glowing night sky. Ranging from pieces filled with statement stars to the crescent moon, each wearer is able to elegantly express herself with understated, galactic designs. We loved the Star, Moon and Heart Deera series which features white diamond symbols surrounded by gold on a beautiful base of Emirati mother-of-pearl. The practical pieces remind the wearer to always follow her dreams and to pursue finding her inner magic.

Find out more on www.mksjewellery.com. www.womanthismonth.com

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

“

I DON’T WANT TO GO OUT

S

ince March 2020, parents have taken all recommended precautions to shield their children and themselves from the dangers of COVID-19. They followed instructions; they stayed home, avoided gatherings, and stayed away from family, friends, and group activities. Most kids remained in virtual schooling throughout the pandemic, which marks two academic years.

”

Ouiam El Hassani tells us how to help kids readjust to going outside again.

coronavirus, along with greater frustration, boredom, insomnia, and inattention.

Unfortunately, kids aren’t the only ones affected emotionally by the pandemic; parents are experiencing burnout from trying to juggle work from home, school from home; add to that the fear from the virus itself and

the anxiety that had crept into our lives and homes, leaving parents in a state of physical and mental exhaustion which makes parenting even harder, and makes parents unaware or even in denial of their children’s own emotional issues, which will undoubtedly make matters worse.

Almost a year and a half later, as things begin to open up a little bit, most parents seem to increasingly hear the signature phrase: “I don’t want to go out.” Not to gymnastics class, not to the grocery store, not to their favorite restaurant, and even not to see grandma! Most parents find themselves perplexed and have no clue how to manage this new trend.

Researchers who work directly with children and families suffering from anxiety, have declared this state of apprehension the kids have of leaving the safety of their home as understandable and, unfortunately, it will be the path to normal post-pandemic life. The pandemic led to abrupt and extended changes to families’ routines, including more isolation and removal from in-person schooling, that are associated with worsening mental health in young people, leading to a significant increase in reported youth anxiety, particularly concerning fears of the

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LIFESTYLE | opinion So, what can parents do to care for both: themselves and their children as we gradually transition back to interacting in public?

Having concerns about leaving isolation and integrating back to pre-corona life is entirely reasonable; parents should learn to listen to their children’s worries, validate them, and express understanding and acceptance. However, parents should pay attention to how intense these worries seem to be.

Is your child getting caught up in excessive hand-washing and cleaning? Adamant about avoiding even public spaces that you deem safe? Parents can discuss the differences between appropriate and excessive safety precautions objectively without pointing fingers or blaming the child.

Remind your child that while it’s important to be safe, it is also essential to adapt your safety strategies to new information and situations.

Drawing distinctions between what you and your children can and cannot control when it comes to getting sick, limiting excessive reassurance about safety, and having a plan to manage challenging situations as they occur can help your child feel ready to meet the world.

It is important to understand that different people will adjust to engaging with others at different

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speeds; expressing empathy simply and clearly will help the child feel safe sharing his feelings with his parents, making it easier to address them.

Some kids will need to be trained into taking smaller, more manageable steps towards regular interaction, such as a small playdate at the park with their favorite friend or a trip to get ice cream.

Parents can also set small achievable goals and share them with the kids so they can be an active part of the challenge; this could motivate them and help them transition easily and smoothly.

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s t a e r T ! r l e o Cfoor the Summ

LIFESTYLE | food

Here are our easy-peasy recipes for cool treats that you’ll enjoy this sweltering season.

Temperatures across the region are reaching a record high this summer. In the Kingdom of Bahrain alone we measured 48.7C at the start of August with similar temperatures felt by our neighbours. Staying cool is, without a doubt, the need of the hour, so here are some of our favourite recipes for popsicles, cool drinks and other healthy treats to help you cope.

MANGO LASSI

This delightful drink is a favourite at many Indian restaurants and it’s easy to see why. It combines fresh dairy and fresh fruit to bring you a truly refreshing beverage

Ingredients 1 cup mango (diced and frozen) 1 cup full-fat yogurt ½ cup water 1 ½ tsp sugar ¼ tsp cinnamon Preparation 1. Blend all the ingredients together. Add water as you see fit to bring the drink to your preferred consistency.

2. Pour into serving glasses and serve cold.

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LIFESTYLE | food

Ingredients 2 cups strawberries ¼ cup coconut cream 1 tsp vanilla essence 2 large oranges ½ cup honey

FRUITY POPSICLES (MAKES FOUR)

Here’s a fun one which you can make with the kids. We love using fresh fruit with this recipe as opposed to processed juices.

Preparation 1. Prep two separate bowls to pour your purees into and a popsicle mould.

2. Start by blending the strawberries with the coconut cream, vanilla essence and half the honey. Once thoroughly blended, pour the mixture into the moulds making sure that they fill more than half of each mould.

3. Place the mould in the freezer.

4. Next, juice the two oranges and add the remaining honey to the mixture. Top up the moulds with the orange juice. Freeze for atleast four to five hours.

5. Enjoy with a drizzle of honey!

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LIFESTYLE | food

OVERNIGHT OATS (MAKES 2)

This easy dish is a go to for many when it comes to breakfast. It’s healthy, filling and cool making it the perfect dish to start the day.

Ingredients 1 banana (sliced) 2 cups oats ½ cup yogurt (low fat, full fat, or coconut cream depending on your preference) 2 tbsps peanut butter 2 tbsps honey 1 tbsp chia seeds 1 tsp vanilla essence Preparation 1. Combine the oats and chia seeds in a large bowl.

2. Next, add the yogurt, honey and vanilla essence and mix well till there are no clumps.

3. Cover the mixture with cling film or a lid and leave in the fridge to cool overnight.

4. The next morning, remove the mixture from the fridge, spoon into two glass bowls or glasses and top with a dollop of peanut butter, sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey.

If you’re planning on indulging, you can top the mixture off with coconut or chocolate shavings.

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last word

In Her Shoes

Women are powerful, determined and go-getters – there’s no doubt about that.

This month, we took a peek into the life of The British School of Bahrain, Head of Business Development, Kristina Rowena Estero. Here’s what makes her tick.

What is your dream holiday destination?

Visiting the Finnish Lapland in March where I get to stay in a glass igloo in Kaklaustannen Arctic Resort, drink hot cocoa, chase the Northern Lights and bask in a wonderland of snow. I super love the cold.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Not one, but two cast iron skillets (Staub and Le Creuset) for Christmas. They had been on my wishlist for a long time but I didn’t get the chance to buy it. Two of my friends surprised me with it. I love to cook and eat steak and this cooking tool is definitely for the win!

Get rid of the negative energy. The aura it brings you not only makes you old but sickly. It is your outlook in life that drives the good things back to you.

Positive energy attracts positive things.

Kristina Rowena Estero

Tell us something about yourself that not many people know.

I binge watch home renovation shows and cooking channels. I find both shows very relaxing and satisfying to watch. Home renovators and chefs are hands-down visionaries.

What song is guaranteed to make you dance?

I love old school R&B. Family Affair by Mary J. Blige can definitely make me get on my feet. www.womanthismonth.com

What’s the one dessert you absolutely cannot resist?

Apple pie.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I envision myself to be continuously climbing up the career ladder, helping to open new schools and breaking the glass ceiling that race and gender will never be a hindrance towards success.

If you had to pick one, would you go on a mountain or beach holiday? Why?

I would go to a beach holiday. Watching gorgeous sunsets, feeling the sand and water beneath your feet, eating fresh produce from the sea, and enjoying cocktails - what more can you ask for.

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Now you’ve seen your regular issue, which we hope you enjoyed, make sure to check out our websites and social media for daily updates of what’s happening across the Kingdom. You can find us at: www.bahrainthismonth.com

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