Woman This Month - May 2014

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

woman this month

www.womanthismonth.com

MAY 2014 覺 THE SHOPPING ISSUE 覺 www.womanthismonth.com

OUR ULTIMATE

SHOPPING GUIDE

May 2014 | Issue 135 | BD1 / SR10

BLIPP AND WIN GLUTEN-FREE MADE EASY

home subscribers copy

SUMMER WARDROBE MUST-HAVES | WHICH MAKE-UP BRUSHES YOU NEED ISSUE 135

C A M PA I G N

UAE · The Dubai Mall · Mirdif City Centre · Marina Mall Abu Dhabi · Abu Dhabi Mall · Al Wahda Mall · Al Hamra Mall Manar Mall · Bawabat Al Sharq Mall · Bawadi Mall · Sahara Centre · Kuwait · Al Kout Mall · Awtad Mall · Avenues Mall Oman · Muscat City Centre · Qurum City Centre · Bahrain · Bahrain City Centre

MAY 8

Shopping

08 Editor’s Choice: Crochet fever 10 Pick of the Month: Katy Perry’s designs 12 Retail Therapy: What’s new on the retail scene 15 Feature: The ABCs of Shopping

Fashion

24 Fashion Forward: Vintage is back 26 Style Radar: What the stars are wearing 28 Get the Look: All in one!

30 10 Tips: The season’s must-haves

28

People

50 Anke Brandt: Surfing to success 53 Sama Yateem: Playing with imagination

Beauty

56 News: The latest products in the stores 58 5 Tips: Brushing upon beauty

Lifestyle

50

68

60 Wellbeing: Effects of staying connected 63 Community: Understanding special needs 64 Parenting: Talking to strangers 66 Column: Rise of Rickets 68 Home: Bevy of blue 72 Recipes: Gluten-free meals 78 Horoscope: What this month holds for you 79 He says: To be or not to be…a dad 80 She says: For the love of shoes

72

For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com.

The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address provided on page 6. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed.

2 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman chairman & publisher George F Middleton publishing director David M Robertson editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles editor Elma Bartholomew fashion and beauty editor Fernanda Langhammer contributors ANKITA MAMGAIN behnaz sanjana Dr Clare beckett-mcinroy george r vaughan James Claire SIMI KAMBOJ creative director Maryam A Toorani print production manager Sabu Sebastian layout & graphics RODOLFO A. REYES Jr. Dalal Al-Sabbagh media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media managers farheen ahmed Randa Ghazi Howais sales manager sanhita kar marya circulation FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI photography editor anil Ravi Shankar photographers Shankar Kunhambu Subeesh Kumar NS printing press Union Press, Bahrain

eDitor’s NOTE

S

ummer is here! What better reason do you need to go shopping? You need to update everything — from your clothes to your shoes and from your home decor to maybe even a new ride! (Why not?) So we thought we’ll celebrate the arrival of the new season with a shopping special!

The May 2014 edition of Woman this Month is all for spending! Slip on your comfy flats, hop in that car and go shopping ladies! Don’t have the budget? That’s all right!

We approve of window shopping as well.

Don’t know where to begin? We’ll tell you. Simply flip over to the feature which introduces you to the ABCs of shopping. (You’re welcome.)

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has a special treat for you. You have a chance to win a delicious three-kilo chocolate cake worth BD50 from their patisserie. Don’t worry; you can work out those carbs in a month with a complimentary gym membership with the five-star hotel worth BD175.

All you need to do to enter the contest is follow the three simple steps below and fill in the ‘Blipp and Win’ contest form.

Elma Bartholomew Editor

Contents copyrighted 2004© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 woman this month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

How Does Blippar Work?

bahrain office address Red House Marketing p.o. box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: wtmeditor@rhm.bh website: www.womanthismonth.com

published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing, P. O. Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Platforms

Bahrain Edition

www.womanthismonth.com

MAY 2014 ı THE SHOPING ISSUE ı www.womanthismonth.com

OUR ULTIMATE

SHOPPING GUIDE

May 2014 | Issue 135 | BD1 / SR10

BLIPP AND WIN GLUTEN-FREE MADE EASY

HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY

SUMMER WARDROBE MUST-HAVES | WHICH MAKEUP BRUSHES YOU NEED ISSUE 135

4 May 2014

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

woman this month

You will need the minimum platform as noted below on your mobile device for Blippar to work: • iPhones/iPads: iOS5 and above • Andriod devices: Android 2.3.7and above • Nokia/Windows: Windows 8 • BlackBerry: Z10 devices only

May 2014, issue 135 On the cover: Fatima Al Sabbagh Photographer: Nina Mommsen Stylist: Fernanda Langhammer Outfit: Blouse: Koton; Jeans: Zara; Accessories: New Look

Follow us on: @woman_this_month @WomanThisMonthB Woman This Month

www.womanthismonth.com

letters Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

woman this month

April 2014 | Issue 134 | BD1 / SR10

www.womanthismonth.com

APRIL 2014 ı THE WEDDING ISSUE ı www.womanthismonth.com

The wedding iSSUe

WEDDING FASHION

Bridal Gown Trends MORE IS MORE

LESS IS MORE

Whether it’s the use of beads or threedimensional flowers, a little extra is well received this season.

Clichéd as it may sound, nothing beats this simplistic theme.

Sleek and modern gowns are clean and romantic.

BLAck AND WHITE

LAyER AFTER LAyER

You couldn’t miss Vera Wang’s black leather gloves from a mile.

However, we prefer the more subtle hints of black that several brands used this year from simple accessories like slim belts to black appliqué.

Summer might not sound like the season to be piling on layers, but the runways could not get enough of the trend. Do it right and you might be able to pull it off!

Heidi Elnora

Theia

HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY

lIFeStyle | wellbeing

BAck IN STyLE

For those brides who would like a bit of colour on their wedding gown, without having to commit to a whole colour like Kaley Cuoco did, the ombre trend is the way to go.

Get Your Groove On

LAcE SLEEvES

There’s no way you can go wrong with lace. But who doesn’t already know that? To stay on trend, just go with lace sleeves.

Thank you Kate Middleton!

Ines DiSanto

Victoria Kyriakides

MAkE THE GRADE

56 April 2014

Keyholes, trains, pleats — you name it and it was on the runway this season.

Add drama to your gown with details on the back, like graphics, lace or crystals.

UpTO THE kNEES

AT THE ANkLE

Nothing is more French-chic than an ankle-length hemline. The 50's syle is a playful alternative to the usual ball gown.

The bride who does not intend to get off the dance floor could choose to rock a short wedding dress. Keep the hemline at the knees for a refined look. Add glamour to the otherwise casual theme with striking necklines, draped tulle and lace.

community

BY BEHNAZ SANJANA

Are there days when the sight of the www.womanthismonth.com treadmill makes you cringe and the very thought of a strenuous workout makes you want to wail? When it gets tough to keep your eye on the fitness prize, you simply need to change tracks.

Esky Girmay, Marietta Dias and Beverley Hamadeh

April 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

O

ISSUE 134

k, so you’re a fitness freak. But day after day, the same exercise equipment and regime can rouse boredom in the best of us.

Exercise bounds to get monotonous over time and is the leading reason why people do not stay committed to their fitness goals.

Enter ‘dancercise’!

Dancing is a form of physical activity that uses almost every part of the body, offering a complete workout. You can choose a dance form to match your preferred pace and goal.

Moving to music gets the endorphins rushing, thereby boosting memory, intelligence and making for a more sociable outlook.

Whatever your size or shape, hop onto the dance bandwagon to get moving and keep fit.

Anybody can take up ‘dancercise’. Minor physical ailments can be worked around under the supervision of an experienced instructor. And no, there’s no pressure to move like Jagger.

NEW WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT| THE PLEATED SKIRT | COPPER DECOR

Seeking Workers’ Rights Just like the story of the million migrant workers, I left my home country and family six years ago with a bag full of hope, enough determination and much love for my family to give them a much better future. With the rising trend in suicide rates among workers in the recent years, it is overwhelming to know that Bahrain has a big society like the Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) that helps in the plight of helpless men and women, who are being abused, exploited and deprived to earn an honest living.

MWPS’ noble aim to protect the workers’ basic human rights is inspiring for other migrant workers groups and foreign embassies that support and protect the rights of their own people. The diversity of its active members from Bahrain, Canada, Germany, the USA , India, Kenya and other countries makes it more powerful and unique — because it’s main goal is to help the expat workers and not base it on colour, race or religion. And with the support from different organisations, private sectors, embassies and government offices, I am sure that MWPS is on the right path and will continue to thrive in the years to come.

Miradelle

Amsale

Monique Lhuillier

Kenneth Pool

Oscar de la Renta

HONEYMOON PLANNING

STAR LETTER

Dennis Basso

After meticulously scanning through various bridal shows across the globe, here are the gown trends that we think will make the groom’s heart skip a beat.

BRIDAL GOWNS

BRIDAL GIFT GUIDE

6 May 2014

Write Here Write Now

Wedding bells I’m getting married this year and I just loved your bridal trends! I’m sure I want a white gown, but there are so many styles to choose from. Your pages helped me to decide that I definitely want something with lace and some transparency details. It also made me think that I must pick the right lingerie for the type of the dress and not just the one I like most. Thank you very much!

Lina 74 April 2014

Get fit When thinking of getting fit, we never think out of the box, right? The first thing that comes to mind is the boring gym environment. Dancing sounds like a lot more fun and exciting. Maybe they should create a class mixing many styles, so one day we would have belly dance, the other zumba, the next one salsa and so on. The other concept I’m keen to try is the Hypoxi system. The results from your trial sounds promising; I’m willing give it a try.

Jo

Battle the Bulge Bollywood Style

Our Expert: Stephen Anthony, Choreographer at Bollywood Steps Bahrain’s cinema halls are not the only proof of the Middle East being great fans of Indian cinema and music. Walk into any Bollywood dance and fitness class to see students from various backgrounds spin to catchy, foottapping numbers.

A typical dance session stretches, flexes and works the entire body, along with getting the

www.womanthismonth.com

BLiPP tHiS PAGE to WAtcH A ViDEo ABout tHE conDition oF miGRAnt WoRKERS in tHE KinGDom

Seeking Workers’ Rights

LEARn moRE ABout miGRAnt WoRKERS PRotEction SociEty (mWPS) connEct WitH mWPS

by SIMI KAMBOJ

The abuse faced by domestic workers comes to the fore this month following the rescue of a minor girl by the Migrant Workers Protection Society.

B

ahrain has over 70,000 migrant workers employed in private residences, many of who come here without any knowledge of the local language or the nature of their jobs.

Once they grasp the reality of their situation, the Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) is one of the few organisations whose support they can count on.

The recent rescue of an Ethiopian girl, who was trafficked to Bahrain, highlights the illegal practices employed to send migrant workers to the region as well as the abusive conditions in private homes. The girl, who was only 15, arrived in Bahrain on a passport, which recorded her age as 25.

“Her employer wasn’t happy with her work as she’d expected a 25-year-old and not a child,” explains Esky Girmay, MWPS assistant action committee head and Ethiopian community leader. “Over the next seven months, the employer made the girl work until 2am every day, beating her up when the work was unsatisfactory, and denying her food every other day as punishment.”

80 April 2014

The girl fled from her employer’s house and managed to contact members of the Ethiopian community, who took her to the local police.

The MWPS then negotiated the girl’s release with her employer and repatriated her to Ethiopia in February.

Perversely, despite her injuries, she can be considered ‘lucky’ as she managed to escape and be rescued. There are perhaps hundreds of people in similar or worse situations, who are less fortunate.

MWPS chairperson Marietta Dias recalls incidents, where domestic workers have been blinded in one eye due to beating by the employer’s family.

Domestic workers were brought under the purview of the labour law for the first time in 2012, but they aren’t covered by many of its provisions — especially those relating to hours of work and rest — which leads to abuse.

“Women at our shelter report working for 17 hours a day on average. One woman, who was made to work 22 hours, had to be hospitalised and treated for asthma and exhaustion. She

fled her sponsor’s home after the family refused to get her medical treatment when she fell ill,” says Beverley Hamadeh, general secretary, MWPS. In 2013, the MWPS gave shelter to 156 abused domestic workers awaiting their cases to be resolved. Overwork, non-payment of salary, physical abuse and withholding of passport by sponsors are the main complaints.

“Many sponsors don’t obtain the necessary documentation for their employees. This delays the settlement of their cases. We know of employers who haven’t got a resident permit for their domestic staff; nor a CPR card. Most workers who come to us don’t know if they have a CPR,” Marietta adds.

MWPS provides translation services, advises workers and follows up on individual cases. It provides offers shelter to abused workers referred to them by the police, foreign embassies and the church. www.womanthismonth.com

WRITE IN AND WIN Next month’s star letter will win a voucher for two from Joz Salon & Spa. To win this, send us your views on our May 2014 edition either by email to wtmletters@rhm.bh, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO 20461.

The winner will be selected at random. If yours is the star letter this month, please write to the same email address with your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number to claim your prize.

www.womanthismonth.com

57

SHOPPING | editor's choice

Betty Barclay

Hooked on Crochet This needle craft covers clothes, accessories and decorative home items this season. The tangled patterns are usually inspired by flowers. Get your favourite motif for the perfect spring look.

1

2

1. Biker jacket: Marks & Spencer; 2. Tunic: Massimo Dutti; 3. Clutch: Accessorize; 4. Top: F&F; 5. Espadrilles: Aeropostale; 6. Baskets: Sainsbury’s Home; 7. Baby shoes: Mamas & Papas

4

3

7

6

5

8 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

shopping | pick of the month

A Roaring Success The fashion scene collaborates with the world of music for a fun-filled collection. Take a look at the delicate and original pieces, which can be worn with casual clothes.

P

op icon Katy Perry has a creative and trendy style that young girls love to follow. This spring, she created an exclusive collection for the accessories brand, Claire’s.

The Katy Perry PRISM Collection boasts an assortment of fun and fashionable jewellery and other accessories inspired by her latest album.

The two-year collaboration will be launched this month. The line also includes limited edition items, like seasonal novelty pieces, collectables and other products inspired by

10 May 2014

the lyrics and titles of Perry’s greatest hits.

The singer is involved in all aspects of the design process and works directly with the brand’s design team.

Regular updates in the Katy Perry Collection will keep the assortment fresh, giving women a new way to amp up their look and express their individuality each season. The debut of the collection coincides with the start of The Prismatic World Tour. The products celebrate both the music and the fashionable style of the singer. www.womanthismonth.com

SHOPPING | news

Universal Symbols Virginie Dreyer is the designer behind the French brand TinyOm that offers fine jewellery with a protective purpose. Her first collection reinterprets the lotus flower, an important symbol in Indian and Buddhist sacred texts. All pieces are handmade, in 18-karat rose and white gold. Find the delicate collection at Al Zain Jewellery in Seef Mall.

Woman’s World

Hunkemöller is a Dutch-based lingerie brand that recently opened its first store in Bahrain. The range of products includes lingerie, nightwear, swimsuits, hosiery, beauty products and accessories. Its in-house design team creates innovative products incorporating the latest trends.

Check out the store at Bahrain City Centre.

RETAIL THERAPY New destinations to shop for your lingerie and unique jewellery pieces are in our shopping radar this month.

Check them out!

Expanding its Reach

Centrepoint celebrates the opening of its 100th store in Dubai. Its first outlet was launched in 2005 in Kuwait by gathering four main brands: Babyshop, Splash, Shoe Mart and Lifestyle. The store offers a practical shopping experience as the needs of the whole family can be fulfilled under the same roof.

Get a Manicure

For the AW 2014 collection, Prabal Gurung collaborated with Sally Hansen for the eighth consecutive season to create three exclusive nail polishes.

Inspired by the beauty of Nepal, the enamels’ rich hues complement the designs and reflects the colour palette used in Gurung’s clothing line.

Italian Charm

The online luxury fashion retailer Net-A-Porter has partnered with The Victoria and Albert Museum in London to create an exclusive jewellery collection for The Glamour of Italian Fashion 19452014 exhibition held from April 5 until July 27. There are 22 pieces in the limited edition, which are available on both online stores.

12 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

The ABCs of

Shopping

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

15

SHOPPING | feature

A

Accessories! Whether it is for your home or to make a fashion statement, nothing defines your style as much as accessories do. You could visit Aldo to update your collection.

B

The new collection of Bulgari sunglasses finds its inspiration from the animal pattern of the moment — snakeskin! The subtle details add pizzazz to your sunnies, the one accessory you can’t survive summer without.

C

is for comfort. You will not get anything done, if you are walking around the mall in six-inch heels. Sure, you will look amazing, but your feet won’t feel it. We love a pair from Hush Puppies — and so will your man!

D

is for decor. Thankfully, the country is full of home furnishings outlets.

One of our favourites is Home Centre at Bahrain City Centre. There’s never been a moment where people have left the store without buying more than they had planned to.

16 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

E

G

is for eye make-up. Create an intense look with Make Up For Ever eye liner brushes. The thin brushes will help you get any effect, from thick cat eyes to subtle thin lines.

F

is for frugal. You don’t have to break the bank every time you go on a shopping spree.

Our fashion editor managed to bag this month’s cover girl’s outfit for under BD30! A quick tip: shop during mid season sales.

is for Groceries. Who doesn’t love to hit the supermarket? There is nothing like going to the veggie section of Alosra supermarket and picking out just the right eggplant a la Barefoot Contessa.

H

is for Hats. Protect yourself from the sun and a stylish twist to your look!

Accessorize

Football! The World Cup is right around the corner. Get your jerseys and load up on your favourite team’s gear into the mood to support your flag.

Gift cards! Why not treat your loved ones to a shopping spree at Seef Mall? Available for purchase at the mall’s customer service desks, the cards store a pre-set amount of money in denominations starting from BD5, with no extra service charge!

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

17

SHOPPING | feature

I

… the It bag!

J

is for Java. As if you needed an excuse to get a shot of caffeine. Make a day out of it and head to your favourite coffee shop before you hit the mall. Or better yet, how about you fuel up before you leave the house with a cup of Nespresso? The WTM team lives on Rosabaya and Roma flavours. Yum!

K L Kenneth Cole is all for summery dresses. Girly and fresh options are available in solid colours and fun prints. Show off your legs; embrace the heat!

18 May 2014

is for local. There has been a rush of Bahraini designers in these past couple of years and we are loving it — from internationally acclaimed Khaleda Rajab’s couture lines to up-and-coming artist, who are making a buzz on social media.

www.womanthismonth.com

N O Q Nail art! Invest in different enamel colours to create all sorts of graphics and motifs. If you’re a regular at Inglot, you’ll know that you’re only limited by your imagination.

M

Monsoon’s ethnic inspiration adds creativity to your outfit. Think of tunics and printed tops next time you pull something out of your cupboard to pair with your favourite pair of jeans.

Oxfords! Massimo Dutti’s women’s line has a great collection of this masculine piece. So if you’re looking to glam up the androgynous look, you know where to go!

P

Elena Romanova

Is for Online. If Asos, Net-A-Porter, Boohoo. com and Outnet.com are not bookmarks on your browser, you are living under a rock!

Come on to the ‘real’ world, where half of our clothes came by post!

is for Quality. Buying things for a steal need not mean settling for something mediocre. No matter what you get, make sure it’s worth the money.

is for Paris! Yes, you heard us. If you’re planning your next big vacation, then why not a shopping trip in the world’s fashion capital? Don't miss out on their perfumes too! Find a scent that shows off your personality.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

19

SHOPPING | feature

U

R S T Rock and roll never gets old.

Revisit those mini skirts, black leather jackets and boots.

Go solo. It’s always fun to shop with your girlfriends, but sometimes heading out alone can be therapeutic.

Get a new hair style for summer at Toni & Guy at Seef Mall. It’s great for colours and treatments as well!

is for unique. Try to select original pieces that will translate your unique style next time you go shopping. Few things are worse than showing up at a gig with your friend, who is in the same clothes!

V

Vroom! If it’s time for a new ride, then you are on the right island! Bahrain spoils you when it comes to cars. Our personal favourites are the lush line-up of models at Euro Motors.

Looking for the perfect swimsuit? Sarah features pieces in different cuts for all types of body shapes in an array of trendy prints.

That reminds us, get yourself some sun block! Protect your skin from harmful rays while you get a tan.

20 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

W

Wedding bells! Quit your hunt for the perfect destination, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel’s summer package and online discount are irresistible. So are their cakes! (Blipp our cover for a chance to win a three-kilo chocolate cake worth BD50 from the five-star venue.)

X

Something extra! Every woman needs to spoil herself a little. If you’ve got nine things on your list; treat yourself to a tenth item. It could be something as simple as a chocolate croissant; simply go off script.

www.womanthismonth.com

Y

Yes, we need new clothes. Yes, we could use an extra pair of shoes! Yes, we need a new shade of eye shadow. Say ‘Yes, Yes, Yes’ to shopping!

Z

Zzzzz…get some sleep. A good night’s rest is all we need to recuperate from a day full of shopping. Then again, one could doze off at a spa. (Just saying.)

May 2014

21

ALSO AVAILABLE GR-M650GLD GN-M722GPH GR-M782GLHB GR-M822GSH

FASHION

Fresher, Healthier Food Little attention is paid to the hygienic state of their refrigerators. LG Electronics (LG) aims to reinvent the concept of food hygiene and elevate consumer lifestyles with its new health-conscious refrigerator.

R

efrigeration is used to prevent bacteria and germs from growing on food, but many people do not realise that bacteria can also form inside a refrigerator. This means that refrigerators need to be regularly cleaned and aired like any other appliances.

To save consumers the trouble, LG has come up with Hygiene Fresh, a four-stage filtering system with a fan that actively sucks in contaminated air from the refrigerator and sends it through the powerful filters.

An Idea is Born

LG researchers focused on a novel idea to filter air effectively. Taking an organic, foodbased approach, their research eventually resulted in the brand’s patented microbial lactic acid ferment extract-based natural filters. These filters create a superior sterilising and deodorising performance, which protects health by filtering fungi spores and eliminating 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria that could cause food poisoning or colitis.

“One morning, I left my cup of café au lait to sit until a thin layer of milk skin formed on top. That’s when I suddenly thought of lactic acid ferment extracts,” said Eun-jung Kim, head researcher at LG Electronics Home Appliance Company Refrigerator Laboratory, when asked how the team came up with the idea.

Optimising Air Purity

The filters of Hygiene Fresh are coated with a layer of lactic acid ferment extracts, enabling a purifying process that is both organic and safe. Because they are organic, LG’s filters are ozone gas free.

The secret behind the exceptional performance of Hygiene Fresh lies in the harmony of its components. The powerful fan serves two functions: it sucks in the interior air of the refrigerator and sends it to the filters, and it also cools the air, further optimising the filtering process. The three filters and one deodorizer layer each have a unique function that is essential in the purifying process.

LG is associated with AJM Kooheji Group in Bahrain. Hygiene Fresh refrigerators are now available at all LG showrooms, hypermarkets, power retailers and dealer stores.

Call 17 404-590 (Sehla), 17 223-570 (Manama), 17 670-434 (Arad) and 17 322-771 (Muharaq).

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

23

FASHION | fashion forward

Vintage Revisited Something about these new fashionable pieces make you travel back in time. Here are some classics worth reviving.

Bathing Rules

Debenhams brings back high waisted bikinis to the fashion scene — and the British brand is not alone! Celebrities have already adopted the style; you’ll soon see a bunch of girls wearing them on holiday. Polka dots emphasise the vintage concept.

The King’s Court

The Baroque period is H&M’s inspiration behind its Conscious Collection. Ornate details, thick embroidery and gilded edges offer drama. Structured pieces and sharp cuts are the elements that take you back in time. The perennial lace in nude shades is another item that can look as antique depending on its style.

Walking in the Past

These shoes are a reread version of classic Mary Janes, with an update in the form of open heels and platforms. Colour blocking is still a hit for these shoes; the contrast calls attention to the details.

Hobbs paints them in yellow for a summery vibe. You can pair it with your casual jeans and a white t-shirt, and you’ll still stand out.

Feline Eyes

Ava Gardner, Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn popularised cat eye sunglasses in their time. Today Katy Perry, Miranda Kerr and Beyoncé have assumed the role by bringing back the style. To accentuate the idea, F&F added pearls to the frame.

24 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Perennial Favourites

The classic tweed jacket goes collarless in Sonia Rykiel creations. The brand’s spring and summer collection brings this icon from winter to summer by using light materials. The ones with beads and embroidery can be the main piece of a look when worn with tailored or wide-legged trousers.

Chic Carrier

Structured handbags of yesteryear get a contemporary twist. Those featuring rounded shapes and pastel colours can be paired with a full skirt for the perfect ladylike look. This Dune bag is an example of the classic piece with modern elements. It’s the ideal item to complement your white suit.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

25

Style Radar

FASHION | snaps

Celebrities have been spotted at top events across the globe this month in both simple and intrinsic gowns.

Take a look at our favourites!

Emma Roberts

Wearing a Barbara Bui dress, Nicholas Kirkwood shoes and a Nancy Gonzalez clutch, Emma attended the footwear designer’s dinner party at the enchanting Hotel Bel-Air. The strapless number flatters her slim figure; the white details add the striking factor to the mini dress.

Ashley Greene

The actor wore a slip black dress from Dsquared2’s AW 2014 collection to celebrate the ‘Decades of Glamour’ event in Los Angeles. She opted for black accessories. To make your LBD look more creative, add a splash of colour.

26 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Jennifer Connelly

Rashida Jones

Shailene Woodley

Kate Hudson

For the Noah premiere in Germany, the American star chose a Lanvin custom-made creation by Alber Elbaz. The 43-yearold looked impeccable in the black velvet column gown. The slit adds a chic twist to the outfit, while the hook-and-eye neckline compensates for the exposed leg.

The blue gown was the new Hollywood sweetheart’s choice to attend the premiere of Divergent held at Odeon in London. The Stella McCartney dress was teamed with Jimmy Choo shoes and a Lina Noel snake bangle.

www.womanthismonth.com

Her comic vein is obvious in this creative outfit. Always spotted in unique styles, Rashida steals the scene at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a sheer frock from Valentino, which features intricate embroidery designs.

Zuhair Murad is definitely Kate’s favourite designer from the Arab world. She picked a jaw-dropping gown from his spring and summer couture collection to attend the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. The black embroidered dress features a sheer silk skirt and delicate handbeaded details, which she teamed with a Salvatore Ferragamo stingray minaudière.

May 2014

27

FASHION | get the look

From Head to Toe

2

1

by Fernanda Langhammer

To paint your entire outfit in a single hue is both contemporary and daring.

Forget about black! Summery shades are the ones to pursue.

CORAL INDULGENCE 3

T

his tone is quite loud and hard to picture as the central character of a look.

However, the correct cut and flawless pairing can deliver an original, crisp style. Coloured trousers speak summer; they are a good start to compose this look.

The simple top allows accessories to steal the scene and subtly complements the concept. Wearing a printed piece in the same colour is a clever way to break the similitude and spice up the look!

Max Mara

4

5

Anne V

6

28 May 2014

1. Scarf: Aeropostale; 2. Top: New Look; 3. Trousers: Promod; 4. Sunglasses: Next; 5. Handbag: Paule Ka; 6. Sandals: Steve Madden www.womanthismonth.com

1

1

2

2

3

1. Blouse: Pull & Bear; 2. Earrings: Massimo Dutti; 3. Bermuda: Marks & Spencer; 4. Rings: Accessorize; 5. Doctor bag: Victoria Beckham; 6. Shoes: Shoe Mart

3

4 4

1. Suit jacket: M&Co; 2. Watch: French Connection; 3. Top: River Island; 4. Shoulder bag: Dune; 5. Sandals: Miss Selfridge; 6. Panelled skirt: Matalan

5

5 6

6

BLUE NOTES P

astel hues are the best to try the cap-a-pie look.

Cotton candy blue, mint and soft yellow suit most skin tones. When embracing this trend, incorporate new items such as flowing Bermuda shorts, culottes and full skirts. Pair them with a tight top or a loose blouse in lightweight fabrics. The baggy look is a classic, especially for an evening walk or a casual day at work. www.womanthismonth.com

WHITE OUT

T

he all-white ensemble has been one of the hottest trends for several seasons; it is about time to start considering it.

The right cut, size and fabric affect the final look, which can make your figure look longer and leaner.

Avoid tight pieces. Cotton and linen are breathable materials which are great for summer. Wear red shades of lipstick for a pop of colour. It also helps take some of the spotlight away from your body.

May 2014

29

10 tips

2.

1.

The Cool Culottes

This is the newest and most wanted item to add to your spring and summer wardrobe. These mid-calf trousers are wide and flowing — perfect for the sunny days ahead.

Let your legs breathe!

The Athletic Trousers

Get It Now

Here’s a checklist of the top 10 must-haves of the season. Some of these might have already caught your attention; others have just made the list.

Miss Selfridge

Etro

Asos

The side-striped piece steps out of the gym and into the fashion scene. To get partyready, pair it with high heels and a sequinned top. These comfy trousers are most stylish in the black and white version.

3.

The Shift Blouse

4.

With a boxy silhouette and elbowlength sleeves, the structured top is a chic option. The blouse is flattering and versatile. It can be worn with shorts, full skirts and any style of trousers. Add extra details, such as exciting prints, luxurious textures and varying necklines.

The Asymmetric Hem

Uneven skirts and dresses are interesting pieces to have in your wardrobe. They can be the card up your sleeve when you have to dress up for a cool occasion at short notice. The eye-catching element delivers a daring look.

5.

Jane Normal

The Bomber Jacket

30 May 2014

Gap

A must-have from wintry days continues to rock during summer. Made using lighter materials, the jacket is great for fighting air conditioning indoors. Get any colour except black; the sporty vibe is a plus.

www.womanthismonth.com

6.

7.

The Contrast-Collar Shirt

Adopted from the men’s wardrobe, the contrast-collar shirt is a versatile option for office wear. It can be paired with wide-leg trousers for a day at work or with micro-shorts while on holiday.

The Slip Dress

Max Mara

Stradivarius

Spaghetti strap dresses from the ‘90s are back in stores in expensive fabrics for a classic and chic effect. The simple piece is perfect for those who believe in the ‘less is more’ mantra. Jason Wu, Just Cavalli, Helmut Lang and Max Mara adopted the style in their new collection.

8.

The Mule

Topshop

Also popular in the ‘90s, these shoes are practical. Slide your feet in and you are good to go! Usually found in medium heels, they can be pointed or have open toes. Wear it with full skirts or with the fashionistas’ new favourite — culottes!

www.womanthismonth.com

Have you been working your abs?

If your answer is yes, then dive into this trend! This is, without doubt, the coolest item of the moment. Best paired with high waist skirts and trousers, the cropped top gives off a young vibe. If your tummy isn’t flat enough, you can try the longer and looser options.

10.

Another classic from winter, booties are well teamed with denim shorts and mini-skirts.

Find them in flat or heeled versions. Light colours and snakeskin textures are the hot picks of the season.

Tod's

Kenzo

9.

The Cropped Top

The Booties

May 2014

31

It all starts with a beautiful garden, and then, amazing food to be enjoyed with the jazzy sound that invades your senses... You’re at home.

Our mission is to inspire those who appreciate good food, good music and relaxing atmosphere; feeding the soul of the bon vivant hidden inside of everyone.

Using only the ďŹ nest ingredients, our menu was created with care and joy: because food, for us, is a celebration of life.

Come celebrate yours!

Go ahead, share your #338moments

Email: reservations@block338.com Tel No. +973 1771 0338 Facebook.com/block338 @block338

@block338

FASHION

Art is Fashion The new collection from Splash celebrates art in the world of fashion. The brand revisits the pop art movement, surrealism and tribal artistry.

T

his season is all about dressing with attitude. For Splash’s SS 2014 show, the catwalk was transformed into an art gallery; the concept was well expressed in the stylish creations. Detailed styling transformed each look, turning casual pieces into masterpieces.

The pop art aspects were influenced by the works of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

So you can find garments with artwork in a strong palette of primary colours and bold geometric patterns.

Clean, modern lines plus different textures help to create an art theme that suits the urban woman. Sheer set against solids, shiny materials alongside matte finishes, and embellishments applied in clean lines are trendy contrasts to go for this season.

Prints and bold designs with photo-real surrealist collages are used in formal jackets, casual tees and sweaters. Brush strokes stand out as one of the strongest trends of summer.

Tribalism is another popular theme that reappears with a contemporary twist, featuring flashes of neon and body conscious silhouettes. The new range of accessories complements these original looks. You’ll discover ‘fruity’ neckpieces, clutches with raffia fringes and oversized tassels.

Call 17 173-354 (Bahrain City Centre), 17 495-082 (Oasis Centre-East Riffa) or 39 640-902 (Oasis Centre-Muharraq).

34 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

Land in Sight!

Sarah’s new swimwear collection is aptly inspired by popular beach destinations like Monaco, Ibiza, Marbella and Tahiti. Dive into their new styles.

V

ery Victoria Silvstedt by Marie Meili collection from Sarah takes inspiration from the beautiful beaches where the Swedish model has frequently been photographed.

These designs reflect Victoria’s love for the beach, sunny days and sexy styles.

Sarah has put together an alluring and functional line of matching separates, onepiece suits and cover-ups — all available in luxurious fabrics and with dazzling details.

Animal prints, florals and abstract patterns steal the scene in retro cuts exposing the diva in you.

Whether your ideal vacation is splashing in turquoise waters, unwinding in a Jacuzzi at a spa or sitting by the pool of a hotel room, the fashion forward designs guarantee an attractive look for every occasion.

Call 17 179-416 (Bahrain City Centre).

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

35

FASHION

In the Dark

Stradivarius invites you to experiment with versatile pieces in a girl’s favourite hue — black! Here are some looks to get you started.

Mini Trend

T

he mini hemline is always a hit during warmer seasons. This little black dress, paired with flipflops, can be your pick for a casual beach look.

However, if you want to spice it up a little, team it with a pair of sandals with chunky heels (which happens to be the hottest footwear trend). A cool clutch and rock and roll accessories complete the outfit.

36 May 2014

Mid Flair

T

he pleated skirt is definitely a piece to own this summer. The knee-length hemline is one of the spotlights of the season. It can take you from work to a night out by simply changing the top and accessories. Next time you have to run out of the office to a friend’s party take along a pair of heels and a sexy blouse for a quick, but drastic, outfit change.

Call 17 172-306 (Bahrain City Centre).

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

The Season’s Essentials Vincci’s new collection features two main trends: neon and classic. The colourful footwear and unique handbags will put you in the right mood for summer.

A

mp up your summer look with an unexpected pop of colour with the brand’s neon collection. Think high contrast! Black, beige and white juxtaposed against neon yellow, pink, lime green and blue; shocking pink paired with gold. Detailing is kept to a bare minimum as colour takes centrestage. Choose from high heels or flats and combine them with a quilted tote to give it that extra twist.

Classic touch

Colour blocking is a huge trend this season and when it’s done in classic tones of white and beige you’ve landed that magical accessory that can be worn with anything.

Vincci’s classic fashion mash-up gives you chunky platform wedges as well as comfy sandals to choose from in addition to a wide range of bags.

Call 17 178-696 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 300-860 (Ramli Mall).(Ramli Mall).

38 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Urban and Carefree Craft Culture

For the first time, Parfois has introduced suede to its collections. The brand has used it in handbags, combining luxurious and ethnic elements to keep in line with the trend.

Studs, tassels and fringes add extra details to the look.

Parfois presents its new spring and summer collection inspired by four main trends. These pieces are perfect to add the final touch to any look.

Easy-Going Girl

The girly and casual style gets a hint of sophistication in this line. Handbags boast metallic details, while versatile gold and silver accessories deliver grandeur.

Pastel Fever

Sweet pastel tones cover the pieces in this range. The plastic applications and floral prints are perfect to create a feminine look.

The colour palette is timeless and ideal for the fresh summer vibe.

Call 17 178-054 (Bahrain City Centre).

Retro Sport

Targeting the bold woman, this trend gives a modern twist to the classics by adding unusual materials, like acrylic boards, invisible magnets and striped webbings.

Classic shapes are painted in primary shades to create the sporty colour-blocking style. You can also prints and effects inspired by graffiti.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

39

FASHION

Casual Vibes

A relaxed, easy-going look is the easiest to put together. Add a spark of creativity to your outfit with a colourful handbag or matching accessories. Minimal clothes demand noticeable details, even if you are aiming for a laid-back style.

Flaunt Your Looks

Aldo provides an array of contemporary pieces to compose your next stunning look. Find a style that represents your personality and mood of the day.

Fabulous Fashionista That’s Chic!

Elegant women are always on heels; black pumps are a mandatory item in a lady’s closet. The dark hue is classy and powerful. A contemporary necklace and a clutch or fine shoulder bag delivers the final touch to an outfit featuring straight cuts and impeccable tailoring.

40 May 2014

This woman speaks fashion from head to toe. Accessories are the key element to her look. She knows how to style unusual items and make them look good. She rocks accessories with unique shapes and pairs them with her eclectic apparel.

A pair of wacky sunglasses is a fashionista’s newest purchase.

Call 16 686-202 (Bahrain City Centre) or 16 686-236 (Seef Mall).

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

Sleep Tight!

La Vie en Rose brings a wide selection of sleepwear to accompany you during warmer nights. Designed for every silhouette, this brand guarantees good dreams.

S

oft and comfy sleepwear is one of the main ways to have a good night’s sleep.

Lull yourself to sleep with the comfort delivered by the latest collection from a leading Canadian specialty lingerie retailer — La Vie en Rose.

Girly prints are found in light colours, such as lilac, light pink and baby blue, which are paired with neutrals, like blacks and greys, creating a cool effect. The patterns reflect a girl’s world, featuring animal prints and butterflies The brand also finds inspiration in the sea.

42 May 2014

You can find starfish and turtle patterns in addition to quotes that relate to the marine life. The pieces transport you to the perfect summer set-up by the beach for tranquil dreams. Shorts and sleeveless tops are the most-wanted pieces of the season. The casual sets tempt you to extend your lazy mornings. Whether you prefer matching pairs or separates, each piece lets you create your own style. There’s no rule against being stylish at home!

Call 16 686-210 (Bahrain City Centre). www.womanthismonth.com

Speaking Accessories Nine West features a new collection of must-have accessories. Here are our picks to help you glam up for any occasion.

Black Essentials

A universal favourite, black is often the first pick for most women. Don’t forget that when your outfit is a solid hue, it is the accessory that defines a look. To look stylish, opt for black peep-toe heels — they are a classic!

Green Parade

The daring fashionista can experiment with green accessories this summer. The colour isn’t loud, yet it adds a trendy twist to an otherwise solid look. This is a good option for those looking to diverge from the predictable blacks and browns.

Printed dresses with hints of green can complement the croco handbag.

Call 16 686-207 (Bahrain City Centre) or 16 686-220 (Seef Mall).

Muddy Browns

The second shade a woman usually inclines towards when shopping for bags and shoes is brown. It is the most reliable alternative when black doesn’t suit a look.

Its neutral effect turns the accessory into a versatile item. A patchwork handbag featuring different textures is a clever pick for the season.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

43

FASHION

Junior Fashionistas With a clear and distinctive brand identity and a practical approach to personal needs and fashion trends, Adams Kids prides itself on its full understanding of the customer — your child.

A

specialist fashion retailer for kids in their early, toddler and growing years, Adams Kids focuses purely on children’s wear. It offers a range of high quality, practical clothes and accessories for each stage of a child’s life from the newborn baby range to complete year-round fashion.

From adorable and sensible casuals and posh party wear to the latest accessories and baby essentials, Adams Kids has it covered.

44 May 2014

A quick look into the store will leave you spoilt for choice. Have a look at the new Spring Summer 2014 collection for a wardrobe update for your kids.

Adams Kids is located in Bahrain City Centre, The Centre in Nwaidrat, Isa Town Mall, Country Mall in Budaiya, Bahrain Mall and Seef Mall.

Call 17 179-675.

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

Reinventing Casual Styles Hush Puppies are going bold with their spring/summer 2014 collection. The shoe brand is on a mission to redefine what we understand to be ‘casual’.

C

asual is stylish. Casual is colourful. Casual is refined. Casual feels good. People will no longer consider ‘casual’ to be synonymous with ‘boring and predictable’.

Casual can be playful, dressy or laid-back.

Above all, casual is inspired. Hush Puppies is moving the trend forward by introducing collections that are authentic to the rich brand and relevant to its emerging global consumers.

Heritage has always been at the heart of Hush Puppies, and for the spring/summer

46 May 2014

2014 season, they tap into specific eras of that heritage. By borrowing from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, the brand has generated a line that harkens retro, pushes modern and brims with detail.

Hush Puppies stores are located in Bahrain City Centre, Seef Mall, The Jawad Dome, Ramli Mall, Isa Town Mall and Bahrain Mall. Hush Puppies shoes are also available in all Shoe Citi stores.

Call 17 179-676. www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

Happy Feet Attitude and innovation have always been part of the Schutz lifestyle. The new collection of footwear is perfect for your summer break.

T

he mission of the Brazilian footwear brand, Scutz, is to offer an unforgettable fashion experience in terms of design, quality and freedom of expression. The brand targets those who believe in living for pleasure.

Schutz was founded in 1995 and in little time achieved huge success in the women’s footwear market. Currently based in Campo Bom, the brand produces around 160,000

www.womanthismonth.com

pairs per month. The store radiates an atmosphere of true luxury, showcasing a wide collection of women’s shoes inspired by the latest fashion trends.

You can shop for the brand at the Schutz Boutique located at Seef Mall and at Tilly's Closet at the Jawad Dome, Barbar.

Call 17 162-594.

May 2014

47

FASHION

Simple and Elegant

Multi-nuanced acetate pieces in a tortoise finishing are classy and modern. Found in semi-transparent options and in colours ranging from delicate cream to rich dark browns, these accessories feature an interesting contrast to its polished metal surfaces. The long necklace with its three-dimensional rings as a pendant will stand out when paired with a colourful blouse.

A Charmed Life Esprit jewellery is made from high-quality materials with great attention to detail. Each piece in the collection shows just how much effort the brand puts into its creations.

Fancy Fashion

Boasting broad epoxy bands in white, grey and black shades in stainless steel and rose gold, these rings add boldness to any look. The sparkling glass stone detail adds charm and glamour to the design. Show off your edgy side when picking this fine accessory to upgrade your look.

You can find Esprit jewellery at A La Mode outlets.

Call 17 179-854 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 581-588 (Seef Mall).

48 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

people | interview

Breezing It Up

by SIMI KAMBOJ

Ambitious surfer Anke Brandt takes us through her kite surfing adventure and the making of her Guinness World Record in Bahrain.

A

nke Brandt is walking on air. Last month, the intrepid German circled the Bahrain coast on a kite board for over 11 hours, setting a world record for women’s endurance. More than personal glory, the 30-year-old was motivated by the thought of raising money for a cause close to her heart. Anke speaks to us about her 250km expedition and her battle with gusty winds, strong currents and fatigue.

Woman This Month (WTM): Congratulations! How do you feel after winning this record?

Anke Brandt (AB): It’s hard to put it in words. It is very special, but it’s actually more about the journey than the actual record.

This project cost a lot of time, money and dedication. Having such a great team behind me at all times was the key component that made it possible. In the end, it was an amazing team exercise.

WTM: What brought you to kite surfing?

AB: with my dad being a sailor, I was introduced to sailing at an early age. I was lucky to grow up by a lake in Berlin, where we had a sailboat. I was in a sailing club, where I learned windsurfing. When I saw kite surfing for the first time, I knew that would be something I’d like to try.

WTM: How long was this goal on your mind and what was the motivation behind it?

AB: The idea to kite surf around Bahrain was born last summer. I didn’t plan to break a record when I started to think about it initially. I wanted to challenge myself and do something different while also doing something I loved.

I’ve always wanted to do some kind of charity event for Wings for Life, an

50 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

organisation that works towards the goal of making spinal cord injury curable. This was a great opportunity.

The initial plan was to go around the island in three days, but during preparation and planning I felt it was possible to do the trip in a day. Then, I searched for the longest distance that had been kite surfed before and realised that I could break this record!

WTM: What sort of preparation and training did you take on?

AB: I prepared in the three months leading up to the attempt. I’ve competed in long distance races before, so I was quite fit.

I concentrated on general endurance and particular muscle groups. Then I experimented with food plans as it’s very important to fuel your body with the right food. This is vital not only for endurance, but also for the mind. If you feel good and eat well, you can cope with a lot more mentally, which is significant when you’re spending 12 hours alone on the water.

WTM: Tell us about the initial reactions from friends and family.

AB: Most thought it was a nice idea and encouraged me that it was possible. I’m not sure, however, how many actually believed I’d do it (laughs). But they backed me the whole time, which was great!

WTM: What challenges did you face on D-day?

AB: The coral reefs, changing winds, the Saudi Causeway and the debris in the water were obstacles we’d expected to face on the day. We were caught by surprise when the winds picked up so much that we’d to change to a much smaller kite.

At one point, I had a leak in the kite and the team had to pump it up in the middle of the ocean, which was tricky. Also, wind wasn’t blowing from the usual north-west direction, but very much straight from the north. This combined with very strong tidal currents made the progress slow and tiring. This was the main reason we couldn’t go all the way around Bahrain as planned.

www.womanthismonth.com

WTM: What was it like passing under the Saudi Causeway?

AB: Going under the causeway was risky. I had to approach at the right angle in order to fit in between the two pillars with my 27m lines. It gets very windy on the other side because of the wind shadow that the bridge builds. That made it hard to control the kite. All in all, it was quite nerve-racking and exciting (laughs).

WTM: Were there any moments when you wanted to give up?

AB: Not really. I was frustrated by the slow progress and feared I wouldn’t manage to go all the way around. That was combined with the worry that my GPS tracker wouldn’t record properly or run out of battery as I couldn’t see it. So I feared I had no proof whatsoever about the distance travelled. That was a bit demotivating, but I managed to keep my spirits up. When the boys in the boat told me just before I stopped that I had made it, I knew it was worth it!

WTM: How much have you raised so far with this event?

AB: I managed to raise almost USD2,000, which is absolutely amazing! This was achieved through T-shirt sales, donations, a barbeque organised on the day as well as online donations at Justgiving.com/ kitebeyond. It’s still open as I set myself a goal of USD2,500 since it was a 250km challenge.

I wanted to support Wings for Life as I believe they work towards a very important goal of facilitating the development of technologies designed to reduce the risk and promote the cure of spinal injury.

WTM: What is your ultimate dream?

AB: To be part of the Olympic Games if kite surfing is accepted as an Olympic discipline.

May 2014

51

people | interview

Stimulating Imagination

by SIMI KAMBOJ

Keeping children creatively engaged is a priority for young mother and business woman Sama Yateem.

C

hildren in Bahrain suffer from a lack of options when it comes to outdoor pastimes. It’s this gap that young entrepreneur Sama Yateem aims to fill. In the three years since it has opened, Sama’s activity centre PLAY has become very popular with children.

Sama tells us why her five-year daughter loves coming to PLAY and why her elder son insists that she open a similar place for older and more active children.

WTM: What made you embark on this business idea?

SY: After becoming a mother I realised that there weren’t many places to take your children to in Bahrain. With our hot summers, outdoor time is limited and we spend a lot of time indoors. I travel a lot and was really impressed by children’s museums in the US. I wanted to open an educational centre that’d be a safe for children to grow and be creative.

Most other play areas in Bahrain comprise of electronic rides that don’t really offer any intellectual stimulation. At PLAY, I have a diverse staff trained in childcare, so parents feel comfortable leaving their kids with us.

WTM: To what extent do you focus on creativity?

SY: PLAY is all about creativity. I could have called my centre The Purple Palm Tree because I believe children should be free to www.womanthismonth.com

express themselves; if they want to colour a tree purple, why not? We offer many ways to do this, whether through our art room or dramatic play with costumes. We encourage children to use their imagination and provide many props to get creative juices flowing. For instance, we might have a robot building competition in the construction zone and ask the children to assemble one from household items.

WTM: What sort of skills can children pick up at PLAY? SY: Children nowadays are over-stimulated with electronic devices such as iPads, PlayStations and other gadgets. Many haven’t had much exposure to imaginative play that’s crucial for their development. Studies show playing improves memory, stimulates growth of brain cells, improves language skills and promotes creative problem solving.

WTM: Do you have plans for expansion?

SY: My vision is for PLAY to become a recognized brand with a franchise in every country. I recently hired Los Angeles-based Franchise Consulting Group to turn my business into a franchise. I’m currently in discussions to open branches in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

WTM: Tell us about your events and what’s on the cards?

SY: We have monthly events that celebrate various cultures and holidays. Children play creative games, create arts and crafts, and cook up tasty treats related to the event.

Additionally, we opened the PLAY lounge where older children can cook, create, and perform. We’ve started a new service where our team goes over to the customers’ house and develop fun and interactive games for parties.

May 2014

53

Rediscovering

the Middle East Following the success of Cucina Italiana and Bennigan’s, Bahrain Family Leisure Company is set to launch a whole new dining concept to Bahrain’s foodies. We speak to the general manager.

Woman This Month (WTM): You’ve been the general manager of Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) for a year now.

What changes have you brought to Cucina Italiana?

Pete Lyons (PL): Cucina Italiana is a really strong restaurant to begin with. But then the service experience was very similar what you find in many other restaurants in Bahrain.

What I’ve tried to do is structure it to focus on hospitality than on service.

You find in a lot of the restaurants in the Middle East that the service is very robotic and scripted. As soon as things go off script, the service struggles. We’ve created a hospitable environment by getting the team to bring out their own personality.

WTM: The Cucina Italiana Master Chef Challenge was the talk of the town. Tell us about the experience.

PL: The location of the restaurant is quite hidden. To get us out there, we hosted the Master Chef Challenge which was an evolution of the cooking classes that we held. It just turned from this small idea to this huge event that was televised by three TV shows. It was so much fun for all of us.

We were amazed by how good the contestants were. We set different challenges for each stage. The quality and presentation were unbelievable; they looked and tasted fantastic. So obviously, we’re thinking of doing a Season Two. WTM: We hear BLFC has a new restaurant in the pipeline. Could you give us a few details about the venue?

PL: Bayti will feature a mix of Jordanian, Egyptian, Lebanese and Bahraini dishes. One of the main things setting it apart from other restaurants is the menu, which will describe the dishes. This is a feature you don’t usually get in a lot of Arabic dining venues.

Bayti is located near the Bahrain Financial Harbour. So in the daytime, we’re going to www.womanthismonth.com

be quite busy with the office crowd. We have decided to run a buffet operation for breakfast and lunch.

After sunset, when everybody in the area goes home, Bayti turns into a destination restaurant. It moves to an à la carte menu in the evening, boasting contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine. We’ve taken traditional dishes from around the region and given it a modern twist.

WTM: Describe the dining experience guests can expect from Bayti.

PL: It’s a chef-driven restaurant and we’ve a display kitchen. So there’s going to be a lot of show going on. The same way you’ve got burgers turning into gourmet meals these days we’ve got the gourmet shawarma, bringing the dish to a new level. You’ll have a

selection of breads and different fillers. It’ll be displayed with a wow factor; when it passes someone’s table they’ll want to know what it is.

Bayti means ‘my home’, which is exactly the vibe we want people to feel. We’ve essentially taken something familiar and evolved it to a contemporary setting.

WTM: Name one thing that every guest should try at Bayti.

PL: We’re doing a chocolate shawarma! Mind you this isn’t a combination of chocolate and beef. It is a vertical slab of chocolate that we shave off. The shavings are served onto a chocolate pita bread, with chocolate sauce and various other ingredients, making it a full dessert. It’s very visual!

Call 17 001-317.

May 2014

55

Beauty | news Guerlain Super-Aqua Creme. For intense age-defying hydration, this line of products includes a serum in addition to day and night creams. Designed to be women’s 24/7 beauty companion, these crèmes are designed for the hot climate.

They come in normal and combination skin options.

Available at all leading retailers.

Make Up For Ever HD Pressed Powder and HD Cream Blush. The two new additions to the popular make-up range deliver the final touch to any style. They add a hint of colour and create a luminous long-lasting finish.

Available at Make Up For Ever.

Bourjois Do You Speak French Manicure.

A decade ago this brand introduced the French manicure kit. With this new product, they revisit the collection by introducing four new sets of pre-harmonised colours.

Available at all leading retailers.

Beauty

Essentials

There are new scents and make-up in the air to complement your latest looks for summer. Choose a product from our favourites that will accompany you in the days ahead.

Bath & Body Works Forever Midnight. Accompanied by perfumed body care products, this fragrance opens with the sweetness of plum, night blooming jasmine and vanilla. The floral heart is warmed by seductive spices on a base of caramel liqueur.

Available at Bath & Body Works.

Beauty Editor's Pick

Chanel Dentelle Précieuse. This illuminating powder is inspired by the fine lace fabric used in the brand’s haute couture designs.

The product adds a light touch of colour, leaving a soft glow and shimmer on your complexion.

Available at all leading retailers.

56 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Philosophy Brighten My Day. The brightening skincare range is designed to diminish black spots, redness and pores. The collection boasts a brightening lotion, a serum essence and a peel pen for a glowing effect.

Available at all leading retailers.

Cartier La Panthère. Drawing inspiration from the house’s panther heritage, the eau de parfum represents a woman who is independent, graceful and rebellious. The new scent leaves a floral trail with velvety chypre and musk nuances.

Available at all leading retailers.

Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream Skin Perfector.

This cream acts as a moisturiser, primer, foundation, concealer and sunscreen — the basic combination of a BB cream. The bonus feature is the PhotoReady technology, which uses translucent photochromatic pigments to reflect light and make the skin look flawless.

Available at all leading retailers.

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

La Vie en Rose Spring/Summer 2014 Collection Preview La Vie en Rose held a Spring/Summer 2014 Collection preview at the store located at the Bahrain City Centre

Edelyn, Kat, Vidhi, Anna & April

Edralyn & Vidhi

www.womanthismonth.com

Shekha & Sara

Vidhi

May 2014

57

BEAUTY | 5 tips

Time to Brush There are many make-up brushes in the market. Do you know which ones to use? We pick the top five that must feature in your beauty cabinet.

2.

3.

4.

5.

58 May 2014

Read My Lips

1.

Save Your Blusher

If you have to pick one brush to carry along with you, this is the one! The softer this sweeper is, the more delicate the application is going to be. The more dense it is, the more colour you are going to get. Many of them have a slight angle to align with the natural contour of the cheekbones. This helps to put the right amount of blush in the right place.

If you are in a rush, applying your lipstick or gloss from the tube is acceptable. However, if you are going to a party or have a little bit of time to spend on the lips, use a lip brush. It gives you precise application and evens out the colour, especially with vibrant shades. Don’t forget to clean it up after every use.

All Eyes on You

You have two options to apply your favourite eye shadow. The most popular one is the small flat brush with rounded bristles made out of natural materials. Some people don’t prefer this because it makes the loose powder fall on the area under the eyes. The sponge applicator is a substitute for precision.

Keep Your Powder Dry

The translucent powder applied to deliver a glowing yet matte finish is the final touch to your make-up. To apply it, choose a soft brush as it will be in contact with all parts of your face. Synthetic fibres are a little rough on the skin, so look for ones with natural fibres that will offer a smoother finish. A long dome-shaped brush offers precision.

The Foundation

For flawless skin, apply your foundation with a brush.

This beauty tool allows you to apply a light coat that blends into the skin with a ‘barely there’ finish. If you use your fingers, without letting it penetrate properly, you foundation will soon start to crack. Pick a brush with synthetic bristles for better results. www.womanthismonth.com

Natural Hair Care Open your eyes to the science, nature and fashion aspect of the professional hair care with your personal Label.m experience.

L

abel.m products are not just about what they say on the bottle. The natural active ingredients in the formula are obtained through a process called cold water extraction. They feature an enviroshield complex, which protects your hair against external environmental factors, like sun and wind damage.

The water-resistant leave-in products are worth investing in this summer as it protects the strands from harmful UV/UVB rays. The hydra shield creates a kind of hair veil with UV filters.

In order to provide overall protection of your precious locks, Label.m has adopted a new approach to hair care which focuses on

starting the repair from within. This remedy introduces an exclusive tri keravitaplex complex, which is a blend of three vegan proteins.

They reach deep inside your hair to protect, nourish and repair each strand from the inside to the outside and from the scalp to the tip.

Defying age

Label.m has introduced a luxury range featuring the special rejuven-8 complex, which is the first of its kind, to scientifically treat the effect of ageing on hair. The objective of the brand is to develop a dynamic range that continues to build on its extensive hairdressing experience.

The products are uniquely aligned to the kind of industry renowned session work that Toni&Guy has become known for. Visit the hairdressing leaders for a complimentary consultation at the outlet in Seef Mall.

Call 17 001-700.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

59

LIFESTYLE | wellbeing

All Teched Out

by BEHNAZ SANJANA

In this era of instant communication through emails and various messaging applications, people go out of their way to keep a green icon glowing alongside their name. But there comes a time when your body needs you to unplug.

60 May 2014

T

here’s a new kind of addiction that’s gripped the world — that of gadgets and staying connected 24x7. Doctors have noticed an alarming number of people who seek medical help for problems caused by the constant use of electronic devices.

Technology is meant to help and not harm us physically or mentally. If we looked away from our glowing screens just enough, we would hear our bodies telling us to get off the grid. Heed the advice of our experts to keep your body and mind happy.

Gadget Grumble

Our expert: Dr Abdul Kareem Al Azzawi, medical director and consultant orthopaedic at Bahrain Specialist Hospital Dr Al Azzawi has recently seen more patients walking in to his clinic with painful stress injuries caused by the wrong use of machines and devices. Chronic back pain caused by sitting for long periods of time without any movement is one of the most common complaints he encounters.

“Stress injuries are caused by using laptops, mobiles and tablets over several hours every

day,” says Dr Al Azzawi. “Sitting continuously leads to the weakening of the lumbar muscle, which is the guide for the movement of the spine. Years of bad sitting posture leads to an unstable spine and problems, like discal prolapse and sciatica.”

Placing the computer screen at the wrong height makes people crane the neck, using more of the flexor muscles rather than the extensor muscles of the spine. This leads to instability of the cervical spine, ending with weakness of inter-vertebral muscles and discal problems.

Use of the computer mouse over extended periods of time puts direct pressure on the anterior part of the wrist, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome. This is an extremely painful disorder that causes numbness and the weakening of the three radial fingers, which often requires surgery.

Fashionably called Blackberry thumb, tendonitis is another painful fallout of incessantly using your digits to play games or communicate. It starts with inflamed tendons of the fingers. It then affects ligaments and eventually leads to ‘locking’ of the fingers, www.womanthismonth.com

making any movement an excruciating ‘click’.

The remedy is local injections and surgery in advanced cases.

Dr Al Azzawi cautions that surgery cannot restore a joint or tendon to its maximum function. He suggests following the instruction manuals accompanying computer accessories. Simple ergonomic adjustments they recommend minimise discomfort from long hours of use. He also advocates using proper lumbar support to maintain natural spinal curvature and prevent back problems.

Computer Vision Syndrome

Our Expert: Dr Bachar Khoury, consultant ophthalmologist at Royal Bahrain Hospital If you experience burning, teary eyes accompanied with redness, heaviness, blurriness and pain, your alarm bells should start going off sooner than later. Eyes are one of the most delicate and precious parts of the body. If just imagining your world dive into perennial darkness is not easy to fathom, the reality of losing one’s vision, even partially, must surely be more difficult to cope with.

“Looking at objects close to the eyes for a long time could cause ciliary muscle spasm,” says Dr Khoury. “The ciliary muscle is responsible for accommodation, which is the ability to see nearby objects. When this muscle goes into spasm we cannot see distant objects clearly. That causes a kind of myopia. This holds true for children as well, especially girls.”

Continuous staring keeps the eyes open for a long time and evaporates the tears, thus causing dryness. However, those of us who spend hours facing a screen at work need not despair. There are some simple and practical measures that help your eyes to function well.

All it takes is to shift your gaze onto something that’s at a distance for five minutes every hour.

“Looking out of the window or even shutting your eyes for few minutes could help the ciliary muscle to relax and reduces the stress,” says Dr Khoury.

Those who tend to experience the discomfort of dry eyes could use artificial tear drops while working on the computer for long hours. They lubricate the eyes, keep them fresh and avoid related symptoms.

Dr Khoury advocates sleeping for enough hours to help the body, including the eyes recuperate. Having adequate shut-eye reduces dryness; it also relaxes the ciliary muscle, and improves near vision and reading ability.

Positioning the screen slightly below eye level and about twenty-five inches away from www.womanthismonth.com

The line between work and recreation is smudged, with people replying to emails and messages pronto and expecting the same from peers and colleagues the eyes makes for more comfortable viewing.

Anti-glare screens and proper lighting go a long way in protecting your eyes.

Social Side Effects of Technology

Our Expert: Dr Anne Mostafa, clinical psychologist Besides the much debated risk of radiation that cell phones and laptops emit, there are other concerns raised by going into gadget overdrive. With smartphones getting slimmer

and more convenient to tote around everywhere (and by that we mean everywhere), people today are more interested in peeking into their screens than having one-on-one chats at the café.

“These devices have banished the nine-tofive timeframe; work follows us everywhere,” observes Dr Anne. “The line between work and recreation is smudged, with people replying to emails and messages pronto and expecting the same from peers and colleagues.”

In addition to the dangers of cyber crime, the unrestricted exposure of children to communication gadgets and the Internet has its own repercussions.

Certain video games could make them more aggressive. Social media sites could cause anxiety, negative peer pressure and selfesteem issues.

We are so engrossed with our electronic toys that we shun the things that do us good, like a walk in the park, interaction with family, and sharing memories, ideas and values.

“Smartphones and social media are part of our lives. It’s ultimately up to us how we let them impact us and our family,” says Dr Anne.

To sum up, the tax society will pay for abusing technology will be aching, impatient individuals with poor social interaction skills and the attention span of a toddler. g May 2014

61

A Detailed View Most pregnant women are constantly worried about the wellbeing of their baby. Ultrasound scans are an easy way to confirm the health of the child.

Woman This Month (WTM): When is a pregnant woman supposed to get an ultrasound scan?

Dr Roland Mouawad (Dr R), obstetrics and gynaecology specialist at Royal Bahrain Hospital: All pregnant women are required to have two ultrasound scans: one at 1213 weeks and one at 20-22 weeks into the pregnancy.

These ultrasounds are necessary in order to check for possible foetal anomalies.

Complicated pregnancies, those with hypertension and diabetes, may need to have an ultrasound scan in every visit.

WTM: How many ultrasound scans can be done during a pregnancy?

Dr R: In many countries, ultrasound scans have been restricted to two scans during pregnancy. However after more than 60 years of use, there have been no side effects

reported, neither to the mother nor to the foetus. Sometimes, a mother’s anxiety regarding her foetus’ wellbeing can be relieved by a five-minute ultrasound scan.

WTM: What kind of information can an ultrasound provide?

Dr R: With good equipment in good hands, tremendous information about the foetus’ wellbeing can be obtained. With the advancements in ultrasound technology, today we have reached a point where we can have a preview of the foetus in three dimensions, along with colour preview. This gives pregnant women even more satisfaction for when they would like to ‘check up’ on their baby.

4D Ultrasound Imaging is now available at Royal Bahrain Hospital.

Call 17 246-800 or 8000 1090 (toll free).

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Papa John's Celebrates 30 Years Of Success A high-level management team from Papa John's International held a meeting with members of the Jawad Business Group (JBG). It was held at the Jawad Dome in Barbar to celebrate 30 years of Papa John's pizza success in the region George, Tapan Vaidya, Jack Swaysland, Tony Thompson & Steve Ritchie

Tony Thompson & Faisal Jawad Faisal Jawad & David

62 May 2014

Ram, Kareem Jawad, Abbas Hussain & Ameer Jawad

www.womanthismonth.com

community

Enhancing Skills

by SIMI KAMBOJ

B

With an aim of supporting and enhancing the lives of children with special needs across the country and the region, this timely exhibition in May is dedicated to educating the public about issues related to the disabilities and the employment struggle associated.

ahrain hosts the 2nd Special Needs Support Exhibition (SNSE) on May 11 and 12 at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain. The event will bring together various stakeholders and resources to help the differently abled population build their skills. Held under the patronage of HH Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, the event is organised by Provision Events Bahrain in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and National Institute for Disabled.

With a rise in the number of children with mental, physical, visual and hearing disability worldwide, this year’s exhibition will focus on means and ways of boosting their self-esteem and encouraging them to accomplish tasks on their own. Parents and family members of children with disabilities will be able to learn about the latest developments and techniques to help those with special needs. In addition, www.womanthismonth.com

there will be a conference educating people on how to overcome obstacles and tackle situations, alongside a line-up of interactive and fun activities.

“We aim to open up new opportunities for families and parents of individuals with disabilities to identify the best technological tools and support services to facilitate their daily lives,” says Mohammed Bucheri, chairman of the organising committee.

“We’ve located multiple institutions and special needs providers to ensure that people with disabilities can go through life to meet their aspirations and to remove barriers to their success.”

This year’s event will highlight skills that can be instilled in those with special needs. The idea is to present them with an opportunity to exercise, innovate and cultivate a hobby that might assist them in their future.

The two-day event will feature a cookery

contest with the support of some of the best chefs from across the Kingdom. There is also a short film competition where the best short films created by people with special needs, addressing their needs and disabilities, will be awarded.

Adding a celebratory touch to the event is the Gulf Disabilities Society, which is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary.

Since 1984, the society has played a prominent role in addressing disability issues, including preventive measures and rehabilitation programmes for the handicapped.

The Ministry of Education, which is a supporting partner, will highlight its role in an education system that pays close attention to students with special needs, stressing on the principle of constant support and therapeutic education. Some of the initiatives in this direction include integrated studies and talent recognition in Bahrain.

May 2014

63

LIFESTYLE | parenting

Hello Stranger!

by DR CLARE BECKETT-MCINROY

There has been a recent shift from the old rule of ‘never talk to strangers’ to ‘never go anywhere with anyone without asking permission first’. This is justified by the idea that a child, who has been taught to never talk to strangers, may feel they have nowhere to go if they find themselves lost in a public place. Should you be teaching your children which strangers to ‘trust’ and how to approach an adult for help?

64 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

P

arents need to describe who a stranger is; your definition compared to that of your child may be quite different. By engaging with your children to help them understand, you can save yourself and your child from a lot of stress.

A stranger is someone whom you do not know. However, some strangers, because of their occupation or position in society, can be helpful in a dire situation. Of course it’s difficult for a parent to disclose enough as, sadly, we cannot trust all adults. Children need to understand that we do not know if someone is good or bad just by looking at them. Should we be teaching children about ‘strangeness’ that requires emotional intelligence, a gut reaction or a feeling? This is linked to helping your child recognise something that doesn’t feel right and to act on those feelings. Here are five rules that can help your child be safe.

Rule One: Never Go Anywhere with Anyone without Asking Permission First

Children have an innate sensitive connection with feelings; this needs to be nurtured www.womanthismonth.com

This is a fundamental rule which must never be broken. Whether it is a school, public or family function, work with your children to ensure that they always ask an adult for permission before going off with anyone.

Classic ‘what if’ scenarios are worth playing with and discussing: You are at school and walking back to class after snacks when a stranger comes up to you and says he is looking for his son’s class. He asks you to go with him to show him where it is. Do you go?

What you can do is use scenarios that are relevant to your child, such as toys, and discuss safe strategies in each case.

Rule Two: The ‘Feeling’

Children have an innate sensitive connection with feelings; this needs to be nurtured. You can call it a ‘personal alarm bell’, which we can teach them to use as this is their natural defence system. Work with your child to identify and recognise the physical and environmental signals that cause his or her alarm to sound. Knowing that a rush of adrenaline will cause physiological changes in our bodies is a good start. A child’s personal alarm bell will present the same physical and emotional cues as an adult.

Rule Three: Trust Your Instincts

Have you ever felt scared? Maybe it’s the idea of snakes, a cockroach, mice or heights that does it for you or your child. Encourage them to draw on how it feels when they get the creeps. Instincts are those feelings you get when something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable. Intuition is the physiological changes that happen to our body when our personal alarm goes off.

Physiological changes include noticing that you feel scared or nervous, your tummy feels upset, you feel hot, frozen to the spot, or your heart races. The next step is to discuss what to do with this intuition.

Rule Four: Personal Space and Safety Zone

Most children understand the concept of personal space. Some people feel comfortable within an arm’s length of others and some people do not recognise that they are invading personal space.

This is something children understand and learn. Teach your child to be aware of their surroundings. If a stranger is too close, suggest they back away and maintain their safety zone or ask what they need.

A safety zone is much bigger than your personal space — a few giant steps bigger — and ideally moving towards someone who can help with the situation.

Rule Five: Safe Places

There are times when a child must ask for help quickly and instinctively. This needs practice and confidence. We already know that strangers are not always bad; most strangers will help a child who is lost or upset.

Reinforce the concept to your child that his or her skills must always be used with all people, including those presumed safe.

Encourage your child to communicate with an adult they trust, when someone or something has frightened them.

As parents we need to empower our children with self confidence and trust in their ability to sense when something is just not right. It doesn’t matter if they cannot articulate it; they just have to feel it and act upon it. g May 2014

65

LIFESTYLE | column

Get Out and Play!

by DR JINAN DARWISH

Rickets is on the rise again amongst children partly because of a change in the quality of our diet and mostly because of their aversion to sunlight.

What is rickets?

Rickets is a bone disease that affects infants and young children, where their bones fail to develop properly due to a lack of vitamin D. This can result in soft and weakened bones, fractures, bone and muscle pain, and bony deformities.

About 80 per cent of our vitamin D comes from exposure to the sun. A sensible balance of sun exposure and sun protection can protect your children against vitamin D deficiency, without putting them at risk of skin cancer.

Perfect timing The optimum time to get sun exposure for vitamin D3 production in Bahrain, during summer is from 9am until 10.30am and between 2pm and 3pm. During winter the best time to take your child out in the sun is from 10am until 2pm. Protect your child’s skin from the sun during peak UV times, with clothing, shade and sunscreen.

Children with naturally dark skin or scanty exposure to sunlight are among those most frequently affected. Having a mother with vitamin D deficiency also increases a child’s risk.

If you’re pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, it’s absolutely vital to make sure you are getting ample vitamin D. It is advisable to test your vitamin D level when expecting.

Busting a myth Over-the-counter antacids contain calcium carbonate which neutralises the acid. Calcium carbonate can inflict havoc on both vitamin D levels and your bone density. If you are pregnant, it may brutally weaken the bones of your child.

While largely considered safe, calcium carbonate was actually the active ingredient given to rats during research studies from the ‘20s up to the ‘50s to yield rickets in the

66 May 2014

mice due to its phosphate-binding properties.

Commercial calcium carbonate products are also contaminated with heavy metals, including lead and aluminum, both of which are recognised to cause rickets and bone disease.

Furthermore, the mainstream population are under the misguided belief that they must take calcium to prevent osteoporosis.

Tragically, rather than preventing osteoporosis, the carbonate form of calcium actually decreases bone density. Normally, you might think of it as a source of calcium, which would decrease rickets, but your bones need more than calcium to remineralise.

It is essentially the calcium-phosphorus ratio in the diet that boosts mineralisation. It has been known since the ‘20s that if you have imbalances from the normal ratio, which is about 2:1 calcium to phosphorus, you don’t mineralise.

In other words, you can absorb the calcium, but it’s just not going into the bone.

There’s not enough phosphorus to make the mineralised matrix to proceed to the mineralisation, which is deficient in rickets.

Signs and symptoms Another imperative point is that acid reflux is a sign of vitamin D deficiency. Your upper digestive tract, from your pharynx to the lower third of your oesophagus, is skeletal muscle; vitamin D is important for muscle strength. Medical literature reveals that heartburn, bloating, constipation and reflux symptoms are all quite common among those with vitamin D deficiency because of reduced oesophageal motility and sphincter dysfunction.

A 2006 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition stated that palm olein found in the fat blend of infant formulas has unintentional physiological consequences. These include diminished intestinal absorption of fat, palmitic acid and calcium, lower bone mass, and osteopenia or diminished mineralisation. Interestingly, research papers from the ‘20s implicate formula feeding as a risk factor in rickets.

The Chief Medical Officer has advised that all children from the age of six months to five years should take vitamin D supplements in order to prevent deficiency. www.womanthismonth.com

Sainsbury Home

LIFESTYLE | home

Feeling Blue

by ELMA BARTHOLOMEW

Finally, it’s acceptable to decorate our homes in bright colours. A favourite of the season is all kinds of blue; our favourites will bring the sea indoors.

TURQUOISE IN MY EYES

Matalan

If you can’t go on holiday just yet, bring the beach to you. The simplest way to turn your home into a holiday destination is by setting turquoise elements against shades of white.

Don’t limit yourself to crockery, rugs, cushions and linens. Why not get a new tile job for the bathroom or kitchen? Get flowers and frames in hints of teal or go all out and paint your wooden furniture and front door in turquoise shades. If you’re thinking accessories, then opt for natural materials and finishes.

68 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Red 5

BABY BLUE

Dotcomgiftshop

Magpie

For those of you who aren’t fond of bold and bright decor, placid tones of blue are in trend too. A bonus with this tint is that it works great with greys. So there’s no wonder as to why most designers have incorporated it into kitchenware. Whether it’s on your tea towel, oven mitts, table mats or cutlery, baby blues are great for the kitchen and dining space.

Of course, it is still the preferred choice for bedroom walls.

DAZZLING SAPPHIRE

www.womanthismonth.com

Marks & Spencer

Dunnes Stores

Cath Kidston

Inky blue is a favourite for most house-proud people, especially for cushions. The intense tone can range from sapphires and cobalt to lapis and navy. Ethnic prints are all over the retail scene, so dare to get some accessories that reflect the decor style of the country of its origin.

May 2014

69

LIFESTYLE | home

Individual Expression Home Centre celebrates individuality through their new campaign titled ‘No Two Homes Will Be the Same’. Here’s how you can build an original living space.

O

ffering an array of furniture and decorative elements in affordable prices, Home Centre believes that everyone’s personal style should be reflected in their homes. To transform a house to a home, each area should feature unique elements that

express the home owner’s personality.

Get inspired by the brand’s furniture, furnishings, home accessories, linens, bath fittings and kitchenware to create your personalised home. Which of these living spaces would make you feel at home?

Relaxing Moments

The living room is perhaps where you spend the most part of your time. This space should be more than just a comfortable sofa.

Classic concepts and clean minimalist traits are two popular home trends.

Go for lively shades in crisp lines or printed and classic hues with intricate details.

Lighting is an important factor to set the ambience. Home Centre also features a collection of lamp designs that can add some character to your home.

70 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Strong Character

The bedroom is the room that most reflects the true self of its occupants. Whether you own a strong or easy-going personality, it can be expressed through your choice of dĂŠcor elements.

Bright shades and loud contrasts represent boldness. Brown accents speak tradition.

White and blue shades with striking details reflect organisation and offer minimum distraction.

www.womanthismonth.com

Dinner Time

The dining space gets families and friends together. So creating a welcoming vibe in this room is fundamental for an amusing moment. You can have clean and modern furniture or opt for sophisticated and vibrant shades. The design of the accessories is what defines your individual style.

Call 17 172-355 (Bahrain City Centre).

May 2014

71

LIFESTYLE | food

On a Gluten-Free Diet

by JAMES CLAIRE

What was once referred to as Celiac disease has now been dubbed as ‘gluten intolerance’.

For some the allergy to this protein found within wheat causes the diner to bloat and experience discomfort; for others gluten causes rashes and vomiting.

Whether they are actually allergic or not, people have accepted gluten-free meals as a healthy alternative; eateries and supermarkets across the globe have adapted to the needs of the people. Here are some recipes that make life easier for those steering away from gluten.

Chocolate Roulade 175g 6 175g 2 tbspn 300ml to dust

dark chocolate, finely chopped eggs, separated caster sugar cocoa powder cream icing sugar

• Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

Lightly grease a 33cm x 23cm Swiss roll tin, then line the tin with baking paper. Melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water.

• Place the egg whites in a large bowl and whisk until stiff. Put the egg yolks in a separate bowl with the sugar and whisk until thick and creamy. Pour in the cooled chocolate and gently fold together until well combined.

• Gently stir the egg whites into the chocolate mixture. Sift the cocoa over the top and lightly fold it in. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and gently move the tin around until the mixture is levelled.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, leave in the tin and set aside until cold.

• Whip the cream. Lay a large piece of greaseproof paper on the work surface and dust it lightly with icing sugar. Turn the roulade out on to the paper so its lining paper is on top; then carefully peel off the paper. Spread the roulade with the whipped cream, leaving a border of about 2cm all the way around the edges.

• Now roll this edge over tightly to start with.

Use the paper to help continue the tight rolling by pulling it away from you as you roll. Don’t worry if the roulade cracks. Dust with icing sugar.

72 May 2014

www.womanthismonth.com

Flourless Chocolate and Pear Cake 90g 90g 90g 3 3 90g 4 to dust

unsalted butter sugar dark chocolate egg yolks egg whites hazelnuts, toasted and ground pears, ripe, peeled, halved and cored icing sugar

• Butter and line with parchment paper the sides and base of a spring-form cake tin, approximately 20cm in diameter. Heat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

• Melt the chocolate and butter in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Remove from the heat and leave to cool.

• Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar in a large bowl until pale and thick. Fold into the chocolate with the hazelnuts.

• In a separate bowl, with a clean whisk, beat the whites until they reach a soft peak.

Stir a spoonful of the whites into the chocolate mix, and then carefully fold in the rest. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin. Level it and arrange the pear halves over the mixture, cut-side down.

• Bake for 50 minutes until the pears are soft and the cake is cooked all the way through. Leave to cool in the tin for one hour before releasing. Place on a rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar to serve.

Mixed Berry Crumble 200g 200g

200g 40g 60g 80g 120g 1 tspn 1/4 tspn 125ml

fresh raspberries fresh strawberries, washed, cut and hulled fresh blueberries, washed Demerara sugar quinoa flakes millet flour brown sugar ground cinnamon salt coconut oil

• Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Rub the inside of a nine-inch baking or gratin dish with a dab of coconut oil.

• Place the raspberries, strawberries and blueberries into a bowl and sprinkle with the Demerara sugar. Toss to coat. Pour them into the greased baking dish and distribute evenly.

• In a separate bowl, combine the quinoa flakes, millet flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and sea salt. Add the coconut oil. Stir in or rub the coconut oil and dry mixture together to create a sandy, crumbly texture. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the berries.

• Bake in the centre of a pre-heated oven until browned and slightly bubbling, for about 25 to 35 minutes. Check for desired tenderness with a fork.

• Set on a rack and allow it to cool a bit before serving. www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

73

showcase

Where Dreams Come True Summer is the most popular wedding season; Sheraton Bahrain Hotel guarantees a memorable moment for you, your groom, your family and your guests.

A

s tempting as it might be to hold an outdoor wedding, summer can be a tricky time like any other. Unexpected dust storms and unpredictable heat waves are all it takes to turn your perfectly planned night into a disaster.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel understands that as exciting as surprises may be, they’re the last thing you need on your big day. The five-star venue gives you reason to host the party in a cosy and secure setting. Book your dream wedding at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel for an event that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

Why Sheraton Bahrain Hotel From intimate cocktail parties to extravagant dinner receptions, the wedding coordinators will insure that every last detail is as perfect as can be. Trained associates will assist with whatever appointments you require, whether it has to do with the menu, flowers, lighting or entertainment.

A multi-storey direct-access car parking area that can accommodate more than 200 cars is available, making it more convenient for guests to attend your party without having to walk through the lobby.

The perfect setting Al Taj Ballroom can accommodate over 400 persons. The impressive site, with a myriad of

74 May 2014

crystal chandeliers, allows countless setups for the creative couple. This space is ideal as you can transform it into anything that you’ve envisioned all of your life. Dividers allow you to expand or decrease the area based on your needs. The ballroom accommodates separate gatherings within the same space with individual doorways for each party.

Old world charm Awali Ballroom offers a sense of mystery, perfect for those looking for a magical wedding. This space works best for those who want a more intimate gathering as it has a maximum capacity of 200 persons.

The mesmerising interiors are made up of Italian terracotta-tiled floors and traditional Arabian décor pieces. In a neutral colour palette, Awali boasts palatial arches engraved with fine mosaic, carved mahogany wood panelling and a twin tent roof enhanced by stunning wrought iron chandeliers.

What makes this venue perfect is its second doorway, much like the secret passages of castles.

room, and a lunch buffet voucher for two at Al Safir restaurant.

The summer wedding package offers a reduced price of BD13.500++ per person for a minimum of 200 guests. Reserve the package online for 10 percent discount on your total expenditure.

From the wedding cake to the dance floor and flower arrangements to beverages, they’ve got it all covered. You can create your own menu by choosing five appetisers, five main courses and four desserts from their extensive selection.

Visit www.sheratonbahrain.com/en/ weddings or call 17 533-533.

Blipp the cover to win a three kilo chocolate cake worth BD50.

Summer special Sheraton Bahrain Hotel understands that the most important day in your life is about the timeless memories. They’ve boxed up a night’s stay at their suite, inclusive of a fruit basket and honeymoon special breakfast within the www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION

A One-Stop Shop Trying to find a destination that caters to both parents and kids is not always that easy. Seef Mall has changed that by offering a wide range of activities and entertainment options.

S

eef Mall enables families to spend time together; this is demonstrated in its many events. For example, a Mother’s Day event was held in which offered mothers a pampering session while their kids participated in craft activities and cooking sessions.

Its huge selection of 300 local and international brands makes the mall a go-to destination for shoppers from all over the island. The easy access and simple mall layout make it a shopper’s paradise, featuring a wide variety of world renowned fashion and jewellery outlets.

Seef Mall takes pride in being the family destination mall in Bahrain, which gives families a platform to relax and take a break from shopping in its vibrant dining areas, while kids enjoy the play areas. The fact that there is always something going on makes it a unique experience for all members of the family.

The mall hosts a16-screen multiplex cinema and 48 restaurants and coffee shops in its two food courts. The malls attractions ranges from food courts, play areas, cafes and cinema complexes, making it the most familyoriented mall in Bahrain.

Tea break

Tea time is that time of the day which allows you to unwind and relax. To contribute to that, the mall adds another option to the list for its mall visitors with the opening of Majestea in the mall’s West Wing.

The concept is a tea room, which offers a range of teas including their own special blends as well as pancakes, desserts, sandwiches and salads. The cafe includes a shop that sells anything tea related, from tea cups to sandwich trays.

The overall environment of the mall is inviting. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing day out with the family or just want to shop while the kids are kept busy in play areas, Seef Mall is the place to be. Being able to cater to every member of the family, the mall takes the family-friendly experience to the next level.

Note the Timings

The mall is open from Saturday to Wednesday from 10am until 10pm. On Thursdays and Fridays, they are open until 11pm.

The food court at Seef Mall is open from Sunday to Wednesday from 10am until 11pm, while on weekends (Thursdays to Saturdays), it remains open until midnight.

Visit www.seef.net. www.womanthismonth.com

May 2014

75

Fondant Dreams Discover the art of cake decoration and test your skills at the fondant contest which will be held at Riyadat in A’ali this month.

A

spiring cake decorators will compete for the title of creating the ‘best decorated cake’ at a competition held at Riyadat Mall.

The Riyadat Fondant Cake Challenge is open to female Bahraini participants from all around the island.

The day-long contest will take place in Riyadat on April 19 from 9am until 5pm.

Contestants will have to decorate a threelayered cake centred on the theme of weddings. A judging panel of well-established cake decorators will be at hand to select the grand winner.

“The event is designed to highlight the hidden talents of Bahraini women. The competition will help publicise their skills and create opportunities for such talented cake decorators,” believes Shatha Aljalahma, senior manager, Riyadat.

The day will also feature workshops for cake lovers who dream of becoming entrepreneurs. Led by one of the judges, one session will address the topic of how to start your home business.

Everyone is invited to view the competition. For people who miss the event on Saturday, the cakes will be on display for a whole week at the mall.

The competition is open to Bahraini women, who have basic experience in cake decoration. Each participant is allowed to have one assistant through the day.

Spearheaded by the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB), along with the Supreme Council for Women, Riyadat is the region’s first business incubator catering for start-ups run by women.

Call 17 373-335 or visit wwwriyadat.com.bh.

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Seef Mall Mother's Day Tea Party Seef Mall hosted members of women's associations and their children in a beautifully created English Garden setting to celebrate Mother's Day

Alia

Manahil & James

Anais

Emily, Tricia & Somya

Katja & Nick

76 May 2014

Natalia & Sabine

Youla

Vesu

www.womanthismonth.com

Dynamic Drive O

Euro Motors, the BMW Group importer in the Kingdom of Bahrain has further diversified its portfolio in the premium compact segment with the introduction of the all-new BMW 2 Series Coupé.

ffering a combination of unbeatable driving dynamics and appealing aesthetics, the BMW 2 Series Coupé is in a league of its own. The nifty new coupé will offer customers BMW’s signature driving experience through a range of innovative driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features.

“As the BMW brand continues to grow in the Kingdom we are committed to bringing vehicles to market that match our customers’ appetite for premium automobiles,” says Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors.

“The BMW 2 Series Coupé will be a leader in the premium compact segment, offering an unparalleled level of premium aesthetics and BMW’s trademark sheer driving pleasure.”

lend the front end of the car a forwardsurging presence.

The modified contours of the headlight units narrow at their inner extremes, while a standard accent strip — or, if the optional bi-xenon lights are fitted, an LED accent light — cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin circular lights.

The side view sees signature brand features like a long bonnet, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment and Hofmeister kink.

The rear is a broad and powerful affair, an impression reinforced by the single-piece light units reaching far into the car’s flanks.

An unmistakable night design is provided by the L-shaped LED rear light strips within the units.

It’s got the look

Lines that speak volumes

The individual vehicle concept is underlined by its specific front and rear end design, dynamically stretched lines and an almost 11cm increase in body length over the BMW 1 Series Coupé. Lines tapering down dynamically towards the BMW kidney grille www.womanthismonth.com

Available as an alternative to standard specification for the BMW 2 Series Coupé, BMW Lines offer harmoniously coordinated exterior and interior design and equipment features. They include 17-inch light-alloy wheels in exclusive designs, ambient lighting

with variable use of colours and special seat upholstery, interior trim strip and car key designs.

Once chosen, the BMW Sport Line brings a high-gloss black finish for the outer air intake surrounds, the front of the kidney grille bars, the cross rib in the centre air intake and the rear apron, emphasising the dynamic credentials of this two-door newcomer.

The BMW Modern Line serves the cause of progressive elegance through the use of matte aluminium for the design elements and a body-coloured paint finish for the cross rib in the centre air intake.

Also available is the M Sport package which has been developed specially for the model.

This option comprises bespoke suspension tuning, optional 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, aerodynamically optimised body elements, plus a special design for the BMW kidney grille and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in high-gloss chrome.

Call 17 750-750.

May 2014

77

horoscopes

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22

Illustration by LIM Designs

This month is going to be all about you triumphing over the obstacles placed in your way concerning your career. You had a difficult decision to make in April and fortunately you have come through without relatively unscathed. You are well prepared and filled with confidence and ready to start or try something new, so go ahead and take the next step.

Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 21

Star

Gazing

Health concerns dominate your thoughts, although they may relate more to a relative than your own. For too long you could have been living in denial about a loved one’s situation, but now you have to step out from behind the curtain and face the music.

Difficult times lie ahead. Do not shy away from the responsibilities they present you.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 20

Find out what May has in store for you…

There could be a lonely path ahead of you and a thoughtful decision to be made. Make sense of the situation in your own heart and mind before you make your final decision.

Consequently those around you will stand by the result of this tricky decision. You just need to make sure that whatever you do is done for your benefit and no one else’s.

Taurus Apr 21 - May 21

Leo Jul 24 - Aug 23

Aquarius 21 - Feb 19

Gemini May 22 - Jun 21

Virgo Aug 24 - Sept 23

Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20

Cancer Jun 22 - Jul 23

Libra Sept 24 - Oct 23

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20

by RAPHAEL

Your thoughts turn from a busy few months towards travel plans and a long overdue escapist holiday. With so many commitments it’s never going to be easy. It might require a difficult conversation with a sibling who may have to take on the role of carer. However, you need to stick to your guns here and ensure you get what is best for you.

You can’t always get what you want. With the fingers of desire beginning to wane on a current love affair, you need to question whether the person you have been drawn towards actually wants you as much as you want him or her. The harsh reality may not be one you wish to confront nor accept, but you’ve been kidding yourself for long enough.

This month you will receive some excellent news concerning your current role within the workplace. However, your gain is inevitably someone else’s loss and you should prepare to face some flack. On the relationship front, a partner may surprise you with some news concerning a move, but you will be encouraged by the plans.

78 May 2014

You feel in the mood for celebrating and in the mood for romance. You are also going to be enjoying some success in the work place this month, but you should be prepared to share this with all of those around you.

However, you like to play your cards close to your chest so you will probably end up revealing your position when you are ready.

You are at a crossroads. The rebellious side of your personality is in a foolhardy mood and is juggling many personality traits in a very reckless manner. Your mind seems to be full of distractions. Take a leap of faith and pick whichever road takes your fancy. It isn’t going to be easy, but if you stick to it you may even learn a thing or two about yourself.

The 15th of this month could prove a relevant date. Be wary of a powerful, compelling male figure in your life that may influence an important decision you feel you need to make.

Look at all the important details and weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ before you venture into something new because your life could lose some critical balance if you lose focus.

The opportunity for a fresh start is going to land in your lap this month and it will do you good to consider making a change. Many of you are feeling caught in a rut. Follow your heart. You have been holding yourself back.

This is the start of something special so grab it with both hands; take it with confidence and gratitude.

Your head is filled with frustrations this month; especially with a difficulty in trying to communicate with a close female family member. You feel the need to help, however she seems to be avoiding your sound advice.

Remember that everybody deals with their problems in their own way; the individual in question will turn to you when she is ready.

The last few months have been all about fighting to keep the ship afloat financially. It has put more than a little strain on both you and a loved one. Fortunately, a new horizon beckons and most of your financial worries will be a thing of the past. This will infuse you with a new sense of confidence. Better days are coming; be prepared to enjoy them. www.womanthismonth.com

he says

Fear and Eventuality

by JAMES CLAIRE

M

I’m scared of growing old; I can’t come to terms with being 45. I look in the mirror and I still see the 21-year-old I used to be. And that’s not my only phobia…

ost people say I do not look my age; even more say I do not act it! But that’s only the beginning. I am also scared of marriage, even though I am married. I’m petrified of divorce rates and I don’t wish to become a statistic.

Recently on a trip, my friend who was travelling with his wife told me that this would most likely be their last one together.

It seems their daughter will need his life’s remaining funds for schooling and she has already a penchant for designer shoes!

I have travelled relentlessly since leaving home for Paris and London at the age of 17; I could never be grounded permanently. I’d go stir-crazy wondering what was going on in the rest of the world.

Is it selfishness? Is it old age? Did I wait too long to have a child? What if I am the sensible one? With seven billion and counting on the planet, it will not be long before we hit eight and nine billion. Land, water and food are www.womanthismonth.com

already a problem in many parts of the world.

How are we going to feed, hydrate and house even more?

Surely reproduction is no longer intended for the survival of the race. Some people state I must continue the family name. But I Googled myself and found that I am not the only one. The bloodline may run dry, but the name will live on without me. Perhaps it’s everyone else that is selfish.

We should all start to think before reproducing. What kind of life are we giving those we leave behind when we are already worried about global warming and its effects?

I can’t imagine what 12 billion peoples’ breathing is going to do for the temperature!

Animals on extinction lists will be the least of our problems; almost everything is going to look delicious at that stage. Retaining different species will come down to the retention of the dominant one. Zoos will start to look like tuck shops!

If we struggle to feed seven billion people with a healthy diet, how do we feed double when land runs out and the only thing left is synthetically produced food? Didn’t anyone watch Soylent Green?

The movie touched on these concerns back in the ‘70s! In those days, it was a horrid thought. But what does one actually do when land is too scarce to bury people and the food supply is dry?

It’s not likely that we are going to ever find another planet to inhabit.

Anyway, in the last four decades since man travelled to the moon, it’s not like we have ventured there again.

I’d miss cities if I stopped travelling for the sake of family. Neil Armstrong and his crew went to the moon just the once. Maybe I should just stop feeling sorry about having to make sacrifices and just have a kid.

At least if we don’t travel, we can sit and look at pictures of places we may never go to.

May 2014

79

she says

Shoes, Glorious Shoes!

by BEHNAZ SANJANA

I

A woman with good shoes is never ugly, said Coco Chanel. What’s more, they can give you a ‘high’ that’s totally carb-free!

recently came across an article that attempted to figure out a woman’s ‘type’ by the shoes she wears. It slotted women into different personalities depending on whether she chose wedges over ballet flats, and frankly, it made me roll my eyes.

Well, which woman sticks to only one kind of footwear? When we run about the daily grind, we summon our sneakers or slip-ons.

Wouldn’t it look completely ridiculous to be tottering about in a pair of Louboutins at 7am at the kids’ school (unless of course you’re Victoria Beckham)?

Speaking of which, although I don’t own a pair of those scarlet-soled jewels for the feet, I am secretly saving up for one. (Don’t tell my husband! He just won’t get it.) A shoe is a shoe is a shoe, right? Wrong!

Shoes have the power to make a woman look

80 May 2014

stylish if she’s dressed in a gunny sack. Black patent leather heels and a gunny sack — I can totally see myself rocking the annual ‘Save The Earth’ gala. To drive home the point, the iconic Marilyn Monroe once said, “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.” Well, at the very least, a great pair definitely makes up for a bad hair day.

Even though I may be in thrift mode at most times, a new pair is in order on every birthday. I may not opt for a wardrobe overhaul or a five-star dinner, but new shoes are a staple. They don’t have to come in a Saks Fifth Avenue bag; the friendly neighbourhood mall will do.

My birthday shoes are an affirmation that it doesn’t matter if my dress size changes over the years, or if I’m grey and wrinkly. My shoes will still fit perfectly. That’s why I treat my

special pairs with utmost TLC — even more so than my clothes.

It’s true that our shoes are the first things that are noticed by others. Whether I dash past someone eye-catching at the mall or I stop to chat with a familiar face, my eyes involuntarily glance at their footwear. It’s been a childhood fetish — a shoe-related obsessive compulsive disorder. And what I find most challenging is to discreetly catch a glimpse of the wedges or stilettos under a swishing abaya; those are often the most swoon-worthy pairs I encounter. I have got to hand it to the panache of Middle Eastern women, who take their traditional flair to new heights (pun intended).

So like Shakespeare proclaimed that “clothes maketh a man”, I say “shoes maketh a woman”. www.womanthismonth.com