Issue 68 - December 2014
غيــر خم�ص�ص ــة للبـيـع Complimentary Copy
AL ostoura Featuring fatima almo’men fast fashion by
Moschino
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Elegance is an attitude Aishwarya Rai
Conquest Classic WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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DECEMBER D
ecember, December where shall I begin? For those who know me, there is no need to explain; for those who don’t, this is my favourite month in the year. Many say that the fact that I was born in this month has a lot to do with it, but I disagree. It is the last month of the year in which you look back on all your accomplishments; it is when you look forward to a new year and many new surprises and journeys that remain a mystery. It is also when you can wrap yourself in your coats and boots and enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate in a beautiful crispy weather. Finally and most importantly, it is a month filled with celebrations and occasions for everyone. As the year is closing down, we write our last chapter with promises and resolutions for 2015 and plan how we will achieve them in the sole goal of self improvement. As we say our goodbyes to 2014 with all the good and the bad it carried along the way, let’s embrace the new year with a flawless attitude and why not a flawless look?! Check out our picks and tips for this month and enjoy the read. Until next time, Hind Nassar
Operations Manager
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS 12-014
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86 66 A Word With THETALK 28. Maali Al-Oudah 86. Jean-Marc Shammas 84. Carmen Chaplin 66. Bouba 76. Christine Nagel 82. Mohammad Al-Robaian
D.Y.I
57. Play The Belt Game
On The Cover 14. Fast Fashion by Moschino
Health
108. Winter’s Chill What To Do To Stay Warm This Season
Remember Her Face 78. Gigi Hadid
Travel
110. The Holiday’s Ultimate Destination: Colorado
THETALK Street Styles 32. Kuwait Street Styles
Reviews
124. Restaurant Review 126. Book Reviews 128. Movie Reviews 129. Horoscopes
THETALK Inspiration 34. Tutu Skirts 36. Fringe 10
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Trend Alert 46. H&M Winter Fashion 56. The Mini Top-Handle Bag
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CONTENTS Published by :
Tel: (965) 2572 0810 Fax: (965) 2572 0860 email: thetalk@ph7-kw.com www.ph7-kw.com Editor-in-Chief NOUF AL-HAJRI Publisher ZEINA MOKADDAM
Audited Since 2011 by
Circulation: 10,000 Copies Readership: 40,000+ as per PARC 2012 Studies Managing Editor SIMON BALSOM Senior Editor YASMINE BANDAR
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Features Editor INJY REFAIE Operations Manager - THETALK HIND NASSAR Creative Director LARA HOMSI Graphic Designer CHADI MOUFIED Head of Photography Maher Al-Nouri Production Manager Nidal Al-Shaker Legal Consultant KHALED AL-KANDARI Press Agencies - Afp Interview - Viva Press (Uk) Images - Gallo-Getty Distribution Company: International Media Group Printed In Four Films
Reproduction in whole or part of any matter appearing in TheTalk is prohibited by law without prior written approval of the publishers. Opinions expressed in TheTalk do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers and editorial staff of the magazine. The publishers do not hold out any guarantee as to its accuracy, neither do they indemnify any loss arising through use of the information.
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VISIT OUR WEBSITE ON: WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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on the COVER
Fast Fashion by Moschino:
Jeremy Scott’s Vision When it comes to fast food, fashionable is definitely
not one of the adjectives that come to mind. But Jeremy Scott’s first show as Creative Director of Moschino changed all that. Read on to find out more about the label and how the collection fits in with its identity.
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on the COVER
Moschino was founded by Franco Moschino in 1983 in Italy. The label has always been known for its ‘classic with a twist’ creations. Moschino’s irreverent, funky style and great quality has won it a steady fan following over the years. The brand occupies an important position on the international fashion stage; complete with its history, consistency and continuity. The first Moschino boutique opened in Milan in 1989. By 1991, the brand had expanded with stores in Rome, Los Angeles, and New York City. He courted controversy by way of his window dressing; which addressed important issues like the environment, racism, animal welfare, and violence. Franco Moschino called himself
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“half tailor, half artist”, a sentiment he took to heart. Although the new collection might seem like a radical approach on the part of Jeremy Scott, Moschino has always been known for its social awareness even in the early 1990s. Wildly imaginative and theatrical presentations were the hallmarks of the early collections. After Moschino’s demise in 1994, Rossella Jardini took over the Creative Direction for the labels Moschino, Moschino Cheap and Chic and Love Moschino. Rossella Jardini’s first encounter with Franco Moschino was in 1981, when she collaborated with him on the start of the Cadette label. Under her, the Moschino, Moschino Cheap and Chic, and Love Moschino creations made their
mark by expressing creativity, making irony and elegance its strength through reinterpretation of the classics. Under Jardini’s direction, Moschino maintained its position of standing apart from other luxury brands by taking cues from popular culture and trends. The brand’s identity and advertising also display this standout quality of utilizing humor, eccentricity, and high fashion. The brand recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand celebration and a fashion show to coincide with the showing of the Spring Summer 2014 collection. Jardini took this opportunity to announce that she would be leaving her position at the company, making way for Jeremy Scott to take over the reins as Creative Director.
Jeremy Scott first started his career in the late ‘90s at Paris Fashion Week. His funky style, which was often considered over the top, was validated when Vogue called his 2000 collection “a witty reply to all his detractors, who had accused him in the past of producing outlandish clothing that no one would wear.” He is also a longtime collaborator of Adidas, producing limited edition designs and pieces which are popular with both celebrities and fashion fans. He had proved his avant-garde aesthetic by using opulence as a running theme through his collections, a trend that hit the runways a few years after his shows. His rebellious image actually makes him the perfect choice for Moschino, which has always
maintained its niche among the Italian ateliers. For Fall/Winter 2014-15, Scott chose to express a sort of social commentary on pop culture, which some chose to see as a tribute to the vintage Moschino vibe. “I worked with the McDonald’s color palette,” he says. The clothes in the lineup were a reinterpretation of the brand’s staff uniforms, with the classic Moschino silhouette and spirit. Bags turned into veritable treats in the form of Happy Meals and drink cups. This take on consumerism did not end here, with gowns and dresses reminiscent of snack packages coming up next. Made of duchesse satin, the dresses were expertly pleated and tucked, so that they had their own identity, and were not
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on the COVER
merely representing a nostalgic object. Cartoon character SpongeBob SquarePants also showed up in the designs, with the distinctive black spot pattern on a yellow background. The Moschino logo was also displayed in full regalia, superimposed on jackets, skirts, boots, bags, and even belts. Textural contrasts came by way of denim and gold foiling, as well as quilted sequins; all embellished with gold chain links. As soon as the exciting collection was presented,
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celebrities were quick to sport them. Rita Ora and Katy Perry appeared on the runway, and also wore outfits from the collection while out and about. Others like Nicki Minaj, Maya Diab, Nicky Hilton, Miley Cyrus, Anna Dello Russo, blogger Chiara Ferragni of The Blonde Salad, and Amber Rose also showed their love for Moschino by choosing the brightly-colored outfits. Scott shows no signs of stopping, with a Barbie
themed collection he launched for the Spring/ Summer 2015 line, which has already made a splash in street style fashion. We are sure his innovative and ultra-creative designs will increase the relevance and prominence of the fine Italian label we love.
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strike a pose
FASHION UPGRADE! Once again, Al Ostoura presents its top chic brands of the season, this time introducing the finest pieces of its clothing line, accessories, clutches and shoes signed by the world’s most excellent designers. This photo shoot brings in Al Ostoura’s stylish items for Fall/Winter 2014 selected and displayed by the popular Fatima Al Mo’men – a manifestation of her own taste. The season’s must-haves pieces according to Fatima Al Mo’men are brought in to you by Al Ostoura in the coming pages…
Dress: Moschino Boots: Moschino
Cardigan & Skirt: Moschino
strike a pose
Coat: Ermanno Scervino
Dress: Ermanno Scervino Shoes: Le Silla Bag: Alexander McQueen
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strike a pose
Dress: Mary Katrantzou Shoes: Casadei
strike a pose
Dress: Alaia Bag: Sara Battaglia
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Dress: Alaia
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A word with thetalk
The queen
of fur
Maali Al-Oudah W
hat could be a more interesting topic to TALK about in December than fur? Malimo designer, Maali Al-Oudah’s passion for winter and fur is endless and her designs attest what this season means to her. As good as it feels to fix your eyes on an elegant piece of fur; it might even feel better to hear someone TALK about it with so much fascination and love. What sparked your interest in fur? My story with fur is a very old one – it has been my passion since childhood. I think the reason behind it is the warmth the softness that fur symbolizes. When I grew older, I understood the luxurious and elegant side of natural fur. How did you start your own line? I did my homework very well as we know the fur industry is not an easy field to fit in. Travelling helped me study the market from a customer’s perspective as well as a designer. Dealing with such expensive rare fabric is a real challenge. Tell us more about your collection. My collection is made with a lot of passion and care. Every piece I made comes with a story. In my line, I use the most expensive kind of fur and always try to collect the rare fabrics such as Chinchilla Velvet, Russian Sable, Russian Mink and best quality of fox fur. When it comes to designing my collections, my aim is to make wearing fur fun and practical, with a touch of elegance of course. What makes fur an elegant choice? Basically, it is the appearance and the feeling of wearing fur. People who can afford to buy furs are usually the royalty or celebrities and they know how to wear it. Fur is a very rare fabric because it comes from one source, and that is nature, which adds a great value to it.
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A word with thetalk
Did you study to become a fashion designer or is it purely a passion? Not at all, I’m a business woman and a banker. It is purely a passion and I have been lucky enough to enrol in training courses in some factories to improve my background and I plan to keep doing so. Fur radiates both luxury and warmth, is it difficult to work with fur compared to other fabrics? Working with fur can be challenging, yes. It is a rare fabric and requires a lot of attention to detail. It does depend on the nature of work and, of course, how you wear your fur.You have to have knowledge of fur to work with it so that you know which fur is best for the look you arere trying to achieve. I like to work at my workshop wearing my favorite short fur vest. What statement a women in fur is trying to make? “I’m unique, warm, elegant and lovable”. Where do you go for inspiration? I travel and visit villages and mountains all the time. I can get inspired by everything around me when I’m in a good mood. Is there any place in the world you have not been to yet but would like to visit from a professional perspective? Yes. Magnolia Who is your role model? Every experience in my life is my role model; I don’t role model myself or people. The experience itself is what I always regard as the main key to succeed. What are we most likely to notice in your closet? Yoga pants and furs. Being a local designer, perhaps the very first to launch a fur collection, how do you feel about connecting fur to Kuwait? I’m a Saudi who is born to a Kuwaiti mother, I believe the GCC girls are already in love with furs, but for many reasons, I think they are a bit scared or hesitated to be in this field. My goal is to show 30
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women and men that we can enjoy wearing fur in many different ways and that it should not be a scary idea. What is in for winter 2014? There will be a lot of collars and more practical designs for everyday use. Do you have this special passion for winter? What does it mean to you? Oh yes, I’m in love with winter and I enjoy it really well. I love fireplaces and a gathering next to it. I love hot drinks and chitchats that come along with it. I love food in winter, winter clothes and the warmth of being around people you love and care for. Perhaps, the only thing I don’t like about winter is the short days because I love sun and I can’t get enough of it during the day. What is the best way to wear fur? The best is what you think is the best – I don’t believe in rules! I wear mine with a training suite or a night outfit. The character is the important element here.
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THETalk STREET STYLES
Kuwait
street styles
Time and time again we bring you Street Style inspirations from across the globe. However, we cannot steer away from the fashionable crowd here in Kuwait. Whether it is how they dress to work, lunch, events or parties, whichever the occasion, these trendsetters always look stylishly chic!
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THETALK inspiration
the street styles
tutu skirts A new season and a new dose of inspiration! This time we choose the season’s trendiest picks and tell you where to get them from. From local to international, we bring you a collection of fashion styles and combinations. As with every season, do not miss out on the fun of experimenting a new trend! 34
THETALK / December / 2014
Find Them At
Tutu Skirt Dress by Muller - Moda Operandi
Abercrombie & Fitch Tutu
Notte by Marchesa at NET-APORTER.com ASOS TALL Mesh TuTu Skirt
ASOS TALL Mesh TuTu Skirt WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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THETALK inspiration
the street styles
fringe
A new season and a new dose of inspiration! This time we choose the season’s trendiest picks and tell you where to get them from. From local to international, we bring you a collection of fashion styles and combinations. As with every season, do not miss out on the fun of experimenting a new trend!
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THETALK / December / 2014
Find Them At
GIAMBATTISTA VALLI Skirt with Fringe
PHILIP LIM Fringed Bomber Jacket
Multi Three Belly Fringe Shoulder Bag by Nancy Gonzalez 1 - Modaoperandi.com
Proenza Schouler Black And White Nappa Leather And Glycine Fringe Clutch - Modaoperandi.com
Rodarte Black & Red Leather Fringe Motif Vest - Modaoperandi.com
Rodarte Black Leather Fringe Vest - Modaoperandi.com
Fringe Bucket Bag by MARNI WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Trend Alert Stella Jean at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight The Gate Mall
Lucas Jack at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight The Gate Mall
Twisty at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight Salhiya Complex
Marc By Marc Jacobs at The Avenues Mall
Tara Jarmon at Limelight Arraya Mall and Limelight Zahra Complex
Marc By Marc Jacobs at The Avenues Mall
Marc By Marc Jacobs
Bold Colors
& Patterns
Cote at Limelight The Avenues Mall
Color takes on new life this season. Don’t shy away from bold iridescent and metallic finishes. Motifs like polka dots, flowers, and graphic patterns dominated the runways. Layer up with feathered jackets and cocoon coats. Love Moschino at The Avenues Mall
Marc By Marc Jacobs at The Avenues Mall
Milly at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight Zahra Complex
vivetta
Marc By Marc Jacobs
Milly at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight Zahra Complex
Love Moschino at The Avenues Mall
Vivetta at Limelight Zahra Complex
Isola Marras at Limelight Salhia Complex and Limelight Zahra Complex United Nude at Limelight The Avenues Mall and Limelight The Gate Mall Deux Lux at Limelight The Avenues Mall
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Graphic
Expressions Moschino Cheap & Chic’s Fall 2014 collection continues the Italian label’s affinity for irreverent themes and motifs. While the silhouettes remain classic and minimal, the patterns and designs take a funky path. Many of the tops have graphically printed text blurbs, while mixed patterns show up on dresses and coats. The colors range from neutral to eye-catching neon. Moschino Cheap & Chic is available at Al Ostoura The Gate Mall and Al Ostoura The Avenues Mall.
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Trend Alert
Salvatore Ferragamo
Chloe Celine
Feminine
Chloe
Feline
This resourceful trend is still making fashion roar on runways such as Giorgio Armani, Celine, Chloe, Salvatore Ferragamo, Carolina Herrera, Dsquared2, and Givenchy. Dare to wear this fall season?
Giorgio Armani Givenchy
CH Carolina Herrera
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Fur Fur
Dsquared2
Fall
Lanvin
Reinterpreted at Hermès, Chloe, Emporio Armani, and Lanvin, this indispensable winter classic became extraordinary. Check out the versatile beauty only fur can bring to fashion! Chloe Tory Burch
Emporio Armani
Hermes
Lanvin
Dsquared2
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Trend Alert
Tory Burch Burberry Woven Cashmere Scarf Ink Blue
Tory Burch Michael Kors
Michael Kors
Hippie
Burberry
Chic
Tory Burch
Dsquared2 42
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Hermes
This winter the pursuit of boho glam has reached a fever pitch with a bevy of high-fashion options on display from the runways to street style this fall.
Tory burch Michael Kors
M Missoni
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+965 2530 9618
360 Mall, level 1
elietahari.coM
Trend Alert Mulberry Lily collection Mulberry
Shades of Grey Lanvin
Black has been our goto neutral for...basically forever. While black can be harsh on milky complexions, grey is almost universally flattering. From outerwear to suiting, dresses to separates; grey was present in all forms and tones on the runways. This season’s hottest neutral is subtly chic.
Michael Kors
Mulberry Wallet Gucci
Tory burch Mulberry Michael Kors
Dsquared2 Burberry
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Popular Poncho
An iconic piece of folk style, the poncho was a key garment on the Burberry, Tods and Salvatore Ferragamo runways. Hurry up and get one this winter season! Salvatore Ferragamo
Burberry Prorsum
TODS
Burberry Monogrammed Poncho
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Trend Alert
H&M
WINTER FASHION
Winter is always a wonderful season for fashion, a time to flaunt our love of layering, embrace darker tones & to show off our most stylish side with bold prints! At H&M we’ll have you covered from head-to-toe! H&M’s winter wear is composed of bright floral patterned dresses, modern kimono ensembles, beaded tops, cold shoulder sweaters & printed wide-leg trousers.
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The perfect gifts for the Holidays!
STORE LOCATIONS • The Mall - The Avenues • 2nd Avenue - The Avenues • Marina Mall • Al Fanar Mall • The Gate Mall • Souq Sharq Customer Service: 182-12-12
BathAndBodyWorksMiddleEast
@bbwmena
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@bbwmena
Trend Alert
HARVEY NICHOLS KUWAIT RECEIVES LATEST NIKE WOMEN’S COLOR BLOCK COLLECTION The globally limited collection defines a new aesthetic for Nike lifestyle womenswear. Harvey Nichols Kuwait recently launched an exclusive Nike Women’s Color Block Collection; an archive-inspired capsule collection wherein color blocking, performance and scale of both prints and silhouettes combine to infuse classic Nike styles with graphic impact. Since its Fall ‘13 debut, Nike Tech Fleece has become renowned for offering lightweight warmth that responds to natural motion. For the release of the Nike Women’s Color Block Collection, Nike’s modernized version of classic sport fleece appears in bold color blocks. Reflective details fragment the colors into irreverent patterns on the Nike Tech Fleece Cocoon Jacket, Tech Fleece Crew and Tech Fleece Pants. To complement the color blocking, the collection also introduces a wild stripe print mash-up remixed with the archive Nike Mezzo print. The unique pattern transforms the Signal Graphic Tee into a limited-edition piece, as each tee is cut differently from the fabric roll and overprinted with a dot pattern. The Signal Long-Sleeve Burn-Out Tee boasts the same treatment, while the Tech Woven Pant and Leg-A-See AOP Leggings present understated applica-
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tions of the composite. The Cascade Shorty OTW Jacket, with its subtle ombré fade adds another layer to the collection’s unexpected aesthetic. The exclusive pieces are available in two distinct color themes: Classic Sport Block, featuring black/gray and heather/white with a reflective gray Nike Futura logo; and High-End Subtle Block, featuring navy, burgundy, gray and heather with a reflective black Nike Futura logo. The Nike Women’s Color Block Collection is exclusive to Harvey Nichols in Kuwait located in their women’s contemporary department. Available in limited quantities.
Ranger - Style Only
Lexington - Style Only
Anna Coral - Nat Lining
New Yorker Blue Nubuck
HARVEY NICHOLS
KUWAIT LAUNCHES New Yorker Black Leather
THE LONG-AWAITED SJP BY SARAH JESSICA PARKER Harvey Nichols Kuwait receives with exclusivity the authentic SJP Footwear and Handbag Collection.
Carrie Nude
Beekman - Style Only
Doris Blk
The long-awaited SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker collection is now available in the Harvey Nichols Kuwait store, located in The Avenues Mall, for those trendsetters on the lookout for a new celebrity and influential brand. “We developed this collection to encourage women to take risks and break away from the fashion rules they imagine,” explains Sarah Jessica Parker. «The inspiration for the collection really was born from my love for the single sole, my vivid memories of New York City in the latter part of the ‹70›s and all the great shoe designers who were telling their shoe stories at that time. After a bit of an absence, I was excited about giving it a new heartbeat.” Using this statement, Sarah explains the inspiration to infuse the collection with personal details of her past, present and future fashion influences. “I’m particularly delighted with the shoes we’ve been able to design, the collections we’ve been able to curate thus far and how enthusiastically they have been received,” she says. From the names of shoes, such as ‘Carrie’ (from her infamous role in the TV show SATC) to the grosgrain ribbon detail found on each product representing her childhood, each style offers a story as personal to the wearer as it is to Sarah Jessica. The grosgrain ribbon is featured in a contrasting color to accentuate the shoe or handbag it is placed on, adding a subtle charm to each product. The exclusive shoe and bag collection can now be found at the accessories and footwear departments of Harvey Nichols Kuwait, with a promise to leave all the Sarah Jessica Parker fans nostalgic for her authentic character.
Lady Black
Waverly Large - Style Only
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Trend Alert
Shoe
love is true love
They say good shoes take you to good places; we agree and affirm that shoes give your appearance an entirely different twist. A pair of shoes that you will adore and not leave the shop without buying – how often does it happen? We share our favorite picks for the season’s hottest heels and flats from net-a-porter.com 50
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Giuseppe Zanotti
Giuseppe Zanotti
Christian Louboutin Valentino
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Trend Alert
Gianvito Rossi exclusive Charlotte Olympia
Gianvito Rossi exclusive
Giuseppe Zanotti
Charlotte Olympia
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Giuseppe Zanotti Nicholas Kirkwood
Giuseppe Zanotti
Nicholas Kirkwood Giuseppe Zanotti
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Trend Alert
BAG
Fever
You can never go wrong with the right purse. Whether you choose leather, embroidery, or fringe, the right purse will never cease to accessorize your whole outfit and give it an identity. This collection is an insight of the season’s most fabulous and chic pieces by net-a-porter.com to inspire your bag shopping. 54
THETALK / December / 2014
Alexander McQueen The Britannia Skull leather box clutch
Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster Conker embellished satin box clutch
Okapi Yemaja small leather shoulder bag
Dolce & Gabbana Dea embellished floral-brocade shoulder bag
Edie Parker Oscar glittered acrylic shoulder bag
M2Malletier Amor Fati python shoulder bag
Sophie Hulme Box leather tote
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Trend Alert CH Carolina Herrera
The Mini
Top-Handle Bag
You know that monster Mary Poppins-style tote that houses your laptop, tablet, gym gear and green juice? These itty-bitty top-handle totes are the exact opposite. AÂ charming alternative to the ubiquitous cross-body bag, the petite purse has popped up in the hands of many celebrities. It might not fit more than a phone and a credit card, but it is definitely a trend to try! Hanneli Mustaparta carrying a Valentino Gucci
Sarah Jessica Parker carrying Lady Dior
Dsquared2
Versace Dsquared2
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D.I.Y
Playthe
belt Game
Better than olivia Palermo! Accessorize your winter outfit with your tiny belts
Not only is Olivia Palermo a queen of style and fashion, but has also shown some magic with accessories. Her tied belts have recently been noticed.The queen of shoes, sunglasses and bags announced possession of “endless skinny belts”. Our latest obsession with Palermo’s belts game inspired this DIY – who said you can’t accessorize your winter outfits with skinny belts?
1
Wrap a belt around your waist and put it like you would normally.
2
Take the tail end, loop it across the belt buckle
3
4 7
Tuck it behind the belt.
Pull it down to the desired length.
5
Twist it and slide it under the belt upwards towards your chest.
6
Tuck it in the first knot forming a semibow tie.
You are all set!
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Trend Alert
Cruciani Crocodile Bag Emerald Green
Holiday Gift Guide
2014
Lanvin
Here we go – our holiday gift guide from Netaporter, the Outnet.com, Aigner, and Loewe! Here’s hoping our holiday gift guide will help you find the perfect present for the many, many people on your own list!
AIGNER Red Clutch
Charlotte Olympia_Ginger metallic patentleather clutch THE OUTNET.COM
Alaia at NET-APORTER.COM
IRIS & INK_Aria Suede Tee THE OUTNET.COM AIGNER GREEN BELT
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Marc by Marc Jacobs_ Sleeping Bunny velvet and faux shearling mule slippers THE OUTNET.COM
Jo Malone London Christmas Cracker
Paule Ka Marni at NET-A-PORTER. COM Lanvin Crystal-embellished satin clutch THE OUTNET.COM
CH Women 100ml + Body Lotion
Anya Hindmarch Twinkle glitterfinished clutch THE OUTNET.COM Paule Ka
Victoria Beckham at NETA-PORTER.COM
AIGNER FW2014 CARLOTTA BAG
Rene Caovilla at NET-APORTER.COM
Paule Ka
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Trend Alert
Valentino at NTET-APORTER Swarovski
Pandora
Holiday Dsquared2
Jewelry Gift Guide WHAT to buy for the people in your life? We’ve compiled the perfect hit list of present suggestions. Marvelous things for everyone you love and—oh yes!—you.
CH jewelry Swarovski
Pandora
Versace Fashion Jewellery Ring 60
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Swarovski Begin Ring
Swarovski Swarovski
Dolce and Gabbana at NET-A-PORTER.com
Dsquared2
Versace Fashion Jewellery Necklace
Dsquared2
CH jewelry WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Trend Alert
Bejeweled Accessorizing can be fun and can add a touch of luxury, color or sparkle to any outfit. Here are our picks from the dazzling collections that you can find on net-a-porter.com.
Ben-Amun Cluster crystal earring
Amun Statement silver plated necklace
Ben-Amun Silver elongated crystal earrings
Ben-Amun Paisley and tassle faux pearl silver earrings
Ben-Amun Chunky bracelet with crystals AurÇlie Bidermann APACHE hoop earrings Ben-Amun Silver plated brass teardrop earring
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Paula Mendoza Toledo gold beaded ring
AurÇlie Bidermann 18 karat yellow gold and sharktooth necklace
Ben-Amun Faux pearl necklace
Paula Mendoza Jarama Earrings Paula Mendoza Toledo gold choker necklace
AurÇlie Bidermann APACHE gold ring
Eddie Borgo Inlaid small cube bracelet AurÇlie Bidermann NAVAJO with navy thread earrings
Saint Laurent glitter phone case
AurÇlie Bidermann NAVAJO with navy thread earring
Lanvin porcelain doll Eddie Borgo Front back cone earring
Paula Mendoza Jarama Bubbles elongated ring WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Fashion feature
FONDATION
LOUIS VUITTON
INAUGURATED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC The President of the French Republic, François Hollande, received by Bernard Arnault, President of the LVMH group and of the Fondation Louis Vuitton, today inaugurated the Fondation Louis Vuitton (Monday 20 October 2014) in the presence of Fleur Pellerin, Minister of Culture and Communication, Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, and Frank Gehry, architect of the building. The President of the Republic visited this new venue, dedicated to contemporary art in Paris’ Bois de Boulogne, and met with artists whose works are part of the opening exhibition. After the inauguration ceremony, guests were invited to attend the illumination of the building, designed by Hervé Descottes, while opera singer Nathalie Dessay, accompanied by cellist Henri Demarquette, performed Sergei Rachmaninov’s Vocalise. Among the guests at the inauguration were designers of the LVMH group including JW
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Anderson, Nicolas Ghesquière, Karl Lagerfeld, Phoebe Philo, Raf Simons and Riccardo Tisci. Following the departure of the President of the Republic, a dinner by chef étoilé JeanLouis Nomicos, Director of the Foundation’s restaurant, Le Frank, was served to the guests in the Fondation’s Auditorium.
LOUIS VUITTON CELEBRATES MONOGRAM AT MoMA Michael Burke, Chairman & CEO, and Delphine Arnault,Vice-President of Louis Vuitton hosted a special dinner to celebrate the iconic Monogram with the presence of Bernard Arnault, President of the LVMH Group and of the Fondation Louis Vuitton. Guests included Monogram designers and iconoclasts - Frank Gehry, Karl Lagerfeld, Christian Louboutin, Marc Newson and Cindy Sherman who reinterpreted the timeless icon, creating a bag or piece of luggage with the renowned canvas.
The Iconoclasts and celebrities of the Celebrating Monogram dinner were also invited into the portrait studio of famed photographer Patrick Demarchelier for a live Instagram shoot during the event. A dedicated Celebrating Monogram portrait studio was built inside the walls of the museum to immortalize the participants of the night. The portraits were taken throughout the event and published directly to the official Louis Vuitton Instagram account.
The Celebrating Monogram event also included special guests: Nicole Kidman, Catherine Deneuve, Jennifer Connelly, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Sofia Coppola, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Anna Wintour, Miranda Kerr, Chloë Sevigny, Haley Bennet, Mia Goth, Karlie Kloss, Liya Kebede and Doona Bae, all wearing Louis Vuitton.
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A word with thetalk
Celebrity
makeup artist Bouba W
hen you think of the perfect makeup looks - celebrities, divas and movie stars may simply come to mind for a fact that they are glammed up by the best makeup artists. We, ladies, cannot think of today’s few makeup masters and not think of the name Bouba – one of the most remarkable Lebanese talents in the world of beauty and makeup. THETALK’s editor met not only Bouba the talent, but also the beautiful character and spirit in the following Q&A about the trend of the coming year and the best tips on how to glam up for a dinner or party this holiday season. It’s the holiday season; ladies travel and go out for dinners and parties. What’s trending for this season? My latest makeup trend is smokey eyes. Last summer, I was all into the supernatural and I feel that the smokey is back this year. Not that it has ever been out of trend, the trend is always there, but you know sometimes it dies away for some time and then makes a strong comeback. There are lots of ladies who hate going for the smokey eyes look, maybe because it’s being applied wrongly. Smokey eyes suite everyone, whether ladies who have small eyes, big eyes, old, mid-aged or young.
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“Every lady has her own beauty, let your beauty shine with your own makeup style” What about occasions? Does it require a special occasion? When we say smokey, it does not necessary mean black. Smokey is not limited within shades of black – it can be applied with all colors depending on the lady’s style. In my last makeup ad, it was all about smokey eyes and I called it “Black Velvet”. I tried to mix between shimmery and matt eye shadows, which is extremely hard because achieving a good result is not very likely when the two are mixed together. This ad got ladies who never liked smokey eyes get excited to give it a try. It was a success. What message a lady wearing smokey eye makeup delivers? Smokey eyes makeup always gives off the seductive dramatic eyes. It depends on what the lady wants to radiate with her look. When a lady doesn’t like smokey eyes, what does she alternatively go for? Some people might simply misunderstand some makeup trends. Here, I say a little background or education is essential. There are many options and it all depends on her style. A lady should not follow a trend that does not suit her. I usually try to explain to my clients what suits them best and how they can achieve the magical eyes. What are the dos and don’ts of smokey eyes? It is a whole concept that relates to the occasion and where you are heading. If you are going out in the morning, you can do smokey eyes with medium nude lips. If you are going to a big event, you might want to go darker. For me, it is all correlated – the dress, the hair and the occasion. I always stress on what my client is wearing with
her makeup, this is how I get my inspiration. What can you say about fake lashes along with smokey eyes? Girls are addicted to all kinds of lashes; individual lashes, lashes extensions and whole piece lashes which I do not like much because of the harm
that glue can cause to the natural eyelashes. But we cannot skip this step since many ladies love false lashes. It is nice to have some extra lashes if the natural eyelashes are not thick or long enough. Some people overdo it and this is wrong because lashes might appear so intense that you lose the beauty of the makeup itself, I apply lashes WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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A word with thetalk
to perfect my makeup not to ruin it by adding certain doses at a time until I get to the desired result. In terms of application, makeup first or lashes first? It is all about the final touch. When you cook, once you are done cooking, you add the magic touch of spices to perfect it. Similarly with makeup, being an art, a magical touch at the end makes all the difference. I apply lashes in the last stages of applying makeup because the lashes will then be dusted with the makeup and the brush will be disturbed in the process. Moreover, you cannot predict the outcome. What can you tell us about the dramatic change in features with makeup? Is makeup supposed to change what’s not beautiful or to beautify what’s already beautiful? In order to decide, I have to see the face live and not in a picture. We see a lot of pictures on social media that are edited with PhotoShop,
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which I don’t mind for the purpose of enhancing the picture not change the features. Contouring the face does not do miracles but can definitely highlight the features. However, I think it was a trend that began to fade now, considering that it did exist years ago. Makeup trends flash in and fade with time but they are always there. Do you use it? I do it yes. I, however, go the opposite direction of what’s common. Some start blending, contouring and then applying the foundation and powder. What I do is, I use foundation to reach the desired coverage and then highlight and contour the areas you want and blend everything together. In makeup application, is it about technique or product? You can do a lot with everything but it is nice to have a good product. A good product means a good visual. I used to promote big products through my social media accounts without even hesitating because I like the brand and the material. What happened this summer is that I was surprised by getting invited by Mac Cosmetics to represent the Middle East
in Milano. I was lucky to meet the talented Francesca Tolot one of the Hollywood’s most exotic makeup artists. Let’s talk about inspiration. What inspires you? Fashion and international fashion designers have a great effect on my work. When I travel and attend fashion shows, I pay close attention to the colors on the runways. I start creating new makeup styles. It is very important for me to keep myself up-to-date with what is going on there. The combination of colors inspires me to be more creative in colors. My goal is always to present something new with the classic makeup application – give it a twist and a magical touch. I avoid repetition, because I believe that every single person has their own style. I always try to add something new. For the season, what is the perfect recipe you can give to ladies? Focus on a good base. Start your makeup on a super clean skin. Always use moisturizers to keep
your skin fresh. Do not apply a lot of foundation – try as much as you can to match your natural skin with foundation in order to avoid difference in skin color especially in photos. Try to follow up with the trends not literally follow any makeup trend. Be yourself and get your own style and colors. At the end, what everyday makeup tips can you give me? I advise every lady not to apply too much foundation, go for tinted moisturizers; keep your skin always moisturized. If you have an oily skin, get an oil-free moisturizer. Get a medium coverage powder so that you can retouch it the entire day. You do not have to be fully covered in makeup the whole day – the morning lady has to impress her friends differently throughout the day. She should not appear in the same look on every occasion. Apply concealer in the morning, all around your eyelids, then use a black pencil on the endings of your outer eyelids, blend it using your fingertips. Fingers do magic in makeup – it is the
interaction between your own skin that makes the blending perfect. This is the beginning of starting your daily smokey eyes makeup. Then, apply brown on your upper lid. Inside your lower eyelid, try to apply black eyeliner and use a smooth brush to push it between your lower lashers and smudge it with brown eye shadow. Finish it with dark mascara. Go for
nude pinks and beiges for everyday lips. Towards the end of our meeting, I asked Bouba to write a message and dedicate it to the readers. He wrote: “Every lady has her own beauty. Let your beauty shine with your own makeup style. #Beyourself #BeUnique. Thank you Yasmine. Thank you THETALK!” – Bouba
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Feel Beautiful
Bobbi Brown
inspires ladies on how to glam up this
season
“I created Makeup Lessons to make it easy for any woman to look and feel her prettiest and most confident.” – Bobbi Brown Bobbi believes that beauty should be personal, simple and accessible, and that every woman can look and feel her best with knowledge and the right products. To this end, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics offers an extensive menu of personalized and complimentary – Makeup Lessons that are designed to empower women with the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to become their own makeup artists and skincare experts, in other words, develop their own independence when it comes to glam. Bobbie Brown invited me to get my Bobbie Brown’s Makeup Lesson by the regional makeup artist Diana Kututova, it seems pretty necessary to learn the ABC of makeup application for my everyday life. We first had a chat on how makeup styles and what my ultimate makeup is. I usually go for intense eye makeup and natural lips or nude lips. From that point, Diana began the makeup tutorial with some tips on skincare as she prepared my skin for the makeup application. I asked Diana about are Diana’s tips for on the perfect makeup application.
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it with water and cleansing it with the lathering tube soap and cleansing oil – the purpose is to clean the skin thoroughly before applying the makeup. Then, using Bobbi Brown’s hydrating face tonic, in addition to extra eye repair cream for the under eyes area, a vitamin enriched base on the whole face and a lip balm SPF/5. If a lady wears makeup every day, is it fine to wear makeup without applying foundation? As Bobbi says, a woman either has a naturally beautiful skin or needs a little bit of help with makeup. Using certain products, we can help make the skin look better, sometimes you don’t require heavy foundation – a bit of tinted moisturizer can be good. Bobbi Brown believes that every woman should carry the foundation stick in her handbag – you can apply it wherever you need to tone the redness and cover spot and you don’t need to apply it all over your face.
What can you tell me about Bobbi Brown’s Makeup Lessons? The purpose is to empower women to create their own makeup and be their own makeup artist. Sometimes, the woman doesn’t have enough time to do a full makeup, but we can teach her how to concentrate on certain areas.
What about eye creams? Eye cream is important because it primes the under eyes area to receive the concealer. It’s a part of the skincare process and it should be used in the morning and evening. Apply it on the upper lids too before you go to sleep, however, during the day, you should only apply under your eyes because you do not want your eye shadow to crease. Look for something that can solve your problems, be it dark circles, puffiness or fine lines.
In makeup application, what comes first? It is important to start with a fresh skin refreshing
How important is the concealer/ corrector? According to Bobbi, two of the most essential
THETALK / December / 2014
cosmetics are the corrector stick —which is used as a foundation – and the concealer, for the reason that the two make a big difference in terms of coverage of dark spots in addition outshining the overall makeup. Is it correct to combine more than one color into my foundation? Bobbi likes to use more than one of texture and layering if a woman’s skin is in need for this. So it is okay yes. Now that it is winter and the holidays season is in, o you think that red lipstick looks good on certain women and not on others? If yes, based on what? Some women they love red lipstick while other are not used to it, so when they first try it they
will definitely go like: “No! This is not for me!” but this can be only their first reaction. There are, however, women who concentrate more on their eye makeup and less on the lips, on the contrary, there are women who concentrate more on the lips and less on the eyes. The most important thing is to wear light eye make up whenever you go for a red lips look – perhaps enhancing the eyes with winged eyeliner and mascara are just about enough. Also, when choosing red lipstick, we have to look at the natural lip color and match the tone of red to the skin tone. For dark skin, the lipstick has to be more of an orange-red color. For pale skins, darker shades are the right choice. What’s the trend this season? Smokey is always in trend. Smokey eyes should always pair with nude lips. It’s always a favorite.
It’s always wise to maintain what suits features instead of trends – not everything is meant to suit everyone! Bobbi’s Makeup Lessons are customized to suit each woman’s individual lifestyle and skill set. Taught by an expertly trained Bobbi Brown Makeup Artist, each one-on-one lesson begins with a series of questions, followed by a step-bystep makeup application. Every Makeup Lesson concludes with a personalized Face Chart to help women confidently recreate their new look at home.
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Feel Beautiful
Easiest DIY Hair
Trendfor Winter 2014 The hair tuck, which is literally just what it sounds like—hair tucked into your clothing—has been seen on the runways and style stars for several months now. And just as we kiss summer goodbye in a few weeks, we’re thinking this might just be the simplest way to transition into fall. See all of the different ways to wear this look, below:
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Bath & Body Works Unveils a Vanilla like You’ve Never Experienced!
COQUE D’OR Guerlain Perfumed Shimmer Powder Body & Hair
For the first time since its creation, Guerlain has reproduced Coque d’Or’s original bottle and reinterpreted it in gold-lacquered glass. With a mere press of the bulb, the twirling, airy powder enfolds the hair, forearms, neck and décolleté in a delicate sparkling veil. This golden-toned halo is subtly scented with Coque d’Or’s legendary chypre notes, recomposed in an exclusive variation. This blend of rose, bergamot and patchouli notes will leave any skin tone velvety soft, illuminated, beautifully enhanced and utterly desirable.
MY BURBERRY Burberry today launches My Burberry,its new timelessfragrance for women.
Created by Burberry Chief Creative and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Bailey, My Burberry takes its name from theaffectionate way in which people refer to their Burberry trench coat. Marking the first time the longstanding Burberry models have appeared together in a campaign, Mario Testino has shot British iconsKate Moss and Cara Delevingne wearingtheir Burberry Heritage trench coats. Inspired by a London garden after the rain, the scent is the ultimate expression of the brand’s past, present and future. The glass bottle, based on the same design
Meet glamour this fall as Bath & Body Works lands their newest and most irresistible Signature Collection fragrance – Wild Madagascar Vanilla. At the heart of this fragrance masterpiece is an exclusive vanilla accord from the exotic island of Madagascar—the most expensive and desired vanilla in the world. To perfectly enhance its most unique qualities, it’s wrapped with ingredients that bring out its natural beauty. The result is, quite simply, sensual and unforgettable.
The Madagascar Vanilla Orchid blooms only for one day, making its fragrance discovery rare and extremely precious – it’s pure luxury in every drop. The luxe, carefully-curated ingredients combined with a rich and exotic package design makes for a truly one-of-a-kind fragrance. principles and craftsmanship as the Burberry trench coat, features a hand-tied ribbon knot made from English-woven gabardine honouring the trench coat fabric, and a horn-effect cap reminiscent of the buttons. “I Put A Spell On You” performed by British musician Jeff Beck featuring Joss Stone, is the soundtrack to the campaign.
Fragrance Notes: Top: African Pear, Sparkling Clementine, Ruby Apple Mid: Wild Jasmine, Sheer Gardenia, Heliotrope Petals, Golden Plumeria Dry: Madagascar Vanilla Accord, White Sandalwood, Creamy Musk WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Feel Beautiful
A Frosted Fantasy
Welcome to a world of icy enchantment. A winter wonderland, glistening in white. The scarlet temptation of Frosted Cherry & Clove, rich with winter spices. Enter our frosted fantasy. Limited Edition Available from November 2014 Christmas Collection The House of Jo Malone London Cologne Intense Collection Frosted Cherry & Clove Deluxe Candle Peony & Blush Suede Collection Cologne Collection Pomegranate Noir Collection Christmas Cracker Travel Candle Collection Christmas Ornamant
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Pine & Eucalyptus Collection Pine & Eucalyptus Luxury Candle 2.5kg Pine & Eucalyptus Home Candle 200g Pine & Eucalyptus Scent SurroundTM Diffuser 165ml Pine & Eucalyptus Room Spray 175ml Pine & Eucalyptus Scented Bauble
For stockist information www.jomalone-me.com For further press information or images, please contact: Sylvia Terry Sterry@ae.estee.com Follow us @JoMaloneLondon #FrostedFantasy About Jo Malone London Jo Malone London celebrates British style with unexpected fragrances and the elegant art of gift giving. Acquired by The EstĂŠe Lauder Companies, Inc. in 1999, today the brand is available in 34 countries worldwide and continues to inspire a loyal following.
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A word with thetalk
Jo Malone introduces Wood Sage & Sea Salt
Master Perfumer Christine Nagel Escape the everyday along the windswept shore with the waves breaking white, the air fresh with sea salt and spray alive with the mineral scent of the rugged cliffs, mingling with the woody earthiness of sage. Lively, spirited and totally joyful are words that describe the new joyful scent by Jo Malone. Christine Nagel talks inspiration and creativity in this exclusive interview by THETALK How did you feel when Jo Malone London asked you to create a fragrance inspired by the English Coast? When I received this brief I knew it was something unusual; another great challenge. I was given some photographs of the English coast and old postcards to look at with rugged cliffs and moody skies. It was sepia photography and the color was very emotive. When I looked at these pictures I instantly felt the sensation of sea spray, romantic but natural. I loved the concept straight away because it was so different. The brief was for a mineral scent rather than an aquatic, which is the normal approach to a fragrance inspired by the sea. The Jo Malone™ Studio took me to the English coast in March 2012, off season. It was a cold, foggy day and I could smell the sea spray and hear the sounds of the waves crashing against the cliffs. There were different herbs growing and pieces of driftwood, an interesting source of inspiration too. I could taste the sea salt, see the long grasses and driftwood on the beach; this was the start of the story for me. When you think of the English coast how do you feel emotionally? The English coast quiet, but with many different colors. Rich and very sophisticated. I picture
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gentle tonalities, grey-blues, nothing bright. Walking around, I experienced the sea air and spray and the mineral texture of sand. This was a fantastic source of inspiration leading me to the unexpected rather than working around sunshine and an aquatic note. So now you have the mood and this idea of the English coast, how do you decide which key ingredients? The salt element was a key departure. The salty taste sensation is very familiar to us all, but in a perfume it has to be more subtle. A salty aroma doesn’t usually work in perfumery, so I had to use a different ingredient to achieve it. I enjoyed mixing the salty element with the mineral one; this was the challenge. The mineral aspect is another texture that’s unexpected and unusual. The other important element was the sage. This is also rare in perfumery and here it makes up part of the woody element of the fragrance. It’s normally found in aromatic fragrances but sage in a woody fragrance creates interest and adds sensuality. And for the rest of the fragrance? In general in top notes citrus notes are most often used to add freshness to a fragrance. For this one however, I used rare ambrette seed, from a plant in the hibiscus family. This is a very expensive raw material that gives texture while still being fresh. It is enveloping and cocooning. A touch of buchu leaves adds another unexpected twist.Very simple, very chic. I also added a trace of dried fruit accord in the heart of the fragrance to compliment the sea salt and mineral accords. Plum gives a sensation of comfort and softens the fragrance. Dried fruit is important for the blend too; it is textural. The base notes contain the sage, as well as guaiacwood which is textured and sensual. On my travels I saw a lot of driftwood on the beaches; when you smell the wood, it is extremely sophisticated. The complex combination of the wood and the sea is at the core. There is a trace of musk as well, a signature for me, which adds volume. Why sage and salt? Why do you think it’s such a great combination? I think it’s new and different. It is interesting
because the scent works for both men and women. It has masculine attributes but also has a very soft and feminine side. These two characteristics are apparent in the sage too. I love the ambiguity. Have you worked with sea salt before? No, it was new for me and it’s rare in perfumery. I am always discovering new ingredients. Wood Sage & Sea Salt is incredible; it is very poetic, romantic and different. What does the salt bring to the fragrance? The salty part gives the fragrance an unusual and special character. It’s very different. When you smell it, you are curious. It provides purity and clarity as well as more texture and freshness. It isn’t easy to explain but I love when the raw materials are different, creating opposite sensations, but blend well together. Ambrette seed and salt go very well together. It is comparable to tequila in this sense as tequila and salt work together. It is elegant and special, yet comfortable and different. The brief was for a mineral fragrance rather than aquatic, how did you work this? There are a lot of ingredients available to create an aquatic accord, but not as many for a mineral accord. I had to research to obtain this texture. The positioning of Jo Malone London is very British, with a curiosity. There is a special note and a lot of unexpected textures, new ideas and sensations. These things are very important. I love the challenge that each project with Jo Malone London brings.
In this case, it was impossible to work around a simple aquatic note. Was there one point on the journey that was the hardest or most challenging? I had to do a lot of research when I started. The idea of the English coast was so new and after visiting it I had so many ideas. I then created 20 different accords; more options than I usually give. We then fell in love with one of them and continued refining it. I wanted to translate a special moment with the colors and odor, something fresh. The result is Wood Sage & Sea Salt. Who would wear this fragrance? A person who wants authenticity and sophistication.Natural, fresh sophistication. A freespirited liberty, freedom and joy. Is there reason that there no floral notes in the fragrance? This was a conscious choice. It is possible to create a fragrance with feminine appeal without a flower but it can take time, it’s like making a pudding without sugar. On my travels to the coast, I did not see a flower. I did not feel therefore, that it was necessary to include a floral note. What is your favourite fragrance combination for Wood Sage & Sea Salt? I have tried this with lots of different fragrances but my favourite is with Peony & Blush Suede. The touch of the floral element and texture of the suede makes it a great combination. It also works well with Lime Basil & Mandarin. I started combining with this, merging the freshness of the lime with the ambrette seeds and the basil with the sage, which was also a very good blend.
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Remember HER Face
Gigi Hadid To be young and beautiful is a
blessing indeed, but to add fame to those two is a win! Despite her pretty short career so far, Gigi Hadid, an American fashion model and a TV personality, seems to be a rising star as the supermodel has recently been striking magazines’ covers and runways. Jelena Noura Hadid commonly known as Gigi, is an American fashion model and TV personality who was named one of 12 rookies in Sports illustrated annual issue in 2014. She has also made several appearances on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Born to a Palestinian father, Gigi has appeared in magazines such as VMAN, Elle, Grazia, Cleo, Vogue, Galore, Sports Illustrated, Paper magazine and Schön! Magazine. In 2012, she was the face of Guess. She was on the cover of Galore magazine and Carine Roitfeld’s CR Fashion Book in 2014. She was also on the cover of Schön! Magazine in March 2014.
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Gigi began her modeling career when she was just 2 years old after being discovered by Paul Marciano, of Guess, she started with Baby Guess, after which she stopped so she could concentrate in school. However, she eventually got back and continued working with them, she was the face of the Guess campaign in 2012 and according to her recent interview, Hadid has done 3 campaigns with Guess as an adult. Hadid has appeared in music videos, playing Australian singer Cody Simpson›s love interest in the video for his song “Surfboard” which was released on April 14, 2014. She has also appeared on another music video, playing the love interest of American grammy-winner singer Miguel’s song “Simplethings” that was released in May, 2014. On July 15, 2014, the blonde model starred alongside actor and model, Patrick Schwarzenegger in fashion designer Tom Ford’s new Eyewear Autumn/Winter campaign. Recently, Gigi Hadid was photographed in the latest issue of Harper’s Bazaar, modeling the season’s trendiest haute couture and jewelry! THETALK believes GIGI will become the next Cindy Crawford.
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A word with thetalk
Brand
Strategist Mohammad Al-Robaian L
ittle do we know about how brands are created, who decides what their long-term plans for the development of a successful brand is and how they connect to consumer needs, emotions, and competitive environments? A collector of culture and a world traveler, who has lived in multiple countries across the world yet, is “made in Kuwait” as he describes himself in his biography. A young brand strategist who thrives on changing perceptions and turning a “no” into a “yes” seems to comprise an incredible deal of determination and most notably passion for what he does. Even more impressively, his great expectations for a future that is foreseen to be even more flourishing than the present. THETALK met Mohammad AlRobaian and took pleasure in knowing what it’s all about.
What does brand strategy basically involve? Brand strategy is the bridge between understanding a brand and guiding a brand to where it needs to be, how it should relate 82
THETALK / December / 2014
“Brilliance is free, never put your mind on a budget” to consumers and the way it can survive and thrive amongst the ever evolving brands in the market. Brand strategy, involves the story behind the brand, the essence around its existence, its language and attitude and the complete roadmap of how it should perform in the market. Think of it this way, brands are like ambitious humans, and good strategies are like eager plans, combine ambitious humans with eager plans you have a promising brand strategy. What background do you need to become a brand strategist? This may seem too obvious, but I would say loose imagination, curiosity and common sense are the most essential traits one needs to become a brand strategist. Regardless to the master’s degree I have obtained in brand strategy from the VCU Brand enter and the experience I had gained from working in marketing agencies in Los Angeles and New York City, I feel that loose imagination and curiosity were the fuel behind every successful strategy process. Common sense is what makes you turn obvious thoughts into awesome masterpieces. How do companies measure a brand’s performance? It is not quite easy to accurately track a brand’s performance, simply because brands are not things you can touch, see or move around. While many refer to Nike, Apple and Coca-Cola as brands, they are actually not. These are “brand names” and it all stops there. What you feel, think, and perceive, along with the name of the brand of course, this is what makes the brand a brand. The name you use to identify the brand is merely a name. Hence, if brand names are not brands and actual brands are metaphysical manifestations of thoughts and
emotions, then brands belong and exist in people’s minds. The only way you can track people’s minds is when they actually tell you what’s on their mind. So when measuring brand performances, you are tracking how well people tell tales about the brand. How often do they share the brand, adopt its brand logo/name/slogan and how relevant it is to them. In this digital world, social media has made it easier to measure how successful brands have become because many people/consumers have taken social media platforms as liberating tools to express their minds. When brands are positively mentioned and when profit generates through sharing content such as: word of mouth, in a form of “post/tweet/mention “brands can indicate how well or not so well they are doing, depending on consumers’ opinions that no longer reside in their mind. What was the most creative project you have done? A project I worked on with Goggle. In such a moment, you start to think billions not millions, continents not countries and your benchmark of awesome is meant to appeal to the universe. It was robust, but pretty cool! Can you name highlights of your career? I had the privilege of getting my masters degree from the VCU Brandcenter which is ranked the #1 graduate program in advertising/branding worldwide, accepting only 20 students per track each year. Moreover, I was part of the strategy team to work and pitch a campaign for Google in 2013. I have also worked as an Associate Strategic planner at Lowe Campbell Ewald in Los Angeles, conducting competitive analysis as well as strategy development for Ghirardelli, PIMCO and Chicken of the Sea – it was an excellent opportunity for me
to implement the many skills I acquired through my years of study and work experience. I interned at Tribal DDB Worldwide- New York City in the Strategy Department, conducting quantitative and qualitative research as well as developing and executing business and creative strategy for Citibank/Citibike and ExxonMobil. You are a travel enthusiast, how does that influence you and your career? When I travel, I make sure it’s not all about tourism. I visit the country and its “culture”. So, I end up bringing back interesting perspectives and pack them as souvenirs from everywhere I go. As a brand strategist, what are your job’s biggest joys? When I change people’s perspective on how they view things, and inspire them to imagine a brand graphically by the grammar I use. There is nothing I love more than converting a nasty “No” into a yelling” Yes” after a client meeting. This is my apogee of joy, I must say! Any challenges? Convincing the GCC society that branding is an investment, it is a plan “A” in the business industry not “Z”. What is your work motto? “Brilliance is free, neverput your mind on a budget” – Mohammad Al Robaian. Where do you see yourself in five years time? Nowhere near have myself today – at least 5 times better.
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A word with thetalk
British Actress
and Film Director Carmen Chaplin
F
ollowing the successful collaboration with the Shanghai and Venice Film Festivals, JaegerLeCoultre further supports the creative ingenuity of filmmakers with its four-year partnership with the 8th Abu Dhabi Film Festival. To celebrate fouryear partnership, Jaeger-LeCoultre was honored to welcome Carmen Chaplin, Friend of the Brand, as guest of honour during the Abu Dhabi Film Festival. Belonging to a long lineage of artists, Carmen Chaplin, Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter, followed her grandfather’s path and also became an actress, director and writer. THETALK had a short encounter with the actress about her grandfather, her collaboration with Jaeger-LeCoultre and her passion for timepieces. How does it feel like to be Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter? It’s nice, People ask me, not in my everyday life, but when I come to film festivals obviously my grandfather is very big in the film industry. Have you ever met him? What do you know about him that you believe many people don’t? What I know about him that is intimate is from my father because he obviously knew him better as I was tiny when he died so I didn’t know him. He was old when I saw him and I was small. I didn’t have conversations with him or a long experience with him but when I asked my father about him, he told me many stories and things that I suppose are very intimate between a son and his father that maybe are not known but, I think he was a complex man from the stories that I hear.You 84
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know, he had such extremes, growing up in poverty and then becoming very wealthy, so successful and famous and being such a prolific and creative and loving his work. And I think as a father, he was a complex and a fascinating person. Do you have a passion for timepieces? Yes, for specific pieces. I love Jaeger LeCoultre
watches because they are very beautiful and they symbolize artistry. For me, it’s more specific. For example, I love this watch I’m wearing because I plan to give it to my daughter; I love to have a story attached to a piece of jewelry. Similarly with something for a piece of jewelry that was given to me by my mother, which makes it much more valuable.
“I love to have a story attached to a piece of jewelry” Why did you choose a Jaeger-LeCoultre watch to play a role in your “Tryst in Paname” movie? I guess there were several brands and I thought it was a very beautiful that fitted my story really well. The film is set in a kind of a timeless moment and the watch was very classic in that timeless way – it was a modern watch but it could also fit there. What impresses you about JaegerLeCoultre’s timepieces? Going to its factory; I have never been to any watches factory before. What I found was amazing was that it takes so many people to make a single watch and so, all those people have a specific knowledge and such an amazing craft in what they do; the creative side and the artistic side. I found that very special. What does “time” mean to you? Time is scary in a way, but the more you live in the present moment the easier it is because you are just focusing on life now. I learnt that this makes me much happier.You achieve happiness when you are not living in the past nor projecting the future. Among the roles you played in films, which one resembled Carmen Chaplin most? Maybe, the role I played with my mother and my daughter because it was very personal.You know when you play a part in a film and you take on a dialogue that is not yours and a character that is not yours but you always have to master it. I feel that every time I play a role, there is a part of me, otherwise, it is not interesting. In this particular film, I felt very much myself because of how I felt at that time being a mother, having a mother and being in that circle of life of becoming a grandmother later. You said you grew up loving the movies and the actresses from the 20’s, 30’s and
40’s, why is that? My parents loved those films; I watched a lot of them and found them kind of like fairytales – the Hollywood grammar and those very strong women with strong female roles. As a child, I just found it fascinating and I still watch old films until now. How do you describe your collaboration with Jaeger –LeCoultre in their celebration of their 181st anniversary? What I love about the brand is that they are
very involved in the cinema and that they are partners with a lot of prestigious film festivals and in each festival, not only do they do red carpets with celebrities wearing their watches, but they also really promote directors and give awards to directors and young talents and it’s a real implication that their input is beyond the red carpet and I find that very nice because cinema is a very difficult industry – they have a very strong bond with cinema which I find to be very beautiful.
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A word with thetalk
The Time Traveler
Jean-Marc Shammas, Piaget’s Brand Director Middle East and India J
ean-Marc Shammas is many things: Piaget’s Brand Director in the Middle East and India, a polyglot, a peripatetic, an uber-devotee to the luxury industry, and a strong proponent to the word diligent. Currently in Kuwait to celebrate the reopening of the Piaget boutique in Salhiya complex, the compelling Lebanese-born director discusses Piaget’s new collections and future plans with Injy Refaie.
How did you get into the luxury industry? I joined the luxury industry 10 years ago. I was always fascinated by the sense of the detail that comes along with this industry. I used to work in trading which was completely different. When you come from a different field, you always come with a different eye and a different perspective on things. Why did you decide on joining Piaget in particular? At the time I was in Europe and I saw this opportunity in Dubai and it just worked out. To me, it is a real luxury brand from all aspects – exclusivity of the brand, its networks, and its consistency. I felt it was the right place to be. What makes Piaget stand out in the competitive watch industry? Interesting question! It is very competitive! It is important to maintain the brand’s status within the market; Piaget has always done that. This brand has been introduced in the market in the late 60s with exclusivity, perfection, and a unique sense of detail. What also makes us stand out is that we have managed to keep our brand’s values intact; nothing has been lost over the years. I think that from the customer’s perspective, Piaget is one brand that hasn’t lost its identity over the years because 86
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“Kuwaitis are refined people who love novelties and Piaget falls in line with that.” everything we do is in-house and meticulously handmade. Hence, our production is limited. Piaget is very successful in the market; what were the challenges that you faced as a brand director? Challenges would be definitely having the right partners to work with, in the region – all the GCC countries and spreads through to India and Pakistan. It is basically the need to have the right partners to share with us the values of the brand and how to handle it. Thankfully, Piaget is doing a great job with this; when you look at our distribution, it has been ongoing for years. In Kuwait, for instance, we have been working with the Behbehani group for a very long time. Piaget is one of the earliest brands that Morad Yousef acquired and they understand the values and strategy of the brand perfectly. How important is the Kuwaiti market to Piaget? Kuwait is a very important market in the region; Kuwaiti people lead luxurious lives – old and upcoming generations. Kuwaiti women are very elegant and they love wearing haute couture. The Kuwaiti culture is passionate about luxury. Piaget costumers always ask about the newest collections and what the latest trend is and that really helps us a lot. They are very refined people who love novelties and Piaget falls in line with that. The latest women’s collection; which is the most successful in the market in the region? We come up with novelties regularly, but the most successful would be the Gala watch. It was launched last year. Today it’s successful because we managed to come up with a more classic approach that’s very different from other watches. It is a versatile round watch – one that you can wear during daytime and night time. It is part of the limelight collection and comes with different sizes depending on the wrist size.
In your opinion, which watch of the men’s collection is the most popular? We are recognized today for our Ultathin watches – our signature watches. I would have to say the collection of the Altiplano. The latest collection that we’re about to launch is the Altiplano 900p. It hasn’t launched yet and people are already asking for it! This is the thinnest mechanical watch in the market, so we broke another record – our first being the automatic watch two years ago. This watch is only 3.65 mm including the case and movement. The reason why we broke the record with this watch is because we wanted to put the movement of the watch on the base in order to gain space and we covered it with glass. We’re very proud of that! As for what’s next, Shammas says he has a couple of projects on the boil for Piaget. “First of all, we are planning to expand the size of our manufacture in
Geneva, so that we can increase our capacity of production,” he tells me. “We are also working on new collections for the future. If we want to break more records, we need to be one step ahead.”
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Got the Time?
MEANTIME
IT’S His & Her TIME...
Rado DiaMaster
Shine through with the Rado DiaMaster Diamonds and high-tech ceramic guaranteed to make heads turn The Rado DiaMaster collection, known for its pared-down beauty, has made an exception this festive season. Whether dressing up in diamonds or putting its mechanical heart on display, these two Rado DiaMaster models are ready to celebrate, and are guaranteed to make heads turn. Hers… A sleek polished white high-tech ceramic case houses a luminous mother of pearl dial. At its centre are 36 gleaming diamonds set in a tantalizing circle. Light, scratch- resistant and hypnotisingly splendid, it is the perfect timepiece to go from a business meeting to the office party or from running errands to celebrating with family. Ultra-feminine, the minimalistic design of the case lets the dial stand out in all its glory. Incorporating everything that is festive, gentle and glamorous, it makes for a perfect gift this season. …and his An incomparable metallic shine is just the beginning of the story for this piece of the Rado 88
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DiaMaster Skeleton collection. The ceramic components that make up this eye- catching timepiece begin their lives white. Placed in a plasma oven where gases activate at 20,000ºC and the ceramics reach a temperature of 900ºC, their colour changes and a unique warm grey metallic shine emerges. The colour may only be altered on the surface, but it will not fade over time, retaining its high-tech glow. A distinctively eye-catching skeleton dial adds depth to this masculine mechanical model. Beneath the cut-out dial lies the beating heart of its automatic movement. Limited to 499 individually numbered pieces, it is sure to be on everyone’s wish list. A 5-link high-tech ceramic bracelet completes these two models. Its design makes it perfectly adaptable to any wrist size, for ultimate wearer comfort. This complex construction of 100 components per bracelet takes up to an hour to assemble, and is a distinguishing feature of the Rado DiaMaster collection.
Eberhard & Co. Luxury Swiss Maison unveils stunning collection
Eberhard & Co., renowned Swiss master creators of technically complex timepieces, recently unveiled a stunning collection of novelty pieces for the benefit of fine watch lovers in the region. The Novelties Collection includes creative reworking of some of the Manufacture’s renowned classics including the new Contograf, a re-edition of the 1960s classic creation of the same name, which was an emblem of its era thanks to its innovative features. Most of these original features have been maintained in the new 2014 edition, but there is no shortage of innovative details: the new ceramic bezel with unidirectional rotation serves as a frame for the tachymeter scale inspired by automotive design. The case back is screwed-in like in the original version and contains the inscription“Tribute to Contograf 1960s”. The date window at 6 o’clock has kept its particular trapezoidal shape. The innovations include the new metallic bracelet Chassis and an original black leather strap with a “red arrow” embroidered detail. The deployment buckle Déclic (Patented) is available as an accessory. The 8147 calibre (base ETA 7750 13¼) guarantees the reliability and precision that have made Eberhard
& Co. one of the points of reference for mechanical chronographs. Eberhard & Co. is offering the svelte Traversetolo watch in two new versions: - a version with a white dial and a white second’s counter highlighted by “azurée” finish and a black profile. The profile of the minutes hand is also black and has an “azurée” finish. The hour markers stand out as they are rhodium plated, rounded and inlaid with black superluminova, while the upper part has a diamond-shaped radius. A second version is black, with a black seconds counter highlighted by “azurée” finish and a white profile. The profile of the minutes counter is also white. Gilda, the timepiece that exudes feminine charm and provides the complete expression of the watchmaker’s refined and elegant world is presented in a new floral version. Gilda Floral has soft, harmonious lines enveloping a white mother of pearl dial with a delicate floral motif, finished with beautiful sapphires. In this new version the bezel, covered with 66 enchanting blue sapphires, frames the dial with a total of 112 precious stones and an elliptical case in white gold. The result is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and style. WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Got the Time?
Rendez-Vous Perpetual Calendar from Jaeger-LeCoultre Bringing eternity within reach, the RendezVous Perpetual Calendar displays infinite time. Powered by an automatic movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 868, visible through the sapphire crystal case-back, it reveals the complexity on its dial with impressive natural grace. The pure design combines classical elements with the aesthetic inspiration of the Grande Maison, all within a 37.5 mm diameter and while ensuring optimal readability. Swept over by the hour, minute and central seconds hands, three counters are dedicated to displaying the perpetual calendar indications: the day of the week at 9 o’clock, the date at 3 o’clock and the month at 6 o’clock.
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The number of the year in progress appears through a window at 7 o’clock, while the 12 o’clock moon-phase subdial crowning the perpetual calendar lends a delightful sense of visual balance. Delicately grained and guillochéworked with a sunburst motif, the silver-toned dial is lit up by a bezel set with brilliant-cut diamonds. In keeping with the aesthetic of the collection, the pink gold case side is also rimmed with diamonds extending all the way to the lugs, a detail that gracefully accentuates the profile of the watch. A crown set with an inverted diamond enables simple and smooth handling of all the temporal indications: a single adjustment moves the perpetual calendar one day forwards, while the rest of the information relating to the
Gregorian calendar is automatically adjusted. The mechanism naturally takes account of the unequal length of the months and requires no manual adjustment until March 1st 2100. The perpetual calendar is useful year-round and represents a truly functional complication that meets the practical needs of daily living. For women, who generally love to keep control of time on a day-to-day basis, the Rendez-Vous Perpetual Calendar offers a chance to make it truly their own. In this respect, the perpetual calendar may well be considered as the quintessential feminine complication.
Tissot T02 The property of a lady The Tissot T02 timepieces take their name from the very popular collection of 1999, the Tissot T-Collection. It was the first to be created by a woman for women and to introduce the famous “T” identity into the design. The original model is echoed in the shape of today’s Tissot T02. The time is perfectly integrated into the bracelet, on which you will discover the “Ts” joining up to form the links. This modern take is a piece of jewellery to be worn on any occasion. It is so simple but so efficient at the same time that it took Tissot to think about it.
Rich in detail The many details of the watch provide the Tissot T02 with an incredible richness. All the models of the collection have a mother-of-pearl square at the heart of the dial, giving it that silky deep look surrounded by a zone with a brushed finish under the beautiful indices or diamonds depending on the model. The playfulness between polished and brushed finish facets are also found on the case and bracelets of certain timepieces. It provides subtle elegance to the piece.
Features • Swiss made • Quartz movement • Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal • 316L stainless steel case • Water resistance up to a pressure of 5 bar (50 m / 165 ft) • 316L stainless steel, leather or satin bracelet • Bicolour execution is PVD coating • One model with 56 Top Wesselton Diamonds
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Got the Time?
BUCKLE CHRISTMAS EDITION, AN EXCLUSIVE GIFT IDEA FOR A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS
Technical information:
Ferragamo Buckle Christmas Edition Salvatore Ferragamo’s special line for next Christmas. The new Christmas Edition sports a sparkling look which is epitomized by its two-colour strap. The 37 mm diameter case with its particular cloche shape and gold IP treatment is complemented by a dial in Ferragamo Red, or alternatively in fuchsia or champagne, embellished with the guilloché design and diamond-studded indexes on the rehaut. The Swiss Made quartz movement has a crown 92
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at 12 o’clock. Asymmetrical lugs support the vegetable-tanned calfskin strap, which is available in three two-colour versions: red with violet detailing, beige with red crocoprint detailing, and fuchsia with orange detailing and contrasting colour stitching. This exclusive line for next Christmas will be on sale from October 2014 in Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques, from authorised retailers or online at www. ferragamotimepieces.com.
Case: IP gold - Ø 37 mm “special edition” engraving on the case back Water resistance: 30 mt / 3 ATM Movement: quartz (RONDA 762) - Swiss Made Dial: guilloché, fuchsia, red or champagne diamonds on indexes Strap: vegetable-tanned calfskin strap in fuchsia, red or beige – deployant buckle
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Trend Alert
Lanvin Burberry Prorsum
Hackett
Coated
This fall season’s menswear is less structured, with sharp shoulders. As seen on many runways, the bigger and the more neutral in color, the better. This trend is sleek, simple, and will last for many seasons to come! Hackett
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Dsquared2
CH Carolina Herrera
Tailored
Men’s trends come and go, but there is one trend that never goes out of style and that is, of course, tailoring! Tailoring is huge this fall season for men. From chic tweed and wool ensembles to touches of fur and leather, luxurious fabrications are in the spotlight as well. Hackett Lanvin
CH Carolina Herrera
Hackett
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Trend Alert Burberry Cylinder Cufflinks Gold
Burberry
Holiday Gift Guide
CH 212 VIP Men tripack coffret 100ml + SG + Deo
2014
It is a universal fact that men are the hardest to buy gifts for - whether it is your father, husband, son, fiancé, or brother! Here is THETALK’s gift guide to what we recommend you invest in this Christmas. A little inspiration never hurts!
Dsquared2
Swarovski Piazza Grande Watch
Valentino UOMO 100ml & Shower Gel
Dsquared2 J.P Tod’s Sartorial
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Dsquared2
Paule Ka
Burberry
Burberry
Paule Ka
Burberry
Swarovski Braze Bracelet Silver
Burberry Wallet
Paule Ka
CH Men 100ml + After Shave
J.P Tod’s Sartorial
Dsquared2
Burberry WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Grooming
break free
As winter season has arrived, nothing looks better on a man than that thick coat or leather jacket. No matter how well dressed a man is, it is a shame when we see those white flakes on his shoulders. If you suffer from this don’t worry, everything is fixable. Here are dandruff solutions for men:
5
1. Use a men’s dandruff shampoo with salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is effective in breaking up cell build-up on the scalp, so that it washes away easily.You need an anti dandruff shampoo for men that contains salicylic acid along with other skin-soothing ingredients like vitamin E to help reduce irritation and renew skin. 2. Avoid using men’s hair products excessively. More is not better when it comes to men’s hair care. Using too much of a men’s hair styling gel or a men’s hair pomade can irritate skin and contribute to dandruff, especially if the hair product contains alcohol. Use hair products only as directed for maximum results. 3. Wash your hair regularly. Washing your hair should be a daily habit if it isn’t already. Daily washing can keep build-up to a minimum, reducing the odds of dandruff flakes making their appearance. This healthy hair habit also helps 98
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restore the lustre of your hair and improves its overall health. 4. Consume more good fats. Some research suggests that dandruff may be caused by an omega-3 fatty acids deficiency. Good sources of omega-3 include fatty fish like salmon and tuna. If you’re not a fish fan or are looking for a more convenient source, consider an omega-3 supplement for men like Omega-3 Supplement Formula, which contains pharmaceutical-grade omega 3 fatty acids molecularly distilled from fish oil and marine lipids. 5. Chill out. It’s common knowledge that stress contributes to a number of men’s health issues. Well, you can add scalp flakes to the list. Too much stress has been linked to dandruff flakes, so it’s important to keep it under control. Whatever the source of your stress – family, work, or otherwise – there are actions you can take to combat it,
such as taking a vacation, doing some yoga or just hitting the sack earlier. Here you go! Follow these simple steps and enjoy this season’s wardrobe with flakes free looks and more confidence!
CELEBRATE YOUR MOVEMBER SUCCESS WITH NIVEA MEN NIVEA MEN, the global leader in men skin care, gives you the secret tools to celebrate your movember success with the NIVEA MEN Originals skin care range guaranteeing the best shave to look good and feel great. The range, which was voted product of the year for the Gulf in male skin care category, offers a wide range of caring products covering all male grooming needs. Movember is all about the engagement and commitment of men during the month of November to raise awareness of men‘s health
issues, such as prostate cancer and other male cancers and that’s why NIVEA MEN is helping you put your best self forward and end the month with the perfect grooming experience. The preparation for your skin right before each shave is crucial to avoid irritation. When you shave, the blade passes down the surface of the skin, the outermost layer of the skin is removed along with the hair. By removing this protective barrier, skin becomes dehydrated and the blade can also cause invisible microcuts, which can lead to irritations.
Kiehl’s
Products Designed Specifically for Men
Spoil Yourself with Kiehl’s range of Men’s Products
Kiehl’s carries an extensive range of men’s products designed especially with male grooming needs in mind. Kiehl’s unique formulations are made with the finest and safest naturally-derived ingredients to assure the high quality of skin and hair care that men have come to expect. Kiehl’s mixes just the right ingredients to make sure you benefit from all the nutrients you need to look effortlessly radiant and healthy throughout the year.
Davidoof
Leather blend Fuelled by an unquenchable curiosity, Zino Davidoff kept exploring the world, searching for worthy materials and skilful workmanship. His passion for discovery and dedication to excellence soon equated the Davidoff brand with uncompromising quality and unrivalled elegance. The new Davidoff Blend Collection is a tribute to this philosophy. Composed of carefully selected exclusive ingredients and packaged with style, it offers a unique experience, an olfactory and sensory journey into Zino Davidoff’s universe. Each fragrance of the Davidoff Blend Collection will be conceived around a carefully chosen note, illustrating a facet of Davidoff’s sophisticated world. The first opus celebrates leather. A noble and sought-after ingredient, this valued material pays a vibrant homage to Zino Davidoff’s love of luxury and fine craftsmanship. Davidoff Leather Blend was designed by master perfumer Christophe Reynaud. This spicy oriental fragrance is based on a rich alchemy of complementary scents. At the heart of Davidoff Leather Blend, resounds a sensual chord of rose and amber. The rose narguile note gives the fragrance a sense of warmth and voluptuousness while amber adds a seductive oriental overtone. These lush heart notes are facetted in the top with a piquant combination of luminous saffron and stimulating pepper. The strong and virile base note of leather gives its name to the fragrance. Warm, musky and highly desirable, it brings an unashamedly masculine dimension.
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2015
MODELS
NOW AVAILABLE
WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Thetalk Motors
Formula E Makes History With Spectacular
First ePrix History was made as the world’s first ever fully-electric single-seater race took place in Beijing, marking the successful season opener of the FIA Formula E Championship.
The race - Beijing Evergrande Spring ePrix - was held on a spectacular temporary race track built around the city’s iconic Olympic ‘Bird’s Nest’ Stadium and was won by Audi Sport ABT’s Lucas di Grassi.
Nicolas Prost (e.dams-Renault) and Venturi’s Nick Heidfeld touched on the final corner of the final lap in the battle for the lead, sending Heidfeld into a spectacular crash which he walked away from unharmed.
Some 40 million are believed to have watched the race worldwide on television with 75,000 attending on site and one billion social interactions recorded around the race.
Andretti driver Franck Montagny finished runnerup nearly three seconds adrift of di Grassi with team-mate Daniel Abt crossing the line third, only to later have it taken away from him after failing short of the required 28kWh power consumption usage.Virgin Racing’s Sam Bird was eventually
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promoted to claim the final place on the podium. Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E said: “Two years ago the FIA had a vision of creating a championship which has close racing, entertainment and sustainability at its heart. This weekend, that vision became a reality. To see 20 fully-electric cars racing towards the first corner was a very special moment for me and for everyone involved. We truly believe this weekend marks a new era of motorsport that embraces sustainable mobility and we are incredibly grateful to all our investors, teams,
drivers, partners, event operators, personnel, and of course the FIA, for helping us make this such a success. Of course, I’d also like to congratulate Lucas di Grassi on being the first Formula E winner.” He added: “What is more important to us is that Formula E is the biggest digital race in the world with real racing. We’re proud to announce that during this ePrix we’ve had a live worldwide television audience of 40 million, 75,000 people on site and more than one billion social interactions.”
Formula E is the FIA’s new fully-electric singleseater championship designed to appeal to a new generation of motorsport fans. Competing entirely on city-centre circuits all over the world, it uses cars capable of speeds in excess of 150mph (225kph). Its 10 teams feature some of the leading international names in motorsport including Alain Prost and Michael Andretti, along with high-profile environmental supporters including Sir Richard Branson. Meanwhile, it’s driver-line up boasts an array of former Formula One stars such as Jarno
Trulli, Jaime Alguersuari, Sebastien Buemi, Lucas di Grassi and Bruno Senna – nephew of the great Ayrton. Organisers hope the new series will also help increase the interest in electric vehicles and promote sustainability, as well as accelerate the technology available which, over time, will filter into the road-going electric vehicle market. Round two of the new Formula E series takes place in Putrajaya, Malaysia, on November 22 after we go to press. WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Thetalk Motors
2014 is so over…
Looking in to our crystal ball, with a little help from manufacturers intentionally leaked teasers, we’re looking beyond 2015 to see the cars we’ll be driving in 2016, 2017 and 2018. And frankly, we can’t wait to get behind the wheels of these babies… 2018 Infiniti Q100 What: A mission statement for Infiniti wrapped in a gorgeous coupe envelope with a mega price tag. When: 2018. Prices should start at about $150,000. Tech Notes: A new rear- and four-wheel-drive architecture to be shared with the brand’s other upcoming range topper, a sedan that will take on big Euro autobahn queens such as the BMW 7-series and Mercedes-Benz S-class. Infiniti president 104
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Johan de Nysschen, who clearly has lofty ambitions, says the brand has abandoned V-8s for future products. Conveniently, the 2009 Essence concept that inspired this flagship was said to be powered by a hybrid system featuring a twin-turbo six, and we’ve been told to expect the next-generation Nissan GT-R to be thus hybridized. Figure on a similar drivetrain powering this coupe, with output possibly exceeding 600 horsepower.
When: 2017, maybe end of 16.
2017 Porsche Small Sedan
2017 Porsche ‘960’
What: A baby Panamera, based on the Audideveloped modular-longitudinal MLB architecture.
What: A mid-engined supercar positioned between the 911 Turbo megacar and the 918 hybrid hypercar.
Tech notes: This second-gen MLB architecture will be shared with a number of upcoming Audi models including the next-gen A4. Porsche’s version will be four-wheel drive only. Turbocharged six-cylinder engines ranging from around 300 horsepower to well over 400, and expect to see a plug-in hybrid as well.
The 960 conceptually and stylistically resembles a slightly bigger and far more powerful Cayman.
will be well north of 600 horses, and all-wheel drive should be standard.
When: Should show by 2017, at a price well above $200,000.
2016 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Tech notes: The aluminum-and-compositeintensive 960 will be based on Porsche’s new, modular sport architecture (Modularer Sportbaukasten), which can be tailored for mid- or rearengine applications. The hamster running in the wheel will most likely be a horizontally opposed eight-cylinder engine, although an aggressively boosted flat-six is not out of the question. Power
What: Though it bears the Shelby name, this is the creation of Ford’s SVT group. It’s more the spiritual successor to the recent and beloved Boss 302 than the most recent Shelby, that groundthumping supercharged beast known as the GT500. When: Figure about $50,000 for this 2016 model.
Tech notes: The GT350 uses the same “S550” platform that underpins the 2015 Mustang. We anticipate that this version will ride on a significantly stiffer suspension with adjustable dampers. Early test vehicles, spotted around the company’s Dearborn, Michigan, headquarters, wore cross-drilled carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Those mules were also rolling on 19-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer performance tires, with bodies pierced by a center hood vent and what appeared to be functional fender vents behind the front wheels. * all prices are based on U.S. market estimates
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Thetalk Motors
MBMC Celebrates The Start Of Jeep® Season With
Kuwait’s Best Ever Jeep Offers Finally, Summer is slowly giving way to more pleasant weather and that can only mean one thing for all off-road enthusiasts and adventurers it’s Jeep® Season, and time to start thinking about the great outdoors and the adventure that only comes from owning a Jeep. “And what better way could there be to celebrate the start of Jeep Season than by giving our Kuwaiti customers the best ever offers on the Jeep range?” said Maher Abu-Shaaban, Assistant General Manager - Sales and Marketing of Al Mulla & Behbehani Motor Co. (MBMC), the sole distributor of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Mopar® in Kuwait. 106
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For a limited period, MBMC is offering extraspecial value-added prices, with the Jeep Compass starting from just KD 5,999, Cherokee from KD 7,999, Wrangler from KD 7,999 and Grand Cherokee from only KD 9,999. The Jeep Compass, which is equipped with a sixspeed PowerTech automatic transmission, boasts an updated exterior and even more refined and comfortable cabin. The smooth shifting allowed by the new gearbox ensures improved driving performance and comfort in everyday driving, while benchmark off-road capability in its category is provided by the full-time, active Freedom Drive I four-wheel-drive system with Lock mode.
The legendary Jeep Wrangler offers untouched levels of capability off-road, combined with on-road dynamics, fuel efficiency and interior comfort that make it the perfect vehicle for fun daily driving, weekend trail-running or extreme off-roading. Available in 2 and 4 door models and boasting a unique combination of efficient design, open-air freedom, significant towing capability, improved real-world drivability and unique 4x4 systems that deliver unmatched off-road prowess, Jeep Wrangler maintains its position as the benchmark off-road vehicle and the ultimate vehicle for any driving adventure.
Continuing the global acclaim that the Jeep brand has received since the introduction of the latest generation Grand Cherokee, the all-new mid-size Jeep Cherokee is also stacking up an impressive number of international awards. Boasting a revolutionary new design, nine-speed automatic transmission and two advanced engines, class-leading capability from three innovative 4x4 systems and a host of new user friendly technology features, the all-new Jeep Cherokee has completely revolutionized the mid-size SUV segment, and includes numerous firsts and best-in-class features, including a premium 9-speed automatic transmission and fully-disconnecting rear axle.
The latest Jeep Grand Cherokee - the vehicle that has long defined what a premium SUV should be, and the most awarded SUV of all time - delivers an unprecedented combination of best-in-class fuel economy and driving range, a choice of leading powertrain options, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, premium on-road driving dynamics and a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features. The Jeep brand, which symbolises American ruggedness, is synonymous with freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion and renowned globally for the unique “go anywhere, do anything� capability of its vehicles, is built on over seven decades of legendary heritage.
This unique range of authentic SUVs with classleading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys, delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with the sense of security that they can handle any journey with confidence. WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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HEALTH
winter’s chill what to do to stay warm this season Healthy living may be hard to maintain on normal days and even harder on holidays – why? It is a time to relax and munch on all the goodies. It is also a time to skip your exercise and beat the winter chills with comfort food and a blanket on your cozy couch, sounds good and blameless so far! How about some additional lifestyle tips that you can adopt this winter, those that can give you the chance to be good to yourself during winter and all year long? Read on! Kiss the cold flu goodbye! Because winter is the season for colds and flu and infections are more likely to become prevalent during December. There are, nevertheless, ways that you can look at which can minimize and almost prevent the risks. It is important to keep yourself warm enough and put on your favorite jackets and scarves – not only as part of the winter joy but also a safety measure! Shivering depresses the immune system, which makes us more likely to catch colds. Also, lower levels of sunlight affect how the immune system performs. Experts report that we lose up to 30%of our body heat through our heads - so wear a hat! Remember to wash your hands frequently during 108
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the day, maintain a good intake of zinc and garlic, sleep soundly, avoid sudden exposure to heat and cold, take vitamins and most importantly watch the weather. Take pleasure in having yogurt! The benefits of yogurt are so many that they may exceed the deliciousness of its creamy texture and variable flavors. The words “live and active cultures” on the container mean that your yogurt has probiotics, beneficial bugs that live in your digestive tract and help get rid of the harmful microorganisms that can cause intestinal infections. It might be useful here to remind you that a very small number of companies put yogurt through a post-pasteurization process that kills off all bacteria. Beat the Holidays’ heartburn Now that it’s the season for a stomach full of goodies, it is a time of the year when no one can resist a yummy dinner or a buffet temptation. What’s next? Heartburn, for some people, is very likely to occur after overdosing on certain kinds or amounts of food.You can always enjoy favorite food but in moderation, this means that you might have to reconsider going back for seconds and thirds! Remember that packing your stomach with
food makes heartburn much more likely. Certain foods feed heartburn’s flame. Typical triggers include foods full of sugar and fat, choose complex carbs like veggies and whole-wheat breads – or at least take half the desserts portion. Last but not least, try to move more often or keep walking away from the dinner table! Yoga classes I remember having mixed feelings the first time I saw someone doing yoga, however, it was a scene that had kept me impressed. The very first yoga class I had was a turning point – yoga literally introduces you to a different concept of exercising with less movement, rather more technique.Yoga can make you feel good for it it’s both: relaxing and energizing. People who practice yoga state that life runs more smoothly. It also flexes joints and muscles and enhances breathing. Start a new year – literally new! The idea of welcoming a new year is merely about new beginnings, and with new beginnings comes a long a list of changes that you can adopt.You may consider changing your lifestyle, your diet, your job or even change the standpoint through which you view life. Happy new year to all our readers!
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THETALK destination
The holiday’s ultimate destination
Colorado As the crisp, cold weather sets in, our travel fantasies change from
indulging in the beauty of beaches to sighting mountains covered with snow away from traffic jams. Farther than you might have ever gone before, this winter, go skiing or snowshoeing or simply, be somewhere where the spirit of the holidays is just too beautiful to resist. Colorado offers its tourist wide selections of options, all you have to do is find what inspires you and start packing!
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THETALK destination
Colorado is part of the Western United States, the Southwestern United States, and the Mountain States. Colorado is the 8th most extensive and the 22nd most populous of the 50 United States. In this season, it is tempting to check out what each city in Colorado has to offer, and then choose your New Year’s Eve destination for a memorable evening of fun. Winter doesn’t seem to keep Coloradans indoors, instead they get outside and play in it! A Colorado winter vacation is all about crisp winter air, fluffy snow and enough coldweather that make you earn an end-of-the-day hot chocolate! However, below are the season’s most favored spots in Colorado, recommended by Colorado.com – the official guide for tourists who are planning a vacation in Colorado this winter. Georgetown Christmas Market Decorated with lights, greenery and blanketed with 112
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snow, Georgetown has been a Christmas tradition for generations, each December, Georgetown transforms into a bustling scene of Christmas long ago. Thousands of people come to experience a traditional Holiday where Christmas hasn’t changed in 100 years: roasted chestnuts, shopping, horse-drawn wagon rides, and wonderful sights and smells. Tourists can enjoy the appearances by St. Nicholas as well as carolers, dancers, and other entertainment. Downtown Colorado Springs pulls out all the stops with an event to suit all ages. In Times Square–style, three huge video screens broadcast entertainment and music to the crowds. At midnight, there are fireworks, and four hot-air balloons rise into the sky. Those looking for a more private, upscale event
might buy tickets to the Charity Gala New Year’s Eve Ball at Antlers Hilton for a fun night in support of a good cause.
The evening also includes two screenings of popular films in the Harris Concert Hall.
Denver Here are a couple of great choices for families staying in a Denver vacation rental over the New Year holiday. The city has two spectacular fireworks displays – one at 9 p.m. for families with young children, and the traditional one at midnight. The Children’s Museum of Denver also presents frequent Times Square ball drops throughout the day so children can enjoy the countdown.
Durango For a Colorado New Year’s celebration with a twist, head down to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Special Train. The experience begins at the Strater Hotel with drinks and dinner by award-winning chefs. The entertainment and fun continue during a lantern-lit train ride, complete with live music, desserts, party favors and champagne at midnight. Each guest receives a keepsake champagne flute to commemorate the special night.
The Colorado Symphony Orchestra puts on a concert of waltzes and classics in the evening, while the Grand Hyatt Denver Downtown boasts the biggest and best celebration in the city. Tickets include champagne, a buffet supper, a dance party in the Grand Ballroom, casino fun and dueling pianos in the bar. Clubs such as Coyote Ugly Saloon offer a night of singing and dancing, and Peak’s Lounge provides one of the best views in Denver for watching the city fireworks.
Breckenridge Skiers staying in vacation rentals at Breckenridge are in for a great New Year’s Eve as the town puts on a traditional Torchlight Parade. The evening starts with skiers and snowboarders carrying torches as they descend the mountain slopes. The parade continues through town with live music and entertainment, finishing with fireworks lighting up this scenic location at midnight.
Aspen The 12 Days of Aspen event culminates on New Year’s Eve with ice-skating in the Silver Circle Ice Rink, snowman contests, a bonfire and disco at Wagner Park and fireworks over Aspen Mountain.
Boulder Those vacationing near Boulder, Colorado, have a great selection of events, from dressy to casual, on New Year’s Eve. Put your skates on or watch from the sidelines at the outdoor ice rink. WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Performances of “The Leftover Salmon” at Boulder Theater are a standing local tradition, or mosey on over to the Hotel Boulderado for an elegant Black Tie Gala Dinner and Dance. The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art puts on great entertainment with a pleasant mix of live music, local art, free desserts and a champagne toast. Ticket sales support museum arts programs. Spending New Year’s Eve in a new town every year could be the best decision any traveler would ever make, and Colorado makes the decision to spend it there worthwhile. The idea of being surrounded by mountains and fluffy snow – it is only right to welcome a New Year in with fun, peace and beauty.
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Kuwait Exclusives
ALEXANDER WANG X H&M THE COLLECTION IS HERE
Alexander Wang X H&M for women captures the speed of the city, mixing sports and performance for everyday life. Technical details and fabrics are used for both function and fashion, including Wang’s first ever versatile performance wear wardrobe. The women’s collection includes 38 exclusively designed garments, as well as accessories and a playful take 116
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on everyday objects. The result is a collection to be worn on the street, in the gym, at the club ‒ the way women live their lives today. Alexander Wang x H&M will be available in 250 stores worldwide on November 6, 2014 as well as online. The Alexander Wang x H&M menswear collection
creates an urban wardrobe with the aspects and functionality of performance wear. The collection comprises 23 newly developed garments plus accessories and a line of everyday objects, infusing novelty and humour. Alexander Wang x H&M will be available from November 6, 2014 in 220 stores worldwide, as well as online.
Piaget’s passion for perfection shines bright at the brand’s boutique reopening in Kuwait
Refined Swiss watchmaker, Piaget, recently reopened its boutique in Kuwait’s Salhiya Mall in the presence of Mr. Ali Morad Behbehani, President of Morad Yousuf Behbehani, Mr. Edouard Cottin, International Director of Piaget, Mr. Jean-Marc Shammas, Brand Director Middle-East and India and Arab singer Yara, Middle East Brand Ambassador. Strengthening the partnership between Piaget and the Behbehani Group even further, the event was a fitting celebration of Piaget’s commitment
towards ‘Perfection in life’ and paid homage to the brand’s recently embarked upon global advertising campaign of the same name. The event witnessed the attendance of select media and VIP guests from the region. Mr. Ali Morad Behbehani said, “We are proud to have Piaget as our long-standing partner. The reopening of Piaget’s boutique is a great occasion for us all. The exclusive Piaget creations are shining even further in
a beautiful environment for our Kuwaiti clientele.” Commenting on the occasion, Jean-Marc Shammas said, “We are thrilled that Piaget is now at the Salhiya Mall in the prime location it deserves. This is a bigger boutique that allows us to reiterate the main concept of refinement of Piaget boutiques worldwide. Needless to say, none of this would have been possible without the enduring support of our esteemed partners, the Morad Yousuf Behbehani Group.” WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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Kuwait Exclusives
DVF Kuwait Launches Autumn Winter 2014 Collection
DVF boutique at Al Hamra Luxury Center unveils latest season looks previewed on House of DVF on E! Diane vonFurstenberg (DVF), the international global luxury lifestyle brand represented by Hinnawi-Beidoun Group, today launched its latest 2014 Autumn-Winter collection at Al Hamra Luxury Center.The collection was launched at an event attended by the local media and by famous fashion bloggers Yalda Golsharifi and Jihene Ben Jazia who were dressed in DVF dresses and Bibi Alabdulmohsen. “The Fall Collection is called Bohemian Wrapsody,” says DVF Founder and Co-Chairman, Diane von Furstenberg. “It’s all about a glamorous vagabond. She is on the run with her dreams and colors!” 118
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A testament to the brand’s timeless and global appeal, the collection was launched at an event attended by the management from Hinnawi-Beidoun Group, bloggers and local media. Guests had the opportunity to preview the new Autumn-Winter 2014 collection, as well as looks featured on the new docu-series, “House of DVF” on E!, which are now available in store. Join the conversation using #DVFKuwait or by following @DVF on Instagram. About Diane von Furstenberg A globalluxury lifestyle brand and one of the premier names in American fashion, Diane von Furstenberg was founded in 1972 by the designer.
Renowned for its iconic wrap dress and signature prints, DVF has expanded to a full collection of ready-to-wear and accessories including handbags, shoes, small leather goods, scarves, and fine jewelry. The company also offers luggage, eyewear, and home furnishings. In 2012, its Founder and Co-Chairman, Diane von Furstenberg, was named the most powerful woman in fashion by Forbes Magazine. She recently published a memoir, The Woman I Wanted to Be. Headquartered in New York City, DVF now boasts a global distribution network in over 55 countries and 1500 points of sale including 109 DVF owned and partnered stores throughout North and South America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.
Al Ostoura Brings Vintage Luxury Goods Store What Goes Around Comes Around’ to Kuwait
Continuing its avant-garde trend, Al Ostoura has brought the premier vintage and luxury goods concept – What Goes Around Comes Around – to Kuwait. Located in Thuraya Mall, Salmiya, the boutique is the third outpost of the brand around the world. WGACA is home to many one-of-a-kind vintage
pieces from labels like Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Alaia, Comme des Garҫons, Dior, Prada, Celine, Gucci, and many more. The WGACA custom vintage line includes a collection of handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Recreated from authentic vintage items, the custom line is uniquely handcrafted to enhance the original item and add
more to its looks and value. Sarah Jessica Parker, Nicole Richie, Rita Ora, and Kelly Osbourne are some of the label’s famous customers who have been spotted carrying WGACA products. WGACA is also a favorite with collectors, editors, stylists, and A-list designers.
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Kuwait Exclusives
Hello Kitty Beauty Spa Opens its Flagship Spa at The Avenues in Kuwait Bringing a World of Posh-Pampering to Kitty Princesses and Queens
Hello Kitty Beauty Spa officially launched its flagship spa in Kuwait today on the 1st Floor at The Avenues. The spa comprises over 5,000 square feet of luxurious and relaxing treatment areas which feature nail, hair and make-up, massage, Hammam and beauty services – an entire world of posh-pampering for any girl or
woman regardless of her age. Director of Hello Kitty Beauty Spa, Fatima Sharaf stated “I am excited to open the first Hello Kitty Beauty Spa in Kuwait. This is our largest spa yet and offers an expansive menu of beauty and spa treatments for ‘Kitty Princesses’ and ‘Kitty Queens’.
The spa in Kuwait also features a new addition to the Hello Kitty Beauty Spa concept, a luxurious Turkishstyle Hammam. I believe the sophisticated, relaxing yet fun environment featuring the much-loved Hello Kitty character we’ve created will appeal to the beauty-spa savvy ladies of Kuwait.”
Qirdala
A Night of Diamonds and Chocolate
Celebrating the individuality and power of women, Qirdala is introducing an intimate evening with Kuwait’s finest personalities. An unconventional jewelry store that focuses on non-commercial jewelry; because each piece of jewelry is unique, the store is more of an art gallery 120
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rather than a jewelry store. The brand will be showcasing their newest collections that symbolize the distinctive styles of every woman. The owners hosted the night by presenting the philosophies and stories behind each brand,
highlighting their pieces as a form of artistic expression. The celebrated brands of the night were from the distinguished brands Aziz &WalidMouzannar, Nikos Koulis, Falamank by TarfaItani, May Jewelrym, and Nakhla.
4 Official Re-opening
4 Boutique launched the re-opening following a brief closure for refurbishment. The unveiling was marked with a celebratory reception on Wednesday 22nd October 2014 from 7:00 – 10:00pm.The re-opening featured live music from Arabic fusion Orchestra DAFFY performed their hit single “Samboosa”. A donation from the sales of the event went to the
renovation of Kuwait’s orphanage. For this season’s Autumn Winter 2014/15 collections, 4 welcomed the addition of A.F Vandevorst, Costume National,Yang Li and Yohji Yamamoto to its already impressive inventory of designers available, which includes Ann Demeulemeester, Aganovich, Comme Des Garçons,
Haider Ackermann, M.A+, Mugler, Raf Simons and Rick Owens. Kuwait is renowned for its fashion forward community and 4 looked forward to welcoming such sartorial kindred spirits through its doors to present new collections in the store’s striking new setting.
Caudalie
introduces fiveof its cult products to the Kuwait market
Caudalie, one of Europe’s top skin care brands and notable award-winner for over 15 years, today presented five of its most popular products to the Kuwait market on Wednesday November 12th in Le Pain Quotidien in Marina Crescent. Those products included serums, creams and oils known to be a celebrity-favorite and one of the leading anti-aging and anti-dark spot products in France and across 32
countries worldwide. The products are Vinexpert Firming Serum 30 ml – The Anti-gravity care, Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, Premier Cru Cream, Divine Oil, and Beauty Elixir. From cleansers to moisturizers, from anti-dark spot serums to anti-ageing night creams, from body scrubs to body oils, everyone will find what is best
fitted for their skin type in this brand. The skin line collection is available in Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. (AAW) partner pharmacies including Surra,Yarmouk, Jaber Al-Ali, Fahed Al Ahmad, Rihab, and Sabahiyabranches.AlShuhada, Bayan and Sabah Al Salim as well as selected Boots stores. WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.COM
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International
Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates its fourth year as major partner of the Abu Dhabi Film Festival
Following the successful collaboration with the Shanghai and Venice Film Festivals, Jaeger-LeCoultre further supports the creative ingenuity of filmmakers with its four-year partnership with the 8th Abu Dhabi Film Festival. 2014, Jaeger-LeCoultre will be actively involved in all the highlights of the Abu Dhabi Film Festival, one of the largest and most influential international film festivals in the Middle East. Built on the commitment to curate exceptional programs that engage and educate the community, the Abu Dhabi Film 122
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Festival presents the work of Arab filmmakers in competition with the international film industry’s most acclaimed talent. To celebrate this four-year partnership, JaegerLeCoultre was honored to welcome Carmen Chaplin, Friend of the Brand, as guest of honour during the Abu Dhabi Film Festival. Belonging to a long lineage of artists, Carmen Chaplin, Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter, followed her grandfather’s path and also became an actress, director and writer. The Abu Dhabi Film Festival will also be the occasion for Jaeger-LeCoultre to showcase the
Hybris Artistica collection and the RendezVous Ivy Minute Repeater, its latest creation. Featuring 12 exclusive and precious timepieces, the Hybris Artistica collection embodies the spirit of inventiveness brought to life by 181 years of horological mastery. Combining in wonderment the art of watchmaking and ingenuity, the Hybris Artistica collection is born from the mastery of rare craftsmanship, shaped with the most ancient decorative arts such as enameling, engraving and gem-setting.
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Restaurant REVIEW
White Vanilla
A taste of tastiness Delicious food, beautiful view and a cozy atmosphere are words
of a mouth you might hear about White Vanilla restaurant. The restaurant is a beautiful manifestation of quality food together with a splendid view of the surrounding. Located in Dasman and overlooking the Arabian Gulf Street, White Vanilla is a cafĂŠ bakery concept created by BLENDS Kuwait. The theme is industrial country specialized in serving baked food. White Vanilla offers delicious breakfast menu, Afternoon Tea, Lunch and Dinner. The bakery section includes a variety of English cakes, and freshly baked pastries such as croissants and quiches. 124
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The idea came when a lack of restaurants and cafés was noticed in Caspers Ahmad Tower, which was a station that was not offering everything customers need. This is when the idea of White Vanilla came; the main challenge was to come up with a diverse café menu with baked food only – nothing fried or grilled, offering diners a unique approach compared to what is common. White Vanilla’s diverse menu targets different markets in Kuwait. The café menu offers unique items such as the vegetable eggplant rolls or chicken eggplant rolls for appetizers and rosemary chicken as a main course, caramelized beetroot salad with beetroot sauce in the salad section. The menu also offers classic dishes such as traditional Mac & Cheese, Cheeseburger, Pizza, Chicken Pie – a blend between the classic dishes and unique dishes. On the other hand, the coffee section focuses on high quality good taste of coffee targets all coffee lovers, the afternoon tea section caters to all tea
lovers and finally the dessert and bakery section, offering a vast variety of cakes, pastries and biscuits. The best sellers at White Vanilla’s, recommended by diners are the freshly baked croissants, Fiji and Vanilla Crunch from the Juices and Blends section, Toffee-Cookie Latté from the coffee section. As for the café menu, the most favored are the Sunny Side Up, French toast, Mini Burgers (customers choose 3 of their favorite burgers from the menu), Caramelized Beetroot Salad. Sweet wise, best sellers in the dessert section are the Date Fondant (date cake stuffed with berries), Chewy Cookies and the delicious Marble Cake. The staff is well-trained to serve the guests best. The chefs are certified by well known culinary schools. Moreover, the chefs at White Vanilla’s kitchen are passionate and are always eager to introduce new and unique dishes. It is evident that the team focuses on providing customers
with fresh food daily, hygiene as a top priority as well as using high quality of ingredients. The staff asserted that food at White Vanilla is what makes customers come back as they serve an exclusive variety of dishes that is not found elsewhere. Moreover, they believe their guests love the view overlooking the Arabian Gulf Road as well as the cozy interior which gives a homey feeling. White Vanilla goes out of their location to meet their customers’ needs in parties and gatherings, serving them by filling up their thermos with their favorite coffee blends or juice mixes. White Vanilla also caters its famous Petit Fours Biscuits for events and special occasions. All pastries, cakes and the afternoon tea baskets are available for takeout as well and are ideal for all occasions.White Vanilla is located in Ahmad Tower, Dasman, Arabian Gulf Street. www.blendskuwait.com Instagram: @whitevanillakw Phone: 22430067
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BOOK REVIEW
The season’s best selling Books You Can,You Will World-renowned pastor Joel Osteen wants you to know that you were created to accomplish your goals, to be fulfilled, and to leave a lasting mark on the world. In You Can,You Will, Joel will reveal the eight personal and spiritual principles that will help you achieve God’s divine purpose for your life. As you put these principles into action, you will see God’s blessing and favor in new and amazing ways. Now is your time. This is your moment.You’re talented enough. You’re smart enough. God made you that way.You are not lacking. You’re fully equipped.
Make It Ahead
Yes Please Whether she’s playing Hillary Clinton to Tina Fey’s Sarah Palin on SNL or climbing walls (real or metaphorical) on Parks & Recreation, Amy Poehler rides a wave of ironic, yet upbeat humor. In this much-awaited debut, the multi-talented celeb writes with winning candor about sundry topics under the sun including, but not limited to, her experiences as a child of two Massachusetts teacher parents, early career calamities, television fame, movie fortune, and family happiness.
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With her ninth Barefoot Contessa cookbook, Food Network star Ina Garten responds to her readers’ most frequent and urgent question: Can I make your recipes ahead? Her answer is not just a resounding yes; it’s a gorgeously illustrated cookbook brimming with recipes that you can prep, assemble, or even cook ahead of time. These tasty meals include French Chicken Pot Pie with Artichokes and Tarragon; Wild Mushroom & Farro Soup; and a delicious, gluten-free Decadent Chocolate Cake with Whipped Cream.
Small Victories Anne Lamott once described herself as an “accidentally devout believer,” a stroke of luck for which thousands of readers continue to be grateful. Over the years, the author of Help, Thanks, Wow, No Assembly Needed, and Stitches has given readers ample quantities of faith, wisdom, and laughter (the latter of which she calls “carbonated holiness”). In this much-postponed, eagerlyawaited collection of essays, Lamott shares reflections, experiences, and self-deprecating wit about the spiritual gifts and people that touch her most.
The Andy Cohen Diaries Bravo’s Watch What Happens Next host Andy Cohen is not known for being either reticent or unopinionated. His debut memoir, you might remember, was entitled Most Talkative. In this freewheeling journal follow-up, he opens the spigot full throttle, lavishing us with confessions, gossip, pop culture obsessions, and tales about his now famous mom. A great read for fans; an amusing education for all others.
There Was a Little Girl Actress and author of the New York Times bestseller Down Came the Rain, Brooke Shields, explores her relationship with her unforgettable mother, Teri, in her new memoir. Brooke Shields never had what anyone would consider an ordinary life. She was raised by her Newark-tough single mom, Teri, a woman who loved the world of show business and was often a media sensation all by herself. Brooke›s iconic modeling career began by chance when she was only eleven months old, and Teri›s skills as both Brooke›s mother and manager were formidable. But in private she was troubled..
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Movies
movies showing this month
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Cate Blanchett Director: Peter Jackson Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Synopsis: Bilbo and Company are forced to be embraced in a war against an armed flock of combatants and the terrifying Smaug from acquiring a kingdom of treasure and incinerating all of Middle-Earth.
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Night at the Museum 3 Cast: Ben Stiller , Robin Williams , Owen Wilson Director: Shawn Levy Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family Synopsis: Larry spans the globe, while embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before it is gone forever.
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Annie 1
Foxcatcher
Reclaim
Cast: Jamie Foxx , Rose Byrne , Quvenzhané Wallis
Cast: Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo.
Cast: John Cusack, Ryan Phillippe, Rachelle Lefevre.
Director: Will Gluck Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family Synopsis: Annie is a young, happy foster kid who’s also tough enough to make her way on the streets of New York in 2014. Originally left by her parents as a baby with the promise that they’d be back for her someday, it’s been a hard knock life ever since with her mean foster mom Miss Hannigan. But everything’s about to change when the hard-nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in.
Director: Bennett Miller Genre: Biography, Drama , Sport Synopsis: Based on the true story of Mark Schultz, an Olympic wrestler whose relationship with sponsor John du Pont and brother Dave Schultz would lead to unlikely circumstances.
Director: Alan White Genre: Drama, Thriller Synopsis: A desperate American couple discovers all is not what it seems when they uncover a highstakes underground scam while traveling abroad. To expose the truth and get back to the U.S., they must risk their lives to save their daughter.
Horoscope Brought to you by
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
Horoscopes
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) A full moon occurs in your sign this month – a good time to end something! Full moons are all about endings and culminations, and you are punished for bad behavior and rewarded for good behavior.You might be more emotional and sensitive this month.You get even more serious about your relationships; you will start to examine your relationships and figure out what is working and what isn’t, and see who can stay and who needs to go.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 23) With whatever work you are doing this month, try to put a creative spin on it. If you do it the traditional way, it will just be boring. Let your creative juices flow and see what happens. There is a creative person inside of you, but you don’t let that person out enough.You might be surprised by what that person can do. This is a period where you are changing how you relate to others, how you connect with others, what commitment is to you, and what you need in a relationship.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) You could get the opportunity to make some extra cash in December, and it might come just in time.You are not usually the type to blow money, but you might be tempted to do that with the extra money you get, so watch yourself. Be a saver, not a spender.You give and receive love more easily, and want to be in love. If attached, you can have more romance in your relationship. If single, you can meet a new love interest.
You held a lot in last month as you were thinking, so you become a chatterbox in December.You feel good about yourself, getting your confidence back, and you understand your values a little bit better. You are attracted to people who are unusual, different, and original, and you want some spice in your relationships. Some of you may try to instigate changes in your love relationships, and if you jump too fast, it could go badly. Don’t make changes just for the sake of change.
ARIES (Mar. 21-April 20) You’re focused on the future in December with the awaiting New Year triggering this.You are driven to pursue your dreams, make plans for how you can accomplish your goals, and get serious about the big picture. Think about all that you have accomplished over the past year, and all that you want to accomplish over the next year.You can have an easier time meeting new love interests, falling in love, and having more love in your life. Even if you are already in a committed relationship, you can bring more romance into it.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may want to take on a partner for whatever work you have to do. Just don’t leave all of the work to them like you might usually do. Make sure it is an equal partnership and you are both doing your fair share. When you are working with an equal partner, you will get much more accomplished.You may begin to feel as though you have less love in your life, and get rid of some people from your life, but you’re just figuring out what love really means to you.
LIBRA
(Sept. 24-Oct. 23) So take your break in December, and let your silly self come out when you do.You can have a good time, laugh, be jovial, and be awesome. Do something with your family, or at home. Make it a place where you feel completely comfortable. A little comfort can go a long way this month. December is when you are most driven to have love, be in love, give and receive love, and focus on love. Overall, this may be a slightly quieter year for love for you.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21-Feb. 19) You have plenty of energy, but you keep to yourself for a while so you can figure out what you want to do with it without anyone getting in the way with their own opinions. Their advice may be well-intentioned, but misguided, and you understand that so you’d rather keep them out of it for now.You enter a period where you can make your relationships better, enjoy being around those you’re close to, and forge new relationships more easily.
TAURUS (Apr. 21-May 21) The urge to roam free increases in December, so don’t commit yourself to too much.You will need time to do whatever your heart desires on a whim, and you don’t want to be tied to something. Anything that makes you feel like you are being held back, you will resent and try to stop it from doing so. It is a simple fix to avoid doing that. Let yourself have the time to roam! If you are single, you take a serious approach to dating, and are looking for something real and lasting.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22) You want to spend time with those you are close to and commit to more people, projects, goals, and ideas. Commitment is not just a part of a relationship with a person, and is something you have to learn in many other aspects of life. Listen to your gut early in the month, and pay attention to any signs the universe has for you. Cancer, you remain serious about love.You don’t want to jump into anything with anyone, and you want real commitment from someone.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) You have plenty of energy at home, more than anywhere else, and you enjoy spending time with your family.You have a lot to say and share, and you enjoy socializing with them, or with those you think of as family.You try to stay busy this month – you can get a lot of the little things done.You may feel alone, or too distant from others for some reason. No matter how much you want to be close to someone, you are not alone.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You can look toward your future and imagine what you want it to be like. The coming New Year is likely triggering this, and you wonder what the next year will bring. Reflect over this last year and what has happened, and look forward to what’s coming.You see love all around you, and you try to bring more love into your life. For those of you in a relationship, you can be more romantic, ignite sparks, and try to make it feel like it did when you first got together.
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