The talk #100 February 2018

Issue 192 / February 2018

Salman Dashti Introduces Luna & Beau

FIRST JEWELER OF THE PLACE VENDÔME In 1893, Frédéric Boucheron is the first of the great contemporary jewelers to open a Boutique on the Place Vendôme

THE AVENUES

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PRESTIGE

GROUND FLOOR 965 22200992

SERPENT BOHÈME

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content/ fashion/

jewelry & watches

Issue 192 / February 2018

Salman Dashti Introduces Luna & Beau

On the cover: Salman Dashti Wardrobe Dolce & Gabbana Art Direction and Styling: DOUBLEA.STUDIO February 2018

health & beauty/

art & design/ lifestyle/

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14. Dare to break the rules?

16. Etro Women’s Cruise Collection 2018 20. PAULE KA 24. The Versace Spring Summer 2018 Campaign 28. Selena Gomez Stars In Coach Spring 2018 Campaign 32. Archived Prada Reborn For Aw18 34. Longchamp Cruise Collection 2018 36. Longchamp Valentine’s Day 38. Brands On The Comeup: RS 42. En Pointe: First Comes Sweat 44. Salman Dashti 56. COS Spring Summer 2018 60. H&M’s fashion-forward and conscious-led active wear

64. A Van Cleef Valentine’s Day 66. Perfect Pieces From AKILLIS This Valentine’s Day 68. From Ephemeral Rose to Eternal Rose: A Very Piaget Declaration of Love 70. Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Breeze 72. Boucheron plays with the codes 74. Messika x GiGi pieces perfect for valentine’s day 76. Celebrate Life and Love with Mouawad Jewelry 78. Salvatore Ferregamo 80. IWC Schaffhausen Launches Jubilee Collection

84. It’s a bang!

86. Our go to makeup look for the fourteenth 88. Introducing Zero Makeup 90. Laura Mercier: The New Eye & Lip Brush Collection 92. Chanel Le Teint Ultra Tenue Compact 94. Charlotte Tilbury 96. Laura Mercier Velour Extreme Matte Lipstick 98. Royale Hayat: Dr. Ahmed Al Qallaf 100. Royale Hayat: Cut it out

104. Ferrari 812 Superfast 120. Graffiti artist Sfhir at ARGAN Square 126. The Bed Shop 132. Sketch 136. Rolls-Royce 146. horoscopes

the team/ Editor-in-Chief Fawaz Al-Mutairi Publisher Zeina Mokaddam General Manager Chimene Ibrahim Fashion & Beauty Editor Rawan Qabazard Contributors Anju Kakkar Taiba Al-Nassar

Managing Editor Simon Balsom

Head of Photography Maher Al-Nouri

Senior Graphic Designer Chadi Moufied

Circulation: 10,000 Copies

Legal Consultant Khaled Al-Kandari

Interview - Viva Press (Uk) Images - Gallo-Getty

BPA Audited from 2011 to 2013 Readership: 40,000+ as per PARC 2012 Studies

Distribution Company: International Media Group Printed In Four Films

Press Agencies - Afp

Published by : Tel: (965) 2572 0810 Fax: (965) 2572 0860 email: info@ph7-kw.com www.ph7-kw.com

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. the talk - page 8

letter/ We are elated! Our first print issue of glorious 2018, and we are excited to gracefully and stylishly glamour through yet another fabulous year, with you, are dear fashionable and conscious readers!

Starting with the month of love! We did try to avoid the cliché but we just couldn’t resist it, aren’t we all suckers for Valentine’s Day? We have an array of choices to be inspired from, date night outfits, to a gorgeous make-up look.

We’ve got you covered.

As for the love of gifting, we’re diving straight into Van Cleef & Arpels and Boucheron. From gorgeous earrings to luxurious statement rings. Don’t wait for a gift, go out there and pamper yourself to something fancy.

Treat yo’self! But wait, do slow down when it comes to sugar though. Cutting down sugar is one of the most dominant New Year’s resolutions on everyone’s list. Have you tried doing it? Flip over to our health and beauty section to read more, a few suggestions that might help you on this path.

There sure is a wave of cognizance growing in Kuwait, we’re witnessing many charities and businesses catering to the needs of pets, our friendly companions. This month we had a chance to feature a conscious entrepreneur who is combining high-end merchandise for your beloved pets, and raising awareness at the same time! Guess what, there’s also a pet-friendly Café.

Salman Dashti is our hometown hero of the month.

Spread Love.

Till next time, The Talk Team

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fashion - trend

Dare to break the rules?

Here comes February the 14th, the most loved or sometimes dreaded day of the year! In our opinion, love should be expressed 365 days of the year (you get a free pass on leap years). Oh well, the point is whether you’re spending the day with friends, family, or a special somebody, you still have to decide on what to wear.

Over the years people have been avoiding the color red on Valentine’s Day, whoever wore red would be looked at in a weird way. Well we’re bringing red back! Red roses, red heels, red dresses, but I think we’ll draw the line at red chocolates. Depending on the event, you should dress accordingly. If it’s a casual gathering at home then a cute red jumpsuit with glittery flats are your go to. If you’re planning a fancy dinner then a skin-tight dress all the way!

Strappy heels are never a bad idea. If you’re one of those people who are antired during Valentine’s then you can opt to rock those Louboutin red nails or Russian Red on your lips to compliment your outfit.

We are definitely all in for love; embrace it, spread it, and celebrate it.

Most importantly, never under-estimate the power of “self-love”, the most important style element! This Valentines go ahead and look good, feel good!

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Etro Women’s Cruise Collection 2018 For Cruise Collection 2018, Etro reimagines classic styles with Oriental motifs, floral designs and paisley details adorning sophisticated fabrics.

Prints, embroidery and tassels enhance a mix of bold accessories for Etro’s Cruise Accessories 2018.

The Rainbow bag is updated with new, bold prints while fabrics from ready-to-wear are reworked on leather goods and shoes.

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Paule Ka Pre-Collection Spring Summer 2018 Sunset on the City of Lights, colors that slide from the vivid tones of the day to the subtle shades of night.

Alithia Spuri-Zampetti draws her inspiration from a Parisian woman influenced by many cultural sources, and seeking new horizons. Therein resides the magic of the Paule Ka 2018 Pre-Collection: a delicious slide into the city and the impressions and souvenirs of Oriental voyages.

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READY-TO-WEAR Little by little, a new day dawns, where the rich tones of winter are awoken by the nascent light of spring. Silhouettes are constructed for a woman out on the town. Paule Ka redefines the pantsuit and transforms daywear into a glorious moment to guide an ever-more active woman. The perfect lines of a crisp wool trouser are paired, here with a jacket, there with a new shirt concept where habotai and poplin offer their classic feel in service of an incontestably feminine spirit.

ACCESSORIES Urban accessories, easy to live with and full of poetry, give the tone of the season. A surprise guest: gloves are back. Well-chosen color pairings and perfect finishes, this indispensable hand ornament has been created to complete a rich collection inspired by travel and intimate secrets. Ode summer, costume jewelry recalls the treasures of the sea: clusters of pearls curl around the earlobe, while corals, threatened treasures, are subtly recreated to decorate lariats and brooches. A lobster, dressed in crystallized finery, invites himself to this seaside caper. the talk - page 22

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The Versace Spring Summer 2018 Campaign

A new school takes on a family tradition Through the years, every Versace image has always told a story. Usually a story of individuality, of character, of the strength to do things differently. Spanning across four influential decades, the broader Versace family (not just of Donatella and her brother Gianni, but of their favored photographers and supermodels alike) have shaped fashion as we know it. And now, this “superfamily� returns to mark the beginning of the 40th anniversary of the fashion house.

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Conceived by Artistic Director Donatella Versace and shot by legendary collaborator Steven Meisel, the Versace Spring Summer 2018 Campaign portrays - together for the first time in decades - some of the most iconic forces in fashion along with today’s hottest talent, in individual portraits capturing their unique personalities. Each image is pure energy. Each shot complements the other. Every pose brings out the model’s true character in a series of images that give voice in a new age to the same Versace principles that have resonated down the decades: creativity, empowerment, inclusivity, and that inimitable Versace sense of daring.

Gianni’s most beloved prints and boldest looks, updated for a modern age in Donatella’s Tribute Collection, are seen both on models who walked down the runway in his original designs, and on those who grew up aspiring to be like them. A celebration of beauty that has no age limit, no fear, no restraint.

The supercast is led by Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington, together with Gisele Bündchen, Irina Shayk, Raquel Zimmerman, Natalia Vodianova, Gigi Hadid, Vittoria Ceretti, Kaia Gerber, Cara Taylor, Birgit Kos, Grace Elizabeth and Noah Luis Brown.

“This campaign represents the link between past and present. You need to know who you are, and where you are coming from, to build your future.

And when you are at the head of a brand with such a strong heritage as mine, you can only embrace it. This is the reason why I wanted to see this iconic super model cast next to the soon-to-be-iconic girls of the future.” – Donatella Versace

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Selena Gomez Stars In Coach Spring 2018 Campaign Coach announces the launch of Selena Gomez’s second campaign as the face of Coach for the Spring 2018 collection. The singer, actress, producer and philanthropist embodies the optimism of the original American house of leather in a series of images set in New York City that spotlight the new bags.

The campaign pictures Gomez resting on a window ledge in a loft with a quintessential prewar fire escape and the iconic Empire State Building in the background. It›s magic hour and the images capture the endless possibility of the night ahead in the city that never sleeps. “Creative Director Stuart Vevers makes New York feel like a town, a real community,” says Gomez. “It just feels like this is where the brand really lives.”

Gomez carries key bags from the Spring 2018 collection, including the Parker, an all-new silhouette with handles that convert to a shoulder strap. The lightweight style is crafted in quilted nappa leather with bold color blocking and rivets for a graphic touch. The Parker bag launches in February. A version in Coach’s Signature Canvas and smooth leather with a Tea Rose turn lock closure will launch later in the season.

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“The Coach girl is real—she’s riding the subway or, this season, hanging out in her cool NYC apartment,” said Vevers. “Steven Meisel’s photography brings a layer of magic to those seemingly everyday situations. Whilst Selena has a warmth that’s special—there is also an authenticity and realness to her that brings the campaign to life.”

To achieve this vision of the campaign, Coach brought together its longtime team of collaborators: photographer Steven Meisel, stylist Karl Templer, creative director Fabien Baron, makeup artist Pat McGrath and hair stylist Guido Palau.

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Archived Prada Reborn For AW18 Prada Men’s Fall 2018 is a portal into the nineties, as Miuccia Prada returns with archival prints and textures.

The nostalgic collection takes us back to the brand’s industrial roots, partly through boxy coats and buttonups constructed from Prada’s iconic black nylon that defined the brand’s emergence into the fashion world.

Sealed with the red rubber branding that defined the decade, monochromatic looks also paraded down the runway, with fresh winter white and royal purple taking center stage. The nineties are once again commemorated through the collection’s accessories, as bucket hats and messenger bags were playfully revived.

Also un-missible was the collection’s frenzy of archived prints, resuscitated from past collections that have defined Prada’s unorthodox identity.

The collection is a refreshing reminder of Prada’s imprint on fashion as we know it. With its utilitarian essence, Prada historically bridged the gap between practicality and high fashion, defining the world of fashion we navigate today.

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Longchamp Cruise Collection 2018 Renowned for its leather goods, shoes and high-quality women’s ready-to-wear clothing, Longchamp is ready to reveal its first Cruise collection. A brand-new wardrobe for the modern, independent and cosmopolitan woman who appreciates French luxury by Longchamp.

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Inspiration She is the Rive Gauche Parisian woman who likes traveling. This naturally elegant and charming woman explores the wealth of decorative arts from Africa – specifically those of the Maasai tribe – while strolling in the shade of the luxuriant pathways of the Luxembourg Gardens, a true haven of greenery in the heart of SaintGermain-des-Prés in Paris.

Lines Casual chic is in order. The Longchamp woman slips on a cashmere knit top and a mini skirt with a slightly trapeze cut in velvet leather trimmed with smooth leather lines.

An oversize safari style jacket really complements the lightly flared trousers. The cropped velvet leather jacket with patch pockets can be worn either next to the skin or over a textured silk blouse. The velvet leather belted trench with sharp smooth leather trim can be slipped over a double-breasted cotton gabardine dress. The printed silk scarf provides the finishing touch to Longchamp’s Spring 2018 Cruise collection.

Leather Goods Patterns inspired by the Maasai tribe breathe life into the magnificent prints and exquisite embroidery that adorn totes, hobo and bucket bags, some of which come with a

decorative removable strap. Fringing, tassels, handcrafted fabrics, beaded decorations and vibrant colors inspired by sub-Saharan African jewelry all feature as precious neo-ethnic details on the Pénélope, Longchamp 3D, Mademoiselle Longchamp and Roseau bags. Not forgetting the new fringed designs from the Paris Rock line The graphic styles Le Pliage Cuir model in leather is embellished with wide colored stripes reminiscent of African wall paintings.

Shoes Longchamp has created a stunning range of espadrilles for the Cruise collection. While all are adorned with ankle straps and braided-rope soles, some are made from velvet leather and others from two-tone or Maasai-print canvas. Low-heeled velvet leather boots with cross over straps at the back like the fringed moccasins complete this unique look.

Fabrics Leather is an iconic material at Longchamp with various textures including velvety feel, distressed or full grain for a decidedly more casual look. This lambskin is teamed with crisp cotton gabardine, sensuous cashmere knit or denim canvas.

Colors Sea and aqua blues are merged with flamboyant and cherry reds. These bold, contrasting colors only intensify the warm beige, intense black and bright white.

In the depths of Winter, Longchamp’s first Cruise collection offers up an invitation to travel. A warm and enchanting interlude before the first cold sets in. the talk - page 35

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Longchamp Valentine’s Day Longchamp is releasing a collection of small leather goods and accessories for Valentine’s Day. A print with hearts and lucky charms floating around mirrored winged horses on a pastel pink background embellishes S, M and L leather clutches. The print appears again on a silk stole in lavender blue, navy and pastel pink – and along the border of a silk scarf featuring a map of Paris dotted with romantic motifs. For a couple cute winks to Cupid, you’ll find a lighthearted soft pink leather strap and belt that are inlaid and embroidered with hearts and arrows. The cherry on top of this playful lovers’ theme is a charm keyring where a sun and a heart ride along with the legendary Longchamp horse.

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Brands On The Comeup: RS Local streetwear brand RS was born in the summer of 2015, when founder Mohammad Al-Rashed took his love for street fashion to the drawing board. Nearing the end of 2016, Taiba Al-Nassar joined the growing brand as Creative Director, fusing her own take on culture and fashion with Mohammad’s. The brand has since experienced ongoing progression both on the street and within its own realm of design.

Their latest collection “24 Hours” explores the essence of youth and its corresponding immortality. Like a clock that resets with every generation, the experiences of youth repeat throughout history; the euphoria, the heartbreak, the self-discovery. Inspiration for the collection was drawn from archetypal settings that serve as the backdrop of these experiences, and have remained over the course of generations, like roller rinks and bowling alleys.

Like the many firsts we’ve experienced in these settings, the brand also makes an essential progression into contemporary wear with this collection through unique textures and renewed silhouettes.

Taiba Al-Nassar

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En Pointe: First Comes Sweat PUMA designed this collection for confident women. En Pointe compliments all aspects of the hustler life-style; and because looking good definitely feels good, the collection’s ever-coveted millennial pink, plus an array of soft pastels, offers a variety of stylish pieces to play with.

As the ultimate fashion icon, Selena Gomez is the ideal representation of the line. Her flexible style takes her from the gym to the red carpet and to all corners of the globe. Her fearlessness is reflected onto the collection with bold, statement pieces that command attention.

Never boring. Never the same. Always on point.

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The PUMA En Pointe collection showcases linear elements, wide strapping, and woven details pulled from ballet technique: long lines, dynamic flexibility, and powerful movement. Structure is created through pleating, rib textures, and buoyant fabrics. Metal details mix with shine and sporty trims to emphasize motion.

Tonal is a must. Lightweight is everything. It’s less about changing outfits and more about layering; adding and subtracting items to keep muscles warm between dancing. Dancers must constantly strive to perfect their performance – therefore, showing off long lines is key, muted colours work best, and patterns are avoided because they distract from muscle definition.

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fashion - cover story

Salman Dashti

introduces Luna & Beau: A new concept to Kuwait’s Market First and foremost, Salman Dashti is an animal lover. When children stuck pictures of their favorite musical bands or football teams on the walls, he had pictures and descriptions of every dog breed on his.

While still continuing his MBA in London, Salman had to complete a project which entailed creating a unique business concept; he started working on the concept of “The Pet Lounge”, which was a one stop shop for pets and their owners; celebrating the affectionate relationship between humans and companion animals.

Unfortunately, his team members did not share his passion and the idea was soon shelved to be replaced by another. When Salman finally returned to Kuwait, he worked mainly in the fields of Marketing and PR with various companies until he felt that he had gained enough insight, knowledge and confidence to venture out and pursue his dream of establishing his pet business.

Text by Rawan Qabazard

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Kuwaiti Veterinarian and animal rights advocate Tamara Qabazard with her cat Jackson and dog Lucy the talk - page 46

Kuwaiti stand up comedian and animal rights advocate Sheikha Al Khaldi with her dog Puyol What was the inspiration behind Luna & Beau?

As a pet owner myself, I have always wanted to spend some quality time with my pets and pet loving friends at a safe and encouraging space. I found that most places in Kuwait were not particularly pet friendly. When the weather is not great, my day out with my dogs would usually involve a trip to the groomers and then a walk around the pet shops in the area, pretty uneventful. I had an idea for a pet business while doing my MBA and once I felt confident enough to leave the corporate world and pursue my dream I started working on Luna & Beau. I was determined to make this place the ultimate destination for pets and their owners, a beautiful space and relaxed environment where you can be around like-minded individuals. the talk - page 47

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Describe the concept you had in mind when starting this project.

Luna & Beau will be the first of its kind in Kuwait. A boutique that offers the best pet products from around the world which were specially selected for their quality. We also have two separate grooming areas for cats and dogs. We cater to people as much as their pets so we offer relaxing waiting areas with snacks and beverages from our Café next door for both yourself and your pet! We also have a lifestyle area where pet owners can browse products for themselves. Luna & Beau Café is a vegan pet friendly café. Our Café offers the best of both worlds, great coffee, food and surroundings and an open space area for your dogs to let loose and play and our pet bakery offers fresh pet treats. Our delicious food is made by the amazing girls at Clean Eats. We also have a separate Cat Lounge loft area where you can enjoy a beverage while playing with our resident cats (which are all fostered and available for adoption).

What are your thoughts on how our community views pets and animals, in general?

I think we have come a long way in terms of how we treat pets in Kuwait but I still think there is a lot of work to be done. I have had the pleasure of meeting amazing people who are relentlessly working through their charities to help abandoned and abused animals in Kuwait, and, unfortunately, there is much work to be done and the resources available to them are limited, so I think each one of us should do their part to help and to raise awareness; Luna & Beau will definitely play it’s part in working alongside these charities.

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Non-profit rescue organisation Adopt a Street Princess founder Nathalie with her dog Pumpkin How can the concept behind Luna & Beau fix these issues?

By creating a safe and friendly environment for pets and their owners to get some down time and enjoy themselves we are creating another much-needed pet friendly space in Kuwait and this will influence other spaces to do the same.

Also, at Luna & Beau we want to help animal welfare organizations in Kuwait because all pets deserve to be treated with love and care. For starters, we will be offering a free full grooming package to a rescue dog for every 3 grooming sessions our customers purchase. We will also be donating treats from our bakery weekly to the various organizations and we will be working alongside these organizations continuously to improve how animals are treated in Kuwait whether through fundraisers, events, awareness campaigns or hosting adoption days at our CafĂŠ. the talk - page 50

Clean Eats founders and animal rights advocates Dalal and Haya with their dog Eve. the talk - page 51

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Partners Fay and Dana carry Cleo and Buddy, both are available for adoption from their non-profit animal rescue organization Rescue. Adopt.

Foster. @raf.kw the talk - page 52

Felix available for adoption from Rescue. Adopt. Foster @raf.kw

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Do you think the community beginning to get aware in these matters? If so, how?

Yes, I definitely think they are becoming more aware mainly thanks to the power of social media. For instance, many people have witnessed the atrocities being committed at the Friday market and are getting frustrated with the lack of action from government officials. Awareness followed by action is what is needed.

We live in a great country with great people, but as Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its’ animals are treated.”

And there is still a lot of work to be done indeed.

Let’s talk a little about the store.

What is the story behind the name?

Luna was my first dog, she’s a sassy Pomeranian. Beau was my second, he’s a goofy Frenchie with a tremendous personality. I love my dogs, as everyone else I’m sure does, but they really are very important to me. I even decided to get their initials tattooed on me. Since this store and café are a labor of love and I’m putting myself into this business whole-heartedly, I thought the name should be personal as well, so I decided to name it after my two pups.

Last, but not least, how many pets do you have and who is your favorite?

I’ve got two dogs, Luna and Beau, and three cats, Alice, Oreo and Tigger. And everyone knows you can’t ask a petparent that question; they’ve each got a special place in my heart.

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COS

Spring Summer 2018 The COS Spring Summer 2018 collection explores organic shapes and natural materials while taking inspiration from the past, present and imagined future. The result is a series of understated modern classics, composed in interchangeable modular ways.

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The qualities of paper are integral to the collection and are evident from design conception and throughout the work process; from the pattern cutting, to the paper draping and 3D work. This informs new proportions and details which are executed in a clean and precise way. The influences of time are apparent in the artisanal work methods and reinvented modern pieces which have a futuristic tone and quiet drama.

Three-piece tailoring is reimagined to incorporate new fabrics, draped and voluminous pieces alter silhouettes and collapse on the body. Classics have been revisited in surprising materials and details are sometimes carefully misplaced.

Designs are brought to life by cottons in a range of forms - textured, coated, crisp, crumpled; whilst knits of various weights are crafted from barely-there silks, chunky paper yarns and starched summer wools.

Technical innovations like coated Tyvek are interspersed throughout to reimagine timeless pieces. The composition is completed with a natural, refined colour palette which moves from purest white through to organic papery and wood-inspired tones to summer browns combined with powdery accents of ochre, leaf green, mint, navy, petrol and red clay.

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and cuts. Innovative details include three-way fastenings. Layering is key across individual pieces but also in the arrangement of looks.

Eclectic elements come together to create considered accessories; the shopper bag is proposed in ivory patent leather, the clutch is elongated with a brushed metal handle, the rectangular leather handbag comes with functional front and back openings and a technical handle. A sneaker is fly knitted, proposing a new wearability and silver jewellery is fluid and organic to create floating forms. Ties are introduced to both men’s and women’s wear adding detail which disappears into the silhouette.

The play on volume and contrasting proportions continues throughout menswear in the composition of boxy jackets paired with fitted trousers, a square-cut shirt, the stiffness of double faced wool trousers and the effortless crossover coat which hovers between a single and a double breast. The traditional bucket hat has been elongated, the quintessential plimsoll reworked with canvas and the lace-up rounded and proposed in black and white.

Childrenswear reflects the season’s inspirations; paper-like qualities are introduced in a tonal palette with a splash of bold colour, such as golden amber. The gathered details add an effortless and playful feel to the garments, whereas tilted pockets are functional additions, designed to store precious bits and bobs. the talk - page 59

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H&M’s fashion-forward and conscious-led active wear Revolving around the theme of “In it for the long run�, the active wear collection includes a versatile range of tights, sports bras, hoodies and tops for training, running and yoga. There is an emphasis on nature and sustainability, through the prints and the color palette of green tones, black and beige, but also the predominant use of recycled polyester and elastane in each and every piece. The garments have functional details such as being quick-dry and seamless for maximum comfort, plus built-in support and holes for ventilation. Designs are fresh, figure-flattering and fashion-forward with contrast paneling, crisscross backs and decorative webbing. The result is a truly modern active wear collection that reflects the importance of conscious fashion today.

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“By bringing together the functional and feminine, the aim is to give customers a stylish, conscious sports collection. And not just through the fabrics – we utilized a new knitting technique that creates seamless garments while using less yarn or fabric waste. Blending function with sustainable thinking and fashion in this way is the way forward,” says Petra Smeds, Head Designer of Sportswear.

This collection also characterizes H&M’s continued commitment to sustainability and is just one of the several steps H&M is making towards their overall goal of becoming 100% circular. Ultimately, H&M want to create a closed loop for textiles in which unwanted clothes can be reused or recycled into new treasures. the talk - page 61

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A Van Cleef Valentine’s Day Whether for yourself or your loved one, Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge. This Valentine’s day, celebrate love with these heart-shaped pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels’ Sweet Alhambra Collection.

A romantic twist on their classic clover, the collection instead features a Carnelian stone heart emblem, encrusted in delicate pink gold. With their playfully romantic edge, they are the ultimate antidote to perpetually predictable Valentine’s gifts no one actually wants to receive. To commemorate the love in your life and invest in a statement piece, go for these unconventionally beautiful Van Cleef & Arpels pieces.

Taiba Al-Nassar

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Frosty February What’s better than receiving flowers and chocolates on Valentine’s Day? Jewelry, but of course! Indulge in the sparkiest pieces this month and wear them on your night out. If you’re an earrings kind of gal then opt for an up-do to show-off the gorgeous pair you’re wearing. If you tend to go for big rings then ditch the watch and bracelets, always keep the focus on the jewels. As for necklaces, opt for dresses which are off-the shoulder or slightly round around the neck to show off the piece.

Diamonds are forever. Literally. When investing in them, one should be very careful and do the research! Always check the quality and color of the piece before buying it. Whether it’s to wear or to keep as an investment, diamonds are always a good idea especially on Valentine’s Day!

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Perfect Pieces From AKILLIS This Valentine’s Day AKILLIS presents a selection of beautiful, delicate pieces perfect for the upcoming Valentine’s Day. Since its inception in 2007, AKILLIS has distinguished itself by creating unique, eye-catching fine jewellery pieces utilizing the brand’s exquisite French know-how and innovative techniques. The creator of AKILLIS, Caroline Gaspard is a modern-day adventurer, a young, audacious and determined woman who created a fine jewellery line that embodies her bold spirit. Each AKILLIS collection reflects a different aspect of her personality and the personalities of the women she so admires. AKILLIS has rejuvenated the traditional world of jewellery by injecting youth and a modern eye for design.

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From Ephemeral Rose to Eternal Rose: A Very Piaget Declaration of Love Celebrate true romance on Valentine’s Day with Piaget Rose jewellery and elegant men’s watches

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Whether an expression of passion or a token of affection, nothing quite says “I love you” like a bouquet of luscious roses. Shared in a moment of complicity between two lovers, roses are symbolic of an enduring romance, a forever love that blooms just like the flower that symbolizes it. What if that tender gift could last beyond that single moment and become as eternal as the love it represents?

In the depths of the Piaget garden, somewhere between sun and shade, magnificent roses are patiently cultivated, captivating variants in gold and diamonds. An ode to the natural beauty of every woman, the Piaget rose reveals her many facets: feminine, delicate, joyful, inspiring and charismatic.

Lovingly gifted on Valentine’s Day, the most romantic of flowers is the ultimate declaration of love.

A rose, a watch, an audacious Piaget creation. One love, yet many different ways to celebrate it on Valentine’s Day. the talk - page 69

jewelry - feature

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Breeze Van Cleef & Arpels is celebrating the holiday season with an enchanting event: Diamond Breeze. This year’s edition showcases pieces adorned only with diamonds - among them new Lotus creations and the sparkling flowers of the Frivole collection. Evoking the beauty of a snow-covered nature, openwork pendants, earrings and Between the Finger rings glisten in a gentle wintry atmosphere.

The luminous style of the Frivole collection lends itself to the festive season: diamonds and white gold light up the skin with their precious brilliance. From the ring and necklace to the earrings and pendant, each creation unfurls heartshaped petals around one to three central stones. Openwork and carefully polished filets – evoking veins on the front and back – are among the details that embody the Maison’s savoir- faire, artfully deployed to highlight the overall brilliance. Accentuating the interplay of reflections, an intricate paving of beadset round diamonds lends a shimmer to the surfaces’ graphic lines.

The models include both solitary flowers and bouquets, each one shimmering in a vibrant ode to the beauty of nature.

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jewelry - feature

Boucheron plays with the codes Serpent Bohème and Quatre, Boucheron’s most iconic collections, are constantly reinvented in unique combinations of gold and diamonds.

The first jeweler of Place Vendôme draws upon all its savoir-faire to bring these exceptional jewels to life. Discover Boucheron’s new creations.

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Quatre, absolute audacity With its super-graphic style and versatile design, Quatre is the collection for strong and bold personalities. This year the bracelets are available in a diamond version. Set within the Clou de Paris motif, the diamonds adorn the bracelet which comes in white, pink or yellow gold.

Serpent Bohème, ultimate femininity The new 2017 pieces play on the voluptuous shapes of the Serpent Bohème collection, liberally exalting its codes.

With their oversize drop motif, the three new necklaces and three pairs of earrings in diamond-paved yellow or white gold reveal all the luxuriance of the Serpent Bohème collection.

In contrast, the small slippers earrings and the long necklace evoke the sublime sensuality of the collection.

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jewelry - feature

Messika x GiGi pieces perfect for valentine’s day Messika Paris and Gigi Hadid’s latest collection provides stunning pieces which are the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day. This exclusive collaboration has combined their respective passions for diamonds and fashion to give birth to a collection where couture meets fine jewelry.

The Messika collection by Gigi Hadid adds rock and even punk accents to “Move”. The designs are strong, the cuts clear and the shapes striking.

“Move Addiction” consists of 12 pieces. Earrings which pierce the lobes, endlessly transformable necklaces, as well as rings and bracelets, to be worn on their own or stacked together, reflecting the strength of the Maison’s signature design.

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jewelry - feature

Celebrate Life and Love with Mouawad Jewelry Promise your beloved an eternity of love and passion with the gift of Mouawad Hearts When it comes to your true love, choosing the perfect gift is never easy. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Mouawad brings you the most distinctive range of gifts to commemorate your eternal love with utter brilliance and romance. From the iconic Flower of Eternity designs, to the heart-shaped Rosette and Love M jewels, Mouawad offers a wide array of bejeweled hearts guaranteed to surprise and delight the person that matters most in your life.

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Flower of Eternity has quickly become a modern classic.

Studied carefully, the flower emblem present in this signature collection by Mouawad reveals its composition of heart shapes. The heart, chosen as a universally recognized emblem of love and passion, appears three times, a symbolic number representing the past, the present, and the future, denoting a promise of eternal love.

Rosette is a gorgeous line of contemporary and opulent jewelry that takes its inspiration from the fabulous rosette jewelry beloved in European fashion from the 14th to the 18th centuries. The collection’s name is inspired by the rose diamond shape that dominated gem cutting styles until the 18th century. Featuring precious diamonds and colored gemstones set in 18-karat white and rose gold, Rosette’s look is as eclectic as it is infinitely classic.

Love M is an adorably fashionable gold and diamond collection, paying tribute to the eternal symbol of love and to the magic of love’s fleeting moments. Inspired by the M-heart motif that streams through Mouawad designs, the Love M collection gives a stylish interpretation to the cherished symbol of love with a glamorous line of 18-karat white and rose gold jewelry adorned with precious diamonds and rubies.

Surprise your loved-one with the special gift of Mouawad Hearts this year, and make it a day she will forever remember. the talk - page 77

watches - feature

Salvatore Ferregamo Ferragamo Casual An elegant design and a feminine feel: Ferragamo Casual is another addition to Salvatore Ferragamo’s bestselling women’s collection.

The minute case features new stirrup lugs which reinterpret the iconic Gancini shape. The double tour soft leather strap comes in four fashionable colors: blue, black, nude and red, which complements the sunray dial for a sophisticated and modern look. Ferragamo Casual is also available in a version with a polished bangle bracelet, made of either steel or IP gold, transforming the timepiece into a chic accessory. the talk - page 78

DS Action Diver Chronograph: Deeply extreme. Uniquely automatic.

The marine world carries its own special challenges for timepieces.

Only a handful are ever truly fit enough to deserve the proud label “diving watch”. Like its predecessors, the latest version of the popular DS Action Diver Chronograph has fully met all ISO 6425 requirements with flying colours and officially boasts a water resistance up to 300 meters. Its ultra-sporty design asserts its place among the greats in nautical timekeeping, a true descendant of the famous CERTINA DS-3, chosen in 1970 by the Australian Navy.

The dynamic character of the new DS Action Diver Chronograph makes no compromises: it is pure extreme sports – above and below the waterline. The ISO 6425 standard imposes stringent requirements on every timepiece candidate, such as the possibility to pre-set a given span of time, great readability in darkness, excellent accuracy and outstanding shock resistance. This new CERTINA chronograph fulfilled these, and many additional strict requirements.

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watches - feature

IWC Schaffhausen Launches Jubilee Collection In Celebration Of 150Th Anniversary IWC Schaffhausen is turning 150. To celebrate this milestone, the company unveiled a special Jubilee collection at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) watch fair in Geneva. It comprises a total of 28 limited-edition models from the Portugieser, Portofino, Pilot’s Watch and Da Vinci families. To mark this occasion, IWC is also launching its first-ever wristwatches to feature the original digital hours and minute display as it appeared on the Pallweber pocket watches back in 1884. The one aesthetic element all these timepieces share is their imprinted dial in white or blue, an effect that is achieved by a process of applying several layers of lacquer, reminiscent of heritage enameled finishes. the talk - page 80

Tissot T-Wave A Ripple of Romance Celebrate your love this Valentine’s Day with the gift of time. The Tissot T-Wave is the perfect way to declare your affection, with its sensual fluidity and gently undulating silhouette making for an elegant love note.

Your beau will appreciate the careful, curved detailing on the case and lugs, while romantic features such as the refined hands which resemble skeletonised leaves and a mother-of-pearl teardrop index add an extra exciting frisson. A beautiful piece of jewellery in its own right, the Tissot T-Wave will look just as good at a cosy cinema date as at a gourmet feast pour deux.

With many different versions available, there really is a model to suit everyone. Fans of classic design will be drawn to the simplicity of a pure dial with a satin or aventurine effect, while those who favour tasteful embellishment will fall for the ribbon unravelling its iridescent and satin reflections on a mother-of-pearl face. For an extraspecial touch for an extra-special partner, the models glimmering with top wesselton diamonds will make for an unforgettable Valentine’s. the talk - page 81

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b e a u t y

t r e n d s

r e v i e w s h e a l t h

t i p s the talk - page 83

beauty - trend

It’s a bang!

Bored of your haircut and want a change? What are better than bangs to compliment your winter outfits.

There are a few tips and tricks if you do decide to go ahead and get bangs. First, to get the voluminous look, add volumizing spray to the roots of your bangs and blow dry to the side with your waves. To leave them sleek and straight, use a flat iron, but remember to use heat protection spray before any styling tools. For an 80’s look, blow dry your blunt bangs with a round brush, else always use a flat iron to style them.

If you’re deciding on going for a more natural look, use a dry texturizing spray to allow your bangs to flow with the rest of your hair’s texture naturally. To grow out bangs, just style them to the side where you can blow dry, curl them, straighten them along with your hair as they grow out. A retro hairstyle is the perfect “do” when growing out your bangs.

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beauty - trend

Our go to makeup look for the fourteenth You’re in your towel staring at yourself in the mirror, looking nervous, surrounded by makeup brushes and products everywhere. “Where do I start?”

Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered. Minimum time and effort, with a fabulous effect. Start with a base such as MAC Prep + Prime, and then work on the eyes, applying a base to your eyelids. What next? Define your crease with a slightly darker colour. Use the same colour on a brow brush and line your lower lash line. Speaking of brows, apply brow powder to the sparse areas. Get your brows on fleek! Last, this is our favourite part, apply thick coats of mascara that matches your hair colour.

As for your face, apply a thin layer of foundation and the start working in the bronzer with your favourite contour brush. Add highlighter to the high points of your face. After you’re done with the face, add drama by adding lashes! Be careful and skip this step for a volumizing mascara if you have any trouble with fake lashes. Line your lips and apply a long-lasting liquid lipstick to complete the look. Shower in some setting spray and get ready for an amazing night out.

Don’t forget the selfies #Valentinesday2018!

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beauty - trend

Introducing Zero Makeup ZERO Makeup, a newly launched innovative make-up brand, introduces its all-inclusive face perfecting palette, a first-of-its-kind system that is designed to enhance and refine a flawless look, allowing women to achieve a fresh, radiant make-up routine within a minute.

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ZERO Makeup is made in the USA and is the brainchild of Nabila, a renowned make-up artist from Pakistan with over 3 decades of experience. Nabila built the brand thriving on the philosophy that beauty shouldn’t be complicated, and wanted to give every woman the opportunity to invisibly perfect her look.

ZERO Makeup announced their new global brand ambassador, Tammin Sursok, who visited Dubai in January 2018 during the launch at Bloomingdales Dubai Mall. The South African-born-Australian is a prominent actress, producer, singer and songwriter; best known for her roles in Home and Away, The Young and the Restless and Pretty Little Liars.

At the heart of the brand, ZERO Makeup is a perfect balance between cosmetics and science. The palette has a micro cache foundation which is created with the finest pigments that layer the skin with an exceptionally light cover. The palette is suitable for all skin types and reduces the signs of fine lines, sun spots, dark circles, pigmentation and uneven skin tones. Taking into account how light interacts with the skin across different complexions and following extensive research across a variety of skin types, ZERO Makeup was created to be quick, easy, convenient and a true booster for everyone’s glowing personality. the talk - page 89

fashion - feature

Laura Mercier: The New Eye & Lip Brush Collection The next evolution in artistry tools — Laura’s collection of 15 essential Artistry Brushes for eyes and lips was designed to maximize the performance of Laura Mercier products and expertly execute her iconic techniques.

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KEY BENEFITS INCLUDE: Contoured shapes crafted for precision: The shape, length and diameter of each pro-quality brush ensures precision application and performance.

Sculpted barrels conform to the shape of the hand allowing for increased comfort and control during application.

High Performance fibers increase durability: High-performance man-made fibers allow for customizable shapes, lengths and waves that maximize the pickup and application of the formula they are paired with. High quality fibers allow for longer wear, less breakage and less fallout.

Better for you: These durable fibers are hypo-allergenic and easier to clean, making them more hygienic than natural fibers. Ideal for sensitive skin.

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beauty - trend

Chanel Le Teint Ultra Tenue Compact CHANEL completes the range of LE TEINT ULTRA TENUE compact foundation color palette with three new shades.

With these three additions, LE TEINT ULTRA TENUE compact foundation now addresses women with darker skin tones in search of a flawless complexion and a luminous, matte finish that stand up to any test, all day long. It is the ideal foundation, uniting coverage, a matte effect and radiance for 12 hours. At the heart of its formula, the PERFECT LIGHT DIFFUSION COMPLEX corrects imperfections and surface irregularities with a sheer finish. Absorbent powders and a duo of zinc and polysaccharide powders keep shiny areas under control, and hydrophobic pigments treated with amino acids create a radiant complexion in all circumstances. Incredibly fine, its silky texture adjusts like a second skin to every curve of the face. Its travel-friendly case and included sponge applicator make it easy to touch up throughout the day.

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Chanel Spring/ Summer 2018 Naples: sacred and sensual, ancient and modern, immortal and spectacular, historical and alive.

For Spring / Summer 2018, Lucia Pica heeds the siren’s call of home to return to the city of her birth anew. Here, Naples’ ever-changing landscape, layered with history, meaning and metaphor, provides the inspiration for colors, moods and techniques that offer a warm, rich and unexpectedly Mediterranean approach for the house – at once antique and utterly contemporary.

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beauty - feature

Charlotte Tilbury Introducing Charlotte’s latest skincare innovation: The Brightening Youth Glow Imagine a magic, brightening skin potion with color-correcting, anti-shadow and glow-boosting super powers to treat, transform and even the complexion from the very first use...

Charlotte Tilbury introduces Brightening Youth Glow, a breakthrough skinbrightening treatment which color-corrects, improves redness, reduces pigmentation, erases dark-shadows and instantly blurs, brightens and smooths giving you the most gorgeously pure complexion with a boosted glow of clarity... every day! Four weeks later, you have the first canvas a.k.a your skin.

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Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick “Lipstick is all about having fun and expressing your mood at any given moment” says Rihanna. “This collection makes it easier than ever because there’s a color for everyone.”

High-octane pigment meets 14 unexpectedly universal shades to complement all moods, all skin tones, all day. Rihanna wanted to make the matte lipstick of your dreams a reality, and created the ultimate plush matte formula with mega rich color minus the weight, in a shade range that would empower everyone to explore new looks.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect red, everyday nude, or moody blue, Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick makes it easier than ever to rock the entire rainbow. Rihanna loves changing up her lipstick depending on her current mood or look, so she hand-picked the range of 14 shades that anyone can pull off, with names that embody the personality of each color.

Thanks to Mattemoiselle’s chic, slim design, you can effortlessly define lips with the ultimate control, for lips that look fuller with every stroke. The ultra slim lipstick has a longwearing, petal-soft matte finish, with a light-as-air texture that glides on creamy and stays put—no bleeding or feathering after application. Just swipe on and go! the talk - page 95

beauty - feature

Laura Mercier Velour Extreme Matte Lipstick Extreme Color. Extreme Matte. Extreme Control.

Laura Mercier has always loved a good matte lipstick but was never able to find the perfect comfortable formula until now. Introducing, Velour Extreme Matte Lipstick – an extremely matte lipstick that delivers instant, full coverage intensity and long-lasting, creamy comfort. Velour Extreme Matte Lipstick provides the powdermatte finish Laura used to create on set at shoots, but without the drag or dryness.

The pigment-packed explosion of color fuses mattifying powders and silky conditioners, creating the ultimate matte lipstick, without drying or cracking. Slim precision bullet grabs, defines and fills your lips in one effortless stroke.

Built-in shaper to customize the tip for lining and filling. Ideal for creating edgy effects and everyday extremes.

“Never underestimate the power of dramatic lips.”

-Laura Mercier

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DIPTYQUE

Valentine’s Day 2018: Rose Delight For its new limited-edition collection Rose Delight, Diptyque is bringing the Orient into the lovers’ garden, drawing inspiration from the Turkish Delight, a luscious sweet born on the shores of the Bosphorus. Rose under the influence. This delicately full-bodied redolence is captured by the pop-oriented eye of a rising star in the world of graphic design. In the background, the Toile de Jouy – cotton fabric featuring bucolic images that created quite a stir among the 18th century Versailles elite. This printed fabric lined the walls of the avant-garde aristocrats’ salons, embodying what would come to be known as the French Touch long before its time.

Under Leslie David’s mischievous wand, loves frolics take on oriental motifs, echoing Rose Delight’s sweet smell.

Peacocks and palm trees, swans and the Taj Mahal, the chivalrous rural scenes Marie Antoinette loved so much steal the show. At that same time, in Constantinople, a young confectioner invented a soft, tender treat in which candied rose unites with honey under the blessings of lemon and powdered sugar giving birth to the incomparable Turkish Delight. Soon, couples began to offer each other these sweets wrapped in little handkerchiefs as a symbol of their love.

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health - interview

Royale Hayat:

Dr. Ahmed Al Qallaf Dr. Ahmed Al Qallaf is a consultant at Royale Hayat Hospital. His specialty is in internal medicine, nephrology and transplantation. Dr. Ahmed graduated from Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine in the year 2003. When only the study of internal medicine was not enough and satisfactory, Dr Qallaf proceeded to Toronto for a fellowship in nephrology that lasted for two years and later for a year in Montreal to study transplantation. The reason he chose nephrology, is that amongst all specialties in medicine, this specialty is one of the most difficult as you have to study all specialties to excel in it. It is a very challenging specialty and Dr. Ahmed Al Qallaf has been taught and trained by the Gurus of medicine themselves and received a Young Investigator Award for the American Transplant Congress (ATC) 2015 meeting.

Text by Rawan Qabazard

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Why Are the Kidneys So Important?

Most people know that a major function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess fluid from the body. These waste products and excess fluid are removed through the urine. The production of urine involves highly complex steps of excretion and re-absorption. This process is necessary to maintain a stable balance of body chemicals.

The critical regulation of the body’s salt, potassium and acid content is performed by the kidneys. The kidneys also produce hormones that affect the function of other organs.

For example, a hormone produced by the kidneys stimulates red blood cell production. Other hormones produced by the kidneys help regulate blood pressure and control calcium metabolism.

Where Are the Kidneys and How Do They Function?

There are two kidneys, each about the size of a fist, located on either side of the spine at the lowest level of the rib cage.

Each kidney contains up to a million functioning units called nephrons. A nephron consists of a filtering unit of tiny blood vessels called a glomerulus attached to a tubule. When blood enters the glomerulus, it is filtered and the remaining fluid then passes along the tubule. In the tubule, chemicals and water are either added to or removed from this filtered fluid according to the body’s needs, the final product being the urine we excrete.

The kidneys perform their life-sustaining job of filtering and returning to the bloodstream about 200 quarts of fluid every 24 hours. About two quarts are removed from the body in the form of urine, and about 198 quarts are recovered. The urine we excrete has been stored in the bladder for anywhere from 1 to 8 hours.

What Are Some of the Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease is defined as having some type of kidney abnormality, or “marker”, such as protein in the urine and having decreased kidney function for three months or longer.

There are many causes of chronic kidney disease. The kidneys may be affected by diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Some kidney conditions are inherited (run in families). Others are congenital; that is, individuals may be born with an abnormality that can affect their kidneys.

How is Chronic Kidney Disease Detected?

Early detection and treatment of chronic kidney disease are the keys to keeping kidney disease from progressing to kidney failure. Some simple tests can be done to detect early kidney disease. They are: • A test for protein in the urine. Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (ACR), estimates the amount of an albumin that is in your urine. An excess amount of protein in your urine may mean your kidney’s filtering units have been damaged by disease.

One positive result could be due to fever or heavy exercise, so your doctor will want to confirm your test over several weeks.

Dr. Ahmed Al Qallaf Position: Consultant Internal Medicine, Nephrology & Transplantation Department: Internal Medicine Qualifications: Board in Internal Medicine (KIMS).

Nephrology Clinical Fellowship, University of Toronto, Canada.

Renal Transplant Fellowship at McGill University, Member of American Society of Nephrology (ASN).

Member of American Society of Transplantation (AST).

• A test for blood creatinine. Your doctor should use your results, along with your age, race, gender and other factors, to calculate your glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Your GFR tells how much kidney function you have.

Can Kidney Disease Be Successfully Treated?

Many kidney diseases can be treated successfully. Careful control of diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure can help prevent kidney disease or keep it from getting worse.

Kidney stones and urinary tract infections can usually be treated successfully. Unfortunately, the exact causes of some kidney diseases are still unknown, and specific treatments are not yet available for them. Sometimes, chronic kidney disease may progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Treating high blood pressure with special medications called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors often helps to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease. A great deal of research is being done to find more effective treatment for all conditions that can cause chronic kidney disease.

What Are the Warning Signs of Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease usually affects both kidneys. If the kidneys’ ability to filter the blood is seriously damaged by disease, wastes and excess fluid may build up in the body. Although many forms of kidney disease do not produce symptoms until late in the course of the disease, there are six warning signs of kidney disease: High blood pressure, blood and/or protein in the urine, a creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) blood test, outside the normal range; BUN and creatinine are waste that build up in your blood when your kidney function is reduced, more frequent urination, particularly at night; difficult or painful urination, and also puffiness around eyes, swelling of hands and feet. the talk - page 99

health - feature

Royale Hayat:

Cut it out

Most of our new year’s resolutions included cutting out something unhealthy out of our diet. Well, as some might say January was a trial month; our new year in actuality starts this February!

So we’re cutting sugar out of our diet for 28 days. Let’s consider this a challenge to follow and reward ourselves with… well chocolate cake on day 29!

We’re not saying give up your bananas and peanut butter; just throw away your cookies and brownies. Aside from the weight gain factor, studies have shown that sugar causes tooth decay, hypertension, diabetes, and depression. That’s only the beginning! Cutting sugar out of your diet will shock your body at first and you will cause sugar withdrawal symptoms. This will only last for a couple of days. Replace sugar with other healthy alternatives such as honey or Stevia. Stick to organic substitutes as a way of rewarding your body with the best of the best. the talk - page 100

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a r t i s t s

f o c u s

i n t e r v i e w s e d i t o r i a l s the talk - page 103

art & design - automotive

Ferrari 812 Superfast Ferrari is yet again pushing the boundaries of its own achievements. The obsessive pursuit of the most seamless melding possible of state-ofthe-art running gear with a harmonious yet edgy design, Ferrari presents the 812 Superfast.

Wardrobe by Dananeer Photographer Faisal Al-Bisher / Art Director DoubleA.Studio the talk - page 104

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art & design - automotive

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lifestyle - automotive

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art & design - automotive

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lifestyle - automotive

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art & design - automotive

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art & design - automotive

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Kuwait Automobile & Trading Co. Official Ferrari Dealer Kuwait Tel: +965 22255438 www.dealer.ferrari.com/al-zayani the talk - page 119

art & design - interview

Graffiti artist Sfhir at ARGAN Square Street-art invoking originality and emotions. Graffiti, an undeniable form of visual communication and art.

Art is creativity in its purest sense; to unlock the young generation’s minds ARGAN Square wanted to make sure that the visitors to this place have something beautiful and illustrative to enjoy, such as the graffiti mural created by Spanish artist Sfhir and the graffiti wall painted by local artists.

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art & design - interview

Sfhir’s work closely resembles the youth and pop-culture of Kuwait. As Sfhir says, he always tries to make a positive impact with his art, and here in Kuwait he believes that his artwork will instill more life and creativity especially with the young generation, a generation that loves, appreciates and respects music, nature, animals and other beautiful aspects of life in Kuwait.

As far as Sfhir can remember he had painted all his life, ever since he was a child. In school, he was always painting and drawing in his books.

However, he decided to study computer programming not knowing what else to pursue at that point of time. After graduation from a university in Madrid, his hometown, he worked for a large firm, and later went on to establish his own computer programming company. It was a rather successful one, and it was also a success for the society, but not for Sfhir. He was not happy and decided to turn his life around and start working on his art. He told us, “I was scared at first because in the beginning you don’t know how to grab customers’ attention and you don’t know what exactly they are looking for. But it’s easier to work with something you are passionate about, as the results are obvious.”

Sfhir’s love for art was not limited to drawing and sketching in his books, in parallel, he loved typical graffiti art – painting on trains and on walls. “I don’t vandalize, I respect people’s spaces but when I paint I want to make places better not just for me, but for the rest of the people as well”, he mentions. He painted on bridges and random places, when the police came they were always impressed with his work, he was making the city more colorful and vibrant and people loved that.

When asked to describe himself as an artist, Sfhir said, “It’s difficult to draw a border. At the moment, I think when you understand art, when it comes to graffiti, it’s like an advertising campaign for yourself because you leave your mark on it. You start taking care of the talk - page 122

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art & design - interview

statistical aspects as a graffitist because you start thinking in making the place look better because it will have your mark on it. I like to experiment! When there’s a new tool I always want to try it out and test my limits. My first time here in Kuwait was last year, I was showing my work that I have experimented with a few years ago with a friend which was using ultra violet lasers, LEDs, and common light bulbs to sketch. For me experimentation is the most important thing in art.”

As with every artist, there is always a special project that holds significance in the artist’s heart. For Sfhir that was a hard question as there were lot of projects that he liked and has enjoyed. Year by year there’s a new one! One special project to him was his Portugal snake, he absolutely loved it. It was very hard to finish as it was gigantic and it was very detailed.

Another project he loved was completed three months ago. It was a huge mural on the floor, its 3200 square meters, you can also see it on Google Maps. It was also difficult but Sfhir was very happy with the results. When asked about his mural at ARGAN Square he started talking about the place and atmosphere itself, “The place is young and hip. Somewhere for artists, musicians, and creative individuals to come together. The mural is supposed to influence the place, and people in terms of art, sports, and music. It was amazing because people kept stopping every time they passed by the mural. The feedback was amazing.”

ARGAN Square is designed to bring the youth and creative minds together to a trendy lifestyle/community center. The outdoor square in the center is where all the activities and events of ARGAN Square take place.

ARGAN Square hosts many activities in relation to art, music, entrepreneurship and open to many other lifestyle events. The project is aimed to be the handout place and provide students and Kuwait’s youth with a fun and modish destination to study, work or just hang out. the talk - page 124

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art & design - feature

The Bed Shop The Bed shop offers a range of baby room sets including a baby girl set, a baby boy set and a unisex set. Our range includes an extendable baby crib, a wardrobe and a dresser. In addition, the sets can be used for infants up to 10 years by extending the baby crib into a child’s bed using a lift mechanism. The patterns on the wooden doors, crowns and surfaces are created by using laser technology. It is a smart purchase with plenty of storage space for your baby.

Photography by Jalil Marvin

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art & design - feature

In an effort to further satisfy customer needs, a new line of home accessories, chairs and tables, carpets and dining rooms have been added to the Bedshop’s earlier stellar selection of products.

All photographed products are exclusively available in Kuwait at showrooms: Tilal Complex - Shuwaikh, Hamra Tower - Sharq, Madouh Complex – Hawally and Dalal Complex - Dajeej.

Contact: 22444160

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t r a v e l h o m e

/

h o t e l s d e c o r

a u t o m o t i v e s r e s t a u r a n t s e v e n t s h o r o s c o p e s

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lifestyle - feature

Sketch

London’s leading food and art destination Located in the heart of Mayfair, Sketch is the eclectic art and dining destination of our dreams. Sketch’s menu, a melting pot of cuisines from around the globe, with influences from Japan, Italy, Spain, France, and Britain, and a unique atmosphere makes for the perfect setting to indulge. Truly reminiscent of a gallery, the entrance hall in itself establishes the distinct whimsical atmosphere that sets Sketch apart from any other London hotspot, laced with eye catching installations and artworks. At Sketch, more is always more. The entrance hall leads to the gastro-brasserie’s 5 main rooms: the Lecture Room, the Gallery, the Glade, the Parlour, and the East Bar. All being uniquely curated spaces, the 5 rooms continuously challenge boundaries of dining and design.

The Gallery, now the cult favorite among Sketch’s abundance of dining experiences, was created with the help of Turner Prize-winning artist David Shrigley. The iconically monochromatic pink room is adorned wall-to-wall with Shrigley’s work. His satirical illustrations give the space a strange yet enticing childlike quality that has never been done in a fine dining setting. Unlike any other dining destination, Sketch appeals to our inner child, serving as a portal into the fantasy worlds of our infinite subconscious.

Text by Taiba Al-Nassar

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lifestyle - feature

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lifestyle - automotive

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

The Year Of Bespoke The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Bespoke department is an extraordinary collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople, who bring the marque’s discerning and influential patrons’ most ambitious and personal visions to reality.

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Today, almost every motor car that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England, is Bespoke. 2017 was the year that Rolls-Royce elevated Bespoke to unprecedented new levels, resulting in one of the most significant years for Bespoke in the 114-year history of the brand. What follows is a snapshot of some of the finest examples of Bespoke design and craftsmanship to be completed by the luxury house over the past 12 months.

‘Sweptail’ Rolls-Royce ‘Sweptail’, the realisation of one customer’s coachbuilt dream. Premiered in 2017, ‘Sweptail’ is a compelling representation of true luxury, taking Bespoke coachbuild personalisation to new heights. The result of a collaboration between patron and artisan, ‘Sweptail’s’ bold design embraces the marque’s heritage as the world’s leading coachbuilder whilst reaffirming its pinnacle position in Bespoke personalisation.

This automotive equivalent of Haute Couture draws on the lineage of 1920s and 1930s Rolls-Royce motor cars. The client’s vision was for a coachbuilt two seater coupé featuring a large panoramic glass roof. The result is a contemporary masterpiece.

‘Sweptail’ is a personal, Bespoke, motor car like no other.

New Phantom and ‘The Gallery’ – An Art Gallery on Wheels New Rolls-Royce Phantom was unveiled to global critical acclaim in 2017. At the heart of the motor car’s design aesthetic is ‘The Gallery’, a contemporary and luxury reinterpretation of a motor car’s dashboard and instrument panel.

Dawn and Wraith at Porto Cervo Two unique motor cars were created in honour of the 2017 RollsRoyce Summer Studio, Porto Cervo, Sardinia. A Bespoke Dawn Drophead Coupé and a Wraith Black Badge were commissioned to encapsulate the essence of this beguiling island.

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lifestyle - automotive

‘Spirit of Calligraphy’ Ghost A special one-off commission unveiled in Dubai in 2017, the Bespoke ‘Spirit of Calligraphy’ Ghost draws its design inspiration from the ancient art of Arabic calligraphy. Words are harmoniously moulded into shapes, creating a unique effect where texts and images become one. Sir Henry Royce’s resonant words “Take the best that exists and make it better.

When it does not exist, design it”, in their Arabic form are shaped into Rolls-Royce’s flying mascot, the Spirit of Ecstasy.

The calligraphy motif, created by renowned artist Khaled Al Saai, features as a silver inlay on the centre panel and as embroidery on the rear centre seat, amidst an eye-catching array of Turchese, Black and Arctic White leathers. the talk - page 138

‘Elegance’ Commissioned for an individual collector, the Ghost ‘Elegance’ raised the bar of Bespoke by becoming the first Rolls-Royce to be finished in a paint infused with diamonds. The flanks of the motor car are highlighted with Mugello Red and Black twin coachlines, reflected inside with black leather seats and accents in Mugello Red, carried through stitching on the doors and piping on the seats. The detailed fascia of smooth open-pore Tudor Oak veneer is also complemented with a Mugello Red single stitch along the top of the dashboard, and finished with a Bespoke clock.

‘Dawn B50’ for Hotel Byblos In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Hotel Byblos in Saint-Tropez in 2017, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars revealed the ‘Dawn B50’, a highly Bespoke and unique motor car inspired by the warmth and vibrancy of the Côte d’Azur. Commissioned by the Hotel Byblos as the automotive ‘Jewel of Saint-Tropez’, the Dawn B50 exudes two dominant exterior colours. The lustrous combination was developed exclusively to celebrate the hotel’s anniversary, along with bespoke door treadplates and a unique hand-painted coachline on each side bearing the ‘B50’ logo. The sophisticated interior takes inspiration from the intense Mediterranean sun, with vibrant tangerine tones that accentuate the dashboard and echo the stitching across the seat upholstery and floor mats.

Homage to a special Silver Dawn Prominently displayed at the Home of Rolls-Royce is a remarkably rare 1952 Silver Dawn Drophead Coupé, one of very few ever made. It was sold new to a customer in Canada, and in 2017 a commission for a new Dawn from the same country led to a beautiful homage to this particular car in its 65th anniversary year.

Finished in two-tone Midnight Sapphire and Jubilee Silver, the new Dawn closely emulates the original finishes of the 1952 motor car, with a Bespoke painted coachline, broken for the first time on a Rolls-Royce. Inside, Selby Grey and Navy leather are combined with Crossbanded Walnut Burr veneer, closely matched to the original. The finishing touches include a Bespoke clock with ‘1952’ lettering and a Spirit of Ecstasy veneer inlay. the talk - page 139

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Furthermore, dealer organizations across the Middle East, Africa and India opened up order books for several other new models set to arrive in early 2018, including the highly anticipated third generation Cayenne, the recordbreaking 911 GT2 RS, an all-new Panamera Sport Turismo, 718 GTS range as well as the refined 911 Carrera T.

Representing a year of major milestones for Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, we saw the kick-off of an unprecedented product offensive, with the announcement of several new Porsche sports cars, resulting in an evergrowing choice for customers across the region. The last 12 months saw the arrival of the new generation Panamera, including the fastest model in the series, the new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. The brand’s iconic 911 range saw new additions in the form of the 911 GTS range, 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series and 911 GT3.

Porsche Middle East and Africa concludes 2017 and kicks off 2018 with the most diverse model line-up in history

lifestyle - events

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Now drivers face a different challenge with a six-week break already

After four pulsating races of the twelve-race season Britain’s Tom Oliphant (96 pts) has opened up a six-point gap over emerging Omani star Al Faisal Al Zubair (90 pts) in the overall standings, with Charlie Frijns lying third (72pts). The slender lead for Oliphant came courtesy of a historic victory in the landmark 100th race of the championship, held recently at the Dubai Autodrome.

The fierce competition between leading drivers at the top of the standings of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East Season 9 is expected to increase further, despite having entered a short winter break.

The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East returns to Dubai on 26th – 27th January 2018, before visiting Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit, 2nd – 3rd February 2018. The final two rounds will be held in Bahrain, with the series coming to a thrilling conclusion as an official support race for the 2018 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

underway at a pivotal time. The region’s first and only professional championship is set to return to action at the Dubai Autodrome on the 26th and 27th January 2018. For many who feature in the championship the annual break over new year poises an interesting dilemma and forces an important decision to be made. Keep racing or rest and recharge?

Drivers show no sign of slowing down during short winter break in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East

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Rousteing designed an offering that compliments the modern stylish silhouette that Victoria’s Secret is known for, while incorporating Balmain’s instantly identifiable style. The collection builds upon the house’s couture legacy while reflecting the way women want to dress today.

The 22-piece collection includes an assortment of bras, panties, lingerie, t-shirts and handbags. High-fashion product details include tartan prints, custom graffiti graphics, Swarovski® crystals, mesh, studs and sexy straps. Prices range from KD 10 – KD 102.5.

Rousteing also designed the PUNK ANGEL section for the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show where the full VS x BALMAIN collection was revealed on Supermodels including Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, Jasmine Tookes, Sara Sampaio and Josephine Skriver.

Victoria’s Secret limited edition capsule collection, VS x BALMAIN, designed by Olivier Rousteing, Creative Director of Balmain Paris, is available in Grand Avenue – The Avenues (starting December 20th).

Victoria’s Secret And Balmain Paris Exclusive Collection Vs X Balmain

lifestyle - events

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Royale Hayat Hospital cares about conducting many symposiums and workshops in different medical fields to be updated with the latest and most modern methods of treatment, communicate and exchange information and experiences in order to provide the best care and health services.

The objectives of the symposium were to introduce all members of the multi-professional team to the role of the specialist pelvic health physiotherapist, develop an understanding of the evidence-based assessment and treatment options available to women presenting to the pelvic health physiotherapist, and to increase awareness of healthy bladder, bowel and pelvic floor habits. The symposium has highlighted the importance of physical therapy in maternity services, urinary and bowel problems in women and how to improve it. It has laid out the new modalities of assessment, diagnostic and treatment of Urogynecology and the importance of Physiotherapy treatment before any surgical intervention.

The participants’ feedback highlighted the need of further workshop and training in this field. Our Physiotherapy Clinic, led by our physiotherapist Cindy Amin, has been effective in developing, arranging and in the recognition of this symposium.

The symposium was conducted by a group of international speakers from United Kingdom: Teresa Cook - Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, Julia Herbert - Consultant Physiotherapist Bladder, Bowel and Pelvic floor dysfunction, and Stephanie Knight - Principal Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Urodynamics Specialist. In addition, the symposium was well attended by Physiotherapists from Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Royale Hayat Hospital has established an international symposium in Physiotherapy for Women’s Health, under the supervision of Dr. Abubakr Elmardi - Head and Consultant of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and the Head of Urogynecology Unit, the Physiotherapist - Cindy Amin.

Royale Hayat Hospital conducted an international symposium in the role of Physical Therapy in Women’s Health

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Peter Green, Group General Manager of Behbehani Motors Company, said: “Since its initial launch, the Cayenne has been one of the most popular models in Kuwait, and I have no doubt that the third generation, which offers even more sports car performance and practicality, will continue this success story. For me, the new Cayenne’s versatility is truly unique. It is at home on any road, but it is equally ready to explore new terrain. It enjoys a short sprint as much as a long road trip, and the commute to work as much as a lap on the track. It is capable of producing a superb drive experience virtually anywhere, and that is really what sets the Cayenne apart from any other SUV. We’re very excited to be welcoming it to Kuwait today.”

A completely new development brings the Cayenne closer to its racetrack roots and offers greater versatility and more performance than ever before. Powerful turbocharged engines, enhanced chassis systems, a range of off-road modes and a sharper design underpin the model’s credentials as a true sports car in its segment.

Additional enhancements to the latest generation also include intelligent assistance systems and more connectivity features aimed at offering improved driver and passenger comfort.

The latest generation of Porsche’s successful SUV model line is now available in Kuwait. Arrival of the brand’s flagship SUV was celebrated at a special event held by Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company at Crowne Plaza Hotel, where the Cayenne and Cayenne S, were showcased to attending guests.

Third generation Cayenne set to continue success story Porsche Centre Kuwait welcomes new Cayenne models

lifestyle - events

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Saint Laurent has opened the doors to yet another store in Kuwait.

The Kuwait 360 Mall store is 1250 sq ft, offering women’s ready to wear collections and a wide range of accessories. Currently in stores is a wide variety of Valentine’s Day gifting options and also the latest Spring/Summer 2018 collection.

Newly Reopened Saint Laurent Store in 360 Mall

lifestyle - horoscopes

horoscopes Aries (Mar. 21-April 20)

Taurus (Apr. 21-May 21)

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

During February 2018 Aries zodiac will follow their own path independently.

Professional prospects depend on hard work and financial progress will be superb. Relationship with family members shows signs of tension. Sun and mercury will help your social life and issues related to family growth.

Health will be adequate

Planets are helping Taurus star sign to complete demanding jobs in their profession. Venus is boosting your love life and family members will help you to succeed in your financial arena.

Social life will be active and health prospects are bright

While the Sun is trying to help career development of Gemini astrology sign, retrograde of planets is holding you back. Finances are helped by the Moon in February 2018. Love life with your spouse requires mutual understanding.

Health can be maintained with more rest after the 19th.

Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23)

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Venus and family will help the finances of Libra zodiac sign. Love is quite active and singles will have no problem in getting into romantic alliances in February 2018. Health can be improved with a good fitness and diet regime. Career will be in the background.

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Love relationships for Scorpio sun sign are influenced by Venus, Uranus and Neptune and will be exciting.

Finances require more effort to earn the same amount after the 19th.

Career development will be great, but health will require more rest.

February 2018 predictions for Sagittarius astrology zodiac indicate that family and psychological issues dominate over career. Finances are helped by social contacts. You are held back in love life till the 16th. Health can be improved by sufficient breaks and by conserving energy.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Career and outer success dominate the life of Cancer zodiac during February 2018. Be cautious with money matters. Health will be wonderful.

Relationship with your spouse will face some disturbances. Singles are able to attract romantic partners.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) predicts that the main areas of development this month are family and emotional growth. Planetary power is located in the southern half of the horoscope. You are focussing on developing your personality based on spiritual strength. This will help you in developing your career in future.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Love life will be pleasant for Leo star sign and Uranus is helping your social activities. Health prospects brighten after the 19th. Monetary situation is lagging till the 16th.

Your emotional strength will propel your career success.

Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 19) Sun and Mercury will enhance the charm of Aquarius sun sign during the month. Career prospects are driven by ambition and hard work.

Finances are very encouraging with the monetary support of your partner. Family environment is chaotic. Health will be normal.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 23) Retrograde of planets in February 2018 is making Virgo sun sign less vibrant. Financial success is backed by your creativity and new career openings are available. Perfection of a Virgo will limit choice of partners for singles. Health will be problematic.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Career progress of Pisces zodiac sign is achieved with the help of planetary assistance. Finances are improved by indulging in philanthropic activities.

Health will be wonderful in February 2018. Your spouse will be busy with professional activities

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Published by PH7 Publishing House www.passionsarabia.com

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