Issue 91 / March 2017
Tamara Qabazard Heart of a lion, wings of a phoenix
QUATRE Grosgrain & Clou de Paris Bracelets
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content/ 16. Skin Back to Back
fashion/
18. It was all yellow 20. Vivienne Westwood 24. CĂŠline 28. Acne Studios 30. Weekend Max Mara
jewelry & watches
92. Copper Faces 94. Boucheron 96. Chabi Nouri 98. BIG BANG 102. Silver Lining
health & beauty/ art & design/
110. Maintaining Manes 112. Paint it Burgundy 114. ULTRAcel 116. Sleep Hygiene
120. Jane Rosen 124. Faisal Babajan 126. Caroline Denervaud
132. Tamara Qabazard
lifestyle/
140. Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa 146. Events 152. Horoscopes
On the cover: Tamara Qabazard wearing H&M SS17 Studio collection
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the team/ Editor-in-Chief Nouf Al-Ha jri Publisher Zeina Mokaddam General Manager Chimene Ibrahim Creative Director Yousif Abdulsaid Copywriter Pamela Azzi Fashion & Beauty Editor Zeina Al Ayoub
Features Editor Saad Tayee
Contributors Faisal Alshawa
Nasser Ashour
Farah Bishara
Senior Graphic Designer Chadi Moufied Managing Editor Simon Balsom
Head of Photography Maher Al-Nouri
Production Manager Nidal Al-Shaker
Legal Consultant Khaled Al-Kandari
Circulation: 10,000 Copies
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: thetalk@ph7-kw.com www.ph7-kw.com WWW.THETALK-ONLINE.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 10
letter/ We live in a world filled with ever-improving technological, medical and scientific advancements. For these, we have an abundance of doctors, scientists and engineers to thank. Similarly, it could be argued that we are also living in the most socially transcendent period in history. For that, we must thank those who chose their conscience, morals and ethics in the face of all adversity. In this issue, we had the pleasure of meeting Kuwait’s very first female veterinarian, Tamara Qabazard. By day, she works tirelessly on ensuring the safety and wellness of the animals at the Kuwait Zoo. By night, Tamara is pioneering the nation’s aerialist movement. Our health section includes an enlightening piece on Sleep Hygiene, by contributor Faisal Al Shawa. From tips on the environment of your bedroom to habits that you should adopt and avoid, this read will definitely enhance the quality and quantity of your sleep. Till next issue, The Talk Team
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The Avenues, Al Kout, The Gate, Al Mohalab, Marina, 360 Mall, Airport, Promenade – 22244522 - 23930178 - 22597461
t r e n d s i n t e r v i e w s e d i t o r i a l s w a t c h e s
fashion - trend
Skin Back to Back There is a thin line between showing too much or too little skin, but who’s to say? Who gets to decide what is what? It all comes down to the clothes we wear and how we choose to wear them. You can take something that might be perceived as tacky and turn it into something sophisticated, and vice versa. Fashion is an ever-changing language that encompasses its whole history while at the same time creating its future. Isn’t it time to join the fray and utilize its little-used tools to create some exciting drama? Shoulders and legs are dependable but predictable, so why not flaunt your back next time you have a dinner date with your girlfriends or a little get together in one of your friends’ house parties? Low-cut backs are a bit risque to incorporate into an outfit so if you ever decide to take on this trend, start off simple by wearing a dress that has a low-cut back and see how you feel about it. Many renowned designers like Guy Laroche, Versace, Ralph & Russo, and Alexander McQueen made it possible for fashionable risk takers to ease into this complex trend with maximum grace and elegance. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington & Helena Christensen for Gianni Versace, Autumn-Winter 1991, Couture
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fashion - trend
It was all yellow A sun-drenched hue When life gives you lemons, well, you make beautiful fabric out of those zesty peels. From bright yellow to mustard, the yellow palette is taking the fashion industry by storm from the streets of Paris, London, and New York to fashion week runways and celebrities on the Red Carpet. How in the world are we supposed to incorporate an exuberant color such as yellow without having it overpowering our outfits? Is its okay to look like a walking sun or will it draw too much attention? That’s what fashion is all about, having access to tools and trends you can choose to simply accent with or go full force into. Christopher Kane, Junya Watanabe, and Valentino are some of the great designer brands that made us reconsider this thorny hue when they unveiled their collection on the runways and left us in awe. Now that spring is just around the corner, it is time to unleash your fashionable inner-self and be as wild and bright as the yellow sun. Drench your sense of style in liquid yellow with either a maxi beach dress or a simple custardy top with a pair of your favorite jeans. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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Christy Turlington For Prada 1991 the talk - page 19
fashion - designer focus
Vivienne Westwood Vivienne Westwood needs no introduction; master, madwoman, maven – she is all and none of what we attribute to her. A veritable sartorial sorceress, her work has had a lasting influence on fashion; plaid, punk, and drama, she is unquestionably one of the Great Dames of fashion. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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fashion - designer focus
On 8th of April 1941 in Tintwistle, Derbyshire, Dame Vivienne Isabel Westwood was born to Gordon and Dora Swire. Vivienne graduated from the Glossop Grammar School and when her parents moved to London in 1958 she attended the Harrow School of Art at Westminster University where she studied fashion and silversmithing for a semester but eventually dropped out. She later on worked in a factory and attended a teachers training college and with time became a primary school teacher. During this period, she started designing her own jewelry, and sold her pieces on Portobello Road in a stall. This ultimately led to her discovering design and that’s when she met Malcom McLaren who became a major inspiration to her designs in Punk Fashion. “I didn’t consider myself a fashion designer at all at the time of punk. I was just using fashion as a way to express my resistance and to be rebellious. I came from the country, and by the time I got to London, I considered myself to be very stupid. It was my ambition to understand the world I live in.” She began designing clothes for McLaren’s boutique, located on 430 King’s Road, their designs grabbed the attention of people after a famous punk band flaunted their clothes. In 1990 Westwood launched her first exclusive line of menswear in Florence and later opened her own shop ‘The Vivienne Westwood shop’ in London. She was named British Designer of the Year that year, and in 1991. the talk - page 22
Vivienne Westwood & Malcolm McLaren
Tracie O’Keefe modelling Vivienne Westwood clothing for Seditionaries, 1977. Photo by Ku Khanh.
Vivienne Westwood by Claire Wilcox
From sending men down the runway wearing fake breasts in her autumn/winter 2003 menswear collection, to being late on stage to collect her Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design at the British Fashion Awards, Westwood always did things differently; she once said “When I was a schoolgirl my history teacher, Mr. Scott, spoke with pride of civilization and democracy. The hatred of arbitrary arrest by the lettres de cachet of the French monarchy caused the storming of the Bastille. We can only take democracy for granted if we insist on our liberty.” when she was asked to explain the roots of her beliefs. With an assortment of successful journeys of being a fashion designer, to being involved in politics, and to having her designs featured in the famous television show Sex and the City, Vivienne Westwood never ceases to amaze us with each piece she designs and presents to us. the talk - page 23
fashion - feature
Céline Spring Summer 2017 With silhouettes that portray individual personalities from the Céline collection, Pheobe wanted her deigns to be seen through Dan Graham’s installation, making her collection come off as interesting, chaotic, and powerful to the audience. The Céline collection comes in a variety of designs, from strong tailoring and fluid pleated jersey dresses to beautiful cotton shirt dresses. The colors adopted to complete her collection were black, white, grey, and toffee, as well as a touch of blue, pale yellow and a dash of pink and absinth as accent colors. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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fashion - feature
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fashion - feature
Paolo Roversi shoots portrait series for Acne Studios Acne Studios is pleased to announce that it has commissioned Paolo Roversi to create a series of portraits featuring artists, writers and creative personalities where they will be showcasing pieces from the Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The portrait series will be shown outdoors in New York, Hong Kong, Paris and Milan. “This collection is about openness, and looking out into the world. I wanted to see what would happen when we asked Paolo to shoot portraits of artists and creative personalities from many different countries, with his own signature and atmosphere. Watching him work in his studio in Paris was like alchemy and such an honor.” – Jonny Johansson, Creative Director Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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Fatima Al Qadiri, Kuwait-born musician and artist
Golshifteh Farahani, an Iranian actress, musician and singer who lives in France.
Hayv Kahraman, an Iraqi-born artist now living in Sweden
Sadaf H. Nava, a New York-based performance artist born in Iran
The Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2017 collection will launch in stores and on acnestudios.com mid-March. the talk - page 29
fashion - feature
The Pasticcino Bag Weekend Max Mara Launched in 1984 as a casual, outdoor collection ideal for weekends, the label evolved rapidly over the years to become the brand with the specific identity we know today. So, no longer just leisurewear; The Weekend MaxMara label is a very rich, sophisticated and complete wardrobe. Specially designed for the MaxMara woman to give her an all-inclusive solution, whatever she needs and whatever the occasion may be. The Weekend MaxMara label is about easy - chic fashion with a touch of glamour. Take the Pasticcino Bag, the latest must-have style from Weekend Max Mara, With its fluffy volume, oversized clasp and cheerful patterns. It is an instant mood-booster that sets a playful tone for easy weekends, spirited parties or spontaneous evenings after work. Offered in two sizes and a range of materials, it easily veers from fancy to fun, from an easy piece to run around with, to a more important, statement-making accessory. For the Spring Summer 2017 collection, the Pasticcino Bag draws its inspiration from little antique markets alive with memorabilia, souvenirs and rare finds. Ancestral traditions make their way in from Africa; thanks to advanced digital printing techniques that reproduce on cotton canvas the colors and symbols of “Mud cloth� from Mali. The influence of silks from the Far East and Tuscan raffia baskets are mirrored in the dark tones of spices and medicinal herbs. Blue and red stripes, reminiscent of the Deauville beach umbrellas of the Sixties, are featured on cotton and linen fabric, while the maxi checks draw their inspiration from plastic tablecloths and from the Goblin jacquards of the sofas. The shades of pink, lavender and rosemary come from the colors of the old family mansions, and the gorgeous embroidery with mirror details are reflected in the warm colors of the wax prints (orange, ebony and emerald), combined with monochrome African patterns. The Pasticcino Bag is a bag with a personality. Any way you take it, any way you wear it, this is a bag you will love, clutch, and want to eat up. It is a beautiful, joyful, light-hearted object that is delicious in every way. Just like a bon-bon. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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Dubai – City Walk Abu Dhabi – Yas Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall KSA – Nakheel Mall, Riyadh the talk - page 31
fashion - feature
KALEIDOSCOPIA AIGNER Leather Coll ection Spring/Summer 2017 When you look through a kaleidoscope, you are immediately fascinated by the variety of colours and diverse shapes that arrange themselves in constantly new ways – a new image is created, no matter the perspective. For AIGNER Creative Director Christian Beck, this diversity and multifaceted nature represent various possibilities for individuality. The range of opportunities provides plenty of scope for variation and everyone can find something to express their personality. This thought was taken up and realised in the new creations of the spring/summer 2017 collection – an array of models from fresh and youthful to classically elegant. The kaleidoscope pattern is the highlight and starting point for the collection – it continues throughout like a red thread and is reflected, sometimes a little more or a little less succinctly, in selected models. The graphic shapes and patterns are depicted in a wide variety of colours, as well as using metal appliqué and in an implied form in fastenings and decorative elements. The colours of the season – bold plum, fresh mauve, sober tan and gentle smoke grey – are broken up with coloured spots such as lime, lapis green, pink and cranberry red and give the collection a real feeling of summer. ‘Cybill Special’ The Cybill signature bag from AIGNER is available in this collection as the special models ‘Cybill Kaleidoscope’, ‘CybillBosco’ and ‘CybillCamèon’. ‘Cybill Kaleidoscope’ impresses with a graphic pattern in three bright colour versions. However, the graphic elements are applied here in metalwork in the three colours silver, gold and rose gold.
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A Fit For Every Shape
Find The One that makes you move In this sociabl e sporting climate, styl e-driven women want to look and feel great whilst being active. Triaction offers the ultimate solution: bras in a variety of fits that are on-trend, extremel y supportive, comfortabl e and lightweight. Back with the latest technology and bounce control certified by experts at the University of Portsmouth, Triaction unveils its Spring/Summer 2017 coll ection. With no compromising styl e for function, women can now have the freedom to be active.
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Cardio For women who love to feel the burn, the Triaction Dynamic Lite sports bras ensure impeccable support and extreme bounce control. The Control Lite W01 (minimiser) and Extreme Lite N (natural) bras feature exceptionally strong, super lightweight 3D Powertech fabric and versatile straps. Studio Triaction also launches its latest sports bra innovation, the Magic Motion series. Specifically designed for women who want to stay toned, the concept is inspired by the athleisure trend and unites style with outstanding fit, support and comfort. The Magic Motion MWHU (push-up) and MWP (padded) bras feature the soft-touch Magic Wire Air technology, anti-bacterial fabrics and perforated, breathable cups for maximum comfort. Triaction ensures every style-driven woman can Find The One to make her move – the perfect sports bra for any sporting activity.
You can find us at (The Avenues Mall, Marina Mall, Promenade Mall and Bairaq Mall) For more information Visit www.alyasra.com or visit Triumph / Instagram @triumpharabia and Facebook Triumph Arabia. the talk - page 35
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Motherhood Destination maternity is the ultimate maternity superstore, providing moms-to-be with the opportunity to look and feel good during a very important time in their lives with the world’s largest maternity brands – Motherhood Maternity and A Pea in the Pod.
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From celebrating the big news with friends and family to feeling baby’s first kick, pregnancy can be a very exciting experience. It’s time to build a bump-flattering wardrobe. You don’t have to sacrifice personal style and comfort. Show your style with a maternity wardrobe that’s right for you and your changing shape Must-Have Maternity stages First trimester Before you feel like nothing fits, buy yourself a pair of great fitting denim. Our selection of “belly fits” will give you room to grow and keep you looking stylish • Loungewear • The tummy sleeve (by motherhood maternity) • Skin care and lotions • Secret fit belly leggings • Maternity bra the talk - page 37
fashion - feature
3rd trimester Don’t sacrifice comfort for fashion. Keep your style and enjoy this time in tops and pants made with you in mind. From sophisticated luxury to fun casual looks, A Pea in the Pod offers mom-to-be exceptional contemporary pieces that reflect her uncompromising sense of style. Freespirited, original, classic and modern. A Pea in the Pod in maternity redefined • Baby shower outfit • Nursing bras • Skin care and lotions • Body & nursing pillows • Nursing tops • Loungewear • Sleepwear • Baby clothes Destination Maternity… where the expectant mom can expect it all. the talk - page 38
2nd trimester Your body is starting to change, stay comfortable in the fashion that’s designed for your new shape. Maternity tops and bras keep you feeling great! It’s the time where you can shop for yourself & your little one from our store. Motherhood maternity offers a complete selection of the latest fashion at amazing prices. From attractive and sophisticated to bold and beautiful, Motherhood Maternity has everything a mom-tobe could ever want or need at the best prices. Carter’s offers you the best quality & trendy clothes for your baby. • Secret fit belly pants and jeans • Loungewear • Fashion tops • Sleep bras • Maternity belt • Baby clothes
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fashion - feature
Maternity Blouse - Short Sleeve - V-Neck - Maxi Lenght Striped - Removable Waist Tie - Rayon/ Spandex
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Maternity Dress - Short Sleeve - V-Neck - Maxi Lenght Striped - Removable Waist Tie - Rayon/ Spandex - Jersey Knit
Maternity Blouse - Short Sleeve - Crew Neck Flutter Sleeve - Novelty Fabric - Cotton / Polyester - Cotton Woven - Machine Washable - Imported
Maternity T Shirt - 3/4 Sleeve - Boat Neck Side Ruched - Shirring - Cotton - Jersey Knit
You can find us at (The Avenues, Promenade Mall, Discovery Center & Bairaq Mall) / Contact us on +965 24799600 For more information follow us: Facebook Destination Maternity ME / Instagram @destinationmaternityme the talk - page 41
fashion - feature
Destination Maternity Presents Carter’s Destination Maternity didn’t forget about you after delivery, we now provide you with the mother’s most loved brand “Carter’s” Carter’s is the leading brand of children’s clothing, gifts and accessories in America, selling more than 10 products for every child born in the U.S. The designs are based on a heritage of quality and innovation that has earned us the trust of generations of families. Our Carter’s collection is available only at Destination Maternity “The Avenues” store. We want the best for you and your baby.
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You can find us at The Avenues store / Contact us on +965 24799600 For more information follow us: Facebook Destination Maternity ME / Instagram @destinationmaternityme the talk - page 43
fashion - feature
Ecco Launches Ecco Cool 2.0 Collections Authenticity and sports luxe go hand in hand with ECCO COOL 2.0 .As we strive for authenticity and truth in everything we consume, this summer the ECCO COOL 2.0 is the whole package.
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Combining rich sumptuous ECCO leather uppers featuring 360° breathability, high-quality GORE-TEX® SURROUND waterproof technology and an Ikat-like PU faceting to create a unique sleek and streamlined sneaker. The ECCO COOL 2.0 brings an element of luxe to a sporty outfit and transforms a smart look into something a little more comfortable and relaxed. Completely attuned to fast modern living, the ECCO COOL 2.0 is anatomically built and features its own “cooling system”, which is powered by a series of tubes found in its mid-sole, to keep feet cool on the go. A genuinely advanced and adapted sneaker, it features climate controlled, waterproof GORE-TEX® technology, to keep feet dry and perspiration free all day.
You can find us at (The Avenues Mall – Marina Mall – Mohallab Mall – Muthanna Mall – Kout Mall – Promenade Mall) For more information follow us @eccoarabia the talk - page 46
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fashion - feature
Cole haan Recognized within ‘Most Innovative Company’ Cole Haan launches the 2.ZERØGRAND, GrandRevølution, StudiøGrand, and most recently ZERØGRAND Stitchlite™; a revolutionary collection that transformed the classic leather wingtip oxford shoes to a distinctive knit style with improved breathability and lightness. These collections fuse industrial engineering elements with classic craftsmanship to create unique collections that are groundbreaking and impactful within the industry.
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fashion - interview
“The Brit it Bag� Story In town for the national launch of her brand The Cambridge Satchel Company at Saccochier, we had the pleasure of meeting founder Julie Deane in an exclusive interview. Text by Pamela Azzi
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We all know the story behind The Cambridge Satchel Company – but what initially sparked your interest in designing and producing satchels? My daughter was having a really rough patch at school. She was so unhappy, her personality even started to change. My bright, ambitious little girl was becoming extremely isolated and introverted. The only clear solution was to change schools. As you may know, private schools in the UK are terribly expensive, but I couldn’t allow these costs to stand in the way of my child’s happiness. I was already involved with Cambridge University at the time, earning £600 for every annual lecture I gave. After doing some research, I realized that I wanted to give making satchels a try. Finding a manufacturer in Britain at the time was practically impossible, so I started making models out of cereal boxes and went around showing everyone my prototypes. Eventually, I had to turn the man’s life into a misery for him to share with me the name of his manufacturer. So that’s really how it started, and to start like that you need the passion, you need the drive , you need not to give up even when no one is willing to help. When you decided to create The Cambridge Satchel Company did you anticipate an item such as a satchel to become so popular? I was very focused on making the satchels as perfect as possible; a bag that would be remembered by all. The evolution of our company has been complemented by that of our product line. As a team, we find a tremendous amount of excitement in identifying forgotten bags and giving them a new life by making them look a little bit more modern and relevant and give them another moment to shine. the talk - page 53
fashion - interview
How important is it to you that your bags are handmade in Britain? When I was growing up in South Wales, we had Mrs. Thatcher as a Prime Minister. Although she did many great things, she was the Prime Minister who shut down a lot of local industries, leading to a lot of lost jobs. I’m a genuine believer in the idea that not everyone is made to be sitting in an office. We have many people with incredible skill sets, and turning our backs on them would be a terrible waste of potential. Having pride in craftsmanship and not losing those skills is a huge part of this brand that I am very proud of. The satchel and the doctor bags specifically are very British, so those bags need to be made in Britain. Can you tell us a bit about the process of how each satchel is made? There is a tremendous amount of real skills and effort that goes into these bags. From the instant the leather comes in, it goes through cutting, sewing, riveting and marking out, all of which are done manually. When I first started the workshop, the only people that I could find were only five years away from their retirement age! It was on the verge of becoming an extinct craft! So I took it upon myself to bring back those skills and succeeded in becoming one of the two ambassadors the Queen has for her charity QEST - the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust for British craftsmanship. The other ambassador is Scott Simpson, our Head of Product. It is indeed very important for people to keep these techniques going with a lot of passion and determination. In 2013, you became the first woman to be named Entrepreneur of the Year at the European Business Awards. What added value did this bring to your business? In terms of the business, I believe I’ve always known exactly what I was doing. My ambitions for The Cambridge Satchel have always been very high, but being given an award like that and breaking that ceiling, means that you can really start to inspire so many more people. Fashion can be a very fickle industry, and something that is popular one minute, sometimes won’t be the next - do you ever worry that satchels may not be the top trend someday? What do you do to avoid that? We have invested in Cambridge Satchel very heavily. We brought in such talented people, and made our product the main focus which allows us to constantly evolve and stay relevant. It’s the details that are most important to us; the perfection of the size, the dimensions, and the whole look and feel. The Cambridge Satchel is more about style rather than fashion and while we do work with icons of the fashion industry such as Vivienne Westwood, we are focused on the timeless styles of people like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jackie O. Other than the satchel what are your favorite classics? There are so many classics typical of Britain and London like the red buses and the underground system. As such, we have designed a brilliant edition where the underground map is printed on the inside flap! When we were approaching the British Museum of Transportation they had this picture of an old British bus conductor and he had really an interesting bag which he used to sell tickets. As a tribute to the bus conductors of the 30’s, we revived and modernized the bag to be carried today by the most stylish woman.
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How do you feel now when you see someone with one of your bags and accessories? I think it’s fantastic! It’s just as exciting for me now as it’s always been, and it’s always quite difficult not to want to go to them and say, “I really like it” or “you are wearing one of my bags”. Eventually, I designed these little cards saying, “You have been spotted!” We even have a hashtag and fantastic discount for these people as a thank you for supporting our brand. What do you expect from the Kuwaiti market and customers? Spending these days in Kuwait has been really interesting; there is a strong sense of style here. I hope that our stay and visit to Souq Al Mubarakeya will provide us with some inspiration to take back with us and incorporate in a future collection. We think that it would be amazing to take something from here and give back a product that preserves the culture and heritage of this special place. … and your partnership with Alyasra Fashion? What we like is that Al Yasra shares our vision, it is a partnership based on mutual trust. We are working very closely with Al Yasra team who gives us feedback about the customers’ needs, what the region wants, and keeps us connected. We tend to have few partnerships, but they are always the right ones. Cambridge Satchel exclusively at Sacochier boutique at Gate Mall, lower ground floor Tel: 22056158 Instagram: @sacochier the talk - page 55
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VanDerWaals Smart Bags The Pulse of Style We can all come to an agreement that technology has made our lives much easier because of phones, gadgets and tablets. But what about in fashion? VanDerWaals is the premier handbag company inspired by the innate human desire for self-expression. The handbags are made from the finest premium leather and materials and combine high fashion designs with the latest in wearable technology. For the launch of their brand at Sacochier, The Talk had an exclusive interview with VanDerWaals representatives Charity Bender and John Wu. Text by Pamela Azzi
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How did the idea of intertwining technology and fashion handbags take place? Well, our founder Charles was a member of a research team at a high tech company, and through a lot of research, they came up with the material that we now are using for our bags. In terms of our name, it’s atribute to the German physicist who established the concept of the VanDerWaals forces. What was the inspiration behind the smart bags? The initial idea for the bag was inspired by an interaction between Charles and his seven-year-old daughter. She had a pink backpack that she always carried to school, and one day she came to her dad and said: “I wish my backpack can change colors, so it can match the color of the day at school”. Based on the technology that his research team had already come up with, he thought about it and made it possible. Whether it is formal for work or stylish for the evening, matching a bag to the outfit we wear is a constantly recurring headache. By implementing this idea, we started to research what women look for in their bags. This research, paired with the main idea of color changing and the VanDerWaals forces inspiration, made this bag the perfect combination of material and technology at the same time. With many smartbag concepts and brands out there, what sets VanDerWaals apart? There is no other bag that does what the VanDerWaals bag does. You can customize your bag to the color, intensity and mood you want, all with the use of an app! Being able to customize it to your preference, charge your device and set the mood you want makes it definitely a very practical and unique smart bag. Describe your design process, from mood boards to picking out fabrics to production and app development. It all starts with what the people want, based on that we proceed. People search for what is useful and practical for their everyday lives. We wanted to take this technology and turn it into something that didn’t look like a futuristic gadget, so we designed a chic, beautiful handbag. People also look for quality, so we selected the highest quality of US leather. This was a huge challenge because there’s nothing like it. Even the manufacturers we approached were not interested in producing it at the beginning. We had to actually prepare for a training seminar for the manufacturers, which ended up being a great learning process for all and culminated in the integration of their craft with our electronic pieces and devices, to create a wonderful looking, one of a kind handbag. How long do you think you will be able to update and bring new designs and functionalities to your bags? The VanDerWaals bag is a very versatile bag, so with the merge of technology and fashion, opportunities in design become endless. Our concept does not only apply to women who want to express themselves, this is a desire that children and men have as well. As our technology advances, we actually have a roadmap for our handbags. We are just waiting for technology to catch up to us, for example wireless charging devices that we could integrate into our bags. We plan to stay ahead of the game of both fashion and technology. the talk - page 57
fashion - interview
Is the app available for Android and Apple? The app is designed for both platforms, making it available for every one who is interested in our products. What are the main functions of the app? The app is extremely user-friendly. It’s divided into sections, each designated for a specific function: setting the mood or the color, selecting the desired soundtrack, notification settings for phone calls or messages, intensity and brightness, etc. The battery is integrated inside the bag and needs to be charged. Once it is fully charged, it can last up to six hours. There’s also a charging dock in the bag that can charge any phone. What is the biggest obstacle you face when it comes to the merge of fashion and technology? There were definitely lots of obstacles along the way. In our initial meetings with the designers and technicians, most of them said it was impossible to achieve our desired product, but we didn’t give up. When something is first introduced, people tend to back off and say it’s not going to work. Fortunately, wearable technology has become a trend that we have been able to perfect. What should change in the fashion industry to be able to adopt wearable technology? Again, it’s the merge of fashion and technology as a mindset because technical people don’t usually have an eye for creative designs and vice versa. For VanDerWaals, one can’t exist without the other. We try to make technology look beautiful, so we changed our mindset and succeeded to bring a beautiful, elegant and functional bag. Are there any plans to collaborate with other brands? We definitely had requests because even technology inside a bag can be used in so many different ways. Who knows, these requests might come to fruition in future. Who is Van Der Waals clientele? Anyone and everyone in the world who want to express themselves in a new and unique way. The range of our available products on the market targets edgy teenagers and young adults, but I have to say, women of all ages are being attracted by the idea of our bags. Our style is luxurious and we treat our customers accordingly, yet at a very reasonable price. What do you expect from the Kuwaiti market? We know for a fact that Kuwaitis have a knack for fashion, and our stay here has only confirmed that. Our products are new and different offering the local market an opportunity to express themselves in a very unique manner. How do you look at your partnership with Alyasra Fashion? Al Yasra is a great company and we’ve really had a great time working with the team. They know the culture of the GCC and based on their experiences and expertise, we find reason for optimism. They know their clients well, so we have no reservations over placing our brand under their care. What’s next for VanDerWaals? We keep our eyes open and look ahead to the future. As we mentioned earlier, our founder is very good at that. Our next project is about further developing our designs and integrating more advanced technologies that will increase the practicality of our products.
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VanDerWaals exclusively at Sacochier boutique at Gate Mall, lower ground floor Tel: 22056158 Instagram: @sacochier the talk - page 59
fashion - editorial
H&M’s Conscious Exclusive 2017 shows the beauty of sustainability Beauty and sustainability are at the heart of H&M’s Conscious Exclusive collection for 2017. Every piece is made from sustainable materials, including BIONIC® - a polyester made entirely from plastics recycled from shoreline waste. It’s a collection made for special occasions, available in around 160 H&M stores worldwide, as well as online, from April 20. “For this year’s Conscious Exclusive collection at H&M, we thought not only about the look of the pieces, but also how they feel and sound. It’s a collection to please all our senses, and also our desire to be sustainable in everything we do,” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director.
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fashion - feature
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fashion - editorial
A Garden of Our Own The special bond between mother & daughter is one that is surrounded by blossoming pastels & an endless flow of trust & communication. Harvey Nichols Kuwait launches their Spring/Summer 2017 collection consisting of incredibly designed pieces from an array of luxurious brands that can be worn by mother& daughter. Blossom in ruffles or flow as light as the fabrics. Sewn carefully together, mirroring this insatiable connection. Photographer by Faisal Albesher / Makeup by Lemish Al Sayegh / Hair by Lee Xiaomei Wardrobe by Harvey Nichols
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Wardrobe Mom’s Dress: Zuhair Murad Daughter’s Dress : Twinkle Me the talk - page 71
Wardrobe Mom’s Dress: No.21
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Wardrobe Mom’s Top & Pants: For Restless Sleepers - Sandals: Ancient Greek Sandals Daughter’s Dress: Twinkle Me the talk - page 73
Wardrobe Mom’s Top: Johanna Ortiz - Pants: Jonathan Simkhai Heels: Sophia Webster - Bag: Manolo Blahnik Daughter’s Top & Skirt: Blumen - Sneakers: Sophia Webster the talk - page 74
Wardrobe Mom’s Dress: Roksanda - Bag: Erin Fetherston
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Wardrobe Skirts: Dolly - Mom’s Top: ZAC Zac Posen - Daughter’s Top: Mimisol the talk - page 76
Daughter’s Top & Skirt: Mimisol - Flats: Sophia Webster the talk - page 77
fashion - editorial
#DGtropicoitaliano Photography Luca Maria Morelli Art Direction Alessandro Maria Morelli
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fashion - editorial
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j ew elry w
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h es
t r e n d s i n t e r v i e w s e d i t o r i a l s f e a t u r e s
jewelry - trend
Copper Faces Jewelry comes in many different shapes and forms, and materials, from square and triangle, to round and oval, but if there is one thing that caught our eyes in the emerging trends of jewelry is that designers started incorporating faces and melting metal in pieces you can wear around your neck or fingers or even as earrings. Jewelry makers have always followed the lines of geometric shapes, that’s where every divine piece of jewel begins from, but jewelry designers decided to take a turn on that stigma and began to include abstract facial features and the melting effect from metals that are used to create a piece that can be worn. Designers such as J.W.ANDERSON and Matisse are one of the few labels that devoted their creativity to make the most jaw-dropping and amusing jewelry shapes and people are absolutely falling in love with this new movement. text by Ziena Al Ayoub
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J.W.Anderson Moon Face Earrings
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jewelry - feature
Boucheron
SERPENT BOHÈME
Jewelry novelties Nearly 50 years after its launch, the Serpent Bohème collection is being reinvented using transparent colored hard stones. In addition to its diamond creations, the collection now features pieces in amethyst, citrine, onyx, white mother-of-pearl and lapis lazuli set on rings, pendants, long necklaces and bracelets made from white, yellow and rose gold.
Time pieces novelties Boucheron is carefully reworking the classic Serpent Bohème watch to create an even more elegant look. Available in yellow and white gold, its new timepieces for women come with a choice of a black or white satin bracelet.
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The Serpent Bohème’s motifs Droplet The droplet has long been used by Boucheron to symbolize the snake’s head. Delicate and feminine, set with pavé diamonds or set with colored stones and crowned with gold beading, the new honeycomb design allows the light to pass through, giving the stones even more sparkle. This aesthetic is unique to the Serpent Bohème collection and reflects the jeweler’s craftsmanship. Twisted chain Whether it features in a necklace, bracelet or ring, the twisted chain is one of the Maison’s hallmarks. It works perfectly with the Serpent Bohème motif and in this collection is more delicate than ever, creating a classic, contemporary and resolutely elegant design. Sculpted gold For nearly 160 years, Boucheron has used its expertise to craft this precious metal. The Maison’s engravers compress the gold using hammers and gravers, bringing the snake to life with scales that can be seen on the charm for the diamond versions of the necklace and bracelet.
The Art of “Mix and Match” The Serpent Bohème collection can be reinvented every day. Coordinate, mix and assemble the pieces. With panache, the Serpent Bohème woman wears diamond and citrin together, or onyx and mother of pearl, combining yellow, pink or white gold. There is no combination she will not permit herself. It is all perfect because it is all her choice. From small rings set with pavé stones to stunning doubleheaded rings, stone-encrusted statement bracelets and watches that are as delicate as they are sensual, the Serpent Bohème collection now includes 96 creations. Available from May in Boucheron boutiques
The spirit of the collection The Serpent Bohème collection has an air of mystery, a captivating aesthetic that appeals to strong women and fires their femininity. Since first emerging from the Maison’s workshop in 1968, Serpent Bohème has endured over the years to become a Boucheron classic. The snake is created in gold, its head a droplet crowned with beading, its body chased into sensual undulations. This collection pushes the boundaries of audacity, embodying the free spirit and subversive power of Maison Boucheron.
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jewelry - feature
Chabi Nouri
Passion, Energy and Creativity A unique vision in writing a new chapter for the Maison Piaget Endowed with a wealth of experience and extensive knowledge of the luxury universe, top marketing expert Chabi Nouri joined Piaget in September 2014, initially as Global Brand Equity, Marketing Jewellery and Communication Director, before being appointed International Managing Director Sales & Marketing in September 2016. Chabi Nouri has spent most of her career at Cartier, within the Richemont family. She has developed a well-rounded skillset in the watchmaking and jewellery professions. Her mission at Piaget is to modernise and rejuvenate the new positioning and ambition of the brand, while capitalising on its history and unique heritage; as well as leveraging its development strategy across the world and launch a new managerial dynamic. She brings a unique perspective to the Maison Piaget thanks to her overall vision that is both strategic and operational. Chabi is characterised by her passion for the profession, her rare energy, the desire to share an exceptional adventure with her teams and Piaget Society consisting of the clients, ambassadors, friends of the Maison, artists and celebrities who enjoy congregating in a warm, elegant atmosphere to celebrate creative daring. Swiss-born Chabi Nouri earned her Masters in Economics from the University of Fribourg prior to joining Cartier in Switzerland in 1998 as Product Manager. She subsequently joined Cartier International, initially as Merchandising Manager and then as International Retail Area Manager, responsible for developing the boutique network in the European, American and emerging markets. Between 2004 and 2008, Chabi Nouri devoted herself entirely to the world of jewellery. Appointed Jewellery Group Manager for Cartier International, she was responsible of the image and development of the global strategy for High Jewellery and the iconic collections, with the aim of enhancing the Maison’s reputation as an opinion leader in this realm. Taking a break from the world of jewellery-watchmaking, Chabi Nouri acquired particularly wellhoned business acumen while working for a major international company in fast-moving consumer goods, as International Director for Vogue cigarettes at BAT in London. Here, she successfully developed a new communication platform and visual identity for this brand that has become iconic, prior to returning to Switzerland to supervise sales and marketing for all the brands in the group within the territory. Back with the Richemont Group, Chabi Nouri brings extensive knowledge of constantly changing client tastes and expectations, along with her managerial expertise and a global strategic vision for Piaget’s development in the markets. Under her leadership, the Maison will write a fascinating new chapter imbued with a unique and resolutely upbeat style.
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watches - feature
BIG BANG UNICO GMT Ready for your next trip? With its trademark ingenuity, Hublot has simplified the use of a complex complication: GMT. From one time zone to another, at the push of a button The Hublot Unico manufacture movement is equipped with a new patented proprietary module which enables the second time zone to be updated instantly by a push-button, allowing the local time to be read easily via the conventional main hand of the watch. The time at home is indicated using a second arrow-shaped hour hand, which integrates a day/ night indicator and is set using the crown. Today, we board an aircraft like we were getting in a car, travelling constantly back and forth between time zones. GMT has proven to be one of the most useful and frequently used complications, hence the need to simplify its operation and make it easier to read. “Every complex problem has a simple solution. It simply depends on how we look at it. I travel so much that, as often as not, my watch is the only way I can keep track of what time it is at home, and where I am landing. And, I must admit, I have never found a GMT model which is simple enough to really be useful, and that I can use as intended. Thanks to the ingenuity of our R&D team, this is now possible and, believe me, the Big Bang Unico GMT is sure to inspire imitators�. Ricardo Guadalupe
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Lady Arpels Ballerine Enchantée d’Orient Exclusive Watch Poetic Complications™
Synonymous of the Maison’s partnership with Dubai Opera, A special edition is created exclusively for the Middle-East: the Lady Arpels Ballerine Enchantée d’Orient. Van Cleef & Arpels has reinterpreted the original Lady Arpels Ballerine Enchantée Poetic Complications™, remaining faithful to its design whilst preserving all of its grace and femininity, yet offering a colorful creation within the collection. Following in the footsteps of the ballerinas and fairies created by Van Cleef & Arpels since the 1940s, the timepiece perpetuates the tradition of fluid movement, lightness and refinement. Inspired by the quote of a famous ballerina, Anna Pavlova, I’ve been dreaming that I was a ballerina, and that I was spending my whole life dancing as lightly as a butterfly -- the watch brings a joyful dance to the wrist, filling each day with sparkling hours.
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watches - feature
CLASSIC FUSION BRACELET BLUE BLUE OR NOTHING
Male and female wardrobes are constructed around some essential items and major colours. The Classic Fusion Bracelet Blue falls into both categories. Firstly through the simplicity and elegance of its timeless silhouette—the case and bracelet cut out of titanium or King Gold—and then by the nuances that it assumes—blue, the supreme colour of masculine and feminine fashion. Five new watches are joining the Classic Fusion collection. Resolutely chic, appropriate in all circumstances, the Classic Fusion Bracelet Blue can be adapted both to a casual look or a smarter outfit. In terms of its diameter, it comes in five models offered in four different diameters—33, 38, 42 and 45 mm—and two time displays. Easy to wear, it will match all your styles and works together with ladies’ or men’s fashion. From the case to the bracelet, it shows the exclusive nuances of King Gold red gold and the ‘metallic’ reflections of titanium. A grade-5 titanium that conserves its extreme lightness, its antimagnetic character and its excellent resistance to corrosion while offering a greater hardness and better finish to the polish. In 33, 38 and 42 mm, the Classic Fusion Bracelet Blue beats to the rhythm of three hands and the date at 3 o’clock. In its 45-mm case, the Classic Fusion Bracelet Blue comes in two versions—a chronograph with the date at 6 o’clock, or 3 hands and the date. the talk - page 100
BIG BANG UNICO MAGIC SAPPHIRE
Hublot wrote a new page of its history, a first in terms of the machining of sapphire that it made more ‘widespread’ by successfully shaping it for more than just very limited series. Capitalising on this unique savoir-faire, it cut 500 new Big Bang cases out of this material that is almost as hard as a diamond. A complex material, the most scratch-resistant and the most crystalline that exists, sculpted into the form of the iconic Big Bang case. In its ongoing quest for excellence, Hublot combined all the experience it had acquired from the Big Bang Unico Sapphire and Big Bang Unico Sapphire All Black models onto the development of this new edition. A watch in ‘less is more’ mode featuring a simplified construction that is easier to assemble and, in addition, offers greater transparency and resistance. A greater visibility inside the case which no longer has titanium inserts for the bezel and the back. A greater shock resistance with one-piece components for the bezel and the back. the talk - page 101
fashion - editorial
Silver Lining Photography Yousif Abdulsaid Model Aleksandra / Make up Ammara Rana Featuring Saint Laurent SS17 accessories
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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
beauty - feature
Maintaining Manes From fairytale characters to movie stars, we can’t deny the appeal of long, luscious manes. There’s something about flowing hair that combines femininity, attractiveness and power into one heady hairstyle. A few issues ago, we talked about how the pixie cut has been making a comeback- and short hair is chic and easy to care for, but for the more traditionally minded longer hair can be the most empowering hairstyle. Long locks can be either naturally grown, sewn in, or glued in the hair either way we can’t deny that celebrities are taking drastic measures to dramatize the long hair craze by adding two x’s making it XXL; extra extra long. Here are a few pointers to maintain your heavenly long locks; comb your hair twice a day, morning and night. Leave your blow dryer in the drawer and air dry your hair. Find a moisturizer that suits your hair best. Get rid of your cotton pillows and replace them with silk. Remember that the more natural it is, the better for your hair. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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The dancer Anjali Hora, Bombay, India Artwork by Werner Bischof Creation Date 1951
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beauty - feature
Paint it Burgundy Dark shades of red have always been a little bit difficult to work with when it comes to using it on our facial features; from oxblood lipsticks and eyeshadow, to blush, or even as a contour but with the advances of makeup and new crazy trends of the 21st century beauty lovers made it possible for us to take risks and try out the darkest shades of red and make them look beautiful. So many makeup brands have taken the risk of releasing those shades such as SKETCH eyeshadow, DARK SIDE and DIVA lipstick, FEVER powder blush from M.A.C cosmetics. We’ll always be dedicated to our beloved shades of nude and classic red lipsticks but taking a plunge on trying out new things never did anyone harm. The deep rogue hue looks stunning on all skin tones making it convenient for everyone to try out. The burgundy shade adds a bit of a vamp look without being too tense on the face. You can either create a simple smudge of burgundy eyeshadow on the lids or go for a dramatic cat eye smoky look, or maybe even play around with the pallet and use this beautiful dark shade as a blush or contour the hallows of your cheeks the burgundy shade is definitely a beauty trend you should try out. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
Anna Sui SS17- Bella Hadid by Sonny Vandevelde the talk - page 112
Amouage Unveils The Romantic Floral Adventure Of Blossom Love “Blossom Love is inspired by the sassy nature and loyal heart of the vivacious modern woman. She defies conventions as she unabashedly lives for love, romance and a new adventure,� explains Amouage Creative Director, Christopher Chong. This new fragrance is the most recent addition to its floral-themed The Secret Garden Collection in which thoughts, feelings and experiences are freely explored without the complications of the contemporary world. Classically elegant, the timeless flower motif of the Blossom Love presentation box evokes memories of precious moments and tender feelings. The delicately curved rose pink bottle is quintessentially feminine and romantic, while the sparkling light rose Swarovski crystal on the cap emotes joy and love in bloom.
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health - feature
ULTRAcel As the ageing process takes its effect on us, one of the many cosmetic changes that it brings along is loose skin. When attempting to address this inevitability, surgery often seems to be amongst the most commonly suggested solutions. Due to the fact that going under knife runs the risk of potential complications and scarring, many deem these methods to be unnecessary and outdated. Thanks to the ever-advancing nature of the medical world, cosmetic surgeons no longer need to resort to the extreme procedures of the past. By combining radio frequency with ultrasound, ULTRAcel skin tightening treatment is able to target and deliver heat to collagen in the deeper layers of skin. This stimulates the growth of new and healthy collagen, which uplifts skin to feel and look firmer and tighter. Think this is too good to be true? Well, there’s more! On average, the procedure takes about 1-2 hours and has a 3-hour recovery period. That’s right; you could get back to work on the same day as your procedure! Looking good was never so easy. Text by Saad Tayee
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beauty - feature
Sleep Hygiene – what does it take for a good nights sleep? Calorie consumption increases by 22% when sleeping for 4 hours a night only. Believe it or not, but sleep plays a big role in how well you eat, among other things. The quality and quantity of our sleep can certainly affect the types and quantity of foods we consume throughout the day. Having said that, it’s extremely important to adopt good sleep strategies to keep you focused and alert the following day while also helping improve your dietary habits and behaviors. Sleep hygiene refers to the idea of developing good sleep strategies and habits to allow you to have a good quality sleep. I, for certain, am one who practices certain sleep rituals, as there is nothing more important for me than having a good night’s sleep and full alertness the next day. Using my strategies and also those which are evidence-based, I will be providing you with ways which you can improve your bed time routine to help you experience a deep and relaxing sleep. Text by Faisal Alshawa
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Relax your mind and body With all the technology available these days, it’s so easy for people to be consumed by social media and TV shows just before going to bed. Browsing through you Facebook feed or watching an episode of Breaking Bad only does harm to your mind, especially before going to bed. To experience a good quality sleep, avoid technology and stick to things which will help ease your mind, like reading a book or magazine. Focusing on your breathing, or perhaps taking a hot shower just before going to bed are also good strategies that will relax your mind and body and help you fall asleep quicker and for a longer period of time. Adopt a regular sleeping routine Sleeping at the same time every night will help your body recognize when it is time to sleep. This will avoid feelings of restlessness come the time to sleep. Try and stick to regular sleep and waking hours to adjust your body’s circadian rhythm, or 24 hour physiological process. By doing so, you’ll ensure a good night’s sleep every night. Keep it quiet The quieter the environment, the easier it is for us to fall and stay asleep. If you live alone, worry no less. However, if you have a roommate(s) or live at home with your family, make sure they know you’re going to sleep to keep the noise level down! With this, of course comes technology. As hard as this may be for some people, try getting used to sleeping without having the TV on or a show/movie playing on your laptop. The quieter the room, the better sleep you’ll experience. Sleep in a cool environment Air condition can bother a lot of people, and to a certain point I agree with them. However, the science shows sleeping in a cool environment may help improve your sleep quality. In fact, sleeping in an environment with a temperature of anywhere between 18-20 degrees Celsius is ideal for proper sleep quality. This can be difficult for a lot of people, so just make sure you’re not dripping sweat while asleep! For me, nutrition is not only associated with food. What you do outside the kitchen most certainly affects your diet, in this case sleep. A good way to start is by focusing on one strategy at a time. Don’t try to do too much or else you’ll find it hard to adhere to these strategies. Pick something that works best for you and introduce it into your sleeping routine for a week or two and then start thinking of adopting the next strategy. We all know the feeling of waking up after a beautiful sleep – so use this as a motivational tool to adopt good sleep hygiene! the talk - page 117
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
art & design - artist focus
Jane Rosen Evoking Wilderness For Jane; understanding animal instincts is the equivalent of understanding human nature. From deer, horses, hawks, and dogs to coffee stains and spilled ink, those are the starting points of Jane Rosen’s extraordinary artwork in prints, paintings, and sculptures. Text by Zeina Al Ayoub
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Born in 1950, Jane Rosen has established her artwork in New York in the 70’s and 80’s. With successful exhibitions and a teaching role at the School of Visual Arts Rosen decided to take a trip to Northern California where she had adopted a new aesthetic to her artwork and life. She subsequently began a teaching position at the University of California, Berkeley. Jane took a break from her reputation as an artist in New York to starting a life as an artist on her ranch in California. While living on her ranch she found a whole new understanding to how animals move in their natural habitat on a day-to-day basis.
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art & design - artist focus
“Red Fox Buddhi,” 2015
Glass Falcon, 2007, hand-blown glass, pigment & marble mix
Much of her work aims to capture a moment when an animal is caught in the act of looking or doing; with every movement an animal makes has an intention behind it, but Jane’s purpose of her work is to leave us questioning what those intentions are. Rosen is also captivated with cultures like the Eskimos, Native Americans, and the Egyptians. Her work not only invites the viewers through her work in process and the handling of materials and knowledge of her subject, but it communicates complex messages about the associated relationships between humanity and nature, mind and soul. Some of Jane Rosen’s most famous artwork are Mei Mei Series, A Glass of Birds, Oak Island Studies, Sun/Moon, Light Morph/Dark Morph and many more. The remarkable artist received countless awards; the National Endowment for the Arts, Full Award in Sculpture in 1980-81, Creative Artists Public Service Program in 1982-83, Artist in Residence, Pilchuck Glass School, Seattle, Washington in 2008, and her most recent award was in 2015 where she received the Arts and Letters Award, Academy of Arts and Letters Invitational Exhibition, New York, NY. the talk - page 122
Th e G u l f y o u t h f e s t i va l i s a i m e d t o e m p ow e r t h e y o u n g a r t i s t s o f o f Ku wa i t a n d t h e G u l f a n d t o b o o s t t h e cultural and artistic climate in the region. Proceeds from sales will be used to support the Arabic language c a m p a i g n by L O YAC w h i c h a i m s a t e n c o u r a g i n g t h e youth to use and celebrate their mother tongue
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art & design - Artist Focus
Faisal Baba jan a young artist based in Kuwait, the creator of the “Purely Social Demons” (aka. Ps.demons) Collaborating with other artists and always experimenting with alternative approaches to making art. The Demon stickers became a signature and tag for him that can be found in Kuwait, and around the world. How would you explain the process of creating your art? Understanding colors not just as in pigments but the emotions and meanings of the actual color. Finding the perfect compliments for every shade but not shying away from experimenting with colors that don’t make sense together. That turned into a collection of routine color studies that I make every once in a while. How do the color studies work? And why do you make them? It started out when I was sketching in my sketchbook and I felt like the drawing was lacking a bit of color and I added a hint of maroon pigment on the drawing and it came to life. And I felt like I want to experiment more, so I brought my watercolor paper pad and started cutting 3cm circles and then painting on each one with a unique pattern or design with a different technique. And it went on from there, color after another. How did the Demons start? A few years ago I was doodling in my sketchbook and I wanted to create a character for myself to include in my sketches and doodles. And almost none of the characters I created got attached until I did my first “demon”. a simple character that anyone could relate to. At first, I would just sketch it here and there not knowing it would have such impact on my life. The reason why I chose the name “demon” even though I knew that the name would repel a lot of people is because the word “demon” also translate in “an unmanageable person”, which is what my demons do, they are the little voices that encourage you to do something you think you are not brave enough to do. After a while, I started drawing them everywhere, even in public places. And after my first year of university, I started wondering what I could do with the demons, and I couldn’t start without making what I am personally obsessed with; stickers. text & photo by Nasser Ashour
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art & design - interview
Caroline Denervaud The literal movement of art Caroline Denervaud is a 38-year-old artist that lives in Paris. She studied dance in Lausanne and London, and fine arts and fashion in Paris. Caroline works as a Pluridisciplinary artist, leading by the intrinsic shapes and movements. She doesn’t close herself in a way but feels free to express what wants to come out at the moment and interpret it in movements through drawings, sounds, and collages. On the side, Caroline also does work for orders and collaborations with photographs, designers, and artisans. text by Ziena Al Ayoub
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art & design - interview
When did you start painting? At first, I started dancing and then painting followed as a natural way to fix the movement on paper. What do you call the method of the art you are practicing? Living? Feeling? Movement drawing for the moving part of my artwork and shapes exploration for the still part. How did you first approach this method of art? The first time I experimented with movement drawing is when I was in a shoot for the Heidies, a duet I formed with my friend who is a photographer named Pascaline Dargant. It resulted in a series called trace where you can check it out on www.theheidies.com. What are the tools you use when creating an art piece? On the floor I use charcoal, ink or acrylic. For collages I use pastel, pigment, acrylic, and ink, but I let this way open too. Tell us about the color pallets used in your artwork. I love to choose a piece of clothing to define the color I will be using. I’m actually into red and blue, but colors can sometimes trouble a project I’m working on, so if that would be the case, I would turn my art into white and black. What are a few projects that you’ve worked/currently working on? I have an exhibition in Paris in two weeks I’m also currently working on collages for a hotel in the south of France and I have a few collaborations with artists for videos and paintings.
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lifestyle - interview
Tamara Qabazard Heart of a lion, wings of a phoenix Text by Saad Tayee
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Tell us a bit about yourself. Well, I don’t really know how to describe myself, but for simplicity’s sake, I can tell you about things I’m currently exploring and doing in life. I am a veterinarian, an aerialist, and a body movement enthusiast. I work at the Kuwait Zoo. You’re worked with various animal shelters and hospitals around the world. How does your experience with the Kuwait Zoo compare? I’m currently the only female veterinarian from Kuwait and sometimes working with men who believe that women - and specifically Arab women- should not be in this field is a bit of a struggle. I am incredibly lucky to have my job but it also took about 8 years of work to become qualified for it. So to be asked by some people “what do you like to cook?” instead of “how would you like to treat this?” or “what are your differentials?” can be frustrating. Thankfully, I have a lot of support from people where I work as well. I definitely love to cook, though. I’m a both sparkle and sanguine. I feel like duality is important to keep you suspended nicely in life. What inspires you? With my work, it’s giving a voice to those that need it and rely on you for it. I’ve seen animals come in teetering on the edge and watching them come back and live comfortably is pretty incredible. I think also being able to decide when an animal’s suffering needs to end is also important. So it really is based on them completely and it keeps that passion ignited I don’t feel like I need the credit for helping these animals, as long as they are in a better situation once they leave my care.
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lifestyle - interview
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lifestyle - interview
What led you to realize that working with animals was your true calling? I think I’ve always known that deep down it’s the only thing that made sense. I really wanted to be a zookeeper when I was 6 until I learned the word ‘veterinarian’. Also, I love non-verbal connections, and dealing with animals is all about reading body language. Based on your experiences, what steps still need to be taken in Kuwait to turn it into a true animal utopia? I think primarily we need to change the mentality that animals aren’t “lesser” than us, or as a source of entertainment. It’s nice seeing the growing numbers of animal activists here and small shelter groups. That being said, I believe that restructuring and coming up with standard operating procedures within these shelter’s is imperative. The Zoo has been getting better because we have a group of individuals who really do care and we have been working to minimize stress and increase enrichment for the animals. We still struggle with government funding and bureaucracy, which can be time consuming. The plan is to also change treatment methods. A massive problem here in Kuwait is licensing for various drugs in the veterinary field, even though those drugs are readily available in human medicine. These are the things we would like to work on over time. How did you get into acrobatics? I grew up dancing, riding horses, and swimming. Because of that, I think I’ve always been drawn to this idea of “floating” or being suspended, off the ground, or buoyant somehow. Aerial acrobatics is the perfect combination of strength work, flexibility work, musicality, and fearlessness. The first time I gave it a try was five years ago. After attending an aerialist performance in New York City, I somehow got the courage to give it a try. Now it’s the only thing that keeps me levelheaded! Do you see a future for it in Kuwait? And if so what would it look like? Absolutely! I think it has a great future in Kuwait. I love that you focus on what your body can do instead of how it looks… the gains are a plus. I’m really interested in getting a circus school started or starting workshops. I have some fantastic friends who would love to come teach here as well. The problem is finding a facility with ceilings that are high enough. Fortunately, I found a crossfit gym where I train 1-2 times a week, but I definitely need to find a more permanent setup. What advice would you give to the aspiring generation of acrobats in Kuwait? If you want to dabble in this, do it. Don’t be discouraged or think “but I’m not strong enough”; you will ONLY become strong enough by practicing your craft and conditioning. And if you have the means to travel to neighboring countries that have circus schools, then do it. If not, start working on your flexibility and calisthenics strength at home! See what you’re interested in and research what type of strength you need for it. the talk - page 138
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lifestyle - feature
Indulge Mom to an idyllic retreat this Mother’s Day at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa Kuwait Celebrating Motherhood at Kuwait’s luxurious resort Looking for that perfect way to show your mother how much you love her? Kuwait’s idyllic resort, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, has tailored a host of culinary experiences and rejuvenation retreats at Talise Spa to give her the love and muchneeded treatment she deserves!
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Take her to a lovely dinner in any one of the hotel’s seven award-winning restaurants on the special occasion of Mother’s Day. To those visiting with 4 persons and above, mothers will be treated to complimentary lunch or dinner in Pepper Steakhouse, Olio Italian Restaurant, Salt Seafood & International Restaurant, Arabesque Middle Eastern Café, Mint poolside Café, Garden Café’s all-day dining Restaurant, or the Tea Lounge. All mothers need pampering too. The ultimate treat awaits at the luxurious Talise Spa haven of relaxation. The specially-tailored Mother’s Renewal Experience is carefully designed to soothe and cherish mothers or mothers-to-be. The treatment involves a relaxing Welcoming Foot Ritual, a 60-minute soothing massage, and a 30-minute Express Facial to complete the experience. Additionally, mothers and daughters have the option of trying Talise Spa’s Mother & Daughter Indulgence treatment within the luxurious Oriental Suite. Equipped with two treatment beds, a private Jacuzzi and shower, mothers and daughters can spend up to 2 hours of quality time together in tranquillity as they relax with a body scrub, mini facial, and followed up with the Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience massage. The treatment is also complimented by access to the spa’s state-of-the-art facilities such as the exclusive Himalayan Salt Room, Sauna, Steam Room, Snow room, Experience Shower, and Hydro Pool.
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa Kuwait the talk - page 141
lifestyle - automotive
The Ferrari 812 Superfast Geneva world premiere to come Ferrari has selected the 87th edition of the Geneva International Motor Show for the world premiere of the new 12-cylinder Berlinetta, the 812 Superfast, the most powerful and fastest Ferrari in the marque’s history. This new car not only introduces a plethora of innovative features but is also particularly significant as the V12 series marked the official start of the glorious Prancing Horse story in 1947, 70 years ago this year.
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Sacochier will house a number of leather goods and accessories from prominent luxury international brands such as DKNY, Cavalli Class, Versace Jeans and Aigner, amongst others. Celebrated local designer, Moni & J, will also showcase its designer handbags at the Sacochier boutique. In addition, Sacochier will house a number of exclusive brands in Kuwait such as The Cambridge Satchel Company, John Richmond, and VanDerWaals. Amongst all of the exciting products for purchase at the boutique, VanDerWaals is offering a first-of-itskind handbag that uses patented technology to allow for a swift change of colours to match one’s outfits and mood, as well as notify its user when receiving a call. A new destination for fashion-minded individuals looking for premium accessories at affordable prices will host its customers like no other competing brand or boutique regionally. The customers will enjoy Sacochier’s personal styling services and an unparalleled level of customer care. Items purchased at Sacochier boutiques can also be engraved to allow for that extra personalised touch.
Alyasra Fashion launches new exclusive fashion accessories retail boutique, Sacochier
lifestyle - events
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The guests were smitten by the craftsmanship and modernity of the Resort collection and could enjoy a fashionable outlook on the Spring / Summer 2017 collection
With this exclusive get together, the focus is laid on the DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER Resort 2017 Collection that is celebrating the perfect wardrobe for the modern gentlewoman. Crisp colors and floating silhouettes encounter luxurious lace and hand-painted prints displaying fairytale chimeras.
German womenswear designer DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER welcomes guests, friends and family to her Kuwait Store at Salhia Mall. The designer’s playful tailoring and feminine elegance enchant women all over the world.
Dorothee Schumacher In Kuwait
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Running from February 6th to 9th at the Salhia Complex, the event will offer an opportunity to view remarkable pieces handpicked from the Jaeger-LeCoultre ladies collection, including the Rendez-Vous and Reverso watch lines. Guests will also be able to explore the exciting concept of a personalized Reverso watch, as showcased at the dedicated Atelier Reverso exhibition area.
A select gathering of Kuwait’s most style-conscious and women will attend the upcoming and highly anticipated Ladies Exhibition hosted by JaegerLeCoultre and their Kuwait agent, Behbehani.
Feminine elegance and style under the spotlight at Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Ladies Exhibition to be held at Salhia Complex, Kuwait
lifestyle - events
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Home furnishings retailer West Elm recently launched its spring 2017 collection at The Avenues in Kuwait. As illustrated by West Elm’s Creative Director, Johanna Uurasjarvi, the spring 2017 collection is designed for the way we live in today’s time and age, symbolizing the brand’s take on a new ‘modern’. The collection embraces change without sacrificing comfort through its clean lines and striking silhouettes making them the perfect pieces for one’s home. The Logan Platform Bed is your perfect sleeping partner to do just that. Made of solid wood, re-sawing and rough-hewing, the Logan Collection is ruggedly good looking. Channel your inner designer and configure your own sectional ensemble with the Halsey Sectional Pieces that combine the best of both worlds – sophisticated style and indulgent comfort. If you’re one to stand out from the crowd and showcase your fun side to everyone, then the Luna Chair is definitely the piece for your living area.
‘Modern’ Vision Defines West Elm’s Latest Spring 2017 Collection
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You can read a full view of the new Quattroporte in the motoring section of this month’s edition, as well as at menspassion-online.com
“The Quattroporte was born when Maserati decided to lower the engine of a race car into a four-door - “quattro porte” - salon car in 1963. Nobody had done anything like that before and until today our Quattroporte drives with a Ferrari produced engine. A legacy that now continues with the new model,” said Steve Brown, the Director of Al-Zayani Trading Co., the exclusive Maserati importer in Kuwait.
It’s early February, and after three and a half years of unprecedented success in the international markets, the Quattroporte has undergone a substantial restyling that accentuates its elegance and its signature Maserati personality. The restyled flagship is now available in Kuwait and is destined to continue a success story that commenced over 50 years ago.
Maserati’s new Quattroporte arrives in Kuwait
lifestyle - events
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The Fendi Timepieces collections Fendi Timepieces proposes three iconic collections, Policromia, Crazy Carats and Selleria, and three signature collections, Fendi My Way, Chameleon and Momento Fendi, each with its own distinctive design, elegant and sophisticated in its unique way.
By skillfully blending Italian craftsmanship and Swiss watchmaking expertise, Fendi Timepieces creates luxury watches enhanced by visionary looks in the sign of contemporary and versatile sophistication. A journey through history Fendi Timepieces owes much of its success to Silvia Venturini Fendi, third generation of the Fendi family. It was under her guidance that, in 1988, FENDI delved into the world of watchmaking. Since its creation, Fendi Timepieces has developed fine watches in the sign of the highest savoir-faire and daring design. “Since we presented our first Fendi watches in 1988, we have always focused on offering luxurious materials and sophisticated design, plus the highest quality and savoir-faire,� says Silvia Venturini Fendi.
Fendi Timepieces celebrates savoir-faire, elegance and creativity
lifestyle - horoscopes
horoscopes Aries (Mar. 21-April 20)
Taurus (Apr. 21-May 21)
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
You have had transiting Uranus in your Sun sign since March 12, 2011. Uranus can change our lives suddenly, bring people back into our lives that were gone a long time or take people out of our lives that were very important to us. Uranus can bring in new circumstances, new people, and old acquaintances.
Insincere gestures of friendliness are likely to occur if you allow others to find out about your private life. Maybe it would be much better to keep your situations to yourself for the time being. Don’t get involved in a love triangle. Keep your reputation spotless.
You can make some wonderful career decisions now that will definitely work out in your favor. This is a great time to strive for recognition. Use your imagination and you will discover that you have some very unique contributions to make that can benefit everyone that you are involved with.
Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23)
Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)
Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
You may be feeling a little under the weather. You probably need a little tender loving care. Let someone you care for know your needs rather than being miserable and hoping that he or she will notice. Remember YOU are in charge of your life!
You can pick up some interesting information if you get together with someone who is well informed in an area that interests you. Don’t try to impress someone by promising something that you aren’t likely to deliver. Relax and just be yourself… that is more than enough!
Be aware of other people’s feelings. A little effort will go a long way. You have the ability to make everyone feel at ease. Forgiveness is also very important now. If someone upsets you, for any reason, realize that this person may be having a hard time. Give them love.
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Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Leo (July 23-Aug 22)
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 23)
Ask friends and relatives for advice and you won’t face some of the problems that are hovering around you. Once you set your mind on what you are doing, you should be able to make great strides in your life and you will be able to do this with confidence.
You’ve been trying to do too much. Take care of any health problems that have cropped up, no matter how small. You should plan to spend some time with the people who mean the most to you. Take a break in order to get your strength back.
Your personal life may seem confusing this month. A past partner may try to come back into your life. Think with your head…not your heart. You can make great strides with your work if you keep yourself totally focused on the projects that are right in front of you.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)
Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 19)
Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
The changes that you make to yourself, your home, or your life in general will lead to increased selfesteem. You’ll have a better understanding of what you really want to do with your life. When you feel good about yourself and your home, you feel optimistic in all areas of your life.
You may need to discuss your ideas and intentions with someone who can give you sound advice. There may be a good reason for the uncertainty that you are experiencing. Sharing your ideas and feelings with someone close to you will allow you to determine if you have any actual cause of concern.
Your ability to see both sides of the coin will put you into a position of leadership. Others will admire your abilities and support your efforts. You should feel confident that you have what it takes to be successful. Changes regarding your home or office will be a great benefit to you.
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Published by PH7 Publishing House www.thetalk-online.com
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