Bloom Qatar

Issue No.

33

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Qatar- an affluent consumer base for luxury retail operators Tasnim Ahmed

With the economy in Qatar growing fast, Doha appears set to be a major player in the retail sector in Middle East, perhaps falling just short of Dubai.

According to recent reports, retail space in the GCC region accounts for about six million square metres of all commercial property, up from only one million square metres in the early 1990s.

Doha is near the top of the list, with 600 to 700 square metres of retail space per 1,000 people in terms of retail density. This figure is expected to increase with several retail projects expected to add over 1 million square metres to the market.

The existing retail projects in Qatar include the US$2.5 billion The Pearl Qatar development. The Pearl is one of the largest projects in the region offering 200,000 square metres of retail space. It includes a luxury shopping centre, with stand-alone mono-brand stores of Hermes, Giorgio Armani, Canali, Roberto Cavalli, Stefano Ricci, Balenciaga, Alexander Mc Queen, John Richmond, John Galliano, Salvatore Ferragamo. Probably more successful than its retail section, The Pearl boasts a very good mix of luxury restaurants by famous Chefs: Gordon Ramsey, Bice, Mango Tree, Pampano and Tse Yang. Another important value added for the attractiveness of The Pearl is its luxury residential offering, this being the only area in Doha where foreigners can actually purchase properties.

Next in the list is the Lagoona Mall which is situated within a 5 minute drive from

downtown area and is due to be completed in stages starting with 2014. The area dedicated to luxury shopping covers 45,000 square metres and it is spread over low rise buildings, some stores having direct street windows.

The Musheireb complex will include large residential, office and entertainment spaces, including museums, restaurants and concert hall.

The fact that the major luxury brands are spread among three different locations is

’s Qatar is the world fastest growing al economy with a re GDP growth CAGR of 16.2% in 200711 and highest GDP per capita in PPP terms, according to QNB Capital.

Shop your style What is it about shopping that inspires res women? How can they spend hours traipsing up and down a shopping mall, max out their credit cards and ignore their own physical comfort just to have the perfect dress, jewellery or handbag? Well, that’s the allure of fashion.

Most women love fashion. They fall in love with the colour or the cut and simply have to own it. The power of fashion is that it allows us to transform ourselves. New clothes and accessories let us see ourselves in a different way. So jewelleries, perfumes, accessories and apparels undoubtedly makes every woman go weak on her knees.

The key to looking polished and appropriate in any situation is not spending a fortune on designer clothing or jewellery, but building your cupboard around versatile timeless pieces that are always in style.

Speckled with lavish malls and local traditional souqs, the city offers an assortment of alternatives topped with luxury, style, design and ethnicity.

With so much in the offering, Bloom helps yyou add a touch of individuality to every item yyou possess- be it making your own signature p perfume!

Every woman wants to be chic and stylish, yyet many do not know how to begin planning ttheir wardrobe. The right wardrobe will help yyou to feel confident and pulled together no matter what the day may bring. Our top ten wardrobe essentials that every woman should own helps you garner the perfect items that keeps you well dressed all the time.

The fashion industry is ever-changing and with technology spreading its wings in every domain of life, the nanotech revolution is gaining momentum where nano components add different functionalities to the fabric we wear. This remarkable innovation is sure to leave you in awe!

Drop us a word at bloom@qimqatar.com.

Your feedback is always welcome. So be it science, technology, lifestyle or fashion take your pick right away. And Facebook users keep liking our page!

Follow us on

www.facebook.com/BloomQatar

Sporting events in February

The Pearl. With a surface of 55,000 square metres and a number of 180 outlets, the total investment in the project has reached US$ 350 million. On the ground floor of two residential skyscrapers better known as the Zig Zag Towers, the Darwish Holding includes a retail division which manages the exclusive distribution of luxury brands such as Rolex, Faberge, hi fi electronics brand Bose, Yamaha.

Darwish also operates its own department store concept Fifty One East, the mix of which includes niche international brands such as, Derek Lam, Pollini, Temperley, Balmain, Brioni, Smalto and so forth.

In case you are wondering why the top luxury brands are not all together in either one of the two projects, there is a third one, Villaggio Mall which is a mass market mall with a luxury wing. The brand mix includes top brands such as Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Tod’s, Valentino. The Villagio Mall which is at the other end of Doha, takes at least a 30 minute drive. Fast food outlets are within a few meters from the ‘’Via Domo’’ area which is dedicated to luxury brands. The interior design and the shopping environment it provides is a minimal standard for luxury retail, for just a wing is dedicated to luxury brands.

Well, to add more to the retail luxury openings in Doha, a fourth major luxury retail centre is under construction, as part of the grand Musheireb complex (formerly known as Doha Land), which is being developed in the

a hassle h l for f the th wealthy lth consumers. Hence H here arises the need for an ideal destination where the brands are united.

Although shopping malls dominate, Doha’s retail amenities also comprise traditional street-facing retail outlets and a renovated souq area close to the Corniche.

Meanwhile, top international luxury brands have already expressed an interest to enter the Qatari market with direct operations. It remains to be seen how long this process will take and how the market will evolve over the next years.

With a significant proportion of forthcoming supply aimed at the highincome consumer bracket, this segment will become increasingly competitive. And in light of this impending supply, retailers are seeking to diversify their product offering.

Qatar is the world’s fastest growing economy with a real GDP growth CAGR of 16.2% in 2007-11 and highest GDP per capita in PPP terms, according to QNB Capital.

Apparently with growing spending power, Qataris are showing more interest in luxury purchases. Building on that, many projects aim to bring in up-market brand names and international groups to establish a presence in Qatar and tap into this booming spending capacity.

Likewise, retailers and mall owners are now looking at bumper potential earnings.

2

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Health

Pros and cons of

cosmetic & plastic surgery

fect skin, a er p h it w ed ss le b Not everyone is p lips. Every year, millions of m cute nose or plu select surgical treatments to f women and menise, nip and tuck all manner oy m enhance, minim s. From face lifts and tum to , physical feature and liposuction is a n o ti ta en m g u a there tucks, breast otox injections, ove, lift b d n a l va o m re , rem laser hair e that can repairof the human er th t u o re u d ce pro about every inch and smooth just t ns don’t upsee, body. io ct fe er p im l These physica them, of course. But for som s everyone who ha poor self-image and influencee e they can shap levels. So how can you weigh thn low confidence of plastic surgery and make aty pros and cons ced decision about your beau informed, balanellbeing? and long term w

What to consider

Pros of cosmetic surgery

Consider very carefully the benefits and drawbacks of the surgery you’re interested in. Some men, women and teens find that their physical flaws seriously limit their social interaction and personal success, and have an effect on their overall selfsatisfaction. While this is a common issue, when taken to obsession it can become a serious problem, and is likely more a matter of mental health than an issue of physical appearance.

Before plunging head-long into plastic surgery it’s incredibly important to consider your mental state, not simply what you see as your physical shortcomings. Sometimes, outer appearance can seem like the main problem, when in reality, it’s what’s inside that’s making you feel insecure.

Clearly, the most obvious benefit of plastic surgery is improved appearance, improved self-confidence and better body image. However, there are no guaranteed ways to ensure that you’ll get the results you really want. Depending on the procedure you’re considering, cosmetic surgeries are sometimes invasive and painful, and recovery time can range from one day to six months. Final results may not even be evident for as long as one year. Make sure you’re informed about the procedure, the degree of pain involved, recovery time, the cost of plastic surgery, and the total time it will take to see the long-term results.

Understand what you’re getting into If you’ve been deliberating about a cosmetic procedure, your fist step should be a careful and objective review of your expectations and needs.

Keep in mind that our beauty-obsessed culture can create false impressions of plastic surgery and its results. Not every patient will react the same way to the same surgery even with the same surgeon.

A satisfied cosmetic surgery patient is one who understands that even a positive result will come with some drawbacks. The first important step to take in the process is to locate a reputable boardcertified plastic surgeon and make an appointment for a consultation.

Cons of cosmetic surgery Above all, it is important to know all of the dangers involved before making a final decision. While the procedures are cosmetic in nature, cosmetic plastic surgery is still real surgery. Talk to your doctor. Be sure that you are fully informed about the risks involved.

The bottom line is that plastic surgery, no matter how minor, is still a medical procedure that can affect your physical well-being and health. While physical beauty is something we all appreciate and strive for, sometimes surgery isn’t the answer. Making a well informed decision with the help of a qualified surgeon can be one of the best ways to ensure that you get the most from your chosen procedure.

Benefits of using a natural fragrance vs. synthetic The differences between natural fragrances versus synthetic fragrances are many.

Synthetic fragrances are created in a laboratory with toxic chemicals. They are compounds that contain cancer causing ingredients and other toxic substances.

These synthetic fragrances promote asthma and other life threatening disorders.

They contain petroleum-derived substances that are harsh on the skin. If you took the chemical profile of a synthetic perfume and examined it in a laboratory you would never use a synthetic fragrance again.

The advantages of natural perfume The main benefit is the therapeutic essential oils that make up the natural fragrances have healing elements that work on your body, mind, and spirit. They actually enhance your mental health creating happiness and well-being and perpetuating uplifting states of mind.

Geranium has been shown to prevent mood swings and balances the adrenals and hormones. There are root and wood essential oils that ground and centre you in your body creating focus and concentration. Cedar wood and vetiver have meditative aspects. Citrus oils have been shown to be anti-depressants. Many floral essential oils increase selfesteem, and confidence. Bulgarian rose oil opens the heart chakra and therefore increases feelings of self-love and love in general. There are many positive attributes to the essential oils. Lavender has shown to be calming and is used for headaches. Frankincense and other oils are very good for the skin. Palmarosa is a cellular regenerative and others rejuvenate the skin. Some essential oils are shown to be soothing and reduce stress and relieve nervous exhaustion.

Angelica root encourages inspiration, and inner vision. In a nutshell, there are energetic, emotional, and physical healing properties associated with natural fragrances.

Top natural fragrances Inexpensive and cheerful t Lavera’s Body SPA ‘Lime Sensation’ is sporty, stimulating and good for freshening up.

t

‘Remedies To Roll’ by Neal’s Yard Remedies, are essential oil blends in a handy little bottle for on-the-go aroma.

t

Balm Mandarin Single Note 100% Organic Perfume Made with only two ingredients (essential oil and grain vintage), use on its own to smell like mandarin or blend with some of the seven other varieties.

Vibrant and luxurious t

Jo Wood ‘Usiku’ Organic Eau de Toilette is a spicy, woody and warm scent for men and women alike.

t

Tsi-la ‘Misaki’ is an unusual fragrance containing lavender, warm tea, mint and bergamot.

t

Rich Hippie organic perfume is made in small batches from organic and wild-crafted plant and flower extracts.

The aromas evoke their names ‘Bohemian Wedding’ and ‘Marrakesh’.

t

Frazer ‘Parfum Solide’ - a natural perfume infused into organic beeswax. Rub warm wax on pulse points for a slow release lasting scent.

Potent, long lasting perfumes t

Burren Perfumery ‘Botanicals’ Spring Harvest - This Irish perfumery produces gorgeous, fresh, herby scents inspired by the Irish landscape and the changing seasons.

t

Ren ‘Maya Rose’ is an instant floral hit, more like conventional perfume than the rest. It contains only natural and nature identical ingredients.

t

Les Fleurs de Bach ‘Presence de Bac’ is intensely fragrant and based on Dr Bach’s flower essences.

Fine Living

Thursday, 16 February 2012

3

Wardrobe Essentials

every woman should have Have you ever stared at your closet, crammed to the rim with clothes you’ve hardly worn and thought, “I have nothing to wear!”

If you hear yourself uttering this statement more often than you should, it means you have a dysfunctional closet. It is undoubtedly missing several key pieces that allow you to easily switch from one outfit to the next. Hence, it’s time to stop the insanity and get a functional closet.

“The perfect ten”- 10 classic pieces that should be in every woman’s wardrobe is the best remedy to a dysfunctional closet.

And this list of top 10 items should be used as a guide to help you form a basic starting point. The styles for each item will vary depending on your own unique body shape.

Create your own Signature Perfume Scent Perfume is a classic gift, but it’s even better if the perfume you give is a scent that you created yourself, especially if you package it in a beautiful bottle. Perfume you make yourself is free from synthetic chemicals and is fully customised to your personal taste. Here’s how to make your own perfume.

What you’ll need Perfume consists of a mixture of essential oils in a base oil, together with vintage and water. t ½ ounce jojoba oil or sweet almond oil t 2½ ounces ethanol t 2 tablespoons spring water or distilled water (not tap water) t Coffee filter t Dark-coloured glass bottle t 25 drops essential oils t 7 drops base note essential oils t 7 drops middle note essential oils t 6-7 drops top note essential oils t Couple of drops of bridge notes (optional) The essential oils that you use form the basis of your perfume. These essential oils are called the ‘notes’ of the perfume. The base notes are the part of the perfume that lasts the longest on your skin. The middle notes evaporate a little more quickly. The top notes are the most volatile and disperse first. Bridge notes have intermediate evaporation rates and serve to tie a scent together.

Sometimes other substances are added to a perfume, such as sea salt (ocean scent), black pepper (spicy), camphor, and vetiver. Since the essential oils evaporate at different rates, the way a perfume smells changes over time as you wear it.

Here are some examples of common base, middle, top, and bridge notes.

Base notes: cedar wood, cinnamon, patchouli, sandalwood, vanilla, moss, lichen, fern Middle notes: clove, geranium, lemongrass, neroli, nutmeg, ylang-ylang Top notes: bergamot, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lime, neroli, orchid, rose

1 2 3 4 5 6 Classic Black Dress – A timeless item which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and adding accessories will give the ‘wow’ factor.

T Trench Coat – Trench coats are a key wardrobe item, a fabulous cchoice for autumn, mild winter days and also in spring and come d iin a variety of styles and colours aand available on most budgets !

Choose in one of your neutral C ccolours for a great core item.

Classic Black Trousers – A classic pair of tailored, bootcut trousers are again flattering for most body shapes and completely indispensable for most lifestyle needs! Navy or charcoal would work just as well, though lack is generally the most adaptable.

A Tailored White Shirt – This is a timeless piece for any wardrobe. Different styles will suit different body shapes but the key is to keep it feminine and accentuate the waist. Fit is everything!

Jeans – Without doubt, everyone needs a fab pair of jeans that are specific to their body shape. Dark denim and boot-cut are generally more flattering.

Skirt – Every woman should know what style of skirt flatters their figure the most!

The right shape of skirt will make you feel feminine and is an easy option to team with this season`s favourite knee high boots.

Bridge: vanilla, lavender The order in which you mix your ingredients is important, since it will affect the scent. If you change the procedure, record what you did in case you want to do it again.

Steps to Creating Your Signature Perfume t Add the jojoba oil or sweet almond oil to the bottle. t Add the essential oils in the following order: the base notes, followed by the middle notes, then finally the top notes. t Add a couple of drops of bridge notes, if desired. t Add 2½ ounces of vintage. t Shake the bottle for a couple of minutes then let it sit for 48 hours to 6 weeks. The scent will change over time, becoming strongest around 6 weeks. t When the scent is where you want it to be, add 2 tablespoons of spring or distilled water to the perfume. t Shake the bottle to mix the perfume, then filter it through a coffee filter and pour it into its final bottle. Ideally, this will be a dark bottle with minimal airspace, since light and exposure to air degrade many essential oils. You can pour a little perfume into a decorative bottle, but in general, store your perfume in a dark sealed bottle, away from heat and light. t Label your creation.

Perfumery Notes It takes experimentation to get the scent you want, but you can get started in the right direction by keeping in mind the type of scent associated with essential oils: t Earthy – patchouli, vetiver t Floral – geranium, jasmine, neroli, rose, violet, ylang-ylang t Fruity – bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, lemongrass, lime, mandarin, orange t Herbal – angelica, basil, chamomile, clary sage, lavender, peppermint, rosemary t Sea – sea salt t Spicy – black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, ginger, juniper, nutmeg t Woodsy – cassia, cedar, cypress, pine, sandalwood If the perfume is too strong, you can dilute it with more water. If you want your perfume to retain its scent longer, add a tablespoon of glycerine to the perfume mixture.

Style isn’t about owning a lot of clothes. It’s about always having the right outfit, for the right occasion. You don’t have to spend a fortune to attain that. With these ten wardrobe essentials, you can always pull together the perfect ensemble and look impeccably dressed, every time.

7

Casual Day Dress – A simple, structured day dress can be a real life-saver and remember, dresses don`t have to be reserved for evenings. No need to mix and match, just add a cool accessory in the way of a silk scarf or string of pearls and you are ready to go!

8

Classic Blazer – A well fitted blazer which defines the waist is a very versatile item and will give a very finished and polished look for both casual and professional outfits.

9 10 Stylish Leisure Wear – Even when we are relaxing at home, doing the housework or exercising, our leisurewear should be stylish, well-fitted, flattering and make us feel good. You should have at least two leisure outfits that are comfortable but yet fit the criteria of being stylish, well-fitted and flattering and you will never be embarrassed should a friend drop in for coffee!

Selection of Tops – Create a new outfit in an instant by alternating your tops and accessories. A good selection of tops for every occasion is essential, along with a good quality cashmere sweater which can be worn over a classic shirt for an adaptable daytime look that`s practical and smart.

4

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Lifestyle

Arab style Shop in true

at Doha Souqs

Although Qatar has numerous modern shopping malls, the country’s traditional souqs (markets) remain popular with both nationals and expatriates. And no wonder, for the range of goods is tremendous, the prices competitive, and bargaining a way of life.

Following decades of tradition, souqs in the Arab world group traders according to commodity, so you will find separate areas specialising in textiles, shoes, perfumes or jewellery, clothes or household goods. This makes it easy for shoppers to compare items from shop to shop.

There are newer shopping complexes dotted around town that bear the name ‘souq’, but for sheer atmosphere, you need to visit the old souq area.

Allow yourself plenty of time to wander around, and don’t be tempted to buy the first thing you see! Prices and quality vary, and it is worthwhile making comparisons.

Some of the new souqs are housed in marble clad buildings, with fountains and indoor plants, making them almost indistinguishable from a modern mall, while others — such as Souq Waqif — have been redeveloped to give visitors an authentic glimpse of the Arab bazaars of old.

Souq Al Ahmad Souq Waqif S W if Located behind the Corniche, off Grand Hamed St, Souq Waqif is a showpiece of traditional architecture, handicrafts and folk art, and was once a weekend trading area for the Bedouin.

Meaning “standing market” in Arabic, the Souq evokes the feeling of ancient Arabic heritage and community. Together with a new influx of shops selling a varied range of items, the area has become a showpiece of redevelopment and a sightseeing attraction for Doha visitors.

The only traditional souq to remain in the Gulf, it’s now a charming labyrinth of narrow streets where visitors can bargain and purchase an amazingly diverse range of products including spices, dried fruit, nuts, perfumes, local honey, clothing, oud, incense, pots, tools and garden equipment, as well as Bedouin weaving, gypsum handicrafts, model dhows, wooden brass-studded bridal chests, pictures of ‘old Doha’, and paintings by Qatari artists.

A visit to one of the falcon shops is a unique experience – some shopkeepers will allow you to photograph and handle the birds while explaining equipment and training.

Souq Waqif is one of the liveliest places in Doha, boasting an increasing number of restaurants, where you can taste traditional Qatari food and various specialties from the Middle-East.

There are several traditional cafés and restaurants which are open until late.

Sample local delicacies or try the traditional shisha or water pipe, often referred to as ‘hubbly-bubbly’. There are also regular displays of folk dance and music, particularly on festive occasions, and opportunities to photograph donkeys with traditional patterned saddles.

Built on two levels, Souq Al Ahmad is an attractive grey-and-white marble building on the right side of Grand Hamad Street as you head up from the Corniche, between Souq Waqif and the main road.

The whole complex, with closed overhead bridges that join sections on two sides of a road, is air-conditioned and a fountain and planters form a focal point on the ground floor. There is a large shop near the main entrance selling perfume and delicate hand-blown glass perfume bottles from Egypt and Iran. The lower level also has shops selling chess sets and camels made of onyx, clothing, accessories, linen, as well as electrical and household goods. There are several ladies’ tailors who specialise in bridal and eveningwear with intricate beadwork. A shop specialising in natural honey has its entrance on the outside of the building at the end closest to the Corniche.

Upstairs, there are shops selling clothing for men, women and children, shoes and accessories and children’s toys. Ladies and gents’ cloakrooms are on the ground floor.

Souq Faleh As you walk along Al Ahmed Street, Souq Faleh is on the left side at the first small roundabout.

With stores along the outside as well as inside the block, this souq houses a mix of traders.

Souq Nasser Bin Saif Next door is Souq Nasser Bin Saif, which has stores selling electrical goods, CDs and audiotapes as well as clothing and children’s toys.

Different in architectural style from the other buildings on the road, it has external as well as internal staircases.

The Gold Souq In addition to the jewellery and goldsmith shops grouped in Souq Waqif, there are dozens of jewellery stores close to the main bus station, behind Al Ahmed Street. Their windows are crammed full of necklaces, chains and bangles, and their showcases display piles of charms, pendants, earrings and rings.

All gold sold here is tested by a special department at the Ministry of Economy and Commerce and hallmarked so you can be sure your purchase is genuine.

Ask to see traditional Qatari bridal jewellery: gold belts, beautiful small gold caps with chains dangling to the side of the face (called gub gub or crab), and chestlength necklaces of decorated chains (called mirtash, which means shimmering). Most shops will be happy to let you try on these eye-popping pieces, and even pose for photographs wearing them.

There are a number of shops that specialise in selling cut and uncut precious stones or jewellery incorporating precious stones. You can also design your own pieces, and many visitors buy chains with a namependant in Arabic script.

Souq Al Jabor

Souq Al Asiery

Facing you at the end of Al Ahmed Street is Souq Al Jabor, which has entrances on Al Jabr Street and Jabr bin Mohammed Street. The range of products on sale includes footwear, baby wear, clothing, lingerie, luggage, toys, perfumes, gifts, audiocassettes and CDs.

Souq Al Asiery, with its numerous textile shops, is popular with those seeking material for new outfits.

Ground-floor shops specialise more in beaded and embroidered fabrics.

Upstairs, there is a wider selection of textiles and prices also tend to be much lower. Several shops in this souq sell readymade clothes.

Souq Al Deira One of the newer buildings along this road, Souq Al Deira has an attractive fountain, impressive chandeliers and colourful stained glass features, so don’t just look at the shops!

In addition to perfume and accessories, retailers in this souq specialise in high-quality fabrics imported from different parts of the world. This is another souq with cloakroom facilities.

Doha’s souqs are bustling, vibrant and piled high with interesting gems to be discovered. Don’t be afraid to browse; no one will mind if you pick articles up or check the feel of a fabric.

Whether you are venturing out in a group or alone, the souqs are safe places to shop at any time of the day. And having visited once, you are sure to want to go back!

Bedouin Jewellery- a reflection of the Arab culture and heritage Ekata Bhatnagar

For so many years jewellery has been enhancing the inner beauty of women all over the world. It is undoubtedly the most adored accessory, a symbol of femininity and a mark of social status. But for Arabian women it is not merely a possession but it is an intense passion since the early years. This is evident from the fact that the ears and noses of baby girls are pierced right at the time of birth. The holes are kept open by passing silk threads through them until the babies are big enough to sport a ring.

Arabian Jewellery has got its own style, design and look which imparts

it its own identity and uniqueness. s.

The ancient Arabian Jewellery, y, famously known as Bedouin n Jewellery, is named after the desert rt dwelling Arabian tribe – Bedouin. n.

This traditional jewellery is rich in n intricate silverwork, coral, carnelian n and pretty stones picked up from m the hills and sands of the desert. The souks in Middle East are flooded d with them.

Various religious beliefs are re associated with these traditional al jewelleries. A Turquoise stone is believed to ward off the “evil eye.” .”

The tiny tinkling bells prominent on n so many pieces of Arabian jewellery, y, is believed to protect the wearer by frightening off wicked spirits with h

ttheir noise. Some pieces are said to have “Dua” (prayers) that can ward h off misfortune, sickness and death. o The famous charm “Hand of Fatima” Th is the best example of ancient jewellery coupled with religious je belief. b While jewellery has traditionally been the domain of women, Arabian b men, have tended to decorate their m weapons and camels rather than w tthemselves. Modern Arabic men have wedding rings made from silver h in accordance with this custom.

Silver bracelets or anklets, most often trimmed with tiny bells, are o tthe popular choice for children. The ssound of the bells would protect the yyoung wearer from evil spirits, and

also provide a source of amusement.

With the changing times the antique Arabian jewellery is also undergoing modernisation. While traditional motifs still remain popular, modern Arabic women, prefer gold over silver and lighterweight pieces over the large and heavy ones of their grandmothers.

The jewellers are accordingly breaking the jewels and remodelling it. The antique pieces of jewellery are less expensive than the modern ones because of the high cost of the labour today. However, one thing is sure, whether modern or antique, any piece of Arabian Jewellery is certain to be unique and beautifully crafted.

5

Science

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Nanotechnology adding new hues

to fashion Nanotechnology, the technology of manipulating matter on an atomic and molecular scale, has woven fibre science and apparel design together Vinodh K. Pisharom

Textiles are often considered works of art by fashion designers. If they have controllable colour palettes for a given fabric, they would deem it a dream-cometrue to add more aesthetic value to their creations. If in case, they have the ability to add different functionalities to the fabric as well, the scope for innovations shall be limited only by their imagination and creativity. If such a fabric appeals to you as a figment of someone’s imagination, or out of a farfetched science fiction, it’s time that you are corrected. Nanotechnology, the technology of manipulating matter er on an atomic and molecular scale, has woven oven fibre science and apparel design together ther amic to give the good old cotton a dynamic mart makeover, transforming it into ‘smart cotton’- a fabric for the future. hat Many may refuse to believe that nanotechnology has anything to do oza with apparel. But, Prof. Juan Hinestroza of Cornell University and his research rch team have succeeded in binding fibre bre science and nanotechnology to create te synergies between cotton fibres and nano no components to create functionality, while le preserving its appearance and comfort. t.

By treating cotton with nanoparticles, s, nano metals, nano polymers, nanoo oxides etc., Hinestroza was able to givee unique functionalities to the fabric. With h different combinations of these particles, cotton could be made to change colour, conduct electricity, monitor health, adjust to temperature changes, protect from harmful UV rays and so on. Future fabrics will have interactive surfaces which will sense and react to temperature changes, voltage, composition of gases etc. In notso-distant future clothes will be designed to do a lot more than just keeping us warm and looking nice. The knowledge ge to manipulate particles on a nano scale is increasing day by day, and so is the ability ty to create smarter clothing.

Since the 1800s, every fifty years we have seen different industrial revolutions, s, from textiles, railroads, automobiles, s, computer, to nanotech of the recent times. s.

Each revolution is based on knowledge, e, and these revolutions have created wealth h based on knowledge. Prof. Hinestroza is now combining the traditional technology gy of textiles with the new and revolutionary ry rs nanotech, which are two hundred years apart. His work commenced with the he concept of creating fabric which would d protect us from gases, liquids and harmful ul rays. Conventional clothing may be made to have such functionalities, but ut at the expense of being thick, heavy and d uncomfortable. If one has to protect himself from ten different threats, the multilayer clothing required to achieve that would be too bulky to be of comfort.

A probable solution to this issue is to have multilayers to the clothing that are too thin to add any bulk or discomfort.

But, with the traditional fibre science and technology, this is almost impractical.

Prof. Hinestroza, harnessing the power of nanotechnology, created a sandwich of protective layers on cotton fabric, with each layer just the size of a molecule.

He created structures up to fifty layers with different polymers that came up to about 400 nanometres in thickness. The diameter of our hair is 50,000 nanometres.

This should give you an idea how thin each layer of this fabric is, and the fact that each such layer can be given distinct, yet manipulative functionality, is indeed

fascinating. With nanoparticles of silver, gold, platinum etc. cotton fabric could change colour, kill bacteria, detect explosives, drugs and harmful compounds and so on. It is interesting to note that particles of metals at its nano level can be of any colour. By controlling the spacing between the nanoparticles and their sizes, the colour of the clothing could be changed at will.

Gold could be made to look blue, silver to gold, palladium to brown etc. Such physical colours, unlike the chemical dyes, will not fade with time or exposure to sunlight, and clothes made out of them would look new as long as it lasts.

Thus, the ability to control colour in fabrics in a tuneable fashion, without the use of dyes, while adding functionality, is no more a dream or fiction. Cornell Fashion Design student Olivia Ong was the first to design dresses made ade of Hinestroza’s za s fabrics, with colours produced only

to manipulate the nanoparticles coated on the fabric to make them outside the visible range.

These materials could be made invisible to near infrared, which is the same radiation as what they use in night vision devices. Thus, using the same principle, Prof. Hinestroza could create as well as remove colours from this futurefabric, stretching the scope of its application.

Further, by manipulating the spacing between the particles, functionalities to repel water and oil, kill bacteria, allow airflow to feel fresh etc. could be added to the fabric, with the prospect of using it for unimaginable applications.

By creating a breach of about 4 nanometres on the surface of this water/oil repellent fabric by a chemical reaction action using gas, Hinestroza

GHVLJQ

DQG DSSDUHO

H

HVWUR]D &RUQ

3URI -XDQ +LQ

ÂżEHU VFLHQFH OO SURIHVVRU RI

approaches of a designer and a scientist, begot a dress that could charge your cell phones.

Working with cheaper materials like carbon black, Prof. Hinestroza was able to treat fabric with its nanoparticles with atomic precision. This helped produce black fabric, which looks the same under any lighting condition; or it helped black to look ‘black’ under all conditions. Working with Yaghi, Professor, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, UCLA, Hinestroza started experimenting with metal organic frame works, which can be grown into cotton. These metal molecules can be engineered to capture specific gases or to detect the presence of toxic gases before they do any damage. This indeed has opened the possibilities for a wide range of applications using this functionality of the fabric. Be it to protect you from exhaust fumes, toxic gases from industries, gases used in chemical warfare, fire etc., the scope of applications is extensive.

Nano technology is coming of age, and people like Prof. Juan Hinestroza are making it fashionable, or making fashion amenable to technology, as he puts it.

The combination of science and design is able offer so many opportunities, and Prof. Juan Hinestroza considers himself lucky to be working in a University where scientists and designers team up to create innovative fashion for the future.

Fashion designers and fibre scientists at Cornell have taken “functional clothing� to a whole new level. They are designing garments that can prevent cold and flu and never needs washing, and another that destroys harmful gases and protects the wearer from smog and air pollution.

What may have started as an experiment in novelty has quickly proved to be an innovation with far-reaching health, military, commercial, and – of course – fashion applications. As Hinestroza described, innovation after innovation, the potential of nanotechnology textiles

Noxious Gas Trapping Hood and Mask designed by Jennifer Keane, an apparel designer

by nanoparticles. Ong has made it to the top as a fashion designer, and she is now on WWD (Women’s Wear Daily), the fashion-industry trade journal, often referred as the ‘Bible of fashion’.

It’s not just the fashion world which is interested in the so-called smart cotton. The military is also keen to take advantage of the unique properties of this fabric. As you may have guessed rightly, their interest is not to create flashy uniforms with changeable colours. On the contrary they didn’t want to create colour; they wanted to make colour invisible or to disappear.

Here again, the same principle could be applied

A dress and jacket contain Ag and Pd nanoparticles with antibacterial and airpurifying qualities, designed by Cornell Fashion Designer Olivia Ong. could transfer an electron from one point to another, making it conductive to electricity.

Another Fashion Design student, who was finding it hard to keep her iPhone charged, came up with the idea of using this property to charge her iPhone on the move. She designed a dress with solar cells on it, connected to the iPhone charger through threads coated with nanoparticles. Thus, the combination of the

seems endless, especially because cotton is cultivated in 82 countries. After treatment with nanoparticles, the cotton remains 99.9 percent the same, yet something so commonplace has been made ‘revolutionary’ by manipulating a few outer nanometres of material. As the nanotech revolution gains momentum, we shall see a lot more innovations in the not-so-distant future.

6

Technology

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Go Virtual: when Tech meets Fashion Little girls love to play with makeup—and so do grownup ones! Wouldn’t we all like to be able to try on hundreds of makeup products at home and only buy the ones that really make us look great? There are many online sites that offer virtual makeovers that are as close as you can get to that fantasy. You upload a photo of yourself, then try a variety of products and looks until you find exactly what you want.

Sarah Mascarenhas

What is virtual makeover?

Virtual makeover is something that will provide you with a preview of styles that will be used over you. So, how is virtual makeover performed? We can call it as the boon of development of latest technology. Latest computer software is used in getting desired virtual makeover. A picture of your face is scan or saved in computer. Now with the help of software, various styles are implemented to see whether the style fits on your face or not. The software is programmed in such a way that it can apply cosmetics on picture, select hairstyle and eye wears like sunglasses and contact lenses. Thus, without adding these in reality, the user gets a glimpse that how combining all these stuffs make them look. Thus, no doubt virtual makeover is gaining popularity these days.

Before virtual makeover option came, makeover process was like equal to playing gamble. As makeover artist and makeup artist worked only on the basis of their experience and imagination. The process used to take time. This is because they would work on tresses to provide an ideal appearance. But unfortunately they ended up with not so satisfying results. With the option of virtual makeover programs things have become quite easy and that too within your budget.

Virtual Makeovers: why they’re great!

Opting for virtual makeover program offers you many advantages. You can get thousands of options. While trying different hairstyles, you can select tones, colours and highlights also. You will be able to make your own personalised style statement.

Forget relying in that fashion makeover for celebrities and models. Virtual makeover

Weekly App Review

Stylish Girl on the go!

Stylish Girl is an on-the-go fashion store, organiser and planner. There’s even a ‘fashion lounge’ where you can get the latest fashion news every day.

Ever wonder what fabulous outfit is hidden in your closet?

With the app, you can create fabulous outfits with the clothes in your closet. Simply take pictures of your clothes then mix and match.

The fashion mall is an easy way to shop for the items you love from various fashion online retailers right from your mobile phone. Within minutes you can have an entire outfit picked out and purchased. Not ready to buy the items you love? No problem, simply add these items to your ‘wish bag’ and share with friends.

You can even add these items to your closet and see if they go with any of your other clothes, accessories or shoes.

The ‘suitcase’ feature of this app is exactly what it sounds like.

Before taking apart your closet, item-by-item, you can rely on the app to help decide what to bring on your next vacation and what stays behind. Fashion is all about how you put your clothes together, so mix and match your clothes with the Stylish Girl’s fun and easy interface and step up your style. t Create amazing outfits anytime and anywhere t Re-discover what is in your closet and never buy duplicate items again t Share your outfits and clothes with your friends and let them be your fashion consultants t Shop online. Browse Shopstyle.com, mix and match the online items against your clothes and outfits t Pack for your travel quickly without forgetting anything behind

allows choosing the best style that suits not only on your facial stricture but also with your skin tone and hair colour. Imagine, before you go to a stylist you can choose the best look and that too without touching your skin and hair. You will be confident about choosing your style and thus look more confident than your previous look.

Get a virtual makeover There are different types of virtual makeover websites that you can use for your virtual makeover, such as www.marieclaire. com, www.dailymakeover.com, www.taaz. com, www.harpersbazaar.com, and www. cosmopolitan.com. All you have to do is to upload your picture to these sites and select the styles accordingly. There are many beauty salons also that offer their customers with this virtual makeover in their computers.

Here you can experiment with your look with latest hair styles and select the best style for you.

Shop, Network, and more…

in your Virtual Closet Where window shopping is fun and easy, where unconventional shopping spots are not ignored, where a whole spectrum of designer to flea market finds are featured, where fellow fashionistas share their thoughts, and where a shopaholic would never get bored.

For example, you can say good-bye to the fashion police when you join mywardrobellc.com. Whether you’re dressing for success, dressing to impress, dressing up or dressing down, mywardrobellc.com has all the tools you need to enhance your style.

With mywardrobellc.com you can mix and match your clothes and preview your looks without having to pull everything out of your closet. Simply upload individual photos of all the items in your closet and then place them in any combination on your personal avatar.

Plus, the site’s Personal Style Advisor is always available to help you find the look that’s perfect for you. And when your friends sign up for their own free membership, you can all share fashion ideas and tips. The site also features a bulletin board where members can sell or swap items, with new features being added every day.

From summer styles to winter wear, spring looks to fall fashions, mywardrobellc.com will assist you with all your fashion needs.

Beauty

Thursday, 16 February 2012

7

Diamonds why women drool over them Ah… some men, regardless of whether they’re beasts or chivalrous knights in shining armour can sometimes sweep a woman off her feet. But diamonds – they take a woman’s breath away, not sometimes, but always.

Women are fascinated by diamonds and this fascination can never fade away. This is one reason why every woman, no matter what economic class she comes from, must at least have one. Even women from non-western cultures conk over them. One could even bet that in societies where material wealth is frowned upon, a woman would not be able to resist glancing or touching it. Those who don’t own a diamond, daydream about owning one someday, while those who already own a few stones won’t hesitate to express a healthy greed for even a modest collection.

Diamond satisfies the modern woman’s need for something delicate a and wearable. It complements women of all ages and with all types o of costumes. Thus they are believed to be a woman’s best friend!

Diamonds- they’re so beautiful!

Like everlasting paintings of Renaissance artists, the diamond has been adorned as crown gemstone by kings and queens since ages. An aphrodisiac, today, it’s internationally acclaimed as a symbol of love and betrothal, and as a means of investment and accumulating wealth.

Especially, talking about the most cherished wedding dress of hers with that flawless satin cut with a black sash; perfectly accentuated with a lavishly designed and finely cut diamond, does rest of the work to gather silent applauds and compliments all inside the chapel.

Van Cleef & Arpels

Cartier Christian Dior

They’re magical!

Diamonds have always been considered somewhat magical. Long before they became the penultimate symbol for love, they were widely believed to have protective and magical properties. Diamonds are believed to hold this unique characteristic due to the way it reflects light like an inner fire of many different colours.

Bvlgari

Finding the right Diamond With so many diamonds to choose from, finding the one that’s right for you can be overwhelming, especially when compared to a jewellery store where choice is much more limited.

Knowing what shape you want — from classic round to a fancier shape of an emerald or marquis cut, knowing what makes each different shape the best is what you need to know.

And when you are planning on purchasing a diamond it is important that you know as much as possible about how diamonds are classified and “What makes a diamond sparkle?” Here are the 4 C’s that will help you find the right diamond.

Carat

Boucheron

Diamonds are cut to specific mathematical proportions and angles to best reflect light. The more light bouncing off a stone, the more beautiful and sparkly it will appear. If a stone is cut poorly, it will appear less brilliant.

Graff

The clearer and cleaner the stone, the more dazzling and rarer it will be. Because diamonds are formed deep in the earth, they can have natural “birthmarks” minute traces of minerals and other elements known in the trade as inclusions which make each stone unique.

Clarity refers to the number, colour, size, and position of these inclusions, which are measured on a GI’s scale from completely flawless (FL) to visibly imperfect (I3).

Colour The more colourless the diamond, the more brilliantly it will shine. Stone hues range from completely colourless to a slight yellow which are graded on a colour scale from D to Z set by the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA).

Colourless stones, graded D, E, F, are treasured for their clarity and value.

B e confident that you’re getting the finest quality stone. But keep in mind to choose a trusted jeweller. It is advisable to speak with a diamond expert to help you pick the diamond that is best for you and in your price range.

Chanel

Chopard

Cut

Clarity

Buccellati

Diamonds are sold by weight in carats. Each carat is 1/5 of a gram.

The heavier the diamond, the more valuable it is. Stone size is more a personal preference and not necessarily a measure of quality like colour and clarity are. However, a larger carat is desirable because of its ability to showcase a diamond’s colour, cut and brilliance.

Harry Winston

Gucci

8

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Fashion

Contemporary chic jewellery & accessories collection Equss watches & accessories

Equss jewellery

Buying jewellery for one is intimidating as well as discouraging at times when you don’t find the fin finely cut piece that your heart yearns. There is nothing better than having your own unique piece no of jewellery that makes it so special.

Like shoes and clothes, jewellery speaks directly of women’s personality and taste and also makes any an outfit look eloquent.

Buying the right piece of jewellery begins to feel a lot l like being down to your last dart, and in the wi sprawl around the bull’s-eye, around getting it wide right, there seems to be a thousand ways to miss the rig ma and get it all wrong. So, here’s a fantabulous mark collection of jewellery and accessories to steer you col in the right direction.

The right jewellery can be anything from a ne necklace, a pair of earrings, a bracelet, a choker, an anklet or anything else that will be a special piece of an jew jewellery with your style in mind.

These exclusive jewellery and accessories brands are dedicated to provide women with unique and ele elegant designs to add to their closet.

Chopard sunglasses “Luxury, femininity, sophistication”: are the three identifying features of Chopard’s 2012 Sunglass Collection. It draws inspiration from the exclusive details of the “Imperiale Watch Collection”: a feminine, refined, modern and timeless collection where elegance is conveyed by the combination b t between i li it and d exclusivity. l i it simplicity

Fresh, eye-catching designs have been applied to Equss watch collections and leather accessories, catering for consumers who are conscious of both quality and latest fashion trends. Their classic watches carry a touch of luxury, where their modern watches are fun, trendy and elegant.

Equss’ jewellery designs breathe inspiration from Equss different cultures across the globe. Their collection, which is perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions, comprises of Tahitian pearls, brilliant diamonds set in 18 K gold or sterling silver, and sparkling crystals and cultured pearls to dazzle and capture attention at any event. Earrings, bracelets, pendants and necklaces are created in a wide range of styles and designs to fit every budget.

Shenoy jewellery Offering an exotic range of necklace, ear ring, ring, bracelet studded with diamonds in 18kt, semi & precious colour stones and pearls, Shenoy offers an irresistible selection of dazzling jewellery for its Royal customers in Middle East. Some of their designs are totally custom made which is as per the requirement of the customer.

Tellus watches The value of the Tellus brand lies in its heritage.

Founded in 1926, Tellus has carried its dignity and quality through the decades, uniting experience and tradition in the craft of the Swiss master watchmakers.

The Tellus brand presents two lines, most notably the Parenthèses collection.

Parenthèses is an original and

7YVK\J[Z H]HPSHISL H[

innovative watch. Not only is it a top-of-the-line designer watch, it is distinctive for its interchangeable case.