Emirates Woman Oct2010

S T Y L I S H . S M A R T. S O P H I S T I C A T E D .

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0OCTOBER 2010

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A/W10 RUNWAY REPORT, 50s TREND REVIVAL, NEW SHOPPING HOTSPOTS & THE UAE STYLE COUNCIL

THE QUEEN OF REINVENTION DOES HE EXIST?

A/W10 RUNWAY REPORT, 50sA/W10 RUNWAY REPORT, 50sA/W10 RUNWAY REPORT, 50 TREND REVIVAL, NEW s TREND REVIVAL, NEW sSHOPPING HOTSPOTS & THE UAE STYLE COUNCIL

THE FASHION ISSUE

THE NEW FERTILITY TEST

HOW LONG HAVE YOU REALLY GOT?LAST CHANCE TO VOTELAST CHANCE TO VOTE

EMIRATES WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2010

KYLIE MINOGUE

WHY FOUR WOMEN CHOSE TO CONVERTWHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN WHY FOUR WOMEN

JOURNEY TO ISLAM

DOES HE EXIST?

THE MODERN DAY SUPERMAN

Scarlett Johansson wears the new

FALL LOOK 2010Evocative Beauty Collection

DOLCEGABBANAMAKEUP.COM EXCLUSIVELY AT PARIS GALLERY THE DUBAI MALL

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Scarlett Johansson wears the new

FALL LOOK 2010Evocative Beauty Collection

DOLCEGABBANAMAKEUP.COM EXCLUSIVELY AT PARIS GALLERY THE DUBAI MALL

0666_DG Fall2010_006_30x45cm-Emirates Woman_Eng_v4.indd 1 8/11/10 10:40 AM

www.chanel.com

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Etoile la Boutique 2 Emirates Woman 300X450.indd 1 9/16/10 10:29:48 AM

Etoile la Boutique 2 Emirates Woman 300X450.indd 1 9/16/10 10:29:48 AM

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THE WORLD’S PREMIER ONLINE LUXURY FASHION DESTINATION OVER 300 DESIGNERS WORLDWIDE EXPRESS DELIVERY

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THE WORLD’S PREMIER ONLINE LUXURY FASHION DESTINATION OVER 300 DESIGNERS WORLDWIDE EXPRESS DELIVERY

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A U T U M N W I N T E R C O L L E C T I O N S

T H E F A S H I O N & H O M E S T O R E S

T H E D U B A I M A L L

A U T U M N W I N T E R C O L L E C T I O N S

T H E F A S H I O N & H O M E S T O R E S

T H E D U B A I M A L L

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Bento broughthome.

‘NEW DIRECTIONS’Modern new classics for the way you live now.

Drift into a serene slumber in this

Crate and Barrel signature. Without

a nail or screw, this platform bed

incorporates Ancient Chinese

woodworking in renewable eco

bamboo, guaranteed to let you

sleep easy.

Home Furnishings. Housewares. Accessories.

Mall of the Emirates, 04 399 0125 | Mirdif City Centre, 04 284 3151

12133_Emirates women_DPS_450x300.indd 1 9/15/10 12:58 PM

Bento broughthome.

‘NEW DIRECTIONS’Modern new classics for the way you live now.

Drift into a serene slumber in this

Crate and Barrel signature. Without

a nail or screw, this platform bed

incorporates Ancient Chinese

woodworking in renewable eco

bamboo, guaranteed to let you

sleep easy.

Home Furnishings. Housewares. Accessories.

Mall of the Emirates, 04 399 0125 | Mirdif City Centre, 04 284 3151

12133_Emirates women_DPS_450x300.indd 1 9/15/10 12:58 PM

IF YOU LOVE STYLE, YOU’LL LOVE...

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IF YOU LOVE STYLE, YOU’LL LOVE...

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One watch. Three positions to play with.

LIMELIGHT MAGIC HOURThree-position rotating bezelWhite gold, diamond setPiaget Manufacture

www.piaget.com

PIAGET BOUTIQUES: Abu Dhabi: Khalidiya Street, 02 667 0010 - Al Manara Jewellery, Hamdan Street, 02 626 2629 Dubai: Dubai Mall, 04 339 8222 – Wafi New Extension, 04 327 9000

Abu Dhabi: Al Manara Jewellery, Abu Dhabi Mall, 02 645 7575, Marina Mall, 02 681 0888 Dubai: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Atlantis 04 422 0233, Burjuman Centre, 04 355 9090,

Emirates Towers, 04 330 0888, Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 1211

UAE Emirates Woman_Magic Hour 225x300 E.indd 1 9/8/10 3:43 PM

OCTOBER 2010 EMIRATES WOMAN 47

A s the summer draws to a close, I’ve started to

think about the months that are passing by at

lightning speed. The Emirates Woman of the Year

winner will be announced next month, 2011 is

just around the corner and it was four months ago that the

EW fashion team landed on the doorstep of Essa, the

celebrated UAE-based designer. The idea? To shoot the most

stylish and sophisticated women in the UAE for a fashion

shoot that not only celebrates Essa’s designs, but the amazing

women who wear them. Over the months, trips to Essa’s

atelier became frequent and gave us a chance to indulge in all

of the things we love; style, shoes and good company.

Fast forward through the summer and the EW team

has worked around the clock (and the globe) to bring you

this very special Fashion Issue which delivers the hottest

trends, exclusive shoots and interviews with Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Christian Louboutin

and Matthew Williamson in addition to features on everything from women who have converted

to Islam and the rise of the new ‘superman’.

Having read EW from cover to cover, your next stop has to be LOVESTYLE.COM, which will be

without a doubt your new digital style guide to the Middle East and beyond. More than just a fashion

website, LOVESTYLE.COM will offer you the latest style news, the best in the beauty world, celebrity

news on and off the red carpet and blogs from the EW team.

We also invite you to become a friend of EW on Facebook and be the first to feast your eyes on our

exclusive giveaways and get your name on the guest list for our VIP events.

Last but not least, don’t forget to log onto www.emirateswomanawards.com and vote for your

Emirates Woman of the Year. Voting closes at midnight on October 31, 2010.

Editor, Sophia Triantafillou

THE EDITORʼS LETTERSHOPPINGIN OCTOBER…

EW’s Elle Timms catches up with David Lauren at the S/S11 Ralph Lauren show in New York

Cape by ChloéBrooch by

Carolina Herrera

Sunglasses by Ray-Ban

Riding boots by Gucci

Evening bag by Valentino

Features Editor, Sarah Walker, chats to

Elie Saab in Beirut following his first

catwalk show in the city for 18 years

Style Editor, Claire Carruthers,

at Cibeles Madrid Fashion Week

EW Editor, Sophia, with designers Meher & Riddhima in Dubai

EW’s Elle Timms outside the Burberry S/S11 show in London

Elle back stage at Burberry

AROUND THE WORLD WITH EW

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48 EMIRATES WOMAN OCTOBER 2010

S*uces’ Zayan Ghandour and Pink Tank’s Mitra Khoubrou ready for their close up

The make-up and hair studio in full swing

Vikram Gawde shoots Elieen Wallis on the Essa shootshoots Elieen Wallis

The Emirates Woman team at Boutique 1, Mirdif City Centre

THE NOMADSHOOT

MEHER & RIDDHIMA

LAUNCH

Model Masha on the Ralph Lauren shootThe Nomad

fashion shoot crew hard at work

EW’s Cherith Nicholl styling up a storm

EW’s Style Director, Sarah Joan Ross, shooting in the Dubai desert

BEHIND THE SCENES

THE ESSA

SHOOT

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Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, E-mail: [email protected] Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai Media City, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845

Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 02 677 2005 Fax: +971 02 677 0124, E-mail: [email protected]: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK. E-mail: [email protected]

19,424 copies January -June 2010

International Federation of Periodical Presswww.flip.com

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Group Editor and Managing Partner Ian Fairservice

Group Senior Editor Gina Johnson

Editor Sophia Triantafillou Deputy Editor Emily Baxter

Style Director Sarah Joan Ross Style Editor Claire Carruthers

Deputy Fashion and Beauty Editor Elle TimmsFashion and Beauty Writer Cherith Nicholl

Fashion and Beauty Writer Elizabeth Whiston-DewAssistant Editor Cecilia D’Souza

Editorial Interns Nada Al Ghowainim, Jessica RamohoeboAssignments Editor Ingrid Valles Po

Chief Sub-Editor Iain Smith

Senior Art Director Jan Stoop Senior Designer T Prasadan

Senior Photographer Vikram Gawde, Farooq Salik

General Manager – Production and Circulation S Sasidharan Production Manager C Sudhakar

General Manager – Group Sales Anthony MilneGeneral Manager – Abu Dhabi Joe Marritt

Business Development Manager – Nicola Hudson

Senior Advertisement Manager Seema Kausar Senior Advertisement Manager Chaitali GandhiDeputy Advertisement Manager Hala Btaddini

Sales Executive Salma Eddinari Advertisement Manager – Abu Dhabi Darryl Wiley

Contributors Saadiya Ahmad, Victor Besa, Natasha Faruque, Claire Glasby, Sophie Jones-Cooper, Ana Maksic, Simone Manning, Charlotte Murphy and Poppy Skinner

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ON THE COVER96 Kylie Minogue: The queen of reinvention on her final transformation104 The Rise of the Superman: Who is he and does he really exist? 113 Emirates Woman Of The Year Awards: Your last chance to vote124 Journey To Islam: Four women’s stories on converting to Islam 232 The New Fertility Test: How fast is your biological clock ticking?

96KYLIE MINOGUE

emirates

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2010

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LAURENRALPH

He savored that image, his eyes closed, until the other guests, chattering, spilled out onto the great lawn. He caught only a glimpse—her hair, her dress. There were so many people—dancing and laughing—but he could only think of her.

R A L P H L A U R E N . C O M

RALPH LAUREN

He savored that image, his eyes closed, until the other guests, chattering, spilled out onto the great lawn. He caught only a glimpse—her hair, her dress. There were so many people—dancing and laughing—but he could only think of her.

R A L P H L A U R E N . C O M

RALPH LAUREN


FRONT ROW63 Inbox64 Style Online66 EW Insider69 Fashion Report70 The Lust List72 High-Street Buys

FEATURES96 Kylie Minogue: The queen of reinvention104 Rise Of The Superman: Does he really exist?113 Emirates Woman Of The Year Awards: Your last chance to vote! 124 Local Report: Converting to Islam

75 High End Trend: Scarves80 Trend: New age disco85 Anatomy Of A Trend87 Opinion Column91 Black Book Of Beauty92 Beauty Box94 Beauty Trends: Hair

emirates


104RISE OF THE SUPERMAN


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MEISTERSTÜCK MONTBLANC DIAMOND

Discover the most enduring expression of a legend: the star

shaped emblem sculpted in the patented 43-facet Montblanc

Diamond cut, now crowning the iconic Meisterstück

Writing Instrument.

Montblanc BoutiquesDUBAI Burjuman | Deira City Centre | Dubai Mall | Emirates towers | Festival Centre | Grand Hyatt | Ibn Battuta | Jumeirah Beach Hotel |

Mall of the Emirates | Mirdif City Centre | Wafi | ABU DHABI Abu Dhabi Mall | Marina Mall | AL-AIN Al-Ain Mall

www.montblanc.com

UAE Emirates Woman Mst Diamond_300x225.indd 1 9/20/10 10:01 AM


emirates


FASHION134 Romany Romance: Ralph Lauren’s A/W10 collection gets romantic146 The Nomad: Desert dwelling in lashings of fur, shearling and knits159 A/W10 Runway Report: EW’s pick of the best trends from the season ahead170 The Style Council: The fashion maestro Essa presents his muses and his designs188 Walk The Line: Louis Vuitton’s new line

of luxury leather hits the streets of Paris199 Fashion’s New Home: We welcome the Fashion Dome at Mall of the Emirates 207 Bag’s Of Style: Matthew Williamson’s beautiful new collaboration with Bulgari

BEAUTY & HEALTH215 What's Beautiful Now?: Femme fatale make-up is on red alert

221 Backstage Beauty: 12 of the hottest runway looks this season231 Health Notes232 The New Fertility Test: How fast is your biological clock ticking? 237 Think Pink: BurJuman’s Safe & Sound Breast Cancer campaign238 Standing Strong: Three inspiring stories of women battling breast cancer

146THE NOMAD



LIFESTYLE & AGENDA245 Globetrotter246 Pocket Guide To Beirut249 Jet-Set251 Luxe Living253 Girl About Town256 Competition259 RSVP: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week261 RSVP: Yves Saint Laurent 262 RSVP: Meher & Riddhima264 Address Book265 Horoscopes266 My Stylish Life

245 Globetrotter Pocket Guide To Beirut

Girl About Town

Mercedes-Benz Fashion WeekYves Saint Laurent Meher & Riddhima

Address Book

My Stylish Life

245 Globetrotter246 Pocket Guide To Beirut249 Jet-Set251 Luxe Living253 Girl About Town256 Competition259 RSVP: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week261 RSVP: Yves Saint Laurent 262 RSVP: Meher & Riddhima264 Address Book265 Horoscopes266 My Stylish Life

emirates



©

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS THE DUBAI MALLDUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES WWW.CHLOE.COM

UAE Emirates Woman RTW2_300x225.indd 1 9/20/10 11:32 AM

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

Eat Yourself Healthy (EW, September) was a scary article that taught me a lesson about my diet. With a life on the go it’s hard to pay attention to what you eat,

but thanks to your black and white advice, I’m steering clear of calories and loading up on sensible

swaps. Bye bye chocolate cake…Fakihah Abood, Abu Dhabi

82 EMIRATES WOMAN SEPTEMBER 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010 EMIRATES WOMAN 83

2009

T H E V I S I O N A R I E S


SAADIA ZAHIDDIRECTOR OF SHELTER

With the arts, fashion and culture scene as her

passion, Saadia can add fashion stylist, designer

and curator notches to her belt. Instrumental in

bringing Kitsch22 and 9714 to the UAE, Saadia

also set up shop in Dubai with fashion store 50C.

She continues to change the cultural and lifestyle

scene in the UAE with her recent partnership with

the brownbook brothers, Ahmed and Rashid Bin

Shabib. She is also at the helm of Shelter, a space

in both Dubai and Sharjah set up as an intellectual

and creative haven for forward-thinkers and

entrepreneurs to meet and exchange ideas.

DEDRA STEVENSON

AUTHOR AND FOUNDER OF THE

EMIRATES LITERACY GROUP

Holding double masters, both in Library Science

and Communication, former librarian Dedra

founded the Emirates Literary Group in 2009.

The incentive to start it came from her great

love of writing and a desire to encourage other

like-minded artists to create their own works of

literature. A published author, Dedra continues

to enhance the literary landscape in the UAE, and

with her first book the Hakimas Tale being such a

success, she has gone on to publish an additional

two books and is now busy with her third.

ELHAM AL-QASIMI

THE FIRST EMIRATI FEMALE TO

REACH THE NORTH POLE

With a love of adventure and true stamina, it

was unsurprising that Elham challenged herself

to become the first Arab woman to reach the

North Pole. She completed her journey in just

eight days, and became the first UAE national

to make the expedition unsupported, carrying

her supplies by sled. With a business degree

from the American University in Dubai and

a masters degree from the London School of

Economics, Elham has supassed expectations

both educationally and physically.

MAHA GARGASH

AUTHOR AND FILM-MAKER

Documentary film-maker turned author,

Emirati Maha Gargash’s talents spans

genres. With a radio/television degree from

Washington University in Washington, D.C,

and a masters from Goldsmiths’ College in

London, her real passion lies in researching

and documenting traditional Arab societies.

It was this experience which inspired the

subject of her debut novel, The Sand Fish. Set

in 1950s Dubai, exploring the journey of life

from a woman’s perspective, The Sand Fish has

sold over 25,000 copies worldwide.

REEM & HIND BELJAFLA

FOUNDERS OF THE DAS COLLECTION

By merging her lifelong passion for design with

an appreciation of local culture and tradition, St

Martin’s College graduate Reem Beljafla has created

a unique, cutting-edge and stylish clothing range.

With the Abaya at its heart, she founded DAS

Collection in 2008, which offers

a modern twist on traditional attire and it is due

to Reem and her sister Hind’s unique vision and

business acumen that the brand has become

internationally recognised. In addition to the

fashion line the sisters juggle charity work and

a communications and design business.


Every year I have closely followed the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards with great interest. Going through the profiles of this year’s nominees, I can candidly say that they are all true women of substance, pioneers and trail blazers. Their vision, commitment, dedication and passion make each of them worthy winners. We in the UAE are honoured and privileged to have in our midst such inspirational women. Thank you for highlighting their achievements. You are indeed the definitive voice of the UAE. Eric Lobo, Abu Dhabi

MOTHER LOVE I have three beautiful children, and nothing would ever force me to cause them pain – regardless of my beliefs. The torture that the girls in Mauritania suffer (Force-feeding Mauritania’s Women, EW, September) is monstrous. Where is the unconditional love and concern for their happiness and welfare? Heartbreaking story. Alainna Peasnall, Abu Dhabi

It was refreshing to see some more hair features in Emirates Woman last month. I like make-up as much as the next woman, but hair counts, too. Plenty more hair tips and ideas, please! Alyson Nugent, Al Ain

Stylish shades and fashionistas go hand-in-hand in the sun-drenched UAE, and this month the writer of

the Star Letter will receive a voucher from Al Jaber Optical, home

to an extensive array of luxury brands such as Cartier, Chanel and

Christian Dior.

Write to The Editor, Emirates Woman, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE; or send an email to [email protected]. Name and

address must be supplied but a nom de plume may be used for publication. We reserve the right to edit letters for

length and suitability.

WRITE THE STAR LETTER OF THE

MONTH AND RECEIVE A VOUCHER WORTH

DHS1,500 FROM AL JABER OPTICAL.

A WOMAN’S WORTH

HAIR RAISING

★STAR MESSAGE

SKIN DEEP Your story on skin-whitening was a devastating tale. I am an Indian woman, but one of the lucky ones as I am comfortable in my own skin, with no desire to change. For those women out there who do, they risk so much danger – desperation and naivety pushing them into dangerous corners. My heart reaches out to them. Mythri Kocchar, Sharjah

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Love Hurts bracelet Dhs930 Joomi NYC

WRITTEN BY ELLE TIMMS

PLAYING DRESS UP

A melting pot of heritage lies behind new site www.go-british.co.uk. Founded by Claudia Marodim, a Brazilian-Italian fascinated by British style, this online boutique features fashion, accessories, homeware and luggage from classic British brands, including Aquascutum, Vivienne Westwood, Richard James and Paul Smith. We’ll take a Liberty of London silk scarf to go, please...

An online closet of all things pretty and rare, reminiscent of new Hollywood glamour, www.shopsophiescloset.com is a treasure trove of costume jewels and trinkets. With the option to pay cash-on-delivery in the UAE and complimentary shipping worldwide, Sophie’s Closet is a mélange of beautiful finds.

STYLE HUB OF THE MIDDLE EASTLog on to LOVESTYLE.COM this month – the region’s first fashion website dedicated to women who love style. Covering the latest trends, catwalk reports, new collections, celebrity style, beauty news, hot travel and VIP parties, from both a local and international perspective, this site is a one-click stop for those who want instant style gratification.

BUY BRITISH

AT A CLICKFASHION

Turquoise Gumball ring Dhs350 Rachel Leigh.

Vintage dome stud earrings

Dhs1,600 Chanel

Skull-appliqué cotton tank top Dhs2,300

Alexander McQueen at www.net-a-porter.com

Vintage logo twist lock earrings Dhs1,650

Chanel BOD

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Focusing on independent, international designers with an Eastern influence, www.dia-boutique.com plays host to jewellery by Bounkit and Nada de Cavalier, with glamorous fashion from Bodyamr and Edition by Georges Chakra. Staying true to a small, boutique brand list and presenting the innovative ability to flip fluidly from English to Arabic at the click of a mouse, Dia is definitely one online store to watch.

BOUTIQUE CHIC

ALL IN THE DECORATIONOur pick of the best embellished tops online this month

Sequin web tank Dhs370

www.asos.com

SMV STYLE CULTWith a carefully curated collection of vintage finds from across America, www.spanishmossvintage.com is the online destination for those seeking a little culture with their couture. Specialising in statement vintage pieces, plus a signature clothing line labeled American Gold, Spanish Moss is based in California and plays host to the SMV Mag; a blog written by carefully selected ‘SMV girls’ reporting the latest street style trends, art, literature and music from the Golden State.

Alyx tunic Dhs1,680

www. alicebytemperley.

com

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THE NEW FEMININE FRAGRANCE

212areyouonthelist.com

ARE YOUON THE LIST ?

EW INSIDER

For the thrill-

seeker in you,

the world’s

first Ferrari

theme park (which also

boasts the world’s fastest

roller coaster) opens its doors

today on Yas Island. www.

ferrariworldabudhabi.com

28

WRITTEN BY CLAIRE CARRUTHERS

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so look out for pink ribbon merchandise, including exclusive products by Estée Lauder (as part of their Connect. Communicate. Conquer campaign), Bobbi Brown and Jo Malone.

Celebrate two of this month’s biggest events – Oktoberfest 14-17

and Halloween 31 – at the Bonnington Jumeirah Lakes Towers, with competitions, cocktails and fabulous promotions. (04) 3560600.

9

For the uninitiated, Who’s Next (ready-

to-wear) & Premiere Classe (accessories) exhibitions have been running in Paris for 20 years, drawing stylish crowds from all over the world. Now the prestigious event is coming to Dubai, bringing with it a veritable fashion feast of international brands and up-and-coming designers. DAS, Essa and Jérôme L’Huillier will also hold evening catwalk shows. Madinat Jumeirah October 19-21. www.whosnextindubai.com

The annual S*uce Shopathon showcases the latest jewellery and clothing collections from

local designers, which this year includes new brands Le Monde D’Ines, 10th Muse, KayDee and Aswad. October 13-14, Village Mall, Dubai (04) 3447270.

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Dubai International

Jewellery Week welcomes

over 300 exhibitors

from 27 countries to

participate in a colossal

showcase of all that glitters – entry

is free and open to all from 4pm-

10pm. Dubai International

Convention and Exhibition Centre

(DICEC), October 7-10.

1

London College of

Fashion (LCF) makes

a welcome return

to Dubai this month with

a new portfolio of short

courses.

www.fashion.arts.ac.uk/

shortcourses/dubai

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Happy Birthday to the Cavalli Club, celebrating its one-year anniversary

today. Roberto Cavalli, VIP guests and UAE socialites will be revelling at the Halloween party on October 31.

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Gala

screenings,

competitions,

parties and

celebrity sightings – Abu Dhabi

Film Festival has it all. October

14-23, www.abudhabifilmfestival.ae

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Kenzo is as much about print and art as fashion. Now, with Antonio Marras at the helm, this book celebrates its 40-year heritage with a choice of covers, clever gatefolds and pop-ups that recall the label’s fashion show invitations. www.rizzoliusa.com


Don’t miss the open day Pink Polo event

today at Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club to raise awareness for breast cancer. The event is free and open to the public. (02) 5629050

2214

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Popular French

brasserie, Rive Gauche,

welcomes a new neighbour with the

opening of Yellow Lounge champagne

bar. Think mellow yellow, cool,

cosy interiors, Veuve Clicquot and

delicious French delicacies. The Yellow

Lounge, Address Dubai Marina

www.theaddress.com

13

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T H E F R A G R A N C E

F E E L , I M A G I N E , E N J O YA T W O M A N I T Y . C O M

SP_Emirates Woman_225x300_MO.indd 1 08/07/10 09:48

As the anticipated A/W10 collections finally set full sail across shop floors, we can’t help but wonder what’s happened to those poor remaining S/S10 pieces. A quick trip to The Dubai Outlet Mall this month will make the most of the seasonal stock switch-over.


TREND IN FOCUS: YELLOW ACCENTS

FASHION TREATS

With cool cult brands like Krystof Stronzyna and Best Behavior, it’s no

secret to any Dubai-dwelling fashionista that S*uce is the place for scouring party-perfect attire. This month, the

boutique has launched a cute spin on gift-voucher giving, in the shape of the

S*uce Gift Jar. Available from Dhs300-Dhs2,000.

SHIFTING SEASONS

Elbows at the ready ladies – Lanvin is launching a collaborative collection with H&M. Although, just to clarify, this is “H&M going luxury, rather than Lanvin going, public,” according to the label’s

Artistic Director, Alber Elbaz. Whichever way you look at it, we’re in love with the idea of Lanvin at logical prices. Available November 23 at H&M stores in The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.

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S*uce gift jar

Available in a limited edition series of just five timepieces, each individually numbered Pink Pony Watch by Polo Ralph Lauren supports the brand’s

commitment to the global fight against cancer. One hundred per

cent of proceeds go to the honorable cause of reducing disparities in cancer care across medically underserved communities, and each is accompanied by a personalised note from Ralph Lauren himself. Approximately Dhs79,000 at selected Ralph Lauren stores.

Throughout October, chicönomic underwear label, Women’s Secret, is donating Dhs10 from every bra sold as part of the Must Collection to the BurJuman Safe & Sound Charity, in aid of Breast Cancer awareness.

CHARITABLE SUPPORT Look out for the relocation of

Bally, EW’s ultimate go-to shop for timeless leatherwear with a dose

of contemporary edge, at Mall of the Emirates. Bally

is now on Level 1, near The Fashion Dome

entrance.

STYLE MOVERS

Silk tank Dhs570 S*uce

A FASHIONABLE CAUSE

69_Fashion Report okt new A.indd 69 9/27/10 5:18:48 PM


10 fashion and beauty must-haves to long

for this October

This day-to-evening butter-soft leather tote will lift any neutral palette.Bag Dhs1,500 Kenneth Cole

Tiffany & Co. branch away from their trademark diamonds with these classic, urban frames that ooze aviator cool. Sunglasses Dhs1,050 Tiffany & Co.

Formulated with potent antioxidant cells extracted from the ocean, this wonder-serum will soon unveil smoother, brighter skin. Prodigy Powercell Youth Grafter 50ml Dhs495 Helena Rubinstein

Hey doll… Stamp pretty in Charlotte Olympia’s colour-popping metallic Dolly pumps. Approximately Dhs2,900 Symphony

Thrown over skinny jeans or donned with cocktail attire, this is a cherish-forever military piece worthy of an investment. Cadet Wool Felt Coat Dhs12,430 Burberry

THE LUST LIST

COMPILED BY POPPY SKINNER

A knock-out necklace is de rigueur this autumn, and they don’t get more striking than this. Fur Wicca Chain Dhs1,385 Fenton at Boutique 1, Boutique1.com

Complete your new season look with Chanel’s latest cult shade and choose a military-inspired manicure this autumn. Le Vernis Khaki Vert Dhs149 Chanel

This Out of the Wild feather headband will transform dressed down daywear and add a contemporary edge. Headband Dhs150 Topshop.

Designed in collaboration with Angelina Jolie, this limited edition, emerald eye snake bangle slithers into dark, decadent territory. Protector Black Diamond Bangle Dhs144,100 Asprey

As the party season approaches, choose versatile separates to see you through in style. Joey sequin embellished skirt Dhs1,050 J.Crew at Net-a-Porter.com

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ANIMAL INSTINCTBag Dhs580

Diesel

Faux fur coat Dhs680 French Connection

Garland blouseDhs620 Reiss

COMPILED BY ELLE TIMMS

Dress Dhs149 H&M

Sandals Dhs425 Topshop

ScarfDhs175 Mango

Patent satchelDhs215 Wallis

Bikini top Dhs30, bikini briefs Dhs25 both

Matalan

Maxi dress Dhs1,395Aftershock

Clutch Dhs1,080 See

by Chloé at Net-a-Porter

Sunglasses Dhs35Marks & Spencer

Gloves Dhs100 ASOS at www.

asos.com

Sandals Dhs1,013 Carvela at Net-a-

Porter.com


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ISSA

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LOOK TO THE STARS

Put a ladylike twist on the trend by knotting at the base of a sleek ponytail

Tie in a loose bow around structured tote handles for an elegant finishing touch

Try a long, sheer scarf as a belt alternative; especially with high waistlines

Nail a relaxed necktie; opt for a large silk scarf to lift casual basics

WAYS TO WEAR IT

Silk twill scarf Dhs1,450 Hermès

Printed scarf Dhs270

Hoss Intropia

Pointe Royale

silk scarf Dhs2,060 Hermès

Printed silk scarf Dhs960

Versace at Net-a-Porter.

com

Satin scarf Dhs35 H&M

Cotton mix scarf Dhs49

H&M

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WRITTEN BY CHERITH NICHOLL

PHILL

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Jumper Dhs3,750 Phillip Lim

NEW AGE DISCO

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Dress Dhs1,875 Hoss Intropia

Leggings Dhs4,250 Stella

McCartney

Shoe DhsPOA Giuseppe Zanotti

Shoe Dhs1,470 Hoss Intropia

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LOOK TO THE STARS

JADA

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Cardigan Dhs2,250 Alice and

Olivia

Bag Dhs1,450

Coach

Jacket Dhs2,750 Zadig&Voltaire

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WEEKEND

COMPILED BY CHERITH NICHOLL

A TEA DRESS

Earrings Dhs750 Sophie’s Closet www.sophiescloset.com

Shoe boot Dhs4,160 Charlotte Olympia

Shrug Dhs359 Mango

Clutch Dhs1,550 Alberta Ferretti

Necklace Dhs730 by Marcelle Danan

at Saks Fifth Avenue

Watch Dhs295

Shoe Mart

Hair clips Dhs30 New Look

Blazer Dhs250 Stradivarius

Belt Dhs295 Reiss

Shoes Dhs2,465

Bionda Castana Boutique 1 at

boutique1.com

Necklace Dhs615 by

Kenneth Jay Lane at Saks Fifth Avenue

Jacket Dhs1,650 Reiss

WAYSTO

WEAR

Handbag DhsPOA Balenciaga

Glasses Dhs995 Dolce&Gabbana

Handbag Dhs4,295 Bally

Mac coat Dhs1,800 by Smart at Saks Fifth Avenue

Pumps Dhs1,510 Ralph Lauren

Watch Dhs5,700 Versace

Bangles Dhs19 H&M

Sunglasses Dhs910 Ray-Ban

A TEA DRESSTea Dress Dhs3,060 Carolina Herrera

Blouse Dhs1,005 by Milly at Saks Fifth Avenue

OFFICE

EVENING

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Left and below: Symphony’s magical A/W10 Abra-cadabra themed campaign features America’s Next Top Model star, Raina Hein

WHERE IT BEGAN:After graduating from Parson’s School of Design in Paris, strikingly blonde American, Erin Fetherston, began her namesake line in 2004. A friendship with the Hollywood actrses Kirsten Dunst led the actress to star in a whimsical mini-film that played on loop

during Erin’s A/W09 presentation, which catapulted the brand, and Erin, into the limelight.KNOWN FOR:A playful, girlish character fit for garden tea parties – think organza dresses, cascades of ruffles and flirty, delicate designs.

A/W10 MEANS:Moving away from all-out pretty, Erin is embracing a tougher style this season, but maintaining her natural, feminine edge. She says: “I could make party dresses forever, but it’s good to push yourself to try new things.”

I t’s safe to say that Dubai is familiar with luxury multi-brand retailers and there’s no doubt about it, we ‘do’ designer well. So how does a fashion store of luxe-status launch with impact these days? Cue Symphony, the boutique brainchild of 24-year-old Emirati, Salama Alabbar. Describing herself as a “daughter, friend, entrepreneur – and person who

is inspired by all things beautiful,” Salama has crafted a creative shopping concept with natural heart and soul. And it houses a list of labels to-die-for. To mark the official store opening this month, EW showcases three Symphony brands to watch out for…

STRIKINGA CHORD

EW LOVES...The Edith Jacket – cropped, beatnik-inspired lace, and the perfect day-to-cocktail

hour cover-up


ERIN FETHERSTON

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WHERE IT BEGAN: After attending the Baltimore School for the Arts and the American Intercontinental University in London, 24-year-old Christian Siriano moved to New York and applied as a candidate on the hit US show, Project Runway. Internships with Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen served him well and Christian went on to win the 2008

TV series, launch his own label, and has subsequently dressed Lady Gaga, Heidi Klum and Mad Men star-of-the-moment, Christina Hendricks. KNOWN FOR:None too surprisingly, Christian’s designs embody drama. Red carpet-ready gowns, heavily tucked and pleated structure and striking prints make regular appearances

KNOWN FOR:Creating the serrated rubber ‘saw’ soles. Any self-respecting shoe fanatic will be well aware of this directional jagged edge by now, which, in the right circles, is as recognisable as a flash of Louboutin red. AW10 MEANS: A collection of predominantly steel tones and more innovative, cut-away leathers. Booties are key, with architectural soles

throughout his collections.AW10 MEANS: A sleek reference to the glamour and head-to-toe decorum of European women in the 60’s, and perhaps an endeavour to remove himself from ‘drama’. Stylish, youthfully classic black leather and silk peplums across jackets, skirts and dresses show the label means business this autumn.

that stamp a fashion statement, the Skovgaard way.

Christian Siriano’s A/W10 inspiration, design sketches and runway result

Armadillo pumps Dhs1,700 Sasso sandals Dhs1,540 Spear sandal booties Dhs1,890

WHERE IT BEGAN:Danish-born Camilla Skovgaard had an unpredictable journey into directional shoe design. Having lived in Dubai from the age of 20 – where she designed couture for Sheikhs’ wives and daughters – Camilla decided after seven years, to move to London and realise her dream. Graduations from Cordwainers Shoe College and The Royal College of Art authorised her talent and a label was born.

SYMPHONY, GROUND FLOOR, FASHION AVENUE, THE DUBAI MALL

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

CAMILLA SKOVGAARD

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PROJECT MK-7502 EMIRATES WOMAN ISSUE/POST DATE SEPT 10

BLEED 231 MM (W) x 306 MM (H) TRIM 225MM (W) x 300MM (H) LIVE NONE GIVEN

SCALE BUILT AT 100% OF ORIGINAL SPECIAL NOTES

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ARMANI EXCHANGE 111 EIGHTH AVENUE NEW YORK NY 10011

CONTACT CHRISTINE LOPEZ 212.462.7306 DESIGN PLEASE INITIAL AND DATE THE BOXES ABOVE

THE DUBAI MALL 04.3399472

DEIRA CITY CENTRE 04.2943057

AL WAHDA MALL 02.4437213

MARINA MALL 02.6811464

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SKY-HIGH

THE KNOW-HOWKeep it real. Authentic leathers will only

look better once a little battered with age

If you prefer to replicate real skin, avoid

cheap ‘poly’ fabrications to keep static at bay

Choose only classic shades of grey, brown,

and black…

Experiment with shape; biker, cape, hooded

and belted all fit the A/W bill

PUNK TO POLISHED

EW ’S TOP TANKS

Kate Moss, 2010

Calvin Klein S/S99

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NOW AND THEN

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Andrea jacket Dhs1,195 Reiss

Faux shearling cape Dhs430

Topshop

Cara coat Dhs680 Mango

1960s

1960s

1932The iconic Amelia Earhart proudly wearing her pilot’s jacket

A model at the Leather Institute Clothing Fair in Park Lane, London

Liza Minnelli sports an altogether different kind of flying style, arriving at Heathrow Airport

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www.narcisorodriguez.com

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eing invited to New York Fashion Week doesn’t happen everyday; it should be a moment of untainted joy. Mercilessly invading my excitement, however, was the question… what on

earth was I going to wear in the world’s most fashionable city?

Before we get down to the nitty gritty of garments, let’s address what’s really important. When headng to one of these events you need a maximum of five shoe styles. Not 13, as I have found out the hard

way in the past. Ballerina’s, à la Chanel or French Sole ideally, and some robust gladiator sandals will do for flats (to be carried with you at all times, as there is nothing worse than tottering along the cobbled streets of SoHo, trying to hail a cab with a 10 tonne-heavy handbag of invites). Next, stiletto pumps. Think Louboutin’s Decollete – a perennial fashion favourite. You’re also in need of fabulous cocktail heels; mine are a pair of paneled, royal purple and grey Prada peeptoes that transform a LBD. Finally, throw

in a pair of tough-talking, heeled ankle boots to give daywear an injection of cool. That’s all folks; multiple options of the above are unnecessary.

A week or so later I find myself sitting at a café on a sunshine filled sidewalk in New York’s Uptown, having lunch with colleagues and playing the ‘has she, hasn’t she’ (had cosmetic surgery done) game, wearing my thoughtfully prepped appointment attire of rolled J.Crew chinos, a silk Paul & Joe blouse and aforementioned tough little ankle booties. At the next table were four ladies pushing 60 (all of whom ‘had’), plus poodle, in full-on pearl regalia and beehives the height of the Empire State building. A meticulously planned outfit well spent there.

The next hurdle to tackle was the show schedule. Having studied the looks buzzing around Lincoln Center, it seemed that people were opting for a uniform of black, or out-and-out crazy. Yes, I mean you, blogger BryanBoy, in that floor-length sequin cape, alongside certain guests who took to wearing what can only be described as Hawaiian hula-hula get-up in the name of glamour. Stumped again. I didn’t want to become part of the boring black brigade, and by no means was I ready to challenge Elton John to a fashion-off.

It then began to dawn on me that there aren’t really any rules. It may seem that the front row have telepathic trend knowledge, when in fact it’s just a canny knack for nailing that impossibly thrown together, stylish balance. On the S/S11 Marc by Marc Jacobs runway, horizontal stripes were big news – a doddle to recreate. At Ralph Lauren, lace played an important role, again – simple. As cliché as it may sound, that old adage, ‘it’s not what you wear (within reason, Mr Hawaii) but how you wear it’ holds true. My advice would be to pack a muted, capsule edit of separates that work together; twill chinos, a fitted white shirt, billowing silk blouse, cigarette pants, boyfriend blazer… and maybe one sequin number, ‘just in case’. ■

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WRITTEN BY NATASHA FARUQUE

A CLASSACT

M iddle Eastern mademoiselles have the ultimate pop-up shop on their doorstep thanks to the last day extravaganza of Premiere Classe, the famous fashion-focused international trade show. Usually the

exclusive preserve of Parisian princesses, Dubai-based fashionistas will be tottering in their towering Louboutins in their haste to splurge on the coolest

brands and hottest new trends. We’ve sifted through the 200 exhibitors so you can make a bee-line for the über-brands.

MORPH BY AMIT AGGARWALTransform yourself into a style siren by donning

a piece from Delhi-based Aggarwal. His style is eclectic, quirky and perfect for the

confident woman wanting a touch of bohemia. He brings Eastern artistry and craftsmanship to an edgy yet

sleek Western aesthetic, ensuring the collection is eminently wearable. Penelope Cruz is rumoured to have picked up his pieces already. www.morphe.in

BEGUM SALIHOGLUBoho-chic meets rock-chick in fresh-faced Parsons’ graduate Salihoglu’s collections straight from the shores of the Bosphorus. Her stints working with Hussein Chalayan and Alessandro Dell’ Acqua have clearly paid off; the meticulous pattern cutting and architectural shapes are obvious in both her couture and ready-to-wear line. This year she made it to the pages of Turkish Vogue; surely its Italian counterpart is next on her stylish agenda? www.begunsalihoglu.com

KOKIN NEW YORKYou’ll be holding your head up high if you don one of the Big Apple’s most famous millinery exports. Carrie Bradshaw-wannabes will be in Fifth Avenue heaven as Kokin has worked with fashion luminaries like Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen and Ralph Lauren, whilst name dropping celebs fans as diverse as Julia

Roberts, Sophia Loren and Hilary Duff and, of course, Sarah Jessica Parker. Our pick is the Cartwheel oversized, floppy straw hat; a surprisingly versatile showstopper. www.kokinnewyork.com

MARGARETH ET MOIFrancophiles should sashay towards the quintessentially elegant and, unmistakably Parisian label, Margareth et Moi. Cuts

seem simple but are instead couture-intricate, both unerringly feminine and flattering. Luxurious fabrics are intrinsic to the silhouette and fall of the pieces. Monochrome always predominates with flashes of bright, almost-acidic primaries punctuating the otherwise chicly sombre palette.www.margarethetmoi.com

MARGARETH ET MOIFrancophiles should sashay towards the quintessentially elegant and, unmistakably Parisian label, Margareth et Moi. Cuts

couture-intricate, both unerringly feminine and flattering. Luxurious fabrics are intrinsic to the silhouette and fall of the pieces. Monochrome always predominates with flashes of bright, almost-acidic primaries punctuating the otherwise

ESSAFashion glossies worldwide have heralded this Middle Eastern fashion guru as the next big thing. Having awarded him the 2006 ‘Emirates Woman Designer of the Year’, we’ve been stealthily investing in his trademark maxis and kaftans with a twist, paying tribute to his genius with his fashion shoot in this issue. Rich colours, intricate prints, and an expertly cut silhouette have given him iconic status amongst his legion of admirers. www.essa-inc.com

PREMIERE CLASSE, OCTOBER 19-21, 2010, MADINAT JUMEIRAH,DUBAI WWW.WHOSENEXTINDUBAI.COM

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Give your lashes some serious volume with a set of eyelash extensions at Sisters this month. With a variety of lengths to pick from you can tailor them to your taste. Favoured by some of Hollywood’s finest leading ladies, such as Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Lopez, we predict lash fluttering will become your secret weapon this season. Eyelash Extensions Dhs500 Sisters Salon www.sisterssalon.com

1

BLACK BOOK OF BEAUTY

Head to The Dental SPA on Jumeirah Beach Road this month to get a smile to rival Jessica Alba. Where once upon a time a dazzling, pearly white smile was reserved for Hollywood’s finest, thanks to impressive advances in whitening techniques us mere mortals can also flash our teeth with confidence. This month, the first lucky 25 Emirates Woman readers to book a Plasma Dental Whitening treatment at The Dental SPA will not only get their treatment for a reduced price of Dhs1,500, saving Dhs400, but they will receive a free laser hair removal session meaning. Hollywood glamour awaits, ladies. www.thedentalspa.org

SMILE!4

LASH OUT

CHILL BILL 2If you can’t stand the heat, then get out of the sun and book the Chill Bill treatment at Desert Palm’s Lime Spa. The combination of a body scrub followed by a steam and ice room session is the ultimate treat for sun-parched skin. Topped off with a pink clay mud body cocoon to leave your skin soft, supple and glowing like a goddess. Chill Bill Treatment Dhs845 Lime Spa at Desert Palmwww.desertpalmresort.com

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Softouch Spa at the Kempinski, Mall of the Emirates, for a

Harmony massage complete with facial. Softouch Harmony Dhs800

www.kempinski.com

GO TO…

3It has been a decade since Belle Femme first opened its doors in Jumeirah Beach Residence, and they are celebrating in style. If their fabulous Moroccan Bath is not enough reason to tempt you to visit, then perhaps their latest promotion will do the trick. Spend over Dhs250 and you will be entered into a raffle with a chance to win a year’s worth of treatments – the perfect prize for beauty addicts. www.bellefemmeme.com

BELLE OF THE BALL

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0303 MY STYLISH LIFEMY STYLISH LIFE

Spice up bath time with a dollop of Paradisiac Pink Pepperpod bath and shower gel (Dhs120, Molton Brown). With a fusion of African ginger, patchouli and pink pepperpods, your skin will be left smelling good enough to eat and your energy levels boosted.

BEAUTY BOX

Get creative with colour and use a contrasting liner to your own eye hue to help their natural tones ‘pop’. The newest addition to the Smashbox eye family will create a great alternative to the traditional smoky eye, while the improved formula will ensure a longer-lasting effect.Eyeshadow in Aquatica, Dhs66Jetset Eyeliner in Teal, Dhs92

PEPPER AND SPICE

COLOUR CHAMELEON

SKIN INDULGENCE

LUXE LIPSRehydrate parched lips with a slick of Nuxe’s lip treat. The luxuriously moisturising formula will help fight the dreaded air con chill, leaving your pout smooth and plump.Baume Lèvres Dhs66 Nuxe

Touted as the new ‘It’ cream and quickly gathering an A-List following, Bellefontine is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a more indulgent skincare regime. The wonder formula beats dehydration, improves damaged skin and will leave you with a fabulous glow that defies the fact that it came from a jar. Available at the London Centre for Aesthetic Surgery Gulf in Dubai.Multi-Active Essential Day Cream Dhs1,277, Repairing Nutritive Night Cream Dhs1,350

Make Up For Ever founder, Dany Sanz, has taken inspiration from the dancers of the Moulin Rouge to create some fabulously flamboyant additions to your make-up bag. Try out the False Lashes (Dhs70) with some Strass Crystals (Dhs70), and a swipe of Satin Red Lipstick (Dhs85) to finish the look and add a little cabaret to your routine.

SCARLET FEVER

This season sees a return back to beige for nails. Take your

pick from these three delicious shades to make sure it’s a

hands on trend. Nail Polish in Black Pepper Dhs45, Cookies

and Drop Dead Gorgeous Dhs45 each, Nailstation

NAILING THE TREND

Make Up For Ever founder, Dany Sanz, has taken inspiration from the dancers of the Moulin Rouge to create some fabulously flamboyant additions to your make-up bag. Try out the False Lashes (Dhs70) with some Strass Crystals (Dhs70), and a swipe of Satin Red Lipstick (Dhs85) to finish the look and add a little cabaret to your routine.

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Poker Straight Overnight

Treatment Dhs56 Lee Stafford

Sea Salt Spray Dhs80

label.m

Beautifully Straightened Dhs55 Trevor

Sorbie

Wellaflex Style & Repair

Mousse Dhs32 Wella

Texture Paste Dhs50

Toni&Guy

Ciment Thermique

Dhs105 Kérastase

GET THE LOOK

“THE FUSION OF WET VS DRY CREATES A BALANCE

BETWEEN SOMETHING STRIKING AND CHIC, AND

SOMETHING MORE NATURAL AND EFFORTLESS.”RICHARD MANNAH,

INTERNATIONAL ART DIRECTOR, TONI&GUY.

THE PRODUCTS

● One of the key aspects to this trend is a deep side parting, as seen at Jean Paul Gaultier and Bottega Veneta. Don’t be afraid to go for a full on sweeping fringe for maximum drama.● Think texture, hair should be polished and sleek with an edge of frizziness. A wet look towards the ends of your hair will create definition and structure.● Encourage the natural movement in your hair by loosely pinning the bottom half of your locks when almost dry and then blasting with a hair dryerbefore releasing.

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THE PRODUCTS

parting, as seen at Jean Paul Gaultier and Bottega Veneta.

an edge of frizziness. A wet look towards the ends of your

BURB

ERRY

PRO

RSUM

G L A M G R U N G E


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EmiratesWoman_225x300_Sept10.indd 1 10.08.10 13:49

REINVENTING KYLIE

AFTER NUMEROUS REINCARNATIONS AND TWO DECADES OF SUCCESS, KYLIE MINOGUE STILL REIGNS SUPREME AS THE QUEEN OF POP. HERE SHE TALKS

WITH EW ABOUT HER BATTLE WITH CANCER, HER BEAU AND BEING, WELL, KYLIE


W R I T T E N B Y S I M O N E P I T S I S , P H O T O G R A P H E R W I L L I A M B A K E R

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REINVENTING KYLIE

ylie Minogue, like the pop music she is famous for, relies on fluidity, reinvention and exploration. Adapting her musical style to the changing times and her changing situations has seen her mature into not only a phenomenal performer, but one that has managed to stay

contemporary without betraying her roots as a true pop artist. But it looks as if Kylie, now in remission from the breast cancer she was diagnosed with in 2005, and blissfully content with her long-term beau on her arm, may have reinvented herself for the last time.

K Despite her continuous, and sometimes ambiguous, reincarnations over the last two decades, Kylie has always been, and remains to be, an accessible star, one with a sense of familiarity about her. Awards and A-list lifestyle aside, she’s someone that people look up to, admire and aspire to be like. She inspires dreams, yet she’s also someone who you feel you could comfortably stop in the street and ask for an autograph, or invite out for a night with your friends, knowing there would be no airs and graces put on, she would, simply put, just fit in.



From frizzy-tressed girl next door in the 1980s, to the sex kitten rock star girlfriend of the 1990s, to her most recent transformation into the ethereal goddess of today, Kylie has embodied every marketable frond. From the first time she came to international attention in 1986 as Charlene, the spanner wielding, overalls wearing mechanic in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, she has been seen as cute, sexy, an indie chick, a nu-disco diva and even a sparkly showgirl. But the one constant in this ongoing metamorphosis of her aesthetics and her public persona is that, despite the glitz and the glamour, she’s always been Kylie.

Though for someone who has spent nearly 20 years in the spotlight, her life doesn’t seem half as ridiculously orchestrated, or as much of a marketing campaign, as other couch-jumping celebrities. Nor does she travel around the world in elaborately decorated costumes, or shrouded by henchmen in tuxedos. Always fashionable, always smiling, the people’s original pop princess has become an endearing and accessible celebrity.

She remains staunchly protective of her private life, despite being followed doggedly by the media nonetheless, but perhaps with far less salaciousness than with many other celebrities. And it’s her grace in the manner in which she accepts this side of her profession that allows there to be a real sense of kinship between the Australian performer and her fans.

However, even the pop world’s biggest star isn’t immune to the occasional slanging matches served up by the prying media. But the July release of her 11th studio album, Aphrodite, and her re-styling as a modern-day Greek goddess, coupled with the hype of another sold-out tour across the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe, has done well to defer recent jibes over jealously of her younger sister Dannii’s recent foray into motherhood.

It is no secret that the 42-year-old desperately wants to be a mum: “I do feel incredibly broody. But I have to be honest and accept that with everything I’ve been through, I don’t know whether I will actually be able to have children.” And so, for now, she makes the most of playing the doting aunt to sister Dannii’s new son. “Ethan’s arrival has added another facet to my relationship with Dannii. I adore all my nephews and it makes me wonder what the love is if you have your own child – how much more love is it possible to feel?”

Her love life is well documented, and her courtships, with British model James Gooding in 1998, and in particular in 2002 with French actor Olivier Martinez, raised questions as to whether the singer could afford to temporarily derail the train of success to start a family – or whether, indeed, they were the men to make her do it. But she says: “I’m a fatalist. I always feel that a relationship runs for the duration it’s meant to.”

In a twist of well-timed fortune, Kylie appears to finally have found the man of her dreams; Spanish model Andrés Velencoso, 10 years younger and her current beau of two years who she met at Dita Von Teese’s birthday party. Though this pretty picture is also tarnished by the perception that by seemingly always choosing glitter and the stage over nappies and pram-pushing, the 42-year-old may well have side-lined romance and family life for too long. Amid rumours that they’ve both met the ‘in-laws’, speculation over joint property purchases and even adoption… it seems that perhaps Andrés is the man worth hanging up her party shoes for. “I’m in love, and love is number one in my priorities now. Andrés is a man who I really like sharing my life with. Like millions of others, we are a totally normal couple. Sometimes we have deep conversations, sometimes we just talk rubbish…”

When asked during a recent television interview in Australia whether the strings of cluckiness were tugging hard, she laughed: “I’m a little clucky, yes, but I’ll leave it at that.” She added in Australian Women’s Weekly Magazine, whose cover she graced last month: “I have no plans at the moment, either in terms of marriage or children. When people ask you about it all the time, of course you start to think about how the future might look, but for the moment I’m happy in my relationship and playing auntie.”

Be it the truth, or the truth shrouded by a toughened armour, one used to fending of prying journalist’s questions, this diminutive performer, who shot to fame in the 80s with hits such as I Should Be So Lucky and Locomotion, is showing no signs of slowing down. Since being diagnosed with breast cancer whilst on her Showgirl: The Greatest Hits Tour in 2005, she has undergone the intense treatment, both physically and emotionally, needed to beat the disease. And after slowly but surely regaining her health and strength, even resumed touring with the newly named Showgirl: The Homecoming Tour in 2006, and since then has never been far from the stage or screen.

“I DO FEEL INCREDIBLY BROODY. BUT I HAVE TO BE HONEST AND ACCEPT WITH EVERYTHING I’VE BEEN THROUGH I DON’T KNOW WHETHER I WILL ACTUALLY BE ABLE TO HAVE CHILDREN”







As a gracious nod to her services to the music industry, the Australian Grammy and BRIT award-winner was granted the prestigious Order Of Arts And Letters in France and honoured by Queen Elizabeth II on Her Majesty’s 2008 New Years Honours List. A celebrated star in both her home country of Australia and her adopted city of London, her fans reach far further, evident from her numerous international appearances, as well as sell-out shows in the Middle East in 2008, and requests to headline events such as the lavish opening of the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai (reportedly the most expensive party ever held). Life is good for Kylie right now. And, having beaten breast cancer, the future is looking decidedly bright.

Being as famous as Kylie, her battle with cancer, and then chemotherapy, was never going to be a private matter. However, the media, on occasion, have had the good grace to know when to treat a topic sensitively and, despite reporting on the progress of her recovery, the story was handled with kid gloves. Photos were printed of the singer looking pale and thin, her head wrapped in a headscarf, but alongside the images ran positive stories awash with well wishes. “The fact that it was a story and that everyone knew about it was a double-edged sword, but the goodness that I felt coming in my direction… I almost felt overwhelmed by it,” she said in an interview with UK chat show host, Jonathan Ross, in June this year. “When I got through my treatment and started to take my baby steps back into real life, when I did the Showgirl Homecoming tour... now I look at that and think ‘what was I thinking, how did I do that?’ But that was my goal, that’s where I’m cut off – on tour. It’s a part of who I am, how I live and breathe, what I’m passionate about and how I connect with people. That’s what I really wanted to do, to get back on stage, and I was damned if anyone was going to stop me.”

Then in December 2006, signaling her remission from cancer and the reigniting of her career, Kylie guest-edited Vogue Australia as her official return to the public eye. Adorned in Dolce&Gabbana and Chanel, the magazine spread, timed to coincide with her rescheduled Australian Showgirl tour, was designed to show her as “strong and heroic”, as stated by Australian Vogue editor-in-chief, Kirstie Clements.

“THAT’S WHAT I REALLY WANTED TO DO, TO GET BACK ON STAGE, AND I WAS DAMNED IF ANYONE WAS GOING TO STOP ME”


describe it is that people are not just liking the songs, they’re getting the emotion behind the album, the feeling of euphoria, which to me is astounding. It blows me away,” says Kylie.

Who knew a 1987 remake of the Little Eva hit, Locomotion, would catapult a young but determined pint-sized performer into the stratosphere of stardom. Kylie has since released 50 singles, starred in movies, launched a lingerie, clothes and home accessories line, not to mention performed at some of the world’s most prestigious events, including the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. She has graced the covers of the world’s leading magazines, including, Elle, GQ, Rolling Stone, Time and Vogue, and featured on numerous ‘Most Stylish’, ‘Most Sexy’ and ‘Woman of the Year’ lists time and time again. She has appeared in more than eight movies, and there is talk of more films in the near future, with Kylie hinting she is interested in stepping behind the lens and making a documentary. She has won almost every accolade awarded to a performer and her latest musical marvel seems to be heading down the same perfectly prepared road.

“I’m healthy, I’m with a man I love and I’m happy – so that’s reflecting on my new album. I think I’m at the point where I’m feeling good within myself, I embrace my age, my lines,” she says. “I think I’ve hit my stride, finally, after 20 years. I really like hard work, I enjoy it… Moreover, I move with the times and I change as an artist, as a person, and adapt my musical style to those times. That’s how I’ve managed to stay contemporary without betraying my pop roots. People’s perception of me has changed though. I was shown to be susceptible and to be human, and, even though a certain amount of time has passed, I’m still here. They know I’m still Kylie.”

Knowing well the benefits of working the media machine, Kylie used her profile to educate her fans about breast cancer, encouraging women everywhere to have regular check-ups. The result? An increase of women booking in for screenings in the UK, leading some journalists to coin it ‘The Kylie Effect’. “Whatever hope or help I can give to people who are going through similar circumstances, I just want to spread that message,” she says.

Ahead of worldwide National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Kylie says the disease has changed her mentally and physically, admitting that though she is still dealing with its effects, she is approaching the five-year all-clear date, and is reported to be celebrating with a star-studded charity fundraiser concert early next year.

Which brings us back to this year. With bated breath fans counted down the launch of the pop star’s latest album, Aphrodite, with as much revere as previous releases – a sign, perhaps, of her triumph over tragedy. And it is clear from her immediate Number One placement on the UK charts (exactly 22 years after her first UK Number One) that she did not disappoint and also marked a significant milestone for the singer, making her the first solo female artist to achieve a Number One record in four successive decades. The album is quintessentially Kylie – energetic, euphoric and simply a people pleaser, with her lead single, All The Lovers, both setting the tempo and paying homage to Kylie’s love of dance, disco and pop. The album has been produced by renowned dance music guru, Stuart Price, the creative mind behind Madonna’s Confessions On A Dance Floor, and features a pool of talent from Scissor Sisters’ Jake Shears, Scottish singer/producer and DJ, Calvin Harris, and Keane’s Tim Rice-Oxley. “The best way to


“I COME FROM A FAMILY OF ACTORS. I KNOW THIS PROFESSION AND THEREFORE I KNOW THE HIGHS AND I KNOW THE LOWS”

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R ISE OF THE

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R ISE OF THE

MEN HAVE BEEN GIVEN ALL KINDS OF LABELS OVER THE YEARS, BUT NOW, AS OUR CONTRIBUTOR GARETH REES DISCOVERS, THERE’S A NEW BREED OF MAN IN TOWN.

IS IT A LAD? IS IT A METROSEXUAL? NO. IT’S THE SUPERMAN

SUPERMAN



Dr Annie Crookes, senior lecturer in psychology at Middlesex University Dubai, notes that a lot of academic articles have been written on the metrosexual phenomenon in particular.

“The subject of metrosexuality seems to have quite a few academic articles on it looking at where it originates from – largely a marketing device responding to the 80s and 90s growth of the young, male city professional with lots of extra cash and access to shops and an interest in appearance – what characteristics it involves and also its existence in the emerging markets and developing cities of Asia and India,” Dr Crookes reveals.

Less has been written on the move away from metrosexuality to machoism, but Dr Crookes acknowledges it is something that seems to have been publicly recognised as a “real shift”.

Dr Crookes explains further that gender identity is constantly evolving, as it’s a “socially learnt phenomenon” mediated by cultural traditions and values, parental teachings and the impact of the media.

“The move away from the traditional man, through metrosexual to the ‘middle man’ who builds his own shelves then fills them with face wash and moisturiser, are at least communicated, and potentially caused, by the media,” she says. “If we look at how men have been portrayed in the media in the last 50 years, the Marlboro Man (the star of the eponymous Malboro cigarettes TV advert) was strong and masculine, in the 80s the traditional man was portrayed as dumb, lazy and unappealing – think Homer Simpson – then in the 90s, advertisers started to portray strong men who looked after their health and skin. In 2010 we have portrayals of men who mix both.”

Jared Alden, a psychologist at Dubai’s German Centre for Neurology and Psychiatry, argues that this more diverse masculine identity in 2010 is due to men having more options than they did in the past and being able to take more risks.

“They monitor less what others are doing and tend to find a group that thinks like they do,” he argues. “This is a product of our media age. We have so much available to us and we see so many groups living in so many different ways.”

But, despite this broader spectrum of choice, men are still concerned about being viewed as men. “They want to know what other men think and do, what is normal and how they fit in,” says Alden. “We fear that our most basic nature must be defended and can be taken away unless we are diligent. If you want to insult a boy you call him a girl.” Something that at least some of the following case studies appear to prove.

“WE’VE LEARNT THE LESSONS OF THE METROSEXUAL. NOW WE’RE ‘MANNING UP’”

What makes a man manly? It’s an age-old question. And from the moment a particularly clever caveman discovered how to make fire, until a new wave of the women’s liberation movement began in earnest towards the start of 1960s

(a nod to season two of Mad Men), men knew the answer. From the second they came screaming into the world, it was

drilled into every male child from Boston to Birmingham to Tokyo and Tehran that men were strong, men were providers, men didn’t show emotion and men certainly didn’t discuss their feelings.

Then, suddenly, everything changed. A generation of men emerged from the 60s and 70s, their fathers’ traditional idea of manliness crushed under the weight of a barrage of advertisements promoting fashion and personal grooming – their role in society uncertain as, thanks to the victories of the feminist movement, a stronger, more assertive woman strode confidently into view.

As the materialistic 1980s got into full swing, a bold, new world was born where money and media ruled and magazines heralded the rise of the ‘new man’ (that muscly fellow holding the baby on the famous poster that sold five million copies worldwide), the 90s ‘lad’ (Oasis’ Liam Gallagher), then, in the noughties, the moisturised ‘metrosexual’ (David Beckham or Cristiano Ronaldo).

The past 30 years has seen sporting achievement (Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar), revolutionary dynamism (Che Guevara) and political clout and a daredevil sense of adventure (Lawrence of Arabia) supplanted by the smooth, toned, almost feminine good looks and advanced personal grooming of celebrities like Beckham and Bollywood star, Akshay Kumar, in the manliness stakes.

And recently, British men’s magazine ShortList argued that yet another new breed of man had emerged – the ‘rogue male’. “We’ve learnt the lessons of the metrosexual: how to dress, how to groom, treat women and indulge our artistic side. Now we’re ‘manning up’ and adding a healthy dash of alpha masculinity,” trumpeted the popular men’s mag. “Combining the best bits of 21st century man with the kind of gentlemanly values that transcend generations. Realising it’s OK to be a man again. Part metro, part macho, it’s a trend we’re dubbing ‘rogue male’.”

So, I set out to discover if this is true of us UAE men – if the rogue male has reached the shores of this spa-loving desert land. What do UAE men think of themselves? What do they think you, women of the Emirates, expect of them? What is regarded as manly in 2010? I must warn you now, reactions ranged from an interest in fisticuffs and firearms to one gentleman proclaiming, with some ardour, “pedicures are manly!” – though not too many shared his view.

WWHAT THE PROFESSIONALS SAY…


EMIRATES WOMAN-OTT-ctm.indd 1 28-07-2010 15:46:33


Tim is a 20-something media professional living and working in Dubai and happily enjoying the single life and all its attendant joys.

He believes that a man in 2010 requires a working knowledge of sport, current events, finance and culture, and should be a good conversationalist with a dry, witty sense of humour, who takes pride in his fitness, has a passion (his is golf), is able to cook and take care of his personal appearance, is well travelled, confident

and outgoing and actively pursues ways to educate himself. A gentleman bravely stepping into the second decade of the 21st century

should not become embroiled in the sordid world of reality television, celebrity or gossip. Vanity and “an overly obsessive interest in grooming and fashion” are no-nos, as are social networking and shopping.

Tim is not a fan of spas, but only because he doesn’t have an interest in them, rather than because he regards them as unmanly. He employs a maid to do the cleaning and, though he cooks for himself, has a limited culinary repetoire.

He says that grooming is important but not something to obsess over and has no idea how to put up a shelf. “I am the least practical person I know.”

A difficult one to classify, but Tim is probably more of a rogue male than Jorge – who it seems is just a rogue.

Jorge is a 30-year-old hotelier, originally from Argentina, who lives and works in Dubai and has been married for a year. He describes himself as a ‘new man’, but “without the cooking and ironing”, who prefers masculine pursuits like motocross and shies away from the title of ‘rogue male’ because, “I don’t really care for grooming”.

He counts boxing, body building, construction work, DIY and grass-cutting as manly pursuits and

floristry, spa-going, baking cakes, watching TV soap operas and owning more than four pairs of shoes as crimes against masculinity.

He would never visit a spa, except for a sports massage with a physiotherapist, only cooks in his home country, “where our traditional food is barbecue”, and, though he sometimes cleans the floors and the bathroom, only washes up occasionally (occasionally being the operative word, according to his wife), won’t do the laundry and has never ironed in his life.

Jorge has put up and taken down a number of shelves in his time and, although he “likes to look nice”, cares little for excessive grooming. “I really care about body odour, but not much else,” he states.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Jorge declares that he’s not at all confused about his role in life or how he is expected to act, adding that he doesn’t care about, or even consider, the issue of manliness.

Despite this, he does have some pretty strong opinions about manly dos and don’ts. Chest waxing is a step too far, as is spending Dhs4,000 on a pair of shoes. But crying is fine. “Crying is a manly reaction,” he asserts. “A man is a human being first, and if you can’t cry then you are not human.”

Jorge also has this advice for men. “Learn as much as you can from your mother, because this will help you understand women”. I would say, despite the blubbing, that Jorge is a mans’ man through and through and takes us no closer to our goal of finding the so-called rogue male.

Richard, 40-something, is an engineer living and working in Dubai. His list of manly activities is short and traditional – survival skills (making fires, etc), strength and physical ability, a knack for fixing things, participation in outdoor pursuits and adventures, an aptitude for evicting spiders from the home without squealing like a little girl and being hairy.

The list of man don’ts is long and littered with ‘buts’, ‘excepts’ and ‘unlesses’, betraying a slight confusion or an indication of a manly need to qualify indulging in any activity that may be regarded as a little bit feminine.

Spas are out, aside from the “very occasional” massage – more regular visits being permitted in the case of those suffering from sports injuries. Dancing is not acceptable, except on special occasions such as a wedding or with a partner, “because she enjoys it and you want to make her happy”.

Then there’s shopping, which is fine, but “men obviously only go shopping because they need something” and should “identify the most suitable option as quickly as possible, make their purchase and go home”. Under no circumstances should a man derive any enjoyment from this process.

OUR CASE STUDIES...

THE THINKER

RICHARDTHE MODERN GENT

TIM

THE TRADITIONALIST

JORGE

MAN’S MANY FACES

Matt Groening’s loveable slob is, perhaps, a blip in man’s evolutionary journey, though a comic one at that

A tough guy who defines the revolutionary spirit to this day, Che Guevara is the very essence of the traditional macho man

FROM SLOB TO MOD AND MACHO TO METRO, MEN TAKE ON A MULTITUDE OF GUISES

WHICH ARE TESTAMENT TO THE DIVERSE SPECIES OF GENT ROAMING WILD IN THE EMIRATES



Ali is 39 and the director of his own company. He claims, boldly, to be the archetypal rogue male.

The list of his three favourite pursuits – boxing, driving fast cars and spa treatments – says it all. Ali visits a spa at least once a month, he can cook, enjoys throwing dinner parties and, because he doesn’t like clutter, tries to keep his apartment clean

A man should not dislike or fear to try any food (this one I agree with wholeheartedly). Men should not complain. Picking up a celebrity gossip magazine in a dentist’s waiting room to “give your mind a break” is fine, as long as there are no manly National Geographic magazines to hand.

When it comes to housework, hoovering is acceptable, dusting less so. Cuddling, talking about feelings, moisturising, making yourself look and smell presentable and keeping unsightly body hair in check, as long as you don’t resort to waxing, is OK.

Richard could well be regarded as a rogue male, but his obsessive need to qualify everything suggests, like most men, he’s not particularly comfortable with the more feminine side of his nature.

all the time. Admittedly with the help of a cleaner once a week, but it’s the thought that counts.

In the past three days, Ali has cooked himself a meal, cleaned the toilet and ironed. He has also put up a shelf and constructed an IKEA bed. In the past he has renovated two houses, doing most of the work himself.

He says that grooming and a sense of style is important to him, crying is fine, but chest waxing and eyebrow sculpting (whatever that may be) is too far.

“As I get older more of my friends take up masculine sports,” he says. “As a man, it’s a way to hold onto your diminishing youth and allows you to improve your strength.”

Ali still sees a man’s role as provider and protector, believing that women, despite their more equal status, still want someone to be there for them.

He adds that he’s probably embraced his feminine side more than most, but that manliness is defined by others and anyone who deliberately does things to appear more or less manly leaves his masculinity open for criticism.

He finishes with quite a profound statement, which echoes some of the sentiments expressed by the psychologists.

“In the past, how you should behave was only learned from your parents. Without technology or the spread of information there was no other way to learn. Now there are many ways to learn what it is to be a man.”

THE RENAISSANCE MAN

ALI

He smokes 40 a day, but can still lasso an errant bronco. Marlboro Man’s rugged look appealed to the man’s man

Akshay Kumar’s natty attire and smooth complexion proves that this Bollywood star is not shy of looking his best

Liam Gallagher acts like an oik, but the quintessential 90s lad has his own clothing line and pulls off a military coat nicely

Look at David Beckham’s orange face, metrosexual barbering disaster and that loose knot – need I say more?


So, has the rogue male – Dr Crookes’ ‘middle man’ – reached the UAE? Ali certainly thinks so, and most of our test cases show a definite intermingling of the traditionally masculine and positively metrosexual.

Men certainly have something to say about what it is to be manly in 2010, and Alden definitely thinks there’s been an important shift in the way men think.

“My dad’s generation never thought about these things,” he says. “It would never occur to him to ask these questions, but young men today have much more freedom when it comes to what aspects of masculinity are important to them.” Dr Crookes argues that our test cases may not have been entirely honest – that they may have elevated their more masculine traits and downplayed their more feminine sides.

“If you ask anyone overtly what is manly and unmanly, you will get the traditional gender roles coming through, but this doesn’t necessarily mean those men actually follow these rules,” she says. “This can mean that they have memorised the expected answers and don’t want to come across as abnormal.”

But, despite the possibility that our test cases may have been stretching the truth, it is clear that us men have reached a certain stage in our development – a positive stage. We may not have the rules of manliness chiselled into stone that our grandfathers were presented with at birth, but we are no longer confused about our identities or threatened by the empowerment of women. We have that most important of things – freedom.

A modicum of interest in how we dress doesn’t mean we’re becoming big girls’ blouses. It means we have realised our clothing is a reflection of our characters. And you, the ladies, love a well-dressed man. Just drop Mad Men’s dapper Don Draper in to conversation and you all go weak at the knees. The occasional snip here and squirt there are not equivalent to handing in our membership to the big manly man club. We just know it’s more civilised to smell good and look our best. And indulging in a spa treatment to rid oneself of an ache is not just for the ladies. It’s no different to visiting the doctor or the barber.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t want to get up to manly mischief. We definitely still seek adventure, and most of us can (and will) at least have a go at putting up a shelf. Man in 2010 is a synthesis, a combination of the traditional man’s man and the well-groomed metro of the 90s and noughties. There are, of course, exceptions to the rule, but in general I think we all agree that Beckham went too far when he donned that sarong and our unkempt forbearers didn’t go far enough with a splash of Brut and a swipe of the plastic comb.

But there’s nothing ‘rogue’ about it, this is it – the pinnacle of manly growth. Us men of the UAE have reached the zenith of our evolutionary progression. We’re lean, clean, well clothed and thoughtfully shod, but we enjoy a spot of pugilism or sailing at the weekend, will happily evict that spider from your bath and are dab hands at DIY (or at least we’re trying to be all of these things). Ladies, say hello to the Superman.

THE RESULTS…

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T H E A C H I E V E R SELAINE JONESCEO OF ASTECO REAL ESTATE Elaine, CEO and co-founder of Asteco (one of the leading real estate companies in the UAE), is something of a living legend on the local property scene. A career that began in the UK at Rolls-Royce has developed over the decades in line with Dubai’s own explosive expansion. Since moving to Dubai in the mid-80s, Elaine has helped spearhead various sales and leasing projects within the city and beyond, attracting interest from international buyers, helping build Dubai’s reputation and putting it firmly on the map as a leading destination of the world.

ELEANOR BRODIE PARTNER & INVESTOR, PLASTIC POWDER COATING Eleanor is a successful businesswoman with wide-reaching interests. As partner and investor she helped set up and run Plastic Powder Coating in 1981, a pioneering steel treatment company in Jebel Ali still operating today. Her other passions include practicing and teaching Feng Shui, alternative healing arts and Argentine tango, as well as championing international cuisine as chancelier for world-renowned gourmet organisation Chaine des Rotisseurs. She also owns a private airport in New York and is developing a community around it.



OCTOBER 2010 EMIRATES WOMAN 115 OCTOBER 2010 EMIRATES WOMAN 115

SALINA HANDAFOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SENSASIA URBAN SPA After gaining a business and marketing degree from Boston University, Salina moved to Dubai in 1999, working for global companies such as Meryll Lynch. But it was when holidaying in Vietnam in 2003 that her real dream to open a boutique spa began to take shape. In 2004 SensAsia Urban Spa opened in Dubai’s Village Mall, offering a chic day spa for the modern woman. A second Palm Jumeirah branch opened in 2008, with further expansion planned this year. The Spa has also been nominated for several awards, including the Spa Asia Award in 2007.

ISOBEL ABULHOULFOUNDER OF MAGRUDY’SA wife, mother and businesswoman, Isobel founded Magrudy’s bookstore in 1975 with her husband Abdullah. In addition to her chain of nine Magrudy’s stores dotted around the UAE, Isobel is on a constant search to discover ways to share books with others. A co-founder of Jerboa Books, publishing children’s books in Arabic and English, a founding member and festival director of the annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and a co-host of a weekly radio programme Talking Of Books, Isobel can be credited for helping shape Dubai’s literary landscape.

SIMA VEDVICE CHAIRPERSON OF THE APPAREL GROUP As Vice Chairperson of the Apparel Group, which boasts over 500 stores and 50 international brands in its portfolio of contemporary fashion clients, Sima belongs to a unique visionary elite. A University of Bradford MBA and a Business Management degree from the prestigious Kings College London harnessed Sima’s business ingenuity. Also a budding thespian (Sima acts with the Dubai Drama Group), a board member of the Children’s Hope Foundation and an advocate for women’s empowerment, Sima’s ‘can-do, will-do’ approach to life is testament to her success.


T H E A R T I S T SMARIAM BEHNAMAUTHOR AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERAuthor, social advocate, motivational speaker and public servant are just a few career-defining moments for 90-year-old Mariam Behnam. Having grown up in Iran, India and Pakistan, Mariam has made Dubai her home for over 30 years. She has written four novels, submitted articles to Gulf News since her arrival in Dubai and is also a senior advisor for the Dubai International Women’s Club, where they call her Appa (an Indian sign of respect). On top of this, Mariam shares her wisdom empowering UAE women with motivational talks on women’s issues, relationships and family life.

HETAL PAWANIFOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THEJAMJARBorn and raised in Dubai, Hetal Pawani founded thejamjar and ArtintheCity.com in 2004. An arts organisation offering the region’s first public DIY painting studio combined with an international contemporary art gallery, thejamjar prides itself on making art accessible to all. With its curatorial collaborations and cultural exchange programme, Hetal’s contributions to the UAE via thejamjar brings cutting-edge art practices and community development through diverse arts programmes involving professional artists, schools, universities, corporate organisations and the public.

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AZZA AL QUBAISIARTIST AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERTaking inspiration from her Emirati roots, the environment she inhabits and the education she received at Chelsea College of Art and Design, London’s Guildhall University, the Institute of Gemology in Antwerp and closer to home at CERT, Abu Dhabi, Azza is a true innovator in the field of art and jewellery-making. An avid promoter of local handicrafts, she established the first non-governmental organisation in 2006 to promote locally-produced products through a ‘Made in the UAE’ initiative.

EMILY MADGHACHIANFOUNDER OF KIDS THEATRE WORKSEmily’s love for theatre began at an early age and has since flourished into a successful career teaching drama to primary school children. With a firm belief that drama is instrumental in unblocking a child’s fears, Emily set up the Kids Theatre Works, which focuses on children with social dysfunctions, such as shyness and trauma. This year Emily, who is also a single mother to her daughter Skye Rose, launched a theatre programme in which young adults are given the chance to work with professionals to produce a performance, and hopes to make this an annual programme.

DIYA AJITVISUAL ARTISTProud to call Dubai her birthplace, Diya is a visual artist working in the commercial, fine arts and urban underground spheres. Since 2007 she has been committed to introducing public and urban art to Dubai’s cultural landscape. In 2008, Diya was chosen to create the UAE’s first public mural and in the years since has created works commissioned by DKNY, Nokia and DIFC Art Fair and has exhibited at the Traffic Gallery and DUCTAC to name a few. This year saw Diya being chosen as one of two artists from the UAE to create a bespoke piece for the Polo Jeans Co. Ralph Lauren Art Stars project.


T H E V I S I O N A R I E S

SAADIA ZAHIDDIRECTOR OF SHELTERWith the arts, fashion and culture scene as her passion, Saadia can add fashion stylist, designer and curator notches to her belt. Instrumental in bringing Kitsch22 and 9714 to the UAE, Saadia also set up shop in Dubai with fashion store 50C. She continues to change the cultural and lifestyle scene of the UAE with her recent partnership with the brownbook brothers, Ahmed and Rashid Bin Shabib. She is also at the helm of Shelter, a space in both Dubai and Sharjah set up as an intellectual and creative haven for forward-thinkers and entrepreneurs to meet and exchange ideas.

DEDRA STEVENSONAUTHOR AND FOUNDER OF THE EMIRATES LITERACY GROUPHolding double masters, both in Library Science and Communication, former librarian Dedra founded the Emirates Literary Group in 2009. The incentive to start the group came from her love of writing and a desire to encourage other like-minded artists to create their own works of literature. A published author, Dedra continues to enhance the literary landscape of the UAE, and with her first book, The Hakimas Tale, being such a success, she has gone on to publish an additional two books and is now busy with her fourth.

in association with




ELHAM AL-QASIMI THE FIRST EMIRATI FEMALE TO REACH THE NORTH POLEWith a love of adventure and true stamina, it was unsurprising that Elham challenged herself to become the first Arab woman to reach the North Pole. She completed her journey in just eight days, and became the first UAE national to make the expedition unsupported, carrying her supplies by sled. With a business degree from the American University in Dubai and a masters degree from the London School of Economics, Elham has supassed expectations both educationally and physically.

MAHA GARGASHAUTHOR AND FILM-MAKERDocumentary film-maker turned author, Emirati Maha’s talents span genres. With a radio/television degree from Washington University in Washington D.C, and a masters from Goldsmiths’ College in London, her real passion lies in researching and documenting traditional Arab societies. It was this experience which inspired the subject of her debut novel, The Sand Fish. Set in 1950s Dubai, exploring the journey of life from a woman’s perspective, The Sand Fish has sold over 25,000 copies worldwide.

REEM & HIND BELJAFLAFOUNDERS OF THE DAS COLLECTION By merging her lifelong passion for design with an appreciation of local culture and tradition, St Martin’s College graduate Reem has created a unique, cutting-edge and stylish clothing range. With the Abaya at its heart, she founded DAS Collection in 2008, which offers a modern twist on traditional attire and it is due to Reem and her sister Hind’s unique vision and business acumen that the brand has become internationally recognised. In addition to the fashion line, the sisters juggle charity work and a communications and design business.


T H E H U M A N I T A R I A N SLOLA LOPEZFOUNDER, VOLUNTEER IN DUBAI, ABU DHABI AND SHARJAHLola’s goal is to save charities time and money, rather than giving them money. Dedicated entirely to providing local charities with volunteers (who have worked over 42,000 hours in the last year) and making sure their abilities are used to their full capacity, Lola’s organisations have supported, organised and managed nearly 200 charitable events. She has in turn saved the charities she helps almost Dhs3 million by sourcing the products and services they need through community resources, before donating them free of charge to those in need of assistance.

IMAN YABROUDIPATIENT AFFAIRS COORDINATOR, PALESTINE CHILDREN’S RELIEF FUNDAs advisory committee member and patient affairs coordinator with the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, Iman’s role sees her helping deprived and disadvantaged children from countries such as Syria and Palestine, receive urgent medical treatment. A lover of art and culture, she has also devoted time to the Palestine Youth Orchestra and other institutions in the West Bank. With a caring hands-on approach, Iman uses her natural maternal nature to support the children whilst they recover and get back on track, while also overseeing the administration involved.

in association with




LUCY BRUCEFOUNDER OF HARMONY HOUSEBritish-born Lucy has been in the UAE since 1999; in 2003 she co-founded Insignia, a bespoke brand communication agency in Dubai. Over the past few years, she has become increasingly devoted to charity work, founding her own non-profit organisation, Harmony House. Her initiatives have made a difference to the lives of nearly 100 under-privileged children living in the outskirts of Delhi, as Harmony House provides education, food and basic hygiene to destitute children. She is also actively involved in every aspect of fund-raising and the management of the charity.

SAHER SHAIKHFOUNDER, ADOPTACAMP AND CARE PACKAGES FOR LABOURERSA notion that began with buying a labourer’s lunch at a supermarket four years ago has seen Saher create two non-profit initiatives and subsequently improve the lives of thousands of workers in the UAE. Working alongside a team of dedicated volunteers, Saher’s vision has seen the donation of relief packages to hundreds of labour camps, which deliver essential supplies and toiletries to the labourers who helped build our nation. Her ‘boys’ say that her kindness has changed their lives, proving that a little gesture can go a long, long way.

ISPHANA AL KHATIBDIRECTOR OF AL NOOR TRAINING CENTER FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDSFor the past 28 years, Al Noor has provided professional training to the special needs community of Dubai, helping the city’s children live life to their full potential. Since joining Al Noor in 1998, Director Isphana has introduced comprehensive training programmes while raising the standard and profile of the centre, helping to improve the lives of over 265 individuals. Testament to Isphana’s commitment, professionalism and passion, she recently received the award for Best Director at the Princess Haya Awards for Special Education (PHASE).



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VOTE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A TRIP TO A DREAM DESTINATION

Now in its fifth year, the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards honours women in the

UAE who help shape our nation in the fields of business, arts and culture, philanthropy

and visionary projects. Voting for your favourite inspirational woman starts now...

VOTE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

HOW TO VOTE1. Log onto the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards

2010 website at www.emirateswomanawards.com

2. Check out the nominees of the Emirates Woman

of the Year Awards 2010.

3. Choose the women you think should be crowned

winners of the four categories (Achievers, Artists,

Visionaries and Humanitarians).

4. Cast your vote and you could win two VIP tickets to

the event on November 23, 2010, an overnight stay at the

Park Hyatt Dubai and two tickets to a dream destination

courtesy of Etihad Airways.


OFFICIAL CAR SPONSOR SPONSOR OF ACHIEVERS

www.emirateswomanawards.com

Closing date for votes: October 31, 2010.

For all terms and conditions, please see our website:



124-128_Converting to Islam B.indd 124 9/27/10 4:33:48 PM


THEY CHANGED THEIR WAY OF DRESSING, THEIR LIFESTYLES AND SOMETIMES EVEN LOST FRIENDS ALONG THE WAY. SO WHY DO SOME WESTERN WOMEN COVERT TO ISLAM? SAADIYA AHMAD REPORTS

D I V I N E I N T E R V E N T I O N

FAITH HEALINGBriton Amal Loring is a 40-year-old Integrated Therapist living in Dubai who converted to Islam in October 2007. Raised in a very strict family of scientists in the south of England, she was taught from early on to reject the idea of a superior being or God. “Indeed, my mother had, and still does have, a healthy dislike of God,” she notes. “This was a home where children were meant to be seen, not heard and I was fearful of my mother...”

ROOTSAmal arrived in Dubai when she took up a job in July 1997: “I then set up my own business in 1999 and pursued a ‘work hard and play hard’ lifestyle for the next 10 years,” she says. Still a lingering respect for Islam was growing. “I was asked to visit Kuwait in my first few weeks of arriving in the UAE and the hotel was next to a mosque. When I heard the Athaan (call to prayer) something shifted inside of me,” she recounts. There was also an increasing disillusionment of life in the UK, which she had been visiting sporadically for 10 years. “It seemed people were preferring to stay in and watch TV and reality shows, rather than calling on a neighbour,” she laments.

CONVERTINGLike many expats living in a Muslim country, Amal had the usual misconceptions about Islam. But, as her curiosity continued to grow, she began attending lectures and reading books on the subject of Islam. “Then, one day during the end of Ramadan in October 2007, I received a call from His Highness Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s office saying that His Highness heard that I was interested in converting

and that he would like to meet me.” Amal ultimately took her Shahadah (the Arabic declaration of faith) with his Highness and says that from that point onwards, life took a 360-degree turn. Her ‘Western’ friends shunned her, thinking she had suffered from some form of breakdown. “I no longer drank alcohol, went to clubs or to events where there was mixed company,” she says. “I lost all of my friends and my family reacted incredibly badly.” It was so extreme that Amal says her own mother refused to walk on the same side of the street as her and her (former) husband gave her the ultimatum to choose between him or Islam. Her decision? Islam. “I do remember at the time thinking what have I done? I have no family, I am going through a break-up and have to provide for myself and my daughter,” she says. But in December 2007 that same year she was introduced to Mohammed, an Emirati. “Mohammed is a man of deep rooted faith who guided me on a number of issues,” she says.

THE FUTURE

The couple, who found support in their united beliefs, subsequently went on to marry in 2008 and any misgivings and preconceptions are as much a part of Amal’s history as the Western life she has chosen to leave behind. “I used to look at Muslim women completely blacked out and felt such sympathy towards them, feeling irate that their men had somehow forced them to cover themselves completely, whilst they themselves often went around in Western clothes.” Today, however, Amal proudly wears the dress of her chosen religion. “Now look at me,” she smiles. “Completely covered, wearing a niqaab and an abaya.” Her journey to conversion may have been paved with hurdles, but ultimately, with her new faith holding firm, her future is one that only has room for Islam.

P H O T O G R A P H E R S V I K R A M G A W D E A N D F A R O O Q S A L I K ,

S T Y L E D B Y C H E R I T H N I C H O L L A N D E L I Z A B E T H W H I S T O N – D E W

S H O T O N L O C A T I O N A T R A F F L E S D U B A I



EMBRACING DESTINYAmerican, Debbie Jaunich, is a 48-year-old stay-home mum and volunteer at the Dubai Islamic Information Centre and has been living in Dubai for the past three years. Growing up in Chicago, her family were considered strict Catholics and about half of them today are considered devout. Still Debbie attributes this strong connection with God as a child with playing a large role in her decision to become a Muslim.

SHIFTThe turning point for Debbie was sparked when she began working in a company in America that employed people from the Middle

East. “I noticed they were different from the other gentlemen I was working with and when I finally built up the courage to ask them questions about themselves; they spoke openly about being Muslim and their faith.” Eventually Debbie was given a copy of the Quran: “I was surprised by its content, the stories about prophets and advice,” she says. “I was eventually convinced in my heart and mind that this was the next step in my spiritual journey.”

THE FIRST STEPDebbie announced her conversion to Islam in her local mosque in America and also attended classes there. She eventually learned to read the Quran and pray. “The first six months were difficult, especially because my friends were gradually seeing changes in me,” she admits. “My mother was the first person to learn about my decision to embrace Islam and while she was surprised, over time she accepted that it was my journey and therefore my choice.” But, as with all life-changing decisions, there were hurdles. “My mum is Italian and was initially offended when I could not eat her spaghetti and meatballs because it had pork sausage, or I could not partake in Christian holidays. But over the years my family has come to understand and respect what Islam means to me,” she observes.

MODESTYFor Debbie, the change in dress was something she found easy to embrace. “I was always a little uncomfortable with the sometimes too revealing western styles,” she says. “When I embraced Islam, I really knew very little about the hijab and it was a year later that I adopted Islamic modesty in my dress.” After that, over the first year, it was merely a gradual lengthening of her skirt hems, sleeves and eventually the covering of her hair. “People that knew me, especially business acquaintances, changed the way they dealt with me; for the first time I felt valued as a women for what is on the inside rather than what someone sees on the outside.”

ENRICHMENTThe most significant and deep-rooted change for Debbie is that she now truly understands her purpose in life. “I have the prescription for whatever ails me in the Quran,” she says. “I have a level of contentment that I didn’t have before coming to Islam.” And of the former life she once lived, are there elements she still longs for? “Not being able to swim as I did in the ocean or scuba dive, as these things were more difficult when living in the US as a Muslim,” she notes. “But overall, Islam has given me so much more than it has taken.”



“ONCE I STARTED READING THE QURAN I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE, WHAT I WAS READING MADE PERFECT SENSE”

LIFE AFFIRMATIONLujayne Montel is a 26-year-old Senior Communications Manager from France now living in Dubai. Born into an open-minded atheist family “where religion was never spoken of” it was at the tender age of nine when she began to ask questions about human creation. “At that time I had just been transferred to a Catholic school and I asked my parents if I could attend Catechism classes.” Her parents agreed, and she soon became “the first Christian in the family.”

QUESTIONSA year later a very close relative of Lujayne’s passed away at a young age. “The Church surrounded me to give me the support they thought I needed, but they were so pushy and smothering that it had the opposite effect and turned me away from my religion.” After the death and fast-forwarding another year, Lujayne’s father was offered a job in Oman. “My family and I uprooted and moved, though I still attended Catechism classes.” However, being a teenager, especially one living in a new country abound with new people and places to explore, her social life began to take precedent over her religious education. “I slowly dropped those classes for parties and my social life,” she observes. “My closest friends in school were Protestants and they would ask me what I thought of the Pope’s decisions over certain matters, which in turn made me ask myself questions about my own faith,” as well as questions about Catholicism.

QURANAs these questions became more constant, and in a bid to understand more about Oman’s religion, Lujayne began reading the Quran. “My father had embraced Islam before we had moved to Oman but it never appealed to me,” she says, “But once I started reading the Quran I could not put it down. I can honestly say that I was gripped. I could not believe how beautifully written all the chapters were and, most importantly, how for the first time in my life, what I was reading made perfect sense.” She told her parents she was thinking of becoming a Muslim. Once again, Lujayne’s parents were very supportive of her decision. “I arranged for an Imam to come to our house so I could pronounce the Shahadah a week after I turned 18,” she notes, and with her parents, the Imam and herself sitting at the dinner table, Lujayne officially became a Muslim.

While her immediate family offered Lujayne unconditional love and support for her decision, her friends had a polar opposite reaction. “I was in 12th grade back then and I did not keep my new

found religion a secret,” she says, but was dismayed when some friends called an abrupt end to their friendship, eventually ceasing contact all together. Other elements of life slowly began to change, as Lujayne became more entwined with her new religion. Being a teenager, where life is carefree and about enjoying being young, adjustments were necessary. “I was a party girl in high school, but as I began to embrace my new religion, I slowly decreased the partying, the drinking, and began choosing my friends more carefully.”

RETROSPECTToday, Lujayne believes that the feeling of converting is one that is almost impossible to describe, the benefits both spiritual and heartfelt. “When my close relative died, I didn’t understand why this had happened, and it was only the Quran that helped me through my grief.” Her rite of passage hasn’t always been smooth, having lost friends along the way, and she has witnessed her own personal challenges, such as learning to dress appropriately and more modestly. “Being from the south of France, it is not natural for me and represents a big effort.” But for Lujayne, each moment that she has lived through since converting has been life changing and beyond what she could have imagined. “It is indescribable. You truly have to live the experience to know the feeling…”

SUPPORT GROUPS FOR MUSLIMS IN DUBAI

through various classes. Contact: (04) 3986950, or email: [email protected]

to providing authentic, insightful and enlightening Islamic Education for Muslim and non Muslim women instructed in English. Contact: (050) 5856214 / (050) 6537869, or email: [email protected]

and guide new Muslims or anyone willing to learn or know more about Islam and Arabic culture.Contact: (04) 39494 61, or email: [email protected]

scheduled year round. Contact: (04) 3499922, or visit: www.dubailadiesclub.com

UAE. Email [email protected], or visit www.esistersclub.com



“IT IS A PROCESS THAT I WILL BE INVOLVED IN UNTIL THE DAY I DIE”

SPIRITUAL AWAKENINGBritish-born Emma Cresswell is a 31-year-old shelter director at the Sharjah Cat & Dog Shelter who has lived in Dubai for the past 11 years. Growing up in a happy close-knit family, Emma was born of Christian parents, yet believes she herself was born neither Christian nor Muslim. “My parents never forced me into any religious structures and religion played a very minor role in my life, but I have always been a spiritual individual in a less structural system,” she asserts.

CONVERTINGAfter college, travel became the next adventure on her agenda, taking a year out to see the world with a friend. “After we travelled, I decided to move to Dubai and it was then that I converted to Islam,” she says. The process was very gradual, and she says she would be hard pressed to identify when it started, though she does remember the initial reaction her decision received. “It was easy for

my parents to accept my conversion to Islam because I was still their daughter after all and my choice of religion did not affect our relationship,” she says.

A CHOICEWhen it comes to understanding Islam, Emma sees it as not very different to other religions, believing that the ultimate goal of each religion is similar; her decision was based more on the opportunities Islam afforded her. “I just felt I could believe more in the goals and direction of Islam as compared to other directions I could take in my life.” Islam, she adds, was even more interesting to her because, unlike Christianity, it never had a reformation and was not interfered with by current thinking and practices. “I was not born or forced into religion by cultural or social pressures; it was completely my choice by free will to convert,” says Emma. She adds: “My choice was a spiritual decision and one that was made from the heart, not with a list.”

PRACTICALITIESWhen it comes to the actual process of converting, Emma believes that many people

have many misconceptions; “I think people sometimes assume that it is a club which you join and that’s it.” But for Emma, her relationship with Islam is one of self-improvement – as a Muslim – and, to continually practice the words of Allah. “My continuous attempts to learn Arabic help me further immerse my convictions,” she asserts. “For me, it was a journey of self-discovery, and sometimes self-analysis of who you are and where you want to be can be hard.” For Emma, her journey is not a series of highs or lows, but points of learning and areas to improve upon. “It is a process I will be involved in until the day I die,” she says.

TRANSITIONEmma’s lifestyle has not changed much since she converted; “I have always respected myself and as such have not changed much in terms of my lifestyle, but now there is abstinence from consuming pork and adhering to fasting in Ramadan,” she explains. With the hijab and Muslim dressing, Emma finds it curious how society fixates on small issues that empowers them to become more important than they are. “The Quran teaches modesty and I respect that but then again I have always respected myself so the dress is not a great leap for me but it is only a small part of what Islam really is...” ■


Mall of the Emirates 04 3410 306

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UAE: Dubai: Deira City Centre 2950553, Centrepoint, Mall of the Emirates 3410644, Centrepoint, Trade Centre Road 3511130, Reef Mall 2222512, Qusais 2987799, Maktoum Bridge 3350525, Arabian Centre,Lulu Street 6265432, Centrepoint, next to Marina Mall 6816063, Al Mariyah Mall, Hamdan Street 6763666, Now open at City Mall, Madinat Zayed 8840023; Sharjah: Sharjah City Centre 5396626, Al Qasmi

Bin Daher Centre 2280111, Centrepoint, RAK-Sharjah Road, near Liberty Car Showroom

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U A E • S A U D I A R A B I A • K U W A I T • B A H R A I N • Q A T A R • O M A N • J O R D A N • I N D I A • E G Y P TMirdiff 2845440, Centrepoint, Oasis Centre 5154306, Ibn Battuta Mall, India Court 4297930, Al Ghurair City, Level 1 2274796, Centrepoint, Mirdif City Centre 2843343; Abu Dhabi: Tourist Club Area 6445565,Street 5333836, Safeer Mall 5313174; Al Ain: Al Ain Mall 7511141, Centrepoint, Al Jimi Mall 7627668, Centrepoint, Bawadi Mall 7840333; Fujairah: Centrepoint, Dana Plaza 2232690; Ras Al Khaimah:2359992; Ajman: Centrepoint, Ajman City Centre 7434848. www.splashfashions.com

UAE: Dubai: Deira City Centre 2950553, Centrepoint, Mall of the Emirates 3410644, Centrepoint, Trade Centre Road 3511130, Reef Mall 2222512, Qusais 2987799, Maktoum Bridge 3350525, Arabian Centre,Lulu Street 6265432, Centrepoint, next to Marina Mall 6816063, Al Mariyah Mall, Hamdan Street 6763666, Now open at City Mall, Madinat Zayed 8840023; Sharjah: Sharjah City Centre 5396626, Al Qasmi

Bin Daher Centre 2280111, Centrepoint, RAK-Sharjah Road, near Liberty Car Showroom

21577_F_EmiratesWomen_E_225x300.indd 1 9/22/10 4:06 PM


7 0

WILD CHILDWith A/W10 in full swing, it’s time to

step out of your comfort zone and embrace a new trend. If the latest from the Moschino catwalk is a strut too far,

look in the direction of Chloé, Giambattista Valli and Stella McCartney

for classic looks with a modern twist. Closer to home, shopping trips on our shores this month will be spent in the

newly opened Fashion Dome in Mall of the Emirates for the latest winter

wonders for our wardrobes.

EXCLUSIVE SHOOTS WITH RALPH LAUREN AND LOUIS VUITTON A/W10 RUNWAY REPORT MATTHEW WILLIAMSON TALKS EXCLUSIVELY TO EW ABOUT HIS DEBUT BAG LINE THE UAE’S MOST

FASHIONABLE WOMEN WEARING ESSA TAKE A WALK DOWN DUBAI’S NEWEST FASHION AVENUE

In October…

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ROMANYROMANCE

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P H O T O G R A P H E R B E N J A M I N K A U F M A N N , M O D E L M A J A A T B A R E F A C E ,

S T Y L I S T S A R A H J O A N R O S S

134-143_Fashion Shoot A.indd 134 9/27/10 4:33:27 PM

ROMANYROMANCE





Lace-knit dress by Chanel


138 EMIRATES WOMAN OCTOBERR 2010











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Use your body’s best kept secret for smooth and young looking skin: the Q10 Coenzyme. Naturally produced by the skin, Q10 effectively reduces wrinkles.And now, NIVEA VISAGE Q10 Plus combines Q10 with improved UVA protectionto also prevent sun-induced wrinkles.

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Why not ask for skin & beauty advice or try this product first at NIVEA Haus Spa Dubai Mall. Tel 04 4340777

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NEWEXTRA UVAWRINKLE

PREVENTION

UVAKLEWRINK

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NIVEA VISAGE Q10 PLUS DAYCARE, NOW WITH EXTRA UVA WRINKLE PREVENTION

Use your body’s best kept secret for smooth and young looking skin: the Q10 Coenzyme. Naturally produced by the skin, Q10 effectively reduces wrinkles.And now, NIVEA VISAGE Q10 Plus combines Q10 with improved UVA protectionto also prevent sun-induced wrinkles.

Q10. Created by your skin, enriched by NIVEA.

YOU’LL NEVER GUESS MY AGE.I HAVE NO WRINKLES TO PROVE IT.

Why not ask for skin & beauty advice or try this product first at NIVEA Haus Spa Dubai Mall. Tel 04 4340777

www.NIVEA-me.com

Jumpsuit Anne Valérie HashBoots Miu Miu at net-a-porter.comScarf Louis VuittonFur wrap San Blas at Harvey NicholsLeather wristband, belt and rings stylists ownShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort

146-155_Fashion Shoot Nomad A.indd 146 9/27/10 4:36:49 PM

THENOMAD

P H O T O G R A P H E R B E N J A M I N K A U F M A N N , S T Y L I S T S A R A H J O A N R O S S




Top Dolce&GabbanaJacket Burberry ProrsumPoncho worn as a skirt HermèsRings stylist’s ownNecklace Kara Ross and The Antique MuseumBelt S*auceShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort


Leather trousers VersaceBlack gilet Zadig&VoltaireDress Jean-Paul GaultierNecklace The Antique MuseumBoots Miu Miu at net-a-porter.comShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort



Jacket Zadig&VoltaireScarves worn as skirts Dries van Noten at Harvey Nichols, Zadig&VoltaireBoots Miu Miu at net-a-porter.comBag, horse harness, whip HermèsShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort





Trousers Dries van Noten at Harvey NicholsJumper Zadig&VoltaireDress Catherine MalandrinoWaistcoat D&GGilet Dries van Noten at Harvey NicholsBelt stylist’s ownNecklace The Antique MuseumShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort



Top Catherine MalandrinoScarf Dries van Noten at

Harvey NicholsLeggings Jean-Paul Gaultier

Cardigan Catherine MalandrinoBoots Miu Miu at net-a-porter.com

Belt S*auceShot at The Desert Ranch,

Al Sahra Resort



Dress Catherine MalandrinoTrousers Dries van Noten at Harvey NicholsGilet Dries van Noten at Harvey NicholsNecklace The Antique MuseumCardigan Ralph Lauren CollectionShot at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort



Leather skirt Isabel Marant at net-a-

porter.comTop Jean-Paul Gaultier

Cape Pinko at Harvey NicholsBelt stylist’s own

Bracelet Fendi

Shot on location at The Desert Ranch, Al Sahra Resort,

www.jebelali-international.com. Model Gabriella at Bareface

Hair and make-up Carolyn Gallyer Photographic assistant

Marwan Al Sheryani. Stylist assisted by Cherith Nichols.

With special thanks to Mark.


WRITTEN BY SOPHIE JONES-COOPER

10

MAKING A STYLE STATEMENT

Although black screams luxe, especially shiny black leather, (EW loves these black leather trousers paneled with a jersey), another colour to add to the base chart this season is navy, but don’t forget another winter classic, grey. Add a splash of cobalt blue, cocktail pink and absinthe green to give these base colours a wake-up call and you will be right on track of the hottest hues. Optical

style prints also make an appearance and look fabulous teamed with a pair of skin-tight black trousers or a block-patterned mini.

THE COLOURS

Fashioning the new season trend for all things chic and sophisticated, a celebration of female finesse Ted Baker’s new collection is spot on.

Beautifully capturing graceful curves yet still offering a structured and sleek silhouette, innovative detailing and inventive cuts drive this new line. Weaves, textures and prints are intricately used to give depth and dynamism to everything from sleek dresses to gathered trousers, and full skirts to lapel jackets.

156-157_Advertorial A.indd 156 9/28/10 6:14:30 PM

Whether it be a classic green parka, a chic camel trench or this elegantly fitted and structured navy wool coat, make your style stand out with a statement coat. Look for oversized lapels, fine tailoring and attention to detail when it comes to pockets, buttons and hemlines.

How to wear it: This season, the rules are simple… Do it up and add a skinny belt to cinch your waist for a polished and chic finish.

NEW SEASON MUST-HAVE… THE STATEMENT COAT


If this season’s boyish brogues or 50s flashback kitten heels are not your idea of stepping out in style and you would rather totter above the rest in a pair of killer boots or bold block platforms, then Ted Baker’s shoes are just for you. As well as a colour explosion to give a dash of 70s Studio 54 glamour, sleek black heels accented with gold detail (including a stunning gold lining) reign supreme. EW especially loves

these peep-toe cut out booties with gold zip and statement gold metal. And, of course, the ‘every season staples’ of luxe ballerina pumps

and sleek sling-back sandals are a wardrobe essential.

MAKING A STYLE STATEMENT

THE DRESSES

THE SHOES

TED BAKER’S KEY PIECES FOR AUTUMN…

Mohair cropped jacket

Velvet dress with nipped waistOversized bow detail coat

This is the season to flaunt your curves. A 50s-style dress which emphasises your décolleté, nips in at the waist and balloons out into an adorable full skirt, is all that is required to transform you into a Mad Men–esque vixen. If you want to really push this trend to the max, then top off the look with a pair of embellished wrist-length leather gloves.

What could be better than a body-con dress to embrace the trend for feminine curves? If you prefer something with a little more structure that still means business, these bold dresses with exaggerated shoulders offer a fabulous alternative with a stunning silhouette.

Ted Baker is available at The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Deira City Centre, Festival City, BurJuman and

now open in Abu Dhabi Marina Mall. www.tedbaker.com

156-157_Advertorial A.indd 157 9/28/10 6:15:10 PM


A/W10 RUNWAY REPORT

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Head-to-toe leather may make you a little hot under the collar. When

in the UAE opt for a loose fit – anything tight will feel constricting

when out in the heat.

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CHECKMATE


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Team with fur and sheepskin accents for day, but by

night, add a statement shoe and some rocker jewellery.

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Mix prints and add luxurious accessories for a modern take on boho

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WILD THINGS

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Animal print, when worn from head-to-toe, can look a little OTT. Invest in one statement piece and tame

with a block colour.

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THE NEWUNIFORM


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Add authenticity with real badges and medals from the army surplus store,

Colonel Military Supplies on Sheikh Zayed Road

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The beautiful new Miss Golden Bridge. The art of combining fi ne jewelry and mechanical complexity. Exclusive Corum manufactured CO113 in-line baguette movement featuring hand-engraved 18Kt gold bridges. www.corum.ch

GB2 EMIRATES WOMAN 30x22.5 cm OCT. 10


THE AGE OFVINTAGE


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Accessorise with bows, gloves and a handbag your

grandmother would be proud of

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Olivia Wilde for ESCADA fragrances

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RUBIESARE RED


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Team with black to toughen up and add

an edge

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159-168_Catwalk A.indd 168 9/27/10 9:23:21 PM

When you hear the name Essa, one thing is for certain... it is a name synonymous with style and originality. Among numerous other accolades, he is a fashion sensation, but prefers to be called

a clothesmaker, his mantra is common sense, and he speaks seven languages. He has also designed a bag for Fendi and pieces for Sarah Jessica Parker and Cynthia Nixon for Sex And The City – this is Essa’s empire.

Never one to follow trends, the Dubai-based designer doesn’t just conceive unique ideas, he breathes them. Due to his fashion-

forward thinking, he has become something of a living legend amongst his hoard of fashionista followers and, with this exclusive shoot, Emirates Woman brings you the women behind the brand – those who not only don and treasure his designs, but those who have inspired him to create bespoke one-of-a-kind pieces that can revolutionise any woman’s wardrobe.

His much anticipated show will be the grand finale at Who’s Next Premiere Classe fashion event on October 21, so if you are one of the lucky few to lay claim to an invite, be prepared to be wooed and inspired by the creative genius that is Essa.

THE STYLE COUNCIL

P H O T O G R A P H Y V I K R A M G A W D E

S T Y L E D B Y S O P H I A T R I A N T A F I L L O U , S A R A H J O A N R O S S ,

S O P H I E J O N E S - C O O P E R A N D P O P P Y S K I N N E R

A L L C L O T H E S B Y E S S A W W W . E S S A - I N C . C O M


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THE MUSEZAYAN GHANDOUR, S*UCE CO-OWNER,CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND HEAD BUYER

“Essa’s enthusiasm is contagious. It was great seeing him channel his passion for all things beautiful into this project. Three words to describe Essa? Bold, individual and dazzling.”



THE CLASS SOPHISTICATEMITRA KHOUBROU, PARTNER, PINK TANK

“I first spoke to Essa on the phone in 2007. We talked a few times and I became very intrigued by him so I went to his studio. I immediately fell in love with him, his talent and personality.”

THE RISK TAKERASMAA AL-SHABIBI,ART ADVISOR AND DEALER “The way he mixes the fabrics together in unexpected ways – it is genius.”



THE SPIN DOCTOR

THE ROYAL

EILEEN WALLIS, MANAGING PARTNER,THE PORTSMOUTH GROUP

MAISA AL QASSIMI, ART PATRON

“You feel more celebratory in Essa – the colours, the cut and workmanship are stunning and give the wearer a real shot in the arm.”

“I’m an Essa fan and love his designs. I wanted to share this experience with Emirates Woman readers. The fact that he is a Sharjah-based designer makes Essa very special to me. I am so proud that we have such talent where I am from.”



THE ÜBER-MODELJELENA JAKOVLJEVIC–BIN DRAI, FOUNDER OF VANILLA BY JELENA AND CHOCOLATE BY JELENA“I wear Essa everywhere. Every piece that I have worn in the past 10 years feels like they were made for me. He uses scissors and fabric but no mannequin, and every piece looks amazing on a woman’s body.”

THE ARTISTPATRICIA MILLNS, ARTIST“Essa cares that all the woman he dresses retain their personal beauty whilst enveloped in his works. His pieces are so individual and personal to the wearer, yet with Essa’s own stamp. It’s the fabrics and finishings that are so researched. Antique laces vie with plastic buttons, raffia with hand woven brocades... I hang them in my studio like art works.”



THEENTREPRENEURAISHA MIRANDA, MANAGING DIRECTOR

“Both Essa and Emirates Woman have a deep routed DNA in the understanding of women and couture. A culmination of this partnership unveils a celebration of fashion at its best.”

THE ÜBER-MODEL THE BELLEISABELLE VAN DEN EYNDE, GALLERY OWNER“Essa is a cultural phenomenon, a unique mind at work and a real artist and this is, of course, reflected in his designs.”


THE GRACIOUS LADY MYRNA AYAD, DEPUTY EDITOR, CANVAS MAGAZINE“My job takes me to the artiest places in the world – collector’s homes, fairs, galleries, biennials and so on – and Essa fits right into this scene. Needless to say, I am always stopped and asked about my Essa outfits.”

NISHA JAGTIANI, GENERAL MANAGER, ICONIC“You can always recognise an Essa piece – he thinks out of the box.”

THE ICONIC ONE




THE GRACIOUS LADY

THE BEAUTYAISHA BARKER, MOTHER“To me, Essa’s designs are locally traditional, but with a quirky fusion that makes them unique.”


THE AMBASSADORNADINE KANSO, ARTIST, PHOTOGRAPHERAND JEWELLERY DESIGNER

“Essa is not only a close friend, but a huge part of my life in so many ways. I wear Essa during the day, like small ghotra tops, and people always stop me to ask who I am wearing. As for the evening when I want to make a statement it is only Essa.”




THE POWERHOUSE

THE THINKER

SUNNY RAHBAR, GALLERIST, CO-OWNER,THE THIRD LINE GALLERY

DINA SALEH VALRANI, S*UCE CO-OWNER, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

“The minute I slip on an Essa dress it feels like magic. It’s hard to beat that.”

“I wear Essa for all occasions. In fact when Vogue stopped by S*uce, they spotted me in a Essa top which they absolutely loved.”



THE CELLULOID SIRENANNICK FEDELE, MANAGER AND OWNER OF GIFT LEGEND

“A long time ago, at the opening of Villa Moda in Emirates Towers, I was wearing a Sonia Rykiel black subtle see-through dress and Essa came up to me and said: ‘May I know who you are, because there is only one person who could wear such a dress with elegance’. How do you forget that?”

THE INGÉNUENADINE KNOTZER, CARBON 12 CO-OWNER

“Essa’s designs are very personal, each time I see him he tells me a story about his new dresses. He waits for month to find the right lace and mix it with a fabric he bought years ago, which makes it unique.”



THE ASTONISHING ARCHETYPE

THE ALLURING ADVOCATE

ABEER AL ZUBAIDI, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS – MIDDLE EAST & INDIA

ROSEMIN M RATANSHI, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF RR&CO BESPOKE LUXURY MANAGEMENT

“I have a personal relationship with Essa and wear his designs on all occasions – his fashion fits all.”

“I met Essa through a friend and we just connected instantly. There is such an ease being around him. His designs are unique and each piece has beautiful detail such as embellishments and draping.”


THE BUBBLY BEAUTYKATE BARRY, MOËT HENNESSY MARKETING MANAGER AT MMI

“Essa is a friend who makes me laugh; he and his designs make me feel beautiful.”

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Dubai: Mall of Emirates Tel: 04 3410499, Dubai Mall Tel: 04 4340870,Mirdif City Centre Tel: 04 2853605, Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall Tel: 02 6817754.

UAE SAUDI ARABIA QATAR BAHRAIN


Dynamic duo Meher Mirchandani and Riddhima Whabi, better known as the designers behind

cult Dubai-based label M&R, have hit the big league. Friends from when they were seven, the 28 year olds’ excitement is palpable as the recently-expanding, fashion-forward Boutique 1 has given them its seal of approval by stocking them alongside heavyweights Oscar de la Renta, Elie Saab and Stella McCartney. The design duo can also count such celebrities as Beverley Knight and Sophie Chaudry as fans, both having been snapped in Meher & Riddhima gowns.

The label was launched in 2007 and since then the M&R fan base has grown steadily, W

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DREAM TEAM

ynamic duo Meher Mirchandani

Renta, Elie Saab and Stella McCartney. The design duo can also count such celebrities as Beverley Knight and Sophie Chaudry as fans, both having been snapped in Meher &

The label was launched in 2007 and since then the M&R fan base has grown steadily,

with one-stop-style-shops Villa Moda, Ounass and S*uce taking their creations on board early. The label’s popularity continues to grow three years on.

Both designers have stellar credentials; solid fashion-based Bachelors degrees combined with an innate style aesthetic that was fostered from an early age. According to them, their fashion calling came as early as age 12. Since then, this solid friendship, and now partnership, has become integral to the evolution of their label; Riddhima takes the creative helm, forecasting trends and picking luscious fabrics and vibrant colours (one of their trademarks), whilst Meher is the organisational whizz ensuring targets are met, visions upheld and goals achieved.

Meher Mirchandani and Riddhima Whabi

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With everyone admiring their designs, our question is… which designers rate highly on their style radar? The ‘very talented’ Anna Wintour protégé, Thakoon, and Catherine Malandrino for “her attention to detail and the way she treats and combines fabrics.” And, as we head into the new season, what should be appearing as staples of everyone’s A/W10 wardrobe? Riddhima predicts: “Bejewelled shift dresses; a sophisticated shift is always flattering, very feminine and glamorous, too.” And also topping her autumnal wish list are gold sandals from Gucci and wine-coloured, crystal-studded Giuseppe Zanottis. “Statement necklaces and cocktail rings are also must-have additions to a wardrobe for A/W10,” adds Meher, who has her eye on a Burberry Shearling biker jacket and Chanel tweed flap-bag. Inspiration for these focused designers comes from historical references – the 20s, 50s and 70s in particular. Taking traditional elements they then rework and reinterpret them. Colour is instrumental, their silhouettes comfortable and timeless.

Taking the creativity, passion and direction which is behind their highly successful luxury fashion label, they are evolving into a veritable style power house with the launch of a jewellery line, a prêt-a-porter addition, wedding couture in the pipeline and even a flagship boutique dedicated to all things M&R set to be unveiled in 2011. With this in mind, it’s clear that these two are set to ensure the UAE’s social circuit stays style-savvy for a long time to come. ■

Far let: S/S06 collectionLeft: Kandinsky on white S/S08 collection Bottom: Woodstock A/W05 collection. Moodboards from the current campaign

WITH THEIR CREATIVITY, PASSION AND DIRECTION, MEHER AND

RIDDHIMA ARE EVOLVING INTO A VERITABLE POWER-HOUSE

Top of Meher’s ‘best dressed’ list is the screen siren, Scarlett Johansson: “She knows what suits her shape and despite of her youth, she is always dignified.” Though on the flipside of fashion, Charlize Theron’s dress for the 2010 Oscars was a disappointment: “Everyone misses the mark one time or the other.”

“Autumn/Winter is our 1920s- inspired Hollywood Princess collection, when movie stars and princesses became style icons and everyone looked to Hollywood to define fashion. We have also used an intricate Indian craft associated with royalty called meenakari (enamel on pure silver).”

Meher dreams of dressing HRH Princess Haya: “She is a woman of substance focusing on humanitarian issues who works closely with the UN as a Goodwill Ambassador. She is an inspiration.” Whilst Riddhima lauds Sonia Ghandi: “Our brand blends Western sensibilities with Eastern influences so I think it would suit her perfectly.”

THE INSPIRATION: STAR STYLE

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Worryingly, 55% of women are going hungry by skipping meals to free up more time, and four out of ten have skipped a day of work.

A shocking three quarters of women don’t ever get enough beauty sleep because they’ve got too much going on.

Money won’t buy you self-love: four out of ten women say more time rather than more cash would help them become healthier or more attractive.

MAKE MORE TIME… and have more fun

1. Hair removal doesn’t need to be a daily time drainer. Epilating keeps you silky smooth for weeks and is convenient, saving you time on salon visits. With products like the new SatinPerfect, from Philips, you’ll also get results in no time as its extra wide head removes more hair in one stroke, giving you long-lasting smoothness, faster. Its high performance discs/tweezers are made of textured ceramic material to gently grip and remove even finest hairs.

2. Browned off about the hours you spend on your tan? Consider using a tanning lotion or spray so you don’t have to spend time on a sun bed to get that bronzed look. Besides time-saving, it’s better for you too.

3. Be smart about looking good. Rattle through the tedious parts of your beauty routine by using time-saving beauty products and buying a see-through make-up bag so you don’t have to hunt around for your make-up.

4. Keep your wardrobe and cupboards organized. This will help reduce time spent looking for that belt or skirt. Get rid of everything you don’t wear at least once every six months.

5. There are some free mobile applications that can help you quickly search for restaurants and bars near you. It means you can book ahead if necessary, and it saves you time walking around to find somewhere.

6. Finish your night with a lift. Store the number of a reliable taxi firm in your mobile so you can order a cab before the end of the evening and avoid tracking down that elusive cab.

It’s a brilliant, hectic life we all lead. There’s so much to fit in that sometimes it can feel like you want more hours in the day.

Well, a recent worldwide poll* has revealed that you’re not alone in wanting to pack more in. Today’s women say they could do with an extra six hours a day on average to do the things they want to do. We all try to strike the right balance between the ‘must dos’ (like work and getting from a to b) and giving ourselves enough time for all the ‘want to dos’ (like relationships, nights out and taking care of our bodies). But, not content with a measly 24 hours in a day, the research revealed women would rather there were 30. With that extra time, we’d be out to lunch on weekdays, do more partying, exercise more often and spend more minutes browsing fashion. Whilst you clearly can’t reinvent the clock, we’ve got some tips to free up more time for all that good stuff by trimming valuable time from everyday tasks, from beauty chores to choosing where to party.

How to get more timeMore time for you equals more time for fun, right? Well here are some ways you can make more time… and have more fun.

* Survey conducted by Philips SatinPerfect amongst 8,000 women globally.

A great time-saving tip

Three quarters of women would like to speed up their hair removal routine. The new SatinPerfect epilator from Philips has an extra wide head with high performance ceramic discs that remove more hair in one stroke, giving you long-lasting smoothness, faster.

To find out more visit: www.philips.com/satinperfect

PROMOTION

Some surprising stats

Stay on top of the latest updates, events, and announcements about SatinPerfect.

Become a fan and follow us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/PhilipsBeautyME

October

32804-Philips SatinPefect Advertorial Emirates Woman V1.indd 2 9/19/10 12:38 PM

WA L KT H E L I N E

P H O T O G R A P H E R B E N O Î T P E V E R E L L I . M O D E L S A N T O N I N E P E D U Z Z I , V A N E S S A

T R A I N A A N D C A M I L L E P O U R C H E R E S S E . S T Y L I S T G É R A L D I N E S A G L I O .

T H A N K S T O L E M O N T A N A C A R E T T E


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WA L KT H E L I N E

Vanessa:Bowling in Monogram Empreinte leatherRound collar wool pulloverWool crepe colourblock mini skirt

Camille:Bowling in Monogram Empreinte leatherRound collar wool pulloverWool crepe mini skirtMonogram bracelet in white goldMonogram bracelet in yellow gold



Antonine:Artsy in Monogram Empreinte leatherWool coat with fox boleroInfinity belt in grainy leather

Vanessa:Artsy in Monogram Empreinte leatherRound collar wool pulloverWool flannel wide pantsMonogram bracelet in white goldMonogram bracelet in yellow gold Sunglasses




Long wallet in Monogram EmpreinteLeather wool crepe and lambskin fringes colour block topStretch cotton jeansMonogram bracelet in white goldMonogram bracelet in yellow goldLes Ardentes ring, Louis Vuitton diamondsWhite diamonds on white gold earrings Metal sunglasses



Artsy in Monogram Empreinte leatherFox sleeveless coat

Wool and cashmere belted cardiganCashmere dress

Monogram bracelet in yellow goldLes Ardentes ring, Louis Vuitton

diamonds, white diamonds on white gold



Vanessa:Bowling in Monogram Empreinteleather, cashmere, wool and silk pulloverPrinted silk pleated mini skirt

Antonine:Clutch in Monogram Empreinteleather wool, silk, cashmere colourblock dressMonogram bracelet in white gold

Camille:Tote in Monogram Empreinte leather Les Ardentes ring, Louis Vuitton diamonds, white diamonds on white goldWool and cashmere cape





Bowling in Monogram Empreinteleather, cashmere, wool and silk pulloverPrinted silk pleated mini skirt


Are you readyfor a colourful transformation?

Sweet Pearl Effect& Dream Colour Effect are two of

my favorite looks yet! They cantake any girl from a day out to a

night out in a fun colourful vibrantway that makes sure makes sure she gets noticed.

Joelle Mardinian

Max Factor’s latest Max Colour Effect collection and Joelle Mardinian, Regional Creative Director for Max Factor and star of MBC TV hit ‘Joelle’, are bringing you two dazzling new looks that will brighten your day and sparkle your evening.

Sweet Pearl Effect is a fun, colourful transformation ideal for shopping and having lunch with your friends. It is a light ethereal look that accentuates the eyes with bronze silver highlights. The lips, cheeks, and nails are kept neutral making the look ideal for day wear.

Colour Dream Effect is a chic sophisticated transformation for that elegant evening event you’ve been waiting for all week. The eyes are carefully contoured with three glittering shades and strong mascara. The lips, cheeks and nails are all kept neutral diverting all the attention towards the dramatically colourful eyes.

The looks get creative by mixing & matching Max Colour Effect’s fashion forward vibrant colour combinations to achieve stunning catwalk results.

and Joelle Mardinian give you a full transformation with the new boutique to take you from fun girl’s day out to an ultra-chic glam evening!

Sweet Pearl Effect uses Max Colour Effect Dip-in eye-shadow in ‹Bronze Glow› and ‹Silver Lounge› and Max Colour Effect lip gloss and nail polish in ‹Ivory›.

Dream Colour Effect uses Max Colour Effect ‹Queen Bee› trio eye-shadow, Max Colour Effect Dip-in eye-shadow in ‹Ibiza Sunrise›, Max Colour Effect lip gloss in ‹Weekend Spa› and Max Colour Effect nail polish in ‹Elegant Mauve›.

MF MCE Ad 22.5x30.indd 1 8/13/10 1:47 PM


WRITTEN BY CLAIRE CARRUTHERS

When Mall of the Emirates opened in 2005, it immediately out-labelled Dubai’s smaller shopping venues

with its combination of high-street brands and designer boutiques.

Louis Vuitton, Dolce&Gabbana and Gucci shared mall space with the UAE’s first Harvey Nichols and sizeable outlets of Zara, River Island and H&M (we’re still waiting for Topshop…), ensuring a steady flow of fashion fans through its impressive, Kempinski-adjacent doors.

And then along came The Dubai Mall in 2008, with its freshly polished Fashion Avenue filled to its soaring rafters with every

designer store worth their weight in sartorial gold. UAE first-timers Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s also took up residence within the world’s largest mall – a mammoth 12 million sq ft (larger than 50 football pitches) of leisure and shopping floor space.

Now, the tide may be about to turn thanks to the addition of Mall of the Emirates’ piazza-style Fashion Dome – a new extension comprising of more than 30 luxury fashion outlets (20 of which are new to the mall), plus seven new restaurants, including More Café, Indian favourite Asha’s, fancy French café Fauchon and African-themed Tribes. Located directly

opposite the Galleria (this is where Mall of the Emirates has The Dubai Mall beat – no endless walking to find your store of choice), the Fashion Dome is now home to local favourite Boutique 1, plus designer heavyweights including Balenciaga, Diane von Furstenberg, Galliano, Giorgio Armani and Versace, while others such as Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior have expanded from their current locations in Mall of the Emirates to bigger premises within the Dome.

The Dome is a major coup, and a real shot in the arm for the Mall of the Emirates – from DVF dresses to Louboutin's latest red-soled styles, walk this way for shoppings new home.

FASHION‘S NEW HOME

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GIORGIO ARMANIItaly’s most successful designer masterminded his own soft-shouldered suit silhouette in the 70s and 80s and it remains a staple of today’s designs. Stand-out pieces from the A/W10 catwalk show included a coat-dress in vibrant red pony skin and a funnel-necked coat in green velvet. “With this season´s collection, I wanted to define my new concept of chic, where shape and colour are key,” Giorgio Armani told EW.

BOUTIQUE 1With its mix of established designer brands (Missoni, Halston, Azzedine Alaia, Giambattista Valli, Oscar de la Renta), leftfield labels (Thomas Wylde, Mary Katrantzou, Emma Cook) and emerging talent (Future Classics, Elizabeth & James), we challenge anyone to leave Boutique 1 empty handed. Exclusive to the Fashion Dome store are designer brands including Jason Wu, Jonathan Saunders and Julian Macdonald.

DIANE VON FURSTENBERGCreator of the iconic jersey wrap dress, Belgian-born (but honorary Brazilian) designer, Diane von Furstenberg, is celebrated for her use of luxe fabrics, billowing graphic-print dresses and form-flattering shapes. Look out for the chiffon rosette-embroidered boleros for A/W10.

Y-3For the first time in the UAE, the collaboration between Adidas and the avant-garde Japanese designer, Yohji Yamamato, is now available in a stand-alone store. After launching in spring 2003, the Y-3 line has become well known for its edgy active-wear and futuristic takes on tank tops and sports jackets.

Boutique 1

Giorgio Armani



JOHN GALLIANOCelebrated for his wild persona and

fantastical runway shows, John Galliano is one of the world’s most revered designers. In addition to over a decade at the helm of Christian Dior,

his eponymous label consistently finds inspiration from a wealth of world

cultures, offering a feast of theatrical fashion season upon season. With an outlet already at Wafi Mall, Galliano is revitalising its UAE presence at the Fashion Dome.

PAUL & JOESophie Albou began Paul & Joe (named after her two sons) in 1995, offering chic Parisian casualwear and ‘of-the-moment’ standout pieces. Mongolian shearling jackets, lace mini-skirts and double-breasted blazers are new season staples.

BALENCIAGAAt the age of 30, Nicolas Ghesquiere’s creations were in such high demand that Balenciaga in Paris was unable to meet the demands of the crowds that gathered daily at the flagship store. Since then each computer-age collection, with power tailoring and flattering draping always at its heart, has been received with adulation from the press. Despite being fairly compact, the brand’s new Fashion Dome store selects some of the best key pieces for display.

BOTTEGA VENETA Under the direction of Tomas Maier, the Italian leather-goods house, Bottega Veneta, has transformed into a leading luxury lifestyle brand. The designer disdains logos and flashy celebrity endorsements in a bid to draw attention to the quality and craftsmanship of the brand’s handbags and understated ready-to-wear collections. Look out for the vertiginous woven wedges in dark plum – in store now.

Bottega Veneta

Balenciaga



CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTINMaster ‘cobbler’ and creator of the scarlet sole, Christian Louboutin has chosen the Fashion Dome as home for his very first UAE boutique. Seriously glitzy stacked heels share shelf space with signature platform pumps and leopard print ankle boots. We caught up with the man himself to talk travel, regional fashion and top shoe styles for the new season…

EXCLUSIVE

INTERVIEW

YOU ONCE SAID THAT EVERYTHING INSPIRES YOU EXCEPT FASHION – CAN YOU ELABORATE?I find myself more inspired by other areas of life, like the places I travel to, art and architecture that I see in my day-to-day life. While I greatly respect the fashion world and designers, I don’t design based on the trends of the season. For example, one of my favourite shoes from the S/S10 collection was the Greissimo, which was made of fabric I found in Syria on my travels earlier this year.

WHAT WAS SOME OF YOUR INSPIRATION FOR THE A/W10 COLLECTION?From the collection, you’ll see

I use a lot of fur, buckles, studs, and different textures. I wanted to focus on the accoutrements of the shoe while playing with both new and classic forms.

YOUR TOP FIVE STYLES FOR A/W10…Toundra Booty, Lip Spikes Booty and heel, Madame Butterfly, Bridget’s Back andLoubout.

ANY TIPS FOR S/S11? I’ve used a pattern of blue and white stripes that was inspired by America’s flag in four or five styles. I think these will be iconic pieces of the S/S11 season.

THIS IS YOUR FIRST STORE IN DUBAI – WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THE FASHION INDUSTRY HERE?I have always been interested in this region. The women are very inspiring as they pay close attention to their appearance and take pride in looking beautiful. The Middle East has always been part of my expansion plans because of the tremendous feedback we receive from clients who shop abroad – London, New York, Paris – they have been asking me when I’ll open a shop in this region for a while as we have already opened in Beirut and Jeddah. I have always been interested in the region personally and often spend time in my homes in Syria and Egypt.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE FASHION OR BRAND DESIGNER? I like YSL. I have a very casual, relaxed style in my everyday dressing but I always wear a pair of shoes from my men’s line – sneakers in the day and brogues at night. I also like hats and wear them often. For evening, I really like Tom Ford jackets.

YOU MUST GET REQUESTS TO REINTRODUCE CERTAIN STYLES? Yes, I do get requests all the time because some styles sell out rather quickly and we can’t meet the demand! The classic styles – the Bianca, Very Prive 120, Banana, Lady Peep, Elisa – are produced every season in the core colours as well as some more seasonal colours like lilac and green.

AND THE RED SOLES TRADEMARK – WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND THAT?I was sitting in the studio with one of my colleagues and she was painting her nails with a vibrant red. Just out of curiosity I picked up the lacquer and applied it to the bottom of a prototype shoe. I liked the way it looked and it became my signature.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR ‘SHOE-FREE’ SPARE TIME?I love change and discovering new cities. I travel a great deal for work anyway, but I really enjoy getting away from Paris for trips. I have homes in Syria and Egypt and I spend a lot of time there when I’m not in the office. I also travel with friends during the summer.

FAVOURITE CITY?Paris! This is my home and will always be. I love the culture, the history, the art and it really is an inspirational design hub.



hand I am totally committed to Gucci’s incredible almost 90 years of history. Gucci has an unparalleled tradition of excellence and expertise in luxury goods that needs to be constantly tapped into. At the same time, my job involves finding ways of bringing this tradition into a contemporary context and creating fashion that is innovative and utterly desirable for today. I think my designs blend old-world values with a very modern vision of current fashion. Ultimately, I hope to inspire people with the clothing I design. DO YOU HAVE ANY MUSES?I think that it is important to have an idea, a vision, or a point of view but I never think of a specific woman or reference. The designing process and end result isn’t tangible – it’s an attitude so I think universally. HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE THE FUTURE OF THE BRAND?Gucci is nearly 90 years old and there is an expectation of creativity, quality, authenticity and uniqueness... If you lose just one of those, you lose trust, and ultimately, you lose the future of the label. I want to continue delving into the house’s rich past and reinvent those ideas into a contemporary look for today. ■

GUCCISince taking over from Tom Ford as Creative Director of Gucci, Frida Giannini has garnered glowing reviews for her fresh, feminine take on contemporary fashion. As the creator of boho-luxe basics and romantic yet entirely wearable eveningwear, she has slipped seamlessly into Ford’s shoes (and they were big shoes to fill…) to transform the once struggling accessories brand into one of Italy’s most powerful fashion houses.

EXCLUSIVE

INTERVIEW

beach and do all the things I never have time for like horseback riding, cooking, catching up with friends, reading and sleeping! AS A PIONEER FOR THE CURRENT ‘HERITAGE’ CRAZE, DID THAT INSPIRE YOUR A/W10 COLLECTION?Gucci’s storied past and an elegant shoulder bag I found in the archive inspired the creative philosophy behind the new Gucci 1973 line of bags, where classic design meets ultra modern spirit in a perfect balance between innovative styling and timeless allure. Furthermore, the entire ladies’ collection was a look back to the silhouettes and mood prevalent in fashion in the 1970s and 1990s. I felt liberated in a way to go back to these two periods which were so important for Gucci. It felt like the right moment to tap into that era’s strong yet simple tailoring and sleek glamour. ANY FAVOURITE PIECES FROM THE COLLECTION...Don’t ask me to choose. It is like asking a mother who is her favourite child! DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO DESIGN?My vision involves a certain stylistic marriage between past, present and future. On the one

WHERE DID YOUR LOVE FOR DESIGN ORIGINATE FROM?Fashion has been a real passion since I was a child. I always loved drawing princesses and horses, then when I was a teenager I fell in love with Madonna in Desperately Seeking Susan and used to copy how she dressed: the lace gloves, the leggings, everything. From that moment on I understood how design, clothes and music could work together and soon after I had a talk with my parents about studying fashion – there was a heated discussion in my house as they wanted me to go to university to study something more ‘academic’ because my father is an architect and my mother is a teacher. But I said no, I want to do fashion and then everything progressed very quickly. YOU HAVE YOUR HAND IN EVERY ELEMENT OF YOUR BUSINESS – WHY IS THIS?I have to. As the Creative Director of Gucci, my job is so vast. It is not just designing the collections, but also overseeing the advertising campaigns, the store concepts, the special projects and all the aspects related to communicating the Gucci image in a consistent way. WITH SUCH BUSY SCHEDULES, HOW DO YOU RELAX?I like to stay in my house by the

Frida Gianni



BAGS OF STYLE

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When Bulgari approached Matthew Williamson to design a capsule handbag

collection he was “thrilled to accept,” adding that he felt particularly “honoured to be the first designer they have worked with on a collaboration such as this. We share a level of craftsmanship in design and celebrate the importance of working with quality materials.”

As far as high quality materials go, it doesn’t get much better than Bulgari. Gorgeous red-carpet worthy gems and bejewelled creations are their trademark “conjuring up notions of glamour and elegance,” Matthew adds, inspired by trawling through their archives in Italy. “I wanted to use the cut stone motif within the bespoke print and digitally manipulate it to create a more modern kaleidoscopic effect.”

While Matthew’s own brand was originally the glitzy peacock domain of the Ibiza party girl, the styles have done some serious growing up – perhaps signalling this as the perfect time for a collaboration with such a distinguished heritage brand as Bulgari. “My collections have retained key elements of my aesthetic throughout my career,” he tells Emirates Woman. “The use of colour and print has become my signature. In more recent years I have experimented with silhouette and introduced a more urban outlook into the designs.”

Williamson graduated from the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, and was quickly catapulted into the headlines with Jade Jagger, Kate Moss and Helena Christensen famously walking in his first show. Red-carpet line-ups and premieres were soon dotted with his flirty little numbers, Sienna Miller was rarely seen in anything else: “It’s always flattering when someone chooses to wear them (my designs). I think they (celebrities) regularly think of Matthew Williamson for these events as my collections tend to include a strong element of glamour and flamboyance.”

Perhaps surprisingly for the degree of endorsement he receives, this isn’t something he really courts: “I only loan

Matthew williamson’s bag collection for Bulgari was inspired by his trademark bespoke prints

“IN MORE RECENT YEARS I HAVE EXPERIMENTED WITH SILHOUETTE AND INTRODUCED A MORE URBAN OUTLOOK INTO THE DESIGNS”

207-210_Matthew wiiliams A.indd 208 9/27/10 5:04:18 PM

Dubai: Mirdif City Center 04 2840 728 - Mall of the Emirates 04 3232 142

Unique fashion from head to toe for children up to 12 years.


dresses to people I personally know, I feel there is more integrity this way.” But he also rather succinctly points out: “Sienna has to look great, so when she wears my designs it’s because she wants to.”

Back in 2007, celebrating 10 glorious years on the international catwalks with a return to London Fashion Week, Matthew told The Daily Telegraph: “For a while I struggled with people’s perception of my label. At the start I was in such a mood about that. After the first show the reviews all said the same things: Jade Jagger, fuchsia pink, India. I’d say to Joseph (his business partner) ‘It drives me insane... I can do leather, I can do suits, I can do black, I’m a designer.’ But Joseph would reply, ‘You need to learn to embrace what you are. The travel, the colour, the girl – that’s the DNA of our brand... that’s what makes a label.’ 10 years later I can see he was right.”

This hasn’t stopped the brand evolving though, and his three-year tenure at the helm of Emilio Pucci may well have influenced the increasingly poised style at Matthew Williamson. Perhaps his bohemian girl, who once upon a time “wouldn’t mind going to Ibiza and getting a bit grungy” has graduated into his Pucci lady; a little more high maintenance and rather more groomed, you can certainly see her carrying the Bulgari tote.

A career retrospective of Matthew Williamson at Somerset House in London celebrating the launch of a biography by Colin McDowell, and with contributions from fashion heavyweights such as Zandra Rhodes, Anna Wintour and Sir Paul Smith, it will certainly provide ample evidence to chart the development of his style. “The book covers the first chapter of my career

from a fashion undergraduate right through to the present day where it explores the process involved in creating a collection for a now international luxury label.” Submissions from some of the world’s most renowned photographers further reinforce Matthews’ status within the fashion realm and evidence why Bulgari turned to him to create this collection.

Bohemia may be far behind, but with a bold yet restrained use of colour, and a creative but sophisticated (almost McQueen-esque) understanding of print, the bags encapsulate the increasingly mature tastes of a designer who still harbours an unbridled love of exuberant brights and cleverly executed geometric pattern. ■

“FOR A WHILE I STRUGGLED WITH PEOPLE’S PERCEPTION OF MY LABEL. AT THE START I WAS IN SUCH A BAD MOOD ABOUT THAT”

A stunning selection of bags from the new collection

THE MATTHEW WILLIAMSON FOR BULGARI S/S2011 CAPSULE COLLECTION WILL BE AVAILABLE AT BULGARI STORES FROM JANUARY 2011. VISIT: WWW.BULGARI.COM OR WWW.MATTHEWWILLIAMSON.COM

207-210_Matthew wiiliams A.indd 210 9/27/10 5:04:28 PM

1 0

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213_Beauty Opener FIN.indd 213 9/27/10 10:32:06 PM

WRITTEN BY SARAH JOAN ROSSAND NATASHA FARUQUE


The definition of sexiness differs depending on whom you talk to. The instant appeal of women like Gisele Bündchen, Halle Berry and Rosie Huntington Whitely is really a no-brainer. But there are other factors that trigger a positive response from the opposite sex. Red is a major player when it comes to magnetism and women being seen as more

appealing; a study conducted by the University of Rochester in the USA found that women who wear scarlet were considered more attractive and more likely to be approached by gentlemen. Another study shows that the softness and smell of a woman’s hair can up her levels of attraction, too. Read on to find out how you can achieve the most alluring beauty looks around.

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R E D A L E R TThis super-sensual, high-octane trend has been a femme-fatale classic; think sexy Scarlett Johansson or pin-up par excellence Marilyn Monroe with porcelain skin contrasted with total-impact pout. Lips are a focal point and any red that suits you will do the trick, from Lancôme L’Absolute Rouge to Dior Addict’s Decadent Plum, as long as the line is precise (use a liner in a similar shade to ensure your colour doesn’t seep through). Make-up guru, Pat McGrath, teamed the red lip with a retro-inspired black-liquid lined eye for Vogue New York’s Fashion Night Out heralding the start of this season’s key trend. Confidence is the key to sexiness, so if you’re thinking of sporting this look, be prepared to take centre stage.


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WHAT‘SBEAUTIFUL

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S M O K E S I G N A L SColour on the eyes seems synonymous with the 80s; and unlike the era’s music, not in a good way. Opt for a more sensual Cindy Crawford rather than Cyndi Lauper-like interpretation with a smudged, metallic version with forest and moss greens, indigo blues, royal purples and deep browns and team with Elizabeth Arden Smoky Eyes Powder Pencil in Midnight to truly make your eyes pop. Batting your eyelashes gets a whole lot more effective if you layer on Maybelline New York The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara; this season’s hottest must-buy. Porcelain skin using Giorgio Armani Beauty Lasting Silk UV Foundation that veils rather than bails at the first sign of humidity or sun completes the look whilst lips remain nude, with perhaps a dash of lip-gloss.



S O F T L Y , S O F T L YMen constantly cite the natural look of fresh, flawless skin, as their number one love. Not naturally glowing? Then prepping is key and cheating essential. Dry skin should be banished so try La Prairie’s 3-Minute Mask – the acids dissolve flaky bits of skin to reveal a younger, fresher and more glowing complexion, and fast. Moisturise with a few drops of M.A.C’s Care Blend Essential oils and Clinique All About Eyes De-puffing Serum before dabbing on a moisturiser loaded with shimmer – M.A.C’s Strobe Cream is Kylie Minogue’s favourite and offers anyone over the age of 30 a youthful glow. Laura Mercier and Stila both have a tinted moisturiser, which is a one-step solution for that ‘no make-up made-up’ look taking you instantly from pruney to peachy. Soft silken locks is the key component to boost appeal. Make sure yours are in tip-top condition – Frédéric Fekkai’s Overnight Hair Repair, renews locks while you sleep and helps to keep them protected from future damage.



R E T R O R O M A N C E Full deeply coloured lips, clean eyes and painted talons are the trademark of this trend, led by Dior and Donna Karan on the runways, hailed by beauty editors, and taken on by the fashion-forward on the high street. Harking back to the era of Chanel Rouge Noir, the modern take is this season’s sell-out Paradoxe; a sultry, metallic purple that’ll highlight your mani-perfect hands. Lips go high-gloss with dark plum, blackcurrant and deep cherry after dark. Channel your inner siren, bring out the Bardot in you and ooze sensuality with black, smudged eyes that hint you may have carried on the night before into the morning after.

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SERENE DREAMSPA WATCH

Get pampered for a good cause this month, as SensAsia Urban Spa offers their Tickled Pink package (Dhs545 for 30 minutes) in aid of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Including an Elemis Skin Radiance Booster facial, as well as the Elemis Sparkling Beauty Collection (a set of five luxurious products), with each booking, SensAsia will make a donation to breast cancer charities. This is skincare with a heart. SensAsia Urban Spa: (04) 3498850/(04) 4227115

SPA WATCHTICKLED PINK

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FEMALE EGG TIMER

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here comes a time in every woman’s life when her thoughts turn to starting a family. With an increasing number of women choosing to have babies when they are older, the chances of them getting pregnant becomes more difficult. Today many women in their 30s are finding themselves torn (and in some cases, trapped) between a career and having children. Sadly, sometimes when a woman does try to fall pregnant there can, due to

her age, be medical problems.But many experts believe a simple test, which is available in Dubai,

shows how this can be avoided as it reveals an individual’s optimum time to try for a child. If a woman in her late 20s takes the test the results, in theory, show whether she should try to become pregnant then or if she can wait.

The AMH (anti-mullerian hormone) fertility test can reveal a woman’s egg reserve by measuring the concentration of the anti-mullerian hormone – which is found in the ovaries. The level of AMH indicates how well the ovary is functioning. It is said to be one of the most accurate predictors of the number of eggs remaining in a woman’s ovaries. Given that the ovarian reserve starts to decrease with age, the test could give many the chance to delay motherhood without missing out on one day becoming a mum.

“AMH testing is one of the most accurate ways to measure fertility. The test tells you the quantity of eggs but nothing about quality,” says Professor Ellis Downes, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist who has played an important role in launching the test in the UK and is a regular visitor to the Emirates.

The procedure, which has been nicknamed the ‘egg timer’, takes minutes by simply analysing a blood sample and is currently being offered by a number of medical centres in Dubai. Women wanting to undergo the Dhs450 test consult with a doctor who explains the process and what it can and cannot achieve. It can be carried out at any stage of a woman’s cycle and the results are usually available in a week to 10 days.

Experts believe it to be a breakthrough in fertility examination, thus changing the way some women may choose to plan their life when it comes to both their relationships and career.

“There are many women in Dubai who have not yet settled down into a steady relationship and started a family. They need to know if and when they should give that aspect of life extra focus,” says specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Rosalie Sant, from the Primavera Medical Centre in Dubai.

A woman’s fertility declines around a decade before menopause – which can vary from 40 to 60 years of age. Peter Bowen-Simpkins,

Tfrom the London Women’s Clinic, which provides the test as routine before embarking on a cycle of fertility treatment says: “Fertility does decline after the age of 35 and rapidly after 42. However, knowing your AMH levels can help a couple know whether to strive for natural conception or follow other paths such as IVF treatment or adoption. It is certainly worthwhile if women are contemplating a pregnancy and are over 35. If she knows her ovarian reserve she can prioritise, in terms of family planning.”

Professor Downes sees women and couples from the UAE at his clinic in central London and says he is currently awaiting the go ahead from the Dubai and Abu Dhabi authorities to practise here in the emirates. He is convinced the test is a very positive step for women. He says: “Women everywhere want to be able to plan their life when it comes to starting a family and career, and women in the UAE are no

different. They should know all the facts first so that they can make an informed choice on family planning.”

The results of the test are measured using a traffic light system. Professor Downes explains: “Starting from a level playing field, green means that everything is fine and that a delay would be OK. Amber means that the egg levels are lower than normal for that woman’s age and red means that a delay would not be beneficial, so trying to conceive should start immediately. However, like all medical tests this is in no way 100 per cent conclusive.”

But would knowing all this put even more pressure on women who already feel torn between the various demands of modern life?

Career woman, Helen Richards, 28, thinks so. As a senior manager in a large corporation,

Helen has a secure job and has worked hard to get where she is today. Like many other women, she studied for years and today is reaping the benefits of a highly successful position. “It might force me to make decisions I am not ready for and that would be my worry. I would be concerned if the test showed I was not as fertile as I should be and that might put me and my partner under pressure to have a family sooner than perhaps we are ready. I am also the kind of person who thinks that ‘what will be will be. If I am destined to have a family then I will, and if not I will tackle the problem at that time,” says the Briton who has been living in Dubai for three years.

The psychological effects of knowing your fertility fate could also have a negative effect and put strain on a relationship. But clinical and forensic psychologist, Dr Raymond Hamden from the Human Relations Institute in Dubai, believes women will put up with anything if they want to become mothers. “Women and their natural desire to have children will tolerate the tribulations necessary to reach the joy of children. But they must also modify their expectations when undergoing something like this [test] to reduce frustration,” he says.

FEMALE EGG TIMER

“THIS TEST IS ONE OF THE MOST ACCURATE WAYS TO MEASURE FERTILITY. IT DETERMINES OVARIAN RESERVE,

IE HOW MANY EGGS THERE ARE LEFT”

FERTILITY IN NUMBERS2 MILLION: The average number

of eggs a woman is born with 200,000: The average amount of

eggs a 20-year-old woman has 12: The percentage of eggs a

woman has left at 30 50: The average age when

menopause usually starts 29.4: The average age for giving

birth in the UK 450: The cost of the test AHM test

in dirhams



FSH( Follicle stimulating hormone): This simple blood test is best for women over 40. It checks the level of FSH and Estradiol and can help determine whether there is an adequate reserve of eggs to allow for a chance of getting pregnant. It should be carried out at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Contact your gynaecologist for more details.

AN ALTERNATIVE TEST

He also warns couples to prepare for such an undertaking. “Debate the negatives and positives before embarking on anything that constitutes psychological and physical integrity. Prepare yourself for the process and continue to try and reach your goal whatever the outcome,” he adds.

New Zealand is one of the latest countries where AMH testing is now available. Since it launched a year ago, hundreds of women have taken the test – some before undergoing IVF or because of fertility issues resulting from illness and others who simply want to map out their lives.

Fertility Associates New Zealand compile case studies of women who have had the test to allow others to make informed choices about whether to take it or not. One of their patients is Lisa Joe who was 32 when she read about, and decided to take, the test. When Lisa, one of the first people to undergo the simple procedure in New Zealand, told her story to Fertility Associates, she explained: “I wanted to have the test to see if anything was wrong, even though at the time my partner Justin and I were happy and not thinking of starting a family just yet.”

The results came back positive. “I literally got the green light,” she recalled. But days later she heard back from the hospital with news that there had been a misdiagnosis and that her ovarian reserve was in fact that of a 44-year-old.

“I came off the pill and decided we would try for six months naturally before going to a specialist.” In January this year Lisa had a baby girl named Lucy. “I can’t believe that I may have waited so long and possibly had fertility problems. That was the most important test I ever took. It did move me more quickly into a different direction in life, but I am grateful it did.”

Although official statistics for the UAE are hard to come by, current figures from the Office of National Statistics in the UK reveal that the average age for giving birth in Great Britain is rising. In 2008 it was 29.3, last year it was 29.4 and in 1999 it was 28.4, meaning that mothers giving birth are getting older each year. According to research from St Andrews University in Scotland, by the time a woman turns 30 she has just 12 per cent of her eggs left.

This shift in older first time mums can be attributed to a number of social factors, says Professor Downes: “Better and longer periods of education have lead to more career-orientated women,” he says. “Today’s birth control methods mean women are able to make more choices about when to become mothers. This test is a good indicator for women who don’t want to miss out on parenthood.” However, not everyone sees the test as a positive thing.

Jane Thompson, 33, has been trying for a baby for several years and has had two miscarriages. She was offered the test last year but decided not to take it. “I didn’t take being asked to take the test very well and got quite angry,” says the Briton who moved to Dubai in 2005.

“When you are having pregnancy problems the last thing you want to hear is that you only have one year left to get pregnant. The ‘egg timer’ test seems irrelevant. I think it might be more poignant for woman in their late 30s.

“But honestly, I don’t think it is of much use. You might plan to use your last 24 eggs trying for a baby when you are 38 and never get past week seven of pregnancy – then your whole plan is ruined and you are left with nothing. I just don’t think you can map out these things like a social event. It can take months, or years, of trying and so much can go wrong. It is also about the quality of the eggs you have, not necessarily the amount you have left.”

Helen is also against having the test: “Although I do want to become a mum, my fertility is not something I have yet thought about. At this stage in my life I am happy and healthy and even though I know people my age and younger can have trouble conceiving, it’s not an issue with me right now, therefore I would not take this test,” she says.

Dr Sant says, ultimately, it does give women the right to choose how to live their life. “It shows women that there comes a time when they should seriously start thinking about an aspect of their life that they may have relegated to the back of their minds,” she says. “If the results show a low egg count then it won’t be too late to start thinking about egg (follicle) storage as a future possibility.”

Australian, Melissa Pearce, is settled in a happy and long-term relationship and also has a hugely successful career as a designer, working in her home country, the UAE, China and London. She believes the test is a good thing, and offers women choice. “If I was advised to have it then I definitely would,” she says. “I am in a steady relationship and in my early 30s so feel that there is a chance that waiting longer to try and fall pregnant could cause problems. I would like to get married and try for a baby in a couple of years, but would start now if I thought that time was an issue.”

Despite the seemingly drastic nature of the test, experts warn that it is simply an indicator and should be done in conjunction with other fertility examinations. “It is a relatively new test that can give a warning sign over egg levels, as opposed to direct confirmation over egg quality, so it is still difficult to know exactly what its significance is. However, as it has now started to be used more frequently we are gaining increasing knowledge about its values,” says Dr Sant.

“IF THE RESULTS SHOW A LOW EGG COUNT THEN IT WON’T BE TOO LATE TO START THINKING ABOUT EGG

STORAGE AS A FUTURE POSSIBILITY”

■



LITTLE BLACK MEDICAL BOOKFOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON FERTILITY, CONTACT:Dr Raymond Hamden, Tel: (04) 3658498Website: www.hridubai.com

Dubai Gynaecological and Fertility Centre Tel: (04) 4393800Website: www.dgfc.ae

London Women’s ClinicTel: (+44) 20 75634309Website: http://www.londonwomensclinic.com

Primavera Medical Centre Tel: (04) 3754669Website: primaveraclinic.com

Professor Ellis Downes Consulting Rooms, London: Tel: (+44) 20 79357341Website: www.ellisdownes.com


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example and we hope more and more will join hands with us to help protect women. BurJuman has been running and investing in Safe & Sound for the past 13 years, but we cannot achieve success on our own. We value all the support we get. The media has played a vital role in sending our message out, giving us both a voice and visibility amongst people. We thank Emirates Woman for your help and for reminding your readers to do their checks every month.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIVE-YEAR PLAN WITH SAFE & SOUND… Safe & Sound is a cause leader and a platform of trust and knowledge for the community. It is the most recognised campaign associated with breast cancer in the UAE today. Currently, it is a local initiative but we would like to take it regional. Whilst actively engaging the

community, we would also like our role to become advisory for organisations and the media who wish to support public awareness.

HOW CAN EMIRATES WOMAN READERS GET INVOLVED?We invite everyone to become part of our ‘pink circle’ through registration on our website safeandsound.ae. By specifying their particular area of interest and the individual service they are able to provide, we can contact these volunteers for relevant assistance for any of our future initiatives. Volunteerindubai.com are also involved in every Safe & Sound initiative. Anybody willing to help, in whatever capacity, is most welcome to join their group on Facebook and sign up for upcoming events.

WHAT LASTING ADVICE WOULD YOU IMPART TO READERS REGARDING BREAST CANCER?Educate yourself and share your knowledge with others. Help us take the matter public. Word of mouth is extremely important with diseases such as breast cancer. October may be the international month for awareness, but breast cancer can strike at any time. Women have to always be alert and aware, as early detection can save lives. ■

As part of the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards 2009, our official sponsor, ADCB, donated Dhs100,000 to BurJuman’s

Safe & Sound Breast Cancer Awareness Programme. A year on, BurJuman’s Sabina Khandwani chats to Emirates Woman to discuss the ways in which ADCB’s money has benefitted their cause.

TELL US ABOUT BURJUMAN’S SAFE & SOUND BREAST CANCER AWARENESS PROGRAMME. We wanted to dedicate a large amount of BurJuman’s Corporate Social Responsibility to a cause that concerns every single individual. Since it began in 1997, its mission has been to create awareness of breast cancer as a serious illness within our community, and to educate and enhance awareness of the importance of early detection and treatment as the main measures for survival. Our premise is to encourage women to be ever-conscious and act proactively to protect their health.

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DID ADCB’S DONATION CREATE? We cannot thank ADCB, enough because being chosen by them reflects on the trust and reputation that Safe & Sound has built in the region. We are using the donation to help fund the expenses being incurred for our Free Mammogram Camp. We believe this is a vital initiative encouraging women aged 40 and above who cannot afford a mammogram, or to go for the required check-up. Hopefully these women will then go on to educate others and become ambassadors for the cause.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO HAVE SUPPORT FROM COMPANIES SUCH AS ADCB AND MAGAZINES LIKE EMIRATES WOMAN? ADCB has shown its strong commitment to the women of our community by actively engaging in our awareness campaign. It is a great

in association with

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BURJUMAN’S SAFE & SOUND PROGRAMME,VISIT WWW.SAFEANDSOUND.AE, OR JOIN VOLUNTEER IN DUBAI AT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/VOLUNTEERINDUBAI

PRETTY IN PINK

xxxxxxxxx

INTERNATIONAL BREAST CANCER

AWARENESS MONTH

Sabina Khandwani

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EACH YEAR ACROSS THE WORLD, MORE THAN 1 MILLION NEW CASES OF BREAST CANCER ARE DIAGNOSED. EMIRATES WOMAN SPEAKS TO THREE INSPIRING WOMEN ABOUT THEIR BATTLE WITH THE DISEASE

STANDING STRONG

INTERNATIONAL BREAST CANCER

AWARENESS MONTH

reast cancer – the two words that no woman wants to hear during her lifetime. According to the World Health Organisation, incidences of breast cancer are increasing both in the developed and developing world and now account for more than 16 per cent of all female cancers. Across the world, more than one million new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed

each year, and it is estimated that worldwide, there are more than four million women currently living with the disease.

But while the word ‘cancer’ will seem to many like a certain death sentence, today survival rates can be as high as 80 per cent, provided that the cancer is caught early enough. The term ‘breast cancer victim’ is becoming outdated, as improved access to education, screening, research and treatment options mean that women are refusing to let the disease define their lives.

“I wanted to show people that this wasn’t going to take me down,” says Dubai-based Eva Andbert, 58, who discovered she had breast cancer in 2002 while still living in her native Sweden, but after treatment has been free of the disease for seven and half years. “If I’d wanted, I could have taken to my bed and hidden under the sheets, but that wouldn’t have solved anything. I wanted to stay strong and to keep life as normal as possible for my kids and for

BREAST CANCER – THE FACTSAccording to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women in the UAE, accounting for 18.1 per cent of all female cancers in the country during 2008.

Organisations such as BurJuman’s Safe & Sound Breast Cancer Awareness Programme educate and support women in the UAE, encouraging them to take a proactive role in their own wellbeing. Most women are affected by breast cancer in some capacity throughout their lives, so Safe & Sound is encouraging women in the UAE to ‘Go Pink’ and spread awareness of the disease – whether it’s passing information to friends, or joining the campaign’s pink circle of volunteers.

This month Safe & Sound is hosting the annual Pink Walkathon at BurJuman on October 29, where thousands of women, men and children will take part in a 3.6km walk to raise both money and awareness about breast cancer. To find out more, visit www.safeandsound.ae

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myself. Maybe I couldn’t work as much as before, but I was still able to work more than 50 per cent of the time during my treatment, and was determined to play with my kids as much as I could.”

For Eva, her experience with the disease began when doctors discovered abnormalities on a routine screening. For Felicia Tiru, 37, her experience began after feeling tired and unwell for some time, and then felt something unusual while self-examining her breasts. “I’d moved house and had been shifting furniture, and my breasts felt uncomfortable,” she explains. “But the feeling was still there a week later, so I went for an ultrasound with my gynaecologist.” This led to an appointment for a mammogram, after which she was referred to a breast specialist who took a biopsy from her breast tissue. “From the moment they said they needed a biopsy, I knew something wasn’t right. It came back positive for grade one cancer.” She underwent a lumpectomy, which was followed up by eight cycles of chemotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. She finished the last treatment session on September 8 this year.

Yet while yearly mammograms are recommended for all women over the age of 40 (35 for women who have a family history), and all women should perform regular self-examinations no matter what age, it seems that embarrassment or fear of the test itself, or of an abnormal outcome, is deterring many women from this potentially life-saving precaution. According to the Oncology Society of the Emirates Medical Association, up to 80 per cent of new breast cancer cases diagnosed in the UAE are already at an advanced stage.

“I was in complete denial in the beginning,” says Anne Nuval, who received a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma (SBR grade two) at Rashid Hospital in 2008. She is currently having

“WHEN I RECEIVED THE DIAGNOSIS, I COULDN’T DO ANYTHING BUT

ACCEPT IT AND LEARN TO LIVE WITH IT”

treatment at Dubai Hospital, and after a course of chemotherapy, has recently had surgery for a left breast mastectomy. “A lump was first discovered in my left breast in 2005 during an annual physical examination for my work, but I ignored it. In 2006, a small rash developed on the breast, which became an open wound that would not heal, but I kept everything to myself. In July 2007, I suddenly started to experience severe neck pain, but I left it until December 14 of that year to go to Rashid Hospital with a very swollen neck. I was initially diagnosed with a broken neck bone and severe anaemia, but I was still hiding the issue with my breast.”

It was only when Anne confided in a nurse in January 2008 that the breast cancer was finally discovered by her doctors – by this point the cancer had reached stage four, it had spread to her neck and its growth had fractured two bones, which was causing her incredible amounts of pain. “When I received the diagnosis, I couldn’t do anything but accept it and learn to live with it,” she adds. “I accepted the fact that I have this dreaded disease and there is nothing I can do now to take this away. I began to search for more information about what I was going through, to make myself aware of the changes and the treatment, especially during chemotherapy.”

Just as every woman’s cancer is unique, so is every woman’s experience of the treatments and their side effects. Surgical intervention can range from a lumpectomy, where just the cancerous and surrounding tissue is targeted, to a full mastectomy, where the breast is removed in its entirety. Treatment can often also include radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, or a combination of them both, as well as hormonal therapy (such as Tamoxifen), or targeted treatments, such as Herceptin. While the effects of treatment can be physically harsh, for many it is the psychological effects of losing a breast or one’s hair that can take the most toll.

“I was incredibly lucky that my body responded very well to the chemotherapy and the radiation,” says Eva. “I had seven courses of chemo, and, of course, it made me feel very unwell in my stomach, but for me, the radiation wasn’t too bad. The worst part, however, was losing my hair, I hated it so much. One of my happiest moments after the treatment was when I was sitting in the summerhouse at my husband’s family home, and touched my eyes and realized that I could feel a little bit of eyelash. So I took out my mascara, which I hadn’t used in a while, because I was so excited to see I had lashes again.”

Like Eva, and for many women living with breast cancer it is

DETECT AND PREVENTEarly detection can save lives and if caught early enough, when the cancer is still confined to the breast tissue, the five-year survival rate is very high at more than 90 per cent. Regular self and clinical examinations, including mammography and ultra-sound, are a critical form of protection. Self-examination should be carried out by all women from the age of 20, including women who have implants or who have recently finished breast-feeding. Tips for self-examination include:

variations in hormonal levels can change the feel and appearance of the breasts.

to firm) to feel the entirety of each breast, including the armpits, up towards the collarbone and down towards the bottom of the ribcage.

appearance has changed, whether there is any dimpling in the skin, and if the appearance of the nipples has altered, such as sudden inversion or a discharge.

per cent of breast lumps turn out to be benign – but do consult your doctor immediately.Annual mammograms are recommended for all women over the age of 40, and for women over the age of 35 who have a history of breast cancer within their family. The procedure is performed at the hospital, and while it can be slightly uncomfortable, it is very

a screening), and it can show up cancers that are too small to be discovered during a normal breast examination.



uncovering the positives, however small, that can provide that emotional boost to carry on in the face of adversity. “I really tried to find the funny side of things,” she adds. “When I had no hair, I would look in the mirror and say ‘Eva, you look terrible! You don’t have any eyelashes or eyebrows! But you’re alive and that’s the main thing.’ I also realised I had a really nice shaped head, which I’d never noticed before.”

For many women, conquering breast cancer is not just about being successfully treated for the disease, but also about retaining their sense of femininity, both during the treatment and afterwards. “Sometimes there is a less of a focus on reconstructive surgery after the cancer,” says Eva. “It’s like you should be thankful you’ve survived. It’s different for everyone, but I’m not that kind of person. I want to be able to look in the mirror and look good – and for me, I wanted two breasts. I had reconstructive surgery in which they stretched the skin before using an implant and reconstructing the nipple and areola. They did a very good job.”

“Losing my hair was very uncomfortable,” says Felicia. “But the moment I shaved my head, I felt ok. I lost my eyelashes and eyebrows as well, which was quite difficult for me when I looked in the mirror as I realised that I looked very sick. But I used make-up, which covered it up well, and wore a long wig which was so natural-looking that people actually thought it was my own hair. In fact, I looked like my mum when she was 20. Wearing the wig gave me such a self-confidence boost. I believe you can’t let it get on top of you, no matter how tired you feel. You really have to make an effort for your own sake.”

A good support network can be vital – both during and after treatment for breast cancer – whether it’s with family, friends, peers, or with the medical team at the hospital. “It’s not about doing or saying the right thing, it’s just about being there,” says Felicia. Peer support groups, such as the UAE’s Brest Friends, enable breast cancer sufferers and survivors to meet and share their experiences which one another. “This is so important,” adds Felicia. “These women have been through similar situations and they want to be there to help each other. They accept you in a different way from other people and I really look forward to attending the meetings.”

Strong support is particularly important in a country such as the UAE where many expatriate residents are far away from family and friends. “It was different for me because I was very far from my family,” says Anne. “My support group consists of friends, doctors, medical staff and my employer.”

A strong relationship with caregivers and medical staff can also turn a negative experience into a positive one. ‘To me, the Breast Care Centre at Tawam Hospital gave me so much of the support I needed through my treatment,” says Felicia. “The care was first class – from the medical treatment from the doctors, to things such as applying make-up or even knowing where to buy a wig. From the

moment I met the team there, the doctors and the nurses, I knew I was in good hands, which was so vital to me.” For the women who have conquered breast cancer, it can change their outlook on life. “You are more thankful for things,” says Eva. “Every day is like a new day of survival.” Felicia agrees: “I found a strength that I didn’t know I had. I’ve learned so much from this experience, most of all, that I have it within me to fight this, as well as knowing that I truly am loved by the people who surround me.”

For Anne, she has discovered a new-found optimism for the future. “I have been in the hospital for a long time and I know that no one expected me to live since my condition is so severe. All the time, I kept in mind that I need to be well and back at work to fulfill my dreams. Before I believed that once you had cancer you died, but I have proven that cancer can’t stop you from living a normal life. Pursue your dreams – just trust and believe in God and keep smiling.”

”I BELIEVE YOU CAN’T LET IT GET ON TOP OF YOU, NO MATTER HOW TIRED YOU FEEL”

KEY BREAST CANCER CLINICS IN THE UAEDEDICATED BREAST CANCER CENTRES, WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES, CAN BE FOUND AT: Tawam Hospital, Al Ain This free-standing Breast Care Centre, affiliated with John Hopkins Medicine, is equipped with state- of-the-art screening and diagnostic equipment, also offering a mobile breast screening unit. The team includes specially trained breast nurses and specialist oncologists, plus psychiatrists and social workers for follow-up care. Emirates Hospital, Dubai 4466422, www.emirateshospital.aeFeaturing a dedicated multi-disciplinary team, including a female radiographer, and cytopathologist who specialise in breast pathology. There is also a second opinion and treatment review service for women who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer. American Hospital, Dubai A twice-weekly clinic with a team that includes specialists in radiology, pathology, oncology, plastic surgery, pharmacy, physiotherapy, psychology and breast awareness education. There is also a regular support group for patients. Well Woman Clinic, Dubai A clinic targeted at the needs of female patients, it offers wellness screenings and diagnostic procedures, with highly qualified female doctors such as Dr Houriya Kazim, a specialist breast surgeon, who also runs Brest Friends,

[email protected]). The City Hospital, Dubai A specialised unit for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Offering multi-modality therapy, the entire team specialises in the treatment of diseases of the breast.

SPA WITH A HEARTIn support of BurJuman’s Safe & Sound campaign, Raffles Dubai’s Amrita Spa are hosting a Pink Day on October 22. One hundred per cent of proceeds from all manicures, pedicures, spa treatments and Trendz Ladies & Gents Salon offerings will be donated to Safe & Sound. In addition, they are giving away a ‘Raffles Cares’ package to a breast cancer survivor, nominated by a friend or family, which includes a night’s

Friday brunch for two and a spa treatment. Nominate someone now by emailing their story before October 21 to: [email protected].

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THE LEGIAN, BALI

WRITTEN BY EMILY BAXTER

Bali is the jewel of Indonesia, and when it comes to bedding down, one hotel truly deserves a visit. Set in the Seminyak region on Bali’s southern coast is The Legian – an all-suite hotel that exudes luxury. Presenting the traditions of Balinese design in its contemporary interior, The Legian’s main focus is on the sea, and each of the 67 suites has a private balcony. When it comes to play time, yoga, cycling, golf, diving and sailing are all on offer. But for those simply after some peace, The Spa offers sumptuous treatments. Combined with the natural beauty of its landscaped gardens, expanses of white beach, serenity of its hideaway location and attentive staff, The Legian is luxury personified. www.thelegianbali.com

GLOBE TROTTER

HOTEL OF THE MONTH

Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai

Le Legian, Bali

FAIRMONT PEACE HOTEL, SHANGHAIFollowing three years of restoration, the ‘number one mansion of the Far East’ has opened its doors once again. With 270 deluxe rooms, six restaurants and the iconic Jazz Bar, true decadence awaits. www.thefairmont.com

HOTEL INDIGO EAST END, NEW YORK, USASet in eight acres of private land in Long Island, New York, this converted 70s hotel is located near the heart of The Hamptons. Contemporary and sophisticated with a boutique style, Indigo’s USP is its exquisite attention to detail. www.hotelindigo.com

RAFFLES PRASLIN, SEYCHELLESSet sail for the Seychelles, as Raffles Praslin opens in January 2011. Set on the tranquil island of Praslin, near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai, it is an oasis of calm and beauty, with the usual Raffles‘ statement style. www.raffles.com

THE BUZZ

NEW HOTELS

Raffles Praslin

Hotel Indigo East End, New York

245_Travelnews HALF AD.indd 245 9/27/10 5:52:43 PM

Sky Bar – voted one of the best bars in the world – is Beirut’s most iconic late night hot-spot, with stunning views of the city. (www.sky-bar.com)

If you’re after a slice of old city life, Byblos is it, with its cobbled streets and old souks.

BEIRUTPOCKET-GUIDE TO…

NIGHT LIFE

Street after street in downtown is flanked by designer labels from Tod’s to Gucci to D&G. Just make sure your bank manager has been prepped.

SHOP STYLE

Named the ‘French Riviera of the Middle East’, Beirut is a city of beauty. Everywhere you look there are remnants of the civil war, yet it oozes cosmopolitan sophistication. Beirut comes alive after dark and the locals love to party from White Bar to Sky Bar (two of the city’s coolest open-air hang-outs) to Crystal club and Music Hall (restaurant-cum-cabaret).

Beirut’s history dates back 5,000 years, and excavation sites dotted around the downtown area have unearthed ruins from the Phoenician, Roman and Ottoman eras. Baalbek – with its plethora of temples – is also a cultural must on your itinerary.

If you have more time on your hands, hire a taxi for the day and head to the mountainous ski resort of Faraya Mzaar. The terrace at the InterContinental is the perfect spot for a hot chocolate. Also make a pit-stop at the Jeita Grotto – some of the world’s most beautiful caves. The old fishing port of Byblos is also just a short drive from Beirut and is arguably the oldest continuously-inhabited city in the world, offering souks, seafood restaurants, beaches, the Crusader Fort and much more.

The Lebanese take their style seriously and Beirut’s downtown area is dripping with designer names, from Elie Saab to Dolce&Gabbana, and the newly opened Souks de Beirut outdoor shopping mall in Solidere also boasts plenty of cafés at which to rest weary feet.

FINE DINING

CULTURE VULTURE

SWEET DREAMS

Baalbek

Jeita Grotto

Old fishing boats at Byblos

Sky Bar

Shop in style in downtown Beirut

Amethyste BarLe Gray hotel



Le Gray is the city’s chicest hotel, with cool modern interiors, the comfiest pillows in the world, unrivalled service and Bar ThreeSixty, with cocktails, jazz and 360 views of Beirut. www.campbellgrayhotels.com

Amethyste Lounge at the InterContinental hotel Phoenicia serves fabulous food and lights up after dark, as the beautiful people eat, drink and dance long into the night. www.ichotelsgroup.com

Soak up some of Beirut’s history at Baalbek – a temple complex of Roman ruins. Or visit one of the city’s stunning mosques, such as Mohamed Al Amin in Martyrs’ Square.

OLD HAT

Make a stop at Pigeon Rock, at Beirut’s most western tip – one of the city’s most scenic snap-shot worthy spots.

PICTURE PERFECT

Pigeon Rock

Mohamed Al Amin Mosque

SCENIC SNAPSHOTSDrive into the mountains for year-round beauty or visit the Jeita Grottos, caves which are as beautiful as they are eerie.

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I’m an exceptionally light packer, but Clarins HydraQuench moisturing lotion with SPF15 always gets my vote. I’m forever writing lists and scribbling down names of

places I’ve been to or have yet to explore, so a Moleskin notebook and pen are also essential.

Aeroplanes are always too cold, so I make sure I travel with cashmere socks and a cashmere shawl. Mint tea bags keep puffy eyes at bay and calm the mind, and a toothbrush and toothpaste are necessities – you never know where your suitcase will end up

these days.

Medjumbe Island Resort off Mozambique has 13 rustic little cabanas dotted along the beach – sunsets have never looked so beautiful.

HAND LUGGAGEMUST-HAVES

NUMBER ONE HOTEL

THREE MUST-PACK ITEMS

Medjumbe Island Resort off

NUMBER ONE HOTEL

Medjumbe Resort

Mauritius – it’s where I was born and our house there is filled with memories. Going back each year is like stepping back in time.

Mauritius

JET-SET IN STYLE

POLLY SWEETDirector at TOH PR

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY HOT-SPOT

INSIDER JET-SET SECRET For a little inflight sophistication,

try and catch Emirates’ 10am

flight from London Gatwick –

to Dubai. Come 4pm, miniature

scones appear, complete with

clotted cream, jam and tea!

A very civilised affair.

AD

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ART WITH HEARTIn support of those devastated by the floods in Pakistan, the Opera Gallery, both in DIFC and The Dubai Mall, will be donating five per cent of sales of classic paintings, and 15 per cent of all sales of contemporary pieces to two charities: V Need U (www.vneedu.com) and Pakistan Rising until October 7. (04) 3230909, or visit www.operagallery.com

ADLUXE

LIVINGCULTURE FIXIn a bid to share art with the masses, Elements Café in Wafi Mall, has launched the first of a series of new art

exhibitions. Starting with the work of Jean Charles Yaich, which runs until November 1, it’s the perfect place to head to relax and soak in a little culture over your croissant and cappuccino. Elements Café, (04) 3244252.

LUXE

If you’re looking for a little alternative art to adorn you walls, Aura b. online boutique is a treasure trove for original pieces, from pop and abstract to contemporary and everything in between. Topping our wish list are these Let’s Ban Ray and Pink Telephone prints by Isabelle Vialleneix. www.aura-b.com

ONE OF A KIND


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The ADCB Ambition AwardIn conjunction with the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards 2010, ADCB are proud to announce the launch of the second annual ADCB Ambition Award. This year’s focus is on budding entrepreneurs and business start ups who want to realise their ambition and fulfil their potential. This year’s award offers an amazing prize of a business grant of US$10,000, plus personal business investment advice from the professionals at ADCB. To enter this amazing competition, simply go to the official Emirates Woman of the Year Awards 2010 website, www.emirateswomanawards.com, and tell Emirates Woman and ADCB in 500 words or less your greatest entrepreneurial ambition. This year the winner will be selected by our panel of judges and a shortlist of five lucky entrants will be invited to the Emirates Woman of the Year Awards 2010 on November 23, 2010 at the Park Hyatt Dubai where one winner will be given the opportunity to realise their ambition.

Terms and conditionsAll entries must be submitted by October 15, 2010, and will be reviewed by our panel of judges. The entrant with the greatest ambition, as determined by the judges, will be declared the winner of the ADCB Ambition Award. The winners will be announced at the gala award ceremony on November 23 at the Park Hyatt Dubai. All shortlisted entrants must be available to attend the event. Any shortlisted entrant not available to attend will be not be considered for the award. The results of the voting and judging processes are final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is as stated and is not transferable. No cash substitute can be provided. Motivate Publishing reserves the right to replace any part of the prize in this promotion with another of the same or similar value, should it for some reason become unavailable. Motivate Publishing reserves the right to alter, amend,

or foreclose this voting site and the prize offer without prior notice.

WIN US$10,000 & MAKE YOUR AMBITION A REALITY


adcb award ad ew.indd 1 8/26/10 2:29:48 PM

When it comes to driving around our city, I’ve always been a staunch believer in zippy little cars that can

nip in and out of traffic, easily wind their way around multi-storey car parks and slot neatly into that teeny tiny, and much coveted, parking spot just by the mall doors. Why trudge extra distances with your shopping when you don’t have to, being my motto.

So far, my trusty Toyota Yaris has served me impeccably. It is small, neat, tidy and most of all easy to drive – no complicated gadgets that you fear pressing in case you suddenly shoot through the roof on an ejector seat; no strange noises that beep at you as you reverse or edge dangerously close to the petrol pump; and no peculiar screens flashing maps and messages at you telling you to turn left (when you can’t – there’s a six-lane road in the way) or fill-up the car when you clearly (and cleverly) know that when the light starts flashing, you’ve just got


enough gas to get you to The Dubai Mall and back – it’s tried and tested, after all.

However, this was all about to change the moment I was offered a Mercedes GLK to test-drive, courtesy of Gargash Mercedes-Benz. Now, as previously mentioned, I’m a fan of small cars – sardine tins, my friends call them. I say sardine tins with style. So when my big black tank of a Mercedes was deposited outside my apartment, lights a blazing and looking all scary, new and, well, perfect, nerves were plentiful.

It’s not that I don’t trust my driving, far from it, it’s just this car was (or so it seemed) at least three times the size of anything I’d driven since passing my test, ahem, 15 years ago. But I’m not adverse to change, nor adventure, and so took it upon myself to embrace this new automobile opportunity. It was me, my tank and three days of hitting the Dubai roads.

Now, I am well aware that driving 4x4s

is nothing new to most people in the UAE, with gas-guzzlers the norm in these parts, but setting sail down Sheikh Zayed Road for my first time in one was an eye-opening, and somewhat exhilarating, experience. To start with, I felt like I was Gulliver in the land of Liliput, towering over the match-box sized motors below me. It gave me a sense of authority, but more importantly, a sense of safety. Mercedes have long been a purveyor of building strong, safe and sturdy vehicles, since their first Mercedes-Benz automobile hit the roads in 1926. The GLK is no different. But the most enlightening thing for me was how a vehicle of, what I considered, such magnitude could be so speedy. None of this ‘flooring it’, waiting for 10 seconds for the throttle to kick in, then being rocketed forward awkwardly and abruptly as you lurch down the road. No, the GLK is smooth, very smooth indeed. Just the way I like it.

C I T Y S L I C K E R

Travelling in style with the Mercedes GLK

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Traiteur at the Park Hyatt Dubai

As I drove down SZR and clicked my indicator, I stumbled across another control stick – which would soon become my favourite gadget – the cruise control. Easy to use (even for first-timers), it was a dream. Setting the limit at 100km, I could do just what it was asking me to do… cruise. Before I knew it, I’d reached The Dubai Mall – no speeding, no awkward pedal work, just a thoroughly pleasant drive.

Negotiating round car parks in Dubai isn’t fun at the best of times, but left me a little nervous, considering my new ride felt like it needed at least another foot on either side for breathing room. But manoeuvring through the windy levels was a doddle. I’m no stranger to power-steering, but again, the word smooth came to mind. Everything was fluid. I may not have been able to nip into the teeny tiny space right by the mall doors as usual, but the ease of parking more than made up for it.

Fast forward several hours, and several shopping bags later, and I was grateful to my Mercedes for another thing – space. There may have been just one of me, but as a lady with a passion for splashing my hard-earned cash, I can certainly rack up the shopping bags given half an opportunity. However, my usual

stash of Chloé, Armani and Tod’s bags that normally fill my little Yaris almost to the rafters barely made a dent on the GLK’s spacious offerings. In fact, I hardly even filled the boot – which I clearly took as an excuse to buy more clothes (if only my bank manager would have understood the same logic).

A quick zip up SZR to the Park Hyatt Dubai, and straight into valet. For the first time in a while, my car fitted straight in. It was just as grand, sleek, shiny and smart as all the others it was lined up with. I felt like I’d just packed my children off for their first day at school, all prepped and polished. A proud moment indeed.

As my Mercedes rested, so did I amid an afternoon of pure indulgence. If you’re ever looking for a spa that doesn’t just tend to your body, but also cleanses your mind and soul, the Amara Spa is it. The serenity of its stunning pool and the tranquillity of its location, surrounded by green grass, rolling golf courses and the Dubai Creek, means you feel a million miles away from the rat race and the constant humdrum

of city dwelling. The one-hour Amara massage left me relaxed, de-stressed and calm – as per its promise – and the fact that my suite came with an outdoor rain shower, just sums up the experience – simply sublime. After a busy day of shopping, I needed re-fuelling, and since I was already at the Park Hyatt, it seemed churlish not to indulge in some French fare at one of Dubai’s most renowned restaurants, Traiteur. A lucky strike at a window table meant myself and my guest could overlook the terrace, which overlooks the Creek, with the twinkling lights adding to the romance. French food is rich and decadent and nowhere more so than Traiteur. Foie gras, minute steaks, melt-in-your-mouth delicious sea bass… close your eyes and you could be in France, the food really is that exquisite.

As I left the hotel to be reacquainted with my car, I realised several other USPs of the GLK. Drive after dark and the lights come on automatically. But the real selling point here is that they also judge the light, even during the day, so enter a car park and ‘flick’, lights on. Another huge plus is that when you pull up at the petrol pump, there’s no need to flick a switch or push a button… as soon as the ignition clicks, the petrol cap stays open. We all know that when it comes cars, it’s the little things that count.

After several more days making the most of my motor, it was time to hand back the keys and I have to admit, I was sad to see it go. I’d grown used to sitting high on my throne (read car seat), enjoyed making use of the double sun-roof now the mercury’s hit a sensible temperature again, and loved having everything I needed at the touch of a button. But most of all, I’ve realised that big doesn’t have to mean clunky. The GLK is fast but not furious, it’s smart but not showy, and it’s spacious without feeling like you’re driving a tank. For a city slicker who prides herself on style, the Mercedes GLK is right up my street. I consider my lesson learnt. ■

The pool at the Park Hyatt Dubai

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Q: What is the name of the French restaurant at The Address Dubai Marina?

A: Rave Gauche B: Rive Gauche C: Brave Gauche

How to enter: A careful read of this page will give you all the clues you need to answer the question above. Visit www.winwithmotivate.com to enter. Rules: This competition is open to residents of all GCC countries and valid until October 31, 2010. Entries received after this date will not be accepted. The prize will be awarded to one entry received at random. No cash alternative is available. Employees of Motivate Publishing and the company contributing the prizes are not eligible. The decision of Motivate Publishing is final and no correspondence can be entered into. The winner will be notified by phone.

With its spectacular setting next to the

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Dubai Marina is one of the city’s finest

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and guest can indulge in all that this five-star hotel has to

offer, with two night’s stay in a deluxe room.

To ensure your retreat from the rat race leaves you feeling

nothing short of calm, we’re also offering breakfast at

Mazina, dinner (including a bottle of house wine) at the

classic French brasserie, Rive Gauche, plus a Real

Aromatherapy Experience at The Spa and a month’s gym

membership for two.

The hotel is also attached to Dubai Marina Mall, where

luxury boutiques, high-street labels and gourmet

restaurants are all in easy reach, so dining – and shopping

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FOR A CHANCE TO WIN, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

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LUXURY RETREAT

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Under the Patronage of Abu Dhabi Beaches

To register: www.swimabudhabi.com 02 44 181 22

OPEN WATER SWIMMING COMPETITIONS FOR ALL ABILITIES

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The Waha Capital Abu Dhabi Mile (1.6km)

The Etihad Holidays Splash Dash (700m)

& Relays for families, schools and businesses

The Waha Capital Abu Dhabi Mile (1.6km)

The Etihad Holidays Splash Dash (700m)

& Relays for families, schools and businesses


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RSVPMICHAEL KORS

THE MODELS BACKSTAGE AT THE RALPH LAUREN SHOW

EW’S ELLE TIMMS FRONT ROW ATTHE RALPH LAUREN S/S11 SHOW

With a new location smack-bang in the city’s hub of performing arts, the Mercedes-Benz NYFW S/S11 at the Lincoln Center, saw an ultra-fast pace of previews, parties and summer-style forecasting. The week launched with Prabul Gurung, Jason Wu, Lacoste and Victoria Beckham showing sharp, clean-cut collections that focused heavily on non-colour, starting the early fashion-week whisper of a ‘white-out’ trend emerging on the runway. A mid-week ‘Marc’ extravaganza ensued on the Monday, as Lexington Avenue came to a standstill for the unusually prompt start of the Marc Jacobs show, attended

by Diane von Furstenberg, Alexa Chung and Courtney Love. Dripping in glamour, the runway interpretations of Jerry Hall chic, circa Studio 54, cemented Marc Jacobs’ status as a perennial NYFW must-see, before the VIPs hit afterparty hotspot, Toons, in Greenwich Village.

The sunshine filled, final days of fashion week witnessed a surprising alliance in the form of Anna Wintour and tennis star Serena Williams at Michael Kors, before the Beatles’ track Here Comes The Sun started and demanded a trademark poker-straight face from the Vogue chief. And later, beloved industry institution, Ralph Lauren, drew the week to a close with an intimate and enchanting show that covered glitter, frayed edges, contemporary plaid and signature Americana to polished perfection. And judging by the shrieks of delight from the crowd, mixing sequins and checks may well be what’s worn on Manhattan’s streets, until next season’s shows that is.

11

SPRING AWAKENING

RALPH LAUREN RUNWAY

FASHIONPEOPLE

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S11


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Stylish eyes were locked on Lebanon as Beirut played host to a four-day homage to the city’s rise to fashion capital status last week, and Yves Saint Laurent thought it only fitting to open the doors of its beautiful new boutique to coincide.VIP guests were treated to a red-carpet reception and stylish outdoor soiree to launch the chic two-floor store – an event which formed part of the Mastercard Aïshti Fashion Experience and unveiling of the new-look Beirut Souks in Solidere. Flashbulbs popped at the arrival of Elie Saab – still beaming in the wake of his spectacular fashion show the previous evening. The Lebanese designer to the stars had not exhibited in his native Beirut for 18 years, and his luxurious A/W10 showcase represented a landmark event on the couture calendar.The jet-setting YSL team flew in from fashion hotspots

including Paris and Milan to compare style notes over free-flowing champagne, salmon mousse and bite-

size éclairs, while VIP designers, style icons and businessmen including CEO of luxury Lebanese department store Aïshti, Tony Salame, made up the rest of an exceptionally stylish crowd.

BACK IN VOGUERSVP

SALMON MOUSSE AND BITE-SIZE ÉCLAIRS WERE ORDER OF THE DAY

TONY SALAME ANDTHE YSL TEAM

ICONIC YSL

BEIRUT’S STYLE SET WENT BACK TO BLACK TO GIVE A BEFITTING FORMAL FEEL TO THE FRENCH FASHION HOUSE’S CELEBRATORY EVENING

STYLE WATCH

HELLO! MIDDLE EAST’S SARAH WALKER AND ELIE SAAB

THE FASHION PACK WERE IN PARTYMODE ON THIS BALMY BEIRUT EVENING

DJ CALINE CHIDIAC

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Surrounded by iconic designer pieces, the scene was set at the newly opened Boutique 1 store at Mirdif City Centre for the unveiling of Hollywood Princess, the latest collection from Dubai-based label, Meher & Riddhima. In a blaze of multi-coloured hues, the line of dresses, tops and skirts took centre stage while Dubai’s fashion-forward crowd were treated to delicious canapés, laid-back lounge tunes and goody bags filled with treats from Boutique 1 and Emirates Woman.

As the designs were discussed and dresses admired, Meher and Riddhima took the opportunity to mingle with the fashion-savvy guests and chat one-on-one in a relaxed atmosphere, as the night celebrated homegrown fashion at its best. And, to add a surprising twist to the evening’s events, one lucky guest and competition entrant, Rabia Omar, was overjoyed when her name was called and she won a bespoke creation from Meher & Riddhima.

RSVPDESIGN DUO MAKE THEIR MARK

ACCESSORIES WERE THE TREND DU JOUR, EMBELLISHED, BRIGHT, BOLD AND TEAMED WITH BLOCK COLOURS

STYLE WATCH

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MEHER MIRCHANDANI, RABIA OMAR AND RIDDHIMA WHABI

RIDDHIMA WHABI AND MEHER MIRCHANDANI

PADMA AND RICHARD CORAM

SOPHIE TOHAND POLLY SWEET

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ADDRESS BOOK

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FFaces (04) 3471225 Fendi (04) 3511833 Forever 21 (04) 2952031French Connection (04) 4341116 Furla (04) 3522285

GGap (04) 3398784 Gianfranco Ferré (04) 3410919 Ginger & Lace (04) 3685109 Giorgio Armani (04) 3300447 Givenchy (04) 3308282 Gucci (04) 3303313 Giuseppe Zanotti Design (04) 3300620

HH&M (04) 2957244 Harry Winston (04) 3317440 Harvey Nichols (04) 4098888 Hermès (04) 3511190 H. Stern (04) 3300730

I & JIF Boutique (04) 3947260 Jaeger (04) 3245145 Jaeger-LeCoultre (04) 3494195 Jimmy Choo (04) 3300404

KKaren Millen (04) 3398608 Kenneth Cole (04) 3555872

Kenzo (04) 3519449 Khalil Al Sayegh (04) 2276555 Kimaya (04) 3499903 Koton (04) 2325838 Kurt Geiger (04) 3399737

LLacoste (04) 2326040 Lanvin (04) 3303500 Links of London (04) 3557668 Loewe (04) 3558860 Louis Vuitton (04) 3592535

MMaha Lozi (050) 4579570Mall of the Emirates (04) 4099000 Mango (04) 2950182 Manolo Blahnik (04) 3515551 Manoukian (04) 4340724Marami (04) 4343536 Marc by Marc Jacobs (04) 2326118 Marks & Spencer (04) 3245145 Marni (04) 3825120 Massimo Dutti (04) 2954413 Meher & Riddhima (04) 3300617 Michael Kors (04) 3300620 Missoni (04) 3398686 Montblanc (04) 3246675

NNanis (04) 2066976 Net-a-porter.comNew Look (04) 2959542 Next (04) 3399674Nina Ricci (04) 3825240 Nine West (04) 3398085

O & POasis (04) 2940011Ounass (04) 3300617Paris Gallery (06) 5175555 Paspaley (04) 3398745 Parfois (04) 4343167 Piaget (04) 3388222 Pianegonda (04) 3521001 Pollini (04) 3510511 Pomellato (04) 3303375 Promod (04) 3414944

RRalph Lauren (04) 3414200 Rami Al Ali (04) 3945607 Reiss (04) 3410515 River Island (04) 3399685Rivoli (04) 3512279 Roberto Coin (04) 3279880

SSaks Fifth Avenue (04) 3515551 Salvatore Ferragamo (04) 4099000 Sarah’s Bag (+961) 1 575585Seddiqi & Sons (04) 3552323 Sephora (04) 2326023Sergio Rossi (04) 3301177 Shoemart (04) 3379811S*uce (04) 3447270 Splash Fashion (04) 2950553 Stradivarius (04) 2941221 Strandbags (04) 3410290 Symphony (04) 3308050Swarovski (04) 3240168

TTed Baker (04) 2326053 Temperley (04) 3398169 The Antique Museum (04) 4379935The Body Shop (06) 5302227Tiffany & Co. (04) 3398350 The Outlet (04) 4264900Tod’s (04) 3554417 Tommy Hilfiger (04) 3398097Toni and Guy (04) 3303345Topshop (04) 2951804

VValencia Shoes (04) 3413020 Valentino (04) 3596450 Valleydez (04) 3242883Van Cleef & Arpels (04) 3398001 Vertu (04) 3551105 Versace Jewellery (04) 3398285

W, X, Y & ZYves Saint Laurent (04) 3300445 Zadig&Voltaire (04) 4233768 Villa Moda (04) 3825150 ■

ADDRESS BOOK

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SCORPIO (OCT 23 – NOV 22)The controversy that you’re courting only spells trouble. A shake-up may bring about a change in pace that you’re after, but you’ll be left out in the cold before long. If you’re having second thoughts, don’t beat yourself up; just carefully consider your next move. Friday 22nd signals a shift in your love sector, bringing about a much-needed romantic overture.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 – DEC 21)Learning to say no is the key to your happiness this month. You’re not superwoman, and nobody expects you to be, though you need to find your voice. The horizon is filled with good times, so do away with your rose-tinted spectacles – the grass is greener on your side. Saturday 2nd is a day for asking questions.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 – JAN 20)Issues related to stress may sky-rocket to an ultimate climax by Wednesday 13th, but if you can whether the storm, there is clear sky ahead. People may not always understand what your intentions are, so be clear from the start to avoid conflict. Where significant relationships are concerned, now is the time to channel your energies.

AQUARIUS (JAN 21 – FEB 19)An opportunity will disappear in a puff of smoke if not grabbed with both hands. An idea is only yours until someone runs with it first, so make it happen. When was the last time you really looked at the way you live? Take time out to reconsider living arrangements – a wardrobe spring clean could be all you need to freshen things up.

PISCES (FEB 20 – MAR 20)Deadlines need to be met by Saturday 23rd, but commitment from all involved will ensure results that exceed all expectations. Keeping a partner on their toes allows you the freedom to indulge in your frivolous side, but a rashly made decision won’t let you off the hook easily – think hard how you’d like to rectify your mistakes.

ARIES (MAR 21 – APR 20)Your habit for periods of deep introspection aren’t always a crowd pleaser – detaching yourself from the group will only leave others floundering. Discipline has never been your strong point when it comes to work, but by Friday 8th, it’s like you’re a new person. Use this time to make headway with your career.

TAURUS (APR 21 – MAY 21)True decadence has never been your style, but with October the month for new adventures, enjoy whatever indulgences come your way. Your creative streak will be of use on Sunday 31st, as your imagination enables others to see the brighter picture. Expressing yourself is your forte, so spread the joy.

GEMINI (MAY 22 – JUN 21)A little effort goes a long way by Tuesday 26th, especially when it’s motivation that comes from the heart. A look into the future shows an unlikely encounter set to come your way. Breathe a sigh of relief, as it is one that brings joy. Take into consideration all factors when faced with a decision, because making the wrong choice is not an option.

CANCER (JUNE 22 – JULY 23)Your maternal forces provide you with nurturing instincts that will be of service to a close friend come Monday 18th. Don’t expect to come away with a dry eye though. The ever-moving goalposts that your family keep placing in your path are just a test of your will. You can cope as long as you stay flexible.

LEO (JULY 24 –AUG 23)With limitless energy at the moment, it feels as if you could move mountains. There’s no telling how long this will last, so make use of it now. If you have something to say on Thursday 7th, do so – the air is best when cleared. A romantic attachment will leave you on a high – but there’s no need to rush, this person’s not going anywhere soon.

VIRGO (AUG 23 – SEP 22)A burden you’ve been asked to shoulder comes to a head on Monday 11th, with a surprising outcome that benefits all. If someone points out the obvious, the truth may actually be lingering a little deeper under the surface. Keep your mind clear towards the end of the month, so you can fully embrace the chance for change. ■

This whirlwind of energy of yours, does it actually have a focus? Slow down and work out what it is you are after, because Sunday 3rd holds interesting news that may shift your attention. If you haven’t already told your partner where you stand, do so by Sunday

17th. You are both on the same page, and a united front will reap greater rewards.

LIBRA(Sept 24 – Oct 22)

HOROSCOPES


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MY BEST FASHION ADVICE

DEFINE YOUR STYLEI have an incredible black and white striped Norma Kamali jumpsuit from the 90s – it looks like an old prison jumpsuit. I’m also obsessed with a pair of tie-dyed silk Y & Kei pants teamed with an oversized black silk pirate shirt with fringe that I found at a thrift shop. My go-to dress is a simple black cotton one from Margiela.

MY WARDROBE STAPLES

MYSTYLISH

LIFEMODEL, DESIGNER OF ERIN WASSON X RVCA AND LOWLUV JEWELLERY AND SPOKESMODEL

FOR MAYBELLINE NY

I love Maui for vacations. I also enjoy snowboarding and surfing. When in New York,

Far Rockaway beach is always on my list.

FAVOURITE DESTINATION

Frumpy sexiness! I like oversized jeans, jackets and denim shorts – which I wear every day. There’s so much of a tomboy in me so I enjoy wearing guy’s clothes.

In LA I always seem to find something great, usually vintage or from V.O.D boutique. I always go to Dallas Jackie’s because I love the mix of the small designer brands she has. I got some really amazing early 90s Moschino pieces there that I’m totally in love with.

03 MY STYLISH LIFE

COMPILED BY CHERITH NICHOLL

FAVOURITE PLACES TO SHOP

Eye make-up is the most important beauty accessory for me and I always have a great mascara handy. My absolute favourite is Maybelline’s new Falsies Volum’ Express mascara, which gives me an instant false lash look that lasts all day.

BEAUTY BUYS

Go-getters! INSPIRED BYMy tree house, which is super-

comfortable and cosy. I go up there in the afternoons to work. At night, when I’m standing in my backyard and have the bonfire going, I think, ‘Wow. This is my own little sanctuary.’

COMFORT ZONE

If I were ever to be stranded on a desert island, I hope it would be with my new TAG Heuer Meridiist mobile phone.

COULD NEVER LIVE WITHOUT


MY TOP BUYS FOR A/W10

This season’s collections are totally my style – jumpsuits,

jeans and big sweaters. You can dress this type of clothing up

or down with different accessories.

I love dancing to Augustus Pablo’s Jungle Cry and listening to Donovan’s Mellow Yellow.

CURRENTLYLISTENING TO…

TYPICAL WORKING

DAYIf I’m on a modelling assignment I wake up extremely early and the shoot normally continues

into the evening. Every day is different, but I’m always

on the go.

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ER10151110 Chanel Ultra Classical Emirates Woman 300X225.indd 1 9/16/10 7:58:47 PM

Documents

Emirates Woman Oct2010