This season the pre-collection was inspired by the opening of Givenchy’s new flagship on Via del Babuino in Rome, Italy; which explains the lookbook’s back drop locations.

Keller displayed a collection for women with a few men pieces. The range started with classic white tailored ensembles, lined-up with saturated fuchsia hued designs, and intense blue for the more casual part of the collection.

Waight Keller defines the brand in her own terms through a very striking Resort’18 collection; while making a proud statement to the people that Givenchy is here to stay.

Dr. Constantine El Habr is a well-known Lebanese physician who graduated with a BS degree in Biology from the American University of Beirut (AUB). He studied the basic sciences of medical school at the University of Balamand (UOB) and completed his clinical rotations at Saint Georges University Medical Center (SGUMC).  Dr. El Habr spent five months of electives training in general dermatology and dermatopathology at Baylor University, University of Cincinnati, Johns Hopkins University, Cleveland Clinic, and Yale University.

Dr. Constantine El Habr

The expert on ageing and skincare has shared his secrets that are usually reserved for his clients. Here’s what you need to know to future-proof your skin during the summer season.

Finding the perfect sunscreen and the right level of protection can be tricky! What number SPF would you most suggest?

Using sunscreen on a daily basis is crucial to prevent early signs of aging, skin pigmentation, and skin cancers. Everyone should apply sunscreen with an SPF30 every day and SPF50 in case of continuous sun exposure (beach, outdoor activities, etc.).

Sun protection shouldn’t stop at SPF. What are some other ways we can shield our skin from the harsh sun?

SPF30 means that it would take 30 times longer to burn than not wearing any sunscreen. That means if it would take a minute to burn without sunscreen, it would take 30 minutes to burn after applying the recommended amount of SPF30. So using a sunscreen doesn’t completely block sun-rays. For that reason, using a sunshield is very important especially for people with light skin colour. The best way is to apply sunscreen every 90 minutes, wear a hat, stay in the shade, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.   

Any tips on how to get sun-kissed safely or how can we minimize the damage?

First you have to understand your tanning time. Your skin reaches a tanning point when it can’t produce any more melanin so it’s pointless to sit in the sun all day. For that reason, you should always seek some shade. Taking breaks from the sun will reduce UV intensity and your sunburn risk and means your tan will be healthier and long-lasting. Many people tend to use tan-boosting creams. For a better tan, it is always best to substitute these creams with supplements. Taking a daily 25g beta-caretone supplement boosts skin’s natural defense against UV by improving its ability to tan. It is always best to start these supplements 4 weeks before your first sun exposure. After sun exposure, it is very important to drink lots of fluids rich in Vitamin C, hydrate the skin daily using post-sun exposure lotions (La Roche-Posay and Avène brands have excellent lotions), and treat sunburns if any.

What’s the most common misconception about the sun and skin that you encounter?

Many people think that sun exposure can cause premature skin aging, and skin cancer only in people with light coloured skin. Unfortunately, sun rays do not discriminate. Anyone can get skin cancer and premature aging. Although people with lighter skin are at increased risk, but people with a darker skin color can experience similar side effects too.

How often do you suggest getting a skin checkup from a dermatologist?

Everyone should get a skin a checkup by a dermatologist on a yearly basis. In case of a personal history of skin cancer, complete skin checkup should be done more regularly. One should also perform regular skin checks to look for new moles, lumps and discoloration of the skin. If there is a changing mole, a new lump or growth, one should always consult the dermatologist for further evaluation.

How can someone quit breaking out from sunscreen?

Choosing the right sunscreen for daily use is extremely important in preventing breakouts. Most people choose their sunscreen based on its SPF level only. Unfortunately, choosing the wrong sunscreen can lead to unwanted side effects such as acne. For that reason, choosing the right consistency of the sunscreen is very important. People with oily skin using a thick sunscreen – a cream instead of a lotion – can close the opening of the oil secreting glands which lead to the formation of black and whiteheads. White and blackheads will get inflamed. This is when we start seeing red pimples on the face. If you have an oily skin, I recommend using one of the following: Anthelios XL Fluid Extreme by La Roche-Posay or Eau Thermale Avène 50+ Emulsion. If you have a dry skin, then in this case it is better to use a cream not a lotion. Both brands have sunscreen with a thicker consistency.

How many days does it take for one’s skin to adapt to a new product?

It all depends on the product being used and its active ingredient. In most cases, the skin adapts really quickly; however, we never see any changes before 4-6 weeks of regular use. This is mainly due to skin turn-over that usually takes up to 6 weeks. For that reason, one should never expect to see great results before 6 weeks of regular, consistent treatment.

What should men do, ideally, to look after their skin?

Men in general do not tend to follow a skincare regimen. If they do, they are rarely consistent. A lot of men think skincare is only necessary when they have a specific issue like acne, redness, wrinkles, or other typical skin care concerns. Men should know that daily skin care routine will prevent these skin conditions in the first place.  Here are my recommendations: wash your face morning and night, and use a scrub at least once or twice a week. Don’t forget, to use a hydrating cream at night and wear sunscreen in the morning.

What is your ultimate summer skincare tip?

People wait for the summer to get a nice tan and that is totally understandable. Having a nice tan has always been a trend. Well, you can always get a nice tan without harming your skin. I personally have a light colored skin which makes my skin more prone to side effects when I expose myself to the sun. To prevent those side effects, I use sunscreen SPF50 every 90 minutes. And guess what I still get a tan at the end of the day without getting sunburn. People with a darker skin can use a sunscreen SPF30 instead of SPF50. Once my skin starts building up colour (Melanin- the pigment that gives colour to the skin), I shift to SPF30 simply because melanin prevents sunburns. However, using sunscreen is not only to protect my skin from sunburns, it also prevents uneven skin colouring, redness, and skin cancers among other things. So even if you are tanned, or never got sunburnt, you should always use sunscreen.

What’s the one skin care message you’d like to spread?

That skin never forgets. The only side-effect that you experience right after excessive sun exposure is sunburn, but you should always keep in mind that major side-effects won’t show until later in time. It is similar to the side effects of smoking on the lungs; we almost never get lung cancer after one year of smoking, most side-effects of smoking cigarettes start showing years and years later. The same goes for the skin.

By Dana Mortada

They say there is no better friend than a sister; Maya, Meena and Zeenat are three sisters with one passion in common, for the love of jewellery and revolutionizing the perception of the fine jewellery industry. The sisters’ love for precious gems and stones is clearly not by coincidence, they owe it to their mother who is the creative mind behind the reputable brand Effy Jewelry, and to their father, who comes from a long line of Indian jewellers and have been in the industry since 1875.

Left to Right; Meena, Zeenat, Maya

Established in 2009, the Mukhi Sisters jewellery is mainly a mix of gold, diamonds and precious stones, presented in unique designs with special techniques influenced by their Indian heritage. We sat with the three sisters at their flagship store in Downtown Beirut and here is what each had to say about how their strong bond and varying eclectic styles are reflected in their brand’s aesthetic and creative process.

Did all three of you grow up knowing you wanted to do jewellery design considering your parents were already part of the industry? Can you tell us a little bit more about your early days as jewellery designers?

Zeenat: When I was younger I never thought I would ever be in this industry. I studied interior design, and after I graduated I worked on a project related to bracelets, and of course with Maya’s help from then on I started to take interest, and I couldn’t be any prouder, I love designing jewellery.    

Meena: Same for me, I never thought I would be the CEO of a company and never thought I would be selling jewellery either. Back in college, I used to go to my mom’s shop and help her sell some pieces when she is not around, which was a big challenge at the time. But 10 years later, I am very passionate of what I do, I am a Sales  Manager and the best part is that I love communicating with the customers; I never knew I had such a hidden skill.  Our focus is to give our customers the best service and experience as soon as they step into our shop, even when neither of us is around. We have weekly trainings that empower our employees to try their best to even treat the shop as their own.

Maya: I have been working indirectly with my parents ever since I was young. I remember my mother offered me a box of 12 birthstones, and I went with her to a jewellery exhibition where I sat at the booth and sold every stone for a few dollars, which was a great accomplishment for me at the time.  I would say ever since then I knew I wanted to have my own company, and it happened! Our company, does not follow the norm of how a normal company runs, we try to make it as personal as possible, from the experience to the design and the service. However, I must say, the majority of the customers come in for Meena, because of her service and her communication power is incredible and it is what pulls them in.

What is the Mukhi Sisters main design inspiration?

Maya: Since day one, we have three collections that exist till today- we have “Ever Yours” it is a fine classical collection, and it has stones such as diamonds, rubies, sapphire and emeralds, this collection is actually inspired my Meena’s classical style. Zeenat is known for her bohemian style and for never leaving the house without wearing at least seven rings; her collection is called “Contagious” which is mainly designed with less commercial type of stones, and this is why sometimes a design is only one piece of jewellery, because the stones we use for this range are very rare to find. And lastly, since I love vintage we called the third collection “Queen Vicky” which is divided into two parts- where we have actual vintage pieces that we specifically look for and the second part is where we make our own designs using the old handcraftsmanship jewellery techniques. In all, these collections are always present, and every year we introduce a capsule collection that is completely different.

Zeenat: Our main inspiration across all our designs isn’t something obvious, but it will always have something to do with positive energy and spiritually related to love, life and light.

It’s hard enough working as business partners – how do the three of you do it being sisters?

Meena: Each one has a job, we have trust and respect; and when these doors are closed we are strictly working partners and not family. And it has been working well across the years!

Zeenat: This is a world for each and one of us, and I must say communication is key to our success.

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Maya: Definitely gold and natural stones.

Zeenat: Non-commercial stones are the main materials that you will always find in all our designs.

Does each of you have a different favorite collection? A different favorite piece of the moment, or one you just love to wear constantly?

Meena: I have a classical style; and with our designs it is made easy for anyone to wear the pieces in their own style. At this moment I would say my favorite piece is the “Sunset” pendant in green diamonds.

Zeenat: For me I get attached to things very easily, I don’t have a personal favorite, because when I wear a piece I never take it off until it wears off for good. All the pieces I wear become a part of me.

Maya: I would say I am similar to Zeenat; I have designs that are very special to me but not favorites, because I get too attached as well. I have a problem where I think of others first, when we design we create the pieces with a specific person or client in mind, and I am constantly thinking of what suits the people I know.

When did the media interest start? What does it feel like to be media darlings?

Maya: When we opened our first shop 7 years ago in Beirut Souks, it was dead. We all sat together one day and had a plan to turn our shop into a world for everyone and the only way was social media. Back then it was the start of Facebook, Four Square and Twitter only.

Zeenat: Throughout our career we always tried to be different and untraditional, and with our unordinary marketing strategies and seasonal campaigns on social media is what attracted our customers and gave us so much fame in the country and internationally. Our posts are not pretentious; they are basically a reflection of how we would want to see our designs on our clients. It is raw and true, and that’s what keeps people coming back.

Meena: We are very proud to say that many of our customers who came through different social media outlets are still with us till this day, who don’t just come for the designs but also for the experience that comes with the brand.

Since you are half Indian/Lebanese, tell us how does this mix of culture influence your designs?

Maya: Yes, it inspires our work a lot. We also sell actual Indian jewellery that is not our work. But mainly the Indian culture influences the type of stones and the colours we choose. What is interesting about our work is that not only we have the Indian inspiration, but it also happens that our mother is a jewellery designer herself, so we also have her design aesthetics that highly inspires our designs.

Zeenat: We are truly blessed because we have the best of both worlds mixed in our blood- a rich colourful culture and a talented mother who happens to be a designer and our father who comes from a long-line of jewellers.

Speaking of major designer or artist names, who would you dream of collaborating with one day?

Maya: I would have loved to collaborate with the late British designer Alexander McQueen, because his designs come for darkness and we are all about spirituality and light, I think that would have been a great mix.

Meena: I love rap music and definitely I will pick a rapper, maybe Tinie Tempah.

Zeenat: Accessories designer Jerome Dreyfuss (Isabel Marrant’s husband).

Is there anywhere the company is reaching towards as a goal, venue wise, you would like to carry your product? How about E-commerce?

Zeenat: Since I recently moved to London, we will be working immediately on networking with concept stores.

Maya: E-commerce on the other hand is currently in the making it will be up very soon in parallel with our website.

Besides all the socialites and celebrities who already wear your jewelry- is there anyone you would personally love to see wear a piece of your jewelry?

The Sisters: Queen B a.k.a Beyoncé and Florence Welch from Florence + the Machine.

Three words to describe your brand?

The Sisters: Unity, Freedom and Individuality.

What are you working on now?

Maya: We are working on a very special collection to be launched in September 2017, in time for our inauguration of our new flagship store in Downtown Beirut.

What advice would you give to other women hoping to start their own business in the region?

Maya: Have a plan, a vision, and love what you do.

Zeenat: Don’t let anyone beat you down, and keep in mind that everything is possible.

Meena:  Be Patient!

What is one thing most people would be surprised to know about each and one of you?

Meena: I can rap and I am very organized.

Zeenat: My dream was to be a singer.

Maya: I have always wanted to be a news anchor.

If you were a city or a country…

Maya: Byblos, Lebanon

Zeenat: Australia

Meena: Torremolinos, Spain

Your motto for life…

The Sisters: Flourish and Prosper!

By Dana Mortada

Born and raised in Lebanon, Hala Ajam stuck with her passion and studied the art of makeup in Beirut and Hollywood. The two glamorous cities left a mark on the artist, which then helped her craft her own signature and style of work that is “an inimitable Lebanese-American mélange.” Since then, Ajam became famous for her specialization in makeup for TV and photography, her artistry has led her to work with numerous star artists and celebrities, and editorials. Today, Ajam has her own makeup studio in Downtown Lebanon.

People go to Hala Ajam because she is a strong believer in the old philosophy “less is more” and in the power of natural beauty; and you can read all about it in her debuted makeup book Face to Face, where she talks about how she wants the woman of today to look their best, without being swayed by society and things that go against their real identity.

We chatted with the Lebanese makeup artist, as she shares her top tips on how to get a beautiful, sun-kissed glow that doesn’t look like you tried too hard.

Tell us how to get the perfect sun-kissed glowing look. (A step-by-step with the exact products and techniques you use on A-listers) 

Follow 6 simples steps and you will get the perfect glowing skin as if you had a wonderful day at the beach.

1. Use a BB cream all over the face; I like BB beauty booster Lingerie De Peau from Guerlain or CC+ Illumination from It Cosmetics.
2. Follow with Cremeblend Blush from Mac Cosmetics on the apple of the cheeks for a natural peach flushed cheek.
3. For those with oily skin, set the look with loose powder on the center of the face and under the eyes, after use NARS’ Banc De Sable Highlighter Palette to highlight the cheek bones and the bridge of the nose, and don’t forget the inner corners of your eyes.
4. Keep it simple on the eyes and use a dark brown eye pencil from Make Up For Ever (Aqua XL Eye Pencil M-60) for a natural look or for more dramatic look, go for bronze smokey eye using a mix between bronze and gold eye shadows.
5. Then use my favorite bronzer MAC’s Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Give Me Sun, to create a 3D face.
6. Finish the look with your favorite lipstick colour. I believe a lip colour is something personal; my go-to is definitely a glossed lip.

How is working with clients different than working with celebrities on a shoot? Who were your favorite a-listers to work with?

For me both are the same. Firstly, when it comes to clients, it is all about a radiant glowing skin, after that the decision of the style depends on the client’s request. I am always ready for anything, I like to keep an open mind, but of course I take into consideration what suits the client best. I have no favorites, I favor everyone who works with and put all their trust in me.

Any tips on keeping our makeup looking fresh for the summer?

Don’t overdo it! Keep it simple on the skin, dramatic eyes are amazing at night and make sure you go softer during the day. Go easy on the highlight on very hot days, and in my opinion lipsticks shows who you really are, so stay true to yourself while making statement.

What are some of your go-to brands and must-have products? Do you have a bronzer you swear by?

To help my creativity I can’t stick to one brand. I am always on the search for new products out there, every time I get something new it helps me to create a new look. As for my favorite bronzer I believe that every skin color can get a sun-kissed look, just make sure to use two shades darker than your skin, I highly recommend the MAC’s Mineralize Skinfinish powder.

What is one item that every woman should splurge on?

Lipsticks! They are my favorites to work with.

What is your favorite drugstore beauty finds?

Every time I visit a new country, the first thing I do is to go to their famous drug stores, and I find truly amazing products. Items I really can’t live without are- Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser and Eye Masques by Rival de Loop that I can only find in Berlin.

What three makeup products should no woman leave the house without?

Her smile, her confidence, and her favorite perfume! If you did the right make-up you don’t need to take anything else but lipstick and tissues.

If one has few minutes to pull their makeup look together, what should they focus on to look flawless in no time?

All you need is the right BB Cream, mascara, blush and nude lipstick, and if you want extra glam maybe go for soft eyeliner.

What are you quickest secrets to turn a day look into a look for a night out?

Bold lipstick and blush is all you need.

What do you love most about being a makeup artist? 

What I love most, is that I can speak my mind. I am a free spirit, and being a makeup artist is all about positive energy and creativity; even if I happen to be in bad mood it will allow me to create a master piece. It might sound crazy, but I am serious my mood swings can put me in different creative moods every time.

Define beauty.

Love yourself! Feel comfortable in your own skin, don’t forget to accept who you are and the unique look that God has gave you. Be yourself, by enhancing your beauty with a little make up or feel free not to use any at all.

Your Favorite makeup tip…

Don’t get influenced, be inspired!

By Dana Mortada

What is Poise you might ask? It is luxury, composure and elegance. Emma Boutros wanted a weird name that rang to the ear and would stop a person at the sound of it, intrigued to know more. Going from A to P in the dictionary, Poise was the name the designer chose for her shoe brand.

Here’s what the creator of Poise design had to say about her success story and what the future holds for her brand.

Tell us how did you get into the shoe industry and become a shoe designer.

The story goes back to my childhood, I always had a plus-size figure to deal with since I was a kid, and I never found any clothing piece that would help reflect my personality or myself as a person because nothing would fit. For instance, I had to wear over-sized black sweat pants and trousers forever, so shoes were my way of expression. I had them in every single color and shape possible and they were my only way to express my individuality; I always felt that shoes were an extension of my body, the part of me that mattered the most, and that’s why I decided to do this for other people. I worked in printing and publishing for a while but then I decided to do what I love most and design shoes. When I first started eight years ago, I wanted to create a line of statement pieces; I never really cared about classics. Wearing my shoes was going to be a full experience to the woman wearing them.

What is the best thing about designing shoes?

I love seeing people wearing my pieces; this whole experience of how it makes them feel is very satisfying. Their interaction with the pieces I create is what I love the most. When designing my shoes, I always have comfort in mind. That’s why I use highest Italian quality and the focus of my design is according to Middle Eastern footwear proportions.

Where do you derive inspiration for a new collection?

Up till today, I have been releasing two collections per year- a fall/winter and spring/summer. My main source of inspiration is people; people who are put outside their comfort zone, people thrown in extreme environments and their reactions towards it. For example, one of my collections was inspired by a movie called Sybil, which is about a girl who has a multiple personality disorder. As for my latest collection, The Little Prince was the main inspiration. Those unusual situations faced are reflected in my prints, in the complexity of the cut and so on.

Who are your modern-day muses? Any of which you wish to wear your designs?

Honestly, I don’t think I have any modern-day muse. My muse is every single woman I meet because I see a different aspect of being a woman in each one of them. And I like the fact that I’m a woman designing for women. It gives me total insight on what a woman needs, since I know what we go through in our daily lives. For example, a woman is not always ready to party so it’s not always comfortable to walk in 18″ stilettos. When it comes to women shoe design, you have to be realistic, at the same time feminine and stylish.

How do you use social media when it comes to your brand? Is it important?

I believe social media is very important. When I started, there was no social media so it was very tough. If I had to start over today, I would accomplish in a year what I have accomplished in five. Today, you have a global reach; social media made everything easier. I personally have bloggers ordering shoes from Brazil or L.A, people I had no access to before Instagram.

What has been your career highlight?

It was my collaboration with Coca Cola; we were the first Middle Eastern designer to collaborate on the design of a coke can. It was a huge success and it extended the collaboration to a line of footwear. It was really huge for me.

Who is the Poise Design woman? Why?

The Poise Design woman is a millennial jetsetter. She’s someone who cares about what she is wearing; she wants to make a statement. She values the quality and comfort; and wants to stand out from the crowd with a distinct footwear piece.

What makes Emma Boutros different from other footwear designers in the region?

My designs are original and exclusive; most of my pieces have embroideries, hand-patches, a mix of colours and fabrics. I always like to add an Arab touch to my shoes. Poise Design is well-known for the Kaffya print. It is a traditional print common to all Arabs, which I mixed with high-quality fabric and embroidery until it became my signature. I’m basically spreading our culture worldwide.

If you weren’t a Footwear designer, what would you want to be today?

A chef! I love cooking! Maybe at a later stage in life, I would love to have my own restaurant.

What is the most comfortable pair of shoes you’ve ever worn?

I would say Charlotte Olympia. Some people think that being a shoe designer, I wouldn’t wear other brands, but I do! Whenever I like a pair of shoes, I actually buy it. I never copy it because I respect the time and effort that a designer has put into their creation, and I find it unethical to copy or buy a knock-off.

What is one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?

Well, I am very unorganized! It doesn’t show, but I can get chaotic! I don’t sleep much; I think sleep is a waste of time; my sleeping time is 3 hours per night.

Define, what is a good shoe?

A good shoe is a shoe that serves a purpose; it has to make you feel something; whether that feeling is sexy, cute, confident, or comfortable. A good shoe is one that makes a statement: wear the simplest outfit and let the shoes do the talking.

What is next for Poise Design?

We are currently pursuing the collaboration we have with the bridal sneakers line of Superga. We are also starting a man’s line in fall/winter and a sub-line for Poise Design which will be a more commercial collection.

What’s the one shoe message you’d like to spread?

I think it’s more of a general message related to your daily life. When you are looking for what you want to do for the rest of your life, find something that is related to your personal story. Money is a reward, not a goal. Therefore, create a product or a service that means to you as a person, in order to wake up and do it happily every morning.

By Dana Mortada

Sandra Mansour has come a long way, and she is continuing on her quest to success. The young designer, born and raised in Switzerland, moved back to Lebanon where she created and developed her fashion line. Mixing her love of painting with her passion for creation, Mansour built a fashion career that’s unique and innovative.

We sat with the designer to learn more about her, the brand, the art behind it, and the future of her maison.

On why Sandra Mansour is the designer she is today…

“Fashion design was not my first choice, art was. I did not know that back then, so I graduated with a business management degree after which I prepared a portfolio to apply to painting academies. I got accepted in Beaux Arts, Geneva. Nevertheless, something was still missing. I came to Lebanon on vacation, and that was when I met Elie Saab and told him I was studying to become a painter. He proposed a two-week internship, which turned into a whole summer. I never went back to Geneva to continue my painting degree. It just felt right; I could create, draw and wear it at the same time. It was like piece of a puzzle put back together; it just fit.”

On her design and brand aesthetic…

“I would say the DNA of my brand is soft and delicate, but has a lot of character at the same time. We create our own fabric, print, drawing and embroidery. The brand is very personalized. The business is actually divided in three: the pret-a-porter which has a summer and a winter collection, the bridal that deals with one-on-one clients because we are very exclusive when it comes to wedding dresses, and finally the customized wear for clients. What I want mainly is for my collections to evolve and have shops and more points of sales. We are currently working on the strategy to allow each side of the business to grow.”

On how to maintain her success…

“I have two key words: organized and disciplined. The secret is to move forward and keep doing what you do. In this business, we are always confronted with deadlines, so discipline is crucial. I come early in the morning to deal with the business side of my company such as attend meetings, sign on orders, and check fabrics and so on. In the afternoon, I work more on the creative side and meet with my clients. But I have to be honest; it can never be this perfectly organized. In fact, it all depends on my clients; I have to be ready whenever they choose to book an appointment with me and that takes a lot of time. I draw at night and on weekends, but rarely during office hours. We are a team of 17 people and each one of us has a specific task, from the commercial director, to the sales representatives, as well as the tailors, the accounting, the managers and artistic directors. It is all very structured.”

On the Middle Eastern female designers…

“I think the influx is good for competition; we need it in the Middle East. People always ask me why I came back to Beirut and I always answer because I am Lebanese, and I am proud to be, it feels like a statement. I always remember that it was the right decision to come bacl and be based in Beirut. Nonetheless, I am definitely working on expanding my offices abroad. I travel a lot for work anyway so it’s the same wherever I go.”

On being based in Lebanon within the fashion industry…

“I love the energy in Beirut. I am actually happy being secluded from the major big cities; in Beirut I can be more creative, more focused and more in my element. Also, it’s always nice to wake up every morning with the sea view in front of you; it’s an advantage.”

On her most surprising inspiration…

“Everything inspires me. Art inspires me, of course, because it was my first love, you could say that. For example, for my fall/winter collection I was inspired by Rudolf Bauer-he is German surrealist painter. But mainly everything can be an inspiration to me.”

On the “Sandra Mansour woman”…

“She is chic and sure of herself. If I have to describer her in three words: boundless, elegant and sophisticated.”

On the importance of social media in the fashion industry…

“I believe social media is very important. In fact, I never did big events to promote my brand. Our main communication was social media. It varied from Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter… It was very effective for the brand in order to promote, communicate, show our designs and even sell. We have a global reach so it is very practical. I believe there is no limit to social media’s scope. It targets anybody at any given point.”

On showcasing around the globe…

“I am currently part of Moda Operandi, which is very exciting and it has a great exposure. Next I would say my aim be either Barneys or Bergdorf Goodman!”

On her favorite pick from the latest Sandra Mansour collection…

“There is actually one piece that I particularly love because it was the first of the collection and the last of the look book. It’s dark purple and has geometric distorted forms. It is representative of my whole collection and it’s actually the piece that turned out exactly how I dreamt it. It’s nice to imagine something in your head and then get to touch the exact same design in reality.”

On her proudest designer moment…

“I obviously hope I will have many more… But I am currently very proud of how the brand has evolved in quite a small amount of time. I am also proud of my team’s work and how we put it all together. The company started from scratch with a very small budget, and here we are today.”

On her dream celebrity spokesmodel…

“I love the actress Diane Kruger; her style, her beauty and her story. I believe any independent strong woman could be the line’s spokesmodel.”

A message to her ten-year-old self…

“I would tell myself to be proud of who I am. In fact when I was younger, I always thought I wanted to have my major accomplishment by the age of thirty, and I did I have something of my own.”

By Dana Mortada

He has already revolutionized the fashion industry in his hometown Beirut, as well as in the Middle East. His fashion masterpieces were showcased for the first time in Italy in 2016, and the brand keeps moving forward.

Hussein Bazaza is a young Lebanese fashion designer who studied at ESMOD and made his mark by winning several awards. He interned at the Lebanese renowned Maison Rabih Keyrouz, and worked as a junior designer for Elie Saab in Beirut. Known for his signature style of beading and creating his own pattern making, Hussein Bazaza is living his success story, and moving forward on the path of accomplishments.

Here, the young designer goes down memory lane and tell us more about the start, the evolution, and development of his brand.

What was it that first motivated you to take part of the fashion industry?

My mom! I didn’t want to be a fashion designer. I dreamt of becoming a filmmaker or an interior designer. But my mother always saw me sketching and playing with fabric ever since I was a kid, so she encouraged me to give fashion design a try. I decided to try ESMOD for a month. I did not like it at first but I got used to it, especially seeing that I was getting the highest grades; it motivated me knowing that I was really good at it. I don’t have any regret going into fashion design; but I still believe that film-making is my passion. If I weren’t a fashion designer, I would definitely be a filmmaker!

Since you’ve radically expanded your own brand, how do you split your time between the creative and business roles?

Nowadays it’s really tough to split my time between the creative and the business side. My creative role is usually when I have free time, which I don’t have much lately! I spend my days working on the business and production side of the company; I make sure brides and clients are satisfied, private orders are ready, and I supervise the atelier. My creative role comes at night and during weekends, when I have more time for myself. I sketch, I create, and I research, check fabrics and so on.

I started the company by myself. My team started growing with every season and every new collection. Today, we are a group of seven people (myself, my personal assistant, the production manager, two seamstresses, one pattern maker and one general assistant for the atelier). I am satisfied with my small team; I prefer to be surrounded by a few people working with me in the atelier or in the office. As for any other job such as PR or marketing, I can always outsource. That’s how I am comfortable, and it works for everyone.

How did you build your own brand? How would you describe it to people?

It all started with Starch when I joined the foundation in 2012. We were invited to take part of Fashion Forward Dubai, which is known for its great press and exposure. We were the first fashion designers to participate in Fashion Forward with Starch, and it was the main thing that helped the brand to grow. We showcased three fashion shows, then I personally skipped two seasons, but I never missed out on creating a collection for each season (spring, summer, autumn and winter) since 2013. I think that the main important thing for any designer is to show everyone, from boutiques to buyers and investors that you are able to exist as a designer in every season. I worked hard to make each collection even better than the previous one. At Starch, I sat in the shop and was in direct contact with the clients; so I knew exactly what they were looking for. Of course at the beginning, I respected Starch’s requirement of minimal modern designs for everyday clothing. But then I started noticing that those were not what the clients wanted. I started introducing new items; young couture, mix and match pieces, a combination of evening and modern wear at the same time. That was mainly how I built my brand, by combining what people asked for with my own touch, creating couture pieces with geometric cuts, prints and embroideries. After my one year at Starch, I thankfully made a lot of money selling my designs, which helped me invest in my atelier and showroom. In a nutshell this is how the company started, and after I started getting invited to do solo fashion shows at Fashion Forward Dubai.

What is the most surprising thing that inspires your work?

As I already told you, I’ve always had a passion for filmmaking. So since I did not study the major, I started creating movies in my head every time I wanted to create a new collection. All my collections fall under girls’ names; and this girl is the main character of each movie I create in my head. I transform the whole atelier, I go through each and every detail of my fictional movie; the music, the clothing… I even talk to my characters! The name choice is always the hardest part, it takes a lot of research because I start with a main inspiration, and then I create my story from it. For example, for this season, I had in mind the ‘40s and World War II theme. So I created a story to mix them together with a character called Akane (which means angry child in Japanese). Akane is a little girl. Her family was killed in WWII so she decides to learn all the Japanese sorcery and witchcraft, turning herself into a monster in order to avenge her family. And, this why the whole collection has dragons and monsters; it is an honor to the transformation of Akane.

You started your career quite young; do you think the brand will change as you change?

Everyone changes, but the image of the brand will not change. This is what makes the brand successful; people like this image. I can describe it in three words: dramatic, wearable and artistic. All of the three have to exist in each collection.

What is the best thing about being a fashion designer?

I don’t like the title “fashion designer”. I am an artist; I love to create. Nowadays, everyone is getting mixed together; between designers, bloggers and fashionistas. I am more of a designer who loves his brand and his personal work.

Who is the Hussein Bazaza woman? And Why? 

She is a mysterious woman who doesn’t like to show everything that she has; she likes to keep her beauty to herself. I think of that woman while creating my collections,

Of all the designs you’ve created, do you have a favorite?

Yes… I have some favorites. I love the dresses with my signature, which are the ones with the lace collage.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

It was from Elie Saab. When I used to work with him, he used to tell me “you always have to respect the woman’s silhouette; she has to feel that she is pretty”. And his words are always on my mind every time I sketch, especially when I am designing the waist.

What’s next for Hussein Bazaza?

Well first of all my spring/summer 2018 collection, which will have Queen Elizabeth I and her childhood as a theme. I am also working on creating a sub-brand for Hussein Bazaza, to be labeled as “Bazaza”. It will be more ready-to-wear, more affordable, more every day pieces. It has been my dream for quite some time. I always wanted to have boutiques all over the world with affordable and unique pieces. This is where I see my brand going.

www.modaoperandi.com

The Wall of Kindness first started in Iran that became a success story and an initiative that is spreading across the world; and today a group of youngsters decided to bring this kindness all the way to Beirut city.

Wall of Kindness, Sodeco-Lebanon

This great charity idea, is simply a wall with cloth hangers placed outside public places filled with clothes, toys and books to be donated to the homeless and underprivileged. The first Wall of Kindness in Lebanon is located in Sodeco, where people have already started to donate their unwanted things in exchange for what they only need.

Want to join the Kindness Revolution? Just spread the word, go out there and donate bags to be hung on the Wall of Kindness.

To stay up-to-date follow the movement’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.

#BeKindBeirut

Audemars Piguet finally welcomed their new Summer edition timepieces- the Royal Oak Offshore design to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Le Byblos Saint Tropez on May 26th, 2017.

Royal Oak Offshore Men

Developed in 1993, the new exclusive Royal Oak Offshore models unveiled on the special occasion introducing two versions: a men’s piece in rose gold and a diamond set in stainless steel for women. The dial features the brand’s signature pattern with the AP logo at 3 o’clock, and rose gold hour markers with a white rubber strap.

Royal Oak Offshore Women

Audemars Piguet and Le Byblos hotel joined hands to share a passion for design and creativity; and to highlight this golden event, the case-back of the Royal Oak Offshore Summer models are beautifully engraved with the hotel’s anniversary dates and its coat of arms depicting the abduction of Europa by Zeus.

www.audemarspiguet.com

www.degirsogono.com

Swiss luxury watchmaker Richard Mille and Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal presents a magnificent timepiece that exceeds all technical standards.

For Summer 2017, the brand has just launched the new limited edition RM 27-03, with a new characteristic that features a high-functional tourbillon movement with the power reserve of 70 hours. The great tennis player and the luxury watch brand have been partners since 2010, and once again the duo released a light-weight, shock-resistant watch designed to be suitable for Nadal to wear during his tennis games.

RM 27-03

The new RM 27-03 is similar to the previous model-design, but this time around it is made of ultra-lightweight Quartz TPT and the case is yellow and red, resembling the colours of the Spanish flag for Nadal’s home country.

To visit Richard Mille click here.

Once again, it is no surprise that Lebanese designers took over the most prestigious French event of the year. A number of star-studded icons, from celebrities to actresses and models have stepped up their game by  showcasing one-of-a-kind designs straight off the runway. Scroll through our gallery to see the best looks created by Lebanese talents and that took the 70th Cannes Film Festival red carpet events by storm.

With all the great things that Summer brings, it also has plans to chase your good hair day! If you think the weather is out to get you, scroll through our slideshow to see our favourite hairstyle ideas from waves to baby braids that will withstand all the major hot conditions, straight from the runway.

The internationally renowned celebrity make-up artist has finally launched his new cosmetics line at Debenhams, The Dubai Mall.

The Lebanese artist, Bassam Fattouh was one of the first make-up professionals to produce his own make-up line within the region, which he launched back in 2010. After working for quite some years in the beauty industry, the artist has decided that developing his own product is what his clientele seek and he wanted to deliver a wonderful product that was a great balance between quality and luxury.

This season, the Fattouh introduced a collection of 7 pencil eyeliners called Kajal Kingdom. This collection comes with an intensely pigmented formula, and combines a smooth finish of a liquid liner with the rich colour of the classic kajal.

Also, out this year is the Velours Liquid Matte lipstick, a strong hued liquid lipstick that is long-lasting up to 12 hours. The collection carries 7 different shades that suits every clientele that Bassam Fattouh had the honour to work with over the course of his successful years.

“Textures inspire me more than trends and I tend to place the focus on them the most when developing a new collection. A perfect example is the Velours Liquid Matte lipstick; it is the signature velvet consistency that has made it a favourite of many of my brand’s loyal customers, make-up artists and beauty aficionados”– says the artist.

The Bassam Fattouh brand is a pure reflection of what the woman of today needs, and unifies all the best features in one brand.

To shop the complete cosmetic line, it is now available at Debenhams, The Dubai Mall.

www.bassamfattouh.com

Endless sunny days are finally here! Whether you’re seeking peace or fun, shallow waters or steady waves, pick of 6, from golden sandy beaches to rocky shores that has become one of the must-see tourist spots in the region. Here’s a list of our favourite beaches found all around Lebanon that you should visit right away!

Dior kicks off the resort season with a parade of celebrities and star-studded front row at its show. The french fashion house welcomed the Dior girls Rihanna who sported a sumptuous fur coat paired with denim, boots, and statement jewellery pieces, and Charline Theron went for an all-in-black total ensemble with vintage aviator sunglasses. While Kate Bosworth went for a classic LBD and Kelly Rowland paired her white dress with a leather biker jacket and a striking braided hairstyle.

Slide through our gallery to see more of our favourite best stylish looks from the cruise show.

The Lebanese music scene is growing day by day; and today, various bands are taking centre stage with a new identity and sound; uniting the east and the west notes to develop a new globalised indie beat appealing to all generations. Here’s our edit of the best Lebanese musicians and bands that should land on your ‘must-see concerts’ bucket-list.

Mashrou’ Leila

Constantly touring and spreading their unique Arab pop sound all around the world. Mashrou’ Leila, was founded in 2008 and is known to be one of the most successful bands from Beirut. The young musicians took the struggles of the political system in Lebanon and turned it into art.  Their original track ‘Rakset Leila’ was the first song product that skyrocketed their fame.

The Wanton Bishops

The Wanton Bishops is simply a one-man show. Lead singer Nader Mansour, born and raised in Beirut, grew up by being heavily influenced by the Lebanese Tarab (Middle Eastern music). Today, The Wanton Bishops is made up of four men who deliver an exotic sound, which is highly praised internationally.

Who Killed Bruce Lee

United in 2009, the famous indie-rock Lebanese band started out playing classic rock covers until they released their very first album in 2012. One of their top songs are ‘Distant Rendezvous’ and ‘Born Addicted’. Their unique sound immediatly spread all around the region; while in 2014, the group members faced a life turning-point when they got the attention of David Gappa, a producer from Europe offered them a contract, where the band gained a-whole-lot of fame and success ever since.

Yasmin Hamdan

Lebanese singer and songwriter Yasmine Hamdan delivers a mix of indie and pop notes. Her 2013 album “Ya Nass” was only the beginning of her success. Now based in Paris, Hamdan is enjoying her fame by merging the European and Arabic music scene, developing her signature sound by bringing a twist to Arabic pop that has reached listeners all around the world.