We grab a freshly brewed French press with design duo behind the Beirut-based jewellery brand L’atelier Nawbar.

Inspired by the power of chakras and cosmetology, their SS19 collection features two stories, ‘Amulets of Light,’ taking its name from unique, colorued and translucent stones that let the light subtly go through bringing energy to your chakras, and the ‘Cosmic Love’ series of 18 kt yellow gold horoscope double faced pendants encrusted with diamonds 0.046 ct and inlayed with hand-carved malachite, mother of pearl, coral and turquoise, with horoscope symbols and diamond zodiac constellations.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?

Tania:  Snuggle with my children.

Dima: Drink coffee and listen to music.

Three items you can’t live without?

Dima: My phone, Tata Harper resurfacing mask, Bose speakers.

Tania: My phone, almond milk, benefit cheek and lips stick.

Cosmic Love collection.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…

We have completed a collection and it is well received.

What do you love the most about your job?

Being able to channel our creativity into a tangible piece and seeing it come to life.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?

The Form hotel our latest discovery. Super chilled and bright.

What do you do to relax and unwind?

Tania: Go on a retreat getaway with my husband.

Dima: Lots and lots of massages.

What really annoys you? 

Unoriginality.

The Amulet of Light collection.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Listen harder and focus more in finance and accounting classes.

Did you have a plan B career path?

Dima: Phycologist.

Tania: Graphic design.

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?

Lots and lots of friends and family.

What book are you reading at the moment?

Tania: I don’t have time for books, Between motherhood and my career there is no time.

Dima: Trust me I’m lying, Ryan Holiday.

What is your happy place?

Definitely home and family for both of us.

What’s your personal motto?

Focus on what you believe in and don’t look or listen to outside noise.

How do you want the world to remember you? 

With the personal jewellery heirlooms bought from L’atelier Nawbar. To pass on to the next generation.

Excellence, creativity and horological expertise were saluted by an international jury at the 18^th Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) aka Oscars of the watch industry.

Bovet 1822 took the prize of the “Best Watch” while The Special Jury Prize awarded to Swiss watch legend Jean-Claude Biver.

Pascal Raffy,Owner Of Bovet 1822.

Bovet triumphed in the “Aiguille d’Or” category for Récital 22 Grand Récital, it was the first time the company claimed the top prize. Elsewehere, 72 watches competed for 17 prizes in categories, such as Innovation Prize, Artistic Crafts Watch Prize and Jewellery Watch Prize.

Jean-Claude Biver.

See the winners list below:

Aiguille d’Or “Grand Prix : Bovet 1822, Récital 22 Grand Récital
Revival Prize: Vacheron Constantin, Historiques Triple calendrier 1942
Innovation Prize: Krayon, Everywhere Horizon
Ladies’ Watch Prize: Chanel, Boy-friend Skeleton
Ladies’ Complication Watch Prize: Van Cleef & Arpels, Lady Arpels Planétarium
Men’s Watch Prize: Akrivia, Chronomètre Contemporain
Men’s Complication Prize: Laurent Ferrier, Galet Annual Calendar School Piece
Chronograph Watch Prize: Singer Reimagined, Singer Track1 Hong Kong Edition
Chronometry Watch Prize: De Bethune, DB25 Starry Varius Chronomètre Tourbillon
Mechanical Exception Watch Prize  Greubel Forsey, Grande Sonnerie
Sports Watch Prize: Seiko, Seiko Prospex 1968 Diver’s Re-creation
Jewellery Watch Prize: Van Cleef & Arpels, Secret de Coccinelle
Artistic Crafts Watch Prize: Hermès, Arceau Robe du soir
“Petite Aiguille” Prize: Habring², Doppel-Felix
Challenge Watch Prize: Nomos Glashütte, Tangente neomatik 41 Update
Audacity Prize: Konstantin Chaykin, Clown
Special Jury Prize: Jean-Claude Biver, President non-executive of the LVMH Group Watch division, Chairman of Hublot & Zenith

Aspinal of London officially launched the ‘Giles X Aspinal’ exclusive collaboration in Dubai.

The brand invited the renowned designer to “dress” his favourite Aspinal products by bringing couture design elements to a playful and inspired collection.

The result is a fresh, colourful and embellished capsule based on Giles’s hand-drawn illustration of the “Aspinal Girls”, which appears on an all-over print on leather in various scales and colourways, as well as individual characters with a simple and elegant embossing of a single girl that represents the inclusivity of the collection.

“The design process for me always begins with the character – it’s who’s going to be wearing the piece and where she’s going. These are quintessential English girls, zooming around and having a good time in their frocks. They love the town and the countryside, they love fashion, quality and a bit of quintessentially English playfulness,” said the British designer.

Giles’s intricately detailed designs embellish a selection of Aspinal of London’s most iconic and timeless pieces including the Hat Box, Regent Tote, Micro Lottie, Soho Clutch and Hepburn Bag. The illustrations further continue across a range of purses, chic silk scarves, and travel accessories, with refreshing small leathers with new materials and finishes.

With the approaching holiday season in mind, the collaboration includes the ultimate luxury cracker set, containing embossed leather luggage tags, and a range of printed ribbons.

You might’ve noticed that the Givenchy boutique disappeared from the Dubai Mall landscape for a little while, but now it found a shiny new home in the fashion avenue.

Inside the 331 square-meter space, and 4-meter-high ceilings the store houses Clare Waight Keller’s women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories collections displayed in line with the Brand’s DNA. The store also boasts a VIP room with dedicated fitting rooms made of mirror and pink velvet walls – Audrey Hepburn would approve.

Like the Givenchy runway, the retail space keeps a modern focus with architectural rigor and a black ground even as it brings out certain details of the House’s heritage. For example, herringbone oak flooring with natural finish has been installed in the spirit of traditional Parisian parquet.

The store opens with the Spring 19 Pre-Collection RTW inspired by Waight Keller’s British roots by mingling traditional men’s tailoring and fabrics with playful cues such as Eighties-inflected sharp shoulders and asymmetrical lines and grounding it all with day-to-night practicality.

Minimalist black dresses contoured in white keep company with statement pieces such as a glossy turquoise leather jacket and tulip skirt, a split-neck funnel top with cropped glazed burgundy leather trousers, or a teal funnel-neck leather top with ribbed cuffs worn over a glazed, straight-cut skirt.

Shades of red also make a strong statement, on a coat paired with a cropped black and red goat jacket, a dramatic one-shouldered evening dress, and a herringbone coat. Lace options flourish this season, for both separates and a crew-neck, tiered evening gown in bonded lace.

Traditional Japanese motifs filter into prints and embellishments, as seen in a dégradé “Japanese Fire flower” print cascading down a mid-length black dress, or mangas reprised as embellishments on men’s bomber jackets and hoodies. Additional embellishments include embroidered crystal starbursts, 4G sequins and 3D leopard stacked sequins.

Marc Jacobs is recreating the 1992 collection for Perry Ellis that got him fired.

By Juergen Teller.

It has been 26 years since the show that saw Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss strut the runway wearing knitted beanies, slip dresses and combat boots. After the glamorous Eighties, this new grunge theme was hard for the fashion crowd to swallow and it was the end of the road for Marc Jacobs for Perry Ellis.

By Juergen Teller.

Now however, with the rise of streetwear and generation Z embracing the mix of era’s, the remake of 26 looks could prove to be a huge hit. Him and his team searched the archives to replicate each piece exactly and named the line ‘Redux’.

By Juergen Teller.

Launching online November 15 and then in stores November 19, the look book was shot by Juergen Teller and features Lily McMenamy wearing the exact look her mum, Kristen McMenamy wore when she closed the original Grunge collection as the groom to Kate Moss’ bride.

Lily McMenamy.
By Juergen Teller.

Expect loose outwear, floral slip dresses, check shirt, Beetlejuice striped trousers and of course the knitted beanie hats. Smells like teen spirit.

White shirts, kilts, hair accessories, tapestry bags and naked sandals – these are just some of the key pieces you’ll be adding to basket next season.

This morning we spent some time with the Fashion & Buying Director Natalie Kingham for the luxury e-commerce platform matchesfashion.com, who talked us through the must-have items and emerging designers we should have on our radar.

Explaining that rather than buying the ‘trends’, her and her team focus on the personality of a woman (or the everchanging personality) such as ‘The Free Spirit’ or ‘The Warrior’ and curate a wardrobe that is functional, wearable and timeless.

Natalie was particularly enamoured with designer Emma Willis who is men’s shirt designer. Keeping her button downs masculine, for the online platform she made some slight alterations on the sleeves and tail to create a more feminine silhouette. You can also expect T-shirts from the likes of Calvin Klein and Christopher Kane being an instant sell out.

Natalie highlighted the kilt from Chopova Lowena that combines traditional Bulgarian fabrics with sportswear inspirations like mountain climbing – trust us, this combination of ideas really works. She also spoke of working with couture and demi-couture designers and their continuous sustainability plans.

You will hear more from Natalie in our January issue of a&e magazine, but for now go ahead and click through the gallery above to see the seven hero label’s that matchesfashion.com will be championing over the next few months.

Designer Shatha Essa is representing a new wave of evening wear with her debut Noir collection that is the blend of classic gowns and modern tailoring.

Inspired by her snowy visit to the gardens of Chateau de Versailles, the feminine and delicate collection captures that magical moment of snow fall with the use of crystal patterns on a colour palette of blush, pink, ice blue, cream and white.

Luxury is seen in the silk, tulle and organza fabrics that are adorned with swirls of pearls and cascading crystals. Feminine silhouettes take shape in A-line dresses, ball gowns and embellished capes. She brings a contemporary twist through the menswear inspired evening separates such as wide leg pants, roll neck shirts and organza sleeveless vests.

Our top pick is the white cape gown embroidered with tone on tone crystals and pearls, timeless elegance at its best. The debut collection for Shatha Essa Noir will be available on Moda Operandi from November 14 until November 30.

Want a new way to enhance your eyes? Time to reach for a Nineties favourite.

Delpozo

Metallic eye makeup isn’t going anywhere, and this Fall it’s all about the silver shimmer. Ideal for the festive season, and surprisingly wearable, there’s something magical about a thin silver line drawn along the top lash line.

Fendi

Of course you can go full on glitter ball and layer the shiny eyeshadow on the lids, or do demure like Fendi and dust some sparkle into the inner corner of the eyes for that ‘wide awake’ finish.

Priscilla Ono

For evening, incorporate the hue into a smokey eye look by blending it with navy blues and blacks for that midnight hour glamour. Priscilla Ono, aka Rihanna’s makeup artist and a champion of Fenty Beauty who was recently in Dubai showcasing her skills, posted a geometric icy look on her Instagram that you can easily recreate at home.

Our tip is to go either minimal or bold.

With the festive season just weeks away and a number of glittering events already in the diary, it’s now the perfect time to find your party outfit.

Dresses and gowns are the ultimate go-to, but there has been an influx of alternatives in forms of jumpsuits, tailoring and statement separates. Team a&e are fans of a classic caped blazer with skinny leg pants a la Saint Laurent in midnight black, but then we won’t say no to something shimmery from brands like Halpern.

Photography: Greg Harris for Net-A-Porter

Online luxury platform Net-A-Porter recently unveiled its holiday campaign featuring dazzling looks from Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Jenny Packham, Blaze Milano, and Rasario. You can also pick from exclusive capsules and pieces from 16 Arlington, Rotate, Alex Perry, Laura Lombardi, Neous, Naeem Khan and Retrofete, alongside power names like Stella McCartney and Isabel Marant. Fine jewellery and watches by De Grisogono, Ana Khouri and Cartier add the finishing touch.

Ready to shop? Scroll through the gallery above for our favourite party pieces and head to net-a-porter.com to browse the full range.

Aston Martin has been named ‘Luxury Brand of the Year’ at the Luxury Briefing Awards in London.

Sir Eric Peacock and Simon Sproule.
Photography: Alexandra Dao.

Heralded as the ‘Oscars of the Luxury Industry’, the aim of the annual event is to reward and celebrate excellence and innovation. Presenting the award, Sir Eric Peacock described the car giant as a “powerful, hugely aspirational brand that is the epitome of luxury”. Aston Martin Lagonda vice-president and chief marketing officer, Simon Sproule, was at The Savoy to collect the award and said:

“It’s a great honour to be named Luxury Brand of the Year. At Aston Martin Lagonda we have a fantastic team that lives and breathes this beautiful brand, working to grow and develop our presence across the world. At a time when the automotive industry is facing incredible challenges we are pushing constantly to make sure the Aston Martin brand, and soon the Lagonda brand, not only stands the test of time but flourishes during this period of change.”

Aston Martin Red 2 Vanquish S.
Photography: Max Earey

Lagonda was founded in 1904 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown.

Under the leadership of Dr Andy Palmer and a new management team, the Group launched its Second Century Plan in 2015 to deliver sustainable long-term growth. The plan is underpinned by the introduction of seven new models including the DB11, new Vantage, DBS Superleggera and an SUV, as well as the development of a new manufacturing centre in St Athan, Wales.

We grab a quick cuppa with Hanne Ripsaluoma, the founder and managing director of Dubai-based bohemian fashion brand Dunesi.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Open the curtains.

Three items you can’t live without?
Sunglasses, lip gloss and a kimono.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
I’m with my friends and family, the more dear people around me the happier I am.

What do you love the most about your job?
The feedback from happy customers, that really is the best part.

Dunesi White Nights collection.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
Anywhere outdoors really, Dubai has so many lovely places for hanging out that I can’t name just a few.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
When I feel the need to unwind, I head to the beach and go paddle boarding, being on the water is good for my body and mind.

What really annoys you?
Traffic jams.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Keep aiming high and don’t let anyone to tell you your dreams are too crazy.

Did you have a plan B career path?
I’m currently on my plan B career path and very happy about it.

Dunesi White Nights collection.

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
My husband and two sons.

What book are you reading at the moment?
Compassion Inc. : Unleashing The Power Of Empathy In Life And Business by Gaurav Sinha

What is your happy place?
Anywhere with sunshine and my closest people with me.

What’s your personal motto?
If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.

How do you want the world to remember you?
As a smiley happy person who made others smile.

With good weather calling us to the beach, this is the perfect time of year to enjoy the sunshine with a fresh new, or classic, book.

Below, our editors share the read that will have gripped from page one.

Lindsay Judge, Deputy Editor

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.

No one writes dystopian society better than Margaret Atwood, and what is fascinating about the Handmaid’s Tale, is that she based it all on something that has happened or is happening around the world. I’ve just finished watching the second series of the TV adaptation and loved it. Shocking and thought provoking, I can’t wait to read the book now and see how the two compare.

Charline Deek, Arabic Editor

Adriana Mater by Amin Maalouf

This book was one of the best French books that I’ve read last summer. Adriana lived in a country of war. This passionate young woman becomes pregnant as a result of rape. She insisted to keep the child, but she was so anxious if Yonas her son who carries both blood of the victim and the rapist will be Cain or Abel. Sometimes life is unfair but we always have the choice when it comes to our actions and reactions. I highly recommend this amazing book.

Diana Bell-Heather, Online Editor

Not Forgetting the Whale by John Ironmonger

There’s something about misfits and lost souls that make me engage with the character on the page. Not Forgetting the Whale tells a story of London analyst Joe Haak who created a software that could ‘predict’ the behaviour of the stock market. The ambitious project causes a global financial collapse that makes him to escape to a tiny village in Cornwall where he meets people that don’t know of his actions and embrace him. It’s charming, uplifting and enjoyable.

Maison Assouline’s first culture concept store opens in the Dubai Mall fashion avenue.

Renowned for collectible books on subjects ranging among fashion, design, art, travel, and epicurean arts, Maison Assouline unveiled its second worldwide boutique in our sandy city. More than a book store, it offers an engaging space to immerse yourself in some of the most stylish literature.

As you step into space with it’s blend of contemporary and retro finishes, it feels like you’re entering a chic library with the big screens showing classic footage curated by Martine Assouline, while the glossy books adorn the grand floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.

With the festive season upon us, Maison Assouline could be the go-to destination for sophisticated and unique gifts, with a private room for clients who want to discuss custom-made books, their dream bookshelves, and other interior elements for their home.

Glancing around this cabinet de curiosités, each object is carefully placed to tell a story: the two long library tables from the 1900s, sourced from the well-known British Library; made-to-order items like the fabulous head sculptures that rise above the books; or antique divinités. Pieces like a vintage jewelry box from the film Sunset Boulevard or a display of early twentieth-century hand-spun Louis Vuitton and Goyard trunks showcase the best of old glamour and cleverly transport you back in time.

At the core of it all, and a&e’s favourite feature, is the Swans Bar. A slick eatery featuring a larger-than-life bar with grand gold mirrored beams, surrounded by poised stools, with the menu is inspired by some of Assouline’s most captivating titles. The expansive terrace looking over the Dubai Fountains is the cherry on top of a cake. In a statement, Prosper and Martine Assouline, the brand’s founders, explained:

“We wanted to create a place that embodies the spirit of the brand, and, like our books, tells a story; we wanted to share a place that would be an extension of our private residence. It’s a magical getaway for clients to escape to, a place where knowledge is infinite and where their hunger for it can be beautifully satisfied. The intricate surroundings coupled with the attractive menu will inspire and ensure good moments. It’s intended to be a place where fond memories are born, relationships initiated, and bonds formed.”

The original concept store can be found on Piccadilly in London that opened in 2014. Replicating the vision here in the Middle East, let Maison Assouline be your unique cultural refuge.

We have our eye on one of the most popular independent shoe brands in Seoul, South Korea, and you should too.

Designer Rei Yoon Hongmi behind the label Reike Nen bring a modern spin to classic silhouettes with her sculptural shapes and surprising fabric combinations.

Founded in 2010, it was one of a handful of footwear names around, but quickly gained momentum among the fash pack in Seoul, and everyone knows that it’s the capital of forward thinking and fascinating design.

Rei Yoon Hongmi wanted to create shoes that were feminine and not overly dressy. Comfort of wear is also at the core of the brand picking up on the cultural needs in South Korea so you won’t see high heels, instead they will be block shaped or stacked. As minimal as they appear, Reike Nen always have a surprising feature like exposed zippers and buckle embellishment offering something different and eccentric.

Click through the gallery above to get to know the cult label a little better.

One of the most luxurious brands in the world are taking it up a level by offering a bespoke service for the first time, and we in Dubai are the first to sample it.

Bvlgari brings it’s artistic vision to a new platform called Made to Order, dedicated to its most sophisticated handbags, with the service rolled out across the stores in the region.

Infused with the essence of the Roman Jeweller and crafted from start to finish in Bvlgari’s accessories atelier in Florence, these exclusive customizable masterpieces are handcrafted just like jewels, and also with the authentic, creative and timeless craftsmanship of brand’s artisanal approach to leather.

Choose from hand-cut crocodile skin in 24 vibrant colours and a matt or shiny finish; hand-cut alligator skin in one of 11 matt hues and 24 shiny colour options; and, lastly, a timeless classic: ultra-soft nappa leather, available in 14 different shades to customize the interior.

The production of your bag can take from four to six months depending on how the colours of the leathers come together. As with any of the Bvlagri pieces, the bags won’t leave the atelier until they’re perfect. But trust is, it will be worth the wait.

When we want a quick beauty update, we turn to the runway makeup trends from FW18 shows for inspiration.

This season,  emphasis was on natural beauty with backstage makeup artists playing around with various brow styles, from polished to wild. Below, Benefit Middle East Regional Brow Artist Menat El Abd talks us through some of her favourite looks to recreate at home.

The Well-Groomed Brows

Ralph & Russo

Groomed Brows and minimal make up are probably two of my favorite things that go so well together. I have noticed this type of look a lot on the runway this year, and what grabbed my attention is the subtle makeup and the natural well-groomed brows that I’ve seen in Ralph & Russo’s show. For this look, we’re only going to use two products and keep the rest natural and simple. The key products for this look are Precisely, My Brow Pencil and 24-HR Setter Gel.

Steps:

Start off first with brushing the brows to tame the hair and identify the gaps that you want to fill in later on.

Grab your Precisely, My Brow Pencil and fill in those gaps by applying soft hair strokes. Make sure you brush after to blend any harsh lines and keep the brows looking simple.

To set this look, go ahead and grab the 24-HR Setter Gel to lock the look and keep those brows looking flawlessly natural all day.

The Polished & Defined Brow Look

Balmain

Defined and polished brows are my total weakness. These brows caught my attention at the Balmain runway as they fit so well with the winter season looks. What I love about these brows is that they’re a total statement and they definitely make that unforgettable first impression. All you need for that killer first impression is Ka-Brow Colored Cream Gel and High Brow Highlight & Lift Pencil. With these two products and those easy steps, you’ll define and polish those brows in no time.

Steps:

Grab a spoolie brush and start off first with brushing the brows to tame them.

To sculpt and define those brows, apply Ka-brow cream gel and create soft small hair stokes to create the illusion of fake hairs. This instantly thickens and defines the brow look.

To finish the look and to show off those brows, grab your High Brow pencil and apply it on the brow bone to lift and highlight the brow shape. Don’t forget to blend away using your finger for a clean finish.

The Bold & Brushed Up Brow Look

Isa Arfen

These looks were so bold and strong. A volumized brows can never go wrong with any look you’re rocking. Whether it was from Toga or Isa Afren runway, they’re killing the game. What I noticed the most is that they all have one thing in common, volume. Achieving this statement look has never been easier with Goof Proof Brow Pencil and Gimme Brow+! These two brow products will transform your brows in no time.

Steps:

Start off with brushing the brows with a spoolie brush to tame the hair and identify the gaps.

Grab your Goof Proof Brow Pencil and apply hair strokes to fill in the gaps and to thicken the brows. Blend any harsh edges by brushing the brows with a spoolie brush.

Now it’s time get these brows looking volumized. Grab the Gimme Brow+ and brush the brows upwards for a bold and brushed up finish.

We all have moments of lying wide awake staring into the dark trying to force our minds to switch off so we can finally get some much needed sleep.

If your head feels bombarded with all of your work, relationship and finance worries, it might be time to revaluate your relationship with sleep and make it work for you.

Sleep deprivation and tiredness can have a major effect on many aspects of your life, but there are dietary and mindful things you can do every day to make going to bed a blissful experience.

Don’t Force It

If it’s you usual bedtime but you’re not tired, there’s no point wasting time trying to get yourself to sleep. Training yourself for bed starts with going to sleep when you feel shattered and waking up on time. Eventually your body clock will start to shift and you’ll feel sleepy closer to the goal bedtime. Tip: stop relying on sleeping tablets as eventually their effect will wear off and you’ll be back at square one.

Conditions Are Everything

Some say your room should be as dark and cold as a cave. Of course, everybody is different but according to professionals, you should aim to have the temperature in your room set to 18-21°C. Living in sunny Dubai, blackout blinds are a must.

Switch Up Your Eating Habits

We all have demanding jobs, but quitting caffeine after 4pm can help you doze off in the night. Also avoid cheese (tough on your stomach) and spicy food (raises body temperature) and instead snack on a banana and nuts that are said to induce sleep hormones. If you have a sweet tooth, grab a spoon of honey instead of chocolate.

Workout In The Morning

Doing an intense cardio workout few hours before bed might not be such a good idea. Your energy levels peak and the rush of adrenaline can make it harder to switch off.

Turn Off The Blue Screen

It can be tricky for us to put down electronic devices, but letting your mind slow down an hour or two before bed could do wonders for your sleep. If you must have a final check of email before lights out, make sure to switch the blue screen to night mode.

If there’s one coat we enjoy wearing during the Dubai winters, it’s the trench.

Lightweight, versatile, timeless and with an array of designs to choose from, it’s the ultimate investment piece. Designers like Loewe and Marni know this, and every season we see an update on a classic.

Burberry recently unveiled latest styles and a customisation service in their newest store in the Dubai Mall fashion extension, where shopper could personalise their coats.

From the FW18 runways we saw a number of decorated trench coats. Think embellishment, feathers, fringing, contrast panels and a touch of patent and leather. In fact vinyl finish was a popular choice among the style pack at fashion weeks with red and black dominating. The high shine effect is a slick update to your outerwear arsenal and works for day and night.

For everyday, go for a military look at Loewe and Chloe, while Burberry and Attico offer lady like silhouettes that can be cinched in at the waist with a belt.

Whatever coverup you choose, there’s no denying that a much-loved trench coat will be the star of your fall wardrobe.

What do you give a person that has everything? A specially crafted Fabergé Egg in collaboration with Rolls-Royce might be a good start.

Two of worlds top luxury brands have come together to create a unique piece that will dazzle the home of any esteemed collector.

‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg is named after the iconic hood ornament on the Rolls-Royce cars and represents the heritage of both historic companies. And, the bejewelled masterpiece is the second Fabergé Egg to be considered ‘Imperial Class’ since 1917.

The design, conceived by Rolls-Royce designers Stefan Monro and Alex Innes, and rendered by Fabergé Lead Designer Liisa Talgren, has been brought to life by Fabergé workmaster Paul Jones, creating a contemporary interpretation of one of the world’s most fabled and prized possessions.

A team of seven craftspeople from Fabergé undertook the two-year challenge of fabricating the design using the finest materials married with their skill as artist jewellers.

The Egg rests on an engine-turned, hand- engraved, purple enamel guilloché base of 18 karat white gold. Arms of rose gold define the shape of the egg and upon operating the movement via a discreet lever at the base of the stand, the eggs opens to present the fine figurine of the Spirit of Ecstasy, hand-sculpted in frosted rock crystal. The rose gold vanes, embellished with nearly 10 carats of round white diamonds, resolve into swathes of natural amethyst weighing over 390 carats, specially selected for its colour saturation and quality.

Fifty Imperial Easter eggs were created for the Russian Imperial family between 1885 and 1916. These creations are inextricably linked to the lives of the Romanov family. Ten eggs were produced from 1885 to 1893 during the reign of Emperor Alexander III; a further 40 were created during the rule of his dutiful son, Nicholas II, two each year – one for his mother the dowager, the second for his wife. Upon exploring the archives of Rolls-Royce, the company found that Tsar Nicholas II was indeed also a patron of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Well, if it’s good enough for the Tsar.

Tributes have been coming in over the last few days following the death of Alain Chevalier at his home in Megève, France, last Thursday, at the age of 87.

Alain Chevalier with Bernard Arnault

He was the CEO of Moët Hennessy in 1987 before merging businesses with Henri Racamier, President of Louis Vuitton, under the guidance of Bernard Arnault to create luxury giant LVMH that we know today.

A statement released on Sunday by the Élysée Palace said: “He has put his intelligence and talent in the service of the industry, contributing his vision and his determination to install France in first place in the field of luxury.”

The luxury conglomerate look after Givenchy, Fendi, Celine, Emilio Pucci and Loro Piana – a cashmere and wool brand that are due to unveil their newest store in the Dubai Mall later this week.

His funeral is scheduled for Wednesday at the Basilica Sainte-Clotilde in Paris.

Arthouse fans get ready as Cinema Arkil unveil a permanent space in Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue.

Presenting a regional and international film programme, including award-winning films and critically-acclaimed titles like the McQueen documentary, a partnership between Cinema Arkil and the cultural hub located in Al Quoz champions and supports homegrown talent, as well as educates and build awareness around film and the cinematic arts.

 

“We are thrilled to announce this new partnership; Alserkal Avenue has been a valuable partner throughout our journey growing the independent film scene in the UAE. The opening of our flagship home marks an important milestone in our joint mission to support the independent film scene in the region,” said Butheina Kazim, Founder of Cinema Akil, in a statement.

Founded in 2014, the arthouse cinema was a nomadic pop-up platform, bringing independent films from across the world to audiences in the UAE. Before moving into its permanent home, the concept had held over 60 pop-ups around the UAE in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

“As we mark a decade of Alserkal Avenue this year, which was built on the public promise to nurture homegrown talent and cultural producers in the region, it was only natural for us to further collaborate with Cinema Akil,” says Vilma Jurkute, Director of Alserkal Avenue. “Cinema Akil’s programme will enrich and strengthen the creative ecosystem in the city, and foster curiosity and engagement with our audiences.”

The venue is also home to Project Chaiwala, a homegrown diner reminiscent of neighbourhood ‘chaiwalas’, which is open for all-day dining inside the Cinema Akil space.

Fendi unveil their new Dubai Mall boutique with exclusive pieces, a couture exhibition and inspiring interior design.

The Italian luxury house gave a lot of thought to the architecture of the store with champagne metal mesh representing strength and lit up boxes symbolizing femininity. The boutique is divided into six spaces, including two areas dedicated to women’s bag and accessories, and a section for men.

Fendi’s signature Spike Wall – one of the most iconic displays of the their stores with around 21,000 spikes placed by hand – is at the core of the space. With a spotlight on Fendi’s icons, it also features archive Fur Tablets, demonstrating the brands unique savoir faire.

The highlight is the private room that can be closed off for VIP guests looking to further dive into the craftsmanship of Fendi’s fur pieces.

VIP room.

Today, a store has to be more than a place to buy the latest collections. It has to be an escape into the vision of the House, engage with the customer, tell the story of the brand and entice with avant-garde design and art. And the new Fendi land in the Dubai Mall fashion avenue does just that.

We don’t want to jump ahead, but 2018 has been one of the busiest years for celebrity and royal weddings.

Over the weekend, Gwyneth Paltrow tied the knot with producer Brad Falchuk at her home in the Hamptons wearing a custom-made Valentino couture gown. Last month, Karlie Kloss married Joshua Kusher in an intimate ceremony for family and friends and chose a beautiful creation by Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior.

The much anticipated nuptials between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were watched by millions around the world with her Givenchy bridal gown analysed from tiara to train. There was still enough spotlight left from Princess Eugenie who chose Peter Pilotto to design her dress, while close friends of the British royal family Daisy Jenks and Charlie van Straubenzee also received plenty of media attention.

Observing their bridal choices, there has been an overwhelming support for full sleeve or short sleeve gowns with every bride in our edit selected a lace element to her look. Veils ruled supreme, while the hair remained natural and not over styled in either a low bun or soft waves.

Click through the gallery above for some of our favourite A-List and royal brides from 2018 so far.

You can tell that Burberry love the festive period with the past Christmas campaigns featuring some of the top British A-listers.

This year is no different as the brand reveals the cast for their latest holiday shoot, including supermodel Naomi Campbell and actress Kristin Scott Thomas.

Shot by British artist and photographer, Juno Calypso, the fashion house will unveil the full campaign on November 13, but we already know that other famous faces include The Crown actor Matt Smith and singer M.I.A.

Burberry add a sentimental touch to the series of images, it’s Christmas after all, and have cast Naomi Campbell’s mother, Valerie Morris-Campbell.

Ermenegildo Zegna unveils the newest chapter of its ‘Defining Moments’ campaign, with actors Javier Bardem and Dev Patel in Madrid.

Bardem looks comfortable in his hometown as he is seen with Patel laughing and joking on set with Craig McDean back in the role of the photographer. The focus of the Fall-Winter 2018 campaign passes from everyday moments that make us smile to the ‘powerful role of banter and comradery among friends’ .

Dressed in Luxury Leisurewear and Ermenegildo Zegna Couture XXX, the fresh aesthetic combines functional elegance with style, defining a contemporary metropolitan wardrobe where the ease of casualwear meets the attention to detail and precious finishings of couture tailoring.

Click through the gallery above to see some of the behind the scenes moments.

HAVE AN APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE? A BRAND NEW LUXURY DESTINATION IN JORDAN OFFERS GUESTS A CHANCE TO SEE ONE OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD IN STYLE AND COMFORT.

There is a sense of great privilege living in a region with our very own wonder of the world just a short trip away. Jordan has been expanding its tourism initiative with an aim to attract up to seven million visitors by 2020, and there is a new luxury resort to welcome explorers and foodies from around the globe.

YOUR PERSONAL SANCTUARY

Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, only opened last month but has already gained a reputation for bespoke service, culinary marvels and attentive hospitality. Located in Aqaba, the resort sits right in the south of Jordan, close to the border with Israel and Saudi Arabia looking towards Egypt. The hotel’s position on the Red Sea makes this one of the best spots for some beach time, and it is also within easy reach of two of Jordan’s other gems; Petra and Wadi Rum.

Petra

The drive from the airport is long, but you get rewarded at the end as the staff welcome you with a refreshing hibiscus drink and a cold towel before swiftly checking you into one of their 207 rooms. The décor is modern with a nod to Jordan’s rich heritage offering plenty of space with contemporary touches (Byredo products in the bathroom get a thumbs up from us) as well as spectacular views over the surrounding nature. Chill by the pool, or make the most of the location and unwind by the sea as the golden sun sets over a warm afternoon. Dine in one of the three restaurants, or book a unique experience on the beach where executive chef Roman Gernoth prepares Zarb – a Bedouin barbecue feast of meats, rice, potatoes and vegetables that are cooked underground for four hours. Served with a wide selection of mezze, it’s one of the most traditional and indulgent meals you can have and is the perfect way to start your food journey through the Kingdom.

YOUR INDIANA JONES MOMENT

A 90 minute drive from Aqaba, and you’ll find  Petra, where great natural, cultural and geological features merge. One of the Seven Wonders of the World holds more than 800 individual ancient monuments, including buildings, tombs, baths, funerary halls, temples, arched gateways, and colonnaded streets, that were mostly carved from the kaleidoscopic sandstone. The Al Manara hotel team can arrange an expert guide and provide a picnic for the journey so you have the energy to explore the vast site and even trek up 900 steps to see the beauty of Petra from above. Our tip is to visit at sunrise or sunset. When you arrive you’ll walk through a narrow gorge with vertical walls of rock on either side before finally getting your first glimpse of the famous Treasury carved into the cliff basking in the pink glow of the suns rays.

Jarba Farm

After diving back into history, but sadly not discovering the ancient treasure as Harrison Ford did in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, our taste buds took us to the home of a local family. We were welcomed with a cup of Jordanian coffee that had a touch of cardamom, a recipe derived from the Ottoman empire. Unlike your local Starbucks, there are very strict rules about serving qahwah sädah (welcome coffee) for example, you start with the oldest guests in the room and you must hold the cup in your right hand. This is followed by Maqluba, an upside down dish made up of rice and chicken all cooked in one pot and then tipped onto serving dishes for guests to tuck into with a side of yogurt and tabbouleh.

Jordanian Family lunch experience

Did you know that olives were first cultivated in Jordan? Despite Italy stealing the thunder, Jordanian olive oil is on the rise and visiting one of the local farms proves that the barren-looking landscape can produce some of the best quality olives. Through the hotel you can arrange a visit to one of the olive  farms and sit with the locals over a cup of sweet tea, fresh grape juice and barazek – crispy butter cookie covered in toasted sesame and honey.

YOUR MODERN BEDOUIN ESCAPE

Wadi Rum is a maze of monolithic rockscapes that rise up from the red desert floor to heights of 1,750m creating an out of this world landscape that has attracted Hollywood directors of The Martian and Star Wars Rogue One. Your experience might not be a blockbuster but it will have all the qualities of a VIP escape as you stay the night at the recently opened Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. The unique destination offers tents – not the pitch-it-yourself kind – and panoramic pods that are all fitted with AC units, showers and comfortable beds. After a traditional meal, the hotel staff will lead you to one of the dunes, ask you to lie down on the cool sand, turn of the torches, and close your eyes for a few seconds before opening them to see the constellations of stars with such clarity that you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in a planetarium. You’ll see the Milky Way and even Mars.

Traditional Jordanian sweets

After a peaceful night’s sleep, thanks to the lack of light or noise pollution, grab a quick bite at breakfast and then hop on the back of one of open top desert trucks and follow your guide into the heart of Wadi Rum. He will lead you through canyons to discover the 4000-year-old rock drawings before showing you the best spots to hike up for breath-taking views of the vast space that once had Lawrence of Arabia (aka Colonel Thomas Edward Lawrence who played a key role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire) trek through.

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp

By now, you would’ve worked up an appetite and will be whisked away to the camp of a Bedouin family who will welcome you with a traditional Mansaf – the national dish of Jordan consisting of lamb cooked separately from the rice. When served, the broth from the lamb is poured over and you tuck in using your hands and flat bread – just how the Bedouins did it for generations.

YOUR REWARD

After navigating through the vast desert, there’s nothing like the feeling of being back in the luxurious arms of Al Manara hotel. All explorer’s deserve a rest day, so book into the spa that overlooks the picturesque Saraya Aqaba Lagoon. It offers an extensive sensory experience, a diverse range of treatments using Subtle Energies, Terres d’Afrique and Sodashi products as well as a comprehensive array of relaxing facilities such a steam room, sauna and a heated plunge pool.

For an escape that offers sun, sea, sand dunes, the wonders of Petra and delicious lamb with yoghurt – Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is definitely worth the journey.

Olivier Rousteing announced that Balmain will make a return to the Haute Couture fashion week schedule.

Balmain SS19.

It’s been 16 years since the French fashion house has been part of the line up and Rousteing promised during the WWD’s Retail & Apparel CEO Summit that he will be bringing back the Parisian DNA.

We are yet to learn the date of the show in January and details of the collections, but looking at his recent runway during Paris Fashion Week, we expect an avant-garde, bold and dramatic tribute to the French capital.

For his SS19 collection, Parisian architecture and Egyptian sculptures played a major part in his design aesthetic so we saw hard shoulders, almost concrete-like lines and mini dresses decorated with pyramid shapes. To break up the edgier pieces he introduced organza to some of the gowns and dresses. The geometry and mish mash of fabrics was wild, but he made it all work harmoniously.

The designer also revealed that he is keen to expand into beauty, fragrance and accessories. Looks like Rousteing is not slowing down yet.

Chanel sailed into Bangkok with the replica show of their Cruise 2019 collection that was first presented in Paris in May.

Passengers such as the brands ambassadors’ Lily-Rose Depp, Tilda Swinton, Caroline de Maigret, Soo Joo Park, Pharrell Williams and Gaspard Ulliel boarded traditional Thai boats to traverse Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River docking at the disused Sermsuk warehouse, reimagined for the occasion as a playful marina – the Pier No 5.

Models strolled past the guests in their candy-coloured palette of cottons, silks and the House’s iconic tweeds that echoed Gabrielle Chanel’s subtle blend of nonchalance and style, as the whimsical cruise ship La Pausa stood in the background.

The tailoring had a more relaxed fit with cropped jackets presented without sleeves and a denim trim, while dresses and skirts felt light and breeze – ideal for the warm evening in Thailand. The nautical theme was reflected in the striped T-shirts and net bags, while the embellished beret gave a nod to the brands Parisian heritage.

As the show drew to a close, guests were invited aboard the La Pausa to watch Pharrell perform and get a sneak peek at his capsule collection for Chanel.

You know all the revolutionary Givenchy Beauty products that have been filling up your makeup bags over the last few years? They were all masterminded by Nicolas Degennes, Makeup and Colour Artistic Director at Givenchy.

In 2004, he created the Givenchy Le Makeup line offering a contemporary vision of cosmetics that are both versatile and highly effective. He also brought the house’s essentials into the spotlight, such as the famous Prisme powders and the emblematic 4G logo. He is the man behind the Phenomen’Eye mascara with a spherical head, and of course the Le Rouge lipstick line.

Degennes designs products that adapt to the needs of modern women, and inspires them to enhance their beauty. After more than 15 years at Givenchy, he who says he would like “to keep on surprising and being surprised” goes on tirelessly pushing back the limits of what is possible.

Team a&e got a preview of the new shades added to the Matissime Velvet Fluid Foundation, the freshly launched Teint Couture Radiant Drop. 2-in-1 Highlighters, the decadently pretty Teint Couture Shimmer powders, colour correcting primers, as well as upcoming releases for the new year. Below, we chat further to Degennes about his view on women’s relationship with makeup.

What is important to a Givenchy woman when it comes to beauty?

The most important thing is to explore all the ways for a woman to have a choice to be exactly what she wants to be. When you look at some pictures of Audrey Hepburn, she can be very natural and very impressive. She can have strong eyebrows and the next day, no eyebrows at all.  Its having the possibility to change yourself each time.

How important is it for makeup products to offer versatility of use?

It’s a game sometimes, it’s a funny game to make your own mixes. You have to give a woman the possibility to create herself.

How are you developing Givenchy Beauty?

I need to focus on the signature of the house. So uniqueness in the textures is what I want to explore for women at Givenchy.

How should makeup make a woman feel?

You have women who don’t wear anything, and women that wear a lot. The most important thing is that when you look at yourself in the mirror, you feel comfortable. If you love a lot of texture, then go ahead. It can be a protection, it’s not just makeup, its more than that. She wants to transform herself, she wants to be someone else.

What is your stand on makeup trends like contouring?

Its not a matter of contouring or highlighting, its about texture. You have to mix and match the textures, but heaviness doesn’t help the effect.

We love the new eyeshadow shades for next year, what can we do to keep our lids looking fresh all day?

Before working with the powders, work with the base as it will increase the effect of the powder.

What is your trick to a flawless look?

I love to work with layering. When I work on the skin I am careful with the primer I’m going to use first, to put less of the texture for the foundation. It doesn’t mean I’m going to have less at the end of it, it means I’m going to first play with the light, then the colour, then with the highlighter, then a bit of powder. It’s not about adding too much, because at the end of the day it’s going to look too heavy, and I’m fighting against the heaviness.

What is the hero product from the new range?

I love the Teint Couture Radiant drops, but I always say that I’m proud of next product you’re going to see. Next year you will find something else for the skin. I’m proud of my team, I’m proud of way we’re moving very fast. You have to keep on developing your signature.

What is the number one product for dry skin?

Primers.

What do you always have in your makeup bag?

I always have Matissime Velvet.

Environment and sustainability are the two words that are appearing a lot more often in the our vocabulary when discussing fashion and beauty, and now there is a new initiative to tackle the global plastic crisis.

Stella McCartney.

There’s no denying that our use of plastic is having a severe effect on the planet with experts estimating that by 2050 there will be more plastic waste in our oceans than fish. A sense of urgency to make a change has encourage global brands to sign up to a newly launched programme called New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.

Launched by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Environment, it aims to decrease plastic pollution through various strategies with Burberry, L’Oreal and Stella McCartney already on board. Executive Director Erik Solheim said in a release:

“Ocean plastic is one of the most visible and disturbing examples of a plastic pollution crisis. The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment is the most ambitious set of targets we have seen yet in the fight to beat plastics pollution. It sets out the steps businesses and governments must take if we are to find a solution to the root causes of plastic pollution and we urge all those working towards dealing with this global issue to sign it.”

Burberry.

Overall, the response has been a success with organisations which represent 20 per cent of the world’s plastic packaging production signing up with an understanding that they will publicly disclose their progress which can include eliminating problematic or unnecessary plastic packaging, strive to make packaging easily recyclable by 2025 and to circulate the plastic produced.