Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Morning Coffee With… Andraya Farrag, Founder of Bedouin

A&E chats to Andraya Farrag, founder of the womenswear label Bedouin.

Farrag’s contemporary womenswear label that aspires to create easy- to-wear collections with a confident, spontaneous style. The FW18 collection Entitled Reflections of Us, celebrates women finding their voice not only as individuals, but coming together like never before.

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

Three items you can’t live without?
Kheils, playlist and sunshine.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
Travelling! I love to travel and I am definitely happiest when exploring a new destination or getting to know a new culture or cuisine. In Sri Lanka I was happiest coming face to face with elephants in Udawalawe National park, I was quite literally in awe.

What does being a designer mean to you?
I am so thankful everyday to be doing something I love! Since being a young girl I always appreciated the creative side of things more than anything else. I used to admire the diverse style of women walking down the street and I knew I wanted to be in fashion. Years later I get the same excitement when a client buys a dress or a store makes a large order, either way I love knowing that dress will help our woman to feel confident and beautiful. That’s the most important thing to me over anything!

BEDOUIN dubai fashion female empowerment

BEDOUIN FW18.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
Favourite restaurant has to be Mythos in JLT, it’s a friendly come as you are kind of place with the most amazing authentic Greek food. I also love having dinner at The Maine, their interior is heaven! During the cooler months I like to get out and about as much as possible and try to fill my week with as much variety as possible, whether that’s heading to the spice souks for a wander or getting lost in the desert, I’m always up for being outdoors.

How would you describe your style?
On the go, relaxed and sometimes dishevelled with feminine, bohemian accents

What do you do to relax and unwind?
I love to hang out with my dog Frida! I’m sure any dog loving people out there will understand, they can be like a breath of fresh air!

What really annoys you?
When women don’t look out for each other! I’m a firm believer that there’s plenty of space in the world for all of us to be happy and succeed and encouraging those around you is essential.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Go with your gut, don’t give up and everything is going to be okay.

BEDOUIN FW18.

Tell us a fact about you that nobody knows.
I love to salsa dance (although I am not amazing at it).

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
I was going to put someone super cool and then I realised I would be useless on an island so it’s probably a good idea if I take someone like Bear Grylls.

What’s your personal motto?
Let the adventure begin! By now you know I love to travel and see new things so this motto seems fitting. However, I even use it when I feel stressed and things go wrong in life. Since starting BEDOUIN I’ve had so many victories but also a fair few disappointments, I find this phrase puts a positive spin on stress and allows me to see it as just another adventure.

How do you want the world to remember you
Smiling!

5 Easy Diet Swaps To A More Vegan Lifestyle

Who else struggles to walk back into the gym and restart their healthy diet plan post summer?

instagram.com/thesnacksociety

It’s not easy, but there are a few things to make it that much smoother by simply altering your diet into the vegan territory. Don’t worry, you can still have your steak – for now.

Kamilla Omarzay, founder of The Snack Society – a platform for healthy treats and snacks – shares her alternatives to our popular go-to’s.

Cream
Soak cashews and mix it in a food processor and you get the most tasty and creamy vegan cream.

Scrambled Eggs
Tofu can make a delicious vegan scramble.

instagram.com/thesnacksociety

Mayonnaise
Process avocado in a blender until it turns creamy. A&E tip, add wasabi for some heat or go all out and make a guacamole spread. If you want it to last in the fridge, keep the avocado seed.

Caramel
Date paste or date syrup. (This will go perfectly over unsalted popcorn.)

Milk
Almond and Coconut milk. Your next cup of coffee just got a whole lot healthier.

10 Questions With… Marina Cortbawi of Merlette

Unfussed dressing with maximum impact is a tough formula to crack, but Brooklyn-based designer with a Lebanese heritage Marina Cortbawi might be onto something.

She launched her own label Merlette after stints working for Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera and focuses on contemporary collection of airy and fluid silhouettes. But don’t be too quick to use a word like minimalism as her designs elevated with details like ruched sleeves on blouses, off-the-shoulder dresses and skirts finished with rich embroidery.

We catch up with the designer on a flawless vacation wardrobe and her view on the fashion scene in the Middle East.

How would you describe Merlette in 3 words?
Escapist, luxurious, subtle details.

How has your experience at Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera shaped your vision for the brand?
Working for two of the most iconic design houses in New York, which both had their own in-house ateliers, I got to see the whole process which is so special. This only reinforced my love for the creative process and shaped my vision to create something unique based on luxurious fabrics and embroideries.

I also travelled a lot during this time and I tried to understand what women like to wear in different corners of the globe. Merlette is a brand that is born out of that desire to be ageless and dress a very international woman.

What are your tips to picking the right vacation wear?
I believe the best pieces to bring on a vacation are those ones you would absolutely wear more than once, because they are so comfortable and you feel so good in them.

Less is more, so if it’s a summer holiday, just taking a few pieces that you have tried on already and would work for multiple occasions. Packing light is a luxury.

I think the wardrobe needs to be inspired by the destination also, I always visualize what I would be doing and what I would want to wear. One thing you cannot go wrong with is a white dress that goes back to all your accessories.

Which fabrics would you choose for hot weather?
I favour natural fabrics such as cotton is the best because it is the most breathable and easiest to wash, and I love cotton lawn because it is not too sheer, so soft and you can fold it up and unpack without worrying about creasing, it just falls out when you wear it. I also love light silks and linens but cotton is my number one choice.

You’ve travelled to the Middle East before, what did you take away from seeing the way women dress?
I noticed the women just really love fashion and are so informed about it more than any other women I have met. This has a huge impact on the very well thought out sense of style.

I have met some of the most incredible women during my travels to Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE and Lebanon (where my family is originally from).

Even though each place is so different in their taste, timeless elegance is key as well as having fun and not being afraid of colour and embellishment.

This is what I love most, and with Merlette they embrace the volume and playfulness of our pieces. I also find the women there always searching for a unique piece to stand apart from others, it’s less about being a clone and wearing something different to what your friends have.

What do you pack in your suitcase?
I try to always travel with a carry on if going away on a summer holiday for a week or less, so some of the key things I like to pack are: a long white cotton dress – the number one piece – that I can wear during the day and in the evening, some tunic style dresses and wrap blouses for the beach, Eres bikini, Turkish towel, leather sandals and a bottle of Moroccan argan oil for face body and hair.

What is the most valuable lesson your learned while launching Merlette?
To stick to your own original vision, keep focused on what your brand ethos is, and everything must follow that. For us, quality, simplicity and consistency are the most important things.

Can you share with us the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Creativity is your only commodity.

Where do you go to escape from the world?
Upstate New York for a weekend but for vacation I love Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and when I can, I go back to Australia where I was born. I love places that are packed with a lot of culture and not far from a beach. I try to go somewhere new each time.

What are your future plans for Merlette? Will we be seeing you in Dubai soon?
To continue designing pieces that women will love for many seasons to come. We are slowly expanding into some timeless prints and embroideries, and lightweight knitwear.

I do hope to come to Dubai soon, I love the city and as we are expanding in the Middle East, so I hope to make it over this year.

Embrace Your Inner Earth Child With Tarte’s New Collection

Natural and cruelty free are just some of the buzz words making their way through the beauty industry, and Tarte have released something hippy chic for the summer.

The New York based cosmetics brands invites you to get #FLOWERPOWERED with their limited edition collection of pretty palettes, best-selling vegan mascara and their high-preforming brushes.

Love, Trust & Fairy Dust Eye & Cheek Palette consists of 10 eyeshadows and one highlighter in rosy, plummy and neutral shades all laid out in shape of a flower. Tarte use Amazonian clay and mineral pigments to help balance skin on lids to prevent pigment creasing or fading

Love, Trust & Fairy Dust Vault

To bring out the eyes further, swish on their cult classic for over a decade – the vegan mascara. Released is limited-edition packaging, it is designed to lengthen, curl, volumize and condition the lashes.

Who doesn’t want a rosy glow that lasts all day? The silky texture of Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush glides onto the skin without a chalky finish. The micronized Amazonian clay helps control oil and infuse moisture for balanced skin.

For flawless application, make sure to add Pretty Things & Fairy Wings Brush Set. Wit the five brushes, you are guaranteed crease free eyeshadow, seamlessly highlighted cheekbones and even complexion.

Available at Sephora.

These Female Emirati Entrepreneurs Will Inspire The ‘Girl Boss’ In You

To celebrate Emirati Women’s Day on August 28, six regional entrepreneurs have shared their inspiring stories.

Brought together by Middle East’s homegrown online marketplace, noon, these industry leaders have had incredible journey’s to success that they share in a video series.

Highlighting the business brains behind many of the most exciting companies and projects in the region, hear from the women who have broken new ground for Emiratis and opened doors to emerging, creative and commercial successes.

The UAE is one of the most progressive environments for promoting female entrepreneurship, with Vision 2021 specifically targeting gender equality and women’s empowerment. There are currently over 21,000 female employers in the UAE, with women business-owners operating projects worth AED 40 billion to the country’s economy – just FYI, our editor is one of them.

Learn more about Emirati Women’s Day and the noon | entrepreneurs by heading to noon’s YouTube channel to watch the videos.

Morning Coffee With… Kamilla Omarzay, Founder of the Snack Society

The Snack Society is a platform for healthy treats and snacks started by Kamilla Omarzay. All the recipes and products are free from gluten, dairy, eggs, refined sugar and any preservatives.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Meditate. I don’t always get long enough time to stay in meditation but I aim for at least five minutes of uninterrupted stillness and breathing.

Three items you can’t live without?
Lip Balm, Hand cream nut butter.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
I’m happy when I am surrounded by nature of some sort – the sea, trees, clear blue skies etc.

What do you love the most about your job?
All the left-over food from recipe developments.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
La Cantine Du Faubourg. This is a biased choice because they have the best truffle pizza ever.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
Yoga, and lots of it.

What really annoys you?
When I see people putting up pictures of their business class boarding pass with their Chanel or Birkin in the background, and any pictures of similar nature.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Relax. Just relax it’s all going to fall into place as it is meant to be. If it’s meant for you it will come to you.

Did you have a plan B career path?
I have a 10-year sales experience in media sales. I could always go back as a plan B.

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

What’s your personal motto?
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This is my golden rule in life.

How do you want the world to remember you?
Kind, compassionate, caring, generous and a good friend.

Order the all the delicious goodies from www.thesnacksociety.com, or grab them from registered stockists.

Your Next ‘It’ Bag Will Be From This French Brand

Chloé is introducing new designs and silhouettes for FW18 to further showcase the Natacha Ramsay-Levi’s vision for the house.

Making its debut this season, Tess is a rounded day bag that is resolutely Chloé. Standout features include two straps of varying widths, and the signature O – a recurring House reference to infinite femininity – in gold and silver finishes.

Conceived as a day bag embellished with special detailing, Roy features two large O rings in perfect balance as an updated Chloé signature. Material contrast is another defining aspect, with suede, smooth leather, glossy lambskin, and a gradation effect among the options. Our top pick is the Bucket that is roomy and versatile.

Introduced in 2014, the Drew bag is considered an iconic House design and for her first collection, Ramsay-Levi introduced the Drew Bijou. It is given a tough girl edge with chains and multiple rings.

Scroll through the gallery above to see the bags you’ll be spotting everywhere next month.

The Mascaras Our Editors Can’t Stop Using

If there is one beauty product you should be packing in your bag, it’s a mascara.

With one swoosh, it can transform your whole look and give you an added boost of confidence – after all eyes are the windows to the soul.

We have tried it all – lengthening, volumizing, definition – and have put together a selection of magical wands that our editors swear by.

Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Black Vinyl’ mascara is innovatively formulated to volumize lashes by 507%. That’s a bold claim, but you can trust our super defined eyes. If lumps are your concern then Tom Ford does the trick as the Ultra Length mascara has a wand with a tapered spiral brush that separates to give a dramatic finish that won’t clump or flake. Plus it is designed long wear even in high humidity.

If your lashes are in need of TLC, then turn to By Terry’s ‘Lash-Expert’ that nourishes with it’s formula enriched with premium inky-black pigments and natural protective oils, including Jojoba, Olive and Avocado.

This Egyptian Jewellery Brand Is Now Available In Dubai

A symbolic jewellery brand with an Egyptian heritage and modern Californian vibe has landed in Dubai.

L.A.-based brand AMMANII was born from the desire to ‘tell stories through a beautiful platform that would provoke a need to seek peace with one self and others despite all differences’.

Expect symbols like the moon and evil eye across a variety of pieces like the multi-strand necklace from Sa’mma collection featuring Vermeil gold and ruthenium with charms and a removable star pendant.

There is a shared journey of hope and revived dreams translated through every design. The jewellery is meant to ‘inspire a courageous vision of a global sisterhood’. Sounds like the perfect gift for your dearest friends.

Ammanii can be found in the Accessories section on the Ground Floor at Harvey Nichols – Dubai, Mall of the Emirates.

How You Can Make Sustainable Style Choices

Sustainability has become a big buzz word in fashion with brands like Stella McCartney and Brother Vellies focusing on delivering exceptional pieces with minimum cost to the planet.

Stella McCartney launches recyclable sneakers.

Many labels, some ethical from the get-go, have taken important steps in their production and manufacturing that prevent harmful human right practices, reduce the carbon footprint while keeping style in mind. After all, ‘66 percent of global millennials are willing to spend more on brands that are sustainable,’ according to Business of Fashion.

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Whether they’re re-using plastic bottles cleared from oceans for shoes, working with ethical leather, enlisting local artisans like All Things Mochi, or making clothes solely from pre-existing textiles and clothes, these are just some of the things you can consider when making your next purchase. Also, eco doesn’t mean boring as many designers have proven so already, including McCartney and Reformation.

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Look for brands that use organic and natural fibres like linen and PET fibers.

Some might offer to up-cycle unloved garments to make new products.

Shopping made-to-order brands helps prevent mass production and wastage.

Some do more than make clothes. Pour Les Femmes, for example, was started by actress and activist Robin Wright and aims to support women who have survived violence in Congo by teaching them sewing skills. Proceeds go back directly to these women.

You’d be amazed at what can be made from plastic and even sugar cane so do your research.

Transparency is key for the brands to push the message of sustainability, so see how much the label your shopping with shares on their platforms. Everlane and Brother Vellies are the perfect examples.

instagram.com/brothervellies

What We Learnt From A Professional Makeup Artist

If you haven’t had a chance to visit the Charlotte Tilbury store in the Dubai Mall, then you have to get down there sharpish to experience the beauty boudoir.

The circular space with plush furnishing, golden chandelier and series of makeup counters await you to indulge in a one-to-one transformation with their expert.

Naturally, team A&E were one of the first to sign up – after all who doesn’t want to pick up a few tips from a professional makeup artist? Transformation doesn’t mean a total overhaul of your look, but there are few things you could adjust in your routine that can have a major impact on the final result. Here is what we learnt…

When it comes to foundation, to find your perfect match you need apply a small amount to either the side of your chin or the chest.

Use the concealer on your eyelids as it holds the eyeshadow in place for longer and prevents creases.

When using a bronzer, start at the point nearest to the ear, blend and then sweep the brush down just under your cheekbone. Also tap a little bit on your forehead.

Avoid highlighter on your nose, many makeup artists don’t understand why you’d want to draw attention there.

For a modern lip look, apply with your fingers to give a stain-like effect. All the Parisians are doing this at the moment.

Defining eyebrows has been a trends for the last few seasons but now the natural look is coming back, so go easy on the pencil and gently brush the eyebrow hair up for an illusion of volume.

If you’re doing a smokey eye, the darkest colour should be at the lash line. If you want to make you eyes pop, tap liquid highlighter on the inner corners.

Don’t use the lipliner to just outline the lips. Fill the pout in completely and then sweep on the lipstick – it will last longer.

For smoother looking legs, mix some of your foundation with the moisturiser.

Vanessa Hudgens Champions Arabic Designer

Arabic designers have been dominating red carpets and A-list wardrobes around the world, and Venessa Hudgens is the next celebrity to done a name from the region.

instagram.com/vanessahudgens

The star channelled the modern seventies vibe in a two-piece from Madiyah Al Sharqi SS18 collection, which was full of pastel and metallic hues and fresh tailored silhouettes.

Hudgens styled the Fujairah-based label, which you can shop on their e-shop or Ounass, with L’Dezen by Payal Shah and Roberto Bravo diamond jewellery.

instagram.com/madiyahalsharqi

Madiyah Al Sharqi isn’t the only UAE label that’s getting some global love, Beyonce has regularly worn regional names like Lebanese fashion designer Nicolas Jebran, Jean Louis Sabaji and Beirut label Azzi & Osta – make sure to read our interview with the duo in the upcoming September issue.

Just over the weekend Hilary Swank got married in custom Elie Saab, while All Things Mochi has been worn by Queen Rania and is now stocked on Net-A-Porter.

These major moments are not only great for regional talent, but also highlight the evolving fashion scene in the Middle East.

You’ll Soon Be Able To Buy Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Wedding Car

You can’t have a wedding without ‘something blue’ and for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle it came in a shape of a Jaguar.

The happy couple sped off to their evening reception in an electric blue E-Type car which the company wants to make available to the public soon.

Jaguar made an announcement on the Instagram page and shared the news with Bloomberg, which reported that the vehicle will officially carry the name of the Jaguar E-Type Zero and will go into manufacturing in 2020. The director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, Tim Hannig told the publication that “We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-Type Zero concept.”

instagram.com/jaguar

It may look like a classic, but according to Bloomberg, it will have all the modern fittings such as an integral touchscreen and smart LED headlights.

We are yet to learn how many of these iconic cars will hit the road, but we recommend getting on the waitlist now – that is if you have around $500,000 to spare as that’s what the experts predict the motor will be valued at.

Well, if it’s good enough for the royals…

Morning Coffee With Egyptian Jewellery Designer Doaa Mohsen

Egyptian founder and designer of jewellery brand Dalseen, Doaa Mohsen, provides an exceptional service of personification and embodiment.

Growing up in Egypt, Doaa saw first-hand the unique experience of going to a jeweller to have a bespoke piece made for herself and quickly took an interest in the creative process.

Believing that jewellery is a necessity much like clothes, Dalseen reflects a Middle Eastern passion for opulence and feminine luxury.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
I drink warm lemon water, then take 5 to 10 minutes to meditate. Starting your day with a deep breathing routine and gratefulness does wonders.

How do you like to spend your evenings?
I’m very much a family girl, so I reserve my evenings for family and close friends.

What does jewellery mean to you?
It’s a symbol of love. Love for yourself or a loved one’s love for you.

Three items you can’t live without?
A white shirt, black eye liner and my Roshan everyday diamond ring.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
My clients call me and tell me how much they’re in love with their Dalseen pieces.

How would you describe your style?
Simple and elegant.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
I do some yoga and listen to music.

What really annoys you?
Lying.

If you could talk to your younger self now, what would you say?
Believe in your capability.

Tell us a fact about you that nobody knows.
I own the recipe of the best chocolate cake in the world.

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

What’s your personal motto?
Be the best at what you do.

How do you want the world to remember you?
An inspiration for Arab women.

Five Classic Fashion Pieces That You’ll Wear Forever

Trends come and go, but our top five classic fashion pieces will live in your wardrobe forever.

Chanel 2.55 Bag

This iconic bag is a dream purchase for any fashionista. The 2.55 refers to the month and the year in which Coco Chanel’s design was first introduced: February 1955.

Manolo Blahnik Pumps

The satin pumps in a variety of colours and a sparkling buckle are instantly recognisable, and are usually fast to sell out. Never look underdressed in a pair of these.

Cartier Love Bracelet

Mark a special occasion with a Cartier Love bracelet which has been seen on the wrists of many celebrities since it’s introduction in the seventies. Undone by using the special screw driver, it’s a piece of jewellery that transcends trends.

A Rolex

With so many iconic watch brands to choose from, Rolex always seems to be at the top of the list. Make sure to check out one of their biggest boutiques in the Dubai Mall fashion extension.

Yves Saint Laurent Tuxedo

Yves Saint Laurent revolutionised evening glamour when he introduced Le Smoking suit. There’s something truly unique and empowering seeing a woman in perfectly cut tuxedo, not surprising that Meghan Markle is a fan of tailoring.

Chanel To Launch It’s First Makeup Line For Men

Chanel is making a major diversity step in the world of beauty by launching it’s first makeup line for men, Boy De Chanel.

Just as Gabrielle Chanel borrowed elements from the men’s wardrobe to dress women, the fashion house draws inspiration from the women’s world to write the vocabulary of a new personal esthetic for men.

A line with midnight blue packaging and an understated design, concentrating only the essential: a foundation in four hues, a natural lip balm and an eyebrow pencil in four shades. Textures with instinctive use, imperceptible formulas and longwear you can count on for a natural result. Three confidence-boosting makeup products to perfectly and invisibly erase imperfections.

By creating Boy De Chanel, the Maison reaffirms the ever-changing codes of an unchanging vision: beauty is not a matter of gender; it is a matter of style.

10 Minutes With Laura Mercier’s Makeup Artist, James Webster

We chat to one of the leading makeup artists from team Laura Mercier, James Webster.

He shares with us his personal makeup tips, trends to try for fall and the new direction the famed beauty brand is taking.

How did you initially become interested in makeup?

Completely by accident, I actually studied law in college alongside photography. I was working with photographers on a beauty shoot and the makeup artist didn’t show up and the person I was with said I have to have a go. I never picked up a makeup brush in my life and the makeup was terrible, but I loved the whole process of it.

I love how makeup can make someone feel confident, how it’s transformative. So I got a job on a local makeup counter and I learnt so much. I went to college did a course, assisted a lot of established makeup artists and I studied everything they did. After I while, I would think to myself ‘I would go with that colour’ and then I’d see them reach for it and be like ‘I’m getting it!’

What do you think of the beauty scene in the Middle East?

Dubai ladies are definitely makeup savvy, they love beauty. The trends I’ve noticed are matte lips, glowing skin, very strong brows – but I think we’re coming away from that into natural brows. Base is key – concealers, foundations, powders – and that’s why Laura Mercier is such a great fit. You need to be cleaver with the makeup here as it’s hot, so use water based primers and longwear foundations.

Tell us about the new Translucent Loose Setting Powder Glow?

You’ll get all of the sheer 12-hour wear, but it infuses the skin with a soft focus glow, and it’s a grown up glow. It’s not shimmer, it’s like candle light on the skin. We do two shades, original and medium deep so it’s inclusive of all skin tones.

Translucent Loose Setting Powder – Glow And Glow Powder Brush.

What was the thinking behind the new Laura Mercier logo?

We really looked at what made us famous and it’s really steeped in the heritage of the brand. Laura Mercier has her roots in Paris, so we have that effortless chic vibe going through the company, but also the energy and the fast pace of New York. Laura started out in Paris, then she went to New York and everyone wanted to work with Laura. She created flawless skin. We’ve looked at our roots and tried to encompass all that DNA into the brand, so you’ll notice the new logo, new shoots, and new products like the Blush Colour Infusion. It’s an exciting time.

What is the number one makeup mistake we are making in this region?

I understand it, but there’s far too much foundation and too much concealer. I think it’s phsycological, once you start wearing literally a mask you want to put that on all the time, and it’s the same world over. Our philosophy as a brand is letting skin look like skin.

How do we get that ‘perfect’ smokey eye?

The trick is not to go straight in with dark colours. You can do a smokey eye with soft browns and caramel tones. The darkest thing on your eye should be the liner and it should be as close to the eye as possible. From there it will gradually get lighter and lighter. I don’t believe in this heavy contour crease, it doesn’t suit every eye, it can be ageing. But if you keep the depth along the eyelashes, it will work and look contemporary and fresh.

Are there any makeup trends you’re looking forward to seeing next season?

Flash of silver eyeliner. To keep it contemporary, don’t use eyeshadow, keep a clean lid and then add a flash of cream silver liner. We have a beautiful shade called Moonlight, and it’s a warm silver which is flattering. Use it along the lash line. Berries and plump lips always come back, the difference this time is that they will be more matte and you can do a bitten lip – just use your finger and pat it on.

What should a woman always carry in her bag?

Secret Camouflage Concealer. It’s actually Laura’s desert island product. She created it for herself. She had adult acne and couldn’t find anything to hide it that looked like skin, so she created it for that reason. You have the two shades and you can customise it to you. And also, a good mascara.

What’s the easiest way to transition summer makeup into fall?

It’s all about tones. The skin needs a little bit more of a coverage as the cold air will make it redder. I’d go for cosier colours on lips and eyes like berry and plump, nice caramel nudes. And then textures. In bright summer light you can wear metallics, in winter I go for softer textures. Skincare is also a big thing, so you want use richer moisturisers.

Makeup wise, name three things you love and three things that annoy you…

I love glowing skin, smokey eye and I love freckles. I hate highlighter on a ball at the end of the nose, I don’t know any makeup artist that would do it. I hate heavy foundation, it’s distracting. You should see the person before you see the makeup.

Blush Colour Infusion.

Complete the sentence. Makeup should make you feel…

Confident. It should make you feel like you, but the most beautiful version of you.

You’re hosting a beauty dinner party, which makeup artists or muses do you invite?

Obviously Laura Mercier, she has taught me so much. I love Hung Vanngo, his makeup has an edge but it’s beautifully done. Val Garland, I think she’s on the great, and Pat McGrath.

Translucent Loose Setting Powder – Glow And Glow Powder Brush and Blush Colour Infusion will be available at Sephora from September 1.

Pop Up Opens To Champion UAE-Based Designers

Why not spend some of you Eid Al-Adha getting to know some of the regional talent from the realms of fashion, jewellery and accessories?

instagram.com/ddfcdubai

The Dubai Design & Fashion Council (DDFC) has joined forces with Chalhoub Group to launch the NASMA pop-up championing UAE based creatives. Jazia Al Dhanhani, CEO of DDFC, said in a statement:

“Creating platforms that elevates and highlights local and UAE-based designers is an integral part of our mandate. The NASMA Pop Up will feature some of our most talented members, and present audiences in the UAE with the latest collections from home-grown designers.”

instagram.com/byshurooq

Throughout the months of August and September you will see such platforms housed in Galeries Lafayette, Robinsons and Tryano and have a chance to closer inspect the work from brands like Dee by Dalia, Amira Haroon, Sotra and By Shurooq.

A&E Interviews HRH Nourah Al Faisal, Founder of NUUN Jewels

A&E chats with Her Royal Highness Nourah Al Faisal, the founder jewellery brand NUUN.

Nourah Al Faisal.

It was launched in 2014 in Saudi Arabi and offers unique pieces of high jewellery with ethically sourced gemstones. In 2016, the designer joined the ranks of leading brands and opened a boutique on 71 rue du Faubourg Saint Honore in Paris.

What is your first memory of jewellery?
I can’t say I have one particular clear memory but as a child i remember playing with my mother’s rings. I loved taking them off her hands and seeing how the gemstones caught the light. I was fascinated by gemstones from an early age.

How should jewellery make a person feel?
That is such a broad question, it really depends on the context, if it is a gift it makes one feel appreciated. If its wedding ring there is a whole world of meaning involved, and if it is something one has bought for themselves then it should express something of the wearers personality. The overall emotion is love I would say.

Describe your creative space /studio?
I live and work from Riyadh and I am very lucky that my studio is right next to my home. It is a relatively new space that we have moved into recently so there is a little bit of chaos which is always good I think.

My husband is an architectural engineer so he designed and built the space to be full of light. The energy is extremely conducive to creativity. It is absolutely my happy place.

What challenges did you face starting your own jewellery brand?
Being a creative I really didn’t have the tools I needed when I was starting out I was very naive I thought it was as simple as making beautiful jewellery. Of course I have learned that there is so much more involved! Finding the balance between the business aspect and the creative is something I still struggle with but I have to say that more and more I find myself relishing the challenges of creating and evolving a jewellery house .

How would you summarise NUUN jewels in one sentence?
I’m not sure I could, on a very surface level it is simply about making limited and unique pieces of high jewellery, but it also represents a very specific point of view, that of the Saudi designer which is not I feel as available as it should be, but there are so many new talents emerging I hope that finally NUUN jewels becomes a means of showing future Saudi designers that their dreams are attainable

Where do you source your materials?
It is very important for me to know where my materials come from, and that they are sourced ethically, so I only deal with a small group of certified individuals that I have developed a professional relationship with over the years.

How has the creative scene evolved in Saudi Arabia since you launched your own jewellery line?
Saudi Arabia has always had a very strong creative community but it’s true that it has become more mainstream in recent years. Many young Saudis are looking to design as a way to create a career path for themselves, and the Saudi government is doing all it can to support these start-ups. It’s very exciting to be a part of a local design industry being established and I am looking forward to seeing the worlds reaction to our budding talents

All images courtesy of Nuun Jewels.

What other jewellery designers ,or Maison’s, do you admire?
Again broad question , so obviously I would say JAR but I’m sure everyone says that. He absolutely revolutionised the industry style and is still creating some of the most beautiful objects I have ever seen. I also love HEMMERLE, I think they have such a unique and strong style and their pieces are very beautifully made. TAFFIN is another of my favourites especially the last few years he seems to be going from strength to strength. I love NADIA MORGENTHALER. Her jewellery combines old and new in such a feminine way, and of course my dear friend THEODOROS who has made some of the most stunning pieces I have ever seen.

What is your most treasured possession?
I have two, the first is my wedding band which I was gifted this year. My original ring was unfortunately stolen, and the second is a diamond ring that was given to me by my late father from my grandmothers possessions. I was very close to them both so it holds great sentiment for me.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Trust yourself. No one knows what you are trying to achieve like you do. Take advice but in the end it is your dream. Win or lose, play by your own rules.

Please talk us through your inspiration for the latest collections.
My two latest collections are both inspired by childhood; TUTTI by my nieces childhood (the collection is named after her), and EL HADA by my own growing up in the 80’s in Saudi. We used to spend Ramadan between Taif and El Hada. They express two very different emotions, TUTTI is all about hope and the future. It is joyful and reflects a future filled with possibilities, while EL HADA is about looking back nostalgically to what is essentially a world that no longer exists. There is a melancholy that is reflected in the use of pastels that are slightly faded as are most memories.

instagram.com/nuunjewels

Do you have a favourite quote?
What you think you become, what you feel you attract, what you imagine you create.

Who do you turn to for advice?
My family and close friends.

What are you working on next?
I am just finishing up a new collection that we are launching in September, as well as working on some private commissions. We are also preparing for some upcoming exhibitions. There is also a new venture in Saudi we are working on that I am very excited about and can’t wait to share with the world, but not till it is ready.

Complete this sentence : I am happy when…
I am happy when I am most productive.

How To Work Masculine Tailoring Like Blake Lively

Blake Lively has never been a wallflower when it comes to her fashion choices, and her recent outing was no different.

The actress looked glamorous in a neon green Versace suit combined with a knit top in the same tone, all from the SS19 Men Collection –just shows that borrowing from the boys is always a good idea.

The she paired her three-piece with rhinestone-covered Christian Louboutin shoes, fuschia lips and aquamarine Lorraine Schwartz jewellery.

instagram.com/blakelively

The 30-year-old has just begun her press tour for her soon-to-be released film, A Simple Favour, so we expect to see even more standout outfits in weeks to come.

If you had any doubt that highlighter hues were trending, then this is your proof.

Fabulous Things To Do In Dubai Over Eid Al-Adha

Why venture beyond sunny Dubai this Eid Al-Adha when there is so much going on in town.

Okay, the weather might not be in our favour but let’s embrace the fact that the 100% humidity stint is over and we can actually spend a little bit of time outside, which for those planning to see one of the many firework displays is great news.

Here are our top picks of what to do over the long break.

La Perle by Dragone, Al Habtoor City

Great evening out for families, La Perle by Dragone water show is packed with stunts and jaw-dropping performances, and over Eid they are offering half price tickets for bookings of four to 10 people.

Crazy Fish, DIFC

Following a recent refurbishment, Crazy Fish offers a Mediterranean escape among the hustle and bustle of DIFC. Born in Monte Carlo, expect the freshest fish flown in from Mediterranean ports at least three times a week, standout cocktails and the joyful Italian atmosphere in an elegant setting.

The Beach, JBR

Starting from Wednesday, the Beach at JBR will be packed with people watching one the best firework displays in town. Although there are three nights to choose from, we would still suggest getting there early and picking a spot at one of the many beachside restaurants.

One & Only, The Palm

If you’re looking for an escape which is just a short drive away, then Only & Only resort on the Palm is for you. Offering discounted room rates, unwind in a tranquil setting and still catch one of the many firework shows from the beach at JBR.

Balqees at Dragon Mart 2

Fancy a free concert? Arab star Balqees will be performing at Dragon Mart 2 on the 24 August at 7.30pm. Get ready to shake it.

Babel, La Mer

Celebrate Eid Al Adha at the newly opened Babel at La Mer, an award-winning progressive Lebanese concept, with an array of seafood specialities. Feast on a lavish spread of Mediterranean classics, paired with an intimate fine-dining setting where food, service, ambiance and excellence, through quality, come together.

You Won’t Find These Malone Souliers Shoes Anywhere Else

Treat yourself this Eid Al-Adha with a sparkling new pair of shoes.

MALONE SOULIERS.

Luxury e-commerce platform The Modist has launched an exclusive capsule collection of four styles, designed by cult shoe brand Malone Souliers.

Featuring their signature silhouettes with double-straps across the foot and elegantly pointed toes, the four shoes in the ‘Maureen’ and ‘Mika’ styles are crafted in super-soft, iridescent jewel tones velvets for FW18.

“Malone Souliers has been a strong partner of The Modist since our launch, and we are happy to see this exclusive collection come to life,” says Ghizlan Guenez, Founder and CEO of The Modist.

“Velvet remains a strong and timeless trend and the four exclusive colourways we carry are bold, will elevate any modest outfit and are perfectly in line with what our customer looks for on The Modist,” she adds.

The exclusive, limited edition capsule styles are available to shop online now only at www.TheModist.com.

It’s All About Platform Sneakers

Thanks to the likes of Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga, extreme sneakers have officially been dominating the footwear category, and the bigger the platform the better.

Other designers are catching on and many have chosen to a high platform silhouettes, which means your daily debate between sneakers and heels have got a lot more easier.

Before you think that this is a step too far, consider brands like Chloe who manage to maximise the platforms, but in a subtle way that doesn’t overwhelm.

If you need any more proof, or just keen to replicate Gigi Hadid’s off duty look, click through the gallery above.

Gigi Hadid Visits The World’s Largest Refugee Camp

In June, Gigi Hadid announced that she will be working with UNICEF and over the weekend she embarked on a humanitarian trip to the world’s largest refugee camp.

instagram.com/gigihadid

The half-Palestinian model met some of Rohingya Muslim refugees in Bangladesh including children in Cox’s Bazaar’s Jamtoli Refugee Camp and shared her journey on Instagram:

“Across all the camps, 1.3 million people currently require humanitarian assistance, more than half of them are children. From January-July of 2018, UNICEF has enrolled 91,929 refugee children in emergency non-formal education, trained 2,762 teachers to support improved learning for refugee children,” she writes.

The next day, Gigi visited the ‘Women/Girl Friendly’ zones in the Jamtoli Camp: a safe place for women, young and old, to come learn basic education as well as personal hygiene, skills such as sewing, and also a place where they can share and connect with other women.

instagram.com/gigihadid

As well seeing how UNICEF is supporting families, the 23-year-old showed her 40 million followers a football game with some of the children and wrote:

“As well as psychosocial work to help them get through trauma through activities like art, they also can play sports, learn music, and learn to read & draw (some for the first time in their lives). Separate from educational spaces, the importance of these spaces is huge due to the fact that refugee children can spend a majority of the day working, usually collecting fire wood from miles away so their families can cook, taking care of siblings, helping around the house, etc., and here they can just focus on having fun!”

Partnering with the United Nations Children’s Fund Initiative, Gigi hopes to raise support for the 1.3 million people that are in need of humanitarian aid.

Priyanka Chopra And Nick Jonas Confirm Engagement With Roka Ceremony

Priyanka Chopra And Nick Jonas have officially confirmed their engagement by having a traditional Roka ceremony with their families in Mumbai.

Priyanka Chopra Nick Jonas roka engaged mumbai

instagram.com/priyankachopra

On her Instagram account, the Hollywood star shared romantic moments from the day to which she wore a yellow salwar-kameez, while her fiancée was dressed in a traditional kurta-pyjama suit.

instagram.com/priyankachopra

The 36-year-old actress posted a sweet moment between her and Jonas with a caption reading: “Taken… With all my heart and soul.”

The 25-year-old ‘Jealous’ singer re-posted the same image with a caption: “The future Mrs Jonas. My heart. My love.”

instagram.com/priyankachopra

We also had a better look at her ring which we suspect was purchased at Tiffany & Co. in London as it’s been reported that Jonas had the whole store shut for him. He then proposed on her 36^th birthday in the British capital.

instagram.com/priyankachopra

The Roka ceremony, pre-wedding tradition for Indian families, was a symbolic event of the two families coming together, and the beginning of a new chapter for the happy couple.

Men’s New Season Bag Edit

One of our go-to online retailers have recently launched menswear and we edited some of the best new season bags to shop now.

The Luxury e-store Moda Operandi is known for allowing their customers to shop straight off the runway, but they are also pretty good at spotting the ‘It’ items for now.

New season means a wardrobe overhaul and you can choose from leading brands like Bally, Loewe, Givenchy and Burberry to complete you work, travel and weekend look.

Click through the gallery above and choose your new wow piece.

Six Inspiring Quotes From Aretha Franklin

Legendary singer Aretha Franklin passed away aged 76.

Diagnosed with cancer in 2010, ‘The Queen of Soul’ is without doubt one of the greatest performers the world has ever known. Her ability to move people with her voice has won her 18 Grammy awards among many other accolades.

The career that spanned seven decades saw the “Respect” star sing at three presidential inaugurations and sell more than 80 million records worldwide.

Barack Obama once said that no other musician “embodies the connection between the African-American spiritual, the blues, R&B, rock and roll – the way that hardship and sorrow were transformed into something full of beauty and vitality and hope. American history wells up when Aretha sings.”

Not only did Franklin make an impact with her unique voice and iconic songs, she was also outspoken about the industry and her personal life. Below we pick some of her most inspiring quotes.

“Everybody wants respect,” she said to Rolling Stone in 2014. “In their own way, three-year-olds would like respect, and acknowledgment, in their terms.”

“It’s the rough side of the mountain that’s the easiest to climb; the smooth side doesn’t have anything for you to hang on to,” she told Ebony in 1964.

“We can all learn a little something from each other, so whatever people can take and be inspired by where my music is concerned is great,” Franklin told Time in 2017.

“Trying to grow up is hurting. You make mistakes. You try to learn from them, and when you don’t, it hurts even more.”

“Sometimes, what you’re looking for is already there.”

“I will always be singing somewhere.”

The funeral for Aretha Franklin will be held August 31 in Detroit, according to the singer’s publicist, Gwendolyn Quinn.

Top 10 Picks From Billionaire FW18 Collection

From St Moritz and Aspen to Kitzbuhel and Courchevel, Billionaire’s FW18 collection is for the jet-setter man, dressed to stand out in a crowd.

Combining protection from the cold climate but never compromising on ultra-quality and style, daywear features thick-knit Norwegian-style jumpers, puffer jackets made from shaved mink with cashmere lining and boots equipped with metal hardware.

Shirting is constructed from beautiful silks and decorated in micro-design geometric patterns and, for moments of sheer opulence, there are python trenches and bombers, and full-length overcoats in mink and silver fox.

Eveningwear includes a burgundy velvet evening jacket with quilted detailing, a striped two-way sequined tailored jacket, shawl-collared cocktail jackets with gold frog-fasteners and completed by velvet slippers with gold embroidered chevron motifs.

With so much to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 10 in the gallery above.

Available in stores across the Middle East.

Eight Emirati Designers Are Heading To London Design Fair

Eight Emirati designers are set to travel to London to showcase their interpretations of UAE’s nomadic roots.

Following the success at Milan at Salone Del Mobile in April, Dubai Design District has set a new brief for the second chapter of UAE Design Stories: The Next Generation from the Emirates entitled ‘Objects of the Past: Today’.

It tasks eight selected designers to interpret pieces from the archives into modern day pieces, taking their inspirations from the UAE’s earliest residents.

Mohammad Saeed al Shehhi, CEO at d3, : “We are proud to be a part of London Design Fair again this year, and to showcase our country’s heritage through the works of our local designers.”

The designers will bring to life products and pieces using modern day design methodologies and processes, and present contemporary interpretations of items that held great value to those nomadic families for whom travelling through deserts and oceans was an integral part of life.

The selected creatives include architect Abdalla Almulla; jewellery designer Alia Bin Omair; interior designers Alia Mazrooei and Rouda Al Shamsi; multi-disiplinary designer Aljoud Lootah; sculpture and product designer Azza Al Qubaisi; interdisciplinary designer Salem Mansoor and multidisciplinary Bedouin artist Ahmad AlAreef.

His Excellency Sheikh Salem Khalid Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Knowledge Development, said: “The Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development is keen to support initiatives such as this one that highlight the richness of the UAE’s cultural and creative landscape to a global audience.

After London, the exhibition will travel to Paris as part of the UAE-France Cultural Dialogue programme, before returning to Dubai for Dubai Design Week from 12 to 17 November.

The second chapter of UAE Design Stories: The Next Generation from the Emirates at the London Design Fair is set to run from 20 to 23 September in the Old Truman Brewery.

Pick of The Week: Maxi Clutch Bags

Clutches are classic, but the spin next season is to supersize them.

Giant ones were seen all over the runway during FW18 Fashion Week, especially at Chanel. Why? These chunky accessories are a fresh update on your work tote.

If you’re anything like us at A&E, then you know the hassle of having to pack an evening bag with you carry-all if you have a dinner date straight after work.

Solution is to embrace the oversized clutches that will fit everything you need, without looking too bulky under your arm. Not convinced? Kendall Jenner managed to pair her LBD with an enormous beauty from Prada and still looked polished.

One of our top picks is the Calvin Klein 205W39NYC clutch that has a deceivingly slim silhouette. The expandable design can carry more than just the bare essentials, while the graphic effect adds a wow factor to your tailored attire.

For a vintage feel, that is also surprisingly comforting, grab the beige floral-jacquard bag from Simone Rocha. The casual and sack-like shape offers a great variety of wear, taking you from work to weekend.

Click through the gallery above for other clutch bags that are going to be literally ‘big’ next season.