Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

On Our Radar: Alexandre Vauthier

With couture experience and celebrity fans like Bella Hadid, Alexandre Vauthier is fast becoming one of our favourite designers for fabulous eveningwear.

This season, he has embraced the 80’s with mini dresses with statement shoulders and sleeves – pure glamour. He has also collaborated with Amina Muaddi on a striking shoe collection featuring diamanté-buckled stilettos.

Known for alluring statement pieces with easy-to-wear potential, such as metallic mini dresses and head-turning gowns, he gained his experience at various couture house before launching his first eponymous collection at Paris fashion week in 2009.

Vauthier joined the design studio of Thierry Mugler after graduation, who supported him and taught him thoroughness of the construction of the garment.

Later he joined Jean-Paul Gaultier as head designer of the couture collection. This eight-year-long experience boosted his desire to fully express himself through his own collection.

His natural need of preciseness and rigor and his radical cuts is expressed through a style inspired by his French culture and his Anglo-Saxon influences. He effortlessly blends romance with an anarchic spirit creating striking statement pieces made for the midnight hour.

More often than not, Vauthier centres his collections around a dramatic colour palette of black, gold and red, championing form-flattering silhouettes, opulent fabrics and sparkling embellishments. With fans like Kendall Jenner, Cara Delevingne and Rita Ora, the designer started to expand his universe.

The partnership with Mauddi was a natural next step, offering clients something pretty to go with their dresses. The footwear collections fuses the designer’s love for intricate detailing with luxurious fabrics. Each pair is made in Italy and embellished with everything from dramatic bow ties to light-catching Swarovski crystals.

His architectural aesthetic and modern take on opulence delivers a sense of regal sensibility, which is so perfect for a special occasion.

Margot Robbie, Nicole Kidman and Charlize Theron to Star in a #MeToo Film

A high profile cast will star in an upcoming film based on a Fox News #MeToo scandal which saw network’s president Roger Ailes step down in 2016.

Margot Robbie.

Margot Robbie, Nicole Kidman and Charlize Theron have all signed up to a movie currently titled Fair and Balanced – referencing to the channels slogan it used up until 2017.

“Emmy-winning Big Little Lies star Nicole Kidman as Gretchen Carlson and Charlize Theron as fellow former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly, who left the network after claiming that she too had faced harassment,” Digital Spy reports.

They add, “Robbie will play a fictionalised associate Fox News producer who is an amalgamation of real-life figures who worked with both Carlson and Kelly behind the scenes.”

Nicole Kidman.

Though the scandal predated the allegations which surfaced against Harvey Weinstein at the end of 2016, it is seen as one of the key moments that prompted the #MeToo movement.

Charlize Theron

How to Get Flawless Eyebrows Every Day

Benefit Cosmetics and their regional brow artist, Menat El Abd, are back with another easy brow tutorial.

Benefit Cosmetics brows tutorial middle east

Menat El Abd.

For every day, we like to keep things easy and the below guide offers two steps to everyday perfectly groomed eyebrows.

It also showcases Benefit’s new Hello Happy Foundation that offers plenty of coverage without blocking pores. The size also makes it an ideal product to pop in your bag for touch ups throughout the day.

The foundation application is the easiest, just add a bit and blend with your hands. Your fingertips are the best tools for an even result.

Then Grab your Goof Proof Brow Pencil and start first by brushing the brows using the spoolie brush to identify any gaps. Then apply soft hair strokes to fill in the gaps and to thicken the brows. Don’t forget to always brush after you’re done to blend any harsh lines.

Lock in and volumize those brows by using Gimme Brow+. Now not only are your brows filled in, but they look volumized and thick.

Beyoncé is the First Star To Rock Riccardo Tisci’s New Burberry

Beyoncé wore head to toe Burberry check for the latest leg of her On The Run II tour.

instagram.com/burberry

Riccardo Tisci, new creative director of the British fashion house, has been keeping quiet about his vision since appointment in March, only recently revealing the new logo and monogram.

Beyoncé’s custom-made tour ensemble is the first major celebrity moment for him and the new Burberry, and it’s bold. It featured a bodysuit, hooded cropped jacket, gloves, a pair of thigh-high boots and sunglasses all decorated in the iconic heritage print.

instagram.com/burberry

Arguably, the singer has been enjoying one of her most fashionable tours to date wearing bespoke looks from Balmain and even a Valentino gown straight from the recent couture runway show.

Tisci will present his debut collection for Burberry in September during London Fashion Week.

Shoe Fans, You’re About to Have the Best Week Ever

Luxury online retailer Moda Operandi launches Shoe Week.

Jimmy Choo on Moda Operandi

From today, the platform will host seven footwear trunkshows including exclusive and never-before-seen pairs to add to your collection.

You can place orders for Jimmy Choo and Francesco Russo’s Resort 2019 collections, as well as a dazzling exclusive capsule from Rene Caovilla. Jodi Kaplan, VP Non-Apparel at Moda Operandi, said in a statement:

“In true Moda Operandi style we are doing this through a series of trunk shows, presenting collections from leading brands such as Jimmy Choo, before they are available anywhere else, as well as exclusive capsules and curated edits.”

Jimmy Choo on Moda Operandi

Here is the breakdown of trunkshows to jot down in your diary:

August 6 is all about Jimmy Choo

August 7 has been dedicated to emerging names like A by Anabelle, Stella Luna and Saptodjojokartiko.

August 8 will showcase the most daring and fashionable styles from the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Giuseppe Zanotti and Prada. You can also shop the Rene Caovilla capsule.

August 9 Moda Operandi aims to prove that mules are here to stay with their edit of the best styles from the likes of Tabitha Simmons, Rochas and Alexandre Birman.

August 10 will present the most popular sneaker trends from luxury and streetwear brands, including No. 21, Common Projects and Off White ℅ Virgil Abloh. Moda will also drop the Francesco Russo capsule on this day.

As the saying goes, you can never have too many pairs of shoes.

This Is How Meghan Markle Celebrated Her First Birthday As A Royal

On her 37^th birthday, the spotlight was not on Meghan Markle, much.

The Duchess of Sussex celebrated her first birthday as a royal in a company of her husband Prince Harry and their close friends, but it was for a whole other occasion.

The pair attended the wedding of Charlie von Straubenzee and Daisy Jenks in Surrey. Meghan chose a pleated Club Monaco dress that she styled with a Philip Treacy fascinator, Kayu clutch bag and Aquazzura black pumps.

While Prince Harry looked vert much loved up with his wife, he had best man duties to attend to. We also spotted Princess Eugenie with fiance Jack Brooksbanks, the pair are due to get married in Westminster Abbey in October, and there are rumours that Kate Middleton and Prince William were also in attendance but they were not pictured at the ceremony.

Meghan also shares her birthday with the late Queen Mother which we are Queen Elizabeth II marked in her own special way.

Banish ‘Bad Skin Baggage’ With Charlotte Tilbury’s New Collection

Charlotte Tilbury is launching a new complexion collection for the perfect looking skin day, every day.

instagram.com/ctilburymakeup

If you’ve had a chance to visit the beauty emporium in the Dubai Mall, you’ll know that Tilbury understands the importance and confidence-boosting mentality of a flawless looking complexion.

Unfortunately we don’t ‘wake up like this’, so Tilbury decided to formulate a collection that minimizes the look of what she calls ‘bad skin baggage’.

A dull, tired complexion that comes from exposure to stress, blue screens and pollution can easily be tamed with her new Magic Away Liquid Concealer. She said in a statement:

“I always say, ‘What’s the difference to my day… Magic Away…’ because it instantly makes me feel like the most powerful, flawless, poreless-looking version of myself.”

instagram.com/ctilburymakeup

Charlotte Tilbury has been working on the holy grail of concealers for years; a trusted miracle stick that is the solution to help cover skin issues in one swipe. Magic Away is designed to reduces the appearance of dark circles, pigmentation, redness, blemishes and imperfections.

“There has been nothing I’ve found like this on the market, until now! It targets the spots that need concealing, stretches over areas you want to appear smooth and helps covers up tricky red patches,” she explains.

She will also be launching Charlotte’s Genius Magic Powder which is a light-diffusing loose texture that blurs, reduces dark shadows and features ingredients that help to boost radiance.

“It’s magic! It’s an ethereal veil of youth that sets makeup, illuminates and adds a textured look to the skin. I call it my cauldron of Charlotte’s Genius Magic Powder,” says Tilbury.

Dream complexion is only a few weeks away as both products are due to drop in store this September.

Molly Goddard Is Launching a Sustainbale Bag Line

One of our favourite British designers, Molly Goddard, is launching a line of handbags.

instagram.com/mollygoddard

The range of tote bags will feature a check print, regularly used her collections, and will be one of the steps towards sustainability for the brand.

She is collaborating with Bags of Ethics, which crafts reusable bags with cotton farming communities in India, and these will be available during London Fashion Week Festival from September 20.

Since launching her label in 2015, Goddard has won the hearts of the fashion crowd for her feminine designs and wild use of ruffles, tulle, voluminous silhouettes and sugary pastel shades.

instagram.com/mollygoddard

Her whimsical creations are often inspired by nostalgic themes, but at the same time feel fresh and modern. With only three years in the business, she has won several awards and funding to grow her label on a global scale, which can be shopped on platforms like matchesfashion.com.

Make sure to follow our fashion week coverage of the SS19 shows, with Goddard scheduled to present in London on September 15.

Moda Operandi Style Guide to a Luxury Eid Al-Adha Getaway

It’s time to revive those holiday clothes and invest in hot staple pieces that are perfect for your Eid Al-Adha getaway.

Moda Operandi created a bespoke edit for key destinations to make your escape relaxing, and extra stylish.

WHERE: Asbury Park, New Jersey, USA

Once a haven for the wealthy and fabulous, the artsy seaside town is set to make a comeback thanks to a series of investments. The best part? It’s only 90 minutes from New York City by train or ferry.

TO DO: Cycle along the boardwalk to brunch at Cardinal Provisions. If the weather isn’t great, head to Asbury Lanes, the newly refurbished bowling-alley-turned-music-venue. Bruce Springsteen (he’s a local) will be playing at their opening party.

WEAR

Loewe jeans, Off-White shoes, Eve Denim jeans.

WHERE: Uruguay

Dubbed The Hamptons for the Buenos Aires crowd, this rural yet luxe South American beach town is steeped in the bohemian charm that made Tulum so coveted among creatives.

DO: Relax and recharge with a daily yoga class at The Shack Yoga (outdoorsy types may prefer horseback riding on the beach). Make the easy trip—by boat—to La Caracola island and spend the day eating and drinking in one of their luxe beach cabanas.

WEAR

Dolce & Gabbana dress, Bottega Veneta bag, Love Shack Fancy dress.

WHERE: Naxos, Greece

White-wash houses, check. Instagram-worthy views, check. Romantic vibes, check, check: this tiny island in the South Aegean Sea is a (tourist-free) Mediterranean paradise.

DO: You’re in Greece, so a trip to the ruins is in order. Make sure the temple to Apollo and Panagia Drosiani (an ancient stone church with historic carvings and paintings) are on your list.

WEAR

Givenchy dress, Bottega Veneta dress and slides, Prada clutch.

WHERE: Amanwana, Indonesia

If you’ve read our Destination Edits before, you know we’re rather partial to an Aman resort. Why? They’re seriously luxurious without ever feeling ostentatious—and come with world-class spas to boot.

DO: See a modern-day dinosaur up close. This is the only place in the world where you can find Komodo dragons (you’ve seen them on Blue Planet) in their natural habitat. How to get there? The hotel will arrange the details—all you have to do is hop on the boat.

WEAR

Loewe bag, Off-White shorts, Prada blouse, Marni dress.

Heatproof Hair Accessories

When summer gets too much, these hair accessories will come to your rescue.

Humidity and persistent heat means limp, dull and flat locks. Luckily, designers have been working extra hard to create grips, clips and bands to decorate even the frizziest of tresses.

The barrette is one of favourite go-to’s this season as it offers something for day at night. Keep it simple for your coffee run with a gold slide like the Versace version in our edit, and in the evening add a sparkly decorated version for a wow factor.

You can try to fight it, but scrunchies are back and surprisingly they look super stylish in a messy up-do. Avoid the overly girly options and look for rich colours, modern prints or classic black.

Crocodile, or claw, clips are also back and are the best things to quickly get the hair off your neck. Use for half-up half-down styles, and make sure to push it up to give the crown of your head some volume.

Click through the gallery above for our top hair accessories to see if through the hot months with zero fuss.

HALM Just Made a Luxury Bag Right Here in the UAE

Luxury bag brand HALM unveils the ETHOS by HALM range, a new line of luxe limited edition capsule collection fully designed and made in the UAE.

The label itself was founded in the region and has been praised for using natural leathers that changes over time making these bags truly unique to their owner.

HALM used unique UAE craftsmanship to showcase their contemporary design, through minimalist silhouettes exuding an effortless laid back style and attitude that transcends trends and seasons. These limited-edition pieces can also be customized with embellishment.

Top pick from the latest release? The Bento Bag Pack comes in the brand’s signature Avo Green hue and is made out of full grain leather. Designed to be worn in seven different ways thanks to the adaptable straps, it’s perfect for you Eid getaway.

See the multi-functional backpack in action above, and shop the collection on halmonline.com.

Burberry and Riccardo Tisci Unveil The New Logo and Monogram

Burberry is going through a Riccardo Tisci makeover with a new logo and monogram.

instagram.com/burberry

It has been 20 years since the British brand changed their look, and it’s all in time for Tisci’s first collection which will be shown during London Fashion Week in September.

The new modern design pays tribute to Thomas Burberry, the founder, by using the first letters of his name and interlocking them in a colour palette of orange, white and honey.

instagram.com/burberry

Burberry and the new creative director collaborated with Peter Saville on the monogram which, according to an email chain, took four weeks to create. Understandably, Saville was worried about the time frame, this was a historical change for the house after all.

“Peter is one of our generation’s greatest design geniuses. I’m so happy to have collaborated together to reimagine the new visual language for the house,” Tisci said in a statement.

instagram.com/burberry

Saville was also behind the new logo, a bolder sharper alternative to the previous look, which will appear across all the Burberry channels and advertising campaigns from today.

We are excited for this #newera and will be bringing you all the coverage from the show taking place on September 17.

A&E Edits: Summer Plaids

If you want to invest in a power-print that you’ll wear season after season, then classic plaid is for you.

This summer it looks particularly pretty in various bold hues, elegantly replacing the muted greys and browns. Emilio Pucci’s bright pink blazer is perfect for day and night, while Tomas Maier 60’s dress will also tick the ‘yellow trend’ box.

Keep this print micro for a modern feel, and avoid any heavy fabrics. Miu Miu dress brings a touch of sensuality with a satin bodice and a lace trim on the skirt. Jumpsuits are coming back strong this and next season, and Brunello Cucinelli delivers undone tailoring that you can rock with both sneakers and heels.

Click through the gallery for more of our summer friendly plaid pieces that will see you through to Fall.

Gigi Hadid and Co Celebrate Strong Women With Reebok

Gigi Hadid stars in a powerful campaign alongside newly engaged Ariana Grande, Black Panther’s Danai Gurira and the Wonder Woman herself, Gal Gadot.

Global fitness leader Reebok launched a multi-faceted campaign celebrating women who are helping bring positive change to the world – each in their own unique way.

Game of Thrones Nathalie Emmanuel and CrossFit athlete Katrin Davidsdottir are also part of the brands Be More Human movement, which encourages people to be the best possible version of themselves physically, mentally and socially.

“Being more human is realizing that no one wakes up feeling like a superhero,” Hadid explains. “You have to find things on a daily basis that inspire you and that make you feel like you want to get out in the world and make a difference.”

With this campaign, Reebok is not only revisiting its heritage of being a women’s-focused brand, but more importantly celebrating strong women with powerful voices, who are inspiring others to action – at a time when action is needed. Gurira said:

“We stand on the shoulders of others. Make your shoulders strong enough for others to stand on. There is nothing more powerful than women celebrating each other. The connection of sisterhood, to me, is profoundly crucial to how we can actually self-empower, through seeing each other’s greatness, through validating the other, being the rock to another, you are actually empowering yourself as you empower one another.”

See all the campaign images above.

Sweet Family Moments Captured for Calvin Klein’s Latest Kardashian Sisters Campaign

The Kardashian/ Jenner sisters have once again posed for the Calvin Klein denim and underwear campaign.

instagram.com/calvinklein

Shot in March by longtime Raf Simons collaborator, Willy Vanderperre, it shows Kylie Jenner one month after having her daughter Stormi, and Khloé Kardashian who was one month away from giving birth to True.

The brand posted a series of black and white imagery on social media, as well as videos from the shoot that captured the sweet moments between the sisters.

instagram.com/calvinklein

“Our family makes us who we are: @kimkardashian, @kendalljenner, @kourtneykardash, @kyliejenner and @khloekardashian are family, and so are you. The sisters are featured in the #Fall2018 #CALVINKLEINJEANS and #CALVINKLEINUNDERWEAR campaign. Discover new styles, including the heritage-inspired Monogram underwear at calvinklein.com/mycalvins,” the brand wrote on their Instagram, page.

instagram.com/calvinklein

The campaign aims to capture the strength of family and the importance of sisterhood, and who is better to translate this than the most famous American family.

Hip Hop Legends Inspire Dubai-Based Lama Jouni’s FW18 Collection

One of the leading Dubai-based designers Lama Jouni unveiled her FW18 collection inspired by hip hop legends.

Loved by Bella Hadid among other fashionistas, Jouni has found the balance between contemporary lines and undone tailoring with elements of sport and street wear.

Named Minimal Ghetto, the collection takes inspiration from 90’s ear of hip hop and stars of that time such as Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G.

As a result, jackets are boxy with deep square pockets. The trousers have an undone fit with cargo references, but still retain the sharp lines giving the whole ensemble a polished finish.

Square buckles add an accent to separates, especially the open back top with multi straps. For a touch of elegance, there is a strapless gown and fluid elongated jackets.

She kept the colours in muted navy and grey tones with a touch of dusty pink. For this line, Jouni also collaborated with Kodak International on a series of tops featuring bright yellow logo. According to the release, the designer was inspired photo of Tupac in front of a Kodak store.

Milan Fashion Week SS19: Dolce & Gabbana

Pure Italiana exploded onto the Dolce & Gabbana SS19 runway with tributes to Sicily, Naples and Capri.

Today felt like a big day for the brand, Stefano even declared an Instagram detox weeks before the show which celebrated the houses DNA with a flourish of dazzling creations and impressive prints.

“Our DNA is clearly Italian and our roots run deep in Italy. You can only envisage and build a future if you know who you are and where you come from. Italy is not just a deep source of inspiration, but the starting point for all our projects. It also became a symbol in the world, together with Sicily, in particular. Sicily is a beacon of richness in traditions, colours, village parades, and especially the passion that people nurture within themselves. We will never be tired at rivisiting this magical land – nor physically neither in mind,” said Domenico Dolce in our interview for the April issue.

Out came the flowing gowns, separates and accessories in floral, Majolica and polka dot print – one dress worn by friend of the brand Monica Bellucci– alongside the dramatic black body hugging dresses, Venetian embroidery, plenty of lace and exquisite baroque tailoring.

“People now seek for history, tradition, family – it is not just about fashion and clothing. People pursue realism, a dream everybody can dream about. This we think is a precious opportunity to tell a story about our background, the pleasure to be Italian. Our style codes include embroidery, the black dress, black suits with a corset, among many others,” added Stefano Gabbana in our April interview.

They played with sensuality and masculinity, with prints and fabrics in a vibrant and joyful way. We also saw some emphasis on streetwear with logo sneakers that have proved popular among the younger clientele.

What was truly inspiring to see is the diversity of ages, ethnicity and body shapes on the runway, the Dolce & Gabbana family that everyone can be part of. Could you realistically wear all of the pieces showcased? Why not, something about fashion has to be fun.

As Stefano put it; ‘This is the style of Dolce & Gabbana. It speaks of Italy, but in all the languages of the world.’

Jennifer Lopez Gives Us a Lesson In Summer Boots

Jennifer Lopez stepped out in an over-knee pair of denim boots from the Versace Resort 2019 collection.

instagram.com/versace

The singer must be riding high, thigh high to be exact, after it was announced that she will receive the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards later on this month.

While in New York, she was seen rocking a pair of jeans as boots that featured a mid heel and leather straps with signature Versace logo in gold. She styled with a white maxi shirt as well as a pair of large mirrored sunglasses, hoop earrings and an eye-catching Hermes Birkin bag.

Fancy pulling on a pair of boots yourself? Our advice is to go for ankle grazing silhouettes, but if you want to do it like ‘Jenny from the block’ then look for lightweight fabrics such as denim or stretch fabric.

instagram.com/versace

Wonder what Lopez will wear to receive her award? Make sure to watch the VMA’s on August 20.

San Francisco to Host First Major Muslim Fashion Exhibition

Dolce & Gabbana Abay collection.

San Francisco’s de Young Museum of Fine Art have revealed plans for an exciting exhibit to take place in September.

Titled Contemporary Muslim Fashions, it will run for six months showcasing the largest display of garments by Muslim and European designers – from traditional dress to modern street and sportswear.

Zeina Nassar for Nike.

Many of the names taking part have fused the traditional sensibility of dressing with modern techniques and tricks to make their pieces not only modest, but extremely fashionable.

Striving to challenge common misconceptions, expect to see Dolce & Gabbana’s take on the hijab as well as Nike’s fitness friendly version that has been a huge success all over the world.

Faiza Bouguessa

Eid and Ramadan kaftan collections by the likes of Oscar de la Renta will also be on display, while familiar local names like Faiza Bouguessa will present the high-end abayas alongside other key designers from the region. Director of the museum, Max Hollein, said in a statement:

“There are those who believe that there is no fashion at all among Muslim women, but the opposite is true, with modern, vibrant, and extraordinary fashion scenes, particularly in many Muslim-majority countries.”

If you’re heading over to the US for New York Fashion Week, hop on a plane to California to check out the exhibit from September 22.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Joint Monogram Revealed

The Duke and the Duchess of Sussex now have their own official monogram.

It has been designed with the first letters of their names with a coronet (a small crown) placed above in a deep blue shade.

The world first had a glimpse of it on an Australian morning show yesterday. It was printed on a thank you note and signed by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Few weeks ago, Kensington Palace unveiled Meghan’s coat of arms featuring many elements that are personal to her such as blue background used on the shield that represents the Pacific Ocean off the California coast, while the two golden rays across the shield are symbolic of the sunshine of her home-state.

Meghan Markle’s and Prince Harry’s Joint Monogram coat of arms

twitter.com/kensingtonroyal

It also featured the coronet that has been used in the monogram. ‘Coronet laid down by a Royal Warrant of 1917 for the sons and daughters of the Heir Apparent. It is composed of two crosses patée, four fleurs-de-lys and two strawberry leaves,’ the palace announced at the time.

Instagram.com/kensingtonroyal

The newlyweds have been busy with various royal engagements and events, with another due to take place on August 4 when the pair will attend the wedding of Prince Harry’s school friend.

It is rumoured that Kate Middleton and Prince William will also be in attendance this Saturday, which consequently is the same day as Meghan’s 37^th birthday, her first as the Duchess of Sussex.

The day will also hold a special meaning for the Queen as it’s the same day as her the late Queen Mother’s – Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon – birthday who passed away in 2002.

Giorgio Armani’s Filmmaking Course Is Now Open to Applicants Around The World

This year’s Giorgio Armani filmmaking course will be open to applicants from around the world, and have Luca Guadagnino leading the project.

Last week, Salvatore Ferragamo announced a new course for budding shoe designers and now it’s the turn of another iconic Italian brand to reveal the second instalement of the Armani/Laboratorio Project – an intensive filmmaking program.

Taking place in Milan later this year, the 10-day curriculum will be free and cover eight subjects, such as directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, production design, costume design, make-up and hair styling, all taught by leaders in the film industry.

Giorgio Armani FW18

The Oscar-nominated director Luca Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Name and A Bigger Splash) will oversee the course that will focus on ‘growth, identity, the new world of women’. In a statement, Armani said:

“Cinema, like fashion, enchants us with the use of images. It’s the product of team work in which the end result depends on everyone’s contribution. Armani/Laboratorio is my idea of a ‘film atelier’ where stories are created by students working together with guidance and support from the most highly skilled key players in the industry.”

At the end, a lucky handful of students will create a film, and with last year’s creation being screened during the Giorgio Armani FW2018 show, it could potentially mean great exposure and strong first step in a film career.

Sounds good? Make sure to apply by October 2.

Dinner Parties Made Stylish With Emilia Wickstead’s Home Collection

Your next dinner party is going to win some serious style points with the help of Emilia Wickstead’s first homeware collection, launching exclusively with Moda Operandi.

Few weeks ago, we interviewed Lauren Santo Domingo (founder of Moda Operandi) where she expressed the importance of designers expanding into a lifestyle brands, and looks like the British label has seen the significance of this step.

Emilia Wickstead with Ruth Chapman and India Hicks.
instagram.com/emiliawickstead

The collection, inspired by Emilia’s fascination with table placement and love of vivacious dinner parties, includes Italian table linens (cloths, napkins and placemats), alongside beautiful Murano glassware in signature dusty pink and limoncello hues.

“I designed it around my love of entertaining, translating Emilia Wickstead signatures into tabletop with dresses to match,” she said in a statement. “To quote one of my muses, Diana Vreeland: “It’s not about the dress you wear, but it’s about the life you lead in the dress”. I’m a strong believer that living well never goes out of fashion.”

Fabrics take inspiration from previous collections and come in whimsical, chintzy prints or with pale pink border trims. Further inspiration is drawn from the exuberant style of Dorothy Draper, the pre-eminent entertainer, in bright, vivid florals.

Available to shop now on modaoperandi.com.

The Saudi Jewellery Designer You’ll Wear on Repeat

Her Royal Highness Nourah Al Faisal, from Saudi Arabia, unveiled two new collections for her jewellery brand NUUN.

The one-off unique creations are some of the prettiest high-jewellery pieces we’ve seen. Balancing modernity with exquisite quality, they also tell a personal stories that are close to HRH Al Faisal’s heart.

The El Hada Etude collection is inspired by designer’s childhood memories spent with the family in the El Hada mountains in KSA. Made of colourful lacquers, 18K gold, diamonds and precious stones, it also plays tribute to the 80’s.

Tutti is a fun and playful line inspired by her niece, filled with stars and pastel colours representing a youthful spirit. Ideal for everyday wear, the pieces sparkle with diamonds and 18K gold.

NUUN was launched in 2014 to offer 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.

Positioned alongside some of the top names from the world of luxury, HRH Al Faisal takes fine jewellery very seriously and strives to share her Saudi Arabian heritage with the rest of the world.

NUUN is also very keen to support creativity in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. In September 2016, the boutique started to exhibit art works by local and regional artists giving them a unique opportunity to showcase their talent.

Available now on www.nuunjewels.com, see our favourites from each of the latest collections above.

August Beauty Haul

We are hitting refresh on our skin and beauty routines with our August beauty haul.

Does your skin need soothing after sun exposure? Richard Mille, known for richly beautiful scents, will make your next bath extra luxurious with a new range of body milks. Wash the stress away in the nicest smelling soak you’ll ever have.

After, wrap you skin in Elemis Peptide4 Night Recovery Cream-Oil that works overnight giving you the smoothest results come morning.

Regionally, we our love rich fragrances, so the Jo Malone London Rose & White Musk Absolu that blends together the Damask rose with oud and amber is going straight on our wish list.

Now that your skin feels good and you smell amazing, it’s time to give your makeup bag an update with a few new additions. Head to Sephora and pick up the Nars Full Vinyl Lip Lacquer that you can easily glide onto your lips for smooth mirror finish.

Give your cheekbones some love with YSL Couture Highlighter that come in three shades that you can blend together to find the right tone for you.

Click through the gallery above for other must-have beauty buys to make this month extra dazzling.

Chaumet Unveils Collection Inspired By Sub-Saharan Africa

Chaumet revealed the final stage of the globally inspired collections.

Les Mondes de Chaumet, a High Jewellery collection, has been on a journey through Russia and Japan, and now the final voyage took the Maison to sub-Saharan Africa to create Trésors d’Afrique line.

While the Maghreb and Egypt have inspired Chaumet in the past, sub-Saharan Africa has remained almost unexplored territorry. An encounter with the Kenyan artist Evans Mbugua guided the house towards this part of the continent, an Africa of today.

For the collection, he created a series of six brooches, one of which can be transformed into a pair of earrings. Six brightly-coloured humorous creations feature elephant, zebra, monkey, giraffe, flamingos, ants and lion.

The pieces also draw inspiration from beaded and ornamental jewellery worn by Dinka people of South Sudan or Maasai. Ronde de Pierres chapter combines beads of red spinels, emeralds, sapphires and mandarin garnets, outlined by black spinels on black rhodium-plated gold and diamonds.

Cascades Royales interprets cascading parures that frame the faces of women in many African cultures, the ensemble recalls, amongst others, the graphic headdresses of the queens of Rwanda or the ornaments with which the Samburu brides of Kenya adorn themselves.

In an interplay of black and white set o by intense green Muzo emeralds, carved onyx and marquise-cut diamonds lend an arresting structure to the set, consisting of a transformable necklace, two pairs of earrings and four rings.

Click through the gallery above to see Chaumet’s Trésors d’Afrique collection in full.

Céline Dion and Elie Saab Show Us How To Wear Snakeskin Print This Summer

Have you been following Céline Dion’s show stopping outfits on her recent tour?

After rocking a statement power suit in sunshine yellow by Lebanese brand Maison Rabih Kayrouz, she has now showcased a great way to wear a snakeskin print courtesy of another Lebanese designer and world renowned couturier Elie Saab.

This is a bold print, but Dion kept it modern by choosing a relaxed fit of wide leg trousers and a loose shirt. The fresh and undone theme continued with seventies sunglasses, nude shoes and hair worn up.

Fancy trialing snakeskin this summer? Look for fluid shapes, pick out strong separates and for those who prefer minimalist prints – look to pieces where it is used as an accent rather than all over.

Click through the gallery above for our top picks to shop now.

Gigi Hadid Stars in a Colourful Campaign for Missoni

Gigi Hadid shows that you can wear all the colours of the rainbow in the FW18 Missoni campaign.

Photographed by Harley Weir and directed by Angela Missoni, the latest shoot is an ‘anthem of personality and freedom’.

Gigi is seen dressed in a series of patchwork designs inspired by multi-ethnic costumes and urban graffiti. There are also fringe details, jacquards inspired by the coats of wild animals along with the colours of Africa and Jamaica. The sensual nonchalance of iconic stars such as Lenny Kravitz or Lisa Bonet is also channelled in the collection.

It’s bold and energetic, exactly what we need to cheer up the gloomy winter days.

Dubai Royal Family Welcome Baby Boy

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter announced the birth of her first child.

instagram.com/latifamrm1

HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and her husband Faisal Bin Saud Al Qassimi, welcomed a baby boy on July 28, 2018.

New parents shared the news on Instagram and revealed that they have called their newborn Mohammed, just like his grandfather – the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

News comes a few days after her sister HH Sheikha Hassa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum, gave birth to a baby girl, Salama bint Saeed on July 17.

Mabrook to HH Sheikh Mohammed and his family.

Louise Trotter Exits Joseph

Louise Trotter to leave her role as creative director of Joseph after nine years.

instagram.com/joseph

Designer’s last collection will be the Pre-Fall 2018, and she will officially exit at the end of August. She said in a statement:

“Working for Joseph has been an incredible experience, and I feel very lucky to have been surrounded by such an amazing and talented team who worked alongside me with passion and creativity. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my team and the brilliant collaborators who have travelled on this journey with me.”

instagram.com/joseph

With new successor announced in due course, Hirosuke Takagi, the chief executive officer of Joseph spoke of Trotter’s contribution to the brand and the ‘foundation she has built for its continuous success’. He added:

“In particular our international expansion, the launch of menswear and, most recently, accessories.”

Alexander McQueen Turns San Francisco Into a Mythical Dream

For FW18 campaign, Alexander McQueen took a starring line up of models to San Francisco.

Using various locations as a backdrop, including the Golden Gate Bridge, the British fashion house was inspired by the ‘mythical and free-spirited’ city adding in a statement:

‘This city provides a rich backdrop evocative of the beauty of nature, the importance of culture and contemporary society at its most evolved.’

Shot by photographer Jamie Hawkesworth, the campaign captured the themes of the latest collection that metamorphosis and the magical transformation of physical forms.

The models starring the latest shoot include Shanelle Nyasiase from South Sudan, who walked in over 40 shows during the last FW season, Italian star Vittoria Ceretti and Dutch beauty Rianne van Rompaey, who have all been faces of the Alexander McQueen before.

Click through the gallery to see the campaign in full.