Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Hermès Pay Tribute to the Iconic Chain with a New Jewellery Line

Hermès is recongnised for many of it’s symbols such as the horse drawn carriage and the H clasp, but you also can’t mistake the chunky chain print on their scarves.

This chain, which also draws on the house’s origins as a harness-maker and saddler as well as the nautical world, has now been re-imagined into a bold new high-jewellery line named Enchaînements Libres. The design is at the centre of the stylistic message, and materials are designed to showcase the best of the precious stone and the Maison’s craftsmanship.

Pierre Hardy, creative director of Hermès jewellery, takes the elementary structures of a chain and explores the sculptural possibilities by working them into anamorphic compositions, playing with scale and the architectural forms. Resulting in 29 variants, the pieces are designed to blend with the wearers body and their movements.

Explore the latest collection above which was launched last week at la Gaité Lyrique in Paris.

On Our Radar: Dubai-Based Label Sara Gi

Flowing fabrics, neutral tones and modern silhouttes, there’s a lot to love about Sara Gi’s innovative womenswear fashion label based in Dubai.

Founded by Sara Gholami, the brand fuses graceful femininity with luxurious comfort to empower women with inner confidence. Sophisticated yet bold, the collections embody statement pieces, unique details and impeccable craftsmanship.

For FW18, Sara Gi channels fearless femininity. Focusing on origami pleating and bold silhouettes, the collection combines unique techniques with beautiful form. Inspired by 1930s fashion, expect wide shoulders, slim fitted waists and swinging lines, but with a modern twist.

Coffee inspired hues make up the wearable colour palette in mocha, caramel and off-white. Lightweight fabrics in chiffon and crepe offset structured leather while couture-level finishing techniques add a luxurious touch. Structured jackets and slim fitted skirts create clean lines juxtaposing fluid capes and statement dresses with ombre coffee pleating.

The collection will be available in selected stores from September.

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle Shine Bright at a Royal Event

There is no rest for the royal family as following Prince Louis christening yesterday, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle attended the RAF centenary celebrations at Westminster Abbey.

The Duchess of Sussex wore an elegant black Dior dress featuring the same boat neckline as her wedding dress which she paired with a Stephen Jones headpiece and nude shoes. The Duchess of Cambridge on the other hand chose a mint green coat dress by Alexander McQueen and a hat by Sean Barrett, while both Prince William and Prince Harry wore their RAF uniforms.

Kate Middleton wears Alexander McQueen, Meghan Markle wears Dior.

The service at held at Westminster Abbey in London, which was the venue of the royal wedding between Kate and William in 2011, this morning to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Air Force. The Queen was also in attendance for the event that will see over a thousand servicemen and women parading along The Mall, and up to 100 aircrafts flying over Buckingham Palace.

What’s in A&E Beauty Cupboard

Here at A&E we get spoiled with the latest beauty drops, which helps us bring you the best from the world of hair, skincare and makeup.

With humidity high and sun rays strong, we are focusing a lot on our skin. If you want avoid blocked pores but still have a flawless complexion, try the new Benefit Hello Happy Soft blur foundation with SPF15 that evens out skintone and hides imperfections. Apply it with brand new Beautyblender in blue sapphire, which is designed with signature open-cell structure that prevents absorption of foundation, serums and moisturizers and is suitable for sensitive skin.

This month we are giving our hair a break from the heat so it can restore to it’s natural healthy state by the time fashion season comes around. Balmain Paris Overnight Repair Hair Serum contains Argan oil that repairs and strengthens from within to reduce visible signs of damage and protect against split ends. If you hate leaving your hair to dry naturally, then it’s time to add Ouai Haircare air dry foam to your routine. This little bottle of magic contains all the goodness from kale extract, panthenol and carrot protein, that enhances natural texture, softens ends and adds definition.

Click through the gallery above for more must-have’s from our beauty cupboard.

15 Minutes With… Marina Afonina of Albus Lumen

The founder of Australia label Albus Lumen reveals her plans for the future of her brand and what she’s packing in her suitcase this summer.

Who is the Albus Lumen woman?

Albus Lumen woman is well travelled, independent, confident and lady of elegance and simplicity.

How would you describe the brand in 3 words?

Confidence in simplicity, minimalism and craftmanship.

Many are choosing timelessness over trend driven pieces, why do you think that is?

It’s has a longevity. Trends come and go but something classic and timeless always will stay. You never get bored of it.

There is a certain beauty in simplicity, what are your tips to minimalist dressing?

Less is more.

What do you think has been the key to building a strong identity?

Experience, travelling and being exposed to different cultures.

These pieces look ideal for vacation dressing, what do you pack in your suitcase?

Classic linen shirt, well cut pant suit and long sleeve light weight dress which you can dress up or dress down.

Can you tell us about your personal style?

Very minimal. I keep it very simple and understated. In summer I always dress in Albus – linen suits, dressers etc. In winter I am always in black cashmere sweaters and pants.

What do you think about a woman’s relationship with her clothes?

It’s such a personal thing. The main thing is understanding who you truly are and take a pride in it. Clothes is really to compliment that.

Can you share with us the best piece of advice you ever received?

Stay true to yourself.

What is next for Albus Lumen?

Evolving more into Ready-to-Wear. Working with different fabrications such as wool. Albus Lumen is all about way of living, travel and life style so I want to create a perfect collections to fit into this.

Where did the name come from?

Albus Lumen – meaning white light in Latin. I wanted the name that represented lightness and positivity.

Which celebrities have worn your designs?

Lara Worthington, Elle Macpherson, Phoebe Tonkin, Elsa Pataki, Elena Perminova, Sara Donaldson, Margaret Zhang, Christine Centenera, Tessa James, Sophia Richie etc….

What are the most important considerations for you when designing?

What a real woman would want to wear. Quality, effortless wear, timeless….

Where are your fabrics sourced and garments made?

Australian and New Zealand made. All our fabrics natural fibres.

Do you employ and special making techniques, high tech fabrics or new technologies to make your garments?

I have special makers for specific fabrications such as lines, cotton drills, tailoring and delicate silks, swim etc… all have different makers.

Why are Australians world leaders when it comes to swim and what do you think the rest of the world likes about our beach-side style?

We have a perfect climate and beaches for it. Swim is an Australian culture.

Albus Lumen is available on matchesfashion.com.

How to Beat the Dubai Heat this Weekend

When your car shows temperatures climbing up to 50oC outside, you know it’s time to retreat indoors and find great heatproof activities to enjoy weekends in Dubai.

Coffee and Shop

Symphony has teamed up with Starbucks, located on the first floor of the new fashion avenue of The Dubai Mall, to offer its fashion savvy clientele a drink of choice upon purchase in store. Once the complimentary drink is redeemed, you can then treat yourself with an additional 10% discount on sale items at the boutique. Available till August.

Movie’s and Chill

Grab the pop corn and get comfortable in Dubai’s first hotel cinema located at the Rove Downtown. The Reel Cinemas 46-seat theatre offers everything you could want from a night at movies, and is fully licensed.

Tokyo in Dubai

Can’t decide between pizza or sushi? Why not have both at the newly opened Akiba Dori, inspired by the lively Akihabara district in Tokyo in the Dubai Design District. If you want to take a break from the food, challenge yourself to some the arcade games before sitting down to dessert of Nutella-stuffed ‘Taiyaki’ while music beats from the speakers.

Spa like the Italians

Blue waters hitting the white beaches might seem appealing, but the Bvlgari Resort offers an even nicer view from their spa. With seven treatment rooms and one couples suite with a sea-facing indoor pool lined with real gold (yep, that’s right) this is a sanctuary from the heat like no other.

Burberry’s and Vivienne Westwood’s Collaboration is About Iconic British Style and the Environment

Riccardo Tisci, Vivienn-Westwood and her husband Andreas Kronthaler.
Courtesy of Burberry, by Brett Lloyd.

You’d think Burberry can’t get any more British, but looks like the House and newly appointed chief creative officer Riccardo Tisci want to cement the heritage into the core of the brand by collaborating with an icon.

Riccardo Tisci, Vivienn-Westwood and her husband Andreas Kronthaler.
Courtesy of Burberry, by Brett Lloyd.

British designer Vivienne Westwood, who founded her own brand in 1971, is collaborating with the label on a collection of re-imagined iconic styles from her archives, in celebration of British style and history. The limited edition pieces, which are part of the first collaboration for Burberry under Tisci, will launch in December 2018. He said:

“Vivienne Westwood was one of the first designers who made me dream to become a designer myself and when I first started at Burberry, I knew it would be the perfect opportunity to approach her to do something. She is a rebel, a punk and unrivalled in her unique representation of British style, which has inspired so many of us. I am so incredibly proud of what we will be creating together.”

Riccardo Tisci, Vivienn-Westwood and her husband Andreas Kronthaler.
Courtesy of Burberry, by Brett Lloyd.

We predict re-imagined Burberry check, asymmetric hemlines, edgy detailing and plenty of British cool. Not only will the collection showcase the fresh direction that the brand is taking, but will also support rainforest charity Cool Earth. Vivienne has worked with them back in 2011 when she visited their partnership in Peru.

We can’t wait to see Tisci’s vision for Burberry in September.

Beaded Bags Are This Summers Prettiest Vintage Revival

Vintage sixties are knocking, and we’ve been completely charmed by the playful beaded bags this season.

Rosantica is our top pick for a bag that looks great from day to party, while Shrimps Antonia has proved to be an instant hit among the fashion savvy, barely staying in stock for longer than a few days.

Designed to feel like jewellery on your arms, Susan Alexandra is another name on our radar with an array of printed designs that look straight out of an arts and crafts class – but just a little bit more refined than our childhood creations.

Artisanal detailing has become key for those looking for something a little different to the classic totes, so click through through the gallery above to pick your favourite piece of nostalgia.

Haute Couture FW18: Valentino

Pierpaolo Piccioli closed Haute Couture week to a standing ovation for his mythology-inspired Valentino FW18 show.

Before models graced the runway in dresses as big as the hair, the designer shared his vision in the show notes, particularly focusing on the idea of ‘time’ and the two meanings of it in Ancient Greek, Chronos and Kairos. The former refers to chronological or sequential time, while the latter signifies a proper, or opportune, time for action. Seems like Piccioli wanted to overlap the present and the past to translate his vision of real haute couture, ‘pictured in a daydream, brought to life through emotions.’

Hence, he mixed the Greek with inspirations from the Renaissance period as well as Versailles and the swinging Sixties. The spectacular fusion of brocade, pearls, velvet, embellishment and silk crafted into exaggerated shapes took over 1,200 hours to make, but none of it looked overdone and theatrical – Piccioli made sure everything was in proportion, head to toe.

Staged at Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild, an array of dreamy dresses including a voluminous feathered gown modelled on Kaia Gerber, signature Valentino red strapless silhouette and deep golden full skirt dress with vivid textural embroidery were spectacular, but for wearability Piccioli also offered just as beautifully designed separates. The long or cropped wool trousers – in colours of burgundy, gold, pastel green and purple – were paired with capes, coats and cropped jackets, while pencil and pleated skirts were styled with slouchy boots.

Piccioli let his wildest imagination run free, proving once again that true Haute Couture dares to turn dreams into reality.

Kate Moss Dazzles on the Beach for Saint Laurent Latest Campaign

Instagram.com/YSL

Kate Moss stars in her latest campaign for Saint Laurent Winter 2018 collection.

The British icon, 44, stepped out in front of the camera wearing a series shimmering floral creations by designer by Anthony Vaccarello. Captured by photography duo Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, Moss looks perfectly at ease during the sensual shoot.

Instagram.com/YSL

The fall collection evokes the sparkling Eighties with most of the pieces designed with a short hemline and bold shoulders. This isn’t the first time the supermodel was the face of Saint Laurent fashion campaign, she also posed for the brands Spring 2018 collection, captured by David Sims.

Haute Couture FW18: Zuhair Murad

The Hôtel Potocki is a former residence of the Polish noble Potocki family in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, and was once the location of the fashionable salon of Countess Emanuela Potocka. Seems like the perfect setting for Zuhair Murad’s bourgeois-esk couture show inspired by Marie Antoinette.

It wasn’t the frilly, pastel colour, bouncy silhouettes that immediately pop into your mind when you imagine the quirky wardrobe of a French royal, instead Murad presented the more sensual night time side of a woman who enjoyed social circles until dawn. So out came the glittering gown modelled on Alessandra Ambrósio that looked almost like armour, followed by lace floor length capes and corseted dresses – some with top halves looking like baroque tail coats.

The renaissance theme continued with gold-thread embroidery decorating sheer fabrics and shiny satin as well as hooded velvet capes. He took a break from dresses by offering a take on masculine wear from that period and styled cropped jackets with velvet trousers and over-the-knee boots. We also saw sparkling mini dresses and glittering second-skin jumpsuits which would appeal to younger clientele.

For the bridal gown, Murad went back to the theme with an almost-theatrical creation that could’ve easily stepped out of Marie Antoinette’s personal wardrobe. The detailing and fines craftsmanship would be good enough for any royal, but did it borderline on costume? A few may argue so, but then why shoudn’t there be a little drama in couture?

You have to praise the Lebanese designer on his ability to blend the complex patterns, eccentric decorations and textile sumptuousness to deliver what fans of the Maison love – pure opulence.

Exclusive: A&E Interviews the Man Behind Kenzo World Parfums

Francis Kurkdjian.

Kenzo has re-entered the world perfume with a bold series of scents, along with the most engaging, and probably one of the best fragrance commercials by Spike Jonze that that sees Margaret Qualley portraying a freaky dancer in a formal gown.

His brother, Sam Spiegel, composed the upbeat tribal soundtrack specifically for the brand while choreographer Ryan Heffington worked with the actress and former ballet dancer on the irreverent chic and quirkiness of Kenzo through dance.

The man behind the new fragrances is master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian who is equal parts alchemist and conceptualist. Kurkdjian came up with a scent that is somehow both old school and sci-fi and below, we get to know exactly how this new direction for the Japanese brand came about and the idea behind the newest release, Kenzo World Eau De Parfum Intense.

Kenzo World EDP Intense

So tell us about your part in Kenzo World.

I guess at some point each person has to play his own role in the project. You have to carry out the designers’ vision. I’ve made a very reassuring scent. It was done in that way because everything was so extreme, the bottle, the ad, the movie, the displays, the merchandising, and all what is around the product. If everything is too crazy, you lose the customer at some point.

You think of the scent as a counterpoint?

The scent is “everybody can feel at ease.” It’s a stable point where you’re not bombarded with too much information. If you want to create a successful perfume you have to somehow anchor it into something just to ground it somewhere where people can start to follow you. You can’t be too avant-garde in the perfume business, because the sense of smell relies on one’s own past, and the olfactory memory. If you’re too far away from that starting point, then you don’t get to people. You need to anchor the people to something they might think they know, and then bring to something, to somewhere they don’t know. Basically, when you try a dish for the very first time, you are a bit reluctant at the beginning, because basically your olfactory memory, your data base, in a way, is not set up to understand the food you’re going to have. You go with the end of your fork to eat it. You never have a full spoonful or a forkful. You try, and you taste. In perfume it’s the same. If it’s too much, too avant-garde, too new, people don’t have the language, or they don’t have enough information to understand it, which is why there is a classical base on the perfume.

This is a floral perfume, but we can’t distinguish if there is a dominant flower being used or even what flowers are included?

Good, that’s the idea. Kenzi Flower in 2000 was a huge hit. The idea was to create the scent of a flower that doesn’t have one – for instance poppies don’t have a scent. The idea of that scent, or the concept was to create a scent to a flower that doesn’t have one, and to imagine that scent. The concept for, Kenzo World, is about scented flowers – to blend them together to a point where you have a blur of flowers. You know it’s floral, but you can’t name a flower. The idea was to create a 2.0 version of what Kenzo Flower could be in the 21^st century, in a way.

This concept also relates to the surreal bottle. How did you come up with this concept?

I have a working title or a codename for each fragrance I create. I used the title “Neon Nature” for this project.

Margaret Qualley.

How did you come up with this theoretical concept? It doesn’t seem like this is the method all perfumers work in.

I have to see it in such a way that I can get beyond what I was given as a formal brief, and to translate that brief into something I can smell. Basically, it goes from a visual concept, such as the designer has brought to the company, to an olfactory concept, and my work as a perfumer is not only to create the scent, but also to translate, and to find a translation from visual into something that smells.

The creation of a fragrance is like any other creation, if you don’t have anything to say, you can’t materialize it. If a painter doesn’t know what to paint he’s not going to just put colours on the canvas. If a writer doesn’t have the pitch for a book, he’s not going to just write down words, and then shake all that to get an idea. You get first an idea in your head, and then once you have the pitch in your head you start working, whatever you do.

Can you talk about what scents went into making this hybrid flower scent?

The flowers featured in the scent are not there because I wanted those flowers. They are the right flowers to be used to achieve the vision I had. I’m not led by the ingredients. I’m not expecting them to tell me, “Use peonies, and use sweat peas, and use all that.” To me it’s more where should I pick my ingredients, what I think I should use to get there. Ambroxan is one of the key ingredients, which is a dry, amber-y, woody note. Ambroxan is a result of the distillation of sage. When you tweak it many times through chemistry you end up with Ambroxan. That smell is very close to the smell of ambergris which is produced by sperm whales. It smells like something between soil and the ocean. I’m not saying salty, but there is something very mineral. Mineral is more appropriate. Salt doesn’t have a smell, so it’s more about the feeling.

It’s like almost licking a lukewarm, not warm or cold, salted rock, which is very smooth. It’s something very soft, something ethereal, something very long lasting, very shiny. Ambroxan brings to the flowers the blur that we need to basically forget the flowers. It’s like sfumato in a da Vinci painting, when you blur two colours together. Ambroxan can blur at that level. I use it a lot. It’s like a fog, when the fog erases things and you just have the shapes.

Also, in a floral fragrance, to smell flowers you also have to have something in the background to bring a contrast, in a way. If you think about white wood, it’s even whiter if you put it beside something dark. The contrast between black and white makes the white even whiter. In perfume, if I just put only flowers, of course you’re going to smell flowers, but to enhance the floral-cy of the creation, you have to put somehow in the back ingredients to have a contrast, and bring contrast to the fragrance. The flowers become even stronger.

Kenzo World Eau De Parfum Intense carrying notes of black plum blended with vanilla, Peony and Sambac Jasmine, is out now.

Matchesfashion.com Have Something Amazing for your Home

It seems more brands are seeing the benefits of expanding into homeware and matchesfashion.com is the next one to do so.

Few months ago we revealed exclusively that Moda Operandi is launching into home with co-founder Lauren Santo Domingo making a case for other brands to do the same, as the next natural step to grow into a lifestyle rather than just one dimensional label. Now, another luxury e-tailer matchesfashion.com has seen the demand grow from their shoppers and from this month you can browse a wide selection of goodies for your personal sanctuary from brands like Gucci and Maison Margiela.

The homeware studio will showcase an edit of the best new and established brands across tabletop accessories, cushions and throws, home fragrance and decorative accessories delivered in monthly drops throughout the year. Not only that, the online platform will also open a retail space at 5 Carlos Place in Mayfair, London, this September stocking collaborations that will update every month of the year. Fashion & Buying Director Natalie Kingham explains:

“Our customers love to discover and learn about new designers, about the provenance of the clothes they buy and to understand the story behind the brand. We wanted to offer the same sense of discovery with homeware and offer an edit that showcases beautiful craftsmanship which also has a longevity that resonates, as it’s not seasonal or trend driven. These are pieces that the customer can love and keep forever. By approaching homeware in the same way we look at fashion it becomes a broader lifestyle concept, with a focus on creativity and artisanal designs, allowing many of the brilliant designers we work with to show their passion for interior design.”

Recognising that interiors an now an extension of personal style, the buying team approached the edit in the same way they buy fashion, so expect unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

This is the Only Place You Can Shop Prada’s Archive Prints

From today, luxury e-tailer mytheresa.com is giving Prada fans a chance to shop the top prints from the archive collection, modelled on R&B artist Abra.

Remember the banana motif from Spring/Summer 2011, or the flame print from Spring/Summer 2012? These, along with menswear AW18 mermaids, fruit and flames, are all on offer in the 20-piece capsule collection.

The bold artsy prints from Prada never go out of style, but while you might dig out your purchases from those years, the re-interpretation of those iconic designs is something that is appealing to anyone who looks to inject a vintage vibe into their wardrobe.

Better get clicking, as the die-hard Prada lovers will quickly snap up one of the two hoodies, five dresses, three tops, two cashmere jumpers, two bags, a bucket hat and three shoe styles – especially the white wedge sandals with pink flames.

Burj Al Arab is Getting a Makeover

One of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and an iconic Dubai structure, the Burj Al Arab will undergo a makeover.

instagram.com/burjalarab

With works scheduled to begin summer next year, the sail-shaped seven-star resort has become one of the must-visit destinations in the world since opening in 1999. Jumeirah hotel group’s chief executive officer, Jose Silva, told Arabian Business:

“Many people travel to go see the Burj Al Arab. It is one of the world’s most photographed – and Instagrammed – hotels. It has become an icon of Dubai in itself.”

instagram.com/burjalarab

We are yet to learn the exact changes that the hotel will undergo, but seeing the works happening at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel next door, we expect them to be extensive.

Most recently, the Burj Al Arab added a floating terrace that stretches out into the sea where guests can hire cabana’s, swim in the infinity pool and dine at Scape restaurant.

Haute Couture FW18: Chanel

Karl Lagerfeld took the magical streets of Paris to the Grand Palais for the Chanel FW18 haute couture collection.

The inspiration was drawn from the sights and sounds of the French capital with the setting including a promenade by the Seine that lead past the green open-air book stalls filled with Coco Chanel books, including replicas of those found in her personal library, magazines and posters. Seems like designers are continuing to pay tribute to the founders and the codes of their houses this week.

Rockabilly retro, Lagerfeld focused on the skirt, more precisely the different variations of it. We saw wool ankle grazing pencil skirts with side splits up to above the knee, pleated options in neutral tones of grey and navy, tweed mini’s that had a wider fit with an illusion of a shorter skirt underneath. The classic tweed gave way to satin, sheer embellished fabrics, chiffon tiers, and voluminous peplum detail – there really are multiple ways to wear this classic garment.

There was plenty of decadence, but it all had a youthful feel with rich velvet fabrics being turned into mini dresses and styled with boots and a matching long coat. Ankle boots proved to be another hero item from the collection with all having a fold over effect at the top revealing either matching smooth leather or a panel of embroidery, or even fringing.

The richness designer blended with contemporary wearability is something Lagerfeld does well, after all Coco was always seen ahead of the fashion curve so it’s no surprise that the Maison continues to offer the classics, but always with a fresh twist. A turquoise bridal look closed the show as the German designer appeared for his bow alongside his godson to close another dream-like escape into the world of Chanel.

Haute Couture FW18: Elie Saab

Instagram.com/Eliesaabworld

Elie Saab used the latest couture show as an opportunity to reflect back on his relationship with Paris and his artistic journey through Barcelona.

Choosing Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the location of his very first Haute Couture show in the French capital some years ago, the collection is named ‘Of Forms and Light’ stems from a journey through the city of Barcelona and the influences of Spanish architect Gaudi, especially his masterpiece Casa Mila – ‘La Pedrera’. The balance of light and structure has inspired Saab to create pieces that play with these two ideas.

Sequins, crystals and pearls in an array of shapes and sized were weaved together dramatic silhouettes. The sculptural shapes and decadent detailing were enhanced by the transparency that allowed the light to seep through layers of fabric.

Tailoring was also a strong focus, but they were given the Saab treatment. Infused with cocktail glamour attitude, there were neat embellished jackets with power shoulders worn over a matching mini dresses, and neat blue trousers paired with a jacket decorated in buttons.

There was plenty to entertain the eye, especially when longer dresses with draped fabric glided down the runway. Of course there was brocade and Gazar, but also rich leafy drawings inspired from ornate fer forgé shapes that swirled round the models bodies, further showcasing the Maison’s glamorous expression of the natural world.

If the collection can be summarised in one look it was the bridal finale gown that almost needed it’s own runway for the huge skirt. Heavily decorated in pearls and beading, it was the ‘caged’ veil that paid a fashionable tribute to Gaudi and confirmed Saabs ability to harmoniously blend couture craftsmanship with art.

Add Tunisia to Your Bucket List Now

Struggling to find the perfect summer getaway? Lucky for you, the folks at The Residence Tunis in Tunisia have put together more than one reason to pack your bags and fly out to the idyllic Mediterranean setting.

The Residence Tunis

Only half an hour from Tunis, the hotel is designed for families and couples. Perfectly placed to offer an amazing Arabic adventure with a touch of luxury.

The Residence Tunis

Tunisia was Once Home to Carthage

If you were to dig deep enough under the city, you’d probably find all kinds of ruins from the Carthaginian Empire. Even above the city, you can still see a large area of Carthage and imagine yourself walking around 2,000 years ago. Unfortunately, much of Carthage was actually destroyed by the Romans during the Punic wars.

Much Of The Central City Is A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Most of the city’s Medina is still intact and looks just like it did when it was originally built in the 8th century. Inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are over 700 historic monuments that cover seven different areas, including the Kasbah Mosque, Zitouna Mosque, Bab Bhar Gate and more. It became a heritage site in 1979.

Carthage

Tunisia Was Conquered By Louis IX of France

The history of Tunis would have played out much differently if Louis IX of France would have remained in power. In 1270, the King (also known as Saint Louis) took over the city and wanted to convert it to Christianity. This plan failed and he died outside the walls after his army contracted a nasty case of dysentery.

It Can Get Really Cold

Tourists thinking they are escaping the winter in Europe are often in for a bit of a shock when they arrive in Tunis and find out that it’s downright freezing. Even though the city is on the edge of the Sahara Desert, its average high is just 16oC in January. The city has also recorded many days below freezing during the cooler months.

Sidi Bou Said

Tunis Has One of the Oldest Mosques in the World

Tunis is home to the gigantic Al-Zaytuna Mosque which was founded as far back as 698 A.D., though the exact date of construction isn’t known. This makes it one of the oldest mosques in the world, and for centuries was one of the top centers of learning in North Africa.

You’d Want to Join the Gucci Tribe After Seeing the Latest Campaign

Gucci unveil a vibrant FW18 campaign featuring an array of artistic characters dubbed as Gucci Collectors.

Alessandro Michele created a tribe of outsiders, a group of obsessive collectors of art and artefacts. The inspiration for the campaign comes from those eccentric personalities who passionately seek out paintings, antiques, rare objects and other vintage collectibles.

Captured by Glen Luchford and set in rooms dedicated to a variety of collections, each image contains a character surrounded by their carefully amassed objects. In one shot, we see a pair of white sneakers hanging over the edge of above completely decorated in jewels. In another we see a model surrounded by a collection of butterflies, while another characters stand in a room decorated in plush toys. Alessandro Michele must be a collector of certain objects if he was keen to explore this private hobby that is such a personal phenomenon.

Inspired to start your very own shrine of trinkets? Why not make it a Gucci collection.

Haute Couture FW18: Alexis Mabille

‘The heart of Paris is a flower, A bloom of love so pretty, That you’ll keep in your heart, That you’ll love for life’ reads show notes ahead of Alexis Mabille sweetly romantic couture show at the Salle Pleyel concert hall in Paris.

It was a seamless production of that blossomed out onto the runway with Mabille’s familiar couture sensibility. We saw the usual mix of fantastical gowns, but also beautifully crafted separates all in a gradient shades of pastels and rich hues of green.

The quote mentioned flowers and there were large blooms decorating full skirts and shirts, but it’s the intricately designed bomber jackets and a green hooded dress that caught our eye with both styles adding a breath of youthfulness to an otherwise dress-focused collection.

He saved the best till last as he closed the show with the masterpieces which included layered tulle dress that bounced down the runway, followed by an impressive feathered creation and completed with bow shaped ivory gown worn over sheer lace bodysuit. It’s very haute couture, but it’s those sugary pastel bombers jackets that will be making their way from the runway into wardrobes.

How to Get Armani Privé Haute Couture Beauty Look

Armani Privé Haute Couture collection was about blending the old traditions of couture with a modern vision, which was also reflected in the makeup look.

Expressed in a sculptural, almost regal style, this season’s collection from Armani features sumptuous fabrics crafted into spectacular pieces and gowns in alternating patterns of black and champagne. Linda Cantello, International Make-Up Artist Giorgio Armani, spoke of her inspiration:

“A mashup of couture reference reworked in a modern wearable way. A little bit 50s, 60s and 80s. Pink and black combined to create a thoroughly modern makeup”.

FACE

Prepare and moisturise the skin with Armani Prima Glow-On Moisturising Balm, making sure the cream is absorbed before adding the foundation. Then apply Power Fabric foundation in appropriate shade where needed, but don’t go too heavy so you still have the natural glow.

EYES

Apply a thin black line of Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in #4 close to lashes and blend. Curl lashes and sweep on the Eyes To Kill Classico mascara in black on top lashes only.

To get that natural glossy effect use the Lip Magnet liquid lipstick, in shade #500, “Maharajah” in the eye socket to define a clean line and then blend it softly till the outer edge of eye, but leave the eyelid free of colour. Then, add more lipstick under the eye, leaving a gap between lash and colour. Go in with the Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in black from inner water line until center and smudge slightly.

BLUSH & LIPS

Use Neo Nude A-Blush in shade #50 on cheeks and dab Lip Maestro in shade #518 on the lips.

Haute Couture FW18: Georges Hobeika

Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika presented a Princess Swan dream-like couture collection in Paris today.

The fantasy-level gowns with the most luxurious detailing were all a welcoming site for fans of the house who love the intricate sequins, complex beading, eye-catching embroidery, full skirts and wow texture – like the feather dresses that flew out onto the runway.

As a master of the red carpet, Hobeika is an expert at creating dresses that express woman’s inner beauty and the playful nature, while also balancing it with grace and elegance. He loves to use lavish fabrics, and this season it was the velvet in shades of emerald green and royal purple that drew in the eye, while the shimmering blue dress with a swan motif captured the modern-day princess mood.

Despite the heavy fabrics and embroidery, the pieces offered plenty of movement, especially the mini beaded Twenties dress, tiered tulle skirts and floor length glittering gowns with daring thigh splits.

The pièce de résistance was the wedding gown with a full pleated skirt decorated in embellishment while the sleeves remained sheer with the top half covered in delicate feathers. If this is not a magical princess wedding gown, we don’t know what is.

Trial A Trend: Seashells

Carry a piece of the seaside anywhere you go with seashell covered accessories and jewellery.

Dive back into your childhood memories of collecting washed up shells on the beach and take a cue from brands like Loewe and Sanayi 313 who have turned these holiday trinkets into a nostalgic fashion statement. Avoid anything that is plastic or feels poorly made and instead choose delicate, expensive-looking shells either in gold or silver.

One of our favourite new brands Rebecca de Ravenel creates a fun collection of earrings that are inspired by the bazaars of the far east and childhood spent travelling between the Bahamas and Paris. Ellery’s Lunation choker was first spotted on SS18 runway and is made from delicate chains of gold-plated brass set with resin cowry shells – believed to represent strength and female protection. You can always rely on Dolce & Gabbana for statement pieces and their shell drop earrings first caught our eye during their SS18 show in Milan. The gold clip-on’s are embellished with faux-pearls, blue and red crystals, and red enamel coral drops.

Click through our selection of seashell decorated goodies to infuse your wardrobe with a summery charm.

Penélope Cruz Joins Chanel Family

Supplied.

Oscar-winning actress Penélope Cruz is the newest Chanel ambassador and will be the face of the next campaign for the 2018/19 Cruise collection photographed by Karl Lagerfeld.

Cruz is no stranger to the Maison as her first ever Chanel fashion show was in 1999, and since then she has regularly wore their creations to the Oscars, the Goyas, the Cannes Film Festival and countless openings nights. Choosing Haute Couture silhouettes as well as outfits from the Ready-to-Wear collections, in 2009 the Spanish actress was dressed by the brand for Pedro Almodóvar’s film Broken Embraces.

“It’s such an iconic brand and Karl is a genius, and I’ve been admiring everything he’s done since I was a little girl, so it’s such a pleasure working with him. He’s like the king of fashion and we had a really, really interesting photo shoot, so to be in front of his camera is an adventure,” Cruz told WWD.

We expect to see the star siting front row at today’s Couture show alongside other ambassadors like Kristen Stewart, Kaia Gerber and Margot Robbie who was photographed by Lagerfeld for Chanel’s first ever ski collection.

Your Guide to the Dreamy Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Makeup Look

Dolce & Gabbana makeup with a touch of 18th Century drama…

The magical setting of Lake Como transported guests to the 18^th Century world as imagined by Dolce & Gabbana through dramatic clothes and mezmerizing makeup look.

It was a balance of sophistication and statement making, highlighting a glowing complexion with a natural dewy finish, intense eyes with sculpted eyebrows and the iconic liner flicks.

Here is the step by step guide of how you can achieve this decadent Dolce & Gabbana makeup look at home.

Face

A luminous and light coverage was achieved using the new Millennialskin On-The- Glow Tinted Moisturizer, to create a perfect complexion with a fresh and natural finish.

The Perfect Luminous Concealer was applied in small touches to lighten the shadowed areas and erase any remaining blemishes. Then, for added a natural healthy flush to the face, the soft formula of the Creamy Blush in Rosa Carina 30 was swept onto the apples of the cheeks and up towards the ears.

To deepen this instant radiant finish, the Creamy Illuminator in Rosa Del Mattino 60 was used along the cheekbones, the nose and the cupid’s bow.

Eyes

To create the perfect base for the eyes look, Perfect Mono Eyeshadow in Goldust 20 was blended across the eyelids. Complementary hues of The Eyeshadow Duo in Gold 130 was used to add shimmer and jewel-like colour.

The most wearable yet unique feline gaze was achieved using The Eyeliner in Nero 1, its rich texture blurred along the bottom and upper lash lines for definition.

Along the top of the upper lash, a slicky line of Glam Liner in Black Intense 1 was precisely drawn to create the signature liner flicks suiting all shapes of eyes. A touch of The Eyeliner in Gold 3 was applied in the inner corners, and along the black eyeliner line to create a gold hint.

The Passioneyes Mascara in Nero 1 was sweeped on the lashes to obtain a volumizing finish. Brows were shaped and filled with the lightweight texture of The Brow Liner in a shade matching hair colour.

Lips

On the lips, tailor-made looks was created to find the perfect colour-match and accentuate each femininity. A palette of colours included warm nudes, delicate pinks as well as reds deep plums. The matte finish was achieved with Dolce Matte Lipstick and the rich creamy finish conferred by the Classic Cream Lipstick.

Haute Couture FW18: Giambattista Valli

The need to appeal to a younger generation has made it’s way to couture runway with Giambattista Valli presenting an edgier collection.

“There is a very strong sense of youth in this haute couture. Why? Because we have a lot of new generations of young girls coming and buying haute couture from all over the world, so that’s very nice and it’s very inspiring, and they have a different attitude to wearing it,” the designer explained to WWD backstage.

From the first look of a black bow shape bandeau tops and high-waisted trousers, you know that this won’t be the same line up of voluminous gowns that only make it as far as our Instagram feed and the red carpet. Instead, we saw mini dresses, boxy jumpsuits, crop tops and skirts, tailored jackets and a sweat suit with a sweatshirt like top trailing behind the model.

But there was still something very ‘couture’ about the collection as he decorated each piece with an array of fabrics and details like feathers, silk chiffon, Chantilly lace, tulle and faux fur. Models also wore jewellery by Chopard that helped take midriff baring silhouettes to a high-fashion level.

Fans of the dramatic gowns weren’t left wanting either as all the closing looks featured larger than life skirts, layers and layers of his favourite tulle and major sleeves. Couture for the youth might be something designers should be thinking about, but Giambattista Valli isn’t going all the way there and instead has created a collection that is multigenerational.

Haute Couture FW18: Schiaparelli

Instagram.com/ Schiaparelli

This Haute Couture season, Schiaparelli is another house that’s paying tribute to the founder with the collection dedicated to the vibrant and daring Elsa Schiaparelli.

Yesterday, Clare Waight Keller dived into the archives to bring together a modern tribute to Hubert de Givenchy, but unlike the architectural shapes, slick and futuristic silhouettes, Schiaparelli offers a touch of vibrancy and free spirit that defined Elsa’s personality.

Guests walked into a bright “Schiaparelli pink” venue, a colour that Elsa was associated with in the 1930’s and is believed to have come from a Cartier diamond owned by her friend. Elsa was also the first to turn a jumpsuit into a fashion piece, which we saw today in flowing red fabric with a butterfly print.

There was a play of proportions such as the fitted jackets with small shoulders, narrow sleeves and maxi pockets. The signatures of the house were also seen in the contrasting embroidery, detailed buttons and gold jewellery as well as influences from interiors such as the coloured stones and bold prints. The wild and artistic side of the founder was reflected in the lace and faux fur, along with the models strutting down the runway in butterfly and gold winged leopard masks.

Elsa Schiaparelli was not a conventional designer. She dressed Ginger Rogers, brainstormed beside Salvador Dalí, and inspired a generation of experimental couturiers. The once ‘shocking’ label continues to surprise, and the world of fashion would be that little bit bleaker if we didn’t have Schiaparelli flamingo headpieces to gaze upon in wonder.

Haute Couture FW18: Givenchy

How do you pay tribute to the legacy of the late Hubert de Givenchy? It was a task that Artistic Director Clare Waight Keller seems to have taken on with deep thought as she presented her collection on the grounds of the Hôtel Caraman, the 19th-century Givenchy townhouse on Avenue George V in Paris. Not only did she reconfirm the timelessness of his creations, but the innate elegance of the man himself.

Despite the British designer still being praised as as the visionary behind Meghan Markle’s Royal Wedding dress, which also took inspiration from the Givenchy archives, her second couture show was a celebration of some of the most iconic moments in House’s history and has reconfirmed her as the right person to lead this Maison forward.

Each of the looks are named with an adjective M. de Givenchy once used to refer to his runway looks and, by extension, his loyal clients. The mood board was filled with pictures of Audrey Hepburn, whom he dressed for the film in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and although there were nods to that era, there were no reproductions. Instead Waigh Keller added her own twist. The Breakfast at Tiffany’s LBD came with a cross back and a hood and the jackets were sleek, futuristic and architectural.

Men’s tailoring techniques inform capes and coats, contrasting with the poise of flou in draped silk cady or georgette and crystalline shades of aquamarine, coral, verdigris, or deeper, subterranean shades of blue, purple and faux black. Mysterious, monolithic embroideries recall cave formations and slices of minerals, infusing silhouettes with frost, shine and the modern attitude that is Waight Keller’s signature.

For women, bijoux de corps crystal and metallic elements enhance duality, while supple, embroidered leather, velvet and the sheen of goose, ostrich and coq feathers are worked with the ease of faux fur, infusing looks with a mystical sensuality.

Interspersed throughout the collection, men’s looks feature chiseled shoulders, an icy elegance and silhouettes inspired by the looks that M. de Givenchy favored for himself, including a classic double-breasted jacket, a red cape, polished slim-cut suits and the turtleneck. To this lexicon, Clare Waight Keller brings her own vision of effortless elegance in a modern evening tail coat, and sharp coats with cascades of mineral or agate-inspired embroideries.

The finale was the most moving part of the show as the audience heard Hepburn sing “Moon River” on the soundtrack while the atelier members joined Waight Keller for the bow, something M. de Givenchy did himself.

Everything You Need to Know About Prince Louis’ Christening

twitter.com/RoyalFamilyITNP

The British royal family came together yesterday for the christening of Prince Louis, son of Kate Middleton and Prince William.

Two months has passed since the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge welcomed their third child and it was the first time we saw them all together as a family of five. The ceremony took place at The Chapel Royal at St James’s Palace, the same venue as Prince Georges christening in 2013, and was overseen by Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

twitter.com/RoyalFamilyITNP

Just as the previous christenings, Kate Middleton chose Alexander McQueen and wore a cream dress from the designer that she styled with a beaded headband by Jane Taylor (inspired by stuffed headpieces worn in the 14th and 15th century) Jimmy Choo patent leather pumps and custom made Cassandra Goad earrings. Sticking to the royal traditions, Prince Louis was dressed in the same christening robe as his siblings, but despite popular belief, the lace gown is actually a replica of the original which was made in 1841 for Queen Victoria’s older daughter, but by 2004 the delicate piece had to retire for preservation.

twitter.com/RoyalFamilyITNP

There were various members of the royal family attending, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who chose an olive Ralph Lauren dress with a Stephen Jones hat and Manolo Blahnik pumps. Kate’s sister Pippa, who is expecting her first child, was also present alongside her husband. However, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh did not attend Louis’ baptism, which sources believe is down to the Queen’s busy schedule and nothing to do with health.

twitter.com/RoyalFamilyITNP

All of the three Cambridge children have different godparents with Prince George having seven, Princess Charlotte six and Prince Louis five. Earlier that day, the new godparents were announced as Nicholas van Cutsem, Guy Pelly, Harry Aubrey-Fletcher, The Lady Laura Meade, Hannah Gillingham and Lucy Middleton, who is Kate’s cousin.

V&A Museum to Stage it’s Largest Dior Exhibition

Christian Dior and Princess Margaret.

Victoria & Albert museum have announced plans for the largest Dior exhibition in the country, and the second biggest at the venue since Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.

Opening in February, the Christian Dior: Couturier of Dreams exhibition will focus on history of the house and the effect the founder, and six artistic directors that followed, had on the Maison. During the British embassy event in Paris, Tim Reeve, the museum’s deputy director and chief operating officer, said:

“Reimagining this hugely popular exhibition from Paris — as the largest fashion exhibition the V&A has undertaken since ‘Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty’ — will shed new light on Dior’s fascination with Britain.”

Instagram.com/vamuseum

The section dedicated to Britain will showcase Dior’s most memorable shows, over 200 couture garments, including the dress worn by Princess Margaret for her 21st birthday, and reflect on Christian Dior’s fascination with English gardens, Savile Row and British ocean liners.

Expected to be bigger than the show last year at Paris’ Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the exhibit will run from February to July 2019. Make sure to follow our coverage of Couture Fashion week on aeworld.com and Instagram for the Dior couture show today.