Backpacks, latex, and modernity dominate the third couture collection by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy held at Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville.

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Last season she dived into the archives to pay tribute to the founder Hubert de Givenchy but last night in Paris, in a space that was designed to look like an empty white room (a blank canvas if you will) she went in an opposite direction to deliver a contemporary vision with elements of timeless glamour.

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The British designer ‘pure’ aesthetic is something we admired in the wedding gown she created for Meghan Markle, and here she continues to focus on clean lines, tailoring, and saturated colour. She also collaborated with the London-based latex expert Atsuko Kudo (famed for his tour costumes for Beyonce) on shiny leggings that were styled underneath sheer lace dresses.

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As with any modern work of art, they were moments that made you smile such as the maxi pearl headbands, giant bows disguising their true purpose as a backpack, extreme rainbow fringing. And there were moments that made you sit still and admire, such as the fine use of lace, playful positioning of the feathers and precisely cut jackets with contrasting lapels.

Every piece, even the more architectural creations, had elements of lightness concluding the show with a feeling of calm grandeur.

Art and fashion frequently meet, and during Armani Privé we saw Deco blended together with the flapper Jazz era, specifically indicated through beaded cloches.

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The Italian designer opened with silver jacquard suiting before bringing in the petite jackets that were styled with sleek midi skirts or flared trousers, a contrast between structure and fluidity.

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Then followed the bold hues of blue and red that made an even bigger impression with the varied use of shapes and textures. It was a surprise to see such a broad use of the scarlet shade, but it definitely had the desired impact and fitted the theme perfectly.

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Vibrancy also came through the high shine finish, wild fringing and layers and layers of tulle offering a playful perspective on what over all felt like a grown up and a very Armani display of couture.

The rumour mill has been spinning post watch week in Geneva with speculations that a luxury watchmaker Patek Philippe might be up for sale.

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It’s not unusual to hear such talk at a leading horology event, but this particular whisper has met our ears with some interest.

Firstly, the 180-year-old Swiss brand is one of the few names that has not fallen into the hands of one of the luxury conglomerates, and second if the sale does go through, the watchmaker could fetch up to 9 billion euros, according to analysts at Berenberg.

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“It was interesting to hear in the corridors of the Geneva watch salon that a potential sale of the high-end watch brand Patek Philippe could be approaching soon,” the analysts wrote, noting that it could be just a rumour as reported by the Business of Fashion.

Known for the $10,000-plus Calatrava watches, the brand has been owned by the Stern family for almost a century, with Thierry Stern in a role of a company chairman since 2009 while his wife Sandrine works in design.

In contrast to the snow blizzard on the streets of Paris, stepping into the Grand Palais this afternoon was like arriving at an elegant Italian villa.

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Chanel Haute Couture is one of the hottest tickets in town during the busy week of shows, so much so that the Maison stages two runways in one day. Unfortunately Karl Lagerfeld had to skip his usual appearance at the end for both of the editions, with a brand saying in the statement that he was feeling tired and “asked Virginie Viard, director of the creative studio of the house, to represent him and greet the guests.”

By Olivier Saillant.

Taking inspiration from the 18th century Italiana, models walked around the pool at the centre of the set in tweed suits that featured a boat-necklines and accented shoulders, while the dresses felt elegant and refined, with full skirts decorated scattered 3D flowers as though picked from the Mediterranean gardens of the grand villa.

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For every delicate moment there was a touch of tough modernity. From the styling of the white tulle skirt with boxier black leather jacket, to the hair being swept up into a punk up do, to the models all striding down the runway in open-heel pointed-toe booties.

By Olivier Saillant.

As ever, the final flourish of the finest French craftsmanship came in a form of a bridal number, but it was not what we expected. The model came out in a embellished swimsuit, matching swim cap and a long veil – perfect for the Italian Riviera.

Maria Gazia Chiuri staged a couture circus filled with fine craftsmanship designed for today, and the makeup complimented the theme.

Spring-Summer 2019 Haute-Couture
Dior Show Backstage Dior Make-Up Created and Styled By Peter Philips
Photography: Vincent Lappartient For Christian Dior Parfums

Peter Philips, creative and image director for Dior make-up, styled a look inspired by a Pierrot clown, with a particular focus on the eyes that he decorated with patterns drawn in thick black lines.

“I chose a dark and graphic messy look, with a pattern that blends a punk aesthetic with a dreamy Pierrot feel. All the emphasis was on the eyes, which are intriguing, and draw you in,” Philips says in a statement.

He talks us through the look below.

Spring-Summer 2019 Haute-Couture
Dior Show Backstage Dior Make-Up Created and Styled By Peter Philips
Photography: Vincent Lappartient For Christian Dior Parfums

EYES 

 “To obtain this look I curled the lashes and framed the eyes with a black liner. I circled the eyes completely with a thick dense line of black using the Diorshow on stage liner matte black pen. Then, aligned with the pupil, I drew a vertical line that goes down to create like a Pierrot effect. After that, I smudged any lines that were too sharp, and blurred the edges with crayon eyeliner waterproof Noir Trinidad for a more punk and less perfect effect. Lastly, I applied a line of Diorshow Khôl black to the upper and lower waterlines so that the eyes were completely ringed in black.”

Spring-Summer 2019 Haute-Couture
Dior Show Backstage Dior Make-Up Created and Styled By Peter Philips
Photography: Vincent Lappartient For Christian Dior Parfums

COMPLEXION

“An ultra-natural complexion created thanks to Dior Backstage face and body foundation, whose 40 shades for every skin colour enabled me to adapt it to every complexion. Then, when needed, I used Diorskin Forever Undercover concealer for touch-ups.”

LIPS

 “Lips looked really natural. They were prepped with Dior Lip Sugar Scrub 001 pink, and then I used Dior Lip Maximizer in pink, but I toned the shine down just before the models went onto the catwalk.”

It was a dapper affair at Ralph & Russo Haute Couture SS19 show with bright suiting and some very fabulous hats.

Designers Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo were inspired by a Mexican diva María Félix and her flamboyant and glamorous wardrobe, delivering a collection that celebrates her cinematic Latin-American femininity.

The pant suits were fitted and slick, especially the opening green ensemble with an embellished snake slithering round the waistline, while the embellished strapless jumpsuit felt ideal for lounging during an after party.

After a series of skinny and mini silhouettes, the designers then introduced the full gowns with layers of feathers, fringing, and organza. The pieces were packed with charisma, and sometimes you need to have a bit of fun.

Couture designers are continuing their quest to appeal to the younger clientele, and for his latest collection Giambattista Valli was inspired by the craftsmanship of the late Yves Saint Laurent.

The iconic creative captured the essence of the Parisian attitude, and backstage Valli had a picture of the YSL’s Avenue Marceau salon in 1977 during a haute couture fittings. Using that as a starting point, he created glamorous Eighties mini dresses that filled the first half of the show. They were tight and decorated with dramatic shoulders and embellishment.

He then gradually introduced the long capes to some of these dresses, before coming back to some of the traditional couture codes of the brand with full gowns, some in a featuring tiered plissé tulle, while others carried asymmetrical trains.

He is one of the few designers who are looking to the future of couture, but there is still plenty for a traditionalist to enjoy.

We can all recite that magical feeling of entering a circus tent as a child. The sense of wonder, eagerly awaiting for what lies inside. That anticipation of the extraordinary, and being in a place where all are welcome, is what Maria Grazia Chiuri aimed to capture in Paris tonight with her SS19 couture collection for Dior.

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As guests entered the round erected space and took their seats to see how the designer was going to interpret the creative chaos of a circus. She unleashed her memories through imagery of a woman’s tattooed skin referencing the Victorian circus and the fairground phenomena.

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The palette was powdery pastel, giving the clothes a worn feeling that have been hanging backstage awaiting their next trapeze performance. Paying tribute to acrobats, trainers and riders, some of the embroidered pieces with a sequins underlay were shortened as tutus.

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Lanvin announced the appointment of Bruno Sialelli as the new Creative Director for both womenswear and menswear.

Ever since the sudden firing of Alber Elbaz in October 2015, the French brand has struggled to find the right direction to follow, but they believe that Sialelli’s ‘youthful translation of Lanvin’s heritage’ is what set him apart from the others.

“His singular and very personal vision, his audacity, his culture, his energy and ability to build a strong creative team definitely convinced us,” said Philippe Hecquet, Lanvin’s Chief Executive Officer, in a statement. “I can’t wait to discover Bruno’s first collections which will fully bring back to life this beautiful and unique fashion house, and once again inspire a passion among our customers.”

Sialelli will joins from his position of Menswear Designer Director at Loewe, where he reported to Jonathan Anderson. Previous to that, he had accrued extensive experience as Pre-collection Womenswear Designer at Balenciaga, working under both Nicolas Ghesquière and Alexander Wang, before becoming Senior Womenswear Designer at Acne Studios, and then at Paco Rabanne.

“I am delighted and honoured to join Lanvin, a house founded by a visionary woman who among the first French couturiers dared to offer a global universe with a very wide field of expression,” explains Sialelli. “Bringing emotions through compelling stories and defining a modern attitude are going to be exciting challenges in continuing this legacy.”

More news of his first collection for the brand to follow.

Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika delivered the hits of his design aesthetic, mainly focusing on a muted colour palette featuring elegant embroidery and classic shapes.

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Unconventionally he opened with an chic suit featuring a corseted silk jacket paired with shimmering trousers with a relax fit.

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This was followed by a series of pastel gowns decorated in intricate embroidery and embellishment, before he introduced a series of baroque lace and fuller skirts.

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The final looks were the familiar display of voluminous drama, layers of decadent fabric and of course an exquisite wedding gown enchanted with gold embroidery and beading.

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Hobeika keeps to the classic codes of Haute Couture, but there were youthful elements which would appeal to those who are making their first steps into this fine world of fashion.

Tony Ward serves up femininity and sophistication through a Haute Couture SS19 collection inspired by insect wings.

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From the toughness of a dragonfly to the gentle nature of a butterfly, the Lebanese designer focused on colour and transparency of the wings, as well as their geometric shapes. The blend resulted in sharp lines meeting curves that gave gowns movement, while colour palette contrasted between pastels and emerald green with bold purples.

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The more structured shapes gave way to flowing silhouettes, as though in flight, and he also played with the length of the hemlines offering something shorter for the cocktail hour, before bringing in the floor sweeping dresses worthy of the red carpet.

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All eyes locked in on the bridal gown that combined the fitted skirt with a voluminous cape, while upper half wrapped the model in delicate lace, with the veil slightly disguises the headpiece that representing a dragonfly.

Bertrand Guyon.

With names like Givenchy, Christian Lacroix and Valentino on his CV, Bertrand Guyon was appointed the Design Director of all Haute Couture and prêt-à-Couture collections of Schiaparelli in 2015.

We chat to Bertrand Guyon about his creative energy, the influence Elsa Schiaparelli continues to have on the house and his latest couture collection.

How would you summarise Elsa Schiaparelli?

She was daring. Elsa Schiaparelli was an entrepreneur (even though she started somehow late as she was 37) and a real businesswoman. She was strong, independent, free and contemporary. She managed a business at a time when it was not so common for a woman to do so.

What influence does her legacy have on the house today?

It is the reason why Schiaparelli is at 21 place Vendôme again. She is one of the very few iconic names of 20th century fashion history. She pioneered so many elements that it would be impossible to name them all. But, our mission today is to keep that spirit alive and translate it so that women can relate to what we do collection after collection.

What would you say is her most iconic piece?

If I had to keep one piece, that would be the “Phoebus cape”  because it is a cape, it is shocking pink, it is embroidered, it features a gold motif, it features the sun, it is from the 1938 Astrological collection. So all these elements are simply what Schiaparelli stands for.

If I had to pick another one, I would add the “Neptune” cape that is somehow the black version of the former.

They are among the most magnificent pieces she has ever created. The cape is so iconic of Schiaparelli. Shocking pink, black and gold are also the Schiaparelli colours.

Elsie de Wolfe wearing the Neptune cape by Cecil Beaton 1938

Phoebus cape by Bérard 1938

How has Schiaparelli evolved since you started designing?

After more than three years at Schiaparelli, collection after collection, we have been able to attract loyal clients and new ones every season. Even though it is only about Haute Couture, it is a reality. Also, the resonance of the name is more and more meaningful. I am proud that Schiaparelli has again an international recognition through the press, through the beautiful actresses we collaborate with and through our clients coming from all over the world.

Your most recent Couture collection paid tribute to Elsa, was it difficult to choose the themes you wanted to focus on?

The theme of a collection comes very naturally to me. This collection was no exception. It was obvious for me this season that I would focus on Elsa herself. It is difficult to express it in words. It is like an ignition that I feel at the beginning of a new season. But, then again, it is a main inspiration around which I add other elements freely.

Which look did you sketch first when creating the collection?

The outfit that became look #2 (pictured right). My first idea for the season was this fitted jacket with big 3D pockets with a leopard print worn with leopard embroidered pants. The tailored jacket and the maxi pockets are so iconic of Schiaparelli together with the leopard print that she loved and wore so much.

Schiaparelli HC FW1819 mood board

The headpieces were wild! What prompted that?

This season, I really wanted to collaborate with Stephen Jones. I had this idea of creating a 2018 real life version of the flower head that comes on the Shocking (the fragrance) bottle that had been created by artist Leonor Fini in 1937.

This starting point led to the idea of masks as I included many animals in the collection. Hence, a fantasy fauna including a winged leopard’s head, Popcorn – Elsa Schiaparelli’s fox terrier but this time with feather ears.

It was a nod to Elsa and her love of animals, her passion for dogs, but all in a witty, fun and quirky way. Also, I added pink flamingos for instance. They have nothing to do with Schiaparelli’s heritage, but, I love them (and they are pink!).

What is the secret to constantly innovating an iconic brand like Schiaparelli? Especially in the world of digital and social media.

Not sure if there is a secret. What I can say is the love one has for the house of Schiaparelli. If you do not genuinely love the house you work for or if you don’t really love the founding designer, it is going to be really hard. I feel that the more time passes, the more I love her.  The more I love her, the more I respect her. It has become a real intimate relationship between her and me. The secret could be around this respect and trying to be loyal to her spirit.

What do you think of the way that women dress today?

Today’s women know exactly what they have to wear or want to wear. They have an expressive opinion on this matter. Designers are here to create collections. But, women are the ones who ultimately decide. They are the ones who make fashion.

Also, I must say that the wardrobe of a woman who works and who lives, say, in Paris, London or NYC has not really evolved for the past 40 years. You will always find the same fundamental clothes. Accessories will evolve. But, the basis is here and is more or less the same.

Will we be seeing more of Schiaparelli in the Middle East?

Only future will tell.

Describe the view you’re looking at today.

I am in my office that is on the 5th and last floor of the couture house. The door is closed. We are shut from the outside world. Walls are painted midnight blue. It is my own world that I created. There is no outside view as the shades are deliberately down. It is decorated with lots of objects, full of furniture. It is intimate, cosy and protective. I totally feel at home. If there was a bed, I could sleep here.

Among the décor, I will mention the portrait of Elsa Schiaparelli by Maurice van Moppes that hangs in front of me. It belongs to the company. But, I cherish it. It is one of my favourite portraits of her. I look at it everyday. I feel her gaze is extremely benevolent. It is really something intimate that I feel. I love the colours and the style of this painting.

Elsa Schiaparelli by Maurice van Moppes

Do you have a favourite quote?

Something that Hubert de Givenchy once wrote to me: “I hope you will love your job as much as I loved it.”

What’s on your playlist?

Lots of things, all very different. But, at the moment, I listen to Depeche Mode on and on.

Can you share with us a life lesson that you would like to pass on?

I feel that Hubert de Givenchy has been such an influence on me. Funnily enough, there were many things I did not understand at the time I was working with him. I was very very young. What I came to know now is this unconditional love of his job and of being serious about it. This awareness of doing a great job that you enjoy and gives you so much fulfilment. These are real lessons I learnt from him.

I often think about him and what he taught me over the 6 years I worked with him, in retrospect.

For instance, at the time, getting to the office at 8am sharp was extremely demanding. He was very rigorous. He was so precise, organised and disciplined that now I understand how crucial it was and still is. He has really shaped my professional attitude towards work and somehow personal life as well.

It is a very simple life somehow. But, it has become a reference to me.

Can you share with us another brand which you respect?

Besides Schiaparelli, I love what Monsieur Yves Saint Laurent created. He is one of my favourites together with the houses/designers I worked with (Givenchy, Lacroix and Valentino).

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

An interior decorator/gallerist.

If you, along with 40 million others, have been gripped by the latest Netflix series You, then we have some very good news for you.

You on Netflix.

Following the story of a charming, yet very sinister stalker, Joe Goldberg who madly (and we mean that literally) falls in love with Beck in New York City. Spoiler, the fairy tale comes to a tragic end, and despite his very dark qualities, the world is besotted and are eagerly awaiting to see what happens next, as season one ended with a surprise twist.

If you don’t want to wait, then you’ll be happy to know that you can catch up with Joe and his twisted and educated mind sooner thanks to Caroline Kepnes, who penned You in 2014.

Her follow up titled Hidden Bodies in 2016, brings us to Joe’s next great love/victim, and the devastation he leaves behind. You can buy it now on Amazon.

Constellations and botanical gardens inspire the Schiaparelli’s SS19 collection.

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Designer Bertrand Guyon kicks off the Haute Couture season in Paris with a dreamlike world adorned in flowers and dazzled with stars that fill the night sky.

He worked this fantasy into daytime elegance with pieces ranging from sculpted peplum suits embroidered with scattered porcelain buds, lace, mother of pearl and gold, to jet black jackets embellished with illustrations with zodiac and comets.

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For the midnight hour, Guyon adds energy though feathered and caped gowns, as well as sequins, all in vibrant shades of ‘shocking pink’, yellow, green, and royal blue.

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Models glided down the runway in black pleated velvet dresses, but there was also chiffon, organza and layered tulle – note the closing look modelled by Erin O’Connor. Perfectly ‘shocking’, perfectly Elsa Schiaparelli.

“I started traveling back to London from California, in early May last year. After spending a lot of time in London in the early 2000s documenting the then emerging indie music scene, I have maintained a strong connection to Britain and predominantly British music.

I had been listening to some interesting new music coming out of the UK, a resurgence of the new wave and post punk sound, and initially returned there to photograph some of these inspiring young musicians. From that point onwards, the collection began to build itself as a way of documenting, or a “Polaroid” snapshot of this young British creative community.”

From power tailoring and exquisite leather, these are just some of the highlights from Jonny Johansson Fall 2019 for Acne Studios.

Renowned for its effortlessly cool Scandinavian aesthetic since 1996, the brand continue to present it’s cool attitude with bold series of Eighties-inspired suiting with jackets emphasised through the shoulders, while the trousers were worm high and fitted on the waist and then loosened through the leg.

The coats had dramatic oversized collars – some in navy, some in artistic prints in earthy tones. Leather work was particularly exceptional with cropped elegant jacket paired with relaxed trousers, while the bikers had a tough edge.

As for accessories, the bags were maxi for all your office needs, while the boots were extremely slouchy and perfectly styled with skirts.

Don’t make any holiday plans for March, as Dubai is going to be the place to be.

From performances in the Dubai Opera to live music events, the sandy city is about to welcome the A-listers from creative industries for your entertainment, and team a&e cannot wait.

Stars Of American Ballet will be in town on March 8 for just two shows, before Dubai Opera welcomes the record-breaking “Thriller Live” for a four-night run. The award-winning production pays homage to Michael Jackson’s legendary live performances and innovative dance moves.

Rita Ora

Towards the end of the month, not one but three major British acts will be performing on the eve of the Global Teacher Prize – hosted by The Varkey Foundation to honour teachers around the world.

Singer Rita Ora, girl group Little Mix and former One Directioner Liam Payne (who only recently performed at the Global Village) will take to the stage on March 23 at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.

Your March diary is about to get very busy.

Don’t let the surprise drop in temperature put you off your style game with our edit of mid-weather pieces.

This is the time of year to embrace layering, but the 20-degree climate can be a tricky one to dress for as you are constantly balancing the ‘too hot’ and ‘too cold’ attire.

Make the most of your jackets, and for an extra cosy feel add a roll neck underneath. Our favourite combination is an oversized plaid blazer with an animal-print fitted top. Dust off the ankle boots and embrace the cooler days, and if you want to wear sandals then why not add some statement socks?

White jeans are our top go-to during the sunnier days and can still look fresh now, just thrown on a leather shirt and mules for office-to-ladies-night style. You can always rely on a classic biker, but give it some femininity by shrugging it over a slip or maxi dress and pair with some sneakers, meanwhile we have been spotting everyone in chunky denim jackets that look especially good with flared printed trousers.

Click through the gallery above for the perfect 20-degree weather wardrobe.

SIHH celebrates record attendance with over 23,000 visitors across the four days, and millions of views via social media, indicating that the fair is still relevant to the industry.

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Earlier last year, some watch brands announced that they will be departing Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie after this year, throwing into question the significance of such large-scale event.

However, the figures released following the 29^th edition in Geneva, might be an indication that SIHH is still a hugely important occasion on the watchmakers calendar, as well as a key place for networking, and socialising with brand ambassadors like Olivia Palermo for Piaget and Hugh Jackman for Montblanc.

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The Salon’s new format also hit the mark, thanks to the bigger and better LIVE concept in the Auditorium as well as the creation of the LAB, a showcase for exhibitors’ innovations in digital and technology. Artificial intelligence, virtual reality and augmented craftsmanship are some of the technologies through which Fine Watchmaking is expanding its expertise and making this expertise known.

This 29th SIHH also revealed the first trends in Fine Watchmaking for 2019. Many exceptional timepieces were on display, perpetual calendars in particular. True collector’s items, they could be seen in both the historic Maisons as well as inside the Carré des Horlogers.

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Blue and green colourways are continuing to gain in popularity, as well as Moon phases and “métiers d’art” dials. Also noteworthy is the arrival of original alloys, based on carbon or recycled titanium, mainly in sport watches.

Not forgetting women’s watches, for which new designs, movements and gem-setting were showcased by many of the brands – we spotted our favourite models at Jaeger-LeCoultre.

The 30^th edition will be held in April 2020.

There aren’t many brands that can do contemporary classics as well as Hermès, and during Men’s Paris Fashion week the brand delivers a collection packed with timeless staples inspired by geometry and furniture design.

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It seems like many designers have gone back to basics in order to discover the needs of a modern men within the codes of the house. The key thing for Hermès was to deliver complexity disguised as simplicity, whether it’s using an elegant hue of navy and injecting a print, or taking a leather jacket and playing with lines and volumes.

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Luxury lies in the fabrics, craftsmanship and attention to detail – note the dragon pin placed on the collar of midnight blue blazer. The tailoring was sharp and elegant, as was the outwear, all in the colour palette of black, navy, grey and burnt orange as well a newly introduced ‘metallic H red’.

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The use of leather was particularly refined, whether it was just a few panels on an oversized coat, or fully incorporated into wide leg trousers or a zip up jackets. As for spacious bags and shoes with bulky soles, it’s clear that this man likes to travel, and with a wardrobe likes this, who can blame him for wanting to show it off globally?

With all the love, time and money that Chanel have invested in the renovation of the Grand Palais in Paris, it’s understandable that the fashion house would like to make the most of it.

Chanel SS19

A regular venue for many of their runway shows, it wasn’t a surprise when the Maison have announced that their next cruise collection will be held at the space on May 3.

It feels like a homecoming after they voyaged to Bangkok for the last Cruise extravaganza, but Karl Lagerfeld did use the location for his beach-themed SS19 show.

Chanel has now been associated with not only beautiful clothing and accessories, but also jaw-dropping set design for all the shows held at the iconic Grand Palais (remember the rocket and the Eiffel Tower?) so we are expecting big things to come.

Live in Dubai long enough, and it naturally forces you to re-think your grooming regime, head to toe.

1847

Let’s focus on the toes for this particular segment. If in the past you tended to not give your feet much thought, all-year round sunshine is as good an excuse as any to start paying them some attention – if not purely for the reason to feel good on the beach.

Newbies to the city might be surprised, but male pedicures are a common practice here with many having hem alongside a trim or a facial, but what makes you feel confident to walk through the door and give your toes some TLC? It’s the bespoke environment.

Bvlgari Resort Dubai

A space that’s tailored to a male client seems like a no brainer, but it’s something that makes you feel at ease when it comes to footcare. In most places, you get a 45 minute slot that involved exfoliation, toenail clipping and filing and a foot massage.

You don’t know what good toes look like until you’ve experienced a pedicure. Don’t do it to flash your feet at the next pool party, do it for your own personal confidence and in no time you’ll be booking yourself in as regularly as you do for a haircut.

Scroll down for our favourite spots in Dubai.

 

Profile Aveda, Harvey Nichols – Mall Of The Emirates

 

1847

 

Bvlgari Hotel & Resort

 

Urban Male Lounge

The 29^th edition of SIHH is already shaping up to be a pretty special occasion and below we have rounded up the latest novelties unveiled in Geneva.

Hermes

The brand presented a series of new novelties, but it’s the Arceau L’heure De La Lune that caught our eye. Framed by a white gold case, the mechanics adopt a light, barely-there role. Meteorite or aventurine inlaid with mother-of-pearl form a cosmos in which satellite dials oat above hemispherical moons. The mother-of-pearl moons set into the stone display the lunar cycles in the northern and southern hemispheres.

Cartier

Cartier takes a new look at watchmaking design at the 2019 Salon International De La Haute Horlogerie to cast light on Santos De Cartier, Panthère De Cartier, Baignoire Panthère “Figurative”, Cartier Privé and Cartier Libre. Our top pick is the re-release of the Tonneau in platinum and pink gold, a unique model that dates back to 1906.

Richard Mille Bonbon

It doesn’t get any sweeter than this. Luxury Swiss brand Richard Mille unveiled a collection inspired by a candy shop that is a little bit bonkers, but one that even Willy Wonka would approve of.

Dubbed the “Bonbon”, the entire range is split into three families that capture all the sugary treats you loved as a kid. The RM 37-01 Kiwi, Cerise and Sucette are all about chromatic and optical effects, The RM 16-01 Fraise, Citron and Réglisse add brightness to Richard Mille’s square case, while The Litchi, Marshmallow, Myrtille and Cupcake versions of the RM 07-03 each present a distinctive personality.

IWC Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Spitfire Edition

IWC Schaffhausen presented a new Spitfire line in the Pilot’s Watches collection. To celebrate the unique engineering expertise of the designers of the legendary British fighter aircraft, all Spitfire watches feature IWC-manufactured calibres. The design is inspired by the puristic instrument design of the Mark 11.

The iconic navigation watch was produced in Schaffhausen for the Royal Air Force from 1948 and was worn by many of the pilots and navigators serving at that time. Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Spitfire Edition “The Longest Flight” has been specially developed for pilots Steve Boultbee Brooks and Matt Jones to coincide with their flight around the world in a Spitfire. The watch can be set to a different time zone by means of a simple rotational movement of the bezel.

Piaget

At SIHH 2019, Piaget introduced three new Altiplano timepieces, each featuring iconic areas of Piaget expertise, as well as new collection of Piaget Possession watches and updated Piaget Polo models with pops of colour and a dash of sparkle.

Find it hard to switch off during your time off? Getting away from it all should also mean putting your phone habits on hold, no matter how badly you want to share another snap of avocado on toast.

Many of holiday-goers have started to appreciate the no-tech travel by choosing Wi-Fi free hotels or destination with limited access to any signal whatsoever. Fancy a digital detox? Read on.

Tierra Patagonia, Chile

instagram.com/tierrahotels

Hidden among the dramatic landscape, this all-inclusive resort offers luxury and adventure. Located within the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia, there is no TV, phone or reception, allowing you to enjoy nature in all it’s glory.

Albergo Il Monastero, Ischia, Italy

instagram.com/ilmonasteroischia

Found in the bay of Naples, Ischia is a hidden gem. Albergo Il Monastero might housed in a former monastery within Aragonese Castle, but inside its stylish and contemporary. Again, don’t expect a TV, and the Wi-Fi signal will struggle to penetrate the 16th-century walls.

Mumbo Island, Malawi

instagram.com/MumboIsland

Feel like a modern-day castaway on an island free of today’s technological distractions. You will be completely mesmerised by all the beauty around you to care that you haven’t got ‘the’ Insta shot.

Tagish Wilderness Lodge, Yukon, Canada

instagram.com/fritsmeyst

If you are looking for solitude, the less-travelled northern territories might be just for you. Canada’s Yukon was made famous by the Kate Middleton and Prince William a few years ago, but most of remains unspoiled wilderness which means there is no internet to distract you. Our tip is to watch the Northern Lights from one of the natural hot pools.

Have you noticed your Instagram feed flooded with before and now pictures of your friends and celebrities?

The latest viral social media trend is officially here with the #10YearChallenge and Instagram users, almost 2 million of them, have been busy sharing a picture of themselves from 10 years ago alongside one from today.

Below we have listed our favourites that we have found to be the most inspiring.

Anne Hathaway

instagram.com/annehathaway

“Wow. Check out 2009 me trying so hard not to do anything wrong. Check out 2019 me doing what feels right. Wicked sweet. #10YearChallenge”

Jennifer Lopez

instagram.com/jlo

“#10yearchallenge #challengeaccepted”

Kate Beckinsale

instagram.com/katebeckinsale

“Ok ten year challenge. Major developments: 1) I am much happier now and 2) I no longer ask for “the autumn palette” at cheap makeup counters. Also actually first pic is 2005 but I can’t be arsed looking for a similar one from 2009 so whatever I’m over it”

Alison Brie

instagram.com/alisonbrie

“2009 vs 2019… still standing in the sun, but now I wear more sunscreen. #10yearchallenge”

Sonequa Martin-Green

instagram.com/therealsonequa

“Before my family, my king and my prince, before Star Trek, before Walking Dead, before so many enlightening experiences, hard struggles, revelations and lessons, before deepened friendships, great travels, great people and countless other great things…man getting older is the BEST.”

Kate Bosworth

instagram.com/katebosworth

“I have seen the 10 yr challenge everywhere and it got me to thinking—what is the actual challenge? To look the same? Better? Different?

For me, it was to look back on a human in her 20’s (left photo) wide-eyed, & living in a ton of fear because I felt no control over my life. I had neither the experience nor the tools to really understand myself. I started out in this industry at 14 years old—quite by accident. Anyone who follows me from middle school or high school will tell you—I was (and still am) a normal kid from a small town. But I love telling stories and working in a community who literally work their asses off right up until the moment someone yells “ACTION!” in an attempt to make magic (which is what I believe great cinema is—magic). But that girl on the left was not prepared for the wacky / cruel / overwhelming attention fame can bring, and I truly did not know how to process any of it. I internalized the fear, did not communicate much, and certainly did not voice my extreme vulnerability, as I felt it was a weakness. Regardless of the road travelled, the 20’s can be weird and confusing. You are developing. This requires patience and self-care: both qualities I admittedly did not have at the time. I kind of barreled through the decade in an attempt to fake looking cool & confident (I wasn’t) + feel less pain.

Ok, so I am now 36—and I often get asked from journalists (🙄) how do I feel about ageing (as if this is a bad word—we need to work to change this perspective, but that’s a different post). How do I feel about evolving from fear and learning to live through love? AWESOME. Aware there are always growing pains in life, but what a miracle to be alive. The woman on the right feels grateful to create art in different ways, finds strength in vulnerability – and beyond anything else—she knows love is everything. Also, “cool & confident” to me now is goofy, kind, and honest.

So… Go easy on your hearts now 20 yr olds—you’re not supposed to have it figured out. Find mentors, lean on those you trust who have more life experience. ❤️ Thanks for this challenge, here’s to the next 10. (I hear the 40’s are even better ;)”

Earlier this week, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their first joint appearance of 2019 and the Duchess of Sussex wowed everyone with her colourful wardrobe.

The pair were visiting Birkenhead in the UK, where they met several organisations and admired new monuments including a brand new sculpture of wartime poet Wilfred Owen. They also had some time to mingle with members of the public with some saying that Meghan hinted that she is expecting her first child with the Duke of Sussex in April.

She stepped out in purple dress by Babaton by Aritizia and a red midi coat by Sentale that she styled with Stuart Weitzman shoes and a Nina bag by Gabriella Hearst – aka the must-have handbag that sells out quicker than we can add to our shopping bags.

The combination of purple and red looks chic and modern, but some observers have commented it that this particular mix of colours is a nod to Princess Diana, who was also a fan of wearing these bright hues together.

Feeling inspired? Get a royal style approval with our edit above.

From a romantic tribute to Christian Dior during SS19, to a futuristic vision for the Maison for Pre-Fall, Kim Jones has played with the extremes in his last two collections for Dior Men, and tonight, those two worlds came together.

The designer has been sifting through the archives once again, seeking inspiration from the interest of the legendary creative and for Fall 2019 he decided to focus on the arts. He has collaborated with artist Raymond Pettibon on prints, jacquards and hand embroideries. He is continuing to play with the fine line between masculinity and femininity, which is organically taking the brand into the future.

As models glided down the runway on a human conveyor belt, the essence of couture is as ever present. From the draping and architectural outwear, to the use of famed prints such as Pantherè introduced by the founder in 1947, alongside tiger and leopard prints seen on knitwear. This fine craftsmanship is extended into elegant tailoring, some jackets entirely reversible with the lining looking as good as the outside.

The classic and the contemporary meet in the way that Jones works with the fabric; cashmere, silk-satin, and furs, that are combined with technologically advanced materials to give them a high-gloss sheen. Knitwear now resembles moiré, lace is cut into body-hugging pieces, nylon is disguised as silk, all presenting the modern idea of luxury.

Accessories are even stronger this time round with crossbody Saddle bags in nylon, quilted backpacks, cases in Pettibon printed plexiglass designed to fit two iPhones – what more does a man need?

Jone’s confidence is shining through every piece, and we feel Dior Men has a very bright future indeed.

We weren’t sure how to react when Victoria Beckham took to Instastories to share the latest addition to her beauty routine, but we were intrigued.

instagram.com/victoriabeckham/

The former Spice Girls has joined a long list of celebrities who go to Dr Barbara Sturm, aka the woman behind the famed ‘vampire facial’, for a unique treatment. On her recent visit to the clinic in Germany, she revealed that her own blood has been used in a moisturiser. She wrote:

 

‘@drbarbarasturm took my blood and created healing factors made by my own cells which is highly anti-inflammatory and regenerative.’

In a nutshell, some blood is removed from a patient which is then fed through a tube containing metal beads, which tricks the blood into thinking they are wounds. This reaction causes a development of a healing protein IL-1 and TGF-beta. If included in a regular beauty routine, the patients can see a decrease in inflammation and increase in collagen growth.

instagram.com/victoriabeckham/

After using the overnight mask, the designer said on her Instastories that her skin felt ‘amazing’ and ‘hydrated’. A price for the privilege? Apparently, the moisturiser alone will set you back almost Dhs 6000.

Something tells us that Dr Sturm is about to be overwhelmed with appointments.

All the fashionista’s would tell you that leopard print is a must in anyone’s wardrobe, but can these animal spots work for the hair?

instagram.com/donatella_versace

Yes, according to Donatella Versace who sent model João Knorr down the runway sporting a multi-colour leopard print do, during the Fall 2019 season of Milan Fashion Week. She then snapped a picture of her backstage with him captioning it with:

 

“Thanks @joaoknorr! The hair-coat match was everything!!”

instagram.com/versace

She isn’t the first to see appeal of this print on hair with a number of high-profile celebrities testing it out for themselves including singer Nicki Minaj, while Instagram has been flooded with thousands of people showcasing their decorated buzz cuts.

A gimmick or not, we are roaring for it.

The theme of the 13^th edition of the Global Art Forum hosted by Art Dubai has been revealed as education.

Entitled “School is a Factory?”, and programmed by editor and writer Victoria Camblin as well as curator Fawz Kabra, the event in March aims to address the urgent challenges and opportunities facing education today.

The two-day forum taking place 20-21 March 2019 during Art Dubai will be answering the following questions;

• What should education prioritise in the coming decade?
• How should humans be taught in the age of accelerated mechanisation?
• Is the notion of ‘learning for life’ just an opportunistic tagline?
• Will higher education escape the ghetto of elitism?
• Do past experiments in education have something to teach today?
• And, will we need humans to teach humans anymore, anyway?

Global Art Forum 2017.

To address the above, the forum will welcome Curator of Contour Biennale 9 Nataša Petrešin-Bachelez, Designer Amir Berbic, Initiators of Campus in Camps Sandi Hilal and Alessandro Petti in conversation with Fawz Kabra.

Stay tuned for the full programme that will be announced later this month.