Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

What You Need To Know About Dior Cruise 2019 Show Venue

Dior confirmed the Great Stables in the Château de Chantilly as the venue for the Cruise 2019 show on May 25.

Joining the likes of Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci who have all chosen an iconic venue in France, the house of Dior has many reasons for selecting Chantilly Stables as the location for their newest collection – including the fact that one of a gowns from Christian Dior’s Fall 1947 collection was baptized there.

The historic stables just outside of Paris are the largest in Europe and were constructed in the 18th century by architect Jean Aubert for the seventh Prince de Condé, Louis-Henri de Bourbon. Symbol of French prestige and art de vivre, the stables have long standing ties with the French fashion house as Christian Dior designed an evening dress inspired by the town of Chantilly for his second ever collection.

The Great Stables offer equestrian shows throughout the year, devoted to the art of haute-école horse training which has been contributing to Chantilly’s international renown for more than 30 years – we suspect an equestrian theme is in the works.

Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Takes Over New York

Dolce & Gabbana took over the Opera House at the Lincoln Center to present their Spring 2018 Alta Moda collection, as part of the four-day celebration in the Big Apple.

For the first time the design duo chose New York city as their backdrop for Alta Moda presentations that have been dazzling the city the last few days. On Friday, they hosted Alta Gioielleria event with Sarah Jessica Parker and on Saturday it was the turn of menswear.

For last night’s showcase, the Italian fashion house enlisted Karlie Kloss, Ashley Graham, Jourdan Dunn and Naomi Campbell to showcase Spring 2018 Alta Moda line. New York motifs dominated the couture pieces with corseted gowns, full skirts and sequin dresses all displaying iconic buildings round the city – some paired with crowns inspired by the Statue of Liberty. Among the dramatic pieces there was also plenty of more wearable items to choose from such as the floral suit worn by Halima, or the parker jackets decorated in badges that were styled with mini dresses and sparkling gowns.

Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce know how to celebrate fashion in the most extravagant way, but it’s the clothing that keep the fans smiling on front row as they list everything that they will be adding to their shopping bags. The Italian designers have not finished with New York just yet as tonight they invite VIP guests to their farewell party at the Top of the Standard.

10 Salt Sprays Your Hair Will Love

For thick hair fast, salt spray needs to be in your beauty arsenal and we have picked some of the best.

Easy-going beach waves are within reach – all you need is a great salt spray that adds volume, natural movement, creates height in the roots while also expanding at the lengths giving you an all around bouncy do. Unlike dry shampoo that revives your locks for an extra day, a spray delivers a fresh feeling for another two or even three days.

Key is to spritz from the roots to the tips of your hair when you just towel dried it. Allow the product to absorb, brush through from the bottom to the crown to avoid breakage and roughly blow dry. Style it your way, or leave it slightly damp so the hair forms it’s own natural look.

Click through our favourite salt sprays above.

Editors Pick: Spring Ankle Boots

Thought boots were only made for winter? Think again with our edit of the best spring ankle boots that you can rock well into the summer months.

Swap heavy duty footwear for softer leather and avoid anything above the ankle, unless you’re going for a sock boot in which case the thinner fabric the better. Warmer months are a great excuse to switch it up from the classic black versions to whites or bold pops of colour. Cowboy boots are a hit with the fashion savvy and we have seen a number in neutral shades as well as gold and silver.

Keep the heel low or midi and look for splashes of personality with extra buckles, contrast stitching, embroidery and statement prints. Leather is a sure bet, but the lack of rain is a perfect opportunity to invest in fabric or suede versions as not only will they feel lighter on the feet, but are easy to slip on and off.

Click through the gallery above for our favourite spring ankle boots to spice up your wardrobe.

In Focus: AMMANII

Everyday we strive for equality regardless of race, gender or religion and a Los Angeles / Cairo-based handmade jewellery brand AMMANII is channelling this message through their unique pieces.

Designed by Amany Shaker and inspired by her personal life experiences, the collections represent her Egyptian heritage while also being used as tool to connect women. Her creations don’t follow today’s trends, making them timeless and an artistic expression for any taste. The brands statement reads:

“Our World jewellery has a unique purpose: To create a shared community that transcends all cultural barriers, and emphasizes our shared humanity as women.”

Only two collections in, Shaker already has a loyal following with her Spring 2018 line named Sa’mmaa, which translates to ‘sky’ – a universal blanket that provides symbols and meanings that transcend all cultural barriers. The 18-piece range features celestial forms such as stars and crescents seen in silver earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets that are plated with gold. She also uses fresh-water pearls and natural, semi-precious stones with the most prominent being the lapis lazuli, once considered precious to the Ancient Egyptians.

For the latest designs, AMMANII named Egyptian actor Salma Abu Deif as the brand ambassador who represents women that appreciate their heritage, yet are daring and willing to push boundaries. Click through the gallery above to discover key pieces from the Sa’mmaa collection.

Charlotte Tilbury And YSL Among Brands Heading To Beauty Pop

Charlotte Tilbury and YSL will be among major international brands showing at the much anticipated Beauty Pop festival next week.

Beauty fanatics and makeup artists of the future will be heading down to Dubai Design District for a three-day event which will feature the latest products as well as meet and greet with the top names in the beauty world including Jen Atkin and Dubai’s very own Huda Kattan.

Balmain Hair Couture, Bassam Fattouh, Caudalie, Dyson, L’Occitane, Lancôme, Nurse Jamie, OUAI and Urban Decay are also on the list. Those looking to take their first step into buzzing world of beauty should check out Toni Malt, the Dubai-base makeup artist, who will be launching her academy. It will offer a range of different courses including a diploma course encompassing editorial makeup artist education with three portfolio-building photo-shoots.

Huda Kattan.

Camilla Coelho, Jen Atkin, Desi Perkins, Marianna Hewitt, Crystal Koro, Huda and Mona Kattan, Tracey Cunningham, Sadaf Beauty and Nurse Jamie will be part of scheduled panels’ discussions that will address topics such as how beauty has influenced social media, tips on becoming a beauty vlogger and how the industry has evolved in the region.

Already planning your makeup look? Head to Beautypopdxb.com to register for tickets.

Street Style Trends Spotted At Coachella

Coachella officially kicked off the festival season and we got our first dose of trends that will be sweeping through musical events this summer.

With performances from some of the biggest name, including Beyoncé who rocked the stage is custom-made Balmain, the festival goers dressed up for the occasion. There was plenty of boho chic with fringing, crochet and flowing fabrics while cowboy boots dominated the footwear category. We also spotted 90’s sunglasses and to our delight, not a single flower crown in site. Instead many opted for braids, natural waves or accessorised with a wide brim hat.

Rihanna went against the usual dress code by choosing a sportier look which gave a nod to early 2000s hip hop. Pared back style is not the way at Coachella with plenty of floral prints and embellishment, but this year there was also a lot of denim and neutral shades that mimicked the Californian desert.

Click through the gallery above for some of our favourite street style looks from the first weekend.

First Look: YNM Ramadan 2018 Collection

YNM 2018 Ramadan collection is filled with feminine and empowering elements from the 1940’s.

Emirati designer and creative director Yasmin Al Mulla was inspired by the decadence and used rich materials such as raw silk, soft linen, light crepe, and ethereal pleats in her latest collection. She added a modern feel with deep stitching, belting, touches of embellishment and a fresh approach to micro floral print.

The collection also includes a junior line which the designer introduced for her Ramadan line last year. Mimicking the silhouettes and feel of the main kaftan’s, the matching mini version is a fun way to dress up with your little one for the Holy Month.

The collection symbolizes a new hope, dramatic shift in fashion, and cements female empowerment, all bringing together a progressive perspective on classic fashion styles worn in a timeless era – what better way to to celebrate Ramadan.

A&E Guide To Double Cleansing

If you live in a city, then you know the toll pollution and dust can have on your skin making double cleansing a critical addition to your beauty routine.

Don’t leave it to the mercy of the elements and add an extra step to your routine which aims to help prevent your complexion becoming irritated and dull. However, be aware that this intense ritual is not suitable for every skin type as it further removes the skin barrier, which also carries some good properties. Over cleansing can make your skin more vulnerable so test it first and see if it feels really tight afterwards (which is a sign of over doing it) before fully implementing double cleansing.

Start by using an oil-based cleanser – even those with oily skin will feel the benefits as it regulates natural oils and easily sweeps away surface dirt. Follow this with a foam or gel cleanser. For those with sensitive skin, double cleanse only two to three times a week to avoid redness and irritation.

Click through the gallery above and start the journey to squeaky clean complexion.

On Our Radar: Bazza Alzouman

Kuwait-based label Bazza Alzouman is about to get a bigger global fan base as their AW18 collection lands on luxury digital platform Moda Operandi.

Elegant flowing gowns are the core the collection which has been inspired by the book, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt. The dreamy aesthetic combines red-carpet glamour with a romantic, almost organic softness. Ruffles bring drama but there are plenty of modern touches such as functional pockets and chevron beading.

The hero pieces include a floor-grazing strapless gown features tiered tulle coursing upward, while an emerald dress is finished with voluminous cape sleeves. The epitome of elegance, a black velvet tea dress is bisected with a peplum ruffle. Couture level craftsmanship that make these gowns ideal for any special occasion.

Bazza Alzouman’s AW18 collection is now available on Modaoprandi.com for pre-order.

How To Tackle Head To Toe White

Head to toe white may sound like a step too far out of the comfort zone, but you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to pull off.

Summer is a great excuse to inject a fresh hue to your wardrobe and nothing feels cleaner than white. Tonal dressing is sharp or slightly off-white shades make a statement but in an elegant and wearable way. Feeling inspired by loose tailoring at Salvatore Ferragamo? Look for fluid shapes and relaxed cut round the shoulders and feel free to mix the tones of white for a modern result.

For laid back approach that wouldn’t look out of place on a beach, Officine Generale mixes polished with casual but breaks it up with dark shoes – leather sandals and loafers are the best choice. If you think this is a bit too much, try swapping out your top layer for an indigo denim jacket or light, tailored navy blazer.

Click through the gallery above to see how you can inject fresh whites to you wardrobe.

Best Leather Jackets For Spring

If you were watching the Prada SS18 collection closely, then you would’ve witnessed a series statement making leather jackets.

A timeless piece that have been reimagine countless times has been given an extra dose of personality this season. Miuccia Prada decorated her boxy outwear with a signature comic print across the chest, bright animal print at the pockets, and a monochrome floral print at the back. Intricate floral appliqués, beading, and silver-tone metal studs across the blue back-yoke complete the masterpiece that you’d struggle not to wear every day.

Elsewhere, bold hues rule supreme especially at Ganni who fuse together the 70’s silhouette with millennial pink. Studding is a sure way to add some rock star edge to you classic jeans and shirt pairing and this season no one did it better than Gucci, while Alexander McQueen took a more avant-garde approach by adding a waist-defining peplum hem.

See more of our favourite artistic leather jackets and seek inspiration from style stars on how to best wear them this season.

Hot Weather Hair Ideas

The heat is rising which means it’s time to start planning your hot weather hair styles by seeking inspiration from the fashion shows.

Hair accessories stronger than ever this season with many sporting multiple hair grips above the ears, but just on one side. The 90’s nostalgia has seen the return of the scrunchie, which may have received some bad rep in the past, but now looks better than ever in a casual up-do – just ask Mansur Gavriel. Over at Miu Miu, lead stylist Guido Palau added an elastic hairband for a retro 60’s look, while Derek Lam’s silk headscarves also played tribute to the retro throwback, so do like the Queen of England by wearing it tied under the chin in a little bow.

Braids are always a good bet but now they are the tiny micro kind that deliver a refined look, as per Tommy Hilfiger. Those who prefer classic braids, bring up to the crown and pin. Ponytail is a quick fix, keep it slick and low and win extra beauty points by wrapping a strand of hair around the band – or add a romantic bow. For a sporty touch, leave the hair slightly wet and add a few bands a la Alberta Ferretti.

Click through the gallery above for more backstage inspiration for standout hair looks that beat the heat.

Shoe Edit: Heeled Mules

There’s no escaping the backless mules trend, but this season the masculine silhouette has been given a feminine touch.

Heeled mules landed at the top of our spring wish list, and we don’t mean the stiletto kind. It’s the in between size that we crave as not only do they deliver plenty of style but also comfort – finally not a bad word in the fashion vocabulary. Not too casual or over the top, the happy medium heel height adds just enough personality without treading into the boring territory.

To avoid being overly laid back, go for closed toe styles and look for detailing like a sparkling heels that we spotted at Gucci, or geometric shapes that Loewe and Jacquemus have plenty of. Neutral shades never go out of fashion, but don’t be afraid to go through all the colours of the rainbow – it is spring after all.

Click through the gallery to find the perfect pair of heeled mules for you.

Self Tan Like A Pro

Mastering the DIY golden glow at home could not be easier with our guide to self tanning.

You’d be surprised at how many people self-tan before flying out on their sunny holiday – after all no one wants to look pasty on the beach. There are sun worshipper’s and there are those who prefer the comfort of the shade, but they all want to have sunkissed look that lasts way after the summer is over. For whatever reason you choose to use a self tanner, even it’s just to blend tan lines, these are three key steps you need to keep in mind.

Prep

Use a scrub the night before to polish your skin, paying attention to the drye areas. On the day, avoid using a moisturiser as it acts like a barrier, preventing the self-tanner from working. However, applying a cream on dryer areas like elbows and feet will encourage an even result.

Technique

Invest in an application mitt and make sure to work in lengthways, not circular, and at the same pressure. Follow the contours of your body and take your time adding self tanner to the hard to reach areas. Hands are the biggest giveaway so avoid the orange tinge but using the residue on the glove from the body application.

Maintenance

Use a wipe to remove excess cream from your palms and around the nails. If you’re worried about patches, gently dab some aloe vera-based mousturiser on those areas to lift away excess bronzer.

Click through the gallery above for the top self tanning products to shop now.

Main image via Zimmermann.

37 Accessories You Should Pack For Coachella

Add a touch of pure style to your Coachella wardrobe with our edit of the must-have accessories that will last beyond the festival season.

One of the biggest events is just around the corner and if you’re heading to the Colorado Desert then be prepared to spot some of the most fashionable party-goers and knock their socks off with these key accessories.

Cowboy boots will be one of most popular shoe styles and look fresh when styled with a suede mini skirt and a loose blouse – think Chloe bohemia but with an edge. Bags have plenty of personality with the likes of Prada and Sanayi 313 bringing at touch of seaside glamour to the mix. Go hands free with a bum bag from Miu Miu or Balenciaga and wear cross body for a modern spin on the 90’s trend.

Jewellery remain bold and bright and if you want to showcase your Californian tan, choose yellow gold. Protect the eyes from the sun ray with larger than life sunglasses and keep the colourful lenses for the evening for a retro rock star feel.

Click through our edit of 37 chic shoes, bags and other accessories for the ultimate finishing touch to your Coachella outfit.

10 Reasons To Update Your Work Bag

Functionality is the new buzz word in the fashion, especially when it comes to picking the perfect work bag.

Elevating your daily office wear has never been easier with designers choosing roomier accessories than the previous season. Burberry introduced the Belt Bag, which was first spotted during Christopher Bailey’s final show for the brand in February. Inspired by the silhouette and design of the house’s classic trench coat, it’s spacious enough for all your essentials and comes in a variety of colours, so you’re bound to find the right fit for your work environment.

We are fans of the shoulder bag. Comfortably resting on your shoulder or cross body, this style is ideal for on the go and larger sizes can easily squeeze in your laptop. A woman holding a tote bag means business, but this season swap your classic black for neutral hues or be daring with a bold shade.

Scroll through the gallery above for our top picks.

Aesop Gives Combination Skin A VIP Treatment

Those with combination skin are in for a treat as Aesop unveils their new skin care range, In Two Minds.

Combination skin demands extra love and care (especially if you live in a hot city) and the new cleanser, toner and moisturizer contain a potent blend of scientifically proven ingredients and botanicals to balance and soothe troubled areas. Three years in the making, In Two Minds was specifically created tackle oilier t-zone or forehead as well dryness round the cheeks offering those with mixed concerns an effective skincare regime. Dr Rebecca Watkinson said, Aesop’s Innovation and Research Manager said:

“Over the past decade we have observed an increasing prevalence of combination skin among our customers, particularly in warmer climates, and they were finding it increasingly difficult to manage this challenging and often reactive skin type.”

“In response we have formulated the In Two Minds range to address the multifaceted nature of combination skin rather than a single aspect, and restore the skin’s delicate balance. Each of the products work together to gently cleanse combination skin, normalise sebum production, soothe irritation and provide lightweight hydration without overburdening the skin.”

Start with a gentle approach by using the gel-based Facial Cleaner containing Salicylic Acid, which offers soft yet thorough cleansing. The Toner further soothes and balances the skin with the help of Niacinamide and Panthenol, while the Facial Hydrator contains an effective blend of botanical ingredients; oils of Andiroba, Copaiba and Acai to deliver nourishment and hydration.

Your journey to flawless complexion starts at Aesop counter in Bloomingdales, The Dubai Mall.

Dolce & Gabbana Create Abayas You Want To Wear

Dolce & Gabbana are set to release their new Pre-Fall 19 abaya collection, which for the first time includes eveningwear.

It’s been two years since the design duo released their first line of abayas, and this time round the newest range includes bold prints that mimic the main collection – some styled with identical hijabs – as well as black evening ensembles decorated in signature lace and embellishment.

The seasonal print inspired by the show was also translated onto the matching top and trouser sets which would make for a perfect day outfit, while the long black dress with embroidery at the ankle would bring all the wow factor you need for a special occasion. In addition, you can also select from the range of turbans that come in a variety of colours.

Kris Van Assche Named Berluti’s New Creative Director

Kris Van Assche will be taking over the role of creative director at Berluti following the departure of Haider Ackermann last week.

The designer reshuffle continues in menswear as the Belgium designer Van Assche takes the reigns at the Parisian fashion house where he will be responsible for ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes and leather goods and will be presenting his vision at Paris Men’s Fashion Week in January 2019. In a statement he said:

“I have always wanted to build bridges between the savoir-faire, the heritage of a house and my clear-cut contemporary vision. Antoine Arnault spoke to me of his ambitions for Berluti and it is with great pleasure that I accept this new challenge, which fits perfectly with my own will and vision. I would also like to thank Bernard Arnault for his renewed confidence.”

Van Assche will be bringing his experience at Dior Homme where he spent 11 years as well as his own label that he ran for 20 seasons. Antoine Arnault, chief executive of Berluti, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Kris Van Assche to Berluti. I have known him for several years, have always admired his work at Dior Homme and I am looking forward to working with him.”

Dior Homme is now in the capable hands of Kim Jones who left Louis Vuitton which is now under the creative eye of Virgil Abloh.

Kaia Gerber Fronts Marc Jacobs’ Newest Perfume Campaign

Marc Jacobs Perfumes have unveiled new campaign images for the latest fragrance Daisy Love, starring model Kaia Gerber.

Cindy Crawford’s daughter already had a busy year walking for leading designers at fashion week and appearing in her first accessories campaign for Chanel. Now she is the face of her second shoot for the Marc Jacobs fragrance line.

Daisy Love carries notes of cloudberry, cashmere musk, driftwood, and of course, daisy tree petals. The bottle is as pretty as you’d expect while the campaign captures the happy moments of enjoying sunbeams on the Californian West Coast beaches.

Youthful, vibrant and fresh – this perfume is bound to make it on your must-have list for spring.

Bobbi Brown Takes On The Wellness Industry

Makeup artist Bobbi Brown has launched a lifestyle company Beauty Evolution that entirely focuses on wellbeing.

After leaving her namesake makeup label in 2016, Brown has been working on developing wellness product and supplements called Evolution 18. The range includes ‘Strengthen Capsules’ and chocolate- or vanilla-flavoured powders, all of which are designed to help you feel amazing and beautiful from the inside. This new venture also comes with a digital site justBOBBI, on Instagram she wrote:

‘I’m so excited to be launching my editorial site justBOBBI.com today!!! After years of working on different sites, I’ve finally been able to create my dream visual space online. justBOBBI is a modern lifestyle platform for all things wellness, beauty, travel and everything in between. Driven by my insatiable curiosity, justBOBBI aims to educate and inspire how you live your life through never-ending exploration and creative storytelling. This is just the beginning.’

The products will be available later on this month but the website is up and running offering beauty tips, trends, insiders guide to collagen as well as interviews.

In Focus: Margery Hirschey

One way to bring a spring flair to your wardrobe is through jewellery and Margery Hirschey is a pro at working colourful stones into elegant statement pieces.

Hirschey creates collections that incorporate ancient style and techniques with a modern sensibility. A balance of both history and today’s desire for wearable jewellery makes her creations stand out. Despite having no experience in the business, her artistic eye that was fine tuned during her training as an artist and couture dressmaker came in handy when it she looked at colour pairing.

The collection’s innovative approach strives to take jewellery design beyond the confines of what is considered, “fine jewellery” to create beautiful, unique pieces which feel timeless without conforming to traditional standards. Her collections are also sustainable, something that many leading jewellery houses are looking to invest in. She delivers one of a kind pieces, entirely handcrafted in 100% recycled, 22k and 18k gold, sterling silver and hand cut stones.

Hirschey launched her line in 2008 and her first pieces caught the eye of the Designer Jewellery Buyer at Bergdorf Goodman who encouraged her to envision a full line. And the rest as they say is history, but with a twist.

Commes Des Garçons Is Going Digital

Comme des Garçons chief Adrian Joffe has revealed plans for a new internet-based brand during the opening of Dover Street Market store in Beijing.

According to WWD, the new online platform will be launching in July bringing together wardrobe basics for men and women. Joffe said: “Nobody knows yet, but what I can tell you is it’s going to be Internet-based.”

Rei Kawakubo is set to design the website that will allow fans of the brand to pick out less cutting-edge pieces, but with the Comme des Garçons signature that the label has been pushing through their PLAY line.

Comme des Garçons is known for being adventurous and their Dover Street Market stores are some of the coolest retail destinations in the world. The new direct-to-consumer venture is daring step but with Comme being one of the first major brands to make online-only part of it’s business, we imagine this will set off a trend for other designers to jump on board the digital train.

Aquazzura Men’s Collection Is On The Way

In our interview with Edgardo Osorio earlier this year, the designer said that a men’s collection is in the plans, and now we have the final confirmation.

According to WWD, founder and designer of Aquazzura, who was in Dubai recently opening his flagship boutique at the Dubai Mall new fashion extension, will release a menswear line in the next 18 months which he himself is very keen to shop:

“Men’s right now is either too fashion or too conservative; there isn’t a lot in between. As a man who travels for work all over the world, I find it difficult to find things I like. I end up getting one thing here, one thing there. But generally men don’t shop like that. They prefer a one-stop shop.”

Osorio confirmed that sneakers will dominate half of the collection, which is not surprising considering the popularity of the sports shoe season after season – but they won’t be your casual sort. With emphasis on luxury and elegance, male shoppers can expect modern footwear and sneakers that are office friendly.

He also told WWD that he is working on a new lifestyle project that might be focusing on interiors, and if you had a chance to check out the newest boutique in Dubai then you know that we’re in for a treat:

“The concept will focus on things that fit into the world of Aquazzura, a reflection of my passions. It might be done through collaborations or things we do directly. I want to do the first one in Florence in the Palazzo. Once that is established it will start spreading.”

AQUAZZURA x deGournay Collaboration.

EXCLUSIVE: Making Of Dior 2018 Haute Couture Finale Gown

Dior travelled to Shanghai for their 2018 Haute Couture collection and we have an exclusive look at how the gown that closed the show was created.

Inspired by the Surrealist movement and presented in January at the Musée Rodin in Paris, this collection designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri sees the addition of twelve new designs for the occasion. As an object of refinement, the fan influenced the creation of these exclusives looks including the finale dress.

This isn’t the first time a fan was looked to for inspiration, Christian Dior himself used it for the Miss Dior campaign in 1950’s. This time round, Grazia Chiuri modernised the take on the fan and added a Dior signature to the dress that took many hours to stitch by hand. She said:

“The construction consists of interplays of layering, pleating and curves that recall the shape of a fan. Redefined for a contemporary audience, these dresses show that the language of fashion is still extremely pertinent, powerful and understandable in different places around the world.”

Remaining pieces paid tribute the connection between the French house and China with several looks produced in red, such as ball gowns and a tuxedo decorated with a pleated cape. Grazia Chiuri explained:

“Monsieur Dior loved the colour red. For him, red represented energy, a positive force, the very color of life. Red is also associated with lacquerware, an exceptional art form typical of East Asian traditions. The glossy surface immediately evokes the timeless appeal of imperial China. The use of red allowed me to enhance the Dior heritage, and link it with a faraway and fascinating culture.”

Watch the making of the final look below and click through the gallery above for the full 2018 Haute Couture runway.

How To Stack Bracelets With Chaumet

When it comes to wearing delicate bracelets, the more the better.

Following the stackable Bee my Love rings, Chaumet decided to enlarge the graphic bands and create an ensemble of collectable bangles. The modern shape with a chic finish is ideal for stacking and we don’t mean just two or three – with these you can easily get away with as many as five if not more. It is also a universal lucky charm, a cherished protective talisman never to be taken off and trust us, you won’t want to.

In white, yellow or rose gold, plain or set with diamonds in every other hexagonal cell, Bee my Love bracelets offer a wide variety of combinations and limitless ideas. Old-fashioned rules of jewellery no longer apply when it comes to mastering the bracelet stack and we dare you to mix and match for a modern result.

Click through to see more the the Bee my Love and get ready to jingle as you walk.

New Hermes Exhibition Celebrates Martin Margiela

Margiela, les années Hermès exhibition takes a closer look at the years Martin Margiela spent designing for the fashion house.

Originally devised by the ModeMuseum (MoMu) in collaboration with Martin Margiela and presented in Antwerp in 2017, this project highlights a collaboration between Hermès and the Belgian designer, from 1997 to 2003.

This tribute to Martin Margiela provides the first ever opportunity in France to exhibit his women’s ready-to-wear collections for the famous Parisian house in contrast with his own creations under his eponymous label. The interplay of 120 accessorised silhouettes that move between innovative deconstruction and timeless luxury, offers an understanding of and an insight into Martin Margiela’s very personal approach.

In October 1997, when Jean-Louis Dumas, who was Chairman and Artistic Director of Hermès at the time, asked Margiela to design the women’s ready-to-wear collections, Margiela had already been regarded as one of the most influential avant-garde figures in the field for nearly a decade. It was nonetheless a daring choice, breaking with trends in the world of fashion, which was more inclined to take on “star” stylists. Hermès caused quite a stir by enlisting this iconoclastic designer, whose very face was unknown to most – he has, moreover, never given a single interview. From 1997 to 2003, supported by the expertise of the Hermès studio and its workshops, whose values he shares, Margiela instilled a consistent and profound vision of contemporary luxury through twelve consecutive collections.

Musée des Arts Décoratifs will display over 100 outfits, photographs and short films until September 2.

Dior Pays Tribute To Marc Bohan

Dior are celebrating their former designer Marc Bohan in the newest coffee table book that focuses on his 30-year career – the longest between a designer and the Maison.

Published by Assouline, this is the third in a series of seven books devoted to the designers who succeeded each other at the head of the House. Available from end of April, the book looks back on three decades of Dior history that is recounted by the writer and journalist Jerome Hanover and documented by hundreds of images of dresses shot by Laziz Hamani, along with archival photographs of Bohan and his work.

Marc Bohan started working with Christian Dior in 1957 and following his death, Bohan became the House’s third Creative Director in 1960. He debuted his first autumn-winter collection the following year that dubbed the Slim Look that focused on fitting silhouettes that were supple with natural shoulders and graceful lines framing the waist and hips. The skirts had movement and stopped just below the knee.

Over the course of three decades, Bohan established close links with the world of the arts and the most famous personalities of the time, including the artist Niki de Saint Phalle. His fondness for faraway cultures enabled the designer to infuse the House with this particular spirit of discovery and freedom, without ever losing sight of his objective: ‘To make sophisticated clothes simply, with a touch of insolence every now and then.’

Speaking to WWD, the writer Hanover explained how Bohan created the 60’s look and his work is still influencing fashion today, adding:

“When you see shows in 2018, you see Bohan everywhere. You see [his work] in Prada, Raf Simons, Hermès — I think it will help fashion to remember that Marc Bohan really designed the Sixties. You can see it everywhere.”

Dior by Marc Bohan will be released internationally on April 23.

10 Questions With… Shatha Essa

The Emirati designer Shatha Essa launched her eponymous label in 2016 and has just released her SS18 Ramadan collection. The feminine silhouettes, intricate embellishments and impeccable attention to detail makes these pieces ideal for celebrating the holy month. We chat to the designer about her journey and what to expect from the brand in the future.

Designer Shatha Essa.

Can you share your brand DNA?

My label is epitomized by sophisticated designs and luxurious simplicity. Every piece is handmade here in Dubai by a skilled team of artisans and craftsmen. Designed with every woman in mind, a piece from SHATHA ESSA ensures that the wearer always feels elegant and effortlessly beautiful.

Tell us about the process behind launching your own label?

I studied Art & Design at Zayed University, majoring in Interior Design. I started my career on the marketing team for The Dubai Mall. I worked on many excited projects there including the first Vogue Fashion Dubai experience. During that event I had the honor of meeting Vogue Italia Editor in Chief, Franca Sozzani who was such an inspiration, which gave me the idea of changing my career and starting my own brand. I have always loved timeless fashion and beautifully crafted designs so I based my brand DNA on this and went from there!

What was your inspiration behind the most recent collection?

I recently traveled to one of my favorite cities, Paris, to source materials from the world’s most exclusive fabrics exhibitions. When I was there I spent hours at one of my favorite gardens: Le Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil. While strolling through the garden, I watched the birds flying from one tree to another, I admired the shapes and textures of the leaves and the organic lines and dots that makes every inch of that garden unique in its own way. I can happily say I drew my inspiration this season from mother nature.

What is your standout piece from the collection?

The daffodil yellow dress with abstract birds and rope embellishment. I spent a lot of time developing the embroidery and I’m really proud of how it turned out. It’s the perfect piece for Ramadan that will allow the wearer to stand out from the crowd.

What do you think of the fashion scene in the region?

The fashion scene is revolutionary! I am impressed to see how the people in the region appreciate the emerging talent just as much as they do for the international brand pioneers.

Do you think fashion can be empowering?

It can be if you use it for the right causes.

What part of the creative process do you enjoy the most?

Seeing my sketches come to life!

Can you tell us about your personal style?

My personal style is classic, sophisticated and refined. I also love detail, embroidery and embellishments! As a designer, I believe in a well curated quality wardrobe that is not brimming with trend based pieces but rather carefully filled with garments that are timeless and versatile.

Can you share with us the best piece of advice you have been given?

‘Never take no for an answer’ – from my other half.

What are your future plans?

I want to see my brand stocked in the top department stores in the fashion capitals around the world as well as to open more of my own stores within the region. It’s also my dream to show my collections at Paris Fashion Week.