Like Belt Bags? Then You’ll Love Ashya

ASHYA belt bags

 

Belt bags are here to stay, so in answer to a huge demand in this elevated fanny pack, New York based Ashya brand was born.

 

Design duo Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece have created a unisex line of belt bags that can be worn in any way you want. But these aren’t just your average travel friendly fanny packs, these are sophisticated, modern and transitional. The thoughtfully crafted accessories are designed to fill the gap in the traveller of today’s arsenal of timeless pieces.

 

ASHYA belt bags

 

Functionality is it’s key attribute but that doesn’t mean the design has to be boring. For their most recent collection, belt bags were given a longer strap so the wearer can style them cross body, as a satchel or handbag. Unlike the micro options you have seen from other designers, Ashya bags are spacious but not bulky making them ideal for any time of day.

 

Whether you’re a belt bag fan or not, Ashya offers one of the coolest ways to rock this 90’s trend.

 

READ MORE
Basket Bags Suitable For Your Easter Sunday
These Are The Most-Googled Chanel Shoes

 

Why You Need A Pink Blazer

Power dressing has never been more timely, but next time you step into the boardroom why not do it in pink?

 

The bubble gum hue is the new black but before you dismiss it as girly, consider the cut and styling that can easily take it from cute to ‘she means business’. It also makes a great piece out of office when paired with jeans and mules or shrugged onto the shoulders with a flowing dress.

 

For those not afraid of this hue, follow the likes of Tibi and Victoria Beckham who presented pastel colour tailoring and made it look modern and sharp. For a bold statement choose the double-breasted blazer from Dolce & Gabbana who manage to turn traditional tailoring on it’s head. Crafted in Italy from flamingo-pink mid-weight satin and finished with a red cotton trim and classic details – you’d struggle not get noticed.

 

Look for longer length, fluid silhouettes and shoulder pads. From work to event and everything in-between, a pink blazer is this seasons style staple so click through the gallery above and pick the worthy number for you.

 

READ MORE
Trend To Wear: Track Pants
A&E Edits: The Edgy Denim Dress

These Are The Most-Googled Chanel Shoes

Is it the plastic boots from SS18 runway or the sling backs? Nope, it’s the Chanel’s sell-out espadrilles that have become the most-searched shoes on the planet.

 

Beating other leading fashion house like Louis Vuitton and the iconic Manolo Blahnik, Google has been bombarded with 10,000 and 100,000 searches every month. That is some serious clicks for shoes that sell out before even hitting the shop floor.

 

Chanel release a new version every year including canvas and platform styles, but it’s the leather beige and black combination that has the longest list of fans. Ideal for off-duty dressing, these espadrilles add a chic touch to a simple white T-shirt and jeans combination.

 

See how celebrities and style stars turn this most-Googled shoe into a wardrobe essential.

 

READ MORE
Chanel Design First Swim and Snow Collections
Chanel Unveil New Coco Crush Collection At A Dubai Pop Up

Four Swimwear Trends To Know This Season

Beach season is in full swing, the stores are filling up with must-have swimwear pieces and for those heading to the sandy shores – we present you A&E edit of the best styles to wear now.

 

Our selection brings together four key trends that can compliment any body shape, add a quirky touch to your summer wardrobe and last well into the next season. For those looking to inject a retro feel to your swimwear, choose the high waist bottoms that help elongate you legs and flatter curvier frames. The one shoulder trend has made it’s way to the beach, which may not be best news for an even tan, but this silhouette has a sporty edge which is ideal for an active getaway.

 

As for prints and colours, polka dots are everywhere and will never get tiring, while brown hues are making waves this season and are perfect for showcasing a golden tan.

 

Scroll through more of our must-have bikini’s and one pieces.

 

READ MORE
Trend To Wear: Track Pants
Lelloue Is Bringing Back 90s Poolside Glamour

Salvatore Ferragamo’s New Exhibition Brings Back The Golden Age Of Cinema

Museo Salvatore Ferragamo

Museo Salvatore Ferragamo.

 

Museo Salvatore Ferragamo is diving back into the golden age of cinema with newest exhibition titled ‘Italy In Hollywood’.

 

Inspired by the years that Salvatore Ferragamo spent in the United States, and specifically in Santa Barbara, California from 1915 to 1927, the showing is based on the designer autobiography and explores Californian film productions in which this Italian influence is evident.

 

The exhibition centres around the world of art, artisans and entertainment, the fields in which Ferragamo focused his creativity, and presents them as if they were the plot of a film. Maurizio Balò has taken inspiration from the American film studios of the Twenties to design an exhibition that will make visitors feel as if they are on set.

 

During that decade, Italian silent films gave Hollywood potential divas like Lido Manetti, Tina Modotti, Frank Puglia and Lina Cavalieri, who is featured in the exhibition with 40 of the 300 famous portraits that Pietro Fornasetti made of her on ceramic plates. Other young Italians, like Rudolph Valentino, used their charisma to propel them to fame, creating the modern diva.

 

The exhibition will be held at Museo Salvatore Ferragamo in Florence from May 24.

 

READ MORE
Fondation Louis Vuitton Unveils A New Exhibition
Kate Middleton Is The First Royal Patron Of The V&A Museum

 

Erdem Designs Capsule Collection Inspired By Ballet

Fashion designer Erdem has created a capsule collection inspired by British ballerina Margot Fonteyn for newly launched e-boutique 24 Sèvres.

 

According to WWD, the brand collaborated on nine exclusive pieces with LVMH-owned website 24Sevres.com that includes floral print dresses with buckled shoes as well as earrings featuring flower details inspired by the wallpaper motifs at Buckingham Palace. Erdem wanted to capsule to have a similar feel to his costumes that he has designed for Royal Ballet production that pays tribute to Leonard Bernstein. In a stamen he said:

 

“The spirit of the spring-summer 2018 capsule collection combined with the movement of my work with the Royal Ballet creates a modern and playful collection. The movement in the pieces brings a really relaxed elegance which, to me, works perfectly for Parisian summer nights.”

 

Collection is available online now.

 

READ MORE
London Fashion Week: Erdem FW18
NARS x Erdem Collaboration Is As Beautiful As You’d Expect

On Our Editors Shopping List: Spring Denim

Denim was all over the SS18 runways which gives us an excuse to give our jeans a refresh.

 

From dresses and A-line skirts to jumpsuits and boxy jackets, there is a denim piece for everyone and it doesn’t have to be a pair boyfriend jeans – though we never say no to a slouchy pair to style with statement block heels.

 

Denim fabric fits any personality and can be styled in a variety of ways, and as this season it’s all about playfulness think outside the box. Daring cut out and asymmetric hemlines add edge to a classic denim dress, and layer a masculine denim jacket over a tailored suit.

 

Shop our ultimate denim edit above.

 

READ MORE
A&E Edits: The Edgy Denim Dress
Net-A-Porter Launches An Exclusive Ganni Denim Capsule Collection

A&E Edits: Top Beauty Gadgets

No matter how good your skincare kit is, sometimes you need a technical tool to take it to the next level.

 

It’s not always down to the ingredients, but how you apply them and there are countless beauty gadgets on offer to help you get the best results. Some are inspired by ancient traditions while others look like they just stepped out of a sci-fi movie, but all aim to revolutionise your daily routine.

 

Forea face cleanser is one of the most popular gizmos on the market. It works to give your skin a deep clean while also draining away any puffiness.  Ying Yu Jade Facial Roller might not be electrical but once you have the rolling skill in place, the skin around the eyes will thank you. Our tip is to keep it in a fridge for a cooling effect.

 

Clarisonic is another best selling tool for cleansing and exfoliating, but we advise you use it two to three times a week to avoid stripping away some of the natural oils that the skin produces. We didn’t know how good a hair dryer can be until Dyson introduced their Supersonic Dryer that works fast and leaves you with smooth locks – dream.

 

Click through our pick of the best beauty gadget to add to your arsenal.

 

READ MORE
Sisley Paris Expands Into Hair Care
How To Get Christina Aguilera’s No Makeup Look

Stella McCartney Has Now Full Control Of Her Brand

 

Stella McCartney has taken back 50-percent stake in her fashion label from Kering after a 17-year partnership.

 

The French luxury group and the British designer established Stella McCartney in 2001 and built it to be the leading designer house with a focus on sustainability – she refuses to use leather or fur in collections. Despite parting ways and taking full control of the label from Kering, McCartney will remain on the board of the Kering Foundation and will also continue to work with the company in their efforts to become more sustainable.

 

Following the news, the brand issues a formal announcement on their website while other reports state that McCartney will buy back her company with her own money without any financial support from her father, Paul McCartney. She is one of a few female designers that owns her business out right and is currently not looking for a new partner. In a statement she said:

 

“It is the right moment to acquire the full control of the company bearing my name. This opportunity represents a crucial patrimonial decision for me. I am extremely grateful to François-Henri Pinault and his family and everyone at the Kering group for everything we have built together in the last 17 years. I look forward to the next chapter of my life and what this brand and our team can achieve in the future.”

 

Meanwhile, Kering’s CEO François-Henri Pinault, added “Kering is a luxury group that empowers creative minds and helps disruptive ideas become reality. I am extremely proud of what Kering and Stella McCartney have accomplished together since 2001.”

 

READ MORE
Paris Fashion Week: Stella McCartney FW18

Three Reasons To Visit The Largest Bottega Veneta Store In The Middle East

 

Bottega Veneta have unveiled their largest store in the Middle East in the Dubai Mall fashion extension.

 

Measuring 5,845 square feet over three floors, it feels like stepping into a luxurious Italian apartment. The neutral design with an impressive staircase creates a welcoming atmosphere for browsing the latest pieces including ready-to-wear, handbags, small leather goods, shoes, jewelry, luggage, fragrances and eyewear for both men and women. If this isn’t already enough to entice a visit, here are three more reasons to make a trip to the boutique. Chief Executive Officer Claus-Dietrich Lahrs said:

 

“With this new opening, Bottega Veneta once again confirms its commitment to offering the best possible client experience,” says. “We are looking forward to welcoming our clients into our new store to present them our distinctive universe of exceptionally crafted products.”

 

 

Store Exclusives
There will be a selection of Dubai Mall exclusive pieces that you won’t find anywhere else, such as the handbags from the Knot family in rose gold and diamonds, as well as crocodile and ostrich handbags enriched with precious metals and stones. There are also four styles of women’s sandals in Caiman Metallic, in addition to silk accessories. The men’s collection includes luxurious crocodile-and-nappa carriers that are ideal for travel as well as slippers and sandals made of ostrich.

 

 

Artistic Exterior
Interiors are impressive but wait till you see the outside. The exterior façade is made of metal in the brand’s signature dark brown, the top portion of the “weave” is made of diamond-shaped cuts of metal, while the bottom section features transparent diamond-shaped windows which allow a view into the store. This architectural innovation is the largest of its kind that Bottega Veneta has created globally.

 

 

It’s Personal
Bottega Veneta adopted the iconic motto “When your own initials are enough” in the 1970s—a defining statement about the importance of discretion, individuality and personalized style. The exclusive Personalisation Service offers clients three ways to monogram the piece of choice – embossing, stamping or stitching.

 

 

READ MORE
New York Fashion Week: Bottega Veneta FW18
Bottega Veneta’s New Art of Collaboration Campaign Is Here

 

How To Get Christina Aguilera’s No Makeup Look

‘No makeup’ makeup is the holy grail of the beauty world, and Christina Aguilera’s recent cover for Paper Magazine has reignited the desire to achieve a flawless natural finish.

 

The singer has been known for some dramatic makeup in the past but this time she went almost makeup-free and we have to say, she looks better than ever. Shot by Zoey Grossman, she told the magazine:

 

“I’ve always been someone that obviously loves to experiment, loves theatrics, loves to create a storyline and play a character in a video or through stage. I’m a performer, that’s who I am by nature. But I’m at the place, even musically, where it’s a liberating feeling to be able to strip it all back and appreciate who you are and your raw beauty.”

 

Keep It Clean

A clear complexion is key which starts with a good routine that is right for your skin type. Focus on removing every inch of makeup before bed and applying ALPHA-H Liquid Gold Intensive Night Repair Serum that banishes dullness and minimises the appearance of pores, while the natural fruit acids alongside Vitamins A, E and Sodium Hyaluronate help hydrate and strengthen the Elastin fibres to keep skin looking younger and healthier for longer.

 

Even Out The Paying Field

Sometimes all you need is to even out your skintone and hide redness. Nothing does it better than a CC cream (aka colour corrector) and the Korean/French brand Erborian is one of the best. It helps create a flawlessly luminous canvas by blurring the appearance of fine lines to leave the skin prepped and ready for makeup application – which on a good day you might not need to do at all.

 

Ban Foundation

Okay, maybe that’s a bit harsh but you’d be surprised at what a good tinted moisturiser will do. Chantecaille gives just the right amount of coverage while still delivering a dewy glowing complexion. If pesky blemishes remain a concern, then use a concealer like NARS to cover up imperfections.

 

Be Cheeky

Rosy cheeks have often been associated with a sign of youth and a good blusher prevents your skin looking flat. Avoid powders and go for a creamy textures like Charlotte Tilbury’s Beach Stick that blends easily and illuminates your skin. Tap a little bit on the apple of your cheeks and dab some on your lips for a natural flush.

 

Keep An Eye On It

Heavy eye makeup is a giveaway, so strip it back and use a pair of curlers from Shu Uemera to lift the lashes and a brow brush to even out the brows. If you have light lashes and brows, add a sweep of mascara and some pencil to fill in the gaps.

 

READ MORE
Power Of Korean Beauty
SS18 Beauty Trends To Try Now

Shop Fendi FF Capsule Collection On Net-A-Porter Before Anyone Else

Net-A-Porter will exclusively stock Fendi FF capsule collection ahead of the main release in stores.

 

This season it’s all about logomania, so use this iconic print to turn yourself into a walking Fendi billboard that the online shopping destination will have ready to shop on April 13 – one month before it hits the boutiques and Fendi.com.

 

The squared logo, updated from the original rectangular version that was designed by Karl Lagerfeld in 1965, takes centre stage as the graphic pattern features heavily on every item. The collection incorporates the FF logo in the classic tobacco and black colourways and in a new white and black variation.

 

From April 19, the launch of the capsule will also be celebrated in a special pop-up store in Dubai Mall Fashion Catwalk, the only pop-up in the world, where the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana will be recreated in inflatable form.

 

READ MORE
First Look: Fendi Pre-Fall 2018
Milan Fashion Week: Fendi FW18

Fondation Louis Vuitton Unveils A New Exhibition

Art lovers and Parisians will have a new creative space to explore next month as Fondation Louis Vuitton reveal plans of their new exhibition.

 

Taking over two galleries at the Fondation, “In Tune With the World” will showcase new selection of artists from the collection of several different mediums, bringing together modern and contemporary works, most of which have never before been exhibited in these spaces. The 2nd floor of the building offers an immersion into the world of Japanese artist Takashi Murakami while the other three floors of the building as well as the outside Grotto area will house 28 French and international artists from different generations and techniques including the works of Henri Matisse.

 

Ever since the first exhibition of emblematic works from its collection, during the 2014 inauguration of the building designed by Frank Gehry, Fondation Louis Vuitton has regularly exhibited different selections of works.

 

The exhibition will be open to the public from April 11 and run to August 27.

 

READ MORE
A&E Interviews: Myrna Ayad, Director Of Art Dubai
Kate Middleton Is The First Royal Patron Of The V&A Museum

Chanel Design First Swim and Snow Collections

 

Chanel are launching dedicated collections for swim and snow named Coco Beach and Coco Neige.

 

This is the first time the French fashion house will have a range dedicated to sunny getaways and winter escapes, and those looking for chic seaside attire won’t have to wait too long as Coco Beach will land in 26 select stores from June including Dubai – after all, we do live in a place of never ending summer.

 

The idea sparked in Karl Lagerfeld’s mind while on holiday in St. Tropez where he noticed that the Chanel boutique didn’t have a wide selection of beachwear, so he decided to create swimming costumes and two-pieces, dresses, playsuits and terrycloth shorts as well as outfits in fringed denim or belted striped sailor tops in ecru and burgundy silk. Buttons will be stamped with marine anchors while the iconic quilting is printed on jersey, and red, pink or black denim. Sailor’s bags held with the classic chain interlaced with leather, bowling bags, camera cases and clutches, coloured espadrilles with black toe caps complete this line up.

 

Gabrielle Chanel had started creating collections calibrated for the dolce vita of beachside resorts, jersey outfits in Deauville from 1912 and fluid knits with supple lines in Biarritz from 1915. Karl Lagerfeld honours this art of living and gives it a renewed vision, infused with youth and stylish energy. Chanel president of fashion, Bruno Pavlovsky, said:

 

“These tactical launches are designed to better satisfy the needs of our customers and to find the best way to communicate to them the fact that these items exist.”

 

On the flip side, Coco Neige will carry cosy pieces like down jackets, salopettes, hoodies and shearling boots which will be released alongside the Fall collection towards the end of summer. Unlike their existing après-ski and sports wear, the new items will be little bit more technical and will require extra time for development – we are intrigued.

 

READ MORE
Chanel Reveal Date And Location For Cruise 2019 Show
Chanel Unveil New Coco Crush Collection At A Dubai Pop Up

 

Jenny Packham Stages Bridal Show In London For The First Time

 

Famed British designer, and Kate Middleton’s go-to, Jenny Packham staged a magical bridal show in London for the first time.

 

Inspired by the thirties, Packham chose the opulent Ritz Hotel near Green Park for her latest presentation and is already planning her next showcase during London Fashion Week in September as a celebration of 30-years in the business.

 

In true spirit of the label, the dresses were elegant with cleans lines, plenty of delicate lace and flowing skirts. She added a contemporary twist by including a jumpsuit and a robe dress, offering modern brides something fresh and different from traditional dressing. She told WWD:

 

“Being our 30th year, I wanted to work with my team locally, do something a bit different and keep it lively.”

 

With the Royal Wedding fast approaching, we are still to learn who will be the designer behind Meghan Markle’s dress. Rumors suggest the likes of Roland Mouret, Erdem and Ralph & Russo, but with Packham’s youthful and forward thinking take on bridal, surely she can throw her hat in the ring?

 

READ MORE
Inspiring Boho Wedding Dresses
Meghan Markle Wore a Ralph & Russo Gown in Her Royal Engagement Portrait

 

Arab Fashion Week In Riyadh Postponed Due To Attendance Demand

One of the designers participating, Arwa Al Banawi.

 

Inaugural Arab Fashion Week in Riyadh is proving to be a hot ticket with the The Executive Board of The Arab Fashion Council being forced to postpone the event due to a high demand in guests wishing to attend.

 

Originally scheduled to kick off today, the showcase will now be held between 10 – 15 April with the original lineup of international and regional designers, including Roberto Cavalli and Jean Paul Gaultier, still on the bill. Announcing the new dates, Miss Layla Issa Abuzaid, Vice Chairman and Executive Director for Saudi Arabia at The Arab Fashion Council, said:

 

“Since the initial announcement made in February, Arab Fashion Week Riyadh has garnered significant interest from International guests wishing to attend. Given this important historical moment for the Kingdom, the AFC together with the GEA and the participating designers have collectively taken the steps to postpone the dates in order to be able to welcome guests from all over the world, which we are only able to do by taking some additional time.”

 

Reem Al Kanhal.

 

The new schedule is available online and the event will still take place at the Ritz Carlton hotel in Riyadh.

 

READ MORE
Saudi Arabia Will Host First Ever Arab Fashion Week
Roberto Cavalli and Jean Paul Gaultier To Show At Arab Fashion Week in Riyadh

Kate Middleton Is The First Royal Patron Of The V&A Museum

kate middleton

Kate Middleton V&A Museum, 2017

 

Maternity Leave isn’t preventing Kate Middleton from taking on a new duty as the first Royal Patron of the V&A Museum in London.

 

Kensington Palace took to Twitter to make of the official announce that the Duchess of Cambridge, who is due to give birth to her third child with Prince William, will be taking on a new role in connection with the Victoria and Albert Museum which is partly down to interest in the visual arts, photography and design.

 

The Duchess has previously visited the V&A last summer where she joined staff and architect Amanda Levete CBE, for the official unveiling of Exhibition Road Quarter – the V&A’s most significant development project for over 100 years. Her passion for photography and the arts comes from her time at St, Andrews university where she got a degree in art history. A statement from the V&A read:

 

“We are honoured to announce that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge has agreed to become the V&A’s first Royal Patron. The patronage reflects Her Royal Highness’s continued personal interest in the visual arts, photography and design.”

 

READ MORE
A&E Guide To Art Dubai 2018
We Found The Best…Art Galleries In London

Cartier Make History With Jake Gyllenhaal Starring For Santos de Cartier Watch

 

Cartier announced actor Jake Gyllenhaal as the new face of Santos de Cartier watch.

 

The jewellery house is making history by having Gyllenhaal as their very first celebrity campaign star. Alongside the imagery, the actor will also feature in a film for the timepiece that can be viewed online and movie theatres this spring. In a statement released by the Maison, Cartier said:

 

“Integrity, dedication and boundless curiosity: Jake Gyllenhaal embodies the Santos de Cartier man. A man who commits utterly and does nothing by halves. A man who defines fearless as honest and true to himself.”

 

 

Since 1904 the Santos de Cartier watch has inspired Cartier imagination and creativity to tell the legendary tale of a determined and uncompromising quest to excel. The newest square-face timepiece, which features an interchangeable leather strap or bracelet, was unveiled in Geneva in January.

 

READ MORE
Introducing The Breitling Squad Concept 2018
See The Word Record Holding Bvlgari Watches Here

 

Buzzing For Delfina Delettrez Garden Of Delight Collection

Bee bling is officially the jewellery trend for this season and Delfina Delettrez delivers a bee-autiful collection .

 

The jewellery designer channels the natural world to create Garden Of Delight range that focuses around the pollen-carrying bee presented in a variety of pieces including diamond, sapphire and yellow-gold earrings and a statement honeycomb shaped bangle.

 

A fourth generation Fendi launched her label in 2007 which focuses on unique craftsmanship. The pieces are handmade in her Roman atelier using organic materials that are adorned with precious stones and whimsical charms. Delettrez’s creations are hyper modern and largely inspired by nature and fond childhood memories, which is evident in the latest addition to her portfolio.

 

We might be used to running away from the buzzing insects, but this Spring they can happily dangle from our ears or rest on our wrists. Click through the gallery above to see our favourite picks.

 

READ MORE
Jewellery Focus: Dima Rashid
Chopard Is The First Jewellery House To Use Ethical Gold

A&E Reviews: One & Only Royal Mirage Spa

 

There is something utterly enticing about a Hammam. The warmth of the marble, the rush of the water and expert hands working at your skin leaving you feeling at ease and squeaky clean.

 

It may seem foreign to have someone wash you but it is surprisingly relaxing, and in some ways decadent. Trained therapists from Morocco treat you like their baby, taking extra care to help you unwind and get the best out of the treatment. The 50-minute Hammam Experience at the One & Only Royal Mirage spa starts with a gentle rinse using traditional black soap before the therapist leads you to a steam room where the skins’ pores open and soak up all the natural goodness from the soap. After, the excess dead skin is removed with a vigorous Loofah scrub and trust us you don’t know what smooth skin feels like before you tried this. A light relaxing massage with various stretching follows before the final rinse and a quick hair wash.

 

 

The traditionally designed Hammam is located in a separate space from the spa and has it’s own changing room, steam room, plunge pool and relaxation area that makes you feel like you’re being transported to the Moroccan baths. The spa itself offers a wide variety of beauty treatments with it’s own dedicated facilities, which means it’s never overcrowded.

 

One of the key treatments on offer is the Carita Facial. As soon as you made yourself comfortable on a heated bed, the therapist starts with a consultation before applying the Carita cleanser. Once your skin is set for the rest of the products, she uses an exfoliator to clear away any impurities that allows an active serum to work it’s magic. Head massage further unwinds you from the stress of the day before she adds a heavy moisturiser that continues to hydrate your skin hours after the facial. Your complexion instantly looks toned with a delicious sensation of freshness, while the features appear supple, plumped, and glowing.

 

 

For an indulgent escape that only takes a couple of hours of your day, One & Only Royal Mirage Spa seems like the ideal destination.

 

READ MORE
Top Detox Treatments In Abu Dhabi
A&E Guide To The Best Wellness Retreats

Off-Whites Virgil Abloh Heads Up Louis Vuitton Menswear

 

Virgil Abloh has been appointed as the new artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton.

 

Abloh has become the fashion world’s darling following his winning collections for Off-White, and now he is taking charge of one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world following the departure of Kim Jones. In a statement Abloh said:

 

“It is an honor for me to accept the position of Men’s Artistic Director for Louis Vuitton. I find the heritage and creative integrity of the House are key inspirations and will look to reference them both while drawing parallels to modern times.”

 

Born in Rockford, Illinois in 1980, Virgil Abloh is an artist, architect, engineer, creative director, and designer. After earning a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin Madison, he completed a Master´s Degree in Architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology in a curriculum founded by Mies van der Rohe. It was here that he learned not only about modernist design principles but also about the concept of multi-disciplinary working. Virgil Abloh’s brand Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh™️ was started in 2012 as an artwork titled “PYREX VISION.” In 2013, the brand premiered a seasonal men’s and women’s fashion label showing runway collections during Paris Fashion Week since 2015.

 

His edgy approach to design and elevated vision of modern streetwear makes him an ideal fit for the LVMH-owned brand that has previously been under the creative eye of Jones who has now moved on to Christian Dior Homme, replacing Kris van Assche. Michael Burke, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman & CEO said:

 

“Having followed with great interest Virgil’s ascent since he worked with me at Fendi in 2006, I am thrilled to see how his innate creativity and disruptive approach have made him so relevant, not just in the world of fashion but in popular culture today. His sensibility towards luxury and savoir-faire will be instrumental in taking Louis Vuitton’s menswear into the future.”

 

Abloh’s first show will take place in June during Men’s Fashion Week in Paris.

 

READ MORE
A&E Editorial: Louis Vuitton SS18
Kris Van Assche Leaves Dior Homme After 11 Years

 

On Our Radar: Giannico

There’s been an explosion of emerging talent with many young designers being recognised globally, and Giannico is one of them.

 

The 22-year-old footwear creative Nicolo Beretta has been picked up by Level Shoes for the SS18 selection that includes mules in bold colours and embellished detailing. His artistic touch with feminine sensibility has won him a loyal fan base, including Donatella Versace, which is not bad for someone who launched his first collection when he was just 18-years-old at Milan and Paris fashion weeks.

 

Beretta was born in Milan in 1996 and from an early age he was drawn to designing clothes and accessories and experimented with fabrics, objects and various materials, creating a dream world where he was able to dress modern princesses. His education, partly in Australia, allowed him to deepen his natural attitude and intensify his passion for many aspects of contemporary art, which inspired his original designs. But it was only after he met the legendary shoe designer Manolo Blahnik he decided to launch his label.

 

The quirky and colorful brand Giannico is bound to strike a chord with shoe lovers in the region and we look forward to seeing more from this self-taught designer. Shop his collection now at Level Shoes in the Dubai Mall and leveleshoes.com.

 

READ MORE
In Focus: Carolina Santo Domingo
Shop Now: Petar Petrov At Level Shoes

What To Expect From Kim Kardashian’s KKW Beauty Collection With Mario Dedivanovic

kkw beauty

 

Beauty fans rejoice, Kim Kardashian KKW Beauty collaboration with her longtime makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic will hit the makeup counters next month.

 

Taking to social media, Kardashian shared a photo of herself wearing metallic blue eyeshadow which will be part of the KKW Beauty new eyeshadow palette designed with Dedivanovic. She wrote on Instagram:

 

“A Metallic cobalt blue called Libra is a shade in our palette. @makeupbymario & I are both Libras & this shade of blue is special to us because I would fight against color & one time when I was on my phone & not paying attention he did a blue eye & I freaked out but then looked in the mirror I loved it! We fight over which look we should do all the time but this blue eye reminds me to trust him lol.”

 

kkw beauty

 

The duo have been working together for a decade and created some of the most iconic beauty looks that helped shape KKW Beauty. Unlike previous releases that focused on neutral shades, this range will include gold, bronze, nude, burgundy, and copper tones, as well as matte versions of the same colour. Dedivanovic praised Kardashian on social media and said in a post:

 

“The past decade with Kim has been incredible. We’ve grown together, set trends, inspired and impacted an industry along the way. Through all her milestones and achievements and through her rise to global superstardom she has taken me along the way and impacted my life greatly, helping me to achieve unparalleled success of my own as a celebrity makeup artist.”

 

Expect the collection to land in stores and online on April 5, which is also their 10-year work anniversary.

 

READ MORE
Sisley Paris Expands Into Hair Care
Best Beauty Moments From PFW FW18

In Focus: Carolina Santo Domingo

Carolina Santo Domingo believes in subtle accessories, that way a bag can compliment multiple outfits.

 

Her LA-based brand only launched last year, but the geometric creations and woven top handles have been spotted on the arms of Jessica Alba and Emily Ratajkowski, among other fashionistas, landing it an instant cult status. The clean silhouettes are designed to be a finishing touch to your look, but still with a touch of personality. All handmade Italy, Santo Domingo’s bags hit that sweet spit between modern and timeless.

 

This isn’t designers first venture into accessories as she created the ‘Bissett’ bag for Staud – a label that has become fashion worlds new obsession – and was a design assistant for accessories at Belstaff. With a focus on craftsmanship and traditional way of making things, the brand might expand into shoes but for now we can add her Amphora leather totes or Corallina raffia bags to our summer wardrobe.

 

READ MORE
Why Is Everyone Obsessed With Staud Bags?
Martha Louisa Is Your New Shoe Shopping Destination

Olivier Lapidus Departs Lanvin After Two Seasons

 

After less than a year, artistic director Olivier Lapidus has left the French fashion house Lanvin to focus on his own label, Creation Olivier Lapidus.

 

His past two collection for the luxury label did not connect with the customers and critics, but in a statement the designer was thanked for steering ‘the Maison through a transitional period between ownerships’.  Joann Cheng, current president of Fosun fashion group and chair of the board of directors of Lanvin and interim CEO added:

 

“In seeking candidates for the permanent positions of CEO and artistic director, we want to ensure we find people who share the spirit of Lanvin. The re-launch of Lanvin with fresh talents, while adhering to the values that the brand has maintained since 1889, is fundamental to returning the Maison to its rightful position at the top table of the world’s most lauded and innovative fashion houses.”

 

The in-house team will be responsible for the next few collections until the successor is announced. It has been a challenge for the oldest couture house to reignite the magic that former creative director Alber Elbaz left behind. He was at the helm for 14 years and admired for this take on the glamorous femininity that won him fans around the world and had leading celebrities wear his masterpieces on the red carpet.

 

READ MORE
Paris Fashion Week: Lanvin FW18
Spring Dressing With Borgo De Nor

Chopard Is The First Jewellery House To Use Ethical Gold

 

Chopard announced that by July, they will be the first luxury watch and jewellery house to use 100% ethical gold.

 

According to the official statement, the Swiss house aims to stop using any gold that is not ‘acquired from sustainable sources and verified as having met international best practice environmental and social standards.’

 

It has taken five years to bring this process to the final stages, but Chopard have been implementing sustainability factors for the past 30 years. From this summer onwards, the Maison will be using gold sourced from two places: small mines verified by the Swiss Better Gold Association or refineries certified as meeting the Responsible Jewellery Council’s Chain of Custody Standard, which has strict environmental and social guidelines. The clean gold initiative was announced during Baselworld fair alongside actors Julianne Moore and Colin Firth, with Chopard’s co-president Caroline Scheufele adding:

 

“Our challenge is to do it in more areas, with the gemstones — and my challenge also is to lobby maybe some Swiss banks or our colleagues to do the same. After all, our planet is the most precious gemstone.”

 

READ MORE
Chopard Jewellery x Net-A-Porter
See The Word Record Holding Bvlgari Watches Here

10 Fresh New Ways To Wear Gingham

Just like the floral and striped prints, gingham is a spring essential and we have selected 10 new pieces to inject a touch of preppy cool to your look.

 

Sonia Rykiel, Altuzarra and Mary Katrantzou opted for beautifully bright gingham pieces for their SS18 collections that felt youthful with a touch of edgy modernity. For a contemporary look, ignore the overly feminine silhouettes and instead go for deconstructed shapes and asymmetrical hemlines.

 

Fans of the pastel trend can apply sugary hues to this print, but contrast the sweetness with masculine shoes and oversized accessories to prevent gingham looking too cute. A tailored suite in a classic black and white combination is timeless, while details like bows, frills and cut outs will appeal to those who prefer a girly touch.

 

Click through the gallery above for the best gingham pieces to shop now.

 

READ MORE
How To Wear Linen In Spring
The Denim Edit: Jeans Styles To Try In Spring

We Found The Best…Oysters In Dubai

Alfresco dining is officially on the menu and nothing tastes better than fresh oysters on a sunny day.

 

Whether you head to the seaside to sample the finest Fine de Claire’s or choose the spectacular setting of the Dubai Opera, oysters are the ultimate indulgence for any seafood fan, and there’s more than one way to eat them.

 

The Fish House, InterContinental Dubai Festival City.

 

The newly opened Fish House restaurant combines the best knowledge of everything seafood with culinary influences from the region. The modern décor with a terrace overlooking the creek, it’s ideal for sampling oysters that have been topped with vinegar and pomegranate. Our top pick? The sharing Fish House tower of locally sourced hot and cold seafood that presents oysters in two ways.

 

Rockfish, Jumeirah Al Naseem

 

For fine dining right on the sea with impressive views and one of the best interiors we’ve seen, Rockfish is hard to beat. Enjoy freshly shucked Tarbouriesh, Gillardeau or Tsarskaya oysters for lunch or dinner which are served with lemon wrap mignonette vinaigrette, Tabasco, Thai dressing and pumpernickel.

 

Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera

Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera is a contemporary brasserie, with an uncomplicated and produce driven menu serving seafood and steak. The Raw bar is home to the oysters, just ask the waiter for the day’s selection and enjoy them on the rooftop terrace with impressive views of the Burj Khalifa.

 

The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill, The DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR

Marina residents love this hip hangout that is packed with people having a good time and eating great food. The glistening raw bar is the main focus of this buzzing restaurant serving seafood towers, fashionable crudo and no fuss oyster galore.

 

READ MORE
We Found The Best… Restaurants in Dubai
We Found The Best… Afternoon Tea In Dubai

It’s All About Perfume Oils

More than ever, fragrance houses are focusing on creating scents that offer longevity and perfume oils could be the answer.

 

Extracting the absolute requires the finest ingredients, and a lot of them. Perfume oils have a higher concentration of fragrance than spray-on and are designed to be worn on the skin which help the scent linger for longer. It also blends with natural oils found in your skin, making it bespoke to you. Some of the leading names like Diptyque, Byredo and Chanel have their own oils with many releasing mini roll-ons that are ideal for on the go.

 

The Iris 39 Perfume Oil from Le Labo is built around a heart Iris – one of the most precious essences in the world – and infused with ginger and cardamom for warmth. Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black Pure Perfume Oil combines sweet violet, sandalwood, and rich vanilla for an elegant oil that absorbs into the skin.

 

Oil’s also have other benefits like moisture which is ideal for those with sensitive skin as perfumes tend to carry alcohol and other dehydrating chemicals. For best results, apply to pulse points and store in the fridge for maximum shelf life.

 

READ MORE
14 Superfoods For Glowing Skin
Your New Go-To Self Tanning Products

Chanel Unveil New Coco Crush Collection At A Dubai Pop Up

Head down to the Mall of the Emirates to discover Chanel’s latest pieces from the Coco Crush collection in a dedicated pop-up.

 

Inspired by ‘Matelassé’ quilted pattern, the rings, cuff bracelets and pendant necklaces are the latest additions. Designed for layering and stacking, the pieces have a contemporary edge mixed with timeless sensibility, making them ideal for every day wear. In it’s simplicity, the radical spirit of the Coco Crush collection expresses all the values of modernity and refinement that Chanel Fine Jewellery has been praised for. The Maison also introduced a patented beige gold hue to the range, a modern take on the rose gold trend that beautifully compliments any skin tone.

 

The pop-up is located in the North Atrium of MOE and will be open to the public from tomorrow till March 31.

 

READ MORE
Keira Knightley Sings for Chanel’s Coco Crush in French
Chanel Reveal Date And Location For Cruise 2019 Show