Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Dubai Mall Welcomes René Caovilla’s Largest Boutique In The World

Italian luxury footwear brand René Caovilla will open their largest boutique in the world in Dubai Mall’s new Fashion extension.

Set to open end of this month, the brand has partnered with Chalhoub group on a flagship will take over a 1,076 square-foot space. This opulent footwear brand offers couture-like craftsmanship which adds dazzle to any outfit and is a firm favourite among brides so expect plenty of timeless pumps and sandals embellished with beautiful beads, lace and Swarovski crystals.

Inspired by his father, Rene Caovilla followed in his shoemaking footsteps projecting an unmatched Italian craftsmanship that has been part of his family for almost 100 years. The shoe label has partnered with many couturiers including Valentino, Christian Dior and Chanel and with boutiques in every cosmopolitan city, and now the biggest one in Dubai, this label truly established itself as a leading footwear brand.

Get your feet ready for the new store that officially opens on March 28.

Your Favourite Lancôme Product Has Been Turned Into A Mask

No beauty shelf is complete without a Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique serum and now they have released mask which delivers all the same benefits, but faster.

Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Melting Mask contains the same amount of Bifidus extracts as a whole bottle of Advanced Génifique which means you reap the benefits instantly – ideal for those constantly on the go.

The newest innovation from Lancôme helps strengthen the skin’s barrier function by improving it’s quality and resistance to external stress and it also helps provide the skin with intense hydration. Upon application, the mask half-melts into the skin with a soft, pleasant texture that glides across the face. Follow the steps below and say hello to a fresh dewy complexion.

Four-step application process:

– Unfold the mask

– Remove the transparent film and place it over your clean face with the gel side facing down

– Remove the white protective layer from the front of the mask and leave the mask on for ten, twenty, or thirty minutes depending on the type of application you want

– Remove the mask and gently massage your skin to help the remaining serum soak in.

A&E Interviews: Myrna Ayad, Director Of Art Dubai

The 12th edition of Art Dubai, held at Madinat Jumeirah from March 21 to 24, promises an eclectic line-up of established and emerging galleries from around the globe. We talk to the Director Myrna Ayad about what to expect this season.

Take us through your journey into art and culture.

This is rooted in my childhood and really attributed to my parents who are great travelers and who took my sister and I everywhere. Museums, theatre productions and musicals were a must, as were visits to historical sites and of course, reading! I was always art-inclined and interested in artistic expression. After working as an arts writer and editor, and during that time, covering Art Dubai, I found myself joining the region’s leading art fair in 2016.

Can you talk us through the process of designing an edition and how themes are chosen?

Art Dubai doesn’t set themes and we are delighted that each edition serves as a platform where both themes are set and themes are made. Putting together an edition requires the Herculean effort of an incredible team of art enthusiasts that makes up the Art Dubai army. It is a year-long effort to put this fair together and a big shout out goes to all of my colleagues who really work tirelessly to make this happen. Our biggest supporters are our galleries whom we meet with continuously and of course our partners.

How would you assess the growth of the art scene now, and where you see it in the future?

We have most certainly come a long way. Taking Art Dubai as an example – when we launched in 2007, we welcomed 40 galleries and 8000 visitors. In our last edition, we welcomed 94 galleries and 28,000 visitors and a host of programming. Today we welcome 105 galleries, diverse programming with 3 gallery halls, 2 forums of talks (Global Art Forum and the Modern Symposium), The Room – an engaging immersive experience that this year, will be taken over by artist collective GCC, the 10th Abraaj Group Art Prize and so much more. I only see the art scene growing and growing, we have many initiatives backed by committed patrons and projects that continue to position the UAE as the region’s capital of culture.

How important is this platform for emerging artists in the country and region? What would you say is your biggest contribution so far?

I’d say my biggest contributions are my passion, knowledge and curiosity. I am happy to help and this is an attitude that is central to Art Dubai’s DNA – we are here to support and promote inasmuch as we can and are delighted to have done so with emerging artists. We like to consider ourselves a stepping stone in the career of artists, whether that’s an artist we commission for one of our programmes, a shortlisted artist for the Abraaj Group Art Prize or even one the artists in our inaugural Residents section. Art Dubai is an important platform because, for one, it brings everyone together at this singular meeting point annually in Dubai; artists’ works are exposed and they can be discovered in this seminal platform. We are absolutely delighted to learn that we enable these things to happen.

What is your source of inspiration in this field?

It starts with the artists and includes all the incredible people I encounter. I love a good story, and no one tells it better than artists.

Can you tell us the significance of The Room programme and how it is pushing the boundaries of creativity in the region?

I see The Room as an opportunity for artists to think ‘outside the box’ so beyond the confines of say, a canvas or a sculpture. Here is a literal room, a space in which one can dare, and frankly, I feel that artists crave a dare in their careers and an opportunity to challenge themselves creatively. It is wonderful to imagine a space conceived by an artist and which incorporates art, gastronomy, performance and so much more. I am so excited about GCC taking over The Room and am eager to see this come to life.

What makes this a dream job?

The people. From my colleagues through to the artists, gallerists, curators, collectors and enthusiasts. It’s a fascinating world to operate in and teaches me something new every day.

What was the last country you travelled to and how did it influence you – artistically and creatively?

Jeddah in Saudi Arabia for the annual 21,39 cultural initiative. I frequent the Kingdom and have edited a book on its artistic output. I am consistently amazed by the ambitions, art and initiatives generated in this country. I believe that Saudi contemporary artists are ones to watch and it makes me so happy to see their growth and maturity year on year both regionally and internationally.

What is the biggest challenge that Art Dubai faces today and how do you propose overcoming it?

Making sure this is the world’s most globally diverse fair and one that offers audiences a platform to be engaged, be inspired and discover the very best there is from the MENASA. This is not a matter of ‘overcoming’, it is a matter of seeking to be better always and in everything that we do.

Name To Know: Shahira Yusuf

You may not be familiar with Shahira Yusuf, but in a few months-time you’ll know her well.

London-based model is the first Hijabi to sign for a major agency – Storm which also founded Kate Moss. She is already being championed as one of the leading hijab-wearing catwalk models in Britain and gaining fans for her modern yet modest style as well as her confident voice on diversity in the industry and equal opportunities. However, she doesn’t want to be a token girl of the movement stating on her social media:

“The purpose behind advocating for equal representation of different ethnic and religious backgrounds should not be to trivialize the movement of it, but rather work towards ending the unwritten rule of a ‘token girl’. There’s often an unwritten rule of having only one model at the top that can be from a particular background.”

Last November, the 20-year old Somali beauty sent a viral tweet that received over 121,000 likes of her in an oversized gray pantsuit paired and a black tuban with a caption reading: ‘I ain’t no Kendall Jenner but I’m a black Muslim girl from East London that’s about to finesse the modelling industry.’

Yusef has become an inspiration for standing out in the modelling world which is gradually becoming more inclusive and diverse.

Escape: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

Ras Al Khaimah has just welcomed a new luxury destination, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach.

It’s the second property for the hotel group at Ras Al Khaimah and is located on the shores of the Arbian Gulf making it another perfect destination to escape the hustle of Dubai.

The resort features 32 tented villas which are split into two types and each with their own pools and direct beach access. The Al Naseem Villas feature local design elements inspired by traditional Bedouin architecture and offer an elevated level of seclusion, while the Al Bahar Villas include open views and private beachfront access.

“This stunning new property truly embodies the destination’s culture and traditions while also providing guests with the highest standards of Arabian hospitality, serving as a testament to the long-standing commitment of The Ritz-Carlton to creating unforgettable memories,” said Amit Arora, General Manager.

From paddle boarding and fishing to a relaxing spa day, The Ritz- Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach offers many activities one can indulge in. There’s also two fitness centers, a spa offering local and ocean inspired treatments in dedicated pavilions while signature Shore House restaurant prepares the best seafood with dazzling views of the sea.

Selena Gomez Designs Her First RTW Collection For Coach

After the success of the Selena Grace bags, it’s no surprise that Selena Gomez is back working with Coach on a new collection.

Although this is her second collaboration with the house, it will be her first venture into clothing which has been in the works for several months before being unveiled later this year. Creative Director Stuart Vevers said in a statement:

“I always look forward to designing with Selena because she has a strong point of view. We wanted to bring cool new ideas to the table and I loved getting her take on clothes as much as accessories this time around.”

Hitting the stores this fall, Coach x Selena Gomez lifestyle line will feature a range of outerwear, handbags, small leather goods, and accessories that reflect Selena‘s feminine and youthful style.

Taking to social media, the star wrote that she was grateful to work on a second collection with Stuart Vevers and gave us a sneak peek at one of the pieces which looked like a satin pink top with delicate lace trim.

We predict another sell out.

Burberry Hot Air Balloon Lands In Dubai Mall

Burberry hot air balloon in Star Atrium.

If you head to Dubai Mall you will be welcomed by a Burberry hot air balloon that travelled all the way from London to showcase the brand’s latest collection.

Located in the mall’s Star Atrium, the installation will be up until April 3 and will display the newest Belt Bags inspired by the Burberry trench coat and key pieces from the summer collection, which is the final offering from Christopher Bailey.

Burberry Belt bag.

The 15-metre-tall hot air balloon is set above a traditional British picnic setting and is inspired by the real-life achievements of British explorer Captain Edward Maitland, who established the British long-distance in-flight record in 1908 outfitted in Burberry gabardine.

Visitors to the space also have the opportunity to capture unique portraits personalised with bespoke stickers through a Burberry photo booth, and to use exclusive Snapchat filters and a specially-designed AR experience on the Burberry App.

Why Is Everyone Obsessed With Staud Bags?

Have you noticed a sudden increase in fashion stars carrying bags that many described as stylish plant pots? Staud bags have become an instant hit on the street style scene and we want to know why.

Sarah Staudinger, former Fashion Director at Reformation, and partner George Augusto founded the label in 2015 to create classic yet modern accessories that were not determined by trends. It quickly caught the attention of Alexa Chung and Leandra Medine with each collection being inspired by editorials of Betty Catroux, vintage clothing and downtown street art.

The plant pot bags are named Moreau and are crafted from leather encased in a sand-brown macrame net, with an open top, two top handles with a suede lining. Not only do they stand out but they are also practical which is the new appeal among the style savvy who have turned away from the micro accessories in favour of a spacious design. Capturing the retro Californian vibe, all the bags are designed and manufactured in Los Angeles and lately a structured PVC tote named the Shirley bag from the design duo has proven to be just as popular as the Moereau.

So what make Staud the ‘It’ brand of choice? Practicality, functionality, quirky and sculptural design mixed in with the best material and a competitive price point.

Pick Of The Week: YSL Black Opium Glowing

YSL have added a new fragrance to their collection, Black Opium Glowing Eau De Toilette.

Starring their muse Edie Campbell, the campaign images capture the bold and dazzling nature of the scent in order to bring out the daring spirit of a woman who wears it.

Like a glow in the dark, the iconic Black Coffee Signature accord is electrified by Acidulous Citrus notes. Pear accord adds radiance making this subtle blend feminine and extremely wearable. Just as the previous editions, the familiar square bottle is covered in pink and black glitter and has the iconic circle at the centre, this time illuminated with its name written in metallic pink.

Campbell, the YSL Beauty ambassador, and face of Black Opium, stars in the advertising campaign, her black hair and kohl-lined eyes and nude lips portraying the perfect rock star image for the futuristic film directed by BRTHR.

Fragrances are designed to evoke emotion, and the new Black Opium invites you to let your adventurous side run free.

In Focus: Bee Goddess

For fans of mythological symbols that carry meaning look no further than jewellery creations from Bee Goddess – named after the beehive tiara worn by the Anatolian goddess.

Turkish but now London-based designer Ece Sirin launched her brand back in 2007 as world’s first talismanic fine jewellery line. Each of her diamond and gold pendants, rings, earrings and bracelets have a meaning from around the world and feature ancient symbols to represent power, happiness, love or wisdom, with the bee – considered to be a messenger from the gods – appearing across collections as a brand icon.

Sirin previously worked as a marketing director at Microsoft and Coca-Cola, but her role lacked spiritual fulfillment so she decided to swap her corporate lifestyle for Istanbul artisan studio. She also studied astrology and ancient symbolism for over a decade and her philosophy gained a loyal following including celebrity fans like Rihanna, Cara Delevingne and Kate Moss.

Jewellery that is empowering doesn’t have to be bold or overwhelming, Sirin’s designs are delicate and feminine, yet modern and cool. The effortless wearability is the main appeal which is seen in dainty chain necklaces, precise yet statement making ear cuffs and rings. Each piece is finished in 18 karat yellow or rose gold with hints of diamond-encrusted embellishment for a subtle wow factor.

Bee Goddess pieces not only look elegant, but also offer enlightenment and in a crowded world of jewellery you have to offer something extra to stand out.

Top Transparent Accessories To Shop Now

It became clear (pun intended) from the Chanel and Celine SS18 shows that transparency is going to be one of the key trends of this season and we have narrowed down the top accessories to add to your wardrobe.

There is something minimalist yet sensual about the see through material on shoes and bags – almost an invitation for passers by to get a sneak peek inside your tote. But it’s not vulgar, on contrary the accessories have clean modern design especially when you consider collections like Jimmy Choo x Off White.

Transparency is the new neutral so enjoy the freedom of being able to pair our picks with absolutely everything in your wardrobe.

Bonjour Bvlgari Hotel Paris

We in Dubai have enjoyed the fine hospitality on offer at the Bvlgari resort and now the Parisians will have a chance to experience the same in 2020.

Residing at one of the finest addresses in the French capital, 30 Avenue George V, Bvlgari Hotel Paris will offer 76 rooms, most of them suites, along with a full range of luxury facilities including a spa with a 25-meter pool, a Bvlgari restaurant and bar opening to a charming courtyard garden.

The location is ideal for those who want to explore everything that Paris has to offer including the Eiffel Tower which is just a short walk away, and Avenue Montaigne that’s home to leading designer boutiques.

“We are particularly proud to have secured such an extraordinary location for the new Bvlgari Hotel in Paris. The Paris Hotel, to be opened in 2020, will add the City of Lights to our Collection and we are convinced that this new addition will represent an irresistible Roman jeweller hospitality experience in the Parisian upscale hotel market,” said Jean Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari

The Bvlgari Hotel Paris is being designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, and the renowned Parisians architects Valode & Pistre and will capture the modernity of jewellery house with 19th century Haussmanian urban pattern.

As well as Paris, Bvlgari is set to open a hotel Shanghai later on this year and Moscow in 2020

Pick Of The Week: YSL Pop Illusion Collection

YSL release their brightest collection for SS18 starring Staz Lindes, YSL Beauté ambassador.

Shot by photographer Craig McDean, Lindes makeup is almost futuristic in its composition – clashing bright and vivid tones delivering a bold overall look that could be fitting for day and night.

The star of the collection is the limited edition case of lip colours. Open up the palette to find an extra large mirror and five emblematic shades for lips that have a long-lasting creamy texture that is easy to apply. The five shades offer different finishes from glossy to sheer; in rich and vivid colours that stand out.

The limited edition YSL Couture Palette Collector offers a new take on a statement eye look and from what we have seen at FW18 shows, colourful eyes are going to be lasting trends. Use a pop of blue along the lash line for minimalist take or go all out and clash it with yellow and add extra layers of mascara .

Click through the gallery to discover more from the YSL Pop Illusion collection.

FW18 Micro Trend To Know: Balaclava

If there is one micro trend that’s making it’s way around a number of major designers it’s the balaclava.

Ideal for keeping warm and long associated with Après Ski, it has been given a chic status at Chanel and Versace who have taken it from sporty to elegant. Raf Simons suggests replacing the roll neck with one of his knitted creations at Calvin Klein which have a handmade feel and comfortably protect the head and neck from the winter chill. New name on the fashion circuit Matty Bovan worked with a houdstooth print while Preen by Thornton Bregazzi paired their almost snood-like headgear with feminine dresses or voluminous coats.

You will most likely wear the balaclava with an oversized coat or a chunky knit, but don’t be afraid to add a touch a femininity like Maria Grazia Chiuri did at Dior. Logo was the way at Balenciaga and Alexander Wang, while Maison Margiela went for maximum warmth with a puffer coat and a hat worn over the knitted balaclava.

Click through our selection above for the cosiest balaclavas spotted on FW18 runways.

Max Mara Is Heading Home For Cruise 2019

Max Mara FW18.

This summer, Max Mara is heading home for their Cruise 2019 showcase.

The brand has announced that they will be staging their collection in Reggio Emilia, Italy, where the company is based on June 4.

The calendar is already filling up with Cruise shows, many of which will be taking place in France. Louis Vuitton is heading to the French Riviera while Chanel is set on the Grand Palais. It seems it’s only Miuccia Prada who is venturing beyond Europe by taking her runway show to New York on May 4.

Max Mara were in New York for Pre-Fall 2015 collection but most recently presented their Pre-Fall 2017 line in Shanghai.

The Best Coats From Fashion Week FW18

As much as we look forward to summer, this season of shows has seen some of the best outwear from leading designers making us crave winter all over again.

From bold puffer jackets at Burberry and voluminous shearling at Preen By Thornton Bregazzi and Loewe to powerful faux fur at Givenchy and Stella McCartney, FW18 coats are for showing off – and who wouldn’t want to parade down the street in two-tone creation from Marni?

Heritage check isn’t going anywhere and if you’re looking for structured feminine silhouettes head to Balenciaga and Fendi while Phillip Lim applied it to a puffer coat. There was plenty of leather and high shine but the main objective was maximum warmth with no compromise on style.

Almost every base was covered – but there were no basic black and navy wool options in sight- instead there was decadent texture, edgy leopard print and decorative embroidery. So before you invest in another classic, look through our edit above as these are the coats for statement making.

Burberry Unveil Bags Inspired By Iconic Trench Coat

Burberry bags were given a new look during Christopher Bailey’s last show for the house where he introduced The Belt Bag inspired by the classic trench coat.

Defined by key elements, the Belt Bag’s shape is influenced by the contours of the lapel and soft movements of the classic gabardine fabric and features an oversized belt. Available from this month, it comes in a medium and large size featuring a tonal belt with an additional strap in a contrasting colour. Choose from an array of shades including chalk white with a bright-yellow lining and use the detachable strap to wear crossbody when on the go.

For those prefer their accessories on the petite size can mark May in the diaries as the smaller version in range of nine colours and a clutch in two sizes – medium and large will land in the boutiques. The medium and large Belt Bag will also be available in new colours and fabrics, including a combination of canvas and leather.

Coat weather is over, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have a handbag version of Burberry’s celebrated trench.

Net-A-Porter Launch High Jewellery Platform

Traditionally, if you are shopping for high jewellery and fine watches you would go to the dedicated boutique and avoid online platforms – after all it’s a special purchase.

But if there is one destination you can trust it’s Net-A-Porter who have created a global online flagship for its growing assortment of prestige watch and jewellery brands such as Cartier, Jaeger Le-Coultre, Boucheron, Chopard, Piaget.

“We are immensely excited to bring our customer a global online destination for these esteemed brands. We know the watch and jewellery industry is growing digitally, and our customers continue to demonstrate that there is ample desire to purchase these brands online. The team has curated a unique edit of modern pieces to sit alongside the established luxury brands, bringing our customers Net-A-Porter’s distinctive take on fine jewelry and watches,” says Elizabeth von der Goltz, Global Buying Director.

And if you are concerned that the level of service won’t match the boutiques, luxury e-tailers’ Personal Shoppers have received training from the Gemological Institute of America, will be on hand to advise 24-hours a day 365 days a year, can also reserve key styles as well as provide exclusive opportunities to host private viewings of new collections and place bespoke orders for one-of-a-kind pieces for those wishing to build a truly original collection.

From this month, Net-A-Porter will also offer a secure pick up and hand delivery for certain items and ‘Try Before You Buy’ services. Looks like the future of new luxury shopping is here

On Our Radar: The Loewe Gate Bag

Jonathan Anderson has been praised for his ability to deliver wearable, yet wholly fashion credible pieces that work on and off the catwalk. His new set of accessories for Loewe have caught our eye, the Gate bag in particular.

The Spanish house has a long history of creating the finest leather goods using cutting-edge techniques that Anderson has continued to push with a modern take on a saddle bag. The clean design using the finest leather feels contemporary yet timeless and with a wide variety of finishes, you are sure to find a style that fits your personality.

Made in Madrid by the house’s master artisans, the Gate bag represents a new chapter in Loewe’s evolving family of accessories, expanding it in rich variety while staying true to the character established by creative director Anderson. For the SS18 collection choose from tan or grey tones with contrasting stitching while the FW18 collection will see darker hues like burgundy and navy, some with tweed panels.

The Gate bag comes in two sizes and three types of calfskin and is available in stores now.

Chanel Reveal Date And Location For Cruise 2019 Show

CHANEL cruise 2019 FW18 Grand Palais Karl Lagerfeld

Chanel FW18 show.

Chanel have announced the date and location of their Cruise 2019 collection following their recent runway show during Paris Fashion Week.

They will not be venturing too far as the Cruise line will also be showcased at the Grand Palais on May 3. The French house are the main sponsors of the renovations due to take place at the historical site soon so it’s no surprise Karl Lagerfeld saw it as a perfect venue for his upcoming collection.

Prada have scheduled their Cruise line for May 4 in New York, while Louis Vuitton have chosen the French Riviera for their presentation on May 28 with Gucci taking over the Alyscamps Roman Necropolis in Arles on May 30.

Burberry Reveal Part Two Of Adwoa Aboah x Juergen Teller Collaboration

Burberry have revealed the second set of images of model-of-the-moment Adwoa Aboah photographed by Juergen Teller.

The project that was unveiled in December aims to give an intimate look into the British model’s life by capturing candid moments, in this case with her close friends and family. The cast includes Jean Campbell, Oli Green, Adwoa’s sister and artist Kesewa Aboah, photographer, filmmaker and writer Jonah Freud, and Riccardo Ambrosio, all snapped in Manhattan’s Bowery neighbourhood.

“New York is my second home. I have made a nest here and created a community of the bestest friends in the world. Most of them are Londoners on a rite of passage, living away from home for the first time.  New York is exciting, offering something day and night. It has skylines that go on forever, intimidating and suffocating but always beautiful and never boring,” says Adwoa.

The content coincides with the launch of the Burberry summer collection, which features classic pieces disrupted with defaced checks on trench and car coats, dresses and shirts. British landmarks and postcard prints decorate jackets, shirts and sweaters while tulle and lace are layered with mohair and jersey in new, playful proportions.

The third and final portfolio will be unveiled in May 2018.

Bvlgari Release Le Gemme Reali Fragrances

Nylaia fragrance.

Bvlagri’s latest fragrances Le Gemme Reali are inspired by precious jewels and their scent is just as luxurious as you’d imagine.

Two years in the making, Bvlgari have enlisted one of the most famous perfumers to work on these creations, Alberto Morillas. Le Gemme Reali offers three rich Eaux de Parfums inspired by the most precious gems: sapphire blue for Nylaia, emerald green for Veridia, ruby red for Rubinia. Morillas drew inspiration from the opulent Byzantine Empire and three gemological wonders and used Byzantine Empress Theodora as his muse who was known for her beauty, intelligence, courage and ambition – a Bvlgari woman of her time.

Veridia fragrance.

“It was a case of creating a strong emotion with a few words, such as in a poem. I wanted to express the intensity of their color – blue, green or red and recreate this apparent simplicity with excellent quality products,” says Morillas.

Nylaia pays tribute to the land of Kashmir, home of the most stunning sapphires and carries the scent of blue iris and absolute of jasmine sambac combined with ambergris and white musk accords. The Veridia play on contrasts between galbanum, vanilla and incense making it a deep yet vibrant fragrance. Rubinia was the hardest scent to get right and will probably appeal the most in the Middle East market as it carries notes of Sicilian mandarin enhanced by the strength and boldness of sandalwood and Tonka bean.

Rubinia fragrance.

“For Rubinia, I imagined glowing sandalwood, immersed in an amber bath as if to calm, in vain, the ardor it provokes. The incandescent glow of Sicilian mandarin exalts the senses with sparkling freshness. Its enveloping heat is multiplied tenfold by notes of copaïba wood. Tonka bean elevates the fragrance’s addictiveness to its height,” comments Morillas.

The delicate balance of ingredients make these scents complimentary for both men and women. Le Gemme Reali fragrance collection will be available in April.

Sheikh Mohammed’s Specially-Commissioned Rolex Goes To Auction

Specially-commissioned Rolex by Dubai’s ruler offered for the first time at Christie’s upcoming watch auction.

Never before offered to the collectors, Rolex GMT-Master customized with the name of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will be added to the Christie’s Important Watches auction on March 23.

Estimated at AED440,000–580,000 the timepiece features fine and extremely rare stainless steel and is presented in a Rolex box embossed with the crest of the UAE. The watch commissioned by HH Sheikh Mohammed also includes a unique artistic representation of the watch – a watercolor on paper combined with digital drawing applied on aluminium, signed by the artist.

“Personalized Rolex watches are highly prized gifts, often created to celebrate milestone occasions, and they are highly sought after by regional and international collectors,” said Remy Julia, head of watches for Christie’s Middle East, India, and Africa. “The present reference 1675 with the name of HH Sheikh Mohammed in red is an exceedingly rare example of a Rolex GMT-Master model and given that it has never previously been offered to the market, we anticipate strong interest in this timepiece from collectors in the UAE and around the world.”

It is available for viewing at Jumeirah Emirates Towers as of March 20 and is set to be auctioned on Friday March 23 at 5pm.

PFW Street Style: 11 New Ways To Wear Sneakers

Sneakers have become a staple in everyone’s wardrobe. You have the classics, embellished, sporty and now the ‘ugly’ from brands like Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton.

What’s the appeal? Many styles have been upgraded with an exaggerated moulded sole that deliver a dramatic silhouette and also help elongate your legs. Keep the palette neutral for a modern feel but if you want to channel the 90’s nostalgia, look for bright flashes of colour.

Paris Fashion Week was packed with sneaker-wearing fashionista’s clearly preferring comfort but still with plenty of cool, and we have selected some of the best ways you can style these lace up shoes now. Tailoring is a popular choice, the contrast of boardroom and casual really works, especially if you go for an oversized fit. Add a sporty touch to feminine dresses and flowing skirts or give it streetwear feel by choosing denim or track pants.

Scroll through the gallery above for more inspiration from the streets of the French capital.

Best Beauty Moments From PFW FW18

Whether it’s elaborate embellished updos or makeup so extreme you are basically treating your skin as a canvas to be painted on, we have narrowed down the best beauty look spotted at the shows in Paris.

Pay close to attention to the eyes next season as it’s all about splashes of colour giving your otherwise muted winter look a summery feel. Altuzarra, Dior, Dries Van Noten, Elie Saab, Vivienne Westwood and Louis Vuitton are just some of the names that decided to add an artistic touch to the eyelids. Fresh skin never goes out of style and the youthful glow was achieve beautifully at Balmain, Chanel and Givenchy. And if you really want to dazzle then splash your face with glitter like Giambattista Valli.

As well as natural no fuss hair, there were plenty of updos like the long braids at Alexander McQueen or messy buns at Chanel that were elevated with embellished hair clips. Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton and Off-White suggest a deep side parting with a sweeping fringe while Miu Miu brought back larger than life beehives.

Click through the gallery above for the best makeup looks and hairstyles from PFW FW18.

Best Accessories Spotted At PFW FW18

As Louis Vuitton closes the fashion month, we look back at some of the standout accessories from PFW FW18.

Boots are leading the way as the must-have footwear for next season. At Chanel they are gold and over the knee while Belenciaga matched the plaid coat with point toe boots in the same print. Boldly prints were also spotted at Dior and Dries Van Noten while Sacai decided to mix and match with contrast footwear. Chloe offered an edgier version of cowboy boots with straps and metallic heels and speaking of statement heels, Balmain, Rochas and Rich Owens played with geometric shapes.

As for bags, exotic leather appeared at Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton and Givenchy. Maximum texture was spotted at Chanel, Paco Robanne and Isabel Marant while logomania continued at Dior, Balmain and Balenciaga.

Click through the gallery above for the ultimate guide to must-have accessories for next season.

Paris Fashion Week: Miu Miu FW18

For a brand that has been known as Prada’s little sister attracting the younger clientele, Miu Miu FW18 collection felt edgier and with a stylish dose of punk.

The show space was an immersive world, an installation made of only black and white signs and symbols representing the Miu Miu alphabet, individual letters that can be endlessly combined to express and define oneself. Miuccia Prada kicked her 60’s and 80’s inspired show with actress Elle Fanning who strutted out in an oversize camel coat with delicate blue bow peeking at the neck and lace up black boots on her feet.

Georgia May Jagger also made an appearance sporting a retro beehive and wearing tweed bomber jacket with a leather trim over a blue shirt with a grey wool mini skirt. Kaia Gerber, Adwoa Aboah and Edie Campbell also made an appearance in various combinations washed floral prints, touch-me knits and body hugging skirts all styled with satin heels that looked like they’ve been delicately wrapped around the foot.

The statement leather coats – long and belted or cropped – were the hero pieces but it’s the washed denim, double belting, mini skirts and bright bags that will be an instant hit.

First Look: Byredo X Off-White Perfume Collection

Off-White and Byredo have collaborated on what could be the coolest fragrance collection.

There has been a lot of love for Off-White’s partership with Jimmy Choo so we expect the mix of cool fashion sensibility with Byredo’s minimalism to be an instant hit.

Named ‘Elevator Music’, Designer Virgil Abloh and perfumer and Ben Gorham have created a subtle fragrance with notes of violet, bamboo and musky ambrette. The range also includes a hair mist and hand cream, in a statement they said:

‘The project attempts to define the least amount of information needed to understand a product context and background, in this case objects we define as luxury goods.’

Part of a larger capsule collection by the duo that includes high end denim, graphic t-shirts and luxe leather bags, the fragrance will launch in April.

Paris Fashion Week: Chanel FW18

If you go down to the woods today you’re in for a chic surprise. The Grand Palais was transformed into an autumnal forest for Chanel FW18 show with bare trees, fallen leaves and wooden benches that lead from a mirrored frame that marked the start of the runway.

The set might appear to be the least adventurous of the past showcases, after all there were no waterfalls or rockets taking off, but that’s where the genius of Karl Lagerfeld lies. Instead of the woodland decor taking some of the limelight away from the clothing, the magical forest enhanced the pieces.

The outerwear were the stars from cropped fur bombers and black coats – some with leather panels, others with black feathers – to quilted jackets with tweed stitching running in between the cushions. Earthy colour palette was lifted metallic accents seen in the loose fit tops and trousers in bronze and gold hues as well as statement accessories including a chunky choker spelling CHANEL. Among the grey, moss green, red and brown tones there were pops of orange and pink, the kind of colours you’d expect to see on an October afternoon as the golden sunlight catches the autumnal leaves.

He used a moody floral print on blazers, elongated coats and midi skirts while the lace black evening dresses were elevated with bright gloves in pink, blue and red. As for accessories, next season expect the furry shoppers, quilted two-tone tote bags, over-the-knee gold boots and micro sunglasses making it onto your wish list.

Meet The New Creative Director Of Roger Vivier

Gherardo Felloni has been announced as the new Creative Director of Roger Vivier following the exit of Bruno Frisoni last month after 17-years at the helm.

You may not have heard the name but Felloni has an impressive resume. He joins the Parisian house from Miu Mu where he was in charge of footwear, leather goods and costume jewellery. Prior to that he was a shoe design director at Dior, working alongside John Galliano and Raf Simons. Shoe making is in his blood as it was at his father’s shoe factory where he learned his skills before interning at the Prada Group. With his first collection scheduled for September, Felloni said in a statement:

“Roger Vivier is the absolute reference of luxury shoes. I have always been fascinated by its ultimate chic and its endless creativity. I feel honored to be part of Roger Vivier today and develop it further, respecting its heritage and tradition while adding a contemporary and modern take, something Mr. Vivier has always demonstrated.”

Looking at his recent work for Miu Miu, we are sure that his creations will be just as fun, youthful and dazzling.