Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Shop Now: Nike Pro Hijab

A post shared by nike (@nike) on Dec 1, 2017 at 4:28pm PST

Nike have officially launched the much awaited Pro Hijab collection that is designed specifically for sport.

Nike have recognised the gap in the market with the realease of a softer and more light weight hijab which caters for a Muslim athletes and is available in a range of head sizes, face shapes and colours.

A post shared by Zahra Lari (@zahralari) on Dec 1, 2017 at 12:38am PST

The Pro Hijab campaign features Nike athlete and Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, Lebanese and German boxer Zeina Nassar and Emirati figure skater Zahra Lari who are excited to finally have a breathable and functional garment that allows them to perform the highest standard with comfort but without sacrificing their values.

A post shared by Ibtihaj Muhammad (@ibtihajmuhammad) on Dec 1, 2017 at 12:32pm PST

A post shared by Zeina Nassar (@zeina.boxer) on Dec 1, 2017 at 12:48am PST

As the Nike tagline states, sport is for everyone.

The Nike Pro Hijab is available on Nike.com and across the Middle East at select retailers.

A&E Jewellery Gift Guide

Shopping for something dazzling this Christmas? From dangling earrings to pendant necklaces, our jewellery gift guide has just the pieces to make your eyes sparkle.

Browse our edit from the likes of Tiffany’s and Boucheron for the perfect gift – diamonds are a girl’s best friend after all.

A&E Guide: Christmas In Dubai

Whether celebrating at home or at one of many venues in Dubai, there are plenty of choices for a memorable Christmas day.

From takeaway roast dinners to extravagant brunches, festive period of giving and overeating is so much better in the sunshine. So put on your party outfit or snuggle up in a holiday jumper with the AC turned down low with our edit of the best things to do on December 25.

Takeaway Roasts At Vida Downtown

Vida Downtown Hotel been working on a Christmas menu that ticks all the traditional boxes. Pre-order 48 hours before and sit down to either a turkey, striploin of beef, lamb leg or whole duck – all comes with honey roasted carrots and parsnips, red cabbage, sprouts with turkey bacon, roast potatoes, cranberry sauce and thyme gravy. The dinner ends with a dessert choice between Christmas Log and Butter Vanilla Trifle.
December 15th – January 1st, Telephone: 800 DINING or +971 4 888 3444 or email dine@emaar.com.

Christmas Brunch, Palazzo Versace, Dubai

For dose of glitz and glamour head to the fashionable Palazzo Versace hotel. Our top pick is the Christmas Brunch held on the terrace of the Giardino where you can elegantly indulge in luxurious choice of international favourites such as the sushi station, plenty of fresh seafood and the carving section serving your festive favourites. Don’t forget to leave room for over 20 dessert choices.

Festive Market at Madinat Jumeirah

Nestled within Madinat Jumeirah’s Resort, the Festive Market is a hit with families and once again will have a traditional German holiday theme, complete with fun entertainment and an interactive Christmas Tree at the centre.

Christmas Day At Armani Hotel, Downtown Dubai

For a relaxed atmosphere and some Italian flair, book into the Armani Deli restaurant where the chefs will prepare a menu full of seasonal flavours. Dig your fork into roasted pumpkin ravioli with ossobucco saffron sauce, caviar dusted langoustine risotto, tuna tartar with sea urchin sauce and finish off with a Monte Bianco served with candied chestnuts and William pear. Delizioso.
Call +971 4 888 3666 or email us at restaurant.reservations@armanihotels.com.

Festive Brunch at Cabana, Address Dubai Mall

Expect lively cooking stations preparing an elaborate selection, roast turkeys with all the trimmings and plenty of sunshine at this outdoor setting by the pool or a private cabana. Enjoy the views of Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa as well as the live entertainment by the resident DJ.
Call 04 438 8888 or email dine@emaar.com.

Get Holiday Ready With Dior Precious Rocks Collection

This holiday season is all about prismatic sparkles and Dior offers a bold yet chic makeup look to dazzle in style.

Dress up your eyes with the Precious Rocks shades that are inspired by rich hues of rubies, gold and emeralds. The deep lip colours complete the look resulting in not only a strong statement for the evening, but a work of art to be admired by others.

Find out more about Peter Philips inspiration for the new Precious Rocks line below.

A&E Editors Style Inspirations

We all have fashion icons or even places pinned on our Pinterest boards that we look to for style inspirations. There are those who seek classic elegance and minimal pieces while others are forward thinking and aren’t afraid of a quirky trend. Our editors have picked their muse (s) below.

Eliza Scarborough, Deputy Editor/ Fashion Director, A&E Magazine

There is something flawless and effortlessly chic about the way Parisian women dress. It has become somewhat of a global fashion phenomenon which lead to a number of books and several online guides to how to nail their style. My tip? A well cut black blazer and a crisp white shirt go a long way.

Charline Deek, Senior Editor, A&E Magazine Arabia

I don’t really have a style inspiration. I usually go for the type of clothes that fits my body shape, comfortable shoes with a colorful bag. I’m inspired by my mood and the place that I’m going to visit.

Dana Mortada, Editor, A&E Magazine

I’m a minimalist. The key is to mix between classic and tonal wardrobe essentials that provide a sleek balance between poise and avant-garde.

Diana Bell-Heather, Online Editor aeworld.com

I look to people like Miroslava Duma and Leandra Cohen who manage to make even the funkiest pieces work well together. Duma has a more of a classic approach to dressing but she always manages to pick the must-have item from leading designers. Leandra is queen of quirk and manages to create chic stylish outfits from a jumble of prints, shapes and textures.

Editors Pick: Clarins Everlasting Foundations

One of our favourite beauty brands has added three new adaptable products to their Everlasting Foundation range.

Choose from Clarins liquid formula, cushion technology and a compact powder and enjoy effective coverage with enriched plant extracts that work to enhance and protect your skin.

Fan of liquid foundations will love using the hydrating Teint Haute Tenue with SPF15 that gives up to 18-hours of even complexion and stays put even when it’s hot or humid outside. To get the same results but on the go, try out the Cushion Foundation which is part liquid, part compact. Water-based formula offers a radiant results from morning to night, with up to 10-hour dehydration resistant. On top of that, it also protects against pollution, free radical damage and UV rays.

The Everlasting Compact is for those who prefer a light-as-air powder texture that gives a matte finish without blocking the pores. It combines bamboo powder and the high fidelity system to instantly minimize imperfections and dark spots which leaves you looking shine-free throughout the day.

Know which one you’ll be adding to your wish list?

Caring For Your Shoes The Berluti Way

Fine shoes require tender love and care and the guys at Berluti know a thing or two about what’s best for your precious footwear collection.

Exposure to rain and moisture weakens leather, while heat dries it out, causing it to crack, and exposure to sun could result in fading. Having built a reputation in fine leather accessories, the brand’s bespoke shoemaker Patrice Rock shares his tips on how to keep your plush leather footwear looking healthy and fresh for longer.

Cleaning and Preparation

To dust off all the impurities, gently clean the surface of the shoe with the help of a soft cloth or a light bristle brush. Then, massage a neutral cream over the shoe, paying particular attention to the creases formed while walking. Use a soft cloth to apply the cream on fragile leathers and a bristle brush if the leather is textured or impregnated. Repeat the same process for the sole of and heel with a welt brush, a coarser brush that is made with horsehair and brass bristles to thoroughly clean the surface. Allow the shoes to rest for approximately 5-minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Polishing

Once dry, directly massage a shoe polish onto the surface, using circular motions to ensure that the colour is well absorbed. While selecting the shade of polish to match the shoe, always remember to opt for a slightly lighter colour than the actual shade of leather to preserve its original colour. Once they have been polished, leave the shoes to dry for a couple of minutes before rubbing the surface with a buffing glove to really enhance the shine.

Glazing

While the shoes look glossy and new after polishing, end the process with a gentle glaze for a longer lasting effect. Using shoetrees to maintain their shape, apply a blend of polish and water on the surface of the shoe and gently massage the leather in circular motions with the help of a soft cloth wrapped around your index finger.

Expert Tip: Five Ways To Kickstart Your Fitness Routine

Cardio Muay Thai, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Cardio Muay Thai at Fairmont The Palm, Dubai

Have you began thinking about new year resolutions? Fitness normally comes high up on the list so we have decided to seek advise from a pro over at the Fairmont Hotel on the Palm, Coach Meddy, on simple ways to kickstart your fitness routine now.

How can we prepare for a health kick?

I always recommend people to do something inspiring on January 1 to kickstart their new mind set. For example walk along the beach or take go for a swim.

What is your opinion on juicing and detox’s?

Obviously, juicing is better than junk food, but even though I’m a huge fan of juicing, we lose the benefits of the fibers of the fruits and veggies which are essentials. Therefore, juicing is perfect to add on to a balanced and healthy diet. For detox, I can suggest intermittent fasting which is the best and oldest detox invented.

Everyone is going vegan, should we?

If you deeply feel, due to your beliefs and opinions that you have to be vegan to feel better, just do it and you will experience any benefits yourself.

What can we do at home to maintain our fitness level?

Bodyweight workout as squat, lunges, push-ups, plank, sit ups and burpees. Go for 3-minutes of skipping rope with a motivational song.

If we only do three things at the gym, what should they be?

Rowing machine, punching bag and leg press.

Pick Of The Week: LPG Body Shaping Gel

You’ve worked hard at the gym, follow a nutritious diet but a few problem areas just won’t budge? Shaping a smooth silhouette sometimes requires extra help and LPG Body Shaping Gel is packed with active ingredients and extracts to help shift those excess lumps.

LPG Endermologie, skin expert for 30 years, understands the symmetry of the body’s processes night and day and have developed the fast absorbing non-sticky gel formula containing Coralline G, red algae extract and active ingredient that adapt to the biorhythm of our fat cells to directly target areas of concern.

Apply morning and evening, paying specific attention to the abdominals, and say hello to a more toned smooth skin.

Get The Look: Meghan Markle

All eyes are on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following a recent engagement with the royal wedding scheduled for May next year.

With happy news comes a certain level of scrutiny and naturally we looked at the ring – designed by the prince himself and holds three diamonds, two belonging to Princess Diana and a third from Botswana where he and Meghan have enjoyed romantic getaways – and then the outfit.

With a palette of monochrome and tonal looks, Markle knows how to make an appearance in front of flashing cameras, which explains why her first public appearance as newly engaged was such a hit. The actress is also known to frequent the front row at New York Fashion Week where she carefully selects standout designer pieces.

Her effortless elegance, flawless mix of staple pieces, natural makeup and freshly blow dried hair can be compared to the French way of chic dressing. We have rounded up some for her top style hits that are worthy of a future princess.

Fendi Makes It Personal

For the first time ever Fendi clients worldwide will have the chance to personalise their very own bag.

From today you can take advantage of Fendi’s made-to-order Customize It service and be the creator of a Kan I F bag and Strap You bag strap on both fendi.com and Farfetch.

With 120 possible combination, that’s right 120, choose from a wide range of modern colour options, logo styles and hardware variants and once you’re happy with your artistic flair, the leather goods artisans in the Maison’s atelier in Florence will meticulously assemble every part in 12 weeks. The shoulder strap personalisation offers 70 possible varieties, exclusively decorated with conical studs and feminine leather flowers featuring mini F is Fendi metal logos on the flowers’ disks.

Pietro Beccari, president and CEO of Fendi, said: “We think it will be a unique opportunity to showcase our daring creativity and pioneer spirit in a new digital and modern way, combining our client’s needs of luxurious exclusivity with the Maison’s perfect blend of tradition and innovation.”

Trending: Oversized Bags

Tired of trying to squeeze the bare essentials into your mini bags? You can put them firmly to the back of your wardrobe as this season handbags are bigger and better.

Houses like Balenciaga and Celine went supersize for Fall 2017 which, just like the sneaker trend, makes practical look chic. We finally have room to fit all the daily must-haves without compromising on style – now that’s what you call a win win situation in the fashion game.

Scroll through our edit for oversized bags to shop now.

Our Top Hair Inspirations From Jen Atkin

Kendall Jenner, Karlie Kloss, Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian are just some of the names that turn to celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin for red carpet worthy hair with an extra dose of personality.

Now with over 2million fans on social media, she is considered one of the most influential hair stylists in the world creating regram-worthy looks that can be as complex as Hollywood up-do’s to as simple as messy beach waves. Travelling frequently, including to the Middle East, Atkin decided to launch her own range of products OUAI in 2016 that includes curated multi-taskers and supplements.

If that wasn’t enough, she also runs an online platform that bestows advise and tips and has a hair accessories collection Jen Atkin X Chloe + Isabel. For someone who started out in LA with just $300 in her pocket to then work with Chris McMillan followed by John Galliano during his years at Dior, Atkin’s is not doing bad at all.

We have browsed her Instagram to bring you the best hair inspirations that are guaranteed to add a touch of glam to any occasion.

Kim Kardashian

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Nov 16, 2017 at 10:14am PST

Chrissy Teigen

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Nov 12, 2017 at 1:38pm PST

Kendall Jenner

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Oct 30, 2017 at 7:51pm PDT

Karlie Kloss

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Oct 28, 2017 at 10:24am PDT

Kaia Gerber

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Oct 21, 2017 at 2:07pm PDT

Bell Hadid

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Oct 21, 2017 at 12:30pm PDT

Lily Collins

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Oct 3, 2017 at 9:19am PDT

Gigi Hadid

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Sep 28, 2017 at 7:16am PDT

Emma Stone

A post shared by Celebrity Hairstylist (@jenatkinhair) on Sep 16, 2017 at 12:45pm PDT

Chloé Resort 2018

Chloé Resort 2018 collection is a smooth transition between the creative direction from Clare Waight Keller to Natacha Ramsay-Levi.

It still feels aesthetically Chloé with edgy touches that Ramsay-Levi delivered for her first SS18 collection in Paris during Fashion Week. Flowing dresses, feminine fabrics and soft shades are all familiar to the fans of the brand. The same can be said of the accessories with the Nile bracelet bag getting a slight face lift that includes an option to add initials to the smaller size.

There is a certain emphasis on tailoring that have a slight naval look with gold buttons decorating cropped jackets. The festival vibe, inspired by music legends Cher and Prince, is recognized in metallic flared trousers, soft high neck blouse with lace inserts, bold gold accents on clothes and accessories and heavily fringed over the knee boots.

This is still the Chloé girl we have grown to love under the eyes of Waight Keller but she is boldly stepping into the tougher spectrum of Ramsay-Levi. Now, when can we get our hands on the turtleneck with the Chloé logo stretched across the shoulders?

Maria Grazia Chiuri Honoured With Award for Positive Change

Maria Grazia Chiuri will receive the Swarovski Award for Positive Change at The Fashion Awards 2017 on December 4.

The British Fashion Council announced today that the creative director of Christian Dior will be honoured at this years event for her contribution to women’s empowerment in the fashion industry. The award also celebrates those who have made a positive impact on society and forms part of Swarovski’s efforts to promote a more sustainable future for us all.

As the first female Creative Director in Dior’s history, Maria Grazia Chiuri has, since her appointment in July 2016, created a new chapter for the French luxury house and brought the debate around female empowerment to the fashion runway. Her collections connect fashion to feminism, always responding to the current political climate.

Dior Spring 2018.

Grazia Chiuri said: “I am delighted and very honoured to receive the Swarovski Award for Positive Change. The feminist movement that has been mine for the longest time has finally struck a resonant chord in society, and this recognition sends a powerful message to all women battling on a daily basis. It also offers a timely opportunity to pay tribute to Franca Sozzani who, last year, was the recipient of the very first award.”

The Fashion Awards, hosted in London, celebrates individuals whose imagination and creativity have broken new ground in fashion globally over the past 12 months, and brands and businesses that have transformed the possibilities of fashion today.

Dame Natalie Massenet, British Fashion Council Chairman, commented: “With this award, Maria Grazia will be celebrated for her successful creative achievements, her contribution to female empowerment within fashion and her determination to encourage women of future generations to believe in themselves. The positive impact she has had on the fashion and global communities makes her a great inspiration to all of us.”

For The Weekend: Louis Vuitton Exhibition In Dubai

ICONS OF THE HOUSE: Sac Papillon en toile Monogram, 1967.

Want to explore the history of one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world? Then head to the Louis Vuitton exhibition in the Dubai Mall this weekend.

Dubai Mall us hosting the Maison for a month-long Time Capsule exhibit that takes visitors on a journey through the heritage of the House and revisits it’s landmark innovations in technology and design.

Travelling from 1854 to present day, this celebration focuses on some of the most iconic pieces from the archives and divided into six key aspects. The Keys to the Codes looks at distinctive design features that can be traced back to Louis Vuitton’s very first trunks, Icons of the House brings together the most memorable and emblematic creations while Artisans Room is an immersive experience with Vuitton craftsmen.

To mark the brands presence in the Middle East for over 30 years, Dubai is the first destination in the region to host Time Capsule which will run until December 15.

JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD: Wardrobe trunk.

THE KEY TO THE CODE: Petite Malle en cuir Epi Malletage rouge.

Images courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

A Royal Engagement: Prince Harry And Meghan Markle’s Wedding Date Confirmed

Prince Harry And Meghan Markle have officially announced their engagement and the Queen has approved that they will marry at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, in May 2018.

The news was revealed on Kensington Palace Twitter page with a statement saying that the proposal happened earlier this month and that the royal family will be paying for the nuptials.

The Kensignton Palace also tweeted congratulations from Duke and Duchess of Cambridge that read: ‘We are very excited for Harry and Meghan. It has been wonderful getting to know Meghan and to see how happy she and Harry are together.’ They also posted a note from Ms Markle’s parents, Mr Thomas Markle and Doria Ragland, who wished the couple ‘a lifetime of happiness.’

The Prince, who is fifth in line to the throne, was first introduced to the actress in the summer of 2016 before revealing that they were dating in November that year.

The couple, who will live in Nottingham Cottage in the Kensington Palace grounds, are scheduled for a broadcast interview this evening UK time and we can’t wait to see the ring.

Royal Congratulations: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Are Expecting Their Third Child

Top Spa Treatments For Men in Dubai

Unwind like a true gentleman with our guide to the best men’s spa treatments in Dubai.

Long weekend is just round which means some much needed ‘me-time’ to distress with an all-day escape or brighten up a tired complexion with a nourishing facial. Whatever you choose, we have selected spa’s that offer the full experience and leave you feeling fresh for the new week.

The Spa at The Palace Downtown Dubai

Considering The Palace sits in the middle of busy Downtown area, the spa feels like a tranquil escape offering some of the most indulgent treatments. Our top pick is the Gentleman’s Tonic Facial that aims to clear congested skin, improving tone, clarity and overall complexion.

1847, City Walk

Need extra relaxation after a haircut? 1847 provides a variety of treatments including Thai massages and hot stone treatment using volcanic basalt stones. Our favourite branch is located in buzzing City Walk.

Spa at the One&Only Royal Mirage

If you have a 110 minutes to spare than book into the Stressbuster body treatment. Designed to relax the mind as well as the body, holistic treatment begins with a body exfoliation followed by full body massage. Tension points are massaged around the eyes and ears, followed by an acupressure head massage.

Talise Spa, Burj Al Arab Hotel

If you book yourself a Cabana for the day to enjoy the modern pool deck, the treatment can be done without you stepping foot into the spa. The Abhyanga Ayurvedic influenced massage is the best for relaxation for an overstressed body. Abhyanga oils stimulate the flow of energy and you can choose 55-minute four-handed massage performed by two synchronised therapists.

Talise Ottoman Spa, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel, The Palm

Book the Ottoman Escape in advance and make a day of it at one of the top spa’s in Dubai. The four-hour experience includes Royal Hammam, Citrus Hydration body ritual and Life Infusion Facial as well as lunch along with an access to the beach and outdoor pool facilities. You’ll find it hard to leave.

Lime Spa, Desert Palm Resort

Cleanse your body with Detoxifying Journey at the Lime Spa. The treatment starts with black soap wash followed peppermint or lavender scrub leaving your skin smooth and tingling with freshness. Final step is an ocean essence seaweed body mask that further removes toxins leaving your skin toned and balanced.

Pearl Spa, Four Seasons Jumeirah Resort

The Pearl Spa knows how to look after their guests with an array of facilities including a striking indoor pool. But the magic happens in the treatments rooms and our top pick is the Mankind Facial. The 60-minute treatment kicks off with a Himalayan salt therapy back massage that will ease stress and reduce tension. This leads to a deep cleansing and exfoliating facial that balances the skin’s natural oils and assists in preventing ingrown hairs.

Max Mara Creates A Bespoke Outfit For Their Exhibition

Starting tomorrow, a new edition of Max Mara Coats! exhibition will open in Seoul, Korea, and is completely dedicated to over 60 years of history of the brand.

To celebrate the latest edition, a special look has been designed that you can shop across all stores. The outfit focuses on a coat in pure camel’s hair with brass colour lining styled with a shirt with crystal buttons and an elegant pencil skirt.

Worn by everyone from Kate Middleton to Gigi Hadid, Max Mara coats have become iconic enough for the brand to create a tribute with Seoul being the latest host. The exhibition will be housed inside a monumental dome inspired by the utopian architecture of Étienne-Louis Boullée and will present a completely new overview of the Max Mara Heritage. Over ninety coats are on show starting from the first ones from the 50s to the more recent ones that walked the Milan runway, and of course the iconic 101801 style.

Traveling to Seoul might be a stretch, but adding an iconic coat to your winter wardrobe is a chic way to join in with the celebrations.

Milan Fashion Week SS18: Max Mara

Giambattista Valli: Our Next Activewear Obsession

A post shared by Giambattista Valli Official (@giambattistavalliparis) on Oct 2, 2017 at 8:45am PDT

Couturier Giambattista Valli is flexing his fitness muscles and moving into activewear.

Known predominately for his Oscar-worthy gowns, the designer is working on around 60 sporty pieces that will make us seriously reconsider our gym membership as the collection launches in January 2018.

“It’s a capsule collection where we will express a more functional side of the brand, while remaining faithful to the atmosphere of the contemporary chic that is part of its DNA,” Valli told WWD.

According to the fashion journal, the capsule will not have high-performance gear and instead focus on puffer jackets, sweatshirts and tracksuits as well as casual clothing, après-ski attire, and eventually swimwear. The line will be presented on the catwalk alongside the main range and Valli added: “We really want to develop the brand in every direction. This is just the start.”

We expect exquisite fabrics that captures luxury and sophisticated craftsmanship of the brand that can be mixed with modern functionality. Watch. This. Space.

Our Editorial Shoot With Richard Mille And McLaren

Elegance, advanced technology and impeccable craftsmanship is what bonds Richard Mille and McLaren together in our latest editorial shoot for the December issue of A&E Magazine.

Just like the two innovative thinkers coming together, so do the two models that wear Richard Mille RM 50-03 technical masterpieces that deliver off-the-chart mechanical performance. The stylish, yet futuristic timepieces look at home in the McLaren Technology Centre in the company of super cars McLaren 720S and 570S.

Time never stands still, but you can take a moment to see the video in full below.

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Alex Teuscher

Hair and Make-up: Julie Read

Models: Michiel and Zoe at Models 1

Location: McLaren Technology Centre

Kim Kardashian Created Something Ideal For The Festive Period

A post shared by Huda Kattan (@hudabeauty) on Nov 26, 2017 at 8:10am PST

Kim Kardashian’s KKW beauty has been selling out, and now the star is adding sparkling lip glosses and shimmers to the line up.

Huda Beauty was the first to receive the newest products which she showcased on her social media and website. These included a box of five shimmer powders and a full set of lip glosses – all in copper, bronze, rose gold, gold, and silver.

With the festive period in full swing, these look ideal for adding some sparkle to eyes or lips and we won’t be surprised if a couple make it into beauty lovers stockings – that is if you can get your hands on them before they sell out like the 300,000 KKW contour kits did.

Beauty Secrets: Highlighting Darker Skin Tones

Saint Laurent x Colette Collaboration Launches Today

Parisian concept store Colette marks the end of it’s run with the final collaboration with the one and only Saint Laurent.

The mother daughter team will be closing the doors of the famed store in Paris on December 20, but they didn’t want to go quietly. Instead they had Chanel take over the second floor, hosted a series of talks and now it’s the turn of Saint Laurent to pay tribute to the iconic shop.

From today, visitors can explore Anthony Vaccarello’s exclusive collection along with unique collectables like a Vespa – yes an actual two wheel fully functioning vehicle to whizz through the narrow streets of the French capital in style. Safety first so don’t forget the glossy black and fully crystal-embellished motorcycle helmet. The cool kids might fancy themselves a leopard-print skateboard while the creatives will appreciate customized vintage Polaroid SX-70 camera. As for the capsule collection, fans of the brand can pick up a Bryan Ferry logo T-shirt or heart-embossed bags and wallets.

Feels like a fitting finale to the bright and bold life of Colette, especially as it is rumoured that it is Saint Laurent who might be moving into the store space.

The pop-up will run November 27 – December 20 at 213 Rue St.-Honoré.

Makeup With Skin Care Benefits

We all like products which offer a little extra and makeup with skin care benefits that help heal any imperfections are high on our agenda.

The demand for cosmetics offering effortlessly flawless skin has grown ever since the ‘no makeup makeup’ trend arrived on the beauty scene. Smooth coverage and an even finish are a priority for many, but if the brands you use cause more harm than good it’s time to do something about it.

Switch it up with our selection of some of the leading names in the industry that not only offer bare-faced perfection but are beneficial to your complexion.

Your skin can thank us later.

A&E Guide To CC Cream

Net-A-Porter Creates Eveningwear Just For The Middle East

Looks like Net-A-Porter wants to be your only go-to this festive season with a second launch of exclusive eveningwear pieces just for the Middle East shopper.

The ten-piece capsule features limited edition gowns from eight leading designers like Elie Saab, Erdem, Jenny Packham and Marchesa. All praised for their meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional eye for detail that are worthy of the red carpet, you can rest assured that these gowns are going be a standout at any glamorous event.

Elizabeth von der Goltz, Global Buying Director at NET-A-PORTER said: “Each of these hand-sewn gowns has been specifically designed with our Middle Eastern woman in mind. Following the success of our previous exclusive collections and Middle East summer campaign earlier this year, we know our customers in the region will love this selection of beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces.”

Dress shopping has never been easier.

A&E Party Edit: Sequins

A&E Party Edit: Sequins

Dazzle your way through the festive period with our sparkling edit of sequin dresses, jumpsuits and separates.

Less disco fever and more chic shimmer is the focuse. Delicate stitching, layers of sheer fabrics and feminine silhouettes prevent all the sequins spilling over into a disco ball ensemble that feels dated and heavy. You also have the flexibility of how much you want to sparkle on the night by either going for a head to toe look as seen at Oscar De La Renta and Carolina Herrera, or putting an accent on accessories.

For an ultra-modern look, try the flashy fiber in simple shapes and for grown up glamour look to sleeved midi dresses and pointed toe pumps and pouch bags. For anyone finding the sparkle a tad too blinding, statement chokers, headbands and broaches are a subtle way to add some shine.

Don’t be quick to stock away all the razzle and dazzle after the holidays as there is plenty of it next season championed by brands like Halpern, Molly Goddard, Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford.

Click through our sequin party edit above.

A&E Edits: Statement Blazer

When a tux is too much of a hassle but you still want to look sharp, a statement blazer should be your next go-to.

Elevate your straight cut jeans and classic shirt combination with an opulent jacket that immediately takes your attire from casual to smart. For added style points, look for embroidery, intricate detail and subtle embellishment in shape of buttons or stitching.

Keep it fitted and single breasted for a timeless silhouette but experiment with fabrics and contrast collars.

Salvatore Ferragamo Merges Men’s And Women’s Shows

There is sense of change blowing through the fashion world when it comes to showcases and Salvatore Ferragamo is the latest brand to combine women’s and men’s collections.

Be it down to the pressures of presenting multiple ranges throughout the year, customers interest in more non-gender specific pieces or the departure of some leading creative directors from the top fashion houses – more and more brands are choosing to unify their collections including Coach, Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein and Bottega Veneta.

So Ferragamo will skip the men’s calendar and instead show both lines during Autumn/ Winter 2018 Milan Fashion Week in February. The new format is in line with the brand’s strategy to have two shows a year rather than four.

This follows the recent appointment of Paul Andrew’s as creative director of womenswear, after he joined the brand as footwear director in September 2016.

11 New Ways To Wear A Turtleneck

A&E Guide To…Celebrating UAE National Day

To celebrate 46^th UAE National Day, we have put together a handy guide of what to do over the three-day weekend.

By The Sea

Pack a picnic and head down to Kite Beach for a day in the sun. The weather is at it’s prime and you can admire the annual display of flags on the sand.

Sweet Treat

Give your taste buds something to celebrate with Coya’s special dessert. Dig your spoon into the chocolate marquise with a dark muscovado centred surrounded by maracuja snow – designed to look like the UAE flag. Available exclusively at both Coya Dubai and Coya Abu Dhabi.

Think Fast

Need for speed? Mark December 1 in your diary to see the supercar procession in City Walk, including 50 green, red, white and black Lamborghinis, which from above will make a huge UAE flag.

Light Up The Sky

For the fireworks display that rivals New Years Eve, get a spot on JBR beach on December 2 that will start at 8.30pm. For dinner with a view, we love the terrace at Marina Social based at the Intercontinental Hotel.

Shop

With most of the stores offering special discounts, it’s time to flex those credit muscles and treat yourself or loved one over the weekend.

Escape: Mandarin Oriental In Geneva

5 Festive Reasons To Stay At Le Gray Beirut

It’s beginning to look at lot like… To get the full dose of the Christmas spirit, jump on a quick flight to Beirut and stay at the centrally located five-star hotel Le Gray which offers comfort in proximity to all the holiday celebrations and attractions.

Fresh Sheets

Last month the hotel revealed a brand new extension, including extra guest rooms with modern light interiors. This includes two Presidential Suites sharing the fifth floor with generous private terraces.

Great Taste

The hotel’s eateries are working hard to create standout Christmas and New Year spreads across all outlets. Celebrate 2018 with a view and head up to ThreeSixty that offers all-round spectacle of the cities rooftops and fireworks. For those looking for a quick break in-between the shopping and exploring will find the new Lobby Lounge packed with festive inspired treats.

Unwind
For a more relaxed stay book in for some TLC at the PureGray Health Club & Spa, which has been ranked among the best 10 spas in the region. Our top pick is the Detoxifying Marine Algae Wrap.

Wonder
During your stay you might be able to catch the Beirut Chants Festival that champions classic, sacred and ethnic music of the season, while the NYE celebrations sees the city illuminated with festive lights and the sounds of people welcoming the new year.

At The Movies
Want to share your favourite Chritsmas films with family and friends? Hire out the newly opened Screening Room – a 53-seat mini cinema fitted out with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and comfortable seating. Elf is so much better on the big screen.