Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Trending: Graphic Knitwear

Knitswear has been reinvented for fall with countless graphic patterns that range from geometric shapes and embroidery to bold prints.

Statement knits replace the summers printed T-shirts and can be styled in a similar way with jeans and boots or under a tailored blazer – especially if you choose a high-neck style. Look to designers like Gucci where Alessandro Michele lets his creativity go interstellar or Prada that approaches jumpers like a canvas for a fine piece of art.

And they are not the only ones that make keeping warm look anything but boring. Click through our edit above and stay stylishly snug this season.

First Look: Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection With Alicia Vikander

Join Alicia Vikander in Ibiza for the Louis Vuitton’s 2018 Cruise collection campaign.

Clearly there is something magical about the island that has been chosen for the maison’s latest shoot and, on a separate note, as the wedding spot for Vikander and Michael Fassbender.

With a striking blue backdrop, the campaign captures the adventurous travelling spirit of the house – influence which you’ll see more of during the upcoming Time Capsule exhibition later this month in Dubai.

Patrick Demarchelier photographed Vikander in a series of locations showing off the latest pieces including the discreetly elegant Capucines bags, emblem of the house and it’s craftmanship, as well as the Twist bag which is one of the new classics dreamed up by Nicolas Ghesquière.

After a full immersion into an ocean of verdure with the Cruise 2018 show in Kyoto, Japan, it’s only fitting that Ibiza is the next fashion hot spot Louis Vuitton has turned to for inspiration – and we for one can’t wait to book our next trip with a leather waistcoat and printed cap in hand.

See the video below and click through the images above.

Forks At The Ready For Dolce & Gabbana Spaghetti

Our #pasta looking stunning at #harrods ? #pastadimartino #dgpasta #london #lafamiglialapastalitalia #pastalover #xmas #foodie #italianmarket #exciting ° @Regranned from @harrods – Kitchen appliances have never looked better! Discover the @dolcegabbana x @smeg_uk Christmas collaboration in store at the Italian Market (Fourth Floor). #DGHarrods #DGxSmeg – #regrann

A post shared by @pastadimartino on Nov 4, 2017 at 9:47am PDT

Dolce & Gabbana doesn’t only look good, it tastes good.

The design duo are entering the food business with Pastificio di Martino to produce a limited edition boxes of pasta. With only 5,000 made worldwide, it’s a great gift for a foodie who will also appreciate the signature apron that Stefano Gabbana had his mother model in a recent Instagram post.

Mia Mamma è pronta a cucinare #DGPasta @pastadimartino ❤️❤️❤️❤️?? LA FAMIGLIA LA PASTA L’ITALIA ##DGFamily ???

A post shared by stefanogabbana (@stefanogabbana) on Oct 27, 2017 at 10:46am PDT

Their past fashion collections, as well as SS18, have always emphasised the importance of family and nothing bonds an Italian familia better than some good old fashioned cooking. The three varieties of pasta can be found at their festive pop up in Harrods along with other household goods decorated in the brands signature prints.

Carbs have never been more fashionable.

Celine Spring Pre-Collection 2018

Celine have revealed their look book for Spring pre-collection focusing on structured separates and brush stroke printed dresses.

With plenty of Phoebe Philo cool, there is a lot for a Celine woman to love. The line includes the masculine tailored suits that still carry a strong essence of femininity, as well as boldly shaped coats in rich shades like burgundy. Geometric-cut skirts balance the loosely worn cashmere knits while lace trim slip dresses embody modern sensuality. There is also a selection of the iconic accessories and handbags to indulge in.

The collection feels timeless, which is what Philo is loved for. Her soon departure from the house will mark the end of a very successful career at the maison and with the Spring pre-collection feeling like a homage to some of her best work, we won’t be surprised if some of these pieces will remain in her fans wardrobe for many years to come.

Trending: Crocodile Bags

Not longer only reserved for a grande dame, crocodile bags have had a fresh revival this season.

From Jason Wu to Gucci, there is something modern about the classic exotic leather with the Mulberry bag from the Fall 17 show being spotted on more than one fashionista.

The croc offers a sleek texture that looks both glamorous and stylish. A perfect companion to an evening ensemble, it also has the power to lift a casual combination of jeans and a plaid blazer to a chic heritage level.

From the perfect evening clutch to the backpack that will appeal to the Millennial shopper, click through our edit above for some of the top crocodile bags to add to your wish list.

Emirates New First Class Is Nothing Like You’ve Ever Seen Before

Emirates have unveiled fully enclosed private suites in First Class as part of their newly designed Boeing 777 fleet, and they’re something special.

High-flying customers can now enjoy floor to ceiling sliding doors and sleek design features mimicking the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Highlights include zero-gravity seat position inspired by NASA technology giving a feeling of relaxation and weightlessness, mood lighting, full length cupboard for hanging clothes, video call function for cabin crew and a service window where you can be served drinks and canapes undisturbed.

No longer do you have to battle to get a window seat as they have also introduced the industry’s first virtual windows for suites located in the middle aisle. These windows project the view from outside the aircraft using real time camera technology.

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: “We are very excited about our new fully-enclosed suite which is a real game-changer in terms of privacy, comfort, and thoughtful luxury.”

The service will be available from December 1 with the latest Emirates 777 design debuting on flights to Geneva and Brussels.

Now that’s above and beyond cloud nine of luxury travel.

Pick Of The Week: Battle Oily Scalp With Aveda Pramāsana

When a bad hair day isn’t frustrating enough, you have an oily scalp to deal with too. Weep no more as there’s a new hero product to sooth your hair woes – Aveda Pramāsana.

There are more oil glands on the scalp in comparison to the rest of your skin and the build up of sebum can be a daily problem for many as it tends to just sit there, causing inflammation and itchiness. On top of that, living in a warmer climate means that our scalps can become irritated from daily habits such as swimming in chlorine and salt water, perspiration and heat. Regular shampooing is advised as well as minimizing your use of dry shampoo in-between, but giving your scalp a thorough treatment is key and this is where the latest offering from Aveda comes into play.

Start with Pramāsana Purifying Scalp Cleanser that deeply purifies the scalp to help instantly balance sebum levels, while also exfoliating and removing pollution with the seaweed extract playing a major role in balancing excess oils. Follow this with your shampoo and once towel dried, use Pramāsana Protective Scalp Concentrate across the hair lines. It is designed to penetrate the surface layers of the scalp to nourish and help preserve it’s natural protective barrier, while helping protect from other elements.

Time to give your scalp some TLC as after all, it’s the base of a very good hair day.

Cara Delevingne Fronts Burberry’s Winter Collection

Cara Delevingne stars in Burberry’s newest collection alongside actor Matt Smith.

The pair appear in a series of campaign images, shot by British photographer Alasdair McLellan, wearing the brand’s famous print as well as must-have trench coat.

Delevingne said: “I am so proud to share this new shoot I did with Alasdair McLellan and Matt Smith. Thank you to the creative genius and my dear friend Christopher Bailey for involving me in this and all the incredible projects over the years. It has been and always will be a joy to work with you and the Burberry family.”

The house also created a short black and white film with an 80’s vibe that opens with model singing Always on My Mind by the Petshop Boys that transitions into a colourful theme with her and Smith celebrating the festive season making us want to wrap up in the comfiest scarves with stylish knitwear.

The collection is available to shop online now.

This Max Mara Short Film Is Going To Warm Your Heart

Max Mara released a sentimental short film showcasing this seasons must-have coats that will keep you snug all winter long.

In collaboration with T Brand Studio, A Coat Tale follows the story of Clarissa who is resilient in her desire to be polite to a woman, Morgana, who keeps knocking into her day after day. Her kindness pays off when Morgana finally acknowledges her polite nature (as well as the chic camel coat) and from then on the two women greet each other as friends.

The film was directed by Stephen Galloway and includes a special appearance of Anna Baryshnikov as the narrator of the story who is most known for he role in Academy Award winning movie Manchester by the Sea.

Just shows, a fabulous outfit and a smile can go a long way. Watch the story in full below that also features one of the most worn coats from the collection, the Teddy.

Meet The New Face Of Marc Jacobs Beauty

Model, activist and all around amazing woman—@adwoaaboah is the newest face of #MarcJacobsBeauty. ✨??

A post shared by Marc Jacobs Beauty (@marcbeauty) on Nov 1, 2017 at 7:46am PDT

Adwoa Aboah has been named as the new face of Marc Jacobs Beauty.

Model of the moment was shot by David Sims for the campaign sporting the brand’s new liquid lipstick-crayon Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayon that you can expect to hit the stores middle of December.

In a statement, Aboah said that she was overwhelmed by Jacobs support, especially as he gave her first ever runway show and added: “I am so excited to be the new face of Marc Jacobs Beauty, and to have been able to work alongside Marc once again is truly inspirational.”

A leading brand collaborating with one of the most sought after models? We sense a beautiful partnership in the making.

Emirates Pay Tribute To HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Emirates unveiled a special tribute to the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding father of the United Arab Emirates, with a bespoke design for its 100th A380.

Airline celebrated the milestone delivery of its 100th Airbus A380 aircraft at a special ceremony in Hamburg which was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates’ Chairman and Chief Executive who said: “The aircraft itself is a showpiece of engineering. It is the world’s largest commercial passenger jet but it is quiet and efficient and at Emirates we’ve utilised the onboard real estate to redefine the thinking around inflight products and experience.”

He also added: “2018 is the “Year of Zayed”, marking 100 years since the birth of our country’s founding father and celebrating his legacy. Emirates is proud to launch our tribute to the man who has been instrumental to the UAE’s formation and development, at the milestone delivery of our 100th A380.”

“Just as the A380 has broken new ground in so many regards, Sheikh Zayed was a true pioneer and visionary. Bringing his message of inspiration, daring and determination to the world as we fly the A380 around the globe, is an apt way to celebrate his amazing legacy.”

Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, Emirates’ 100th A380 is configured in three cabin classes, with 14 private suites in First class, 76 seats in Business and 426 seats in Economy. It also features the airline’s newly revamped Onboard lounge.

With the festive period just round the corner, it’s time to book your next getaway.

Editors Pick: Designer Sneakers

Comfort and style is something that used to rarely go together but over the last several seasons, and mainly with introduction of Dior Fusion sneakers back in 2014, fashion has officially embraced easy-going footwear.

Comfortable doesn’t mean boring, if anything designer sneakers have to work twice as hard to make a statement, which means brands are choosing the best fabrics, exotic leathers, dazzling embellishment and intricate embroidery.

Personalisation also plays a big role in making this slip-on-and-go shoe desirable. Gucci recently launched such service with mytheresa.com while Dolce & Gabbana went all out with a wide selection of patches and hand painted decorations. Laces also got an upgrade with houses like Fendi swapping the standard ones for velvet or ribbon while others turn to texture with fur and snakeskin patches.

There is an abundance of styles to fit any taste, from sporty that work as a contrast to your favourite tailored suit, to elegant shapes that will hold their own against an evening dress.

Embrace designer sneakers with our edit of the finest pairs above.

Trending: Hair Accessories

Thanks to jewellery designers like Charlotte Chesnais and Alighieri, hair accessories are becoming a focal point this season.

Think gold-dipped ties and sculptural clips, embellished hair bands, dainty chains and decorative grips that elevate any classic pony tail and add a sense of occasion to your up-do.

Don’t be shy and keep these gems for the evening. Instead add sparkle to your everyday look, after all these are the kind of pieces you’d want to show off in broad daylight. They also make for a stylish contrast when paired of a simple T-shirt and distressed denim.

Let your hair shine bright with our edit of the best hair accessories above.

Want To See The Most Expensive Pair Of Shoes In The World?

A post shared by Raffles Dubai (@rafflesdubai) on Oct 31, 2017 at 5:26am PDT

From today, you can head down to Raffles Hotel Dubai to see the world’s most expensive pair of shoes.

Created by celebrity Haute Couture designer turned caketress Debbie Wingham for a special client in the region, the diamond decorated high-heel sandals are worth Dhs55 million and will be on display to admire until Friday.

Slight downside? They are not for wearing but there is a good, or a few good reasons, for that. The unique piece of art boasts 24-carat gold stitching and over 1,000 diamonds set in platinum, including two three-carat pink diamonds, valued at Dhs16.2 million each, two blue diamonds of one carat, worth Dhs7 million each, and four flawless clarity three-carat white diamonds. They are made for display, rather than to strut down the street in, no matter how tempting that might be.

Now that’s a sparkling way for the five-star hotel to celebrate their 10^th anniversary.

Why You Should Be Using Shower Oils

Make your morning routine a little bit more luxurious with our pick of the best shower oils.

Not only do you benefit from extra hydration resulting in softer skin, but the fragrance leaves a lasting scent that can rival your favourite perfume. For those prone to dryness, you can pay particular attention to those flaky areas as oils lift dirt without stripping the skin. By not having any detergents found in other shower products, these little bottles of opulence protect the moisture barrier without removing excess natural oils from your skin. Instead, you are left with a residual coat of hydration that won’t require any any cream application afterwards – a win win.

Look for nourishing ingredients like almond, rose otto, grapeseed, olive and jojoba oils and choose products specifically for the body to minimizes the potential of clogged pores. If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test first as not everyone reacts well to oil-based ingerdients, otherwise go forth and make this part of your winter skin routine.

Click through the gallery above for best shower oils to shop now.

Shop Now: Midi Dresses

Midi dresses are having a moment, and you can expect this to continue into the next season with designers like Celine, Chloe and Marni embracing the mid-calf cut.

Flattering, elegant and modest, you will struggle to find a flaw with this silhouette that is perfect for day and night. Layer over a T-shirt and throw on a pair of sneakers for a laid back look, and in the evening add some killer heels and a belt to emphasise the waistline.

For daytime go for bold colours and fun prints like stripes and gingham but when it comes to midnight, tone it down to neutral shades and look for structured or long sleeveless as well as a sharp embellishment.

Click through our edit of the best midi dresses to shop now.

Wish List: Anya Hindmarch Candles

Accessories designer Anya Hindmarch is branching out into the beauty category with a collection of scented candles.

Known for her quirky creations, the candles capture the brands humorous personality and will come in two sizes and three unique scents – Sun Lotion, Coffee and Baby Powder. Hindmarch also confirmed that these hand-poured candles are just a start to a bigger range of fragrance ideas under Anya Smells.

Humorous packaging and unusual fragrance, time to start putting those gift lists together.

Available online from November.

Christopher Bailey To Leave Burberry

Christopher Bailey is to step down from Burberry early next year.

After 17 years as Chief Creative Officer and President at British fashion house, Bailey will exit end of March next year, meaning his last runway show will be in February.

Chief executive, Marco Gobbetti, congratulated Bailey on his contribution to the house over the years saying that he was ‘instrumental’ to the success since taking over in 2001 and added, “We have a clear vision for the next chapter to accelerate the growth and success of the Burberry brand and I am excited about the opportunity ahead for our teams, our partners and our shareholders.”

Bailey said it was a ‘great privilege’ to work at Burberry and remains positive for the future, “I do truly believe that Burberry’s best days are still ahead of her and that the company will go from strength to strength with the strategy we have developed.”

Who will be taking over is the next question, but it’s another shock exit from an iconic fashion house after the recent news of Phoebe Philo leaving Celine.

Quick Fixes For Grooming Emergencies

Last thing you want in the morning is being stuck with an unsightly problem that is in need of a quick fix. Lucky for you, we have rounded up common grooming emergencies along some easy solutions to get you out the door in no extra time.

Oops, You Cut Yourself Shaving

If you get razor cuts, the immediate remedy is to splash cold water on your face, the colder the better. For faster and more effective results, try rubbing an ice cube on the cut. You can also use a bit of your antiperspirant deodorant on your wound – the aluminum chloride in them not only prevents sweating but also acts as an antibacterial, great for all cuts.
Tip: If you run out of shaving foam, use conditioner.

The dreaded D word…Dandruff

Nobody wants pesky white flakes covering their shoulders so while the anti-dandruff shampoo works it’s magic, you can also apply apple vinegar to exfoliate the scalp and get rid of any dryness.

Soften A Wiry Beard

Smoke, wind, and cold weather can leave your facial hair coarse and your skin delicate. Moisturize the area with an oil like Penhaligon’s Bayolea Beard & Shave. Out of beard oil? Run down to the kitchen and grab some coconut oil instead.

Penhaligon’s at mrporter.com.

Flat hair?

Spending extra few minutes in the shower massaging the scalp can do wonders for giving your hair an extra boost. Concentrate on the hairline behind the ears, that’s where most of the excess oil is produced.
Tip: Change up your shampoo and conditioner every month as your hair gets accustomed to the same product.

Dry Feet

When you live somewhere like Dubai, your feet are exposed a lot of the time. To battle dry heels, apply lotion before putting on your socks and work shoes so come weekend you’ll have silky smooth feet.
Tip: Use Prismologie foot cream with oud and sapphire.

Prismologie Indigo Interlude.

Sunburn Alert

SPF should be part of your daily routine, even on a cloudy day. But when the sun gets you, use aloe vera based products that contain lidocaine, an anesthetic that can help relieve sunburn pain and sooth the redness.
Tip: Might come as a surprise, but the minty cooling effect that you get from using a shaving cream can also ease some of the pain.

Runway Edit: Dramatic Sleeves

Dramatic sleeves can elevate a casual look and add shape to an elegant evening ensemble.

The best way to approach this trend is to look at it as modern day alternative to the 80’s power shoulder. The extravagant silhouette is a bold statement, but with several varieties – bell, elongated, bishop, boxy, ruffle and balloon – there is a style to suit any occasion.

Roksanda is one of the leaders in embracing the billowy-sleeves with the dresses and tops selling out as soon as they hit the stores, while Ellery is another brand that season after season delivers voluminous cuts that feel fresh and wearable.

Downfalls lie in the practicality as on more than one occasion you will drag the maxi sleeves through a plate of food while reaching for the salt. But how many times have we made sacrifices in the name of fashion? After all, there is nothing more luxurious than having lots of fabric round your wrists, it adds a sense of opulence to an occasion and even works for those who prefer a more modest approach to dressing.

Adding a single touch of flamboyance to otherwise a minimal outfit strikes a chic balance and an extra bonus for us living in a hot country like Dubai, we don’t need to worry about the conundrum of fitting these ginormous sleeves into coats.

Seek inspiration from our runway edit above.

Trend: Supersize Your Earrings

Take in inspiration from Emilia Wickstead and Christipher Kane AW17 runway shows and make a statement this season with supersize earrings.

These giant accessories are one of the most practical ways to dress up a laid back outfit or make your work ensemble feel evening friendly. Apply the ‘go big or go home’ mentality and choose geometric shapes, chandelier styles, bright colours and layers of detail for a standout finish.

Gold tones are best for every day and help bring out neutral hues, while bold pinks and blue’s lift a classic white shirt or your favourite little black dress. Show your ears some love with our edit above.

Cartier Expands Luxury Bag Collection

Panthere De Cartier

Cartier’s desire to deliver luxury in new forms has expanded with addition of new evening bags to their collection.

From next month, two further designs will be added to the Panthere De Cartier line in green crocodile skin and black satin with pixel print in gold. These, like the other evening clutches, will be a one-off design made to order.

The panther remains the Maisons favourite animal for it’s wild and glamorous nature that pays a tribute to Jeanne Toussaint who joined the company in the early 1920s and was nicknamed La Panthère for her wit. Last month, the house launched bags inspired by the Cactus De Cartier collection with clasps decorated in emerald beads and carnelian leaves, as well as a high-jewellery clutch range Metiers D’Art featuring precious pendants (such as a tiger and snake) on the bags that can be removed and worn as a brooch.

Cactus De Cartier.

Metiers D’Art with removable pendant.

The precious materials used and high degree of customisation mean handbags have much in common with fine jewellery. Expect the same level of craftsmanship, best materials making these evening companions just as precious as a diamond bracelet.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Celebrates Opening With A Special Programme

A post shared by Louvre Abu Dhabi (@louvreabudhabi) on Dec 26, 2016 at 5:48am PST

To mark the opening of Louvre Abu Dhabi next month, the museum will host a four-day celebration of events with special guests.

In addition to the permanent features of Louvre Abu Dhabi, from 11-14 November visitors will be treated to music, dance and multi-cultural performances featuring a diverse line-up of artists from around the world including Lebanese jazz and world musician Ibrahim Maalouf.

Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “The spectacular opening week programme really is a celebration of diversity, bringing together talented musicians, artists and performers from countries spanning the globe, and will offer a colourful and unforgettable experience to launch this project.”

Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first museum of its kind in the Arab world that will house artworks and from the Palaeolithic era to the present day along with loans from leading French museums and regional cultural institutions. Architect Jean Nouvel has designed it as a museum city under a 180-metre dome, which filters sunlight and shade onto the buildings and waterfront promenades below in a cinematic ‘Rain of Light’ effect.

LOUVRE Abu Dhabi opens November 11.

How To Wear A Pinstripe Suit

Before you click off, this isn’t a gangster Halloween outfit suggestion – pinstripe suits are actually happening.

Seen at Tom Ford and Brunello Cucinelli, this tailored look has been given a much needed upgrade with sporty cuts, slim fit, single breasted options and trousers stitched loosely that can be hitched at the ankle for a more laid back vibe.

A simple stripe may feel like a big step out of your comfort zone, but it’s all about picking the right style for you. Embrace the fact that it will make a statement and choose thinner chalk stripes that look especially good on a navy canvas. For something more on trend, go for a grey ensemble with darker or even colourful stripes like a soft blue.

Between the suit, shirt and tie should be a solid colour, though if you’re feeling adventurous can style it with striped versions, just make sure they match up evenly to avoid the whole outfit looking overwhelming.

Click through our gallery above for more inspiration.

Chanel’s Special Tribute To Colette

A post shared by sarahcolette (@sarahcolette) on Oct 29, 2017 at 3:23pm PDT

As a parting gift, Chanel is taking over concept store Colette for one month before it closes.

There was a collective sadness among the fashion crowd after the announcement of an iconic Parisian store shutting it’s doors after 20 years of operation. To mark the history, and the fact that Karl Lagerfeld has been a fan since day one, Chanel will bring it’s universe to the first floor with a dreamlike scenography and special events.

From today, visitors are invited to plunge into a décor inspired by the 2017/18 Cruise collection The Modernity of Antiquity, it deploys an Ariadne’s thread in ecru canvas draped around the entire space where they can explore the AW17 line and then the cruise pieces from the beginning of November.

The Ready-to-Wear space is organised around three central themes: day, which puts the accent on colours and prints, night and its sophisticated dresses, and finally sport with its chic relaxed looks. Original products available as limited-edition series will also be on offer throughout the month of November such as T-shirts created by Karl Lagerfeld and even adidas Originals customised by singer Pharrell Williams.

But that’s not all, Chanel ambassador Caroline de Maigret’s will be at the store for a talk on style while the house’s creative makeup and color designer Lucia Pica will host a beauty event.

Clearly being a friend of Karl’s and Chanel’s has it’s perks, even towards the end of one stylish run.

Get The Look: Millie Bobby Brown

Have you spent the weekend binge watching the second season of Stranger Things? Us too, and we are even more in love with Eleven/Jane character played by Millie Bobby Brown whose style has evolved in the series and the red carpet.

For the premiere of the Netflix hit, Bobby Brown wore a long sleeve leather dress from Calvin Klein with contrasting white pointed toe pumps. The shape is classic yet the oversized collar, wet shine to the leather and sleeves cinched at the wrists make this mini dress feel youthful and modern. This is also a great example of how to wear leather during the warmer months.

No matter how many variations we’ve seen, the simple contrast of black and white never gets old and the mid-heel keeps this look elegant and fresh.

Inspired? Shop Millie Bobby Brown’s party look above.

Style Hits: Louis Vuitton Exhibition

It was a star studded turn out for the Volez, Voguez, Voyagez — Louis Vuitton exhibition in New York.

A visual chronicle of the brand since its founding in 1854, the show took over two floors in the former New York Stock Exchange and filled with trunks, monograms, artist collaborations and a well known name or two.

Alicia Vikander made her first public appearance since her secret wedding to Michael Fassbender in Ibiza wearing head to toe Louis Vuitton SS18 collection. Lea Seydoux also sported a French renaissance inspired tail coat from the collection while Natalia Vodianova swapped party heels for biker boots styled with black midi skirt.

Click through the above gallery to see who else gets out style vote.

Best Eye Creams To Start Your Week Fresh

So you’ve woken up with a blurred vision and puffy bags under the eyes hoping that it’s still the weekend? Fear not, we have just the thing to get you bright-eyed and feeling fresh for the work week ahead.

The puffiness is something that is part of not getting enough sleep, allergies or a salt-heavy diet, but while you wait for your body to naturally detox we have selected eye creams full of antioxidants to accelerate the process.

Look for active ingredients like caffeine, green tea, and aloe that help take down the puffiness and brighten dark spots. Anything containing Vitamin C will contribute to reduction in fine lines. Something that we learnt from many beauty experts is to keep eye products in the fridge as the cooling effect helps the area around the eye’s look smoother and above all gives you that ‘wake-up’ kick in the mornings.

Click through our gallery above for the best eye creams and never have the dreaded start of the week feeling again.

We Found The Best… Hotels In The Middle East

On a hunt for a staycation like no other? Time to get booking as the Word Traveller Awards have revealed the best hotels in the Middle East.

Among the names was the iconic Burj Al Arab that topped the list for the Leading All Suite Hotel while the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi can proudly wear the title of the Middle East’s Leading Luxury Hotel for this year.

We have analysed the winners and have selected the top five properties that tick our boxes for style, location and service.

Armani Hotel, Downtown Dubai

Maybe it’s the name, a selection of some of the top restaurants in town, contemporary spa space or being located in the world’s tallest building but the Armani Hotel has a lot going for it. Popular with those who enjoy the buzz of the city over the crushing waves on the beach, it is one slickest homes away from home and an interior designers dream. Don’t leave without trying dinner at the Indian restaurant Amal and grab a table on the terrace that overlook the dancing fountains.

Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi

You might think that the name is a bit far fetched but trust us, this isn’t your standard luxury hotel but a true embodiment of a royal palace. Marble floors, gold engraving and extensive grounds will have you picking your jaw up off the floor as you enter through the giant glass doors. This is an Abu Dhabi landmark that draws visitors from all over the world who enjoy an opulent setting with grand rooms and a private beach.

Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah, Dubai

Anyone who ever stayed or visited the Burj Al Arab knows there nothing like it anywhere in the world. The design, the two-floor suites and an impressive extension with infinity pool leave a lasting impression, but it’s the exceptional service that really stands out. From a swift in-room check in, concierge desk on every floor willing to fulfill your hearts desire to efficient waiters in their many restaurants leave you feeling spoilt and slightly resistant to face the real world.

Jumeirah Al Qasr at Madinat, Jumeirah, Dubai

The traditional Arabian design and a prime location on one the best stretches of sand in Dubai makes this a popular choice for many holiday-makers. One of the benefits of staying here is that you get access to facilities in the neighbouring Jumeirah Hotel group that include over 50 restaurants with a buggy service always on hand. But the standout features has to be the Talise Spa with 26 treatment rooms (including three for couples), cabanas in the garden and on the beach for outdoor treatments and a yoga studio for group and private classes. Pure bliss.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi

It is aimed at a business clientele but bear with us. What makes this towering building worth a visit are the exceptional views from the rooms and one of the best breakfast spreads. Upon entering the 69-floor hotel you are met with a huge Swarovski crystal chandeliers and a warm welcome from the staff. It has all the glitz and glamour of a Jumeirah hotel but also a sense of comfort. Rooms are some of the best you’ll find in the region with many offering expansive bathrooms with a view as far as the eye can see.

There’s A New Destination For Luxury Shopping In Dubai

Stuck for what to do this weekend? There is a new luxury shopping destination in Dubai that can indulge you for a few hours.

Robinsons, the largest department store in the Middle East, launched hall of fashion and accessories stocking designers such such as Les Petits Joueurs, Pedro Garcia as well as Dubai-based luxury accessory designer Amanda Navai and Lili Radu.

“In a world full of mediocre, identikit shop concepts, the hall at Robinsons will be a celebration of only the finest in trendy and eclectic accessories. It will be an ideal shopping destination for all those that seek excellence in retail.” Said Christina Oliver, Head of Marketing Robinsons & John Lewis.
We’ll see you at the checkout.