Diana Bell-Heather, Author at A&E Magazine

Interior Tip: How To Set A Luxury Dinner Party

The festive period is upon us which means dinner parties with some of your nearest and dearest.

Whether you choose a minimal feel or go for big decorations with plenty of flowers and glowing candles, Azadeh Moeini, senior designer at Ethan Allen, has top three tips to guarantee a glamorous setting.

Add A Centrepiece
A peony 14.5″ pedestal gala bowl offers the ideal shimmering centerpiece. Add rich hues of endless color to any tabletop with items such as the peony spreader knife in vibrant purples and greens.

Mood Lighting
Turn down the lights because there is nothing like dimming the lights to set the mood. Add some shine by lighting some candles, they add movement and warmth to the table.

Set The Tune

Last but not least, don’t forget the music. Just make sure the volume is low enough to easily talk over. Music fills in moments of silence and adds a sense of motion to the evening.

Editors Pick: Our Favourite Prada Shoes

With Prada back in Dubai offering a bespoke design service, we decided to look back at some of our favourite shoes from the last few seasons.

MTO Decollete gives fashion fans a chance to create their own unique pair of shoes. With a choice of 19 styles and 87 colour variations and materials, as well as options for outsole and opportunity to add your own initials or date, the possibilities our endless.

The styles on offer are some of the most popular ones from the last few collections which has inspired us to delve back into the archives and put together our own wish list of the finest Prada footwear. How many can you remember?

Take a trip down Prada memory lane by clicking through the gallery above.

The bespoke service will be available at Mall of The Emirates followed by Level Shoe in Dubai Mall from next month.

Valentino Resort 2018 Is Going Global

Valentino Resort aeworld.com middle east

Valentino Resort 2018

To celebrate Resort 2018 collection, Valentino is installing several active pop-ups round the world to capture the fundamental principle of the collection – sport.

Tokyo, New York, Hong Kong and Milan have been chosen by the fashion house to host their urban vision which will incorporate aspects of the collection in concrete spaces that shoppers can explore from today.

Further to the Valentino Resort 2018 items and accessories, the active areas will also have a limited edition collection that will include multiple contemporary sports facets: basketballs, yoga mats, sneakers and other objects that unite the Maison’s artisanal savoir-faire culture in the sport oriented movement.

If this doesn’t inspire you to hit the gym, maybe fashion models trying their hand at basketball in the video below will.

Behind The Scenes With Baz Luhrmann For ERDEM x H&M

Baz Luhrmann with designer Erdem on set.

Baz Luhrmann brought his dream cinematic vision in a short film for ERDEM x H&M collection.

Film director of movies such as Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge! And The Great Gatsby, takes us on a journey to a magical mansion inhabited by the beauty of endless spring to reflect Erdem’s wide use of floral prints in his collections.

With young cast of new actors and models, the film captures the essence of Erdem and the youthful spirit of the high-street giant. Watch the behind the scenes and learn more about Luhrmann’s inspiration below.

Why did you agree to collaborate with H&M on its ERDEM collection?

There’s something very gentile, civilized and romantic about Erdem’s work that I greatly admire. It feels like we’re living through very harsh times, and I thought this could be the opportunity to make something beautiful and H&M gave us a chance to do that.

What do you think about ERDEM and his design?

I remember the first time I met Erdem. I was at an event in London, and out came this very smart, keen-eyed, sharply dressed person, with a little bit of a Saint Laurent touch about him. His work was on display, and what was striking to me was just how detailed he was, and how particular he was about his own sensibility. A lot of people don’t realise how technically adept he is. A lot of designers are great, but not all of them can cut a dress themselves, or have such a feel for fabric.

How did you come up with the idea for the film?

When I talked with Erdem, it was clear that his early ideas of England and Englishness came from his mother, who is English. The family lived in Canada at the time, and his mother instilled in him this love of romantic English films, like those of Merchant Ivory. That was a really good starting point for coming up with the story set in this grand country home.

How important was Erdem’s love of narrative in his collections?

Erdem is a storyteller in his clothes. There’s drama, and there’s sense of time and location that runs throughout his design. When you meet him, you really get a sense of how he expresses himself and his life through clothing.

What was it like fitting the collection into the film?

It was completely natural for me, because whatever film I’m doing, the character is revealed in the clothes. If you think about the first time you see Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge, you see first her corseted silhouette, and then her face is revealed. It’s a classical device from theatre: you reveal a character first through their clothes, and then the final moment is the face.

On Our Radar: Maison Yeya

The Egyptian designer Yasmine Yeya has been winning the hearts of Middle Eastern brides for years and is now stepping into the world of couture.

After success at one of the leading fashion designer’s competition sponsored by Elie Saab, Maison Yeya was established as a go-to brand for unique evening gowns full of dramatic shapes and intricate embroidery. Yeya’s unique approach to dressmaking has won her many fans in the region and beyond with her creations appearing on the red carpet at Cannes, Tribeca, Cairo & Dubai film festivals.

Sophisticate and feminine, the gowns have an essence of playfulness with the rich fabrics combining the elegance of Italy and the artistic beauty of India. The positive response lead her to launch the bridal line that resonated with Arab brides who look for uniqueness, beautiful silhouettes, bespoke use of crystals and the highest level of craftsmanship.

It’s no surprise that she is now taking her first step into couture with the SS18 collection that carries a sense of old Hollywood glamour, yet the nostalgia feels fresh and modern.

What’s next for Maison Yeya? The brand is looking to expand their presence in the region with a Dubai store which is bound to have fans of artistic gowns and brides-to-be lining up to find their dream dress.

A&E Guide: Head To Toe Black

Chic, flattering and timeless, read our fool-proof guide to wearing head to toe black this season.

It’s a universal shade, so you’re already at an advantage when you start putting your outfit together. But how to avoid looking morbid and one dimensional? Balance of shapes and mix of textures are key to making this dark hue effortlessly wearable.

Mix fabrics. Chunky knits look great with leather while lace brings a baroque elegance to any occasion.

Don’t

Forget the rules of washing black clothes. Faded tones never look good (unless intentional) so when you need to give pieces a rinse, choose a cold wash and turn them inside out.

Go for items that have shape, or use a belt to cinch together any baggy silhouettes. Head-to-toe black looks better when you layer fitted and loose cuts together.

Don’t

Forget the classics. A tailored suit or a floor length coat are a sure way to make black work for even the most colour loving stylista.

Behind The Scenes With Coach And Selena Gomez

Is it too soon to start thinking about the festive period? We think not, especially when we have a behind the scenes look at the Coach holiday campaign.

Selena Gomez leads the latest shoot to celebrate the time of good cheer surrounded by presents with the glittering New York city as the backdrop. Dressed in mixed print lacework dress and a luxe white shearling collar, designed by Coach Creative Director Stuart Vevers, the singer also showcases statement rings, leather and tennis bracelets, pendant necklaces and a crystal choker from the houses jewellery collection.

The star of the campaign? The Dinky with quilting bag in pink which captures the youthful unfussy elegance and timeless style that will make an ideal gift for anyone – or as a treat for yourself.

A&E Guide To Dry Shampoo

We all rushed out of the door with day-two hair that needed a quick spritz of dry shampoo, but how many times did it backfire?

Wrong use of dry shampoo can weigh down your locks and make them appear lifeless and flat when the main aim is to give you extra day of bounciness. Remember it is used as a prevention, especially for those who are prone to oily hair, rather than a cure so avoid applying every day as this will clog up the follicles and prevent hair growth.

A&E have tried out a variety of products on the market and learned the best tricks to make dry shampoo your hairs best friend.

Aim For The Hairline

Part the hair into 2-inch sections from front to back and spray at the roots. Start with the hair line round the face, hold the bottle 8 inches away and don’t focus on one area for too long to avoid powder build up.

Blend Blend Blend

With fingers rub the powder into your hair and give it a good shake so you have some of the dry shampoo moving towards the ends. Afterwards, brush it through for an even spread.

When You Only Have 10 Seconds

Focus on the T-zone, front of the head and along the parting, as that’s the biggest giveaway of day-old hair.

Leave It Down

You might be tempted to tie your hair up in a scruffy bun but that will actually make the hair look messier. Dry shampoo already delivers an undone-cool look so add a few rough waves with straighteners instead.

Tip: Do you use dry shampoo after a work out? It’s time to break the habit as you are actually layering powder over sweat particles that results in a greasy finish and itchy scalp. Instead, use it before the gym as it soaks up all the excess residue that you can brush out afterwards before topping up.

Click through the gallery of our hero dry shampoo’s above.

Want To Personalise Your Gucci Sneakers?

Ever wanted to add your own initials to a pair of Gucci Ace sneakers? Mytheresa.com is the first online retailer to offer this service.

Ideal as a gift for yourself, or a special someone, choose form six colours and put a stamp on the must-have shoes. Available for only two weeks, the bespoke creative option will be launching on mytheresa.com from October 25.

Personalisation has long been a favourite among the fashion crowd who want to add their own unique touch to key items and with Gucci being one of the best selling luxury brands, expect to see a few engraved pairs stomping down the streets in no time.

Upgrade Your Eveningwear With A Cape

Add poise and drama to your eveningwear with a statement cape.

The sartorial effect of a simple black cape immediately adds a touch of magic to any outfit, and for those feeling more adventurous look for embellishment like pearl and feminine details like velvet bows.

A well crafted cape should feel fluid and bring a sense of comfort, especially towards the end of a glamorous evening when you want to wrap up on the way home. Max Mara and Alberta Ferretti both offer elegant versions with Ferretti transporting us to a Venetian ball with velvet floor skimming capes and some embroidered with golden thread. If you’re looking for a real show piece then floor length silhouettes will create the maximum impact and are surprisingly flattering for any body shape.

See our favourite options above and go into the night with an added touch of grandeur.

Trending: Pearls

Old fashioned view of pearl jewellery has been officially overhauled this season with a modern approach and fresh take on the classic shapes.

The great pearl takeover already has made it onto our clothes with many designers decorating jeans, knitwear and shoes in these gems but it’s the earrings, chunky necklaces and statement rings that have our attention.

Look for bold brooches and chokers as well as ear cuffs that break the misconception that pearls are only reserved for sorority events and your grandmother’s collection. For runway inspiration check out Gucci, Oscar De La Renta, Ellery and of course Chanel where Karl Lagerfeld was not afraid to layer necklaces for maximum effect.

We are always on a look out for new designers and it’s worth noting New York based Jemma Wynne that create sophisticated, polished and minimalist shapes while Tokyo-born Mizuki Goltz has Tahitian or freshwater pearls as the brands signature. Anissa Kermiche loves working with pearls and designing eclectic pieces with personality.

Click through the gallery for our top pearl-adorned jewellery and style them with everything from distressed denim to your favourite little black dress.

Huda Beauty Holiday Range Is On The Way

The Winter Solstice Highlighter Palette

Huda Beauty is releasing a holiday collection and it promises to be the most shimmering one yet.

Winter Solstice Collection includes the much-loved highlighter palette that has been given a wintery twist and reformulated with white pearls that deliver an eye-catching duochrome finish with an even smoother application.

The Mini Lip Strobe Set

Announcing the full range on the blog, Huda said the the aim was to give highlighters – that come in four shades named Frosted Kiss, Artic Glow, Northern Lights and Winter Rose – an ‘intense luminosity and flawless blendability’.

The holiday range also offers a mini lip set that match each of the highlighter shades for an over all glow. Get ready to shine like the winter queen that you are.

Winter Solstice Collection is out on 27 October.

How To Wear Leather In The Heat

Leather has long been associated with rock ‘n’ roll and although we’ll never wave goodbye to our moto jackets and biker boots, this season leather turns sophisticated. It brings us new ways to embrace this trend on a different level, even when the temperature rarely drop below 25°C.

Look for soft leather that can be easily manipulated, whether you’re wearing it loosely or belted. If you choose a top, style it over a pencil skirt and get bonus points if it matches. Don’t forget to add a pair of kitten heels that were all over the SS18 runways.

Change up your bulky biker jacket in favour of cropped styles and bright colours that looks fresh with a white shirt. Tailored shapes also get the thumbs up from us and look much more elegant than you might first think. Trousers this season are not skinny or all black but high waisted and minimal – the relaxed shape can rival even your comfiest pair of jeans and look especially good with block heel boots.

Tip: Swap black for caramel hues that not only give a softer look but also compliments more skin tones. Still not convinced? Scroll through the below pick of street style stars for how to wear leather in the heat.

Get The Look: Halima Aden

Does Halima Aden get style thumbs up from you? Shop her look below.

Edit: Transitional Jackets For Fall

Sometimes all it takes is one piece to update your wardrobe for the cooler months and we have the best transitional jackets to see you into fall.

The Sporty Style

A wardrobe staple that looks as good with tailored trousers and it does with jeans, a bomber jacket is as versatile as it gets.

transitional jackets men fall 17 aeworld.com middle east

Brunello Cucinelli

For Everyday

There is something timeless and effortlessly cool about a great denim jacket. It acts as a final piece to any fashion puzzle and with a variety of styles to choose from, there is one for any personality.

Calvin Klein 205W39NYC

Gentlemen’s Cut

Tailoring will never go out of style and when the temperatures start to drop, a wool blazer is a solid replacement to your lightweight summer number. It also gives you an opportunity to introduce heritage check print to your collection.

Etro

Elevated Casual

Another classic staple, a trench coat is something you will keep forever – especially if you invest in a military cut. Burberry does it best but also look at options in Aquascutum.

Burberry

The Must-Have

A well made leather jacket will never look dated, if anything it will look even better with age and will add an edge to any outfit. Choose softer leathers and look at other colour variations, for example coffee brown leather will compliment anyone.

Prada

Opening Date For Bulgari Hotel Dubai Is Revealed

A post shared by montecitoluxurytravel (@montecitoluxurytravel) on Oct 30, 2017 at 1:19pm PDT

Bulgari Hotels & Resorts have revealed December 7 as the opening date for their latest venture in Dubai.

Sitting on a seahorse-shaped island off the coast of Jumeirah Beach road, the 101 room property will capture the essence of a landscaped oasis as seen through the eyes of an Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The 58,000 square metre resort will also house 20 villas, each with the high-end Italian essence of the jewellery house.

What else to expect? Separate beach resort named La Spiaggla with private cabana’s, unique spa facilities, Il Ristorante overseen by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito and for added luxury, the hotel will have the world’s first Bulgari Marina & Yacht Club with it’s own pool and restaurant. For ultimate indulgence with privacy, book the three-bedroom villa with pool, secluded outdoor space and personal butler service.

Already jumping online to book your stay? We’ll race you.

Editors Pick: Gigi Hadid X Maybelline

Gigi Hadid collection for Maybelline has officially launched and we have picked our top products from the range.

Broken down into three themes – West Coast Glow, East Coast Glam and Jetsetter – they all reflect the models lifestyle and personality with the Jet Setter palette proving to be an instant hit with the shoppers.

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid) on Oct 21, 2017 at 8:33am PDT

Splitting her life between LA and New York and travelling all over the world, the cosmetic line aims captures the mood of Gigi’s non-stop routine. The East Coast range mainly focuses on delivering a strong cat-eye with nude lip while the West Coast selection is all about the smooth golden glow of the Californian sun.

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid) on Oct 13, 2017 at 9:56am PDT

Le Labo Expands Their Beauty Range

A post shared by Fabrice Penot / Edouard Roschi (@lelabofragrances) on Oct 3, 2017 at 5:55am PDT

Niche New York-based fragrance brand Le Labo has released body, hair, face and men’s grooming collection.

The cult favourite that is known for some of the most sought after perfumes such as Santal 33 and Noir, is adding shower oils, shampoos and conditioners along with body lotions and face masks.

Not only do they promise to give your skin extra dose of TLC, but they will be some of the best smelling products in your bathroom. Shampoo’s contain macadamia and avocado while the shea butter is full of eucalyptus. There is also a scrub version of the shampoo which is ideal for retaining a healthy scalp.

If you’re not familiar, Le Labo takes a modern approach to fragrance by working with raw ingredients processed in Grasse, France, with each one is built around a primary natural essence. They also get a green tick for being plant-based and cruelty free.

We Found The Best… Afternoon Tea In Dubai

Indulge in one of the oldest and much loved British traditions with our round up of the best afternoon tea in Dubai.

Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah

Shai Salon hosts a glamorous laid back afternoon tea which is ideal to enjoy with friends. You get a choice of four different style of sandwiches along with sweeter delicacies like fresh fruit tartlet’s alongside the iconic scones.

At.Mosphere, Armani Hotel, Downtown Dubai

Teas and cakes taste even even better when you have a view over Dubai from 122^nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Just like the elegant set up, the food is as good as it looks with firm favourites getting a touch of refinement.

Skyview bar, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah

When you arrive at the Burj Al Arab you already feel a grand sense of occasion and it doesn’t stop at the dancing fountains. Entering space basked in natural light you are treated to some of the finest levels of cuisine across several indulgent courses.

Dukes Dubai, The Palm

With the closer of Fortnum & Mason that delivered the most British style of afternoon tea you could find in Dubai, we are happy that our next go-to is just as good – if not that little bit more adventurous. Expect a twist on the classics when you attend the Saturday “ParTea” brunch and indulge on delectable finger sandwiches and a buffet of sweet delights.

How To Care For Luxury Watches

Buying a luxury watch is one of the best investments you can make, but how do you keep your precious timepieces in good nick?

These items are personal, they represent more than just utility and are an example of taste, character and individual branding and deserve to be treated with the highest level of attention. Here are some do’s and don’ts of caring for luxury watches.

Do
Give them some TLC. Use a soft cloth to clean your watch as often as possible. Majority of luxury brands make waterproof models so carefully soak the watch in water and soap to loosen any dirt.

Don’t
Forget to service. You time tellers should get a quick check up every 3-5 years depending on the recommendation of the manufacturer.

Do
Avoid household chemical. Products like hairspray and cleaning solvents that can have a corrosive effect on the materials.

Don’t
Forget the weather. Some timepieces are not designed to deal with extreme heat or cold, make sure to check before wearing.

Do
Keep the watch box. It’s ideal for storage and travel.

Don’t
Go near magnets. And we don’t just mean the ones you stick on the fridge. Subtle magnets such as those in speakers, computers, and even in mobile phones can effect the performance of your watch.

Name To Know: Okhtein

A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on Oct 20, 2017 at 9:39am PDT

A brand must be worth the hype if superstar like Beyoncé has chosen it for her latest outfit.

The singer was spotted wearing the Middle Eastern brand Okhtein, which is designed by Egyptian siblings Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf so naturally we had to get to know them a little bit better.

Launched 2013, the design duo is keen to promote Egyptian craftsmanship and appeal to the global market with their unique approach to artistry. Both have studied various mediums of art at American University of Cairo with Mounaz taking a particular interest in painting which lead to her work being exhibited in Egypt and Paris.

Okhtein AW17.

Their partnership brings something unique and emotional to the brand, especially as Okhtein means ‘sisters’ in Arabic. They also take a philanthropic approach when it comes to handmade embroidery in their leatherwork by partnering with several NGOs to provide skilled female creatives with work as a way to use their talent and provide them with support through hardship.

A luxury brand that gives back and has Queen Bey as a fan? Expect more exciting things to come.

Okhtein bags are available at Bloomingdale’s Middle East.

Tommy Hilfiger Creates A Disability Friendly Collection

Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger.

Tommy Hilfiger has designed clothes specifically for people with disabilities, a market that is not widely addressed by luxury labels.

The American fashion giant now offers a sportswear range based on pieces from the Tommy Hilfiger collections that come with adjusted seams and openings for easy dressing, magnetic and velcro fastenings and altered leg openings to accommodate leg braces and orthotics.

This is another step towards diversity in fashion which an array of brands have been exploring in order to appeal to vast market. Tommy Hilfiger is not the only house creating pieces for differently abled customer, but they are one of the bigger names to offer wearable on trend pieces.

The men’s line features 37 pieces and the women’s offers 34 styles and is available to shop now online at tommy.com.

Net-A-Porter Launches Exclusive Burberry Collection

For the first time ever, online giant Net-A-Porter launches exclusive Burberry collection.

Never before has the brand created an additional collection inspired by it’s catwalk show and this one-off lines brings an eclectic mix of 14 British iconic staples.

The capsule consists delicate lace dresses and gowns, plastic waterproof outerwear, form-fitting jodhpur trousers and long tartan check skirts. The Burberry vintage check takes centre stage featuring on bombers, while the heritage tartan print appears on skirts matched with homespun knits. The green faux fur and military style coats enhance the clash of textures and colours giving a modern urban aesthetic.

Shot by Tom Craig, the campaign images capture the modern British youth that draws on Christopher Bailey’s inspiration for the Autumn/Winter 2017 collection that showcased in September during London Fashion Week.

The pieces are available to buy from today on net-a-porter.com.

Shop Now: Nadine Kanso’s Latest Jewellery Line

Nadine Kanso launches her latest Bil Arabi collection, KHATT exclusively in Dubai.

Using Arabic writing, Lebanese fine jewellery designer Kanso brings graffiti influences and her experience in typography to the new capsule line.

The collection name, KHATT pays homage to the traditional Arabic phrase meaning calligraphy and signifies a new era of design for the acclaimed brand. The range includes colourful stackable rings, ear cuffs, pendants and bracelets that can be mixed and matched or worn on their own.

“Developing KHATT has been an interesting journey of discovery and has been the source of inspiration for many of my other creative projects,” commented Nadine Kanso.

Kanso started a line of jewellery Bil Arabi in 2006 to embody her ideas about her culture and identity. She has exhibited her work at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London as part of a group exhibition entitled Arabize Me, and since then continued to share her vision through intricate and modern design.

The collection is available at Sauce Rocks at The Galleria Mall, Dubai.

Dior Launch Capture Youth With Cara Delevingne

Dior have revealed Cara Delevingne as the new face of their skincare line Capture.

Delevingne is bringing her modern beauty and sassy charisma to the latest skincare range Capture Youth created by Dior for women in their 30’s.

Model is no stranger to fronting beauty campaigns for some of the biggest brands in the industry, but while majority of those focused on cosmetics and fragrance, her latest venture aims to attract the clientele who are taking their first steps into anti-aging care.

It’s older sister, Capture Totale, is designed with stem cells expertise and strives to correct all visible signs of aging to reveal a radiant youthful complexion, and we expect the newest products to be just scientifically advanced and effective.

Out January 1 2018.

Trending: Interchangeable Bag Straps

We had stickers from Anya Hindmarch and hand painted personalisation at Dolce & Gabbana, but now it’s all about the strap when it comes to adding a bespoke touch to your bags.

Decorative and functional, these interchangeable guitar-inspired straps add a little pizazz to an everyday arm candy. From bejewelled to printed, embroidered to furry, this is a quick easy way to revive your accessory and inject a bit of personality to some of the more classic styles.

Fendi leads the runway trend with printed straps in classic double F, while Prada delivers something a little bit fluffier to hold on to. Click through and find a strap to suit your bag and personality.

A New 360 Pampering Concept In Dubai

For busy women on the go, you will love the 360 pampering concept at the newly opened Bedashing beauty lounge in City Walk.

The Deal

Modern, elegant, spacious, the Bedashing salon offers an array of treatments in a glamorous setting. Using leading beauty products, and with several private rooms, the service is quick, efficient and to a high standard. Plus, you can enjoy a freshly made pink lemonade with some pop corn on the side.

The Treatment

Highlight of the salon is the Bedashing chair which offers the most efficient service you’d hope to find in the Dubai. Enjoy a manicure, pedicure as well as a wash and blow dry all without getting up from the soft leather chair. You can also add other treatments such as a facial, eyebrow threading and even eyelash extensions.

The Result

In less than an hour you’ll skip out feeling fresh with bouncy curls and neatly polished nails. Those who have water-sensitive hair will appreciate the filtration system they use as it leaves your locks feeling soft, even if you’ve washed your hair a couple of times since.

Final Say

Ideal for those who love a timely service in a contemporary setting with attentive staff.

The Details

Bedashing Beauty Lounge, City Walk, 04 317 3999.

Need To Know: Vanina SS18

Beirut-based brand Vanina delivers a bright and silky collection adorned in pearls for SS18.

Created by Joanne Hayek and Tatiana Fayad, next season is all about the languid silhouettes, chunky embellishments and bold colours of yellows and pinks.

What makes this label particularly interesting? It’s a creation of two close friends who are determined to represent their roots, source regional material and put their home on the map of fashion. And it seems to be working with their designs now being stocked internationally including Moda Operandi.

The duo launched their brand in 2007 when they were still at university with a focus on jewellery and reusing discarded or low-value material to create a higher-quality product. What started out as a hobby quickly evolved into a business and becoming a lifestyle label with accessories, jewellery and apparel which they source and produced in Lebanon.

Embodying the light and playful glamour, the brand presents statement pieces for any occasion.

New Designers At Bloomingdale’s

A post shared by Bloomingdale’s Middle East (@bloomingdalesme) on Sep 18, 2017 at 1:50am PDT

Today we were treated to a preview of new designers at Bloomingdale’s for the region.

For SS18 the focus is shifting from trend driven pieces towards to emerging talent in the fashion world. From next summer you can look forward to seeing exciting new names like Huishan Zhang and Natasha Zinko who channels her playful personality into clothing and accessories, while Hellessy will be your new minimalist go-to.

Another brand to get on your radar is SemSem created by an Egyptian designer Abeer Al Otaiba, and as for accessories the Instagram phenomenon Cult Gaia will also be part of the new line up along with Malone Souliers shoes that have been spotted all over fashion week.

Bloomingdale’s fans in Kuwait can rejoice as a cult favourite clutch bag designer Olympia Le Tan finally lands on the shop floor along with London based brand Mother of Pearl. Also expect to see Australian label Dion Lee which is known for architectural approach to tailoring and luxurious fabrics.

We haven’t forgotten the boys. A new brand to get to know is Kent & Curwen that re-imagines classic British heritage styles and has David Beckham creating a curated wardrobe for a classic man. Off-White is the name on everyone’s wish list for delivering contemporary street wear that has won fans across both male and female shoppers.

We’ll see you at the check out.

Dior Collaborates With Artists On Special Project

Dior invited 10 artists to reimagine the iconic Lady Dior handbag for a limited edition collection.

The diverse creatives, including Jack Pierson and Lee Bul, were given free reign to express their vision with their own choice of fabric, size, colour and even the stitching to bring together 19 unique takes on one of the most popular bags from the fashion house.

Instantly recognizable, entirely iconic, inspired by haute couture, the Lady Dior bag was born in Dior’s workshops in 1995, and made famous in 1996 when Princess Diana took a serious liking to the unique accessory during a visit to Paris. Never the one to be influenced by trends or held back by traditions, the bag is given a new lease of life in the hands of some of the most celebrated artists round the world.

Seoul-based artist Lee Bul outfitted her bag with dozens of tiny Plexiglas mirrors that are slanted in every direction so that the bag itself appears to be one big shattered mirror. Poet John Giorno adored his creation with lines from his work on rainbow canvas, while the 24-year-old artist Jamilla Okubo brought her Kenyan ancestry to the three bags she designed for the house’s limited edition collection.

Available in the Dubai Mall boutique from December 2017.