No party outfit is complete without a flawless hair-do, and we are loving the curls and undone waves spotted on the SS19 runways.

Alberta Ferretti SS19.

Alberta Ferretti and Etro chose a relaxed finish with natural movement, while at Giorgio Armani, Roberta Bellazzi created curly up-dos for the catwalk. We enlisted an expert, Angelina Stengler at Pastels Salon, to share with us a step-by-step guide to achieving this festive-ready hair look at home.

When it comes to curls, it is a case of go big or go home. Whether you are hitting a dancefloor for a Studio54-like office party or are planning a cosy, intimate dinner, a bouncy set of curls will up the ante of your overall look and with the right tools and products the style is easy to create.

Giorgio Armani SS19.

Step 1: Brush out your hair so it’s knot-free and as straight as is possible. Place a small amount of Kerastase Fondant Fluidealiste in the hair. This product will gently coat the hair fibre to seal, smooth and tame it and will bestow the hair with frizz control, fluidity and shine.

Step 2: Take a curling wand – for big curls, I love using the EIDEAL Curlie as it has a diamond-coated barrel to give the hair a sleek appearance, plus its temperature control ensures you can vary the heat to avoid damage. Using a bobble, section the hair into 1-2cm pieces and then wrap each piece around the barrel in turn, holding for approximately 15-20 seconds.

Step 3: For best results, slide the barrel out slowly and at an angle as this will create a natural fall to the curls and provide the most flattering effect. Then, I back-combed the top to create some volume before rubbing some Kerastase Oleo Relax in my fingers and gliding them across the top of the hair to smooth it down.

Step 4: Run your fingers gently through your hair and finish with a good dose of L’Oreal Elnett to hold this curly style in place.

Your tools.

This style is a terrific base for creating a sophisticated look – you can keep the hair down or do a half hair-up by placing some hair in a ponytail at the back or side and using a bejewelled accessory to hold it in place, which is a big trend this season.

London’s Royal Albert Hall held the annual Fashion Awards last night with a dazzling array of stars from the world of style, including pregnant Meghan Markle.

Meghan Markle with Givenchy’s designer Clare Waight Keller.

Markle, and her royal bump, made a surprise appearance at the ceremony to present Givenchy’s artistic director, and the person behind her wedding, Clare Waight Keller with an award for Womenswear Designer of the Year.

Meghan Markle in Givenchy.

The Duchess Of Sussex was dressed a black one shoulder gown by the French fashion house as she took to the stage and said:

“As all of you in this room know, we have a deep connection to what we wear. Sometimes, it’s very personal and sometimes it’s emotional. But for me this connection is rooted in, really being able to understand that it’s about supporting and empowering each other, especially as women.”

Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino

Highest accolade of the night went to Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino who received the Designer of the Year Award. Other winners were Dame Vivienne Westwood who took home the Swarovski trophy for positive change, Miuccia Prada was the recipient of the outstanding achievement award, while Kaia Gerber was awarded Model of The Year. Robert Pattinson took to the stage to honour Kim Jones, creative director of Dior Men, with the British Fashion Council’s inaugural trailblazer award.

Alek Wek in Emilia Wickstead.

The celebrations were hosted by model Alek Wek – who stunned on the red carpet in Emilia Wickstead – and comedian Jack Whitehall. As expected, we admired plenty of show stopping fashion moments on the red carpet including Kendall Jenner in a golden Julien Macdonald dress, Winnie Harlow in Atelier Versace, Rosamund Pike in Givenchy and our top choice – Margot Robbie in Rodarte.

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See the full list of winners below.

Accessories Designer of the Year
Demna Gvasalia for Balenciaga

Brand of the Year
Gucci

British Designer of the Year Menswear
Craig Green for Craig Green

British Designer of the Year Womenswear
Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy

British Emerging Talent Menswear
Samuel Ross for A-Cold-Wall

British Emerging Talent Womenswear
Richard Quinn for Richard Quinn

Business Leader
Marco Bizzarri for Gucci

Designer of the Year
Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino

Model of the Year
Kaia Gerber

Urban Luxe
Off-White

2018 Trailblazer Award
Kim Jones

Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator
Mert & Marcus

Outstanding Achievement
Miuccia Prada

Special Recognition Award for Innovation
Parley for the Oceans

Swarovski Award for Positive Change
Vivienne Westwood

SLEIGH BELLS RING, ARE YOU LISTENING, IN THE LANE, SNOW IS GLISTENING. A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT OF MAKEUP AND SKINCARE AWAIT YOU UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE.

LEFT TO RIGHT:

YSL La Laque Couture in 55 Bronze Fever, Chanel Le Lion De Chanel illuminating powder, Lancôme Big Colour Lash Top Coat in 01 Fabulous Gold, Giorgio Armani neo nude fusion powder 5.5, HydroPeptide Nourishing Glow shimmering body oil, Dior Diorific Vernis stardust effect top coat in 001 Lucky Star.

Charlotte Tilbury Advent Calendar 2018

LEFT TO RIGHT:

Lancôme Cut Crease eye palette, Dior Diorific Mat lipstick in 780 Lovely, Dolce & Gabbana Sicily Eau De Parfum, YSL Fond De Teint Stick in Ebony, Givenchy Beauty Dual Liner two-tone eyeshadow & liner in 01 Mystic Red, Lancôme Brôw Define Pencil in 05 Light Golden Brown, YSL All Hour Concealer in 2, Shiseido Aura Dew for face, eyes, lips in 02 Solar, YSL Eye Duo stick in Smoker 3.

LEFT TO RIGHT:

Kaki Mystere, Dior 5 Coloeurs eyeshadow palette in Midnight Wish, YSL La Laque Couture in 54 Studio Silver, Linda Meredith Skincare serum,  Rodial Pink Diamond cleansing balm, Fenty Beauty Diamond Bomb, Lancôme Ombre Hypnose Ultra in 37, MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid in Everyday Sunshine.Givenchy Beauty Mystic Glow Powder in 1 Mystic Pink.

LEFT TO RIGHT:

Guerlain Palette Electric Look, Dior Capture Youth Glow Booster serum, Fenty Beauty lipstick in What’s Your Numb’a, Guerlain Maxi Shine in 903 Gloss D’Enfer.

Left to right:

Chanel No5 Eau De Parfum, Rodial Suede Lips in Power Play, Chanel Le Vernis in 918 Flamboyance, Dior Diorific Vernis in 760 Triomphe, YSL Tatouge Couture The Metallics, Giorgio Armani lip maestro in 402, Matte Stain in 101 Chrome Red Clash, Guerlain Kiss Kiss Matte in Electric Ruby.

Fashion Director: Diana Bell-Heather

Photographer: Henry Pascual

When it comes to beauty, there’s nothing wrong with planning ahead, and there’s one trend you can start shopping for now.

Living Coral has been announced as the Pantone Colour Of The Year and it could not be more perfect for us in the UAE. Not only is this shade of orange with a golden undertone extremely flattering, it’s pretty much been made for sunny days, and we have plenty of those here.

 

“We get energy from nature. Just as coral reefs are a source of sustenance and shelter to sea life, vibrant yet mellow Living Coral embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment,” the statement from Pantone reads.

And we agree. Nothing can give your makeup bag more positive vibes than this zesty hue, so click through the gallery above for our top pick of the prettiest products for eyes, lips and cheeks.

Every parent knows that during the festive period you spend more time thinking about what to get your kids than anyone else in your family, after all who wants to see a disappointed look on their little ones face?

Help Santa out this year with our edit of the best picks for all the kiddos in your life. We have the cutest outfits from Baby Dior and toys they’ll play with forever, a retro first bike and colour-in book you can take with you on the go.

This is magical time of year, so sprinkle on some fairy dust, wrap the gift in a pretty bow and make all their wishes come true.

The latest survey highlights the most popular luxury brands making their way from store to your wardrobes, and the results don’t surprise us.

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Louis Vuitton came out victorious, according to MBLM’s 2018 Brand Intimacy Report, with Hugo Boss landing in second, and Dior joining the top in third place. Brand Intimacy is defined as a new paradigm in marketing, leveraging and strengthening the emotional bonds between people and the brands they use and love.

Together Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Dior, Chanel, Gucci (particularly popular with men), Cartier, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermes and Prada comprised the top 10 luxury brands among UAE shoppers.

Louis Vuitton is the only luxury brand to make the top 40 list and held the top spot in the industry for the second year running, and 16 overall in the UAE. Looks like Nicolas Ghesquière is doing something right.

Those who treat their nook as a personal sanctuary and dress their sofa better than they dress themselves – sometimes – we found the most perfect gifts to give a home that extra wow factor.

We all appreciate the simple luxury of a scented candle, a beautifully embroidered throw cushion and a chic cashmere blanket, after all a home is where you come to unwind from the stress of everyday, and we all know how hectic the festive period can feel.

Show that homebody in your live you really care with one, or even two, of the gifts in our edit.

UAE is constantly striving for gender equality, and the next big step on the agenda has made us fist punch the air.

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Half of the Federal National Council (FNC) will be represented by women, which marks another positive move for the region to rank among the top countries worldwide when it comes to representation of women in parliament.

The decree was released on Saturday and stated that during the next year’s elections, half of seats will be up for grabs by female candidates. In light of the news, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai took to social media and wrote:

“The Presidential decree allocating 50% of the seats in the Federal National Council to women is a great leap forwards in cementing the legislative and parliamentary role of women in our nation’s development. Women are half of our society: they should be represented as such.”

New presidential decree is set to help the UAE climb to the 4^th place in the world, based on a number of women in assemblies.

The annual Pirelli calendar always attracts the glitziest of stars to it’s pages and the 2019 edition is no different with Gigi Hadid leading the impressive cast.

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Dubbed “Dreaming” and shot by photographer Albert Watson, in both Miami and New York, the calendar feels like a cinematic experiences also features American ballet dancer Misty Copeland, French actress Laetitia Casta, model Astrid Eika, designer Alexander Wag and star of Netflix series Ozark Julia Garner, all taking us into their world of dreams and ambitions.

https://www.instagram.com/gigihadid

“I wanted to create something that was more than just a portrait of somebody,” Watson said in a statement. “I wanted it to look like a film still. I wanted people looking at the Calendar to see that my aim was photography in its purest form, exploring the women I was photographing and creating a situation that would convey a positive vision of women today.”

instagram.com/albertwatsonphotography

Unlike previous calendars, Watson took 40 photos of each subject instead of one shot for each of the 12 months, and he made them look like stills from movies.

“The basic idea behind the whole project is that of telling a story in four ‘little movies’. What I wanted to convey were the protagonists’ hopes and their way of thinking about the future, in a way that would bring with it the aspect of dreaming,” he added.

 

This is a new and modern direction for Pirelli and we can’t wait to hang it on our wall.

Riccardo Tisci has been working through the Burberry archives and codes to establish his vision for the British brand, and who is better to carve out some of that ounk edge than Dame Vivienne Westwood.

The long-awaited collaboration between the two creatives has finally come to live, and presented here through the lens of photographer David Sims and starring Kate Moss.

It celebrates British style and heritage and is inspired by Westwood’s iconic collections, taking a unisex approach across styles. From classic double-breasted jackets, a hugger jacket and a mini kilt to lace up platforms and a beret – are all reimagined in Burberry’s Vintage check.

Other cast members of the campaign include Sistren, Leonard Emmanuel, LadyFag, Josh Quinton, Andy Bradin, DelaRosa, Claudia Lavender, Marco Motta, Sashadavai and Jacob Shifrin, as well as Vivienne Westwood and Andreas Kronthaler.

The designers also bonded over their shared desire to support and promote Cool Earth, a UK based non-profit organisation that works alongside rainforest communities to halt deforestation and climate change. One of the key pieces is an oversized T-shirt dedicated to the charity, with a handwritten message from Vivienne. She will also customise four exclusive items from the collection to be auctioned to raise further support for Cool Earth.

‘Vivienne Westwood & Burberry’ is the first collaboration for the house under its newly appointed Chief Creative Officer and is now available online and in select Burberry stores globally.

The short work week is coming to an end and it’s time to make plans for the weekend, and team a&e has Christmas shopping, checking out new dining spots and Sole DXB on the agenda.

Find Your Soul At Kizmet

Taking inspiration from its name, which means ‘fate’ or ‘destiny’ in 14 different languages, the newly opened restaurant serves modern ‘soul food’ just steps away from the Dubai Opera. Find small plates like My Girlfriend Is Not Hungry (avocado fries with habanero mayo) Cactus Salad, Oxtail Pasta and Duck Pizza. Totally delicious, affordable and chic, Kizmet will be your new Downtown neighborhood local, for creative brainstorms, small plates and flavorful sugar free, syrup free cocktails.

Take It To The Streets

Reebok Classic collection by Pyer Moss.

It’s the return of the one of the top urban events Sole DXB, and this year it’s going to be bigger and better. Head over this afternoon to the Reebok stand to snap a selfie with the Notorious B.I.G. crown and the sportswear brand will also launch the Reebok Classic collection by Pyer Moss. Art fanatics have to make their way to The Third Line shop that will promote the work of rising artists and designers from the region. On top of that there are musical guests, speakers, basketball and plenty of stalls to shop.

Winter Wonderland

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One of our favourite Christmas markets in town is back in the gardens of Dubai’s Habtoor Palace. A wide range of activities will keep the kids occupied while you check out the food and retails chalets – just hope that the line to meet Santa isn’t too intense.

A Greek Escape

Chef Orestis with Chef Izu

After doing our very own taste-test, we can confirm that Gaia is our favourite new Greek restaurant. Located in DIFC, the neutral ambiance of the décor provides a relaxing environment to enjoy a diverse menu. We recommend seafood orzo, potatoes with truffle and the lightest mille-feuille we’ve ever eaten.

And Relax

This December, Tao Spa launches their branch new festive beauty packages, just in time to help you look and feel your tip-top, sparkling best in time for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Book in for  Gelish manicure and pedicure, facial, and individual lash extensions for AED 469 or a ,anicure and pedicure, facial, and massage for AED 599.

It has been literally impossible to miss Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra’s lavish wedding with a spectacular Ralph Lauren dress practically breaking the internet – we think the 75 foot-ling veil might’ve been a contributing feature.

instagram.com/priyankachopra

The gown was covered in 2,380,000 mother of pearl sequins and on her feet she opted for Jimmy Choo heels. Her makeup was equally striking and crafted by y Yumi Mori who used Marc Jacobs Beauty to create “a soft and natural look to match the spirit of her Ralph Lauren wedding dress.”

Yumi previewed two never-before-seen Summer 2019 launches from Marc Jacobs Beauty to create fresh skin with perfectly balanced hints of colour.

instagram.com/priyankachopra

Face

She created “a beautiful, almost airbrushed, but still natural-looking complexion” with the debut of the new Accomplice Instant Blurring Beauty Powder a perfecting powder that blurs imperfections, and Accomplice Concealer & Touch-Up Stick – a creamy concealer stick with major staying power.

“I wanted her skin to shimmer and glow so I dusted on the new Accomplice Instant Blurring Beauty Powder in Scarlet to give her a warm, luminous look after I evened out the complexion with the Accomplice Concealer & Touch-Up Stick,” she said.

Eyes

Yumi used the coral shade, “On The Dance Floor,” from the Eye-Conic Multi-Finish Eyeshadow Palette in Fantascene to complement the softness of her fresh skin, and added a touch of drama to Priyanka’s lashes with Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara.

Lips
The makeup artist decided to go for red-stained lips – Priyanka’s signature – using Le Marc Lip Crème Lipstick in Boy Gorgeous.

Marc Jacobs Beauty is available exclusively at Sephora Middle East stores, and at Sephora.ae/Sephora.sa

Emirati designer Latifa Al Gurg, founder of Twisted Roots, and our November cover star for a&e Arabia will play a significant role in the Expo 2020 Dubai.

She emerged victorious after going head-to-head against two other finalists in a style showcase at Expo 2020’s newly opened House of Volunteers todress more than 30,000 Expo 2020 Dubai staff and volunteers.

In the next few months, Al Gurg will further develop the uniforms which will be worn by the Expo workforce as they welcome millions of visitors to the six-month celebration of innovation in Dubai from 20 October, 2020 to 10 April, 2021.

“I am honoured and privileged to have participated in this competition and to win it is a dream come true. Ever since Dubai triumphed in its Expo 2020 bid, I have felt it was important for me to be part of this national milestone. I took up this challenge as I wanted to showcase my nation’s culture and achievements through my designs,” she said in a statement.

Practical, modest, weather appropriate and easily identifiable, Twisted Roots’ winning concept combines traditional and modern cultural references, and takes inspiration from the sky, the stars and the desert.

The finalists were evaluated based on criteria including practicality, the inclusion of sustainable elements and their representation of Emirati culture, while staying true to the Expo 2020 brand. Dr Hayat Shamsuddin, Vice President, Arts and Culture – Content and Programming, Expo 2020 Dubai, and a member of the evaluation panel, said:

“It is essential for the Expo 2020 uniform to truly reflect the UAE’s culture and values, while also acting as a symbol of our creativity, innovation and evolution. The judging panel unanimously agreed that Twisted Roots successfully integrated all these elements in a thoughtful and elegant way.”

Al Gurg’s concept also incorporated the subtheme of Sustainability by encouraging people to donate their old fabrics, which can be recycled to help create the new uniforms. Old polyester fabrics, for instance, can be stripped and reused to weave into collars and cuffs.

The first World Expo ever hosted in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, expects to attract 25 million visits between 20 October, 2020 and 10 April, 2021.

Make someone’s makeup bag extra happy with our edit of the best beauty gifts for the festive season.

From fragrances that look too good to use and brands like Valmont that create dual-line solutions to fight the most visible signs of aging with absolute precision, to statement lipsticks from Huda Beauty and fast-active at home face masks from Rodial, there’s enough to design an entire beauty emporium.

Our top pick is the Charlotte Tilbury’s Beauty Universe which is one one of the best holiday calendar’s we’ve seen. It is filled with the most iconic beauty must-haves and can be the ultimate starter kit for those who are making their first steps  into the world of makeup.

Nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ better than a bag full of goodies that will see your nearest and dearest through the new year looking and feeling flawless. Save yourself time by browsing through our edit of the best from the realms of makeup, skincare and fragrance.

Since Kim Jones took up the reigns at Dior Men, he brought back the couture sensibility and added softness to the brand that immediately resonated with the customers around the world.

Following the success of his first pre-fall show in Tokyo, the designer has now received the Trailblazer Award at the British Fashion Awards, an accolade that acknowledges a brand or an individual who is shaping the fashion scene. Jones said in a statement:

 “I am very happy to receive this award from the British Fashion Council. This recognition for my work means a lot to me.”

During the show in Japan, he combined the houses historic codes with futuristic landscape of Japan, taking the brand into the twenty-first century – including collaboration with Japanese contemporary artist Hajime Sorayama on the statue in the center if the set. Caroline Rush, British Fashion Council chief executive, said in a statement:

“If the always on tap to culture zeitgeist is Kim’s industry reputation, his love for travel, international cultures and understanding of consumers further enhance his creative and commercial standing. Kim’s role as trailblazer in this industry continues to grow and we are very proud he is British born, educated and a great global ambassador for our industry.”

Jones is part of the revolution in menswear with more brands dedicating their energies to reach the male customer in a relevant and creative ways. Looks like Jones is in a league of his own.

Finding your favourite beachside attire is about to get a lot easier with the new luxury swimwear destination Cocobum.

Founded by Dubai-based Belgian sisters Charlotte and Cyrielle Verstuyft in October this year, the online platform showcases more than forty internationally labels including Australia’s Bond Eye and Peony Swimwear, USA’s For Love & Lemons and Germany’s Sommer Swim and they offer same-day delivery – perfect for those last minute boat party invites.

We grab a matcha latte with the co-founder Charlotte to learn a little more about what inspires her.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Since Cocobum came into our lives, I can’t help it but to check my phone when I wake up, a very bad habit actually.

Three items you can’t live without?
Belgian chocolate of course. Great food in general, I love to eat. A blanket, I love it warm and cosy in the evening. And my teddy bear Nicholas that I have since my birth. I would cry if I would lose that one. I used to take Nicholas with me on my travels, but now I leave him at home because I am so afraid to lose him.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
I’m happy when I am sipping a glass of red on the sofa. Little things in life that I enjoy just make me happy.

What do you love the most about your job?
The independency and challenge, I guess. Every day is different, and you learn so much starting a business. I learned a lot and continue learning every single day, which is what I love.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
Anywhere on the beach with a nice refreshing drink in my hand.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
I used to do yoga. Because we were so focused on Cocobum, I forgot to make time for relaxation. Recently, I just started doing yoga again and after every session, I feel like a completely new person.

What really annoys you?
People with a narrow view. Living in Dubai made me open my eyes and appreciate different people from all around the world. Don’t just judge somebody, everybody has a different background and life story.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
I think that would be “to let it go”. Sometimes I overthink too much. However, I think your path makes you who you are, and I am proud of who I am.

Did you have a plan B career path?
My plan B is just to start a different business in a different branch. That’s also my plan C, D…

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
My boyfriend (I am a romantic person).

What book are you reading at the moment?
Do business books count?

What is your happy place?
My happy place is where I feel at ease, and that can be anywhere.

What’s your personal motto?
Be happy with who you are, you are beautiful.

How do you want the world to remember you?
I would love to be remembered as the one you can count one, that is there for you and you can have always fun with. I will need to make more time for my family and friends.

Make this most ‘wonderful time of the year’ even more wonderful with a quick getaway that ticks travel and Christmas shopping off your list.

Stereotypically, Dubai may not seem like the most festive place on the planet, although there are more activities and decorations around town than we have seen previously, so if you’re looking for a boost of holiday spirit, these are the markets worth hopping on a plane for.

Vienna, Austria

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The Austrian capital has a lot of experience with setting up some great Christmas markets, after all the first one can be dated back to 1298. City Hall should be your first stop for a traditional atmosphere and 151 stalls to work through

.

Winter Wonders, Brussels, Belgium

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You’ll need to dedicate a whole day or two exploring the many activities that the Winter Wonders market in Brussels has to offer. From 200 chalets keeping you fed and watered, to ice skating and a Ferris wheel, you can really get lost in the Christmas spirit.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, New York

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Have you seen Home Alone 2? Clearly the Big Apple knows how to do Christmas with some of the best decorations in the world dotted up and down the city. Bryant Park is our top pick as the market has plenty of stalls, an impressive Christmas tree and an ice rink.

Winter Wonderland, London

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What once was a small selection of shops at the bottom of Hyde Park has now turned into a mass wonderland of funfair rides, rollercoasters, Bavarian food halls, and of course wooden shops selling everything you could imagine. We suggest heading there in the morning as by evening, particularly on weekends, they tend to stop people coming in due to overcrowding.

Munich, Germany

A charming setting and an intimate environment makes the Munich Christmas market held in Marienplatz seem tame in comparison to others, but that’s exactly why we love it. Shop for one-of-a-kind ornaments and gifts and indulge in Bavarian hearty hospitality.

Fashion brand Acne Studios are branching out into homeware with a collection dedicated to their archive of iconic scarves.

More designers are expanding their brands into a lifestyle platform offering customers something beyond the ready-to-wear and accessories. Online platforms like matchesfashion.com and Moda Operandi are already curating beautiful items for your home, and we expect more names to establish themselves in the market soon.

instagram.com/acnestudios

Ideal for bringing some of that Scandinavian charm to your home, Acne Studios have come up with a series of patchworks designs that have been worked across a chunky blanket, coffee cups and cushions in two different sizes.

If you were struggling to do Christmas shopping for a homebody in your life, you’re in luck as this collection will be available to buy online end of this week.

We’re making a list, we’re checking it twice, and we think some of our fashion friends have been rather nice this year.

It can be hard to shop for the style-savvy, but thanks to team a&e’s thorough edit we have selected pieces that transcend trends and will happily live in anyone’s wardrobe for seasons to come.

From jewelled Gucci sneakers that you’ll be spotting at Sole DXB and the February fashion shows, to little accessories that make a big statement, there’s a must-have item that any of your FROW friends will love, and perhaps something for you too.

Click through the gallery above and get shopping.

Crocodile, lizard, snake and stingray are officially out of fashion at Chanel as the brand cite the difficulty in sourcing skins that match their ethical standards.

Chanel SS19

The French fashion house is making significant steps that many of the other brands have taken. Bruno Pavlovsky, president of Chanel fashion and president of Chanel SAS, told WWD that exotic skins are not the brands future, and that fur is also on the list, despite little use any of their collections. He added:

 

“There is a problem of supply and that was not Chanel’s business anyway. We did it because it’s in the air, but it’s not an air people imposed to us. It’s a free choice.”

Instead of focusing their energy on finding ethical suppliers, the Maison will instead research and develop textiles and leathers generated by agri-food industries.

While it will take some time for the exotic leather goods to disappear from stores, one thing for sure is that any Chanel croc in your wardrobe will go up in value for it’s rarity.

It’s official. Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot in a Christian ceremony at the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, India yesterday.

instagram.com/priyankachopra

The groom’s father, Paul Kevin Jonas, officiated the proceedings and the couple said their vows with Chopard rings.

During the week-long events the bride wore a series of outfits including custom Ralph Lauren for the Christian ceremony, and a colourful organdy sherwani by leading Mumbai-based label Khosla Jani that she wore that afternoon. On Instagram, the newlyweds wrote:

 

“One of the most special things that our relationship has given us is a merging of families who love and respect each other’s faiths and cultures. And so planning our wedding with an amalgamation of both was so so amazing. An important part for the girl in an Indian wedding is the Mehendi. Once again we made it our own and it was an afternoon that kicked off the celebrations in the way we both dreamed.”

instagram.com/priyankachopra

The celebrations will continue today with the couple and their families holding a traditional Hindu wedding.

For the first time the Italian fashion house Versace staged a runway show in New York, taking the city by storm with its instantly recognizable style and unmistakable personality.

The pre-fall 2019 collection for both men and women combines the cosmopolitan nature of the Big Apple and the mythological and traditional codes of the brand – the blend that we will be seeing a lot more since Michael Kors bought Versace earlier this year.

The Medusa Safety Pin makes its return in a new and contemporary way including the dress that introduced the rock n’ roll attitude to red carpet attire. No collection is complete without a burst of colours and wild prints, and the pre-fall line is no different.

Designs intrinsic to the house are mixed in the boldest combinations – zebra stripes and stars intertwined with gold. The ‘Love Versace’ heart print is inspired by Jim Dine’s designs for Gianni Versace’s New York townhouse and decorate a number of standout pieces including men’s shirts and the eye-catching finale dress modelled by Amber Valletta.

Bold, bright and beautiful this collection inherits something both cities are known for – freedom and empowerment. Click through the gallery above for our favourite looks.

The 17th annual Chanel Metiers d’Art show took inspiration from Ancient Egypt and paid tribute to the intricate and innovative savoir faire of the Maison.

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Karl Lagerfeld chose the Temple of Dendur in The Sackler Wing of Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York as his backdrop to celebrate the craftsmen of couture including feathers by Maison Lemarié, embroidery by Lesage and couture jewellery by Goossens.

“Egyptian civilisation has always fascinated me: I get inspired by an idea, which I make a reality,” explains Karl Lagerfeld.

Lines are clear and simple, shapes are pure, geometric and distinct: a graphic strength so dear to the stylistic grammar of the House. The silhouettes vibrate under the sun, with optical lines that are almost kinetic. The look is slender, lively and ultra-feminine, the hips emphasised by a wide belt, the shoulders highlighted with a plastron collar. Day dresses, suits and coats are worn knee-length, with a hemline that’s slightly shorter at the front, occasionally adopting the allure of a wraparound skirt.

From intricate needlework and bold embellishment, to the finest beading and tweed, the collection was rich in detail. Gold, so cherished by Gabrielle Chanel, is everywhere, from jackets, dresses and leggings, to boots, hats, bags and belts.

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Styling was particularly strong, with many of statement pieces layered elegantly on top of one another with one key combination capturing the Parisian chic and Ancient Egypt in one. The first six opening looks all featured a muslin-like textured dress in an off-white hue that was worn under tweed suits and then later re-appeared under midi-length knits. The beauty was in their simplicity, and we guarantee that plenty of modest style stars will be adding that trick into their repertoire.

Following the show, guests including Penelope Cruz, Julianne Moore, Margot Robbie, Marion Cotillard and Lily-Rose Depp were whisked off to a Central Park location for a dinner and party.

We are going wild for the new goodies added to the Sisley-Paris Phyto family, especially the Eye-Twists.

Originally launched in 2014, Sisley’s best-selling jumbo pencils offer superbly comfortable skincare with sensory formulas and vibrant, highly pigmented colours in an ultra easy-to-use travel size. Now the brand has unveiled a new and original shades for the lips, eyes and cheeks, and our makeup bag couldn’t be happier.

First up are they have added another lipstick shade to their range of 23 Phyto Lip Twists and it is the perfect moody burgundy shade for winter. Not only it vamps up your evening look, but the ingredients including Commiphora resin extract and glossy film-forming polymers provide a smooth, glossy and long-lasting results.

Our complexion loves the jumbo Phyto-Blush twists as they are super easy to use on the go and will definitely be joining us on a trip this festive season. They’re great for contouring but you can also use the bronzer on the eyes for that glossy look and coral shade on the lips.

Finally, the Phyto-Eye Twist is now available in 15 different shades to use alone or layer to achieve countless looks. The three new shades are black, deep rose and baby pink – our favourite for dabbing on the inner corner of the eyes for a wide-awake effect. Also, they are waterproof so there will be no panda eyes at your next pool day.

If you’ve been following the Guilty Feminist, you’ll know that there’s nothing wrong with supporting female empowerment and yet embracing those qualities that make you a woman – and love for pretty jewellery is one of them.

Like magpies, team a&e has a particular affection for shiny things and the newest Laurier collection from Chaumet is firmly on our wish list. It celebrates the symbolic plant laurel, that has been a continuous presence in the Maison’s creations, told here through diamonds and white gold.

Laurier collection is composed of six pieces. First the necklace that resembles twigs in movement, while the medallion pendant, delicately sculpted in relief, forms its suspension ring.

The rings are designed to make you feel like you’re brushing from the foliage as they adorn your fingers, while the earrings comfortably hug the lobes.

For a fresh and powerful result, style with a tailored blazer or a crisp white shirt that has a maxi collar. For bolder contrast choose leather in a form of trousers or a biker jacket, and let the jewellery be the only delicate parts of the outfit.

For Spring/Summer 2019, Amal Al Mulla from Bahrain, created a collection that stems from travel. Expect hues inspired by the horizons, remote mountain ranges, and crystal blue skies and shop it on Moda Operandi.

Below, we grab a couple of macchiato’s and get to know the designer a little bit better.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
I like to get in a 10-minute meditation to start my day fresh and on a positive note before the noise of the world sets in.

Three items you can’t live without?
My phone, water bottle, and my planner.

Complete the sentence, I’m happy when…
I’m out in nature and feel inspired.

What do you love the most about your job?
The creative aspect, I love that more than it being a job, it’s an outlet for my thoughts and ideas, and I get to interpret myself through the work that I do, it’s very therapeutic in a way.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
Lately, I love going to Maison Assouline, it’s been a really inspiring place to just spend your day in.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
Turn off anything technology related and try to be in the present of things, I’ve been enjoying the quiet space of immersing myself in a good book.

What really annoys you?
Being late.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
To listen to your heart, follow your own path with conviction and never doubt yourself in the process. We’re so much more capable than we think.

Did you have a plan B career path?
My plan was always to do something in the design field. So if I didn’t pursue fashion as a career I would have definitely done something else within the same field of creating.

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
I would probably like to be stuck with a library of books and good music to listen too. I think that’s all I’ll need.

What book are you reading at the moment?
A Return To Love by Marianne Williamson

What is your happy place?
My car at 5AM when the world is still quiet and I’m driving with really good music on.

What’s your personal motto?
Embrace all that is you.

How do you want the world to remember you?
As a person who isn’t afraid to be authentic with her own individuality in a world that tells you who to be. I want to be remembered as a person who never truly lost herself in the process of finding herself.

Moving between Dubai and Saudi Arabia, Amira Haroon’s design philosophy is based on the realization that fashion is out on the streets, cafes, podiums, and offices, creating confidence and shaping every woman’s meaningful life.

The brand’s mandate is to make clothes that are not only timelessly elegant but have the easy breeziness needed in today’s age – it’s not surprising that she was one the designers selected for the Moda Operandi trunkshow.

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
The first thing I do is to check my email and go and hug my boys – that’s possibly the most exciting thing in my life every morning.

Three items you can’t live without?
My sons and a big cuddle from them, my phone, my husband on speed dial as he is always travelling.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
When my work is critically appreciated by industry professionals. It gives me peace in my heart.

What do you love the most about your job?
Creativity. Meeting like-minded people, hanging with my technical/production director / sales agent.

Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
Everywhere! It’s home, it’s where my heart is. Tasha’s in Jumeirah, D3 during the day, home and anywhere else with my husband and friends at night. On the beach and on the tennis courts with my boys.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
Talk to my husband and cuddle my boys and hang with my friends.

What really annoys you?
Fake people. Fake working women who talk to sound important – women not watching women’s back. Major annoyances for any woman of this day and age.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
To calm down. Look after myself more and stop multi-tasking.

Did you have a plan B career path?
Plan B is always there. I think too much – but this is not my career – it’s my life so this stays nevertheless. However, I’m super interested in the conscious beauty segment and branching out soon.

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
Stuck only with Haroon sheikh and a phone.

What book are you reading at the moment?
The Untethered Soul – trying to meditate and relinquish control with so many ideas, tasks, duties.

What is your happy place?
Our giant sofa in the living room with Haroon and family.

What’s your personal motto?
Live correctly, be true to your own self, love with all of you and remain a loyal.

How do you want the world to remember you?
The “loyalist”.

Hedi Slimane has been on the forefront of the fashion conversation following his debut for Celine back in September.

Dealing with a mix of backlash from the Philophiles to an array of A-listers stepping out in his designs, launch of the new website and the reveal of the new bags, Slimane has been a busy man and now he unveiled his first menswear campaign for Summer 2019 along with a video.

It’s an animated clip of images shot by the designer, it shows a blend of key looks of the menswear collection and still life shots. The soundtrack is from a French synth-pop duo called RUTH that as originally released in 1985 and is a very emblematic song from the Des Jeunes Gens Modernes movement.

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What stands out, and what Slimane does well, is tailoring. The black suits are sharp and slim fitting, while in other clips we get a peek of a grained leather jacket and a maxi collar coat. Further in, we start to see some of the bold prints and leather bikers.

The timing couldn’t be better as it’s only recently that Celine announved that they will be joining the Paris men’s show schedule.

Anniversaries are a big deal, especially if you’re celebrating a milestone like 25 years.

Jewellery Maison Chopard are marking quarter of a century of their Wafi Mall boutique – their first established store in the UAE – with a limited edition of their famous Happy Sport watch.

What makes this model even more special is the fact that it was released in 1993, the same year the Chopard and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons opened the first boutique in the region.

This special edition timepiece features a stainless steel ‘rice bead’ bracelet reflecting the design of the very first Happy Sport watch dreamed up by Caroline Scheufele. Whirling alongside the legendary dancing diamonds on the dial are two highly original lucky charms depicting Urdu numerals: a ‘2’ and a ‘5’ in tribute to this occasion.

The timepiece features a two-tone identity through a 18ct rose gold and stainless steel 30mm case, topped by a diamond-set bezel and framing a Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial adorned with dancing diamonds as well as the two lucky charms.

The brand will only release 25 models that will be available exclusively at their Wafi Mall boutique.

One of the most popular music events is back in the new year, with possibly the best line-up of headline acts to date.

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The Dubai Jazz Festival returns in February at the Dubai Media Amphitheatre with three international best-selling musicians gracing the stage.

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Sponsored by Emirates Airlines, the three day event kicks off on February 20 with Scottish band Snow Patrol that haven’t been back to the UAE since their last gig seven years ago. The next day it’s the turn of the British band Jamiroquai that will make you relive you Nineties dance moves to the Space Cowboy and Deeper Underground.

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The final day is expected to be an instant sell out as a fifteen-time Grammy Winning artist Alicia Keys closes the festival. The artist has penned some of the most loved songs including her first major hit Fallin’ and a great singalong track Empire State of Mind with Jay-Z.

Lucky for us, the tickets are on sale now and would make a great Christmas present.