Model and actress Iman Perez has been unveiled as the face of the Chanel Fall-Winter 2023/24 pre-collection campaign. 

“There’s nothing more personal than the way you dress. I’m of Spanish, Senegalese, German and French origin, and my style reflects that,” confides Iman Perez. “I’m so honoured that Chanel and Virginie Viard have drawn inspiration from my lifestyle for this collection,” she continues. Perez. Swipe through to see more.

The Fall-Winter 2023/24 pre-collection by Virginie Viard is inspired by the multi-faceted cultural universe of Perez. 

According to the house, the collection has “eclecticism” – that’s the the practice of deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources, for the uninitiated – at its heart. 

The film accompanying the campaign was directed by Kourtrajmé and Senegalese artist Malick Bodaian was chosen to photograph the campaign, in a continuation from the themes first put forward at this year’s Métiers D’Art show in Dakar. 

Discussing the shoot, a spokesperson for the house said: “Whether it’s the Moulin Rouge – a nod to the Baz Luhrmann film that sparked her desire to go into cinema – the Galerie Vivienne or the quays of the Seine, the shots capture an extraordinary wealth of styles, genres and influences, not to mention the magic by which these worlds respond to each other. The masculine-feminine style of the 1970s blends with the hip hop culture of the 1990s.”

“The nonchalance of baggy jeans and velvet or shearling jackets contrasts with the femininity of a long coat and a sleeveless leather dress. Shades of red and burgundy alternate with pink and lilac. The House codes are more alive than ever: ecru wool tweed; a three-piece suit with a strapless top; the emblematic two-tone black and white on shoes; striped knitwear; the camellia; and the metal chain interlaced with leather,” they continued.

The collection is now available worldwide. 

chanel.com 

The Arab world has some incredible rising youth talent in the film and TV industries. Here are three performers to watch in 2023. 

Elham Safieddine

Elham Safieddine is a rising star on the Arab film scene. The 23-year-old has appeared in a slew of TV series, soap operas and short films. Most notably she was in the short film, “My Girlfriend”, which was selected for several international film festivals, including the Venice International Film Festival 2022. Safieddine also has achieved two career accolades, including Best Short Film Actress at both the Cairo Short Film Festival and the Gerba Film Festival in Tunisia.

Omar Rozik

Omar Rozik

Up-and-coming actor Omar Rozik was born in the Giza Governorate in Egypt. He studied both acting and directing to a high level at the Academy of Arts at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Cairo, before working in several films, including “Kings of Virility” (2021) and “Cairo: Kabul” (2021). Acting is in Rozik’s blood too – he is the son of Egyptian star Rozik El Bahnasawy.

Huda El Mufti

Huda El Mufti

Huda El Mufti’s profile has skyrocketed in recent years, following her playing the role of Nadine in “This Evening” by Tamer Mohsen in Ramadan 2017. She has gone from strength-to-strength, acting in films and TV shows across the Arab world, garnering her millions of followers on Instagram. Most recently El Mufti starred in the highly popular “Mystery Box” series during Ramadan 2023. 

Schiaparelli has unveiled its latest IT-bag from its Fall-Winter 2023 collection. The latest creation is called the “Schiap”, the nickname that was originally given to the house’s founder, Elsa Schiaparaelli by her close circle of friends. 

According to the label, the name of the new piece is a nod to the fact that the new bag is the perfect “everyday companion.”

Schiaparelli Artistic Director, Daniel Roseberry, who created the bag explains: “For this new Schiap bag, I wanted to riff on a classic profile rather than chase a trend; simple feels perfect to me right now.”

The exterior exquisite new piece was inspired by the iconic “Shocking!” perfume bottle design, which the house released in 1937, and was created by Elsa Schiaparaelli. The bag features embossed leather bands enhanced with a gold chain (which evokes the measuring tape that circled the shoulders of the original bottle design) while the interior features shocking pink leather lining, a reference to the colour of the original scent.

The versatile bag is available in two designs: a clutch version, with a completely detachable golden brass chain that allows it to be worn by hand or on the shoulder for evening, and a bag version with an adjustable chain for a hybrid carry. 

The “Schiap” bag is available in a monochrome black, ecru and jade version, or in a two-tone version.

schiaparelli.com

Benefit has announced a brand new social media campaign which it plans to launch to its 4.25 million followers across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. 

Called “You Spark” the new campaign is aimed at empowering young girls and women in the region. The project will see Benefit Cosmetics work with inspirational creators, industry experts and local artists. 

According to the beauty powerhouse, Your Spark” project will revolve around three central themes:

1. Unfiltered Self-Love: Encouraging Arab women to celebrate their unique beauty, emancipate from societal pressures, and make self-care a priority.
2. Body & Skin Positivity: Shattering unrealistic beauty standards and advocating acceptance of all body types and skin conditions.
3. Normalizing Female Body Conversations: Establishing an open, shame-free platform to discuss menstruation and the female reproductive system to raise awareness.

Discussing the new launch, artist Nourane Owais, who will work with Benefit on the campaign said: “As an illustrator and content creator, I am always eager to utilize my art to deliver meaningful and empowering messages whenever the opportunity arises. When Benefit shared with me the key messages of Your Spark, I immediately felt a personal connection. “Body & Skin Positivity,” “Self-love,” and “Normalizing Female Body Conversations” are all sensitive subjects that resonate with me, as they touch upon insecurities that most, if not all of us, experience at some level. I sincerely hope that the Spark project reaches and resonates with as many girls and women as it did with me.”

Nourane Owais

Adra, an artist and content creator (@dear.nostalgia) who will also be working on the campaign added: “I’m deeply passionate about empowering Arab women to break stigmas, embrace their power, and amplify their voices. Telling these stories for women, by women, is especially important in our region. Translating them visually and using our mother tongue holds immense power to make a lasting impact, particularly in our digitally interconnected society. Visual storytelling bridges gaps and communicates universal emotions, allowing women to connect on a profound, collective level.” 

benefitcosmetics.com

The most recent couture show from Dolce & Gabbana was held in the southern region of Puglia, known for its stunning landscape, traditions and craftsmanship. 

Compared to D&G’s 2022 show in Sicily, which celebrated the 10th anniversary of their Alta Moda show, the most recent edition was a much more subdued affair. Something which was reflected in the makeup choices for the show, which largely focused on natural, healthy skin and minimal eye contouring. 

“For an impactful eye look, The Intenseyes Creamy Eyeshadow Stick was used in shades Gold 6, Taupe 5, Bronze 4 and Shimmer 7 to brighten and give dimension to the eyes, then followed by the Felineyes Eyeliner Stylo in shade Nero for a precise eye wing and finished off with The Passioneyes Intense Volume Mascara in shade Nero Sicilia,” a spokesperson for the house explained.

“On the eyebrows, The Brow Liner Shaping Eyebrow Pencil in shades Mocha 3 and Chestnut 2,” the spokesperson continued. 

“To create a perfected complexion base, the Secret Veil Hydrating Radiant Primer was used to provide a glow-from-within luminosity, then followed by the Healthy Glow Cushion Foundation in shades Pearl 110 and Silk 205 and Millenialskin On-The-Glow Tinted Moisturizer in shade 510 Ebony, both providing a perfectly unified skin coverage,” they explained.

“To give the finishing touch to the models’ complexion, the Bare Skin Beautifier Universal Blurring Powder was applied to give an airbrushed and luminous shine control to the skin,” the spokesperson concluded. 

Our full review of Dolce & Gabbana’s 2023 Alta Moda Show can be found here. 

dolcegabbana.com

Elie Saab current expansion is going from strength-to-strength with a new boutique in one of Monaco’s most sought-after areas.

Situated in the heart of Monte-Carlo, the new boutique is adjacent to the principality’s famous Casino Square, on Princess Alice Avenue in the One Monte-Carlo building. Situated close to both Monaco’s iconic Hotel de Paris hotel and its palatial sister property, the Hotel Hermitage.

The glamorous Monegasque enclave is nestled on the coast of the French Riviera and close to the well-heeled French resorts of Nice, Cannes and Saint Tropez, as well as the North-West Italian border.

“Opening a flagship boutique along the French Riviera fortifies our lifestyle brand, allowing us to encounter our cosmopolitan clientele wherever they are in the world. As a luxury destination, this additional boutique in Monte-Carlo permits to introduce our inimitable brand experience to a local and seasonal clientele and to continue our strategic international expansion,” said the house’s CEO, Elie Saab Jr.

The 300-square-metre boutique is designed entirely using Elie Saab Maison interiors across two-storeys, with a warm copper colour palette paired with plush white textures.

The label’s current Ready-to-Wear collections, accessories and fragrances are available in the boutique, along with some of the label’s more unique evening wear ensembles. 

The new boutique is the latest edition to the Elie Saab empire, with flagship stores already in 

Paris, Beirut, New York, London, Milan and the UAE.

eliesaab.com

British icon Jane Birkin, 76, has been found dead at her Paris home, the newspaper Le Parisien and the BFM television network reported on Sunday. The artist had already canceled her last concerts for health reasons. “I remain very optimistic, as always. Having said that, I am aware that I need a few days to be able to be on stage again, with you, “she explained in a statement.

Birkin became known worldwide for her 1969 hit, ‘Je t’aime…moi non plus’. It is about her late French singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg.

Celine has released a new series of portraits, featuring Kaia Gerber fronting the Winter 23 collection by Hedi Slimane. 

Scroll down to see more of the pieces which are available now in boutiques worldwide.

celine.com

Roger Dubuis has just unveiled its new Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph. 

The house continues its strong connections to the world of automobiles. According to Roger Dubuis, the new design is influenced by the “cutting-edge technology of supercar engineering,” and is inspired by “the values of supreme motorsport.”

The new timepiece is powered by a new flyback chronograph calibre, featuring the seamless fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. 

Scroll down to see more imagery of the impressive new creation. 

rogerdubuis.com

Behind-the-scenes of Pat McGrath creating an incredible blue body art look at the recent Haute Couture Week in Paris.

The look was created for the Schiaparelli FW 23/24 runway collection which was inspired by the house’s historic surrealist and art connections. 

The house’s founder, Elsa, collaborated with many of her artistic contemporaries from Salvador Dali to Pablo Picasso.

Scroll down to see more of the incredible work. 

patmcgrath.com

On Wednesday 12th July Polo Ralph Lauren was celebrated by the label at The Championships Wimbledon. 

Guests enjoyed a drinks reception, seated lunch and afternoon tea, whilst watching the Quarter-finals on Centre Court.

VIP guests wearing the label to the event included: Meghann Fahy, Will Sharpe, India Amarteifio, William Gao, Joe Locke, Jonah Hauer–King, Corey Mylchreest, Charithra Chandran, Nick Kaufmann, Chiara Ferragni,Jonathan Cohen and Emilia Schüle.

This year marks the brand’s 18th anniversary as Official Outfitter of The Championships, Wimbledon, outfitting all Chair Umpires, Line Umpires, Ball Persons and Grounds People.

Check out the full gallery of Ralph Lauren looks below:

ralphlauren.com

Just in time for the summer season Noble Panacea has released its travel-ready collection. Noble Panacea’s serums are now available in a travel-friendly packaging of 7 doses. The powerful serums are meticulously crafted to work harder for you. The high-active concentrated serums are engineered with the ground-breaking OSMVTM Technology that allows extreme penetration and absorption of more than 200% and 10x more efficacy. 

The brilliant Prime Radiance Serum 

A hectic day-to-night lifestyle from stress, an unbalanced diet, and lack of sleep coupled with an equally hectic urban environment can wear down skin health and well-being. The Prime Radiance Serum is truly a skin savior by delivering highly effective active ingredients via our OSMVTM Technology for superior skin penetration. It strengthens and stimulates renewal while protecting against free radicals, pollution, and environmental aggressors. This powerful lightweight, fluid serum instantly melts into your skin for a smooth, bright, and healthy-looking glow. 

The absolute Intense Renewal Serum

The Intense Renewal Serum is designed to stimulate and support the skin’s natural renewal process. The OSMVTM Technology unleashes scientifically proven, potent active ingredients, from retinol to teprenone that supports healthy epigenetic cellular replication. This restorative lightweight serum gently exfoliates the skin, nourishes, and smooths fine lines and wrinkles to reveal a firmer, renewed, luminous and youthful complexion. 

noblepanacea.com

Image credit: Marcelo Matarazzo

Haute horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet has released four new exquisite models to celebrate Royal Oak Offshore’s 30th anniversary.

The four 37 mm self-winding chronograph models have bezels adorned with diamonds and coloured gemstones, which the house describes as “a sporty and glamourous look”.

The new models come in a choice of 18-carat pink gold, yellow gold or stainless steel, with a host of new aesthetic details that align with the collection’s design evolution presented in 2021, notably on 43 mm models.

Scroll down to see the first-look images of the new timepieces. 

audemarspiguet.com

Royals, celebrities and influencers alike have been putting forward some major looks courtside at Wimbledon this fortnight. 

From Catherine, The Princess of Wales, who stepped out with tennis champion Roger Federer (the latter wearing a spectacular mint green Balmain blazer with white pleated skirt white heels), to Lila Moss, daughter of Kate Moss wearing a chic Ralph Lauren gown. 

Scroll down to see our favourite looks from the British sporting spectacle this year. 

Emma Corrin

Pheobe Dynevor

Alexa Chung

Jameela Jamil

Stanley Tucci

Oli Green and Sienna Miller

Lila Moss

Since its first debut it has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of three key pillars of the label, alongside the Serti sur Vide and Berbere collections. 

To celebrate the landmark anniversary, the jewellery maison has released five unique pieces celebrating the house’s minimalist and boundary-pushing designs. 

For the new pieces in the capsule, Repossi has put forward a new vision of the traditional wedding ring, with an avant-garde reinterpretation of the jewellery classics.

Discussing the new collection, the house explained its inspiration: “The Antifer collection draws its inspiration from contemporary art and architecture, both of which are rooted in the House’s genes. It features minimalist, radical lines and sharp angles enriched by a contrast of full and empty spaces to create absolute harmony. The pieces thus in tension prove that beauty lies in simplicity.The avant-garde design with its taut lines is based on the expertise of the Repossi High Jewellery Savoir-Faire,” a spokesperson said. 

“To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Antifer, the Maison has created five new pieces and an exclusive set of high jewellery that brings together its fundamental principals: design and jewellery excellence.These creations, with their radical simplicity, definitively link Repossi with art and design,” they continued. 

The house was first created in Turin in 1957, where the spectacular new pieces in the collection are still handmade today.

repossi.com

Bulgari has announced the arrival of several new pieces to its popular Diva’s Dream capsule. 

Hollywood star Anne Hathaway – a seasoned ambassador for the house – stars in the new campaign. 

The new designs welcomed into the collection include an elegant contemporary set of 18 kt rose necklaces and matching earrings, each with a fan-shaped design embellished with mother-of-pearl petals with pavé diamonds and rubies. Made to suit any occasion, the new necklace has two different length options. One fitted to the neck, and a longer drop design. The detachable chain means the piece can also be worn as a bracelet. 

The three new 18 kt rose gold necklaces are made slightly smaller than the existing version. The colourways in the new capsule include drop-shaped tanzanite, green tourmaline, and rubellite, set at the heart of a fan-like diamond frame, each in an exquisite shade. 

The new Divas’ Dream jewelry creations will debut in selected Bulgar boutiques worldwide and online from this month.

Bulgari.com

Selma Benomar has released her latest bridal collection, called “Stardust Whispers”. The capsule combines contemporary elegance with Moroccan influences. 

“Our “Stardust Whispers” bridal collection is a celebration of the bride who seeks something truly extraordinary,” said Benomar.

“It’s also a celebration of a new generation, one that cherishes our cultural heritage while embracing the allure of modernity. With each gown, we aim to break boundaries, make a statement, and captivate hearts,” she continued.

The exquisite collection emanates elegance with intricate lacework entwined with silver threads, and golden beadwork.  

The colourways in the collection cover a range of alluring golds and silver shades. Inspired by starlight, and metallic shades against the night sky. 

To complement the new collection, the Stardust Whispers collection also has a meticulously crafted range of accessories. Pieces include veils, headpieces and belts which exude a golden glow.

selmabenomar.com

Pushing the boundaries of technology and atelier craftsmanship, Lebanese designer Saiid Kobeisy presented a collection for 2023 which merged together the virtual and physical worlds. 

The new collection was presented on AI models, through a digital-only presentation. 

Discussing the new collection, the house said: “In this groundbreaking collection, Kobeisy takes Couture to new heights by harnessing the power of emerging technologies. By seamlessly blending the virtual and physical realms, he creates an immersive experience that enhances the discovery of his exquisite creations.”

From taffeta to hand draped silk gazar the new collection has 25 unique looks, including a spectacular statement bridal gown. Elsewhere in the capsule there are structured jumpsuits, tailored pieces and gowns with feminine silhouettes. 

Commenting on the new capsule, Saiid Kobeisy said “The Saiid Kobeisy woman is empowered; she’s someone of her own making and with this collection, we celebrate, through artistry and beyond trend, a freedom in her poise and movement without compromising her power. This collection is a continued celebration of female confidence.”

Scroll down to see more of the collection: 

saiidkobeisy.com

Dior has announced a series of pop ups in several key cities to celebrate the launch of the Dior Tears Capsule. 

The menswear collection is the result of a collaboration between Kim Jones and guest designer Denim Tears. 

The entire collection is inspired by the African Diaspora heritage of Denim Tears, and Dior’s house codes. 

Discussing the launch of the new pop up series, a spokesperson for the house said “Each of the ephemeral boutiques revealing these models is adorned with monumental installations dotted with gigantic inflatables that occupy the interior.” There will also be unique art, music and video projections to accompany each multi-sensory pop up.

Currently the pops are planned for London (until 13th July) Tokyo (until 30th July) and Seoul (from 13th to 22nd July). 

Dior.com

The dates for the popular Abu Dhabi Art fair have been announced for 2023. The 15th edition of the fair is set to take place  from 22 to 26 November 2023 at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi.

Exciting sectors are set to return for this years event, including Modern & Contemporary, which is open to Modern and Contemporary galleries who have been operating for at least seven years; Special Projects, where galleries which have been operating for at least three years can present solo or two-artist exhibits; and Emerge, where galleries present artworks under USD 3,000. Alongside these is the Focus sector, showcasing galleries which have been invited to participate with specific artists chosen by a guest curator. 

One of the most interesting editions for this year’s event is the works of Emirati artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, who represented the United Arab Emirates at the 59th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia in 2022, as this year’s visual campaign artist. 

Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim

Commenting on the festival, Ibrahim said: “As one of the most important platforms for art, Abu Dhabi Art has tremendous value and visibility for local and global artists and art lovers. Having personally participated in its exhibitions since its inception and seen its growth over the years, I have always believed in its prominence and distinction. The same can be said of the organisers, who champion a community of culture and position it prominently as one of the most important international art exhibitions worldwide. Abu Dhabi Art is a pillar of the local and international art community and we are proud to welcome Abu Dhabi Art visitors to our city of culture”.

An artwork by Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim

abudhabiart.ae

The fashion elite headed to the southern Puglia region in Italy this weekend (nestled in the ‘heel’ part of Italy’s famous boot) for the 11th edition of Dolce and Gabbana’s Alta Moda show. In true D&G style, the event was so much more than just a runway show. The five-day festivities saw Italy’s famous designer duo take over the town of Alberobello. A place famed for ancient olive groves, classic vineyards and “trullo” stone roofed huts dating back to the 14th century. 

Le pezzo forte of the five-day spectacle however, was – of course – the unveiling of D&G’s 86 piece runway collection. Held on the final night of the festivities, the show started long before the first model stepped out onto the stage. 

As guests arrived, locals from Alberobello lined the cobbled streets, dressed in traditional clothes from the region, each taking part in a classic skill from Puglia, from making orecchiette pasta, working leather into bridles, weaving straw baskets and stringing rosary beads.

Although this could have been mistaken for a Disneyland-esque caricature of Italian culture, performative for the couture show; Stefano Gabbana was quick to point out that none of what was on display was fictional. In a press conference before the show he said “This is not a pantomime, we want to show what’s real.” This was then reiterated by a voice over, as the show began, announcing that the ancient crafts on display were still practised in the local region and “there is nothing artificial about it.” Meanwhile, on the pews an A-list guest list (including Helen Mirren, Venus Williams, Kim Kardashian, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Kris Jenner ) were offered French bubbles and white lace Dolce & Gabbana fans, to cool down in the July Italian evening heat. Surrounding a runway which weaved through Alberobello’s outdoor town centre. 

Compared to previous Dolce & Gabbana couture shows, the 2023 collection itself was a somewhat more subdued affair. Gone were the silver, gold and crystals from last year’s show in Sicily. Instead, there was a muted colour palette, with black featuring heavily and delicate touches of tulle, chiffon, organza and lace throughout. Models were joined by townspeople and even livestock (a sheep and a goat made an appearance in the show). In another nod to the local environment, trulli inspired designs were weaved into pieces throughout the collection – a nod to the traditional technique of Puglia. The capsule was sensual, but paired down compared to many of the duo’s previous more overt collections. There were plenty of feminine touches (hoop skirts) interspersed with the more masculine silhouettes of tuxedos and smoking jackets. 

Overall, the collection was an exquisite homage to Italian tradition, and Dolce & Gabbana’s very palpable love for their country. 

dolcegabbana.com

Louis Vuitton has revealed one of its largest high jewellery collections to date. The fifth high jewellery collection by designer Francesca Amfitheatrof was unveiled at a spectacular event hosted by the maison in Greece. 

There are 170 pieces in total, which are being released in “chapters”, according to the house. chapter one was unveiled in June, whereas chapter two will be revealed in January 2024.

The exquisite latest collection explores both geology and life across 13 different themes.

Scroll down to see more of the collection: 

louisvuitton.com

From this Thursday 13th July, the new BB3 sneaker will be available instore at all Dior boutiques. The exquisite creation is the final look to be added to Kim Jones Dior Fall 2023 menswear collection. 

The most exciting thing about the new sneaker is perhaps its unique encrypted digital key using NFC technology – placed in the sole of each right foot – that leads to a personal, secure platform offering dedicated services. This means that everyone can access the shoes’ certificate of authenticity, additional information on the different stages of the manufacturing process, as well as preview announcements for future sneaker launches. 

As an extension of this bold concept, a limited and numbered edition also contains a Digital Twin Collectible: 470 original copies fusing mohair with Dior Oblique – to be discovered exclusively on Dior.com, and are connected to their digital counterparts, taking the form of a three-dimensional creation . A unique connected experience, perpetuating the art of detail and excellence, and the perpetual quest for innovation cherished by the House of Dior.

In terms of aesthetic design, the new sneaker will arrive in three distinct versions: the first is enhanced by the softness of mohair, the second by the essential Dior Oblique toile, and the third is adorned with this iconic design reimagined in denim for the Dior Tears capsule. 

There are distinct Dior house codes on the new sneaker too; the house emblem adorns the sole, while the “30, Avenue Montaigne” signature is revealed on the heel, dressed in delicate shades of grey, the founding-couturier’s signature colour.

dior.com

Luxury takeovers of some of the most fabulous summer hot spots are very much du jour at the moment. From beach clubs to pop up boutiques on the islands of Spain to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. 

Gucci, however, has announced a slightly different takeover for this July. Throughout the month Gucci’s Giardino 25 – its cafe and bar in Florence – will visit Ceto restaurant in The Maybourne Riviera, at Roquebrune Cap-Martin, France. 

Although the food menu will remain the same, the bar on the restaurant’s terrace will be led by Gucci’s Martina Bonci, the mixologist at the helm of Giardino 25.

Gucci interiors will be throughout the bar area, from light tones and stripe patterns to wood, linens and rattan details evoke the never-ending days of summer on the Cote d’Azur. 

Maybourne hotel in Roquebrune Cap Martin

There will be 11 unique Gucci drinks on the menu, all characterized by creative inventiveness and high-quality ingredients.

Gucci Giardino 25 at Ceto will run until the 5th of August. Tuesday to Saturday, from 5pm until midnight, walk-in only with no booking required.

maybourneriviera.com

Following the oppressive lockdowns of 2020, Boucheron Creative Director Claire Choisne wanted to create a collection which was a celebration of freedom and joy. 

The result is the delightful new high jewellery capsule, “More is More.” Or, as the house puts it: “ a free High Jewellery [collection], released from any constraints. Out with size, shape, and materials restrictions and out with conventions. In with joy. Pops of colour, extravagant volumes, basic silhouettes. Like the pages of a teenage diary, the mood boards are filled with colours, joyful looks, geometric designs, and kitsch motifs. Spheres, cubes, flat. Cheeky mixes, XXL smiles, life in Technicolour: memories appear on the surface, as the outlines of a new High Jewellery emerge”. 

The new collection is inspired by pop art and the idea that “everything is possible.”

Although the collection celebrates playfulness and freedom, that doesn’t mean that Boucheron has let go of its 165 years of know-how and prowess in the realms of design. As the collection explains “the “More is More” collection are true jewels of technicality, experimentation, and machining. They are an ode to boldness as much as High Jewellery, through the assembling of materials, stones, diamonds, and colours. By pushing the boundaries of High Jewelry, with the greatest respect to its values, and by questioning the meaning of precious, these creations take us far away.”

Boucheron.com

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of  Creative Director Vincenzo Castaldo’s tenure at Pomellato, the house has released a new high jewellery collection. Dubbed an “Ode to Milan” the collection is named after the Italian fashion capital that the label was founded in. 

“Pomellato was born in Milan in 1967,” recalls Castaldo. “And it is here that we continue to create and manufacture our jewels. Our artisanal savoir-faire is Milanese, the emphasis we place on design and ergonomics is Milanese as is our search for excellence in each and every technique that we employ. We grew up in this city and Milan is an integral part of Pomellato. In 2023, it seemed quite natural for us to devote a high jewellery collection to Milan expressed in a very Pomellato way. The result is a private conversation between Milan and Pomellato, revealing the common traits between the two. This collection has a personal significance for me. On the occasion of my 20th anniversary at Pomellato, I wanted to honour both Pomellato and the city that it is inextricably connected to, both of which are home to me”, the creative director explains. 

“We wanted to celebrate Milan, to unveil the mystery of its captivating personality. Our collection shakes up the codes of traditional high jewellery with contemporary yet elegant designs”, continues Castaldo. 

The collection itself is divided into four separate creative works, each with a title connected with the city. Namely: 

Vertical Landscapes

These pieces are inspired by the city’s high rise buildings and their creators’ arresting use of form and colour. This modern side of Milan is brilliantly captured in jewels with strong architectural silhouettes, set with exquisite gems that reveal the depth of Pomellato’s passion for colours. 

Contemporary Heritage

The necklaces, rings and earrings in this category celebrate the strength of the imposing carved stone façade of Milan’s Castello Sforzesco. The history of the city and its ancient fortifications is interpreted in the gold work of these memorable jewels. 

Creativity on Stage 

These pieces are born from Pomellato’s history of chain-making, each jewel a metaphor for the fertile creativity that abounds on the stage of La Scala theatre and via Montenapoleone. 

Terrazza Duomo 

Inspired by Milan’s famous cathedral, the pieces are inspired by the key shapes found in the façade of the gothic Duomo cathedral. The result are contemporary sculptural earrings, a choker and two bracelets in white or rose gold with white diamonds.

Pomellato.com

Bulgari has launched an exquisite capsule handbag collection called “Serpenti Forever” born from the collaboration with three contemporary artists, Sunwoo Kim, Zhou Li and Sophie Kitching. Each design explores serpentine representation within the arts. 

Discussing the launch, a spokesperson from the house said: “As an endless source of inspiration across time, space and different cultures, the snake has always been intertwined with the world of art, sometimes becoming itself a manifestation of boundless human imagination. Now, in the year of Serpenti’s 75th anniversary, Bulgari’s icon of metamorphosis once more offers a magnificent territory for unlimited creative experimentation as the white canvas to venture into new explorations.”

The capsule collection includes six handbags around the theme of the “serpent in art”. 

Scroll down to see the full collection:

bulgari.com

From the couture debut of Ashi Studio to the last of the big houses – Fendi – showcasing their collection, here are all the highlights from day three of Paris Haute Couture Week. 

Ashi Studio 

Ashi Studio unveiled its inaugural haute couture collection on the final day of the fashion week in Paris. Revealed at the historic Theatre du Chatelet, Ashi explained that the spectacular collection was inspired by Patrick Süskind’s hauntingly powerful novel Perfume. Key themes for the classic text which are explored in the designers capsule include passion, obsession and mystery.

Fendi 

Fendi was the last of the big houses to showcase a collection at this year’s Haute Couture Week. Artistic Director Kim Jones put forward a capsule which was a response to Delfina Delletrez Fendi’s high jewellery collection (each of the models was sent down the runway wearing a high jewellery pairing to their couture look). It was the first time the fourth-generation heiress to the house of Fendi has designed for the label. Jones himself admitted it was an unorthodox approach but said that it worked for the house: ““It was nice to work on the jewellery first…You don’t normally have this, but at Fendi, we all work together.” The result was a collection which felt both timeless and fluid, each look representing a moment of understated elegance. 

Gaurav Gupta 

Indian designer Gaurav Gupta presented his second-ever Haute Couture Week collection in the French capital. According to Gupta, he was inspired by ancient Indian texts for the collection, namely the “Hiranyagarbha” ( the creation of the universe in vedic philosophy). Ahead of the collection’s runway debut Gupta said “according to the most ancient Indian scriptures, [called] the Vedas, this is where everything started. It’s the beginning of everything, the starting point, the golden light. That very purity of creation is what really excites me.” Through the collection there were shades of literal gold, as well as ivory, eggshell, deep brown, lime and vibrant green. Gupta’s love for sculpted curves and voluminous creations appeared throughout the fabulous new collection.

Maison Sara Chraibi 

Moroccan label Maison Sara Chraibi revealed its latest collection en plein air in Paris on the final day of Haute Couture Week. Reminiscent of another slower era, the sound of a galloping horse announced the start of the show. Models then followed along a gravel runway. The capsule was a mix of sculptured silhouettes and geometric patterns. Theatrical oversized jewellery and hooded gowns also made an appearance in the unique collection. 

Rami Kadi 

Lebanese designer Rami Kadi unveiled a couture collection in Paris rooted in the charm of old Hollywood. Dubbed “Film Noir” the collection featured 31 looks, featuring sleek contours and structured forms. Throughout the collection there was a glamorous mix of crystal-adorned corsets, netted pearls, intricate embroidery, elaborate beading, and sequin embellishments tracing geometric lines.

The Fashion Trust Arabia has announced its Advisory Board Members for the prestigious FTA Prize 2023. 

The Advisory Board members will be responsible for shortlisting the four finalists in each category. The 24 finalists will then present their collections in October in Doha to the Advisory Board, along with the FTA Prize 2023 Judges, the latter of which will be announced at a later stage.

The Advisory Board 2023 

Imruh Asha 

Asha is a Paris-based Stylist, Creative Consultant, and Fashion Director with a distinct, fine-art influenced point of view. In 2021, Asha was named fashion editor at Dazed magazine.

Adam Baidawi 

He is an Iraqi-Australian editor. He is the Deputy Global Editorial Director of GQ. His work has appeared in the New York Times, and internationally through Vanity Fair, Vogue, Esquire, CNN and Rolling Stone.

Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele 

She is a French fashion editor, consultant and photographer. After forging a name for herself at French ELLE as Fashion Editor Countess, Anne-Marie Errembault de Dudzeele moved to New York City in 1985 to become Fashion Director of Special Projects for Vogue and was named Fashion Director when Anna Wintour became Editor-in-Chief. Cerf immediately made her mark on American Vogue with the iconic cover she styled for Wintour’s first issue in November, 1988 mixing an haute couture jacket with her own jeans, a revolutionary look that became the leitmotif of Cerf’s idiosyncratic, widely-copied style.

Delfina Delettrez Fendi 

Fendi is a designer and jeweller based in Rome, Italy. She founded her namesake label Delfina Delettrez in 2007, creating fashion jewellery and fine jewellery pieces in partnership with local goldsmiths and artisans. A 4th generation Fendi woman.

Nadia Dhouib 

She is the General Manager of Rabanne fashion, reporting to Vincent Thilloy, Chief Brands Officer Rabanne and Jean Paul Gaultier. Nadia Dhouib has strong experience in buying, merchandising and retail. She notably served as Managing Director of Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysées.

Peter Dundas 

He s the Co-Founder and Creative Director of his namesake luxury fashion brand, DUNDAS. In 1992, Peter began his career in fashion as first assistant to Jean Paul Gaultier where he stayed for eight years, before moving to Christian Lacroix in 2000 as head designer of Ready-to Wear. Following his time at Lacroix, Peter went on to serve as Chief Designer, for both Men’s and Women, at Roberto Cavalli from 2002 to 2005. His work at Cavalli garnered unparalleled attention and he was recruited to Emanuel Ungaro as Creative Director, a role he served for two years.

Nina Garcia

The well-known journalist is the editor-in-chief of ELLE, the number one fashion media brand in the world, with 45 international editions and a global audience of 18+ million. Nina is the first Latina to lead a major American fashion title, and since she took the helm in September 2017, the brand’s footprint has never been larger.

Tiffany Godoy

A journalist, editor, consultant, video, and podcast creator, Tiffany Godoy began her career as a fashion editor in Tokyo and, over the past two decades, has written for countless publications, including Vogue, CNN and Highsnobiety. She also authored the book, Style Deficit Disorder: Harajuku Street Fashion – Tokyo, and co-founded the multimedia magazine and creative studio The Reality Show in 2010. 

Sofia Guellaty

Born and raised in Tunisia, Sofia Guellaty brings her fashion knowledge and passion for Arab culture together on a daily basis. Her career in fashion spans more than 15 years: she began freelancing for major publications such as Vanity Fair and ELLE and consulting for prestigious brands. In early 2008, she founded one of the first publications geared toward the fashion savvy Arab woman. She then spent four years at the helm of Condé Nast’s first launch in the Middle East: Style.com/Arabia. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of MILLE World, a digital platform and creative agency focused on local and international fashion campaigns.

Beka Gvishiani 

She was born and raised in Georgia but is currently based in Paris. Beka studied Business Management and later received a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communications.In September 2021, Beka launched the instagram page “STYLE NOT  COM” – with an inspiration and nostalgia for iconic style.The blue colour of the page is inspired by the iconic Parisian concept store Colette, which was closed in 2017.

Caroline Issa

Issa is the Chief Executive and Fashion Director of London-based quarterly title TANK and Editor of the first luxury fashion Virtual Reality  magazine Because, the Montreal native is an established fixture on the fashion week circuit, well-known for her ability to generate retail opportunities for luxury brands through innovative use of VR technology, engaging digital content and brand strategy consulting.

Carlijn Jacobs

Jacobs is a photographer and director based in Paris. She is associated with a new generation of artists who have matured amid easy access to unlimited reservoirs of historical and contemporaneous imagery. 

Gabriella Karefa-Johnson 

She is a New York-based stylist and editor known for her keen eye for up-and-coming designers, as well as her narrative-led approach aimed at diversifying representation in fashion. The stylist, known for her looks pairing disparate colours, textures and silhouettes, worked as associate fashion editor under fashion director Tonne Goodman at Vogue, and fashion director of Garage Magazine in 2017. In 2021, she became the first Black woman to style a cover of Vogue. As Global Contributing Fashion Editor at Large, she has styled 13 international covers of Vogue, featuring Serena Williams, Paloma Elsesser, Kamala Harris and Amanda Gorman.

Ana Khouri 

She spent her formative years between the United States and her native Brazil. While Khouri has been working on jewelry projects since 2002, she officially launched her New York based namesake line in 2013. Her work is made exclusively with 18K Fairmined, Fairtrade gold, platinum and ethically and responsibly sourced gemstones. Ana Khouri mainly works on one-of-a-kind high jewelry pieces. While her edition pieces can be found at The Row stores worldwide, Khouri’s high jewelry work can be viewed at her by appointment space in New York City.

Susanna Lau

Susanna Lau, also known as Susie Bubble, is a writer and editor living in London. Lau started her blog ‘Style Bubble’ in 2006, consisting of her widely read thoughts, personal experiences and observations on fashion with a focus on spotlighting young talent. A spearhead of fashion in the digital era, Lau has long since transcended the title of blogger to become a distinctive and respected voice in the industry, Instagramming to her legions of followers, contributing to numerous publications and collaborating with brands such as Miu Miu, Gucci and Prada.  Lau was editor of Dazed Digital, the website of Dazed & Confused magazine, from 2008-2010 and now works on freelance editing projects and contributes to titles such as Pop and Perfect magazine.  

Saif Mahdhi

French Tunisian talent agent, Saif Mahdhi has been working in the fashion industry for the last 27 years. Developing careers of models, actresses, singers and other visible figures such as Anja Rubik, Caroline de Maigret , Lana Del Rey, Rita Ora, Jane Birkin, ASAP Rocky or Travis Scott to name a few. He worked his way up through various agencies such as Marilyn Agency, Viva Model Management and Next Model Management as the President of their European operations. This completely self-taught workaholic has established his own company SAFE MGMT for the last 4 years representing various talents across a wide spectrum of expertise.

Sara Sozzani Maino 

She is the Creative Director of the Sozzani Foundation. She collaborates with many educational institutions and serves on several boards working and creating awareness for a more responsible planet. She is part of the advisory board of the Circular Fashion Summit, in support of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Valérie Messika

She is the Founder and Creative Director of Messika. In 2013, Valérie Messika unveiled her first Parisian Flagship store, rue Saint-Honoré, which houses the finest jewelry and Haute Joaillerie jewelry from the House. All of the collections are represented by many celebrities who are loyal to the brand on the red carpets. From Paris to Hollywood, the sets shine on Beyoncé, Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, and more…

Tyler Mitchell

He lives and works in Brooklyn, NY. He received a B.F.A. from New York University Tisch School of the Arts. His work has been shown in solo exhibitions at Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival in Toronto, Canada, as well as Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam, NL, and The International Center of Photography, New York, NY. He has been included in group exhibitions at Aperture Foundation, New York, NY, and Red Hook Labs, Brooklyn, NY. 

Carlos Nazario 

He is a Fashion Editor, Stylist and Creative Consultant based in New York City. He is currently the Global Fashion Director of i-D Magazine and contributing editor at American Vogue. Named by the CFDA as one of the stylists shaping the future of fashion and profiled by New York Magazine with the description “the fashion industry can’t seem to get enough of Carlos Nazario,” he is a driving force with a pioneering vision.

Fabio Piras

He founded his eponymous label that showed during London Fashion Week from 1994 until 2000. He has also had a successful career in both creative direction and consultancy for luxury fashion brands in Europe and Asia. 

Gaia Repossi

At the age of 21, Gaia Repossi was appointed Creative and Artistic Director of Repossi. The same house her grandfather founded in 1952. In 2010, she launched the BerbeÌre Collection, which would become a groundbreaking hit for the house of Repossi, establishing it as an influential presence within the fashion industry and the high jewelry world. She launched her successful Antifer line in 2014. Built on an opportunity in the market to sell timelessly-designed, quality products at an accessible price point, her company has since grown to worldwide wholesale distribution with two domestic flagship stores and multiple brick and mortar stores opening in 2023. 

Michael Ward

He is the Managing Director of Harrods. During his time at Harrods he is overseen programmes of huge growth and expansion within the luxury department store, as well as the transition to new ownership by the Qatar Investment Authority. Michael is a leading voice in the luxury industry and currently holds the position of Chairman of Walpole, the official sector body for UK luxury. He was also appointed to the V&A Corporate Advisory Board in August 2020.

Kelly Wearstler

The founder and principal of Kelly Wearstler, she is an American designer creating multi-faceted, experiential residential, hospitality,  commercial and retail environments as well as expansive collections of lifestyle product designs. 

Miral Youssef

Youssef has an extensive background within the luxury fashion arena where she has held various business functions, developing native retail concepts and operating in various capacities at Vivienne Westwood, Ralph Lauren in the UK and Chalhoub Group in the MENA region. Miral was responsible for the regional commercial and franchise operations for several luxury and fashion brands.

Carlos Nazario 

He is a Fashion Editor, Stylist and Creative Consultant based in New York City. He is currently the Global Fashion Director of i-D Magazine and contributing editor at American Vogue. Named by the CFDA as one of the stylists shaping the future of fashion and profiled by New York Magazine with the description “the fashion industry can’t seem to get enough of Carlos Nazario,” he is a driving force with a pioneering vision.

fashiontrustarabia.com

From a Rabanne takeover at Jean Paul Gaultier to Elie Saab’s decadent gowns, here are all the highlights from day three of Paris Haute Couture Week. 

Balenciaga

Balenciaga was the first big show of day three at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Welcoming guests to its address at 10 Avenue George V in Paris, the 52nd couture collection from the label was unveiled to a opera soundtrack. There were some more traditional, safer pieces, such as a classic velvet black dress which opened the collection. As the capsule moved on it became more daring, triumphing with the final trio of looks which pushed the boundaries of innovation. Eliza Douglas then closed the show in an incredible chrome-plated, 3D-printed armour dress, which took a full ten months to be created for the collection.

Elie Saab

Mediaeval regal inspiration met glamour at this season’s Elie Saab couture show. There were square necklines, bodices and full skirts with a colour palette to match the opulent historical theme. The collection featured fabulous metallic accents and deep shades of burgundy, velour, emerald green and black, along with some whimsical pastel shades. A la Balenciaga’s show earlier today, there were some armour-inspired pieces in the collection, as well as gothic elements, and gold accents throughout much of the capsule. 

Jean Paul Gaultier

Jean Paul Gaultier tapped Rabanne’s creative director Julien Dossena for the house’s latest show dubbed “Jean Rabanne Gaultier.” Through the collection Dossena declared that he was “merging the DNA of both houses”. The result was a powerful collection with Grecian-inspired elements complete with metallic laurel leaf headwear. 

Viktor & Rolf

A better name for Viktor & Rolf’s collection might have been “swimwear couture”. The label produced perhaps the most minimalist couture show of the season. Everything in the capsule appeared in miniature, or more precisely, swimwear size. Swipe through to see more of the daring collection.

Zuhair Murad

Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad put forward a sumptuous, feminine, gothic collection at Paris Haute Couture Week. According to Murad, he was inspired by “abandoned mansions and dark nights,” for his new capsule. The designer has rarely ventured into such a dark palette before this collection, and there were plenty of motif references too. From silver detailing, spider web-like embroidery, and tulle bows shaped in the silhouette of a bat.

Valentino

An exploration of paradoxes was at the centre of Pierpaolo Piccioli’s latest couture collection for Valentino. Kaia Gerber opened the show in what appeared to be Levi-style slouchy jeans – however they were actually made of couture materials – namely silk gazar, hand embroidered with pearlescent beads dyed in 80 hues of indigo. Elsewhere in the show, the motif of the rose reappeared along with an eclectic mix of sensual materials and metallic embellishments.