Burberry presented its Spring 2020 collection during London Fashion Week, showing Chief Creative Officer Riccardo Tisci coming into his own at the label.

Three seasons in for Chief Creative Officer Riccardo Tisci, and we can finally see what he really has to offer at Burberry; bringing his own flair to the quintessentially British brand.

Taking to England’s capital for London Fashion Week, Tisci showed off a Spring/Summer collection that married together the two fashion worlds he currently co-exists in.

Called Evolution, the collection is a celebration of new house codes and is influenced by the time Burberry was founded 163 years ago.

The silhouettes were reminiscent of the Victorian era, but mixed new techniques and innovations with classic fabrics and familiar shapes.

Think reconstructed trench coats with silk panels, sculpted sleeves and crystal-ring piercings and cut- out and cinched blazers and box-pleat skirt suits.

More fanciful designs came as fringed hems and draped chain embellishments, with tie details on silk shirts and double-pleat trousers.

There were also step-through skirts, corset detailing and ruffled lace dresses with exaggerated puff sleeves.

High glamour came in the eveningwear that featured crystal mesh and hand-tiered ostrich feathers.

On the new style, Tisci commented: “My first year at Burberry was about understanding and refining the new codification for the house. With that foundation in place, I feel ready to start exploring what’s at the heart of this incredible brand.

See more at ae.burberry.com. 

Why do men get to have all the fun when it comes to wearing a tux? As autumn arrives, we lust over Max Mara’s latest collection that adds a masculine edge to feminine seasonal dressing.

When it comes to sleek and stylish dressing that’s uncomplicatedly chic, not many do it better than Italian powerhouse Max Mara.

In fact, when it comes to high fashion, only a handful of labels are as wearable in one’s day-to-day life than the near-70-year-old brand.

And for fall 2019, Max Mara has once again has created a line that is simultaneously familiar yet fresh, the female-friendly tuxedo being the stand-out piece.

While it’s nothing new in the world of fashion – Yves Saint Laurent sent a model down the runway in 1966 wearing a black tailored tuxedo with a satin side stripe and a white ruffled shirt, coining the look Le Smoking, after all – Max Mara is giving us a friendly reminder that since then, the power tux has been an attire all women are advised to keep in there fashion arsenal to be called up in times of need.

Sticking to a poignant pink and monochrome colour palette that never fails to exemplify power, the capsule collection features seven keys looks.

These include the likes of a white jacket in cady with silk satin lapels and side-tie belt worn with coordinated wide-leg pants, a tuxedo jumpsuit in rose quartz cady with satin lapels and draped side-tie and a tuxedo jacket in cady worn over fluid skirt in pure silk georgette.

We’ll take one of each, please.

As we arrive at a new season it means the time has come for a whole new wardrobe. Credit cards at the ready, we round up the Autumn/Winter 2019-2020 ready to wear trends that you’ll be buying into this winter.

50 Shades of Beige

Max Mara, Chloe, Givenchy, Loewe, Fendi

Okay, so beige is not the most exciting of colours but it is the most versatile which was cleverly highlighted in many ways this season, from the classic trench to head to toe beige the key colour was seen on the runways at Chloe, Fendi, Max Mara and more.

Exaggerated Shoulders

Giambattista Valli, Louis Vuitton, Richard Quinn, Givenchy

Taking inspiration from the eighties this season was all about over exaggerated shoulders. Givenchy adding bubble shoulder pads to its tailoring, while Louis Vuitton when for futuristic style shoulder pads and Giambattista Valli added a playful touch to its feminine dresses with puffed shoulder details.

Bold Colours

Chanle, Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, Max Mara

Bright, strong, one-coloured looks will add a freshness to your winter wardrobe with primary colours such as blue and red, while strong shades of purple, orange and pink also made striking looks. Wear with black accessories for a strong contrast.

It’s been a busy week for the former Spice Girl, as not only has Victoria Beckham Beauty finally launched, but the fashion designer also took to London to present her latest clothing collection to a busy audience of friends, family and fashion admirers.

With a ten-year anniversary coinciding with the show, the reveal of Victoria Beckham’s spring/summer 2020 collection was a particularly special one. Not to mention the buzz from the unveiling of her beauty line just days previous must have barely worn off.

Which is why the runway show held in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office could have been mistaken for a private party for the star. The 45-year-old’s entire family – husband David and children Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper – sat front row beside Anna Wintour, while her friends and fashion admirers weren’t far off.

For the show, Victoria stuck to her attainable chic aesthetic that has seen her become a favourite among names such as Meghan Markle, Eva Longoria and Olivia Palermo.

This season, tailoring took a ’70s turn, with garments that were flowing yet light and flattering. The silhouettes are simple and the colours are explored. Soft beiges and creams where layered under vivid purples and mint greens.

Floral dresses came high in volume, giving the body room to move underneath. Blazers were a go, being worn under jackets or and the signature finishing touch to an outfit, while neck details – from thin strips of satin fabric gracing the skin to flower ruffle designs clipped to collars – also reigned.

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Kisses from my #VBSS20 front row!!!! X VB

A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on Sep 15, 2019 at 8:27am PDT

Always highly anticipated, Apple’s new updates and products have now been revealed, and here’s what to expect.

Calling friends and family on our iPhones, counting steps on our Apple Watch and getting work done on our MacBooks – the tech innovations from Apple seep into more aspects of our lives than we might originally have realised.

And our utter reliance on such gadgets (for better or worse) is what makes us a little too excited when the California-based company releases a new batch of products, updates and gadgets we didn’t know we couldn’t live without.

Here’s what’s happening in the world of Apple right now:

The iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max are here

Apple iPhone 11 Pro

This September, Apple will introduce the dual-camera iPhone 11. The model will introduce a powerful dual-camera system, offering an intuitive camera experience with the highest quality video in a smartphone and Night mode for photos. It is powered by the A13 Bionic chip to perform the most demanding tasks, while getting through an entire day on a single charge, and is designed to withstand the elements with improved water resistance. Available in stores from September 20th.

But what about the Pro and Pro Max?

The new pro line for iPhone has been designed for the user who wants the very best of the best from their smartphone. For example, the new Super Retina XDR display means the best and brightest display to date,  the powerful Apple-designed A13 Bionic chip provides unparalleled performance with a significant improvement in the battery life.

And for the artsy, a new triple-camera system provides a pro-level camera experience with an Ultra Wide, Wide and Telephoto camera. Users will notice dramatic improvements to low-light photography and offering the highest quality video in a smartphone that is great for shooting action videos.

On the new model, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller said:  “iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max are the most powerful and advanced smartphones we have ever made. They are packed with sophisticated technology that pros can count on to get their work done, and for anyone who wants the very best device made, even if they are not a pro.

“iPhone 11 Pro has the first triple-camera system in iPhone and is far and away the best camera we’ve ever made, it provides our customers with a great range of creative control and advanced photo and video editing features in iOS 13. The Super Retina XDR is the brightest and most advanced display in iPhone and the A13 Bionic chip sets a new bar for smartphone performance and power efficiency.”

It’s time for the Apple Watch Series 5

Apple Watch series 5

One of the key features of the new watch will be the Always-On Retina display; as it never sleeps, it’s easy to see the time (and all the other important information that users rely on with the sports gadget) without raising or tapping the face. Wearers can also expect new location features, from a built-in compass to current elevation, while international emergency calling1 allows customers to call emergency services directly from Apple Watch in over 150 countries, even without iPhone nearby. Of course, there will be aesthetic updates too, with a wider range of materials available.

Apple TV+ is following this November 

Apple TV

Say hello to the first all-original video subscription service from the tech company. On November 1st, the service will launch in over 100 countries and will offer an impressive line up of shows, movies and documentaries.

Zack Van Amburg, Apple’s Head of Worldwide Video, said: “With Apple TV+, we are presenting all-original stories from the best, brightest and most creative minds, and we know viewers will find their new favourite show or movie on our service. Each Apple TV+ original offers its own unique story, fresh perspective and powerful message — all meant to entertain, connect and inspire cultural conversations.”

The most popular iPad undergoes a makeover

Apple iPad Seventh Generation

Get ready for a new iPad that will feature a 10.2-inch Retina Display, Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Support, and iPadOS for Powerful Multitasking and Creative Capabilities.

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s Vice President of Product Marketing said on the new launch: “The new iPad packs even more value into our most popular and affordable iPad model featuring a bigger 10.2-inch Retina display, support for Apple Pencil and for the first time, the full-size Smart Keyboard.

“[It] was built to run iPadOS, which introduces powerful new ways to multitask, manage and mark up documents, use Apple Pencil and view more information at a glance on a redesigned Home screen. This new iPad with iPadOS takes everything people love about our most popular iPad and makes it even better for creating, learning, working and playing.”

Apple Arcade has arrived for gamers

Apple Arcade

And why not create a gaming subscription service while they’re at it? Apple Arcade will be available on the App Store on Thursday, September 19 with iOS 13, offering an all-new way to enjoy games with an unlimited subscription service. The service will launch with over 100 new, exclusive games, all playable across iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and Apple TV.

“We are so excited to launch Apple Arcade on the App Store. A curated selection of over 100 new and exclusive games from many of the most innovative game developers in the world is the perfect complement to the App Store’s existing massive catalogue of games,” said Phil Schiller.

See more at apple.com/ae.

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Valentino wowed once again during Paris Fashion Week with its ready to wear collection for Spring/Summer 2020.

We’re in the full swing of Paris Fashion Week now, and the biggest names in high fashion are taking to the runway left, right and centre. Yet in all the chaos, Valentino’s latest collection still managed to make considerable noise among the crowd.

For the upcoming season, Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli focused on high volume and intriguing shape – “their purity, but also their extravagance”.

The idea brings his passion for couture to the world of ready to wear: it brings the attention from the dress, per se, to the personality that gives life to it, from the object to the individual.

And for his SS20 runway show, Piccioli was inspired by the art technique of Grisaille. The method involved using monochrome and shades of grey to create elaborate images. Omitting colour allows for a greater focus and attention on shape and size.

The opening looks transformed everyday essentials into stand out pieces thanks to this approach – a basic white shirt became a peplum design with bell sleeves and a matching pleated skirt, for example.

While inspired by this idea, colour did appear on the runway after this statement opening, such as vivid oranges and yellows – but each spoke for themselves and were uncomplicated by layered or clashing shades.

Patterns were introduced into the mix next as a part of Valentino’s story – bold fauvist prints charged with a narrative urgency, only to blend once again into total white.

See more from Paris Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2020 here. 

As New York fashion week continues to unfold, these are some of the highlights from the designers who have taken to the runway to date.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta

For their summer collections, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia have a habit of taking inspiration from the flamboyancy and fun of travel, with specific locations in mind. This time around, it was the Dominican Republic that became the landscape for the SS20 showcase, a place close to the brand’s heart. Think the solar colour palettes reminiscent of Caribbean sunsets, floral hues and natural fabrics such as hand-loomed linen, raffia and raw silk.

Tom Ford 

Tom Ford

Glamour takes a grunge edge during Tom Ford’s summer showcase, as punk-rock hair is paired with lavender satin blazers and turquoise jumpsuits teamed with a baseball cap. And where did the Creative Director take inspiration? The New York subways, of course, where people from all walks of life collide – using the iconic picture of Andy Warhol and Edie Sedgwick scuttling from a manhole as a key image to inspire the spring collection.

Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera

As Creative Director for the American label, Wes Gordon has remained faithful to the legacy of the near-40-year-old brand by uniting two of its most famous features; vivacious fun and conventional sophistication (that’s why happens when you specialise in dressing First Ladies of the United States). Think boxy white shirts tucked into flowing floral skirts and contrasting tartan hues.

Explore Celine’s Autumn/Winter 2019 collection in this new editorial video showcasing the perfect harmony created between styles from decades of the past and modern touches.

ALL CELINE by HEDI SLIMANE

See more from the A&E editorial here.

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Christian Geisselmann

Hair and Make-up: Magalie Pilloux

Model: Romane at Premium

Location: Paris, France

Breitling will be crafting 500 limited edition timepieces as a part of its collaboration with Etihad Airways.

Known for its deep connection with the world of aviation, the historic watchmakers have further solidified its relationship by teaming up with Etihad Airways on a new project for the Autumn of 2019.

Since the introduction of its Navitimer model in 1952, Breitling has been intricately linked to a fascinated by all things planes and pilots.

And now some 67 years on, the Swiss watchmaker has solidified the relationship by partnering with, Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates. With an equal passion for aviation, quality and precision, Etihad offers a perfect platform for Breitling, who will serve as the Official Timekeeper.

To celebrate the union, the 1884-established company has introduced the Aviator 8 Etihad Limited Edition in black steel. The model, which has been co-designed with Etihad Airways is limited to 500 pieces and complete with numbers in the Arabic language.

The features include prominently displayed days and dates, a bidirectional rotor winding with over 38 hours of power reserve and is powered by the Breitling Calibre 45.

Arabic numbers is a striking gold shade with matching hand shine through double anti-reflective sapphire glass and the 41 mm DLC-coated stainless steel case has a solid screwed back and is presented on a black leather strap.

The Aviator 8 Etihad Limited Edition is a COSC-certified chronometer and produced in a series limited to 500 pieces. The model will be exclusively available in Etihad’s home of Abu Dhabi before being released in the wider market and across the globe.

Speaking at the launch event, Breitling’s CMO Tim Sayler said: “Etihad Airways and Breitling are united by a passion for aviation, as well as by their steadfast commitment to quality and precision,” said Breitling’s CMO Tim Sayler while speaking at the launch event.

Robin Kamark, Chief Commercial Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, added: “As one of the world’s most innovative and punctual airlines, we are proud to mark the launch of this great partnership between two leading brands who are world-renowned for style, quality and precision.

“To mark our collaboration with Breitling as Etihad’s Official Timekeeper, we have introduced the Aviator 8 Etihad Limited Edition, reflecting our Arabian heritage, age-old traditions and focus on the future. We are confident it will be popular among customers and watch collectors.”

See more at breitling.com.

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What better way to kickstart a week of fashion shows in the Italian fashion capital with the Spring/Summer 2020 collection from Prada.

Taking to Milan to get the fashion crowd buzzing, Creative Director Miuccia Prada presented a collection for the season ahead in the city’s Fondazione that merged together iconic styles from the past to create an office-chic look that was classic in form but modern in detail.

Think tailored jackets, knee-length skirts that came pencil shape or pleated, embroidered leather, sheer fabrics and graphic details that still somehow managed to remain delicate and soft.

Textures were mixed and layered, the colour palettes soft with drops of intensely added with the odd deep navy and flashy gold. The overall feel was looks of contrast that still managed to be elegant and alluring.

The collection is said to be one that stands for “the power of women over clothing, and of style over fashion.”

Callbacks from styles of the past were intentional from the designer, who sought to use sartorial signifiers of key fashion epochs and bring there together, merging of the time and space from which they are borrowed.

As Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, Julie Bell is as the heart of product innovation at the fun-loving yet highly effective beauty favourite, Benefit Cosmetics.

Having spent 20 years at the San Fransico born beauty brand, Julie Bell not only knows it inside out but understands who exactly the Benefit woman is – what she needs, what she wants and what she won’t settle for when it comes to her makeup routine.

But way before she was conceptualising groundbreaking products such as the industry-changing Benefit Brow Collection to innovative, high-performing mascaras and the iconic POREfessional primer, she had an intricate relationship with the world of beauty, as she sits down to tell us.

From exactly why the new Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer is set to become a brand icon to which products she can’t live without, Bell bares all about her beauty past, present and future with A&E.

A&E Interviews Julie Bell, EVP Global Marketing Benefit Cosmetics 

You’ve worked with Benefit for almost 20 years – what is it about the brand that first enticed you?

When I think about what first inspired me about Benefit, I always go back to the roots of our co-founders, Jean and Jane Ford. When they founded Benefit over 40 years ago, they developed a rich DNA and I was fortunate enough to work side-by-side with them for 10 years. I try to take everything that I learned from Jean and Jane and live it every day at work!

And what is it about Benefit that you love/that’s led you to continue working there for nearly two decades?

What I love most about Benefit is that I get the opportunity to learn about our global customers and create products they will love. It’s fascinating because Benefit girls all over the world are really the same. It doesn’t matter what country they live in – they all share the same spirit, the same attitude toward beauty and are looking to solve the same problems. I love being part of a global brand.

Talk us through the new Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer – what makes it different from others out there?

A top customer complaint about other high-coverage concealers is that they are cakey, heavy and obvious. We tested Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer side-by-side against the competition and the results were amazing! Testers loved that it delivered instant full coverage and a natural look that is truly cakeless – meaning it feels lightweight yet won’t cake or crack on skin. Plus it’s waterproof and lasts 24 hours. The multitasking formula can be used for a targeted or full-face application. It helps hide it all, from dark undereye circles to blemishes and discolouration. It also blends easily so one layer is all you need.

How do you recommend people best work it into their makeup routines?

The beauty of Cakeless is that it’s extremely versatile and the multitasking formula blends seamlessly on skin, so it can be used before or after foundation. We encourage our customers to mix and match our complexion products and have fun with it! Here’s my go-to complexion routine to get you started. Begin by priming skin with The Porefessional to prep skin for foundation and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines. Then, apply Hello Happy Flawless Brightening Foundation for a brighter, hydrated, flawless-looking complexion. Then, dab Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer on under eyes and imperfections for seamless, waterproof coverage that lasts all day and won’t cake.  Complete your look with our bestselling rose-tinted lip and cheek stain, Benetint.

Can you tell us how more about the design of the packaging? How did the concept come about?

With each new Benefit product, we create the perfect storm of unique innovation that is expressed through creative names and packaging. That’s what sets Benefit apart from other brands! For our new Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer, we wanted to keep packaging consistent with the rest of the Boi-ing family, which are inspired by pencil erasers to “erase” all skin imperfections instantly! The vial shape lent itself perfectly to the look of a pencil, which ties to our collection, but also allows it to stand apart as a new product and concealer format. We also featured a “no caking” infographic on the front of the box so our customer knows right away that this concealer will give them coverage..without the CAKE!

How would you describe the Benefit ethos? What is it about the brand that you think women identify with?

At Benefit, we believe that laughter is the best cosmetic. We’re not only in the makeup business, we’re in the feelgood business. Because when we are laughing and having fun, that’s when we are at our most beautiful! This inspired us to create instant beauty solutions that are the perfect storm of innovation, storytelling, creative names and packaging that will put a smile on any woman’s face and make her feel her most beautiful.

How did your career in beauty begin?

I first became inspired by the beauty industry when I was helping a friend apply for a job and came across a role at Benefit. As I helped her prepare for her interview, I couldn’t stop thinking about the opportunity…how cool would it be to be in an industry that created products for women?! So we pulled a “bait and switch” and I went on the interview instead of my friend…and here I am, nearly 20 years later!

Do you remember when you fell in love with beauty?

I fell in love with the beauty industry when I started selling cosmetics behind the counter! I was terrified but it was an exhilarating experience. Back then there weren’t any YouTube tutorials to teach us about makeup application techniques and new looks. We had to really get creative to excited customers.

What is one of the biggest misconceptions people have about the industry?

The biggest misconception about working in the beauty industry is that it’s easy! Of course, getting to experiment and play with makeup is so fun and gratifying. But in today’s world, there’s so much competition and new innovation out there that beauty professionals and customers often have information overload. Not only is it increasingly difficult to cut through the noise, but it’s also hard to keep customers excited while staying true to our brand values. But at Benefit, we are problem solvers – It’s in our DNA. We harness these challenges as motivation to continue innovating and doing what we do better and better.

How can cosmetics empower women?

Beauty comes from within. It doesn’t matter how much makeup you put on, if you’re not feeling good about yourself, that will show through. When you feel good about yourself, your true beauty shines. At Benefit, we exist to make our customers feel good! We believe that when you’re happy and confident, you feel beautiful and strong enough to take on the world!

What’s been your greatest achievement to date?

My greatest achievement is when I began giving back to people with disabilities. This is a very personal mission and supporting this incredible community is extremely gratifying.

Who are some of your other female role models in the industry?

Benefit founders, Jean and Jane Ford, are my greatest role models in the industry. They developed a rich brand DNA at Benefit and I was fortunate enough to work side-by-side with them for 10 years. My other female role models outside of beauty include Madonna, Lady Gaga, Ruth Bader Ginsberg and Michelle Obama.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

My father was a great mentor of mine and always gave me great advice. From the moment I started working, he told me that as long as I believed in what I did and had true passion, that I could succeed at anything.

Do you have a motto in life?

My motto in life is what I like to call, “GSD”…Get Stuff Done!

What’s your favourite ever Benefit product?

My favourite Benefit product is Precisely, My Brow Pencil. It’s our bestselling product for a reason: because it works so well and doesn’t break! I also have to add our Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer because these days, I never leave home without it.

What are the top three products you recommend to every woman?

The three Benefit products that I would recommend to every woman are a brow product, a primer and a mascara. My go-to product for brows is our bestselling Precisely, My Brow Pencil. Then I would recommend The POREfessional, a smoothing face primer that minimizes the look of pores and fine lines. It’s my secret weapon! Finally, I would recommend any Benefit mascara to customers. Whether you need volume, length or curl, there is a Benefit mascara to complete your look. Of course, Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer is also something women should wear every day. It’s the new must-have for every beauty routine.

What’s been the best initiative you’ve ever worked on with the brand?

I’m most proud of our Benefit brow collection, which launched in 2016. It was a massive project that our Benefit teams worked on tirelessly! It’s been so exciting to see our collection continue to evolve, to keep making progress in innovation and to see the brow category grow around the world…because every girl needs a brow product!

See more at benefitcosmetics.com/ae.

Julie Bell talks through her 20 years at Benefit Cosmetics

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Teaming up with the American fashion designer on his latest runway show, makeup artist Pat McGrath created a cast of characters for her beauty looks during the SS20 show.

For his upcoming spring collection showcased during NYFW, Marc Jacobs presented a celebration of life.

Models such as Kaia Gerber and a barefoot Gigi Hadid took to the runway in an alluringly free manner, sporting sparkles, flower prints and plenty of colour.

And to match the fabric aesthetic, he called upon MBE-holder Pat McGrath. The iconic makeup artist said: “It was definitely, for Marc and I, an idealized interpretation of real life.”

She continued: “There is a nod to the past and future. What’s great is taking the looks that come from the past but modernizing them. Also, in a way, I would call it a modern take on street style – street style in the most maximum way. Not one girl or boy or person will look the same. Every single one had to be different. It’s really about the characters, everyone being different and having fun.”

While every model had a different look designed to bring out their own personality – ranging from a smokey eye, to a bedazzled feature, to a healthy glow – McGrath used a base of Marc Jacobs Beauty products on each of them.

Here are the products she used to create her perfect base.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Youthquake Gel Crème Moisturizer

This multitasking moisturiser works to retexturize and plump skin for a smooth base.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Under(Cover) Blurring Coconut Face Primer

As well as blurring the skin ensuring that makeup glides (and stays on) effortlessly, coconut helps to nourish the skin too.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Under(Cover) Eye Coconut Eye Primer

The same as previous, but adjusted to suit the needs of the delicate eye area – and with extra staying power for those who can’t help but rub their eyes…

Marc Jacobs Beauty Accomplice Concealer & Touch-Up Stick

Longwear and hardworking, this creamy-textured concealer melts into skin to hide imperfections effortlessly.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Shameless Youthful-Look 24h Foundation Spf 25

24-hour wear, SPF 25 and buildable coverage. What more can you ask for from a foundation?

Marc Jacobs Beauty Finish Line Perfecting Coconut Setting Powder

This creamy, loose setting powder keeps everything in place while five forms of coconut and cocoa butter keep skin soft and nourished.

Shop the Marc Jacobs Beauty collection at sephora.ae.

Like the idea of joining a book club, but can’t commit to a weekly meeting? Then why not initiate yourself into the online book clubs created by famous faces such as Opray Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon…

We get it, we should all be reading more – whether that’s keeping up to date with the latest must-read biographies or simply switching out bedtime Instagram scrolling for actual paper page-turning.

But for many of us, finding the motivation to make the move away from Netflix originals and towards literature can be tricky – which is where book clubs come in. As well as the pressure to reach the back cover by a deadline, there’s also the added social aspect.

Yet, while our intentions start well with a time-and-place style book club, our lifestyle doesn’t always match up; now this is where celebrity book clubs come in. Revealing titles and inviting discussions online, the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Emma Watson and Sarah Jessica Parker are all encouraging you to pick up a book along with them. Here are the ones to follow now.

Emma Watson

She’s not Hermione Granger anymore, but that doesn’t mean it’s now easy to find Emma Watson without a book nearby. The 29-year-old actor turned model turned activist recommends intersectional feminist reads through her online book club, Our Shared Shelf, bi-monthly. Titles include Butterfly by Yusra Mardini and Pachinko by Min Jin Lee.

See more on Instagram at @oursharedshelf.

Oprah Winfrey

We’ve always got an open ear for what Oprah Winfrey has to recommend, and her list of reads is no exception. The 65-year-old actor, television host, producer and philanthropist’s original book club started as a segment on her beloved chat show. But now she shares reviews, must-reads and interviews online for books such as Michelle Obama’s Becoming, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones and Ayana Mathis’s The Twelve Tribes of Hattie.

Follow her recommendations at oprah.com.

Reese Witherspoon

We all need a little more sunshine in our lives, right? (Well, for those of us living in the UAE, this is strictly figurative.) And Reese Witherspoon is promising to deliver just that with her round-up of monthly reads. As a segment of her Hello Sunshine production company, the Legally Blonde star turned Gone Girl producer lists a monthly historical fiction read. Recent novels include The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescot, which tells the story of secretaries turned spies in the USSR during the Cold War.

Learn about the latest reads at hello-sunshine.com.

Sarah Jessica Parker

SJP first aligned with Hogarth Press to acquire and curate fictional texts that she feels reflects her own reading habits and tastes, and now the Divorce star has launched SJP Picks over on ALA Book Club Central – an initiative of the American Library Association. She writes: “From an early age, books were my constant companions and my local library a place I could find a new friend on every shelf.” Recent recommendations include Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth by Sarah Smarsh and Anatomy of a Miracle by Jonathan Miles.

Keep up to date with SJP’s picks at bookclubcentral.org.

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Celine’s Autumn/Winter 2019 collection is a perfect harmony of pieces inspired by past decades and reimagined with a modern twist.

REGARDE MOI

Fluid pleated dress with knotted belt in snake print georgette, long shearling gilet in tobacco.

Dress in leopard printed silk, belt.

Gathered blouse in striped silk poplin, mid-rise slim indigo union wash, overcoat with notched collar in camel cashmere pea coat wool, over the knee boot in calfskin and fur.

Medium 16 bag in black crocodile.

Loose shirt in striped black and white poplin, V yoke skirt in brown hunting checked, Sahara shearling bomber.

Loose shirt with “claudine” collar in navy and white classic stripes, mid-rise slim indigo, poncho with hood in brushed fair isle off-white/brown, belt in grey python with gold rounded buckle, over the knee boot in calfskin and fur.

Turtle neck in iconic cashmere off white, straight pants in grey chalk striped wool, jacket in grey chalk striped wool, wallet on strap tassels in red shiny smooth calfskin.

Loose shirt in cotton with black and white stripes, black crew neck in cashmere, culottes in grey chevron tweed, jacket with stand up collar in beige checked, triomphe in textile and black shiny calfskin.

Loose shirt in ivory silk, culottes with pleated sides in beige dogtooth check flannel, jacket in charcoal cashmere flannel, belt in ecorce watersnake with gold triomphe link, sunglasses butterfly.

Crecy camera bag in nude shiny lambskin, small triomphe bag in black watersnake patchwork.

Blouse in off-white silk, pleated culottes in charcoal flannel, terracotta long bolero in cashmere goat, corset belt in brown watersnake with gold chain on sides, claude boots in brown python, small triomphe bag in black watersnake patchwork.

Boule neck in shetland light grey, mid-rise slim indigo union wash, cream cape in cashmere goat, Claude boot in burgundy calfskin, Medium 16 bag in nude satinated calfskin.

Belt bag tassels in nude shiny calfskin.

ALL CELINE by HEDI SLIMANE

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Christian Geisselmann

Hair and Make-up: Magalie Pilloux

Model: Romane at Premium

Location: Paris, France

Speaking to A&E, the LA-based creative opens up about how a mix of influences – from her attraction towards crystals to her mixed heritage – led her towards creating the

Rather than a life-long passion to pursue jewellery design, Jacquie Aiche’s path began elsewhere; a love of all things crystals.

The entrepreneur – who created her eponymous jewellery brand in 2007  – felt a deep connection to the healing powers of crystals and ornate rocks from a young age, and her collection began. This later transformed into expressing herself through the creation of her own beautiful pieces.

This combined with her upbringing in a multicultural home to both Egyptian and American parents feed Aiche with a ‘unique tapestry’ that began her signature style behind her jewellery creation.

Speaking to A&E,  she talks through her latest collection, her most sentimental items and her motto in life.

A&E Interviews Jewellery Designer Jacquie Aiche

Jacquie Aiche

Talk us through the Desert Dreams collection – what is it about this landscape that inspired you?

The desert is my favourite destination for a wild spirit. There’s something so liberating about spending time under the sky and stars, away from the city lights. I was inspired by that peaceful energy and feeling of freedom – there’s really nothing like it.

What’s your favourite piece of jewellery you’ve ever created?

I could never pick just one. I love my opal inlays, and I never take off my Elizabeth pieces. My layers are my second skin – each piece is incredibly personal.

Is there one item of jewellery you have that has the most sentimental value to you?

My most treasured piece of jewellery is a red spinel ring that my father bought for me at a vintage auction. Although my jewellery collection is seemingly endless in his eyes, he chose to add something special to it. I discovered red spinel is a balancing stone for workaholics…it was a piece that was meant for me.

What are some of your favourite materials and why?

Adorning your body in diamonds and gold will always be the ultimate expression of femininity to me. There’s something so delicate yet powerful about those materials – they’re truly made for goddesses.

When did your love and fascination with jewellery and its art begin?

It all started over ten years ago, I’ve always been drawn to crystals and the powerful healing properties they carry. I began teaching myself wire-wrapping so that I could share this special power with my friends and family in the form of personal adornment. I fell in love with the process and continued creating as much as I could. Over the years, my aesthetic has evolved and my tribe has continued to grow. Passion is the ultimate teacher… La vie est belle [life is beautiful].

What has been one of the biggest challenges in your career to date?

Of course, there are ups and downs to everything. But I surround myself with people who make the biggest challenges feel small and easy to face. When you have strong women in your life who support you and your journey, you can accomplish anything.

Talk us through the ethos of the brand?

I want to create pieces that will make every woman look and feel uniquely beautiful. Traditional, classical jewellery is amazing, but it’s just not me. I’ve always had a very wild and spiritual nature. I think that rebellious spirit to constantly shake things up is what differentiates me as a designer and the brand as a whole. I create pieces for those who adore being adorned, lovers of precious stones and believers in the energy of minerals.

How do you want people to feel when they wear a piece of jewellery you created?

Jewellery should make you feel like a goddess the moment it touches the skin. It’s meant to enhance your natural beauty – giving you that extra golden glow that’s already shining brightly within.

What is your motto in life?

Find your tribe and love them hard.

See more at jacquieaiche.com.

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Any coffee lover worth their coffee beans will have invested in a Nespresso machine at one point over the years, but the latest innovation from the 1986-established company is a gamechanger in the world of barista-style coffee in the comfort of your own home.

If you’re not interested in the nuances of making and drinking coffee, then you might not understand just why the new Nespresso Vertou has got caffeine-heads all excited – but both observers of the art and casual coffee drinkers alike will appreciate the latest launch from Nespresso.

While the company has perfected the art of the Italian favourite espresso over the decades (with frothers available to buy separately for those who prefer their liquid energy in latte form) those who are typically more partial to a taller cup of coffee have missed out.

But launching this month in the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait is the newest model which offers a range of different options and drink sizes from one compact machine – The Alto (414ml), The Mug (230ml), The Gran Lungos (150ml) and naturally the Double Espresso (80 ml) and Espresso (40ml).

All from one machine at the press of one button, the detection comes in with the clever design of the new capsules. Different sized pods serve up different sized drinks, but to keep the design sleek, each is inserted into the same slot that detects the order thanks to a smart barcode reading system.

Once the machine has done that, it uses a unique rotational extraction technology (trademarked as Centrifusion) to adjust the extraction parameters to create the perfect full-bodied coffee, finished with a silky and generous crema.

And the smart design of the latest machine goes further; the water tank carries over a litre of water and is removable, preheating takes a maximum of 20 seconds and the machine automatically turns off after nine minutes of inaction to save energy. With the pods being 100 per cent recyclable, sustainability has been a consideration throughout the design process, too.

On the launch in the region, Business Executive Officer at Nespresso MEA Sergey Makarin said: “By introducing Vertuo in the Middle East, we are expanding at home coffee options for coffee lovers with a range of large coffees, without compromising the taste or extraordinary quality that Nespresso is known for.

“We feel that Vertuo system will deliver on the consumer needs for convenient and easy to use coffee machines to produce a variety of coffee sizes.”

And of course, the coffee tastes fab, too. Head to ae.buynespresso.com for more.

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You might head to this boutique spot for a serene night’s sleep, but life surrounds this sleek hotel, from street art to an incredibly picturesque pool.

When it comes to City Walk, there is only one destination that springs to mind if you’re after a place to lay your head of an evening; La Ville Hotel & Suites. A part of Marriott International’s Autograph Collection, the boutique hotel opened in March 2017 and has quickly become the downtown go-to destination for travellers seeking an unpretentiously modern location.

While La Ville and its amenities are humble in quantity (note: not in quality), its the ensemble cast that surrounds the unique location that makes it a spectacular place to stay – from one of the most picturesque pool locations in the city to the art that breathes life into the surrounding streets.

Rooms & Hotel

Deluxe Room in La Ville

The moment we walk into La Ville, the interiors instantly calm us thanks to cool cream hues, soft low-hanging lighting and the floor-to-ceiling windows that make up the lobby.

Upon reaching our room overlooking the hotel’s terrace and City Walk, this feeling only continues. The furnishings are equally tranquil, but an injection of life comes from the quirky sketch of shoppers that is doodled onto the wall.

Courtyard by night

From the view to the furnishing (we’ve already eyed up the gorgeous marble bathtub for a soak later in the evening) we feel relaxed and happily settle in.

Food & Dining

Whether you decide to dine in La Ville or tuck in at one of the gourmet restaurants in the surrounding walk, it will be hard to go hungry – or worse, full but not fulfilled – here.

Grapeskin, City Walk

Dinner is served during our stay at Grapeskin, a relaxed setting serving sharing boards alongside a bursting drinks menu. The ambience – from the dark wood decor to the musician playing guitar and performing soft sing-a-long classics – is reminiscent of a rural American tavern.

Sharing boards are the star of the show, and it proves to be a cheese lover’s haven with an offering that takes much consideration for guests to whittle down to five or six to share. Elsewhere other favourites from the menu include the Spanish octopus which is cooked with smoked paprika, garlic and herbs served on a bed on potatoes with a side of aioli and simple sides such as bruschetta and truffle fries.

Chival restaurant

Despite leaving satisfied, we still awake eager for breakfast at Chival the following morning.  The decor is refreshing and the set up social, mirroring the cuisine that comes next. The buffet collection has cereal offerings with a selection of nuts and seeds to sprinkle on yourself, a delectable mix of freshly prepared fruit, savoury offerings such as creamy houmus and salads, and of course baskets upon baskets of warm bread that come in all shapes and sizes. But it’s the sweet offerings – Danish pastries, blueberry muffins, almond croissants – that have us salivating.

After pilling a plate, ordering an almond milk latte and freshly prepared healthy green juice, we then order from the menu – a full English breakfast for one of us, an acai bowl for the other. Two very different but equally satisfying starts to the day.

LookUp bar

And with restaurants such as Graze cooking up prime cuts to customers’ taste and Look Up Bar dicing up generous salads and light bites, there’s plenty to chose from within La Ville, too.

Pool & Spa Treatments 

One of the main attractions at La Ville is the gorgeous infinity pool. What is lacks in size it makes up for in incredible views of the Burj Khalifa – by day and night – making it the Instagram-picture location of the hotel. Hours upon end staring at the city views – with a glimpse of City Walk’s street murals – doesn’t grow old.

Pool view at La Ville

While La Ville doesn’t offer full spa facilities, which is a shame, treatments are on offer in special relaxation rooms. We try the Signature Massage. After picking out our personalised oil blend (from relaxing to energising depending on your needs) we unwind with the protecting, regenerating, smoothing massage includes Swedish, aromatherapy and deep tissue techniques, and return to the poolside feeling lighter than we have in a while.

While it might not be a beach haven or a place to book in for a full spa day, La Ville is the perfect location to unwind in a chic setting in Downtown Dubai, with plenty to explore is the creative hub surrounding you.

Find out more at livelaville.com.

Exterior view

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It’s a trend we didn’t see making a comeback anytime soon, but after gracing the feet of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Gigi Hadid and Priyanka Chopra, it’s official – square toe shoes have walked right back into our lives for Fall 2019.

A new season naturally means new trends, and offtimes those trends borrow from iconic looks of the past.

So what’s taking centre stage for Autumn/Winter 2019? Enter the square toe shoe. After the resurgence of the block heel in recent years which pushed the sleek stiletto to the side, it was perhaps only time before its more clunky, clumsier cousin made a comeback too.

While rounded soles and pointed-toe shoes have reigned the runways in recent years, the square shape shoe was in its modern heyday when it comes to womenswear during the 1960s, making a brief comeback in the 1990s.

Rosie Huntington-Whitely dons the in trend shoe shape

Fast forward to 2019, and the square toe is back. Yes, Bottega Veneta is making the square-toed mules a thing, Givenchy’s sliders are squaring up and Balenciaga’s sandals have taken a sharp turn.

And with the fashion crowd the following suit – Priyanka Chopra donned knee-high suede boots with a square toe, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has flooded Instagram with her angular sandals while Kendall Jenner looked chicer than ever in black ankles boots – it’s clear the square toe is here for the season.

While we’re warming up to the idea (meaning we’ll consider the boots, but the netted sandaled are off the cards) we’re certainly not declaring the round toe dead just yet.

By Far at Net-A-Porter

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We’re always told to try and see the glass as half full rather than half empty, but now there is a scientific reason to be more optimistic.

From positive affirmations to the law of attraction, we’re being fed more and more that the way we think has a direct impact on our lives.

But as recent research shows, there might actually be some substance behind this line of thought.

A recent study conducted at the Boston University School of Medicine concluded that those with a positive outlook actually live longer.

After conducting research over several decades, researchers found a positive correlation between outlook in life and the length of it. In fact, researchers concluded that the subject with great optimism achieved “exceptional longevity,” living the age 85 and beyond.

There are many health benefits to staying positive

The study focused on over 70,000 people (of which, over near to 90 per cent of subjects were female) who were followed for either ten (the women) or 30 years (the men).

Both groups completed survey measures to assess their level of optimism, as well as their overall health and lifestyle habits.

When individuals were compared based on their initial levels of optimism, the researchers found that the most optimistic men and women demonstrated, on average, an 11 to 15 per cent longer lifespan, and had 50-70 per cent greater odds of reaching 85 years old compared to the least optimistic groups.

Elsewhere, previous studies have shown that optimism contributes to better sleep, healthier hearts, greater mental and physical health in older age and even boosts the immune system.

People with optimistic outlooks live longer, studies have found

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LVMH is set to keep the late fashion designer’s legacy alive by renaming the Special Prize – which rewards rising stars in the world of fashion – after him.

Since Karl Lagerfeld‘s death in February of 2019, the fashion world hasn’t found it easy to move on; tributes poured in for Chanel’s long-time Creative Director, runway shows ran in tribute, and there was even an entire exhibition held in Paris looking back on his life and works.

But now the German fashion designer – who also boasts his own eponymous label and a substantial career chapter at Fendi – will be immortalised in another way.

LVMH has announced that what was previously known as its Special Prize will be renamed to the Karl Lagerfeld prize.

Karl Lagerfeld has worked closely with the prize before

Each year, thousands of applicants from a hundred or so countries apply to for the formerly-named Special Prize, which not only recognises potential and rewards raw talent but offered a mentorship scheme. As well as one-year mentorship under LVMH’s wing, the budding designer will be awarded €150,000 to help their label flourish.

Speaking to WWD, Louis Vuitton’s Director and Vice President Delphine Arnault said: “Karl Lagerfeld, Creative Director of the house of Fendi since 1965, was involved in the prize since its launch.

“He was fully committed to it since day one, transporting us with his enthusiasm and his energy, sharing with everyone, whether other jury members or candidates, his culture and his passion for fashion. We shall always cherish those precious moments.”

For 2019, the newly named Karl Lagerfeld prize will be awarded on September 4th at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris.

Fondation Louis Vuitton. Credit: lvmh.com

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September is right around the corner, which means it’s time again (thankfully) to refill our makeup bags and bathroom shelves with the latest beauty buys.

Benefit Cakeless Concealer

Credit: Instagram/@jonathan_caleb_cake

We’re always excited about the latest Benefit Cosmetics launch – from the packaging to the product itself, we’re assured that every little detail has been thought through.

The newest addition to the family is the Cakeless Concealer. From the product itself that’s lightweight yet heavy-duty to the applicator brush that doesn’t soak up too much product and of course the quirky pencil style design, we’re sold.  And there are 12 blendable shades to choose from, meaning you’ll find the one for you no matter your skin tone.

Sisley Ecological Compound Limited Edition

Okay, so this skincare saviour was originally created in 1980, but its makeover for 2019 has us swooning. For the second year running, Polish artist and painter Elzbieta Radziwil adorns Sisley’s best-selling product with botanical shades inspired by her dear love for nature.

As for what’s inside the pretty packaging, the creamy lotion – which can be used alone to bright skin to life or as a primer – works to protect the skin from environmental aggressors while moisturising, nourishing and stimulate epidermis to renew itself.  As easy one to add to your current routine for an extra boost.

Dior Rouge Ultra Care

Two new products are coming to this range for Autumn, with actor Natalie Portman fronting the campaign. The new Rouge Dior Ultra Care Liquid offers a petal-soft matte finish to perk up your pout, while the Rouge Dior Ultra Care Lipstick leaves lips luminously pearly.

As well as the full-colour matte finish, the Dior Ultra Care lipsticks nourish the delicate lip area as you go thanks to ingredients such as natural-origin cameline, sweet almond oils and shea butter.

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On October 23rd, auction house Christie’s will hold an auction showcasing Middle Eastern and Islamic art in London – only its third time doing so outside of the region.

The auction held by the 1766-established house will run as a part of the rich and traditional Islamic Art Week in the English capital.

For the special occasion, 90 items have been sourced from all around the globe to be put under the hammer – from locations such as Los Angeles, New York, London, Dubai, Paris, Beirut, Buenos Aires, Milan, Perth and Casablanca – at Christie’s London.

Louay Kayyali, Portrait of Umayma Hussein Ibish

For the event – which will be only the third of its kind to happen – the auction is mainly focused on modern Arab works that are contemporary in style.

Some of the artists to be featured include; Louay Kayyali and Fateh Moudarres from Syria, Ismail Shammout from Palestine, Bibi Zogbé and Marwan Sahmarani from Lebanon, Zeinab Abd El Hamid and Tahia Halim from Egypt and Chaïbia Talal from Morocco.

Ismail Shammout, The Way

Speaking on the news, Christie’s Director and Head of Sale in the Middle East, Hala Khayat, said: “A diversity of mediums, subject matter, geographies, and sale estimates characterize Christie’s third Middle East art sale in London, providing a global platform for art and artists from this ever-evolving region… There is something compelling for every collector.”

As well as the auction itself, activities across the event for both collector and patrons will include book launches, gallery talks, and private tours.

Find out more at christies.com.

Tahia Halim, Untitled

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If you feel like doing something new with your nails but are not sure what, then take inspiration from the manicure trend that’s taking over Instagram.

When it comes to getting our nails done, we’re not usually too experimental. There are a few shades we stick too; the perfect nude for business hours, a peachy-coral for sun-filled vacations and a mystic red as the holiday season approaches.

But the latest nail trend that’s clogging up our Instagram feed is encouraging us to be a little more daring. Yes, the rainbow manicure has arrived, and it’s a more sophisticated take on your pre-teen dream of painting your nails with every shade in your polish collection.

Rainbow nails have arrived

This sweet-as-candy nail trend is swaying us away from our go-to nude hue

Because nail technicians have been kitting customers out with a mix of hues that complement one another,  from multi-coloured pastel shades to vivacious acid tones running from pinky finger to thumb.

One place that’s leading the trend in the region is That Hair Tho, the vegan and cruelty-free hair and beauty salon located in JLT.

We love the pastel shades

Can’t decide which shade? No need to with this new nail trend

Sharing with us some of their most popular rainbow manicures yet, Co-Founder of THT, Kate Darling, spoke to A&E about the fun-loving trend.

She said: “We absolutely love this trend. Since posting photos on Instagram, it’s really taken off! I think almost every client since has requested this look.

“It’s perfect because you can literally wear it with almost any outfit and you can mix up the shades to suit your skin tone.” We’re not sure about you, but we’re convinced.

Visit thtworld.me for more information on nail services. 

Check out That Hair Tho to try the rainbow manicure yourself

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The Dubai Business Women Council invited a select number of influential people from across the region to attend a panel talk built around the theme of ‘Emirati Women in Business.’

On August 28th 2019, The United Arab Emirates celebrated the fifth annual Emirati Women’s Day with special events, talks and gatherings across the region.

But one event that was particularly important was the Emirati Women In Business panel discussion held by The Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) in collaboration with Dubai Economy.

Panel speakers and guests including A&E’s Editor In Chief at the event on August 28th 2019

With special guest speakers and a selected audience of business women from diverse industries – including A&E’s Editor In Chief, Lara Mansour Sawaya – the morning was one of intrigue and inspiration.

Hosted by the group’s president, Her Excellency Dr. Raja Al Gurg, the discussion saw input from the likes of the Director of Program Administration and Delivery Division at Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Studies (EIBFS) Noura Abbas Ahmed, the Director of Government Communications at Federal Transport Authority Land and Maritime Dr. Aisha Al Busmait and the Founder of Tanshia, Anisa Al Sharif.

The DBWC’s president, Her Excellency Dr. Raja Al Gurg, hosted the event

The discussion was moderated by Laila Mohammad Al Jassim, Knowledge Management and Innovation Director at Dubai Economy.

Since its establishment in 2002, the DBWC has been chaired by HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and led by its President, HE Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, a very prominent businesswoman in Dubai and the region.

The non-profit organisation works to provide a platform for the personal and professional development of working women in Dubai and enhance gender equality in society by encouraging women to play an active role in the country’s development. The DBWC also provides education, tailored training and networking opportunities to aid in achieving holistic development and meeting career aspirations of UAE-based businesswomen – Emirati and expatriates alike.

To find out more about the work that The Dubai Business Women Council does, visit dbwc.ae.

The DBWC hosts workshops and talks to allow businesswomen in the region to learn, grow, network and thrive

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Emirati Women’s Day 2019: A&E Interviews Ahlam Bolooki, the Director of the Emirates Festival of Literature

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Ahlam Bolooki, the Director of the Emirates Festival of Literature opens up on the importance of reading for pleasure, learning through literature and the most rewarding part of her role.

When it comes to reading, it’s never too late to fall in love with the pastime. Something Ahlam Bolooki knows all too well. While her childhood wasn’t one spent with her head buried in a book, by the time she reached her late teens she had discovered the power of words on a page – something that led her to the prestigious role she carries today.

Before taking on her current position as the Director of Emirates Literature Festival, Bolooki worked as the Head of Regional Campaigns at Dubai Tourism – the principal authority responsible for strengthening Dubai’s positioning as a world-leading tourism destination and achieving His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision of attraction 20 million annual visitors to Dubai by the year 2020.

Speaking to A&E, she opens up on the most challenging part of her job, her motto in life and her favourite Emirati authors.

A&E Interviews Ahlam Bolooki, the Director of the Emirates Festival of Literature

Ahlam Bolooki

When did your passion for books and language begin?

My passion for books started when I was 18, after reading a series of non-fiction books about the struggles of women in different parts of the world. I fell in love with language during my first marketing role at the age of 22, when my manager at the time noticed I have a special way with words.

What was your favourite book as a child?

I didn’t really have a favourite book as a child since I discovered the love of reading later on in life. But my favourite children’s book as an adult is definitely ‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

Do you remember a particular moment when you realised you wanted to work within the world of literature?

Yes. I had started working on a project for the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and was sent to Kuwait on a promotional trip. I was hosted by one of Kuwait’s most prominent authors and his family. We had conversations about literature, arts, philosophy, culture and education in the most revealing way.

On the same trip, I also visited another author in her bookshop – bookshop curated with so much love and consideration. There was so much soul in that place. I remember being sat on the couch of the bookshop with the author, having a conversation about how despite her struggles in this field, she wouldn’t choose any other path. That’s when I had this feeling that authors are the best kinds of people in the world and I want to be around them forever.

Emirates Literature Festival 2019

What’s the most rewarding part of your role?

The most rewarding parts have to be seeing masses of people walk through the Festival door with so much enthusiasm and watching a Festival that we carefully curated for 18 months come to life. It’s even more rewarding when we hear about the life-changing effects of sessions from attendees.

Sometimes they reminisce about authors they heard speak in previous years and it’s very fulfilling to have a job which leads to touching people’s lives, in the direct way that our Festival does.

What’s the most challenging part?

The most challenging part would have to be the author selection process. We start reading and researching for each Festival 18 months ahead of time and it’s very difficult to eliminate authors from our longlist while doing justice to all the incredible books that come out each year.

We also have one of the most diverse audiences in the world and therefore need to be well informed about literature from all over the world.

How has your culture and upbringing influenced your love of literature?

As a family, we were brought up in a household where we were encouraged to educate ourselves before making our minds up about the world around us. I believe this environment of an ongoing search for answers has instilled a curiosity in me and encouraged me to always read.

And what have books taught you about understanding other people and cultures?

Each book is a journey and there are so many lessons that books have taught me, but if I had to choose the most important one that comes to mind, it would have to be that people are neither all good, nor all bad.

There are many instances where the author helps readers empathise with the villain in a story and many circumstances which can lead a hero to behave in less than honourable ways.

What is the most recent book you’ve read?

The most recently published book I’ve read was Sweet Sorrow by David Nicholls, but I always have old classics on my bedside table and at the moment I’m reading Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes.

Who are some of your recommended Emirati authors?

The Festival is a great way to discover Emarati authors and in 2019 we had over 44 Emarati writers discussing their books. I would highly recommend Omar Saif Ghobash, author of Letters to a Young Muslim. I was very proud to see his book sold in a little book shop in Seattle on my trip over the summer.

Roudha Al Marri, author of UAE 101 is also an excellent conversation starter, helping English speaking readers understand more about the Emarati culture, language, misconceptions and way of life.

His Excellency Mohammad Al Murr is also a hugely respected Emarati author of The Wink of Mona Lisa, Dubai Tales and over 15 volumes of short stories in Arabic.

Why, in your opinion, is it important to read for pleasure?

Egyptian author Abbās al-Aqqād once said: “It’s reading alone which gives one person more than one life”. Reading offers a gateway into the shoes of countless characters from settings unfamiliar to us.

On the other hand, reading also gives us access to stories we can relate to and makes us feel like we are not alone. Research has shown that readers are more successful than non-readers in all aspects of life, personally and professionally.

How do you inspire people to read?

There is no one book fits all in literature. Just like art, literature is subjective too. I also don’t believe there are readers and non-readers in the world. Non-readers are simply those who have not come across the right book for them yet.

Do you have a motto in life?

My motto in life is to always be open to possibilities. In order to evolve as human beings, we must be open to being proved wrong, to changing our perceptions and pre-conceived notions. We must therefore never stop learning.

What do you still want to achieve?

The things I still want to achieve are less personal and more about the world as a whole. I want to leave a better planet for future generations. I want to put a stop to inequality between the genders at our generation. I want to build towards a more empathetic society, which will lead to a more empathetic world. The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is a great place to start with achieving all of these goals.

Find out more at emirateslitfest.com.

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Shamsa Al Omaira talks us through her love of art and jewellery, why it’s such as staple in Emirati culture and her biggest achievement to date.

While Shamsa Al Omaira started her jewellery business in 2014, the Abu Dhabi native has enjoyed a lifelong passion for the art.

Art being the operative word, as the owner of The O Jewelry is also a practising artist, merging the two worlds together. Within her artwork – which has been exhibited in numerous exhibitions in the UAE – she takes reference from personal experience and conceptually explores both philosophy and the mind.

Speaking to A&E on Emirati Women’s Day, Al Omaira chats through her earliest jewellery memories, the significance of jewellery within this region and her biggest achievement to date.

Tell us about the ethos behind The O Jewelry, and how the brand came to be?

We believe in concepts, in unconstrained creations, in being inspired constantly; we believe in sentiments and memories. We innovate, we create and we lead by example. The brand was not forced, it came to be effortlessly, driven by a passion to design. The decision to start The O Jewelry happened overnight after having a conversation with a friend.

Why did you decide to focus on fine jewellery?

Jewellery is a form of self-expression for the designer and wearer both; being a part of that is so gratifying. With fine jewellery, I get to create and know these creations will be valued and cherished for a very long time.

You use gold within your designs – why was this your precious metal of choice? 

Gold comes with its value, monetary and sentimental. I am a firm believer that jewellery can – and should – be sentimental. Whether it is self-acquired, gifted, or inherited; the value just increases. Gold feels like a necessity to me. It is a celebration when worn or a statement. It tells you about someone’s state of mind, their emotions, their personality and lifestyle.

You’re an artist as well as a jewellery designer – how do those two worlds meet in the middle and flow into one another?

Art and jewellery design are very similar yet different. Both are a form of self-expression. With art, you speak to a targeted audience, while in jewellery you are affecting a wider one. Being an artist, in my opinion, has pushed me into conceptualizing jewellery.

Instead of viewing jewellery as commercial pieces, I view them as feelings, concepts, expressions, as little works of art. I give them power, meaning, and beauty before bringing them to life. I do not think being an artist puts me directly in a privileged position, in contrary, I believe it makes me question every piece I design, get emotionally attached to certain pieces, and overthink collections. When I design jewellery, it is the exact same way I paint or create art.

When did your passion for each, jewellery and art, begin?

Childhood. I do not remember a day where I was not passionate about art or jewellery. Everywhere I went, I had my sketchbook with me. Obviously being a child, I was fascinated by everything and anything. Although I did not understand the value of the jewellery, I always had curious eyes every time I saw my mother dressing up.

I also believe my sisters and I were blessed to be raised by the most amazing mother, she instilled in us the appreciation of arts and the confidence to achieve anything we set our minds to.

What’s your first memory when it comes to jewellery?

My first memory is of a necklace my mother gave me. I remember being fascinated by the reflective surface, which now I know was mother of pearl. I used to play with it around my neck all the time.

And the most sentimental item you own?

A pair of stud earrings that were a gift from my late brother.

What’s your favourite piece you’ve ever created?

A piece I designed in celebration of the 45th National Day, a photograph of our beloved founder of the United Arab Emirates, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan. The necklace is made with round diamonds and 18k gold, giving the impression that the portrait has been painted with diamonds.

The inspiration was driven from a paragraph in William Thesiger’s book “Arabian Sands”, in which he describes Sheikh Zayed and writes about his welcomed visit to Abu Dhabi in the Sixties.

What about your heritage and upbringing has influenced your passion for jewellery, if anything?

Jewellery is in our culture. The women of the UAE are rarely seen with no jewellery. Ever since we are born we are adorned in jewellery, whether it is a fine jewellery pin on our swaddle or bangles on our wrists. Emirati jewellery in specific is a form of celebration, we wear our culture to express happiness, pride, strength and nationalism.

I remember being filled with excitement for the national day celebration as a little girl; anticipating dressing up in the most beautiful Emirati jewellery – from headpieces and necklaces to bangles, rings and earrings.

Was makes the industry in this region special or unique?

The women! We are surrounded by smart, sophisticated women who are fascinated with jewellery. They appreciate beauty and are always looking for the best. They are risk-takers and investors in beauty.

What are the main challenges you face in your industry? Are there any challenges you face as a woman in particular?

The challenges I face in the industry are not related to me being a woman, on the contrary, being a woman gives me more power. I believe I am most challenged when taking design risks due to the precious materials we use.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

Some people would say dressing up celebrities, which we did, but I would have to say my biggest achievement is having the Sheikh Zayed necklace I designed exhibited in the founders memorial.

What is your motto in life?

“Thankful through everything.”

Find out more about The O Jewelry at theojewelry.com.

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Sahar Al Awadhi, the first female Emirati chef to cook up a storm at the world-famous Burj Al Arab, speaks to us about her love of cooking, what makes the perfect dining experience and traditional dishes from the region.

When Sahar Al Awahi took on her role as Junior Sous Chef in the Pastry Kitchen at the Burj Al Arab in 2016, she became the first Emirati Chef to work at the iconic hotel. And after a recent promotion to Junior Pastry Chef, she now boasts the title of the first and only female Emirati Pastry Chef in the region.

While her passion for baking began at a young age, she put that aside for a while to study Communications and Design Management at the American University of Sharjah, only later realising that her love of the art and science of food was more than a hobby.

This led her to pursue her passion professionally, first securing a position at home-grown restaurant La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie in 2014 before being sent to Paris by Chef Izu Ani to master the art of baking. She returned to the eatery for another year before earning her role in the kitchens of the Burj Al Arab.

Speaking to A&E, Al Awadhi reveals more details on her career journey to date, the most unusual thing she’s ever eaten and how her upbringing in the UAE influenced her love of food.

A&E Interviews Sahar Al Awadhi, The Burj Al Arab’s
First Female Emirati Chef

A&E interviews Sahar Al Awadhi about her experiences working in the kitchens at Burj Al Arab

Tell us about how your love of cooking began?

I come from a family that really enjoys exploring food, my parents would encourage us to try new things and experiment at home when I was young. My brothers and I all love to cook and food has always been a big factor in our family, especially our Friday lunches where we would all sit together and enjoy a big feast prepared by my mother.

I knew from a young age that cooking as a hobby wasn’t going to be enough and that I wanted to pursue it on a larger scale.

What’s your earliest memory of food?

My earliest memory of food is waiting for Eid morning to eat Belaleet, an Emirati breakfast dish made with sweetened Vermicelli noodles, spiced with saffron and cardamom and served with an egg omelette. It was much easier when we were younger to get together for this meal, nowadays with everyone’s busy schedule, it’s amazing how we hardly ever have breakfast together but still manage to make it to my parents Eid breakfast table for Belaleet!

It is a dish that I have tried to reimagine and recreate multiple times, so far my favourite has been the caramel cured yolk version with an egg-white omelette, which we have on the a la carte breakfast menu at Scape Restaurant at Burj Al Arab, but the original has a special place in my heart.

How has your taste changed over the years?

I think that as I’ve grown and become more experienced, my palate has grown as well. Flavour profiles are more apparent, combining and experimenting with ingredients now comes more naturally and my overall product is more refined.

What makes a perfect dining experience in your opinion?

For me, the most important part of the experience is the food. I’m happy to go to a hole-in-the-wall restaurant as long as the food is great.

Sahar Al Awadhi began her career at the Burj Al Arab in 2016

What is the most exciting food trend in the region right now?

There is an interesting buzz around louz, otherwise known as tropical almonds. I’m really familiar with the ingredient as when I was growing up we would always have tropical almonds in the house, as we had the trees planted at home. Today, even though they are quite expensive, I’m seeing them being turned into jams and pickles.

The most exotic or unusual thing you’ve eaten?

Escamoles, otherwise known as ant eggs. They were super tasty, buttery and delicious but I just could not stop thinking about the fact that they were ant eggs.

How much has your heritage and upbringing influenced your passion for food?

As I work on creating and developing new recipes I often look to my Emirati heritage for inspiration, I am lucky that I have a great understanding of ingredients from growing up with local fruits like mulberries, sweet limes, tropical almonds, a variety of dates at different ripened stages, as well as different spice mixes. This gives me a better outlook on ingredients and how I can incorporate them using modern methods.

At Burj Al Arab, we don’t use products just because we can order them, anyone can do that, we are always looking at how we can make a difference by providing our guests with original and show-stopping creations.

What’s your go-to dinner party recipe?

Arabic coffee and chocolate panna cotta. Arabic coffee is lightly roasted and spiced with cardamom, saffron and a touch of clove. Panna cotta, for me, is super simple to make.

Sahar Al Awadhi in the kitchens at the Burj Al Arab

How does working in the Burj Al Arab differ from other kitchens?

I consider myself incredibly privileged to be part of the culinary team at Burj Al Arab and to have the opportunity to work with brilliant chefs whose careers have taken them around the world, many have worked alongside prolific chefs that I used to only dream about; Pierre Hermé, Hélène Darroze, Pierre Gagnaire and Joël Robuchon, to name a few.

Absorbing knowledge and experience from them has –  and continues to be –  extremely transformational to my skill set, techniques, my mindset and the way I look at ingredients and food. To me, the kitchen is a constant, never-ending learning process and I think that if someone is generous enough to share their knowledge with you then it should be your obligation to do the same for someone else.

The team at Burj Al Arab is incredibly hard-working, but we all make the time to share and educate each other because ultimately we all know that it can only make us better in the kitchen.

Are there any particular challenges you face being a woman in a male-dominated field?

I think in previous years it was harder for a woman to be successful in a typically male-dominated field, and there are still elements of prejudice in the industry today, which can be challenging for some. There has been a considerable shift though, and I think that women today are heard more than they ever were.

Together it is everyone’s responsibility to drive change and to recognize chefs for their talent and not their gender.

What has been your career highlight?

Recently, I created a plated dessert for the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Future Food Security’s new initiative ‘Bzar’, for their launch dinner. It is a project that is close to my heart as they asked me to be part of the initial research phase, with the main goal to get the younger generation of Emiratis interested in areas related to food (whether it’s farming, cooking at home, or becoming a chef).

I knew when I was creating the dessert concept that I wanted 90% of the flavour profiles and ingredients to be locally sourced. It may have made the dish more intricate but I still wanted to demonstrate that it could be done. And, as the initiative is called ‘Bzar’, which in Arabic translates to mixed spices – an ingredient that every Emirati household takes pride in making their own concoction of – naturally, I wanted to use my own blend and incorporate this too. I served Bzar Spiced Caramel with Salted Chocolate and Emirati Lime Mousse.

The preparation included visiting our ocean to fill bottles with seawater, boiling the water and creating homemade local Emirati sea salt and Earl Grey poached dates. This dish still makes me smile and reflects the ethos that I like to instil in all my cooking.

What do you still want to achieve?

I would love to open my own restaurant.

What’s your motto in life?

Always keep yourself a little uncomfortable; there is no growth in comfort.

Find out more about dining at the Burj Al Arab at jumeirah.com.

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Emirati Women’s Day 2019: A&E Interviews Abeer Alshaali, The First Female Emirati Employee at Gulf Craft

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To celebrate Emirati Women’s Day for 2019, A&E speak to a series of successful and inspirational Emirati women about their career highs, mottos in life and ultimate goals. Abeer Alshaali, the Executive Management Officer at Gulf Craft, speaks about her experience as the first Emirati women to work at her company.

Ever since she was a little girl, Abeer Alshaali had a fascination will all things boats.

With her father Mohammed Al Shaali running a successful yacht-building business, Gulf Craft – where she now works – it’s no surprise. As a child, she would spend the summers playing in the showrooms, watching everything come together.

But it would be a while before she followed in her father’s footsteps professionally. Going up mainly in the United States, she went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree at Rice University in Houston, Texas before joining HSBC.

Later, after some time away from work to raise her family, Abeer joined Gulf Craft organization working in the Executive Office handling the management of the company alongside her father. She became the first female Emirati staff member among the 2,000 employees, give or take. 

Speaking to A&E, she chats how her fascination began and the truth about challenges within the industry.  

A&E Interviews Abeer Alshaali, Executive Management Officer at Gulf Craft

Abeer Alshaali speaks to A&E about her career at Gulf Craft

Tells us about your role at Gulf Craft?

I work in the Executive Office reporting directly to the chairman. Most of my day revolves around the Finance, Sales, Marketing and HR issues within the company. However, my responsibilities don’t stop there. I’m involved in all aspects of the business, so you could just as easily find me visiting a yacht with the service team to get a direct report on a job.

What drew you to it?

My brothers and I spent our summers growing up and playing in the Gulf Craft showroom and even outside in the factory. It’s like a second home for me. I wanted to work at Gulf Craft since I was a child and the opportunity thankfully arose a few years ago, so I joined.

What’s your favourite thing about your job?

I enjoy watching the boats come to life. It’s the type of environment where you see things happening every day, which is so exciting to be around. There’s an idea, a spark, that gets translated into drawings and then this beautiful gargantuan elegant beast emerges and goes sailing off into the world.

You can watch the process from beginning to end and there’s a sense of belonging and camaraderie in the journey. It takes a team to build these creatures, from designers to engineers, to carpenters to salesmen. It really is amazing.

And what is the biggest challenge?

Everything about boat building is a challenge. You always want to aim higher and do better in everything. Practically speaking, I would love to apply more lean production practices in every aspect of our business without losing the craft nature of our industry, and that has been a real work in progress for me.

Tell us about how your passion for yachts and boating began?

I don’t remember a time where there wasn’t boating in my family. My father started his company when I was just a toddler and his father before he was a captain. I think it’s just in our blood. I can’t see a boat without at least taking a second look. It’s like how some people are with cars.

Abeer Alshaali with dignitaries and guests at the last Dubai International Boat Show

What are the challenges you face working in a male-dominated industry, and how do you deal with such challenges?

Honestly, I rarely think about it. This industry is more about pulling your weight. In boatbuilding, you need all hands on deck, if you pull your weight, no one cares about your gender. If you are competing with a colleague in your own company, everyone loses.

It’s all about doing the work. Within the company I’ve never faced any issues, all our employees work well with me and we have mutual respect. There’s been a couple of situations where people from outside the company assumed they’d get more done if they spoke to a man. In every instance, they quickly learned that I’m the person they must speak to and then we move on.

What advice do you have to women in similar positions, and to women who would like to get into your line of work?

Never take anything for granted. Put in the time and learn the business. I think it’s important to speak to employees across all levels. They need to see you and hear you and know who you are and why the company is doing what it is. You also need to learn from them and understand what their jobs entail. I like to “walk the floor” and talk to people.

I try to attend events as well, like farewell parties for retiring employees. My door is always open, and I think that’s important. I can’t always give people what they want but I can always try to hear them out and see life from their perspective.

What’s been your biggest achievement to date?

Personally, I’m most proud of my family life and my children. Professionally, it’s more about the little victories. It’s the things people don’t see that you have to do to continue sailing smoothly even in rough waters.

What do you still want to achieve?

I would love to be able to set up something for the younger generation. To see the UAE have a well-functioning apprenticeship or internship program would be amazing. I’ve had many conversations with different institutions, and I hope one day it becomes a reality. Gulf Craft is a great place for a young engineer or designer or programmer to work and grow. This is the type of sustainable contribution a company like ours could make to the country.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Probably to relax.

Do you have a motto in life?

I know it’s a cliché but I actually believe things will always work out in the end, so if it’s not ok, it’s not the end.

See more at gulfcraftinc.com.

Abeer Alshaali at the Dubai International Boat Show 2018

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You don’t need to be a comic book fan or Marvel movie fanatic to appreciate the latest news to come from Disney’s D23 Expo convention, as it’s been announced that Ms. Marvel will become the universe’s first Muslim superhero to have her own show.

We’re living in an age of inclusion, meaning that people from all walks of life deserve to see themselves represented in the popular culture that they consume every day.

Sadly that’s not always the case, as the images and narratives that surround us are often limited.

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Just announced at #D23Expo: MS. MARVEL, an original series from Marvel Studios, only on Disney+.

A post shared by Marvel Entertainment (@marvel) on Aug 23, 2019 at 4:31pm PDT

Which is why we’re pretty excited – as we’re sure many comic fans across the region will be – about the latest news to come from the Marvel universe that TV series called Ms. Marvel is on its way.

Ms. Marvel, whose full name is Kamala Khan, will become the first hero in Marvel history to be of the Muslim faith. The superhero’s parents were from Karachi, Pakistan, and later moved to America where Kamala grew up.

Her powers? To be able to mould and shape her body to get her own out whatever jam she’s in, from shrinking to mouse size to elongated from head to toe.

The series will air on Disney+ once it launched later this year.

Since its birth in the early 1900s, the Baignoir design by watchmaker Cartier has become an enduring symbol of bringing beauty into watchmaking. And for 2019, there’s a modern twist on the iconic design making it worthy of any admirer of the art.

When it comes to keeping century-old watch designs fresh without losing the heritage of what makes it iconic, it’s no easy feat.

However, it’s something the like of Cartier – which was established in 1847  – has managed to do (ahem) time and time again.

The latest demonstration of such skill from the French watchmaker is the 2019 take on the Baignoire design.

The first evolution of the 1906 design came in 1912 when Louis Cartier stretched the original circular watch face, elongated the dial.  His stylistic project culminated in two straight, parallel lines joined by two curves reminiscent of a bathtub shape – hence the moniker.

The next major development came in the 1950s when its familiar oval shape emerged alongside its dial stamped with Roman or Arabic numerals bordered by gold gadroons.

But what can we expect from the 2019 model? While aspects of the Cartier Baignore design remains the same,  the piece has evolved in subtle ways.

Firstly, the bracelet is has slimmed down for modern wearers while the Roman numerals on the dial have been redesigned to appear on a silvered sand-blasted background.

Elsewhere, the case back is seamlessly integrated into the case with water resistance up to 30 m offering full conformance with modern quality standards.

Of course, the yellow gold oval and the diamond-encrusted white goal designs are the icing on the cake…

See more at www.cartier.com.

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